FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 10, 2026

Ross School Announces Richele LeSaldo as Director of the Ross School Tennis Center

East Hampton, NY — Ross School is proud to announce the appointment of Richele LeSaldo as the new Director of the Ross School Tennis Center, ushering in an exciting new chapter for one of the school’s cornerstone athletic programs.

LeSaldo brings more than two decades of international coaching and leadership experience to Ross. Most recently, she served as Director of Tennis at Albany Tennis Academy in Nassau, The Bahamas, where she led all operations and implemented long-term player development plans that resulted in a 100% college scholarship placement rate for graduating athletes. She has coached at all four Grand Slam tournaments and was based at the prestigious Mouratoglou Tennis Academy under renowned coach Patrick Mouratoglou.

A former Barbados #1 female tennis player for over a decade, LeSaldo represented her country in international competition and competed at the highest levels of collegiate tennis at Clemson University, where she was team captain and part of two consecutive NCAA Division I Final Four teams.

“Richele is an extraordinary leader whose experience spans elite competition, academy development, and community-building,” said Tom Sturtevant, Head of School at Ross. “Throughout our search, it was clear we were looking for someone who could both honor the strength and momentum of our current program and elevate it to new heights. Richele brings the strategic vision, global perspective, and student-centered philosophy that will allow the Ross Tennis Center to thrive whether a student is picking up a racquet for the first time or preparing to compete at the collegiate level.”

LeSaldo emphasized her excitement about joining the Ross community and building a comprehensive tennis culture that supports students on and off the court.

“I am honored to join Ross School and lead the Tennis Center at such an exciting moment,” said LeSaldo. “Ross has a lasting commitment to student athletic development, and I believe tennis is a powerful vehicle for building confidence, resilience, and joy. My goal is to create an environment where every student, regardless of level, feels supported, challenged, and inspired. I look forward to working with our talented coaches, connecting with families, and helping our student-athletes reach their full potential.”

The Director of the Ross School Tennis Center is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the school’s tennis program, including coaching, player development, college recruitment, team management, staff leadership, and facility operations. The role also includes guiding tournaments, daily training, and summer programming while fostering a vibrant and inclusive tennis culture aligned with Ross School’s mission and values. LeSaldo will begin her tenure this spring season.

For more information about Ross School and the Ross Tennis Center, please visit ross.org/east-hampton/tennis-rstc.

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