Investment Opportunities: Pickleball Coaches Tennis Associations

TEACHING PROS LOCAL PARTICIPATION COURT CONSTRUCTION
PTR teams with Partnerships are key A fabric structure

USAPA to certify for Community can offer advantages
pickleball coaches Tennis Associations for your facility
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TennisIndustry
Contents August 2018

DEPARTMENTS STRINGING MACHINE SPECIAL
4 Our Serve 22 Essential Equipment
7 Industry News
Your stringing machine is an investment in your business.
8 Letters to the Editor
14 Customer Service
Take the time to find the perfect one.
16 Court Construction
18 Retailing Tip
20 TIA News
32 Ask the Experts
34 Your Serve
INDUSTRY NEWS
7 PTR creates subsidiary to
certify pickleball coaches
7 USTA Southern creates
‘Local Leader Liaison’ pilot
7 Tennis Teachers Conference
set for Aug. 24-27
8 Har-Tru launches online
Windscreen Design Center
9 Vulcan introduces Splatter
collection overgrips
9 USTA National Campus to host
ATA Championships
10 Convert-a-Net changes net
for pickleball play
10 US Open to use instant replay
on all courts 24 2018 Guide
10 Deloitte to sponsor annual to Stringing
NJTL essay contest
11 Les Petits As tournament
Machines
adopts UTR rating system Our exclusive
12 ITA expands its board chart will help
of directors
12 Wilson, Federer debut new
you find a 28 Team Efforts
Pro Staff RF97 Autograph machine with Community Tennis
13 Luxilon, Wilson offer new features that Associations lead
string collections
13 OnCourt OffCourt adds
work best for you the way in partnering
adapter for Rebounder and your team. to grow this sport.
PLUS
37 From the CEO
p.35 40 Immediate Past President
Message
44 Master Pro Corner
46 Inside Coaching
37 44 46 50
48 US Open Series
Celebrating So You Want Why Breathing Learning
49 Tennis Teachers Conference
the Incredible to Be A Is So Important from A Rookie 50 Sid’s Corner
Year that was Director of in Tennis Coach 53 Endorsee News
1968 Tennis… 54 Beyond the Court
58 Member News
Read more articles online at www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com 60 USPTA Career Development
2 TennisIndustry August 2018 www.tennisindustrymag.com

O F F IC IA L
S U R FAC E
O F T H E U S P TA
id e in st al le rs .
ts , w it h ex pe ri en ce d na ti on w
& re pa ir pr od uc
m en t- qu al it y sp or t su rf ac in g
To ur na
sportmaster.net
TennisIndustry
OurServe PUBLISHER
JEFF WILLIAMS
EDITOR
PETER FRANCESCONI
EDITOR'S NOTE
Tennis’ Leaky Bucket MANAGING EDITOR

SCOTT GRAMLING
It’s tempting to focus solely on CREATIVE DIRECTOR

IAN KNOWLES
adding new players, but we must also SENIOR EDITOR

ED McGROGAN
pay attention to player retention. ART DIRECTOR

CRHISTIAN RODRIGUEZ
PRODUCTION EDITOR
SAM CHASE
I
SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR
BOB PATTERSON
n this industry, we often get so is, we’re losing an equal or sometimes CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
caught up in the “new” that we greater number of existing players CYNTHIA CANTRELL, PEG CONNOR,
DAVID LASOTA, KENT OSWALD, NATE PAGEL,
forget to pay attention to what every year—4.6 million players stopped CYNTHIA SHERMAN, MARY HELEN SPRECHER
is going on already. We saw playing tennis last year.
this in recent years when our I’ll often attend industry conferences CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
BOB KENAS, DAVID KENAS
attention to growing tennis participa- and hear tennis leaders say how “flat is
tion seemed to be pulled away by the the new up in today’s marketplace.” I ASSOCIATE EDITOR
shiny object of the new USTA National simply find that unacceptable when it TIM McARTHUR
Campus. And I fear we’re seeing it again comes to tennis participation—espe- EDITORIAL DIRECTION
with a somewhat single-minded focus cially with the resources we can bring to 10TEN MEDIA
on the Net Generation youth initiative. this issue, and when tennis clearly has
TENNIS INDUSTRY
I very much support Net Generation shown it can attract players. (Again, 4.2 250 Park Avenue, Ste 825, NY NY 10017
and all the good things it can, and will, million new players last year!) 646-381-8735
bring to this sport and industry. But at Why are players, and our customers, info@tennisindustrymag.com
the same time, we must remain aware leaving this sport? What are we doing
of the many other issues and challenges wrong, or simply not doing? How can ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
affecting this industry—especially when we change what we’re doing or offering

JOHN HANNA
770-650-1102, x125
it comes to tennis participation. to keep them in the game? hanna@knowatlanta.com
Net Generation is designed to bring It’s critical that we continue to add
new youngsters to the game and to keep new players, members and customers, APPAREL ADVERTISING
them engaged, which is terrific. The but business owners know it costs a lot CYNTHIA SHERMAN
long-term key, though, is making sure less to retain current customers. Some 203-558-5911
cstennisindustry@gmail.com
these kids turn into lifelong tennis play- estimates indicate that attracting a new
ers. And that’s been our problem. Player customer can cost five times as much as
retention has been a challenge in this keeping an existing one.
industry, and it’s one we clearly haven’t There’s no single, or simple, answer
been able to address effectively. to this complicated issue. A lot probably Tennis Industry is published 10 times per year:
monthly, January through August with combined
depends on your own local business issues in September/October and November/
situation and clientele. But it makes December, by Tennis Media Company, 250 Park
Avenue, Suite 825, New York NY 10017. Periodical
sense that, at all levels of this industry, postage paid in Duluth, GA and at additional mailing
we should figure out why people are offices (USPS #004-354). August 2018, Volume 46,
We should figure out why leaving this sport, and then find practi-
Number 8 © 2018 by Tennis Media Company. All rights
reserved. Tennis Industry, TI and logo are trademarks
people are leaving this sport, cal solutions to turn that around. of Tennis Media Company. Printed in the U.S.A. Phone
and then find practical We must make a player’s experience

advertising: 770-650-1102 x 125. Phone circulation
and editorial: 646-381-8735. Yearly subscriptions
solutions to turn that around. in tennis one that they want to con- $25 in the U.S., $40+ elsewhere. POSTMASTER: Send
address changes to Tennis Industry, 250 Park Avenue,
tinue—for the rest of their lives. Suite 825, New York NY 10017. Tennis Industry is the
official magazine of the USRSA, TIA and ASBA.
We’ve talked for years about the Peter Francesconi Looking for back issues of Tennis Industry/Racquet
“leaky bucket” of tennis participation. Editor Sports Industry? Visit the archives at our website
at TennisIndustryMag.com for free digital versions.
Yes, we’re bringing in plenty of new Peter@TennisIndustryMag.com
and returning players each year—4.2
million players joined the game in 2017,
according to TIA research. The problem

THEY HAVE WHAT IT TAKES
AS A NET GENERATION
COACH, SO WILL YOU
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15268 Net_Generation_Tennis_Industry_Ad.indd 1 5/25/18 8:45 AM

IndustryNews Information to help you run your business
TEACHING PROFESSIONALS
USTA Southern Creates
Local Leader Liaison Pilot
PTR Partners With USAPA The USTA Southern Section has created
a pilot program for “local leader liaisons”
To Certify Pickleball Coaches to help grow tennis at the local level. The
section also contracted with three people
to fill these positions in their areas.
USTA Southern's local leader liaisons
(LLL) will serve as conduits to various
USTA organizations and local tennis
groups to increase tennis participation.
They will also advocate for construction
or repair of municipal tennis courts, and
will reach out to residents or groups with
little or no experience in the sport.
“The purpose of the pilot is to increase
tennis participation in specific target
areas,” says USTA Vice President and
LLL Task Force Co-Chair Randy Jackson.
“These individuals will be ambassadors
for tennis. Each of our new local leader
liaisons have impressive credentials,
positive attitudes and are already making
good things happen in their areas.”
The first three local leader liaisons
are Pat Malone of Jonesboro, Ark., Kerri
Becker of New Orleans, and Rivers
Humber of Clarksdale, Miss.
T
he PTR has formed a new in mid-July, with PPR certification
subsidiary—the Profes- workshops for pros and ambassadors
sional Pickleball Registry, beginning on Sept. 1.
or PPR—and has signed a “Not only has PPR patterned its
multi-year agreement to pickleball program after its successful
become the Official Education and Cer- tennis model, but it has demonstrated a
tification Partner of the USA Pickleball desire and willingness to work directly
Association (USAPA). with USAPA in the planning and devel- Don’t Miss the 2018 NYC
“Many PTR members have begun, or opment process,” says USAPA Execu- Tennis Teachers Conference
are strongly considering, adding pick- tive Director Justin Maloof. There is still time to register for the 44th
leball instruction and programming,” PPR’s curriculum and certification Tennis Teachers Conference, which will be
C O U RT E S Y H E A D P I C K L E B A L L
says PTR CEO Dan Santorum. “As a are being designed by five-time USAPA Aug. 24-27 at the Grand Hyatt in New York
professional membership organization, National Champion, two-time US Open City. More than 1,000 tennis professionals
it’s important to provide PTR members Pickleball Champion and PTR/USAPA and industry leaders are expected to attend
with all the tools they need to do their member Sarah Ansboury (above), who the event, which is presented by the USTA
jobs better, to better serve their students will serve as PPR’s educational consul- and USPTA, and also will serve as the USPTA’s
and employers, and to improve the over- tant and lead clinician for pickleball- World Conference.
all health of both sports.” related activities. For more informa- The conference will feature more than
Pilot certification workshops began tion, visit pprpickleball.org. • 25 classroom and on-court educational
www.tennisindustrymag.com August 2018 TennisIndustry 7

IndustryNews
sessions. The on-court sessions will take

place at SportTime Randall’s Island Tennis
Club on Saturday, Aug. 25, with bus trans-
portation and a lunch voucher provided.
The cost for the four days of the TTC is
$399. Day passes are available at $200
each, and TTC registrants are qualified
for the special rate of $249 per night at the
Grand Hyatt.
For more information and to register, go
to 2018ttc.com
Har-Tru Launches Online

Windscreen Design Center
Har-Tru LLC has launched a new online
Windscreen Design Center, which will
be housed on the company’s website,
hartru.com. The design center uses
technology to simplify the process of
windscreen customization and ordering.
PRO TENNIS “The biggest challenge with wind-
Head Extends Contracts screen is that every order is 100 percent

custom to the facility,” says Har-Tru
With Djokovic, Zverev

President Pat Hanssen. “With the
H

Windscreen Design Center, we’ve made
it easier for the consumer to design and
ead recently signed new long-term contracts with Novak Djokovic order screens that help them create a
and Alexander Zverev, extending its relationships with two of its better place to play.”
signature athletes. The Windscreen Design Center offers
“Novak and Alexander work extremely hard to reach their ambi- complete instructions for measuring,
tious goals, and so do we to provide the tools for them to reach those goals,” says installing and maintaining wind-
Head CEO Johan Eliasch (above, center). “They give us invaluable input when we screens. It also provides users with a
develop new products, and their professionalism on and off the court makes them step-by-step process for choosing their
perfect role models for the next generation of young tennis players.” preferred material and entering their
Both players endorse the Speed series of performance tennis racquets. dimensions and logo requirements.
Letters • Higher skilled players welcomed lower

skilled players into the fold. Everybody
Note to tennis, my lifelong passion:
Pay Attention!
played with everybody. Bobby Walker, USPTA Elite Professional
PICKLEBALL POSITIVES • Games lasted 15 to 20 minutes. Executive Director, Middle Georgia Tennis
I played pickleball recently, and here are a • There was not a pickleball teaching profes-
sional anywhere.
C O U RT E S Y H E A D ; V U L CA N S P O RT I N G G O O D S
few things I noticed:

• We had more pickleball players show • Nobody threw their pickleball paddle or PLATFORM TENNIS MISCUE
up than could fit on the pickleball courts, made bad line calls. I love reading your magazine every month,
so players volunteered to take their turn for • I did not have to join a pickleball associa- and I really enjoyed the article about
the courts. tion to participate. platform tennis in the June issue (“Two
• I jumped in at 8:30 a.m. and stopped an • There is a major tournament coming up for One”). However, the cover of the issue
hour later to continue my workday. When I and everyone from this group is traveling shows POP Tennis paddles and balls instead
began and when I finished play was at my 75 miles to participate in it. They will play of platform tennis. Too bad that some
convenience. singles on Friday, doubles on Saturday and people get confused.
• It only cost me $2 to play. mixed doubles on Sunday. The cost is $40 Patricio A. Misitrano
• The pickleball players asked me to come for the entire weekend and all divisions are Co-Founder, Tennis Pro Search
back for another match. non-elimination. Wilton, Conn.

IndustryNews
The oldest African-American sports Today, the ATA National Champion-

organization in the country, the ATA was ships has 50 competitive categories,
founded in Washington, D.C., in 1916, with competitors ranging from 10 to 80
with a mission to promote black tennis in years of age. It is expected that the ATA
America. The ATA founders established National Championships will be hosted at
the first ATA National Championships a the USTA National Campus every three to
year later, held in Baltimore. four years.
Vulcan Introduces New

Splatter Collection
Vulcan Sporting Goods has introduced
the new Splatter Collection of art-
inspired racquet overgrips. There are six
different Splatter color combinations,
available in both the Vulcan Max Trend
style for a light-tack, light-cushion feel,
and in the Vulcan Max Cool style for a dry,
absorbent feel.
“With the Splatter Collection, we are
inviting players to express their inner
Van Gogh,” says Sara Ericson, Vulcan’s
vice president of sales. “The Vulcan grip
technology is all there, but this time our
design team made sure the engineering
is equally matched with whimsy and fun.
“They threw a lot of paint around,
and let’s just say they spent a lot of time
cleaning up, too.”
Retail prices for the Splatter Collection
are $7.99 for overgrip three-packs, or
$2.99 for bulk single overgrips. Dealers
can create their own assortment of bulk
single overgrips and receive free counter
display jars for merchandising. For more
information, visit vulcansportinggoods.
com or call 800-826-6373.
USTA National Campus

To Host ATA Championships
The USTA will partner with the
American Tennis Association (ATA) to
host the 101st ATA National Champi-
onships at the USTA National Campus
in Orlando, Fla., July 28-Aug 4. The
annual week-long event will see more
than 2,500 participants and visitors.

