USPTA ADDvantage Magazine - July 2022

July 2022

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA

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2022 USPTA WORLD CONFERENCE SEPTEMBER 18-22, 2022

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USPTA From the CEO

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h... New Orleans: “Let the Good Times Roll,” “the City that Care Forgot,” “Lagniappe” are common refrains amongst native New Orleanians because of the lifestyle that the Crescent City imbues.

It is quite a place. The food is over the top, the music is second to none, the history of the French Quarter is so interesting and the attractions are bountiful. I cannot wait for the 2022 World Conference to return to this unique destination!

We had originally planned to host the 2020 WC at this location but because of COVID, we postponed it until this year. It was helpful that the hotel was flexible to accommodate us this year. We were last there in 2015. And, as you may remember back then, it was a monumental moment in our illustrious ninety- five years when

TIMES John R. Embree, USPTA CEO at that World Conference, the Executive Committee voted to relocate our World Headquarters from Houston to Lake Nona.

On so many levels, that decision was transformative.

So, we are gearing up for this year’s event and we have some new and exciting plans that will make this WC better than ever. For the first time, we have a fun, social event scheduled for Sunday night, September 18 up in the Rivercenter Tennis and Health Club adjacent to the hotel from 6pm-8pm. You will be treated to a fabulous promotional experience that might be worthy of consideration at your home club.

Also new on Tuesday morning, we will host a networking event from 7:15am8:15am with a continental breakfast before the seminars commence. Various tables will be set up to hold conversations amongst your peers about relevant topics that affect your business. Then, on Wednesday night, we will hold a special dinner cruise on a paddlewheel boat, the Creole Queen, that will go up and down the Mississippi River serving traditional Creole cuisine. The boat docks right behind the hotel thus providing easy access.

These extra functions are all intended to make the member experience at our World Conference better than ever. Of course, we will have all the usual happenings during the week, such as: (see next column)

Photo Credit: The National WWII Museum

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From From the the CEO CEO USPTA

Two other added values will be part of the conference this year. As an option for registration, Therabody is offering a Theragun mini at a discounted price of $150 (normally $199). You have the option to pay the regular “early bird” registration of $449 prior to August 1 or pay $600 and get the Theragun mini included when you check into the conference. But you must register before August 1 to take advantage of this offer.

In addition, the USPTA app is going to be more robust than what we have had previously. Built for your convenience, our USPTA app will provide engagement tools that add value and create the ultimate member experience at live events. The USPTA app enhances the attendee experience by allowing communication of all event info quickly and easily. Additionally, it will provide members with a central location for presentation handouts, speaker bios, and session evaluations- all alongside their traditional member resources, including membership ID cards, insurance letters and educational report cards. This platform will reinforce the benefits of attending a USPTA in-person event, particularly with endorsee engagement and member networking, through the gamification of the Trade Show experiences and our app’s Connect feature. These new features will allow members to maintain and strengthen the connections made at these

events, from one easily accessible and manageable app across multiple devices.

In the succeeding pages of this issue, we will inform you of the schedule of activities, hotel details, registration procedures, nearby attractions to visit, etc. Because we went virtual in 2020 owing to the pandemic and last year’s event in Las Vegas was also impacted by COVID, there are a lot of good reasons to make an appearance at this year’s conference. We are committed to putting on a good show for everyone who attends.

Speaking of attractions, Harrah’s Casino is right across the street from the hotel, the French Quarter is within walking distance, as is the Warehouse District which is chock full of restaurants and art galleries, the World War II Museum, which has been greatly expanded over the past several

years, the Aquarium right nearby and the Riverwalk mall on the river. Who says the conference is “all work and no play”?

There is no substitute for attending an in-person World Conference. The energy that permeates the venue is palpable and the enthusiasm that exists when we can connect on a personal level cannot be replicated over Zoom. Make a point to come to New Orleans. It will be worth your while. LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL!*

John R. Embree USPTA CEO

Photo Credit: Creole Queen

July 2022

ADDvantage Magazine 37

*SUBJECT TO CHANGE. FOR MORE UPDATES GO TO USPTA.COM/WC22

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 8:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M. SPECIALTY COURSE 1 HOW TO ADVANCE YOUR CAREER IN TENNIS – KIM BASTABLE 1 P.M. – 5 P.M. SPECIALTY COURSE 2 TACTICS AND STRATEGY CRAIG O’SHANNESSY 6 P.M. – 8 P.M. XGLOSIVE TENNIS PARTY

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 7 A.M. - 7:45 A.M. CARDIO TENNIS 8 A.M. – 12 P.M. ON COURT & CLASSROOM SEMINARS 1 P.M. – 3:30 P.M. ON COURT & CLASSROOM SEMINARS 3:35P.M. – 4:45 P.M. AD STAFF MEETINGS

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 7 A.M. - 7:45 A.M. CARDIO TENNIS 8 A.M. – 12 P.M. ON COURT & CLASSROOM SEMINARS Q&A WITH USPTA HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES DR. JIM LOEHR AND DR. JACK GROPPEL 8:30 A.M. - 5 P.M. TE-1 CERTIFICATION 2 P.M. - 6 P.M. TE-3 CERTIFICATION 12:30 P.M. -2:30 P.M. USPTA AWARDS LUNCH 2:45 – 5:15 P.M. ON COURT & CLASSROOM SEMINARS 7 P.M. – 9 P.M. CREOLE QUEEN RIVER CRUISE (BOARDING AT 6:30 P.M.)

