Tennis pro Steve Ward got an early start on what he calls a “sport for life.” As a junior tennis player he achieved a top national ranking. He played for eight years on the pro circuit and was ranked 225 worldwide in doubles.
Ward is currently the director of the Crow Canyon Country Club tennis department and has a top 10 ranking in the Men’s 45s.
“The program at Crow Canyon is year around and has programs from the early beginner toddler to the intermediate high school age to the advanced adult league matches,” Ward explained. “The programs are taught by a wide range of distinguished tennis professionals such as John Freeman and Kent Shanks.”
Some of the rising stars include Katie Mulloy and Lauren Guerdat.
“A great tennis player has tremendous drive to excel and a burning desire to just play tennis,” said Ward.
Mulloy, 15, attends San Ramon Valley High School. She will be a sophomore next year. As a freshman she played in the No. 1 spot on the team.
“She started playing tennis at age 11 and her favorite shot is the forehand,” said Ward. “She also participated in the Excellence and sectionals and did well. She is currently ranked No. 35 in her Northern California division and also helps out with clinics at the club.”
Guerdat is a junior at Foothill High School.
“She plays in the No. 2 spot on the team,” said Ward. “She started playing at 6 years old and her favorite shot is the backhand. She helps with clinics at the club and is currently ranked No. 45 in her Northern California division.”
Ward is a believer in the program at Crow Canyon and in the game of tennis itself.
“Tennis is great because it is a life sport and keeps you in good shape,” he said.
