USTA Florida is proud to recognize Gina Dell as the October Volunteer of the Month. A passionate leader both on and off the court, Gina has spent more than a decade giving back to the game through her service as a League Captain and member of the USTA Florida Grievance Committee. She is also the Girls Tennis Coach at Gainesville High School. Her dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to creating an inclusive tennis community have made a lasting impact on players of all ages across the Gulf Coast.
While Gina enjoys the wide range of volunteer activities she engages in, her proudest badge of accomplishment is her role as a high school tennis coach. Early in her coaching career, the team she led had roughly 16 members. Over time, with her inclusive, no-cut policy and warm encouragement, her roster at Gainesville High has grown to 35 players this coming season.
Gina cultivates an environment where players are welcomed, taught foundational skills, and encouraged to see the broader benefits of playing a racquet sport. She urges her students to join USTA early as juniors and stay part of the community as adults.
Gina’s passion for tennis took root when she watched Chris Evert capture the singles title at the 1983 Murjani Cup, and after speaking with Evert, the champion’s passion for the sport made a lasting impression on her. Tennis for Gina is not just about competition but about mentorship, life lessons, and friendship.
One moment stands out among her many coaching memories, more than a decade ago, she guided her team to sectionals for the first time, headed to the USTA National Campus in Lake Nona.
Outside of tennis, Gina spends treasured time with her family and their two cats, Moji and Poppi. Her drive to volunteer in the sport comes down to the simple joy of watching someone fall in love with tennis and begin to strive for improvement. Gina says it is “so gratifying when I witness someone fall in love with the sport.”
USTA Florida congratulates Gina Dell for being named the October Volunteer of the Month. Her leadership, commitment to inclusive programming, and dedication to mentoring young athletes are helping to shape the future of tennis in the Sunshine State.
Interested in volunteering for tennis? Visit ustaflorida.com/volunteers to learn more about opportunities and submit nominations.