Addvantage 1989 December

PRINCECTS. YOU CAN'T BEAT THE SYSTEM. Right off the bat you can see that the Prince Constant Taper System TM ( CTS) TM is special. Both the racquet and baseball bat have their largest or strongest parts at the top where you meet the ball, so you can hit with more power.

The tip of the CTS racquet has a higher cross section, which makes the string bed more responsive and increases the sweet spot considerably. And because the racquet is stiffer all around, it flexes less for more control.

As for comfort, there's the exclusive Cushion Grip System TM which absorbs every shot.

To meet your different style of play, pictured below are the CTS Thunderstick;M CTSApproach;M CTS Graduate;M and CTS Precision:-" Find out where you can demo the line by calling 1-800-2-TENNIS. And find out for yourself why you just can't beat the system .

•

PIIRCBi.n THE GAMES BEGIN;· i

Prince. The Exclusively Endorsed Racquet of the United States Professional Tennis Association.© 1990 Prince Manufacturing, Inc.

Q

The Trade Magazine of Men and Women Tennis-Teaching ProfessionalsT"

Volume 13 - Issue 12

December 1989

The Voice Of The Tennis Teaching Profession NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Rod Dulany

On the cover ...

Here as elsewhere, many teaching pros are turning to videotape for. their lesson needs. Photo by Ed Ponikwia.

First Vice President Jack Justice

CONTENTS

Vice President Gordon Collins Vice President Dave Sivertson Vice President Kathy Woods Secretary/Treasurer WiiiHoag CEO Tim Heckler LEGAL COUNSEL Paul Waldman NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS Assistant to the ExecUtive Director Rich Fanning Coordinator of Tennis Teacher Development Allan Henry Communications Coordinator Bill Gordon Marketing Coordinator Dana Stull Public Relations and Magazine Coordinator Becky Senseney Communications and Public Relations David Selman Financ)al Manager Renee Heckler Corporate Services Manager Christi Neumann Computer Services and Club Relations Kathy Buchanan Membership Coordinator Laraine Reid Membership Processing Donna Woodstead Corporate Secretary Lori Garrett Receptionist/Secretary Nanci Seehorsch Merchandise Services and Accounting Stephanie Hulbert Director of Certification and Academies George Bacso Co-Director of Academies BiiiTym Advertising/Marketing Information Phone(813)973-3777

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

For information, write USPTA National Headquarters at Saddlebrook, The Golf and Tennis Resort.

P 0 Box 7077 , Wesley Chapel , Florida 33543, or phone (813) 973-3777 Office Hours: 9:00-5:30 EDT Copyright@ United States Professional Tennis Association, Inc. 1989. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of an)' portion of this magazine is not permitted without written permission from the publisher.

3 Pro Penn Quarterly Promotion ....................... .4

CEO Tim Heckler's Message ......................... .

Announcements .......................................

7

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Video and Tennis: The Future Wave?

by Jan Grover •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• •

Choosing the Right Equipment

by Lynn Morrell •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• •

Using Video Effectively

by Jack Groppel •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• •

Ashe and Bollettieri at Work with Inner-City Kids ........•....................... .

Examine Your Contract

by Bruce Weeber ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• •

When I'm 65 Introducing USPTA's New Retirement Program

9

10

12 .

17 18

.:............ .20

From Tennis Pro to Manager Insights from the Other Side

by Spike Gonzales •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• •

22

USPTA International Tennis Teachers Championships

24 USPTA Drills ........................ .' ................ 2 6 EntryForm ••••••••••· •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

29 Industry Action ...................................... 30

Division News .......................................

President Rod Dulany's Message ................. .

32

NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS ROD DULANY President (703) 524-3227

GORDON COLLINS Vice President (408) 395-7116

KATHY WOODS Vice President (201) 329-9 146

JIM REFFKIN Past President (602) 791-4896

JACK JUSTICE First Vice President (803) 642-6642

DAVE SIVERTSON Vice President (512) 453-7249

WILL HOAG Secretary ITreasu rer (305) 564-1271

PAUL WALDMAN Legal Counsel (212) 354-8330

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CALIFORNIA DIVISION

MIDDLE STATES DIVISION

BOB PARKER

ANDREW POGONYI

LISA MOLDREM

President {213) 542-1200

President {215) 233-3191

President {206) 526-0435

HANK LLOYD

PETER DAUB

CAROLYN LUMBER

Reg ional Vice President {714) 535-7740

Regional Vice President {215) 855-8103

Regional Vice President {503) 287-0250

EASTERN DIVISION

MIDWEST DIVISION

STEVE DIAMOND

MIKE HURLEY

President {201) 857-7 4 76

President {216) 478-2712

SAN DIEGO DIVISION

RAY TUCKER

KIRK ANDERSON

Regional Vice President {718) 238-3880

Regional Vice President {513) 390-27 40

President {619) 435-7133

F.LORIDA DIVISION

MISSOURI VALLEY DIVISION

ARK McMAHON President {407) 482-0110

JAIME VARGAS

DON HENSON

BEN PRESS Regional Vice President {619) 435-1255

Regional Vice President {407) 499-0771

President {314) 449-1332 DOUG BOSWELL Regional Vice President {918) 496-1523

HAWAII DIVISION

NEW ENGLAND DIVISION

President {404) 226-4343

JIM HAHN

2

PACIFIC NORTHWEST DIVISION

SOUTHERN DIVISION

FRED BURDICK

DINO BONDALLIAN

LARRY ABRAMS

RANDY STEPHENS

President {808) 322-3441

President {802) 496-6412

Regional Vice President {912) 474-5075

DAVID PORTER

HOWARD BURNETT

Regional Vice President {808) 293-3755

Regional Vice President {603) 772-6191

INTERMOUNTAIN DIVISION

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA DIVISION

DAVE ROMBERG

DAVE HOUSTON

President {303) 761-9900

President {415) 435-3929

DAVE BROWN

BILL RAPP

Regional Vice President {719) 495-0358

Regional Vice President {415) 364-6272

MIDDLE ATLANTIC DIVISION

NORTHWEST DIVISION

TEXAS DIVISION

SKIP BISHOP

RAJAN KESWANI

PHIL LANCASTER

President {703) 281-3870

President {612) 482-0704

President {214) 931-7326

LARRY LINEBERRY

STEVE WILKINSON

BOB KING

Regional Vice President {703) 989-8728

Regional Vice President {507) 931-1614

Regional Vice President {713) 622-5921

SOUTHWEST DIVISION

BRIAN CHENEY President {602) 840-641 2

JACK MICHALKO Regional Vice President {602) 263-5208

Furthering Your Career A few things you ought to know about USPTA's continuing education program

by Tim Heckler, CEO

A s many of you know, USPTA has set about the task of gradually introducing a requisite continuing education program over the past few years. This concept generally has elicited strong feelings: It seems either you completely favor m9ndatory education or you completely oppose it I suspect that • after reading this editorial you will enter into one of these two schools of thought Obviously, it is tricky and difficult to "forcefeed" such a program to a group as large and diverse as ours. For one , mandatory education cannot be implemented practically without serious consideration to the comfort level of the existing members, lest it become punitive. Secondly, it requires a phasing-in period to allow plenty of time for all rTJ,embers, new and existing , to adjust both physically and psychologically.

Over the past few years, USPTA's Executive Committee, Education Committee and National Headquarters have worked together diligently on a broad-base program covering future education requirements and membership standards. This program will be implemented over the next several years in such a manner as to account for the aforementioned concerns.

Take, for example, our initial mandatory education rule , which was established by the Executive Committee in 1987. It stated that all USPTA members receiving a Pro-3 rating on or after Jan . 1, 1988 were required to take an upgrade exam within 18 months of receiving that rating. I am happy to report that not one person has failed to comply with this rule.

Now comes Phase II of USPTA's continuing education program . As of Jan. 1, 1990, all new members certified as either Pro-3 or Pro-2 will be required to pass an upgrade exam with in 36 months.

As you can see , neither of these rules affects the existing membership tto any degree; they simply increase the standards of our new members. At the same time , it

In line with this education direction, the criteria for attaining the Master Pro rating will continue to rise. Currently, it is necessary to apply for a Master Pro application during the year in which you plan to upgrade. As with all other certification standards, thos? for Master Pro will be subject to change each year to account for advancements in the industry. While these changes will be ¡ carefully considered in an attempt to avoid disrupting the developing portfolios of prospective Master Pros, in some instances a disruption may be unavoidable. To avoid disappointment and delay, Master Pro candidates, soon after Oct 1 of the preceding year, should request a new application for the year in which they plan to apply for the rating.

As announced to the membership nearly two years ago, 1990 Master Pro applicants will need to complete three Specialty Courses (a total of 48 hours) in addition to the other requirements for eligibility. For succeeding years, the Specialty Course requirement will increase as follows:

should be noted that these new members are being afforded a sufficiently fair period of time to fulfill these requirements.

Looking down the road , the program enters Phase Ill in 1991. At that time, all members of the Association will be required to earn a certain number of continuing education credits every 36 months. These credits will be attainable by way of a lengthy list of options ranging from attendance of conventions and workshops to completion of book reviews in the comfort of the member's own office or living room . As with the first two phases of the program, Phase Ill is non -punitive and attainable by any and all members who have the slightest interest in increasing their knowledge and understanding of tennis and the industry in which we work.

1991 ... 5 courses (80 hours) 1992 ... 7 courses (112 hours) 1993 ... 10 courses (160 hours) The continuing educ.ation program for existing members and, in particular, new members has only begun to take shape. In the meantime, the tennis industry continues to look to USPTA to set the standard for the future development of the total teaching professional .

As the oldest and largest tennis-teacher trade association in the world , it is only natural that USPTA should assume a prominent and progressive role in this regard . For you , the teaching professional, it is further assurance that the certification rating you earn today will carry even greater weight in the future.

