





ENTERTAINMENT
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Osvaldo Godoy
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Adam Ross, Dave Kozlowski, Cameron Mofid, Todd Pechter, Zach Shahan, Ian Pyka, Guillermo Morales-Rubert
CONTRIBUTING
Florida Racquet Sports LLC 4800 N. Federal Highway, Suite B200 Boca Raton, FL 33431 ADVERTISING info@floridatennis.com 754-222-1785
SUBSCRIPTIONS
By Matt Pressman
Looking back, it's been a year since Jim Martz passed away. It's a time of deep reflection. Even though feelings of sadness can overwhelm, there have also been some uplifting moments. As 2024 unfolded, Jim's presence was felt throughout the caring, loving, and supportive Florida Tennis community.
USTA Florida recently renamed their Media Excellence Award calling it the "Jim Martz Media Excellence Award" and honored its first winner — Jim Martz. Jim's nephew A.J. and sister Sue Schmidt accepted the award on his behalf at USTA Florida's 75th Anniversary celebration event in Tampa. It was wonderful seeing A.J. and Sue along with their smiles and heartfelt words on stage, remembering Jim with great pride.
In addition, Florida Tennis' Adam Ross won the first-ever "Jim Martz Media Award" at last year’s Miami Open — such a very special honor. Adam also hosted a wonderful Celebration of Life event at the home of the Orange Bowl, Veltri Racquet Center, to remember the life of Jim Martz.
Additionally, last year’s January-February Florida Tennis tribute cover remembering Jim Martz was also on display in the media center (and
discussed on stadium court) at the 2024 Delray Beach Open. And the Jim Martz Memorial Scholarship Fund was also set up thanks to Lisa PuglieseLaCroix at Love Serving Autism.
Jim was the heart and soul of Florida Tennis and that’s why I fell in love with it. He was my mentor. And he was an incredible teacher. He taught me so much about the history of tennis in Florida. This was (and is) the state where tennis dreams are built.
Jim was like a great coach. Watching his example, he helped me (and so many others) live with a larger purpose alongside this amazing community of tennis players in Florida.
I'm forever grateful that I had such special moments with Jim. More than a mentor, Jim was a friend. I’ll miss him. I wish I could have had more time with him.
As we head into 2025, let’s all take some time to remember the legacy of Jim Martz. Please check out the Florida Tennis website for touching tributes (and tweets) from Billie Jean King, Chris Evert, Rick Macci, Adam Ross, Cameron Mofid, Paul Fein, Greg Cote, Gary Ferman, and heartfelt memories of Jim from his sister Sue Schmidt.
By DJ Mad Linx
Choosing the right tennis racquet is no small feat, but the Tecnifibre T-Fight lineup has managed to capture the attention of players everywhere with its thoughtful design and impressive performance. And who better to dive into what these racquets have to offer than Fabio Massetta? Fabio personally tested the entire lineup for Florida Tennis to give us his expert insights.
For those unfamiliar with Fabio, he’s a South Florida tennis legend. He’s a former No. 1 player at Lynn University, a Swiss junior standout who once defeated Roger Federer, and even performed as a hitting partner for Ivan Lendl during his exhibitions against John McEnroe. Fabio’s deep knowledge of the game and years of experience make him an ideal person to evaluate what these racquets bring to the table.
“It is a great racket... Good balance. Very maneuverable,” Fabio said about the T Fight 315S and 305S models. With a 98 square-inch head and weighing 315 and 305 grams respectively, these racquets are designed for advanced players who need stability and power to dominate rallies. “It gives you feel and control, but also power,” he added.
The lighter options in the lineup, the T Fight 270 and 285, cater to juniors, beginners, or baseline players looking for something more forgiving. Fabio’s feedback on these models highlighted their accessibility. “The 100 head size racquet [option] gives a little more pop,” he noted. “If you play from the baseline, you want something you can maneuver and stay on the baseline for a long time,” Fabio added, emphasizing the practicality for extended rallies.
The T Fight 300 and 305 provide a balance between power and agility. Fabio pointed
to their versatility addressing the needs of those with different playing styles. “They are easy to control and can work for a variety of players,” he mentioned. Fabio also noted that “the denser string pattern of the 98 head size racquets offers more control, while the 100 head size racquets provide a little more forgiveness and pop.”
Tecnifibre has introduced several key upgrades to the T-Fight series, including a lowered swing weight for improved maneuverability and an enlarged sweet spot for extra forgiveness. Fabio appreciated how the racquets handle under different conditions. “The strings don’t move as much, so you can play with loose tension,” he said. “It gives you a good mix of feel and control.”
A highlight the Tecnifibre T-Fight lineup is its credibility among professional players. This series is endorsed by top talents such as Grand Slam champions Iga Swiatek and Daniil Medvedev, as well as stars such as Danielle Collins, Alexander Bublik, Tallon Griekspoor, and Christopher Eubanks. Knowing these players trust Tecnifibre adds weight to its reputation as a high-performance brand.
Fabio’s final take on the lineup? “No matter which one you pick, it’s a quality racquet that performs well on the court,” he explained, underscoring Tecnifibre’s ability to cater to players of different ages and skill levels.
If you’d like to to try out Tecnifibre's TFight racquets, they’re available at Tennis Plaza stores at locations all over South Florida or online at http://TennisPlaza.com . With options for every level of play, this lineup is designed to help you level up. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just a weekend warrior, there’s a TFight racquet that fits your needs.
By Matt Pressman
The Orange Bowl wrapped up at Veltri Racquet Center with some exciting matches. The crowds filed in for a 10am start time and the weather behaved. That said, the wind was swirling and clouds were gathering as action commenced.
The Orange Bowl is seen as a "rite of passage" for future stars. And the list of past winners reads like a who's who in pro tennis. On the men's side, names like Roger Federer, Andy Roddick, John McEnroe, and Bjorn Borg appear in the history books. On the women's side, it's no less impressive — Coco Gauff, Mary Joe Fernandez, Gabriela Sabatini and Chris Evert have all took home the Orange Bowl title on the final day of the tournament.
The women's final was a thrilling three-setter with plenty of twists and turns along the way. Tereza Krejcova (CZE) defeated Elizara Yaneva (BUL) in a tight final of the girls 18s, 7-6, 3-6, 7-6. Meanwhile, on the opposing court, Andres Santamarta Roig (ESP) defeated Moise Kouame (FRA) in a commanding win 7-5, 6-2 win despite some hiccups in the first set. Solid ball-striking was accompanied by touch and finesse on both sides of the net. Both players have an extremely bright future ahead of them.
Nevertheless, the matches were marred by strong winds and light showers which briefly stopped play. However, all players got into the groove as their respective matches progressed — the Orange Bowl 18s finals proved to be an impressive display of high-level tennis.
Want an inside look at what happened? Check out Florida Tennis' exclusive footage on Instagram for exclusive interviews and video highlights from the Orange Bowl as well.
Records are made to be broken. But it is inconceivable that any player is going to win the Roland Garros singles title 15 times to dethrone Rafael Nadal, the King of Clay. His record setting 14 Roland Garros singles titles are part of an incredible tennis career by the numbers including: 209 weeks at #1; year-end #1 five times; 22 Grand Slam singles titles comprised of the Roland Garros titles, 2 Australian Open titles; 2 victories at Wimbledon and 4 U.S. Open titles; 92 ATP-level singles titles, including 36 Masters titles and Olympic gold medals in singles and doubles. Fittingly, he won his last major title at Roland Garros in 2022.
Nadal is one of only three male players to complete the career Golden Slam in singles. He won 81 consecutive matches on clay which is the longest single surface win streak in the Open era. He is second in all time earnings at $134,946,100.00. His career win-loss record is 1,080-228 (82.6%).
Nadal helped Spain win the Davis Cup 5 times. He won the Tour Finals on two occasions. But these staggering numbers alone do not define Nadal. Rafa will also be remembered for his incredible will to win. His huge heart. His never say die attitude. Rafa’s refusal to take a point off. His love of the game. His incredible sportsmanship - grace in winning and losing- mostly winning.
Nadal’s humanity and humble approach were reflected in his interactions with countless fans, tennis officials, the media, and the individuals that ran the events and the volunteers. He is grounded and defined by his love and respect for family and friends. His long time coach, his Uncle Toni, and Rafa’s parents, instilled this in Rafa at a young age. And paying it forward is very important to Nadal. The Rafael Nadal Foundation’s Centers help young people in vulnerable situations through sports, educational activities and psychosocial support.
Despite his retirement from active play in 2024, Rafa is a tennis lifer. He opened the Rafa Nadal Academy with training programs for juniors and adults. While his competitive playing days are over, the next chapter of his tennis career and his post tennis life off the court are just beginning and promise to be as exciting as his legendary playing career. Next stop, the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Vamos, Rafa!
Adam Ross is a contributing writer for Florida Tennis. He is a volunteer for the USTA Florida and the VicePresident of the Tennis Collectors of America/TCA. He welcomes your questions and comments at _robinadam@comcast.net.
