Welcome to WNY Tennis!
Fun and friendly tennis is the name of the game at WNY Tennis Clubs! Are you new to the game? Great! Oh, you’re kind-of-sort-of really good at tennis? Prove it! What’s that? You’re looking for a place to engage your kids over the summer or after school? We’ve got active and educational experiences for children of all ages. At WNY Tennis Clubs, there’s a game, set, and match for everyone in the entire family.
LOCATIONS
SOUTH TOWNS TENNIS CLUB
South Towns Tennis Club’s storied history can be traced to the early 1970’s. It was then the first tennis club in the South Towns designed and built specifically for tennis. The industry was booming, tennis was the sport of choice, and while much has changed over the decades, what matters most hasn’t changed at all. South Towns Tennis Club has never stopped raising the bar and setting a truly higher standard.
Terry McMahon, coach of the Orchard Park Tennis team was the original Director of Tennis. Along with his South Towns team, he organized clinics, offered lessons, and established a powerful junior’s program that over the years has earned accolades and consistently developed top ranking players.
Today, South Towns Tennis Club offers something for everyone of every age and skill level, offering full services and a vibrant tennis home away from home. With 6 updated courts with 8 experienced pros ready to help you take your game to the next level. Michael Manzella, our newly hired Director of Tennis, brings eleven years of experience as a professional instructor and is both USPTR P-1 and 10 & Under certified. If your best tennis is yet to be played, Mike and his staff invite you experience South Towns.
We’re easy to find: South Towns Tennis Club is conveniently located right off the 219 Expressway in Orchard Park, NY.
A Complete Tennis Facility
Six Hard Courts
Leagues, Clinics, Lessons
Dedicated Teaching Pros
Family-friendly Atmosphere
Programs for All Ages and Abilities
Year-round Activities and Programs
Western NY’s Leading Facility of Tennis
Tournaments for Adults and Children
In-House Racket Stringing and Repairs
Simply leave your racket at the desk for repair
and pick it up the next time you play!
Fast, accurate, reliable stringing done to your specifications.
We have most strings in stock and can special order any string, tennis racket or accessory you may need.
Our customer repair database means you’ll never have to remember when your racket was strung or what tension and string used. Simply tell us to “string as usual” or “lower string tension by two pounds”, and we’ll handle it all for you.
Beverages
In addition to our always tempting vending machine dispensing bottled water, Gatorade, Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Green Tea other favorites, South Towns offers free gourmet coffee. For your convenience. After 4 pm, beer and wine are available. Valid I.D. is required.
Snacks
Our snack vending machine dispenses peanuts, chips, candy and nutrition bars.
Please Note: From time to time, food may be served or purchased at the club that may contain allergens, including but not limited to peanuts and dairy products. Please be aware and take the necessary precautions.
VILLAGE GLEN TENNIS CLUB
When the Village Glen first opened its doors in the early 1970’s the tennis industry was booming, the game we love was fast becoming the sport of choice and the club soon became a fixture in the south towns. Building upon decades of success, in December 2006, the club was purchased with a new plan envisioned to serve the entire market and beyond, expanding its elite-level services to include the north towns and our best is still to come.
Today, known as the Village Glen Tennis Club, and we invite you to enjoy a completely renovated facility that includes an all-new Pro Shop, professional office space on the second floor, improved and upgraded indoor and outdoor tennis courts, and with the smart conversion of unused space, home to a fantastic indoor soccer facility.
The club recently hired Rob Gregoire as Director of Tennis at Village Glen. Continuing VG’s proud tradition, Rob is laser-focused on the promotion of tennis excellence fitness in a fun and friendly social community that’s your tennis home away from home. Drawing on over 30 years in the tennis industry as a High-Performance Junior Coach, Director of Tennis, Division 1 College Coach, and Tennis Club Owner, Rob is broadening all program areas.
OUR CLUB
The club’s certified Tennis Professionals are ready to help you raise your game to the next level. The Village Glen Tennis Club is truly a premier tennis facility.
We’re easy to find: conveniently located off the 290 Expressway in the heart of Williamsville, NY.
We Offer:
- Fourteen Courts – 6 Hard, 8 Clay (4 bubbled for the indoor season)
- Leagues, Clinics, Lessons
- Dedicated Teaching Pros
- Family-friendly Atmosphere
- Summer Camp for Adults and Children
- Programs for All Ages and Abilities
- Year-round Activities and Programs
- Western NY’s Leading Facility of Tennis
- Tournaments for Adults and Children
In-House Racket Stringing and Repairs by Courtside Outfitters
Simply leave your racket at the desk for repair
and pick it up the next time you play!
Fast, accurate, reliable stringing done to your specifications.
We have most strings in stock and can special order any string, tennis racket or accessory you may need.
Our customer repair database means you’ll never have to remember when your racket was strung or what tension and string used. Simply tell us to “string as usual” or “lower string tension by two pounds”, and we’ll handle it all for you.
Beverages
In addition to our always tempting vending machine dispensing bottled water, Gatorade, Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Green Tea other favorites, Village Glen offers free gourmet coffee for your enjoyment.
Snacks
Our snack vending machine dispenses peanuts, chips, candy and nutrition bars.
