Net News March/April 2020

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE ATLANTA LAWN TENNIS ASSOCIATION, INC.

MARCH/APRIL 2020

ALTA, WHERE ATLANTA COMES TO PLAY

2020 Board of Directors

p. 30

League News

p. 36

Court Cuisine

p. 48

HEAD PRO PLAYERS MAY PLAY WITH DIFFERENT RACQUETS FROM THE MODEL SHOWN.

BLINK AND YOU MISS IT

BLINK AND YOU MISS IT A FAST GAME NEEDS A FAST RACQUET. WITH ITS LATEST GRAPHENE 360+ TECHNOLOGY, THE NEW HEAD SPEED SERIES OFFERS THE PERFECT BLEND OF FLEX AND STABILITY WITH AN ENHANCED ENERGY TRANSFER FROM RACQUET TO BALL. IF YOU PLAY FAST, CONGRATULATIONS - YOU JUST GOT FASTER.

.COM

1-866-513-7748 SEAISLAND.COM

CONTENTS

MARCH/APRIL 2020 VOLUME 30 NUMBER 2

32 FEATURES 30

ALTA 2020 Board of Directors

32 ALTA Foundation’s START Program 50

The ALTA Guide to Summer Tennis Camps

EXTRAS 22

2020 Photo Contest

34

Trivia Contest Winner

Meet Rhonda Kupka, the winner of last issue’s trivia contest.

34

Net News Trivia Contest

Enter our trivia contest for a chance to win a Tourna Ballport and a HEAD bag.

36

48

LEAGUE NEWS

COURT CUISINE

36 Juniors

48 Salads

37

Junior Challenge Ladder

38

Mixed Doubles

IN EVERY ISSUE

39

Good Sportsmanship

4

President’s Letter

8

ALTA Calendars

12

Heard Around Atlanta

IMPROVING YOUR GAME 41

Jensen Zone

20

Tennis Headlines

42

Finding Your Style

40

Good Question

HEALTH & FITNESS 44

Better Balance

NUTRITION 46

Will A Plant-Based Eating Plan Improve Your Tennis Game

63 Classifieds 64

About ALTA ON THE COVER Enroll your kids in tennis camp this summer. No matter their skill level, there’s a program to improve their game or to help them fall in love with the sport that you play.

Our guide begins on p. 50.

Net News, USPS 553-850, is mailed bimonthly by New South Pub­lishing Inc., 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210, Atlanta, GA 30350 and is the official publication of the Atlanta Lawn Tennis Association, Inc., © Copyright 2020. Copies are mailed to mem­bers as part of their annual dues. Periodicals postage paid at Atlanta, Georgia and additional mailing offices. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: ALTA, 300 Colonial Center Parkway, Suite 140, Roswell, GA 30076.

2

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

AT L A N TA’ S S P I N E S P E C I A L I S T S From physical therapy and pain management to neurosurgery— w e’ v e g o t y o u r b a c k . L i t e ra l l y.

SAME DAY APPOINTMENTS SANDY SPRINGS I SMYRNA 404.255.2633 . polarisspine.com

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

Let’s Keep Our Matches Fun

W

ith ALTA’s winter league season winding

interesting to me how the saying of “what goes around,

down, we are all looking forward to the

comes around” is applied so often before, during, and after

spring ALTA season and better tennis

tennis matches. Tennis is a fun game. There is nothing better

weather. ALTA has such a great team

than a great tennis match, laughing, having fun, and great

of knowledgeable volunteers who help captains and players

points. A fun match makes it a lot easier to lose as well!

resolve issues and are available to answer questions. ALTA’s

ALTA volunteers love to hear the stories of good

coordinators, overall coordinators, and league vice presidents

sportsmanship; a match where a player(s) was lost or caught

want to make your season enjoyable and fun. Please let your

in traffic and arrived past the 20-minute default time, and

coordinator know if you have questions or need any guidance

the opponents play the match regardless of the late start.

with a rule or an issue, as they are there to help you.

Who wants to “win” (not really) a match by taking a default?

We all want a fun, competitive season, where we meet

ALTA, with 70,000+ members, must follow the rules in place,

new acquaintances and leave the courts with a positive

or there would be chaos. There have been many times the

attitude and the ability to tackle the rest of the day. There

enforcement of the rule(s) has been a frustration to many

is nothing worse than a bad day at the courts because of a

a volunteer. If a player’s intentions revolve around good

player’s display of bad sportsmanship. It seems to ruin our

sportsmanship, matches will not become contentious, and

day and maybe the next day, too! Bad line calls, whether

points will be won on the court (not on paper).

intentional or not, are frustrating and somewhat unavoidable

Ask your new neighbors to join your team. What a great

as ALTA matches are not officiated. However, we must pay

way to meet new friends, to socialize while exercising and

attention to our own responses to these situations so as not

having fun! So, here’s to a fun spring tennis season with great

to elevate the problems. With issues such as rain delays, lets,

competition, great friends, new friends, refreshments, and

rule interpretations, bad line calls, and traffic, we all need to

most of all — great ALTA tennis!

remember that these issues also could happen to any of us.

One of my own personal “rules” I try to always remember is:

Sandy Depa, 2020 ALTA President

How would I want to be treated? I know that several of us have

For the latest news, information and events.

4

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

altatennis.org facebook.com/Atlanta Lawn Tennis Association instagram.com/ALTA_tennis netnewsmag.com

Photo by LaRuche Creative

experienced unpleasantness on the court, and it’s always

’

ATLANTA S OWN

2020 ALTA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 300 Colonial Center Parkway, Suite 140, Roswell, GA 30076 Phone: 770.399.5788 Website: altatennis.org President Sandy Depa

First Vice President Debbie Gaster Secretary Camille Puckett

Treasurer John Lowell

As Atlanta’s only LOCAL Sports Surfaces provider, we're proud of all the marks being made.

VP Men’s League Lamar Scott

VP Thursday Keri Beck Women’s League

VP Sunday Chequetta Allen Women’s League

VP Senior Day Leagues Kim Dlugolenski

VP Senior Leagues Roger Dennington

VP Mixed Cameron Turner Doubles League

ENJOY THE 2020 ALTA SEASON!

VP Junior Leagues Rita Maloof VP Junior Brenda Maddaleni Challenge Ladder VP Special Programs Bob Kohmescher VP Media Michelle Ruiz Appointed Member Barbara Ingram 2019 President Bill Price 2018 President Joyce Vance ALTA Foundation Rep Candace Cole

2020 ALTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

tennispaint.com

770.734.3000

Chairman Bob Fitzgerald

2018 ALTA President Joyce Vance

2019 ALTA President Bill Price

2020 ALTA President Sandy Depa

The ALTA Foundation Diana Burger President COURT CUISINE

2018 Elected Member Didi Chapdelaine

2019 Elected Member Larry Waters

Treasurer John Lowell

Sausage Muffins

California Quinoa Salad

Linda Smith West Smyrna S&T Thursday Women C4 1 lb. ground sausage 1 can cheddar cheese soup 3 cups Bisquick 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated soup Brown and drain sausage. Mix with mixing and Bisquick. Add 3/4 can water, regular or well. Drop in greased muffin tins, bake at mini. Top with grated cheese and 375 15-20 minutes, or until brown.

Peanut Butter Balls

Lisa Gravlee, Woods of Parkview Sunday Women B1 1 cup large flake rolled oats 1/2 cup all natural peanut butter 1/4 cup honey 2 Tbsp. ground coffee 2 oz. semi-sweet chocolate, chopped 2 oz. white chocolate, chopped Mix ingredients together well. Refrigerate (makes for 20 minutes. Roll into 1-inch balls approximately 20).

72

Jenni Steines, Parkbrooke Sunday Women AA2

2 cups mixed quinoa 4 cups water 1 pkg. frozen mango or 2-3 diced fresh mangoes 1/2 large red onion, diced 1 medium to large red pepper, diced 1 small bunch cilantro, chopped 1-2 cups shredded, unsweeted coconut 3/4-1 cup unsalted, dry-toasted slivered almonds 1/2 cup raisins 2-3 cups frozen edamame, thawed 4-5 limes, juiced 1-4 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar

When Rinse quinoa well, cook as directed.

Add all done, fluff and spread out to cool. cold. other ingredients and toss. Enjoy

Chocolate Chip Cookie

Taylor Aycock, Buford City Parks Juniors 12U [pls ck] 1 3/4 3/4 1 2 2 1/4 1 1 2

cup butter, softened cup white sugar cup brown sugar, packed tsp. vanilla extract eggs cups all purpose flour

NOW YOU CAN SHARE YOUR FAVORITE COURT CUISINE RECIPES ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER

tsp. salt tsp. baking soda cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

and In a large bowl, beat butter, sugars Add vanilla extract until ight and fluffy.

Gradually eggs, one at a time, beating well. until well add flour, salt and baking soda Spread in blended. Stir in chocolate chips. for 14-inch pizza pan. Bake at 375 degrees cooling 20-25 minutes. Cool in pan or on rack. Decorate as desired.

Secretary/ Debbie Gaster

First Vice President

2019 THE ALTA FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Diana Burger Treasurer John Lowell Secretary Candace Cole

SHARE YOUR RECIPES! at via email to Lindsay Penticuff Send your recipes for Court Cuisine Court by mail to New South Publishing, lindsay@knowatlanta.com or 210, Atlanta, GA 30350.

Cuisine, 9040 Roswell Road, Suite

NEW SOUTH PUBLISHING, INC. 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210, Atlanta, GA 30350 Phone: 770.650.1102

2017 NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL

President Larry Lebovitz Vice President/Publisher John Hanna

Visit netnewsmag.com for our published Court Cuisine recipes.

NETNEWSMAG.COM 6

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

Net News Editor Emmy Powell Features Editor Cory Sekine-Pettite

Art Director Tracy Stalling

Advertising & Megan Willis Production Manager

Account Executives Jennifer Gonzalez Sherry Gasaway Ginger Roberts

Circulation Manager Amy Fine

Accounting Marilyn Walker

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Direct all advertising, circulation and editorial inquiries to 770.650.1102. All information herein has been checked for accuracy to the best of the publisher’s ability.

No responsibility is accepted for deletions, omissions, errors and/or inaccuracies. Printed in U.S.A. The ALTA logo is a protected trademark™.

SEIZE THE ADVANTAGE WAVE EXCEED TOUR 4 AC Re-designed, wider fit, ultra-lightweight feel, the Wave Exceed Tour 4 AC maximizes speed and offers superior cushioning.

@MizunoTennisNorthAmerica

www.MizunoUSA.com

2020 ALTA CALENDAR March 1 7 7

8 10 10 11 12 14 15 23

Spring Mixer – women’s doubles Junior Leagues – spring play begins Mixed Doubles – winter City Finals for A, B and C (rain date March 8) Spring Mixer – men’s doubles Run ‘N Roll – spring play begins Senior Day Women – spring play begins Senior Day Men – spring play begins Thursday Women – spring play begins Men – spring play begins Sunday Women – spring play begins All summer leagues – roster registration begins

April 13 14 18 21 21 22 23 25 25 26 27

28 29 30

All summer leagues – roster registration ends Run ‘N Roll – spring play ends Junior Leagues – spring play ends Wheelchair – spring City Finals (rain date April 28) Senior Day Women – spring play ends Senior Day Men – spring play ends Thursday Women – spring play ends Men – spring play ends Junior Leagues – spring playoffs (rain date April 28) Sunday Women – spring play ends Senior Day Women – spring playoffs (rain date April 29) Thursday Women – spring playoffs (rain date April 30) Senior Day Men – Spring playoffs (rain date May 1) Thursday Women – Spring playoffs (rain date May 5)

May 2 2 2 2 3 3 4 5 6

Junior Leagues – spring City Finals (rain date May 3) Junior Leagues – spring playoffs (rain date May 5) Men – spring playoffs (rain date May 3) Sunday Women – spring playoffs (rain date May 3) Men – spring playoffs (rain date May 9) Sunday Women – spring playoffs (rain date May 9) Senior Day Women – spring playoffs (rain date May 6) Thursday Women – spring playoffs (rain date May 7) Senior Day Men – spring playoffs (rain date May 8)

MARCH 2020

7

9

9

9 10 11

13

14 16

17

25 26 28 29 30

Thursday Women – spring City Finals for all levels (rain date May 14) Men – spring playoffs and City Finals for AA (rain date May 10) Sunday Women – spring City Finals for AA (rain date May 10) Junior Leagues – spring City Finals (rain date May 10) Sunday Women – spring playoffs (rain date May 12) Senior Day Women – spring City Finals (rain date May 18) Senior Day Men – spring City Finals (rain date May 20) All summer leagues – schedules posted online Men – spring City Finals for A, B, and C (rain date May 23) Sunday Women – spring City Finals for A, B, and C (rain date May 24) Office Closed – Memorial Day Run N’ Roll – play begins Senior Women – summer play begins Senior Men – summer play begins Mixed Doubles – summer play begins

June

1 All fall leagues – roster registration begins 17 Summer mixer (mixed doubles) registration opens 22 All fall leagues – roster registration ends

July 3 7 9 10 11 14 16 17 18 18

19

Office Closed – Independence Day Run N’ Roll – play ends Senior Women – summer play ends Senior Men – summer play ends Mixed Doubles – summer play ends Run N’ Roll – City Finals (rain date July 21) Senior Women – summer playoffs (rain date July 18) All fall leagues – roster registration ends Mixed Doubles – summer playoffs (rain date July 19) Senior Women – summer playoffs (if needed) (rain date day-to-day) Mixed Doubles – summer playoffs (rain date July 25)

S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

APRIL 2020

S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 19 Senior Men – summer playoffs (if needed)