As always, your comments and questions are gratefully accepted. n

3

®

SPTA Decemb Discount Program send it to Penn's Customer Service Department at:

®For US

®Afromon Penn.

-tim , , special discount offer Purchase Long Play

306 S. 45th Avenue Phoenix, Arizona 85043

Pro enn tennis balls in December · at t esame discounted price as Regu a and Extra-Duty tennis balls.

Or call toll-free 1-800-BUY-PENN.

® In addition to the discounted price, orders placed Penn will also make a donation of

®

Disooumt goed only o by ecember 27 () ship ent bet ee , December 1 and . ec mber 31, 1989. · To he u serve you better, plea e compl e t e order form below an

10¢/dozen per order to your clivisional USPTA office, and another 10¢/dozen to the USPTA National Headquarters. These funds will be used to help support programs for you. So don't delay, order now!

Ship Date

Stock Number P85PRY P85PEDY P89PYHA Long Play Felt

P87LPY

Price List Current Pri ce 6- 114 120-1194 Dozen Dozen

Stock Number

P85PRY/ P85PEDY/ P89PYHA P87LPY

1200+ Dozen

Promotional Pri ce Effectr e '1'211 6-114 120-1194 1200+ Dozen Dozen Dozen

$9.64 Oz. $9.56 Dz. $9.44 Oz.

$9.44 Dz. $9.36 Oz. $9.24 Oz.

$10.04 Oz .. $9.96 Dz. $9.84 Oz.

$9.44 Dz. $9.36 Dz. $9.24 Dz.

Member Information MemberName _

_

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

Company Name _ _ _ __

_ _ _ _ _ __

Current Acct.#- - - -- - -- - - - -

Terms: 4% 30 Days, 2% 60 Days , Net 90 Days

· USPTA#- - - - - - - - - - - - Phone# _ New Acct _

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ Yes _ _ _ _ No _ _ __

Freight: Prepaid on 96 Dozen or more shipped at one time to one location.

A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN! SPECIAL INVITATION TO TEACHING PROFESSIONALS: ORGANIZE AND ESCORT YOUR OWN GROUP TO

THE LIPTON INTERNATIONAL PLA VERS CHAMPIONSHIPS KEY BISCAYNE, FLORIDA MARCH 16 TO MARCH 25, 1990 BRING YOUR OWN CHEERING FANS AND PARTICIPATE IN THE USPTA TEACHING PROFESSIONALS TOURNAMENT Special packages available for groups of 20 persons or more 7 nights- Mar 19 to Mar 26, 1990 or final 3 night weekend - March 23 to Mar 26, 1990 Including: * Private Motor coach transfers AirporVHotel/Airport * Hotel accommodations for number of nights requested *Tennis facility at hotel * Reserved seats for specified number of tournament sessions * Daily roundtrip transfers from Hotel to Tournament sight Featuring: * Personalized brochures for distribution to your members * Discounted "special event" group air fares from your city to Miami * One free land package for every 20 full paying persons booked.

For information call Caroline Pitman, Coordinator

AROUND THE WORLD TRAVEL INC./WOODSIDE Biltmore Executive Center, 1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables, Fla. 33134 Official Travel Agency TEL.: (305) 443 7706 - 1 800 323 3218 (Outside Florida)

ANNOUNCEMENTS IMPORTANT: PRINCE/USPTA MERCHANDISE I'NFORMATION A reminder to USPTA members that the current Prince/USPTA Exclusive-Use Merchandise Program expires Dec. 31, 1989 and the new Prince/USPTA program begins Jan. 1, 1990. The following summary serves as a supplement to the new program information mailed to the membership in October.

ENROLLING IN THE NEW PROGRAMBeginning in January 1990, USPTA will supply Prince each month with a list of members who have fully paid their membership dues (only fully paid members are • eligible for the program). Any fully paid member may then request an exclusiveuse contract form for racquets by calling the Prince/USPTA Merchandise Program office at 1-609-896-2500. After filling out the form, the member must forward it to his or her area Prince sales associate (a list of area Prince sales associates will be provided for your assistance) . The Prince sales associate will then review and sign the contract · and forward it to the Prince/ USPTA program office for processing .

RENEWING YOUR EXCLUSIVE-USE CONTRACT - Whereas under the current program the individual member's exclusiveuse contract is renewable on the "anniversary date" each year, the "anniversary date" under the new program becomes the month in which Prince receives the member's completed and signed contract.

The contract will remain in effect until that same month the following year.

ITEMS YOU ARE ELIGIBLE TO RECEIVE OR BUY Pro-1- and Pro-2-rated members enrolled in the new program will receive a certain number of free racquets each year (consult the new program "tier structure" diagram mailed to you in October).

All enrolled members, regardless of certification rating, will be eligible to purchase up to five racquets at preferred player prices, but each of these racquets (maximum two models) must be the same grip size. Any enrolled members interested in purchasing additional items such as shoes, apparel or other equipment at preferred player prices are asked to contact their area Prince sales associate. Payment must be by check, money order or credit card .

INSURANCE Employer Coverage For information on Additional Insured Coverage, contact the Insurance Department in the National Headquarters at (813) 973-3777. This coverage provides protection for employers in the event the USPTA member is negligent. Members who added employers to their 1989 policy need to contact the Insurance Department in order to renew.

Insurance Certificates Members should request certificates of insurance for the new policy year (as proof of liability coverage) in January 1990. To receive your certificate of insurance (and for information needed to process your certificate), contact the Insurance Department at (813) 973-3777.

Non-Member Liability Insurance For details on insuring non-member assistants, call the Insurance Department at (813) 973-3777. Members who insured their assistants in 1989 need to contact the Insurance Department in order to renew.

SEMINAR CONTEST WINNERS Dean Snyder (Midwest Division) earned acclaim at September's National Convention on two different fronts. First, he was one of 18 members to be honored for attaining Master Professional status, then he was chosen as the winner of the US PTA National Seminar Contest. Snyder, of Livonia, Mich., earned $750 for taking first place.

Placing second and earning $550 was John Thomas (Northern California). Third place and a check for $400 went to Diane Selke (Intermountain).

Eleven other members earned cash prizes for placing fourth through 14th. They were : Elliot Lovi (Eastern) , Bill Foreman (Florida), Doug Kegerreis (Middle Atlantic), Tom Sweitzer (Middle States), John Williams (Missouri Valley), Todd Beaudoin (Northwest) , Brian Nash (Pacific Northwest), Ken Temple (San Diego). Fritz Earle Ill (Southern), Tad Lindstrom (Southwest), and Sheryl Behne (Texas) .

NEW MASTER PROS Eighteen USPTA members were honored at the National Convention for achieving the prestigious Master Professional ranking .

Each was recognized and received a plaque during the Awards Breakfast.

New Master Pros are: Larry Abrams (New England), A Lee Adams (Middle Atlantic), Janet Hopps Adkisson (Pacific Northwest), Robert C. Anderman (Middle Atlantic), Steven Contardi (Midwest), Kenneth DeHart (Souttiwest), Tommy D. Gray (Midwest), Greg Grover (Southern), Ron Holmberg (Eastern), Kurt Kamperman (Eastern), Patrick Lee Mason (Florida) , Mark A McMahon (Florida), Dr. Ballard J. Moore (Southern), Desmond Oon (Southeast Asia), Guy W. · Parks II (Midwest), Jim Reffkin (Southwest), Dean Snyder (Midwest), and Jerry Strang (Pacific Northwest).

. DRAWING WINNERS The National Convention also included a series of drawings, from which the following winners were drawn : Mary Hill - free weekend for two accommodations at the Boca Raton Resort and Club Tom Fal ke nburg - USPTA watch Todd Beaudoin - four cases Pro Penn balls Andre Lagounaris - USPTA desk set Also during the Convention , the Pro Penn Ball Bonanza and Stroke master drawing for the free four-day trip to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, produced the following win ners: Pro Penn Ball Bonanza Jeff Henderson - 10 cases Allen DuBois - 6 cases Glenn Gollnick - 4 cases Strokemaster Trip to Mexico Arthur Rosiles

7

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USPTA pro Jan Grover (standing) has discovered ¡the many benefits of using video.

Photo by Mike Matovich.

It may not be for every tennis pro, but the advantages of video are many

by Jan Grover hen USPTA approached me about doing an article on video in tennis teaching, my D---11:1 first thoughts were: Who nowadays teaches tennis without the use of video? And, how can I spur their interest in using video?'

Although I am exclusively involved in the use of video (in my cable TV program, "The Tennis Doctor") and when teaching off camera employ the use of video, I somehow had assumed video was used in some form by all teaching pros. (Perhaps we need to conduct a survey to see how many teaching pros use video in some way.)

My first experience with video occurred 11 years ago while visiting the Harry Hopmarlnternational Tennis camp. During my week there, the Hopman instructors filmed my forehand and backhand groundstrokes, volleys and serve. As I viewed the tape, the instructor explained what I was doing correctly and what I could improve on to become an even better player. I reme mber thinking what a great tool this was and wondered why everyone didn 't employ video cameras. (At that time the cameras were quite expensive and weren 't considered a necessity in one's tennis budget.)

Years later, while teaching for the parks and recreation department in Virginia Beach, Va., it occurred to me to include video in my lessons. Even though I didn 't have my own camera, I was able to¡ borrow one. Now, whenever it rained , instead of canceling class, I would show the tapes. As a teaching pro, you probably have rented old U.S. Open or Wimbledon tapes. But you would be surprised at how interested students are in seeing themselves on tape and how quickly they learn from it. For example, even though you demo and break down each stroke, each student interpr~ts what you say differently. With video, they see it and correct it much more quickly, saving you time and them money.