Join tennis legend and two-time Grand Slam Champion Sergi Bruguera for an exclusive corporate doubles event at Caribe Hilton, San Juan,1 C. San GerÓnimo, San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901. To learn more and reserve your spot at this event or for sponsorship opportunities, please call 757-897-4584 or email gmrproductions27@gmail.com.
Save the date! The “Little Mo” East Regionals (ages 8-12) is scheduled for April 26-28, 2025 and “Little Mo” Internationals (ages 8-16) are scheduled for December 5-10, 2025 at the Palm Beach Gardens Tennis Center in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Register for the event at http://mcbtennis.com .
Coach Ed Krass will bring his 37th Annual College Tennis Exposure Camp Tour, in the Summer of 2025, to: USTA National Campus (Lake Nona, FL) – May 31-June 1, 2025; Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA) – June 28-29; Lehigh University (Bethlehem, PA) – July 12-13; Mercer County Park (Princeton, NJ) – July 19-20; Wesleyan University (Middletown, CT) – July 26-27; Beerman Tennis Center (Lakeland, FL) – December 6-7; The camp is open to players, ages 14-18, and to a few NCAA Transfer Portal players. To register or for more information, visit www.collegetennis. com; 813-684-9031; ekrass@tampabay.rr.com.
The Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) International Racquets Conference is coming to Saddlebrook Resort, in Wesley Chapel, FL. from Feb. 23-27, 2025. To kick-off the conference, The PTR will host Coach Ed Krass and his One-On-One Doubles Tournament and Concert Event — with $2000 guaranteed prize money — on Sunday, February 23rd from 1 -5 p.m. For more information about this tournament, contact Ed Krass at oneononedoubles@yahoo.com; (813) 478-3384. For more information about OneOn-One Doubles Tournaments, visit http://www.oneononedoubles.com.
The Delray Beach Open kicks off Feb. 7-16 at the Delray Beach Stadium & Tennis Center. A variety of up-close, unique seating experiences including on-court Best Seats in the House, shaded Veranda seats, courtside Box and Reserved seats are available. New this year are Mezzanine Level two-top tables with food and beverage service right from the seats. Tickets for individual sessions and series packages are available now at www.DelrayBeachOpen.com.
A familiar face on professional tennis television broadcasts around the globe, DJ Mad Linx will be joining Florida Tennis as Entertainment Director. DJ Mad Linx has worked as an on-air personality, television host, and play-by-play commentator for ESPN, Tennis Channel, and Tennis Channel’s new network T2. He’s also worked as both a deejay and host at The Miami Open, The Mubadala Citi DC Open Tennis Tournament, IMG Player Parties, Taste of Tennis events, and FOX Sports Superfest.
Bilingual journalist Osvaldo Godoy recently joined Florida Tennis as its new Associate Editor. Osvaldo played on the NCAA D2 tennis team at Palm Beach Atlantic University where he double-majored in Sports Broadcasting and Journalism. At last year’s Miami Open, Osvaldo worked as a Production Assistant for Tennis Channel. And, he
appeared on-air on ESPN West Palm Radio to provide insights on tennis and other sports. He also covered the Delray Beach Open for his school newspaper The Beacon Today.
Professional tennis takes center stage at the Emilio Sanchez Academy in Naples, Florida, with a series of ITF Pro Circuit tournaments scheduled for January and February 2025. The W35 Women's Tournament is taking place from January 6th–12th, 2025. The M15 Men's Tournament #1 is slated for February 10th–16th, 2025. Last, the M15 Men's Tournament #2 is scheduled for February 17th–23rd, 2025. The events promise thrilling matches and international competition as players battle for valuable ranking points and prize money totaling $50,000.
The Coliseo de Puerto Rico will host “Battle of Legends” on March 2, 2025 bringing together two of the sport’s biggest names: Carlos Alcaraz and Frances Tiafoe. The event will be hosted by Mónica Puig, Puerto Rico’s Olympic gold medalist, who will welcome both athletes to the Island while preparing a special surprise for her fans eager to see her back on the court.
Congratulations to USTA Florida as the organization celebrated 75 years of promoting tennis, inclusivity, and community development across the state last year. Through a series of six regional events, a lineup of notable honorees, and impactful new initiatives, the anniversary year highlighted USTA Florida’s legacy while setting the stage for its future.
Congratulations to Kyle Lacroix who was recently profiled on the Tennis Channel and recognized as RSPA Member of the Year. In 2022, Kyle was named a USPTA (now RSPA) Master Professional, the highest rating achievable by a tennis professional. He continues to make an impact with his company SETS Consulting and his work with wife Lisa Pugliese-LaCroix at Love Serving Autism.
Patrick Mouratoglou, current coach of four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka and coach of Serena Williams, recently announced the launch of a new academy in Florida. The Mouratoglou Academy Zephyrhills will be located at the (former) Sarah Vande Berg Tennis Center, situated in Zephyrhills, just outside Tampa.
Rio de Janeiro is ready to stage the 11th edition of the biggest tennis tournament in South America, the Rio Open presented by Claro, taking place on February 15-23. A star-studded field including Alexander Zverev, Holger Rune, and Lorenzo Musetti are slated to compete on the clay courts at the Jockey Club Brasileiro, with breathtaking views of Christ the Redeemer.
The PTR International Racquets Conference will take place February 23rd to February 27th. Elevate your skills, build your network, and connect with industry pros. Check out informative speakers, interactive workshops, social events, educational sessions, and enjoy a world-class sporting destination at Saddlebrook Resort in Tampa Bay.
By Matt Pressman
I recently caught up with Philipp Samor von Holtzendorff-Fehling, the No. 1 ranked USTA men's 50s player, at the Biohackers World Conference in Miami. The conversation veered from the world of tennis to quantum energy fields, offering a unique glimpse into Philipp’s extraordinary journey.
“I grew up on red clay in Germany,” explained Philipp. “I was six years old and played nonstop until I was about 17. Then an injury sidelined me, and what started as a sevenweek break turned into 14 years away from the game.”
Despite the hiatus, Philipp returned to tennis in his early 30s and hasn’t looked back. Today, his achievements on the court are matched only by his innovative ventures off it.
“Before diving back into tennis, I was deeply entrenched in the corporate world,” Philipp said. As a Vice President at T-Mobile, he managed operations across 14 European countries before moving to T-Mobile US. His career then took him through a number of high-stakes roles. But along the way, Philipp became fascinated with the effects of electromagnetic fields (EMF) on health.
“Working in the telecommunications industry gave me unique insights into EMF,” he explained. “I realized the need for solutions to mitigate their effects. That’s when I founded Leela Quantum Tech.”
Philipp attributes much of his recent tennis success to the biohacking principles (and products) he’s developed. “To go from years off the court to becoming No. 1, I had to think outside the box,” he said. “Healthy living, discipline, and biohacking tools,” have helped Philipp's rise to the top of the senior tennis ranks.
One of these tools is Leela Quantum Tech’s product line, designed to enhance athletic performance and recovery. “Our technology boosts ATP production, improves blood flow, and accelerates recovery. For athletes, it’s a complete game-changer,” Philipp explained.
Looking back, Philipp’s return to tennis began humbly. “When we moved to the U.S., tennis was a great way to meet new people,” he said. “Eventually, I entered a national clay
court tournament and made it to the top eight. That experience reignited my competitive spirit.”
Fast forward to 2023: Philipp decided to compete seriously in the 50s category. “I turned 50 this year and thought, why not aim for the Nationals?” he recalled. By March, he was competing in tournaments and swiftly climbed the rankings. “I intend to stay No. 1,” he declared with a grin.
Part of Philipp’s strategy to stay on top will be his unique routine which combines traditional training with cutting-edge biohacking methods. “I start my day with yoga and breathwork,” he said. “Breathing consciously helps me stay in the moment, whether on the court or off.”
His regimen also includes infrared saunas, vibration plates, and Leela Quantum Tech’s frequency-based products. “Our Heal 360 capsule is perfect for athletes. It neutralizes EMF effects and supports physical and emotional recovery,” Philipp noted.
So what is Philipp's top tip for aspiring senior tennis players? “Consistency is key,” he explains. “You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight. Small, consistent steps towards healthy living make all the difference.”
He also emphasized the importance of mental strength. “Tennis is as much about the mind as it is about the body. Practices like yoga, meditation, and biofield tuning help you tap into your full potential.”
Looking ahead, Philipp’s goals extend beyond personal achievements. “My dream is to represent the U.S. at the World Championships in Portugal next year,” he revealed. “It’s not just about winning—it’s about showing what’s possible when you combine passion with innovation.”
For Florida tennis players looking to elevate their game, Philipp’s story offers inspiration—and a glimpse into the future of sports performance. “Tennis already adds years to your life,” he said. “Imagine what’s possible when you incorporate biohacking into the mix.”
