RSPA ADDvantage Magazine - November/ December Magazine

November/December 2024 | ADDvantage Magazine - 39

RSPA

CEO MESSAGE

Brian Dillman RSPA CEO

YOU ASKED FOR

D

ear Racquet Sports Professionals Association stakeholders,

By now, many of you have seen the exciting news about our name change and our vision for the next 100 years of the Racquet Sports Professionals Association. I wanted to take this opportunity to speak to you directly about why we made this decision and what it means for you moving forward.

First and foremost, this change is about staying on the cutting edge and ensuring we continue to lead in an ever-evolving world. Our sports and industry are dynamic, constantly growing and adapting. As our industry moves forward, it is crucial that we, as an organization, do the same. The decision to rebrand and

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realign was not taken lightly. We listened closely to feedback from our members, understanding your needs and aspirations. The consensus was clear: you wanted more support, more resources and a stronger community to help you thrive in every facet of your career.

My charge, as your CEO, is to ensure that the RSPA not only meets, but exceeds those expectations. While tennis is our core, the changes we are implementing are designed to do just that. We are expanding our programming to provide more comprehensive career support.

Whether you are interested in on-court coaching, managing facilities, developing new technologies or innovating ways to grow racquet sports, we are here to guide you. This is not merely about teaching or

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certification anymore—it is about equipping you to excel in every possible avenue within the racquet sports industry. That is our primary driver—a better educated association leads to better employment, more relevance and more leverage.

We have also reimagined our training programs. Our new approach blends oncourt expertise with off-court skills like business acumen, leadership and personal development. This holistic training is essential for building a career that goes beyond just playing the game—it is about understanding and contributing to the entire ecosystem of racquet sports.

We understand that change can bring uncertainty, but I want you to know that your input is invaluable as we navigate this evolution together. We will

certified professional

inspiring people through every sport

continue to elicit your feedback. This is a team effort and your insights will shape the future of our association. Your voice matters and I am committed to fostering an environment where feedback is encouraged and acted upon.

To our members who have been a part of this association for one year or 50 years, we are here because of the work, passion and love you have contributed to the association during your membership. The evolution of our association is because of your game changing and innovative thinking such as creating titles like director of racquet sports and transforming the industry from the ground up. My passion for this association feeds off your passion and commitment. The time you have invested in our association has led us to this transition point, so you should be very proud of your efforts and your accomplishments! You define what a career professional is and how high the bar has been set. Those following in your steps will see and recognize your vision and leadership. I cordially invite you to be an active part of this transformation by mentoring the next generation and

helping us create a vibrant, innovative community.

To our new members and those just beginning their journey in racquet sports, welcome! The RSPA is more than just a professional association—it is your partner in growth; a community that supports you every step of the way. We are here to work with you side-by-side and celebrate your achievements and steps along your career journey. Your success is our success.

Together, we are not just adapting to the future of racquet sports, we are helping shape it. The opportunities before us are limitless, and with the RSPA by your side, there is no end to where your passion for racquet sports can take you.

Onward,

Brian Dillman,

CEO of the Racquet Sports Professionals Association

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RSPA

REBRAND FAQ

INTRODUCING THE FUTURE USPTA!

ALL ABOUT THE RSPA Introducing An Evolved USPTA: The Racquet Sports Professionals Association

T

he USPTA, the leading trade organization for tennis professionals since 1927, has rebranded to the Racquet Sports Professionals Association (RSPA). This change positions the RSPA to elevate and support a broad spectrum of careers across the entire racquet sports industry.

As the RSPA, the organization continues to expand its teaching certification program to train professionals in numerous racquet sports including tennis, pickleball, Padel, squash and platform tennis.

In addition to certification programs, the RSPA will offer a full spectrum of career advancement support for all racquet sports professionals, both on and off the court.

“The change from USPTA to RSPA is about staying on the cutting edge of our industry and leading change by providing the highest level of value possible to our members,” said RSPA CEO Brian Dillman. “Our racquet sports are dynamic— constantly growing and adapting—and as our industry moves forward, we are doing the same. The decision to rebrand and realign our values was fueled by our members. We listened closely to feedback and the consensus was clear: we needed to expand our support to all racquet sports, both on and off the court.”

nationally available workshops. Teaching professionals who want to get certified by the RSPA for the first time can join the association through any of our available racquet sports—tennis, pickleball, Padel, platform and squash. The organization is also rolling out future-focused, personalized training programs that blend oncourt expertise with off-court skills like business management and leadership, personal development and more.

