We celebrate our associates who come from all over the world this month and highlight Mark Pachtner, who has been a United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) member for 20+ years and is certified as an Elite Professional (highest category) and dual certified with PTR/PPR as both a tennis and Pickleball Professional. Originally from Germany, Mark recently celebrated his U.S. citizenship with his wife, whom he partners with for several charity events and specifically an annual event and fundraiser for Special Olympics.
Mark worked as Director of Tennis for 10 years in Fuerth, Germany before relocating to the US in April of 1998. He initially moved for a temporary assignment but was offered new career opportunities during his stay. Mark took all the necessary tennis certification in the U.S. and worked in the private club industry all over the U.S.
Mark Pachtner, now director of racquet sports at Troon Country Club was recognized by the USPTA SW with the Lessons for Life Award several years ago. Prior to his tenure at Troon Country Club, Pachtner had developed Fun Day events (since 2000) with the local chapters of the Special Olympics in Georgia, Florida and California. Tennis Fun Day is also a well-established fundraiser for the Special Olympics Arizona, raising close to $26K+ annually.
Since 2011, Pachtner has coordinated and hosted Tennis Fun Days in January with Special Olympics Arizona at Troon Country Club. Since the event’s inception, more than $220,000 has been raised for Special Olympics Arizona with 1125 athletes and 2,500 volunteers participating. During the free Tennis Fun Day of clinics and exhibitions, volunteers from all over Arizona cover the basics of the sport of tennis and teach certain tennis skills to the Special Olympians. Each athlete receives a commemorative Fun Day T-shirt, free Head tennis racquet and a gold medal for participation during a post-event awards luncheon.
“The Valley of the Sun has clearly embraced this wonderful event, especially the members at Troon Country Club,” said Pachtner. “The pure love and joy on the faces of each of our Special Olympians as they hit the tennis ball brings not only a tear to my eye, but ringing joy in my heart along with the hearts of all of our marvelous volunteers who are the real facilitators of Tennis Fun Day.”
Mark’s personal motto is learning by having fun and not taking himself too seriously. His personal and relaxed approach to teaching allowed him to gain a great reputation, especially with the younger generation. Mark has coached High School teams, Division 1 players and the recreational players who are looking to improve their game. He loves seeing players of all levels enjoying their skill improvements. His sense of humor puts people at ease and enjoy the game.
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