Who We Are
Kentucky's premier tennis development club, building champions on and off the court since 2005.
Wildcat Tennis Club of Kentucky is Lexington's premier tennis development club serving juniors and adults of all skill levels. We offer clinics, private lessons, small group training, and memberships — all within 50 miles of UK. Building champions on and off the court since 2005.
Our Purpose
Our Mission
The Wildcat Tennis Club of Kentucky exists to grow the game of tennis in the Bluegrass State. We believe tennis builds character, discipline, and lifelong friendships — and we're committed to making world-class instruction accessible to players of every age and skill level.
From eight-year-olds picking up a racket for the first time to competitive juniors chasing national rankings, our programs are designed to meet players where they are and take them further than they imagined.
Excellence
We hold ourselves and our players to the highest standards of technique, sportsmanship, and effort.
Community
Tennis is better together. We foster a welcoming, inclusive environment where every member belongs.
Development
Every player has a ceiling we haven't found yet. Our pros are dedicated to unlocking it.
Passion
We love this game. That energy is contagious — and it shows up in every clinic, lesson, and match.
Coaching staff
Meet the Pros
Our coaching staff brings decades of competitive and instructional experience to every session.
Vance Michael
President & Director of Operations
Vance brings over 25 years of coaching experience to Wildcat Tennis Club, working with players at the High School, Amateur, College, and competitive levels. He has coached Regional and State champions and has directed tournaments across the full spectrum of the sport — from the USTA Pro Circuit, ATP, and WTA to College, UTR, and USTA events at every level. His methodical approach and deep knowledge of the game have helped dozens of players earn college scholarships and compete at the national level.
- 25+ Years Coaching
- High School, Amateur & College Coach
- Regional & State Champion Coach
- USTA Pro Circuit, ATP & WTA Tournament Director
- College, UTR & USTA Tournament Experience
Carey Rubin
Director of Tennis & Head Teaching Pro
Carey brings energy, creativity, and a player-first philosophy to every session. His coaching résumé is among the most decorated in the sport — he has coached Grand Slam winners, Olympic champions, National champions, and State champions. Specializing in player development at every level, he has a gift for making complex technique approachable and translating elite-level experience into real results for every student he works with.
- Grand Slam Winner Coach
- Olympic Champion Coach
- National & State Champion Coach
- USPTA Certified
Kelsey Dieter
Tennis Coach
Kelsey is a former college tennis player who now brings that competitive experience to her coaching at the high school level. Her firsthand knowledge of what it takes to compete collegiately gives her a unique ability to connect with developing players and help them build the skills and mindset needed to succeed at the next level.
- College Tennis Player
- High School Coach
- Youth Development
Brandon Tackett
Tennis Coach
Brandon is a dedicated coach with a passion for the game and a talent for connecting with players of all skill levels. His energy and competitive background make him a valuable asset to both junior and adult programs at the club.
- Tennis Coach
- Competitive Background
Landen Watts
Tennis Coach
Landen brings a player-first approach to every lesson and clinic. With a focus on technique and match-play strategy, he helps students at every level build the skills and confidence to compete and enjoy the game.
- Tennis Coach
- Match Play Specialist
Noah Habash
Tennis Coach
Noah is a skilled coach who excels at breaking down complex strokes into clear, actionable steps. His patient and encouraging style makes him especially effective with developing juniors and players returning to the game.
- Tennis Coach
- Junior Development
Henry Winiecki
Tennis Coach
Henry combines a competitive playing background with a genuine love of coaching. He brings intensity and focus to every session, pushing players to reach their potential while keeping the experience fun and rewarding.
- Tennis Coach
- Competitive Player
Ready to Join the Club?
Whether you're brand new to tennis or looking to take your game to the next level, there's a place for you at Wildcat Tennis Club.