IndustryNews
Convert-a-Net Lowers
People Net for Pickleball Play
Watch
Brian Boland has left the USTA to Nithya Kanagasegar of Case Western
become the director of tennis and head Reserve University is the inaugural win-
men’s tennis coach for Baylor University ner of the ITA’s Ann Lebedeff Leadership
in Waco, Texas. Boland had been head Award, endowed by Billie Jean King. She
of men’s tennis for USTA Player Develop- will receive a scholarship and will be
ment since May 2017. honored in August in New York City, and
Tennis nets can be lowered for pickle-
the ITA will donate $1,000 to the Case
ball play in minutes with the temporary
Kimberly Pettit is the new marketing Western Reserve tennis program.
Convert-a-Net. A special center strap
manager for Dunlop, overseeing all
pulls down the center of the net from 36
aspects of U.S. marketing, including Match Point Tennis Accessories owner
inches to 34 inches. Two other vertical
brand development, product launches, Jack Hill has a tennis scholarship named straps attach to a strap that runs from
and advertising campaigns. She has in his honor. The Jack Hill Award will go netpost to netpost to pull the sides of
been with the company for seven years to the Milwaukee high school tennis the net down to 36 inches.
as sales and marketing coordinator. coach who submits the most candidates Convert-a-Net is $49.99 plus ship-
for the annual Milwaukee Tennis Schol- ping. Visit convertanet.com for more
Australian legend Evonne Goolagong arship. More than $50,000 has already information, including a short video, and
Cawley received the ITF’s highest acco- been awarded to high school tennis to order.
lade, the Philippe Chatrier Award. players and organizations.
US Open to Use Instant
Replay on All Courts
The 2018 US Open will feature instant
replay on all courts, making it the first
Grand Slam tournament to do so, and
only the second tournament with mul-
tiple courts to offer it for every match.
The four main show courts will con-
tinue to have replay officials in booths,
but for the other 12 courts, replay
control will be centralized in a remote
broadcast trailer complex housing
more than five dozen technicians and
replay officials.
“We’ve known for a number of years
that if we wanted to provide a level
playing field we needed to provide the
same services to all players, if at all
possible,” US Open Tournament
Director Dave Brewer told Sports
Business Journal. “Until this year, that
simply wasn’t feasible from a logistics
point of view. It is now.”
Deloitte to Sponsor Annual

C O U RT E S Y C O N V E RT- A - N ET
NJTL Essay Contest

The USTA Foundation has announced a
three-year relationship with professional
services organization Deloitte, which will
serve as the presenting sponsor of the
National Junior Tennis & Learning (NJTL)
essay contest. This year’s contest winners
will be recognized at the 20th annual

IndustryNews
Short
Sets
For a second year, Mizuno was the under Junior Davis and Fed Cup Finals, professor S. Mark Young, documents the
official tennis footwear partner for the Sept. 25-30 in Budapest, Hungary, and the most successful college tennis program,
BB&T Atlanta Open in July. The partner- 14-and-under World Junior Tennis Finals, dating from 1899 through the end of
ship featured the Wave Exceed Tour 3 and Aug. 6-11, in Prostejov, Czech Republic. the 2016-17 season. Published by New
Mizuno gear on all BB&T Atlanta Open Chapter Press, it is available where books
staff, volunteers and ball boys and girls. In a three-year deal, Caribbean Sol will are sold, including Amazon.com.
be the official sunscreen of the USPTA.
Cliff Drysdale Tennis is now using UTR The city of Orlando, Fla., has been
as its official tennis rating system and CourtReserve, an online platform for chosen to host the Special Olympics USA
community platform. tennis court reservations, events, tourna- Summer Games in 2022. Tennis events
ments and players, joined the Tennis will take place at the USTA National
In competition in Mexico City in April, Industry Association as a Technology Campus at Lake Nona. Held every four
the U.S. advanced to the Junior Davis and Business Partner. years, the 2018 USA Summer Games will
Fed Cup and World Junior Tennis Finals, be in Seattle.
going undefeated across all four competi- Trojan Tennis: A History of the Storied
tions in the North/Central American and Men's Tennis Program at the University of The USTA has a three-year agreement
Caribbean qualifying rounds. The U.S. Southern California, by USC men’s tennis with Cheeses of Europe to become an
boys and girls will compete in the 16-and- historian and Marshall School of Business official sponsor of the US Open Series.
LOVE LOVE
USTA Foundation NJTL Essay Contest
Luncheon in New York City on Aug. 26.
The USTA Foundation NJTL Essay
Contest is a widely acclaimed educa-
tional tool. As part of the contest, which Club members and students will LOVE facing
attracts 2,500 entries annually, NJTL off against the phenom. You will LOVE
participants are asked to write essays
offering the added advantage.
answering a thought-provoking question
requiring research and analysis. Ten
national winners (one boy and one girl ®
from five age groups) receive all-expense

paid trips to New York City to attend follow lobste
t rsports on
te play more. win more.®
Arthur Ashe Kids Day and the luncheon. For more information, please call 888.380.9460 or visit www.lobstersports.com
Les Petits As Tournament

Adopts UTR Rating System
The Les Petits As junior tournament
will adopt UTR as its official rating and
the metric by which the tournament
will evaluate players and establish
draws. Les Petits As will also use UTR's
tournament and event management
platform to organize and run all tennis
events, including the Les Petits As–
Le Mondial Lacoste in January 2019.
The partnership gives under-14
players worldwide the chance to
qualify for the elite Les Petits As–Le
Mondial Lacoste through a Regional
Qualifying expansion. By adopting

IndustryNews
the UTR system, Les Petits As tournament a partner at Skyline Asset Management in
organizers are now able to compare and Chicago; Harold Edwards, the president and
track players with a single, unified rating. CEO of Limoneira Co.; Molly Fletcher, found-
er and CEO of The Molly Fletcher Company;
ITA Expands Board of Directors Neel Grover, the founder and CEO of Indi.
The Intercollegiate Tennis Association, com; Dr. Mark Kovacs, a performance physi-
the not-for profit governing body of college ologist, researcher, sports executive, pro-
tennis, has expanded its board of directors fessor, author, speaker and coach; retired
to 19 members. The restructured board will college coach Betsy Kuhle; entrepreneur
now utilize staggered terms, with elections Sean Mayo; and William McGugin, president
for new members occurring annually. and CEO of Iroquois Capital Group and REIT
The new ITA Board includes Chairman Investment Group.
Jon Vegosen of Chicago and ITA CEO Dr.
Timothy Russell of Arizona. Seven board PTR Awards Masters of Tennis
members are ITA Member Coaches: Steve MOT–Performance
Bickham of Pomona & Pitzer Colleges; • Will Hill, Pottstown, Pa.
Michael Center of the University of Texas; • Gary Tan, Singapore
Grant Chen of SMU; Lauren Conching of • Johnny Beleleu, Norman, Okla.
Hawai'i Pacific University; Geoff Macdonald MOT–Junior Development
of Vanderbilt University; Alison Swain of • Ben Adam, Morganville, N.J.
USC; and Vince Westbrook of the University Long Reach Tennis Club in Columbia, Md.
of Tulsa. Six-Court Indoor Facility
The other board members are: Ray Opens in Maryland house, pro shop, refreshment bar, locker
Anderson, athletic director at Arizona State The new 49,000-square-foot Long Reach rooms and on-site racquet stringing. The
University; longtime tennis volunteer Ste- Tennis Club recently opened in Columbia, club was designed to be an environmentally
phen Butzlaff of Chicago; William Dutton, Md., with six indoor tennis courts, a club- sustainable facility complete with solar
panels, LED court lights, electric car charg-
ing stations, above-code insulation, high-
efficiency HVAC systems and on-site bio-
retention facilities. The project was designed
by GTM Architects of Bethesda, Md.
IMG Academy Selects

Dunlop as Official Partner
Dunlop is now the official tennis racquet,
ball and accessory provider of the IMG
Academy, located in Bradenton, Fla.
RACQUETS As part of the agreement, all tennis
C O U RT E S Y L O N G R E A C H T E N N I S C LU B ; W I L S O N ; O N C O U RT O F FC O U RT
coaches will use Dunlop racquets and
Wilson, Federer Debut New balls for lessons and training, and acad-
emy founder Nick Bollettieri will play with
Pro Staff RF97 Autograph the Dunlop CV3.0.
W

IMG Academy also will become one
of the primary locations for testing all
ilson and Advisory Staff Member Roger Federer recently revealed current and future products, with Dunlop
the new Pro Staff RF97 Autograph racquet, which introduces the collecting feedback from hundreds of
concept of “performance-enhancing graphics,” says the company. academy junior players.
The new frame features vibrant white accents at 3 and 9 o’clock.
Wilson says the contrast of white on an all-black frame introduces a new level of USRSA Names New MRTs & CSs
visual acuity to the racquet when it’s in motion. Master Racquet Technicians
“This new racquet looks very iconic and classic, yet seems to jump off the court in • Zane Kohrs, Dallas
a very recognizable way,” says Federer. “My last racquet featured a tuxedo-style look, • Peter Poggioli, Falls Church, Va.
so now, with the addition of white, I can say my ‘tuxedo’ has its shirt. I love the way it • Erik Schillerstrom, Plainfield, Ill.
looks and feels. I also like the way the racquet leaves a ‘line’ through the air to the eye.” • Sam Schuerger, Dallas
The new Pro Staff line includes the RF97 Autograph ($249 suggested retail) and • Chris Sherer, Wilmington, N.C.
three other models designed for a variety of attacking-style players, including the Certified Stringers
lighter weight 97L and the Pro Staff 26, which is designed for young players. Visit • Andreanna Christopoulou, Vero Beach, Fla.
Wilson.com. • Kevin Reynolds, Waynesboro, Pa.

IndustryNews
TRAINING AIDS
OnCourt
OffCourt Adds
Adapter for
Rebounder
O
nCourt OffCourt is offering
a free add-on to its Perfect
Pitch Rebounder (right).
When the Entry Level
Adapter is added to the top bar of the
Rebounder, balls rebound downward
and roll off the bottom of the tarp. It
creates the least amount of rebound
possible and gives the hitter more time
to prepare, making it ideal for beginners.
The Perfect Pitch Rebounder, which
retails for $395, sets up in two min-
utes with no tools needed, has locking
wheels and can be used indoors and
outdoors, on and off the court.
Visit oncourtoffcourt.com. •
Two Students Chosen

As Wilson/ITA Interns
Kelsey Grambeau of the University of
Wisconsin-Madison and Eugenia Sanchez
of the University of Texas of the Permian
Basin are the winners of the 2018 Wilson
ITA National Promoter of the Year Award.
Grambeau and Sanchez will receive a paid
summer internship to work at Wilson's
global headquarters in Chicago in the
Grassroots Marketing department.
Grambeau and Sanchez will assist with
day-to-day projects and will have an op-
portunity to work in and experience all
areas of Wilson, including balls, racquets,
promotions/marketing, U.S. tour, indoor,
accessories and apparel/footwear.
New Wilson, Luxilon String

Wilson and Luxilon recently introduced
two new high-performance string collec-
tions: the Wilson/Luxilon Duo and the Lux-
ilon Limited Edition ALU Power 125 Color.
The Wilson/Luxilon Duo collection con-
sists of three new hybrid strings: Duo Power,
Duo Control and Duo Feel. The Luxilon
Limited Edition Alu Power 125 String now
comes in vibrant colors such as red, lime,
green and blue. For more information and to
order, visit Wilson.com.

TennisIndustry
Customer Service
When it comes to a
demo racquet program,
restringing often with
premium string will
contribute to higher sales.
RACQUET DEMO PROGRAM Demo Inventory

Have a demo racquet available for every
Try Before You Buy model you stock. For small shops that
carry a small amount of inventory, have
A solid, well-planned racquet demo more demos and take special orders on
those models. Larger shops that sell in
program that matches players to the higher volume should consider having
multiple demos of the most popular
right frames will boost your sales. frames to ensure that customers do not
have to wait to try out a racquet.
By Bob Patterson Your demos should help sell rac-
quets—so if they have the wrong string
Executive Director, USRSA or tension, it can hinder sales. While
you can’t customize the string set-up
T
for every customer, you can make sure
the set-up you choose for your demos is
here’s no question that report steady or even increasing sales. compatible with the majority of players
selling racquets today is While the industry wrestles with turn- targeted by that particular frame.
challenging. According ing around retail overall, what can you We recommend you choose three
C O U RT E S Y L E S M O I S E ; S H U T T E R S T O C K
to industry data, we’ve do as a dealer to boost your sales? strings to use in your demo frames—
had a decade of declin- Retailers who are doing well selling one suitable for advanced players, one
ing racquet sales. Players used to buy premium racquets all seem to have a for “tweeners,” and one for game
a new frame every two or three years; solid, well-planned demo program that improvement. Having a designated
now that replacement cycle is every six fits players to the right frame and string string for each player category elimi-
to seven years. And participation over set-up. Remember that your demo nates variables during the demo pro-
the past decade has been relatively flat, racquets are sales tools. They’re not cess. If your customer has narrowed
which doesn’t help matters. simply racquets that you lend out to their selection to two frames, and if
Many shop owners, of course, are members or just have on hand because both are strung with the same string at
feeling the pinch. But others seem to they are provided by the manufacturer the mid-tension, then they will be get-
be bucking the downward trend and at a deep discount. ting a more accurate comparison.