By Osvaldo Godoy
In the heart of Miami’s vibrant tennis scene, the courts of the David Ensignia Tennis Academy (DETA) are alive with the sound of forehands and backhands, echoing a story of dreams in action. Founded by David Ensignia Sr., the academy has become a destination for aspiring tennis players worldwide. In a series of interviews with Florida Tennis at DETA International Tournaments, Ensignia Sr. and his team describe what makes their approach so unique.
“Starting this academy was a dream that began in the 80s,” recalls Ensignia Sr. His journey started in Venezuela, where he coached at clubs and brought groups of kids to the U.S. during summers. Discovering the academy model transformed his outlook on coaching. “I loved the idea of working independently, free from the constraints of club management,” he said.
The academy’s impact isn’t confined to a single location. Jacit González, DETA’s Business Director, explains that DETA operates four locations across Kendall and South Miami/ Pinecrest. “We’ve had all kinds of programs, and even players like Cristian Garín from Chile have trained here during pre-season,” González shared.
González also mentions the academy's recent recognition as the Family of the
Year from USTA Florida, a testament to their commitment to the sport. “It’s always great to see players come to Florida, challenge themselves on the court, and prepare for the season,” González added.
Tennis is more than just a sport at DETA—it’s a global connector. Every December, the academy becomes a hub for international talent during the prestigious Orange Bowl and related tournaments. Players from all corners of the globe gather to compete, grow, and build friendships.
Naif Albakheet, a coach from Saudi Arabia, brought his players to the DETA International Tournament in Miami. “This is great for experience,” he said.
“The players gain confidence competing with others from different nationalities and playing styles. Events like these help bridge cultures through sport.”
Ensignia echoes this sentiment: “Tennis is a global language. It’s amazing to see kids from South America, Europe, and Asia sharing the court and building connections.”
For many players, DETA serves as a launch pad for their academic and athletic careers.
The academy has helped over 300 students secure college scholarships in the U.S. “The universal tennis ranking (UTR) system is crucial,” Ensignia ex-
plained. “Our tournaments help players improve their UTR rankings, increasing their visibility to college coaches.”
David Ensignia Jr., the High-Performance Director, keeps a simple yet profound philosophy at the core of his coaching. “The best tip for a tennis player is to have fun on the court,” he said. This approach fosters a love for the game while encouraging growth and resilience.
Philanthropy is central to DETA’s mission. Through their nonprofit organization, DETA Friends, the academy supports young players with limited resources. “The cost of tennis can be overwhelming—rackets, shoes, coaching, and travel add up quickly,” Ensignia Sr. shared. “We help talented kids who might otherwise never have the chance to compete.”
As the academy continues to grow, DETA remains a place where players of all backgrounds can come together. “Tennis teaches discipline and builds character,” Ensignia said. “These kids learn to navigate life’s challenges with the resilience they develop on the court.”
To learn more about David Ensignia Tennis Academy, DETA International Tournaments, and DETA Friends, visit: davidensigniatennis.com.
At DETA Friends, we are dedicated to using the power of tennis to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and communities. Founded on a passion for the sport and a commitment to inclusivity, our nonprofit organization creates opp ortunities for players of all backgrounds to thrive, both on and off the court.
At DETA Friends, we also believe that the future of tennis begins with creating opportunities for young players today.
By supporting our tennis programs for children and junior players, you’re investing in their potential to grow and succeed
Together, we can ensure that every aspiring player, regardless of their background, has access to quality instruction, equipment, and opportunities to shine.
Through our initiatives—after-school programs, summ er camps, tournaments, and equipment support—DETA Friends breaks down barriers and nurtures a lifelong love for tennis.
We rely on the generosity of donors to bring these life-changing programs to reality.
By supporting DETA Friends, you are helping us create a brighter future where everyone, regardless of ability or circumstance, has the chance to experience the transformative power of tennis.
By Toni Woods
Delray Beach knows good tennis and good parties. Put them together and you’ve got a great tennis party for 10 days at the Delray Beach Open, February 7-16. Whether you are a hard-core tennis fan, a competitor, a recreational player or just someone who enjoys good food and fun on Atlantic Avenue, this ATP tournament is your ticket in February.
It’s the place to see world-class players up close, like world Top 5 and US Open finalist Taylor Fritz who is looking to win a historic third straight title in downtown Delray Beach. Right behind him is Top 15 player and Boca resident Tommy Paul, last year’s runner-up and winner of three other ATP Tour titles.
Last year, 20-year-old Alex Michelsen became the youngest American man to finish in the world’s Top 50 since Andy Roddick in 2002, the same year Roddick reached the Delray Beach final. With two ATP finals under his belt Michelsen is on his way to becoming a force on the Tour. He is expected to be in the field along with Italian Matteo Arnaldi who had two wins over Top 10 players last year, one coming against Fritz. Might he be the one who stops Fritz in Delray? That would be a rematch to watch.
Do you like to spot up-and-coming players so you can tell your tennis friends you knew them before they were famous? Knowledgeable tennis fans keep an eye on the qualifying matches on Opening Weekend. These are hardfought matches where up-and-comers are trying to make their breakthrough to the ATP Tour.
Three qualifiers have gone on to win the whole tournament – including Kei Nishikori, who won in 2008 ranked No. 244 and later reached No. 4 in the world and a US Open final. Out with injuries the last few years, he reached his first final in six years this month in Hong Kong, defeating three former Top 10 players along the way. Nishikori will make his return to the Delray Beach Open where his career first took off. It will be his first trip back to the event in 11 years.
Speaking of comebacks, Delray resident Reilly Opelka, the 2020 champion and 2022 finalist who played just one match in two years from mid-2022 to mid-2024 due to injuries, defeated 24- time Grand Slam winner Novak Djokovic in straight sets earlier this month in Brisbane, Australia enroute to his first final in nearly three years. He also defeated 2024 ATP Most Improved Player Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard and No. 37 Arnaldi. Opelka will return to the DBO for the first time since setting the record for most aces in a tournament, serving up 99 in 2022.
Another big return to the beach is former DBO champion and US Open winner Juan Martin del Potro for the Opening Weekend Legends event! Alongside other Legends he’ll face off against the Bryan brothers, the best doubles team of all time who won 16 Grand Slam titles and six DBO trophies. French Open champs Luke and Murphy Jensen, Delray singles champions Sam Querrey, Jack Sock, Tommy Haas and Xavier Malisse, and local pro Jesse Levine will round out a stellar Legends weekend.
Since most junior and recreational players play doubles, they will find no better teacher than watching world-class doubles specialists in person at the DBO. The quick pace of the points and the extraordinary poaching volleys might make you rethink your game. Bring your partner and watch a doubles masterclass.
The Delray Beach Open has seen multiple world No. 1 doubles players and Grand Slam winners grace its courts, and DBO teams have gone on to qualify for the year-end ATP Tour Finals as one of the year’s best eight teams. Among them are two-time DBO doubles champion teams Marcelo Arevalo/
Jean-Julien Rojer, and Mark Woodforde/Todd Woodbridge, as well as onetime DBO champions Mark Knowles/Daniel Nestor, and Leander Paes/Nenad Zimonjic.
Maybe you dream of playing with current or former pro players. There’s a Fantasy Experience for you. Enjoy a clinic led by Legends, play with the current pros in the ATP Pro-Am, or enjoy a combination of the clinic, a party and oncourt seats with the Ultimate DBO Fantasy Experience.
When it comes to tickets, there is not a bad seat in the Delray Beach Stadium & Tennis Center, especially with this year’s addition of more than 1,000 new chairback seats to replace most of the bleacher seating. It’s a glorious court for a tennis fan to watch the world’s best. But if you want to get as close as humanly possible to the action, you can sit ON THE COURT in a shaded lounge chair. Or maybe you want the convenience of food service right to your seat at the new Mezzanine tables, or the shade of a Veranda seat. Lots of choices are available for both individual sessions and full series packages at http://www. DelrayBeachOpen.com .
Looking for discounts to this world-class tennis party? Seniors 55+ get BOGO tickets (buy one, get one) for sessions 2, 5 and 9, and kids ages 3-12 get half-price reserved seats every day and night until the final. Complimentary tickets are offered to military, first responders and nurses on Feb. 8 and to teachers on Feb. 9. Donate 10 cans of food on Feb. 10 to receive a free ticket to the day session and support the KOP Mentoring Network.
In addition to the pro matches, the tennis center will be buzzing with participant activities on the weekends. Starting with the Mixed Doubles Mega Mixer on Feb. 7, the USTA Florida Kids Day and Love Serving Autism clinic on Feb. 8, the ACEing Autism clinic on Feb. 9 and the USTA Wheelchair Tennis Showcase on Feb. 15, the tournament welcomes these groups to the courts.
The tournament is the ATP Tour's first North American hard court event of the outdoor season and is one of just eight Tour events in the United States. It is broadcast live for more than 40 hours to millions of viewers in more than 100 countries around the globe.
