Community Corner
Kelly Hernandez Named GCC Women’s Tennis Head Coach
Deptford Twp. – The Gloucester County College Board of Trustees and Roadrunner Athletics Department have named Kelly Hernandez as the new head coach of the women’s tennis program.
Hernandez, of West Deptford, possesses more than 10 years of interscholastic coaching experience. Since 2004, she has been at the helm of the girls’ tennis team at West Deptford High School — her alma mater. As a coach, she takes pride in developing daily drills and conditioning exercises for the Eagles. She also places special emphasis on sportsmanship and proper court conduct.
Complimenting her knowledge of the game is first-hand experience as an athlete. After four years as a varsity player, Hernandez advanced to collegiate tennis at The College of New Jersey, where she pursued a degree in Health and Exercise Science. In 2007, she was promoted from TCNJ again with a Master of Arts in Education and a concentration in Athletic Administration and Management.
Find out what's happening in West Deptfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
“The West Deptford girls’ tennis program became competitive with other high schools in our conference. Several of my players have gone on to play at the college level,” said Hernandez. “I will hold my standards as high as possible since the Roadrunners have captured back to back national titles.”
One of her former players, Martha Lynn Johnson, was a member of GCC’s 2013 NJCAA National Championship team. Johnson captured the NJCAA Individual National Champion sixth singles flight title. Hernandez is excited at the opportunity to work with her again as well as recruit competitive players off the high school circuit.
Find out what's happening in West Deptfordwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
“I have always wanted to coach college tennis,” said Hernandez. “Over the years I have watched the Roadrunners play in regional tournaments, attended practices and hit with the team. Although a new face, I am not a stranger.”
Hernandez has attained several accolades over the years, including the NJAC Women’s Tennis Player of the Year, South Jersey High School Girls’ Tennis Coach Association Player of the Year and ITA Division III All-American honors.
GCC’s 250-acre campus is located at 1400 Tanyard Road in Deptford, just off Exit 56 of Route 55.