TennisIndustry
Strings Are Important string, and it means future string jobs Buy overgrips in bulk and make sure
You want the racquet to perform at will be with a premium string. each demo has a clean, fresh grip.
its best, so don’t skimp on the string! While it might be tempting to install Having knowledgeable staff, such as
Using premium strings and restringing a durable polyester to prevent break- USRSA Master Racquet Technicians
often will contribute to higher sales. age, keep in mind that poly strings or Professional Racquet Advisors, will
Besides having all your demo rac- actually have a short performance life, help guide your customers through the
quets performing at their best, most so you’ll want to restring those frames demo process and help them hone in
customers who like a demo they use often. Also, though, poly strings may on the racquet that ensures the best
probably will ask you to string their not be the best choice for most players. performance for their needs.
new frame just like it. This means Don’t forget about the grip—no one Boost your business all around by
you can sell the frame and a premium wants to use a demo with a dirty grip. stepping up your demo program.
Builders, we’re good enough for the pros and even better for your business!
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888.294.0428 tennispaint.com

TennisIndustry
Court Construction
INDOOR TENNIS
Inside Information
Fabric structures can provide
advantages for both facility
owners and players.
By Jessica Batchelor
O
ppressive heat or rain
curtail outdoor activi-
ties all the time. When
tennis players practice or
play indoors, they need
a space that is easy to move around in,
brightly lit and comfortable, no matter
the weather conditions outside.
While fabric buildings may not be the
first structures that come to mind for
athletic facilities, they do offer several
advantages, including low structure
costs compared to wood or metal
buildings. An increasing number of
businesses have chosen to house tennis
courts in a fabric building because of
the unique benefits they provide.
The natural lighting in a fabric
structure is not only aesthetically
pleasing, but it’s also energy efficient.
As sunlight filters through the fabric
cover, it creates a soft, ambient light
that’s easy on the eyes and doesn’t cast supported by solid truss arches, which disassembled, moved and reassembled
glare or shadows, so players can easily creates a clear span free of internal within a matter of days.
track the ball. This natural lighting is support posts, meaning virtually all of Cleaning and maintenance are easy,
ideal for year-round play. the inside space is useable. The absence as well. No harsh chemicals are re-
By not having to use artificial light- of internal support posts also means quired to keep fabric structures looking
ing, business owners can save sub- exceptional height and clearance. The brand new. Water washes off dust, dirt
stantially on utility costs. However, if 120-foot-wide design is popular for and pollutants from the exterior. Many
artificial lights are desired for night- tennis, with an interior peak height of owners simply let the rain take care of
time play, they can easily be installed in 47 feet above the net. cleaning the outside.
any style of fabric building. Additionally, an open-space fabric For tennis players, playing inside a
Customers can also benefit from structure means there are no hiding fabric building feels like being outside,
climate-responsive fabric covers that places for rodents and pests. Without but without the worry of inclement
keep the building up to 20 degrees wood or insulation, there are also fewer weather. Surfaces stay dry, clean and
cooler in summer and 20 degrees homes for insects inside the structure. well lit, reducing the risk of injury and
warmer in winter. A steady stream of An often-overlooked advantage of creating a comfortable atmosphere for
C O U RT E S Y C L E A R S PA N
sunlight cuts down on moisture and fabric buildings are the exceptional all to enjoy—year-round. •
bacteria growth, and the ventilation acoustics. The walls and covers provide
system produces excellent air quality sound-absorption, reducing both out- Jessica Batchelor is a content writer for
with reduced humidity and mold. side noise and indoor echoing. ClearSpan, which specializes in fabric
Fabric structures also stand out in Fabric buildings also are easy to take structures. Visit clearspan.com or call
the way they’re constructed. Some are down or relocate if needed. They can be 866-643-1010 for more information.

monogut-zx-third-advert-image-update.pdf 1 06/07/2016 22:23
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
TennisIndustry
RetailingTip
Most specialty store owners
don’t take enough time when
hiring sales associates,
instead going on gut feel.
an applicant fills out a form, make sure
you carefully read what he or she wrote,
and follow up by checking references.
Next, establish written job descrip-
tions. Review the description with each
applicant to make sure they understand
the job they are interviewing for and, if
hired, will be educated to perform.
When it comes to interviewing,
employ a three-step process. The first
interview is after you have checked out
the applicant’s references and deter-
mined their work history and track
record with previous and current em-
ployers. It is during this interview that
you go over the job description.
TREND WATCH
For candidates who make it through
The Human Experience the first interview, schedule an online
job assessment for customer service
Technology is both helpful and professionals. This will tell you if the
applicant is hard-wired to serve retail
in demand, but it’s squeezing out customers. An online search for these
pre-employment assessments should
the human touch in retail. bring up resources to consider.
The third step, for applicants that the
By Jay Townley customer service assessment indicates
will do well, is to schedule interviews
with two different members of your
W
retail team. This avoids the problem of
hiring based on gut feel. Also, it helps to
ith all the talk and would like these memorable experi- instill in the rest of your team that they
expressed concern ences to be provided by a knowledge- are also a part of this process, and will
about technology able customer service professional. help educate and train the new hire.
invading, challeng- Also, they want this interaction to be Beyond this stage, your new hire—
ing and taking over cumulative—with each retail experi- along with the whole retail team—
retail transactions, perhaps it wasn’t so ence building upon others. should go through continuous staff
surprising to hear that the biggest trend This requires shop owners to focus education and training. In addition to
to come out of this year’s Future Stores on two operational imperatives: hiring outside seminars and classes, weekly
Expo was about “instilling humanity” smart, and continuous staff education. staff meetings should employ feedback
into the retail experience. Most specialty store owners don’t take from staff mentors and mystery shop-
While technology is both helpful and enough time when hiring sales associ- pers, along with role-playing by your
in more demand by consumers, it has ates, instead going on gut feel. This staff. It will pay off in a variety of ways.
been squeezing the human experience leads to being quick to hire, but slow to By hiring smart and continuous cus-
out of the specialty retail shopping fire. No matter what size retail business tomer service education and feedback,
and buying process. For the most part, you have, you should follow a process you’ll bring back the human element to
shoppers still want a human touch. that will help you to hire smart. your shop’s retail selling experiences. •
SHUTTERSTOCK
For tennis retail, consumers desire a First, develop or employ a written

satisfying experience of learning how job application form. Do some research Jay Townley is a partner in the retail
a product or service will improve their online to find forms that have worked consulting firm Gluskin Townley Group
games and their lifestyle. And they for comparable retail businesses. When (gluskintownleygroup.com).

ads.indd 1 4/29/16 12:43 PM
Te n n i s I n d u s t r y
ORLANDO
2019 innovation
CHALLENGE
Tennis Industry
Innovation Challenge
Reopens
The fourth edition of the popular Tennis Industry
Innovation Challenge—which showcases
11th Annual TIA

some of the most brilliant new and innovative
sports products and services designed to grow
the sport and business of tennis with players,
consumers and fans—will take place during a
Tennis Forum
major industry/facility conference in Orlando
Jan. 23-25.
Presented by the Tennis Industry Association,
the Innovation Challenge is a “Shark Tank”-like
TENNIS FORUM
competition to identify the most innovative
Aug. 27 in New York and creative product or service in the tennis

industry.
Starting Aug. 27, the first day of play at the
US Open, the application process will open for
The annual Tennis Industry Association Tennis Forum will be on Monday, Aug. companies and individuals to complete a short
27, at the Grand Hyatt New York in Manhattan from 8 to 9:30 a.m. The 11th annual Tennis Industry Innovation Challenge form at
Forum will include the latest news and research about the state of the tennis TennisIndustry.org/Innovation describing their
industry, business insights, updates on grow-the-game initiatives including the new, innovative product, software or service.
USTA’s Net Generation, and recognition of the 2018 Tennis Industry Hall of Fame There is no charge to apply. The application
inductees. process will close Oct. 15.
The Forum is free to attend, but space is limited, so registration is required. Innovation Challenge judges will examine
Visit TennisIndustry.org/forum to register. each application then choose finalists, who will
Industry leaders presenting at the Forum will include Katrina Adams, the present in person at the January conference
president and chairman of the board of the USTA; Tom Cove, the president in Orlando in front of a panel of judges and
and CEO of the Sports & Fitness Industry Association; Kurt Kamperman, chief an industry audience, including potential
executive of the USTA National Campus; Craig Morris, the USTA’s chief executive investors. The winner will receive a cash prize
of Community Tennis; Jeff Williams, the president of the TIA; and Jolyn de Boer, from the TIA, along with national exposure.
TIA executive director. The first Innovation Challenge was held at
The TIA Tennis Forum, which will be in the Ballroom at the Grand Hyatt, takes the TOM Conference in March 2017 and was
place during the USTA Tennis Teachers Conference/USPTA World Conference. won by Tennibot (tennibot.com), a robotic
Information presented at the Forum will help to outline ways to better define tennis ball collector. The second Challenge,
and boost the economic growth and impact of the tennis industry; determine held in August 2017 in New York City during
effective ways to distribute clear, consistent messaging of health, fitness and the the 2017 US Open, was won by In/Out (inout.
reasons to play tennis; and discuss the business of tennis and the importance tennis), a line-calling device that fits on any
of collaboration for our sport. Forum attendees will receive a summary report on netpost. The third competition, held in April at
key industry research. The TIA also is planning separate industry meetings on the TOM Conference in Charleston, was won
Aug. 28 with a deeper look at research efforts under way to help benefit industry by Tweener Lighting (tweener-lighting.com), a
businesses and the sport. unique LED system that attaches to existing
Visit TennisIndustry.org/forum to register. fencing around tennis and other sport courts.
20 TennisIndustry August 2018 Join

Jointhe
theTIA
TIA. . . .Increase
IncreaseYour
YourProfits
Profits. . . .Grow
Growthe
theGame
Game. . . .TennisIndustry.org
TennisIndustry.org
Expanded Industry Conference to be Held
in January in Orlando
The Tennis Industry Association will be expanding its Tennis
Owners & Managers (TOM) Conference in 2019, including an
added focus on facilities, innovation and technology and a demo
day at the USTA National Campus. The event will be in Orlando,
Fla., Jan. 23 to 25.
For greater exposure and a wider audience, the format will
include five educational tracks: Innovation & Technology; Facility
Operations (including design, planning, lighting, etc.); Human product showcase arena and much more.” The conference also
& Professional Services (such as hiring and staffing); Event will include the fourth edition of the Tennis Industry Innovation
Management & Hospitality; and Membership, Marketing & Challenge.
Promotions (including digital marketing and social media). On- The conference, which has yet to choose a formal name, will be
court sessions will be at the USTA National Campus at Lake Nona. targeted to tennis, racquet and paddle sports businesses including
Continuing education credits are available. owners, managers, operators, general managers, manufacturers,
“The 2019 conference will combine the best features of the retailers, organizations, athletic directors, decision makers/
TIA’s TOM Conference with expanded content,” says TIA Executive influencers, media, sports innovation & tech companies, VCs,
Director Jolyn de Boer. “The USTA National Campus will host an and anyone who desires to improve their business and career in
on-site ‘Tennis & Innovation Experience,’ there will also be top racquet sports.
speakers and presenters, plenty of networking opportunities, For more information, email the TIA at info@tennisindustry.org
our popular ‘TOM Talk’ roundtable format, an Industry Forum, a or call 843-473-4504.
Play Tennis Month Helps New Tennis Participation

Report Available from TIA
to Rally the Industry The 2018 Tennis
More than 2,300 tennis events in 32 states were Participation
registered as part of Play Tennis Month activities Report has been
during the month of May. All the events were published and
searchable on PlayTennis.com so current, new and is available for
returning tennis players could easily find local places members. The
and times to play. 24-page report,
This was the inaugural year for Play Tennis Month, produced by the
an industry-wide campaign that involved hundreds of Tennis Industry
tennis providers and showcased the sport and all its Association
health benefits. Play Tennis Month also helped raise in partnership with the Physical Activity
awareness and support for PHIT America, and included Council, includes the most recent data and
fund-raisers to benefit PHIT America GO! Grants, trends through year-end 2017 for tennis
which provide funds for physical education in schools, participation, consumer spending, fitness
including supporting equipment and curriculum for the and health, fans, tennis interest, cross
new Net Generation youth tennis initiative. The lead- participation in other sports, and more.
up to Play Tennis Month included a 200-person Cardio The Tennis Participation Report is a part
Tennis session at the USTA National Campus in Orlando, Fla. of the all-encompassing annual Physical
For Play Tennis Month, tennis providers were encouraged to offer adult programs Activity Council study, which looks at
that were fun, social and encouraged players to come back (multi-sessions to help 123 different sports and activities. TIA
with retention). The provider website RallyTheIndustry.org has suggested program members at the Business Partner level
formats that emphasize fitness and how fun and social tennis is. Marketing resources ($750) and above will receive the 2018
to promote programs and events locally can still be accessed at PlayTennisMonth.com. Tennis Participation Report as part of their
“We received great support from many industry partners, including the USPTA, Tennis membership. Or the report is available
Channel, PTR and USTA,” says TIA Executive for separate purchase for $1,500. For
Director Jolyn de Boer. “It’s important that we
keep collaborating on ways to help ‘jumpstart’
PLAY TENNIS! more information on research and TIA
membership, visit TennisIndustry.org or
the industry.” M NTH
supporting call 843-686-3036.
Join the TIA . . . Increase Your Profits . . . Grow the Game . . . TennisIndustry.org August 2018 TennisIndustry 21
TennisIndustry
D I S T I N G U I S H E D F A C I L2I 0
T Y-
1 8O F - T H E -Y E A R A W A R D S
G U I D CE OTUOR ST TCROI N SG TI NR GU CMT AI OC NH I N E S
Essential Equipment
Our exclusive guide will help you find the stringing
machine that works best for your business.
By Nate Pagel
Associate Director, USRSA
I
’ve been obsessed with term I use loosely because the earliest • Install the string undamaged.
tennis for a long time. But I versions held the racquet in place—and
only strung my first racquet that’s about it. • Obtain and hold the proper tension
just over five years ago, on each string.
when I was at Michigan Achieving the Basics
Tech University. Stringing machines have changed Beyond these goals, everything else
Since then I’ve become greatly over the years, and now there’s offered by these machines is for conve-
fascinated with racquets and more variety and features than ever, nience—which isn’t inconsequential.
strings. I changed schools and majors, with well over 50 machines currently To help you decide which stringing
received my Master Racquet Techni- on the market. Some machines use machine is right for you, we’ve com-
C O U RT E S Y B A B O L AT, U N I Q U E S P O RT S, G A M M A
cian certification in 2015, strung for a drop weight to achieve the desired piled all of their features and prices
some of the top collegiate teams in the tension, while others use cranks or an into our 2018 Guide to Stringing
country, graduated from the Profes- electric motor. Some are on height- Machines chart, on the following pages.
sional Tennis Management program at adjustable stands, while others sit on a It’s the perfect place to start when look-
Ferris State University, and now have tabletop. There are even machines with ing for a new machine.
the pleasure of working for the U.S. a USB port to charge a phone or tablet
Racquet Stringers Association. while stringing. Consider Your Needs
Walking into the USRSA head- No matter the features, though, all To find the right machine, begin by
quarters in Birmingham, Ala., for the machines on the market need to help knowing what you need. For instance,
first time amazed me. There is a lot of the stringer achieve three basic goals: if multiple people will all be using the
history in the office. USRSA Executive same machine, you might consider one
Director Bob Patterson has on display • Maintain the frame’s original shape with electronic height adjustment.
some very old stringing “machines,” a and condition. If you have a couple of clients who