5 P.M. – 9 P.M. USPTA MERCHANDISE AND TRADE SHOW

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 8:30 A.M. – 1:15 P.M. ON COURT SEMINARS

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 7 A.M. - 8 A.M. CARDIO TENNIS

8 A.M. - 5 P.M. TE-3 CERTIFICATION

8:30 A.M. - 5 P.M. TE-1 CERTIFICATION

7:15 A.M. – 8:15 A.M. NETWORKING BREAKFAST

1 P.M. – 5 P.M. PICKLEBALL CERTIFICATION

8:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M. ON COURT & CLASSROOM SEMINARS

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 8 A.M. – 12 P.M. PICKLEBALL CERTIFICATION

1:30 P.M. – 4 P.M. ON COURT & CLASSROOM SEMINARS 4:30 P.M. – 5:30 P.M. USPTA GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING 6:30 P.M. USPTA DIVISION PARTIES ( )ADDITIONAL FEE

World Conference 2022 USPTA

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he largest annual gathering of tennis professionals, in a city world-renowned for its music, cuisine, and celebrations: The USPTA 2022 World Conference (USPTA WC22) in New Orleans is one you don’t want to miss! We’re returning to NOLA September 18-22.

Five days of education will be served up, beginning Sunday with two Specialty Courses featuring Kim Bastable and Craig O’Shannessy. Then a wide array of both classroom and on-court sessions are planned for Monday through Thursday.

Other World Conference speakers include Chanda Rubin, Dr. Mark Kovacs and both of our esteemed 2022 USPTA Hall of Fame Inductees, Dr. Jack Groppel and Dr. Jim Loehr, with many more world-class speakers to come. Check out our Q&A with Dr. Loehr on page 40-42.

Conference check-in begins Sunday, September 18. Stop by the USPTA registration desk to check-in and pick up your name badge. Your name badge is your ticket to all conference events, and it is necessary to have to earn education credits. USPTA members will earn educational credits for sessions attended during USPTA WC22. The sessions will cover content from the business of tennis, to teaching to facility management and sports science.

This year, there will be a few brand-new events to help enhance your USPTA WC22 experience. Have you ever played tennis in the dark? See how you can glow, while the games flow on page 44-45.

Tuesday morning will provide an extra opportunity to get to know your peers.

A Networking Breakfast will take place from 7:15-8:15 a.m. with experts set up at different tables, to help lead discussions on various topics that will be relatable to your club or teaching world.

Also new this year, a chance to step back in time as we hop on board and cruise down the Mississippi on the Creole Queen.

The luxurious Paddlewheeler is docked just steps away from our hotel and will set sail, with the USPTA aboard, Wednesday evening. Turn to page 43 to learn more

about this lovely night on the river.

For WC22 we’ll be returning to the Hilton New Orleans Riverside, which is within walking distance to shopping, dining, and countless other things to do.

See page 48-49 for ideas of how to spend your down time in New Orleans, from a former New Orleanian and USPTA Vice President, Tracy Almeda-Singian. The hotel has a variety of spacious guest rooms, many of them with views of the city or the Mississippi River. There is also a 100,000 square foot full-service health and fitness facility- HealthClub by Hilton. It has the only indoor, air-conditioned tennis courts in New Orleans! Plus, a fitness center, exercise classes, pickleball, basketball and racquetball courts and you can follow up your workout with a dip in one of two outdoor swimming pools.

Premier education, our Merchandise and Trade Show and tons of social events, all in a place where you can begin each day with a beignet. Learn more about the 2022 USPTA World Conference in New Orleans at uspta.com/WC22/ and register today!*

July 2022

Marisa Lampe

Director of Marketing and Communications

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USPTA World Conference 2022

Article written by: Marisa Lampe Director of Marketing & Communications

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r. Jim Loehr is a USPTA Master Professional and a world-renowned performance psychologist. He’s the co-founder of the Human Performance Institute and a New York Times bestselling author.

In this Q&A, Dr. Loehr talks about his induction into the USPTA Hall of Fame, the new Youth Performance Institute and his upcoming 18th book.

Q: You’ve been involved with tennis in one way or another for most of your life. How did you get your start in the sport?

A: My father played tennis and he was an extraordinary athlete. I picked up tennis a little later and started playing competitive tennis, tournament tennis and it’s been in my soul for my entire life. I became involved with the USPTA and got certified.

Then I eventually took a coaching job at Rolling Hills Country Club, in Golden, Colorado. I became the head pro and really got my feet in the world of coaching. My son played professional tennis and won many national titles. I continue to love tennis: it’s still my passion. I have a deep reverence for coaches because I was involved in teaching tennis and I really believe in the training and certification that coaches should receive to help them elevate their competency.

A: The word that comes to mind immediately is that I’m humbled that I could join the ranks of so many extraordinary contributors to the game of tennis. I’m honored that I would even be considered.

I’ve just tried to make whatever contributions that I can and do the very best I can at this. I feel that’s kind of the secret to everything is to push the envelope. You don’t really do it for recognition, you do it to have a positive impact on whatever you’re touching. I feel a great sense of gratitude to those who would see me as having had that kind of impact.

Q: Going back to Dr. Groppel, how did your relationship start? And how did the Human Performance Institute come about?