“We’re elevating the prestige of a racquet sports career with advanced personal and professional development.

We know that racquet sports are made up of many different people who contribute to a community to enjoy, teach, watch, support and advance the sports we love,” said Dillman. “There is a vast world of opportunities for anyone who is passionate to help grow the racquet sports industry, and the RSPA, like a true ally, empowers our professionals by helping them reach their full potential—both on and off the court.”

What does this mean for members?

RSPA members now have access to certifications in five different racquet sports under one unified association. All USPTA memberships are now considered RSPA memberships, and members certified in any racquet sport can get certified in another by attending one of the RSPA’s

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Collin Brazan, Director of Marketing

How will this change impact you?

Good news—your member status and credits earned all remain the same.

And even better, there are new certification opportunities for you to take advantage of as well as new training programs for career support (currently in development, more to be announced in the future). All USPTA memberships are now considered RSPA memberships.

Members can get certified in any of our racquet sports by taking one of our workshops, and prospective members can join our association by getting certified in any of our sports.

What will happen to your dues?

We understand that this is top of mind for our membership, and we are committed to providing and enhancing member value within the current fee structure. There are no increases planned for next year.

Will your certification status like Instructor, Professional, Elite and Master remain the same?

How can you use the sport-specific How can you order personalized business cards, banners and other merchan- RSPA logos?

Once you’re certified in a racquet dise with RSPA Branding?

Yes! Although we’ve changed our organization’s name, there is no impact on your status in any area. You retain your certification status and credits. The education credit requirement of earning 15 credits every three years remains the same.

Order online at RSPA.net. We understand there will be a transitional period for everyone. We would love for you to update these as soon as you can to represent the new brand.

If you just started, are in the middle or are finalizing a certification process, will your status remain the same?

Yes!

If you email an old USPTA staff member or department because that’s what you have on file, will they receive it?

Yes, for now. Though all departments and USPTA staff have a new email (firstname.lastname@rspa.net) that we’d love for you to use, we will still receive your emails directed to USPTA. Eventually, those USPTA emails will be unavailable.

sport, you can use the respective RSPA sport-specific logo to showcase which sports you’re certified in. Soon, we’ll make these available for you to use on merchandise, in email signatures and more! For now, we encourage you to represent the new brand with your giveaway items (if you were present at WRC24).

You noticed some parts of the website have changed to RSPA branding. When will it be fully updated?

Our website, now rspa.net, has been updated with an overlay page that dives deeper into our new brand. This is the first step in multiple planned updates the site will undergo. This is a phased approach and we expect our all-new website to be available in early 2025.

Will we update your digital membership card, certificate, insurance certificate, etc.?

Yes, we’ll update these in the near future. You’ll be notified once this has been completed and will be able to locate your updated membership card, certificate, RSPA logo with your name and more online.

November/December 2024 | ADDvantage Magazine - 43

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CEO MESSAGE

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RSPA

WRC24 AWARD WINNERS

TIM HECKLER HALL OF FAME

JIM REFFKIN & KATRINA ADAMS JIM REFFKIN

A

lthough it is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of USPTA past president and USPTA Master Professional James “Jim” Reffkin in 2023, we also take this time to celebrate his induction into the USPTA Hall of Fame and his remarkable legacy both on and off the court.

For decades, Jim served as the director of Tucson tennis for the city of Tucson.

He oversaw tennis programming and events at the Randolph Tennis Center, which was later renamed the Jim Reffkin Tennis Center in 2009 in his honor for all the contributions he made and for the impact he left on the Tucson tennis community.

Jim never fell short when it came to his leadership or commitment to his players and community. He brought Little League Tennis to Tucson, founded the Holiday Junior Tennis Camp and Junior Talent Tennis Hunt in Southern Arizona, founded the annual high school invitational in Tucson in 1971 and coached the Pima Community College women’s tennis team, leading them to two NJCAA titles and numerous regional titles.

As a professional who strived to bring others together through the game of tennis, Jim won many accolades. His ambitious volunteer efforts to promote the game won him the USTA National Community Service Award in 1979. A few years later, he won the International Tennis Hall of Fame Education Merit Award in 1987 and the 1996 USPTA National Professional of the Year award.

