Coaching with Fire
May 16th, 2010 - byNCSA’s College Coach’s Corner recently received feedback from Coach Holt about his women’s tennis program at Gwynedd-Mercy College. Here is what he had to say:
How would you describe yourself as a coach?
Extremely energetic, passionate, youthful, motivating, and FUN! You will immediately notice my “fire” and intensity!
What is unique about the experience at your school?
They will get a great education (top 10% for graduation rates), but I believe what separates us from most other colleges at our level, is our dynamic coaching staff.
What do recruits need to know about you?
I’m also a teacher at a local high school, in addition to coaching at Gwynedd-Mercy College, and I also work as a tennis instructor at one of the biggest tennis/fitness clubs in the tri-state area.
What do you look for in recruits?
I look beyond what the player can do for our school on the courts. I aim to get players who are truly “coachable” and willing to learn and be team players!
What turns you off when you are recruiting a student athlete?
When a student has too broad of a range of schools they are looking at…..more than 5 schools is a lot. Once a student-athlete narrows it down to 3 schools or so, then that indicates to me that they have a legitimate interest and are serious.
What do you think your program is the most successful at?
Recruiting quality student-athletes….not just athletes, but student-athletes who want a good future.
Why should a recruit consider your program?
Every year, they will get a great education and also improve their tennis game significantly, all while having a blast in the process! Perhaps here is the biggest selling point ……EVERY season, the tennis program will be one of the favorites to win the conference championship, and in turn, get invited to play in the biggest tournament in the country……the NCAA tournament! (we went to California just recently for this!)
If a recruit is interested in your program, how should they reach out to you?
I check my e-mail throughout each day! This is probably the best way to reach me!! (holt.j@gmc.edu)



If you’ve read these pages enough, you know that a college decision is a life-altering, life time decision. To make that decision without fully understanding the vast landscape of opportunities available is irresponsible at best and negligent at worst. Another motivation for doing all you can to make a great college choice is found in