All-American Monday - Mike Belkin

Mike Belkin (1965)

Born in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Mike Belkin moved to Miami Beach, Fla. at the age of 15. At the age of 15, Belkin was given a key to the city along with a scholarship to the University of Miami after having become Florida men’s champion with victories over Frank Froehling and Gardner Mulloy. As a junior player, Belkin was a three-time champion – back to back Orange Bowl titles and U18 National 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 an overall singles season record of 18-1. His only loss came at the hands of tennis 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 teamed with John Santrock, together they advanced to the third round of the NCAA tournament. 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 player five times between 1966 and 1972. In 1969, 1970, and 1972, Belkin won the singles title at the Canadian closed championships. In Davis Cup play, he holds an overall record of 17-12, including an amazing 14-7 mark in singles play. He was elected into the Canadian Tennis Hall of Fame in 1994.

SI: A Big Word For A Small Boy