W

Now that I have my own TV show and use video extensively I see even more benefits. I run into people who tell me about how their family members grab their tennis racquets and get in front of the TV set to follow along with me. They're in the convenience of their own home where the weather is not a factor and where they don't need a partner they don 't even have to be on a tennis court. With video, you reach the masses of people , who gain a great deal of knowledge in a short period of time . I now employ video in my private lessons also. I get my students to bring a blank tape so they also have a copy. I tape them on a regular basis to show their progress, and they can watch it over and over. Also, I have gotten a great indication from parents that they, too, enjoy viewing the tapes - because they do not attend every lesson .

Remember, even though video is wonderful , it cannot stand alone. You still need your local USPTA pro to make sure you are implementing your new information correctly, and you need to be on the tennis court hitting tennis balls.

Recently, I was invited by a private school to introduce tennis to lower school students.

I took my tape titled "Tennis for Tots" along with some popcorn . We turned the lights off and pretended we were going to the movies. When the tape was over, we made tennis racquets out of paint sticks and paper plates. I let the students design their own strings on their racquets, and then we ¡ practiced what we had learned with balloons. It was a fun day for everyone and what better way to promote tennis? o

Advantages of Video 1. Excellent teaching tool for lectures, etc; it spurs interest 2. For mimicking, it saves time 3. Saves money .

4. Convenience of using at home 5. Weather conditions not important 6. Partners not necessary 7. Reaches masses of people 8. Courts not necessary 9. Condensed knowledge Disadvantages 1. Teaching pro not always present to correct 2. Not conducted on tennis court, or using tennis balls

Jan Grover graduated from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Va. She is a native of Virginia Beach, Va., where for five years she taught at the department of parks and recreation, covering adult and therapeutic programs and developing the "Tennis for Tots" program.

Among her credits, she is a certified line umpire for the Southeastern Virginia Tennis Umpires Association ; has taught adult tennis at Paul D. Camp Community College in Suffolk, Va.; has taught at Nansemond Suffolk Academy; has regularly attended the Harry Hopman International Tennis camp; has been a USPTA certified pro since 1987; directs, writes scripts for and stars in a television show, " The Tennis Doctor ," on Suffolk Municipal Access Cable; and is coach of the Norfolk Academy varsity tennis team.

9

by Lynn Morrell

he first piece of video equipment to consider purchasing is a camcorder. A camcorder D---11::11 is a camera and VCR combined in one unit. Your selection of camcorder will influence your other equipment needs, so it's best to select this piece of equipment first.

Camcorders are currently available in a variety of recording formats, including VHS, VHS-compact, Super VHS, Super VHScompact, 8-millimeter, HighBand 8-millimeter, and ED Beta. With seven formats from which to choose, you need to assess the following in each : picture quality, audio fidelity, portability, camera features, tape recording time, playback requirements, ergonomics (placement of controls) and your budget.

Picture quality is determined by horizontal lines of resolution. This specification is expressed in camcorder specifications literature, usually under the video description heading. It may be written under image sensor (number of pixels per thousand) . A rule of thumb: the bigger this number, the better the picture. Lines of resolution for most camcorders fall into the 250-420 range . The VHS .and 8-millimeter formats generally fall between 250 and 270 and the

T

Super VHS and Hi8 fall between a whopping range of 360 and 450.

For the sharpest picture using today's consumer equipment, buy either the Super VHS or Hi-8 format. You will need a Super VHS!Y/C-compatible video monitor or TV in order to see the image at its sharpest, although both formats provide audio/videojacks in and outside the camera that don't require the Y/C hookup.

Another important index to look at on the specifications sheet is " minimum illumination ." This is the lowest available light in which the camera will guarantee a decent quality picture. The lower the number of lux, the better the camera will react to low-light situations. If most of your shooting is to take place in indoor tennis facilities, be sure to check this rating . Most camcorders fall within the 3-1 0 lux range. The majority of VHS camcorders are rated at 3 lux. There are few on the marke.t that require only 1-2 lux. Avoid those that are between 10-15 lux.

Most VHS-C are rated at 8 lux. and in Super VHS most are 7 lux. However, there are many rated at 1-2. In the 8-mi//imeter format, most are 4-5 lux. and some are 7 lux. Avoid a rating of 10 or more. In the Hi-8, they are either 4 or 7 lux.

The last important specification to con-

sider is the "signal-to-noise ratio " (measured in decibels, or dB) . There should be specifications for both video and audio signal-to-noise. The view measure will tell you the ration of noise (snow) you will record with every image. As with the lines of resolution/pixel measure, the higher the number, the better the audio will be in both video and audio terms. As long as the camcorder you 're looking at passes the 40dB mark, you're okay. The 8-mi//imeter and Hi-8 formats win hands down over the other formats for high-fidelity audio recording and playback. In fact, they should so good that if you're a music enthusiast, you can record up to two hours of your favorite music on 8-millimeter videotape and play it back through your stereo system - it's almost as good as CD sound . Some say it is even better.

Think about where you will be using your camcorder most often . If you plan to travel and use it at various locations other than your own club, size and weight are important. If most of your shooting will be hand-held rather than from a tripod, size and weight are once again things you should consider. The VHS cameras are the most cumbersome and the 8-millimeter a¡re the least cumbersome. One caution : Believe it or not, if you go too small it's hard to keep the camera steady if you 're shooting from your shoulder - arm fatigue can set in quickly.

Next, examine the camera features. Even the most basic camcorders abound with features. I'll only discuss those which may be of particular interest to tennis-teaching professionals. They are: zoom ration, high shutter speed , flying erase heads and digital effects.

Telephoto lenses on camcorders fall between zoom ratios of 6:1 and 12:1 . The 10:1 and 12:1 lenses will come in handy if you plan to use your camera at sporting events or want to shoot your pupil from a distance greater than the length of a tennis court. The 12:1 will pull in action from afar.

Beware of two problems, though. Higher zoom ratios deplete battery power more quickly and it's almost impossible to hold the camera still at 1Ox or 12x zoom . I recommend not buying a camcorder with either a 6:1 or 12:1 lens.

High-speed shutter will intrigue you . This feature allows you to play back more frames per second . When played back in a still mode or slow-motion mode, you can study the fine points of any stroke without a blurred image. Available shutter speeds range from 1/ 500th of a second to a phenomenal 1/ 1OOOth of a second . The average speeds of 1/ 1OOOth or 1/ 2000th of a second are ample for stroke analysis purposes.

Flying erase heads produce exceptionally clean edits between recorded scenes on your tape and help avoid potential rainbow noise, glitches and dropouts on the tape. If

you 're not going to edit your tapes later in a production suite, this feature will give your shooting a more professional look.

Incidentally, time and date stamps are standard features now. If you intend to build a video history of your pupils (and do not like to log your own shooting), this feature is an absolute must. Also, look for a camcorder that allows manual control of both focus and white balance. These are two features you 'll prefer to use manually (rather than in an automatic mode) as your skill level improves.

Ask yourself if your 're going to be using the camcorder simply to record and then critique your pupil's performance keeping the tape to use again for recording another pupil 's performance, or for making copies or editing the footage. If you plan to shoot or show reuse tape , think about the VHS or 8-millimeter format. You can buy relatively inexpensive tape in the VHS format and the tape has a long recording time . VHS camcorders are probably the lowest priced .

The drawbacks to VHS camcorders are that they are generally heavier and bigger.

VHS compact camcorders are smaller, offer the same video quality as VHS but only record 20 minutes of video on a smaller tape . VHS-C tape stock is more expensive than VHS tape stock. Both VHS and VHS-C quickly degenerate in picture quality when you make a copy or edit. So what 's left?

8-millimeter. This is a small and light tape

Lynn Morrell is president of AVK Imprints, Inc., a firm specializing in design and production of personalized audio/video sports programs. AVK clients include wor ld-class ath letes, teaching professionals, c oaches an d amateur athletes seeking performance excel lence.

Lynn is also owner/developer of the Ath letic Mind & Body customized aud io/video system, wh ich trai ns athletes mentally, physically and emotionally. She has been a video/film p roducer, d irector, scriptwriter, camerawoman and editor. A forme r nationally ranked singles player, she has a backg round in psychology k nd is a ce rtified USPTA professi onal

and comes in 60-120-minute lengths that aren't too pricey.

If you plan to do a lot of copying or editing, remember that the Super VHS and Hi-8 formats are vastly superior to the others. They are, however, expensive camcorders to acquire and the tape stock is expensive, too. The Super VHS tape stock is currently less expensive than the Hi-8.

For editing purposes, you will find more facilities that provide freelance use of offline Super VHS editing suites than Hl-8 since Hi-8 is new.

Regardless of what you decide to buy, try to find a store that carries and displays a variety of formats with a live feed from the camera to a monitor. Pick up each and see how they feel to you . Acquaint yourself with where the controls are. Are they easy to find and reach? Scale-wise, do they fit your fingers? Is one easier to balance on your shoulder than another? How abut the view finder - is it comfortable to your eye? If not, is it adjustable? After you 've narrowed down your selection , ask the sales person if you can record on the tape in the store.

Shoot the same scene with each camera.

Then play it back through the live feed into the same monitor each time . Select your camera based on what recorded images look like rather than live feed images.

If you pay retail prices for your camcorder, this is what you can expect for a price spread : at the low end, $750-$1200 ; mid range, $1200-$1700; top end, $1700 and up.

Here are some of my preferences: In the top-end category, in the Hi-8 format, it's a toss up between the Canon A-1 and the Sony CCD-V99. The Canon has unique ergonomics, it feels like a 35millimeter camera, has a dual-action grip and a rotating viewfinder. It has a 10:1 zoom and offers infrared remote -control playback. The Sony has an 8:1 zoom, offers higher shutter speeds than the Canon , and does not offer the remove-control playback feature. Picture and audio quality in both are outstanding. What may be most intriguing about th is camcorder is its ability to play back in slow motion and frame advance direct from the camera. For a Super VHS camcorder, I like the Panason ic PV-S 350.

