Meet the TennisGear Team
Andrew Grocott
Head Coach
Coaching Style
A friendly and fun coaching approach that focuses on building strong foundational techniques in a play-and-learn environment. Emphasis is placed on developing personal discipline, ownership, and responsibility, all delivered in an engaging and supportive way.
Experience
Over 5 years of experience coaching some of Queensland’s leading junior players, many of whom have achieved state, national, and international rankings. Previously owned and operated a successful tennis coaching business in Brisbane for over 20 years before stepping back to pursue a more balanced lifestyle.
Key Attributes
Passionate and genuine, with a structured, no-nonsense approach to developing discipline and resilience in young players. Strong focus on building confidence and a positive mindset, encouraging athletes to believe in their ability to achieve their goals through consistent effort and perseverance. Committed to helping each player become the best version of themselves, improving step by step every day.
Qualifications
Club Professional Tennis Coach
Ellie Lake
Senior Coach
Experience
Began coaching at 13 and achieved LTA Level 1–3 qualifications by 18. At 16, served as Tennis Coordinator at The Sheffield College, managing programs and increasing community participation. Recognised as LTA Young Person of the Year at county and regional levels, and national runner-up, for contributions including coaching players with disabilities. Worked as a Lead Coach across clubs in Leeds, delivering sessions for all ages and levels, and running a successful tennis program that boosted participation. Performance coaching experience includes Yorkshire U9 Girls County Coach (Northern Champions) and Assistant Coach for U14 and U18 county squads. Also gained pastoral experience as a PE Assistant in a UK school.
Key Attributes
10+ years of coaching experience with a national-level playing background. Strong communicator with an adaptable and inclusive coaching style.
Qualifications
LTA Level 3 Tennis Coach
LTA Tournament Referee
BSc (Hons) Sports and Exercise Therapy
Pierre-Emanuel Fossier
Senior Coach
Coaching style
WA flexible, player-centred approach tailored to each individual’s needs, technical, tactical, physical, or recreational. Sessions are designed to be engaging, structured, and focused on continuous improvement and enjoyment.
Experience
24 years of playing experience and 7 years in coaching, including participation in international and national tournaments such as Roland Garros. Competed at U.S. collegiate level for 2 years. Experienced in coaching all ages and levels, with additional background as an elementary school teacher for 2 years.
Key Attributes
Strong technical and tactical knowledge gained from high-level playing experience. Good understanding of biomechanics, anatomy, and sports nutrition. Teaching experience enhances communication, structure, and ability to support player development in a clear and effective way.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education and Sports Sciences
Training in Adapted Physical Activity (Disability Inclusion)
Sports Coach License (in progress)
Master’s Degree in Teaching, Education, and Training Professions
Michael Morton
Senior Coach
Coaching style
A fun and engaging coaching approach focused on helping young players learn to enjoy tennis while developing strong fundamental skills. Sessions are designed to be enjoyable, supportive, and focused on building confidence and ability.
Experience
Joined TennisGear in 2016 and has since become a key member of the Shaw Park coaching team. Previously worked with Slice Tennis. Has an active playing background and continues to compete in Super Reserve fixture tennis.
Key Attributes
5 years of tournament playing experience and experience as Lead Coach at Virginia State School. Strong passion for junior development and creating a positive learning environment.
Qualifications
ATPCA Level 1 Coaching Certification
Andres Nempeque
Coach
Coaching style
A creative, dynamic, and cooperative coach who focuses on building a positive and engaging learning environment for all players.
Experience
Around 9 years of coaching experience working with beginner and intermediate players of all ages. Has been part of TennisGear for the past 3 years, supporting player development across different programs.
Key Attributes
Knowledge, passion, continuous improvement, and a fun, player-focused approach.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Sciences (Colombia, 2014)
Certificate IV in Sport Coaching (Tennis Specialisation, ACE Academy – Gold Coast)
Diploma in Sport (currently in progress)
Liam Hart
Coach
Coaching style
A balanced coaching approach that combines fun and self-discipline, creating a positive environment where children enjoy learning tennis while developing strong skills and good character both on and off the court.
Experience
Started playing tennis at age 9 and progressed into junior ranking tournaments and Superleague competition. Has been with TennisGear since 2018, gaining valuable experience working alongside experienced coaches in Brisbane and applying those learnings to player development.
Key Attributes
12 years of playing experience with a fun, positive personality and strong commitment to helping each player achieve their individual goals.
Qualifications
Tennis Australia Community Tennis Coaching Certificate
Certificate III in Fitness
Certificate II in Community Activities
Ravindra Nimje
Coach
Coaching style
Focused on technical and tactical development while keeping sessions fun, structured, and motivating. Aims to build strong fundamentals and a long-term love for the game.
Experience
Coaching since 2014 across beginner to high-performance levels, including district, state, and national players in India. Also a former competitive player with tournament success. Based in Australia for the past 3 years, working as a tennis and yoga coach.
Key Attributes
12+ years of coaching experience with strong technical and tactical expertise. Committed to disciplined, structured coaching that supports player growth and performance.
Qualifications
AATC Level 2 Coach | PTR Level 1 | AITA Level 1
Certificate in Tennis (SGSU University, Gujarat)
Diploma in Yoga
BPED | Master’s in Physical Education | MPhil (Tennis Specialisation)
Declan Pearce
Head Coach and Retail & Project Manager
Coaching style
A structured and supportive approach focused on strong technical foundations, while creating an enjoyable and motivating learning environment. Emphasises discipline, resilience, and continuous improvement, tailored to each player’s needs.
Experience
Over 25 years in tennis, starting as a junior player before moving into coaching. Has been with TennisGear for 18 years, working with players of all ages and abilities. Also has international coaching experience, including working with two Top 50 ATP players.
Qualifications
TCA Junior Development Coach
Tennis Australia Club Professional Coach
Tennis Australia Wheelchair Development Coach
Cert III & IV in Fitness
Cert IV in Sports Coaching
Iden Jenner
Manager
Coaching style
A coaching philosophy inspired by my own junior experience, where passion and enjoyment were central to every session. I believe the best results come from combining fun, discipline, persistence, hard work, and a positive coaching environment that brings out the best in every player.
Experience
Joined Roy Emerson Tennis Centre in 2015, working with Development Squads, private lessons, and Hot Shots programs. Previously coached at Kawana Tennis Club under Clint Fyfe, supporting U12, U14, and high-performance juniors, including tournament travel. Earlier experience includes coaching at Cliff Drysdale Tennis Club in Florida (2012–2014), where I managed performance programs, adult coaching, and a high school varsity team.
Key attributes
10 years of coaching experience working alongside leading coaches in Queensland and the USA, with a strong focus on junior development and performance pathways.
Qualifications
ATCPA Coaching Level
Certificate III & IV in Personal Training