Throughout the years, he has touched countless lives and will continue to do so with his legacy. The late

Jim Reffkin is an icon in the tennis community and stands to inspire and guide future generations of players, coaches and fellow RSPA professionals.

KATRINA ADAMS

K

atrina Adams is recognized worldwide for her accomplishments, both on and off the court. She was only six years old when she first picked up a racquet. Since then, she has been breaking barriers as a player, leader, author, global speaker and so much more.

Katrina is a woman of many firsts and has paved way for a new generation.

She is the first black woman and youngest person to serve as president and CEO of the USTA. In addition, she is the first former player to ever hold that honor.

During her time with the USTA, there were major achievements such as the opening of the 100 court USTA National Campus in Orlando, the strategic transformation of the $600 million USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, N.Y. and an unprecedented outreach effort into underserved communities to share the

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Aislinn Leonard, Public Relations Coordinator

sport of tennis.

Katrina is deeply committed to the tennis community and actively seeks ways to make a difference.

She has experience as vice president of the prestigious International Tennis Federation, chairman of the Billie Jean King Cup Committee, chairman of the Gender Equality in Tennis Committee and as the executive director of the Harlem Junior Tennis and Education Program. These roles reflect Katrina’s deep-seated passion and commitment to the sport and to making our industry bigger and better.

“I hope that my legacy will be that I left an everlasting impact on the world.

It will reflect that I gave my all to the sport that gave me everything. Tennis gave me lifelong friends, a career, a passion to give back, a desire to be in broadcasting, an opportunity to lead the richest tennis organization in the world, the USTA, to be a leader of the ITF and build a gender equality program in Advantage All. My high school, Whitney M. Young Magnet HS, rebuilt their tennis courts and named them in my honor. That’s legacy. Something that I’m extremely proud of. The courts and that sign will be there for future generations to ask who Katrina Adams is and was, and hopefully, my success stories will be told to inspire them to reach for the stars,” said Adams.

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RSPA

WRC24 AWARD WINNERS

BRUCE LIPKA

Aislinn Leonard, Public Relations Coordinator

ALEX GORDON PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

T

he RSPA, formerly USPTA, is proud to announce Bruce Lipka as the 2024 Alex Gordon Professional of the Year. As we approach 2025, we mark the 40-year anniversary of Bruce’s membership with the USPTA and celebrate not only an individual but a career that reflects dedication, mentorship and an unwavering passion for tennis.

Bruce’s career is distinguished by his endless commitment to the USPTA, the tennis community and his students as he works tirelessly to find and create new opportunities for himself and others.

Throughout the years, he has become an advocate for the sport, built communities and inspired future generations, exemplifying why he has earned recognition as USPTA Tour Coach of the Year three times and, as of this year, USPTA Pro of the Year for the fifth time.

During the early years of Bruce’s journey, he grew his passion for tennis under the guidance of legendary mentors Bill Tym, George Bacso and Tim Heckler.

In addition, he had the support of coach Tym and his peers to help him realize that tennis was more than just a game for him—it was a way to connect with others and make a real difference. His career began at Miami University (Ohio) in 1989, where he was noted as one of the youngest head coaches in Division 1 sports. Now, he finds himself as the head tennis coach at Penn State University, where he brings a wealth of experience and a deep-seated passion for developing young talent.

“Coaching isn’t just about developing players; it’s about mentoring individuals at crucial stages in their lives. The collegiate years are formative, and my goal is

to foster virtues and values that will guide them long after they leave the court,” stated Lipka.

His career has been marked by an impressive array of roles and contributions, from local clubs to international organizations. As a board member of numerous organizations, including grassroots nonprofits and elite philanthropic groups, he has consistently used tennis as a tool for community building. He has spearheaded many programs, such as equipment drives for the Washington Tennis and Education Foundation and fund raising at their annual gala, as well as initiatives like the Tennis Rwanda Children’s Foundation. His volunteerism demonstrates his commitment to using tennis to serve underserved populations and making a positive impact on communities.

Bruce’s goal has always remained true to him and consistent for the communities he works with: to build and nurture a tennis community.

His career has been a testament to the joy and fulfillment that comes from a lifelong commitment to tennis.

For Bruce, tennis has

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never been about business, but instead the sport itself because of the connections, relationships and community that are built through it.