It has a 1 lux rating , 8:1 zoom , and digital effects like still, wipes, strobe , dissolves and fade . It has high shutter speeds and , most importantly, the video quality is superb.

Once you've bought your camcorder, you 'll need to purchase three more essential items: a neutral density filter (a clear filter to protect your lens from scratches), extra batteries and tape stock. You now have the bare necessities. Once you 're hooked on video you 'll be looking at tripods, lights, lenses, bags, filters , microphones and home editing equipment.

In summary, there are numerous products available to serve your needs. You simply need to take time and identify your priorities. o

WHAT TEACHING PROFESSIONAL ISN'T INTERESTED IN EXPANDING HIS REPERTOIRE OF TEACHING METHODS?

Now available through Fundamentally Sound Tennis with Dave Kozlowski, USPI'A Master Professional. You'll find over 100 innovative and useful tips and presentations on: Ground Strokes, Net Play, The Serve, and Specialty Shots to supplement your tennis delivery.

World Tennis magazine has cited him as a "consummate professional with outstanding credentials and an ideal teaching temperament."

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Mail orders to: Dave Kozlowski Tennis Enterprise 1621 Oak Circle South Sarasota, FL 34232 Please pri nt purchaser's address clearly. If "ship to" address is different, please attach shipping address to order form.

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Please call (813) 371-1317 for more information.

L---------------~-~ 11

by Jack Groppel, Ph.D.

0

ver the past few decades, research has shown that the naked eye is not fast enough D---11::1 to see everything that occurs in a tennis stroke. We now know that the impact point is actually a blur to the unaided eye. This is why many pictures of tennis players hitting the ball show their eyes focused somewhat forward of the point of impact.

We also know that the naked eye cannot see all body parts working together during a stroke. For example, during the serve, it is virtually impossible to see the actions of th~ legs, hips, trunk, shoulders, upper arm, forearm and hand . In addition, when trying to coach a player in his or her movement patterns, it is very difficult to see how the player actually moves since the coach has trouble seeing exactly when the opponent contacts the ball , and then the mind has difficulty processing how the player in question actually moves.

Dr. Jack Groppel is the director of player development for Harry Hopman/Saddlebrook International Tennis and the director of Sports and Health Developmen t for Saddlebrook Resort. He is a USPTA Master Professional and was the 1987 lJSPTA Pro of the Year. He has authored numerous articles on biomechanics, fitness and nutrition, and is an Instructional Editor for TENNIS magazine. Dr. Groppel is also the chairperson of the USPTA Advisory Committee on Sport Science and Sports Medicine and is a sport science advisor to the USTA Player Development Program.

12

Strategy is easier to explain to the player if video tape is used following the match.

The how's and why's behind various tactics in different situations can be more easily seen. In a futuristic move, Dr. Jim Loehr has shown how music videos can help prepare a player psychologically to be a better competitor.

With regard to the mechanics of tennis, the body is a linked system. Several body parts work together in virtually all strokes to complete the " perfect movement. " Error detection and correction are much more easily performed if the player understands what is going¡ wrong . Video tape is an excellent way to help players understand their errors.

Specific to movement, it is important to understand the time elapsed from the point of the opponent's contact with the ball to the initial response movement by your player . This can be done only through the use of slow-motion video tape . There is also the process and technique of moving, which can be better understood by both the coach and the player through video tape.

Then there is the timing of shot preparation and the recovery action of the feet once the stroke has been completed .

For video tape analysis you can use either a tripod or a camera balanced on your shoulder. Either is suitable , but you must remain fairly still if you hold the camera on your shoulder.

Be aware that tennis is a three-dimensional game. You must video tape from different angles to acquire different views of your player hitting the ball and moving around the court. It is probably best to get at least two different views and in some cases three views are appropriate. For example , in working with Stan Smith in the early 1980s, we tried to locate the problem in his service motion that had been causing him some elbow trauma. We took four different views and , interestingly, only one showed the problem clearly. All other views were not able to detect his improper forearm pos ition during the service motion.

The next step is to identify the problem that is occurring . For example, it is poss ible that there is no true error in th e stroke production but that the result of what is

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taking place is wrong . A second serve might be continuously short or there might not be zip on the approach shot. These are still errors depending on the skill level of the player with whom you are working .

Next, identify in which half of the body ¡the problem is occurring. It could be the upper half, due to improper trunk rotation or upper-arm movement, or the lower half, due to improper movement of the hips, legs or feet (footwork).

Next, further localize the problem , but be sure to analyze the stroke all the way to the footwork. It has been my experience that at least 70 percent of all errors in tennis are due to improper footwork and not necessarily a poor stroke. When doing video tape analysis at Harry Hopman/ Saddlebrook International Tennis, we video the player with a shuttered video camera. We record with a Panasonic shuttered video camera and play the tape back on a Panasonic AG6300 VHS player. We have the ability to stop the action , and with the shutter on our camera there is no blur. A minimum of two views is obtained, usually at right angles to each other. This means we may shoot from the side and possibly from behind.

The next step is to focus on where the problem is being created (i .e. the racquet face) . Obviously, if there is something wrong with the shot, it is caused by either an improper racquet heaa orientation or improper racquet head speed . Now the problem is to figure out what caused the movement. Identify the grip and whether it is causing a problem. Then observe the wrist angle, elbow position, shoulder movement and work your way through the linked system. Thi~ entails observing shoulder rotation , hip rotation, leg action and footwork. We always try to analyze the movement all the way through the footwork becaus.e of the numerous errors created by poor movement. In this way, we feel that the instructor becomes a better teacher of movement skills and the student acquires skills faster and more efficiently.

HI

The tennis-teaching professional of the 1990s will be compelled to join the video communication revolution. The recent introduction of desktop video production tools and "pro-sumer" editing equipment are strongly attracting novice videographers to the professional video production ranks. For the fi-rSt time, products are available to tennis professionals and other consumers that are userfriendly, affordable and, most importantly, allow them to create instructional programs of and for their pupils that look truly professional - just like the tennis programs sold at the retail level.

Advances in computer and video technology have brought down the cost of the equipment needed to produce high-quality video instructional programs. You can set up an editing suite in your home or at your club. At least three of the major manufacturers of computer equipment have introduced hardware which will allow their computers to talk to VCRs. They have developed edit controllers that interface with VCRs, and software programs that can tum your computer into a full fledged character generator, graphics and 3D-effects builder, digitizer, edit-list manager, logger and storyboard.

Three critical areas have been brought together to make very exdting prospects for the use of video in tennis teaching. Namely, advanced camcorder technology, desktop computer driven video and "pro-sumer" editing equipment. Let there be no doubt - video will leave its mark on tennis in the next decade.

-Lynn Morrell

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13

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Dates That Rate Exams arid Upgrades December December December December December December

1-2 2-3 10-11 12 16-1 7 18-19

Minneapolis, MN Columbia, MO Las Vegas, NV Flushing, NY Tampa, FL Denver, CO

June 22-23 June 24 July 20-21 July 28-29 August 5-6 August 17-1 9 August 19-20 September 21-23 September 24

Jack$onville, FL Redlands, CA Tampa, FL Flushing, NY Parker, CO Destin, FL Carmichael, CA Palm Springs, CA Woodland Hills, CA

1990 January 8 January 8 January 9 January 18-20 January 20-21 January 27-28 February 4-5 February 6 ¡ February 17-1 8 February 23-24 February 24-25 FebrLt9ry 24-25 March 3-4 March 3-4 March 11 March 12-13 March 13 March 16-17 March 31 April 3 April 20 April 27-30 April 28-29 April 29-30 May 6-7 May 7 May 8 May 11 -12 May 18-19 May 19 May 27-28 June 3-4 June 12 June 16-17

La Jolla, CA Woodland Hills, CA Flushing, NY Phoeni x, AZ Wayland , MA Boca Raton , FL Denver, CO Flush ing, NY Boca Raton , FL Sarasota, FL Hershey, PA Rochester, NY Malibu, CA Palm Coast, FL Redlands, CA Carmel Valley, CA Flushing, NY Miami, FL Boca Raton , FL Flushing, NY Pembroke Pines, FL Kailua-Kana, HI Boca Raton , FL La Jolla, CA Salt Lake City, UT Woodland Hills, CA Flushing, NY .Orlando, FL Stowe, VT Wilmington, DE San Francisco, CA Denver, CO Flushing, NY New Haven, CT

October 6-7 October 7-8 October 9 October 19-20 November 4 November 5 November 9-11 November 13 November 17 November 18-19 December 9-1 0 December 11 December 13-15

Ft. Washington , PA Las Vegas, NV Flushing, NY Bradenton , FL Redlands, CA La Jolla, CA Tampa; FL Flushing, NY Farmington, CT Los Gatos, CA . Denver, CO Flushing, NY Phoenix, AZ

Certification Training -courses December 16

Tampa, FL

1990 January 18 January 26 February 17 February 23 February 24 February 24 March 3 March 16 March 31 April 20 April 27 April 28 April 29 May 6 May 19 May 27 June 16 June 22 July 20 July 28 August 5 August 17 , August 19 October 19 November 9 December 13 December 28

Phoenix, AZ Boca Raton , FL Boca Raton , FL Sarasota, FL Hershey, PA Rochester, NY Malibu , CA Miami, FL Boca Raton , FL Pembroke Pines, FL Kailua-Kana, HI Boca Raton , FL La Jolla, CA .

Salt Lake City, UT Wilmington , DE San Francisco, CA New Haven, CT Jacksonville, FL Tampa, FL Flushing, NY Parker, CO Destin, FL Carmichael , CA Bradenton, FL Tampa, FL Phoenix, AZ Crystal River, FL

Tennis Teacher's -courses December 13-15 January 8-1 0 February 21-23 April 18-20 November 19-23

Tampa, FL Crystal River, FL Murrieta, CA Chicago, IL Los Gatos, CA

The following dates and sites are the revised schedule of USPTA educational events to be held in 1989 and 1990. These dates are slightly different from those that appeared in the last issue due to last minute additions. For further information, contact the Education Department at the USPTA National Headquarters, (813) 973-3 777.

