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CONTENTS FEATURES 7

Understanding athletes enhances training

by Jim Taylor, Ph.D., USPTA — Coaches should know players' needs and what motivates them.

13

Tick-tock tennis — Use basic patterns to develop rally strategies

by Larry Heflin, USPTA Three basic patterns and individual creativity help players develop winning strategies.

14

Pat Etcbeberry leads tbe warm-up exercises for a USPTA Tennis Across America multicultural clinic in Orlando, Fla.

USPTA's Tennis Across America™ reaches thousands

DEPARTMENTS «5

CEO's message

4

Letters

J

Vice President's

USPTA pros across the country volunteer their time to grow the game.

16

'1 Os' on staff make club, tennis program shine

message

by Rodney E. Workman, USPTA — Staffing, programming, facility maintenance, customer service and management are all part of a tennis director's job.

24

Team concept defines roles for player, professional, parent

by Tom Martin, USPTA, with Karen Fellabaum, USPTA — Pro and parents serve in supportive roles for the player.

26

Off-court focus

0

Little Tennis talk

/

Little Tennis tips

USPTA Adult Tennis League™ benefits pros

//

Growing the game

Income and connections are some benefits of running a league, o o

//

Dates that rate

uw

Industry action

1995 NATIONAL CONVENTION 18

0

USPTA divisions hope for upset in 1995 Battle of the Divisions Battle events and resort and area activities ensure a fun time for all attendees.

19 20

USPTA Golf Cup registration form USPTA Team Scramble registration form

On the cover Children from Washington Tennis Foundation and the Hispanic American Cultural Effort (HACE) attended a special clinic at the White House on May 1 1 Clinic organizers and leaders are (from left) Tom McMillen, Ronald Perry, Brad Patterson, Paul Crams, York Onnen, Albert Tucker, George Henry, Humberto Costa, Kathy Gibbs, Kathy Woods and Karen Unger. o

VOLUME 19 ISSUES ADDvantage/Augustl995

CEO'S MESSAGE—by Tim Heckler

Tribute to a tennis role model

The Voice of the Tennis Teaching Profession

W

hile I am comfortable with and capable of following the directions of a democratic order, I am not a person who wishes to be indiscriminately led by anyone else. I have always believed that if I must choose a leader, it should be someone without my own frailties and inabilities — a person I can admire and strive to be more like. In retrospect, this is the basis on which I have chosen to respect people throughout my life — leaders, friends and role models. I am sure each of you has a definition for role model that may differ in words, but Lee LeClear very little in content.

Too often we think a role model must be someone who has achieved world-wide fame and recognition for his or her accomplishments. In reality, our role models are usually those people who live and work outside the glare of the spotlight, and it takes a retrospective view to recognize and appreciate their full value. If I asked you to name the five most important role models in your life, you might include a couple of famous names, but you'll more likely include those people closest to you, such as a parent, teacher, business associate or friend.

When a longtime friend and fellow tennisteaching professional died recently, I felt the need to pay tribute to him through the pages of this magazine because he was the type of role model that possessed tangible traits that can benefit our profession immeasurably.

We so often reserve editorial space for those people who make headlines because they have attained celebrity status within our industry. We also recognize those who have

spent a lifetime working through the hierarchy of the USPTA, USTA or other political organizations within tennis.

Lee LeClear's claim to fame was played out at the local level — on the courts of Houston's public tennis facilities, but his life and work represent the epitome of a USPTA teaching professional. And, as I began to write down my thoughts about Lee, I realized this message should honor all professionals whose faces don t grace the covers of national magazines. It's a tribute to the most elite group of USPTA members — those who maintain the high standards of our profession through years of devotion to the children and adults they teach every day.

NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Kathy Woods First Vice President Kurt Kamperman Vice Presidents Will Hoag Joseph Thompson Jim Davis Dave Porter Secretary-Treasurer Mark McMahon Past President Gordon Collins

WORLD HEADQUARTERS CEO Director of Operations Director of Communications Communications Courtenay Dreves Business Operations John Tamborello Magazine Coordinator Julie Myers National Marketing Karen Linger Coordinator Marketing Marketing Assistant

Lee LeClear did more than Gloria Steinem to get Houston ladies out of the kitchen away from the diaper pail

Public Relations Coordinator Corporate Services Manager Computer Services Kathy Buchanan and Club Relations Director of Education Kirk Anderson Education Coordinator Susan Thompson Membership/Education VickyTristan Financial Manager Renee Heckler Controller Theresa Weatherford Insurance/Merchandise Ellen Schmidt Services

As a loyal, trench-working professional, Lee was deeply respected and loved by those who knew him. I had the privilege of meeting him when I was a 17-year-old competitor in Houston s River Oaks junior tournament. Lee was the assistant professional at the club. I was surprised by the amount of unsolicited attention he was able to give to me, as well as the other players. He seemed to know the details of my matches, what shots I had made and willingly gave me advice and encouragement. I probably didn't appreciate the time he gave me then, but I now see how valuable personalized attention is to our profession and life.

This trait reminds me of a comment made by a friend who has said that his family enjoys the services of a doctor who still makes house calls. This unsolicited action on the part of this one doctor can be traced back to the "old See CEO, page 32

Director of Certification George Bacso and Academies Co-Director of Bill Tym Academies Advertising/Marketing (713) 97-USPTA Information

LEGAL COUNSEL Attorney-at-law Paul Waldman

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

For information, write the World Headquarters USPTA One USPTA Center 3535 Briarpark Drive Houston, TX 77042 Phone (71 3) 97-USPTA or fax (713) 978-7780 Office hours: 8:30 a.m. 5p.m.

Central time Copyright© United Stated Professional Tennis Association, Inc. 1995.

All rights reserved.

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

ADDvantage/AugusH995

o

LEiLIL Proud to be a member Dear USPTA. I became a member of the USPTA last year. Although I joined rather late in life, now more than ever before I am living a life filled with meaning and hope because of my membership in the USPTA. Having accepted early retirement, I am able to enjoy tennis full time.

My family is convinced, as I am, that I cannot live without tennis. With my extra time, I decided to follow the USPTA curriculum and receive lessons as suggested. I successfully passed the two-day examination and have recently upgraded my professional level.

When I see my 30 students who have come to enjoy tennis as I do, I regret not becoming a member of the USPTA earlier. I teach with the USPTA Code of Ethics always on my mind and take pride in conforming my actions to the Code. I will continue to strive to learn more about tennis and to share my knowledge with others so that they may also un-

derstand and enjoy this game for life.

Best wishes for the continued growth and success of the USPTA. Very truly yours, Haryeol Heo, USPTA Garland, Texas

Higher hitting walls will help beginners Dear USPTA, Getting more people to become life-long tennis players is obviously a major goal of the USPTA. Along with Tennis Across America and USPTA Little Tennis, there is one other thing which I think should be tried. Specifically, make it easier for beginning players to get intensive practice grooving their groundstrokes by convincing clubs and cities to build better hitting walls (at least 15 feet high) on their outdoor courts.

Most current hitting walls and backboards are much too low for beginning players and just lead to frustration. With higher hitting walls, beginners could more easily practice

the basics learned in two or three onehalf hour private tennis lessons and more quickly attain a respectable level of groundstroke consistency. Then, they could benefit much more from less expensive group lessons and get hooked on tennis like so many people are on golf.

With golf, beginning players usually take only a few introductory lessons. However, they are able to get plenty of practice easily and cheaply by hitting balls on the driving range.

Tennis should try something similar with good high hitting walls for the "driving range."

Sincerely, Charles D. Shaffer, USPTA Lexington, Ky. Correction The winner of the USPTA National Clay Court Championships was Scott Stewart of Houston, not Scott T. Stewart of Martinez, Ga. Stewart is a teaching professional at River Oaks Country Club in Houston.

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ADDvontage/August 1995

you'll want to pass our techniques on to your students, because, as teaching pros, we all have a built-in clientele with various ailments.

If you would like to be a part of the dynamic health and wellness industry, and would like to earn a significant income while working parttime, we want you to call us toll-free at 1-800-799-HLTH. _RQSS USPTA Pro 1

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VICE PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

Education: then, now and in the future Historical review The 68th anniversary of USPTA's founding will take place during the National Convention, "Game, Set, Success," in Boca Raton, Fla., next month.

It was on September 23, 1927, when 15 tennis professionals, officials and industry representatives met in New York City/ and laid the foundation of what has become the largest and most respected professional tennis-teaching organization in the world.

Forty-two years later in 1969, the first comprehensive written and playing certification test was instituted during Jack Barnaby's tenure as president.

Improvements and modifications took place during the next 19 years, and are still taking place today under the direction of USPTA Hall of Fame member George Bacso, USPTA Director of Certification and Academies.

In 1988, the brainchild of then president Rod Dulany was approved by the National Executive Committee, and the Mandatory Education Program was established. The first education period went into effect in 1991, and more than 85 percent of all certified members participated in a wide variety of educational opportunities in that first grading period, ending in 1993 We have just passed the midway point in our second three-year education period and we are looking ahead toward the implementation of the next phase of the USPTA Education and Certification Program.