Now in its 33rd year, multiple generations of fans and players have experienced great moments at the tournament. Some of the world’s best players launched their careers here - tournament champions include Grand Slam winners Lleyton Hewitt, Marin Cilic and Juan Martin del Potro, and Grand Slam finalists Kevin Anderson and Todd Martin along with Fritz and Nishikori**.**
Other competitors over the tournament’s 32 years of ATP tennis include a roster of Hall of Famers and Grand Slam champions such as Andre Agassi, Andy Roddick, Patrick Rafter, Jim Courier, Michael Chang, Ivan Lendl, Mats Wilander, Andres Gomez and Jimmy Connors. The Legends event is in its 16th year and over that time many of those same players have returned, joined by Major champions John McEnroe and Goran Ivanisevic.
This rich tennis history has helped the Delray Beach Open grow to annually host more than 50,000 fans. You should be one of them!
Visit http://www.DelrayBeachOpen.com or call 561-330-6000 for tickets and more information.v
Rank, Name, Country
4. Taylor Fritz, USA
11. Tommy Paul, USA
35. Brandon Nakashima, USA
39. Matteo Arnaldi, Italy
42. Alex Michelsen, USA
46. Marcos Giron, USA
51. Miomir Kecmanovic, Serbia
52. Cameron Norrie, Great Britain
61. Arthur Rinderknech, France
65. Yoshihito Nishioka, Japan
66. Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, Spain
67. Yunchaokete Bu, China
68. Aleksandar Vukic, Australia
72. Rinky Hijikata, Australia
76. Kei Nishikori, Japan
77. Alexander Shevchenko, Kazakhstan
86. Gabriel Diallo, Canada
87. Borna Coric, Croatia
170. (Wild Card) Reilly Opelka, USA
At the time this article was published, nine additional players were joining the field to round out the 28-player draw, including four qualifiers, two additional wild cards and three special entry players. Rankings and names may change at the time you read this article.
The ever-popular Delray Beach Open Food & Wine Series is back for 2025 and offering even more elevated culinary experiences than ever before!
For those who aren’t already in-the-know, the Delray Beach Open Food & Wine Series is a series of exclusive events during the 10 days of tennis that have become a cornerstone of the social scene during “season” in South Florida and beyond. These VIP events feature over 40 of the top restaurants, food purveyors, and spirit partners in South Florida.
New events for 2025 include a ‘Grand Tasting’ evening as well as the addition of ‘Valentine’s & Volleys: A Taste of Italy,’ a DBO first in celebrating the holiday of love that continually falls upon the tournament’s schedule. The new events join the 2nd Annual Burgers, Bourbon & Brew, and 3rd Annual Tacos, Tequila & Tennis, which both have become instant successes alongside fanfavorite Game, Set, Pour – the tournament’s ‘Ultimate Pairing Event’ since 2019.
Official partners of the Delray Beach Open Food & Wine Series include Official Craft Brewery - American Icon Brewery’s Match Point Blonde Ale, Official Winery - Raeburn Winery, Official Spritz - Aperol Spritz, Official Tequila of the DBO - Dano’s Tequila and Official Sparkling Water of the DBOFWS - LaCroix.
Check out the full schedule below:
Delray Beach Open Food & Wine Series
17th Annual Chamber Bash – Monday, February 10, 5:45 to 7:15 p.m. In partnership with the Delray Beach and Boca Raton Chambers of Commerce and presented by Baptist Health and sponsored by BlueIvy Communications and Carlton Fields, this exclusive networking event will take place at the tournament’s Hospitality Pavilion featuring culinary delights from some of the top spots around!
**NEW: Grand Tasting Event – Tuesday, February 11 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. (VIP access starts at 6 p.m.) This is sure to be a highlight of Delray Beach’s social scene, offering a wide variety of fine cuisine from the tournament’s official caterer, VIP Caterers, a full open bar and special appearances from ATP Tour players.
Burgers, Bourbon, and Brew – Wednesday, Feb. 12 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. (VIP access starts at 6 p.m.) The 2nd annual event will offer guests the opportunity to sample and vote for South Florida’s best burgers, while enjoying beer, wine, and bourbon cocktails from several different distilleries and craft beer partners.
Ladies Day Luncheons – Wednesday, Feb. 12 and Thursday, Feb. 13 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The ever-popular Luncheons return offering guests more than just lunch. Tickets include Stadium Court seats to the day’s tennis matches, luncheon, wine, Bloody Mary’s, Aperol Spritz cocktails, raffle prizes and much more.
Tacos, Tequila and Tennis – Thursday, Feb. 13 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. (VIP access starts at 6 p.m.) This fan- favorite, presented by Dano’s Tequila, is returning for its third year! With a portion of the proceeds benefitting the local nonprofit organization Love Serving Autism, guests can sample and vote for South Florida restaurants’ best tacos in town while also enjoying and voting for their favorite tequila cocktail creation.
**NEW: Valentine’s & Volleys: A Taste of Italy – Friday, Feb. 14 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. (VIP access starts at 6 p.m.). Guests are invited to celebrate Valentine’s Day with their special someone (or perhaps meet their special someone) over an evening enjoying the culture and tastes of Italy. This new event offers a unique blend of Italian culinary delights and thrilling tennis! Guests will taste a variety of gourmet Italian food while sipping their favorite wine from the tournament’s wine partner, Raeburn Winery, as well as Aperol Spritz cocktails, and beer from American Icon Brewery.
Championship Brunches – Friday, Feb. 14 & Sunday, Feb. 16 from 11 a.m to 3 p.m. Enjoy an upscale brunch, including bottomless Bloody Mary’s and mimosas prior to the ATP Stadium Court matches. Still want more? Guests can continue to experience the Hospitality Center’s endless beverages, desserts and coffee with the ability to leave and re-enter at any time until 3 p.m.!
Game, Set, Pour – Saturday, Feb. 15 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. (VIP access starts at 5:45 p.m.) The 6th annual “Ultimate Pairing Event” features unlimited samplings of the best beer, wine, spirits and food from local restaurants and bars around South Florida. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Community Classroom Project, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that makes learning less stressful for students, parent, families, educators and communities.
2025 Delray Beach Open Special Events The Delray Beach Open is also renowned for the many special events that occur throughout its 10 days of tennis. Between USTA Kids Day, Senior Days, Wheelchair Tennis Showcase, Food Drive, Legends Clinic, Pro-Am & more, there’s always something exciting happening around the tournament at any given moment!
Legends Clinic – Saturday, Feb. 8 from 9:45 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Exclusive clinic taught by ATP Legends including the Bryan Bros., Jack Sock, Tommy Haas, Jensen Bros., Sam Querrey and Xavier Malisse! Participants also receive 2 Stadium Court Box seats for the day's matches, premier parking & food court vouchers. Limited availability! $800pp + tax.
USTA Florida Kids Day – Saturday, Feb. 8 from 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Kids and families are invited to participate in tennis games, tennis stations & open play! Discounted tickets, prizes & fun for all is guaranteed!
Senior Day Discounts – Saturday, Feb. 8, Monday, Feb. 10, Wednesday, Feb. 12. Buy 1, Get 1 Free Box or Reserved Seats for seniors! To receive your special discounts, call 561.330.6000 or use links below & enter ‘SENIOR’ as the Promo Code. Seats are Limited! *Seniors must be at least 55 yrs. old, offer may not be combined with any other promotions, proof of age required at the gate & tax and processing fees not included in above pricing.
Military Appreciation Day – Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025 - Day & Evening Session. The following receives two complimentary tickets per ID: Military, 1st Responders, Emergency Services Personnel Police, Fire Fighters & Nurses. *Tickets can be redeemed day of at the Box Office window by presenting an official ID or badge.
Teachers’ Appreciation Day – Sunday, Feb. 9 - Day Session. Teachers receive two complimentary tickets per ID. Based upon availability. *Tickets can be redeemed day of at the Box Office window by presenting an official ID or badge.
ATP Pro-Am – Sunday, Feb. 9 from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Participants receive 2 Stadium Court Box seats for the Day Session matches, Premier Parking & Food Court Vouchers. Limited availability! $550pp.
Food Drive – Monday, Feb. 10 (Day Session) Sponsored by Your South Florida BMW Centers, donate 10 non-perishable food items and receive 1 FREE Seat for that session Proceeds benefipng KOP Mentoring Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizapon. Limit 1 pcket per person.
2025 Wheelchair Showcase – Saturday, Feb. 15 from 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. The 2025 DBO Wheelchair Showcase will be another exciting event to the already action-packed Semi-Final match day. Come out to watch high-caliber, local players, showcase their Wheelchair Tennis skills on the side courts of the Delray Beach Open. USTA Florida will be providing extra wheelchairs where fans can experience the difference between tennis standing and tennis on wheels.
For the full list of events, visit: www.DelrayBeachOpen.com
By Laura Bowen
After six months of building momentum for our new Advocacy Program, USTA Florida in December officially launched our public program to help local volunteer leaders gain public support for more players, coaches and tennis courts. Now, we are calling on everyone in tennis to join our team.
