OCTOBER VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH
Barb Rueth | Wheaton, Illinois
The Chicago District Tennis Association is happy that Barb Rueth made the decision to leave the corporate world when she did and give back to the sport of tennis as a volunteer. A former consultant for Hewitt Associates, Barb knew she had a passion still in her from her Marquette playing days and a love to help children. Barb returned to tennis with a fire to make a difference in communities and the tennis world.
Barb is now the 10 and Under Specialist at Naperville Tennis Club where she has had a major impact on their programming structure which has allowed for a growth in junior players and competition. With her expertise in developing players using the Junior Development Pathway, Barb has been a great supporter for growing programs around the Chicago District. Her continuous joy in the game, as well as her selfless attitude, Barb continues to help around the Chicagoland area.
Barb is an active member on the Chicago District Board where she brings a new perspective on growing the game to develop better players at an early age. She continues to help with various events through the area including the Davis Cup Play Day, Community Tennis Play Day, The AC Nielsen Pro Tennis Tournament Play Day, as well as many School trainings and development days. Barb will go out of her way regardless of the location to help. With her knowledge of 10 and Under development, Barb is a member of the USTA/Midwest Section Youth Play Sub-Committee where she has brought many new ideas and plans to raise the bar of programs across the section.
As a certified PTR Professional, Barb is also one of the coaches on the Early Development Camps in Chicago where she regularly takes leadership roles. As a favorite to many players and parents, Barb never has an off day on the court. She even coaches from a scooter when healing from an Achilles surgery as she did not want to miss camp.
With Barb’s countless support for the game, helping children of backgrounds and communities, and her drive to continue learning, her work is greatly appreciated in the Chicago District and USTA/Midwest Section!