Please Note: From time to time, food may be served or purchased at the club that may contain allergens, including but not limited to peanuts and dairy products. Please be aware and take the necessary precautions.
Courtisde Outfitters runs the Pro Shop at Village Glen, offering highest quality racquets, shoes, apparel, tennis bags, grips, and many other tennis accessories. Demo racquets will be available for a small charge at The Glen (demo racquets must stay on VG property). Special Orders are welcomed.
For Pro Shop questions, contact Phil at 716-631-5703 or visit their website.
TENNIS PROFESSIONALS
WAYNE MARTIN
Director of Tennis, USPTR and USPTA Certified
Wayne’s diverse background, elite training and 20+ years of experience have made him one of Western New York’s most respected and versatile coaches, and he applies that versatility to direct our tennis instruction program and lead our coaching staff.
Wayne has taught full-time in the Buffalo area since 2003. He is certified as an Elite Professional by the U.S. Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) and at the highest Professional level by the U.S. Professional Tennis Registry (USPTR). He serves as a Clinician for the U.S. Tennis Association (USTA) Eastern Section, which named him Coach of the Year in 2022. He was also a court supervisor for Arthur Ashe Kids Day at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City.
Prior to joining South Towns Tennis Club in 2013, Wayne extensively trained with renowned coaches such as Mike Barrel, Brett Hobden, Bobby Banck and Karl Davies. He has logged countless 10U, Junior, Adult, Cardio, High Performance and Adaptive Tennis training hours.
Wayne has coached many of Western New York’s top junior players to USTA and Junior Team Tennis regional and sectional championships. Passionate about his community, he has also organized many area tournaments and charity events.
In college, Wayne played tennis at the University of Connecticut and Southern Connecticut State University. Before that, he helped lead his high school team to the Connecticut State Championship. Wayne is a proud member of the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe, making him one of the few certified Indigenous Tennis Teaching Professionals in the United States.
Wayne has trained players from 2 to 91 and is passionate about introducing the game to people from all walks of life. As Director of Tennis, Wayne is committed to making the South Towns Tennis Club experience not just the best in Western New York, but the best in the world. He invites you to reach out if you have questions, need assistance or just want to say “hello.”
Email:waynelouismartin@gmail.com
Phone:(716) 710-0903
WOJTEK STARAKIEWICZ
Tennis Pro - ROGace DirectorPTR Certified
Born in Poland, Wojtek has been playing tennis since he was 6, earning remarkable accolades playing in 15 countries and dozens of international tournaments. He won the 18u Polish Junior National Championships in singles and doubles. Wojtek also reached 426 in the ITF Juniors, 1489 in singles and 920 in doubles in ATP World rankings.
Recruited from the pro circuit by Lee Nickel, current UB Men’s Head Coach, Wojtek was a top player for the Bulls between 2009 – 2012 and the first UB player to reach 103 in the national rankings.
After graduating, Wojtek worked in NYC as Director of 10u Tennis at the John McEnroe Tennis Academy, Senior Assistant Director of JMTA and Regional Director of U10 for Sportime Tennis Clubs.
At the Academy Wojtek completed the highest PTR Certificate of Master Tennis Junior Development and coached many top Sectionally and Nationally ranked juniors. Wojtek also had the opportunity to work with industry renown specialists, Mike Barrell, Ann Pankhurst, and Lawrence Kieger, (Coach of junior Wimbledon Champion Noah Rubin).
Wojtek lives with his wife Denise in East Aurora. Both are proud UB supporters and members of the Shareholders Society.
Email:wojtek@rogace.com
Phone:716.301.9223
CAROLINE CANTON
Tennis ProPTR Certified
Caroline brings 10 years of top coaching and teaching experience from championship club teams, smart cardio tennis clinics, and private lessons. Teaching all ages and skill levels at Hickory Hill Swim and Tennis Club, Orchard Park Country Club and South Towns Tennis Center, she enjoyed great success introducing tennis to young children by creating a fun, dynamic atmosphere designed to develop a sense of camaraderie and good sportsmanship.
A former Division II tennis player at Mercyhurst University where she led the team four years at number one singles and number one doubles, Caroline understands how to compete, earning All-PSAC First Team honors at singles and doubles, for three years. She graduated in 2014 with a BA degree in Sports Business.
Her successful college career followed remarkable high school success playing varsity tennis for six years at Orchard Park High School and as #1 singles for four of those years. Honors included winning multiple Division and Sectional titles and qualifying for the state championships for five consecutive years.
Email:carolinejbristol@gmail.com
Phone:716.697.0815
BLAKE MAURER
Coach Blake Maurer first started playing tennis at the late age of 14. Due to his hard work, good coaching, and natural athleticism, Blake reached the Texas Section USTA rank of 48 in Boys 16s and 32 in Boys 18s, competing in multiple L-3 and L-2 national tournaments. Blake attended the United States Coast Guard Academy where he played varsity tennis all 4 years. At USCGA, he played positions 3, 4, & 5 his freshmen and sophomore year and played position 1 his senior year. During his time at Coast Guard, Blake had significant wins over top ranked Trinity College, MIT, Stone Hill College, Connecticut College, and Babson College. Upon graduating, he served as an active duty Coast Guard officer on Coast Guard Cutter DOUGLAS MUNRO (Kodiak, AK), Coast Guard Intelligence Coordination Center (Washington, DC), Coast Guard Cutter MUNRO (Alameda, CA) and is now at USCG Sector Buffalo.
