Remembering the Life and Legacy of Donald J. Petrine, Jr.

Donald J. Petrine, Jr., a respected figure in the South Florida tennis community, passed away on June 30, 2025, at the age of 72. USTA Florida is saddened to hear of his passing and joins the tennis community in mourning the loss of a coach, mentor, and friend whose legacy will endure for generations to come. 

Don was best known for his deep knowledge, unwavering passion, and lifelong dedication to the sport. A graduate of Columbia University, where he played on the varsity tennis team alongside Vitas Gerulaitis, Don was inducted into both the Columbia Tennis Hall of Fame and the Miami-Dade County Hall of Fame.  

Photo Courtesy: Elizabeth Levinson

Throughout his career, Don held numerous influential roles. He served as Head Coach of FIU’s men’s tennis team, founded the Florida Junior Tennis Academy, and was Head Pro at The Falls before becoming Director of Tennis at Royal Palm Tennis Club. Alongside his wife, Elizabeth Levinson, he co-led TENNIS305, mentoring hundreds of junior players, many of whom went on to compete in college tennis. Don was also a devoted volunteer with the Junior Orange Bowl and a passionate advocate for under-resourced players. His legacy as a coach, mentor, and gentleman continues to shape the Florida tennis community. 

Elizabeth, Don’s wife and longtime coaching partner, reflected on their life together both on and off the court. 

“Don and I lived our lives together side by side both on and off the court since 1991 at Royal Palm then TENNIS305,” she said. “We were similar but different in the best of ways and made a great team. Our students could feel it.” 

Photo Courtesy: Elizabeth Levinson

Levinson emphasized Don’s unmatched passion for junior tennis in Florida. “Don’s knowledge, enthusiasm and passion for Florida Junior tennis was unmatched. His mind was a living history book of Florida Jr tennis. His impact on our industry and this community will be felt for generations,” she said. “He was old school polite, a gentleman, Don was the heartbeat of South Florida tennis, he shaped the industry here.” 

Mary Joe Fernandez, former WTA professional, Grand Slam Doubles Champion, and Olympic gold medalist, began working with Don when she was just eight years old. 

Photo Courtesy: Art Seitz & Florida Tennis

“It’s hard to put into words what Don meant to me, not just as a coach, but as a mentor, friend, and a lifelong supporter,” Fernandez said. “From the very beginning, he laid the foundation of my tennis journey. The fundamentals he taught me have stayed with me throughout my career, both on and off the court.” 

She recalled their intense training sessions. “I remember hitting cross courts all day until we broke the record of the day before.” Years later, Don coached her children, Bella and Nico. “It meant the world to me that he later worked with my own children. He wasn’t just a coach, he was part of our family.” 

Adam Ross, USTA Florida Board Member, remembered Don’s close relationships with tennis legends Bobby Curtis and Jim Martz, and his lasting impact on the sport. 

“Don is perhaps best known for coaching the former outstanding junior and WTA professional, Mary Joe Fernandez, in her formative years, although his contributions to coaching and promoting tennis in Florida beyond that success cannot be overstated,” Ross said. “The last time I saw Don he shook my hand, and we chatted cordially for a few moments, and he smiled as we wished each other well. That warm smile is my lasting memory of him. The entire Florida tennis world mourns the loss of this Florida coaching legend.” 

Photo Courtesy: Elizabeth Levinson

Lew Brewer, former Director of Junior Competition for USTA, highlighted Don’s commitment to players of all backgrounds. 

“Don was always ready to help young players that needed help the most, especially those lacking in finances for tennis,” Brewer said. “He was a tough, but not mean-spirited, critic of the USTA. His criticisms and suggestions were always about making tennis better. He was a good guy and will be missed by the many folks who knew him.” 

USTA Florida extends its deepest condolences to Don’s family, friends, and the countless players he inspired. His presence will be missed, but his influence will continue to shape Florida tennis for years to come.