Celebrating Women Who Lead, Inspire & Shape Racquet Sports
RSPA Women’s History Month Spotlight
Celebrate National Women’s Month with us as we honor the women who lead, inspire and strengthen racquet sports every day. Throughout the RSPA, women serve as innovators, educators, administrators and community builders—fueling a vibrant and inclusive future for racquet sports.
This month, we spotlight the exceptional leaders whose dedication, professionalism and mentorship elevate our association and enrich the athletes, coaches and communities we serve.
Thank you to the women who continue to lead, inspire and shape the future of racquet sports. We are proud to celebrate you – this month and every month.
RSPA Women’s History Month Spotlights

Beth Clay, MBA, PSR, RSPA
A respected educator and industry leader, Beth Clay has championed comprehensive coach development and multi-sport racquet programming throughout her RSPA tenure. Her work reinforces the importance of high-quality certification, staff collaboration and professional advancement across all racquet disciplines.

Susan Nardi — Racquet Sports Leader, Coach & Advocate
Susan is a prominent leader in racquet sports advocacy, program development, and inclusive coaching. Her roles across national and regional organizations – including Women Coaching Racquet Sports, LA Tennis, and the RSPA Women’s Committee – demonstrate her commitment to expanding opportunities and elevating the profession.

Dolores Cox — Arkansas Tennis Professional
For more than four decades, Dolores Cox has brought tennis education to schools, parks, and communities across Arkansas. Her work in youth development – including helping students earn collegiate athletic scholarships – reflects her enduring commitment to the life-changing power of the sport.
“Teaching tennis fills me with hope. It’s a privilege to share a sport that people can enjoy for a lifetime.”

Kelly Marshall — President, RSPA Texas Division
With more than three decades of coaching experience, Kelly Marshall is known for developing impactful racquet sports programs and mentoring professionals throughout Texas. Her leadership advances coaching standards, strengthens community building and fosters career development across the region.
“The RSPA is more than an organization – it is a community that inspires growth, leadership, and connection.”

Joni Hannah — Executive Director, RSPA Mid‑Atlantic Division
A nationally recognized athlete and longtime RSPA Elite Professional, Joni Hannah has contributed over 30 years of leadership to racquet sports. Her extensive competitive background, coaching experience and organizational service have helped shape a thriving Mid‑Atlantic division.
“The RSPA has given me lifelong relationships, guidance, and support. I’m proud to continue giving back to the community that shaped my career.”

Allie Kiick — Director of Racquets, Hollywood Golf Club
Allie, a Fort Lauderdale native, is a former top junior and professional athlete who rose to No. 1 in the U.S. 18‑and‑under rankings, reached No. 15 in the ITF World Junior Rankings, and competed in all four Grand Slam events before earning a career-high WTA ranking of No. 126. After also competing on the APP professional pickleball tour, she transitioned into coaching and leadership, guided by mentors such as 11‑time Grand Slam champion Lisa Raymond. Allie now serves as Director of Racquets at Hollywood Golf Club in Deal, New Jersey, where she leads multi-sport programming and player development.
“I love the RSPA because of the incredible relationships it has brought into my life and career. Through the RSPA, I’ve connected with passionate professionals who support
one another, share knowledge, and help each other grow. Those relationships and mentorship opportunities have opened doors, expanded my perspective, and helped me continue
to move forward in my career in racquet sports.”

Ramona Husaru — Chief Development Officer, RSPA
Ramona Husaru serves as the RSPA’s first female C‑level executive, leading the advancement of professional development, certification pathways and instructional standards across all racquet sports. With more than 15 years of service, she has modernized education programs and championed excellence in coach development. A former WTA‑ranked player and two-time NCAA National Champion, Ramona brings a high-performance mindset backed by graduate study in sport psychology.
“The most meaningful part of my work is supporting others in their professional journey. Helping coaches grow and discover their potential is incredibly rewarding.”

Linda Gordon — Director of Membership, RSPA
Linda’s lifelong connection to racquet sports fuels her commitment to the RSPA’s mission. Growing up immersed in the game and now serving the association professionally, she provides essential support to members working across tennis, pickleball, squash, padel and platform tennis.
“I’ve played tennis since I was three years old. It’s incredibly fulfilling to now support the members who have dedicated their lives to growing the sport I love.”

Nichole Castillo — Director of Human Resources, RSPA
Nichole oversees the employee experience for the RSPA’s national staff and Executive Directors, cultivating the culture, processes and support systems that enable their success. Her leadership enhances organizational cohesion and operational effectiveness across the association.
“The people are what make this organization extraordinary. Supporting the teams who serve our members every day is an honor.”

Cary Tidmus — Executive Director, RSPA Florida Division
Cary’s leadership strengthens one of the RSPA’s most active divisions. She oversees statewide events, professional engagement, marketing efforts and collaborative initiatives that enhance the member experience and support coaches throughout Florida.
“Connecting face-to-face with our members has been incredibly rewarding. Their passion and dedication inspire everything we do.”

Ellen Weatherford — Director of Finance, RSPA
Since joining the RSPA financial team in 1994, Ellen Weatherford has provided steady leadership throughout the organization’s evolution. She played a pivotal role in the association’s 2017 relocation to Orlando and continues to shape its culture through her dedication to member support and operational excellence.
Ellen’s contributions were recognized with the 2023 President’s Paul Waldman Award, and she now serves on the CEO’s leadership team as the organization approaches its centennial milestone.
“Watching the association evolve – expanding from tennis into pickleball, padel, platform tennis, and squash – has strengthened my love for this organization. With RSPA nearing its 100th anniversary, there has never been a more exciting time to be part of this community.”