“After 40 years with the USPTA, I can honestly say I’ve never worked a day in my life. My career has been a labor of love, from teaching young kids to leading teams on the international stage. Tennis is my passion, and it has been my privilege to share it with so many,” Bruce said.

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RSPA

WRC24 AWARD WINNERS

JOHN INGRAM

Aislinn Leonard, Public Relations Coordinator

GEORGE BACSO LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

J

ohn Ingram III is a respected member of the RSPA with a long-standing commitment to the tennis community. This year, we honor him with the George Bacso Lifetime Achievement Award. This prestigious accolade recognizes Ingram’s outstanding contributions to the USPTA and USTA, along with his dedication, innovation and passion throughout his career.

In 1974, Ingram started his journey by joining the USPTA as a member. A few years later, he quickly earned the USPTA Texas Pro of the Year award in 1981 and became a USPTA Master Professional in 1991.

Ingram’s extensive tenure as a USPTA national tester from 1980 to 2020 highlights his dedication to helping the association grow and maintain its high standards. During his time with the USPTA, he has also served on the USPTA Texas Board as second vice president and treasurer, underscoring his leadership and commitment to the sport’s growth.

The contributions Ingram has made extend beyond local and national boards.

He served as chairman of the USPTA Texas nominating committee, tournament director for the USPTA National Mother-Daughter Hardcourt Championships and as a USTA clinician. Ingram is undoubtedly the kind of individual to always be on the lookout for a new opportunity. He even performed a memorable stint as Scooby-Doo for a USTA tennis promotion with Cartoon Network, showcasing how the industry can be just as entertaining as it is professional.

Ingram’s contributions also extend to other organizations, charities and communities. He has served as tournament director for numerous charity tournaments such as the American Heart Association and Toys for Tots. His participation in Pro-Ams for the

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American Cancer Society and Arthritis Foundation demonstrates his unwavering dedication to helping others.

His roles as a USTA official at Virginia Slims and WCT events, and Dallas area coordinator for the USPTA Schools Program further reflect his continued passion for the tennis community. Ingram’s impact is also seen in his published articles and presentations, including speaking at various USPTA Texas Divisional conventions, UT Austin and the Tennis Coaches Conference (Horse-Shoe-Bay).

Educationally, Ingram has consistently pursued any chance to enhance his knowledge by attending USPTA National conventions, several specialty courses and a number of USTA Teachers’ Conferences to stay up to date on his tennis coaching and education.

Throughout Ingram’s career, he has left a lasting impact on others. He taught tennis at all levels and ages, including juniors who played at the collegiate level.

Beyond teaching, he owned a successful pro-shop business with K. Shannon Interiors that sold an assortment of tennis apparel and equipment. In a unique display of dedication to the industry and innovation, he constructed a lawn tennis court for member play during the Wimbledon Championships in 2013.

John Ingram’s achievements reflect his lifelong dedication and passion for the tennis community that he has spent years working tirelessly for and with. As he receives the George Bacso Lifetime Achievement Award, we celebrate someone whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

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RSPA CEO MESSAGE

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NEW MASTER PROFESSIONALS he Master Professional designation is the highest recognition offered by the USPTA. One could say it is the Grand Slam of tennis teaching and management! It is reserved for members that have demonstrated mastery of all aspects of tennis teaching and management, as well as achievements over the course of their career. Master Professionals have held the Elite Professional rating for 10 years and have completed 80 hours of specialty courses. This year, we honor five members with the Master Professional title: Jenny Gray, Josh Jorgensen, Stewart Russell, Rich Slivocka and Brenda Mertz.

T

Aislinn Leonard, Public Relations Coordinator

JENNY GRAY ur first Master Professional is Jenny Gray, the director of tennis at The Club At Sonterra in San Antonio, Texas. She has been recognized numerous times by the tennis industry—serving as USPTA Texas president, USPTA Texas Professional of the Year in 2012 and 2020, and USPTA National Alex Gordon Tennis Professional of the Year in 2020. Gray has organized and directed USPTA and USTA tournaments, and created new events and programs to connect with others—club members, coworkers and staff.

O

JOSH JORGENSEN osh Jorgensen serves on the board of directors for the San Diego District Tennis Association and is on the community programs, military outreach, tennis advocacy, tennis fest and USTA liaison committees. In 2016, he was named the Top Education Credit Earner after earning an outstanding number of education credits as part of the USPTA Career Development Program.

