Meet the GPTCA Level A Class of 2022
03 October 2022The GPTCA Level A Class of 2022 represents a uniquely seasoned cohort of accomplished and diverse tennis coaches positioned to make a positive impact.
“We were very impressed with the caliber of applicants this edition, and the result is an exceptional class,” said Alberto Castellani, GPTCA President and Director of the Programme. “When I think about everyone in this group, I think they’re humbly confident, driven to make a difference and deeply care about each other,” he added.
The 31 students started their one-week accelerated programme on September 21 at the Angie Kerber Tennis Academy, Poland. With a demonstrated record of impactful leadership and pro tennis coaching experience, students in the Class of 2022 had, on average, more than 20 years of work experience, ranging between 8 and 36. Students came from 20 different nationalities, with 62% of the class coming from Europe.
The Level A Programme is run once every five years; it’s short and intense. A strong lineup of speakers included Wolfgang Thiem (father and coach of Dominic Thiem, GS Champion and World No. 3), Alberto Castellani (GPTCA President, one of the most experienced ATP Coaches on the Tour), Gonzalo Lopez Fabero (coach of Top 100 players: Donskoy, Gabashvili, Levine, Alonso), Kim Tiilikainen (coach of Top 100 players: Laaksonen, Janowicz, Przysiezny, Kontinen/Peers), Maciej Ryszczuk (fitness trainer and physio of World No. 1 and 3-time GS champion Iga Swiatek), Dragos Luscan (ex fitness trainer of Simona Halep, works with the Romanian National Handball Team & Olympic Gold Medallists).
“This was a remarkable group of coaches, and they should be proud of what they’ve done, individually and collectively,” Marcin Matysik, GPTCA Secretary Gen., said. ”I hope they’ll be active leaders who stay engaged and continue to reap the benefits of this memorable experience.”
Here’s the graduation list.
Agustina Wibisono
Alan Ross Belman
Aldin Setkic
Alek Duric
Amir Reza
Andy Fitzell
Artem Vaganov
Bob Clark
Claudio Fanuli
Chris Begg
Christoph Niedhart
Christopher Tran
Filip Havaj
Ivo Klec
James Allemby
Jorge Pinilla
Kuty Vazana
Lenoir Ramos Jr.
Luka Kalezic
Lukasz Markowski
Michael Seibold
Nenad Trifunovic
Patrick Kur
Philippe Matta
Rainer Gunther
Sandro Riera
Simone Torri
Stefan Muehleisen
Steve Williams
Vincenzo Alfano
Vladimir Odobasic