Charles, who grew up in Boston, MA, took up tennis at the age of six. Coached by his father, a pro-level basketball player, he developed a strong baseline game and solid fundamentals. Having been ranked Number 3 in the New England 12 & under division, Charles branched out into basketball, baseball and academics. At Plymouth State College in New Hampshire, he majored in English and played basketball. He came to the JCC in June 2004. "I continue to add new dimensions to my game and bring them to my students," he says. "I enjoy inspiring juniors; with adults, I stress consistency and strategy. I feel fortunate to be part of the JCC family."
Private lesson rate $66/hour.
Chris Croxton
Tennis Professional
In less than two months after seriously taking up the game, Chris Croxton - who grew up in Denver's Capitol Hill - made the East High varsity team. The A-student worked every summer while he was in high school, first at Gates Tennis Center, and then at Denver Country Club. Chris played both singles and doubles for Pomona College's Division III team, teaching at the JCC Tennis Center in the summer. Possessed of fluid and graceful topspin strokes, Chris is a versatile shot-maker who has been known to throw in a left-handed serve or overhead. Chris, who stresses footwork in his teaching, offers fast-paced drills and insightful individual lessons to both kids and adults. "I love being around tennis," he says, "I've received so much from it."
Private lesson rate $66/hour.
Tomi Winnig
Tennis Professional
Tomi Winnig was born in Sao Paulo Brazil. He has been playing tennis since he was 5 years old and began to flourish as a player at his parent’s tennis academy. As a junior, Tomi was ranked as one of the top players in Brazil and ITF, which eventually led to college scholarship. Tomi moved to Colorado in 2004, to marry his Denver native wife. When Tomi is not on the court, you can find him at home playing with his two sons, Jacob and Jagger. He has a special way of teaching tennis that allows all levels of players to learn and play with confidence and ease. Private lesson rate $75/hour.
Niko Kabylafkas
Tennis Professional
Speak Greek? Even if you don't, Niko can talk your language. The language of improving your game. A meticulous stroke master, Niko can provide technical advice on all aspects of your game and make you smile while doing it. A guaranteed great time and improvement to your game.
Private lesson rate $66/hour.
Dan Dicke
Tennis Professional
Coming to Colorado as a former Tennis Facility manager, Dan brings an overall knowledge of the tennis industry. He has quickly earned a reputation at Gates for his quick whit and legendary lessons. With twenty years of tennis experience, Dan has been called the Tennis Doctor, capable or remedying even the worst habits. Put your faith in Mr. Quick Tips and never look back.
Born and raised in Northwest Denver, Damon first learned to play tennis at the age of 6. He is fresh off the pro circuit, where he spent most of his 20s competing against some of the best players in the world. Damon also spent a year teaching in Irvine, California at the Advantage Tennis Academy, one of the top tennis academies in the country. He is currently ranked #6 in Colorado in Men’s Open singles, and #2 in Men’s Open doubles. Damon is very excited to be a part of the Gates Tennis Center family! $56
Carey Brading
Tennis Professional
Learn tennis from the a former New Zealand junior champion, All-American college player, and Colorado State Open Champion. Carey's "down under" humor, boundless energy, and extensive knowledge guarantees a great lesson! When not teaching tennis you might find Carey on the dance floor doing the Cha-cha or West Coast Swing.
Private lesson rate $62/hour
Ricardo Castromalaga
Tennis Professional
For the last twenty years Ricardo has been teaching tennis around the world in Canada, the Caribbean, South America and the United States. Ricardo, skilled on both hard couts and red clay, is from Peru. He teach you an all-court game in English or Spanish and is comfortable teaching a beginner or even the highest ranked players. Ranked as high as #5 in Peru as a junior, Ricardo, most recently from California, can bring your game to the next level. The JCC is lucky to have this international sensation. Private lesson rate $62/hour.
