In August, Aztec Tennis Reporter published a Salute to Coach Larry Willens (1938-2021). Readers responded from near and far, literally from across the globe.
Dear ATR:
This is quite amazing. Thank you SO much. I just wanted to say thank you. Truly.
Rich Willens (Son)
Dear ATR:
Excellent, thorough, and well-deserved tribute! For sure, you captured the essence of the man in such a humanistic way. I am proud and honored to have been included in this beautiful testimonial.
Larry Belinsky
Aztec Men 1974-76,
Founder, San Diego
Tennis Hall of Fame
Dear ATR:
Yet another great issue. Great tribute to Larry Willens, who unfortunately, I never really had the opportunity to know.
Dick Gould
Stanford Men’s Tennis Coach 1968-2004
Dear ATR:
I started my officiating career 40 years ago. San Diego Friar matches at the Sports Arena with Coach Willens were among my first endeavors. Concluded with him at SDSU matches. A long ride. Lots of stories. A bright, private man indeed.
Bob Christianson
Retired USTA official
Dear ATR:
Condolences on the passing of Coach Willens. What a lovely, uplifting tribute!
Willie Weinbaum ESPN New York
Dear ATR:
It is with mixed feelings that I write this tribute. Coach Larry’s knowledge of the sport of tennis, his humility and passion were infectious. May his memory continue to be a blessing to all who knew him.
Godwin Kienka
Tennis Africa Magazine
Dear ATR:
Wonderful tribute to Larry Willens…A very, very special individual
Mark Winters
Southern California Tennis Association
Billie Jean King, Coach Willens’ longtime friend and colleague at World Team Tennis, spoke at his Celebration of Life memorial at the Aztec Tennis Center in August