A: We would constantly interact at conferences, like at the USPTA WC. I would see him present and he’d see me present and we’d meet at the U.S. Open. We were sports science devotees and felt there was a really important contribution that sports science could make to competency approaches. When I

Q: Both you and Dr. Jack Groppel will be inducted into the USPTA Hall of Fame at the World Conference in September. What does the honor mean to you?

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decided to leave the Bollettieri Academy, I was looking to set up my own institute and Jack and I started having conversations.

We purchased nine acres at Lake Nona which was in the middle of nowhere but we really felt that was the next expanding area. It was much more accessible to the airport and it met all the criteria. So we took a leap of faith and we decided to join forces and we worked together throughout the entire term, until we sold the company in 2008.

We’ve been lifelong friends and business partners. I think it’s rare that two people can have that kind of long tenure as both friends and business associates.

World Conference 2022 USPTA So often those relationships fall out. Jack and I found a way, we both deeply appreciate each other and we’ve been able to have a pretty substantial impact on sports science and on the world of tennis. It’s been a privilege. We’ve really done some interesting things and hopefully have made a difference in the lives of lots of people.

Q: You’ve been a big proponent of education and training. What do you think is the most important thing our members can do to help advance their own coaching excellence?

A: I really believe the secret is that you become a lifelong committed learner.

You’ve always got to be open and be curious about how might I be a better coach?

How can I improve my ability to connect and take players wherever they are and take them to the next level? It is a commitment to excellence, you never are satisfied with where you are at this moment and you look back on your career and you have no regrets because you were always trying to find ways to be more effective. If you have the opportunity and you have the desire, continue to push the envelope of self improvement. I’m a big proponent of character and I believe that the single most important dimension in a coach’s life is the strength of their character and the way they treat others.

I have a very deep devotion to coaches because they spend so much energy on the court, they give so much of their life. Unless you’ve been a coach, you don’t know what it really takes to be out there hour after hour in the hot sun and grind away and give all that you can to help players go to the next level. The demands on your energy are so extraordinary, coaches in tennis have to be amazingly fit. They have to take care of themselves and be careful about their diet and their fitness and getting recovery. You can burn out very quickly because you want to be your best. You’ve got to find ways to step out of the storm or you’ll actually lose your passion, your love for the game. It’s a really challenging occupation but it is wonderful in the sense that you can really make a difference in peoples lives both in tennis and how they develop as human beings.

Q: Of all the professional tennis players you’ve worked with, who did you enjoy spending time with the most?

A: What happens is so many of the people I’ve worked with become my best friends. Tom Gullikson and I talk every day and it was the same with his twin brother Tim. I just have such respect for and admiration for them as human beings and extraordinary athletes. I’ve been privileged to work with hundreds and hundreds of world class people. I respect so many of them like Jim Courier, I just have such admiration for Jim. Monica Seles, she’s an extraordinary human being, I just love her

Q: Now you’ll be using your approach that focuses on peoples emotional, mental, physical and spiritual dimensions on children. What can you share about the newly formed Youth Performance Institute?

A: At the Human Performance Institute, we’ve had thousands of corporate executives go through the program and they’d often say ‘this is fantastic material, but why do I have to wait till I’m 45 or 50 to learn this? I would love this for my children.’ When I left the Institute, I said I’d apply as much as I could from the lessons we learned and all the lessons we were teaching, and try to apply that to children.

to death, she’s just so great. I often felt I learned as much or more from them. From Sergi Bruguera for seven years, helping him win the French twice. Arantxa Sanchez Vicario, I think the world of her. I feel very privileged to have been part of their lives, and that if I have in some way helped them to become a better player and more importantly a better person, that’s about as good as it gets for me.

I put together an extraordinary group of people and we’ve been working on this and we’re just launching. It’s a very big undertaking. We’ve been in the planning process for five years trying to make sure we get it right. We really want to do it in a way that actually impacts kids all over the world. We feel like this global pandemic has absolutely decimated the vitality of so many young people today because they

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USPTA World Conference 2022 were isolated at a critical time in their development. There’s never been a time that kids need help getting through these very challenging years than there is now.

We’re launching the Youth Performance Institute officially in October and I think it’s really something that’s desperately needed. I hope it makes a contribution to these kids who need it so much.

Q: You’ve recently completed your 18th book, titled ‘Wise Decisions: A Science Based Approach To Making Better Choices.’ It’s going to become the textbook for the new Youth Performance Institute. What can everyone look forward to reading about?

A: It really reflects what I’ve come to understand is the critical element in a successful life- the choices you make. So often the choices we make, unknowingly take us in a trajectory that sometimes are very tragic. My co-author is Dr. Sheila Ohlsson Walker who was an outstanding tennis player. She’s a brilliant woman, has her Ph.D. in behavioral genetics and we teamed together to really look at the science of decision making and how we could make this practical for teachers, coaches and parents in terms of helping

their kids make better choices. The Youth Performance Institute will use this as its primary text and we’re working on making this much more user friendly for all ages.

We’ve learned how the small decisions can be sometimes the most powerful levers for having an extraordinary life and actually having a life that we’re very proud of.

Q: Your schedule keeps you quite busy.

But you like to stay active as well.

What types of things do you enjoy for exercise?

A: I’m addicted to exercise, almost to a point of no return. Now I do more jogging and walking, I try to do three to five miles a day. All my family are crazy tennis fanatics.

My three sons, all of their wives, all of my seven grandchildren are all in tennis and they’re all competitive. It’s like be careful what you start! But I really believe tennis is the greatest sport for building character and for a lifelong passion of staying active.

