Bernard Balagula
Sherman Oaks,CA
Summary
Visionary racquets executive with a proven record of building and leading elite racquet sports programs at premier country clubs and private facilities. Combines operational excellence with strategic leadership to drive member engagement, program profitability, and team performance across tennis, pickleball, and racquet operations. Known for cultivating dynamic club cultures, developing high-performing staff, and elevating the member experience through innovation and service excellence.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Director of Operations & Instruction
The Pickleball Club
01.2023 - 01.2024
- Directed all club operations, staff, and instructional programs, ensuring best-in-class member experience.
- Designed and implemented growth strategies that increased member participation and retail sales.
- Optimized vendor relations and inventory management to enhance product offerings and profitability.
- Elevated staff performance through professional development and standardized service protocols.
- Launched innovative marketing and programming initiatives that boosted engagement and retention.
Director of Racquets
Mountaingate Country Club
01.2021 - 01.2023
- Provided strategic leadership across tennis, pickleball, and pro shop operations.
- Directed a team of racquet professionals, achieving a 30% increase in program enrollment and 20% rise in membership.
- Managed multimillion-dollar budgets, staff scheduling, and facility improvements.
- Enhanced pro shop performance through inventory optimization and merchandising strategy.
- Fostered a member-centric culture through events, community partnerships, and communication initiatives.
Director of Pickleball & Head Tennis Professional
Mountaingate Country Club
01.2020 - 01.2021
- Developed and scaled the pickleball program, increasing participation by 80% within one year.
- Introduced instructional clinics and events that strengthened the club’s racquets culture.
- Mentored staff and advanced standards for instruction and member service.
Director / Territory Owner
TGA Premier Sports
01.2015 - 01.2019
- Oversaw 20 youth racquet programs and 20 employees, leading operations, budgeting, and marketing.
- Built one of the company’s top-producing territories through strategic partnerships and program innovation.
Owner & Director
DoWell Inc.
01.2012 - 01.2019
- Managed all aspects of a private coaching business serving juniors to tour-level players.
- Directed sales, marketing, and client relations while developing nationally ranked athletes.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Sports Management
Rider University
Lawrenceville, NJSkills
- Executive Leadership & Team Development
- Racquets Program Strategy & Growth
- Membership Engagement & Retention
- Financial & Budget Oversight
- Staff Training & Performance Management
- Marketing, Events & Community Outreach
- Facility & Retail Operations Management
- Cross-Departmental Collaboration
Certification
- Active member, RSPA Elite Professional
- CRSE (Certified Racquet Sports Executive)
- PTR Professional
- IPTPA Member
- Cardio Tennis & U10 Tennis Certified
- TGA Premier Sports Foundation
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Russian
Native or Bilingual
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
Rookie of the Year, Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC), Top-20 U.S. National Junior Ranking (18 & Under), International Tennis Federation (ITF) Ranked Junior
Timeline
Director of Operations & Instruction
The Pickleball Club
01.2023 - 01.2024
Director of Racquets
Mountaingate Country Club
01.2021 - 01.2023
Director of Pickleball & Head Tennis Professional
Mountaingate Country Club
01.2020 - 01.2021
Director / Territory Owner
TGA Premier Sports
01.2015 - 01.2019
Owner & Director
DoWell Inc.
01.2012 - 01.2019
Bachelor of Science - Sports Management
Rider University