John Natali has served as Director of Tennis for the Bethel College men’s and women’s tennis program for 10 years now. His primary duties include recruiting, scheduling of matches, as well as coaching alongside men’s and women's head coach, Jason Gingerich.
He enjoys working with the young men and women in the tennis program in a very positive and encouraging manner. “To motivate them to work hard in practice daily, and then to see that effort translate into success in their matches is very satisfying”, states Coach Natali. “But more importantly, it’s their growth academically and spiritually from month to month, along with the nurturing of coach-to-athlete relationships that give me the most enjoyment of being around our student-athletes.”
“At Bethel College, I try to recruit athletes that will be a good fit for our family atmosphere. The bond that develops each season among both our men’s and women’s tennis teams is something special to all of us. Therefore, when I’m considering a potential recruit, I try to look for someone not only with a strong set of tennis skills, but also for an individual with a positive attitude and strong character who will contribute to our family environment.”
On a personal note, Coach Natali, a life-long resident of Mishawaka, enjoys spending quality time with his brothers, sisters-in-law, nephews and nieces and enjoys many other sports here at Bethel College, particularly basketball.
Coach Gingerich played four seasons of tennis for Bethel, culminating in an MCC Tournament Championship at No. 1 doubles his senior year. During his years at Bethel, Jason began teaching lessons at the South Bend Racquet Club where he discovered a love for teaching the game of tennis. He received certification as a professional tennis instructor through the United States Professional Tennis Association and spent the better part of the next eight years as a staff professional with the South Bend Racuet Club.
In 2005, Jason moved from South Bend to Topeka, Ind. in order to invest more time in the ministry (he is currently the Associate Pastor of Eden Worship Center). After the move, Coach Gingerich accepted the position of Boy's Tennis Coach at Westview High School. After two seasons at Westview, with a record of 33-3, Jason returned to the Bethel College family as Head Tennis Coach.
Men’s Tennis – entering his fifth year; career record of 36-36
Women’s Tennis – entering his third year; career record of 20-15
Jason and his wife Andrea live in Topeka with their two children, Asher and Hannah.
MCC Champion- number two doubles - 2007
MCC All-Conference - 2009
Team Captain: 2009-10
Team Most Valuable Player – 2010
NAIA & NCCAA Academic All-American: 2010-11
NCCAA Sportsmanship Award - 2011
Ranks Second in Bethel History in Career Doubles Wins - 46
Ranks Seventh in Bethel History in Total Career Wins (singles & doubles) - 78
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