In the summer of 1991 a recent college grad had finished his shift at the Y and was in route to his vehicle.  Stalwart Ernest Burke beckoned for him to come over to the tennis courts and help with a lesson.  When the young man declined former marine Burke let him know it wasn’t a request, but a demand.  The grad complied and his world was changed forever.  He realized he may have known how to hit, but not how to instruct. How to beat someone, but not how to build them up.  This invitation and Burke’s mentorship has led him to an ongoing 35 year career as a PTR National Clinician and Tester.  All that was needed was an opportunity and a caring adult.

IMON hopes someday to hear stories of how being introduced to tennis in their community gave them a foundation and passion to not only participate in sport but to use the tenants of the sport to more effectively navigate life.  By training coaches of all walks of life to use a player centered- best practices approach to its supportive learning approach we looked to provide the foundation to continual growth.  Collaborating with schools, municipalities, and individuals we have been able to an open path that lack of financial resources cannot impede. 

Everyone has the capacity to be an Ernest Burke, although not every may want to coach. 

Contact me to chat about how!