J

STEWART RUSSELL

tewart Russell of Cumming, Georgia, has been a USPTA Elite Professional for the past 15 years, working on becoming a Master Professional. He is a Universal Tennis Academy partner and has been a member of the USTA National Junior Development coaching staff for 12 years. Russell is also a USTA National junior player development coach who participates in regional and national events hosted by the USTA.

S

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RSPA

WRC24 AWARD WINNERS

NEW MASTER PROFESSIONALS RICH SLIVOCKA

SPTA Elite Member since 2001, Rich Slivocka has served the USPTA in many different capacities since becoming a USPTA member. He was the USPTA National Board president and has served on the Executive Committee, National Awards Committee, the Missouri Valley Division as regional vice-president and president, and other various positions in both the Southwest and Missouri Valley Divisions. Slivocka has been recognized throughout the tennis industry for his outstanding teaching, speaking and contributions to the game.

U

BRENDA MERTZ

ur final Master Professional of the year is Brenda Mertz who has been a USPTA professional since 1989. She created the Lessons for Life fundraiser in the Sarasota, Fla. area and has been holding events for more than 20 years. Her compassion coupled with innovative ideas has helped Mertz and her husband start the Mertz Tennis Academy to teach children in the Sarasota area on different courts around her community. Her passion for tennis extends beyond just playing—it’s about making a positive impact.

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PASSIONATE PASSIONATE PROFESSIONALS — — FOSTERING FOSTERING GROWTH, GROWTH, INCLUSIVITY INCLUSIVITY AND AND DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT WITHIN WITHIN THE THE TENNIS TENNIS WORLD. WORLD.

This year’s new USPTA Master Professionals symbolize the pinnacle of excellence in tennis teaching and management. This year’s honorees—Jenny Gray, Josh Jorgensen, Stewart Russell, Rich Slivocka, and Brenda Mertz—embody commitment to excellence through their extensive achievements, leadership roles and innovative contributions to the sport.

Their dedication to tennis at local, regional and national levels showcase the profound impact that passionate professionals can have in fostering growth, inclusivity and development within the tennis world. As they receive this prestigious recognition, they inspire future generations to pursue their own journeys toward excellence in tennis.

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RSPA

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AWARD WINNERS

Katrina Adams

Jim Reffkin

Tim Heckler Hall of Fame Award

Tim Heckler Hall of Fame Award

Eastern

Southwest

George Bacso Lifetime Achievement Award

Alex Gordon Professional of the Year

Texas

Mid-Atlantic

Kendall Chitambar Zachary Williams Marcos Del Pilar Rivero Ellen Considine-Miller Bob Ryland Diversity Award Intermountain

USPTA Elevate Award Texas

Peg Connor USPTA Industry Excellence Award Intermountain

Bruce Lipka

John Ingram

2023 Top Education Credit Earner Florida

George Bacso Coach Developer of the Year Tennis - Texas

Roeland Brateanu

Karim Najdi

Nestor Bernabe

Steve Wilkinson College Coach of the Year Intermountain

Laurie Martin High School Coach of the Year Mid-Atlantic

USPTA Star Award New England

Kelly Marshall

Christin Schumann

George Bacso Coach Developer of the Year Pickleball - Texas

USTA/USPTA Community Service Award Northern

Marc Knutila

Manager of the Year Large Facility Intermountain

Rob Manter

Manager of the Year Small Facility New England

MASTER PROFESSIONALS

Jenny Gray

Josh Jorgensen

Rich Slivocka

Stewart Russell

Brenda Mertz

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RSPA

REFLECTIONS

Steve Flink,

WITNESSING THE EVOLUTION OF THE GAME

International Tennis Hall of Fame

I

t was the summer of 1965 when I caught an incurable tennis fever that has carried me happily through a lifetime. I went to Wimbledon for the first time that year, only a few days before turning 13, which altered my world irrevocably. From that day forward, tennis was never far from the forefront of my mind. Only two years later, I decided that becoming a tennis reporter was going to be my career path. In my late teens, I started working behind the scenes with journalists who were among the best in their trade, learning invaluable lessons from the erudite Bud Collins and Great Britain’s John Barrett. At 22, I joined the staff of the revered World Tennis Magazine. Since then, I have been a full-time tennis writer getting paid for practicing a hobby.

