The Pine Tree Apple Classic is a great opportunity for me to raise money for a important cause.  As an elementary school teacher, I've experienced first hand the devasting impact of cancer on children and their familiies.  During my first year teaching, I worked with an amazing student, who was deep into treatment for cancer.  He showed such amazing courage and humor amidst a tough journey.  Ultimately, my student and friend, lost his battle.  I'll never forget the impact he had on me and our classroom.  It's my pleasure to play in his honor and hopefully contribute valuable resources to the fight against childhood cancer.  I hope you will consider helping the cause by contributing anything you can to this effort!  

My tennis journey started in the parks of Minneapolis with wooden racquets and suspect strokes. Although my racquet has been replaced, the rest of my game is vintage razzle-dazzle and poor decision making. I played tennis at Washburn High School, but played soccer at Gustavus Adolphus College. After college, tennis became my primary sport. I've been fortunate to receive invaluable advice and coaching from a variety of teaching pros and friends along the way. I've enjoyed giving back to the game as a coach at Centennial High School for the last 10 years. I've experienced many years of great competition and friendship through USTA and World Team Tennis. My wife, Barb, and kids Quinn, Joaquin, and Jage all play and love the game of tennis.