2024 September Captains of the Month

This September, we’re proud to honor two exceptional USTA Mississippi captains: Rob Fyke and Cynthia Render-Leach.

Rob Fyke has been a Junior Team Tennis (JTT) captain for over 15 years, demonstrating remarkable dedication to fostering young talent. His journey began as a high school tennis coach, and when his oldest child started playing at age 8, he seamlessly transitioned into a parent-captain role. Now based in Starkville with his wife and three children, all of whom have participated in USTA tennis, Rob continues to lead teams for his younger two children. While a busy family schedule has kept him from playing as much as he’d like, Rob remains passionate about the game he played throughout his youth, high school, and college years. He’s inspired by American tennis legends like Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, and the Williams Sisters and hopes to return to the court soon. Rob’s unwavering commitment to junior tennis makes him an inspiring leader and deserving recipient of this recognition.

Cynthia Render-Leach has captained USTA teams for nearly 20 years, balancing her love for tennis with her role as the Human Resources Director at Gulfport Behavioral Health System. Originally from New Orleans, Cynthia moved to Ocean Springs in 1995 and began playing tennis shortly after in 1997. Since then, tennis has become a central part of her life. Cynthia has managed to make captaining work, despite the competing demands of work and family life, and takes great joy in bringing people together to share the game she loves. She values the support of her players and fellow captains, which helps make each season fun and rewarding. Beyond the court, tennis has given Cynthia a chance to meet people from all walks of life, forming lasting friendships across the Gulf Coast. Her family jokes that when she’s not playing, she’s always watching the Tennis Channel!

Congratulations to both Rob and Cynthia for their outstanding leadership and contributions to USTA Mississippi!