I have a rowing machine, an exercise bike, I lift weights, I’m an avid golfer. I try to do as much as I can, as long as my body will allow me to.

Q: Members will be able to see you in New Orleans in September. What do you think is the best part about attending a USPTA World Conference?

A: I’m a firm believer that we’re social creatures and we need to connect with likeminded people and rejuvenate our spirit, because so much is demanded of us as teaching professionals. When you come together, even though it might cost you money, you connect with others, you hear these motivational speeches, others give you solutions to issues that you’re facing. You’re getting perspective, you’re really connecting to people you admire and respect. It lifts your spirit, gives you energy, renews you and it’s healing. I’m a big believer in in-person meetings with a conference like this, where you’re getting people from all over the world trying to help each other become better and find solutions to sometimes really challenging issues. We’re all there to get better and try to find just a little peace in the storm.

Coaching requires so much of us to really be good at it and it’s very easy to burn out. I think a conference like this can renew you in so many ways and make you better for having done so. *

HALL OF FAME World Conference USPTA

DR. JIM LOEHR 42 ADDvantage Magazine

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2022

DR. JACK GROPPEL

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World Conference 2022 USPTA | N E W O R L E A N S

C O N F E R E N C E

STEP ON BOARD & CRUISE WITH US

PADDLEWHEELER CREOLE QUEEN IN NEW ORLEANS

September 21, 2022 | Starts at 7:00 PM

Mississippi River Cruise | Jazz Entertainment | Food R E G I S T E R

H E R E :

U S P T A . C O M / W C 2 2 / July 2022

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COME JOIN US AT

NEW ORLEANS, LA

2022 USPTA WORLD CONFERENCE SUNDAY, TIME: 6:00PM SEPTEMBER 18, 2022 UNTIL 8:00PM AT THE RIVERCENTER TENNIS & HEALTH CLUB REGISTER HERE: USPTA.COM/WC22/

World Conference 2022 USPTA

SOCIAL S T N E V E ANS, NEW ORLE

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ew Orleans, Louisiana – a city full of opportunity and rich with music and extravagant celebrations, as well as delicious Creole cuisine. Its cultural diversity is woven into architecture. The city is a sensory experience on all levels and there’s a story lurking around every corner.

The USPTA is thrilled to be returning to the Big Easy September 18-22 for the 2022 World Conference. We are looking forward to relishing in the city and its culture.

With that being said, we are very excited to be featuring some brand-new events to enhance your WC22 experience!

To kick off the conference Sunday Night, we will be hosting an XGLOsive Tennis Party! XGLOsive takes traditional tennis into a no-pressure social experience for people of all ages and abilities. The XGLOsive team will transform our courts into a fun nightclub atmosphere with blacklights, fluorescent graphics, and upbeat music. Make sure to come decked out in your best neon and whites! We truly can’t wait for you to experience this unique, play-in-thedark atmosphere.

It is no doubt that the city of New Orleans is a very different and special place.

What better way to delve into the city and culture of New Orleans than taking a dinner and jazz cruise down the Mississippi River? Join us on Wednesday evening, September 21st, as we hop aboard the Creole Queen. The 650 passenger Paddlewheeler is New Orleans’ most luxurious riverboat on the Mississippi River.

The Creole Queen is a traditional riverboat powered by a 24-ft diameter paddlewheel.

LA

She has three private dining rooms giving her the largest indoor capacity available on excursion vessels in New Orleans.

We will be stepping back in time to experience the glamour and romance of the riverboat era. You’ll appreciate the lively sounds of traditional New Orleans music, while enjoying customary Creole cuisine in the lavish dining room. After dinner, put on your dancing shoes and revel in the Mississippi River breezes along the promenade deck as the city skyline passes by under the stars. There is no better way to cruise into the night where the sleepless activity of America’s busiest port buzzes.

The best part about our events is they are within steps of the hotel. How convenient! With five days of spectacular education, make some time to join us for these social events to experience the Big Easy in an exceptional way with your peers. You can learn more and register today for the 2022 World Conference at uspta.com/WC22.*

Laissez les bons temps rouler!

See you in New Orleans!

July 2022

Madison Faulkner Public Relations Coordinator

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USPTA Member Feature

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Member Feature USPTA

July 2022

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USPTA World Conference 2022

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he heart and soul of New Orleans are like no other! The people of this great city have a special way and everything that makes New Orleans awesome cannot really be described in words...only experienced! I have been fortunate enough to live in New Orleans, so here are a few things that you may want to consider checking out while we are in town for the World Conference in September.

FIRST TIME IN NOLA?

Photo Credit: Hanna Smith

LOCAL SPOTS

Photo Credit: The National WWII Museum

World War II Museum: This museum is beyond impressive and a must, even if you are not a history buff.

Cafe Du Monde: After you visit St. Louis Cathedral, make sure you cross the street to get beignets! Pro tip: hit the to-go window and then sit by the river to enjoy.

Sazerac House Tour: a free tour based on of one of the best drinks and it comes with a sample tasting! You can also upgrade for a complete tasting too.

Dooky Chase: Established in 1941 and considered one of the historical homes of Creole cuisine that has served many presidents and celebrities, including President Obama.

Known for their lunch buffet with amazing collard greens, fried catfish, and fried chicken.

Acme Oyster: grilled or raw, this is an institution.

Bourbon Street: Well, yeah you have to experience it at least once and grab a hurricane!