16

USPTA Pros in the Field

~

.

,

¡~ - .t From left, Cities Program founders Arthur Ashe and Nick Bollettieri with Newark Mayor Sharpe James.

f ~ ,..

T w o of USPTA's best-known professionals, Arthur Ashe and Nick Bollettieri, have been collaborating on a variety of projects, including instructor training , a tournament traveling team , business professional clinics , college campus student orientations, college tennis scholarships and a program to benefit inner-city kids.

The latter effort - called the AsheBollettieri "Cities" Tennis Program - provides free, high-quality tennis instructior and , according to a program spokesperson, has the potential "to alter the balance of power for the United States in international tennis." Already, three program sites have been established and four more are scheduled to begin operation in the next two years. _ The Cities Program deals not only in the X's and O's of tennis, but development off the court as well . All instructors must meet the requirement of serving as strong role mode s. And because the program targets youths with relatively little familial or other support, it is having a substantial impact helping build character, reinforcing the importance of education , discipline and self-esteem , and promoting good health and fitness habits.

Background The Newark, N.J., chapter of the Cities Program, initiated in August 1988, has experienced growth and success in several ways: 1.

Participation. Registration has risen from 200 students to more than 1,400 in September.

2.

On-Court Progress. Several students who had not picked up a tennis racquet prior to the program have progressed to the point of being able to compete favorably - and in some cases w¡in - sanctioned tournaments.

3.

Off-Court Progress. Despite targeting four of the roughest neighborhoods of Newark, more than 80 percent of the parents and guardians responding to a

Ashe and Bollettieri

At Work With Inner-City Kids Cities survey just two months after the inception of the program indicated a significant improvement in their children 's manners, problem-solving abilities, ability to focus on tasks, etc.

4.

Visibility of Tennis in City. Prior to the Cities Program , virtually no tennis events of any significance existed in the inner-city area. Now Newark has an annual all-star tennis competition for Cities participants. Bob Davis, national program director, Newark Mayor Sharpe James and Ashe created and ran a $20,000 community tennis tournament from Aug . 1-6. And in November,

a superstar exhibition was held featuring Andre Agassi and Boris Becker.

Additional Cities Programs were begun this summer in Kansas City, Mo ., and Kansas City, Kan., and the initial result has exceeded even the highest expectations: Nearly 600 people participated in three introductory clinics held by Ashe and the Bollettieri staff. Nearly 600 registered for the Cities Program during the first six weeks and dozens more have been register¡ ing each day since .

Its initial success firmly established, the Cities Programs plans to expand into Atlanta and San Diego in 1990, and into Houston and Cleveland in 1991.

Inaugurated last year in Newark, N.J., the Cities Program has introduced tennis to thousands of inner-city children around the country.

Examine Your Contract There are numerous ways teaching pros can improve their financial position

by Bruce Weeber, CPA

Editor's note: Bruce Weeber, a certified public accountant, presented a seminar at September's USPTA National Convention titled, "Creative Financial and Tax Planning," highlights of which appear in the following article.

In my ;onvention seminar on "Creative Financial and Tax Planning ," I discussed the V?lue of having a contract restructured to create status as: 1) An "employee" for those functions that qualify, and; 2) an " independent contractor."

Pros of "employee" status: • Hospitalization, disability and life insurances • Pension plan (if qualify) • Other fringe benefits • IRA • Social security costs - 7.51% of gross wages Cons: • Cannot easily deduct business expenses • Form 21 06 and 2% exclusion on miscellaneous deductions from Schedule A. Pros of " independent contractor" status: • • • • • 18

Schedule "C" Deduction of business expenses Establish pension plan , Hire spouse and children (if possible) IRA possible,

Bruce Weeber is a certified public accountant with specialties in the areas of individual and corporate taxes and professional financial planning . He graduated from Albright Co llege in Reading , Pennsylvania with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Economics. He played on the college tennis team and is a USPTA member and former USTA umpire.

Currently, Bruce is creator and partner in the Business Success Team, a consulting group designed to answer the questions of small businesses trying to be successful.

Cons: • Social security costs 13% of net profit USPTA members often share with me their problems in deducting business expenses . Even as ari employee, you incur tennis-related business expenses such as professonal dues, equipment purchases and repairs, travel expenses, tournament fees and expenses, promotional and entertainment expenses, laundry and clothing (assuming they're advertising), telephone accessories, etc.

As an employee, you must file the above business expense on form 2106 (Employee Business Expense) . Since the employee was not reimbursed for his or her expenses, these expenses must be listed in Schedule A, under miscellaneous deductions. There they are subject to a limit of 2% of AGI (Adjusted Gross Income), with the balance being added to other itemized de-ductions in Schedule A. Example: AGI = $60,000, Business expenses = $2 ,500 . Result: $60,000 x 2% = $1 ,200. Business expense $2,500 minus $1,200 = $1,300, which can be added to the rest of itemized deductions of contributions, interest, taxes, etc. In this illustration, the tennis-teaching professional lost $1 ,200 worth of deductions.

As an employee, your employer may find the cost too high; therefore, it becomes necessary to cancel the pension plan and other fringe benefits. So by also being selfemployed, you have the ability to fund your own money-purchase pension plan.

As an independent contractor, you should file two forms. The first is SS-4 Employee Identification Number (EIN). It is not mandatory to have an employee. The second document to file with your employer is a W-9 (Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification), which states to your employer that they are not required to withhold taxes from you . Another form which eases the burden of tax responsibility for your employer is form 4669 (Employee Wage Statement), which states that you have properly reported your income and will pay all applicable taxes.

You should consider two possible actions: 1) Restructure your contract to split income, not part salary (employee) and . part IC

(independent contractor). and; 2) if the contract cannot be renegotiated with a split, have your employer reduce the salary and receive that reduction as an expense reimbursement.

(USPTA members: You should inform both the USPTA National Headquarters and Bruce Weeber at the below address of actions pending by state and federal governments in the areas of "independent con tractor" and "employee" status. As your information is reviewed, reports will be made and include all current rules applicable to this area.)

•

•

•

New Rate for Auto Mileage Beginning Jan. 1, 1989, the new rate became 25V2 cents per mile for the first 15,000 miles. Above 15,000 miles, the rate is still 11 cents per mile. I recommend you keep both mileage· and actual expenses.

You can then determine which method gives you the maximum deduction.

Year-End Tax Planning Here are some things to discuss with your accountant: • In 1989, children 2 years and older must have a social security number, and it must be reported on the parent's tax return or penalties will be assessed.

• The IRS has lowered interest rates. On Oct. 1, the IRS began charging 11% interest on tax underpayments and paying 10% interest on tax overpay-

•

•

deduction for 1990 is limited to 10% and for 1991 there will be no deduction.

• Not realizing you're eligible to make tax-deductible IRA contributions. You can if your joint Adjusted Gross Income is under $50,000 (joint return) or $35,000 on a single return .

• Not realizing that by paying your spouse for helping you in your business, he or she can be salaried (but must be paid by check this year) and eligible for an IRA up to $2,000. Your spouse is required to pay social security (7 .51 %) on those wages and you must match this percentage. Check the numbers to ensure favorable results.

• Letting the bank take "points" out of the mortgage proceeds. Loan processing fees, or points, paid to a bank to get a mortgage to buy or improve your residence are regarded as interest. Points are deductible in full for the year of payment as long as the money to pay them was not obtained from the lender. Write a check to the bank for the points. If the bank happens to deduct for points, the points will have to be spread out over the life of the mortgage. o

ments. Previously, the figures were 12% and 11 %, respectively.

Deferring income and accelerating deductions still make up the best yearend tax planning for most tax payers despite the many recent changes to our tax laws.

If you are self-employed (as are many tennis-teaching professionals). delay send ing year-end bills to customers so the money doesn 't come until early 1990.

Boost your charitable contributions this year. Advance the payment of anticipated 1990 contributions by paying in 1989.

Arrange with your employer to defer salary on bonuses until next year - this can be done through a short-term deferred compensation plan.

Social security surtax ioophole. Catastrophic medical care insurance can be avoided by investing in tax-exempt or tax-deferred investments such as municipal bonds or appreciating property. Cutting income tax by $150 can reduce surtax by $22.50 (single) or $45 (joint). Congress wants this loophole abolished whereas the Bush administration opposes any change .

Mistakes to Avoid • Doing nothing to reduce personal debt.

Deductions for interest paid on personal or consumer debts are dropping to 20% as allowable deductions. Interest

In his Convention seminar, Bruce Weeber covered additional information on tax, financial, investments, various forms and the remain ing 20 factors of "independent contractor" status. For a complete outline·of his seminar, send $5 (to cover costs) to: Bruce Weeber, CPA, 513 High St., Pottstown, PA 19464.

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19

Introducing the USPTA Retirement Program and how it can secure your financial future

Some startling facts about retirement

two

Only of every 100 people retire financially secure.

A 40-year -old person today is expected tq live 15-20 years after he or she etires.

Almost 25% of all persons age 65 and over continue to work because they do not have enough money to maintain the lifestyle they would like in retirement.

The average social security benefit in 1987 was only $513 per month and the maximum $822 per month.

A vast majority of tennis-teaching professionals are not covered by any employee-sponsored pension plan .

If you are like most USPTA members and most Americans - your retirement funds are probably grossly underfunded.

Recognizing that rriost teaching professionals nevertheless consider saving for the future a top priority, USPTA has put together an important new member benefit - the USPTA Retirement Program - which includes the following features: A systematic way to save for retirement Attractive tax advantages Tax-free access to your cash before and after retirement A competitive, guaranteed return 20

Substantial estate benefits Lifetime tax-free income at retirement The USPTA Retirement Program combines the best features of several different . plans to form an ideal retirement supplement program .

