brian smallwood, executive director

Brian Smallwood has been actively involved in developing grassroots programs for overs 25 years in Cleveland.  He is the Tennis Director of Center Court Tennis Club, as well as the head coach for the Hawken School boys and girls Varsity Tennis Teams.  Brian created and formed the Inner City Tennis Clinics in 2009 and served as Executive Director for 10 years.  

Under his leadership, ICTC received the USTA Midwest Section NJTL of the Year award twice, in 2012 and 2016.  Brian has also served as the Vice President for USPTA Northeastern Section and won the 2017 NEOTA Volunteer of the Year Award.

Nancy sobecks, md, vice president

Nancy Sobecks, MD has practiced as an Internal Medicine physician for 20+ years.  Tennis has been a passion of hers since she started playing over 10 years ago. After becoming owner of Center Court Tennis Club in 2019, she partnered with the Cleveland Diocese to start CYO tennis in Northeast Ohio.  She looks forward to expanding the outreach of the sport to an even more diverse group of people through THRiVE.  She won the 2021 USPTA Midwest Division National Star Award for expanding diversity in tennis.  

andrea Plassard, treasurer 

Andrea holds a Bachelor's degree from Cleveland State University and an MBA from Baldwin Wallace University.  She has been fortunate to have been able to use her education in a number of great career opportunities through the years, including with the Ohio Turnpike Commission and local CPA firms.  She retired after serving as a Controller for a downtown Cleveland law firm.  Staying active through tennis, pickleball, hiking and biking and being involved through volunteering keeps her focused and interested in gaining new skills and meeting new people.  Being involved with THRiVE, she hopes to share her passion for tennis and wellness with individuals throughout the community.  

Mary vanucci, secretary 

A seasoned Event and Hospitality Professional, Mary brings to THRiVE 30+ years experience in meeting, special event and wedding planning in both the non-profit and corporate environments.  Mary has served on the Leadership Board for the Achievement Centers for Children, and has assisted with annual fundraising events.  An avid tennis player for over 40 years, Mary brings to THRiVE her passion for the game, combined with her continued interest in helping children with special needs.  After retiring from the InterContinental Hotel in 2018, Mary joined the Center Court team as the Front Desk Manager.

Kelly webb bronstrup 

Kelly Webb Bronstrup holds more than 20 years higher education experience teaching technical writing, composition and communications courses.  She has received multiple awards and recognitions for her teaching, including The University of Akron's Service Learning and Student Engagement Award in its inaugural year, as well as recognitions from NASA Glenn Research Center and Student Veterans of America. Kelly believes in service to her community and has served on various committees such as Brecksville-Broadview Heights City Schools Facilities Planning and Educational Adequacy Committees as well as Strongsville's Economic Development and Technology Committee. NJTL gave her the opportunity to play tennis at a young age and was a tremendous influence on her as she learned many valuable lessons beyond the courts, such as teamwork and perseverance.  She still enjoys playing competitive USTA tennis and looks forward to using her expertise to help kids achieve their dreams through THRiVE. 

cheryl chase, Ph.d.  

Dr. Cheryl Chase is a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice in Independence, Ohio.  She specializes in the assessment and treatment of various conditions impacting children and young adults.  She also serves as an adjunct professor at several local colleges.  Dr. Chase was a collegiate athlete in the 1990's, but wasn't introduced to tennis until well into adulthood, when she immediately fell in love with the game.  She is thrilled to combine her professional knowledge with her passion for the game in order to bring tennis to those who might otherwise not have a chance to play.  In addition to her practice, she is also an accomplished speaker at the local and national levels.  

RENA GALETI 

Rena Galeti has combined interests in health, wellness, and athletics which have led to endeavors on and off the tennis court. She founded and owns Galeti Insurance Solutions in Brecksville, which provides health insurance to seniors, individuals, and families. From 2012 to 2016 she served on the Holy Family Catholic School Board of Athletics. There, she championed and coached individuals in cross country, track, and cheerleading.   She started playing tennis in 2008.  Rena appreciates tennis for its camaraderie and athletic benefits. She is excited to assist the THRIVE participants in surpassing their physical and personal goals.

victoria kuczynski

Vicky Kuczynski serves as the Marketing Coordinator for Center Court Tennis Club.  She earned her BBA from Cleveland State University.  She has a passion for volunteerism and has been involved with organizations such Hands On Northeast Ohio, Medworks, the Cleveland Foodbank, as well as actively volunteering in the school PTO.  Vicky is an avid tennis player and looks forward to sharing her love of the game through her work with THRiVE.

stephanie mabee 

Stephanie is a long-time Northeast Ohio resident, working in corporate tax software development.  She currently resides in Richfield with her husband, son and two rambunctious Goldendoodles.  Mental health is a passion, as is tennis, so the opportunity to work with an organization that promotes both is a dream come true for her.