HOUSTON (Aug. 13, 2007)–Cheryl Hultquist Horvath has been named executive director of the Houston Tennis Association, it was announced by William K. Mao, HTA president.

Horvath, who has been assistant executive director of the organization since 1986, replaces Harriett Hulbert, who is retiring from the top position but remains to assist with tournaments and related activities.

Mao praised the more than 30 years of dedication that Hulbert had devoted to the organization–running tournaments, serving the Houston tennis community and guiding HTA in its growth and influence.

"Harriett’s management of the state’s largest amateur tournament, the Gallery Furniture Houston Open (formerly the Houston Coca-Cola Open), and our other tournaments sets an example for other tournament directors," Mao said.

"We’re extremely fortunate to have Cheryl as the perfect candidate to provide a smooth transition," he continued. "Cheryl, who has been running all the leagues that HTA oversees, and Harriett have worked closely together for 20 years.

"We’re looking forward to the continued growth of HTA as the premier umbrella tennis association in Houston," Mao predicted. "The establishment of the HTA Tennis and Education Foundation and our support of the HTA/National Junior Tennis League program through our partnership with the Houston Parks & Recreation Department add to our service to the community."

Diana Wengler , who has assisted Horvath with league activities for four years, becomes league coordinator.

Hulbert, who was president of HTA in 1980 and 1981, began her career with HTA in 1984 as assistant executive director and was named executive director two years later. Both she and Horvath spent many years volunteering for tournaments and various activities prior to becoming HTA staff-- Hulbert since 1975 and Horvath since 1980. Both are also certified umpires and referees.

The two have received numerous honors for themselves and for HTA.

Hulbert received the HTA Sampson Award and the W.T. Caswell Award from the USTA/Texas Section while a volunteer. In 2002 the Texas Section named her Tournament Director of the Year. She has also received appreciation awards from the Linda Lorelle Scholarship Fund and the Houston NJTL (National Junior Tennis League).

Hulbert has been a volunteer for the USTA/Texas Section for 32 years, serving on the Executive Committee, as secretary and as Southeast Zone chairman and is currently on the Awards Committee and the Junior Tennis Council.

She has served on the Junior Wightman Cup Team and Junior Team Tennis committees for the USTA.

She and Horvath were instrumental in HTA receiving the USTA Texas Section Member Organization of the Year and the USTA Texas Section Umbrella Community Tennis Association of the Year awards.

Horvath has received the USTA/Texas Section Award for USTA League Coordinator. She is a member of the Texas Section League Committee and has served on the Executive Board.

A tribute honoring Hulbert and benefiting the HTA NJTL chapter will be held Thursday, September 6, at the Houston Racquet Club.

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