Mike Gooding R.I.P.
Published on: Sep 29, 20221st January 1965 – 27th September 2022
The association has received the sad news of Mike’s death.
Not only was he one of the top players, winning three Opens during the ’90’s he was also one of the top doubles players of his era.
An obituary is being written by players who knew him well. The professionals send their heartfelt condolences to Amanda and their children Lara and Tabatha.
Rob Fahey writes:
Mike Gooding, who passed away on 27th September aged 57, was one of our leading real tennis professionals for over 35 years. For us as a group it is like a death in the family and we offer our love and condolences to his family, wife Amanda and two children Lara and Tabatha.
Mike started his real tennis as a 14 year old schoolboy in Troon and it would eventually lead him to becoming an assistant professional at Hampton Court in 1983. Mike’s prodigious talent was already evident as he had been representing Scotland on the international stage with his badminton for several years prior to turning to real tennis.
Mike’s playing career saw him spend an extended period at World No 2 and he was the winner of The British Open in 1996 and won back to back French Opens in 1995 and 1996. On top of his excellent singles career Mike was an outstanding doubles player and won many Open titles. His incredible reactions and movement changed the game of doubles forever and has contributed to the exciting game that we enjoy today.
Countless players at Clubs all around the world benefitted from his teaching, commitment and advice. Mike delighted in coaching everyone from first timers to the most experienced players in the world. A great student of the game it was not just stroke play that he could help with as he excelled in the tactics of the game in equal measure. More recently Mike has encouraged and trained many professionals into the game and we are in his debt for some of the outstanding talent we have in the game today.
The professionals are very lucky to have been able to count Mike as a work mate and friend. We will miss him and the enthusiasm he brought with him. We are left with his undying esprit, whether training, playing or teaching of ‘never say never’!
Thank you Mike and farewell
A Message from USCTA President – Mary Livingston
I am writing to share the sad news with our American court tennis community that Mike Gooding, long-time US-based professional, passed away yesterday at the age of 57. Please find the note below that International Tennis Hall of Fame CEO Todd Martin sent to the Newport membership this morning.
Mike was a tremendous player, tireless teacher, and good friend to many of us for decades in Newport, Lakewood, and New York. We will miss the energy and drive that was second to none.
There will be moments to remember his contributions in the weeks and months to come but for now, on behalf of the Board of Governors and the USCTA, I wish Mike peace and ask each of you to hold his family in your thoughts.
Very best,
Mary
|
From Todd Martin, CEO International Tennis Hall of Fame |
|
It is with a solemn and sober heart that I share the tragic news that our long-time teammate, Court Tennis Head Professional, and friend Mike Gooding has passed away. Mike had been battling bladder cancer for more than a year. In addition to being a valued teammate, Mike enjoyed an extraordinary life and career. Most importantly, Mike was a loving husband to Amanda and father to Lara and Tabatha. Mike was an esteemed athlete, having once been the Court Tennis World #2 in singles. His teaching abilities were lauded by all – from his peers to the countless beginners he introduced to the game. I regularly heard from younger professionals that Mike’s coaching in doubles was “second to none”. He shared his love of Court Tennis, its history, and the benefits of the game generously with so many. For those of us who worked most closely with Mike, we knew him as a kind, spirited, intelligent, and caring man…and indeed, he was always up for a chat. Details for services will be shared once known. I ask that you keep Amanda and the girls, and Mike’s extended family and friends in your thoughts and prayers as they grieve the loss of someone so dear. Todd |
 |
||
 |
||