(rain date day-to-day) 23 Senior Women – summer playoffs (rain date July 25) 24 Senior Men – summer playoffs (rain date July 26) 25 Mixed Doubles – summer playoffs (rain date July 26

and finals for AA (rain date July 26) 26 Mixed Doubles – summer playoffs

(rain date day-to-day) 27 Junior Challenge Ladder – online registration begins 30 Summer mixer (mixed doubles) registration ends

August

1 Senior Women – City Finals (rain date August 8) 1 Mixed Doubles – City Finals for A, B, and C

(rain date August 2) 2 Senior Men – City Finals (rain date August 9) 9 Summer Mixer – Mixed Doubles 20 All fall leagues – schedules posted online 21 Junior Challenge Ladder – online registration ends 23 Junior challenge Ladder – member orientation and

kickoff party; 3-5pm; Sandy Springs TC 24 Junior Challenge Ladder – ladder opens

September

7 Office closed – Labor Day 8 Run N’ Roll – fall play begins 8 Senior Day Women – fall play begins 9 Senior Day Men – fall play begins 9 Fall mixer (senior mixed doubles) registration opens 10 Thursday Women – fall play begins 12 Men – fall play begins 12 Junior leagues – fall play begins 13 Sunday Women – fall play begins 21 All winter leagues – roster registration begins 25 Junior Challenge Ladder – tournament assistance

application deadline- 2020 ladder participants

October

13 Run N’ Roll – fall play ends 16 All winter leagues – roster registration ends 20 Run N’ Roll – City Finals (rain date October 27) 20 Senior Day Women – fall play ends 21 Senior Day Men – fall play ends 22 Thursday Women – fall play ends 23 Fall mixer (senior mixed doubles) registration ends 24 Men – fall play ends 24 Junior leagues – fall play ends 25 Sunday Women – fall play ends 26 Senior Day Women – fall playoffs (rain date October 28) 27 Thursday Women – fall playoffs (rain date October 29) 28 Senior Day Men – fall playoffs (rain date October 30) 29 Thursday Women – fall playoffs (rain date November 3) 31 Sunday Women – fall playoffs (rain date November 1) 31 Junior Leagues – fall playoffs (rain date November 3) 31 Men – fall playoffs (rain date November 1)

8

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

2020 ALTA CALENDAR BY LEAGUE SENIOR LEAGUES Mar. 23

Apr. 13

May 14 May 28 May 29

Summer roster registration begins for Senior Men and Senior Women Summer roster registration ends for Senior Men and Senior Women Summer schedule posted online Summer play begins for Senior Women Summer play begins for Senior Men

MIXED DOUBLES Mar. 7 Mar. 23 Apr. 13 May 14 May 30

Winter finals A, B and C (rain date March 8) Summer roster registration begins Summer roster registration ends Summer schedule posted online Summer play begins

MEN Mar. 14 Apr. 25 May 2 May 3 May 9 May 16 Jun. 1

Spring play begins Spring play ends Spring playoffs (rain date May 3) Spring playoffs (rain date May 9) Spring playoffs and City Finals for AA (rain date May 10) Spring City Finals for A, B, and C (rain date May 23) Fall roster registration begins

THURSDAY WOMEN Mar. 12 Apr. 23 Apr. 28 Apr. 30 May 5 May 7 Jun. 1

Spring play begins Spring play ends Spring playoffs (rain date April 30) Spring playoffs (rain date May 5) Spring playoffs (rain date May 7) Spring City Finals (rain date May 14) Fall roster registration begins

WHEELCHAIR/RUN ‘N ROLL

SUNDAY WOMEN Mar. 15 Apr. 26 May 2 May 3 May 9 May 10 May 17 Jun. 1

Spring play begins Spring play ends Spring playoffs (rain date May 3) Spring playoffs (rain date May 9) Spring City Finals for AA (rain date May 10) Spring playoffs (rain date May 12) Spring City Finals for A, B, and C (rain date May 24) Fall roster registration begins

JUNIOR LEAGUES Mar. 7 Apr. 18 Apr. 25 May 2 May 2 May 9 Jun. 1

Spring play begins Spring play ends Spring playoffs (rain date April 28) Spring City Finals (rain date May 3) Spring playoff (rain date May 5) Spring City Finals (rain date May 10) Fall roster registration begins

Mar. 10 Apr. 14 Apr. 21 May 26

Run ‘N Roll spring play begins Run ‘N Roll spring play ends Run ‘N Roll spring City Finals (rain date April 28) Run ‘N Roll play begins

MIXERS Mar. 1 Mar. 8

Spring Mixer- women’s doubles Spring Mixer – men’s doubles

SENIOR DAY Mar. 10 Mar. 11 Apr. 21 Apr. 22 Apr. 27

Apr. 29 May 4 May 6 May 11

May 13

Spring play begins for Senior Day Women Spring play begins for Senior Day Men Spring play ends for Senior Day Women Spring play ends for Senior Day Men Spring playoffs for Senior Day Women (rain date April 29) Spring playoffs for Senior Day Men (rain date May 1) Spring playoff for Senior Day Women (rain date May 6) Spring playoffs for Senior Day Men (rain date May 8) Spring City Finals for Senior Day Women (rain date May 18) Spring City Finals for Senior Day Men (rain date May 20) MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

9

10

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

11

HEARD AROUND ATLA NTA REPORTED BY MICHELLE RUIZ, CORY SEKINE-PETTITE AND JOHN HANNA

Mark Your Calendars for the Miracle Babies Charity Event Be sure to mark your calendar for April 13, 2020 for a wonderful charity tennis and golf event.

In partnership with the Northside Hospital Foundation, Miracle Babies was launched in 2012 and its fund provides resources and financial assistance to families with critically ill newborns in the Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. By providing financial assistance to parents, Northside Hospital helps relieve families of stress and increases time parents are able to spend in the NICU with their newborns.

Come be a part of this worthwhile event. There is a tennis round-robin, a sports massage, or you can choose the golf option. Both are followed by awards and dinner.

For more information, go to: give.northside.com/about-us/miracle-babies-fund

MONDAY, APRIL 13, 2020 The Standard Club 6230 Abbotts Bridge Rd., Johns Creek, GA 30097 TENNIS SCHEDULE 12:00 p.m.

Registration at the Club House & Box

Lunch in the Gathering Room 1:00-3:30 p.m. Tennis Round-Robin & Sports Massage 3:30-5:00 p.m. Awards and Dinner GOLF SCHEDULE 8:00-10:00 a.m. Registration & Continental Breakfast

& Sports Massage 9:00-10:00 a.m. Driving Range Open 9:30 a.m.

Box Lunch Pickup 10:00 a.m.

Shotgun Start 3:30-5:00 p.m. Awards and Dinner

TELL US! Send your stories, compliments, complaints and questions to altaeditor@ altatennis.org.

12

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

PTR Accredited by USCCE and USTA Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) has been successfully re-accredited by the United States Center for Coaching Excellence (USCCE) and National Council for Accreditation of Coaching Education (NCACE) at Level 5 accreditation for its PTR Master of Tennis – Performance program. Additionally, PTR has received provisional accreditation from the USTA. Originally accredited by USCCE in 2011, PTR is still one of only 30 accredited coach education programs within the United States. Through this accreditation process, NCACE ensures that the PTR program adheres to the characteristics of excellence as prescribed by SHAPE America’s National Standards for Sports Coaches. These standards feature eight domains of coaching responsibilities and within them, 40 standards and subsequent benchmarks representing the body of knowledge associated with each coaching responsibility and provide concrete examples of actions and orientations that constitute coaching competence.

Accreditation reviewers from USCCE noted that the PTR program provided “in-depth coverage of all topics for coaching, including a substantial number of hours.”

“These accomplishments were made possible by the hard work and dedication of the entire PTR staff and support of the PTR Board,” said PTR CEO, Dan Santorum. “Special thanks to PTR COO, Brian Parkkonen and renowned educational consultant, Dr. Anne Pankhurst. PTR has even more quality education initiatives planned for 2020. We look forward to working with the USTA to achieve Full Accreditation.”

Photo by Christian Mesiano/Flickr

Kim Clijsters to Play the Volvo Car Open for the First Time Former World No. 1 Kim Clijsters will compete in the 2020 Volvo Car Open, April 4-12 on Daniel Island in Charleston, South Carolina. The 2020 tournament will mark her Volvo Car Open debut. Clijsters is a four-time Grand Slam singles champion and a two-time Grand Slam doubles champion. She retired from tennis in 2012 and will be making her comeback next season.

The 36-year-old Belgian is returning to tennis because of the love of the game.

She holds 41 career WTA titles — the third highest total among active players, behind Serena Williams (72 titles) and Venus Williams (49 titles).

“It’s hard to believe that I’ve never played in Charleston,” said Clijsters. “I’m excited to visit the city and get to play the famous green courts. I can’t wait to

see everyone courtside in April!”

“Kim entering Charleston for the first time brings our prestigious and historic roster of players full circle,” said Eleanor Adams, Volvo Car Open tournament manager. “As a member of the Tennis Hall of Fame, an Olympian, a wife and mother of three, welcoming Kim to the Volvo Car Open is incredibly special. A beautiful mover with very clean and precise strokes, Kim is a joy to watch on court ...What a gift to our fans!”

The nine-day tournament is the largest women’s-only tennis tournament in North America. The event attracts an average of 90,000 attendees and more than 100 of the top singles and doubles tennis players to Charleston every year.

MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

13

HEARD AROUND ATLA NTA

ALTA and USTA Volunteer Receives Top State Honor The Atlanta tennis community is so fortunate to have tremendous volunteers who continue to share the great love of tennis throughout the region. One such volunteer extraordinaire is ALTA’s Candace Cole. Cole was honored recently as USTA Georgia’s 2019 USTA League Female Captain of the Year! “Passionate, inclusive, diplomatic and graceful are just some of the words used to describe Candace,” says Kimberly Letts with USTA Georgia.

The work by Cole as treasurer of both ALTA and the ALTA Foundation has provided a big boost for the entire ALTA organization. Now, Cole will be turning all of her attention to the foundation.

She is excited about the opportunity to concentrate her efforts there this year as the ALTA Foundation Representative/ Secretary.

Cole and her husband play on ALTA and USTA teams out of Legacy Park. She started the junior program at that neighborhood and helped the program grow to

where it had at least one team at every age level for both boys and girls. That is just one of the countless volunteer efforts in which Cole has been involved.

Her volunteer experience would fill an entire book, but one of her most recent initiatives with the ALTA Foundation is the START program. (Read more about the program on page 32.) “Candace is leading a Title 1 school initiative in Georgia, which brings the great game of tennis to areas that might struggle financially,” says Michaela Norman, who nominated Cole for this award and also is a high school tennis coach. “As a coach myself, I can’t put into words how her actions are setting the course for students to become more successful in struggling areas.”

Letts agrees that Cole is deserving of this year’s award. “We are delighted to have the annual opportunity to recognize and reward all of the amazing people across the state who continue to promote and grow tennis in Georgia,” she said. “Candace is an incredible example

of a captain who makes a difference. We appreciate all that she does for her team and this sport that we love so much.”

“I am truly honored and humbled by this award,” says Cole. “It is a great honor to be able to give back to a sport that has given me so many opportunities.”

Setting the Table for Your Next ALTA Match When it comes to food decisions for matches, we all know how important it is to select the perfect snack recipe, main dish, dessert, or appetizer. Sometimes, depending on the day, you hope you are assigned paper products because you don’t have time to make something worthy of an ALTA match.

The members of Martin’s Landing River Club have now come up with what many think is the perfect way to serve your teammates and opponents. Instead of assigning one person to bring the paper and plastic disposable products, the captain chooses a teammate to be in charge of reusable plastic plates, cups, and flatware. Once the matches are over, and players have enjoyed some great tennis fare, dishes are cleaned and passed on to another teammate who is responsible for bringing the items to the next match. Club members also have a large jug of ice water and cloth napkins. ALTA Captain Louise Keim-Losch first came up with the idea as a way to safely protect the environment instead of disposing of plastic and paper products. Team members say it’s really working well and wanted to share this idea with other ALTA teams.

14

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

Georgia Coach Among Those Honored with Wilson/ITA Coach of Year Award Nine coaches were honored in December at the ITA Coaches Convention, held in Naples, Florida. The 2019 Wilson/ITA Coach of the Year honorees are: • Division I—Men: Bid Goswami (Columbia University), Women: Kevin Epley (University of South Carolina) • Division II—Men: Joshua Cobble (Cameron University), Women: Michael Cabana (Wingate University) • Division III—Men: Ben Lamanna (Brandeis University), Women: Mike Fried (Wesleyan University) • NAIA—Men and Women: Chase Hodges (Georgia Gwinnett College) • Junior College—Men: Ross Duncan (Irvine Valley College), Women: Dash Connell (Tyler College)

Chase Hodges

MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

15

HEARD AROUND ATLA NTA

ALTA Member and Atlanta Native Inducted into Broadcasting Hall of Fame

good pilates changes your body, great pilates changes everything Pilates for Athletes • Pilates is an excellent foundation for providing a stronger and more stable core.

• Pilates can enhance athletic performance, improve technique and prevent injuries.

• Our goal for our athletes: improve performance and play without pain!

Why Pilates at Studio Lotus Forsyth: • SLF is a fully equipped classical Pilates studio, promoting functional fitness.

• We offer Private sessions or small group classes (6 max.) in order to provide a client specific focus.

• Instructors play ALTA New clients: mention this ad for 50% off your first visit.

www.StudioLotusForsyth.com 770.888.0048

16

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

Congratulations to Jim Powell who was recently inducted into the 2020 Georgia Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame. The 2020 season will mark Powell’s 27th as a Major League Baseball broadcaster and his 12th year as the voice of the Atlanta Braves. Powell, who graduated f rom Roswel l High School, spent 13 seasons as a member of the Milwaukee Brewers broadcast team, teaming up with Hall of Famer Bob Uecker longer than any other broadcaster in Uecker’s illustrious career.

