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A pioneer in the development of women’s sports in Southern California, Dr. Joan D. Johnson coached Cal State L.A.’s first women’s tennis team in 1959 and she was co-coach of the men’s team in 1955 and 1956.
She helped organize the Southern California Women’s Intercollegiate Tennis League in 1959 and, 18 years later, she coached the United States women’s team at the World University Games in Sofia, Bulgaria.
Her players at Cal State L.A. included all-time tennis great Billie Jean King, 1963 women’s collegiate doubles champions Connie Jaster and Carol Loop and touring pro Tina Watanabe.
Dr. Johnson served as chair of the Department of Physical Education and Athletics, and she was chair of the AIAW’s tennis committee from 1977-80. She also was the director of the AIAW Division II National Tournament, which was held at Cal State L.A.
She has also served on the University’s Intercollegiate Athletics Board.
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