Westminster University Hall of Fame
Mike Vandegrift was named the 1974 ICAC Player of the Year at Snow Jr. College. He was undefeated in conference play at first singles. His toughest match of the year was most likely against Westminster’s Tom Snyder, where Mike won in three sets. Mike started college at the US military academy at West Point before transferring to Snow. Westminster was fortunate to get a NCAA Division I talent like Mike Vandegrift.
Mike was an elite level basketball player at Viewmont High until he injured his knee during his junior year. He specialized in tennis after that to save some wear-and-tear. Mike was very athletic with great vision and great hands. He was recognized as one of Utah’s top junior tennis players growing up. Interestingly, he became a club tennis professional in Utah from 1981-1992 and was named Utah Tennis Professional of the Year in 1985. At Westminster, Mike immediately took over the number one spot on the team. His competitive drive and great eye-sight complemented his intense desire to improve every day. His accomplishment of winning the 1976 NAIA District VII singles championship was an indicator of his future in tennis. His RMAC and District VII doubles championships (with Brad Harbottle) propelled Westminster to national attention.
After Westminster, Mike served as a US Army Officer from 1977-1981 and was the 1978 United States Forces Command Doubles Champion. He was the 1979 Player/Coach of the United States All Army Team in Interservice matches. He and his wife Bonnie own the Brevard Tennis and Athletic Club in North Carolina. Mike was Chairman of Collegiate Tennis for North Carolina Universities and Colleges for six years as well as Chairman of Collegiate Tennis at the USTA Southern Section. He was National Subcommittee Chairman of Innovations for Tennis on College Campuses and currently serves as Chairman of Innovations Subcommittee of the USTA National Tournament Competition Committee for Adults.
