For more than two decades, Kara Borromeo has been a dedicated leader and mentor in the Florida tennis community. As the Director of Tennis at the Fort Walton Beach Tennis Center, she brings not only technical expertise to her players but also a deep understanding of what it means to grow through the sport, both on and off the court. During Coaching Appreciation Month, USTA Florida highlights her work within tennis. 

Kara’s journey in tennis began with her mother, who first introduced her to the game. What started as a fun way to spend time together quickly became a lifelong passion. Over the years, Kara found that tennis was more than a sport, it was a challenge that constantly motivated her to improve. She also discovered that sharing her love of the game was just as rewarding as playing it herself. That realization led her into coaching, where she has made a lasting impact on countless players across all ages and abilities. 

What Kara enjoys most about coaching is watching her players progress. Whether it is seeing them improve a skill, gain confidence, or simply enjoy the game more, she finds fulfillment in helping others succeed. She values the connection she builds with each player and takes pride in finding ways to bring out their best. For her, every small victory on the court represents growth and perseverance, the true rewards of coaching. 

Her coaching philosophy centers around mastering the basics. She emphasizes solid technique and good footwork as the foundation of every player’s game. Once those fundamentals are in place, Kara believes that players can advance more naturally, avoid bad habits, and truly enjoy the sport.

Photo Courtesy of AJ Borromeo

Beyond athletic development, Kara uses tennis as a tool to teach valuable life lessons. She reminds her players that the challenges they face on court often mirror those in life, a missed shot, a bad call, or a tough opponent all require patience, composure, and perspective. Through discipline and teamwork, she encourages players to stay positive and keep moving forward. Kara also stresses the importance of giving back to the community, teaching her athletes that being part of something bigger helps them grow as both competitors and individuals. 

One coaching experience that stands out in Kara’s career involved working with a middle-aged, non-verbal autistic athlete who had never played tennis before. The first sessions required patience, creativity, and deep observation, as Kara adapted her teaching style to meet the player’s needs. Starting with simple coordination exercises, she gradually built their confidence and skill. After six weeks of dedicated work, the player who once struggled to make contact with the ball was able to hit clean shots over the net. The joy and confidence that came from that moment reaffirmed why Kara loves what she does. For her, success is not measured by trophies but by the personal growth and joy her players experience. 

Keeping practices engaging and motivating is another key part of Kara’s coaching approach. She sets small goals and celebrates progress along the way, creating an encouraging environment that balances fun with focus. Her ability to connect personally with each player ensures they feel supported, valued, and excited to return to the court. 

Photo Courtesy of AJ Borromeo

Even after decades of coaching, Kara continues to evolve. She sees every player as a teacher in their own right, offering new insights into communication, mindset, and technique. This willingness to learn keeps her approach fresh and adaptable, helping her grow alongside her athletes. 

For players, her advice is simple but powerful, focus on the process, not just the results, and enjoy every moment of improvement. For aspiring coaches, her message is one of care, patience, and passion. She believes coaching is about guiding people to reach their potential and finding joy in their progress. 

Through her leadership at Fort Walton Beach Tennis Center, Kara continues to strengthen the connection between tennis and community. Her work embodies the spirit of the game, building confidence, friendships, and a sense of belonging that lasts long after the final point is played.