Induction Year: 2024

 

Sheryl Behne is a towering figure in the history of Texas tennis. Her illustrious career has left an indelible mark on the sport, and her influence spans over six decades, reflecting her extraordinary commitment and passion for the game.​

 

Behne was a top-ranked junior player in Texas when in 1963 she was tapped for the Texas Junior Wightman Cup team. She then went on to play for the University of Texas in both the #1 Singles and #1 Doubles spots, showcasing her exceptional talent and earning the respect of her peers. After college, she taught PE and coached varsity tennis at high schools in Houston and Austin. In 1971, she earned a Masters of Science degree from Smith College.

​​

Then she came back to Austin to begin a long and storied career as a Tennis Teaching Pro and often Club Manager at some of Texas’ most prestigious tennis facilities, such as The Courtyard Tennis Center & Swim Club, Pine Forest Inn (Bastrop), River Oaks (Houston), Caswell Tennis, and South Austin Tennis Center where she managed everything from the pro shop to directing events and leagues, resulting in the USTA National Best Small Tennis Facility Award. Under her leadership, the center thrived and became a cornerstone of the local tennis scene.

​

Behne’s dedication to excellence was palpable at each venue, and her versatile skills and unwavering commitment to the sport were highlighted. In 1974 she co-founded the Capital Area Tennis Association (CATA) and served as its first Executive Director. Her vision led to the establishment of junior team tennis in Central Texas, a concept that predated the USTA’s adoption of the format.

​

While she worked in tennis, she continued to play. For over 25 years, she was a formidable competitor who consistently ranked #1 in Texas in singles and doubles in W35s, W40s, and W50s. Her highest national ranking of #13 in W35S and #4 in W45D underscore her exceptional skill and competitive spirit. She also was a team player who captained the Texas Intersectional Women’s teams and the men’s/women’s Intersectional Doubles National Championships team.

​

Behne has been recognized with numerous awards, including being named USPTA Pro of the Year three times and Texas Player of the Year twice. Her contributions to the sport were further acknowledged with the Texas Senior Player of the Year award three times and the Texas Facility Manager of the Year recognitions. In 1983 she became the only female in Texas and one of only 125 professionals – men and women worldwide - to receive the Master Professional Achievement Award.

​​

Sheryl Behne’s influence as a mentor and leader cannot be overstated. Her guidance has helped numerous assistant pros and aspiring instructors find their place in the tennis industry, and her leadership role in various associations has set high standards for the profession. In addition, her impact and influence on the Austin tennis community were celebrated with awards such as CATA’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

​

Behne’s career is a testament to her passion, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to tennis. Her contributions as a player, coach, and mentor have shaped the sport in Texas and beyond, earning her a rightful place in the Texas Tennis Hall of Fame.