Being around tennis for so long has given me the opportunity to witness the evolution of the game from a front row seat in arenas all over the world. The sport has changed sweepingly in some respects over the last six decades. Although in some ways, it has remained fundamentally the same. Three of the four Grand Slam championships were played on grass courts until 1975 when the U.S.

Open started a three-year stretch on HarTru before moving to the hard courts in 1978. The Australian Open left the lawns behind in 1988, becoming a hard-court tournament.

The changes in surface at those two majors profoundly influenced the way tennis would be played by the leading competitors. But as I reflect on the champions from the past 35 to 40 years, they have been a fascinatingly diverse bunch.

In the 1970s and well into the 1980s, the three greatest male players played the sport very differently. Jimmy Connors was an outstanding all-court player who relied heavily on the precision and power of his ground game, but attacked ferociously.

Bjorn Borg introduced heavy topspin into the game and along with Connors, they popularized the two-handed backhand.

John McEnroe was, in some respects like many of his predecessors, a confirmed serve-and-volley practitioner with unfathomably quick hands at the net. The fact remains that McEnroe was a genius who broke the rules of conventional wisdom across the board. Both Connors and McEnroe, of course, were left-handers.

Pete Sampras took over in the 1990s and ultimately became a singularly

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gifted attacking player with the greatest serve yet seen. He also has an explosive flat running forehand that became one of his signature shots. Sampras was a superb athlete with a spectacular leaping overhead. He is the last of the game’s great serve-and-volleyers who scaled the heights. Roger Federer came along looking like he would play the attacking game like Sampras, but the Swiss Maestro evolved into a different type of player. He stopped coming forward when behind his serve, like he used to in his early days, and developed a modern brand of aggressive tennis—built around an astonishingly accurate serve that set up his lethal forehand. Federer, of course, was a shotmaker nonpareil who redefined elegance on a tennis court.

And yet, Federer’s foremost rival was none other than Rafael Nadal. The electrifying Spaniard was largely the polar opposite of Federer with his whirlwind topspin. The left-handed Nadal gave us backcourt tennis as it had never been played before. He tested not only Federer, but everyone else with the severity of his shots. Novak Djokovic would refer to it as “the Rafa Spin.”

Meanwhile, the third member of

the sport’s “Greatest Generation” was Djokovic. His clean ground game was a modernized version of the best backcourt players of the past. However, he added so many other dimensions to the game with a return of serve that was even better than those of Connors and Andre Agassi. Djokovic famously saved a match point during a startling comeback win over Federer in the semifinals of the 2011 U.S. Open with a lightning-fast forehand crosscourt return. He has always been able to make blockbuster returns, but his most commendable skill is getting the best of serves back into play with consistency and reach no one could replicate.

had devastatingly potent two-handed shots off both sides and her duels with Steffi Graf were often the stuff of dreams. Graf ’s footwork, explosive forehand and speed were magnificent. The forehand was a forerunner for how the game would be played in the decades to come.

Seles hit the ball prodigiously off both sides and what set her apart was her supreme use of short angles. Seles and Graf took the game to rare heights, as did the Williams sisters in the late nineties and well beyond.

Serena and Venus brought the women’s game to another realm. Their extraordinary power off the ground and on serve would

As for the women, their standout players over the past 50 years have been entirely original as well. Chrissie Evert turned the two-handed backhand into the weapon of choice for nearly all the best players who followed in her footsteps. Her baseline mastery and playing style were copied but not equaled by many in the generations to come. Evert’s rivalry with Martina Navratilova lasted from 1973–1988 and featured 80 matches, including 14 major finals between the two icons. But Martina was cut from the serve-and-volley cloth of those who preceded her, including Margaret Court and Billie Jean King. Navratilova produced strength, vitality and dexterity at the net that was unprecedented.

After the Evert-Navratilova era, Monica Seles came upon us with a revolutionary style of tennis. This dazzling lefty

have been unimaginable to most astute observers, even 10 years earlier. Since Serena Williams retired a few years ago, the balance of power in women’s tennis has shifted frequently, but these days the athleticism of Gauff and the sheer velocity of Aryna Sabalenka’s game are a sight to behold. Meanwhile, Iga Swiatek is a masterful percentage player of the modern ilk who blends consistency from the baseline with power as few before her have done it.