Powell joined the Brewers in 1996 and was named the 1998 NSMA (National Sports Media Association) Wisconsin Sportscaster of the Year. In addition to his radio duties, he spent time as a member of the Brewers television team during the 1999 and 2000 seasons.

When Powell moved back to Atlanta from Milwaukee 11 years ago, he became an active ALTA member and helped captain two mixed doubles teams to a city championship.

Powell began his Major League broadcasting career with the Minnesota Twins in a reserve role in 1993 and 1994. Prior to this, he accumulated extensive experience at the minor-league level, serving as play-by-play announcer for the Charlotte Knights (1990-91, 1995) and the Columbia Mets (1987-89, 1993-94).

While in high school, Powell started his broadcasting career with an internship in the newsroom and sports office at WGST-AM. The Atlanta native attended the University of Georgia as a National Merit Scholar and later worked at WRFC and WUOG in Athens. That led to positions in Columbia, South Carolina, with WOLO-TV and then WVOC radio. While in Columbia, he worked extensively for the University of South Carolina Gamecocks and was an integral contributor to football, basketball, and baseball broadcasts. Powell was named the NSMA South Carolina Sportscaster of the Year in 1990, 1991, and 1995.

In 1991, Powell was hired by WSB-AM to work weekends, where he covered the Braves, Georgia Bulldogs, and Atlanta Falcons for two years. He also worked for CBS Radio, including calling the Sun Bowl, and called numerous college football games on television for Host Communications.

Powell is married to Net News Editor Emmy Powell; they have three daughters. He is an active member of his community, supporting numerous charities such as the Rally Foundation, the Child Abuse Prevention (CAP) Fund, Jungle Kids for Christ, the Dunamis Foundation, Camp Kudzu, UGA Miracle, Make a Miracle, and local youth athletic programs.

They’re league ladies from down the street and scrappy juniors on the rise. They are the backboards that return everything and club pros that will teach you a thing or two. And they all have one thing in common: they play Ultra v3, a no-nonsense racket with power so easy it amplifies the superpowers players already possess – at the club, public courts or in that grudge match against their fiercest frenemies.

MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

17

HEARD AROUND ATLA NTA

City of Dunwoody and DeKalb County Partner on New Park Space

“This is a winwin-win. It’s in the northeast portion of the city, an area in need of greenspace and surrounded by neighborhoods.”

Tom Lambert, Dunwoody Councilman

In December of last year, the Dunwoody City Council approved the purchase of seven acres from the Waterford Swim and Racquet Club to create additional park space and trails. DeKalb County Commissioner Nancy Jester secured funding for the $125,000 purchase using District 1 park bond money.

“It was a great journey to get here,” said Dunwoody Councilman Tom Lambert, who began meeting with Waterford residents in April 2018. “This is a win-win-win.

It’s in the northeast portion of the city, an area in need of greenspace and surrounded by neighborhoods.”

After the purchase of 4565 Dellrose Drive and 2371 North Peachtree Way, the Waterford pool, which has been closed for years, will be removed. Two tennis courts on site will be refurbished for public use.

“I am delighted to help the City of Dunwoody with the acquisition of this new green space. I see this as a valuable use of commissioner-directed funding for the citizens of District One and the county as a whole,” said Commissioner Jester. “Preserving land for parks in Dunwoody, and all of DeKalb County, as the metro area grows, is a priority and will help maintain quality of life for all residents. I look forward to the city doing great things with this addition to its park portfolio.”

Councilman Lambert had praise for Dunwoody Parks and Recreation Director Brent Walker. “He did a tremendous amount of work to get this across the finish line,” Lambert said.

“The City is excited about the opportunity to add a new neighborhood park,” Walker said. “We’re planning to build a playground, small gazebo and trail network to connect surrounding neighborhoods to the park and each other.”

The two properties, which cover 7.16 acres of land, will be redeveloped using City funds.

TECH TALK The Member Portal When logged in on the ALTA website, you have a more personalized view of the site. Starting at the Member Portal page, you have access to anything you might see from ALTA’s home page. The key is using the white bar categories pictured below.

Hovering over any of these categories gives you a description of the information available there.

• My Active Teams – Teams in season from the point the schedule is out and everything ALTA offers to manage these teams. Please note that suggested improvements are being reviewed for future enhancements.

• My Rosters & New/Reinstate – My Rosters is all rosters you are connected with as a player or team leader. If you are listed as a Designee only or a Team Manager for any rosters, they will show in green. New/Reinstate

is where rosters are entered for a new season. Once a roster is entered, any corrections are under My Rosters.

• My Account – All your personal ALTA information is located here. Take a look and update it if needed to stay current. Please contact the office to add a birthdate to an existing membership.

• My Resources – You’ll find ALTA Documents, searchable Division Standings, Adult and Junior League information, etc., similar to if you were not logged in and searching from the ALTA Home Page.

• Members & Memberships – Here you can do a Member Search for ALTA members, create a New Membership(s) or Renew Membership(s). If renewing your personal membership, that’s easiest done under My Account > My Membership Renewal.

18

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

—Joan Appelbaum ALTA IT Manager

Photo: City of Dunwoody

Dunwoody City Council approves the purchase of Waterford Swim and Racquet Club using county park bond money.

Palmetto Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center to Host Debut of APP Tour The Palmetto Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center will serve as the site for the grand debut of the Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP) Tour, the first pickleball tour for professionals and amateurs.

The new tour will make its debut at the Hilton Head Pickleball Open from March 19-22. This inaugural event will take place at the Palmetto Dunes Tennis & Pickleball Center, with 24 dedicated pickleball courts, and will include a $25,000 purse for the professionals. The amateur events will be divided by age and skill, 19+, 35+, 50+, and 60+.

Tournament registration is $65 — which includes a goodie bag with a Dri-Fit event T-shirt and a program guide — and will conclude on March 5. A player’s age will be considered as of Dec. 31, 2020 and the minimum age for the tournament competition is 10 years old. Sign up at pickleballtournaments.com.

The inaugural APP event will be hosted by highly ranked professionals Sarah Ansboury and Steve Deakin. Ansboury serves as the Palmetto Dunes Pickleball Touring Professional and Director of Pickleball Instruction. A nationally ranked tennis player, she has been a pioneer in the pickleball explosion of the last few years. She discovered pickleball in 2014 and was instantly hooked.

Deakin began his career in late 2017, also transitioning to pickleball from tennis,

where he was a former ATP ranked player, 12-time Canadian National Champion, and a member of Canada’s Senior World Team.

The inaugural APP event will be bookended by the Ansboury’s 2020

Pick leball Academies at Palmetto Dunes. The academy scheduled from March 12-15 is for 4.0 level players and the academy that runs from March 2629 is for 3.5 level players. To register, go to: https://bit.ly/371Hhv8

MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

19

TENNIS HEADLINES

Volvo Car Open Announces New Activities, Experiences and Electronic Line Calling for 20th Year in Charleston unique activations for attendees — on and off the tennis court.

The Volvo Car Open (April 4-12, 2020), the largest women’s-only tennis tournament in North America, will celebrate 20 years in Charleston in 2020 with what organizers call elevated experiences, exciting activities, and new initiatives.

The 2020 tournament will feature the best in women’s professional tennis, bringing more than 100 of the top players in the world to the Lowcountry. The tournament also is celebrating its 20th year in Charleston with special events and

2020 EVENTS: • Jennifer Nettles Concert: GRAMMY award-winning artist Jennifer Nettles will perform on Saturday, April 11. The intimate concert will take place on Althea Gibson Club Court. Tickets start at $50.

• Tournament Ambassador Tracy Austin: The Volvo Car Open has named past champion, Grand Slam winner, Tennis Hall of Fame member and Tennis Channel commentator, Tracy Austin as its first tournament ambassador.

She will host “Tennis Talk with Tracy” daily from the tournament grounds, as well as several other special events.

• Family Weekend: The qualifying rounds will kick off on April 4 and 5

SERVING UP BETTER LIGHTING WITH LED. DO YOU HAVE LED LIGHTS AT YOUR COURTS?

Lighting plays a critical role in your ability to play competitive tennis at night. Bottom Line Systems has been lighting the way for businesses and neighborhoods since 2014 with free lighting assessments and quick turnkey projects, all backed by a 10-year warranty. When you’re ready to see the Bottom Line difference, call or visit bottomlinesystems.us and take home court advantage to a new level.

CONTACT: Jay Squillace - jaysquillace@bottomlinesystems.us | 404-216-9680 Jeff Lambert - jefflambert@bottomlinesystems.us | 717-926-0191 Photo taken at Olde Atlanta Club

20

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

with Family Weekend. The itinerary includes rides from the state fair, sand sculptures, an art activation court, and more. Adults are $10 and kids are free.

• Easter Sunday Brunch: The Volvo Car Open will host a special Easter Sunday Brunch prior to its finals on Sunday, April 12. A special musical guest will be announced soon. Tickets are $100 and include food, drinks, and a ticket to the finals.

• Good Morning Charleston Yoga Event: Fans looking to elevate their finals weekend experience are invited to join Sarah Frick of The Works for “Good Morning Charleston” on Saturday, April 11. This special yoga event is designed to guide you through a soulful fitness experience that is a blend of powerful vinyasa yoga, meditation, breath work, plyometrics, core, and

strength work. Tickets are $55 and include healthy refreshments and a ticket to the semifinal matches.

2020 INITIATIVES: • Website: The Volvo Car Open launched a new website in 2020 to enhance fan engagement and help bring the event to life. The new website allows attendees to receive real-time updates from the court, search event schedules, and more.

• Electronic Line Calling: In partnership with FOXTENN and the WTA, the 2020 Volvo Car Open will be the first women’s clay event to install electronic line calling. The FOXXTENN system uses 40 high-speed cameras, which are capable of generating more than 100,000 images per second. Electronic

Line Calling will be available on both Billie Jean King Stadium Court and Althea Gibson Club Court.

• Sustainability: The Volvo Car Open has prioritized sustainability as part of its 2020 initiatives and has adopted new processes for waste, recycling, transportation, food, and more.

For more i n for mat ion on t he tournament and ticket options, visit volvocaropen.com or call 843.856.7900.

MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

21

The 17th Annual Net News

Photo Contest

Get ready, grab your camera or even your smartphone, and go!

This is your chance to show the world and your fellow netters how talented you are with a camera (or how lucky you were to be there when the unexpected happened). The 17th Annual Net News Photo Contest will showcase the best “frames” of ALTA players in the November/December 2020 issue. We’re looking for photos of solid play, unusual play or court scenes, and any notable photo relating to the game of tennis. The contest, sponsored by Head Penn Racquet Sports, will award one Best Overall Winner, plus winners in each of the categories. Category and overall winners will receive a variety of outstanding prizes from Head Penn’s collection of quality tennis gear.

So, get out your cameras and start taking pictures or pick out your favorite from that stack of stills sitting in your desk drawer.

You just might have a winner!

Jean Christian

ALL PHOTOS MUST RELATE TO TENNIS. Prizes courtesy of

Photography Contest Rules and Regulations

1. You must be a member of ALTA. 2. Photos must relate to tennis and/or tennis play.

3. All contest submissions must be postmarked by Sept. 16, 2020.

4. Decisions of the judges are final.

5. Limit three entries per ALTA member.

6. Each photo entry must include a completed entry form (see below). Photocopied forms are accepted.

7. Judges reserve the right to title photos if no title is provided and to change the category into which a photo has been entered.

8. Photos not taken by the entrant must be accompanied by a release form signed by the photographer. ALTA and Net News are not responsible for any copyright violations.

9. Judges reserve the right to disqualify any entry that does not meet the above rules and regulations.

Submission Guidelines

1. Mail all entries to: Net News Photo Contest, 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210, Atlanta, GA 30350.

2. Both digital and printed images will be considered. See specifications.

3. You may not want to submit irreplaceable or precious images. Contest organizers and sponsors WILL NOT be responsible for lost or damaged photos. (See waiver of responsibility on entry form.)

4. If you want your picture returned, enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope with your entry. Pictures will not be returned if they are not accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

5. All winning photos will be featured in the annual November/December edition of Net News.

6. Questions may be addressed to production@ knowatlanta.com or 770.650.1102, ext. 126.

NET NEWS PHOTO CONTEST ENTRY FORM Name______________________________________________________________________________________ Address____________________________________________________________________________________ City_____________________________________________State________________ ZIP____________________

We advise that you take and submit the photos in as large a file size as possible, preferably no smaller than 2,400 pixels tall or wide, because small images may not be reproducible in the magazine (familiarize yourself with the settings on your camera before taking photos). Nonreproducible images will not be considered for the photo contest.

Upload original digital photos through the Net News website at netnewsmag.com/photo_contest.

Vintage Photography Specifications

We advise you to have the image printed at 8x10 in. Please tape one entry form to the back of each photo. If submitting an original, please keep in mind contest organizers and sponsors will not be responsible for lost or damaged photos.

Please check the categor y this picture is being en tered in: ■ Ac tion ■ Children ■ Cour tside ■ Humor/Novelt y

■ Pets ■ Still Life ■ V int age

Email______________________________________________________________________________________

Title of photo:___________________________

Phone (H)_______________________________________Phone (W)__________________________________

Description of picture (where the picture was taken, who is in the picture, what is in the picture, etc.):

Waiver of Responsibility: I hereby remise, release and forever discharge the Atlanta Lawn Tennis Association, Net News magazine, New South Publishing, Inc., and any Net News Photo Contest sponsor from any action, suits or claims arising as a result of the loss or damage of any photograph(s) I submit to this contest. Further, I hereby grant my permission for the reproduction and printing of my photograph in Net News magazine.

22

Digital Photography Specifications

________________________________________ ________________________________________

Signature________________________________________________________________Date____________________

________________________________________

Submit photos by Sept. 16, 2020, to Net News Photo Contest, 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210, Atlanta, GA 30350. This form may be photocopied or downloaded at netnewsmag.com.

