Unveiling Paris West Tennis Academy:
An Interview with Hans Marconnet
In this interview, Mark talks with Hans Marconnet, co-founder of Paris West Tennis Academy, to learn more about this unique tennis institution and its vision for the future.
Mark: Hans, thank you for taking the time to chat with us today. To kick things off, could you introduce yourself and share your background in tennis?
Hans: Hi Mark, pleasure to be here. Tennis has been a lifelong passion for me. Growing up in a family deeply involved in the sport, it was only natural for me to pursue a career in tennis. Alongside my co-founder, we established Paris West Tennis Academy in 2018 with the aim of creating a nurturing environment for young, competitive players.
Mark: Tell us more about Paris West Tennis Academy. What sets it apart from other tennis academies?
Hans: Paris West Tennis Academy is nestled in the charming town of Maisons-Laffitte, just 12 km from Paris. What makes us unique is our intimate, family-oriented approach. Unlike larger academies, we prioritize individualized attention and tailor our programs to each player’s goals. From year-round training to international tournaments and even a boarding school for foreign players, we strive to provide a comprehensive tennis experience.
Mark: Being so close to Roland Garros must be thrilling. What are your plans for the academy in 2024 and beyond?
Hans: Absolutely, proximity to Roland Garros adds a special touch to our academy, especially during the clay court season. Looking ahead, our goal for 2024 is to build upon the success of the previous year and expand our international reach. With Paris being a central hub in Europe, we aim to attract players of all ages and backgrounds to experience the unique environment we offer at Paris West.
Mark: Can you share some insights into the current players at the academy? Are there opportunities for new players to join?
Hans: Currently, our focus is on junior players aged 10 to 18, many of whom are ranked among the top 30 in the country. As some of our older players transition to university tennis in the USA, we will have openings for new players in the upcoming season. While we prioritse a personalised approach, we also offer scholarships for international players eager to join our academy.
Mark: Reflecting on your journey, what has been your proudest moment as an owner of Paris West Tennis Academy?
Hans: Without a doubt, our proudest moment was hosting our inaugural international tournament in 2020 amidst the challenges of the pandemic. Welcoming 150 players from around thirty countries to our grounds reaffirmed our belief in the unifying power of tennis and the potential of Paris West to make a global impact.
Mark: And finally, with Roland Garros around the corner, any predictions for the Men and Women’s Singles titles in 2024?
Hans: It’s always an exciting time for tennis fans! While Novak Djokovic has faced challenges this year, I wouldn’t count him out just yet. Of course, there’s always the possibility of a surprise contender, perhaps even a French player rising to the occasion!
Thanks very much for spending some time with me today, and giving us some important information about Paris West Tennis Academy! Wish you the best of luck and looking forward to spending more time with you soon!
Check out Paris West’s Academy Profile here >>