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Lil Dizzy’s: some of the best gumbo, fried chicken, shrimp po boy and collard greens in town.

Elizabeth’s Diner: locals spot with awesome fried green tomatoes and praline bacon. After you eat here, make sure to cross the street and take a walk along Crescent Park trail back to the hotel.

Sidecar Oyster Bar: One of the most underrated oyster programs in the city and a staple in the rotation. Yes, and they also do frozès and depending on time of year, there are drag brunches too!

Neyow’s: great chargrilled Oysters and Po boys. A solid go to in midtown to avoid Bourbon Street chaos.

For the foodies…

Compère Lapin: Top Chef and James Beard Award winner Nina Compton’s restaurant. Delicious food inspired by Creole, Caribbean and French cuisine that is walking distance from the hotel.

La Petit Grocery: If you have never had a blue crab beignet, you have not lived! On Magazine Street with great food all around French/Creole in Garden district.

Meril: Everyone knows Emeril, and this is a lively spot most nights.

Cochon: always great Southern Cajun fare that is a favorite of NBA and NFL players when they are in town. Make sure to try the rabbit and dumplings.

Willa Jean: great brunch and almond croissants.

World Conference 2022 USPTA Photo Credit: Banh Mi Boys

QUICK BITES

Photo Credit: Trip Advisor

ROOFTOP

BARS

Banh Mi Boys: On the way from the airport into the city, stop by this unassuming spot to get a po boy that is inspired by Vietnamese and Cajun cuisine.

Vals: Mexican food with fun outdoor patio.

Parkway Tavern: One of the best shrimp po boys in the city.

Turkey and the Wolf: sandwich spot, try the collared green melt.

District Donuts: Donuts, brews and more!

Creole Creamery: Best ice cream in the city with unique flavors.

Virgin Hotel: Pool Club Rooftop: Amazing skyline views and cocktails form the 13th floor. Golden Hour.

Tuesday-Thursday from 4-6pm they have $10 signature cocktails.

Hot Tin Rooftop at Hotel Pontchartrain: Great brunch and cocktail spot in the Garden District

Photo Credit: TripHero

TAKE A WALK

Audubon Park: Take a walk along Audubon Park and check out the Zoo, Aquarium or get a round of golf in!

City Park: Amazing activities for families with the sculpture garden, amusement park, NOMA, and more. Did you know this park is 50% larger than Central Park?!

Crescent City Park: A beautiful walk along the river that goes from the French Quarter to the Bywater District. Every Tuesday and Thursday they have free fitness classes along the walk from 5:45-6:45pm that incorporate brass and bounce.

LIVE MUSIC

Frenchmen Street: Anywhere on Frenchman is great place to hear music. This is the real deal. Explore bar to bar and find your vibe. Make sure to check out Spotted Cat and DBA. Tipitinas: A great spot to take in music and has national bands visit.

Bacchanal Wine Bar: Known as the backyard spot to have some wine and listen to live music.

Article written by: Tracy Almeda-Singian USPTA National Vice President July 2022

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USPTA World Conference 2022

Get the USPTA Mobile App Download App

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World Conference 2022 USPTA

T

he World Conference is always an exciting time where we come together and showcase the best of our association. The highlights of these headline events for me, as the Director of Digital Systems, are the educational presenters, professional development courses, innovative products at the Trade Show and all the networking opportunities. In that spirit, the USPTA wants to showcase our USPTA app.

Our app will enhance the experience of all these great aspects of our conference, as well as provide us an avenue for digital and hybrid content offerings at these events.

If you are a fan of the education sessions, you can download the presenter’s handouts or take notes right from the session dashboard in your app.

Did you see a product or service that resonates with you? Conveniently browse the exhibitor’s digital catalogs and other content on their social channels from their exhibitor profiles on the app.

Is the networking your favorite part of the conference? Plan out your sessions and set alerts so you don’t miss any of the social functions. Reach out an to old friend or make a new connection with the Connect feature, so you can chat with fellow attendees and exhibitors- then continue those meaningful conversations throughout and after the event.

And lastly, share your experience by tagging your event photos on our social channels, take session polls and evaluations, as well as the conference survey and help shape our next event.

Can’t make it to our World Conference? Check out other division events and regional education

opportunities or catch one of the live streams.

The best part is the USPTA app is not just a seasonal offering to enhance our amazing tennis conferences. We have built the app to help provide our members access to all the valuable benefits their membership offers them year-round, and we have added some new ones too. The USPTA is making it even easier to stay engaged with our organization. Check out your Member Report Card right on your Apple or Android device, then catch one of the latest education offerings on Tennis Resources to stay up on your professional development.

The USPTA app can access your member documents, making it easier than ever to provide proof of your certifications, or an insurance verification letter right from your document portal on your device.

You could even be reading this article on our app! The USPTA app’s ADDvantage section on your main menu will give you access to the digital subscription of ADDvantage in RSi magazine, and also a digital copy of Tennis Magazine. The USPTA app has you covered, with access to even more features you’ll love as a USPTA Member.*

Trevor Trudelle Director of Digital Systems

DOWNLOAD NOW!

THE USPTA APP July 2022

ADDvantage Magazine 51

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A

s we start the second half of 2022, it’s time to think about your Continuing Education Credits and where you stand in the current 3-year cycle for your 12 CEU’s.

54.6% of our USPTA certified professionals have met the 12 CEU requirement for the current 3-year block- have you?