Blake fell in love with coaching at 16 when he helped formulate a match strategy for professional tennis player Bianca Acquistapace (AUS), ranked 700 in the world. Unfortunately, Acquistapace lost her semi-final match, but Blake found his passion. While on active duty, Blake has found ways to further is knowledge of tennis and coach junior tennis players all over the country heading up a competitive program in Annapolis, MD and coaching alongside Robin Lucas in Mountain View, CA. Blake has personally helped take motivated players to the next level by inspiring each player to reach for their highest potential. Along the way he has coached multiple players in the top 100 in the country and many nationally ranked players. His motivation does not lie in trying to develop national champions or professional players, but instead he believes that every player with the right coaching and hard work can compete at a high enough level to have the option to play in college.
His demanding, dynamic, pragmatic, and fun style has helped many tennis students reach a deeper understanding of competition, allowing them to compete at the collegiate level. Coach Blake strives to bring out the best from competitive junior players, pushing them to exceed mental, physical, strategic, and developmental capabilities. Additionally, he strongly believes that, although tennis is an individual sport, a team atmosphere in training is imperative to success both on and off the court.
Coach Blake lives in Williamsville, NY with his lovely wife Victoria and two daughters Savannah and Kiera. He enjoys playing chess, military strategy, and is a current graduate student at Georgetown University studying Applied Intelligence / Homeland Security Studies.
NASHA GAHJAR
Nasha Ghajar was born in Buffalo, New York when she moved to Saudi Arabia with her family shortly after. She lived in Saudi Arabia for 11 years where she would begin her tennis career at the age of 9. She trained in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia playing ATF and ITF tournaments where she would attain a ranking of 32 in all of Asia in the Girls 14s. After returning back to Buffalo, she began playing USTA tournaments throughout the United States, earning a high junior ranking in the Eastern Section.
For High School, Nasha attended and graduated from IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, and would go on to be recruited by Liberty University to play for their Division 1 team. She is completing an undergraduate degree in Pre-Law and looks forward to attending Law School. She is excited to make her mark at the South Towns Tennis Club, providing her many years of tennis experience to players. She enjoys working with juniors and adults, implementing technical and mechanical methods to create unique games for each player. Through her vast experience with numerous diverse tennis and fitness coaches, she has had the ability to earn knowledge on the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of the game, to which she includes in her coaching techniques.
TIM SANDS
Tim started playing tennis at the age of 24 at South Towns Tennis Club. He has captained USTA teams since 2008, 3 teams have gone on to compete at Nationals. He has many years of experience directing tournaments from the Chestnut Ridge tournament which started in 2015, USTA junior tournaments, also Wild Card tournaments which guaranteed main draw slots into futures events.
He has a love for teaching, playing and has been involved with 10 and under tennis since 2014, and is very excited to be back at Village Glen.
Lives in West Seneca with his beautiful wife Joann, and Son (Matthew).
AMY L. BORDEN
USPTR Certified
Amy is a former Division I #1 singles and doubles player for the University at Buffalo, and has been teaching tennis in the Buffalo area for over 15 years. She coaches at all levels and ages, including Varsity, JV and modified boys and girl’s tennis teams.
As an Independent Instructor at South Towns Tennis Club since 1998, she brings a rare combination of professional insight from time as Head Tennis Pro at Brierwood Country Club and Assistant Tennis Pro at Eagle Ridge Club, demonstrating her true dedication to teaching at all levels.
A passion for teaching also explained by her master’s Degree in Education. With NYS Certification in Social Studies, she has been a secondary education teacher for 8 years. She brings boundless enthusiasm that shows in her enjoyment working with all ages and skill levels on the tennis court.
Email:TennisAmyB@aol.com
Phone:716.510.8112
STELLA PIESAKHOVA
Tennis ProStella Peisakhova started playing tennis in her hometown of Odessa, Ukraine when she was 12. By the time she began playing U16 tournaments, she had reached a Top 5 national ranking for all Ukraine juniors. Stella played national and international tournaments throughout her junior career.
In 2014, Stella was recruited by Niagara University to play on the Women’s Tennis Team, and began playing in the Spring of 2015. For her sophomore, junior, and senior years, Stella played #1 singles and rotated between all doubles positions in the lineup. Stella was a team captain for her final 3 years, was named as the MAAC Player of the Week in singles and doubles during all 4 years, and was nominated for Niagara University Women’s Athlete of the Year in 2017. Stella graduated in 2018 with a BS degree in Sport Management.
Throughout her collegiate career, Stella would coach children of all ages in the summer. After graduating she took a position at Genesis Health Clubs in Overland Park, Kansas. There, she worked as a tennis professional and specialized with adults, children, and high performance juniors. Stella is very excited to join South Towns Tennis Club and is eager to promote and teach the game of tennis to all players and levels!
BACK OFFICE STAFF
ANDREA TOCZEK
A member at South Towns Club since 2005, customers love her fun-loving personality that brings a smile to everyone she meets. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Buffalo State College and a master’s in science education from the University at Buffalo. She is currently working part time in the back office and at the front counter and is ready to help with anything from Reserved Courts to tennis racquet and equipment questions, to offering assistance to navigate our Club Automation software.