Mastery and competency In the past, education has followed certification. The next phase of the education program will teach developmental motor

skill methodology, introduce sport science, and provide experience m the on- and offcourt professional skills necessary to becoming successful in the tennis industry prior to certification. In essence, we will be putting the horse in front of the cart.

The success of the education program will not be judged by participation through attendance but rather by competency based on evaluation resulting from mastery of the subject matter.

Let me use the teaching of the backhand as an example. In the early stages of learning, students develop a cognitive Porfpr understanding of the desired task. This understanding is enhanced by a visual picture of the correct stroke production from your demonstration.

Next, students progress to performing the stroke adequately on a teacher-fed ball. With practice, students will continue progressing until they eventually are able to hit a backhand under normal rallying conditions. However, we would not say that such a student had mastered the backhand until they could hit it well under the pressure of competition.

As it is with motor skill development and performance, so it is with other professional skills necessary to become successful in the tennis industry.

The future of the USPTA Education Program lies in the philosophy that cognitive understanding of something for recollection on an exam is not a true indication of mastery or competency. We do not want our professionals to simply know where to place the byes in a tournament draw, but to be able to run a successful tournament.

The

of the education program will be

competency based on evaluation resulting from mastery of the subject matter

See Education, page j2 ADDvantage/Augustl995

OFF-COURT FOCUQ

RICHARD WILLIAMQ

Member keeps youth off streets, on courts

F

or 25 years, Richard Williams, USPTA, has been helping children in South-Central Los Angeles find a way off the streets through tennis and education.

He and his brother Fred founded the California Tennis Association for Underprivileged Youth in 1970 in an effort to keep children off the streets. Thousands of youngsters, from 8 to 17 years old, have gone through the program.

Williams' goal is for the children to play well in tournaments so that they are recruited by colleges and universities and offered full scholarships.

One of his students was offered a tennis scholarship to the U.S. Military Academy. Williams' son, Richard Williams Jr., also went through the program and received a scholarship to Morehou?e College in Atlanta.

"Tennis gives you options in life," Williams said. "But the main thing we are Job concentrating Owner, Rancho Cienega Tennis on right now Shop o is to help Executive director, California Tennis Association for Underprivileged these kids get Youth their strokes Honors and awards together, get 1995, USPTA California Division them in tourCommunity Service Award naments, and 1 995, Sporting Goods eventually, Manufacturers Association Heroes hopefully, get Award, California some kind of 1 993, American Tennis Association scholarship.

Coach of the Year ADDvantage/Augustl995

"So many scholarships go begging out there, and some of these kids might o not have an opportunity to go to college. If they could get a scholarship, it would be good."

The free lessons are held at the Rancho Cienega Recreation Center m the Crenshaw district of Los Angeles.

Racquets, balls and tennis shoes are pro- Richard Williams, left, with student LaGeorge vided for those who Maudlin. Maudlin was ranked No. 2 in the boys' need them. Williams 12 singles division by the Southern California said the program reTennis Association in 2993. ceives some donations, but that funds are hard to compete with "traditional, come by. He receives about wealthy players," both on the $ 10,000 each year, and three or courts and in obtaining their education and careers. four of his students play well enough to obtain free racquets Williams knows first hand and shoes from Prince. the benefits tennis can give a Most of the children come young person. He grew up in from families that cannot afthe Watts district of Los Angeles, which was a tough place ford tennis lessons and equipment, especially as they start then, too, he said. His older to compete in higher-level brother, Walter, taught him how tournaments. Williams gives to play tennis when he was 13 them the opportunity and He played on the tennis team training they need to compete at Jordan High School in Watts with people they wouldn't and later at Los Angeles City College. Williams then received normally get to play. He a tennis scholarship to thinks it is important to teach them that money is not the Pepperdme University in most important thing. His Malibu, Calif. He joined the students learn that they have Army and played for the allthe discipline and ability to Army tennis team in 1963 J25

Understanding athletes enhances training

by Jim Taylor, Ph.D., USPTA

O

ne of a coach's primary responsibilities is understanding her athletes. Knowing players' needs, what motivates them and what is happening in their lives is critical to working with them. This, however, is not an easy task. A coach often is responsible for a large number of players, and keeping track of them is not easy. But this information is essential in order to enhance the players' tennis experience.

Essential information In order to best serve her athletes, a coach must know the players' needs for training, tournaments, their roles within the team, and the issues occurring off the court that may affect their performance. These points will help form a player profile.

1 Since off-season training and preparation is typically the foundation of the tournament season, a coach needs to understand the motivational needs of the athlete.

Does the player need encouragement or is he is self-motivated?

2. An important part of leading a team is maintaining harmony and reducingo conflict. The coach should know how each athlete best fits into the team. Knowing the interpersonal needs of athletes will benefit them by making the team experience more positive.

3 While training on-court, make sure the coaching given to each athlete is understood. Ask them if they learn best with verbal, visual or kinesthetic instruction.

4. On the day of a match, the coach's interaction with her athletes can significantly affect how they play.

The pre-match period is critical to tournament performance.

j Remember that athletes are not in a vacuum while on the court. Issues that are present off the court will influence their tennis. Make an effort to understand each athlete's life away from the team, including relationships, health concerns and school performance.

Obtaining the information In order to understand her athletes fully, a coach must obtain clear information. Have the athletes complete a brief questionnaire, which I call the " Talk-toyour-coach questionnaire." The coach should study the results and record them on index cards for future reference.

Talk-to-your-coach questionnaire The questionnaire should include the following questions.

1 What motivates you in training?

2. Who are your friends on the team and with whom do you not get along?

3 What are the most common types of conflicts that arise within the team?

4. From what type of instruction do you learn best: verbal, visual, kinesthetic or a combination?

5 What should and shouldn't I do at the tournament site to help you prepare for your match (talk to or leave you alone, give technical cues) ?

6. What are some things occurring in your life off the court that I should know to help me work with you best (e.g., family, social, school, health) ? J2$ Jim Taylor, USPTA, is recognized for bis work on the psychological aspects of tennis and is a consultant to the USTA Player Develop' ment program. He works with many junior, collegiate and professional players.

ADDvantoge/AugustmS

7

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Promotion is key with USPTA Little Tennis TM

S P O N S O R E D BY U)i£&Otl

by Amy Dominick, USPTA

P

ut USPTA Little Tennis™ in the mainstream at your club or facility by making it a feature program both on and off the court. Merchandising your pro shop effectively can be a key element in selling Little Tennis to parents. Use pomt-of-purchase displays, videotapes and colorful bulletin boards for promotion. These ideas, along with an information packet that was sent to every parent with a child 8 years old and under, were the driving force behind the program's huge success at Dunwoody Country Club near Atlanta, Ga. How can you run a successful program? Here are some tips on getting started.

• Establish on paper the goals of your USPTA Little Tennis program.

• Place fliers and information sheets in strategic locations throughout your facility.

• Make colorful displays featuring Little Tennis equipment.

• Run Little Tennis videos in your pro shop, both the demonstration copy enclosed with your Little Tennis kit and ones taken at your own clinics and league days.

• Use club newsletters and local media.

When you are ready to get down to the specifics of your program, several steps can be taken to increase the likelihood of a large and successful sign-up.

• Divide classes into age categories and offer optional times and days for clinics, as well as for league and play days.

• Make sure you differentiate between instructional days and league or play days.

• Emphasize parent participation on league/play days and offer a "free day" for the child who has a volunteer parent at that session.

• Encourage parents to watch at the sidelines during pro-conducted clinics or help with younger children.

D/O

A well-designed display will create interest in the USPTA Little Tennis program and increase sales.

• Offer a training session for parents to make them comfortable teaching striking skills to their child.

• Hold a training session for staff to ensure consistency in using the modified equipment.

• Maintain an on-court children to teacher ratio of 4:1 and keep in mind that you don't have to discount your rate to make this program a success.

• Send out a parent packet or Little Tennis newsletter periodically.

• Give out plenty of stickers and prizes.

The future of tennis is in the hands of the "peewees," and the earlier they catch the tennis bug the better. A great recipe for success is thorough organization, family participation and creativity. Our goal is to make tennis a priority in the athletic development of young children. The mam ingredient? You, the professional. Make every clinic and league day an exciting event.

Amy Dominick, USPTA, is a tennis professional at the Dunwoody Country Club in Dunwoody, Ga.

ADDvantage/Augustl995

Tennis Wear TENNIS PROFESSIONALS QTY

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SUBTOTAL Houston (MTA) residents add 8.25% tax Other Texas residents add 7.25% tax

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U. S. orders: Add $4.95 shipping and handling fee International orders: Via express mail only (contact our office for amount) (Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, contact office for amount) TOTAL PAYMENT must accompany all orders. Make your check payable to USPTA. PAYMENT METHOD:

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USPfA's World Headquarters Professional Tennis Instruction Facility The USPTA selected from the best in tennis court design and construction when they built their new instruction facility in Houston, Texas.

