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- USPTA Professional
- PTR Professional
- USTA Sports Science Coach
- Lawn Tennis Association Coach
- USTA Youth Team Tennis Coach
- English Football Association Soccer Coach
- Sponsors: Head, Gamma, K-Swiss
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Riaz was born in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania. His family moved to London,
England when he was very young and he spent most of his childhood
playing his first love, soccer. He played tennis off and on until at age
13 his soccer coach suggested he take part in a local tournament held in
South West London. He won that tournament and slowly his love for the
game of tennis began to grow. He continued to practice and play both
sports well into his late teens and also had trials to play professional
soccer for a few clubs in London.
At 16, he was chosen to play on the All London Tennis Team, which meant
practice sessions with Great Britain's former Davis Cup players John
Lloyd, David Lloyd, Roger Smith, and on occasion, legendary Bjorn Borg.
He trained at England's premier tennis academy, Bisham Abbey.
The summers of 1988-1989 were spent traveling around northern Europe
playing satellite tournaments and professional club tennis for teams
from England and France.
Riaz started his coaching life in England and since 1992 has been
nurturing and developing his own style of coaching based on the
principals he was taught; love and respect for the game, commitment,
effort and dedication, fun!
Since beginning his coaching career he has introduced players to his
coaching style and at these facilities, Parsons Green Tennis Club
(London), Montecito Sequoia Family Camp (CA), Liberty Heights Tennis
Club (CA), Hillsborough (CA), and since 1999 at Peninsula Tennis Club in
Burlingame, CA.
Riaz' tennis programs have helped develop young children, tournament
juniors, USTA league players, and seniors enjoying the beautiful game.
Riaz plays tennis with his lovely wife Gabi, and lives in San Mateo, CA.
- 1996 - Ranked # 1 in Norcal Men's 5.5 Division
- Grand Prix winner
- 1998 - Ranked #20 in Norcal Men's Open Division
Currently playing Norcal Men's 35's Division