She and her husband enjoy camping and the outdoors with their three young children.
Email:amtenis@gmail.com
FRONT DESK STAFF
LES BAILEY
A familiar face and friend, Les has been a member and has played at South Towns for years. Managing customer service departments for FedEx Trade Networks before retiring in 2011, Les joined South Towns front counter staff in 2013 and is eager to assist you with any questions, issues or comments concerning the club. In addition to tennis, Les enjoys reading, gardening, golfing, directing, performing in live theater and with his wife Carol, embarking upon their latest travel adventure.
CINDY HOLMWOOD
Cindy has been working part time at South Towns Tennis Club since September of 2014. She retired as a Project Manager from M&T Bank in 2020 after 35 years.
She enjoys meeting new people and helping customers as needed! She enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading, and traveling.
ELIZABETH LANGSWAGER
Our Thursday evening front desk staffer, Elizabeth graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from SUNY Brockport in 2012. An outdoors lover, her other interests include painting, hand lettering, singing and all things science. She resides in West Seneca along with her husband, two young daughters, and the family’s two dogs.
NANCY LAZAR
Nancy Lazar joined Village Glen as a tennis player in 2017 after a 30-year career in child care. Finally, she decided to combine her love of tennis with a new employment opportunity and began working at the front desk at South Towns Tennis Club. When Nancy wasn’t working at STTC, she was playing tennis (almost daily) at VG and grew close to the members and staff…so much so that Nancy started baking her famous cookies for us! That was it – we hired her at VG’s front desk, too!
When Nancy isn’t playing tennis or traveling between both clubs for work, she enjoys going for walks, reading and spending time with her family…and, of course, baking us cookies!
JOE SODARO
Born and raised in Buffalo, N.Y. and now living in the suburbs. Recently retired after working 38 years with the U.S. Postal Service and now keeping himself busy with his current part time position. Joe began playing tennis at the age of 10 years old and finds himself in a very comfortable setting here at STTC. He has now turned his attention to pickleball and enjoys playing at all different levels. Always willing to share his knowledge of the game when assisting you at the front counter. Married, with 3 adult children and currently 3 grandchildren. He also enjoys binge watching streaming services, playing cards with friends, going out to dinner, and keeping a close eye on Cryptocurrency.
TENNIS PROFESSIONALS
ROBERT GREGOIRE
Director of TennisAfter 17 wonderful years in Pittsburgh, being named the Director of Tennis at Village Glen and the opportunity to returning to my hometown and the club that gave me start was a dream come true. With over 30 years in the tennis industry as a High-Performance Junior Coach, Director of Tennis, Division 1 Collegiate Coach, and Tennis Club Owner, I can’t thank Jack Ruh and Mike Manzella enough and am genuinely thrilled to be here.
My career began at Village Glen in 1989 as an assistant pro learning every facet of the tennis business. For seven years, Tom LaPenna mentored me as a high-performance junior coach, and I enjoyed teaching every age and level of player. I next spent three great years as Co-Director of Tennis Operations with David Todoroff. All our hard work was well worth it; we built a thriving Junior Program and truly superior adult clinics.
In 1999, I was offered the opportunity to launch The Pennsylvania Tennis Academy. In five years, we built the largest and one of the most successful junior and adult programs in Western PA. For the next decade, I was able to grow my career and my tennis acumen in Pittsburgh, and in 2010 became part owner and Director of Tennis at Alpha Tennis and Fitness. In 2011, I was named USTA Pro of the year and Alpha was named Club of the year by the Allegheny Mountain District.
In 2012, in addition to my club duties I was named Head Coach of Duquesne University Men’s Tennis Team. We went 16-6 and completed the most successful season in school history. A year later, I took over both the Men’s and Women’s programs. The women improved their win total by 6 matches and are now considered serious A10 conference contenders. I’m fiercely proud of that.
Now, life has come full circle and I couldn’t be happier back at the Village Glen and back in Buffalo. With much of my extended family here in Buffalo, the timing to have this amazing opportunity at the Village Glen could not have been better-timed. Deb and have made Williamsville our home. Zoey, Lexie and Max attend Williamsville schools and Calista is a Graduate Student in the Sports Management Department at Florida State, on her way to be the second female GM of a Professional Sports Team (stay tuned).
I’m genuinely honored and privileged to be a part of this great team. As your Director of Tennis, my promise is to continue to offer you a meticulous, well run facility and the highest level of personal service from a team dedicated to making your tennis experience second to none, and our clubs your tennis home away from home.
Email:robgregoire@icloud.com
RUSS TRINGALI
Head Tennis Pro, Director of Tournaments and Adult DevelopmentPTR Certified Professional, USTA Certified Professional 1
As the Tournament & Adult Development Director at Village Glen, Russ is a true Adult Beginner/Advanced Beginner guru. That means he takes VG players from beginner to serious player in a flash in our Rally Tennis Group Lesson Program. Additionally, Russ runs both USTA sanctioned and non-USTA junior tournaments and competitions each year.
