Reflecting on Florida Tennis legend Jim Martz

Looking back, it's been a year since Jim Martz passed away. It's a time of deep reflection. Even though feelings of sadness can overwhelm, there have also been some uplifting moments. As 2024 unfolded, Jim's presence was felt throughout the caring, loving, and supportive Florida Tennis community. 

USTA Florida recently renamed their Media Excellence Award calling it the "Jim Martz Media Excellence Award" and honored its first winner — Jim Martz. Jim's nephew A.J. and sister Sue Schmidt accepted the award on his behalf at USTA Florida's 75th Anniversary celebration event in Tampa. It was wonderful seeing A.J. and Sue along with their smiles and heartfelt words on stage, remembering Jim with great pride.

Above: Arthur Ashe with Jim Martz

In addition, Florida Tennis' Adam Ross won the first-ever "Jim Martz Media Award" at the Miami Open — such a very special honor. Adam also hosted a wonderful Celebration of Life event at the home of the Orange Bowl, Veltri Racquet Center, earlier this year to remember the life of Jim Martz.

In addition, the January-February Florida Tennis tribute cover remembering Jim Martz was also on display in the media center (and discussed on stadium court) at this year's Delray Beach Open. And the Jim Martz Memorial Scholarship Fund was also set up thanks to Lisa Pugliese-LaCroix at Love Serving Autism.

Above: Jim Martz with Rick Macci

Jim was the heart and soul of Florida Tennis and that’s why I fell in love with it. He was my mentor. And he was an incredible teacher. He taught me so much about the history of tennis in Florida. This was (and is) the state where tennis dreams are built.

Jim was like a great coach. Watching his example, he helped me (and so many others) live with a larger purpose alongside this amazing community of tennis players in Florida.

Above: Andre Agassi, Jim Martz, and Gardnar Mulloy

I'm forever grateful that I had such special moments with Jim. More than a mentor, Jim was a friend. I’ll miss him. I wish I could have had more time with him.

As we enjoy the holiday season and look ahead to the new year, let’s all take some time to remember the legacy of Jim Martz. Along with these recollections, please check out 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.

I recently had a chance to remember Jim with his friend, and Florida Tennis contributor, Dave "Koz" Kozlowski at the Little Mo tournament in Palm Beach Gardens. We also discussed the Little Mo tournament, our amazing colleague Adam Ross, and a bit about what's ahead for Florida Tennis magazine. Feel free to check out the clip below...

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Written by Florida Tennis Editor and Publisher Matt Pressman. Top photo: Chris Evert with Jim Martz. Video courtesy of Inside Tennis with the Koz. Editor's note: I'm pleased also to report that Koz is improving rapidly after his bicycle accident. When Koz's physical therapist asked him why he was recovering so fast post-injury, he attributed it (of course) to the great sport of tennis.