These brands and services are "n«icially Approved" by the USPTA. Designer GLOBAL CONSULT GROUP, Inc. 908-528-8110 Fax 908-528-6020

Surface LEE HYDRO-COURT 800-327-8379 Fax 804-971-6995

Lighting LSI COURTSIDER SPORTS LIGHTING 513-793-3200 Fax 513-793-0147

Nets, Posts and Windscreens DOUGLAS INDUSTRIES, Inc. 800-553-8907 Fax 319-285-4163 Contractors MALOTT PETERSON RENNER, Inc. 303-744-3631 Fax 303-777-0706 AUSTRALIAN COURTWORKS, Inc. 800-537- 2613 Fax 601 - 825 - 6509

Project Coordinator XSPORTS, Inc. 516-767-9114 Fax 516-767-7548

"We're very pleased with USPTA's new Tennis Centre. The design of the facility met all of our expectations. The courts and surrounding area offer low maintenance and excellent quality of play. And, the court system is valuable in that it allows us to change the payability of the surface."

GEORGE BACSO, USPTA Director of Certification and Academies

Here are a rew reasons wny usingf tne "rigfnt equipment77 can nelp you l nammer77 your competition.

The 1995 USPTA Divisional Rivalry. From tne Hammer technology in our racquets to tne Indy 500 outsoles in our shoes, at Wilson we've always designed our equipment to give you that winning edge And now, in the spirit or competition, we're giving you and your division rive more ways to win with "Wilson.

1 $750 will he awarded to the USPTA division that has the highest percentage or all USPTA teaching professionals playing with Sledge Hammer and Hammer racquets The same is true ror the greatest numher or pros per division playing with either or these racquets 2 $1,000 will be awarded to the division with the greatest amount or participation in Wilson/US PTA rootwear sales programs 3 $1,000 will he awarded to the J USPTA division that purchases the most Wilson Tennis Carnival Teaching Aides and mr. peeW^e tennis® equipment 4 $1,000 will be awarded to the USPTA division with the greatest num-

her or pro shops participating in the Wilson/ USPTA apparel sales program.

5 One year's free USPTA memhership dues To quahry, purchase a minimum ol rive Pro X 25 junior racquets You'll then automatically be entered in the drawing There will be one winner per division. For each additional rive racquets „ purchased, you will receive " another entry and a chance to win. What's more, ror the division that sells the most USPTA/PRO X 25 junior racquets per member, Wilson will throw a party at either the National Convention or a divisional meeting It's the opportunity you've been waiting tor, the 1995 USPTA Divisional Rivalry. It you're not already using the "right equipment," there's never been a better reason to start.

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Tick-tock tennis Use basic patterns to develop rally strategies

by Larry J. Hef lin, USPTA

T

ick-tock tennis is a visualization technique that can be used to describe rally patterns to students. Picturing a metronome, a tick is when the hand moves to the left of center and a tock is when the hand moves to the right of center.

In order to allow students to be creative on court, the coach should not put a great deal of emphasis on patterns.

However, every player should learn when and how to use certain basic styles.

A few popular tick-tock patterns are as follows: 1.

Tick-tock-tick-tock-tick-tock One of the most common patterns in tennis, this technique refers to placing shots from corner to corner. An analogy would be to put the opponent on a string and run him back and forth. The goal is to use deep, penetrating groundstrokes in order to make the opponent move. This will usually elicit a mistake from the opponent or give the student a short, attackable ball. However, it is important not to fall into the trap of trying to hit winners from the baseline, which will most likely end up causing too many unforced errors. This basic pattern is good to use when the opponent is slow of foot.

2.

Tick-tick-tick-tock The object of this pattern is to initiate a crosscourt rally;

have the student hit to the same spot as many times as necessary until he feels that the down-the-lme shot is wide open. The number of ticks varies with each point. The decision to hit the tock shot should be made instinctively, not just after a specific number of tick shots. This pattern can be effective against an opponent who is stronger on one wing than the other. For an opponent who likes to run around his weaker side, it is good strategy to hit the tick shots to the stronger side.

This will open up the weaker side to an attacking tock shot.

3.

Tick-tock-tick-tock-tock This is a variation of the first pattern. The goal is to get the opponent moving with a little "tick-tock." Then, at the appropriate time, the player hits to the same spot twice in a row. The idea behind this pattern is to try and catch the opponent going the other direction, this is called "wrongfooting." This is good to use on opponents who are very fast.

As with all patterns, it is important to be unpredictable.

Used creatively, this method will produce mistakes and short balls from the opponent.

All three of these ideas are called deep patterns, because their purpose is to use deep, penetrating groundstrokes to keep the opponent from dictating play or attacking.

In many instances, it is a good idea to intentionally use some short balls. For example, when executing pattern No. 1, a short angle "tick" that is aimed at the corner of the service box could be used. This type of shot opens up the court very well for the next "tock" shot to be placed deep into the opposite corner. The player should be aware, however, that using this shot offers the opponent an opportunity to go on the offense. It is important that the player be selective with this variation.

Another variation is with pattern three. A drop shot may be used as the wrong-foot shot. This will make the opponent not only change directions, but also move forward.

Also, if they return the drop shot, the player can answer with a lob. This will not make him popular with his opponent, but he is likely to win the point — maybe even the next two!

This variation is good to use against an opponent who is uncomfortable at the net.

In closing, there are two things to remember. One, players should be creative, not predictable, in their rallies.

Secondly, these patterns need to be used instinctively in match play, so time should be spent practicing them. Improving rallies will improve a player s ability to win. J2?

Larry Heflin, USPTA, is a teacher and tennis coach at Lone Oak High School in Paducah, Ky., and director of tennis at Lone Oak Tennis Club, In ?994, Heflin received the USPTA Southern Division Coach of the Year award, a ij-ycar distinguished service award from USPTA, and the Kentucky Tennis Association Pro of the Year : va ADDvantage/Augustl995

13

USPTA's Tennis Across America reaches thousands

N

^ Pant Shriver explains a grip to a participant of the White House clinic.

ADDvantage/Augustl995

early 1,500 teaching professionals volunteered their time for the sixth annual USPTA's Tennis Across America™ one-day event on May 13 Several hundred free local clinics were held m cities around the country, including Stockton, Calif., San Antonio, Chicago, Minneapolis, San Diego, Los Angeles, Detroit, Dallas, Houston, Denver and Boca Raton, Fla. One of the largest clinics was held at the Orlando (Fla.) Tennis Complex: The public clinic drew more than 3 00 participants and was led by local USPTA professionals, including Jack Groppel, Ph.D., and Jim Loehr, Ed.D., along with Pat Etcheberry.

"We were happy to help out

with this year's Tennis Across America™ program," Groppel said. "The participants at our clinic had a fun time, plus they learned a lot about the game."

The Orlando event was presented in cooperation with the City of Orlando and the Orlando-based LGE Sport Science Inc. Prizes, serving contests and special guests such as Woody Woodpecker, Groucho Marx and other Universal Studios Florida stars made the event a fun, family affair.

"USPTA Tennis Across America programs provide thousands of players with tennis opportunities," said Tim Heckler, USPTA CEO. "We applaud the efforts of our members in furthering their commitment to grassroots tennis through their participation in the program."

Pam Shriver, Tom McMillen, Jack Mills, Stan Smith and Cliff Drysdale served as honorary cochairs.

"I see USPTA's Tennis Across America program as a positive contribution to the growth of tennis in the United States," said Mills.

"USPTA's Tennis Across America provides thousands of people with tennis

TM

opportunities," said Shriver. "I am proud to be associated with this grassroots effort by USPTA teaching pros. I've known about the program for many years and am glad to help out."

Other event highlights include: • A free clinic led by USPTA pro and tour great Stan Smith at the William H.G. FitzGerald Tennis Center in Washington, D.C. Merchandise prizes, scholarships to area tennis camps, and expert instruction from USPTAcertified professionals were all part of the event.

• Twenty-five governors proclaiming May 13 as "USPTA's Tennis Across America Day" in their state in honor of USPTA teaching pros and their efforts to encourage physical fitness.

"The mental and physical well-being of fellow citizens is obviously a very important resource to all of us, and the United States Professional Tennis Association has created a program that offers health and fitness to our citizens," said Alaska Gov. Tony Knowles.

New Jersey Gov. Christine Whitman acknowledged in her proclamation "the unselfish efforts of USPTA teaching professionals to contribute further to the revitalization of tennis and to the value of health consciousness."

• Sixty-four students from

the general public were fielded by USPTA staff members as a result of the publicity and callers were given sites of local public clinics.

Multicultural clinics Penn Racquet Sports donated 120 cases (8,640 USPTA pro Jack Groppel checks out Woody Woodpecker's balls) of forehand groundstroke.

