Meet the Coaches
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Junior Varsity Head Coach: Jeff Gaul
Jeff Gaul has been a part of West Ottawa for over 20 years. Jeff graduated from Central Michigan University with a degree in Elementary Education. Jeff has a physical education degree with a coaching endorsement from CMU, and a Masters Degree from Western Michigan University. Jeff has two children currently in West Ottawa and is actively involved with the West Ottawa District, both as a parent and teacher. Currently Jeff teaches second grade at Woodside Elementary School. |
Women's Tennis Strength and Conditioning Coach: Andy Blake
I received a B.S. in Kinesiology from Michigan State University in 2000. While there I had an opportunity to be a Student Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Football program. It was a great experience to work with Elite Athletes and see just how intense they train. After college I was a personal trainer at Michigan Athletic Club but very quickly realized my passion was working with athletes. I had to put that on hold as my wife and I started a family in 2004 when our son Brandon was born. I then became a stay home dad and almost 2 years later welcomed our daughter Megan into the world.
I've coached soccer, track, and helped out with tennis at various levels as my kids have worked through the ranks. What I have found is my passion is working with middle and high school athletes. It's very rewarding to see them make noticeable gains and see their confidence grow exponentially.
Even though programs have come a long way since I was in school, most kids have never touched a weight or think they are going to turn into a big beefy bodybuilder. In fact its quite the opposite. I take a common sense approach, by creating a fun, positive environment to help them become better tennis players.
I am really excited to be working with the tennis program!
I received a B.S. in Kinesiology from Michigan State University in 2000. While there I had an opportunity to be a Student Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Football program. It was a great experience to work with Elite Athletes and see just how intense they train. After college I was a personal trainer at Michigan Athletic Club but very quickly realized my passion was working with athletes. I had to put that on hold as my wife and I started a family in 2004 when our son Brandon was born. I then became a stay home dad and almost 2 years later welcomed our daughter Megan into the world.
I've coached soccer, track, and helped out with tennis at various levels as my kids have worked through the ranks. What I have found is my passion is working with middle and high school athletes. It's very rewarding to see them make noticeable gains and see their confidence grow exponentially.
Even though programs have come a long way since I was in school, most kids have never touched a weight or think they are going to turn into a big beefy bodybuilder. In fact its quite the opposite. I take a common sense approach, by creating a fun, positive environment to help them become better tennis players.
I am really excited to be working with the tennis program!