Robert Gomez Named 2024-2025 RSPA Florida Professional of the Year

Robert Gomez has been selected as the 2024-2025 Alex Gordon Florida Professional of the Year, a recognition awarded by the Racquet Sports Professionals Association (RSPA) for outstanding contributions to the sport. A longtime member of the RSPA since 1996, Gomez has spent nearly three decades involved in various aspects of the tennis industry—from coaching and facility management to community development and charitable work.

Currently, Gomez manages both the Biltmore Tennis Center and Salvadore Park Tennis Center in Coral Gables, overseeing racquet sports operations, a staff of more than 30 employees, and an annual budget of $1.4 million. His recent efforts have included the addition of six new pickleball courts at the Biltmore location, addressing growing community interest in the sport. 

“He’s one of the most active professionals I know,” said Fred Couceyro, Director of Community Recreation for Coral Gables, who has worked with Gomez for the past two decades. “Robert’s focus is not just on tennis instruction, but on how programming can serve the broader community.”

In addition to his administrative role, Gomez continues to coach and mentor young athletes. As Chair of the USTA Florida Coaches Commission and Director of Tier One Tennis Academy, he has helped guide many players toward college scholarships and higher-level competition. His coaching philosophy emphasizes player development on and off the court.

Above: RSPA Florida Proffesional of the Year Rober Gomez. Source: USTA Florida

“From a coaching perspective, I’ve always tried to help players reach levels they didn’t think were possible,” Gomez said during his acceptance speech. “And at the professional level, I’ve worked to grow the game across all areas—from the grassroots to competitive play.”

Over the years, Gomez has been recognized with several industry awards, including the USPTA Florida Touring Coach of the Year (2014) and the USPTA Region 8 Lifetime Achievement Award (2023). His colleagues cite consistency, professionalism, and a deep commitment to the sport as defining qualities.

Gomez is also involved in tournament organization. He serves as Tournament Director for the Junior Orange Bowl, one of the most notable international events in youth tennis. “He’s invested in making sure players from all over the world feel welcomed and supported here,” said Carolina Vester, Assistant City Manager of Coral Gables.

Outside of competitive tennis, Gomez has initiated community-focused events such as the First Annual Pickleball Tournament for Ronald McDonald House Charities, which drew more than 900 participants and raised over $40,000. The event reflected a growing trend in racquet sports programming aimed at combining recreation with philanthropy.

Above: Robert Gomez on court in Coral Gables coaching his players. Source: RSPA

“Robert doesn’t approach this as a nine-to-five job,” said Vester. “He’s been involved in operations, training, coaching, and long-term planning. His goal has always been to build a facility—and a program—that functions at a high level while remaining accessible.”

Reflecting on the award, Gomez acknowledged his colleagues and staff. “This recognition isn’t about one individual,” he said. “It’s the result of collective work—from tennis pros and front desk staff to maintenance teams and administrators. I’m grateful for the people around me who help make all of this possible.”

The Alex Gordon Professional of the Year Award is presented annually to an individual who demonstrates excellence in racquet sports leadership, community service, and professional development. For many in the South Florida tennis community, Gomez’s selection this year came as no surprise.

“He continues to push for improvement in every area,” said Todd Rubinstein, past president of Region 8 Florida RSPA. “Whether that’s in programming, player development, or facility growth, Robert has consistently raised the standard.”

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Written by Florida Tennis Associate Editor Osvaldo Godoy. Source: RSPA. Top photo: USTA Florida.