Remembering Lake City Columbia Community Tennis Association Volunteer Mark Mansbach

USTA Florida is saddened to learn of the passing of Mark Mansbach, a beloved tennis coach, dedicated volunteer, and cherished member of the Lake City tennis community.  

Born on May 27, 1950, in Kalispell, Montana, Mark’s family relocated to Miami when he was 10 years old. It was there that he first fell in love with the game of tennis, studying the techniques of his favorite player, Rod Laver, and developing a passion for the sport that would define the rest of his life. Mark went on to play tennis at the University of Florida during his freshman year, deepening his connection to both the game and the state he would call home. 

Mark married his wife Jean in 1972 and later saw the birth of his daughter, Beth. He built a career as a construction inspector while also sharing his love for tennis as a PTR-certified teaching professional, giving lessons and introducing countless players to the sport over the years. 

In February 2021, Coach Mark joined the Lake City Columbia Community Tennis Association (LCCCTA) Board and served as the tennis professional for all CTA activities. Over the next five years, he directed youth camps, maintained the public tennis courts at Young’s Park, taught veterans to play tennis through a USTA Florida-sponsored program, and was a welcoming presence on-site nearly every day, teaching adults and children alike. His tireless dedication was recognized when USTA Florida named him Volunteer of the Month in November 2024. 

“USTA Florida was very fortunate to have Mark serve as a volunteer year-round tennis coach for the USTA Florida sponsored local Veterans Tennis Program,” said George English, USTA Florida Tennis Service Representative. “USTA Florida recognized his service to the veterans by naming him the Volunteer of the Month in November 2024. Mark’s long hours of service, seven days a week, at Young’s Park, will be very hard to replace. He will be remembered and greatly missed by many.” 

Mike Null, President of the LCCCTA, reflected on his dedication to the community. ” Coach Mark was very dedicated to the advancement of tennis and deeply devoted to helping our CTA with programs as well as daily maintenance of the tennis courts since arriving in January 2021. He will be deeply missed.” 

Linda Williams, Secretary of the LCCCTA, shared similar memories. “He was beloved and appreciated by all who knew him. Coach Mark’s tennis knowledge, teaching methods, and his kindness will always be remembered!” 

Coach Mark’s legacy will live on through the many lives he touched throughout his years of service to the Lake City tennis community. From the veterans he coached to the children he inspired to the courts he cared for, his impact on tennis in Columbia County will not be forgotten. 

The LCCCTA held a special Remembrance Gathering to celebrate Coach Mark’s life and the impact he made on Thursday, March 27th at 5:30 p.m. at Young’s Park in Lake City, the courts he cared for and called home for the past five years. All who knew and loved Coach Mark are welcome to attend. 

USTA Florida sends its deepest condolences to Mark’s family, friends, and the many people whose lives were made better by his kindness, generosity, and love for the game.