USPTA Pro Penn balls to the multicultural USPTA pro Bill Hmkel s segment of Tennis Across evening studies program at America. The balls were handed the Community College of out to participants of the nearly Allegheny participating in a 100 special clinics and featured round robin event,in the seal of the President's Wexford, Pa. The particiCouncil on Physical Fitness and pants were divided into four Sports. USPTA holds the groups, each named after a multicultural segment in coopGrand Slam tournament. Aferation with the President's ter the clinic, participants Council, which recognizes May enjoyed pizza and a special as National Physical Fitness Tennis Across America cake. and Sports Month.

Willard Scott of NBC s "These special tennis balls "The Today Show" announcwill help bring more excitement ing the May I 3 clinics durabout tennis to the thousands ing a weather segment on of people reached through our May 11 The Tennis Across multicultural clinics," said America logo and phone Heckler. "This considerable number of the USPTA donation shows Penn s commitWorld Headquarters were ment to supporting positive shown on the screen. Several grassroots programs." hundred phone calls from Multicultural clinics were developed to introduce people to tennis who might not otherwise have the opportunity.

Some targeted groups include inner-city youth and adults, underprivileged youth and adults, senior citizens, homeless children, emotionally handicapped youth and physically-challenged Jack Foster, USPTA, led a multicultural clinic youth and adults. in Houston.

Inner-city children from Washington Tennis Foundation and the Hispanic American Cultural Effort (HACE) were treated to a special multicultural clinic at the White House on May 1 1 The clinic was led by national USPTA president Kathy Woods, tennis touring pro and commentator Shriver, local USPTA teaching professional Paul Crams, Washington Tennis Foundation assistant head pro George Henry, and teaching professional Ronald Perry, also from the Washington Tennis Foundation. Other attendees were Mills, USTA vice president and member of the President's Council, former

A Shawna Kevorkian, USPTA, led a multicultural clinic for inner-city children in Fresno, Calif

See Tennis, page 32

Multicultural sites Agana, Guam Santa Maria, Calif.

East Palo Alto, Calif.

Omaha, Neb. Lincoln, Neb. San Diego, Calif.

Mesa, Ariz.

York, Pa. Arlington, Va. Hartsville, S.C. Tulsa, Okla.

Sacramento, Calif.

Kailua Kona, Hawaii Rocky Mont, Va. Bedford, Va. Altavista, Va. Orlando, Fla. Georgetown, S.C. Cincinnati, Ohio Asheville, N.C. Las Vegas, Nev. Destin, Fla. Bellevue, Wash.

Danville, III. Santa Barbara, Calif.

Norfolk, Va. Newport News, Va. Virginia Beach, Va. Memphis, Tenn.

Long Beach, Calif.

Johnstown, Pa. Boston, Mass.

Huntington, W.Va. Altoona, Pa. San Juan, Puerto Rico Seattle, Wash.

Western Springs Village, Hershey, Pa. Kansas City, Mo. Detroit, Mich.

Uhrichsville, Ohio Milwaukee, Wis. Richmond, Va. Tucson, Ariz.

Chicago, III. Bloomington, Minn.

Kalamazoo, Mich.

ADDvantage/August 1995

10s1 on staff make club

by Rodney E. Workman, USPTA The ability to hire people better than yourself ts a sign of selfconfidence and

Rodney E. Workman, USPTA, is the director of racquet sports at the Onwentsia Club in Lake Forest, III. He is also president of the Tennis Opportunity Program of Chicago, and a Wilson advisory staff member.

16

ADDvantage/Augustl995

I

n many ways, being the tennis director at a club is no different from being the manager of a small business.

Staffing, programming, facility maintenance, customer service and management are all a part of selling, whether it be tennis lessons or groceries.

The savvy tennis director wears these five hats well and is always looking for ways to improve.

When selecting personnel, a tennis director should ask, "Who is more important, the members or the staff?" The answer should be 51 percent to 49 percent that the staff is more important than the members. The ability to hire people better than yourself is a sign of self-confidence and commitment to club excellence. Hiring a "lO" (one is poor ob performance and 10 is great job performance) guarantees a "lO" level of job performance, bringing member satisfaction to new heights.

The director cannot hire the right person unless she knows explicitly what she needs. A good analogy is to view the job as a round hole, with the person being sought representing a round peg.

When the peg fits snugly into the hole you have found a "lO." Sometimes "sevens" can be shaped into "lOs" if the director spends quality time with them. This happens only when the director and staff

members have written goals to refer to during evaluations.

Having "lOs" in the tennis operation results from having a clear job description, written goals and the experience of having hired a few "fours."

Hiring the right tennis professionals to assist with the lesson program is paramount.

To get strong candidates, the director must offer competitive compensation, benefits, a facility in which to instruct, and members to teach. All these points are essential, but none are more important than offering young assistants a future. After establishing the fact that an assistant's longterm goal is to be a tennis director, it is vital for him to know that his boss is going to do everything possible to help him achieve his goal. This results m strong ob performance and loyalty to the director and club. Ideally, the No. 1 reason assistants want to work under a tennis director's tutelage is that she provides future opportunity.

Each professional hired should write his six-month, one-year and three-year goals on his first day on the job.

The director's main motivational tool is the fact that the assistant's position is a "stepping stone" to something better. This goal process helps fuel the "club synergy cycle."

• If you lead by example and are good to your staff,

•

•

•

they will respect you and the club.

If they respect you and the club, they will work harder.

If they work harder, you and the club will want to treat them better.

If you and the club treat them better, the cycle will repeat itself.

If the club synergy cycle is in effect at a club, the members are getting a superior product and superior service.

That is why the staff is 2 percent more important than the members.

In addition to staff goal sheets, regular staff meetings are crucial to maintaining quality performance. It is the ideal time to communicate goals, new policies, upcoming events, work schedules, positive reinforcement and areas for improvement.

Once a solid staff is in place, enticing members to use the club regularly is the challenge. An environment which is friendly, healthy and fun will attract people of all ages and abilities. Members need motivation to spend time and money there, and lesson programs, tournaments, team play and special events and programs will create motivation.

Bulletin boards should be kept current to help promote the tennis program.

In most situations, the

tennis program shine director of tennis is responsible for the maintenance of the tennis facility. To maintain the finest facility in town, another "lo" should be hired to supervise this department. It is up to the director to create a system in which the maintenance team will thrive.

It doesn't matter whether members are paying $60 a month to a local racquet club or $500 a month to a prestigious country club, all members are looking for the same thing — service. The quality of service that the tennis di rector and staff provide the membership can separate one club from the others. Someone once said, "If we don't take care of our customers, someone else will." After a subpar meal at a restaurant or bad experience at a car dealership, many people never return for a second try.

Service should shine as soon as a member walks through the front door. The highly communicative, courteous and friendly front desk attendant has to be a "10." He needs to learn the names of all active members and become an expert on assigning courts, booking lessons and promoting upcoming programs. Since this employee is the first impression the member has of the club, no shortcuts should be taken when selecting personnel for the front desk.

When a member has a

A tennis director's responsibilities to his assistants include providing guidance in all aspects of their careers.

good experience at the club, he will tell four friends. Conversely, when the same member has a bad experience at the club, he will tell 20 friends.

Every mistake the staff makes means that five great things need to happen just to break even. To minimize mistakes, have the staff buy into the member service cycle.

• If you are good to your members, they will keep coming back because they like you.

• If they like you, they will spend more money with you and the club.

• If they spend more money with you and the club, then you will want to treat them better.

\/ If you treat them better, they will keep coming back and the cycle starts again.

The successful director of tennis for the '90s needs to be a versatile and well-balanced asset to the club. Gone are the days when the sole criteria for a top tennis position was the applicant's playing record. The professional who can consistently attract "lOs" to the staff, offer programs for players of all ages and abilities, provide unique touches for the members, develop a strong rapport with the manager/ owner, and oversee a meticulously clean facility is on top of the game. £/h O

•••^

ADDvantage/August 1995

divisions hope for upset in 1995 Battle of the Divisions

National Convention

The National Convention registration deadline is Aug /J After that date, a $2O late fee is added to the convention jee, A. convention registration form and hotel reservation form are in the convention

prepare for the 1995 Is tion.

The Ba sions, sche 23, ms of will consist ingcompetitio dinghy pong, a swi boat race, v , etball shoot-out and football throw.

The top three teams will receive trophies at the Battle Bash Extravaganza, Sept. 23Other big events sched-

brochure, which was mailed in June,

the Wilson Racquet Sports welct ming party, Sept. 19, and the Pcnn Racquet Sports reception and cookout, Sept. 21.

While USPTA members attend seminars and Specialty Courses during the day, their families will have plenty of activities from which to choose.

The Boca Raton Resort & Club offers four children's programs. Boca Tots is a fun and educational program for children ages 3 to 5 The Boca Bunch offers games and activi ties for children ages 6 to 10.

Children ages 1 1 to 1 3 may join Boca Sport, a program incorporating teamwork and competition. The Boca Raton 33432 Club provides teenagers 14- to 17-years old with activities including cruises, video contests and SCUBA lessons. Memberships to each program are available at a nominal charge. Guests may also order the Children s Video and VCR rental package when

booking room reservations.