TennisIndustry
If cared for properly, stringing machines can last

for 10 years or more. Consider the revenue
the machine will bring in throughout its lifetime.
always seem to be restringing their can last for 10 years or more. Consider vendor in your area cannot provide
racquets, it may be convenient to have the revenue the machine will bring in a machine to try, perhaps they can
a memory option so you can store your throughout its lifetime. arrange for you to string on one at
customers’ tensions. If you plan on For instance, if you string an aver- another dealer after hours.
traveling with your machine to tourna- age of 25 racquets a week and your Other important factors in choosing
ments and other events, you might machine lasts 10 years, that’s a total of the right stringing machine is the after-
want one that is lighter, so it’s easier to 13,000 string jobs over the machine’s the-sale service and the warranty. This
move around. life. If you spent $5,000 on the ma- is especially important if you have just
Whatever the case, first narrow down chine, that would mean the cost per one stringing machine, which would
what you need. After that, look at the racquet is less than 40 cents. If you mean part of your business would be
features you would like, but that may can accurately assess your business to out of commission if your machine
not be essential to your business. And figure out how many racquets you plan breaks down. Make sure you know the
of course, look at your budget to see on getting out of your machine, you company’s policy for repairs, turn-
what is and is not feasible. may be surprised at how low the cost is around time, and loaners.
per racquet. For your business and for your play-
Investment in Your Business Once you’ve narrowed down your ers, your stringing machine may well be
Remember that your stringing machine search to two or three machines, try the most important piece of equipment
is an investment in your business. If and demo each one to see which you own. Make sure you take the time
cared for properly, these machines machine feels the best to you. If the to find the perfect one. •

TennisIndustry
2018
GUIDE TO STRINGING MACHINES
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Alpha • 800-922-9024 • www.alphatennis.com • info@alphatennis.com
Pioneer DC Plus $499 5 x x x x x x x x x x
Revo 4000 $699 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Axis Pro $799 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Apex Speed $1,099 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Ghost 2 $2,945 2 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Babolat • 877-316-9435 • www.babolat.com
Sensor $5,795 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Sensor Expert $8,500 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Star 5 $3,695 3 or 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Racket Station - Perf $6,595 2 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Racket Station - Perf Link $7,895 2 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Racket Station - Ultimate Link $9,395 2 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Gamma • 800-333-0337 • www.gammasports.com
X-2 $249 Life x x x x $139
x x x x x x x x
Progression 200 $229 Life x x x x x x x x x x x
Progression 602 $449 5 x x x x $139
x x x x x x x x
X-6 $469 5 x x x x $139
x x x x x x x x
Progression 602 FC $579 5 x x x x $139
x x x x x x x x
X-6 FC $599 5 x x x x $139
x x x x x x x x
Progression ST II $869 5 x x x x $139
x x x x x x x x x x
X-ST $899 5 x x x x $139
x x x x x x x x x x
Progression Els $1,369 5 x x x x $139
x x x x x x x x x x x
X-Els $1,399 5 x x x x $139
XLT $1,999 5 x x x x $139
5003 w/6pt QM System $1,199 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
5003 w/6pt QM SC System $1,299 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
5003 w/2pt SC System $1,399 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
6004 w/6pt SM SC System $1,699 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
6004 w/2pt SC System $1,699 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
6900 Els w/6pt SM SC System $2,499 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
6900 Els w/2pt SC System $2,499 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
7900 Els w/6pt QM System $2,799 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
7900 Els w/6pt QM SC System $2,999 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
7900 Els w/2pt SC System $3,199 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
8900 Els w/6pt SM SC System $4,199 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
9900 Els w/6pt SM SC System $4,799 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Klipper USA • 800-522-5547 • www.klipperusa.com
Klippermate $169 Life x x x $125
x x x x x x x
Klippermate Badminton $189 Life x $125
x x x x x x x
280-CS $295 10 x x x x $125
x x x x x x x
440-CS $495 10 x x x x $125
x x x x x x x
Pacific North America LLC • 941-795-1789 • www.pacific.com • usainfo@pacific.com
Digital DX8 $9,995 2 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Digital 700 $7,995 2 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
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TennisIndustry
nit
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ure djust C ps
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TennisIndustry
2018
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1 - Magnetic clamp base release

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TennisIndustry
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blo
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Too
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mo
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Cov
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Dia
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Cla
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Ass
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Dia
Plu
Mu
Dia
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Dia
Ful
Sel
Du
Fix
Aw
Str
Fly
Du
Kn
Un
No
Fly
Gu
Au
Kn
Ov
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Bu
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9- Mobility system with wheel lock, Aero cover

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12- Auto tension start
13- Push-button and gravity-assisted base clamp release
14- Traveler case available for $99

TennisIndustry
D I S T I NCGOUMI SMHUENDI TF YA CTIELNI TNY-

I SOAF S- TSH
OEC-Y
I AETAI O
R NASW A R D S
C GO RU OR W
T ICNOGN TS HT RE UGCATMI OE N
The Charlotte Tennis Association

not only is successful growing
league participation, but its teams
see success on a national stage.
Partnerships, such as with the

Mecklenburg County Park & Rec
Department to grow league play, and
with Special Olympics, are a key part
of the CTA’s success, says Executive
Director Carla O’Connor. The organiza-
tion also partners with 19 schools and
P.E. departments by supplying loaner
equipment and providing an after-
school Greater Enrichment Program for
underserved youth. The CTA also offers
the ACE (Academic Creative Engage-
ment) curriculum for kids in grades K-8
at three schools.
“We’d like to double the number
of schools introducing tennis to kids
through P.E. units, and then transition
those kids to organized programs,” says
O’Connor. Working with the city and
C O U RT E S Y C H A R L O T T E T E N N I S A S S O C I AT I O N ; R A C I N E C O M M U N I T Y T E N N I S A S S O C I AT I O N
county to build more courts, and part-
nering with 52 area clubs, also figures
into the equation.
“The majority of growth is coming
from private facilities—it’s a sign of the
economy since those facilities are more
Team Efforts financially stable,” O’Connor observes.
In fact, Life Time recently opened an
To thrive, our sport needs partnerships athletic facility with 20 tennis courts,
which is attracting new players.
with local organizations. These CTAs O’Connor notes that the CTA expects
to end 2018 with more than 11,000 reg-
are helping to lead the way. istrations across its four USTA League
programs—up 8 percent from 2017.
“For the spring,” she adds, “we had
a 13 percent increase in Junior Team
Tennis participation.”
This fall, the Charlotte TA is plan-
Charlotte Tennis grassroots of tennis, and it’s wonderful ning to launch a social league for 18- to
Association to have an association so willing to pro-
mote our sport along with our facilities
39-year-olds. It also will implement a
Hispanic engagement effort that will
and clubs,” says Kelly Gaines, execu- work with schools, as well as running
Since 1991, the award-winning Charlotte tive director of USTA North Carolina. after-school programs. Also on tap, says
Tennis Association has been a driving “It has become a very strong voice for O’Connor, is helping to develop a large
force for tennis in North Carolina. tennis in such a large community, and it public tennis facility slated for comple-
“The Charlotte TA is the absolute continues to raise the bar.” tion by late 2020. —Judy Leand

TennisIndustry
The focus on youth tennis has allowed the Racine

Community Tennis Association to build a foundation of junior players
that now serves as a feeder for other programs.
Racine Community Tennis Block Party to kick off summer Schultz notes—and the RCTA has
programming, and junior player num- already had two training sessions for
Tennis Association bers surged. coaches on the new curriculum. “We’ve
Current RCTA President Glenn also partnered with teaching pros at the
It began 10 years ago in a meeting at Schu-ltz says the organization’s con- indoor club here, so they’ll be on court
Applebee’s, between Mike Levy and nection to local schools is a key to with us this summer. We want to bridge
Erika Wentz-Russell, that focused on its success. Working with the school the gap from the outdoor to indoor sea-
growing tennis in the Racine, Wis., area. district, RCTA provided assistance sons, so parents realize they have a place
That lunch produced the Racine Com- with court renovations at two high to go to play in the winter.”
munity Tennis Association, an organiza- schools. The organization, which also Among programming for adults,
tion that now offers programs for players is an NJTL chapter, assists with school Schultz says, is Start/Restart, to get
of all ages and skill levels. programs and incorporates tennis into adults into—or back into—tennis, made
Levy, the immediate past president the curriculum of 28 different schools possible through a partnership with the
of the RCTA, and Wentz-Russell, by conducting training clinics for Racine Park & Recreation Department.
the USTA Midwest Section’s Tennis teachers. The focus on youth tennis has They also partner with three local com-
Service Representative for Wisconsin, allowed the RCTA to build a foundation munity centers.
worked to mobilize tennis advocates in of junior players that now serves as a “What started at a restaurant meet-
the community. After forming a board feeder for other programs. ing has flourished into an organization
of directors and gaining non-profit “Our 2018 summer program will have that offers programs for kids and adults
status, the RCTA focused on delivering about 155 kids enrolled, for five weeks, throughout the year,” says Wentz-Rus-
tennis. In 2009, it held its inaugural using the Net Generation curriculum,” sell. —Peter Francesconi

TennisIndustry
D I S T I NCGOUMI SMHUENDI TF YA CTIELNI TNY-

I SOAF S- TSH
OEC-Y
I AETAI O
R NASW A R D S
C GO RU OR W
T ICNOGN TS HT RE UGCATMI OE N
C O U RT E S Y H A S T I N G S T E N N I S A S S O C I AT I O N ; R OA N O K E VA L L E Y T E N N I S A S S O C I AT I O N
Hastings Tennis $1,000 worth of free equipment and the Through the Hastings
new curriculum developed specifically
Association
Tennis Association, Net
Generation has been a
for schools, while teachers were given a huge hit in local schools.
free pair of Adidas tennis shoes just for
For years, Sadie Reiners tried to get signing up.
tennis into local elementary schools in “We were really excited to offer this
Hastings, Minn., located about 30 miles opportunity to provide each school
southeast of Minneapolis/St. Paul. with free equipment, knowing they
Reiners, the president of the Hastings would have likely been unable to buy it Free” outside of school time for any child
Tennis Association, was on the verge themselves given the limited budgets who wanted to play more tennis. The
of giving up when the USTA Northern most schools have these days,” Reiners classes were a huge success, with many
Section office told her about the Net says. “We also were able to introduce of those kids signing up for HTA’s sum-
Generation youth initiative and the tennis and this fun curriculum to hun- mer programming.
many free benefits both the schools and dreds of students.” For its efforts, the Hastings Tennis
the HTA would receive by becoming The HTA, which was the USTA North- Association also received three bags of
“community partners.” ern Community Tennis Association of free equipment and is already putting it
Reiners immediately reached out to the Year in 2016, took it a step further by to good use by participating in its local
her school district contacts, and by the offering their summer interns to come “Fishes and Loaves” program, which
end of the May, had all four elementary into each school and teach tennis during provides kids in need with free lunch and
schools signed up as Net Generation physical education classes. They also of- two hours of physical activity daily dur-
providers. Each of the schools received fered three sessions of “Try Tennis for ing the summer. —Lisa Mushett

TennisIndustry
Roanoke Valley Tennis Association has grown significantly

in the past few years and it has an excellent group of volunteers that
run adult leagues, USTA junior tennis and social leagues.
Roanoke Valley experienced players.” P.E. teacher to provide tennis program-

RVTA President Sue Lunsford notes ming beginning this fall. On a broader
Tennis Association that once a month, the organization scale, the RVTA works with Roanoke
holds youth matches in conjunction County, the Roanoke Parks and Rec-
Serving the greater Roanoke, Va., region, with the USTA for 18-and-under play- reation Department and local tennis
the Roanoke Valley Tennis Association ers. Singles, doubles and mixed doubles clubs.
has developed strong competitive and matches, along with pizza and fun off- For recreational players, the RVTA
recreational programs for adult men court activities, are all on offer. introduced Friday Night Tennis, a
and women, and it is now particularly “Kids are underserved in our commu- May-October round-robin that’s strictly
focused on reaching youth. Expanding nity, so we want to put more emphasis social. The RVTA also recently launched
the number of beginner programs and on youth programs and expand beyond Women’s Wednesday Social Tennis ses-
non-competitive social opportunities just our city schools to increase partici- sions, which is proving to be extremely
are also priorities. pation in the sport,” Lunsford says. popular. On the competitive side, the
“RVTA has grown significantly in the After-school leagues and tourna- organization sponsors the Roanoke
past few years and it has an excellent ments for youth are RVTA mainstays, as Valley Invitational—a USTA sanctioned
group of volunteers that run adult exemplified by the organization’s sup- prize-money tournament—as well as the
leagues, USTA junior tennis and social port of inner-city tennis programs and Roanoke City-County Tournament.
leagues,” says Lindsey Keeler, the the Roanoke Valley Middle School Ten- “We’re a small community,” says Lun-
senior director of programs and nis Program. In fact, the RVTA recently sford, “but we’re trying to connect with
services for USTA Mid-Atlantic. “It’s inked an agreement to partner with a lots of different players of all skill levels,
creating a pathway for new and local middle school and special needs abilities and ages.” —Judy Leand

