Today we’d like to introduce you to Anna Maskaljun.
Hi Anna, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was born and raised in Tallinn, Estonia, where I first discovered my love for tennis at the age of six. That passion carried me through my junior years and eventually earned me a full Division I scholarship from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (I graduated from UNLV with the Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing).
While pursuing my Master’s degree in Sports Management at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, I began coaching at a local tennis center, where I discovered a deep love for teaching and mentoring players. After graduating from ODU, I moved to Memphis, Tennessee, where I paused my professional career to focus on raising my two beautiful children.
Four years ago, I felt called to return to the court and began coaching again within the local community. What started as a return to the game I love quickly grew into something much bigger. Last year, I was given the opportunity to start my own tennis academy—a true dream come true. Today, I am grateful to combine my lifelong passion for tennis with coaching, leadership, and community building.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
For me, the path to becoming an entrepreneur required overcoming both external and internal challenges: from initial language barriers and securing work authorization in a foreign country to navigating systemic biases, battling stereotypes, managing family expectations, and confronting moments of self-doubt.
Yet these challenges and my family support also cultivated resilience, creativity, and an ability to build something meaningful from scarce resources.
As you know, we’re big fans of AM Tennis Academy. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
AM Tennis Academy, a female-owned establishment, specializes in individual and group tennis lessons for greater Memphis area. Led by certified professionals, our academy emphasizes quality education, safe environment and personalized coaching tailored to every skill level.
At AM Tennis Academy, we are certain that tennis is more than a sport – its a pathway to confidence, connection, and joy. Founded by a passionate female tennis pro, our academy is here to make tennis accessible, enjoyable, and empowering for everyone in greater Memphis area. We believe that tennis should be both inspiring and fun, combining professional coaching with a community that celebrates progress, resilience, and passion.
Our mission is to empower players of all ages through the joy of tennis, creating a supportive and inspiring environment where athletes can grow in skill, confidence, and love for the game.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Global tennis participation is hitting historic highs. More demand means more tennis academies, more junior programs, and higher competition among coaches. There is also a growing threat from other racquet sports. These factors represent both unique challenges as well as opportunities.
In order to differentiate, coaches must become tech-literate, analytics-driven, and ready to coach both live and digitally. Lessons will mix in-person, remote video analysis, and AI-guided drills.
At the same time, building a relationship with the clients will remain essential; value will continue to be co-created with the clients.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.amtennisacademy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/am_tennis_academy/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/AM-Tennis-Academy/61581324425136/#
