Ian Thomas
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- Title:
- Assistant Coach
Bio
Tennis Story/ Experience:
Coach Ian Thomas joined the Johnson tennis team as a freshman in the Spring of 2020. While at Johnson, he served as team captain for 3 seasons. He graduated from Johnson in the Spring of 2024 and took a job as an assistant coach at Division 2 Newberry College in South Carolina where he worked with both the men's and women's teams. Coach Thomas returns to Johnson as a graduate assistant, looking to give back to the program.
Coaching Philosophy:
Coach Thomas believes that all players have room to improve their game with the right mentality and work ethic. Being able to take criticism on one's strengths and weaknesses and grow from them through development plans is essential. Being freshly out of college himself, Coach Thomas also loves the thrill and excitement of college tennis and likewise enjoys players who enjoy the energetic nature of college tennis. He also is very passionate about physical fitness and integrating conditioning and weight training into practices.
Specialties:
Coach Thomas primarily specializes in strategy and mental game development, helping athletes build and control the momentum of matches while using their individual qualities to win more matches. His focus and knowledge on physical performance allows for him to connect and develop athletes on and off the court.
Personal:
In his personal life, Coach Thomas can usually be found on the court, in the gym, or playing pickleball. He enjoys watching sports and spending time with friends in Knoxville.