Our Coaches & Staff
Tuckahoe Pass Academy Staff

Ramón Mercado
Tennis Director

Dylan Farmer
Head Pro

Juan Figueroa
Tennis Professional

Miguel Torrenegra
Tennis Professional

Paula Avellan Rizzo
Touring Pro | Certified PPR Coach

Pete Poggioli
Tennis Professional

Peter Nguyen
Tennis Professional

James Broker
Pickleball Professional

Zeina Shaaban
Tennis Professional

- director@passacademytrc.com
- Ramón's USTA Profile
Ramón Mercado
Tennis Director
With over 30 years of playing experience, Ramón brings passion, energy, and dedication to the court. As a certified PTR and USTA professional, CPR certified, and SafePlay approved by USTA, Ramón is committed to creating a safe, fun, and engaging learning environment for players of all ages. He enjoys working with both kids and adults, focusing on building solid fundamentals, improving technique, and fostering a love for the game. Whether players are just starting out or looking to refine their skills, Ramón aims to help them grow as athletes while enjoying every step of the journey.
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Dylan Farmer
Head Pro
With over 16 years of tennis experience, Dylan Farmer brings a lifelong passion for the sport to every lesson. With 9 of those years dedicated to nurturing talents in the dynamic tennis scene of Georgia and the past 6 years enriching the tennis community in Virginia, his expertise is undeniable. Notably, during his junior years, he held a remarkable position as a top 50 player in Georgia, a testament to his deep-rooted understanding of the sport. Beyond accolades, his true passion shines in his enjoyment of working alongside both juniors and adults. As a USPTA certified coach, he works with players of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to competitive athletes. Dylan’s unique blend of experience, skill, and a genuine enthusiasm for tennis guarantees a rewarding and enriching experience for all who step onto the court under Dylan’s guidance.
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Juan Figueroa
Tennis Professional
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Miguel Torrenegra
Tennis Professional
We’re excited to introduce a tennis sensation who brings an international flair and unparalleled expertise to our community. Miguel Angel Torrenegra Serrano, from Bogota, Colombia, is ready to elevate your tennis game and make this Spring unforgettable. Miguel's tennis journey began in Bogota, where his passion and talent for the sport earned him a scholarship to play for the men’s varsity tennis team at St. Thomas University in Miami, Florida. His dedication on the court was matched by his academic prowess, as he completed a Bachelor's degree in Business & Management and a master’s in business administration with a specialization in Cybersecurity. While in Florida, Miguel had the incredible opportunity to practice with ATP and WTA players such as Stefan Kozlov and Allie Kiick. These experiences enriched his understanding of the game, refining his techniques and strategies to a professional level. Miguel’s commitment to tennis extends beyond his own play. He has directed the 10 and Under program at prestigious academies like the Developmental Tennis Institute (DTI) and Smatts Tennis Academy in Miami. His expertise in developing young talent is recognized and respected in the tennis community. Working alongside former pro tennis player and current ATP coach, Miguel Tobon, Miguel Torrenegra played a pivotal role in developing a high-performance tennis program. This program has nurtured players like Miguel Tobon Jr., who now ranks #14 in the world in the 18 and under category in the International Tennis Federation (ITF) tournaments. Miguel's qualifications are impressive. He holds a Level 2 certification from the Professional Tennis Register (PTR) and a certification from the International Tennis Performance Association (ITPA). These credentials highlight his advanced knowledge and skill in tennis coaching and performance. This Spring don't miss the chance to train with Miguel Angel Torrenegra Serrano right here in Tuckahoe. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced player aiming to refine your skills, Miguel's lessons offer something for everyone. His unique blend of international experience, professional training, and a passion for teaching make him the perfect coach to help you achieve your tennis goals. Join us on the courts and let Miguel’s expertise guide you to new heights. This Spring promises to be a grand slam with Miguel Torrenegra in Tuckahoe!
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Paula Avellan Rizzo
Touring Pro | Certified PPR Coach
Ready to take your pickleball game to the next level? Train with Paula Avellan Rizzo — a certified PPR Coach and full-time touring pro competing on both the APP and PPA tours. Currently competing full-time on both the APP and PPA tours, Paula has battled her way to a career-high ranking of #46 on the APP circuit, with impressive wins over top 20 players. Her on-court intensity and passion for the game are matched only by her dedication to helping others improve. Paula brings real tour-level experience straight to the court. Paula leads dynamic, fast-paced clinics designed to challenge and elevate players of all skill levels. With over 10 years of coaching experience in high-performance tennis and a deep understanding of competitive pickleball, she knows how to elevate your game — whether you're picking up a paddle for the first time or chasing tournament success. Her clinics are high-energy sessions packed with personalized feedback, competitive gameplay, and pro-level insight. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills, boost your confidence, or just play smarter, Paula’s clinics deliver results. Train like a pro, with a pro. Join Paula on court and experience the difference.
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Pete Poggioli
Tennis Professional
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Peter Nguyen
Tennis Professional
Peter Nguyen is a highly skilled and dedicated tennis coach with 20 years of experience helping players of all ages and skill levels achieve their goals on the court. A certified instructor through PTR, Peter combines technical expertise, strategic insight, and a passion for the game to foster growth, confidence, and success in every athlete. Peter believes in developing well-rounded players by focusing on technical fundamentals, mental toughness, and match strategy. Whether working with beginners learning the basics or advanced players fine-tuning their competitive edge, and tailors each session to meet the unique needs of the individual.
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James Broker
Pickleball Professional
James Broker is a highly competitive and accomplished pickleball player, and one of the top players and coaches in the DMV. He has won countless medals at local and regional tournaments in the open divisions. Competing at the highest level, James has made a mark in numerous professional events playing in the main draw of singles, mixed doubles, and men’s doubles events on the PPA tour. Recently, James placed 5th overall in Men’s Doubles at APP Fort Lauderdale. Beyond the court, James cofounded The Sweat Gym in Manassas, VA in 2021. His expertise in fitness and athletic development has been integral to his pickleball success and is eager to inspire and train the next generation of players. Whether you’re looking to improve your game or just starting out, James is excited to bring his passion and experience to the Tuckahoe Recreation Club, helping players of all levels enjoy and excel in the fast-growing sport of pickleball.
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- Zeina Shaaban is an accomplished tennis professional from Cairo, Egypt, with a distinguished collegiate career at D1 college (Jackson State University). As a key player for the Jackson State Tigers, she earned the 2024 SWAC Player of the Year award, boasting an impressive 11–3 overall singles record and an undefeated 5–0 in conference doubles play. Zeina is passionate about sharing her love for tennis through coaching. She is eager to mentor players of all ages and skill levels, focusing on developing strong fundamentals, strategic thinking, and mental resilience.