Addvantage 2011 November

contents

ADDvantage magazine editorial offices USPTA World Headquarters 3535 Briarpark Drive, Suite One Houston, TX 77042 Phone – 713-978-7782 800-USPTA-4U Fax – 713-358-7794 email – magazine@uspta.org

Shawna Riley Kimberly Forrester Kathy Buchanan John Dettor

Office hours: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Central time

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Editor Managing editor Circulation Advertising

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

The opinions expressed in ADDvantage are those of the authors and not necessarily those of ADDvantage or the USPTA. Copyright© United States Professional Tennis Association, Inc. 2011. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of any portion of the magazine is not permitted without written permission from USPTA. ADDvantage/November 2011

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ADDvantage/ September 2000

contents departments

the total professional – enhancing your career

9 How to become a director of tennis in seven “easy” steps – 2 Executive Committee

by Patricio Misitrano, USPTA 3 CEO’s message

5 Vice president’s message

13 The great teacher in us all – by Ed Wolfarth, USPTA

21 USPTA drills

30 USPTA mailbox

news

30 Classifieds

7 USPTA announces new national board of directors for 2011-2013

32 Career development 34 Industry action

14 2012 USPTA HEAD staff contract

17 USPTA Player Development Conference 29 Ron Woods takes his place in Texas Tennis Hall of Fame

convention 23 USPTA World Conference wrap-up – 2011 Honorees 27 International Championships 27 2011 Draws 28 USPTA raises more than $6,500 during Lessons for Life™ silent auction

28 Sixth annual Cardio Tennis Feeding Shootout is close, exciting competition

On the cover – Feisal Hassan is the 2011 Alex Gordon USPTA Professional of the year.

See Page 23 for more details.

volume 34 • issue 11

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com ADDvantage magazine editorial offices USPTA World Headquarters 3535 Briarpark Drive, Suite One Houston, TX 77042 Phone – 713-978-7782 800-USPTA-4U Fax – 713-358-7794 email – magazine@uspta.org

Shawna Riley Kimberly Forrester Kathy Buchanan John Dettor

Office hours: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Central time

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Editor Managing editor Circulation Advertising

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

The opinions expressed in ADDvantage are those of the authors and not necessarily those of ADDvantage or the USPTA. Copyright© United States Professional Tennis Association, Inc. 2011. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of any portion of the magazine is not permitted without written permission from USPTA. ADDvantage/November 2011

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USPTA Executive Committee Division presidents, regional vice presidents and past national presidents:

National Board of Directors: Tom Daglis

President 301-340-6185

Randy Mattingley First vice president 281-358-2181

Nancy Cox Vice president 503-409-2567

California Division Pierre Mareschal President 626-744-1650 Mike Gennette Regional vice president 805-495-0111

Eastern Division Joe Roediger President 914-373-6232 Warren Lem Regional vice president 631-766-2318

Middle States Division Bill Sember President 484-888-8329 Wilson Pipkin Regional vice president 717-898-3102

Midwest Division Molly Card Beckmann President 317-582-1550, ext. 229 Paul Marcum Regional vice president 248-626-9880, ext. 4006

Jeff Hawes Vice president 504-482-4084

Tom McGraw Vice president 502-895-4646

Dan Moster Vice president 260-249-9424

Gary Trost Vice president 405-848-2994

Harry Gilbert Immediate past president 386-793-0084

Past presidents Ron Woods

(2005-2007) 361-991-7501

David T. Porter, Ed.D.