TennisIndustry
AskTheExperts
Because most casual players are

not as sensitive to tension as the pros,
and because tension loss is much more
gradual after that first day, recreational
players often unconsciously adapt to
the changing response of the racquet,
making daily restringing unnecessary
for the majority of us.
Reducing String
Breakage
Q: I break my strings frequently—I play
about six hours a week, and my strings
pop at least once a week. I currently
play with a multifilament, and I really
like the feel. For this reason, I would
rather not switch to polyester, which
people tell me feels stiffer. Still,
restringing all the time is getting
expensive. What can I do to increase
durability without completely sacrific-
ing the feel I’ve come to love?
Grip Build-Up A great way to build up a grip is with

duct tape. Cut several 6-inch pieces
and apply the tape lengthwise along
Q: I have a customer whose racquet the handle—rather than wrapping it
came with a 4-1/2 inch grip and he around the handle—taping opposite
wants a 4-5/8 inch grip. Is it OK to sides, and then turning the racquet 90
build up the grip? degrees and taping those two sides.
A: Grip build-ups have been part of

racquet modification for years, and the
Daily Stringing?
USRSA certification process includes A: It depends on why your multifila-
grip build-up as part of its test. Q: I’ve read that some pros restring ment is breaking. An easy first step is to
Any grip build-up material you use is their racquets every night because their try string savers. You can also try clean-
going add weight to the racquet, and strings lose 1 to 1.5 pounds of tension ing your strings after play, to get any
depending on how much the build- overnight. Is this correct? grit out of the intersections. For more
up is, it can be significant. It is easier durability, change to a heavier-gauge
to deal with additional weight in the A: Many pros do restring every day (or string first, and then from a multifila-
handle—but if you have more than one night, depending on their preference) ment to a solid-core durability string.
racquet to modify, you should do the during tournaments because of tension If none of these solutions improves
build-up on one frame, and then have loss. At the professional level, the ten- the situation, you’ll need to try strings
your customer play with it to see if he sion loss can be more than 1.5 pounds. that have at least some polyester in
or she is OK with the change. If so, you USRSA lab tests show that, without them, or switch to a hybrid string bed
should sell your customer on matching hitting, even the best natural gut can with half polyester and half nylon.
all of the racquets’ weights, balances lose 5 to 6 pounds in 24 hours, and that
and swing weights at the same time, as number rises into the double digits for We welcome your questions. Email them
there will be no better time to do this. many synthetic strings. to greg@racquettech.com.

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I see how opportunities for
women have changed and
expanded; I also see outdated
attitudes and stereotypes that
continue to stifle development.
So, how do we get more women to

choose the tennis coaching path? Keep
these rules in mind:
1. Hire good coaches, period—regardless

of gender.
2. Remove bias toward things we are
comfortable and familiar with.
3. Add women mentors and role models.
4. Advocate for equity in pay.
COACHING Bringing more women into coach-

ing at all levels is important in helping
An Important Need to grow this sport. By collaborating in
this endeavor, organizations, clubs and
Women provide different styles of facilities become more conscious of how
they are perceived, their hiring practices
coaching, training and development— and how they confront bias.
Often, visibility is key—when women
something all players can benefit from. start seeing more female coaches, it
will feed on itself. That’s one of the
reasons the Women’s Tennis Coaching
By Dr. Michelle Cleere Association was created in 2015. While
the WTCA was formed in support of all
B
coaches who work with female players,
it also has worked to inspire and encour-
illie Jean King paved that men either don’t have, or often age women in the coaching path.
a path of potential for don’t have developed to the same All women have a role here, too.
women in tennis. Thanks degree, including: We need to put ourselves out there. If
to her and many others, there’s a job you want, go for it. If you
opportunities grew by • More fluid communication with want to present at a conference, do
leaps and bounds. But there is more that students, parents and other coaches. it. We need to be the role models for
can change—especially in the tennis • More empathy that positively and young girls today, and with that, we can
coaching arena. There is still a lack of directly relates to performance. continue to change society, eliminate
women coaches at every level. • Vision and forward thinking that barriers and grow this sport. •
I’m involved in many areas of ten- inspires students.
nis: offering coaching courses and • Different perspectives. Women often A former elite
workshops, performance coaching for look at problems differently and will athlete, Dr.
players, writing and advocating. While seek help from others, which means Michelle Cleere
I see how opportunities for women more creative and effective solutions. is a performance
have changed and expanded, I also see expert and clinical
outdated attitudes and stereotypes that While solutions are important, so psychologist
continue to stifle the development of is the process of solving the problem. who, through her
SHUTTERSTOCK
girls and young women, including the For facility owners and managers, it’s presentations,
workshops and books, helps
career paths they may choose. important for both male and female athletes, entertainers and exec–
Based on research in this area, women players to have access to different styles utives. Visit drmichellecleere.com.
have skills, characteristics and traits of coaching, training and development.

1968 US Open Champion
Arthur Ashe
ADDvantageAugust2018GUS.indd 35 6/22/2018 1:13:09 PM

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FROM THE CEO
:
1968 WHat a year
by John R. Embree, USPTA Chief Executive Officer
W e are just weeks away from going to New York for

the TTC and our World Conference where we will
celebrate 50 years of open tennis and the completion
that played out on TV screens daily
with the dawning of the television
age. There was global conflict in
of the strategic transformation of the Billie Jean King Czechoslovakia (that eventually lead
National Tennis Center. This issue provides you with all the to a Russian invasion and occupation),
information that you need to entice you to join us at this North Korea (the capture of the USS
year’s convention. Pueblo and the incarceration of 83
My intent in this space is to offer some historical US sailors) and of course, Vietnam,
perspective on what was taking place in the world in 1968 and where the unpopular and dreaded war raged on. US troop
what lead up to the creation of open tennis. So many of our casualties were on the rise with no end in sight to the conflict.
members were not yet born nor do they have any recollection Americans were split over its support of the war as heated
of the political and social upheaval that was captured in the student protests and urban unrest created a massive divide
news each day. While 2018 may be a milestone anniversary that cut a nerve in our society. Demonstrations at Columbia
for the modern game of tennis, nothing compares to the University (where students occupied several buildings) to
tumultuous year that was 1968 (certainly the most difficult riots in Paris with hundreds injured in May was a forbearer
year in my lifetime) and the seismic shift occurring across to the anti-war demonstrations that lead to bloody clashes
the globe in terms of civil rights, political turmoil, the sexual between activists and police during the Democratic National
revolution, a much-hated war, and cultural rebellion. Convention in Chicago in August.
While I am by no means a US historian (although I was As if these events were not monumental enough, one
a history major in college), I think it is important that our cannot forget the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. in
members understand the backdrop of the global events April and Robert Kennedy in June that rocked the nation to
its very core. And just prior to a hotly contested presidential
election between Richard Nixon and Hubert Humphrey, John
Carlos and Tommie Smith bowed their heads and raised their
black-gloved fists in a recognized salute to the Black Power
Movement during the playing of the Star Spangled Banner
during their awards presentation at the Mexico City Olympic
Games in October. The cumulative effect of this social strife
had a huge impact on me, 15-years-old at the time, coupled
with personal loss that I experienced during the summer
of 1968 seeing my own mother succumb to cancer. While
at home in her hospice bed watching all of this unfold on
television in front of our eyes, she worried so much about the
world in which we would be living after she was gone.
Meanwhile, the world of tennis was going through its own
revolution, as Tennis.com wrote in July of 2009, “the amateur
ideal was slowly corroding. Tournaments were paying large
under-the-table fees to lure top players to play their events
while the big-name players were leaving the amateur ranks”
in droves to play where money was being offered. Professional
players were unable to play the Grand Slams because those
events were restricted to amateurs only, but pressure was
building on the biggest tournaments to open their doors
to all players. “A wide chasm existed between the games
The assassinations of both Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and
Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy in 1968, rocked the nation to administrators, who wanted to retain control of the game,
it’s very core. and the players/promoters who sought expanded freedoms.”
37 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine

FROM THE CEO
1968
At the Democratic National
Martin Luther King Jr. is Convention in Chicago, police
assassinated on april 4th. The and the National Guard battle
shooter james earl ray flees with thousands of
the U.s. Days later, riots demonstrators, much of the
nationwide leave 39 people violence was seen on national
dead, more than 2,600 injured television causing outrage
and 21,000 arrested. throughout the nation.
April AUGUST
JUNE
A riot breaks out between police
september
Arthur Ashe wins the U.S. Open,
and thousands of university becoming the first African
students in Paris. Meanwhile in american man to win a Grand
america, Robert F. Kennedy, wins Slam title. CBS-TV’s “60 Minutes”
the California primary, later He debuts. It is now the longest
is assassinated at the continuously running prime-time
Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles. program in U.s. history.
What was happening in tennis was a microcosm of what was the finals but had to turn down the winner’s prize money
going on in the world itself. of $14,000 because he wished to remain an amateur. On
Tennis.com continued its article: “Calling the situation the women’s side, Britain’s Virginia Wade captured the
a ‘living lie’, The British Lawn Tennis Association and crown and took home a whopping $6,000 for her efforts.
the All England Club announced that starting in 1968, My, how things have changed in 50 years!
the championships would be open to amateurs and For those of you who are history buffs like I am, I trust
professionals alike.” Imagine the turmoil that enveloped the you enjoyed this little trip down memory lane. 1968 was
entire tennis bureaucracy at that time! unlike any year that I have experienced in my lifetime.
Roland Garros became the first grand slam to welcome Not only did the tennis landscape change forever (and
both professionals and amateurs. Nancy Richey and Ken may I say, for the better), but the whole world experienced
Rosewall won those titles, but most people do not recall that mind-blowing social and political metamorphoses that I
student riots were gripping Paris during the fortnight. In will never forget. Images from newspapers, magazines and
fact, many players felt that the tournament should not have television broadcasts during that gut wrenching year are
even been played, telling of harrowing stories of how difficult indelibly inscribed in my mind. What a year...
it was just to get to the grounds from their respective hotels So, let us celebrate the 50th anniversary of open tennis
because of the mayhem on the streets of Paris. Four weeks together in New York in late August at the Tennis Teachers
later and across the English Channel, Billie Jean King and Conference. Be one of the first spectators on the first day
Rod Laver took home the Wimbledon crowns on the grass, of the 2018 US Open to walk into the newly constructed
historic victories as well. Louis Armstrong Stadium with its iconic roof and watch
As the summer wound down, the 88th staging of what was the best players in the world test their skills on tennis’
formerly the US National Championships was played at grandest stage. Unless you are planning to live another 50
Forest Hills, New York, now known as the US Open. Arthur years to witness the 100th birthday, this celebration will
Ashe made a resounding statement beating Tom Okker in only happen once- be there! *

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Immediate Past President Message
If you want to go far... Go together

by Chuck Gill, USPTA Immediate Past President
T here is an African Proverb that states “if you want to go fast go

alone, if you want to go far… go together”. I strongly believe this
is true for the tennis industry. When I think of the most popular
support grassroots efforts for tennis pros
who promote the sport locally. While
attending the Southwest meeting in
events at my club, we need the tennis staff (front desk, court May, it was great to see the SW division
maintenance, tennis professionals, etc.) to be “aligned” with the board operate seamlessly with the SW
F&B team, the communications department, the set-up crew, and of section leaders. Not only was the weekend
course the member committee that helps in the conceptual planning supported financially, but the President
G
of events. If any of the above are not aware of what is happening, the Susan Grabham and Executive Director
event will not be as successful. Sadly, at times something as simple Eric Mitchell were visible (and engaged) throughout the meeting
as alignment is often overlooked in our business. When you look as were other staff members and volunteers! Growing tennis helps
at successful sports teams, while teams may have superstars, the everyone, like the proverbial “rising tides lifts all boats”!
N
extraordinary teams are almost always selfless, and can put personal
goals and spotlights aside to make sure the group succeeds. Teaching Professionals volunteering for USTA positions:
USPTA is no different! For us to reach the goal of elevating At the recent USTA Annual Meeting, the importance of a well-
standards and creating better jobs in our industry, doing so in educated and engaged teaching pro population was expressed
the proverbial silo is foolish, inefficient and destined to fail. One to our industry and out of nearly 500 volunteers in attendance,
of our CORE PILLARS is centered on developing partnerships about 100 volunteers stood up to be recognized as members of
with stakeholders in tennis where collaboration can be mutually the “tennis/pro-coaches” group. It was evident that we as tennis
beneficial. I would like to list a few that have been nurtured and professionals are key to the growth of the sport and without
established both inside and outside our organization. this group, programs will have a difficult time being launched.
Currently half of our national board are members of USTA
Central Florida USPTA and NET GENERATION: national committees and others are involved with their sections.
For this initiative to succeed, pros need to be engaged in the Many of our division leaders and Executive Committee members
process. Two hours “up the turnpike” from my club, one of our U30 volunteer at the national and/or section levels. Not only do they
professionals Greg Heartt (with Section assistance) has formed five provide input and leadership, they also help keep the coaches
active school partnerships in Orange County. As part of this, he has community aware of what programs are being developed in
visited the schools and assisted PE teachers with their curriculum conjunction with the governing body. During the most recent
on how to best bring tennis to kids. While Greg is currently teaching executive committee meeting at our home in Lake Nona, it was
at a private club and will likely receive no direct benefit to himself…. apparent that our 17 division leadership team is the most informed
he has the foresight to know that more youth tennis players will and aligned group we have ever had at USPTA.
benefit the “teaching pro” community and provide a long-term
demand for the services of him and his peers at some point. Greg Collaboration with CMAA:
works with Magali Holt who is the Youth Recreational TC to partner In addition to being the Boardroom Magazines “Association of
and provide play opportunities for kids that would not have access the Year” several years ago, we continue to work together on
otherwise. Around the country, many pros have been doing this for education that benefits professionals in the private club sector.
years to help kids get exposed to our sport. In addition to regional workshops and joint conferences, we
now feature well known CMAA managers as part of our national
Section and Division Contracts: and division conventions, along with having speakers at their
Several of our divisions have actually aligned with their sections to education events. In the first quarter of 2019, we will have tennis
sign partnership agreements that serve as notice of the intent to seminars at their World Conference, and will be featured in
grow tennis together. To date there are agreements in Florida (the their first BMI (Business Management Institute) on Sports
first), Middle States, Southwest, with others in discussion. These and Recreation. While this group has historically been very golf
agreements are more than just symbolic and can involve how they centric, tennis is an important part of their recreational offerings
intend to jointly promote Net Generation, Leagues, alternate format that help to make a club more family friendly. In closing, I urge all
tournaments and the Youth Pathway. In Florida, the section has professionals to volunteer in groups outside of USPTA and engage
agreed to support the U30 Initiative, hold joint conferences, and others in the effort to grow tennis…and their business. *

