USTA Coaching Collaborates With Management Programs at Ferris State, Hope, Methodist Colleges
May 7, 2026
Ferris State University, Hope College and Methodist University Students Enrolled in a Professional Tennis Management and Racquet Sports Management Program Will Now Have Direct Access to the USTA Coaching Platform and Resources
ORLANDO, Fla., May 6, 2026 – USTA Coaching announced a new collaborative framework designed to strengthen the pipeline of future tennis professionals. Through a newly established program, USTA Coaching will collaborate with Ferris State University, Hope College and Methodist University to further align academic preparation with the evolving needs of the tennis industry.
This collaboration is intended to support students pursuing careers in tennis by creating stronger connections between university programs and the professional coaching ecosystem. By working together, the institutions and USTA Coaching aim to help students gain earlier exposure to industry resources, professional standards and development opportunities that support successful careers in coaching and racquet sports leadership.
“We could not be more excited to be working with these colleges to help us recruit the next generation of tennis professionals,” said Elliott Pettit, Senior Director, Education & Certification, USTA Coaching. “As a former alum of the program, it really opened doors for me to expand my skills in the tennis industry. As we look to get 35 million people playing tennis by 2035, we need to be sure that the proper infrastructure is there to make sure those heading out onto a court have a great experience and want to keep coming back.”
As part of the collaboration, students enrolled in Professional Tennis Management and Racquet Sports Management programs will have expanded opportunities to engage with USTA Coaching resources and professional development tools as they prepare to enter the workforce. The initiative is designed to help bridge the gap between academic study and real-world experience while supporting the long-term growth of the tennis profession.
The collaboration will also create opportunities for enhanced engagement between university programs and the broader tennis community, including access to educational resources, industry insights, and select professional development experiences designed to support student learning and career readiness.
“Our students are incredibly excited about the opportunities this partnership creates, as it connects their academic experience directly to the tennis industry,” said Adam Ford, Director, Professional Tennis Management, Hope College. “This collaboration gives them a clearer pathway to grow as professionals while gaining early exposure to the standards, relationships and resources that will shape their careers.”
“This partnership with USTA Coaching represents a meaningful advancement in preparing the next wave of tennis leaders through a more connected and forward-thinking educational experience,” said RJ Tessier, Director, Professional Tennis Management Program, Ferris State University. “By opening doors to hands-on learning, mentorship and real-world insight, our students will graduate ready to make an immediate impact across the racquet sports industry.”
“We are thrilled to be able to offer the USTA Coaching program as an additional educational program for our PTM students as they prepare for their future careers,” said Scott Handback, Professional Tennis Management Director.
To learn more about USTA Coaching visit www.ustacoaching.com.