You can easily check your education status by signing into your account at www.uspta.com and following these three simple steps.

Click on Your Name at the top of the page Click the My Account tab Your CEU report and credit status will populate You are now able to check your credit status, through your account on the USPTA app.

There are a wide variety of opportunities still available for you to meet the 12 credits requirement by December 31, 2022. Through tennisresources.com, USPTA offers nearly 400 hours of educational content, with a diverse offering of topics to earn your CEU’s. Ramona Husaru, the Director of Education for USPTA, has been at the forefront of the USPTA’s education pathway for 13 years. Ramona believes, “Continuing education is critical for a successful career in tennis. It helps us develop new skills, stay relevant with our teaching & coaching, build a brand on our unique expertise, and advance our career

to bigger and better paid jobs. In other words, it helps us pursue the big goals we have set for ourselves. We have a unique opportunity to make a positive impact in people’s lives through tennis and we should strive to become the best coach/ teaching pro/leader that we can be.”

Credits can also be earned by attending seminars at Divisional Conferences or the USPTA World Conference. Each Divisional Conference offers at least 8 hours of education, for a potential of 12-18 credits, depending on the finalized schedule of seminars and specialty courses. Registration is currently open for the USPTA World Conference which will be held September 18th through 22nd at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside. There will be an opportunity to earn 45-60 credits, depending on the confirmed schedule.

For a complete schedule of remaining

“A wonderful opportunity for continuing education.

During this 5-day event, you get to learn from the best coaches world-wide, network with tennis industry leaders and racquet sports vendors, and grow your tennis community by meeting likeminded people that share the same passion for the sport.

It’s a unique experience that everyone should try at least once.”

By staying compliant with your CEU requirements and attending educational opportunities, you enhance the quality of services you provide your customers and solidify yourself as a consummate USPTA professional.*

July 2022

ADDvantage Magazine 53

USPTA Member Feature

“I had a great

Dominique Lemperle, Florida Section

experience,”

Dominique Lemperle, Florida Section

When Head Tennis Pro Randy Kenyon was asked what he thought of pickleball, he quietly responded he had played it a few times and found the scoring confusing. My goal for the USPTA certification session at the Oaks at Boca Raton was to make Randy and every other applicant walk away from the session having fallen in love with pickleball. I wanted them to catch the pickleball bug.

Rather than talking about the game and his least favorite part, the rules, I jumped right into the fun part, playing.

Kenyon from Coral Ridge Country Club in Fort Lauderdale and Isabella Graf from the Landings in Fort Myers were apprehensive when they started the 4-hour session. But they left with a change of heart.

54 ADDvantage Magazine

Kenyon said. “I was familiar with pickleball, but Dominique shared her depth of knowledge and I left with a greater appreciation and understanding of the sport. I can’t wait to implement some of the drills we discussed at my club.”

Graf said she was amazed by how similar tennis and pickleball are, despite the differences in stroke technique.

“I was amazed at how similar it is to tennis although there were some opposite sides as well especially with stroke techniques,” Graf said. “Dominique did a wonderful job of slowly explaining each segment of technique, strategy and teaching methods while giving us the opportunity to learn hands on. Not only was it informative, but it was also a lot of fun.”

July 2022

Scott Ficks, Midwest Section Director of Tennis, Village Club,Greendale, WI

As I sat on a bench after the first day of pickleball Coach Developer training at Lake Nona I was humbled, exhausted, embarrassed, and motivated. The training received from Robert and Jodi Elliot from the IFP Academy accomplished all those things and there was still a full day remaining in our workshop. I agreed to become a Coach Developer with the USPTA since I was assured the certification and training would be at a high level and difficult to accomplish. The USPTA and Sid Newcomb delivered on that agreement. The fact that we are only training current USPTA professionals with years of coaching experience sets the bar high.

As the USPTA enters the pickleball certification world, we do so with an extensive number of resources and experience in how to train coaches. The seven other coaches with me at Lake Nona were incredibly interested and engaged.

I believe with a standard framework for coaching and the ability for coaches to bring their own personalities and talents into the pickleball world, this new addition is a game changer for USPTA professionals and the pickleball community.

Michelle Knipp Cornish, Texas Section Owner/Director, Pickleball Paradise, TX

Almost 5 years ago, I was told I was “lucky” after I was in a car accident, resulting in breaking my dominant arm, wrist,

Member Feature USPTA hand, and fingers. Being a tennis coach for over 30 years, I certainly didn’t feel “lucky”. Fortunately, I was able to continue my love of tennis off court with product sales, which led me to meet the “devil” himself. I used to say I would support pickleball but wasn’t going to sell my soul by becoming a player and certainly not a coach. That is, until I met Edward Hechter, then CEO of Pickleball Central. Edward had so much passion for pickleball, and it was contagious. At the end of our meeting, I said, “apparently I just met the devil himself”, having fallen for pickleball.

Charles Silva is a former collegiate tennis player and is now working on a career in Racquet Sports. He attended an Austin USPTA Pickleball workshop. Charles shared he knew pickleball is growing fast and didn’t want to be left behind as a racquet sports teaching professional.

Charles was serious and enthusiastic, and I respected this young man for putting himself “out there” to become a stronger coach. My heart was full after receiving an email from Charles saying, “I got very lucky to have Michelle Cornish

as my USPTA pickleball tester. Coaches are known for being very bossy. So, I was expecting that from Michelle, but I was wrong. She was very humble welcoming us in and said, ‘welcome to the certification and I hope to learn a lot from you all (the students)’. That’s when I got very excited about our day.”