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Master Pro Corner
So You Want To Be A Director of Tennis

by Ken McAllister, USPTA Master Professional
W hen the USPTA was looking for volunteers among

the Master Pros to be mentors for younger pros, I
immediately volunteered. I did it in order to play it forward
be organized in a way to keep the respect of even those
assistants who may have applied for the position. How? By
showing respect for all who work for you in the same way you
for all the mentoring I was fortunate to receive as I entered would expect it, and of course, by leading through example.
the tennis profession over 50 years ago. Among my early Anticipate that you will be expected to be the expert on tennis
mentors were Dalton Hill, tennis coach at El Paso Irvin High equipment, on the latest teaching methods, on the games of
School and David Kent, long time men’s coach at Texas A&M. current top professionals, on leagues and tournaments, and on
As I became a teaching pro and director of tennis, my initial the USTA.
mentors were Tim Heckler and Dennis Van der Meer. They The following are bullet points of the priorities of becoming
taught me much through advice and training, but most of it a DOT. What may be noted is that continuing education and
was by example. keeping up with the latest in tennis knowledge is not high
on the list. This is mostly because that should be a given just
by being in our industry. This list has the less measurable
qualities that are the real reasons that a pro gets and keeps a
director of tennis job.
Humility
Humility can be an elusive quality in a competitive industry
full of egos. However, in a profession reliant on happy
customers, it is crucial. The best advice for those of us
challenged by this is low-key your qualities by letting them
speak for themselves. Let others discover your skills by being
quietly confident and never arrogant. Part of this is learning
the difficult lesson of being tactfully honest at all times.
Related to this is a lesson I learned from Tim Heckler while he
was giving me the USPTA test in 1974. He noted that I was very
proud of my knowledge of teaching skills and techniques. He
burst my bubble by saying it was good and well that I had such
ability, but I should face the reality that customers will sign up
with me because they like me long before they do it because of
my knowledge.
USPTA Master Professional Larry Lineberry accepts award
from former USPTA CEO Tim Heckler.
Fairness
As I hired full time assistant professionals in the 1970’s and A close cousin to humility is fairness. At a club, all sorts of folks
80’s, my goal was to prepare them to move from the job with will try to draw you into their web for various reasons. Some
me to becoming a director of tennis. I am pleased to say that will try to dominate your time; others will simply allow you
eight of my first nine became directors of tennis. Most of those into their clique. A good DOT will spread himself or herself as
are still working in the industry. The purpose of this article equally as possible outside of time paid for such as lessons and
is to share what seem to be the most important lessons for events. Treat everyone the same in the tournaments, leagues,
someone to become the all-purpose professional expected by group lessons, and other events. This may sound obvious
owners, boards, and customers of the director of tennis (DOT). and simple, but trust me, it is not easy. In the long run, your
The first thing that a pro, who changes from assistant to reputation for fairness will win out over someone being upset
DOT, should realize is that expectations from others will because you did not make an exception for him or her. When
immediately increase. The customers will assume that it comes to having to choose sides, side with ideas but never
you will know everything that all the assistants know, as people. This will certainly be easier to accomplish if you have
well as being able to manage them as a team. The pro must the habit of being fair in your personal life.

Master Pro Corner
Respect
When you work at a club or tennis center, there should be
no distinction of hierarchy when it comes to how you treat
your fellow workers. The court and grounds maintenance
people will often be the folks who will save an event when
the electricity or plumbing goes out. If you have been
respectful of them, they are more likely to put in the extra
effort for you in these situations. Respect everyone for each
one’s contributions to the club. The staff is in this together
and a DOT should not only know everyone’s names, but they
should know that the director cares. Again, this is much
easier if this way of treating others is part of your personal
life, it is much easier to make it real in your professional life.
Knowledge
The one last bit of advice is to continuously keep improving listen to non-tennis people when they reflect on what they
by studying and going to workshops and seminars on the see from outside the tennis industry. Although it sometimes
latest in tennis. At the same time, share and listen to your seems as if our tennis world is an island to itself, the reality
fellow professionals, including the younger pros. Finally, is that we are not. *
Ken McAllister has been a master professional since 1987 and has more than 51 years of experience in
the tennis industry. McAllister’s experience includes 10 years as a high school coach, 17 as a teaching
professional, and 24 years as the executive director of USTA Texas. He has been a USPTA member for 43
years and was a USPTA tester for 20 years. He was inducted into the Texas Tennis Coaches Hall of Fame in
2000 and the Texas Tennis Hall of Fame in 2013. He also served on the USPTA national board during the
2016-17 calendar year.

Inside coaching
Why breathing is so important in tennis

by Milos Dimic, USPTA Elite Professional
#1 Importance of
breathing
up the constant ATP production for the fuels. The heart and
the muscles responsible for breathing will take priority of the
oxygenated blood over leg and arm muscles. Therefore due to
How many of us coaches are spending time at our practices the lack of oxygen in the blood, limb muscles will be the first for
teaching our athletes how to breath and the importance of an athlete to feel premature fatigue.
correct breathing in sports?
We are trying to find so many ways to correct the stiffness Lack of oxygen
in the stroke technique to create power and accuracy. We are If the oxygen can not be delivered on time, the muscles begin
including different kind of mental practices to lower down the converting glucose into lactic acid instead of energy, resulting
anxiety levels and build up the concentration levels. For the in performance decrease and fatigue. Oxygen is used in the
players to build a strong core and to delay the feeling of the process of cellular respiration producing ATP for energy
fatigue, they are working hard to condition their bodies. and removing the CO2 from the working muscles, therefore
So how can the proper breathing technique make things uncontrolled breathing decreases the performance as CO2 is
easier? Implementing breathing in the practice can upgrade the not properly removed, causing a buildup of waste and altering
game of our players no matter their level. the pH of the body.
Implementing breathing in the tennis routine will enable

players to:
1. Rely on the kinetic chain as the source of power and control
2. Have more constant timing of the strokes
3. Relax the muscles during the contact point
4. Perform with effortless and fluent follow through
5. Decrease the levels of anxiety and stress during and after
the points
6. Increase the levels of concentration and confidence
7. Stabilize the core
8. Move more efficiently
9. Delay the feeling of fatigue
10. Reduce the chances of injuries
11. Correct the posture
#2Physiology
breathing
of
Oxygen and fuels for the activity Inhaling and exhaling

Our bodies obtain oxygen from the air we breathe in. It enters Both phases of the breathing have different focus and benefit.
the blood stream and is carried to the muscles, where some of it The inhaling should be used to energize and expand the upper
is used immediately to break down glucose and create fuel for body, which is exactly what the tennis player needs when
the muscles called ATP (adenosine triphosphate). The rest of loading and winding the hips and shoulders. Deep inhaling
the oxygen is stored by a compound called myoglobin. expands the upper body part which contributes to the body
posture stability as the chest and shoulders open upwards.
Oxygen and feeling of fatigue Due to expansion, the player feels more energized and
When muscles work hard during an exercise, the need for powerful while loading and coiling sending positive image
oxygen increases. The body increases its breathing and heart and thoughts to the brain resulting in the more efficient and
rate to pump the oxygen into the working muscles to keep confident stroke.

Inside coaching
Exhaling stabilizes the body, making it secure and the ball, the inhaling should be deeper and at slower rate as
grounded, which is important for the tennis performance. the time of reaction is slower. Shorter distance between the
Balance and stability of the lower body are much needed players emerges the faster reaction therefore inhaling should
in order for the upper body to uncoil efficiently. Pace of the begin at the moment of the opponent’s impact point or even
exhaling should be associated with pace of the follow through before (as the ball bounces in the opponents field) if player
motion which results in the fluency and efficiency of the feels urgency of a quick reaction to the opponents stroke.
stroke mechanics and properly timed strokes as the muscles
of the upper body are relaxed during the contact point and the Exhaling and following through
follow through motion. Focusing on breathing keeps the upper body more relaxed
even if the lower body part is under extreme pressure. Lower
Importance of inhaling through nasal pathway body and core should enable players to keep balance before, at
Breathing through the nose enables an athlete to take deeper the moment and after the stroke but the upper body muscles
breaths, which stimulates the lower lung to distribute greater should be relaxed until the arm finishes the follow through
amounts of oxygen throughout the body. Lower lung is motion. Exhaling should begin with the unloading of the
triggering the parasympathetic nerve receptors which are kinetic chain movement towards the impact zone (not from
calming the body/mind and reducing hypertension and stress. the contact point), making it smooth and relaxed. Depending
On the other hand, mouth breathing stimulates the activity on the type of the stroke and the pace and intensity of the
of the upper lungs (associated with the hyperventilation) body unloading, exhaling can be long and relaxed or short
triggering sympathetic nerve receptors, which results in the and aggressive.
fight or flight reaction. Mouth breathing accelerates water
loss, leading to early dehydration. Breathing, emotional control and reducing anxiety
The biggest source of stress, no matter of the level of the
Importance of diaphragm breathing player, is the ball. Firstly, when the ball is approaching, the
Practicing how to activate diaphragm as the dominant player is feeling stressed to position properly towards the
respiratory muscle and creating intra-abdominal pressure contact zone. Secondly, as the ball is leaving the player’s
(IAP), will result in increased activation of the deep core racquet after the impact, the feeling of stress comes from the
stabilizing system and protection from the back injuries. With player’s doubtful thoughts if the ball is going where intended
conscious and well-adjusted breathing, the core stabilization to go. Both of these situations, caused by the ball, will
can be achieved and this can lead to the more efficient negatively effect the performance.
energy transfer from the ground up, efficient movement Inhaling, the player is relaxing and sending messages to
patterns, decreased chances of injury, increased power and the brain that there is a lot of time to prepare for the stroke.
performance overall. If inhaling (through practice and repetition) is connected
automatically with the positioning and loading phase, then
#3Psychology
breathing
of the player can always FEEL safe and ready for the execution
of the successful stroke.
Through exhaling, the player is relaxing the upper body
Inhaling and preparation for the stroke which will successfully lead to the efficient contact point
Inhaling should begin as soon as the player anticipates as the head of the racquet will always be below ball level.
the cues from the opposite side of the court. These cues Exhaling enables an efficient follow through, as with the
are usually the trajectory and pace of the ball or the relaxation of the arm muscles the racquet follows the
opponents reactions. trajectory of the ball finishing on the opposite side of the
The inhaling should follow the pace of the game. The body using the joints (elbow and shoulder) rather then
greater distance between the players and slower pace of forearm muscles.*
Milos Dimic is a USPTA elite professional, USPTA sports science specialist, and RPT and ITPA tennis
professional. His tennis-teaching professional experience includes working with the WTA seniors and
ETA, ITF ranked junior players. Milos is currently head of junior development at the YCAC Tennis
Academy in Yokohama, Japan and a graduating student of the master studies in Training Technology.

