Tim Burke: Tennis Enthusiast with a Global Impact
Meet Tim Burke, a tennis coach with a remarkable career that includes coaching the Nigerian National Team, establishing wheelchair tennis programs, and an induction to the USTA Northern Hall of Fame Class of 2017. Locally, he leads a program called the “Neighborhood Boys”, offering valuable opportunities for youth in his community. With a career that covers coaching national teams and creating opportunities for youth locally, his impact is far-reaching.
How did the Neighborhood Boys tennis initiative come about, and what has it meant to you?
The Neighborhood Boys idea began about five years ago, initially as a tennis class for local kids, including my grandsons JJ and Charlie, located near Armatage School. For the past five years, I’ve run this class every Monday and Wednesday from 9 to 10 AM. This year, we expanded the class to include JJ and Charlie's hockey teammates from the Minneapolis Storm. The idea sprang from JJ and Charlie’s interest in playing on clay courts, which they enjoyed and then shared with their hockey friends. We made it a casual summer initiative, with the boys paying weekly via Venmo, based on their attendance. We promised them fun, team t-shirts, and a sense of belonging, which they embraced enthusiastically. All summer we worked on the rules, scoring, etiquette, respect for the traditions of tennis, greetings, congrats, nice shots to their opponents, etc.
I contacted my friends at Minikahda Country Club, where the kids got to experience a real tennis match. The event was a highlight of our summer, with the boys proudly wearing their new t-shirts and parents dressing up in white attire, adhering to Minikahda's dress code of no denim (or phones!). Everyone was blown away — the guys loved it, parents loved it, the setting and welcoming atmosphere was the best. Big thanks to Mike Laurel and Mike Ach for the welcoming presents. The whole experience was a great success, showcasing how tennis can bring people together and create lasting memories.
How did you become the coach for the Nigerian National Tennis Team, and what was that experience like?
My path to coaching the Nigerian National Tennis Team began after I joined the Peace Corps, following my graduation from the University of Minnesota. I was stationed in Chad, teaching English in a French speaking country.
When Nigeria requested coaches for the 1972 All-African Games in Lagos, the Peace Corps was able to provide candidates already in Africa, and I was selected to train the Nigerian team. The experience was both intense and rewarding; the team won the gold medal, and it was a profound demonstration of how sports can unite people and foster international camaraderie.
Do you still return to Africa to teach tennis to low-income communities?
Yes, Sheila and I have made several trips back to Africa, focusing on teaching tennis in townships outside Cape Town. Despite safety concerns, these trips have been incredibly rewarding. Our involvement has brought tennis to areas with limited resources, providing not just a new sport but also a sense of community and hope.
Who are the biggest influences in your tennis career?
Two individuals have had a significant impact on my tennis career: Arthur Ashe and Steve Wilkinson. Arthur Ashe's legacy extends beyond his on-court achievements to his activism and commitment to social justice (protest Apartheid in South Africa in 1968), which has deeply inspired me. I worked with Steve Wilkinson in Rochester for a few summers, who has also greatly influenced my approach as a player and teacher.
What inspired you to start the wheelchair tennis program in the USTA Northern section in 1983, and what impact has it had?
My inspiration for starting the wheelchair tennis program stemmed from my experiences with my brother, a disabled Vietnam War veteran, and his friends. I knew nothing about wheelchair sports nor did they — it was 1976. When I moved back to Minneapolis, I met Jim Finch, who had a sports wheelchair, and learned. Having no knowledge of wheelchair sports, I knew it would be a process of trial and error. Their fearless attitude and eagerness to try new things, despite having few summer activities beyond skiing, fueled my commitment.
By 1984, our efforts had grown significantly— we had 25 wheelchair tennis players and even hosted a national tournament in Bloomington, sponsored by the USTA Northern Division and led by Marcia Bach.
The impact of this program has been substantial. Wheelchair tennis has evolved into an integral part of all four major tournaments — Men’s, Women’s, Junior, and Mixed Doubles. This growth highlights the program's success and underscores the vital role of sports in promoting inclusion and empowerment for individuals with disabilities.
When did you first meet Michael and Mimzy Lynne, and how long have you known each other?
I first met Michael and Mimzy Lynne about 35 years ago, shortly after they opened their shop. Their support has been crucial to many of my projects. From providing equipment to supporting various initiatives, like the Neighborhood Boys, their generosity has been instrumental. Our long-standing relationship has been a source of significant support throughout my career.
What’s next for Tim Burke?
Looking ahead, I plan to continue my active involvement in tennis, both as a coach and a player. After spending several years coaching at various levels, including positions at Baseline Tennis Center, Lifetime, Bethel University, Washburn High School, and Southwest High School, I’m now focusing on training and competing in national-level tournaments. Despite being 75 and having undergone triple bypass surgery in 2018, I’m in great health and nothing remains in my way. With more time available for both training and playing, I’m excited to further explore opportunities within the tennis community and to continue teaching year round, but with many more open hours to play.
