Remembering Florida Tennis Founder Jim Martz

Yesterday marked two years since Florida Tennis Founder Jim Martz passed away. In the midst of all this holiday cheer, feelings of melancholy surface as I reflect on such a loss. Jim was my mentor and my friend. He taught me so much. 

I cherish the time we had together. I wish I could rewind the clock and absorb more of Jim’s sage advice, marvelous stories, and life lessons. He was so generous with his time. He was so patient as I struggled to get up to speed. He was so helpful (and kind) as I fumbled to figure out things that came so easy to him.

Jim was larger-than-life in the world of tennis. And it wasn’t just here in the state of Florida. When we traveled to the US Open, every few steps another tennis aficionado would pull him aside to say hello. He would always go out of his way to gently bring me into the conversation. 

Above: Arthur Ashe with Jim Martz

To this day, not a week goes by that I don’t hear Jim’s name in the world of Florida Tennis. I still learn more through delightful stories from those who spent time in Jim’s warm presence. I feel grateful that I got to spend the time I did with Jim. 

That gratitude extends to the many people connected to Jim who’ve helped continue his tradition of excellence at this magazine. Contributors like Adam Ross, Dave “Koz” Kozlowski, Todd Pechter, Guillermo Morales-Rubert, Cameron Mofid and many others have taken the influence that Jim had on them and infused it into the pages of our publication.

Above: Training young "Canes" fans at a family Christmas celebration (courtesy of Sue Schmidt)

Blessed. That’s how I feel. But also sad. Getting on the phone earlier today with Jim’s sister Sue Schmidt, however, greatly lifted my spirits. Jim’s family is so, so special and Sue continues to bring joy to everyone around her — just like her brother did. 

As Florida Tennis forges ahead into 2026, Jim’s spirit lives on. His impact is felt. 

How lucky I feel to have this precious opportunity to continue his legacy. But to be honest, it’s intimidating. Jim set the bar so high. So I’ll keep my head up — work harder, do better, and keep my heart open. And always remember and honor my friend.

Photo Gallery: Memories of Jim

Above: Jim Martz pictured with Rick Macci, Andre Agassi, Gardnar Mulloy, Ivan Lendl, The Bryan Bothers, Jim Courier, Mary Joe Fernandez, and Martina Navratilova

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Written by Florida Tennis Editor and Publisher Matt Pressman. Top photo: Chris Evert with Jim Martz. >> For more on the the legacy of Jim Martz, read these touching tributes (and tweets) from Billie Jean King, Chris Evert, Rick Macci, Adam Ross, Cameron Mofid, Paul Fein, Greg Cote, Gary Ferman, and heartfelt memories of Jim from his sister Sue Schmidt. Check out the January-February 2024 Florida Tennis tribute cover remembering Jim and learn more about the Jim Martz Memorial Scholarship Fund.