How does it work? You simply contribute money each year which will grow and compound at a competitive rate (currently 8.5%) without any taxes. At retirement, you will be entitled to an annual tax-free income for the rest of your life.

Another important benefit of the program is that you are covered from day one for an income tax-free death benefit which grows with the value of your account.

Here's an example of how the program would work for a 34-year-old tennis pro: If you contributed $2,000 per year (either lump sum or an automatic debiting of $175 /month from your checking account) and retired at age 65 (this is totally flexible). at today's rate (8 .5%) your account at retirement would grow to $282,726 and you would be able to withdraw $23,910 tax-free each year for the rest of your life.

At the same time, your heirs would be

USPTA has put together an important new member benefit the USPTA Retirement Program

entitled to a death benefit of $1 78,000 from the day you enrolled in the program , and this benefit would grow to $344,926 at retirement. Also, the program offers a great deal of flexibility in that unlike many other plans, you can contribute more or less than the $2,000 in any given year (after the first) and access your funds prior to age 59% without IRS penalty.

The USPTA Retirement Program is based on Capital Gains, First Capital Life's flexible premium universal life product. Compared with the typical IRA, if offers many of the IRA's advantages and provides several benefits all its own . The four major advantages of the USPTA program versus an IRA are: Income at retirement is tax-free .

You can access your account before 59V2 without IRS penalty.

There is always a substantial death benefit.

You can contribute more than the IRA maximum of $2,000 if you wish.

The disadvantage (versus an IRA) is that contributions are not tax-deductible in the n year they are made.

To receive a personalized illustration on what the USPTA Retirement Program can do for you, call Andrew lngeman, USPTA Retirement Program administrator, at (407) 288-4666 in Florida or (BOO) 533-3996 outside Florida.

N

ow, "for the first time, you can parfree through no-cost or very low -cost ticipate .in a US PTA -endorsed repolicy loans. So your cash value lasts a tirement program designed to (j) lot longer than it would if you were 0'-d'-~~~ being taxed. meet the needs of your organi- ~~~~~'···• ~ zation's elite members.

At Last, a You earn a competitive interest It's called The Insured Retirerate today, you build an inUSPTA ment Adva~tagesM (IRA) and it come tax free nest egg for offers the financial benefits that Retirement tomorrow, and you still have will last a lifetime. The power estate protection.

Program behind the IRA is Capital Gains~M* a universal life inThe Insured Retirement That's the surance policy from First Capital Advantage. It's a winning Life Insurance Company, that Right Match match for your retirement. ., ·helps you build a substantial cash value over your lifetime, for You For more information on how while offering long term proyou can make a sound finantection for your family. cial decision for your future, fill out the attached coupon or call: All this without the government taxing it today. In fact, The Insured Retirement Andy Ingemen Advantage pays a competitive rate of inU.S.P.T.A. Retirement Program terest that grows tax-deferred.** 2895 East Ocean Blvd.

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From Tennis Pro to Manager Insights from the Other Side

by Spike Gonzales

I've long been fascinated with the challenge of trying to develop as both a manager and a businessman. I've been a tennis'-teaching professional for almost 20 years and intend to be known as such for the rest of my life. Therefore, statements made herein that may be generalized criticisms of teaching pros in their efforts to become businessmen are, in effect, criticisms of myself as well.

A s chief operating officer of Tennis Corporation of America (TCA), I'm now involved with dozens of commercial tennis clubs. In my experiences, I have found that I communicate better and get better results from managers who have tennis backgrounds. In fact, every TCA club with over two courts is run by a manager or general manager who is a teaching pro.

Respect Cultural Differences Unfortunately, bringing a tennis pro into the management and leadership roles necessary to running a commercial club is an awesome challenge. The mentality of a person reared in a tennis environment is often worlds apart from that of a person with a business background . Any assumption that a tennis pro can easily overcome cultural barriers to become a businessman is very dangerous.

While a tennis pro may have talent or be well educated , don 't assume this person :

A. B. C. D.

Also don 't assume this person :

A. B.

C.

Spi ke Gonzales is senior vice president of Tenni s Corporation of America. A graduate of Brown University, he has been instrumental in TCA's development.

He has mentored dozens of te nnis professionals with res ponsible bus iness positions at TCA clubs thr oughout the country. An expert in club operation s, Spike has been TCA's specialist in turning acquisitiorts into profitable facil ities.

For three terms each, he has served as president of the Western New York USPTA and the Eastern Division of USPTA. He is a former chairperson of th e US PTA National Nominating Committe e and form er Eastern Division " Professional of the Year."

22

Is not ashamed to make a profit Knows what it takes to make a profit Knows how to read a profit/loss statement Even knows minimal accounting standards

Knows how to write a paragraph Knows the difference between: • "Aerobic " and "anaerobic" • Nautilus and free weights • Sports medicine and wellness • Closing the club and "closing a sale" Or even thinks he or she needs to know these things

Finally, don 't assume the tennis pro has any idea of what teamwork is. I've probably never met a tennis pro who would say he or she doesn 't understand teamwork. Yet, the fact remains that tennis pros have been attracted to a way of life and are conditioned intensely to a culture that is almost the antithesis of teamwork.

There is very little in competitive tenni s that is not somehow related to the values of individual achievement, ego-orientation or a win-lose mentality. Tennis pros are attracted to a sport with a black-and-white orientation , in which shots are either " in " or "out" and in which matches are either won or lost. Compare this to sports such as golf or track and field , which use quantified measurements to determine results. Tennis measures the person in hierarchies of tournament rounds, challenge ladders and rankings, rankings, rankings . Thi s is not exactly

the stuff of which the business world is made!

Successful formulas in today's business world include such elements as win-win solutions, tolerance of ambiguity, leadership and integration with others, subordinate of the self to the benefit of the team or organization , and measurement of performance within the infinity of nuances between success and failure or win and lose.

What the Tennis Pro has to Offer In the face of all this, why do we look.to develop club leaders and businessmen out of tennis pros? Because they bring the following characteristics to the table:

A.

Understanding of our product. They know its worth and benefits.

B. They understand the service standards of the tennis product, and these standards are usually more than adequate for many of the other aspects of the club business.

C. Tennis pros know how to shoulder responsibility. They know how to put in long, hard hours - certainly well over 40 hours per week. They know how to remain totally focused and energized toward achievement. They know how to make sacrifices to reach a goal.

D. Tennis pros are resilient. They are survivors in one of sport's most competitive environments. The tennis arena is one in which there are no time limits, no "safety in numbers," no guarantees of success, no guarantees that even great effort will reap a commensurate reward . These are some of the harsh aspects of business life that are magnified in the tennis world . Frequently, tennis pros are highly conditioned for the business world because of their tennis background .

E. Tennis pros are accustomed to oneon -one confrontation. They are frequently the "doers" in our business.

They are neither shy nor unaggressive.

F. Finally, their drive for achievement and perfection is well tailored to business entrepreneurship. Once trained , they are go-getters, never satisfied with the status quo.

What Makes a Tennis Pro Good? into the field for money or ego-orientation. er, facility manager, member of the club While many tennis pros have the handiBe cautious. This person may not share management staff, assistant manager, cap of a cultural background inappropriate strong people development, teamwork or manager and, finally, general manager. to business and managerial skills, I find service values!

Tennis pros generally should see opporthere are certain qualities to look for in To me, the best answer is, "I hope to tunities both within and related to your tennis pros who might blossom into leaderalways keep my hand in it. " This person business environment. It's important that they .ship material. First, it's important to select believes in the product and probably gets do not feel limited in their earnings potential. pros who are good teachers. They are the energized and nourished from enhancing Besides a salary based on a defined job ones most likely to be good trainers of people's lifestyles. This person is probably description, the tennis pro should be able to others. a good teacher and people developer. His earn more dollars by additional lesson hours; Second, look for pros who have good or her answer reveals a satisfaction derived developing in-house and off-site programs leadership qualities, particularly among their from being a successful teacher. (It's the and sharing in increased revenues and peers. It's easy to mistake a pro who can unsuccessful! teachers who want to get out having quarterly, semi-annual or annual administer a large junior development proof it altogether.) bonuses based on increased profits. gram as a businessman or entrepreneur. It A word of caution : It's very important to may be that he or she drifted into junior Motivating Tennis Pros in Business quickly get the tennnis pro to see the big development for many reasons, contrary to There are a number of rules of thumb picture! It's okay if he or she is bonused on having the quality of leadership. It's one specific to tennis pros with managerial departmental profits for a year of training thing to train and direct young people and potential. From those with potential, expect and development, but make sure the pro high standards and you'll get them . The -neophytes; it's quite another to be able to knows it's temporary and that the real future meet the leadership needs of peers and tennis pro with business or leadership is in the club or business bottom line! Avoid "career grownups." . potential is a special person, an achiever. If anything that reinforces individual achieveMuch of leadership relates to the ability you expect a lot from this person and ment over teamwork achievement. to meet the needs of others. Is the pro-toprovide the resources, he or she will move businessman candidate a person who mountains!

Training and Development knows how to listen, who knows how to Be sure to provide the resources, though .

In nurturing tennis pros into managers stretch his or her personal style to motivate Among necessary resources are manageand businessmen, it's important to recognize others, or who knows how to bring diverse ment training opportunities, mentorship and and chip away at their ego-orientation. people together to meet common r - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - , Outside of the teaching and coachgoals? ¡ ~ ing environment, they aren't used The great athlete is not neceseusrNESSMAN to praising others. They may not sarily the best candidate to be/ be natural motivators. Do goalcome a businessman : Frequently setting with them that relates .to the great athlete has learned and teamwork and the development of developed very easily and thereFocus others. Make sure their goals are _f'\not just task-oriented, but rather fore is inherently handicapped in GOAL-O/ENTATION understanding the weaknesses v,\ interpersonal-oriented. Help them and needs of others. The great understand that success comes athlete has been further conditionfrom win-win thinking and the ed to being the center of attention . empowerment of others.