________________________________________

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

________________________________________

BB&T ATLANTA OPEN

#ATLANTAOPEN

July 25 - August 2 at Atlantic Station BBTAtlantaopen.com

Tickets go on sale MARCH 2020 tickets@bbtatlantopen.com MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

23

TENNIS HEADLINES

CELEBRATING 10 YEARS! 2010 VS. 2020 We can’t believe it’s March and our 2020 event will be here before we know it!

As you know, our event keeps getting bigger and better each year and 2020 is no exception.

Our new layout in 2019, a star-studded player field that resulted in new champions, along with tremendous support from the ALTA community, made last year an overhead smash winner.

The year 2020 will bring a new name for our great event, the Truist Atlanta Open, and a 10-year anniversary celebration for everyone to enjoy!

It has been a great 10 years and we hope you are looking ahead to July 2020 and the 2020 Truist Atlanta Open… More on that soon as we put tickets on sale at the end of March. We will have a new name and we promise world-class tennis to return once again with exciting new changes from our beautiful Midtown Atlanta location at Atlantic Station.

Ten years is a long time, so I thought it would be fun to look back to see what was popular and trending in 2010 and compare it to today!

2010 vs. 2020 2010: Instagram launches and no Pinterest or SnapChat 2020: TikTok is on the verge of being a top social network 2010 Australian Open Singles Champions: Roger Federer and Serena Williams 2020 Australian Open Singles Champions: Novak Djokovic and Sofia Kenin Super Bowl Champ 2010: New Orleans Saints Super Bowl Champ 2020: Kansas City Chiefs

24

Blockbuster Video Stores in 2010: 4,000 Blockbuster Video Stores in 2020: 1 2010: Prince William and Prince Harry were still bachelors 2020: Prince William is married with kids and Prince Harry has left the Royal Family 2010: We pay each other in cash 2020: Who carries cash? Do you have Zelle, Paypal, Venmo, CashApp or take Square?

2010: Alex de Minaur was in fourth grade at an elementary school in Spain and Mardy Fish won our event!

2020: Alex is our defending champ and Mardy Fish is our USA Davis Cup captain!

You can see how much things have changed (or haven’t changed) over 10 years!

Once again, a big thanks to partners like OrthoAtlanta! OrthoAtlanta does a great job in making sure all our players in the singles, doubles and qualifying draws can perform to their peak potential in Atlanta. The tennis season is long not only for the pros, but for ALTA players as well. If you or any of your ALTA teammates have a health issue or question, call OrthoAtlanta and get back on the court ASAP. Save the dates for 2020: July 25-August 2!

Remember to visit www.bbtatlantaopen.com for updates and information and don’t forget to look out for upcoming ALTA discounts for members.

Again, wishing you a great Spring ALTA season and we are looking forward to seeing you at the 2020 Truist Atlanta Open!

— Eddie Gonzalez TRUIST Atlanta Open Tournament Director egonzalez@gfsportsholdings.com

2010 – MARDY FISH

2011 – MARDY FISH

2012 – RODDICK

2013 – ISNER

2014 – ISNER

2015 – ISNER

2016 - KYRGIOS

2017 - ISNER

2018 – ISNER

2019 – ALEX DE MINAUR

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

#10YEARCHALLENGE: 2010 - 2019

A good orthopedist gets you back in the game.

A great one gives you back YOUR LIFE. Official Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Provider of the BB&T Atlanta Open

OrthoAtlanta.com | 770.953.6929

MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

25

TENNIS HEADLINES

Slinger Bag Receives Innovation Award from the Tennis Industry Association Slinger Bag, the sports equipment brand that recently released its bag-style tennis ball launcher, has received a Special Recognition Award from the UK Tennis Industry Association. The brand was highly commended by the judging panel in the biennial competition that spotlights products aimed to improve the tennis experience.

The manufacturer says Slinger Bag will unlock improvements in players’ games by being a versatile 24/7 playing partner that enables players to hone their skills through repetitive drills or work on their court fitness and agility whenever they need to.

“We are delighted to have received the innovation award from the Tennis Industry Association,” said Mike Ballardie, Slinger Bag CEO. “It’s brilliant to be recognized by the industry as a product that will change the landscape of tennis across the UK and globally, giving players the power to train on their own terms. It’s a testament to the brand’s hard work in developing a

best-in-class product — one that meets the needs of players, so they can improve their game.”

Created by entrepreneur and tennis fan Joe Kalfa, Slinger Bag was launched following a successful crowdfunding campaign that raised more than $1 million. The company is preparing to take its tennis ball launcher to market in spring 2020. For more information, visit slingerbag.com.

Photography for all your needs.

majestickphotography.com ~ OFFICIAL ALTA CITY FINALS PHOTOGRAPHER ~

26

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

Bleachr’s TennisONE App Wins Fifth Tennis Industry Innovation Challenge The winner of the 2020 Tennis Industry Innovation Challenge is Bleachr LLC’s TennisONE App, which is a mobile hub for all things tennis, providing live scoring, AI “ball tracer” technology, player stats, social games, and other tennis content.

The fifth edition of the Tennis Industry Innovation Challenge, sponsored by the Tennis Industry Association (TIA), was held on Jan. 23 on the main stage at the Racquet & Paddle Sports Show at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.

Three finalists in the Innovation Challenge, chosen from an online application process, presented five-minute pitches about their new product or service. The

winner was chosen by a panel of judges in front of an audience of tennis and racquet sports leaders in a "Shark Tank-like" competition.

The TennisONE App (www.bleachr.co) was presented by Bleachr LLC CEO Kris-

tin Geer, who described how the robust platform addresses the needs of the tennis community — from fans to players.

The company partners with a number of professional events, including the Miami Open, Western & Southern Open in Cincinnati, Rogers Cup and Tennis Canada, Paris Masters, Winston-Salem Open, BB&T Atlanta Open and Hall of Fame Open.

As the Innovation Challenge winner, Bleachr will receive $1,000, a one-year TIA membership, and additional exposure through industry marketing and social media channels.

Congratulations

Congratulations to the Atlanta Tennis community for helping make Atlanta’s only ATP event such a success!

Signature Tennis Courts Proud builder of the courts … since its inception! mike@signaturetennis.com

MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

27

TENNIS HEADLINES

Pro Players Raise $3.3 Million for Aussie Bushfire Relief Shortly before the Australian Open, some of the biggest names in tennis came together in Melbourne to help raise funds for the Australian bushfire appeal. The fundraising night was the brainchild of Aussie star Nick Kyrgios, and raised about $3.3 million.

Some of the biggest names in tennis, including Serena Williams, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Caroline Wozniacki turned out in front of a packed Rod Laver Arena. Kyrgios played Roger Federer in a one-set match, and personally pledged to donate $200 AUD (about $140 USD) for every ace he hits this summer.

Also participating in the fundraiser were Coco Gauff, Naomi Osaka, Alexander Zverev, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Dominic Thiem, and Petra Kvitova.

Black Tennis HoF Names Class of 2020 Inductees T h e B l a c k Te n n i s H a l l o f F a m e (BlackTen nisHa l lof Fa me.com) has announced inductees into its Class of 2020: Sportsmen’s Tennis & Enrichment Center (in the Organization category), Alice Marble and Tina McCall Waters (Contributor category), Irwin R. Holmes (Pioneer category) and Dr. Robert Walter Johnson Jr. (both Contributor and Pioneer).

The induction ceremony will be held at Sportsmen’s Tennis & Enrichment Center in Dorchester, Mass., July 3-4 and will coincide with the New England Tennis Association’s Jim and Gloria Smith Memorial Tennis Tournament, which is sanctioned by both the USTA and ATA. For tickets and more information, contact Black Tennis Hall of Fame Executive Director Shelia Curry at SheliaCurry@ BlackTennisHallofFame.com.

Babolat Introduces Limited-Edition Flag Series Racquets Babolat’s new “flag” range enables players and fans around the world to show support for their favorite countries and teams with patriotic tennis racquets. The collection features designs inspired by the colors of the flags of seven countries: United States, Japan, France, Argentina, Italy, United Kingdom, and Brazil.

“The flag image is a unifying theme in all types of sports, not just tennis,” explains Antoine Ballon, Babolat Tennis marketing director. “It’s an emblem of pride that brings energy to courts and fields alike. In a year packed with major international sporting events, our Babolat flag racquets and accessories are a fun way for sports enthusiasts to get behind their favorite teams and feel the excitement.”

The flag range includes models to appeal to different levels of players: three Pure models for expert players (Pure Drive, Pure Aero, and Pure Strike) and a model dedicated to recreational players (Boost). Each racquet design has a coordinating backpack that players can wear anywhere with pride.

28

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

FREE 2-DAY SHIPPING + FREE RETURNS

TAX-FREE TO GEORGIA In-Stock and Ready to Ship!

800.833.6615

Shop TennisExpress.com MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

29

ALTA'S 2020 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Moving ALTA Forward

BY BOB FITZGERALD, 2020 CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

The game of tennis is still played the same way, but the world around it has changed dramatically.

30

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

Photos by LaRuche Creative

I

am deeply honored to be ALTA’s 2020 Chairman of the Board. The ALTA Board includes the chairman, 2020 president, two past presidents, secretary, treasurer, the ALTA Foundation President and two elected, at-large members. These board members have many years of history with ALTA and along with their talented skill set, their backgrounds are very diverse. The common thread is that they are all volunteers, and they love tennis and ALTA. This year, the ALTA Board is focused on reviewing and moving the organization forward. The game of tennis is still played the same way, but the world around it has changed dramatically. Last July, we went live with a new ALTA website. This new website is an ongoing project to bring more tools to manage, coordinate, and communicate with our members. We expect to see more enhancements this year to improve our member experience. Staying with technology, we also hope to leverage social media to provide more information to our members. In addition, there should be more outreach for new members and awareness of our efforts to give back to the community that serves all of us.

One of the biggest challenges to all of our ALTA members is getting to and from tennis matches. Although we can’t build new roads or commuter systems, we can look at where ALTA tennis matches are being played today, and how and where they could be played tomorrow. Most of our volunteers also are playing tennis within our leagues, so we feel the struggle of how you are spending your time. We plan to look at our existing ALTA boundaries to see if there are improvements within the leagues that can get teams closer in distance. The goal is for our members to spend more time playing tennis and enjoying their fellow participants. Stay tuned and look for future announcements of changes to improve the ALTA experience.

The ALTA Board is responsible for the business side of ALTA. Among our responsibilities are finances, policies, administration, asset management, and all of the other tasks that come with operating any business. 2020 President Sandy Depa, along with the Executive Committee, will be managing the 13 leagues we currently have operating. Sandy and I hope to keep ALTA moving forward for all of our members.

;

From Baseline to Coastline Come play the Jekyll Island Tennis Center’s 13 Har-tru clay courts. Visit the Pro Shop for private lessons, daily clinics, equipment rental, tennis wear, and more.

Visit jekyllisland.com/tennis to reserve your court.

Proud recipient of the 2018 USTA Outstanding Facility Award

MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

31

Making a Difference:

The START Program

BY EMMY POWELL, NET NEWS EDITOR

W

henever a volunteer or community leader has an opportunity to reach out and try to make a difference, especially in the lives of young people, it can inspire others to do the same. That message is at the heart of the ALTA Foundation, which each year takes a close look at the programs it supports to identify which ones might need additional help and where else they may be able to provide support.

In 2019, the foundation realized it provides widespread assistance throughout a variety of programs for persons with special needs and disabilities. Additionally, the foundation discovered that it supports programs for children with financial needs in elementary school and middle school, but not high school.

From that review, the idea of funding a pilot program to support Tennis in Title 1 high schools was then formed.

“We discovered that several high schools had athletes competing on varsity teams who had little to no tennis experience,” said Candace Cole, ALTA Foundation secretar y. “We were surprised to find that many of the athletes had to borrow school equipment in order to participate.” By providing and paying for a certified tennis pro as a community

32

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

coach to assist the schools’ coaches, the foundation could assist in laying the groundwork for the basic tennis skills and strategy. Additionally, the ALTA Foundation donated $1,500 to each of the school programs to use toward the tennis programs’ expenses.

In determining which schools to help in the pilot program, foundation leaders reached out to the athletic directors for each of the counties in which ALTA serves. Cobb County quickly responded w it h t wo high schools t hat were extremely interested in participating.

Next, after numerous emails and phone calls, the foundation identified two certified teaching pros, Darrio Williams and Jackie Jenkins, who were interested in the program and willing to undergo background checks and attend GHSA community coaches’ training. We are excited to report that Coach Williams started coaching at Osborne High School in January, and Coach Jenkins began working with the student athletes at Pebblebrook High School near the end of February.

Each community coach is provided in order to partner with each schools’ dedicated head coach and offer handson tennis instruction to all of the tennis team members. Bruce Nichol is the Osborne High School head coach for the boys’ tennis team, while Danene Womack heads up Osborne’s girls’ tennis program. Thomas Lacy is the head varsity tennis coach for both squads at Pebblebrook. The foundation is excited to be able to assist both schools and their dedicated coaches through the new START program.

To help k ickstart the program, the foundation held a racquet and

equipment drive for all of the athletes during the Fall 2019 ALTA City Finals.

The ALTA members’ support for the START program over that one-week drive was overwhelming, and the foundation was thrilled to receive tennis bags, cases of balls, and more than 50 racquets. The racquet drive also helped to create another connection — an ALTA coordinator, while working at City Finals, offered to help connect her friend (and fellow tennis player) who works at Tennis Warehouse with the foundation. They knew the two groups could do something extra for the START program participants.

Tennis Warehouse stepped up and has provided all of the START athletes a very generous donation — tennis shoes! “Several of these high school players were playing in basketball shoes, or vans and the like,” says Cole.