Russ has been playing tennis for over 45 years, he has earned multiple Western New York singles and doubles titles. In 1981 he was NYS SUNY Singles Champion and in 1982 and 1983 earned titles as the Doubles Champion and played number one singles at UB from 1981 to 1984.
Russ has been a teaching pro for over 40 years, coaching some of the most successful junior players earning national and sectional rankings. He was the assistant tennis coach for the University at Buffalo from 87 to 88. Although Russ has many accomplishments in tennis, his passion today is introducing beginner players to the game of tennis and advancing them through the various programs at the Village Glen. Russ handles all of the evaluations at the Village Glen allowing him to place adults and junior players in the appropriate programs.
Russ is just as passionate about fitness and has recently partnered with Shelly Cavalier as co-owner of Cavalier Fitness Studio that is located on the second floor of the Village Glen. He hopes by offering various group fitness classes it will help bring tennis and fitness together for all to enjoy.
ERICK GARCIA
Tennis ProPrior to arriving at the Village Glen and South Towns Tennis Club, Erick served as a coach and Academy Director since 2001 at the Niagara Academy of Tennis (NAT) in Ontario, Canada where he had several ITF junior champions, 3 Canadian National Junior Champions and a few playing on the ITF pro circuits and the ATP Tour. He also serves as the current Head Coach of the Division I, Purple Eagles at Niagara University (Men and Women) since January 2017.
Erick’s passion for tennis began at the age of 8 in Oaxaca, Mexico at the Club de Tennis Brenamiel. A few years later, at the age of 15, he earned a full scholarship to the Centro Tenístico Guido Lorandi, an elite boarding tennis academy in Puebla, Mexico. He played juniors at the National Level earning a ranking of as high as 8th in the nation in the boys U18 (1999). Erick also competed in the professional tennis league in Mexico (AMTP) and several Futures Qualifiers in Mexico, Canada and the US.
Additionally, Erick was also a team member for the Purple Eagles (Niagara University) from 2001-2008. During his time there he reached Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference finals twice.
Erick’s love for tennis and his passion for helping people reach their goals is what keeps him excited to be on the court.
Pro Garcia holds a Masters Degree in international Marketing. He currently resides in Wheatfield, NY with his Wife Kendra, and two children, Beau and daughter Sonora. He can’t wait to start this new journey in the Buffalo area.
BRYAN MCCONNELL
Tennis ProBryan learned the foundation of the game by taking lessons from Neeru Gupta when he was 13 years old. Joining the Village Glen Junior Program at 15, he began to play tennis competitively, falling in love with the game and developing an appreciation for great coaching. Training with Tom LaPenna, Ross Nwachukwu and other great tennis pros during his junior and collegiate careers, Bryan still considers Tom and Ross his coaches.
Bryan played 1st, 2nd and 3rd singles for Edinboro University in Pennsylvania, quickly making a name for himself by winning the PSAC (Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference) Rookie of the Year. Throughout his college career, he proved to be a key member of the team on and off the court. After graduation, he moved back to Buffalo, NY, but stays in touch with friends and his coach Andy Findlay. Bryan and his wife Deanna privately believe their daughter, Alaina, just might win the US Open in 20 years or so.
Today, still chasing an ATP ranking, Bryan continues to compete in Open level, National and Future level tournaments. Working for many years with the Village Glen junior and adult development programs, he genuinely enjoys sharing his experience, new techniques and strategies of the game to help them reach their full potential.
Greatness as an athlete, is defined as maximizing your talents that you were given. Bryan views his job as helping you to do that and reach your full potential as a player.
Email:ryan.m427@gmail.com
Phone:716.871.7929
NEERU GUPTA
Tennis ProUSPTR Certified
Truly passionate about the game she has been teaching tennis in Buffalo area for nearly 30 years, Neeru Gupta is a local tennis legend. Starting in 1984 at Buffalo Racquet Club, Neeru later taught at Transit Valley Country Club, and then for eight years worked as the Head Pro at Westwood Country Club. Since 1987 she has directed the Tennis Program for Williamsville Community Education. At SportsPlex, Neeru ran her own Quick Start and High-Performance program and for several years the Buffalo-Niagara Junior Team Tennis League (JTTL).
It all began with Neeru teaching her own children, Anjeli and Anil. Both progressed to playing First Singles for Williamsville High School Teams, their college teams and both were ranked nationally Top 10 in ETA and Top 128, More recently, Thomas Navarro, Priya Bommaraju and Michael Rusk are among the latest of Neeru’s students to excel.
Neeru also know competition. As a player winning in MUNY’s many times. She played in USTA Women’s 4.5 League. Her teams went on to the Sectionals numerous times and once made it to the National.
Neeru’s Village Glen relationship dates back to her own participation in Team Tennis and development of her children tennis under Tom LaPenna and Rob Gregoire. Joining Village Glen in September 2015 as a Pro, her extensive teaching experience with students of all ages and USPTR Certification for Ten and Under makes Neeru an invaluable addition.
In a story in the Buffalo News, Charlie Garfinkel quoted Dennis Behr, well-known in Western New York for his passion for tennis: ”Neeru doesn’t just teach tennis. She takes an interest in each of her students, not just as a tennis player, but as a person. She is always positive, treats youngsters and adults with equal passion, and always goes the extra mile.”