(2003-2005) 808-675-3755

Joseph Thompson

(1999-2003) 720-470-6550

Florida Division Jeff Cohen President 561-995-5213 Richard Centerbar Regional vice president 561-487-7070

Hawaii Division Ken Nakama President 808-679-3197 Bruce Nagel Regional vice president 808-262-2057

Intermountain Division Kim Davis President 719-536-0797 Alden Bock Regional vice president 303-232-6272

Mid-Atlantic Division John Cleary President 301-340-6185 Carl Clark Regional vice president 804-287-1300

Missouri Valley Division Kendell Hale President 816-235-6377 Angela Koumaris Regional vice president 405-848-2994

New England Division Jacques Faulise President 401-952-7000 Christopher Stevens Regional vice president 603-610-0183

Northern Division Brian McCoy President 763-656-1590 John Schollmeier Regional vice president 952-232-1334

Northern California Division John Sharpe President 925-283-5448 Andrea Barnes Regional vice president 650-736-7272

Pacific Northwest Division Hunter Lipscomb Regional vice president 541-753-1043

San Diego Division Nelson Alapi President 858-382-6571 Dophie Poiset Regional vice president 858-756-4459

Southern Division William Phillips President 337-849-5821 Pat Whitworth Regional vice president 678-482-6357

Southwest Division Sara Stablein President 602-636-9840 Vicki Foster Regional vice president 602-930-8423

Texas Division Charlotte Wylie President 817-427-6680 Jim Sciarro Regional vice president 903-581-7788

CEO’s message Where have all the Gene Scotts gone?

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round this time every month, I get a friendly reminder from In my experience, there just aren’t that many hot topics that can USPTA’s communications department that I need to write be discussed any longer. So as I sat down to write this editorial, I my monthly column in ADDvantage magazine. I am sure found myself crossing numerous items off the list. I felt like a censor there are many of you who would relish this opportunity, knowing that was standing over my shoulder. So after about an hour I gave up and decided to try something new. you’re just busting to comment on numerous topics.

I thought of a letter I had just received from an Unfortunately, it’s not that easy to speak your mind old friend, renowned coach and USPTA Professional these days. But it wasn’t so long ago that one talented Wayne Bryan. As you know, Wayne has coached some individual dared to shape our industry more than any of the best players in the world, including his twin other ever had – or has since – with “mere” words. sons, Mike and Bob Bryan.

The late Gene Scott, both well-respected and Wayne Bryan also is a great motivator, someone notorious, used his cutting editorials in Tennis Week who always speaks his mind, as well as a very interestmagazine to defend and promote the sport he loved. ing philosopher. Those who know him well know that When he let his opinion rip, no one was safe. But his philosophies come in short, inspiring expressions. one thing was certain: Whether you agreed with him Since I’ve always enjoyed reading his letters with these or not, he was the voice of intellectual honesty. And nuggets of wisdom, I decided this would be a good everyone looked forward to his next column.

Tim Heckler place in time to share his latest contributions. Besides, As many friends and observers said after Scott’s untimely death in 2006, we lost a true friend of tennis and a courageous no one can argue that it’s refreshing to read something positive, master of critique. Sadder still, the rules of the game seem to have ­instructional and entertaining. changed and editorializing has lost its bite. Toeing the line – observing So, here are some of Coach Bryan’s “Miscellaneous Good Stuff” an industrywide political correctness – has become more important quotes that he has gathered from an amazing array of sources – from Lincoln to Beethoven … to Bryan.  than piquing readers’ interest in meaningful issues.

“Nothing great is ever achieved without enthusiasm.” Ralph Waldo Emerson “Success is going from failure to failure, without losing your enthusiasm.” Abraham Lincoln “Success without honor is an unseasoned dish. It will satisfy your hunger, but it won’t taste good.” Joe Paterno “Ability may get you to the top, but it takes character to keep you there.” John Wooden “Be humble in victory and gracious in defeat.” John Wooden “It’s nice to be important, but it’s even more important to be nice.” Roger Federer “Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each new year find you a better man or woman.”

Benjamin Franklin

“Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire, the power to unite that little else has . . .

It is more powerful than government in breaking down racial barriers.” Nelson Mandela “A coach is someone who can give correction without causing resentment.” John Wooden

“If history has taught us anything, it’s that it is much easier to play than coach or be a parent watching and coaching.” Richie Gallien “Great kids come from great parents.” Hank Pfister “You may be whatever you resolve to be.” Thomas Stonewall Jackson “Whether you think you can or think you can’t – you are right.” Henry Ford “You gotta see it before you can dream it and you gotta be passionate about it before you can achieve it.” Wayne Bryan continued next page www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

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from previous page “Today’s mighty oak is just yesterday’s nut that held its ground.” Anonymous “Now, I’m old enough, definitely ugly enough and arguably rich enough not to care what people think of me or to fear for my job.”