The game keeps evolving in so many ways for both the men and the women. At the moment, the game is filled with players of different styles and methodologies. In summation, tennis is barely recognizable these days compared

to years and eras gone by. The racquets and strings allow the players to hit out freely without taking unnecessary risks and the current breed is magnificent to watch. But across the stylistic spectrum, some things have not changed much at all in terms of the basics and the fundamentals.

THAT IS THE BEAUTY OF THE GAME The players nowadays are faster than ever. The velocity of their ground games and serves are reaching new levels, but that does not mean today’s competitors are better than the stalwart performers of days gone by. The old virtues of the finest players are as evident as ever, but each generation brings something new into the mix that thoroughly captures the public imagination, keeps us perpetually immersed and propels the sport into exhilarating territory.

After all these years, I still consider myself very fortunate to be able to witness the evolution of tennis and to write about a sport that has changed my world irrevocably.

November/December 2024 | ADDvantage Magazine - 61

RSPA

62 - ADDvantage Magazine | November/December 2024

WHAT A WONDERFUL CAREER CHOICE TENNIS HAS BEEN!

By: Loretta Conway, Rare Air Sierra Sports, LLC

I

am grateful to Doug Booth, former executive director of USTA Florida, for encouraging me to take a full-time community development job with USTA Florida almost 30 years ago. At that time, I loved teaching beginners how to play tennis and valued everything I was learning as a USTA volunteer in a local NJTL program. However, I wasn’t sure if I should give up selling insurance to enter the tennis industry full-time. Doug convinced me that I would excel in this field, so I gave it a try. I fell in love with the job and discovered an important purpose in my life, which has continued to this day.

My tennis career has afforded me a good income and introduced me to great friends and exciting adventures. I even met my wonderful husband through tennis. Some other highlights include

Gate Park tennis renovation. My last 13 years serving as the executive director of the Steamboat Tennis and Pickleball Center have been amazing! Working with the city of Steamboat, the community and staff to start the nonprofit Court Sports for Life, and then to achieve the dream of improving its outdoor tennis and construction of a stateof-the-art indoor pickleball center was a part of my career that I will always cherish.

Even when my husband Bill Conway and I were dismissed from our positions at Court Sports for Life, which now owns

“I FELT LIKE IT WAS A FIGHT WORTH FIGHTING BUT, IN THE END, I LOST… OR DID I?”

working with Florida governor Jeb Bush and the National USTA to create eight sites across the state to introduce tennis and life skills to underserved youth. I led the effort to build a tennis court at San Quentin prison and collaborated with others to create the San Francisco Tennis Coalition. I am honored to be mentioned as a visionary at the magnificent Golden

the multi-million-dollar Steamboat tennis and pickleball complex, we didn’t despair. The disagreement I had with the board regarding the roles and responsibilities of the board and staff in a wellrun non-profit was extremely important to me. I felt like it was a fight worth fighting. But in the end, I lost… or did I? It took Bill and I no time to realize

that we could choose anywhere in the country to start our next tennis adventures. There is a need almost everywhere in this country for dedicated and knowledgeable tennis professionals. We landed in the Reno Tahoe area of Nevada, choosing it for several reasons including family who live here and the beautiful mountains, lakes and rivers—as we love outdoor adventures. We found an inviting area that needs us and we are thrilled.

We have started our new business called Rare Air Sierra Sports, LLC. See more about what we do at www.rareairsierrasports.com.

In just a few short weeks, Bill has taken a job as the boys’ tennis coach for Reed High School and will soon be teaching at the Reno Tennis Center. Bill will also serve as tennis director for the Sierra Junior Tennis Association. I have been hired as executive director for the Sierra Junior Tennis Association and I’m looking forward to partnering with them to grow their adaptive NJTL programs.

I will also be working with them to find a permanent home while building their volunteer and donor base. See more about SJTA at www.sierrajuniortennis. org.

Once again, the sport of tennis has proven itself to be a wonderful career choice. We can enjoy our lives and stay involved in this great industry that has proven to be so rewarding!