It's going to be very difficult for Give the tennis pro freedom to him or her to sublimate egolearn management through semisatisfaction needs in order to get nars, college courses and conferthe synergistic results of teamwork, ences. At the same time, "vest" or to merely praise others for their the tennis pro in his or her own own motivational needs. development. It's important that On the other hand , the lesserthe tennis pro see that part of his ski lled athlete with at least a or her compensation is some freemodicum of success in the tennis dom and dollar allocation for his world is likely to be a person who or h~r own development. I recomknows what it takes to learn skills mend allowing 2% of the tennis and hence is probably a better pro's annual compensation to go teacher and developer. This person has a reasonable capital and operational budget into a "professional development fund ." better chance of knowing how to motivate dollars.

The club or business should match or others, having been a motivated person It's particularly important to provide indouble that amount in augmenting the fund . cremental goals for tennis pros. It's important Be sure to bring the promising tennis pro throughout his or her life. This person generally will have a great deal of appreciato foster an ongoing sense of "winning." into the management team as soon as tion for what he or she has attained.

Tennis competitors have a win-lose mentalpossible. Let this person see and participate Sustained self-motivation is a more probable ity. They'll stay energized if they feel growth in the group decision-making. Once the quality in this person than in the top athlete, and progress. When goals and career tennis pro sees the big picture and rational who may not have the same type of advancement aren 't put into visibly attainable and businesslike processes, he or she will appreciation . Finally, the lesser-skilled stages, the tennis pro may look elsewhere. quickly become a leader. Once the tennis athlete is more likely to be acclimated to Keep in mind, this person is one who pro is part of management team bonuses, setting and attaining goals - one of the originally chose an environment in which he or she will be your best entrepreneur. most important tools to business success. progress could be measured through rankFor years I've seen many club environAn important question I always ask in ings, ratings and other hierarchies. Make ments characterized by "pro-versus-owner" selecting tennis pros with long-term potential sure the career path is obvious. In his or her polarization. I think this is a pity. When the is, "Do you want to be punching balls at own field , the tennis pro should be able to owner, probably an accomplished businessage 45? " It's a very revealing question . If advance from staff pro to teaching director man, takes on an understanding and nurturing the answer is "yes," you may have a very to head pro to director of racquet sports. At of the uniqueness of tennis pros, his or her good and dedicated person , but' probably the same time, the pro should_be able to own business gets charged with a greater not a business person . If the answer is "no," become part of the club supervisory staff, wherewithal in service management and you probably have a person who's more then night/weekend manager, desk managfuture growth.

H

23

1990 USPTA INTERNATIONAL TENNIS TEACHERS CHAMPIONSHIPS $40,000 In Prize Money

To Be Held In Conjunction With The Lipton International Players Championships at the International Tennis Center Key Biscayne, Florida March 19-March 25, 1990 TOURNAMENT DfRECTORS: Will Haag Tom Krukiel

event in the three days prior to the main event On March 16 & 17, a Qualifying.Tournament will be held if necessary (site to be announced).

GENERAL INFORMAION: The Court surface will be Laykold "Cushion 3000. " The balls to be used are USPTA Pro Penn championship yellow.

ENTRY QUALIFICATIONS: Players will be accepted into the tournament based on the following qualifications: ATP/WITA Points (rankings) National Rankings USPTA Rankings Sectional or State Rankings Individual Playing Records (win/loss record must be elaborated on the second sheet) Wild Cards: The Tournament Committee reserves the option to keep four Wild Card positions in the main draw for use at its discretion

ELIGIBILITY: Only current national and international members of USPTA who have paid 1990 dues will be eligible. All membership requirements including completion of the certification test must be submitted at least 60 days prior to the entry date of the tournament DRAW EVENTS: *There will be two divisions of play: 1) Men's Open (Singles & Doubles) 2) Women 's Open (Singles & Doubles) The Men 's Draw will be limited to 64 entries in Singles (32 Doubles). The Women 's Draw will be limited to 32 entries (16 Doubles). Players will be permitted to play both events. *The Tournament Committee reserves the option to co_nduct (or cancel) a qualifying

ENTRY DEADLINE: Entries must be received no later than Friday, February 9, 1990 and must include the entry fee. No entries will be accepted unless accompanied by a check or. money order made payable to USPTA International Championships.

Absolutely NO entries will be accepted over the telephone or without an entry fee .

ENTRY FEE: $50/player for singles and $20/player for doubles. Total entries received in each event will determine the proportionate prize money for each event Make checks payable to: USPTA International Championships.

TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS: All airline reservations, car rentals, and hotel accomodations should be made through Around the World Travel. Outside Florida call 1 (800) 329· 7756, inside Florida call 1 (800) 448· 7058 and in the Miami area call (305) 443-7706.

Airline Reservations: Eastern Airlines will offer an attractive discount off the regular coach fares when booked through Around the World Travel. .

Car Rentals: Contact Caroline Pittman at Around the World Travel.

Hotel Accommodations: Local Motels will offer ·special discounted " player rates" for reservations made through Around the World Travel.

Detach form below and mail.

MAIL. ENTRIES TO: 1990 USPTA International Championships USPTA National Headquarters PO Box 7077 Wesley Chapel, FL 33543

DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 9, 1990

NAME ------------------------------------------TELEPHONE _________________________________________ ADDRESS - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - CITY------------- STATE------------ ZIP------------USPTA MEMBER# - - - - - - USTA # _ _ _ _ ___ SSN # - - - - - - - - A M O U N T E N C L O S E D $ - - - - - - - - (Make checks payable to: USPTA International Championships)

COVERING ENTRIES IN THE FOLLOWING EVENTS

SINGLES

DOUBLES

PARTNER

MEN 'S OPEN WOMEN 'S OPEN

CURRENT PLAYING RECORD:

1) ATP/WITA Points (Ranking) 2) National Rankings -------------------------- 4) Sectional Ran kings -----------------1

3) USPTA Rankings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5) Individual Records-----------------(Include separate sheet of wins and losses if you wish to have them considered)

u 0,...

0

\ \

I Beat the Dink Objectives: Work on correctly getting to and returning drop shots.

Move large groups quickly.

Improve footwork and conditioning .

Get "active" beginners and intermediates to quicken their feet and slow their racquet movement.

Designed for one or any combination of the following .

All ability levels Team. drills Large groups Target drill Any nwmber or combination of players

..

Version 1. Have two equal lines in each corner. The first person in the line sprints diagonally across the court to retrieve a ball that is fed softly into that service box and returns it easily to the service box directly over the net or (for the more advanced ~layer) deeper down the line. Immediately after hitting the shot, the student should continue to the outside of the court and proceed to the end of the other line.

Version 2. (Same set-up and finish routine as Version 1.) The first person in line runs straight in to retrieve a ball that is fed softly into the service box in front of him or her, and gently returns it diagonally over the net to the opposite service box.

NOTE: The feeds should alternate from line to line with little time between each one so the lines are kept moving, but the feeds should not be so quick that players collide during the cross-court drill (Version 1).

u

o.

0

0 I

I'

"'

,.0 ,.

Todd Trimble Piedmont, Calif.

X X

X

Version 2

0 0 0

M Drill The M Drill is very effective for groups of two to six persons. The drill has several purposes: It teaches movement and how to hit a strong groundstroke, overhead and lob.

All shots are directed at a target. First, the Instructor feeds a deep groundstroke to the corner that the students will hit down the line at the target. The Instructor immediately hits a drop shot very close to the net that they hit down the line at the target. Then the Instructor hits a lob at the center of the court. Students now hit an overhead crosscourt at the target. The Instructor hits another drop shot to the opposite corner and each student. runs up and hits crosscourt to the target. The Instructor¡ immediately hits a deep straight lob beyond the students, where each has to run back and lob it deep crosscourt to the corner.

Once again , you can see by the lines that you have now formed an M. This drill really teaches a student how to run and stop and complete each shot at a specific point deep into the court. It is a very effective drill for all levels of play.

..

Kelly Cooper Martinsville, Va.

-----~¡ Student Movement

- - - - - -">Ball Path (>Target

27

It's time to show off our figure.

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• TENNIS WEEK is relied on first for the sport's behind the scene's political and business news.

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DIVISION NEWS

EARL BUCHHOLZ: FRIEND OF TENNIS

SOUTHERN ANNOUNCES NEW BOARD OF OFFICERS

St. Louis has had its share of coaching heroes over the years. but on city tennis courts few could match the impact of Earl Buchholz.

Southern Division has a new Board of Officers, announced at the division 's recent convention.

President - Fred Burdick 1st Vice President - Greg Grover 2nd Vice President - John Stone Secretary - Tom Daglis Treasurer - Jim Peavy Immediate Past Preside.nt/Regional Vice President - Randy Stephens

USPTA'S ZEMAN, MOTHER CAPTURE NATIONAL TITLE Earl Buchholz and wife Helen .

" He was a master professional , a master person and had a tremendous motivational quality," said M issouri Valley Division member Gene Williams, whose training under the late Buchholz spawned a career as a tennis teacher. " He 's the basic reason I got into this wonderful game."

In memory of his efforts to advance tennis, Buchholz recently was made an Honorary Member of USPTA. CEO Tim Heckler presented the honor to Buchholz's two sons. Butch and Cliff. both long-time members of USPTA and organizers of the annual Lipton International Players Championships.