US Open Series

20 1 8 T TC S C H EDULE 2018 USPTA
F R IDAY - MONDAY HALL OF FAME
AU G / 24 -27 / 2 01 8 INDUCTEES
* THURSDAY, AUGUST 23 - SPECIALTY COURSES
Net Generation Coaches Workshop......................................................................... Butch Staples Jimmy Evert
Marketing Success: Serving up a Bigger Brand *.........................................................Kraig Kann (posthumously)
Jimmy Evert earned a
FRIDAY, AUGUST 24 reputation as the world’s
Tennis- Model Sport For Youth ..... Brian Hainline, Craig Morris, Martin Blackman, Chris Snyder greatest tennis parent.
Growing Your Programs through Net Generation....................................................... Simon Gale As a tennis supervisor
Lessons from the Open: How to Compete Your Best Under Pressure .......................Larry Lauer at holiday park Fort
Digital Platforms to Energize Your Brand and Business.............................Tracy Almeda-Singian Lauderdale, Florida he
Women’s Coaching Panel................................. Kaitlin Flaherty, Walker Sahag, Margie Zesinger taught each of his five children to play from
Advanced Injury Prevention Strategies for Tennis Players.................................Todd Ellenbecker the age of five including 18-time Grand
Matching your players with the proper equipment.......................... Roman Prokes, Sean Prokes Slam champion and International Tennis
USPTA General Membership Meeting Hall of Famer Chris Evert. Evert was raised in
• 2018 USPTA National Awards Presentations Chicago, Illinois where he learned the game
• 2018 USPTA Hall of Fame Induction of tennis by working as a ball boy at the
How to Jump Start your Program with Net Generation ...............................................Anne Davis then Chicago Town and Tennis Club. His love
The Centerpiece of Your Tennis Community - Schools Tennis.............Elliott Pettit, Tony Stingley of the game of tennis from then on began
Leading in a Culture Void of Leadership................................................................... Kim Bastable to flourish. He earned a tennis scholarship
Mentoring Programs: How Everyone Benefits.................................................... Jessica Battaglia to the University of Notre Dame and after
The Tipping Point - Why Competition is a Must for your Facility................................ Mike Barrell college, became ranked No. 11 on the US
rankings along with capturing the men’s
SATURDAY , AU GU ST 2 5 singles title at the Canadian Championships
USTA Player Development Teaching and Coaching Progressions........................ Jose Higueras in 1947. He passed away at the age of 91 on
Teaching World-Class Doubles to Your Club Players............................................Gigi Fernandez August 21, 2015.
Tactical and Technical Progressions for the Serve.................................................. Richard Ashby
Athletic Skill Development - Key to an Improved Junior Program....Jose Caballero, Johnny Parkes Kathy S. Woods
Coaching Wheelchair Tennis - Myth to Reality.........................................................Jason Harnett Kathy served as president
All You Need to Know to Coach Footwork Effectively................................................. Louis Cayer of the United States
Evaluating Your Players Through Net Generation App...................................... Scott Colebourne Professional Tennis
Association (USPTA)
S U NDAY, AU GU ST 2 6 from 1994-1996 and
Navigating the World of Professional Tennis......................................................Nike Player Panel held the distinguished
The Science Behind The Optimum Tennis Serve .................................................... Mark Kovacs honor of being the first
Your Second Career Options in Tennis...................................................................... Josh Jacobs and only woman to serve the Association
Unplugged: The Mysteries of Leadership...................................................................Paula Scheb in that capacity. She is the co-author
Finding College Opportunities for Your Players........................................................ Erika Perkins with her husband Ron of Playing Tennis
Finding Your Pathway to Success ............................................................................Scott Mitchell After 50. Currently Kathy is the director
What Employers Look for in a Director of Tennis....................................................... Kurt Kuebler of tennis at the USTA National Campus,
Making an Impact: Many Coach but Few Make an Impact....................................Allistair McCaw the 100-court home of American tennis.
Strategies of a National Coach Development Program.......................................... Steve Marquis She was responsible for the set-up and
Nutrition ....................................................................................................Tara Gidus-Collingwood implementation of all national campus
High Performance Mindset Skills For Everyday Players ......................................Jeff Salzenstein programs and hiring teaching professionals/
Characteristics of Great Coaches ............................................................................Kirk Anderson coaching staff. Kathy directs a staff of 30
Developing a Parent Program ............................................................... Tracy Davies, Lori Riffice tennis professionals with comprehensive
Video Analysis.....................................................................................David Ramos, John Yandell year-round programs for all ages and levels
Adult 18 - 40........................................................................................................... Stacey Percival of play (over 30 programs and 130 class
Adapting the Game of Tennis...............................................................................Richard Spurling offerings), as well as adult and youth camps.
From 2004 to 2016, Kathy was the manager
M ONDAY, AU GU ST 2 7 and director of tennis at the Racquet Club
TIA Tennis Forum at the Grand Hyatt
of St. Petersburg, Florida. She has been a
*Additional Cost certified teaching professional for more than
three decades.
TO REGISTER, VISIT 2018TTC.COM
ADDvantageAugust2018UPDATEDTTCScheduleGUS.indd 35 6/27/2018 10:50:42 AM

SID’S CORNER
Learning from a Rookie

by Sid Newcomb, USPTA National Head Tester
I ts 99 degrees on court 11 at La Camarilla Racquet, Fitness

& Swim Club in Scottsdale, Arizona. I’m at the Southwest
Division Conference, in the middle of an education and
certification session. As I step back for a moment to take in
what’s happening, I can’t help but feel excitement for the
future of our association. Here’s the picture — a group of 11
coaches, diverse in gender, age, ethnicity, you name it, all on
one side of the court. They are split into three distinct teams,
each in an animated discussion within itself. There are swings
and stances, positions, postures, all very lively with lots of
laughter. “This,” I think to myself, “is cool. Even in the heat.”
What I am witnessing is an Educational Module taking
place as new applicants go through their USPTA certification.
This is a 2018 addition to the certification process. The
intent is that our new applicants get a taste of what we are
all about as a tennis-teacher certification and professional
development association. To continue to “elevate our
standards as tennis-teaching professionals and coaches”,
we collectively and individually need to never stop learning
and growing within the tennis industry. The certification
experience is often the first personal touch an applicant
has with the association. With that being said, all of our
applicants, whether they are being tested here in Scottsdale,
Arizona, or in Pensacola, Florida deserve to see who and what USPTA National Head Tester Sid Newcomb along with USPTA
we really are, not just get “tested”. The various applicants Southwest testers and applicants during the Southwest Division
Conference at La Camarilla Racquet, Fitness & Swim Club in
have already been evaluated on their group lesson and still Scottsdale, Arizona.
have the private lesson to come. But in this moment, they are
together, learning and having fun. coaches couldn’t get enough. The ideas, tips, concepts and
Each of the three teams is guided by an experienced tennis- even philosophies that were expressed during the session all
teaching professional, which is one of today’s testers. The were thrilling. I thought to myself during the session as the
task at hand is to identify cures for a recreational player’s applicants were collaborating, there is no other place I would
abbreviated follow-through on the forehand groundstroke. rather be. Quick, back to your groups — “too big of a swing on
Each team has three minutes to come up with their best the volley” — how can we fix that? And the teams are back at it.
antidote to solve the problem, and then they present their 45 minutes in the sun pass in a flash, and it’s time to wrap it
big idea to the entire group. (The big idea, by the way, is up and get on with the private lesson evaluation. Was it worth
presented by the least experienced member of each team!) it? The time spent to give the applicants a firsthand look on
At first glance, you would think the most experienced how we evaluate lessons? Yes, that may have been the most
member out of the group should be presenting the solution valuable time spent all day. During our Educational Module,
to the group. By having the least experienced pro present one common stroke error after another was discussed, and
the solution, that pro is learning how to present their ideas one big idea after another was presented. There are so many
in front of their peers and this gives them practice when it ways to get a point across! Good pros can never stop adding
comes time to present to their students. tools to their belts and today I walked away with some
All of us that were on-court had a total blast at the valuable knowledge.
education and certification session. The interaction, In my current role as the USPTA national head tester, I
presenting and the teaching aspect during the session all travel to many of our 17 divisions certification days and I see
were very lively. Peer to peer and master to novice, we a lot of tennis lessons... I mean a lot. What I have come to find

SID’S CORNER
Applicants and USPTA testers working together to solve the follow through on a forehand groundstroke.
out during my experiences is that the least appealing tennis- on your mind on the flight? Well, let me tell you about Brian.
teaching professionals and coaches are the hot shots; you know Brian started playing tennis 18 months ago, when I first moved
the ones who think they are the greatest in the profession and into my Lake Nona neighborhood and began giving evening
that they have arrived at some pinnacle at which there is no lessons. He is an absolute tennis junky. He went from being
longer a need to learn anything. With the acknowledgment a total beginner to a 3.0 league player and now he can’t get
that our game is ever evolving, we must continually strive to enough! His story is a prime example of why tennis-teaching
keep up and to keep improving, regardless of what level we are professionals and coaches do what we do. To have a student go
at; that is the sign of a true professional. Be humble enough not from never being exposed to tennis, to wanting to be out on-
to be surprised where you might learn something. It can come court hitting balls is amazing!
from a wise old coach (those “Master Professionals” you see But as I think about how far along my student has come,
sauntering around at conferences with the sagacious presence one thing immediately comes to my attention on the plane.
of some kind of tennis Yoda), witnessing a beautiful match, or Brian’s forehand is stiff. He uses too much grip pressure and
an ugly match-- even a red ball student, pretty much anywhere muscle on-court. I had been struggling to loosen him up, to
there is tennis going on! lengthen his follow-through and add fluidity to his stroke.
I think about these things as I fly home to Orlando, Florida And now I can’t wait to show him a tip I learned from a novice
and then my mind drifts to Brian, a 31-year-old student I have coach, a USPTA applicant – a rookie, on a sizzling hot court in
there. You might ask why is your student that is miles away Scottsdale, Arizona. *
Sid Newcomb is the national tester for the USPTA. Before joining USPTA’s national staff, Newcomb was
the director of tennis at Peninsula Community Center (PCC) in Redwood City, California since 1996. After
a successful college career and a short stint in the minor leagues of tennis, he joined the coaching ranks
at the Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy where he was the European academy director for seven years. He
launched Bollettieri Academies in Belgium, Germany, France and England before leaving Europe for
Northern California.

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Setteo: Building Up the Tennis Community Through its App,

Ranking and Cryptocurrency
By Olivier Gracia, Chief Marketing Officer of Setteo
S etteo, the biggest racquet sports

community, launched a new app for
players and the first universal and unisex
and the SETcoin, the currency
of racquet sports, and first and
foremost a new way to reward
P2P ranking. the active players in the racquet
The four-year-old company Setteo sports ecosystem.
with the vision to “Make the world play
together” is writing history with their The Setteo ranking is a universal
new app, Setteo Player available on both and unisex ranking system
the App Store and the Google Playstore. based on a peer to peer model
The objective is simple: connect 650M turning every single match into
racquet sports players worldwide. a competition. To reach that
Right now, Setteo is the international goal three main elements were
reference racquet sports community, implemented: ATP top 10 player David Goffin made the
offering its services to hundreds of clubs • A trusted method to officialize first-ever transaction with Setcoin at the Mutua
and associations, connecting more than a match result: a system Madrid Open.
150k players worldwide. where two authenticated players/ divisions: Setteo Events (tournament
The next step in Setteo’s development teams could turn every match into organization), and Setteo Force (network
is driven by a fundamental change a competition. No need of third- of ambassadors).
in their technology: they will use the part institutions or organizations to We truly believe in this community of
blockchain technology to decentralize validate a match result. individuals making the world play together
the racquet sports ecosystem giving back • A reliable, independent and by organizing and promoting racquet
the power to the players and creating a transparent way to store all historical sports activities worldwide and want to
truly engaged community. results such as matches, rankings and empower them by building up a strong
player stats. network around those ambassadors.
The current observation of the racquet • An algorithm to manage the Setteo
sports ecosystem is as follows: Ranking: a trusted, transparent and Setteo is putting solutions together to
• No easy way to find a partner, a immutable ranking based on Artificial help them grow and make the best out of
court or a coach, join a match and Intelligence, that will provide a their activity:
book a lesson as the community is universal and unisex real time ranking. • Gain visibility
fragmented and limited to the club • Engage your audience through online
environment. With its clear goal to “Make the world cutting-edge solutions: low cost, better
• Static regional rankings and old- play together” Setteo also wants to reward traffic and interactions
fashioned competition formats that the ones that are the most active, as a • Grow your credibility
requires slow and expensive third- player but also as an organizer. • Get new certifications
party validation and management. A rewarding tool, in the form of a new • Manage your online and offline
• Incentives distributed only to a very cryptocurrency called SETcoin, was activity
few top players and not necessarily introduced to reward the players and • Stay up to date with the latest trends
to the ones effectively engaging the organizers in exchange for their activities and training possibilities
community and adding value to it. such as booking courts through the app, • Share and promote your content easily
organizing competitions, play matches to a qualified audience
The new Setteo Player app has been and more.
launched to solve these problems. The app Since its foundation, Setteo has Furthermore, Setteo offers financial
connects the global community of racquet developed strong grassroots programs reward through the SETcoins, an
sports, featuring a universal and unisex whether through its SaaS offer to clubs and important technological advantage and
P2P ranking called the Setteo Ranking associations or through its other strategic access to its worldwide community.*

beyond the court
How video analysis can give you a competitive edge

by Nataliya Bredikhina, Communications Intern
T here is an old Asian proverb saying that it is better to see

something once than to hear about it a thousand times.
This profound thought is perfectly applicable in today’s
tennis world, where the importance of video analysis is hard
to overestimate. Video analysis is a helpful tool in many
stages of the training process: development of proper stroke
technique, injury prevention and rehabilitation, analysis of
a player’s body language, strategy execution, performance
evaluation and goal setting. Yet, the amazing potential of
video analysis is still often overlooked even by those coaches
and players who dig deep into other aspects of the training
process and pre-match preparation such as equipment
specifications, diet and lifestyle, customized fitness programs Installing portable cameras up on the rear fence of the
and periodization, and so on. I hope this article will push you court during the match play can also be a good idea, as it will
to reflect on the opportunities presented by the video analysis allow for evaluation of strategic and mental components
and ensure that it is integrated into your teaching process. of the player’s performance. While for most players, in the
To begin with, video analysis should be an integral part heat of the game, it would be hard to objectively assess
of both closed skill and open skill drills facilitating players’ their actions and identify the areas for improvement in the
technical development. How often do we see a coach future, video analysis offers the luxury of re-watching and
repeatedly tell a player to correct an old mistake? Repetitive re-evaluating the game a few hours or days after the match.
old errors in the movement are not only hurtful for a tennis It can provide both players and coaches with invaluable
player’s performance and confidence, but they can also information not only in regard to the strokes execution
make all parties involved – coaches, players, and parents – during the match, but also strategic thinking and body
frustrated with the process. However, what if the issue is language, which are all invaluable parts of the player’s tactical
not the quality of a coach’s instructions or a lack of talent or and mental development.
focus from the young player’s part, but merely the player’s One might ask, what is the right age to start introducing
inability to envision his movement from the side? In fact, video analysis into the training process? Of course, the
multiple research studies have shown that over 60 percent of response is that it will vary depending on the player’s needs
population are visual learners. Others may prefer a different and maturity as well as the training process format. At
learning style, but still rely heavily on the visual information. the same time, I am confident that even many youngsters
Therefore, video analysis should become an important in the “10 and Under” age group would benefit from an
component of the technical development, making training occasional video analysis introduced into their training
more accessible, efficient, and enjoyable for players, parents, sessions. Moreover, with today’s smartphone technology,
and coaches. video recordings do not have to be facilitated with expensive
or bulky video equipment – a simple video clip of a player’s
forehand or serve recorded on the phone from the sidelines
could help the player, and sometimes also the coach, to see
what needs to be corrected in the movement.
As technological advancements are marching forward,
we are being presented with more accessible, yet quite
sophisticated video analysis opportunities. It is great to see
that many modern tennis clubs and facilities around the
world now come with pre-installed cameras and sensors
connected to interactive cloud-based video analytics
platforms, which conveniently allow players to watch the
videos of their matches and practices at home or on the go.
Continued page 57

