Jim Van Gerpen

Van Gerpen was a self-taught tennis player and made a name for himself among South Dakota tennis enthusiasts when he first stepped onto the courts in a USF uniform.  The Rapid City native served as a team leader for USF’s new tennis program and completed his collegiate career with three Tri-State Conference and NAIA District 12 Singles championships.  He also competed in two national NAIA tournaments. 

After graduation in 1968, he taught business and accounting courses at Brandon Valley High School until 2001.  He has never held an official coaching position, preferring to volunteer. His backyard included a private tennis court, with Van Gerpen’s tennis expertise attracting dozens of top high school players, including state champions. For many years he sacrificed his Saturday mornings to instruct youngsters at the Woodlake Athletic Club and he also taught young players through junior clinics. 

Van Gerpen, who was certified by the United States Professional Tennis Association in 1990, was inducted into the South Dakota Tennis Hall of Fame in 1997.