“Being able to play in shoes made for tennis will make a huge difference for them.” Additionally, Tennis Warehouse donated some new, freshly strung Prince racquets that were needed to supplement the racquets donated by ALTA members.

“Tennis Warehouse’s donation to the ALTA Foundation’s START program was beyond our expectations. We are very grateful, and the high school kids love their new tennis shoes,” says ALTA Foundation President Diana Burger.

The A LTA Fou ndat ion w i l l be monitoring each school’s progress this season and is hopeful the pilot program of START will be a complete success.

If that holds true, the goal will be to continue to support these teams and eventually expand the program to Title 1 schools in the various counties served

by ALTA.

Last Issue’s Trivia Contest Winner Is …

Congratulations! We drew our winner from a pool of readers who submitted correct answers, and Wendy Seiler, Seven Hills Thursday Women C6, won a bag from HEAD and a Ballport from Tourna! Try your luck with this issue’s contest and see if you can join the ranks of our previous trivia contest winners. Here is the original quiz and the correct answers: 1. Which two ATP players are coming to Atlanta in March to play in a special exhibition match? Nadal and Dimitrov.

2. Which league vice president played against two former Atlanta Braves baseball players and beat them? Roger Dennington 3. What is the name of the long-time volunteer who received the Coordinator of the Year award in backto-back years? Joan Appelbaum

May/June Trivia Contest Enter for your chance to win some new Triniti tennis balls from Wilson, and a HEAD bag.

To enter the contest, correctly answer the following three questions, in addition to submitting a new favorite courtside recipe, and mail it to New South Publishing, Attn: Cory Sekine-Pettite, 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210, Atlanta, GA 30350. Answers and recipes may also be submitted online at netnewsmag.com. Hint: The answers can be found in this issue.

Entry deadline: Friday, April 3.

1. Who is the 2020 ALTA Chairman of the Board? ________________________________________________________ 2. Who is the 2019 USTA Female Captain of the Year, and what is her current role with ALTA? ________________________________________________________ 3. What is the name of the ALTA Foundation pilot program which provides assistance to Title 1 high schools, which this year are Pebblebrook and Osborne high schools? ________________________________________________________ Please submit a favorite courtside recipe along with this entry to be eligible.

34

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

Name______________________________________________________________ Address____________________________________________________________ City___________________________________ State________ ZIP______________ Email_______________________________________________________________ Phone______________________________________________________________ League_____________________________________________________________ Team___________________________________________________Level________

LEAGUE NEWS

JUNIORS Girls, Sat. 1:30 p.m.

Boys, Sat. 3:30 p.m.

Spring season runs Mar. 7 - Apr. 18

Junior Leagues Spring ALTA: Are You Prepared?

JUNIORS

A

36

ccording to Frank Giampaolo, award-winning coach, popular sports researcher, and author of “The Tennis Parent’s Bible,” spectacular performances are preceded by spectacular preparation.

Spring ALTA is all about preparation. There are the tangibles — Spring Break, Easter, Passover, and SAT/ACT testing. We know these dates before the season begins. We then have the intangibles, the ones out of our control like weather, injuries, prom dates, and a host of other family activities no one wants to miss.

Historically, teams with the most success during the spring seasons are those who are prepared. It’s not always easy — some of our veteran team managers compare it to herding cats! Please be sure to download the rules and your schedule packet. If you are reading this and haven’t already looked at your schedule, you are behind … but there’s still time to catch up. You have two full weekends before the season starts to play lines or matches early.

Does your team have a BYE week during the season? Are there weekends during the season when you won’t be available to attend matches? Hold a team meeting with your players, players’ parents, and coaches and talk about the schedule.

Find out upfront who may or may not be available to play early matches. Discuss who will step up if you are out of pocket. You may be the manager, but it is a team sport.

Reach out to your opponent early if you think you may have availability issues during the season. The odds are they may have issues as well. It doesn’t matter if you are the home team or visiting team. Be prepared before making the call; be flexible, not demanding. Propose several options for getting the match

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

played. Be creative. Offer to give up home court advantage or meet halfway. Try to schedule the 1S and 1D lines first. If lines remain to be played on the originally scheduled match date and players aren’t available, the outstanding lines will be defaulted.

Don’t lose points already won by defaulting from the top down instead of the bottom up. You worked too hard getting the lines set up to give those points away.

Remember, new this season, we’ve eliminated the illegal movement rule. You still can’t legally play a player twice in the same match, but you can move players to any position as long as you don’t “sandbag,” or play losing players/teams over winning players/team. This should make it easier for you to construct a lineup with a shortage of players. If you have questions, contact your coordinator. You have her name and contact info in the schedule packet. You are prepared.

Once a plan has been agreed to, text the confirmed plan — date, time, line, players, location — back to the team managers, players, players’ parents. This becomes your new scheduled date and can only be changed if both teams agree to the change. Remember, you can still change players if the need arises without additional approval, just not the date.

Time is a valuable commodity these days, and we don’t want to waste it. Being prepared can make a key difference in completing the match. Our ultimate goal is to get the juniors to play. Nobody wins when teams default lines or refuse to consider early play. It won’t always work out, but you’ll get through the season a lot easier if you take the proper steps of great preparation.

Photos by Laura Barnard

BY RITA MALOOF, JUNIOR LEAGUES VICE PRESIDENT

BRENDA MADDALENI, JUNIOR CHALLENGE LADDER VICE PRESIDENT

T

he ALTA Junior Challenge Ladder closed on Dec. 6, 2019, and volunteers and ladder managers celebrated the year with a banquet for all of the players who participated on the boys’ ladder and the girls’ ladder in 2019. More than 900 matches were played during the season. The players also came together for a beginning and end-of-the-season round-robin, and each ladder played in singles and doubles. The final rankings are printed on this page. Congratulations to all who earned their bag tag and became eligible to receive tournament assistance in 2020.

The Top 10 boys and Top 10 girls received awards and will be recognized on court at the Truist Atlanta Open presented by First Data on ALTA Day on July 27, 2020. We hope to see you all out for that special day. That just also happens to be the kickoff to our 2020 JCL season! Come be a part of the ALTA Junior Challenge Ladder, as we look forward to another successful year.

JCL TOP 10 GIRLS Front Row L-R: Jo-Yee Chan, Lauren Khou, Kate Sharabura. Back Row L-R: Toni Rachal, Mai Nguyen, Leeza Kurtz , Kavya Patel, and Jada Young. Missing: Germany Davis and Juliana Mascagni.

JCL TOP 10 BOYS Front Row L-R: John Lasanajak, Alex Amacher, Robert Bauer, and Arsal Farooq. Back Row L-R: Jake Young, Niles Rachal, Matthew Sloan, Andrew Pietkiewicz, and Davis Taylor. Missing: Freddie Lawrence.

GIRLS JUNIOR CHALLENGE LADDER

BOYS JUNIOR CHALLENGE LADDER

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Kate Sharabura Kavya Patel Leeza Kurtz Toni Rachal Germany Davis Jada Young Mai Nguyen Juliana Mascagni Lauren Khou Jo-Yee Chan Neena Katauskas Michelle Jones Kaitlyn Chalker Jonay Brittain Claire Giddings Isabella Theodore Jaala Screws Samantha Slaton McKenzie Shelton Daniella Michelle Clayborn Mara Opre Danielle Annette Clayborn Ama White Shayli Dodia Teri Brantley Madison Andrews Ashley Bentz Jade Lasanajak Sydney Brantley Kimaya Paranjpe Alyssa Davis

32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61

Abigail Morgan Olivia Lockeretz Sejal Joshi Jensen Diianni Kennedy Talbert Natalia Paiva Lauryn Swatski Alyssa Khou Megan McKinnon Victoria Louis-Jacques Prisha Mody Meher Bajwa Josette Chun Juliana Diianni Olivia Hwang Jordan Ballard Athithi Ayyappan Trinity Porter Alexa Slaton Samantha Ruder Emily Kim Gabrielle Cesar Deekshu Devarasetty Sedona Cornelison Brooke Saye Valeria Bazan Katie Koenning Arnika Alikhani Elle Honeycutt Sadie Seibert

JUNIOR CHALLENGE LADDER

Celebrating Junior Players’ 2019 Achievements

Davis Taylor John Lasanajak Niles Rachal Robert Bauer Freddie Lawrence Matthew Sloan Alex Amacher Jake Young Arsal Farooq Andrew Pietkiewicz Blake Stoddard Blake Hilsen Jake Grimes Lova Metor Vincent Claussen Solomon Crouch Reese Philip Hilsen Evan Le Stephen Zhu Luca Davidorf Paul Fridman Matteo Maddaleni Patrick Dean Rishil Kondapaneni Srikar Doddi Connor Hazard Jaiden Dodia Shaurya Bajaj James Weber Jackson Gordon Ethan Swatski

32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54

Jordan Winfrey Matthew Pinto Parth Mody Simon Hayal Kellen Simmons Trivikram Arasavelli Maddox Beattie Harold Simmons Ayden Riley Teo Johnson Shuban Doddi Jackson Taylor Robert Frierson Chase Pellettieri Harry Kim Ian Broni Shiv Siju Luke Shafer Matthew Song Anish Madireddy Aditya Madireddy Akarsh Kudrimoti Evan Riley

MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS 37

LEAGUE NEWS

MIXED DOUBLES Saturdays 9 a.m.

Summer roster registration runs Mar. 23-Apr. 13 Summer season runs May 30-July 11

Playing By The Rules

MIXED DOUBLES

W

38

ith spring on the horizon, we all look forward to warmer weather and more time on the tennis courts. We also know that rain showers and inclement weather may challenge week-to-week play, and makeup matches are never fun to maneuver. One question that is frequently asked is: “How do you define rain delays and unforeseen circumstances?” Let’s take a minute to walk through these similar yet different situations.

Per ALTA rule VI-B- Inclement Weather: If the match is delayed or interrupted by inclement weather, which includes lightning, teams should be prepared to wait one hour to determine if courts are playable. Another question that comes up is “What if the home courts are wet, but the visitor courts are dry?” With the inclement weather rule, if the home courts are wet, and the wait time has expired, then both teams are free to leave and reschedule the match. In this situation, the home team is not required to relocate to the visitors’ courts if the conditions are better there. Of course, if both teams agree, they can choose to play the match at the visitors’ courts. Teams do have the option of waiting more than one hour if they would like, and it is mutually agreed upon. If you do reschedule, please let your coordinator know as soon as possible about your match delay.

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

The ALTA rule that includes how to handle unforeseen circumstances is sometimes misinterpreted. Unforeseen circumstances could be when a home team’s lights don’t work or bathrooms are out of order. Per ALTA rule IV-J: If, for any unforeseen circumstance, the home team is unable to provide its home courts for any scheduled dual meet, the visiting team has the first option of providing its home courts. The host team is considered the home team. If the visiting team does not elect to provide its home courts, the responsibility reverts to the home team, which must provide courts within the approved ALTA area at the scheduled time. If alternate courts cannot be found, the captains must contact their coordinator.

These rules are sometimes confusing, so this information should help clarify the difference between unplayable courts due to inclement weather and a team’s inability to provide its own courts because of unforeseen circumstances. If you ever have questions or need help, please reach out to your coordinator. Being familiar with the rules helps eliminate misunderstandings and conflicts on match day. We always want to promote the highest level of sportsmanship and encourage giving people grace and patience through hard situations. Our goal is to have fun and play tennis. Let’s get people on those courts and be kind to one another!

Photos by Laura Barnard

BY CAMERON TURNER, MIXED DOUBLES VICE PRESIDENT

O

ne of the key initiatives this year from our ALTA President as well as all of our ALTA leaders and volunteers is to emphasize the true essence of our organization; that is, great sportsmanship. We know you have come across several great people while playing a league match. We want to hear from you. Please reach out to your coordinator or the league vice president if you have someone you’d like to nominate for a good sportsmanship award.

You can find the nomination form on the ALTA website > ALTA Documents > Captain/Manager Handbooks > Sportsmanship Award Nomination Form. Here are a few of the stories from our past fall season:

Smoke Rise Country Club Sunday Women B4 Players Debbie Granger and Gidget Kettle Nominated by player Adele Dickinson, Evergreen Lakes My partner, Alisa Walsh, and I were playing line 1 at home.

As you might recall, the heat was oppressive on Sunday, September 15, with temps in the mid-90’s. We were in the third set, with the score 3-4. During a point, I would have sworn I saw a ball roll onto our court, so I called a let. Only there was no ball.

Nothing. Our opponents were playing beside us but rallying a typical point with no threat of the ball coming on to our court.

It was a complete hallucination on my part. I am still struggling to understand how that could happen. The response? Debbie and Gidget laughed, commented on how many lets we had experienced (which was true) and simply offered to replay the point. I was so touched by their generosity and such great sportsmanship at such a pivotal point in the match.

Rivershyre Junior Boys B1 Team Manager Beth Zindel

Photos by Laura Barnard

Nominated by Sharon Callahan, team manager, Vermack

I’d like to nominate Beth Zindel from Rivershyre for the Good Sportsmanship award. We played them in the first round of the fall 2019 Junior Boys 18U playoffs. She informed me the day before the match that she would be defaulting line 2D if we were able to play the match on time. It rained the night before the match, so it was iffy as to whether we would be able to play the match at the scheduled time. We communicated the morning of the match, and Beth let me know that she thought the courts would be playable by match time. She also informed me that one of her 1D players injured himself the night before so she would be defaulting line 1D as well. She very easily could have told me the courts weren’t playable, and we would need to reschedule to the next day when she was able to field a full

lineup. She said she didn’t do that because it would not have been the right thing to do. The courts were playable, and she wanted to teach her teenage boys that it’s more important to do the right thing than to get ahead by cheating. What a great message!

