WHO HE IS: Manager of Levy Tennis Pavilion and a tennis pro.
TIME AT PENN: In his current position, since 1990, though he’s worked as a tennis pro since 1980.
WHAT HE DOES: Mackin says his job changes with the seasons—in the fall, he coordinates lessons for Penn students, faculty and staff and opens the doors of the tennis pavilion to the general public. During the summer, he oversees a junior tennis camp for kids and young adults ages 6 to 16.
MAKING HIS HOBBY A JOB: Before he came to Levy, Mackin worked a 9-to-5 job in the finance department at a New York-based greeting card company. He didn’t take up tennis until he was 30 years old, and jumped at the chance to work at Levy. “I felt like once I got this job, I got out of jail,” he says.
TENNIS GREATS: Levy used to be the practice spot for the pro indoor tournament that’s since moved out of Philly. Mackin has met Pete Sampras (his favorite player), Andre Agassi when he was linked with Brooke Shields, Jimmy Connors, Monica Seles and Steffi Graf. Oh, and he’s also strung a racket for John McEnroe.
PLAY FOR LIFE: Mackin, 61, emphasizes that tennis is a lifetime sport. “You get a tremendous workout. It’s fun socially, too.”
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