John Paci
Cowes
Summary
Experienced and globally connected tennis professional with over 15 years of experience in coaching, program development, and operational leadership. Currently serving as Director of Growth & Operations at POWA Tennis, where I’ve built elite player pathways, managed regional expansion, and established international partnerships. Known for a coaching philosophy that blends structure, urgency, and process-driven development. I’ve coached across all levels, supported athletes internationally at ITF tournaments, and worked alongside top 100 ATP/WTA professionals at the Australian Open. Regular contributor to The First Serve, a global tennis radio show, sharing insight on development, coaching, and athlete pathways.
Experienced with strategic planning and project management. Utilizes leadership skills to drive team performance and operational excellence. Track record of delivering high-impact results through innovative problem-solving and effective communication.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Director of Growth & Operations
POWA Tennis
01.2023 - Current
- Oversee growth and strategic operations of POWA Tennis (not founder).
- Established partnerships with Vianello Tennis Academy (Italy), Rafa Nadal Academy (Spain), and Play USA Tennis Pathways.
- Serve as a College Tennis Agent, guiding athletes through U.S. college recruitment and scholarships.
- Accompanied athletes abroad to Europe and Africa for ITF tournaments and training blocks.
- Developed grassroots to high-performance programs, expanded regional presence, and implemented school-based tennis initiatives.
- Semi-regular guest on The First Serve, a tennis-focused radio program.
- Participated in high-performance training sessions with top 100 ATP/WTA players during the Australian Open.
Head Tennis Coach
Gripping Potential
01.2018 - 01.2022
- Led junior and adult coaching programs across all development levels.
- Created individualized development plans and competitive pathways for athletes.
- Mentored emerging coaches and supported professional development.
- Managed scheduling, session planning, and stakeholder communication.
Head Tennis Coach
Aligned Leisure
01.2014 - 01.2018
- Managed multi-venue junior and adult coaching programs.
- Designed lessons aligned with Tennis Australia’s coaching methodology.
- Built school partnerships and community programs to boost participation.
- Delivered internal coach training to maintain consistent coaching quality.
Tennis Captain
Aligned Leisure
01.2010 - 01.2014
- Managed court bookings, venue upkeep, and equipment maintenance.
- Delivered internal competitions, weekend matches, and holiday events.
- Worked with Tennis Victoria and councils on compliance and community engagement.
- Developed operational procedures and coordinated staff scheduling.
Education
Certificate IV - Sports Management
Sports Education Development Australia
Melbourne, VIC10-2013
Tennis Australia Coaching Degree - Physical Education And Coaching
Tennis Australia
Melbourne, VIC11-2013
High School Diploma -
SEDA
Melbourne, VIC10-2013
Skills
- Athlete Development & Mentoring
- Program Design (Grassroots to Elite)
- International Coaching & Travel Management
- Facility & Competition Operations
- College Tennis Placement (USA Pathways)
- Coach Education & Team Management
- Media & Public Speaking
- Strategic Growth Planning
- Relationship building
- Strategic planning
- Verbal and written communication
- Decision-making
Accomplishments
Chosen as one of four coaches to assist with Indigenous tennis clinics with Evonne Goolagong Cawley
Coached professional tennis player to multiple titles including prestegious Royal South Yarra Club Championships
Implemented and currently run blind tennis program, 9th 10th ranked player in the county currently training under me as well as beginners
Certification
- Tennis Australia Club Professional Coach (Completed/In Progress)
- Certificate III & IV in Fitness (via Strength & Conditioning collaboration)
- Ongoing development in coaching, sports psychology, and leadership
COACHING PHILOSOPHY
- Deep wins, shallow losses – Prioritize development over outcome
- Always dynamic in movement, mindset, and planning
- Simplicity with urgency – Direct, effective coaching with high intent
- Process over outcome – Focus on long-term impact and resilience
Timeline
Director of Growth & Operations
POWA Tennis
01.2023 - Current
Head Tennis Coach
Gripping Potential
01.2018 - 01.2022
Head Tennis Coach
Aligned Leisure
01.2014 - 01.2018
Tennis Captain
Aligned Leisure
01.2010 - 01.2014
Certificate IV - Sports Management
Sports Education Development Australia
Tennis Australia Coaching Degree - Physical Education And Coaching
Tennis Australia
High School Diploma -
SEDA
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