Our new section advocacy program was developed by a team of volunteers in 2024, and it is now being led by three of those volunteers, who will provide guidance as an official Advisory Team that reports to the Board of Directors. Our new Director of Advocacy, Christine Ducey, is a seasoned professional, with decades of experience at USTA Florida. She will operationalize the program through workshops, education, project support and advocacy at the local level – working across the organization to connect the dots with programs and other resources.
The creation of a formal team of volunteer and staff leaders is a watershed moment for us at USTA Florida. Our kick-off event in Tallahassee . . . brought our leaders to the State Capitol to publicly address issues related to tennis. “ “
The creation of a formal team of volunteer and staff leaders is a watershed moment for us at USTA Florida. Our kick-off event in Tallahassee at the Old Capitol Museum was the first time in our history that we brought our leaders to the State Capitol to publicly address issues related to tennis. The venue itself was a testament to the power of advocacy, as the old capitol was saved from demolition by a group of citizens who lobbied to save it.
This remarkable event brought together city officials, board members and the State CFO to discuss why tennis is the best investment that communities can make. City officials were thrilled by the opportunity to engage other municipalities and see the resources that USTA Florida can bring to support their program and facility needs. Closing the event with a panel of leaders from FAMU’s women’s tennis program, which received our second HBCU tennis program grant, was also a nod to the importance of advocating for inclusion in our sport –a key priority for our organization.
In 2025, our team plans to host additional workshops and develop online training modules to help cities and local advocates do more to promote the growth of tennis in their communities. The workshops will focus on collaborating on key issues, developing local teams and plans, and formalizing outreach and communication. USTA Florida has developed a host of resources to help local advocates – including a robust web site with materials.
Our goal is to empower all staff, providers, players and others in the tennis community to be more vocal about the need for more programs, courts and resources. We need everyone in tennis to join the team and make sure every decision maker in Florida knows that tennis is the healthiest sport, and it is the best investment that we can make in our future.
If you have any questions about the content from USTA Florida in this magazine, please contact the Marketing Director, Amy Abi Nader (abinader@ustaflorida.com). To view the rest of the USTA Florida staff and find out who to reach out to regarding any programming questions, visit, ustaflorida.com/staff. SCAN TO VIEW STAFF PAGE
Matt Pressman,
Editor and Publisher of Florida Tennis
Veltri Racquet Center, located in the City of Plantation, is a premier tennis facility named after former Mayor Frank Veltri, an enthusiastic tennis player. Since opening in 1981, the center has undergone three expansions and now boasts 26 clay courts and 2 hard courts.
The center is renowned for hosting the prestigious Orange Bowl International Championships, which have been held there since 2011. The USTA moved this iconic event from Key Biscayne to Veltri in order to provide young players with more opportunities to compete on clay courts.
In addition to the Orange Bowl, the Veltri Tennis Center also hosts other major events such as the Girls 14 & Under Clay Court Nationals in July, the ITF J100 in May, and many other state and national tournaments. These events attract players and spectators across the region, boosting economic activity and encouraging broader community involvement. The center’s ability to combine world-class events with community-focused initiatives makes it a cornerstone of the Plantation community.
The Veltri Racquet Center fosters inclusivity, health, and social connection through a comprehensive range of programs. One standout initiative is its Wheelchair Tennis Program, a hallmark of its adaptive sports offerings. This program provides free bi-monthly sessions for individuals with disabilities on the first and third Thursdays of each month. By supplying specially designed sports wheelchairs for public use—the only facility in the area to do so—the program guarantees equitable access for all participants.
Nova Southeastern University (NSU), and Baptist Health. And, the city’s Police Department and Fire Department’s Community Outreach Division actively participate in events, fostering a safe and inclusive atmosphere and strengthening community ties.
In recognition of its exceptional contribution to tennis, Veltri Racquet Center recently won the USTA’s Outstanding Facility Award under the public courts, large tennis center category.
Veltri Racquet Center’s Supervisor of Racquet Sports, Dan Debruyne, accepted the award at the 2024 US Open in Flushing Meadows.
Bill Cascioli has been a long-time member at Veltri Racquet Center. Cascioli explains, “I have been a member of several tennis clubs throughout both Broward and Palm Beach Counties since moving to Florida full time in 1998. I can say without hesitation that the Veltri Racquet Center in Plantation is the best one I’ve been associated with since joining in 2009. The club has plenty of activities for players of all levels, including individual and group lessons. Veltri also hosts numerous USTA leagues as well as in-house six-team, 66-player men’s doubles league along with terrific social events like Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day mixers.”
The City of Plantation helps ensure that the sport of tennis flourishes at the Veltri Racquet Center. By combining robust infrastructure support with innovative community engagement strategies, the city continues to invest in the upkeep and improvement of the center, ensuring that its courts, amenities, and accessibility remain at a world-class standard.
The City of Plantation also actively promotes Veltri Racquet Center through targeted social media campaigns, advertising, and marketing efforts. The city enhances programming and resources through collaborations with organizations like USTA,
Ridda Domenech, another member at Veltri Racquet Center adds, “As an active USTA player for two years and captain of several ladies’ and mixed doubles teams, Veltri has been instrumental in my tennis journey. One of Veltri’s standout offerings is its diverse programming. Veltri provides ample opportunities to sharpen skills and connect with other players. Social events further enhance the sense of community, making it a welcoming space for tennis enthusiasts to come together.”
Looking ahead to an exciting calendar in 2025, Veltri plans to continue to expand its offerings with even more innovative programming. From ladies’ boot camps to junior development clinics, the center remains dedicated to fostering growth, competition, and community connections.
70% of all tennis participants in the United States play on public park, school, and community center tennis courts. Visit ustaflorida.com/places to find your local public park and get active today!
2024 marked a monumental milestone for USTA Florida as the organization celebrated 75 years of promoting tennis, inclusivity, and community development across the state. Through a series of six regional events, a lineup of notable honorees, and impactful new initiatives, the anniversary year highlighted USTA Florida’s legacy while setting the stage for its future.
The first event in the 75th Anniversary series took place at Vero Beach’s Riverside Racquet Club, where a court was dedicated to tennis legend Mardy Fish. Fish, a Vero Beach native and former world-class player, who was also inducted into the USTA Florida Hall of Fame. The celebration included the launch of the Florida Tennis Trail, a unique project designed to connect tennis enthusiasts with historic tennis sites across Florida.
In Miami, USTA Florida honored the rich history of tennis in the Sunshine State. The highlight was the induction of longtime volunteer and advocate Susan Allshouse into the Hall of Fame. Tennis legend Mary Joe Fernandez joined the celebration, bringing her star power and sharing reflections on Florida’s contribution to the sport and how it shaped her career.
Referred to as “Sunshine City,” the Orlando celebration showcased leadership and community. Hall of Fame inductee Robert Hollis was recognized for his lasting impact on Florida tennis, while attendees enjoyed insights on leadership and innovation from special guest and author Safi Bahcall. The evening concluded with a party featuring KC and the Sunshine Band, creating an electric atmosphere to energize the community around pushing the game forward.
The Jacksonville event had an emotional highlight as USTA Florida surprised former pro MaliVai Washington
with his Hall of Fame induction. The celebration also honored the MaliVai Washington Youth Tennis Foundation, which has transformed countless young lives through tennis and education. Additionally, Edward Waters University received the organization’s first-ever HBCU Tennis Program Support Grant, reinforcing USTA Florida’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Tampa’s event celebrated forward-thinking leadership, welcoming the 2025-2026 USTA Florida Board of Directors. Special guest Allistair McCaw, a best-selling author and performance coach, inspired attendees with a talk about resilience, innovation, and growth. The event underscored USTA Florida’s mission to ensure tennis remains vibrant for generations to come.
The final celebration in Tallahassee was a showcase of milestones. Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis presented a proclamation recognizing USTA Florida’s 75 years of service. The event also marked the unveiling of the organization’s first-ever Economic Impact Report, which revealed that tennis contributes an impressive $145.9 million annually to Florida’s economy. Advocacy leaders from around the state gathered to share insights and strategies to grow the
game, as this event marked the official launch of USTA Florida’s Advocacy initiative. Finally, Florida A&M University (FAMU) was awarded USTA Florida’s second-ever HBCU Tennis Program Support Grant, worth $100,000, to enhance student-athlete opportunities and expand community tennis programs.
As part of its celebrations, USTA Florida honored individuals, families, and organizations whose contributions have shaped Florida’s tennis community:
• Marcelo Gouts – Merit Award
• The David Ensignia Family – Family of the Year
• Fort King Tennis Center – Organization of the Year
• Mary Conaway – Outstanding Section Volunteer
• City of Palm Beach Gardens Tennis & Pickleball Center – Outstanding Diversity Achievement
• Jim Martz – Jim Martz Media Excellence Award
• Claire Shao & Jack Satterfield – Albert Carrington Balink Award
These awardees exemplify the spirit of tennis in Florida, showcasing leadership, inclusivity, and a passion for the sport.
To commemorate its milestone, USTA Florida released a Special Edition 75th Anniversary Florida Tennis Magazine in July/August 2024. This explored the organization’s history, celebrated iconic moments, and featured inspiring stories from players, volunteers, and coaches who have contributed to its success.
