The United States Professional Tennis Association, Inc. (USPTA) is proud to name Don Emery from Naples, Fla. (Florida Division), the 2023 USPTA Large Facility Manager of the Year.
Hospitality industry leader Don Emery became general manager of Grey Oaks Country Club in 2021. He implemented a strategic financial and capital plan, branded GO FORWARD 2026, which included an impressive racquets center expansion that added capacity for both tennis and pickleball. This expansion, which officially opened in December 2022, was in response to emerging trends in racquet sports, increased member demand and the need to remain competitive within the regional and national country club space. Since the grand opening of the new racquet sports center complex, pickleball and tennis visits have increased by over 150% and 35%, respectively. Lesson revenue has increased by 25% and enrollment in clinics and team activities has skyrocketed by 40%. Since his tenure began, Don has hired three USPTA certified professionals and ensures they’re able to attend USPTA educational seminars and conferences on a regular basis.
“I first met Don when he was the GM of the Riveria CC in Los Angeles when the club hosted the USPTA SoCal divisional conference many years ago. Always a supporter of USPTA education and certification, he not only won the Large Facility Manager of the Year for the USPTA Florida Division this year, but he can now claim the same award nationally. We appreciate what Don has done to promote racquet sports and the USPTA at Grey Oaks CC,” USPTA CEO John Embree said.