Nesbit Ferry, Thursday Women B4 Captain Susan Weyn

GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP

Good Sportsmanship

Nominated by Cathy Bedsole, Dunwoody Country Club

My name is Cathy, and I play on Dunwoody Country Club’s B4 Thursday Women’s team. Last Thursday, we played a team from Nesbit Ferry, and through all our excitement, I left my tennis bag there. I went back that evening and met the nicest person, Susan Weyn, on the other Nesbit Ferry team. She tried calling the other captain and people on that team to help me find it. She took my number, and for three days she kept in touch with me as she continued to look. On Sunday evening, she located it, got in touch with me, and told me not to worry.

She said she would be in the area where I live and would bring it to me. I got it yesterday, just in time to play my match today. She showed such kindness and the greatest sportsmanship for me, and she didn’t know me at all. I know you always hear the bad stories, so I just wanted to share the kindness of Susan Weyn.

Hunter Park-City of Douglasville, Thursday Women A3 Captain Rhonda Bush Nominated by Joyce Butler, coordinator

This nomination is for Rhonda Bush, who captains a Thursday Women’s team out of Hunter Park-City of Douglasville.

Rhonda had a situation where Ansley Park, the second-place team going into week 7 asked their opponent (Hunter Park-City of Douglasville) to play a line early. At the last minute, Ansley (the requesting team) could not play that line as scheduled.

Hunter Park could have claimed the line 3 point, and with that, they would have received the points below line 3 as well. Instead, Rhonda made it work, and had her team agree to play the match and chose to have the points decided on the court instead of receiving points by default.

Ansley did advance to the playoffs as a second-place team, winning by one point. It just showed me what true sportsmanship is all about.

CONTACT US To nominate a player or a team for a sportsmanship award, download our form, and email your coordinator or league vice president.

MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

39

GOOD QUESTION

SCHEDULING YOUR SPRING BREAK MATCH My team has scheduled to play some lines of the Spring Break match early. What are the default rules relating to no-shows for lines that are played later than the pre-played match?

Keri Beck, Thursday Women Vice President There can be confusion about matches/lines scheduled to be pre-played, which can deter captains from agreeing to assist their opponent’s request to play early. The default rules for pre-played matches are no different than a regularly scheduled dual meet. The ALTA Adult League General Rules, Section IV. Dual Meets, Item E. states: If a higher position is defaulted after the lower position has been played, the team defaulting shall also lose the points earned at the lower position(s). If any positions are played before the regularly scheduled time of the dual meet, the above default rules apply…

Example: if Team A, Line 2 plays early and wins that match, and their Line 1 does not show for their scheduled match (whether also played early or on scheduled match day), Team A will default Line 1, then Forfeit the Line 2 point they had already won, and all lower positions.

If you are requesting, or agreeing, to pre-play all or part of a match, this should be confirmed in writing so that all parties are clear with the new scheduled date(s) to prevent no-shows.

FINDING AN ALTA MEMBER NUMBER I am trying to add a player to my team, but I can’t find their ALTA number on the website. How can I get that information?

Debbie Gaster, First Vice President ALTA members can obtain this information on the website. You’ll need to login > Member Portal >Members & Memberships > Member Search. Enter the member’s name, and you’ll see the member’s ALTA number.

You can find this and the answer to many other commonly asked questions in the FAQ’s on the website.

WAIT, I’M NOT READY I was observing a tennis match recently and between points, a player went to retrieve a ball that had landed between the service and baseline. He had just started to

go back to his position when a serve was struck. His partner returned it, and then they lost the point. The returner’s partner held up his hand to stop play because he was not ready.

Their opponents said it was their point as the returner should not have returned the serve, but should have held up his hand for a delay, as his partner was not ready. Is it the server’s responsibility to make sure all players are ready?

Lamar Scott, Men’s League Vice President In a double’s match, only one player on a team is “the receiver” when a point begins. Rule 29 of USTA’s The Code assumes that the server shall not serve until the receiver is ready, and states that “the receiver should make no effort to return a serve when the receiver is not ready,” and then adds “If a player attempts to return a serve, then the receiver (or receiving team) is presumed to be ready. In doubles, it’s the receiver’s

responsibility to make sure his or her partner is ready.

MAKING SCORECARD MISTAKES If I put the wrong name of a person on my card, can I go back and change it?

Cameron Turner, Mixed Doubles League Vice President In many cases you can, but if you put the wrong name on your card and it is approved in the system, your overall coordinator can change it if it is within 10 days of the match being played.

After the 10 days, then per ALTA rules, the cards can’t be changed. (Captain’s Handbook, Page 30, Section “After the Dual Meet”: Scorecards are final 10 days after the matches are completed). This is why it is so important to review your cards in the ALTA website carefully before approving them.

DID YOU EVER WONDER ABOUT … ?

If you’ve ever had a situation occur in a match where no one on the court knew the rule that applied, send your inquiry to Good Question. Submit your question, along with your name, league, team name and level to altaeditor@altatennis.org.

40

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

JENSEN ZONE Luke Jensen

Self-Correcting

T

he first quarter of the 2020 season is upon us, and there are so many story lines on the pro tour. On the women’s side, Cori “Coco” Gauff is taking off! I was concerned about her forehand as I watched her play at Wimbledon 2019.

That shot can get short and land in the middle of the court. Gauff played predictable patterns; she used her big ground stroke weapon, her backhand, hitting it frequently cross court. But what I saw in the fall with a run at the US Open and winning her first WTA event was next-level good. And what I witnessed from a 15-year-old at the 2020 Australian Open was next-level awesome! Her forehand was much deeper on her rally ball, and she could drive it down the line when needed. Additionally, Gauff’s serve is explosive, going into the 118-mph range as one of the fastest serves in the women’s singles draw. Her second serve, however, can get a little out of hand at times.

Because Gauff is not yet seasoned enough to have learned how to self-correct, her second serve will stay a mystery — perhaps like it has for Maria Sharapova who never conquered the double-fault demons. Do you have the double-fault demons? Is there a shot in your game that you and your opponents know is your weakness? All players play on instinct.

From the very first ball we hit to the last ball in every rally — whether you know it or not — you are picking up multiple messages as you track the ball. The best instinctive player is the one who never thinks; he or she just reacts. Everything flows for these players and opponents has no way of stopping perfection.

For me, my overheads and backhand passing shots always were automatic, even under the most pressured situations.

However, most of my game was not. My second serve was an area of my game that I had to constantly monitor and work on.

I was fortunate to absolutely love serving practice. Setting up the three targets of “T,” “body,” and wide serves in both boxes was one of the most enjoyable parts of my training. I grew up in a football culture, so a consistent routine of punting, passing, and kicking 100 footballs each during practice taught me deliberate training discipline that spilled over to my serving training when I developed both my leftand right-handed serves.

Most of my football skills training was done on my own or with my brother, Murphy. Our parents still were coaching their varsity teams after school, so Murphy and I would practice our football skills at those times. Based on accuracy and distance, it took us a little over an hour to get all 600 punts, passes, and kicks completed. That same approach helped me in self-correcting service training. I was building tools for a tough, unbreakable serve. I still use so many of those developed skills in my serving today.

When I see Gauff, I can tell that the tennis world is about to be dominated by a wonder kid, the likes of whom we haven’t seen since Maureen “Little Mo” Connolly (1934-1969). From the young age of 10 to 15, Little Mo won 50 tennis championships. At 18, she was the first woman in tennis to win the calendar grand slam. The similarities between Connolly and Gauff are amazing, but unless Coco learns how to fix that second serve, the double faults will haunt her throughout her career. All of you are stepping into spring tennis and competitive league play. Are you ready? Rest for the pressure that can break you, or make you awesome. I am.

— LUKE JENSEN FRENCH OPEN DOUBLES CHAMPION MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

41

IMPROVING YOUR GA ME

Finding Your Style

BY BILL ANDERSON, DIRECTOR OF TENNIS, CAPITAL CITY CLUB

A

very important learning tool as you evaluate where your tennis game can go is finding the playing style that works best for you. The best way to find your style is to ask your tennis professional to assess various hitting zones with their feeds to see your natural swing come through. This evaluation is easy and may only take two or three lessons to discover, sometimes after one session.

Players of all abilities, heights, and ages tend to swing more consistently from a certain hitting zone. For example, a player who has a natural topspin (low to high)

swing is likely to strike the ball better from a lower hitting zone just below their waist. In comparison, players who tend to hit flat, and have a more parallel to the ground swing, will enjoy the higher hitting zones above the waist. There are two important factors to assess once you’ve found your playing style. n Strengths and weakness of each style n Court positioning to match your style Once you’ve adopted a style, the second step is to learn the positives and negatives in order to recognize how your ball

affects your opponent and what potential risks your style poses. For example, a flatball hitter who drives through their ball from a high hitting zone has a greater risk of missing into the net. A topspin hitter, swinging low to high, has greater risk of missing the ball deep. Strengths can be looked at as well. Topspin players are able to push opponents back and play stronger angles, whereas flat-ball hitters do a better job keeping the ball low and playing through the middle of the court in doubles. Below are strengths and weakness of each style:

TOPSPIN STRENGTHS

FLAT-BALL STRENGTHS

Better angles Pushes baseline player back Great consistency Stays back and has longer points Stands behind the baseline

Lower ball to opponent Hits through the middle better Ends points early Approaches net more and shortens points Stands on or in front of the baseline

TOPSPIN WEAKNESSES

FLAT-BALL WEAKNESS

Miss more balls deep Can be poached more easily Stays higher to net player Prone to being attacked

Miss more balls into the net Restricts use of angles Stays low making net players hit up Limits the amount of court you can use

Another point of emphasis is court positioning to match your playing style. All players who use effective topspin and allow the ball to drop to the lower hitting zone will stand at least two to three steps behind the baseline. This positioning allows the ball to descend to the lower hitting zone so power and an upward motion can be achieved. Flat-ball hitters will look to stand on or inside the baseline moving/leaning into their shot as it rises to the higher hitting zone between the navel and shoulders.

42

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

MARCH/APRIL 2020NETNEWS

43

HEALTH A ND FITNESS

Better Balance Tips to improve your stability on and off the court

BY CHRIS HAGMAN, ACE, USPTA

B

alance is often taken for granted, yet when you slip or fall you think otherwise.

Usually, falls are not a concern for young people as they just get back up and carry on. However, balance is essential for older adults; falling and breaking a hip can be the beginning of a downward spiral.

I have found working with people to improve their balance can be a real challenge.

The reasons for this are as varied as my clients. For example, some have weaker lower extremities, others have insufficient core strength, and other clients even have balance issues because of prescribed medications. Here are some tips for better balance on and off the court.

Start slow and safe..Balance progressions can be from floor exercises, two feet, one leg, Bosu ball to wobble board.

Do functional training. These are exercises for muscle groups and

joints for daily activities. Train in the three planes of motion: sagittal (front and back), frontal (side to side) and transverse (rotational).

Take yoga and/or Pilates. Over time, I see more and more benefits from these disciplines for competitive athletes, recreational players, and the general public.

Challenge your vision. When doing a static balance exercise, like tree, focus on a specific spot on the wall. After you can hold your balance for several seconds, try closing your eyes! Go slowly here, and you can tell the marked challenge.

Try a new activity or sport with movements in different planes of motion. Examples could be ballroom dancing or martial arts. Get involved with something you like, so you can stay with it.

Mix up your routine. When exercising over time, it’s important to do cardio, resistance, and flexibility training. Include abductor (exterior) thigh and adductor (interior) thigh training; these muscles assist lateral balance.

Consult with your physician. Some pain medicines and anti-anxiety drugs can hinder balance. Having a skilled doctor and trainer working together (for you) is a winning combination.

44

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

New LOWER PRICES for 2020

“Wow…welcome relief!”

Mike M. - Atlanta, GA

“It literally works instantly to stop cramps.”

Martha R. - Houston, TX

“It’s my go-to in the summer!”

Kerry G. - Atlanta, GA

“My son is a college player who for a few years had cramping with his matches. Over the past year or so he takes CrampsAWAY before the start of his match and he hasn't cramped since. It's wonderful. Thanks.”

Ted Volk - Oak Park, CA

Just swish and swallow like James Blake does!

crampsaway.com

NUTRITION

Will A Plant-Based Eating Plan Improve Your Tennis Game?

BY PAGE LOVE, MS, RDN, LD, CSSD, USPTA

M

ore Americans are adopting a vegetarian or plant-based lifestyle, and competitive tennis players also are following suit. The biggest trend setter in tennis, Novac Djokovic, is setting the stage for this excitement, claiming his most recent success at the Australian Open was partly due to his new plant-based eating approach.

So, should you give this a try? Is it safe for your health? How can you do this while meeting your nutritional needs? Will this approach enhance your tennis performance?

There is no question that plant-based eating can provide a plethora of great antioxidant nutrition for your body, including anti-inflammatory nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and E; fiber, unsaturated fats; and numerous phytonutrients. However, plant-based eating may leave you short in several key nutrient areas, including protein, vitamin B-12, iron, and calcium, so you need to proceed with caution. If you are not meeting your full nutritional needs, you may experience some of the following symptoms related to protein malnutrition: fatigue, sleepiness, inability to concentrate, shortness of breath with normal exertion; loss of muscle weight and strength, hair loss, nail brittleness, swelling and water retention in joints, slow recovery from respiratory infections, and illness.

If you are open to a more “flexitarian eating style” that would allow you to best meet your nutritional needs, this may be the most conservative approach to making sure you maximize both your health and tennis performance needs. For example, being open to fish, or occasional egg or dairy choices may improve your ability to fully meet your protein, B-vitamin, calcium, and iron needs.

What is an adequate amount of protein?

Tennis players should aim to have at least 20 gm protein servings at meals (2 times per day) and 10-15 gram serving of protein at snack time, especially after tennis or workouts (1 to 2 times a day). Research suggests that protein needs are slightly increased with regular sports training.

Because protein needs are specific to body weight, these needs are determined by taking into consideration your weight in pounds.