Complimentary family activities are also available from the resort. These include garden tours, basketball, dance lessons, cooking demonstrations, beach activities, historical tours, feature movies and bike tours. The resort also has baby-sitting services available.

Advance reservations are recommended.

Spouses will enjoy free tennis clinics using the TenmsCize program under the supervision of USPTA professionals Dmo and Donnia Bondalhan of Hawaii. This popular program was introduced at the 1991 National Convention on Hilton Head Island, S.C. Many activities are available around Boca Raton. For information, see the hotel s concierge. J2$

National Convention Specialty Course schedule* Sept 20 Sept 16

USTA Tournament Referee Certification Clinic

9 a.m.-6 p.m. Rollie Shea

Sept 17

Sport Physiology/Nutrition

8 a.m.-noon

Sept 18

Michael Bergeron/ Page Love Johnson

Advanced Stroke Production I 1-5 p.m.

George Bacso

Sports Medicine/ Biomechanics

Jane Jarosz/ Paul Roetert

Nonmechanica Approach to Teaching (Spanish)

8 a.m.-noon 8 a.m.-noon

2-6 p.m.

Klaus Hilgers/ Paul MacDonald Drew Sunderlin

Sept 21

Equipment Consulting

l-5p.m

Sept 22

Junior Development

1-5 p.m.

Dave Power

Sept. 23

USPTA Little Tennis™ Training

l-5p.m

George Bacso/ Kirk Anderson

Sept. 24

ABCs of Stroke Production

8 a.m.-noon

Tom Martin

Programming

1-5 p.m.

Sheryl Behne

Ted Murray

Enhancing

Growth, Ski and Profit

Advanced Stroke Production II 8 a.m.-noon

George Bacso

National Convention testing schedule

Court Maintenance

1-5 p.m.

Wade Herren

Sept. 19

Country Club

l-5p.m

Fernando Velasco

CTC, on-court portions (upgrades only)

1-5 p.m.

How to Plan Your Career

Sept 20

Country Club

8 a.m.-noon

Ron Woods/ Jim Taylor

Certification Exam, on-court portions (upgrades only)

Noon-6 p.m.

Sport Psychology/ Motor Learning How to Practice Effectively (Spanish)

8 a.m.-noon

Ted Murray

Sept. 21

CTC, written and grips portions

2-4 p.m.

Hotel

Wheelchair Tennis

8 a.m.-noon

Bal Moore/ Randy Snow

Sept. 22

Certification Exam, 1-5 p.m. written and grips portions

Providing Quality Service: Facts Al Pros Must Know to Succeed

1-5 p.m.

Greg Lappin

Sept 23

CTC, on-court portions

Zone of Decision (Spanish)

1-5p.m.

(Spanish) Sept. 1 9

Trade Secrets of Marketing Tennis Successfu ly

ADDvantage/Augustl995

Sept. 24 Ed Garcia

2-6 p.m.

Certification Exam, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on-court portions *This is a tentative and partia schedule.

Hotel Country Club Country Club

The 1995 USPTA Cup Open Golf Championship sponsored Love golf, but tired of losing? USPTA s open golf tournament uses the Callaway system of handicapping, which gives all players an equal chance to win, regardless of skill level. The tournament is set at the beautiful Boca Raton Resort & Club Resort Course — one of the world's top golf resorts, with 85 sand traps, 14 grass bunkers and numerous other challenges. The tournament is open to all members, spouses and friends registered for the convention.

Aug. 25

12 30 6 p.m., Friday, Sept. 22

Where:

Press

deadline:

Boca Raton Resort & Club Resort Course

Provided by

Callaway system of handicapping (shotgun format)

A. Low gross (1st, 2nd, 3rd) Low net (1st, 2nd, 3rd)

$62 (includes greens fee and cart fee) Limited space available

B. Closest to the pin (1 winner)

$25 per set (please pay for clubs at Golf Shop)

Players can win only one prize in each category

Longest drive (1 winner) Longest putt (1 winner)

Collared golf shirt must be worn.

No blue jeans, jogging or cut-off shorts.

winners: Free balls:

Players are eligible to use free range balls on day of tournament.

All tournament players must register for the USPTA National Convention, The 1995 USPTA Cup entry form Division.

Name: Handicap:

USPTA member No. Daytime telephone number- (

Average score:

) area code

Renting golf clubs?

I lyes

no

Please complete and return this form with entry fee to: USPTA World Headquarters • One USPTA Centre • 3535 Briarpark Drive • Houston, TX 77042

THE 1995 USPTA CUP

USPTA team scramble entry form Name:

USPTA

Division.

USPTA member No.

Handicap:

Daytime telephone number- (

Average score:

) area code

Renting golf clubs?

n yes

D no

Please complete and return this form with entry fee to: USPTA World Headquarters • One USPTA Centre • 3535 Briarpark Drive • Houston, TX 77042

USPTA team scramble sponsored by Scramble from the courts and make new friends on an afternoon filled with golf, sun, laughter, prizes and competition. Join other members at the fourth annual USPTA golf scramble. Each team will have four players, one from each of the A, B, C and D levels (established according to handicap listed on entry form). Team members will be selected by computer to ensure that all teams are equal. The tournament is open to all members, spouses and friends registered for the convention. Spend a memorable afternoon, and discover the joys of playing golf at the challenging Boca Raton Resort & Club Country Club Course, located just minutes from the resort.

Tournament — Prizes provided

by U)i£»on

National Convention ,199?

Ill

When:

Noon - 6 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 19

Where:

Boca Raton Resort & Club Bourse

fee:

$62 per tournament (includes greens fee and cart fee) Limited space available

Golf club rental:

$25 per set (please pay for golf clubs at the Golf Shop)

Dress code:

Collared golf shirt must be worn. No blue jeans, jogging or cut-off shorts.

Entry deadline:

Aug. 25

Free range balls:

Players are eligible to use free range balls on day of tournament.

players must register for the USPTA National Convention.

11 clinic participants must register for both the convention and a golf tournament.

Officially and

by The USPTA.

Out wear your opponent.

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Team concept defines roles

by Tom Martin, USPTA with Karen Fellabaum, USPTA

T

Tom Martin, USPTA, is founder and co'director with Jim Davis of the Total Tennis Training Program, He also is the director of tennis for the Toledo (Ohio) Athletic Clubs, and head coach and administrator for Toledo's USTA Player Develop' ment Program.

Karen Fellabaum, USPTA, is a sports counselor working in Cali, Columbia.

24

ADDvantage/Augustl995

he "team concept" is a high priority with juniors at the Shadow Valley Tennis Club in Toledo, Ohio, and it serves as the foundation for the Total Tennis Training Program. We are concerned with basic elements of the game, from stroke and practice techniques to fitness, nutrition and mental toughness. The team concept includes specific role definitions for the player, professional and parent, and is fundamentally a communications model with the pro and parent serving in supportive roles for the player.

There are three practical ideas derived from the model which enhance our program and motivate players to even higher levels of performance.

Goal-setting sessions, team meetings and parent boosters are off-court activities dedicated to developing our junior players' support systems.

Goal-setting sessions Goal-setting sessions are designed to help players establish short-term, intermediate and long-term performance goals. Initially, the professional and player develop objectives.

In a second session, the pro and parents meet alone to discuss the feasibility and affordabihty of the program, which might include daily clinics, practice, on- and offcourt activities and workouts.

It is during the second meeting that player and parent

needs are clarified. The pro attempts to help parents see that their child often shares a similar goal with them.

The player wants to win. It is in this session that a parent examines his or her own agenda o and response repertoire. Many parents require help in understanding that a child's firstround loss is not Focus should be on the daily activities which lead to a a personal loss, goal, rather than on the goal alone. nor is it a reflection on their mumty. At Shadow Valley, quality of parenting. Some moms and dads need guidethere is one team meeting per month attended by parents, lines to move from fault-finding comments to productive players and the pro. Local exfeedback for players. At the perts in fields such as nutrition, fitness and sports end of the second session, the player is invited to join the psychology are invited to speak. The pro meets with professional and parents, and these individuals prior to the goal sheets are signed by all presentation and gives them three parties. some background regarding While short-term perforprogram emphasis. This admance goals are established vance collaboration is critical and evaluated in an ongoing process, a new set of sessions to the success of a team meeting. A typical format would will be held to evaluate and include the guest speaker folrevise intermediate and longterm objectives two to three lowed by comments from the local professional, a questionmonths later. and-answer session, plus a disTeam meetings cussion period for parents and Team meetings utilize players. Not all club members professionals within the com-

for player, professional, parent elect to be part of the team concept. These meetings tend to be geared toward the tournament player. Team meetings are essentially a vehicle to enhance understanding which cannot be gained solely on court.

