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ATA Director

Matt Johnston

"Johno"

Background: Matt’s tennis journey began as a highly ranked junior National Level Player in Australia. He was rewarded with a college scholarship in the United States, where he achieved a top 10 National ranking in the NJCAA System in 2006.

Driven by his passion for the sport, Matthew launched his coaching career early, managing National identification and development programs throughout Australia. His expertise caught international attention, leading to an opportunity with the Hong Kong Tennis Association (HKTA). There, he joined the Hong Kong National Coaching Team, specialising in junior talent identification and junior development of all ages.

Matthew’s career trajectory showcases his commitment to nurturing talent and his ability to excel in diverse tennis environments. Matt brings over 25 years of experience coaching promising juniors, developing national programmes, designing and implementing club and community-based initiatives across multiple countries.

Coaching Experience: Over 25 years coaching junior and adult players of all levels.

Qualification: Advanced certified level 2 coach ATPCA

ATA Work Specialty: Sports programme design & Implementation both club and community based. Professional Coach Development. 

ATA Team Member Since:  2010

A Little Bit of Fun

Hobbies / interests outside of tennis?
Playing golf

Favourite Quote
Change is a choice

Favourite music / musician / band?
U2 – Bono

Favourite CHILDHOOD TV / Movie?
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (until it was stolen)

When you were 5, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Policeman was the dream

Tell me about your greatest achievement?
Definitely my son and the challenges of navigating HK Covid closures with a young family.

Tell me about the most embarrassing moment you’ve ever had?
Don’t get embarrassed easily but the accidental fart in a year 9 english exam was a shocker.

What’s the BEST and WORST advice you’ve ever received?
Best – Talk less, listen more / Worst – Always take a promotion

If you could challenge any famous person or character to a tennis match, who would it be and why?
Federer on grass. Just to see the quality that close.

Was there a reoccurring theme or comment that featured on all your school report cards?
Easily distracted by others

Toy or hobby you were most obsessed with as a child?
Anything with a ball. Would spend hours in the yard playing.

If you could go back in time and give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Wear sunscreen so you don’t look so old. Take your time and don’t rush the process.

Would you rather have fingers for toes or toes for fingers? And how do you think it would affect your tennis game?
Fingers for toes. Would make me a very handy tennis player