Example: Your weight in pounds ÷ 2.2 = kg

Your kg weight X (1.0 – 1.5) = grams Sample player’s daily needs:

140 lbs. ÷ 2.2 X (1.0 – 1.5) = 64 to 95 grams daily

In summary, as you consider approaching vegetarian or plant-based eating, keep in mind two critical things: meeting your protein needs and your micronutrient needs for calcium, iron, and B-vitamins. You may need to supplement your diet with a solid multivitamin that contains iron and B-12. And, if you are not including animal dairy sources, you may also need to add a calcium supplement to your regimen. Consider consulting a registered and licensed dietitian to help you with menu planning to fully meet these needs, not to mention your increased needs for additional nutrients that increase with your tennis training.

46

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

Meatless foods higher in protein • soy, tofu, tempeh, setian • veggie burgers and sausages • legumes (peas, beans) • grains, nuts, seeds • veggie luncheon meats • veggie chicken nuggets • veggie jerky • eggs • cheese • soy milk, fortified almond milk, and • hummus Simple meal ideas that can meet your sport nutrition needs for tennis: • bean soups paired with seeded crackers or bread • legume high-protein pastas with parmesan • beans and rice with cheese • stir-fried rice and tofu with veggies • bean and rice burritos with cheese Page Love is an avid ALTA participant and owns a private nutrition consulting practice in Atlanta. She is a consultant to both the men’s ATP and women’s WTA tennis tours and is a member of the USTA national sport science committee. Contact her at nutrifitga.com for questions or consultation.

WHERE ATLANTA COMES TO

PLAY

For the latest news, information and events Like us! facebook.com/AtlantaLawnTennisAssociation – Official Follow us! instagram.com/ALTA_tennis Read Net News! netnewsmag.com

ALTATENNIS.ORG

MARCH/APRIL 2020NETNEWS

47

COURT CUISINE

Salads Yes, match play and team practice can burn a lot of calories and make you hungry. But sometimes, you just don’t want to eat a big meal or fill up on questionably healthy snacks. Instead, you would prefer a salad; something nutritious to help you refuel. Below, we present some of your fellow ALTA members’ favorite salad recipes. Enjoy!

Chopping Broccoli!

Go Greek

Creamy & Delicious

Tortellini and Broccoli Salad Barb Sarkady, Bradshaw Farm Thursday Women B4

Mediterranean Orzo Salad Rachel Rose, Lost Mountain TC, Sunday Women B7

Avocado Chicken Salad Andrea Brown, Sharon Springs Park, Thursday Women C6

6 slices bacon

20 oz. fresh cheese-filled tortellini

½ cup mayonnaise

½ cup white sugar

2 tsp. cider vinegar

3 heads fresh broccoli, cut into florets

1 cup raisins

1 cup sunflower seeds

8 oz. orzo pasta

3 Tbsp. olive oil Juice of 1 lemon Fresh dill, chopped Salt and pepper to taste Spinach leaves, sliced thinly

1 pint sweet grape tomatoes, halved Feta cheese Kalamata olives

1 can garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained

2 cups grilled shredded chicken (or rotisserie)

1 avocado

½ tsp. garlic powder (or real)

½ tsp. pepper Sea salt to taste

2 tsp. lime juice

1 Tbsp. fresh cilantro

½ green apple, cubed

¼ cup slivered almonds

¼ red onion, diced

¼ cup 0% fat Greek yogurt, plain

Cook orzo as instructed on package. Drain.

Rinse with cold water. Drain. Put in large bowl. Add olive oil, lemon juice, dill, salt and pepper to taste. Mix well. Add remaining ingredients and mix. Chill.

Smash avocado. Add remining ingredients and mix. Either server warm immediately or refrigerate for 20 minutes.

Cook bacon and crumble, set aside. Cook tortellini in boiling water for 8-10 minutes.

Drain and rinse under cold water. In a small bowl, mix together mayo, sugar, and vinegar to make the dressing. In a large bowl, combine broccoli, tortellini, bacon, raisins, and sunflower seeds. Pour dressing over salad and toss.

48

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

FROM THE VAULT Reprinted from ALTA: Its History, Humor & Hors D’Oeuvres by John Williams.

High Falutin Uptown Bluegrass Salad Submitted by Abbotts Glen team members, 2002

1 lb. bacon, cooked and crumbled

2 heads romaine lettuce, torn into bite-size pieces

1 14 oz. can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped

1 large avocado, cut into bite-size pieces

6 oz. parmesan cheese, freshly grated Spicy mustard dressing

Sweet, Tart Cranberry, Feta, Walnut Salad Gail Bell, Bitsy Grant Thursday Women B4

10

1 1½

½

oz. mixed salad greens cup dried cranberries cups (6 oz.) reduced-fat feta cheese, crumbled cup toasted walnuts, chopped Balsamic vinaigrette dressing

Toast walnuts in oven at 350 degrees for 5 minutes, stir occasionally. Layer greens, cranberries, feta cheese, and walnuts in shallow bowl or platter. Pour dressing over salad, toss gently to coat.

Spicy Mustard Dressing cup chopped onion

3 Tbsp. cider vinegar

2 Tbsp. spicy brown mustard

½ tsp. sugar

½ tsp. salt

¼ tsp. freshly ground pepper

¾ cup olive oil

Process onion and vinegar in a food processor until pureed; transfer to a medium bowl. Whisk in mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper. Gradually whisk oil in a slow, steady stream. Whisk until thickened.

Combine bacon, lettuce, artichokes, avocado, and parmesan cheese in a large bowl. Add spicy mustard dressing. Toss to coat and serve immediately. Serves 10-12.

More Citrus, Please!

Orange Salad Diane Radovich, Horseshoe Bend Thursday Women A1

½ cup olive oil

¼ cup corn oil

¼ cup wine vinegar

½ tsp. lemon-pepper seasoning

½ tsp. chopped fresh parsley

1 large or 2 small heads Boston lettuce

1 (11 oz.) can Mandarin oranges, drained

½ red onion, thinly sliced and separated into rings

12 large fresh mushrooms, sliced

1 (2 oz.) package slivered almonds Combine first 5 ingredients in a jar. Cover tightly and shake vigorously. Combine remaining ingredients in a large bowl and toss gently. Toss with dressing when ready to serve.

SHARE OUR RECIPES ON SOCIAL MEDIA! Check out previously published Court Cuisine recipes online at netnewsmag.com.

MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

49

50

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

THE ALTA GUIDE TO

r e m Sum ! s p Cam

BY CORY SEKINE-PETTITE

F

or many of us, our fondest memories were made during the summers of our youth — those carefree days when we would play outside from dawn until dusk. Whether it was on a tennis court, a basketball court

or a playground, it did not matter; our only concern was having fun with friends. Too often today, our own kids are making most of their memories indoors. You can change this for them by enrolling them in tennis camp this summer. No matter their skill level, there’s a program to improve their game or to help them fall in love with the sport that you play. Keep reading to find a camp that fits your needs and will build lasting memories for your future tennis all-stars.

MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

51

Summe!r Camps GUIDE TO

ACE Tennis Academy

ACE Tennis Academy ACE Summer Tennis Camps are held each year at the Fields Club in Peachtree Corners and Medlock Bridge in Johns Creek. Jeff Weaver and his staff have been developing top-ranked juniors since 1994.

ACE players have won more than 35 national titles, including 12 Gold Balls (national championships). Camps begin the last week of May and continue through early August. For the summer, ACE offers Morning Camps and Full-Day Camps for players of all levels, ages 7 & up. Preregister by May 15, 2020 for 10 percent off! Each new player receives complimentary half-hour to one-hour private lessons.

• ACE Camps (recreational players) • ACE Advanced Camps (competitive players) • ACE Elite Camps (tournament players only/selection by UTR) • Morning Camp (Mon-Fri, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.) $225/week or $50/day • Full-Day Camp (Mon-Fri, 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.) $350/week or $90/day For more information, visit ACETennisAcademy.net, or email CAROL@ACETennisAcademy.net.

52

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

Auburn University Tennis Camps

Brand New Courts and Facilities May 31 - June 4, June 7-11 June 14-18, June 21-25

Auburn University Tennis Camps Auburn University Tennis Camps are committed to providing camps that are both instructional and informational while creating a great atmosphere to learn. The camp’s staff is dedicated to the development and growth of tennis players of all skill levels. Players receive valuable training while being evaluated by college coaches.

Auburn’s goal is to provide a positive and instrumental learning experience for all, in a structured, enthusiastic, and fun environment.

• Residential Camp (June 7-11, June 14-18): Ages 10-18, $700 • Full-Day Camp (June 8-11, June 15-18): Ages 8-18, $490 • Half-Day Camp (June 8-11, June 15-18): Ages 8-18, $280 • Mini-Day Camp (June 8-11, June 15-18): Ages 5-8, $175 For more information, contact Meagan Hooshyar mls0054@ auburn.edu, or 334.750.3854.

LET TENNIS DYNAMICS HELP YOU...

OUR JOY! Y D N I F

Join us at Laurel Park Tennis Center

• Juniors • Adults • Summer Camps

• After School • Strength & Conditioning • Polar Bear Camp

151 Manning Road, Marietta | 770.919.8602 | info@tennisdynamics.net tennisdynamics.net

MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

53

Summe!r Camps GUIDE TO

Tiger Tennis Camp, Clemson University Legendary women’s Head Coach Nancy Harris, along with her pro staff, including junior Grand Slam, All-American and NCAA winners, continues Clemson’s 100-plus years legacy of outstanding junior tennis programming with one of the most innovative co-ed camp experiences in the country.

Set against the panorama of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hoke Sloan Tennis Center’s 21 outdoor and four indoor courts are the perfect setting for campers of all ages and skill levels to engage in drills, on-the-court instruction, match play, and classroom sessions customized to their individual play level. Campers are evaluated at the outset of camp and placed in White Camp, Orange Camp, and Orange Crush or Top Tiger Skill groups. Top-notch tennis instruction is complemented with fun, off-thecourt activities.

• Ages 9-17, co-ed • June 2-6, June 9-13, June 16-20, June 23-27 • Overnight Camper – $895/Session; Day Camper – $575/Session

54

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

For more information, visit tigertenniscamp.com, email info@TigerTennisCamp.com, or call 864.985.3969.

Tiger Tennis Camp

MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

55

Summe!r Camps GUIDE TO

Manuel Diaz Bulldog Tennis Camp for Boys

Manuel Diaz Bulldog Tennis Camp for Boys Coach Manuel Diaz and his staff, including Associate Head Coach Jamie Hunt, provide campers with the same championship-level instruction he utilized to lead the Bulldogs to the 1999, 2001, 2007, and 2008 National Championships. A multiple National Coach of the Year winner, Diaz has won an amazing 28 SEC titles and is in his 31st year as the head coach of the Bulldogs.

The camp, which is in its 51st year, will be held at the perennial site of the NCAA Championships, The Dan Magill Tennis complex, which holds 12 outdoor courts as well as four indoor courts. The Georgia Bulldog Tennis Camp will provide instruction for every level of play. For the beginner, basic fundamentals and stroke production will be emphasized. For the intermediate players, refinement of the fundamentals: footwork, grips, strokes and strategy will be stressed. The advanced players will be trained at the same intensity level and similar drills that we train our Bulldog college players. Along with match play and conditioning, coaches emphasize challenging the campers regardless of their level of play. The camp is for boys of All abilities, ages 9-17.

• Session I: June 14-18 • Session II: June 21-25 • Session III: July 12-16 • Residents: (Age 10 by Sept. 1, 2019), $775 • Extended Day Campers: (9 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.), $650 • Day Campers: (9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.), $575 Contact Lynn Steedman at bulldogtenniscamp.com, or 706.542.9348.

56

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

SERIOUS. FUN. Jekyll Island Tennis Center

NIKE TENNIS CAMPS

JUNIOR OVERNIGHT AND DAY CAMPS | BOYS AND GIRLS | AGES 6-18 ALL SKILL LEVEL PROGRAMS | TOURNAMENT TRAINING | HIGH SCHOOL 10 & UNDER TENNIS GEORGIA FLORIDA SOUTH CAROLINA Emory University (Atlanta) University of Georgia (Athens)

ALABAMA

University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa) Samford University (Birmingham)

NORTH CAROLINA

Jekyll Island Tennis Center This summer, campers can improve their tennis skills and help develop their personal style of play. Camp sessions are grouped by skill level and split the day between personalized tennis stroke structure and improvement, and application of these skills in fun games and challenging drills. Campers will receive a camp t-shirt, hat, commemorative patch, and a graduation certificate, along with lunch provided daily by Larry’s Giant Subs and a trip to the island’s Summer Waves Water Park!

Ages & Dates • Rising 1st-4th graders: June 1519, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

• Rising 5th-7th graders: July 6-10, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Cost $280 + tax per child (A 10-percent discount will be offered for each additional child/sibling.)

To reserve a space, visit jekyllisland.com/summercamp.

Rollins College (Winter Park) Florida State University (Tallahassee) University of West Florida (Pensacola) Ocean Reef Club (Key Largo) Hammock Beach Resort (Palm Coast)

Furman University (Greenville)

VIRGINIA

Charlottesville Tennis Camp (Boar’s Head Resort & University of Virginia) Wintergreen Resort (Wintergreen)

Duke University (Durham) Charlotte Latin School (Charlotte)

USSportsCamps.com | 1.800.NIKE.CAMP All Rights reserved. Nike and the Swoosh design are registered trademarks of Nike, Inc. and its affiliates, and are used under license.

Nike is the title sponsor of the camps and has no control over the operation of the camps or the acts or omissions of US Sports Camps.

