Shelly Sweeney, a former professional tennis player, provides personalized, performance-driven coaching and training for athletes.
Meet Coach Shelly
Tennis has always been more than a sport for me–it’s a lifelong passion. I’ve carried that love for the game through a 30+ year career as a player, coach and performance specialist.
Professional Career
I began my collegiate career at the University of Colorado, playing #1 and #2 singles and reaching the Big Ten finals as a freshman. After transferring to UC Berkeley, I helped CAL win a Pac-10 Championship, then joined my sister on the professional tour.
From 1988 to 1993, I competed internationally, earning world rankings in singles and doubles. During my professional career, I had the opportunity to play against some of the sport’s top players, including Martina Navratilova, Gigi Fernandez, Mary Pierce, and Monica Seles.
Sports Science Training
After a wrist injury ended my playing career, I shifted my focus to coaching and athletic development. I earned a Master’s degree in Sports Science from the U.S. Sports Academy and had the privilege of working with leaders like Dr. Michael Yessis and Dr. Donald Chu, experts in speed, power development, and pioneers in plyometric training and sports rehabilitation.
Sports Performance & Tennis at Collegiate Level
I have held leadership roles at top sports performance and tennis programs, including NovaCare/Acceleration Center, Alpine Hills Fitness, and Foothills Tennis & Swim Club, and I have also coached at the collegiate level with the University of San Francisco.
Coaching Today’s Athletes
Today, I work independently with athletes of all ages and levels, whether they’re building confidence on the court, training for competition, or recovering from injury. My coaching philosophy blends my competitive experience, biomechanics, and a commitment to long-term development.
Individualized, Goal-Oriented Programs
Whether you're an individual athlete or part of a team aiming to build strength, develop explosive speed, or enhance overall performance, I offer consulting services that deliver customized speed, agility, and strength training.
Learn more about Shelly’s Tennis, Speed, and Strength Training Services
Career Highlights
Wimbledon qualifying (women’s and mixed doubles)
Main draw appearance at the Singapore Open
Quarterfinals at the Virginia Slims of Palm Springs
Main draw doubles at the Kansas City Open
Doubles qualifying at Miami Open
Multiple Open-level singles and doubles titles
Team tennis for TC Rot-Weiss in Freiburg, Germany
Coaching Credentials
Master’s in Sports Science, U.S. Sports Academy
Certified United States Professional Tennis Professional
PTR certified professional
Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist
ACSM Certified Personal Trainer
Certified Function Movement Specialist
Certified TRX & Cardio Tennis Instructor
Certified USA Pickleball Instructor
USTA Safe Play Certified
Interested in Working With Shelly?
A Deep Love for the Game
Tennis has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember and it runs deep in my family’s legacy. In 1917, my grandfather won the U.S. Open Doubles, my mother played until she was 90, and today, I continue to play in multiple national and international tournaments.
This deep love for the game is what I bring to my coaching. I've seen how tennis can shape lives, build confidence, discipline, and resilience, all of which carries far beyond the tennis court.
As a trainer and coach, I’m fully invested in the goals of each player I work with. I feel incredibly lucky to share that love for the game by helping others grow, compete, and find their own joy on the tennis court.
Send Me a Message!
Reach out to Shelly to discuss your training needs and goals.