Celebrating Southwest Floridians
FINDING STRENGTH
Ninka Salopek has never shied away from challenges, whether making the Yugoslavian national tennis team or becoming an outstanding U. S. instructor. So it’s no surprise that after battling breast cancer last year she would rebound, thanks to a fitness routine of power walking, light weights and yoga— and an iron will. The longtime director of tennis and membership coordinator at Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa planned to return to regular teaching last December.
“Tennis provided me the patience and determination to face the experience,” she says. Although she tried to instill a love for it in her son, he found his passion in a larger ball, and she found herself marveling at his soccer exploits. Last year, he won a skills- based cash prize at a local soccer camp, participated in a special FC Barcelona camp at JetBlue Park and plays for the local Florida Knights youth team.
“He said ‘ soccer is in my heart,’” she smiles. “As a mom and a coach, you have to let children do what they want!”
Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa, 239- 466- 4000, sanibel- resort. com
SERVING UP FUN
A familiar face at South Seas Island Resort, Mike Baugh can be spotted spreading the joy of tennis to children on the courts at the property’s Pavel & Blackwood’s Tennis Academy. Adjusting his teaching style to the energy of the youngsters he instructs, the junior tennis coordinator says, “I keep it fun and fast- paced— with lots of high fives.” Baugh also conducts clinics, lessons and group competitions for adult resort residents and guests, often teaching members of the same family. “I always ask the kids for feedback, and I also want their parents to feel it was a great experience for them,” he explains.
Baugh made his move to Southwest Florida from Evansville, Indiana, arriving on Captiva Island in September 2011. Together with other pros, the instructor oversaw the resurfacing of 11 hard courts and the upgrading of all seating areas. “I grew up playing on hard courts so I didn’t have to adjust, and I’ve made so many friends also from the Midwest,” says Baugh, who had no problem embracing the island lifestyle.
South Seas Island Resort, 239- 472- 5111, southseas. com