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Leading People, Not Lessons: The Real Work of a Racquets Director
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What does it take to land your first Director of Racquet Sports job - and lead with confidence once you do?
In this episode of Racquet Fuel, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale sit down with Michael Pereira, who shares his honest, inspiring journey from teaching pro to facility leader.
Michael walks us through the hard truths of chasing your first director role - from 23 job rejections to launching his own business managing a city tennis center. Along the way, he shares how earning his Director of Racquet Sports Certificate and Master’s in Sport Management from the University of Florida prepared him not only to get the job, but to succeed in it.
Now nearly a year into leading Querbes Tennis Center in Shreveport, LA, Michael reflects on the challenges of managing people, building systems, and learning that leadership isn’t about getting off the court - it’s about stepping up in new ways.
By the end of this episode, you’ll learn:
✅ Why getting hired as a first-time director is harder - and more rewarding - than it looks
✅ What it means to lead a team, not just run a program
✅ How Michael used mentorship, networking, and education to break into leadership
✅ Why your resume gets you in the door- but relationships close the deal
✅ The key mindset shifts from coaching players to managing staff
✅ Why directors need systems, not just vision - and how Michael built his from the ground up
✅ What leadership really looks like when you’re working 60–70 hours a week and still excited to show up
Whether you're an aspiring director, a hiring manager, or someone in the middle of the transition from court to office, this episode is a must-listen.
Listen now and hear how one coach turned “no” into “now,” and is building something he’s proud of: one system, one hire, and one clay court at a time.
Connect with Michael Pereira on LinkedIn
Connect with Kim Bastable on LinkedIn
Connect with Simon Gale on LinkedIn
Looking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!
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