Local Legends: The Lasting Impact of the Bernabe Family

The Williams sisters, the Bryan brothers, the Murrays, the McEnroes. These families have made massive contributions to the international tennis scene. But local tennis has its dynasties, too. One family that has made a huge impact right here in Santa Rosa, and continues to do so, is the Bernabe family.

In 1985, Ozzie and Lidia Bernabe moved from Argentina to Santa Rosa. Not long after, their children, Nestor and Mercedes, began to make their mark on the court.

Nestor Bernabe: The Competitor & Coach Nestor’s passion for the sport was

undeniable from the start. Guided by local legends like Dave Seibel at La Cantera, and later Reuben Meza and John Potter, Nestor’s talent and work ethic quickly earned him respect from players much older than himself.

While he admits his ultra-competitive nature was sometimes a challenge, he learned to channel his energy to fuel his success. He embraced what is now referred to as ADHD and used it to his advantage.

Career Highlights & Rankings:

• Juniors: Ranked No.1 in NorCal 16s and 18s (at just 16 years old).

• College: First Team All-American at Sonoma State University.

• Pro & Open:

• Ranked No.130 in the U.S. National Open.

  • USTA Ranking: High of No.10 in singles (2002) and No.4 in doubles (2001).

  • Practice partner for WTA No.1 Justine Henin-Hardenne at the 2004 US Open.

  • Competed across Europe, based in Poland in 2004, earning ATP points.
    

Building a Legacy In 2008, Nestor moved to Rhode Island to serve as Assistant Coach at Brown University. He recently launched the Providence Tennis Academy and was honored with the RSPA National Star Award for his "One Love" non-profit, which provides free youth clinics.

Today, while he proudly captains the U.S. 35 and 40 international teams, Nestor considers his greatest honor to be his role as a father to Amelia and Natalie.

Mercedes (Bernabe) Thompson: The Educator. While Nestor chased the pro tour, Mercedes found her joy in the team aspect of sports. A standout dual-sport athlete, she played four years of varsity tennis and basketball for Montgomery High. She realized early on, through babysitting and coaching, that her true calling was education.

After graduating from Chico State and earning credentials at Davis, Mercedes thrived in the classroom at Rincon District schools. Her natural leadership led her into administration, and today she serves as Vice Principal at her alma mater, Montgomery High.

The Bernabe legacy comes full circle this year. Mercedes' daughter, Felicity, is now playing her first year on the varsity tennis team.