USTA Florida brought the party to everyone, by providing event kits to tennis facilities and community organizations across the state, ensuring that local celebrations resonated with the themes of the 75th Anniversary. Nearly 250 communities hosted their own 75th Anniversary Celebration events.
The USTA Florida Foundation launched its “$75K for 75 Years” fundraising campaign, with a goal of raising $75,000 to support underserved tennis programs across the state. Thanks to the generosity of donors, the campaign met its goal, helping expand access to tennis and fund impactful community initiatives.
Since its founding in 1948, USTA Florida has been a trailblazer in growing the sport of tennis, advocating for inclusivity, and creating opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels. The 75th Anniversary celebration served as a testament to the organization’s enduring legacy, bringing together tennis enthusiasts, community leaders, and advocates to honor the past while building excitement for the future.
From the launch of the Florida Tennis Trail in Vero Beach to the groundbreaking Economic Impact Report revealed in Tallahassee, the year was filled with moments that underscored USTA Florida’s commitment to making tennis more accessible, impactful, and inclusive for all.
As USTA Florida looks toward the next 75 years, the organization remains dedicated to advancing the game of tennis and ensuring its positive impact continues to grow. From everyone at USTA Florida, we want to say thank you for making the 75th year so special and here’s to a future filled with even more milestones, champions, and community excellence!
USTA FLORIDA UNVEILS INAUGURAL ECONOMIC IMPACT REPORT SHOWING
USTA FLORIDA TODAY RELEASED ITS FIRST-EVER ECONOMIC IMPACT REPORT, CONDUCTED BY TOURISM ECONOMICS, AN OXFORD ECONOMICS COMPANY. THE REPORT HIGHLIGHTS THE SUBSTANTIAL CONTRIBUTIONS OF AMATEUR, YOUTH, AND ADULT TENNIS TOURNAMENTS AND EVENTS TO FLORIDA’S ECONOMY IN 2023.
The report analyzed 1,134 sanctioned tennis tournaments and events across the state. Those events attracted 92,456 participants and 160,325 spectators, generating an impressive $81.8 million in direct spending. This spending translated into a total economic impact of $145.9 million, supporting 1,007 full-time and part-time jobs and contributing $11.4 million in state and local taxes.
Every dollar spent by USTA Florida generated $12.84 in visitor spending, $6.95 in total income, and $1.80 in total state and local taxes.
“This report shows how much financial power tennis brings to communities and why cities who develop tennis facilities and host events see a positive return beyond the direct revenue. When you combine the economic impact with the health and wellness benefits of tennis, public tennis centers are clearly a first-class investment,” said Laura Bowen, executive director of USTA Florida.
KEY FINDINGS FROM THE REPORT:
• Non-local attendees accounted for 112,838 participants and spectators, spending $81.8 million across various sectors, including:
• $24.3 million in food and beverage
• $18.7 million in lodging
• $14.2 million in retail purchases
• $9.8 million in entertainment/ recreation
• $8.1 million in tournament operations
• $6.8 million in local transportation
The economic ripple effects saw a direct expenditure of $81.8 million was generated.
• $30.4 million in indirect impacts through supplier purchases
• $33.7 million in induced impacts through new household income spending
• A total of $145.9 million in business sales across Florida.
Additionally, the tennis tournaments and events directly supported 661 jobs, with an additional 163 indirect jobs and 183 induced jobs created. This activity resulted in $44.3 million in total labor income, including wages, benefits, and personal income.
The findings underscore tennis’s critical role in Florida’s tourism and economy, reinforcing USTA Florida’s mission to make tennis accessible for everyone. To view the full Economic Impact Report, visit ustaflorida. com/eip.
The keynote speaker the Little Mo Internationals this year in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida was Rick Macci, the tennis coaching legend who has shaped so many champions. Macci has coached five players who've reached No. 1 on the pro tour including Andy Roddick, Venus Williams, Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova, and Jennifer Capriati.
As Macci stepped onto the courts for his keynote speech, he was greeted with a sea of excited faces. “Wow, I can’t believe it,” he told to Florida Tennis contributor Dave "Koz" Kozlowski in an exclusive interview. “There were 1,400 kids waiting in line for an autograph or a book signed. And then the parents jumped in, too. It’s humbling to see how much people appreciate what I’ve done for this game.”
Macci appears on the most recent cover of Florida Tennis with Little Mo champion Vlada Hrancher. From coaching Venus and Serena Williams to countless other young talents, he continues to learn as much as he teaches. “Any great coach will tell you they learn more from their students than the students learn from them,” he shared. “They’re kids first, and that’s what I remind parents all the time. At ten or twelve, what would you have done? It helps everyone take a deep breath.”
With his trademark enthusiasm, Macci stressed that coaching isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. “It’s about taking the temperature with each kid,” he explained. “You can’t just go through the front door every time. Sometimes you go through the chimney. That’s the art of coaching—figuring out what works for each individual.”
Macci’s ability to inspire isn’t just limited to the tennis court. He was recently portrayed by actor Jon Bernthal in a Hollywood blockbuster. Reflecting on the impact of the movie King Richard, he said, “It was beyond epic. It wasn’t just about tennis. It was about fatherhood, love, and inspiration. The story of Venus and Serena proves that with hard work and belief, anything is possible.”
For Macci, tennis is more than a sport — it delivers life lessons. “I’m more of a life coach than a tennis coach,” he admitted. “Not every kid is going to play pro tennis or even college tennis. But if I can help them study better, treat people better, or just see life through a different lens, then I’ve done my job.”
Macci’s shared a bit about his life story as well. “I was a great golfer when I was ten, but my father passed away that year. At twelve, I picked up a racket and hit against a wall. The wall’s undefeated—it always came back! I loved it because where there’s a wall, there’s a way.”
“People ask about my story all the time, and it’s wild to think about,” he said. “At 18, I was a top junior player, but I knew I wasn’t going to make it on the pro tour. At 22, I started teaching, and I haven’t looked back. At nearly 70, I have as much passion for the game as I did when I started.”
Macci’s next chapter promises to be just as exciting. “We’re working on a TV show called The Phenom Maker,” he revealed. “It’s going to be about the journey—the good, the bad, the ugly. It’s not just tennis; it’s about the struggle, sacrifice, and hard work that go into becoming the best. Venus and Serena are on board, and it’s going to be beyond epic.”
Even with the TV project, Macci remains committed to being on the court. “I don’t know when I’ll find the time to film it. We might be shooting in the middle of the night!” he joked. But his excitement was palpable. “This show will inspire people and show what it truly takes to reach the top.”
As the interview wound down, Macci's energy remained electric. “These people love tennis,” he said with a grin. “But more than that, they love what tennis can teach them about life.” Macci’s passion, wisdom, and boundless energy continue to make him a force in the sport.
“The best feeling in the world is knowing you’ve made a difference.” And for Rick Macci, the difference he’s made is undeniable.
By Dave “Koz” Kozlowski
One of the career thrills for many of us in the tennis world would be an invitation to join the Little MO Tennis staff. During the last decade, for this tennis professional and tennis media journalist, joining the Little MO crew has had a fantastic impression on my appreciation of the positive developmental influences that tennis offers youngsters getting into the game. Before we continue, lets learn who Little MO is. She is Maureen Connolly Brinker. In1953 she was the first woman to win the Grand Slam of tennis winning all four major tournaments (Wimbledon, U.S. Open, French Open, and Australian Open) in the same calendar year. She is still the only American woman and the youngest (age 18) to have accomplished this tour de force. One should easily say that player Little MO was one of the best in the game. Her everlasting nickname was bestowed upon her when a San Diego sportswriter juxtaposed her powerful groundstrokes to the mighty battleship The Big Missouri.
The Little Mo Tournament circuit, which proudly has Jersey Mikes Subs as its title sponsor are in memory of Maureen “Little Mo” Connolly Brinker, who was known for her outstanding sportsmanship on and off the court. The Maureen Connolly Brinker Tennis Foundation (MCBTF) has promoted junior tennis development for over 55 years and continues to benefit countless numbers of boys and girls throughout the United States and the world. Maureen’s daughters Cindy Brinker Simmons – President and Brenda Brinker Bottum – Vice President of the MCBTF set the pace and share a myriad of family stories. There is an openhearted welcoming feeling when the two daughters always refer to their mother Maureen as “Mom” when speaking with the parents and the kids.
The year-round professional tennis staff is headed-up by Carol Weyman’s wealth of professional tennis acumen with the WTA Virgina Slims of Dallas and the men’s World Championship Tennis (WCT) experience. Tournament Operations, Matthew Cody – manager and Tiffany Hollebeck – coordinator, mix administration and kids entertainment with the best in the business. And Rick Workman, with his major league tennis success history is the Little MO Tournament Director and rounds out this award-winning lineup.