Parent boosters Parent boosters is an activity that gives parents an ownership role in their child's tennis career. The original goal of boosters at Shadow Valley was to raise money to promote junior tennis. This has evolved to the point where it is not only a commitment made by parents of competing juniors to facilitate travel teams, but also a commitment to be the most effective parents possible, who follow their own set of established rituals and routines in that role.

Boosters meet two times per month, have co-directors, a secretary and treasurer, and clearly defined goals and responsibilities. Shadow Valley's travel team is coordinated by parent boosters who see to it that each player has an entry form, a letter explaining fees for a particular tournament, the name of their driver and a medical release form. The professional's attendance at tournaments is sponsored by boosters. He provides the warm-up, good nutritional information, mental preparation and post-match analysis.

Players and parents have

learned to chart matches, providing the pro with specific data needed to give a competitor quality feedback. Boosters believe that by pooling themselves as resources, they will be able to maximize the potential for learning from a tournament. With parents alternating driving and sharing responsibility for player care, all team members seem to benefit. Parent boosters provide direct communication lines to both the pro and player, a combined effect that can prove quite productive.

If we educate our players and establish solid, positive working relationships with parents, the effects of that communication will be much further-reaching than the totals from win/loss columns.

While results are important, we sometimes lose sight of the actual process by focusing solely on an end goal rather than the daily events which sustain us. As we all know, tennis can be an arena for enhancing life skills. Professionals can help tennis parents feel more fulfilled by providing direction and structure. Players can be confident knowing that supportive measures are in place and that they are part of the process. Perhaps the team concept with its built-in reinforcing structure will keep our junior players interested longer, striving to meet levels of excellence. &

Team concept model A Parent Enabler, facilitator, supporter, cheerleader, role model, feedback specialist Enabler — Provides the opportunities, finances, transportation and time.

Player

Cheerleader — Encourages, supports, accepts and loves.

Nonjudgmental attitude toward player and coach.

Feedback specialist— Is in tune with internal conditions of player and privately shares them with Parent <pfQi which is a very important link to the team concept success.

A Pro

Teacher, leader, motivator, role model, researcher, tactician, catalyst Teacher — Continual learner: supplier of information who monitors the students' feedback in order to know what has' been learned.

Motivator — Presents positive expectations and priorities to help the player make a total commitment or step into the circle.

Role model — Critical to long-term success. Projects a positive physical and mental presence. Takes an active role in a player's program and the game of tennis.

A Player Student, participant, learner, apprentice; the worker. The player is the focus of the team concept model.

Student — As in school, player will be made accountable for all information, notebooks and study time.

Participant — An active role in total program. Player must let down defenses, take a chance (no risk, no reward), jump into the circle, and trust the pro.

Learner — Player is developing life skills, learning how to think and respond, act under pressure, accept and profit from victory or defeat. Sets performance goals and attains them.

ADDvantage/Augustl995

01

USPTA Adult Tennis League benefits pros he USPTA Adult Tennis LeagueSM is more than a playing opportunity for club members. It also provides direct and substantial benefits to the professionals who run the leagues, the facility at which the league is played, and the local community.

The most obvious benefit is addi tional income for teaching professionals, pro shops and clubs. All squad entry fees derived from running a USPTA Adult Tennis League go di rectly to the professional. Area and Site Directors establish squad entry fees to help cover the cost of court time, tennis balls for home matches, and compensation to professionals for their administrative efforts. Facilities enjoy revenues from increased court time, especially if the league is held in what generally may be an inactive pe-

riod. Finally, pro shops can expect increased sales since the league encourages more traffic. Pro shop traffic can be enhanced through special sales programs or discounts for league players.

Industry studies have shown that league participants play more frequently, take more lessons and purchase more equipment than players who do not participate in leagues.

Therefore, creative tennis programming is a must for any pro who wants to maintain revenue throughout the year. That's how the USPTA Adult Tennis League can play a key role. By running the league during periods of inactivity, professionals can offer their members an additional playing opportunity while maintaining income for their facilities and themselves.

The USPTA Adult Tennis League also provides an avenue for certified teaching pros to FORM receive recognition as acUSPTA tive members of a credible organization. With Adutr TENNIS LEAGUE "USPTA" in the name of the league, club owners, Name managers and players have Street address the assurance that it is orCity _ ganized by highly qualified ZIP State professionals who know Business phone ( how to meet the needs of the tennis community.

Home phone ( Networking opportunities are another benefit USPTA MEMBER? G Yes D No of running a league. A USPTA member No. Division professional will meet Site Do you live or work in or near a city Q Yes D No Directors from other faor metropolitan area? cilities who may be good City's name contacts for information and ideas. In addition, I would likf TO pARiicipATE AS: CD an Area Director professionals who want to CD a Site Director become more active in their local professional Return to USPTA World Headquarters chapters may find the One USPTA Centre, 3535 Briarpark Drive, Houston, TX 77042 league an excellent way to (713) 97-USPTA (978-7782) demonstrate leadership -Pro /fe/lf|,the official ball of the USPTA Adult League J and administrative skills L

T

ADDvantage/Augustl995

Divisional Coordinators California Division

Greg Langdon (714) 830-1414

Eastern Division

Shannon Myers (914)245-7688

Florida Division

Len Simard (407)482-0110

Hawaii Division

TBA

Intermountain Division

Laura Miles (303) 699-5773

Middle Atlantic Division

Bill Stahr (703) 803-8483

Middle States Division

Delaine Mast (800)633-6122

Midwest Division

Mike Owens (517)337-0002

Missouri Valley Division

Ginny Wiihelm (314)225-2183

New England Division

TBA

Northern California Division

Chris Wilbert (916)899-0670

Northwest Division

Tim Burke (612)861-4528

Pacific Northwest Division

Wayne Pickard (503) 223-6251

San Diego Division

Jack Movido (619)460-2434

Southern Division

Tom Daglis (404) 919-8876

Southwest Division

Michael Morse (520) 299-4977

Texas Division

Gerry Maingot (512) 643-6057

among peers.

Hosting a league at a club will create publicity and help recruit new members. Also, all the activity and excitement of league play may entice nontenms-playing club members to give the program a try.

The USPTA Adult Tennis League is a doubles-only league for tennis players 19 years or older. It provides players with fun, competitive playing opportunities and encourages team spirit with its unique format that includes four levels of play based on the National Tennis Rating Program. A league program guide containing all materials necessary for organizing and promoting leagues appeared in the June issue of ADDvantage. J25

GROWING THE GAME

USPTA member uses tennis, basketball skills to inspire athletes or 17 years, USPTA professional "Koach" Tim Conroy has been doing his part to grow the game of tennis. He is an inspirational speaker who visits with groups of people and demonstrates his tennis and basketball-handling abilities.

Conroy, who is ambidextrous, does presentations during which he plays tennis with both hands, sometimes at the same time. His fancy hitting draws cheers from observers, and opens the door for him to share the fun of tennis and the importance of developing new skills at any age.

F

Children love the presentation, Conroy said. He emphasizes that if they apply themselves and do the best they can at everything they try, they will always be winners.

He tells them that this applies to sports, school and their careers.

"It's OK to work hard and enjoy what you do," he said.

To adults, he says, "It ain't over." Developing new skills and enjoying a sport can bring satisfaction to a person that will carry over into his relationships with family and friends. Conroy says his program gets adults to think

about having exercise time with their families and applying the skills they learn to life, "I like to emphasize that tennis is a lifetime sport," Conroy said. "Like tennis, education and people are with you for a lifetime, too.

"Tennis is a part of my life, but it's not my whole life.

It's a game," he said.

Conroy also runs tennis and basketball camps and clinics for children. He charges reasonable rates for the clinics and camps because he thinks it will be worth more to the children if it costs them somethin. >

Tennis blitz finds new players T

ennis pros have been working together to promote the game in their communities as part of the Tennis Industry Association's initiative, Play Tennis America. Look at what's been happening.

offered the PTA program.

New York — Domino's Pizza attached free lesson fliers to every pizza box top, and the first 100 people who answered their doors for a pizza delivery wearingo a tennis outfit received

a free tennis racquet.

Detroit — Twenty-five facilities raised $8,000 to add to TIA's marketing budget for the free lesson program in Detroit.

star Michael Thompson promoted the program.

Cincinnati — Bengal Head Coach Dave Shula was a spokesman for the free lesson and PTA program.

Boston — Bud Collins attended a town hall meeting to help promote the tennis program.

Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia and Houston — More than 40 tennis facilities in each city

Minneapolis — More than 1,000 participants in a ladies' daytime league distributed

Portland, Ore

Former NBA

free-lesson "Take a friend to court" fliers.

Denver — USPTA teaching professionals and USTA members worked together to make the program a hit.

Washington — Free lessons and the PTA program were promoted on cable television.

Miami — 1,300 people participated in the free lesson program with more than 400 continuing on with PTA. San Jose, Calif. — The free lesson program has attracted more than 2,000 participants. Six Tn-Valley clubs attracted 1,800 people for free lessons. $& ADDvanfage/Augustl995

27

Introducing...

