Member Spotlight - Paulo Mataia
Paulo Mataia’s journey from a young boy in Samoa, supporting his family of eleven from the age of nine, to becoming an international life coach and a passionate advocate of pickleball, is nothing short of inspirational. Leaving home at 18 with just $10 in his pocket, Paulo invested everything in his education, a decision that propelled him to visit 78 different countries and to engage deeply with others.
For Paulo, life is about service. His mantra, “do whatever it takes to find an opportunity to help someone else,” has guided him throughout his life, from the streets of Samoa to the public schools in Egypt, where he regularly works with the Sudanese community to provide vital educational resources. Paulo’s commitment to education and personal growth reflects his belief that while talent is inherent, nurturing it through education is essential for making a true impact.
Pickleball, a sport he discovered and fell in love with over the last decade, has become more than just a game for Paulo; it’s a tool for connection and transformation. Through pickleball, Paulo has reached out to the elderly, helping to alleviate loneliness and foster a sense of community and belonging. His approach to teaching the sport is reflective of his broader coaching philosophy: “I learned you first have to find who the person is as an individual before you can teach them pickleball because when you do this, it improves the way you communicate with them which improves the deliverability. Everyone is different.”
As a certified member of the Professional Pickleball Registry (PPR), Paulo has not only honed his skills in the sport but also embraced the opportunity to expand its reach. His vision extends to introducing pickleball in Egypt, believing that sports can bridge cultural gaps and create new opportunities for interaction and understanding. Paulo emphasizes that the culture of a sport, much like any culture, is built for the betterment of people and communities. He applauds PPR for its role in fostering this growing sport, highlighting its potential to enhance lives.
Paulo Mataia’s life story is a powerful testament to the impact of perseverance, education, and the willingness to serve others. Whether through his life coaching within his ministry, his educational initiatives abroad, or his advocacy of pickleball, Paulo remains a steadfast giver, continuously finding joy in enriching the lives of others. His journey underscores the profound truth that personal sacrifice and dedication to others’ well-being can indeed transform lives, creating ripples that extend far beyond the immediate community.
Join the PTR League - Roland Garros Bracket Challenge
Get ready to dive into the excitement of Roland Garros with PTRxFrenchOpen! We’re thrilled to be tuning in to all the action at the French Open and rooting for some of our very own PTR coaches who are making waves on the courts. Follow PTR-certified coaches like David Witt (Sakkari), Issam Jalali (Jabeur), Sloane Stephens, and more as they showcase their skills at this prestigious tournament!
The anticipation is building as the clay courts of Roland Garros prepare to host the prestigious French Open. It’s that time of the year again when tennis enthusiasts around the globe gear up to witness the excitement, drama, and brilliance that define one of the most thrilling Grand Slam tournaments. And what better way to elevate your Roland Garros experience than by participating in the PTR Roland Garros Bracket Challenge hosted by Tennis Channel?
Here’s why PTR Members should mark their calendars for May 23rd and get ready to submit their brackets:
1. Play For Free: One of the best things about this bracket challenge? It’s absolutely free to play! Whether you’re a seasoned tennis aficionado or a casual fan, everyone is invited to join in on the fun without spending a dime.
2. Pick Your Bracket: Test your tennis knowledge and instincts by predicting the winners of each round at the French Open. Dive deep into player statistics, match-ups, and recent form to make informed decisions. Feeling spontaneous? No problem! Hit the quick pick button for an autofilled bracket and let fate guide your choices.
3. You Don’t Have to Be Perfect to Win: Let’s face it—perfect brackets are rare gems, especially in a tournament as unpredictable as Roland Garros. With clay-court specialists and underdogs capable of causing upsets, even the most seasoned experts can find themselves surprised. But fear not! The top three participants on the leaderboard who come closest to perfection will be rewarded handsomely with cool prizes courtesy of Tennis Channel, including merchandise gift cards. But that’s not all—PTR Members participating in the PTR Tennis League have the chance to win exclusive PTR swag by showcasing their bracket prowess.
So, PTR Members, mark your calendars, sharpen your tennis knowledge, and get ready to submit your brackets starting at 5pm on Thursday, May 23rd. Whether you’re aiming for glory or just looking to have some fun, the PTR Roland Garros Bracket Challenge promises excitement, competition, and maybe even a few surprises along the way. Don’t miss out on your chance to be a part of the action!
Reflecting on PTR & PPR's Staff Retreat
Lynne Rolley, PTR Board Chair
I am delighted to share with you some insights from our recent staff retreat at the beautiful Saddlebrook Resort earlier this month. Our team had the invaluable opportunity to gather and delve into essential discussions surrounding the vision, values, and future trajectory of our organizations.
Throughout the day-long retreat, our dedicated staff engaged in fruitful conversations about our collective vision for the future, the core values that drive us, and how we can work together most effectively as a team. We also reflected on areas where we can improve and set ambitious goals for the organizations over the next three years. It was inspiring to witness the passion and commitment that each team member brings to our shared mission of supporting our members in their growth as coaches.
Beyond the strategic discussions, we also took time to connect and bond as a team. Following the sessions, there was nothing quite like the camaraderie felt as we hit the pickleball courts together. These moments of camaraderie are vital for fostering a strong sense of unity and collaboration among our staff.
Looking ahead, we are eagerly anticipating the completion of our headquarters at Saddlebrook and the realization of the goals we’ve set as a team. The remainder of 2024 promises to be an exciting journey as we continue to strive towards excellence in serving our members and advancing the sport of tennis and pickleball.
As always, we are immensely grateful for your continued support and dedication to PTR and PPR. Together, we will continue to make strides towards a brighter future for our organizations and making a world of difference.
Lynne Rolley
PTR Board Chair
Meet the Team - Sanaz Marand
We are thrilled to feature our Membership Coordinator, Sanaz Marand! With a background steeped in the world of tennis, Sanaz brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role.
Tennis Journey: From Collegiate Star to Pro Circuit Sensation
Sanaz’s journey in tennis began on the courts of UNC Chapel Hill, where she showcased her skills as a Division I college player. Her talent and dedication earned her a spot on the Pro Tour, where she competed for an impressive eight years.
During her tenure on the Pro Circuit, Sanaz soared through the ranks, achieving notable milestones along the way. With a career-high singles ranking of 150 and a doubles ranking of 119. Notably, Sanaz clinched two WTA Singles Titles and an impressive tally of 20 WTA Doubles titles.
Transitioning to a New Role: Meet PTR’s Membership Coordinator
After a career on the court, Sanaz transitioned seamlessly into her role as PTR’s Membership Coordinator in February 2022.
In her role, Sanaz serves as a central point of contact for PTR’s diverse membership base. Whether you’re a seasoned coach or a newcomer to the organization, Sanaz is dedicated to providing exceptional service and support to each member of the PTR community.
Beyond the Court: Family, Food, and Fun
Off the court, Sanaz’s passions extend beyond tennis. She enjoys spending time with her little family, husband Joseph and young daughter, Aila. In her free time, she enjoys whipping up delicious meals and treats in the kitchen!
While Sanaz may not have as much time to play tennis as she once did, her love for the sport remains unwavering.
Get in Touch with Sanaz
As PTR’s Membership Coordinator, Sanaz is here to assist you with all your membership needs. Whether you have questions, feedback, or simply want to say hello, don’t hesitate to reach out! With her expertise and enthusiasm, Sanaz is committed to ensuring that every member of the PTR community feels valued and supported.