Pickleball opened a new window for me to enjoy myself playing and teaching again.

My role as a Coach Developer allows me to give back to those who developed me as a coach. I hope to see many more find the love of teaching and coaching in this growing racquet industry of ours!

Angelo A. Rossetti, New England Director of Racquet Sports, The Tennis & Fitness Center of Rocky Hill

Passion for pickleball is contagious, not just with Coach Developers and players but also former professional athletes like Serena Williams, who just applied for the trademark “Serena Williams Pickleball”.

On a day-to-day level, nothing matches the joy I saw on Alexandra’s face when she hit the ball exactly on the sweet spot and improved her game in one lesson. She is deaf. I used the 3-2-1 method focusing on her kinesthetic awareness as her way to have her coach herself while playing, which is the goal of a Coach Developer, the holy grail. Now I see her playing pickleball every week with a group.

“I really enjoyed my time at the class and learned so much. Hoping to teach and play more pickleball soon,” said Rich Karban, senior tennis pro at Belmont Hills Club in Belmont Massachusetts, after taking his certification exam from me. “We are really excited to bring pickleball here at the Belmont Hill Club in full swing,” Lucas Parrau, Racquets Director of Belmont Hills said after his certification test.

Seeing other people find joy from the sport of pickleball to better their lives is why I am a Coach Developer. We have raised over $100,000 for the “Save the Children” charity in setting the Guinness World Records™ Title Holder for Longest Pickleball Rally. I’m hoping that my coaching and playing efforts will inspire

others to give pickleball a shot. I enjoy inspiring other Coach Developers, coaches, and players in finding their passion for pickleball. Pickleball is here to stay!*

NUMBER OF USPTA PICKLEBALL CERTIFICATION EVENTS FROM FEBRUARY THROUGH JUNE:

NUMBER OF UPCOMING CERTIFICATION EVENTS (JULY - EOY): MORE ADDED WEEKLY!

NUMBER OF PICKLEBALL WORKSHOP REGISTRANTS YTD:

NUMBER OF PROS WHO HAVE BEEN CERTIFIED:

July 2022

ADDvantage Magazine 55

BLADE V8

RETURN TO THE WILD The new Blade v8 celebrates the return to your natural element of competitive tennis — renewed and reconnected to the game you love.

USPTA

July 2022

ADDvantage Magazine 57

USPTA Endorsee News

We knew the Science. We had the experience.

F

SO WE INVENTED THE TECHNOLOGY.

iix Body (formerly Sta Active) is physical therapy designed for today’s busy lifestyle. Our first product launch was the Fiix Elbow that relieves tennis and golfer’s elbow. The Fiix Elbow puts you in control of your physical therapy, so you won’t have to worry about elbow pain ever again and get back to moving freely. Whether that’s on the court, in the gym or on the course.

so that everyone can receive the benefits anywhere they want.

92% Of People Complete the Therapy

Traditional Physical Therapy for Elbow Pain

Proven to significantly improve soft tissue function, range of motion and reduce pain, Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) effectively breaks down scar tissue, releases adhesions, and stimulates a local inflammatory response that promotes blood flow, collagen synthesis, and fascia or connective tissue remodeling. It’s a well-documented physical therapy method but handicaps people to only find relief the traditional way with physical therapists, chiropractors, or other healthcare professionals. The benefits of IASTM get lost to many.

The “pain” of inconvenience and routine get in the way for people to find relief for their tennis and golfer’s elbow pain. The old-school treatment model was overdue for a revamp. We set out to help people comply to the therapy by making it as easy as possible to receive the therapy – even on the tennis court! We have automated and simplified the entire IASTM process

58 ADDvantage Magazine

pliable and strong.

Our app-driven, daily treatment plan is simple, straightforward, and requires just minutes per day from the comfort of your home. Track your progress and get daily, measurable results far beyond what is possible in a traditional clinic setting.

New Age, At-Home Therapy for Elbow Pain

As the world’s first FDA-approved automated IASTM device, the Fiix Elbow is an innovative, affordable, and effective athome physical therapy system that treats tennis and golfer’s elbow pain’s underlying cause to give long-term relief. The Fiix Elbow wearable device applies a linear deep tissue massage that releases scar tissue, smooths fascia, and increases blood flow, helping the body to naturally heal the tendon and tissues that are responsible for pain. Specific stretching and strength exercises aid in the recovery process and help the tendons and muscles become

July 2022

Just like practicing sports or exercises, you get better - if you do it! 92% of surveyed customers completed the Fiix Elbow 8-week program and got elbow relief without leaving their home.

We not only resolve the initial pain issue, but also prevent and treat future injuries. Traditional therapy requires you to return to the clinic and repeat the therapy program all over again. Racking up bills, rearranging schedules starts all over again with the hopes that it works and you’re not wasting your time and money – again. The Fiix Elbow is a one-time purchase, lifetime solution.

The Fiix Body Elbow Program – giving everyone the power to take control of elbow pain.

