Mic’d Up: An Interview with KFAN’s Justin Gaard
Photo credit: Gopher Athletics
It’s sports, sports and more sports for KFAN Radio Producer and host Justin Gaard. The Gopher Radio and Fox 9 Gopher football sideline reporter admits that his career has been filled with a little bit of every athletic field.
But the No. 1 sport in his heart? Tennis.
A two-time state high school Class 2A champ at Edina High School, former collegiate player (University of Iowa) and coach (Benilde-St. Margaret’s boys’ varsity tennis 2007-09), Gaard might now find himself on a different playing field, but he still plays tennis whenever he gets a chance.
The long-time frequenter at Michael Lynne’s shared some insight about the sport, his family, and more.
How's your tennis game?
I'm in my, "it's a blessing to play" era! I don't get to play as much as I'd like, and I don't get to play enough to be good. But it’s still fun to get out with friends and family when I can!
How often do you play? Are you in any leagues?
I play mostly in the summer to get ready for the Pine Tree Apple Tennis Classic charity event every August, but don't get out much during the fall and winter. I will occasionally pop into a league and get a lot of offers now that I'm over 40 and can be a "young guy" in that division.
Credit: Star Tribune/Getty Images
What do you love about tennis? What keeps you coming back?
That it's just you out there. No coach, no team, just you. It's obviously a great workout, too, and, in my opinion, the game rewards you if you put in the time to get better.
Do your kids or family play?
My wife played growing up like I did, and all three kids are starting to get into it! It’s great to have the new way of learning with the progression of red ball, orange ball, green ball, etc. They get a lot better very quickly!
Who's your favorite player to watch, men's and women's, and why?
Right now, it's Coco Gauff. She’s an incredible competitor and I think she and her family have handled her career perfectly with all the hype and expectations put upon her. On the men's side right now it's the Alcaraz-Djokovic rivalry that just keeps getting more compelling. Old school: Andre Agassi. I can't even imagine how much money my parents spent at Michael Lynne's buying me Agassi's Nike outfits growing up.
Have you dabbled in pickleball or are you a tennis purist?
So far I’m a purist, but certainly see why people love pickleball!
How long have you been coming to Michael Lynne's? Why?
More than 25 years! Mike and Mimzy are wonderful people. They always have a great and knowledgeable staff (with many long-time employees) and you know that whether it's a racquet restringing or a question about shoes you are going to get exactly what you need. I truly love visiting the shop whenever I can.
We appreciate you Gaardsy! Follow Justin in all his athletic endeavors @Gaardsy.