Etienne de Villiers “Just remember one thing, have fun each day.” Richie Gallien “Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, and that’s the game. But in the end it’s only a game.

You have to accept both things: the win and lose. You have to be ready for everything.” Rafael Nadal “Attending one motivational tennis event is like 30 days of practice.” Wayne Bryan “Consistency is a jewel.” William Shakespeare “I achieved all I did in tennis because like that ol’ Chinese proverb, I was like water dripping on a stone . . . . . .” Tracy Austin “Pressure is a privilege.” Billie Jean King “Champions adjust.” Billie Jean King “Never, ever underestimate the heart of a Champion.” Rudy Tomjonovic “A man will do almost anything to avoid the hard work of thinking.” Thomas Edison “I agree with Thomas Edison, but also think that people don’t like to work either.

That is why you should always do what you love, so you don’t have to work.” Wayne Bryan “The season’s a long season, so you’re going to have peaks and valleys. It’s a roller-coaster ride. You’ve just got to stick with it.” Kobe Bryant “Perfection is promised to no man. Tomorrow is promised to no man.

Enjoy today and give it your best to get something done and have some fun.” Wayne Bryan

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Vice president’s message Mentors and the mentored – A partnership that is key to successful professionals

President First Vice President

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very successful professional in any vocation will be able to name an outstanding individual, or in some cases several people who have influenced their life or career. The knowledge from our experiences can be – and needs to be – passed on to the next generation. A number of studies has revealed a correlation between a young person’s involvement in a quality mentoring relationship and positive outcomes in the areas of school, mental health, problem behavior and health (­Dubois & Karcher, 2005).

What a mentor can do for you in the USPTA • Mentors can introduce new professionals to resources that they do not know about.

• Mentors can help you set career goals and start taking steps on the right path.

National Board of Directors

strengths and weaknesses in order to accomplish these goals and not leave it to the discretion of your mentor. It is important to be a great listener and learner; every minute with your mentor should be a learning experience that is positive and helps you move toward your goals.

• Mentors can help in seeking jobs and, more importantly, keeping jobs.

• Mentors can be a reference for future employment.

There are as many varying ways to help new professionals as there are individuals with different needs.

Know your needs Before you even get started finding a mentor, you need to take a good, hard look in the mirror to determine your own needs and what you are trying to accomplish. Keep it simple. Most mentoring should only last a year, maybe two years at the most, so get a specific set of goals in order before you start the search for a mentor. This way, you will not become sidetracked nor be matched with a mentor who does not have the resources or same goals as you do. It is very important to be very honest with both yourself and your mentor about your

Vice Presidents

Nancy Cox Jeff Hawes Tom McGraw Dan Moster Gary Trost

Past President

Harry Gilbert

WORLD HEADQUARTERS CEO

Tim Heckler

Director of Operations

Types of mentoring • Traditional one-on-one mentoring is the first kind that comes to mind, where a respected professional and a new professional meet on a regular basis.

These meetings may be a weekly phone call, a monthly lunch, or a meeting at your divisional convention or World Conference, or both.

Whatever the amount of time, this should be a joint decision so that both parties have a clear understanding of their time commitment.

Rich Fanning

Administrative Director

Marty Bostrom

Director of Communications

Shawna Riley

Creative Services Director

Julie Myers

Publications Manager/ Managing Editor

Kim Forrester

Director of Public Relations

Poornima Rimm

Communications

Jill Phipps

Director of Marketing

John Dettor

Digital Asset Director

Timothy Heckler

Digital Asset Coordinator/ Ramona Husaru Tennis Multimedia Management Video Production Director

Joe Birkmire

Video Editor

Nick Warwick

Video Editor/ Flash Designer

Aisha Nelson

Video Editor/Videographer Chris Maale

Gary Trost

• Mentors can introduce young professionals to other industry leaders.