Email:tennisgupta@hotmail.com
RICH ANDERSON
Tennis ProPTR Certified
A former Team Captain for the Canisius College Men’s Tennis Team where he played first singles and first doubles coached by Terry McMahon, today Rich Anderson is a PTR Certified 10 and Under Professional and a rare Adult Independent Teaching Instructor.
He understands what it takes to compete and win, having participated in numerous area tennis tournaments over the last 30 years. Most recently, in 2014 he played in the USTA 55+ 8.0 League National Championships held in Surprise, Arizona.
For the past few years, Rich has been one of Village Glen’s High Performance and Junior Program Coaches. He is a dedicated instructor of adult and junior players of all levels including an advanced-level adult drill clinic, intermediate-level junior classes as well as private lessons.
Rich’s passion for coaching and teaching goes beyond tennis, having coached youth soccer, basketball and hockey teams for several years.
Email:rganderson1@verizon.net
Phone:716. 867.6584
PRADEEP REBALA
Tennis ProPradeep Rebala, recently joined our staff at Village Glen.
As a high school player, in his senior year at North High School, Pradeep qualified for State Championship in doubles competition. He went on to play Division 1 tennis for the University at Buffalo. After college he focused on starting and growing a distribution business.
Starting in 2017 he got back on the tennis court to play with and coach his son. Pradeep found a new passion in coaching with emphasis on technical and fundamental skills.
JOE “VIZ” VIZZI
Tennis ProROGace Trained Professional
North Buffalonian, Joe “VIZ” Vizzi is an accomplished lifelong baseball player turned tennis addict! As a youngster, Joe spent most of his days on the baseball field as a second baseman and shortstop. Joe made the Tonawanda All Star Team multiple times and the All-Niagara Frontier League second team as a junior. “VIZ” continued his baseball prowess as a star outfielder and leadoff hitter at UB for two years. He played MUNY baseball for the Buffalo Voyageurs, won 10 titles in 20 years and eventually won the National Amateur Baseball Federation Championship in 1979. Joe is also a member of The WNY Baseball Hall of Fame.
Joe started playing tennis with his brother, Tony, at VG in his more recent years. He is a true example of “taking the talent you had in other sports and transferring it to tennis”, as he is helping others to accomplish now as a tennis pro at both Village Glen and South Towns Tennis Clubs.
Joe joined VG in 2014 and joined our VG/STTC Staff family in 2019. He is ROGace certified under Wojtek Starakiewicz at South Towns Tennis Club specializing in 10 & Under and Red Ball tennis programs. Joe plays in many leagues (including Remington’s Leagues and groups) and USTA tennis teams. VIZ is a favorite among most area tennis players and adored by his junior students and fellow staff members.
Joe is the Vice President of Sales at Safetec of America. He enjoys spending time with his daughter, Victoria and his large extended family as often as possible. He and his wife, Karen, are passionate animal rescue advocates at Buffalo area shelters.
JOE MORELLA
Tennis ProUSPTR Certified
Joe started playing tennis at VG about 10 years ago and fell in love with the game. His passion brings him here almost daily whether playing a match, taking a lesson or working on his skills in a drill clinic.
A few years ago. Joe began helping out with junior classes and decided to become a certified tennis pro focusing on 10 and Under, JV and Varsity levels.
Known for his high energy and enthusiasm on court, “Crazy Joe” is loved by adults and juniors alike and is known to sing and dance during his lessons.
DAVID FILIPSKI
Tennis ProUSPTA Certified & USTA ITA Official
David Filipski is a USPTA certified Tennis Pro, a USTA ITA Official and has been teaching tennis at Village Glen Tennis Club for almost 15 years. Formerly, for 10 years the Head Coach of the Pembroke High School Tennis Team, he is also a long-time educator having taught Regents History, AP History and AP Psychology there for three decades.
When Village Glen ran the Summer Tennis Program at Park Country Club (2007-2010), Dave was one of the key on-site facilitators. He is currently one of Village Glen’s High-Performance Program Coaches and runs many adult leagues, lessons and drill clinics.
ALLEN ADUDDLE
Tennis ProAllen trained as a junior here at VG many years ago and plays regularly in leagues and drill clinics. Having grown up in the VG junior academy, Allen was a natural fit for our staff. He can talk tennis for hours, and will play even longer.
Allen teaches the Adult Rally lessons and juniors in the JV and Varsity levels. He also hits with the Academy juniors during lessons and Match Plays.
BRENT BORESLAV
Tennis ProBrent comes from Syracuse, New York where he started playing tennis when he was 6 years old. As a junior he was ranked as high as 16 in New York State, and was recruited to play tennis at Niagara University in 2015.
During his time at Niagara University Brent played all throughout the lineup in singles positions 2 through 5 and doubles positions 1 through 3. He was a team captain his senior year at Niagara. Currently, he also works as the volunteer assistant coach for Niagara.
STELLA PIESAKHOVA
Tennis ProStella Peisakhova started playing tennis in her hometown of Odessa, Ukraine when she was 12. By the time she began playing U16 tournaments, she had reached a Top 5 national ranking for all Ukraine juniors. Stella played national and international tournaments throughout her junior career.
