About Us
Founded in 2024, Space City Tennis LLC operates as a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing junior tennis programs across the Houston Independent School District (HISD).
Over the last year, 170 students participated in SCT's innovative programs. During the Fall of 2026, SCT will partner with the FBMS Booster Club to integrate programs across four HISD campuses, reaching 220 students.
Now proudly calling Houston home, the Hackett family is thrilled to invest in the community and empower every student-athlete to reach their full potential on the court, in the classroom, and beyond.
SCT is owned and operated by Karen and Don Hackett. Their lifelong commitment to the sport—dating back to 1979—has left an indelible mark on junior tennis.
The Hacketts have donated over $2 million, owned tennis clubs, sponsored professional events, funded community clinics, and played a pivotal role in founding the Austin Tennis Academy, which has produced college-level student-athletes and is a home for touring pros.
"We believe in empowering student-athletes to make memories today that last a lifetime," said Hackett.
SCT supports Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies (MAAPP) standards for training and sport settings to prevent abuse and misconduct.
Karen Hackett (Coach Koko)
Following a successful career in the technology industry that began at IBM, Karen now devotes her time to growing the game of tennis while inspiring the next generation of players.
After moving to Houston, Karen joined Houston ISD (HISD) as an associate teacher, working in elementary schools and at Frank Black Middle School.
As CEO of Space City Tennis, she leads efforts focused on early player development, with a special emphasis on elementary school programs.
Coach Koko is USTA Safe Play, NCIS Background-verified, and HISD VIPS-certified.
Don Hackett (Coach Don)
Don also began his career at IBM before becoming a serial entrepreneur, launching numerous tech companies and completing three IPOs.
His love for tennis has remained constant since he organized his first tournament in 1979.
Don has supported the growth of tennis across Texas by helping launch academies, sponsoring pro-level events, and donating to worthy causes.
Don also joined HISD in 2024, serving with the HISD Police Department at Oak Forest Elementary School, focusing on student safety.
At Space City Tennis, Don is the serving and doubles coach, guiding young players to perform their best in competitive match play.
Coach Don is USTA Safe Play Approved for the 2026 season, NCIS background-checked, VIPS-verified, HISD Police Department-certified, a USTA Coaching member, and certified as a USTA official for Orange Ball tournaments.
Next Gen Coaches
Space City Tennis's next-generation coaches play a crucial role in clinics and training sessions, assisting with skill development, physical conditioning, and strategy. This energized group of singles and doubles winners raises the competitive bar for aspiring tennis players who deserve coaches who never stop learning.
The coaches are also available for private lessons. Please contact CoachKoKo2025@gmail.com for more information.
Advisory Board
Jack Newman: CEO, Austin Tennis Academy
Grace Kownslar: Trinity University, All-American
Mathew Bain: Captain, Texas A & M Tennis Team
National Junior Tennis and Learning
SPC supports Houston's National Junior Tennis and Learning network in Texas, inspired by the legendary Arthur Ashe.
Financial Assistance
Space City Tennis offers financial aid to qualifying student-athletes participating in USTA tennis tournaments. If interested, contact Coach Koko.
Additionally, the USTA Foundation offers scholarships to young people who dream of attending college or post-secondary education.
Contact Us
Next Gen Coaches
Coach Julianana
Coach Matthew
Coach Wyatt