Tom Daglis Randy Mattingley

• Group mentoring is when a group of four or five new professionals (maybe you all took the certification exam on the same weekend) have a mentor and meet on a monthly basis to discuss issues and solve problems as a group.

• Peer mentoring may involve the same group that took the test if they want to share information, meet regularly, and look out for each other.

• e-mentoring is exactly that – you have a distance between cities, as in some of our large-area divisions, and can only email weekly or when advice is needed. This can also be used to share educational resources – Tennisresources.com, for example.

Getting started – How do you find the right mentor?

There are several options to get started.

• One person in your division who has knowledge of where to get started is the first person you had contact with – your tester. The tester will

Director of Fred Viancos Professional Development Corporate Janice Stollenwerck Services Administrator Director of Information Technology

Dan Wilson

Information Technology/ Multimedia

Scott Bucic

Director of Computer Services

Kathy Buchanan

Director of Membership and Certification

Vicky Tristan

Membership/ Certification Coordinator

Sylvia Ortiz

Membership/ Melony DeLoach Insurance Coordinator Director of Finance Payroll/Benefits Controller Merchandise/ Accounting Assistant

Kathy Ladner Renée Heckler Ellen Weatherford Shelina Harris

Legal Counsel Attorney-at-law

Paul Waldman

For information, write the USPTA World Headquarters 3535 Briarpark Drive, Suite One Houston, TX 77042 Phone 713-97-USPTA 800-USPTA-4U Fax 713-978-7780 uspta@uspta.org www.uspta.com Office hours: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Central time

continued next page www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

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from previous page have vital contact numbers for the membership chair and also may have an insight into a void you need to fill or a personality that may match with yours.

• Divisional board members are very willing to help you in the best way possible. Many discussions are held at the board level about how important it is to involve the new professionals and keep our association strong and thriving. Finding your divisional board members is as easy as clicking on any one of the 17 divisional websites found on the www.uspta.org website.

• Meet other new professionals at workshops, divisional conventions or World Conferences. I have seen many new professionals bond during testing, exchange information, and remain friends for years, always wanting more information, and progressing a long way in our profession. The networking available to young professionals is immense, and peer-group mentoring will allow you to see other professionals with similar problems and the support will allow you to overcome many problems. Many divisions waive the registration fees at their conferences in your first year after you have tested – check with your convention coordinator.

Be realistic and evaluate The goals should be determined by both parties, or by the group, and should be evaluated after six months and at the end of the year.

This will determine the next step, or if the goals have changed. It

It is important to be a great listener and learner; every minute with your mentor should be a learning experience that is positive and helps you move toward your goals.

may start out as an educational experience for on court, but change to business-related if the need arises. There are cases where volunteering at tournaments will help you get the experience needed to reach certain goals. Again, honesty on both sides is needed for the relationship to work.

The USPTA has so much to offer new professionals, and over the years I have had some great mentors who have helped my career progress. You can find similar opportunities through your local divisions, divisional boards and on the USPTA websites. 

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USPTA announces new national board of directors for 2011-2013

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he United States Professional Tennis Association installed its new national board of directors that will serve the ­association until September 2013. The new board took office during the USPTA World Conference on Tennis, Sept.

19-24, at Saddlebrook Resort in Wesley Chapel, Fla.

All new board members were elected by vote of the general membership. The USPTA bylaws do not allow additional nominations for the positions of president and first vice president, therefore, the choices of the Nominating Committee for those two offices were final prior to the election.

The USPTA board of directors includes:

The USPTA board manages the association’s affairs between meetings of the larger USPTA Executive Committee, which includes the board, three past national presidents, and two elected leaders from each of the USPTA’s 17 domestic divisions.

Board members are nominated by a committee composed of Executive Committee members.

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President Tom Daglis

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First Vice President Randy Mattingley

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New board member and Vice President Nancy Cox

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board member and Vice President Jeff Hawes

The chief executive officer of the USPTA since 1982 is Tim Heckler.

