Mark Picard has been the head coach of MATC men’s tennis for four years, bringing passion and dedication to the team. Although he didn’t play tennis when he attended MATC in the early 1980s, because it wasn’t yet offered as a sport, he still has a lot to offer our tennis players.
The Offseason
For Coach Picard, the work never stops even in the offseason: “When we’re not playing or practicing, I’m recruiting for the next year,” he explains. In addition to coaching at MATC, he works as a tennis professional at private clubs. “So, I’m coaching tennis year-round. When I have free time, I like to go to our cottage in Eagle River and spend time with my wife and two adult daughters,” he says.
Recruitment
Recruiting new players during the offseason can be challenging, but Coach Picard knows what he’s looking for. “The new players who join the team tend to be more experienced and competitive,” he says. His practice routines emphasize skill-building and strategy, tailored to what he observes during matches and previous practices. You don’t know what you’re capable of until you push beyond your limits,” he says. He encourages his players to bring their best to every practice.
Practice Schedule
The men’s tennis team trains four days a week throughout the year, with additional fitness workouts on Fridays. The men’s team practices alongside the women’s team one day a week. Coach Picard also ensures academic success by organizing two weekly study groups for his players. The men’s tennis season typically begins in mid-February, and matches often start in late February or early March. Practice starts on Wednesdays at 8:30 p.m. at Elite Sports Club in Glendale and on Thursdays at 9:00 p.m. at Paley Tennis Center, also located in Glendale.
Other Sports vs. Tennis
While tennis might not receive the same attention as basketball or volleyball, Coach Picard feels supported. “Coach Casey, our athletic director, provides great support to all the teams at MATC. While some sports have achieved more success, I don’t feel any team is overshadowed,” he shares.
New Pickleball Court
MATC recently added two pickleball courts to the Downtown Campus gym, a move Coach Picard sees as a positive step for student engagement. “I use pickleball nets to work one-on-one with players on tennis skills outside of regular practice,” he says. While pickleball and tennis differ in swing techniques and footwork, he notes the overlap in improving hand and eye coordination. “Pickleball is rapidly growing, and anything that keeps students active is a good thing.”
Coach Picard’s dedication to athletic and academic growth continues to shape his student-athletes and have a positive and supportive impact on the men’s tennis team.
