All-American Monday - Mike Belkin

Mike Belkin (1965)

Coral Gables, Fla. – Bornin Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Mike Belkin moved to Miami Beach, Fla. at the ageof 15. At the age of 15, Belkin was given a key to the city along with ascholarship to the University of Miami after having become Florida men’s championwith victories over Frank Froehling and Gardner Mulloy. As a junior player,Belkin was a three-time champion – back to back Orange Bowl titles and U18National Junior champion.

Canada Tennis Hall of Fame

In his first and only year as a member of the men’s tennis squad,Belkin, who played the entire season out of the No. 1 position, posted anoverall singles season record of 18-1. His only loss came at the hands oftennis great Arthur Ashe in the championship round of the 1965 NCAA tournament.In doubles completion, Belkin posted an overall mark of 8-5 but while teamedwith John Santrock, together they advanced to the third round of the NCAAtournament. For his success on the court Belkin was named to the 1965 All-America team.

As a professional, Belkin was Canada’s No. 1 men’s playerfive times between 1966 and 1972. In 1969, 1970, and 1972, Belkin won thesingles title at the Canadian closed championships. In Davis Cup play, he holdsan overall record of 17-12, including an amazing 14-7 mark in singles play. Hewas elected into the Canadian Tennis Hall of Fame in 1994.

SI: A Big Word For A Small Boy