In 2014, Stella was recruited by Niagara University to play on the Women’s Tennis Team, and began playing in the Spring of 2015. For her sophomore, junior, and senior years, Stella played #1 singles and rotated between all doubles positions in the lineup. Stella was a team captain for her final 3 years, was named as the MAAC Player of the Week in singles and doubles during all 4 years, and was nominated for Niagara University Women’s Athlete of the Year in 2017. Stella graduated in 2018 with a BS degree in Sport Management.
Throughout her collegiate career, Stella would coach children of all ages in the summer. After graduating she took a position at Genesis Health Clubs in Overland Park, Kansas. There, she worked as a tennis professional and specialized with adults, children, and high performance juniors. Stella is very excited to join South Towns Tennis Club and is eager to promote and teach the game of tennis to all players and levels!
ROSS NWACHUKWU
Tennis ProRoss Nwachukwu grew up playing junior tennis and Men’s open tennis tournaments in the Buffalo area. Finishing many years ranked #1 in Western New York among all of the men’s open tennis players from 1990-2005. Ross was a two-time National High School Tennis All-American in 1989 and 1990 and inducted into the Bennett High School Hall of Fame with a career tennis record of 110 wins and 5 losses. Later, Ross was also a four-time Buffalo Municipal Men’s open Champion.
He had an illustrious college tennis career at Division 1 Drake University, where he was an eight-time Missouri Valley champion both in singles competition and doubles amassing an incredible 273 career singles and doubles wins during a remarkable four years. He helped Drake qualify for the NCAA championship as a team in 1992, 1993 and 1994, and also qualified for the NCAA singles championship in 1994.
One of only three Drake Men’s tennis players named to the Missouri Valley Conference ALL-CENTENNIAL TEAM, in 1994 Ross earned his bachelor’s degree from Drake in business management.
Ross went on to play numerous satellites, futures, and challenger events during his pro tennis career posting notable victories over players ranked in the top 200 in the world.
During the 1995-1996 season, Ross was Drake University’s assistant men’s tennis coach, assistant men’s tennis coach for the University of Kansas in 1999-2000, and named head assistant men’s tennis coach for the 1999-2000 season and then became the head men’s tennis coach for the 2000-2001 season. Ross also served as the assistant women’s tennis coach for the University of Buffalo during the 2002-2003 season. From 2002-2006, Ross worked at the Village Glen Tennis club as a USPTA certified tennis instructor giving private and group lessons. After teaching tennis at SportsPlex from 2006-2011, Ross has returned home to the Village Glen.
Email:rosspn@hotmail.com
Phone:716.310.8484
JOSHUA TURNER
Joshua Turner is a current PhD student at UB where he is an assistant coach for the UB Women’s Tennis Team. Previously, he has played professional tennis, was a PTR certified tennis pro, and has 15 years experience that includes head and assistant coaching positions, and private and group lessons.
TYLER MOORE
I originally had no interest in tennis as a child, no matter how much my grandfather tried. But that all changed when I was roped into going to the US Open with my grandfather and uncle on a trip to New York City when I was 12. From that point on, I fell in love with the game and immediately wanted to play when we returned home. I then started to take lessons in the junior program from the likes of Russ Tringali, John Brunner, and even later on from Ross Nwachukwu, Tom Lapenna and Rob Gregoire. I played high school for 4 years and my biggest achievement was placing second in the ECIC doubles and third in Sectionals to play in the state championships in Flushing Meadows. Since then, I still try to play as much as I can and love to give and take lessons from others. I still take lessons from Coach Gregoire. I just try my best to try and make tennis fun for others to play, and my biggest desire is that people come to love the sport as much as I do.
JOSEPH KRZEMINSKI
Tennis ProJoe started working at VG in June of 2020. He is currently studying at the University at Buffalo, where he is pursuing a Bachelors’ Degree in Mathematics and a Masters’ Degree in Secondary Education, where he is also a member of the UB Aces Club Tennis Team. Joe spends most of his time training or teaching, as he loves to tutor children in Mathematics or Science.
PHIL DILLION
Tennis ProBorn and raised in WNY, Phil began his teaching career at The Buffalo Tennis & Racquetball Center (BTRC) in 1985. While at the BTRC he received his PTR Certification with Dennis Van der Meer at Sweet Briar College in Lynchburg, Virginia in 1986.
Fast forward to 1988, he was hired by Tom LaPenna at The Village Glen Tennis & Fitness Club and in 1989, while still on staff at The Glen, Phil was hired as the Head Pro at The Park Country Club. This was also when the popular “Phil’s Drills” was born.
He stayed at The Park Club until 1994 when he moved to Nashville and secured a staff position at The Athletic Club at Maryland Farms where he remained for 22 years (the last 6 years as the Head Pro at The Donelson Indoor Tennis Center which was under the umbrella of Maryland Farms.).
In 2016 Phil left Maryland Farms and took on the Head Pro job at Langford Farms Club in Old Hickory, TN. He remained there until 2022 when he moved back to Buffalo and full circle, a spot at The Village Glen.
MARK STANCAMPIANO
Tennis Pro
KERRY FREEBURG
Tennis Pro
DAVE RELAN
KATHY CONNOLLY
Kathy joined the VG team in May 2022.
