Craig Cole

Since 2007, Craig has devoted himself to coaching and mentoring young athletes through the National Junior Tennis and Learning (NJTL) program, a nonprofit under the USTA Foundation. In his role as a National and USTA Excellence Coach, Craig has trained extensively under world-renowned coaches, including José Higueras (Roger Federer), John Evert (Pam Shriver, Venus & Serena Williams, Madison Keys), and Gil Reyes (Andre Agassi).

Working closely with USTA Player Development, he has played a key role in countless National, Regional, and Sectional Team USA camps. Through his dedication and expertise, Craig has helped guide over 100 young athletes to earn college tennis scholarships, with several going on to compete professionally.

Craig also serves on the USTA Texas Section Junior Competition Committee and acts as the liaison between that committee and the Texas Section NJTL Committee. In addition, he holds a position on the Coaches Committee for the Texas Section, continuing to influence and support the growth of junior tennis throughout the region.

Born in Omaha, Nebraska to Air Force Chief Master Sergeant Lucas Cole Jr. and Alberta Cole, a member of the Texas Black Sports Hall of Fame, Craig Cole spent much of his early childhood living across the country. He eventually settled in Texas, attending Arlington Martin High School, where he excelled in both track and football, earning all-district honors.

Craig continued his athletic career on a football scholarship at Navarro College, where he was named all-conference. He later transferred to Arizona State University on another football scholarship before ultimately landing at Abilene Christian University. There, he led his team in all-purpose yards and all receiving categories for two consecutive seasons and was again named all-conference.

Following college, Craig joined the Arena Football League, where he played for seven different organizations. Over his professional career, he accumulated more than 6,000 all-purpose yards, scored 70 touchdowns, earned two team MVP honors, a league MVP award, a championship title, and set 13 league records. His success and popularity in the league also opened the door to various commercial appearances, sparking his interest in the entertainment industry.

After retiring from football, Craig transitioned into a successful career in entertainment. As an international print model, he appeared in over 50 commercials, which led to acting and stunt work. He landed a role on the hit FOX show Prison Break and went on to appear in or contribute to 10 short films, 12 feature-length films, and over 100 episodes of network television. His TV credits include The Walking Dead (AMC), Walker, Texas Ranger (CBS), Chase (NBC), The Good Guys (FOX), and Breakout Kings (A&E). Throughout his career, he has worked alongside stars such as Chuck Norris, Dean Cain, William Fichtner, Gary Coleman, Colin Hanks, Bradley Whitford, Jesse Metcalfe, Teri Polo, Nia Long, and Kelly Giddish.