November/December 2024 | ADDvantage Magazine - 63

RSPA

JAMMIN' WITH

JIM

MEMBERSHIP DEPARTMENT UPDATE

Jim Stockwell, RSPA Chief Service Officer

From Court to Legacy:

The Inspiring Journey of a Tennis Teacher’s Career

D

ick Johnson, a 47-year Elite Profes-

between 1974 and 1978,” stated Dick. From

tennis camps for the development of all levels

sional and lifetime member of the

there, Dick accepted a director of tennis po-

of players.

organization, has used tennis as not

sition at Murrieta Hot Springs Resort. While

In 2016, Dick was recognized as USPTA

just an amazing career but also as a

there, he gave lessons to many celebrities such

National High School Coach of the Year and

catalyst to travel the world while doing what he

as Kenny Rogers and Chevy Chase, to name a

New Mexico High School Coach of the Year.

loves. Dick has achieved some of the high-

few.

He has also been awarded the SWPTA High

est accolades in the industry by sharing his

From there, Dick spent time at clubs

School Coach of the Year six times. Dick was

passion with others and dedicating his time to

in Wisconsin and Texas until 1989 when he

also president of the USPTA Southwest Divi-

teaching others the sport and life lessons along

moved back to Albuquerque, New Mexico and

sion from 2000-2001 and was twice named

the way.

began teaching at La Cueva High School as

USPTA Southwest Professional of the Year in

As a child, Dick

1980 and 1981.

first enjoyed playing

Dick Johnson’s

basketball and baseball,

remarkable 47-year career

but it did not take long

as an Elite Professional

before he started playing

and lifetime member

tennis and fell in love

of the organization has

with the game. He was

left an indelible mark on

introduced to tennis by

the world of tennis. His

Vivian Bull who offered

journey, which began

tennis classes at his high

with a love for sports as

school. From there, he

a child, blossomed into a

started playing junior

lifelong passion that took

team tennis and played

him around the globe

on the high school

and into the hearts of

tennis team. He was

countless students. From

good enough to be offered a scholarship in both

their head coach. Dick has been at La Cueva

his early days on the courts of the University

basketball and tennis at the University of Al-

High School for the last 35 years and during

of Albuquerque to his decades-long tenure as

buquerque. He played tennis at the University

that time, he calculated that he has coached

a coach at La Cueva High School, Dick has

from 1963 to 1966 and was the school’s player

over 4,000 kids in total. The high school

not only achieved outstanding success, but

of the year in 1965 and 1966. After Dick’s colle-

team Dick has coached has had 24 state final

also inspired generations of players with his

giate days were over, he started his professional

appearances and of those, they have won 13

dedication, work ethic and love for the game.

journey in the industry.

state championships. They also won 32 district

As he retires after a storied career, his legacy

championships and have earned 406 wins

will continue to be felt through the thousands

by the great Australian professionals that I

over that time span, which is the most in the

of lives he has touched and the many champi-

worked for in the 1970s. These legendary tennis

history of any New Mexico high school tennis

onships his teams have won. Dick Johnson’s

pros, Roy Emerson and Rod Laver, taught me

team. This year, Dick won what ended up

contributions to tennis are a testament to the

the importance of having a great work ethic and

being his last state championship and retired

power of passion and commitment in shaping

inspired me to continue in the greatest game of

after the 2024 season. In the off season, for

both a career and a community.

tennis. I worked for Laver and Emerson Tennis

over 25 years, Dick has also facilitated junior

“I was inspired to be a tennis professional

NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS

ADDVANTAGE MAGAZINE

President................................................................ Trish Faulkner First Vice President.................................................... Mark Faber Vice Presidents.....................................Jason Gilbert, Jenny Gray, Kevin Theos, Milos Vasovic Immediate Past President....................................... Rich Slivocka CEO & Contributing Editor...................................... Brian Dillman Legal Counsel........................................................George Parnell

Editor.................................................................................Collin Brazan Managing Editor...........................................................Aislinn Leonard Layout/Design.................................................................. Sara Schetritt Editorial Assistance ........................ Jim Stockwell, Ellen Weatherford, Laumaur Lindsay, Ramona Husaru Circulation............................................................................. Tim Baum RSPA World Headquarters 11961 Performance Dr. Orlando, FL 32827 407-634-3050 – www.RSPA.com

64 - ADDvantage Magazine | November/December 2024

ADDvantage is published monthly by the Racquet Sports Professionals Association.

The opinions expressed in ADDvantage are those of the authors and not necessarily those of ADDvantage or the Racquet Sports Professionals Association.

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