Little MO tennis offers the complete package for boys and girls ages 8 to 16 at Little MO junior tennis tournaments throughout the USA with their regional and national tournaments and throughout the world with their three international tournaments that welcomes families from over 60 countries. In addition to “tennis moms and dads” providing extraordinary opportunities to get their children started in tennis, these kids now are enjoying the great wholesome fun of competitive but respectful competition in the Little MO program.
The opening day consists of a warm-up tennis clinic for all players. Legendary coaches have included Wayne, Bob, and Mike Bryan, Chris Evert, Nick Bollettieri and Rick Macci. The parade of flags representing the countries of participating players provides patriotic pride.
During the tournament, the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. Each opponent in her or his opening match brings a gift for her or his opponent. These young Little MO competitors are being guided toward sportsmanship and kindness for their opponents, opponents’ family members, referees, and officials. There are acknowledged Sportsmanship and Kindness awards. These kids love earning their Little MO Coins, which they receive when sportsmanship and kindness is observed. The coins are then redeemed for popular gifts. It has been rewarding to witness the love that kids have playing tennis by the Little MO code. MCBTF strives to empower young athletes by giving travel grants in addition to sportsmanship and kindness awards to deserving individuals in honor of Maureen’s legacy.
The Little Mo family is proud of its former MO Slam winners; Andy Roddick, Leylah Fernandez, Dominic Thiem, Ryan Harrison, Coco Gauff, Taylor Townsend, Vasek Pospisil, Borna Coric, Jenson Brooksby, Madison Keys, Donald Young, Steve Johnson, Sonya Kenin, Denis Kudla, CiCi Bellis, Ana Konjuh, and Belinda Bencic. Certainly, one of the Little MO highlights for The Koz is to meet and interview the players, parents, and coaches.
For 63 years, the Junior Orange Bowl has been the crown jewel of youth tennis, drawing some of the world’s most promising players to Miami. “It’s a world-class tournament,” says Robert Gomez, the event’s director. “We’ve had legends like Jimmy Connors, Chris Evert, Andy Murray, and Coco Gauff either win or compete here.”
The 2024 Junior Orange Bowl did not disappoint as it showcased immense talent from around the globe. “It’s incredible to see such diverse representation; seven of the eight girls’ quarterfinalists were from different countries.” This tournament’s history is as rich as its future is bright, offering a glimpse of tomorrow’s stars today.
Walking around the tournament, the international flavor is palpable. Florida Tennis asked Gomez the differences between European and American players at the tournament. “European players, who grow up on clay, have this court sense,” Gomez explains. “They’re masters of constructing points, using slices and drop shots. Meanwhile, American players bring power, serving big and hitting flat. It’s a fascinating contrast.”
The winners at this year's Junior Orange Bowl showcase international talent from all over the globe. The winner of the Boys 12 was Novak Palombo (AUS). The winner of the Boys 14 was Qi
Hongjin (CHN). The winner of the Girls 12 Nikol Davletshina (USA). The winner of the Girls 14 was Sakino Miyazawa (JPN). Davletshina, the sole winner from the USA, is based out of Boca Raton, Florida.
To that end, we asked Gomez about Florida’s role as America's tennis epicenter. “The weather lets us play year-round,” Gomez says. “From iconic institutions like IMG Academy to smaller satellite programs, there’s a culture of excellence here.” Florida’s tennis pedigree extends beyond junior events. “It’s just a hub of activity that breeds talent.”
The Junior Orange Bowl will always be a proving ground for the elite. “We only take the top 100 players in the world,” Gomez notes. “Think of it as the Harvard of junior tennis.” What does it take to get here? “Passion, consistency, and ambition,” he emphasizes. “You’ve got to work extremely hard, stay humble, and be mentally tough. This isn’t just about talent, it’s about perseverance.”
For juniors aiming to play at the Junior Orange Bowl, Gomez offers some tips: “Understand your game style and play to your strengths,” he advises. “If you’re aggressive, embrace it. If you’re more analytical, let that shine. But above all, be rock solid with no holes in your game.”
To learn more about the Junior Orange Bowl, visit: https://juniororangebowl.org/tennis.
Sienna Frizelle, Kylie Kochis, Sawyer Olson and Dillon Dhylinski attended the Ed Krass College Prep event in Lakeland over the weekend vof December 10-11. All four were recipients of the Jack Blair Award, which the YTF has been giving to deserving players for nearly 20 years now. Attendees were coached by a staff which included nearly two dozen collegiate coaches from all categories of schools. Every recipient over the years has raved about the experience, as did these four.
Jack Blair was the first president of the YTF back in 1962 when we came into existence. He is a past-president of the Florida Tennis Association and a member of the USTA-Florida Hall of Fame.
Congratulations to the four winners and best of luck with finding the perfect college to continue your tennis careers!
Junior players, from 20 states and 5 countries, came together to train on court with 21 Head College Coaches during the weekend of December 7-8 at the Beerman Tennis Center in Lakeland at Coach Ed Krass' 36th Annual College Tennis Exposure Camp.
Players were treated to 10 hours of on court drilling and team matchplay, with on court coaching, during the camp's dynamic weekend. Players had an opportunity to showcase their game as well as learn more about the college game and strategies from each college coach instructing.
"Every camp allows our staff of Division, 1,2,3 and NAIA Head Coaches to work on court with each player to assess their game, personality, work ethic, coachability and upside", stated Ed Krass, who started his camp in 1989 when he was the Head Women's Coach at Harvard. Krass goes on to say, "Our camp has provided a successful springboard, for thousands of players, to be recruited into the College Tennis ranks!"
Coach Krass will bring his 37th Annual College Tennis Exposure Camp Tour, in the Summer of 2025, to:
• USTA National Campus (Lake Nona, FL) – May 31-June 1, 2025
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA) – June 28-29
• Lehigh University (Bethlehem, PA) – July 12-13
• Mercer County Park (Princeton, NJ) – July 19-20
• Wesleyan University (Middletown, CT) – July 26-27
• Beerman Tennis Center (Lakeland, FL) – December 6-7
The camp is open to players, ages 14-18, and to a few NCAA Transfer Portal players.
To register or for more information, visit www.collegetennis.com; 813-684-9031; ekrass@tampabay.rr.com
The Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) International Racquets Conference is coming to Saddlebrook Resort, in Wesley Chapel, FL. from Feb. 23-27, 2025. To kick-off the conference, The PTR will host Coach Ed Krass and his One-OnOne Doubles Tournament and Concert Event — with $2000 guaranteed prize money — on Sunday, February 23rd from 1 -5 p.m. Ed Krass, who coached at Harvard and Clemson, is the Founder/Director of One-On-One Doubles Tournaments. The Co-Ed playing divisions will be the OPEN and 50 & OVER Divisions. The musical guest is the Steve Arvey Rockin' Blues Band who will play during the first two hours of the event's round robin matches. The format of play will be round robin, to guarantee each player three matches before the event's knockout rounds. Each match is a Fast Four set with a tiebreaker at 3-3.
Entry Fee is $50 and includes the tournament, concert, snacks and beverages. The two draws will attract players who are attending the PTR International Racquets Conference as well as players from around the state and country. The PTR members will have a registration deadline of Feb. 12th and the general public will have a registration deadline of Feb. 20th. Each draw is limited to 32 players. Each Divisional Winner will earn $600 and the Finalist will earn $400.
"The Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) is excited to partner with Ed Krass, Founder/Director of One-on- One Doubles, to host an Open and Over 50 Divi-
sion One-on-One Doubles Tournament on Sunday, February 23rd at the worldrenowned Saddlebrook Resort in Wesley Chapel, FL. This event will mark the start of PTR’s annual International Racquets Conference held February 23-27, 2025. Tournament participants with aspirations for coaching who choose to register for the conference will receive world- class education in junior and adult coaching, business, and leadership. We're looking forward to a successful tournament -- where a few of the lucky participants will win $2,000 in prize money! We hope to see you there," stated Dimitry Vlassov, PTR Events Coordinator.
“Playing One-On-One Doubles is always a highlight of my year. The tournament events combine energy, live musical entertainment and a high level of tennis. One-On-One Doubles is an exciting game and format that has a place in the upper echelons of Pro Tennis,” stated to Ashley Fisher, 2006 U.S. Open Doubles Semifinalist.
To learn more and register for the $2000 PTR International One-On-One Doubles Championships, go to: https://app.utrsports.net/events/278418
For more information about this tournament, contact Ed Krass at oneononedoubles@yahoo.com; (813) 478-3384. For more information about OneOn-One Doubles Tournaments, visit http://www.oneononedoubles.com.
By Osvaldo Godoy
In December 2024, the USP College Tennis Showcase took place at the Emilio Sanchez Academy in Naples, Florida. With approximately 180 players and over 100 college coaches in attendance, this event was a game-changer for aspiring young tennis players and a perfect opportunity for college coaches to scout top talent.
The USP College Showcase stands out for its unique blend of competition, networking, and education. Thomas Anderson, the CEO and Founder of USP, shared the event’s background with us. “Nineteen years ago, I realized how inefficient it was for coaches to scout players during big tournaments like Eddie Herr and the Orange Bowl. So, I started this event to bridge that gap, and now, 20 years later, it’s a cornerstone for college recruitment,” Anderson said.
