Ariel Gaitan joined the USF Women's Tennis Program in 2015 as an assistant coach. Under his and Head Coach Cristina Moros’ leadership, the Bulls have posted at least 12 wins in every season since 2016.
In 2019, Gaitan helped the team earn a 13-11 mark, including a trip to the American Athletic Conference championship match. The year built upon an 11-11 record in 2018.
During his second year, he and head coach Cristina Moros led the Bulls to their second American Athletic Conference championship, and a bid to the NCAA tournament. In his first year on staff, he helped lead the Bulls to a winning record of 17-7 which advanced them into the American Conference final where they finished in second place.
Gaitan carries a solid background of experience. As a young player, he trained at the IMG Tennis Academy and had a successful junior career. In 1995, he accepted a tennis scholarship at the University of Kentucky, competed in both singles and doubles, and earned recognition in several NCAA events.
Following graduation from UK, Ariel officially began his teaching and coaching career with specialization in developing elite tennis players. In addition to scores of junior and college athletes, Gaitan coached several top ATP and WTA Players such as Xavier Malisse, Kei Nishikori, Jelena Jankovic, Nicole Vaidisova, and Maria Sharapova.
With Florida serving as his home base for more than 17 years, Gaitan finds USF to be a perfect fit. He looks forward to continued success at USF.
Ariel lives in South Tampa with his wife, former WTA player Kristina Brandi, their son, AJ (4), and their daughter, Katie (1).