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beyond the court
These video analytics platforms provide tournament and and currently offers several one-year plans, at a cost ranging
recreational players with a chance to obtain a professional- from $499 to $1899 a year with a 21-day free trial. The system
quality recording and evaluation of their performances during provides fascinating real-time and post-match performance
training and match play sessions. These technologies also analysis, enhanced with drawing tools, “key performance
allow us to generate numerous performance metrics such as indicators” statistics, multiple camera angles, and more. A
strokes depth and speed, ball placement, and spin trajectory cloud-based platform synchronizes data and enables you to
and velocity. Computerized modeling of a player’s movements review replays of your matches at home. Overall, Performa
takes us further creating opportunities for biomechanical Sports sounds like an amazing addition to the training
analysis of athletes’ strokes technique and has a potential for process. It eases the task of player’s post-match self-reflection,
facilitating the task of designing optimal fitness and on-court improves communication between players and coaches, and
training programs helping each player individually to achieve helps to bring the training process to a new level.
their maximum potential. Further in this article, we will take a In case you are interested in having a video recording
look at tools and resources that can facilitate and enhance the of your match analyzed but the product options you have
process of video analysis. come across seem a little pricey, check out Cizr Tennis. In
contrast to many other offers in the market, Cizr provides
video analysis on a match-by-match basis, starting with a
cost of $60 for a one-match package. To make delivery of the
video analysis even more convenient for its users, Cizr Tennis
compresses matches by extracting points and making video-
replays very time-efficient.
Zepp Tennis 2 is a great tool for those who are interested in
digging a little deeper into analysis of their on-court motions.
For $99.99, you will receive an equipment kit includes a sensor
attachable to your racquet and access to a free mobile app.
This tool will allow you to analyze your swing pattern, create
video highlights, and interact with others.
After making its impressive appearance on the American Finally, there are numerous free online resources that
tennis horizon just a few years ago, PlaySight Interactive can make the process of video analysis more accessible
technology has now been introduced into numerous and engaging. One such resource, Kinovea, is a software
tennis facilities across the nation, including the USTA translated into several languages and focused on the study of
National Campus in Lake Nona, Florida. It has also been an athlete’s movement kinetics. The software allows players
actively incorporated into NCAA college tennis matches to to use images and videos to identify angles, length, and
facilitate livestreaming. PlaySight turns a tennis court into a coordinate points of the stroke.
SmartCourt equipped with an interactive touch-screen kiosk, Whether you are a tennis professional or a club manager,
which allows players to view an instant replay of videos. The I truly hope you are an active proponent of integration
system creates a wide range of possibilities for enhancing and promotion of video analysis. Implementation of video
training and match play experience: from audio line calling, analysis will allow your athletes to train efficiently and smart
to stroke statistics, to a variety of on-court drills and games. and will add to the training process a flavor of creativity and
PlaySight is very user-friendly, allowing players to log into the exploration. It does not matter whether a recording is created
PlaySight website from their desktop computer or the official with amateur or professional-quality equipment, video
app on their phone and review video-recordings and statistics. analysis can elevate the standards of teaching and become
Performa Sports is another analytics platform that is worth instrumental in giving a competitive edge to both you and
exploring. The platform allows to evaluate match performance your students.*
Nataliya Bredikhina hails from Moscow, Russia. She graduated from the University of Maryland where
she earned degrees in French and Sports in Society while also competing on the varsity women’s tennis
team. After college, Nataliya coached at Junior Tennis Champions Center in College Park, Maryland
and helped out as a women’s tennis volunteer assistant coach at her alma mater. Currently, Nataliya is
a graduate student in the Sports Management MBA program at the University of Central Florida and a
Communications Intern at the USPTA Headquarters in Lake Nona, Florida.

Member News
USPTA Member News

Stephen Thirolle, Skidmore College’s Meika Ashby, director of junior
women’s tennis coach, was named development at The Oaks, received the
the tasc Performance ITA Northeast District of the Year Award for her leadership
Assistant Coach of the Year. Thirolle, as president of USPTA District 11, which
who also earned the USPTA Northeast serves Boca Raton and Delray Beach. In
Volunteer of the Year Award, helped lead her role as director of junior development,
the Thoroughbreds to a 17-6 record and Ashby oversees member education and
another sweep of the Liberty League programming, events and professional
with an 8-0 league record and their eighth consecutive league play, and professional development opportunities.
Liberty League title. Thirolle played singles and doubles A native of Michigan, she was a highly ranked junior in
for Middlebury College, VT, and after graduating moved the Midwest Section as well as nationally. She went on
to New York City where he has instructed at many clubs to compete at the Division I level at Western Michigan
including the Wall Street Health & Racquet Club, the Fila University. Meika has worked with high level juniors of all
Racquet Club, Sutton East Tennis, Town Tennis Club, and levels, from 10 and under tennis to elite/high performance
at Manhattan Plaza Racquet Club. athletes.
Josh Molino was named the head men’s and Greg Prudhomme was named USTPA
women’s tennis coach at Kansas Wesleyan southwest district coordinator for the
University. Molino comes to Kansas Phoenix area and the head tester for the
Wesleyan after serving as the director of USPTA Southwest Division. As the district
junior tennis at Genesis Health Club in coordinator, Prudhomme will be responsible
Salina. Under his leadership the program has for providing news regarding the USPTA
grown from 60 to 80 participants and he has Pros for the USPTA Southwest Magazine as
seen three boys win Missouri Valley Section well as hosting a couple of educational and
tournament titles and has coached four players ranked in the recreational events in the valley throughout
Section Top 100 rankings. Before Genesis, he spent a year the year. Serving as the head tester, Prudhomme will have
at the Country Club of Orlando, Florida and prior to that three testers under his direction that will be spread out
he spent five years at the Sports Club of West Bloomfield, throughout Phoenix and the rest of the southwest.
Michigan where he was the assistant director of junior tennis.
John Ciarleglio has been named the Andy Booth was inducted into the Miami
USPTA New England Division College Valley Tennis Coaches Association Hall
Coach of the Year. Ciarleglio has developed of Fame. An Elite Professional, Booth
both the men’s and women’s programs served on the Intermountain board for
at Regis College into ones of regional seven years along with being elected
prominence. Both teams won five straight president twice and serving on the USPTA
NECC titles before moving to the Great Executive Committee for three years.
Northeast Athletic Conference. Ciarleglio While president in 2014, he was among
began his tenure with both teams in 2009 and this past the tennis pros helping with Kids Day on center court at
season notched his 100th career win on the men’s side, the US Open tennis tournament. Currently, he is a tennis-
only the third Regis coach across all sports to do so. He was teaching professional at the prestigious Gates Tennis
also twice named NECC Men’s Coach of the Year. Center in Denver, Colorado.

Member News
USPTA Member News

Lynne Rolley was named the director Kyle LaCroix, who is the assistant
of tennis at Meadow Swim and Tennis director of tennis at The Oaks at Boca
Club. With over 40 years of teaching Raton, received the Florida Division
and coaching expertise at every level, U30 Award for his contributions to the
Lynne has been director of tennis at USPTA U30 initiative. A native Floridian
Berkeley Tennis Club, Sleepy Hollow and member of the USPTA since 2004,
Tennis Club and Moraga Country Club; Kyle is an original staff member of The
director of women’s tennis for the Oaks. Kyle is heavily involved in all
United States; coached the Fed Cup, Pan Am Games facets of the Oaks tennis operations, from starting the
and National Teams. Most recently, she served as the junior program, to teaching private lessons and clinics,
director of tennis at La Quinta Resort and PGA WEST, administrative responsibilities and leading the highly
consistently ranked one of the top tennis resorts in the successful SPBCWTA ladies teams.
United States.
Don Nead was featured in the Northwest Richard Mount was featured in the
Herald article titled “Crystal Lake South Boston Globe article A cross-country
coach Don Nead to retire after 50 years.” road trip for the love of the game. A
In 50 years as a boys tennis coach, and the member of the United States Tennis
past 23 years as the Gators girls tennis Association New England Hall of Fame,
coach, Nead’s teams have gone 867-256 in he compiled a record of 282-72 over
varsity dual matches, won 21 conference 19 years as the Brookline varsity girls’
team titles and 29 district or sectional tennis coach. He’s played over 27,000 sets
titles. In singles, 59 of his players reached state, along and has won 23 championships in Bermuda at the Coral
with 82 doubles pairs. Beach & tennis club.
Steve Dunmore was honored as the Ryan Bean was named director of tennis
National Junior College Coach of the Year at Lake Naomi Tennis Center in Pocono
by the Intercollegiate Tennis Association Pines, Pennsylvania. A graduate of
(ITA). This award recognizes Dunmore Quinnipiac University, Bean has over 15
as the top women’s tennis coach for all years of experience in the tennis industry
community and junior colleges in the US. and brings a wide knowledge base both
It follows Dunmore’s selection as the ITA’s on and off-court.
California Coach of the Year.
NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS ADDVANTAGE MAGAZINE ADDvantage is published monthly by the USPTA
Managing Editor ................................................... DeVonte’ Martin The opinions expressed in ADDvantage are
President.....................................................................Gary Trost those of the authors and not necessarily those
Editor.............................................................................John Cornell
First Vice President................................................Feisal Hassan of ADDvantage or the United States Professional
Layout/Design........................................................... Gustavo Reyes
Vice Presidents................Cari Buck, Mark Faber, Trish Faulkner Tennis Association.
Bill Mountford, Richard Slivocka Editorial Assistance...................................................... Risa Epstein,
Ashley Walker, Ellen Weatherford
Immediate Past President...........................................Chuck Gill Copyright© United States Professional Tennis
Circulation................................................................ Trevor Trudelle Association, Inc. 2018. All rights reserved.
CEO.........................................................................John Embree
USPTA World Headquarters Reproduction of any portion of the magazine is not
Legal Counsel......................................................George Parnell 11961 Performance Dr.
Orlando, FL 32827 permitted without written permission from USPTA.
On the cover ; The late Arthur Ashe at the 1968 US Open in New York. Ashe became the first African-American male to
win a Grand Slam. ( Illustration by Ashley Walker, compositing by Gustavo Reyes.)

USPTA CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Exams, Upgrades & PTCA Wheelchair Certification 2018 USPTA
4 Credits for PTCA I Segment Exams,
Upgrades & PTCA
August 23 - 24........................... Lincoln, NE
Conference Schedule
Aug 3 ........................................Darien, CT USPTA Certification in conjunction with Division Conferences - 6 Credits
USTA “Train the Trainer”
Aug 3 - 4 ...............................Granbury, TX August 24 - 27 ................................2018 TTC
Aug 4 - 5 ................. Huntington Beach, CA October 18 - 19........................ Lakeland, FL Grand Hyatt, New York, NY
Aug 4 - 5 ............................ Tallahassee, FL USPTA Certification in conjunction with
USTA “Train the Trainer” November 16 - 17...... Middle States Division
Aug 6 - 7 ........................ San Francisco, CA Convention
Aug 11 - 12 ............................. Atlanta, GA November 7 - 8...................Indianapolis, IN TBD
Aug 11 - 12 .............................Seattle, WA USPTA Certification in conjunction with
USTA “Train the Trainer”
Aug 15 - 16 .........................Cincinnati, OH
Aug 17 .............................Nichols Hills, OK
Cardio Tennis
Aug 19 ..................... Level 1 Training Course
Aug 20 - 21 ............................. Orlando, FL Meadow Creek Tennis Club; Lakewood, CO
Aug 24 - 25 ................................... Laie, HI
Aug 25 ................................ Eau Claire, WI
Aug 25 ................................ Rochester, NY
Spanish Tennis Sep 8 ....................... Level 1 Training Course
Preakness Hills Country Club; Wayne, NJ
Aug 26 .............................. Brentwood, TN
Aug 28 - 29 .............................Queens, NY
Teaching System Nov 10 ..................... Level 1 Training Course
Methodist University; Fayetteville, NC
Sept 8 - 9 ...................................Aurora, IL
Sept 8 - 9 ............................ Clearwater, FL Nov 10 ..................... Level 1 Training Course
Sept 9 ............................... Midlothian, VA Sea Pines Racquet Club; Hilton Head Island, SC
Sept 13........................... Minneapolis, MN
Sept 15 - 16 .............................. Rome, GA
Sept 20 - 21 ............................. Tucson, AZ
Sept 21 - 22 ........................... Houston, TX
Sept 22 - 23 .............. Gleneden Beach, OR
Sept 22 ..............................Des Moines, IA
Sept 22 - 23 ..................... Coral Gables, FL
Sept 30 ..................... West Bloomfield, MI At Academia Sanchez-Casal
USPTA professionals can earn 10
Exam reservations must be made at least 21 days
prior to the dates listed. Each date includes an Education Credits by participating in the
exam, upgrade. PTCA I is included in the two day Level 1 or Level 2 course of the Spanish
exam. Exam cancellations must be received no lat-
Tennis Teaching System hosted by the
er than 14 days before the exam, or a cancellation
fee will be charged accordingly. International Coaches Institute.
Applicant: late cancellation fee – $95; failure to Oct. 24 - 26................................ Naples, FL

cancel – application fee is forfeited. Certified Competitive Coaching Course Level 1
members: late cancellation fee – $25; failure to
cancel – $25 plus the upgrade fee is forfeited.
Registration for another exam will not be accepted Oct. 26 - 28................................ Naples, FL
until cancellation fees are paid. Pro Coaching Course Level 2
USPTA requires all certified members to earn 6 credits of

continuing education in a three-year period. (International
members, recreational coaches and those 65 or older are exempt.) The time period coincides
with the date you completed the certification exam or reinstated your membership. Please
login to My USPTA to check your Professional Development Program end date.
If the requirement is not met, you will have your membership suspended. To help you
meet that goal, USPTA provides hundreds of hours of education every year in the form of
conferences, workshops, webinars, DVDs and more. TennisResources.com is an excellent
resource for free education opportunities. In addition, the Coach Youth Tennis website offers
six free online courses that earn a 1/2 education credit each.
Upon completion of the sixth course, you will receive 3 bonus credits (one-time only),
Online education
Watch webinars, seminars, On Court with USPTA
bringing the total to 6 credits and completing the continuing education requirement. (You do
episodes, specialty courses and much more on
not need to complete the online workshop unless you are completing your USPTA certification) TennisResources.com to earn your education
Go to coachyouthtennis.com for more information. credits.

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