The Tennis Magazine Primer!

The Tennis Magazine Primer has been designed to enhance your programs and impact the game in a very positive way It is written

by Alexander McNab, Senior Instruction Editor and author of the just-published book—Arthur Ashe on Tennis. Technical accuracy has been verified by Instruction Editor Tony Trabert.

To Order: Prepaid Orders Only Check Payable to Tennis Magazine Price: Quantities less than 30—$1.00 each Quantities 30 and over—$.60 each (includes shipping & handling)

Send Orders to: Tennis Magazine Primer Public Relations 5520 Park Avenue TrumbullCT 06611

c ates tkai cv 44,104,, EXAMS, UPGRADES & CERTIFICATION TRAINING COURSES

SPECIALTY COURSES

Each date ncludes an exam, upgrade and CTC unless otherwise noted

Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug.

Aug. 4-5 Aug. 4-5 Aug. 5-6 Aug. 5-6 Aug. 5-6 Aug. 10-11 Aug. 12-13 Aug. 12-13 Aug. 12-13 Aug. 13-14 Aug. 13-14 Aug. 19-20 Aug. 20-21 Aug. 25-26 Aug. 25-27 Sept 1-2 Sept 6-7 Sept 7-8 Sept. 9-10 Sept. 9-10 Sept. 9-10 Sept 10-11 Sept 10-11 Sept 10-11 Sept 20-24 Sept 30-Oct. Sept 30-Oct. Oct 1-2 Oct 7-8 Oct 7-8 Oct 8-9 Oct. 1 1 1 2 Oct 12-13 Oct 13-14 Oct 13-15 Oct 14-15 Oct 14-15 Oct. 14-15 Oct 14-15 Oct 15-16 Oct 15-16 Oct 21-22 Oct 21-22 Oct. 21-22 Oct. 26-27 Oct. 28-29

Solvang, Calif.

Bloomington, Minn.

Jacksonville, Fla. Hershey, Pa. Hamden, Conn.

Bedford, N.Y Irvine, Calif.

Panama City, Fla. Cherry Hill, NJ. San Francisco, Calif.

Birmingham, Ala. Houston, Texas Dayton, Ohio Nashville, Tenn.

Tulsa, Okla.

Hilton Head Island, S.C. Roosevelt Island, N.Y. jT Narragansett, R.I. I, Murrieta, Calif.

Boca Raton, Fla. Hinsdale, III. Carmel, Calif.

Parker, Colo.

McLean, Va. Boca Raton, Fla. Rolling Hills, Calif.

Fort Washington, Pa. Shreveport, La. Irvine, Calif.

Grenelefe, Fla. Redding, Calif.

Free port, N.Y. Tucson, Ariz. • •: ; : Bradenton, Fla. Topeka, Kan. Los Angeles, Calif.

Fort Myers, Fla. Kapalua, Hawaii Detroit, Mich.

Richmond, Va. Atlanta, Ga. Murrieta, Calif.

Boca Raton, Fla. Fort Worth, Texas Hot Springs, Ark Fountain Valley, Calif.

Four-hour courses are denoted by an asterisk are eight hours.

5 10 12 13 1 9* 20*

Aug. 26 Aug. 26-27* Aug. 27* Sept 30

Tennis Business Management Creative Programming Advanced Stroke Production Advanced Stroke Production II The ABCs of Stroke Production Stroke Analysis & Specificity Training Stroke Analysis & Specificity Training Mental Toughness LJSPTA Little Tennis™ Personal & Professional Development

y\)ational Convention

Al others

Hershey, Pa. Birmingham, Ala. Maywood, NJ. Maywood, NJ. Tulsa, Okla.

Tulsa, Okla.

Brainerd, Minn.

The Woodlands, Texas Brainerd, Minn.

Fort Washington, Pa. Co ut*ses av-e.

listed on page ~\S>.

CONVENTIONS Aug. 10-13 Aug. 27-28 Sept. 6-24

Southern Division Northwest Division National Convention

Birmingham, Ala. Brainerd, Minn.

Boca Raton, Fla

DIVISION MEETINGS/ACTIVITIES

(wheelchair)

(upgrade only)

Aug. 5-6 Aug. 7 Aug. 7-8 Aug. 14-16 Aug. 18-20 Aug.21 Sept. 8 Sept. 8-10 Sept. 9-10 Sept.fl 1 Sept. 20 Sept. 30 Oct. 2 Oct. 7 Oct 13 Oct 14 Oct. 1 6

Middle States Division San Diego Division Eastern Division Midwest Division Middle States Division Middle Atlantic Division Eastern Division New England Division Midwest Division Middle Atlantic Division Midwest Division ; ;;.;,•••••Midwest Division ;,"' S San Diego Division Hawaii Division Midwest Division Midwest Division Middle Atlantic Division

Hershey, Pa. San Diego, Calif.

Quogue, N.Y Indianapolis, Ind. Philadelphia,-Pa. Norfolk, Va. Roosevelt Island, N.Y Narragansett, R.I. Quincy, III. Norfolk, Va. Quincy, III. Quincy, III. San Diego, Calif Oahu, Hawaii Decatur, III. Columbus, Ohio Norfolk, Va.

COACHES WORKSHOPS (no CTC) (upgrade only)

Exam reservations must be made at least 2 days prior to the dates isted Exam cancellations must be received no later than 4 days before the exam, or a cancellation fee wi be charged accordingly. Affi iate members: late cancellation fee $75, fai ure to cancel application fee is forfeited Certi fied members, late cancellation fee $25, fa lure to cancel $25 plus the upgrade fee is forfeited Registration for another exam wi not be accepted unti these cancellation fees are paid

Aug. Sept Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct

19-20 10 8 14 21 27-29

Southern Division Southern Division Hawaii Division Southern Division Southern Division Southern Division

New Orleans, La. Douglasville, Ga. Kahuku, Hawaii Lake Wylie, S.C. Birmingham, Ala. Hot Springs, Ark.

TENNIS TEACHERS' COURSES Aug. 7-8 Sept. 6-8

Eastern Division Middle Atlantic Division

Bedford, N.Y Arlington, Va.

The dead ne to register and/or cancel a course is 5 working days before the event Anyone cancel ng late or fa ng to cancel wil forfeit one-half the course fee. This schedule is subject to change. Ca the LJSPTA Membersh p Department for addi tiona nformation ADDvantage/Augusf 1995

29

\v\c lift!

I h

USPTA USPTA and Southern Tennis Association members Tom Daglis and Mike Tinkey are sectional directors for Play Tennis America, an instructional program for players of all ages, USPTA professional Beverly Anne Bowes has joined the USTA as a coach on the player development team.

The move coincides with her decision to retire as an active player on the WTA Tour.

The American Diabetes Association raised $ 18,000 in a pro/am tennis event at the Midland (Mich.)

Community Center.

USPTA professionals who assisted in the event were

action Pharrington Douglass, Deno Frier Scott Frew Kelley Hice, Brett Hobden, Blase Keating, Jim Krimbill, Ken Lambert, Derek Markey Dennis Royal, Mark Simcina, John Smallfield, Mike Woody and Mike Ware.

The Wildwood Racquet Club and the Junior League of Fort Wayne, Ind., presented the third annual Tennis Ball and Pro-Am to raise money for the Boys and Girls' Club of Fort Wayne. USPTA professionals who participated were Will Cleveland, Joe Lyden, Mike Owens, Lee Ann Reed, Susan Rudd, Sue Selke, Dean Snyder and Mike Insko.

USPTA Florida Division professionals who assisted with the ATP Smash Tennis Event held during the Lipton were: (back row, from left) Robert Hopson, Jared Chase, (Pete Sampras), Spike Gurney, Dan Smithyman and Randy Webb; (front row, from left) David MacBurnie, Shawn Craig and Steve Rayner.

30 ADDvantage/Augustl995

USPTA members Gary Bachman, Allan Carvell, Bob Kust and Fernando Velasco were inducted into the Midwest Division Hall of Fame.

Eight pros and their amateur partners participated in the Carlton Harris Scholarship Fund Round Robin to benefit juniors at the MidTown Tennis Club in Chicago. More than $5,000 was raised to help defray the cost of lessons and tournament expenses.

USPTA players were Yvonne Vermaak, Lisa Gulp, Jane Seiffert, Ralph Platz, Mike Mahoney Jim Flesch and Chris Seiffert.

Donna Alexson, USPTA, was honored by the USPTA New England Division as the 1994 Northern Professional of the Year.

Alexson is the tennis director for the Executive Health & Sports Center.

Several USPTA members led their college tennis teams to the finals at the men s and women s NCAA Division I national team championships. Dick Gould led the Stanford men s team to a perfect season with a 4-0 win over the University of Mississippi. The Mississippi team, coached by Billy Chadwick, made its first appearance in the NCAA final. The University of Florida s women s tennis team, coached by Andy Brandi, lost to the University of Texas, 5-4, in the finals.

Dave Kozlowski, USPTA, was named to the Wilson National Speakers Bureau.

