USTA Middle States featured our CEO Arvind Aravindhan in their NetPlay magazine
Tennis is probably the only sport besides soccer that is played in every country around the world. It is, of course, incredibly popular in Asia—and in the U.S., Asian-Americans/Pacific Islanders have always gravitated towards tennis. As the U.S. population continues to become more diverse, we will continue to see more and more contributions by Asian-Americans in all areas and all sports—especially in tennis. It’s great that the USTA continues to look at this group for growth.
I started playing tennis when I was a kid in India. As a junior, I was ranked No. 2 in my country, and in 1983, I achieved a No. 64 junior ranking by the International Tennis Federation. Also in 1983, I was the National Junior Doubles Champion in India, and I represented India in the Junior Davis Cup. As I got older, I was the No. 7 men’s player from India, playing satellite events in Asia and Europe before attending Austin Peasy State University (D1), then transferring to Erskine College in South Carolina, where I was NAIA 2nd Team All American in 1990. I graduated with a degree in Management and Marketing in 1991.
After college, I started working at the Julian Krinsky School of Tennis in Pennsylvania in 1991 as the Head Pro, then became the Director of Tennis in 1996. Since 2019, I have been the CEO and Director of Tennis at JKST. I’ve been honored to have coached players of all levels, ranging from beginners to players on the ATP Tour. The highlight of my coaching career so far has been working with players at all four Grand Slams.
As a volunteer in this sport, I’m honored to serve on the national USTA Adult Competition Committee and as a member of the USTA Middle States Board of Directors. And I’m particularly thrilled that last year, my work in this industry was recognized with the USTA Middle States Philadelphia Area Tennis District Presidential Service Award.
I’m a “tennis lifer”—this sport has meant so much to me both personally and professionally, and I know that will continue for the rest of my life. I’ve had many amazing mentors along this tennis journey, but I’m particularly thanks to both my father, and to Julian Krinsky. They taught me that it’s not just about playing a sport; it’s about how this sport can impact and move lives. This has led me to help bring tennis and tennis enjoyment to as many people as possible.
—Edited by Peter Francesconi(RSI Magazine)