Meet the Pros

Mike Sanchez

Mike Sanchez, Head Tennis Professional

Place of Birth: Howard Beach, NY

Tennis Background: Mike started playing tennis at the age of four at St. Charles Park. An FAU alumni and former Tennis Director at PGA National Resort and Spa, Mike has been a USPTA Elite Member for over 20 years.

Fun Fact: Off the court, Mike is a professional musician and has toured with multi-platinum band Daughtry, opening 85 dates on the band's 2012 “Break The Spell” Tour. In addition, Mike has released over 50 songs on CD, Spotify, and Amazon music.

Quote: “Over the net you will have no regret. Cross court and deep you will not face defeat. Keep it in the lines and you will be just fine."

Marco Castaneda

Marco Castaneda, Tennis Instructor

Place of Birth: Lima, Peru

Tennis Background: Marco started playing tennis at the age of 8. He has played at Northwood University and was the former Coach at Van Der Meer Academy in Hilton Head, SC, as well as the Evert Academy in Boca Raton, FL.

Fun Fact: Marco maintains that he is always on a "See-Food Diet."

Quote: “Don’t coach the drill, coach the skill.”

Chris Pressley

Chris Pressley, Tennis Instructor 

Place of Birth: Caracas, Venezuela   

Tennis Background: A Florida native, Chris has earned significant recognition as a top ranked Florida and National 18 and under junior player, Multiple Junior National Sportsmanship Award Winner, Full Tennis Scholarship to Duke University, 3 Time All American at Duke University, Multiple ACC Player of the year Awards, Multiple National Collegiate Sportsmanship and Leadership Award Winner, 6 years as an ATP Tour Professional, 20 plus years Tennis teaching Professional. 

Fun Fact: Chris has been married 20 years to his wife, Tara, and they have two kids: Blaire and Blake.

Favorite quote: “Swing away Merrill, swing away” 

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Ted Sawyer, Tennis Instructor

Place of Birth: Akron, Ohio

Tennis Background: Originally from Akron, Ohio, Ted brings decades of experience as both a player and coach. He played collegiate tennis for the University of Akron, where he later went on to coach the men’s tennis team. A highly respected instructor, Ted coached future world No. 4 Todd Martin during his junior years, helping to lay the foundation for a successful professional career. Ted also competed in the US Open Qualifying rounds and currently holds a USPTA Elite Professional certification.

Fun Fact: Outside of teaching, Ted enjoys spending time with his wife of 50 years and remains an active competitor in tennis tournaments.

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Vikki Beggs, Tennis Instructor

Place of Birth: West Palm Beach, Florida

Tennis Background: Born and raised in West Palm Beach, Florida, Vikki is a USPTA Certified Tennis Professional and former touring pro. She played collegiate tennis for the University of Miami before competing on the professional tour in the 1980s, qualifying for both the French Open and the US Open during her career.

Fun Fact: In addition to her tennis credentials, Vikki holds a master’s degree in sports psychology with a focus on performance enhancement. She is also a certified sports and child psychologist, blending mental strength and athletic performance in a unique way.