Movers and Shakers: Denis Pelegrin named Director of Tennis at Inspiration Academy

BRADENTON – Inspiration Academy has announced the addition of Denis Pelegrin as Director of Tennis. Pelegrin has developed players who have achieved seven Orange Bowl Titles, eight Eddie Herr Trophies and one US Open Junior Crown. He has coached more than 50 players ranked in the top ten, top 25 and top 100 ITF Junior World ranking status.

“We were fortunate to meet Denis when he trained our daughter, Autumn,” said Eddie Speir, Founder of Inspiration Academy. We were particularly impressed with his methods and teaching technique. We are thrilled to have such a high caliber tennis coach join our team of professionals,” Speir concluded.

“Tennis is my passion”, shared Claire Speir, Co-Founder of Inspiration Academy, “so it was extremely important to me that we have a coach who can honestly develop players to a highly competitive level. Denis has such a stellar track record on individualizing his approach with each athlete, allowing them to truly excel based on their specific potential.”

As Director of Tennis, Pelegrin will oversee Inspiration Academy’s tennis camps, as well as it’s junior high and high school student-athletes’ tennis programs.

“Because of the passion and commitment of Eddie and Claire Speir, we have the tools to provide optimum service for our players,” said Pelegrin. “By leveraging technology, the most up-to-date coaching expertise, new state-of-the-art training and locker facilities, and a flexible academic program, athletes can focus on a rigorous competitive schedule,” Pelegrin added.

Joining Pelegrin at Inspiration Academy is Rodrigo Vallejo, Assistant Director of Tennis. Vallejo, a former Davis Cup Player, was the Private Coach to players such as Kei Nisikori and Tommy Haas. Also joining the team of elite coaches is Jose “Moo Moo” de Matta, who for five years  (2006 – 2011) was the right hand to Nick Bollettieri, training top tennis athletes at that time.

When asked what sort of program Coach Pelegrin will implement at Inspiration Academy, he stated, “We are using a periodization program to avoid over training and injury, while developing the player to his or her maximum potential. Also, each athlete will have a mentor, who assists and guides him or her through all aspects of the game, mental and physical. Our goal is to develop student-athletes who acquire a high level of character along with their athleticism, which will serve them well on and off the court in the future.”

Asked to explain what is meant by periodization, Pelegrin defined this core element of the program: “On arrival, each athlete is given a tennis and physical evaluation. Then we focus on short, mid, and long-term goal setting for all aspects of the game. Next, we set the player’s tournament schedule, accordingly managing the volume and intensity of their training.  Now we are ready to plan the physical, technical, tactical and mental plan based on that individual’s criteria. This gives us a tailored-approach for developing the player’s career. “

“It is also valuable to note that our unique Professional Experience Program allows these intense athletes to experience real-world business opportunities integrated into their schedule”, shared Mr. Speir. “Most young athletes’ cannot conform to the expectations of a conventional part-time job, so they often miss this vital element of preparing for adulthood.”

Coach Pelegrin is a current resident of Bradenton, FL., having been Head Coach at IMG Academy (2004 – 2009), as well as Owning his Pro Tennis Academy from 2009 – present. He has a wife and two children.

About Inspiration Academy

Inspiration Academy is a private, Christ centered 6 – 12 grade school, providing unique opportunities for students to excel: in athletics, through individualized elite sports programs; in profession, through focused academics and immersion of students in real-world career training; and life, through discipleship. 

Boarding and non-boarding students utilize an Exception Based Educational System (EBES), complemented by supportive faculty. Day camp, holiday, and full enrollment options are available.

Contact: Melissa Shobe, Inspiration Academy, 941-795-LION(5466), melissa.shobe@inspirationacademy.com.