USTA Southern California has honored Danielle Sigrist of Orange County as a League Captain of the Month. She currently plays on Mission Viejo’s “Fire” and “Lucky with Love” teams, but can frequently be found playing social tennis at Rancho La Quinta Country Club in the desert.

Danielle is a mom of three beautiful children, married to the love of her life, and a recent convert to tennis. After 15 years of corporate work, she received her Masters degree in Pastoral Ministry and Spirituality from the University of Santa Clara, worked in Youth Ministry, and taught spirituality concepts, including therapeutic yoga. In 2020, amidst the changes brought by Covid, she picked up a tennis racquet for the first time and fell in love with the sport. “It was love at first swing” even though she couldn’t serve, she missed as many balls as she hit, and she rarely won a point. Three senior women in their 70s, accomplished tennis players, mentored her and provided a sense of community and encouragement, leading to new friendships and improved health. Today, some of her dearest friends are those she has met on a tennis court.

She has captained USTA women’s teams, social leagues, and a Hill and Dale team for three years, aiming to empower women through sports. Her primary goal is for her team to feel great, regardless of the score, and to have fun on the court: “I want them to walk off the court happy and proud they were out there hitting the ball. Most importantly, I want them to have fun. That way everyone wins.” 

She advises new captains to prioritize kindness, inclusivity, and putting the team before oneself:  “Egos are fragile, and as captains we have a responsibility to care for everyone on the team. Build them up every step of the way, regardless of match outcomes. Be inclusive, play everyone and use this opportunity to model behavior that makes our tennis world a better place to play. Put your entire team before yourself. Kindness goes especially far on the courts!”

Danielle is thankful for USTA, especially her local Director, Mari, for making tennis accessible to everyone of all playing abilities. “Because of her, I got involved in captaining and it has been a terrific learning and growth experience.”