What does it take to lead 22 clubs, manage 250 pros, and grow the game of tennis across the country?
In this episode, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale sit down with Mike Woody, Vice President and National Director of Tennis at Genesis Health Clubs, to dive into his remarkable leadership journey. From his early days as a tennis instructor to becoming a key industry leader, Mike shares powerful lessons on growth, relationships, and navigating challenges in the racquet sports world.
By the end of this episode you'll know:
✅ How Mike transitioned from aspiring nurse to a lifelong career in tennis
✅ The biggest leadership lesson he learned (from a mistake that cost him $20K!)
✅ How he scaled from managing one club to overseeing 22 clubs & 250 pros
✅ The importance of building relationships in leadership and career growth
✅ Why focusing on the right priorities (instead of busy work) is crucial for success
✅ How to continuously evolve and invest in personal development
Whether you’re a coach, club manager, or looking to grow in the sports industry, this episode is packed with game-changing leadership insights you won’t want to miss!
Recommended Leadership Books:
- Discover Your Strengths by Marcus Buckingham
- The 12 Week Year by Brian Moran
- 10X Rule by Grant Cardone
Looking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the racquet sports industry? Become a
Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit
our website to learn more!
What is Racquet Fuel?
Racquet Fuel provides insights into the best practices and innovations of racquets industry business leaders.
Co-hosts Kim Bastable, Director of Professional Tennis Management at the University of Florida, and Simon Gale, Director of Racquet Sports at the USTA National Campus, help racquets leaders in your ability to grow the game and to improve the experiences you offer to both your staff and players by talking to industry leaders, including USTA executives, authors and innovators. If you are on a career path in racquet sports or already a racquets business leader and you want to stay up to date on ideas and innovations in racquets industry business and leadership, this podcast is for you.
Presented by the Athlete+ Podcast Network at the University of Florida Institute for Coaching Excellence.