There is more to the Jeff Wallace story than you probably know. First, there is his wife, Sabina, who, like Jeff, was a star athlete at UGA — both on scholarship — track for her, tennis for him.
They have spent their professional careers coaching and teaching, frequently identifying with avant-garde and cultural pursuits.
Then there is their son, Jarryd, a Paralympian who has won medals in two Olympic Games and whose life story makes you want to shout hosannas in tribute to him from the highest mountaintop. He chose amputation of a leg for peace of mind and physical comfort, but the process motivated him to live a life that inspires others. He enjoys life to the fullest and is making a positive impact on the world.
Their daughter, Brittany Sjogren, is very athletic but not interested in competition, which often garners attention in the sports pages. However, you might say that to be connected with 1.7 million followers in her fashion business, “Loverly Grey,” brings about elite business status in which she competes every day.
There is so much acclaim for this Bulldog family, whose grandchildren will have a lot to live up to. However, I suppose they will take pride in their heritage and benefit from their remarkable foundation.
To begin with, the Wallaces are great sports fans. When Jeff and Sabina were not competing during their undergraduate days, they attended games and matches with the passion of seasoned season-ticket holders. That continued through the days of their adult careers.
Now in retirement, they remain passionate about Bulldog teams but aspire to travel and not only see championship competition but participate as much as possible. For example, Jeff loves golf and with a seven handicap, he is a frequent participant in charity Pro-Ams. He’s still competing and loving it.
Both Jeff and Sabina are passionate about fine wines and food, museums and history, and, above all, travel. The Grand Canyon, Grand Cayman Islands, fly fishing in Montana, golf at Doral and other celebrated PGA venues, Paris, Scotland, Croatia, or Spain, wherever the fish are biting. Jeff plans to play the world's major golf courses with Sabina in tow. Their happy marriage is a testament to mutual admiration.
This couple is enjoying life to the ultimate, and anybody who knows them enjoys cheering them on. They are the envy of their friends as they move about, crossing all borders.
Among the activities that have become emotionally rewarding for them is staying in touch with former women’s tennis players — all of whom have established families of their own but always circle back to campus to enjoy a football game or a spring tennis match.
They are always welcome to take respite with Jeff and Sabina, where the food, wine, and conversation are uplifting, stimulating, and a reminder of days gone by. Yesteryear’s scrapbook has a graphic influence on their lives, and they cannot wait for get-togethers and reunions.
While Jeff was not inducted into the UGA Circle of Honor for his off-court influence and lifestyle today, it is as significant in his life as the wins and losses.
The highlights alone confirm that he is one of the greatest women’s tennis coaches in the sport's history. The winningest coach in the game during his active career, he signed off with 818 victories, six national championships (two NCAA and four indoor), 20 Southeastern Conference titles (11 regular-season and nine tournament titles), and 41 All-Americans. The International Tennis Association named Jeff Coach of the Year four times.
Most would agree these are the credentials of a man possessed when it came to running and coaching a collegiate tennis program. He is proud, not only for the elite accomplishments of the program, but for the sisterhood it has entrenched to benefit the UGA women’s tennis program for years to come.
Jeff doesn’t want it to go unnoticed that the model for his success came from his mentor, Dan Magill, who had the rare ability to command discipline and respect from his players and also have a beer with them. It was like a parent never sparing the rod but raising children who adore their home life.
Jeff has always reminded his players that the world can be their oyster, but to never forget that such opportunity is subordinated to a permanent rapport at home.
In this case, alma mater.