A lifelong tennis enthusiast, she played on the tennis team at Williams College. She participated in USTA league play for many years and continues to work on her tennis game.
Kathy started coaching tennis at the Buffalo Seminary in 2008 before being hired by Medaille College to form a NCAA DIII Women’s tennis team. Her tenure at Medaille College spanned 11 years and included being the Head Coach of the Women’s team and the Assistant Coach of the Men’s team.
Kathy served as the Buffalo USTA Junior Team Tennis Coordinator. Her efforts for both the USTA and the BNCTA focused on growing the sport of tennis among the youth in our community.
Grateful to be part of the VG community, Kathy is looking forward to interacting with tennis players of all ages as they improve their games and experience the joy, satisfaction and unforgettable moments that tennis offers.
OFFICE/FRONT DESK STAFF
TRACY IRVING
General ManagerTracy began working for Village Glen in 1997 as a front desk receptionist, but was never one to waste time. It wasn’t long before she was assisting in the back office with filing, mailings, memberships cards and more. By the end of 1999, Tracy had a full-time position of daily processing and contract courts, and by mid-2000 demanded still greater personal challenge taking on billing, bank reconciliations, and Front Desk Manager Duties. In September of 2008, Tracy was promoted to Assistant Tennis Director of both Village Glen and South Towns Tennis Clubs.
Fast forward 20 years since starting at Village Glen, Tracy has created lasting friendships with coworkers, pros and members. Although it took her working at the Village Glen for over ten years to discover the magic of tennis, at last, she gets it, playing in a USTA 2.5 women’s league the summer of 2008. Her team was undefeated and made it as far as Sectionals. True to her nature, Tracy quickly moved up the ranks and is currently a 3.5-level player and has captained many USTA league teams; some of which have gone to Regionals and Sectionals!
Tracy and her husband, Jamie, enjoy playing tennis, boating and spending time with their children, Jayden, and Jessica. Tracy has also embarked on new endeavors as a Thirty-One Sales Consultant and a Color Street Stylist!
Email:tirving@villageglen.com
DEB (CASTELLAN) GREGOIRE
Front Counter SupervisorKnown affectionately as “the witty emailer”, Deb was hired in 1994 as a Front Desk employee. Over the years she has worn many different hats; Front Desk Supervisor, Contract Court Coordinator, Operations Supervisor, Child Care Supervisor, Member Services Representative, Marketing and Advertising Assistant, Buffalo Bills Tennis Futures Tournament (Presented by Channel 2) Director’s Assistant, Vending /Pro Shop Inventory Representative, and even Maintenance Crew Member! We can’t imagine the club without her.
Armed with rare wit and gentle sarcasm, Deb expertly manages the Front Desk along with a wide range of covert, behind the scenes operations. Earning her nickname in all the right ways, Deb is the “Witty Emailer”, the culprit behind “VG At A Glance” and other creative member communications.
Besides her genuine pleasure greeting customers’ smiling faces, Deb is happy spending time with Rob renovating their cottage, playing tennis, visiting her family in Rochester and hanging out with their kids Calista, Zoey, Max and Lexie.
KRISSY SIRFACE
Front Counter StaffKrissy has been with Village Glen since September of 2016. No, she has not experienced much tennis court action yet– but we are looking to change that! Still, we advise that if she offers to play on your court, to maybe put her on the other side of the net. Especially if you want to win.
Besides manning the desk, as some of the members call it, you may find her reading, drawing, traveling, geeking out, or studying. Outside of work, Krissy has also been known to dress up occasionally for charitable services as your favorite Disney, Marvel or DC characters.
If you have a free moment when you’re in, feel free to ask her what she’s up to. She loves talking and getting to know the many faces that come into the club.
IDALIA ROMAN
Front Desk StaffDolly has been with VG since 2012. She spent a year and a half in Houston, TX and then came back to be with us again. When Dolly isn’t at work being the Delightful Dolly she is, you can find her running around with her little family, including her young, adorable son, Heru. If Dolly has any spare time, she likes to read and travel and she loves sports – especially the Buffalo Bills!
JESSICA SCHWARTZ
Jessica joined our VG family in February 2014. She works full time as a vet assistant and still works part time with us! Jessica graduated from Villa Maria with a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts. She LOVES the theater life and travels to NYC often to indulge in many performances! Jessica is also an event photographer (wedding, parties, etc.), a freelance modeling photographer and she designs book covers for an author! When Jess is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family, her fiancé, Dave, and constantly has her hands full with two teenaged boys and their big floof Great Pyrenees, Belle. She enjoys reading and talking the ears of our member’s off at the front desk!
NANCY LAZAR
Nancy Lazar joined Village Glen as a tennis player in 2017 after a 30-year career in child care. Finally, she decided to combine her love of tennis with a new employment opportunity and began working at the front desk at South Towns Tennis Club. When Nancy wasn’t working at STTC, she was playing tennis (almost daily) at VG and grew close to the members and staff…so much so that Nancy started baking her famous cookies for us! That was it – we hired her at VG’s front desk, too!
When Nancy isn’t playing tennis or traveling between both clubs for work, she enjoys going for walks, reading and spending time with her family…and, of course, baking us cookies!
