the community newspaper for east oahu since 1987
Tom Gullikson (in red) at the Oahu Club tennis boot camp
photo by Hawkins Biggins

Renowned Tennis Pro Tom Gullikson Camps in Hawaii Kai

by L. KAE GRANIEL
Sun Correspondent

Tom Gullikson, "the pro's pro," former U.S. Davis Cup captain, and the former coach of Pete Sampras and Jennifer Capriati, graced The Oahu Club April 14th - 18th to provide the best tennis boot camp East Oahu has ever seen. Henry Sommerville, tennis pro and director of the Oahu Club, orchestrated the event so that a high caliber tennis camp of national recognition would be available in Hawaii's backyard. According to Sommerville, "Nationally, the number of people participating in tennis is on a dramatic upswing. The opportunity to have a camp like this locally adds excitement to the program and helps support both novice and ranked players."

Gullikson became a touring pro in Florida for his home club, Palm Coast, in 1979. In 1988, he became a National Coach for the USTA, went on to be the U.S. Davis Cup Captain in 1995, and assisted in coaching Andre Agassi to Olympic gold in 1996. Now retired, Gullikson presents his camps worldwide and concentrates on raising money for the Tim and Tom Gullikson Foundation. While coaching Pete Sampras, Tom's twin brother Tim was diagnosed with brain tumors. In 1995, the foundation was formed to assist brain tumor patients and their families in managing the physical, emotional and social challenges presented by the illness. To date, the foundation has raised 4.5 million dollars. Their next event is a charity doubles tournament this month in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

The last day of camp ended with a luncheon and Q & A session with Gullikson. The first question asked was, "When will you be back again?" The next question asked about how to deal with nervousness on the court. Gullikson replied that, "Professionally, nerves are a good thing. Acknowledge them and deal with them appropriately. Don't think about winning, just think about the next ball, the game is won one point at a time." He then went on to talk about getting back to basics if you ever feel like you are having an "off" game, and remember to position your feet first before you go for the shot. When asked what he liked best about camp, Gullikson responded, "I enjoy meeting new people and helping them understand that they need to focus on one thing at a time, master it, then move on. When players get that tennis is a reactionary sport and see the importance of footwork and balance, their game always improves."

For more information about the Tim and Tom Gullikson Foundation, please visit www.Gullikson.org.