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New board member and Vice President Tom McGraw*

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New board member and Vice President Dan Moster

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New board member and Vice President Gary Trost

Founded in 1927, USPTA strives to raise the standards of the tennis profession while promoting greater awareness of the sport. For more information visit uspta.com. 

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Immediate Past President Harry Gilbert

* Tom McGraw is new to the board for this term, but has previously served on the board.

Tell us what’s on your mind or what works for you!

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Ever wanted to publish an article? This is your chance! Send us your tips or articles on coaching children, high school players, recreational adults – any level – or other subjects such as economic challenges, popular programming, player development, ethics, job security – any tennis-related topic you want to address.

Remember, having an article published in ADDvantage can enhance your career or add to your resume. Also, being published in ADDvantage is worth 25 points toward USPTA Master Professional certification (a maximum of 50 is allowed).

Send articles to the attention of the managing editor at the USPTA World Headquarters or via e-mail to magazine@uspta.org.

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

ADDvantage/November 2011

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How to become a director of tennis in seven “easy” steps

by Patricio Misitrano, USPTA

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e all know that in order to be a good tennis pro you should be an excellent communicator, good player and great teacher, and also have superior people skills on and off the court. But what does it take to land a director of tennis position?

If you have never held this position before, the first step is actually knowing that you want to be a director of tennis. Once you have decided that the way to continue and advance with your professional career is to become a director, you are on the right track.

It’s amazing how many contacts are made and the amount of networking done by teaching pros during conferences.

Step 1: Are you sure?

I know what you are thinking: Hold on a second! Who would not want to become a director of tennis? Hiring staff, managing the tennis shop, dealing with ladies’, men’s and junior teams, and organizing events and tournaments are only some of the tasks that would fall on you. Even the most basic activities such as buying the tennis balls will now be your job. Guess what? You have to teach lessons and clinics too!

Step 2: Job search Once you have made that decision, let’s move on to the second step: Start your search. There are many ways to do that.

If you search online, you should go to the www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

USPTA Find-a-Pro website (usptafindapro.com). But my favorite approach is networking. Stay in touch with colleagues, participate in industry conventions or seminars, play tournaments, or simply go watch tournaments (USTA, USPTA, ITF or even ATP/WTA). You would be amazed how many contacts are made and the amount of networking done by teaching pros during tournaments and conferences.

Also, it may seem obvious, but you should never contact a general manager if a position is not open or a fellow professional is gainfully employed.

Step 3: Resume and cover letter Now that you have started your search,

you must tailor your resume to the job for which you are applying. We all know that resumes should be updated at least twice a year, and particularly every time you switch jobs, receive an award or simply change your mailing address. You should describe your duties as a manager (i.e. budget preparation, budget management, pro shop buying, merchandising and sales, staff supervision and communication with various committees). If you have never held this position before, you should detail your current duties and all of the different programs that you were part of in years past.

Are two pages too many? Absolutely not! When applying for a position as director of tennis, you better have a resume longer than one page (but no longer than three pages). Otherwise, your experiences may not look diverse enough for this upper-management position.

Your resume is your first contact with the search committee and it should be as detailed and relevant as possible. When listing your job-related experience (from most recent to earliest, of course), always include numbers – volume of students, how many assistants you managed, etc.

Words such as managed, organized, scheduled, created and initiated should be all over your resume. Also, don’t forget to list your personal website at the top with your contact information.

Next on your resume should be job affiliations, seminars and workshops attended, awards obtained, tournaments won, etc. Avoid any mention of junior or high school rankings, but you may list college accolades. If it’s a short list, start playing USPTA championships!

Along with your resume you should include a cover letter informing the search committee of your current employment status and why you’re seeking this opportunity. There is no need to write a biography here. Your resume and, hopefully, the continued next page ADDvantage/November 2011

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from previous page interview are much better opportunities to explain why you are the right person for the job.

