Wesley Chapel, FL – February 25, 2025 – The Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) is proud to announce Jennifer Gelhaus as the recipient of the 2025 Young Professional of the Year Award. Gelhaus, creator and host of the Vida Tennis Podcast, has distinguished herself through exceptional leadership and innovation in tennis instruction across multiple prestigious venues.
“I was shocked and excited when I first learned I was receiving this award,” said Gelhaus. “It was a profound moment of validation, reflecting years of dedication to the tennis profession and my commitment to advancing the sport in every possible way.”
Originally from Venezuela, Gelhaus’s tennis journey in the United States began at Lincoln Memorial University, where she earned a degree in Biology while competing at the collegiate level. Her coaching career has flourished across multiple elite venues, including her current role as Director of Tennis at Oyster Harbors Club on Cape Cod and her position at Westchase Tennis in Tampa, Florida.
Gelhaus’s impact on the tennis community extends beyond traditional coaching. In 2021, she was recognized as one of the Top 50 Tennis Coaches in the US by the Tennis Channel. Her collegiate coaching experience includes serving as the Head Tennis Coach at Hillsborough Community College, where she led her team to a National Runner-up position and earned the NJCAA Regional Coach of the Year award.
Through her popular Vida Tennis Podcast, Gelhaus connects with industry leaders, sharing insights and fostering community within the tennis world. Her holistic approach to the sport is enhanced by her RYS 200 Yoga certification, and she actively participates in multiple racquet sports, including beach tennis, padel, and pickleball.
“I am proud to be part of a globally recognized organization that I consider the top organization in our industry for certification, continued education, and career advancement of tennis professionals,” Gelhaus reflected on her PTR membership. “Upon joining the PTR, I immediately felt welcomed, a big sense of community, and truly cared for by the organization’s leadership.”
About Professional Tennis Registry (PTR): PTR is the largest global organization of tennis teaching professionals in 127 countries. It has the greatest percentage of multicultural and women members of any such organization. PTR is dedicated to educating, certifying and servicing tennis teachers and coaches around the world in order to grow the game. Learn more at www.ptrtennis.org
Contact Information: Caitlyn Fries caitlyn@ptrtennis.org
