Vicky Knowles Andrews
President | 1978 – 1981
Vicky Andrews: A Trailblazer in Bahamian Tennis
Vicky Andrews began her tennis journey on the junior circuit in the United Kingdom, where she quickly made her mark. In 1962, she reached the finals of the Wimbledon Junior Doubles and went on to compete in the Wimbledon Mixed Doubles Championships during the early 1960s. During this time, she faced off against some of the game’s greatest players, including Margaret Smith Court, Maria Bueno, Nancy Ritchie, and Virginia Wade.
In 1972, Vicky broke new ground by becoming the first female Tennis Professional in The Bahamas, taking up posts at the Emerald Beach Hotel and later the Nassau Beach Hotel. The tennis clubs she operated at these venues thrived for more than 25 years and are still fondly remembered by the many players and guests who frequented the courts during what are often referred to as the “glory days” of Bahamian tennis.
A five-time Bahamas National Singles Champion, Vicky represented The Bahamas in numerous international competitions across the Caribbean. She also served as the Captain of the Bahamas Ladies Federation Cup team in the 1980s, further establishing her leadership in the sport.
Vicky made history once again as the first woman elected President of the Bahamas Lawn Tennis Association (BLTA). During her tenure, The Bahamas gained entry into major junior international tournaments such as the Orange Bowl and the Sunshine Cup, laying the foundation for a vibrant junior tennis program.
She was also pivotal in bringing global tennis legends to Bahamian shores. One of the standout moments was the 1979 exhibition featuring Bjorn Borg and the late Vitas Gerulaitis, held to inspire and entertain young Bahamian players. Tennis greats like Fred Stolle and the late Gene Scott became regular visitors, offering mentorship and expert coaching to the nation’s top juniors.
Beyond her accomplishments on court and in leadership, Vicky is a devoted coach who helped many Bahamian tennis players reach their full potential. She is also proudly recognized as the mother of Grand Slam champion and professional tennis player, Mark Knowles.
Vicky remains deeply engaged in community service and charitable work. She is the driving force behind the Mark Knowles Celebrity Tennis Invitational, a signature event that has raised over $750,000 for local children’s charities in The Bahamas.
Vicky is married to Peter Andrews, a retired businessman and entrepreneur. She is the proud mother of three children:
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Mark Knowles, her eldest, is a renowned professional tennis player and Grand Slam Champion;
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Samara, her daughter, holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and Public Relations and works in real estate.
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Byron, her youngest, is a certified marine mechanic and boat captain.