Airton Agostinho I Lead Coach

Airton has been coaching in New Zealand since 2016, focusing on junior development and working with players of all levels. With a background in engineering, Airton brings a unique approach to coaching, using video analysis and his analytical skills to fine-tune players' technique. This hands-on, detailed coaching style helps players reach their full potential on the court. Airton believes in creating the right environment and fostering positive behaviours on court. He's dedicated to guiding young players as they build their tennis journey, ensuring they have the foundation to succeed. 

Contact: +64226306001

Jake Thompson I Lead Coach, Red and Orange Stage

Jake is a passionate 12U coach who thrives on creating and nurturing academy level players. He believes strongly in using tennis as a mechanism to create independent, inquisitive minds that seek challenge. He considers his strengths to be his focus on tactical play, and an ability to drive players towards success whilst maintaining a healthy relationship with tennis. He has been a coach educator for Tennis New Zealand, the 12U team coach for Tennis Northern, and the selector and head coach for the 7U and 9U academies at Albany Tennis Park. At Lavie, Jake is involved across all 12U programmes, nurturing and growing the next wave of champions. 

Contact: +64210582446

Nicolas Moreno I Academy Coach

Hailing from Colombia, Nicolas has been an integral part of the Lavie Tennis Academy for 6 years, contributing across all facets of the program. With a great playing history that includes ranking in the top 10 for U14 players, he infuses each session with intense energy, effectively challenging players of all skill levels while emphasizing structure and purpose in his coaching. Growing up on clay courts, Nicolas possesses a deep understanding of the game's tactical elements, particularly in constructing points. His ability to adapt to the unique styles of different players, combined with his commitment to maintaining high standards on the court, ensures that every session results in tangible progress.

Contact: +64223945847

Glynnis Carolissen I Club Coach

Glynnis is from Namibia-South Africa and started coaching in underprivileged communities on a voluntary basis since her first ITF tennis coaching course at 16. Educational and work background include BA (Human Movement Science), Fitness Instructor, Junior Development Coaching course (2008), and Psychologist in her day job. Glynnis has played competitive tennis since age 9, went to the US on a tennis scholarship and continues to play competitive tennis at 50. She is tennis crazy, continues to develop her game and loves supporting others in their tennis!

Contact: +64210378044
 

Walter Sudour I Club Coach

Originally from France, Walter has worked with all ages and levels of players. He uses a variety of training tools to target specific technical areas, helping players build strong foundations from an early age.

Walter brings a calm presence to the court, creating an environment where players can develop both technically and mentally. His energy and humour make sessions exciting and engaging, helping players stay motivated while learning the game.

Contact: +33687530335

 

Alexander Chambers I Club Coach

Alex is a dedicated tennis coach at Lavie Tennis Academy, with 4 years of coaching experience, working with players of all ages and abilities. He holds a Bachelor of Sport and Recreation (AUT, Health & Physical Education), and a Development Level 1 Coach qualification (Tennis Australia). His coaching style focuses on building strong foundations, inspiring confidence, and creating a positive, player-centred environment. Whether you’re starting out or competing at a high level, Alex makes every session engaging, supportive, and tailored to your goals.

Contact: +64224091854
 

Nicholas Curin I Assistant Coach

Nicholas has been playing tennis for the last 17 years and has been coaching for the last 7.  As a player, he regularly competed in tournaments and interclub since his junior days. Now as a coach, his mission is to give kids a fun and exciting place to come after school where they can learn a new skill that they can carry with themselves for the rest of their lives while pushing them to become the best possible tennis player they can be. 

Contact: +642102202255


 

Zara Ranchhod I Assistant Coach

Zara is in her fourth year at the University of Auckland. She has been playing at Blockhouse Bay Tennis Club for 15 years and coaching here for 4 years. She truly loves being a part of other people's tennis journey and giving them the same amazing experience she had growing up. She likes to play tennis as often as possible and is frequently at the tennis club, playing with friends and family. She also participates in club and interclub tournaments.

Contact: +64275325475


 

Chelsea Wijntjes I Assistant Coach

Chelsea is a second year university student who began playing tennis at Blockhouse Bay when she was 5, quickly loving the sport and the people she met through it. Her experience competing in tournaments and interclub competitions over the years inspires her to help players of all levels grow their skills and passion for tennis, as she continues to develop her own level.





 

Sophie Lin I Assistant Coach

Sophie is a second year university student who has been playing tennis since she was 8. With tennis becoming an integral part of her life, she has gained the opportunity to compete, both in tournaments and interclub but most importantly, foster and develop skills, friendships and a love for the sport. This inspires her to continue to play tennis and help guide and coach other players to feel the same impact tennis has had on her. 




 

Hana Teague I Assistant Coach

Hana has been playing tennis at Blockhouse Bay Tennis Club since the age of 6. It has become a big part of both her daily and social life. As a senior in high school she is a very committed and focused person on and off the court. She took her first Tennis New Zealand Assistant Coaching Course aged 14 and currently coaches young children hoping to inspire them as they build their tennis skills and connections with others. At the same time she holds deep motivation for the sport and continues to train hard with the Lavie tennis Academy to strive towards enhancing her game on court.