Foreign coaches help ‘Tennis City of China’ dream big

Jingshan, a county-level city in Hubei province, is making strides toward its vision of becoming the ‘Tennis City of China’ with the help of international expertise. Mexican coaches Fabricio and Grecia Gonzalez have brought their global experience to the Hubei Tennis School, enhancing the training and development of local talent. The city, already renowned for hosting prestigious tournaments like the WTA 125 and ATP 100, has embraced the couple’s contributions to its tennis ecosystem. Fabricio, a seasoned coach with experience in Mexico, the US, and Spain, focuses on technical training and strategic development, while Grecia, a respiratory therapist, introduces innovative breathing techniques to young players. Their arrival in August 2025 marked a significant step in Jingshan’s tennis journey. The city boasts over 300 high-standard courts and a thriving tennis culture, with more than 100,000 enthusiasts among its 600,000 residents. The Gonzalez duo, supported by the local government with accommodation and training facilities, has already made an impact. Fabricio’s tailored coaching methods have improved players’ skills and motivation, while Grecia’s breathing courses have enhanced physical performance. Despite initial challenges, including language barriers, the couple has adapted and is optimistic about the potential of their trainees. They aim to nurture a new generation of athletes capable of competing on the global stage, potentially reaching ATP or WTA tours. Jingshan’s commitment to tennis, combined with international expertise, positions it as a rising star in the world of sports.