Sports Spotlight; Andrew Blaha

Andrew Blaha is currently in his senior year at the College of Charleston studying business with a concentration in leadership and a minor in physical education. He grew up in Saratoga Springs, where he was a member of the varsity tennis team. He brought his passion for the sport to Charleston, where he is president for the Charleston Club Tennis team and an intern for the athletic department.

Coach Rich Johns, a former Saratoga Springs teacher and tennis coach for nearly four decades, asked Blaha about his accomplishments and future plans as part of the “Act With Respect Always” spotlight series.

Q: Tell us more about your position as player/coach
and mentor.

A: Currently giving back day to day with my volunteer positions in tennis coaching and peer mentorship. I spend many hours working with and teaching less experienced players for our club team and I also work with current college freshmen, helping them with everything from schoolwork to social life advice. No matter what situation I am in, I try to emphasize the importance of respect both for yourself and others.

Q: What kind of modeling do you try to do to be a good leader and teammate?

A: I frequently preach the message of respect to my teammates as coach/teacher to my club team. The words respect and integrity are at the foundation of my coaching philosophy. It is also a great reminder in my personal life to treat others with respect even at difficult moments.

Q: What are your future career plans and goals?

A: I look forward to the next stage of life where I hope to pursue athletics management; the operations of athletic departments or teams, including budgets, facility management, and event planning.