Do you want to help keep players on the court and get paid? Join our affiliate program! Learn more at https://bit.ly/fiixbodyaffiliate *

Timothy Porth

President/Co-Founder

Endorsee News USPTA

I have played tennis for the last 50+ years and coached college tennis for 25 years. Swinging a racquet can take a toll on your body most specifically your arm. I have had plenty of arm problems and even had tennis elbow for 6 months about 5 years ago. My rehab specialist introduced me to Graston at that time. Fiix Body has been able to put all my very expensive and time-consuming rehab into one amazing tool. The Fix Elbow is like having a portable rehab specialist. I would recommend this to every type of player from elite level to club players.

Peter Smith Former professional tennis player, former head coach University of Southern California

“I have been around tennis for over 35 years while working with players who have had multiple injuries and I understand the pains players go through with both tennis and golfer’s elbow. These are nagging injuries and can last for many weeks, months or more while directly affecting a player’s peak performance.

I too have had golfer’s elbow that incurred through overuse of heavy and light weights while cross training.

The injury was very tough to play through while feeding tennis balls as well as competing in matches.

I bought the Fiix Elbow Program and have been using the device for close to 60-days and I can already see the improvements in my golfer’s elbow. I can now feed and compete without the pain and it’s a new world!

I am now planning on having the device available to all our members at my club and cannot thank Fiix Body enough.”

Conan Lorenzo Director of Tennis La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club

July 2022

ADDvantage Magazine 59

USPTA What’s The Dill?

Membership Department Update Dillon Chustz, USPTA Director of Membership

W

hen we talk about intrinsic motivation, we mention those who need no excuse to get up and get better.

This is a characteristic that simply cannot be taught. Trust me- I’ve tried! Whether the person in question is an employee or a student, without intrinsic motivation there can be very little progress. Coaching requires a tremendous amount of intrinsic motivation, as each coach’s career is ultimately what they make of it. If you want to stand out from the rest, you must take the initiative to do more than simply clock in and out. Whitney Vaswig has continually looked for ways to better herself. Whether it is through continuing education, on-court mentorship, or utilization of her USPTA membership tools, Whitney continues to work towards being the very best tennis pro she can possibly be- no excuses needed.

Whitney’s tennis journey began in Scotts Valley, CA, where she drew inspiration from her father. “He was very athletic,” Whitney told me. “We started with him just feeding me tennis balls at a local court.” After eventually moving to Colorado, Whitney found herself playing regularly at Rocky Mountain Tennis Center, formerly The Harvest House. She went on to play competitively in high school, Junior Team Tennis, and in college at Metro State University in Denver. That was only the beginning for Whitney. She soon began looking for jobs at one of the many tennis centers in the Denver area, eventually landing a front desk gig at Denver Tennis

Park. There, Whitney met Ginger Phillips, a longtime USPTA member who never ceases to inspire everyone in her vicinity.

“Every question I had, she knew the answer to” Whitney mentioned. “I expressed my interest in getting certified, and she helped me get it done.”

My first interaction with Whitney came when I was checking in with some of our newly certified members. One tactic I use for avoiding member attrition is to touch base with our newer pros, hoping to avoid the “ok, now what” effect often felt by new coaches. The last thing we want is for our new members to feel deserted once they earn certification. We are nothing if not a resource for you all. After becoming certified, Whitney immediately took advantage of our online education database, TennisResources.com, as well as our career tools Find-A-Pro and Find-A-Job. After creating her personalized member profile, Whitney began searching our job board for a new gig that would fit her skill set and provide the best opportunity for growth. To her surprise, an employer had already found her profile when looking to hire a new teaching pro and soon offered Whitney the job. It can happen that quickly, folks!

Whitney has been teaching consistently ever since.

I asked Whitney what she considers to be her personal coaching philosophy. She told me, “I want my students to always want more. I try to set a precedent of continual improvement by constantly working to improve my own abilities.”

Whitney keeps her own game growing by playing competitively when she’s not coaching. When asked about her overall tactic for growth as a player and coach, she told me, “I believe that effort and excitement allow for the skills to come naturally.” Whitney has certainly put this into practice herself. Whitney regularly checks in with her division leaders, as well as the National office, looking for opportunities to strengthen her abilities as a teaching pro. She currently serves on our New Members Subcommittee, helping our efforts to usher in more talented teaching pros- especially ones with the same amount of intrinsic motivation as her!

Just like our mission statement, we want to continually elevate ourselves so that we can elevate our sport. This requires a constant self-awareness of how we can improve and grow. Thanks to all of you, the USPTA continues to set the highest standard for tennis teaching. I love it! *

NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS

ADDVANTAGE MAGAZINE

President.............................................................Richard Slivocka First Vice President................................................ Trish Faulkner Vice Presidents...................... Tracy Almeda-Singian, Mark Faber, Jason Gilbert, Kevin Theos, Jenny Gray Immediate Past President.......................................Feisal Hassan CEO...........................................................................John Embree Legal Counsel........................................................George Parnell

Editor...............................................................................Marisa Lampe Managing Editor.......................................................Madison Faulkner Layout/Design............................................................... Yaralismar Diaz Editorial Assistance .......................... Fred Viancos, Ellen Weatherford Circulation..................................................................... Trevor Trudelle USPTA World Headquarters 11961 Performance Dr. Orlando, FL 32827 407-634-3050 – www.uspta.com

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July 2022

ADDvantage is published monthly by the United States Professional Tennis Association.

The opinions expressed in ADDvantage are those of the authors and not necessarily those of ADDvantage or the United States Professional Tennis Association.

Copyright© United States Professional Tennis Association, Inc. 2022. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of any portion of the magazine is not permitted without written permission from the USPTA.