The event offers a team-based format that mimics the dynamics of college tennis. “The unique thing about the event itself is the fact that they’re playing college tennis style,” said Oscar Miranda, USP’s Chief Business Officear. “It allows the players to get their first insight into what their future could look like in college tennis.”
Carlos Onate, USP’s Director of Operations explained, “Some coaches are walking around looking at the matches, taking notes with the players’ information in hand. But then we set up an area with tables, creating a college expo-like setting. This way, college coaches are available and ready for kids to sit down and interact with them.”
Players like Jinai Duany found the event transformative. “I would say the showcase is very helpful because it makes talking to the coaches
a lot more approachable,” she said, echoing the sentiments of many participants. Her mother, Aprelle Duany, was equally impressed. “I was really amazed and surprised to see so many coaches out here. I just want Jinai to find a school that she is really passionate about and that has everything she is looking for in her college experience,” she said.
The Showcase isn’t just about matches and meetings. It’s also an educational experience. Workshops covered topics like creating a college list, making recruitment videos, and navigating the NCAA eligibility process. “You’re not on the court the whole day,” Anderson noted. “While you’re not playing, you’re doing some kind of activity indoors, and a lot of activities are seminars.”
For coaches like UCONN's Glenn Marshall, the Showcase provides an invaluable and wellstructured opportunity to evaluate potential recruits. “USP’s staff is excellent,” Marshall said. “They get information to us. It’s all clear. We know where the kids are playing and the opportunities they have to play in front of us, which is great.”
The atmosphere was electric, blending competitive spirit with a supportive community. “The team captains, many of whom are former college players, add another layer of excitement,” Anderson said. “It’s all about bragging rights and healthy competition.”
Looking ahead, USP plans to expand its reach. “We’re considering a summer showcase here and more events overseas,” Anderson revealed. “For me, it’s about changing lives. We’ve already helped over 2,000 kids find their path to college, and we’re not stopping.”
Boca Cryo is a wellness company which offers healing and recovery through state of the art technologies, all non-invasive and drug-free. We offer 7 different therapies in our center.
Our flagship service is WHOLE BODY CRYOTHERAPY, which treats inflammation, pain, stiffness, sleep disorders and helps performance improvement. Three minutes of sub-zero temperatures (-160 F) using safe, cold air in a “true” whole body chamber, leaves you with a rush of endorphins and other pain modulators. This short stay in the cold also boosts your metabolism while strengthening your immune system! Our specialized chamber is equipped with speakers which play your favorite tunes while moving freely about. Unlike our competitors, we DO NOT use liquid nitrogen.
We also offer LOCALIZED CRYOTHERAPY for those specific areas of pain and inflammation. This can be administered a La Carte or in conjunction with WBC.
BOCA CRYO FACIAL is another popular therapy. If you are looking for less wrinkles and puffiness, and want tight skin and a younger look, this is for you! This 10 minute therapy, in conjunction with WBC, is shown to increase collagen production. As one of the most abundant proteins in the body, collagen helps make the skin look younger and fuller without injections and expensive creams.
MAGNETHERAPY is yet another treatment offered, using a state-of-the-art device called the Magnesphere. This is a low level magnetic resonance device which helps relax the body by balancing your Heart Rate Variability or HRV. Our Autonomic Nervous System is divided into Sympathetic (fight or flight) and Parasympathetic (rest and digest) systems. By bringing these two systems into balance, the body begins to heal itself! All of our clients, who have used this device, relax so much that they fall asleep during the session.
Our COMPRESSION THERAPY focuses on the lower body. This pneumatic system, developed by a physician for circulation-challenged patients, inflates sleeves covering your legs. Systematically, the compression helps eliminate the by-products of exercise and aids in venous return to the heart. Athletes and weekend warriors, as well as people with circulatory insufficiencies, can benefit from this therapy.
Our SALT THERAPY is a form of therapy which entails relaxing in a room infused with medical-grade salt crystals that are inhaled and help with respiratory issues ranging from asthma, COPD and sinusitis, to mention a few. Salt therapy is a tremendous therapy and healer for skin disorders such as acne and psoriasis.
Our newest technology from Prague, Czech Republic, is called EMSCULPT. It is the first FDA approved device to increase muscle by 16% and decrease fat by 19% on average. In the world of aesthetics, this is rapidly becoming very popular in our center.
190 Glades Rd, Suite C, Boca Raton, FL 33432 www.bocacryo.com ~ 561-717-4402 ~ Email: ian@bocacryo.com
Ian Pyka received his Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiological Sciences at the University of Maryland and completed his Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology at the University of Tennessee. His first job was at the University of Massachusetts, as their first Head Strength and Conditioning Coach. Four years later, he accepted the same position at Tulane University. He later accepted the position of Head Strength and Conditioning Coach for the New England Patriots. In 1994, he managed a preventive medicine center in Scottsdale, Arizona, working with a retired population, establishing diet and exercise regimes to improve quality of life and longevity. Then in 1998, he was hired by the Florida Panthers to be their Head Strength and Conditioning Coach. In 2002, he started Power Play Fitness, a company which focuses on the sports specific and comprehensive training of athletes as well as any motivated individuals interested in improving their overall fitness and health. He presently teaches Kinesiology, Biomechanics and Advanced Strength and Conditioning Methods, in the Exercise Science Department at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. He is certified as a strength and conditioning specialist with the National Strength and Conditioning Association.
Ian was also a three time All-American (Track &Field) while at Maryland and earned an alternate spot on the 1980 US Olympic Track and Field Team.
By Ian Pyka
In the world of sports and physical performance, athletes often focus on training regimens, nutrition plans, and mental conditioning to gain a competitive edge. However, one critical aspect of recovery and overall performance is often overlooked: sleep. Proper sleep is not just a luxury; it is a fundamental component of athletic recovery and success for tennis players.
A study performed by Reyner, L.A. and Horne, J.A. looked at serving accuracy in tennis players after sleep deprivation, with and without caffeine supplementation. Their findings concluded that sleep deprivation was responsible for a 33% drop off in accuracy, with or without caffeine supplementation.
Sleep is a highly active period for the body, during which it undergoes vital restorative processes. These include:
Muscle Repair and Growth: During deep sleep stages, the body releases growth hormone, which aids in muscle repair and growth. This is especially crucial for athletes who subject their muscles to regular stress through intense training.
Energy Restoration: Sleep replenishes glycogen stores, which serve as a primary energy source during physical activity. Without adequate sleep, athletes may experience reduced energy levels, hampering their performance.
Cognitive Function: Sleep enhances mental clarity, decision-making, and reaction time—all critical factors for athletic performance. Lack of sleep can impair focus and coordination, increasing the risk of errors and injuries.
Immune System Support: Proper sleep strengthens the immune system, reducing the likelihood of illness and enabling athletes to maintain consistent training schedules.
To harness the benefits of sleep, athletes should adopt strategies to improve sleep quality and duration. These include: establishing a consistent sleep schedule (going to bed and arising at the same time daily); creating a sleepfriendly environment (cool, dark and quiet environment); limiting screen time before bed (exposure to blue light from tablets, phones and computers decreases melatonin, which is responsible for better sleep); and relaxation techniques (deep breathing, meditation and mild stretching may help calm the body prior to sleep).
Boca Cryo Wellness Center in Boca Raton addresses sleep deprivation symptoms with a number of innovative modalities including:
Whole Body Cryotherapy provides a healthy parasympathetic response to the fight or flight alarm state of the sympathetic nervous system. In fact, almost all our clients experience full, deep and restful sleep after only one treatment of 3.5 minutes of extreme cold exposure.
Magnetherapy works to stimulate the vagus nerve which is responsible for the parasympathetic response of the autonomic nervous system. This in turn, brings the body back to homeostasis where it can maximally operate.
Red Light Therapy has been shown to improve sleep by regulating the body’s circadian rhythms and promoting melatonin production, a substance which lets the body know when it’s time to sleep.
Roger Federer was known for getting 11-12 hours of sleep per night including naps to help him support such a demanding practice and tournament
schedule.. Sleep is critical for not only professional athletes, but all who are in search of maximal performance. By prioritizing and optimizing sleep, athletes can unlock their full potential, recover effectively, and gain a competitive edge. In the end, investing in quality sleep is investing in success—both on and off the court.
Join Tennis legend Sergi Bruguera for an exclusive corporate doubles event
Play doubles with 2-time Grand Slam Champion Sergi Bruguera
After doubles, enjoy a corporate luncheon interacting with world champion Sergi Bruguera
Special corporate exposure: San Juan Tennis Clinic for children and Dorado Tennis Clinic For Children
Registration Fee: $2,500
Schedule: TBD (limited space available)
To purchase and reserve your spot at this event or for sponsorship opportunities Call: 757-897-4584 \ Email: gmrproductions27@gmail.com (and please include your cell phone number)