Husband and Wife Coaches Build Inclusive Tennis Program, Strengthen Community
On December 2, 2025 the Winter Springs High School community highlighted the work of tennis coaches Elizabeth Lord and Mike Mangan, whose efforts extend far beyond practice and competition. Their year round maintenance of the courts, mentorship through school programs, and focus on sportsmanship contribute to student wellbeing and advance equity for students with diverse needs.
On December 2, 2025 the Winter Springs High School tennis program drew attention for the sustained commitment of coaches Elizabeth Lord and Mike Mangan. The husband and wife team did more than run practices and lineups. They kept the courts in playing condition, upgraded the campus Tennis Den, and provided steady behind the scenes support that players and families say made the program reliable and welcoming throughout the year.
That consistent care has public health implications for Seminole County. Safe, well maintained courts reduce the risk of injuries, while reliable opportunities to play support physical activity, which is linked to better mental health and chronic disease prevention. The coaches also emphasized sportsmanship and character, teaching players that performance is only part of participation and that daily conduct matters.
The couple’s work crossed into classroom support. Coach Lord led the Peer Inclusion Team, or PIT Crew, helping students develop social and personal learning strategies. Coach Mike served as the Job Exploration Training Coach, teaching job skills and work readiness for students who needed additional support. Those roles positioned the coaches at the intersection of athletics, special education, and workforce preparation, helping to close gaps in access to extracurricular and vocational opportunities.
Their approach reflected a focus on relationships as central to student outcomes. Coach Lord said that “seeing the changes in the athletes” made the effort worthwhile. When asked why he invested extra hours, Coach Mike responded, “I get to meet you guys. That’s my favorite part.”
The program model underscores broader policy questions for Seminole County schools. Programs that blend athletics with inclusion and vocational training can advance equity, but they also depend on staff time and campus resources. Sustaining these benefits may require more predictable funding for facility maintenance and staff roles that support students with disabilities.
Beyond their school roles, Lord and Mangan, married for more than 20 years, brought a personal energy that resonated with players. Their teamwork on and off the court showed how educators can shape healthier, more inclusive school communities by committing time, skills, and care.
