By USTA-Intermountain staff
On Thursday, Sept. 20, Intermountain Tennis Association Board President Jon Messick announced that Rob Scott has accepted the position of ITA executive director. Scott, who has held several positions at Babolat including Assistant Key Account Manager and Western Regional Manager, was recently the Vice President of the ITA's Board of Directors. He took office on Monday, Oct. 1.
"Rob brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the job, from his work in the teaching profession and the tennis industry, to his involvement in various capacities as a volunteer at the district, sectional and national levels," Messick said. "We look forward to Rob’s leadership as we continue to implement our strategic plan to grow the game of tennis in our section."
Courting Success caught up with Rob to find out more about his background and what he loves most about our section. Rob says if he could say anything to the ITA staff and leaders, it would be that "working together we will make the Intermountain Section a model of how it should be done.
"I really look forward to working with everyone and appreciate all the help I will get from every District," Rob added.
Name: Rob Scott
Age: Old enough to remember watching the astronauts land on the moon on my family’s black and white TV. Also old enough to have seen Miles Davis perform live at Tulagi’s in Boulder, Colorado!
Family status: Married with two grown phenomenal kids, Janice and Eddy, and rockstar biology teacher wife, Abby.
Birthplace (and current residence): Born in Denver, grew up in Brighton and live in Louisville.
Hometown: (where did you spend most of your childhood growing up?): On a farm outside Brighton, Colorado.
College and higher education: University of Colorado, BS Community Recreation/PE.
Previous jobs you really liked? Most jobs I’ve had during my life I’ve liked or found a way to like. I especially liked being Director of Tennis at the Ranch Country Club for over 17 years. I also enjoyed the 10 years I spent working at Eldora ski area.
Previous jobs you really hated? I can’t honestly think of one. I know that sounds weird! I’ve always been able to make whatever job I’ve had fun.
When and how did you get interested in/start playing tennis? My Grandfather, Clinton Smith. He actually helped found the Grand Junction Tennis Club (a CTA) in the early 1950s. He sparked my interest.
How far did your tennis career take you? As a player, I have been ranked in the Districts of Colorado and Wyoming. I have age group doubles rankings in the Section. I played for the University of Colorado in the late ‘70’s. I was never really that good, just loved to play and compete.
Do you still play tennis now? Whenever I can!
What other interests do you enjoy? Windsurfing; mountain biking; downhill, Nordic and back country skiing; fly-fishing; playing my banjo.
What drew you to the Intermountain ED position? It is the right mix of leaders at the right time and place. Soooo much potential!
What are some of the challenges you foresee with this position? I’ll find that out as I move along and listen to the people I work with. One of the greatest challenges is the vast geography.
What is your favorite saying or tennis mantra? "Watch the ball!"
What is your favorite "pump up" song? Wow! This is a tough one since I have diverse musical interests. So here are a few: "Cassidy," "Bertha" and "The Other One" - three songs from the Grateful Dead; "Burning Down the House" - Talking Heads; "Foggy Mountain Breakdown" - any good bluegrass band; "Gimme Shelter" - Rolling Stones; "The Four Seasons, Spring" - Vivaldi.
What is your favorite food? It’s a tossup between anything Mexican and sushi.
What is your guilty pleasure? A cold beer after a long day of fly-fishing!