Williams, who nominated Buchholz for the honor, remembers him as a kind and generous man whose innovations left a mark on the game. " He was probably more respected for junior tennis development in St. Louis than anyone else," Williams said . " I th ink (recognizing him) is great for our Association and rict:lly deserved by Earl. "

Hawaii Division member Shelly Stillman Zeman and her mother. Brenda. teamed up in September to win the Mother-Daughter National Grass Court Championships, in Providence, RJ Seeded third . the pair upset the topranked team of Harriet and Betsy Somerville 6-3. 7-5.

service restaurant.

Born in London and raised in Canada.

O 'Rourke has been at Wood Valley since 1984.

NO. CALIF. CLUB APPOINTS USPTA'S EVANS AS DIRECTOR Northern Cal ifornia Division member Lane Evans has a new club assignment to go along with his recent appointment to director of player recruitment for the Sacramento (Calif.) Capitals of Domino's TEAMTENNIS. Evans has been named d irector of tenn is operations at Country Oaks Racquet club in Woodland . Calif .. wh ich was recently purchased by Camray Development/Spare Time, Inc. The firm owns 15 clubs throughout northern Cal ifornia as well as the Capitals team .

Evans, who previously resided in WinstonSalem . N C .. and served as president of the North Carolina Association of Tennis Professionals. will 'assist in the management of the Country Oaks club.

USPTA'S O'ROURKE NAMED DIRECTOR OF BRITISH CLUB Nigel O'Rourke. Missouri Valley Division vice president and tennis d irector at the Wood Valley Racquet Club and Fitness Center in Topeka. Kan .. has been named director of tennis of the new David Lloyd Slazenger Racquet Club at Finchley, in London .

The Finchley club includes 12 indoor and eight outdoor tennis courts, an indoor/ outdoor pool . squash courts. indoor cricket pitches. 16 snooker tables and a full-

Lane Evans

29

INDUSTRY ACTION

CITING HEALTH CONCERNS, CMAA'S HOFFMAN RESIGNS ALEXANDRIA, Va. - Health concerns were behind the Nov. 4 decision by CMAA President Ed Hoffman to resign from the association's board of directors.

A CMAA member since 1961, Hoffman was immediately succ~eded by Vice President Ken Brown. Hoffman will remain inr volved in CMAA activities and , as planned , will serve as chairman for the 1990 CMAA Conference, scheduled Jan. 29 through Feb. 2 in Orlando, Fla. Hoffman was general manager of the Racine (Wise.) Country Club from 1984 through this ~ast July. Prior to that, he seNed

in a similar capacity at the Green Acres Country Club in Northbrook, Ill. In addition to his CMAA duties, Brown currently serves as general manager of the Indianapolis Athletic Club.

BOLLETTIERI TO ESTABLISH PROGRAM FOR USPTA MEMBERS BRADENTON, Fla. - The Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy (NBTA) has established an internship program for USPTA teaching pros and teaching pros who anticipate becoming members. The four- to six-month program will begin in 1990 and feature training in the following areas: Tennis mechanics Teaching techniques Methods for private and group instruction Camp organization and implementation Training and conditioning technjques

I

Prince's Pieter Overbeeke helps with a group lesson for children from the Charleston, S.C., area. It was one of many such lessons offered this fall through an emergency program organized to help local residents - including out-of-work teaching pros - cope with the aftermath of Hurricane Hugo. The program was sponsored by USTA's Southern Tennis Association with assistance from USPTA, USPTA pros and others.

30

Club teaching program operations Hands-on training , teaching and coaching The NBTA Internship Program will be conducted primarily at the Bradenton facility and will utilize other NBTA club and resort centers for on-site training . The purpose of the program is to offer further training and familiarization for teaching professionals to be positioned worldwide into NBTA operations.

For further details, call or write: Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy, 5500 34th St. W, Bradenton, Fla. 34210 , or call (813) 755-1000.

In other NBTA news, Jim Loehr, noted tennis educator and lecturer, has agreed to expand his sport science efforts at the academy.

Loehr, a Ph.D. in education now serving as director of sport science for USTA, will develop ' a "full sport science component" offering full- and part-time programs to students and touring pros in "Mental Toughness Training ," peak performance , motivation, psychological fitness enhancement and sports medicine.

Also, Bill Rompf has been named NBTA executive director. A former resident of Oklahoma City, Okla., Rompf will assist in the development of new projects and the direction of the academy, and also will direct the business of Loehr.

NEW NAME FOR FAMILIAR FACE: IT'S NOW PENN RACQUET SPORTS PHOENIX, Ariz. - Say' goodbye to Penn Athletic Products. Say hello to Penn Racquet Sports.

The world 's largest manufacturer of tennis and racquet balls recently announced it has a new name. "The new name, Penn Racquet Sports, more closely identifies our continued strong commitment to tennis and racquet sports," said Penn President Doug Fonte.

In its 61 st year, Penn continues to maintain its corporate headquarters in Phoenix.

CMAA MOVES INTO NEW HOME ALEXANDRIA, Va. - CMAA has a new home and new address. The association recently moved its professional staff into a new headquarters, a three-story, 17,000square-foot facility outside Washington, D.C. All mail or telephone inquiries should be directed to: CMAA, 1733 King St., Alexandria, VA 22314, phone (703) 739-9500, fax (703) 739-0124.

USTA RECOGNIZES 4 USPTA PROS FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE PRINCETON, N.J. - USPTA members Henry Harris (Natchez, Miss.), Doug Menke (Beaverton, Ore.) and Jim Murphy (St. Cloud , Minn.) were among six recipients of the 1989 USTA Community Service Award, presented during the recent USTA Recreational Tennis Leadership Workshop in Washington , D.C. The award , in its 15th year, is in recognition of outstanding field work in recreational tennis.

The three otherâ&#x20AC;˘ recipients were Lloyd Dillon (New Orleans) , Donna Floyd Fales (Miami) and Roger Knight (Albuquerque, N.M.).

"We are grateful for the tremendous service given by these recipients to recreational tennis, " said Sean Sloane, USTA director of recreational tennis. The six award winners were each presented a plaque and cash donation for their respective tennis programs.

In a separate ceremony, USPTA member Ann Koger was named the recipient of the 1989 Volvo Tennis /Coaches Community Service Award for Region I women's coaches. A total of 16 coaches (eight men, eight women) were recognized for their contributions to their respective tennis communities.

Koger, who is the women 's tennis coach at Haverford (Pa.) College , has volunteered 600 hours of her time to various community tennis projects.

In other USTA news: Bruce Patton has been presented the USTA Wheelchair Tennis Community Service Award for 1989 in recognition of his voluntary efforts in the sport.

Patton, of Richmond, Va. , was the driving force behind the Central Virginia Wheelchair Tennis Association, sponsor of free summer wheelchair tennis clinics, and the Central Virginia Wheelchair Tennis Tournament.

USTA, in cooperation with the International Tennis Coaches Association (ITCA), has released a new coaching video titled , Coaches Con ter: Pointers from Top Tennis Coaches. The video offers insights on college tennis.team topics from 13 noted coaches, including USPTA pros Bob Bayliss and Steve Wilkinson. Opening remarks are by USPTA members David Benjamin, who is executive director of ITCA, and Ron Wocxjs, USTA's director of player development. For information ¡ on renting or purchasing the video, call USTA at 1-800-223'-0456 or the USTA Sectional office in your area.

The Western men's team from Chicago and Southern California women's team from Poway took top honors in 5.0 competition in the USTA/Volvo Tennis League National Championships, held at three different sites in September and October. Other category champions were: 2.5 - Southern men (New Orleans) and Southern women (Greneda, Miss.); 3.0 - Caribbean men (Ponce, Puerto Rico) and Southern California women (Pasadena) ; 3.5 - Northwestern men (Minneapolis) and Southwestern women (Scottsdale , Ariz.); 4.0 - MidAtlantic men (Norfolk, Va.) and Southwestern women (Albuquerque, N.M.); 4.5 - Southern men (Winston-Salem, N.C.) and Southern California women (Claremont) 31

Let the World Know By displaying your USPTA affiliation, you show you are uniquely qualified

by Rod Dulany, President

One of the best vehicles available to tennis-teach ing professionals for moving up the career ladder is reputation . Unfortunately, we sometimes overlook the simple yet invaluable act of identifying and promoting ourselves as "certified USPTA professionals.''

While at the Northwest Division Convention in October, I had the occasion to pick up a fellow member's program newsletter to see if there were any programs I might be able to use at my facility. On the front page of this newsletter, the member had made the ultimate statement, yet in a subtle way: He displayed the USPTA initials next to his name. In essence , he was telling the 2,000 members of his club that he is a certified member of USPTA; that in passing the USPTA Certification Exam (with a Pro-1 rating) he is uniquely qualified to teach and manage the business affairs of his tennis facility.

The more reputable and identifiable the initials U-S-P-T-A are to owners, managers and customers, the more we gain through representing ourselves as USPTA members.

Notwithstanding USPTA promoting itself in

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the national media or working in concert with all ied agencies such as CMAA and IRSA, professionals at work with the tennisplaying public are best suited to provide for themselves and USPTA on the home front.

In the long run , it is the little things that add up to the greatest impact. Display your USPTA business card prominently on your desk and hand out your card to your members as a lesson reminder card with the date and time on the back. Put USPTA behind your name on each article you author for your local or club newspaper.

Include the USPTA initials on lesson brochures that go out to your club members.

Call the USPTA Merchandise Department at the National Headquarters and order the official logo items or simply write "USPTA" next to your name. Display your USPTA affiliation proudly because it identifies you as a certified teaching professional - the kind of teaching professional the tennis industry wants.

Show your pride in being a member of the top tennis-teaching organization in the world . Display the fact that your are a " certified USPTA professional. " n

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PAID Tennis Professionols

UNITED STATES PROFESSIONAL TENNIS ASSOCIATION, INC. At Saddlebrook, The Golf and Tennis Resort Wesley Chapel, FL 33543

Permit No. 3887 Tampa, FL