SUMMER CAMP

10% OFF

If you pre-register by May 15 + each new player receives complimentary 1/2 hr private lesson

MORNING CAMP

Monday - Friday, 10am - 12:30pm $225/week or $50/day

FULL DAY CAMP Monday - Friday, 10am - 3:30pm $350/week or $90/day

T O R E G I S T E R : C A R O L @ A C E T E N N I S A C A D E M Y. N E T

404-372-0566

MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

57

Summe!r Camps GUIDE TO

Nike Tennis Camps Tennis Dynamics Summer Camps

Nike Tennis Camps provide players the opportunity to improve their tennis game, work hard, make new friends, and have a lot of fun.

Camps are directed by America’s most respected college coaches and tennis pros who have a passion for teaching and a gift for helping you take your game to the next level.

Some camps also offer high school and tournament training programs.

Players can look forward to personalized, on-court instruction, programs for every skill level, and improving their game in fantastic tennis venues and overnight accommodations.

• Ages 6-18, co-ed • June-August • $300-$995 For more information, visit USSportsCamps.com/tennis, or call 800.645.3226.

Tennis Dynamics Summer Camps Give your child an amazing camp experience, including Day Camps, Evening Camps, Junior Camps, Adult Camps, and Golf/Tennis Camps. Campers will make friends, learn the sport, and have a blast! All set in a beautiful park.

• Age levels: 5-17 • Dates: May 25 – Aug. 31 • Pricing: Varies on the camp and hours. Call for more info.

For more information, call 770.919.8602, or go to tennisdynamics.net to register.

Nike Tennis Camps

58

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

Palmetto Dunes Tennis Camps During the Palmetto Dunes Junior Tennis Camps on Hilton Head Island, coaching sessions emphasize stroke production, with a focus on technique, footwork, and strategy. Customizable family packages, including accommodations, court time, lessons and clinics, are available. The tennis center has 19 clay courts and 24 pickleball courts. It is ranked the No. 1 tennis resort in the Carolinas. Palmetto Dunes is also among the Top 10 best tennis resorts worldwide and has ranked No. 4 in the world for junior programs.

Palmetto Dunes Tennis Camps

• Ages 11-17, co-ed • March-Labor Day • $44/day and $42 for 5 or more days • Monday – Friday 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 p.m.

For more information, visit palmettodunes.com/netnews, or call 866.287.2679.

2020 UTA SUMMER TENNIS CAMPS WE HAVE ATLANTA COVERED! Sign up now at any of our sites:

-Agnes Scott

-Briarlake

-Mcghee

-Bitsy Grant

-Chastain

-Piedmont Park

-Blackburn

-James Creek

-Washington Park

CALL 404-497-0680 OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE UTATENNIS.COM TO SIGN UP!

MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

59

Summe!r Camps GUIDE TO

Universal Tennis Academy Camps

Yellow Jacket Tennis Camps Yellow Jacket Tennis Camps are an engaging, fun experience for boys and girls aged 9-18.

Georgia Tech aims to enhance each camper’s skills through morning instruction and afternoon match play. Coaches stress the importance of sound fundamentals and strategy while providing unforgettable entertainment. Campers will be split into groups/teams based on age and ability level. The camp is open to any and all entrants within age requirements.

The main camp is from ages 9-18. However, Georgia Tech does offer a half-day camp for children from 5-8 years old.

Dates • June 1-5 (half-day and day options) • June 8-12 (half, day, and overnight options) • June 15-19 (half-day and day options) • June 22-26 (half-day and day options) Prices $240 for half-day ages 5-8 $495 for day campers ages 9-18 $775 for overnight campers (June 8-12 only) There is an early-bird discount of $50 dollars if you register on or before April 1, 2020.

For more information, contact Ethan Shapiro at ethan@ yellowjackettenniscamp.com, or 404.840.3451, and Jeremy Efferding at jefferding@icloud. com, or 561.504.2847.

60

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

Yellow Jacket Tennis Camps

Universal Tennis Academy Camps Universal Tennis Academy (UTA) offers summer tennis camps throughout Atlanta. UTA has trained all levels of players, from ALTA champions and NCAA competitors to ATP/WTA touring professionals in a fun, exciting, and educational environment. UTA Tennis Camps are offered at the following locations: • Agnes Scott College • Bitsy Grant Tennis Center • Blackburn Park Tennis Center • Briarlake Church • Chastain Park Tennis Center • James Creek Tennis Center • McGhee Tennis Center • Piedmont Park Tennis Center • Washington Park Tennis Center UTA holds summer camp every week of the summer, starting the week of Memorial Day. Both half-day and full-day tennis camps are offered, including a tennis/swim camp at Chastain Park and Piedmont Park, as well as a golf/tennis camp at Bitsy Grant Tennis Center.

AUBURN TENNIS CAMP 2020 SCHEDULE Overnight Camp - Ages 10+ Camp 1 June 7 - 11 $700 Camp 2 June 14 - 18 $700 Day Camp - Ages 10+ Camp 1 June 8 - 11 Camp 2 June 15 - 18

$490 $490

Half Day Camp - Ages 10+ Camp 1 June 8 - 11 $280 Camp 2 June 15 - 18 $280 Mini Kid Camp - Ages 5-9 Camp 1 June 8 - 11 $175 Camp 2 June 15 - 18 $175 Coached by AU Head Coach BOBBY REYNOLDS and Assistant Chris Hooshyar

ABCSPORTSCAMPS.COM/AUTENNIS

• Ages 4-16, co-ed • May 26-May 29, June 1-5, June 8-12, June 15-19, June 22-26, June 29-July 3, July 6-10, July 13-17, July 20-24, July 27-31, and Aug. 3-7 For more information, visit utatennis.com, or call 404.497.0680.

Super Cool!

HAVE A

SUMMER!

Rain is never a problem with 6 indoor courts!

Direct coaching from Georgia Tech Head Coaches; Coach Thorne and Coach Harmon

JOIN GEORGIA TECH HEAD COACHES

Kenny Thorne & Rodney Harmon in the state-of-the-art Ken Byers Tennis Complex at Georgia Tech •

10 outdoor courts and 6 indoor courts.

•

Beginners to Advanced

•

Day and Overnight Camps

•

Half Day 8 and under Camps

•

Spots are limited. REGISTER TODAY! The camp is open to any and all entrants up to age18.

For more information go to

www.y yellowjackettenniscamp.com 2019 Tennis Camp ad.indd 1

12/13/2019 9:31:21 AM MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS 61

YOUR SEARCH FOR A NEW HOME STARTS HERE

KNOWAtlantaRealEstate.com • Search 35,000+ homes • City and county information • Private and public school information • A Premier Real Estate Information Source SM

Contact us, we can help. brad@knowatlantarealestate.com (770) 337-6571

ON THE LIGHTER SIDE

CLASSIFIEDS Employment

Tennis: a racquet sport in which two players compete to see who has the shortest temper, the worst memory, the poorest eyesight, and the slowest watch.

COURT CUISINE

California Quinoa Salad

Linda Smith West Smyrna S&T Thursday Women C4 1 lb. ground sausage 1 can cheddar cheese soup 3 cups Bisquick 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated soup Brown and drain sausage. Mix with mixing and Bisquick. Add 3/4 can water, regular or well. Drop in greased muffin tins, bake at mini. Top with grated cheese and 375 15-20 minutes, or until brown.

Peanut Butter Balls

Lisa Gravlee, Woods of Parkview Sunday Women B1 1 cup large flake rolled oats 1/2 cup all natural peanut butter 1/4 cup honey 2 Tbsp. ground coffee 2 oz. semi-sweet chocolate, chopped 2 oz. white chocolate, chopped Mix ingredients together well. Refrigerate (makes for 20 minutes. Roll into 1-inch balls approximately 20).

72

Jenni Steines, Parkbrooke Sunday Women AA2

2 cups mixed quinoa 4 cups water 1 pkg. frozen mango or 2-3 diced fresh mangoes 1/2 large red onion, diced 1 medium to large red pepper, diced 1 small bunch cilantro, chopped 1-2 cups shredded, unsweeted coconut 3/4-1 cup unsalted, dry-toasted slivered almonds 1/2 cup raisins 2-3 cups frozen edamame, thawed 4-5 limes, juiced 1-4 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar

When Rinse quinoa well, cook as directed.

Add all done, fluff and spread out to cool. cold. other ingredients and toss. Enjoy

PGA TOUR Superstore is looking for fun, energetic tennis enthusiasts to join our team.

We are seeking part-time and seasonal sales associates and experienced racquet stringers for our Duluth, Roswell, and Kennesaw locations. For more information, please inquire in person to one of our stores.

Services

RACQUET TECH.COM and the US RACQUET STRINGERS ASSOCIATION

Author Unknown

Sausage Muffins

Your Serve Tennis – We are looking for new members of the YST team. YST provides a relaxed, fun work environment where our focus is the game we all love — TENNIS! Flexible hours available and weekend availability is required. We have positions available at all of our locations (Buckhead, East Cobb, Johns Creek, Milton, Sandy Springs, Suwanee and West Cobb), ranging from part-time stringers to store managers. We are also hiring for office and shipping/receiving positions out of our Roswell Home Office. For more information visit yourserve.com/jobs or submit your resume/application to jobs@yourserve.com.

Chocolate Chip Cookie

Taylor Aycock, Buford City Parks Juniors 12U [pls ck] 1 3/4 3/4 1 2 2 1/4 1 1 2

cup butter, softened cup white sugar cup brown sugar, packed tsp. vanilla extract eggs cups all purpose flour

NOW YOU CAN SHARE YOUR FAVORITE COURT CUISINE RECIPES ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER

tsp. salt tsp. baking soda cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

and In a large bowl, beat butter, sugars Add vanilla extract until ight and fluffy.

Gradually eggs, one at a time, beating well. until well add flour, salt and baking soda Spread in blended. Stir in chocolate chips. for 14-inch pizza pan. Bake at 375 degrees cooling 20-25 minutes. Cool in pan or on rack. Decorate as desired.

are looking to make you a “KNOW IT ALL PRO”—Get connected to the most up-todate interactive information for racquet sports professionals at racquettech.com. Membership also includes the Stringers Digest, Racquet Sports Industry magazine, manufacturer discounts, free marketing samples, and the only racquet service certification program in the industry. All benefits are available with USRSA Membership - $129. Contact: USRSA, P.O. Box 3392, Duluth, GA 30096, (760) 536-1177, FAX: (760) 536-1171, Email: USRSA@RacquetTECH.com, WEBSITE: RacquetTECH.com.

SHARE YOUR RECIPES! at via email to Lindsay Penticuff Send your recipes for Court Cuisine Court by mail to New South Publishing, lindsay@knowatlanta.com or 210, Atlanta, GA 30350.

Cuisine, 9040 Roswell Road, Suite

2017 NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL

Visit netnewsmag.com for our published Court Cuisine recipes.

G.COM NETNEWSMA NETNEWSMAG.COM

TO ADVERTISE: Call John Hanna at 770.650.1102, ext. 125

DEADLINE: May/June 2020 issue: Friday, April 3, 2020 MARCH/APRIL 2020 NETNEWS

63

ABOUT ALTA Contact Us at 770.399.5788

Questions?

ll ALTA vice presidents (below) have phone extensions at the ALTA office, but do A not work in the office on a regular basis. Voice messages are checked frequently and answered in a timely manner. n The phone number of your league coordinator is in your captains’ packet. n To contact a member of the Executive Committee, call the ALTA office at 770.399.5788 and dial the extension listed next to the officer’s name.

ALTA office personnel cannot answer your league-related questions. Team members should first contact their captain. If unable to answer, the captain should contact a league official. n Questions about rules must be directed to league officials, which include coordinators, overall coordinators and league vice presidents. n Concerns about team placement and levels should be directed to league officials. n Credit card questions? Call ext. 107. n Want information about new facility requests? Contact Diane O’Brien at ext.

105. n IT issues? Contact Joan Appelbaum at ext. 103.

n

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

EMAIL

EXT

President – Sandy Depa

ALTAPresident@altatennis.org

113

First Vice President – Debbie Gaster

FirstVP@altatennis.org

114

VP Men’s League – Lamar Scott

MensVP@altatennis.org

116

VP Thursday Women’s League – Keri Beck

ThursdayVP@altatennis.org

118

VP Sunday Women’s League – Chequetta Allen SundayVP@altatennis.org

117

VP Senior Day Leagues – Kim Dlugolenski

SeniorDayVP@altatennis.org

120

VP Senior Leagues – Roger Dennington

SeniorVP@altatennis.org

121

VP Mixed Doubles League – Cameron Turner

MixedVP@altatennis.org

122

VP Junior Leagues – Rita Maloof

JuniorVP@altatennis.org

119

VP Junior Challenge Ladder – Brenda Maddaleni JrChallengeVP@altatennis.org

123

VP Special Programs – Bob Kohmescher

SpecialProgramsVP@altatennis.org 124

VP Media – Michelle Ruiz

MediaVP@altatennis.org

125

Directions & General Information The ALTA office is located at 300 Colonial Center Parkway, Suite 140, Roswell, GA 30076. From GA 400 North, take exit 8 (Mansell Road) to Colonial Center Parkway (1.3 miles west).

ALTA office: 770.399.5788 ALTA office hours: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, except for major holidays. n Membership dues: Adults – $30, Juniors (18 and under) – $15. Dues are for the calendar year and expire at the end of the fall league season. n ALTA website: altatennis.org n ALTA’s calendar of important dates can be found on the website and in each issue of Net News. n Your membership number is printed on the Net News mailing label and is also available on the ALTA website. n To update your mailing address, log in to your account on the ALTA website and go to My Profile. n n

64

NETNEWS MARCH/APRIL 2020

yonextennis

yonex_tennis

yonex_tennis

|

ezone.yonex.com

UNVEILING A NEW DIMENSION OF POWER

SEIZE THE POWER

NICK KYRGIOS (AUS)

NAOMI OSAKA (JPN)

Yonex professional players may play with a customized racquet with different specifications to the model displayed.