Kozlowski, director of tennis at Laurel Oak Country

Club in Sarasota, Fla., is a frequent speaker at USPTA tions.

Olympic wheelchair tennis gold medalist Randy Snow USPTA, recently shared his experiences and challenges at the Mid-Town Tennis Club in Rochester, N Y, and explained the basics of teaching wheelchair tennis.

USPTA Eastern Division pros who attended the clinic were Steve Smith, Dave Bone, Mick Larscheid, Raul Raymundo, Geoff Jagdfeld, Richard Bodian, William Schuette, Matt Davis and Glenn William.

USPTA member Michael Quitko was honored with the Intercollegiate Tennis Association/Wilson Division II Women's Tennis National Coach of the Year award. Quitko is head coach for the men s and women s tennis teams at Quinmpiac College in Hamden, Conn.

Kozlowski

USTA U.S. Open tickets may be purchased over the telephone by calling Telecharge at (212) 239-6250 or (800) 524-8440. For ticket plan availability, group sales, handicap seating and other U.S. Open ticket information, call the ticket office at (718) 760-6200.

Associations The United States Racquet Stringers Association (USRSA) will hold a

s

1 1 f*~\ I

44 V.. i

s

'

racquet servlce workshop Aug. 26, m conjunction with the USTA Tennis Teachers Conference. The workshop will cover every aspect of racquet service, including inspection and Preparation, stringing, gripping and machine maintenance. The workshop f ee ls $50 per person. For more information, call ( 6 I9) 481 3545 Racquet service professionals interested in qualifying for certified racquet technician (CRT) status have several opportunities tc>be tested during the rest o^ the year. One such location will be at the USPTA National Convention m Boca Raton, Fla., Sept. 22, from 1 to 5 p.m.

Manufacturers Penn Racquet Sports is offering tennis balls personalized with a logo, company name or special event. The balls can either be embroidered or hot stamped. For more information, call (800) BUY PENN The Dallas Tennis Association presented Penn with the Organization of the Year award for 1995 Michael Fernandez, Penn s area sales manager, accepted the award.

Wilson Racquet Sports has restructured and renamed its promotions department "lling it Sports Marketing and Promotions. Personnel changes include Michael Wallace s promotion to director of sports marketing and promotions, and Penny (Wohlford) Clark's promotion to promotions manager-national programs

USPTA

-t;:^^^^^,.

and sports marketing. Rey Corpuz, national promotions coordinator, now oversees member relations and all programs for Wilson s Advisory Staff FreeStyle Ropmg has released a video of the same name which demonstrates a revolutionary teaching method that makes it easier to learn the sport of jumping rope.

1he Vldeo begins with the basics, such as selecting a good rope and body positioning, and goes through more advanced speed and power moves. For more information or to order a V1deo, call (800) ROPE 132.

The USTA, coaches of championship high school tennis teams, and the American Sport Education Program have collaborated to produce "Coaching Tennis Successfully," a new book published by Human Kinetics that offers readers the ingredients needed to build and maintain a successful tennis program.

Several USPTA members were involved m the Project, including Master Professional Ron Woods, Mike Hoctor, Becky Desmond and Stan Smith.

BEST (brilliant energy saving

technology) Lights Inc. manufactures an indirect 1,000 watt metal hahde fixture that produces up to 3 5 percent more light than other lighting systems. The fixture provides maximum foot candles of uniformly dispersed light, eliminating hot spots, dark corners and shadows. For information, contact Gary Yunch, BEST Lights Inc., 328 E. Sunnybrook, Royal Oak, Mich. 48073 or call (800) 545-2928.

Miscellany The International Doubles Federation, m association with the Myrtle Beach (S.C.) Tennis Festival, will present the inaugural International Grand Slam Doubles Championships Sept. 15 17 at Kingston Plantation m Myrtle Beach.

Scheduled players include Luke and Murphy jensen) Natasha Zvereva and Gigi Fernandez, and Zma Garrison-Jackson and Katrma Adams. The players will Participate m instructional doubles clinics and corporate outmgs, as well as be available to the public during the weekend. For reservations or more information, call Nancy B.

Cohen, tournament director, at (800) PLAY-IDF or (803)236-1090.

Passings Magda Rurac, a former world-class athlete and tennis champion, died May 9, J995 m East Meadow, Long Island, N Y Born m Transylvania, Romania, Rurac became that country's national champion m 193 8, and held the title for nine years. She joined USPTA m 1951 and taught at Indian Hill Club m Winnetka, III, and Shadow Mountain Club m Palm Desert, Calif In 1966, she took the head professional job at the Shelter Rock Tennis Club m Manhasset, N Y She taught there until shortly before her death.

Clarence (Lee) LeClear died May 15 1995 He was a USPTA member for 3 7 years. LeClear worked as an assistant professional at River Oaks Country Club before he began to work for the City of Houston at its MacGregor Park Center when lt opened in 1962. He later opened the city's Southwest Tennis Center in 1973 and remained there until his retirement m .1992.

ADDvantage/Augustl995

0I

CEO from page 3 days" when family doctors were loved and respected and earned a revered status in our society. When the personalized service started to disappear, the image of doctors in general started to deteriorate and their status as role models has suffered in recent years.

Lee LeClear's name became a "household word" among most Houston tennis players. He was the consummate counselor, helper and friend to generations of tennis enthusiasts, and he never forgot to personalize his approach for each student or person he came in contact with. He made everyone feel that he kn'ew and cared about them as individuals who may have had various problems or concerns.

His wife Patti saw evidence of her husband's contributions to the game many times over. "I called him the

Tennis from page 15 Congressman and NBA player McMillen, co-chair of the President's Council, Brad Patterson, executive director of the Tennis Industry Association, Humberto Costa, HACE president; York Onnen, program director for the President's Council, Albert Tucker, program director of the Washington Tennis Foundation, and Kathy Gibbs, Wilson representative.

• USPTA pro Ted Murray held a multicultural clinic in San Juan, Puerto Rico, for 20 children who were 32

ADDvantage/Augustl995

Pied Piper of tennis," she said. "He would run into people who would say, 'You taught me, my children and now you're teaching their children.

Lee was a supporter or volunteer for virtually every local organization. Only a few of these included the Houston Ladies Tennis Association (HLTA) city- and state-wide tournaments, charitable events or mterfacihty activities.

His wife recalls the time he set up play pens at MacGregor Park so that the women players could enjoy tennis without worrying about their children. He even helped with the babysitting chores.

When the HLTA honored Lee for all of his contributions to the organization, one member said, Lee LeClear did more than Gloria Steinem to get Houston ladies out of the kitchen and away from the diaper pail."

Lee spent 30 years

working for the City of Houston. During that time, he probably introduced thousands of people to each other and the sport of tennis. As head professional at the Southwest Tennis Center, one of the country's best public facilities, he taught people from all walks of life, including former President George Bush.

His tenure with the city and as a USPTA professional says a lot about his commitment to tennis. His contributions to the game and to its young players will continue through two scholarships. The Texas Tennis Association and the Zina Garrison Jackson All Court Tennis Academy in Houston will grant the scholarships in Lee s name.

Many people enjoy tennis today because of their association with Lee LeClear and his personalized approach to teaching tennis. Aside from his obvious love of people and the game, his ability to person-

born HIV-positive. The clinic was held in conjunction with the PBI Grand Prix tournament and gala, and was the recipient of funds collected from the event.

• Willie Brown, USPTA, of Sacramento, Calif, planned a clinic for underprivileged children of the Kevin Johnson St. Hope Academy. Bad weather canceled the clinic, but not the children s desire to learn about tennis. They watched a tournament on the indoor courts of the facility and asked questions about the sport.

• USPTA pro Phil Blackwelder held a clinic for 12 children and adults in wheelchairs at the Asheville Buncombe Technical Community College in Asheville, N C. The clinic was advertised by regular radio announcements and received local television coverage.

• David Altshuler, USPTA, held a clinic for children undergoing treatment for cancer and diabetes at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute and Joslin Diabetes Center.

Follow-up program Tennis Across America

alize each encounter with a student is one of the most valuable traits any teaching professional could emulate.

I'm among many thousands of people who will miss him and always remember him. J25

Education from page 5 The next step The USPTA Executive Committee has given the Education Committee the responsibility of continuing to refine proposals which will implement the philosophy of precertifica-tion education, mastery and competency. It is the intent of the Executive Committee to begin this program with the next education period beginning in January 1997 Specific details will follow the National Convention where the Executive Committee will meet to determine the future and direction of the Association. 25 doesn't have to end with the one-day event. A follow-up program was described in the April issue of ADDvantage.

USPTA member Ron Williams of Charleston, WVa., gave tennis scholarships to 10 children who missed the multicultural clinic he held for children of the state housing commission.

Scott Simpson of Danville, 111., offered a multicultural clinic as a kick-off for Operation Hope, a program that provides sports activities for underprivileged children.

The program will run for six weeks. 25

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