Other skills and references (upon request) should be listed last. When listing references make sure that you call each person to confirm their participation. You should also be sure that they support you!

You could even offer to write a letter of support for them and have them edit and sign it if they would rather not write it themselves.

When you send your resume and cover letter you should make a reference to your current job (if you have one at the time of applying). You should ask the search committee to keep your application confidential and not to contact your current employer.

They should understand that you need to be the one telling your employer that you will be leaving them. Of course, this conversation should happen after you are actually offered the job and you accept it.

Step 4: Research You have decided that you want to be a director of tennis, your resume is up-todate, and now you have already begun your search. Luckily enough, there is a job that appears to be interesting. Now your job begins: research the club as much as possible, find out who is on the search committee, learn about the facility and its programs, and talk to fellow professionals in the area about their programs. No two clubs will be the same, but there is no shame in “copying” someone else’s success.

That is what I do – I talk to other directors and I ask them what events, programs and tournaments work at their clubs, and then I adapt them to my members. During the interview emphasize the fact that you are informed about what is going on at the clubs in your area. It is extremely important to know as much as you can about the club where you are applying.

Step 5: First interview Once the search committee contacts you and a first interview is scheduled, you should ask them about the format of the interview. Normally this is the time when they just want to meet you and get to know who you are. This is your opportunity to let your personality shine! Bring extra

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copies of your resume and your portfolio.

The portfolio is where you should document everything you have done (programs, certificates, rankings, tournaments won, seminars attended, etc.).

If you have never held a directorship position before, don’t worry. Were you the captain of your college team? Then you have experience motivating and leading others. Did you play college tennis? Then you must be great at managing your time.

Describe how you were able to manage your time successfully, to attend practices, to travel with your tennis team and still be able to excel in school. Did you play and train for tennis for 15 to 20 years? Then you must be a very hard-working individual who continuously tries to improve his or her skills and always wanted to become a better player/teacher/person.

When preparing for the interview always have a sounding board. Have someone in the profession that you can learn from and bounce ideas off. Consult with him or her on resumes, tailoring your portfolio to the job, what he or she thinks the job is paying, what type of membership – equity or private – and what it’s like to live in that area. Your “mentor” should know what type of questions you will be asked. Practice answering the questions before going to the interview.

That is the best way to prepare; just like when we tell our students to practice their forehands, you will be practicing your interviewing skills!

Depending on the number of applications, a search committee may want to narrow down the final candidates to 10 or fewer. If that is the case, they may schedule a phone interview. Set a time away from work where you will not be disturbed.

Never ask about compensation. If you did your homework, you know the range.

If the first interview is not over the phone, then some things change. Wear business clothes. Give everyone a copy of your resume. During the introductions, always make eye contact and try to remember everyone’s names. Speak with enthusiasm as much as you can. You can refer to specific points on your resume to emphasize experiences you want them to know about. You will know you are in trouble if the interview is short.

At the end of the interview you will be

asked if you have any questions. Here is where you need to be prepared to ask the search committee a few questions. You could inquire about how many members play, participate in tournaments, clinics, and events. You should also ask why they are looking for a new director. That is a fair question and somehow similar to asking you why you want to switch jobs and be a director of tennis. You should also inquire about the next steps in the hiring process, such as when you can expect to be contacted again and when they plan to make a final decision. As soon as you get home, send a thank-you note to everyone in attendance at the interview. If you don’t have their contact information, then extend your thanks to the person who contacted you to set up the interview. Handwrite the note and compliment the process, the interview and state that the interviewers are truly dedicated to the club and its ­membership.

Step 6: Second and third interviews After shining during the first interview, you are asked to come in for a second interview.

The search committee obviously liked your personality, and they think that you may be the right person for the job. Now is when you will explain and show how you will improve their tennis program.

Based on all the information that you have been collecting (during the first interview, asking your mentor and colleagues) you should be able to prepare a draft of your tennis program. This outline should be two to three pages and describe the different areas that you will be in charge of: women’s, men’s and junior programs and events, lesson rates, tournaments, hiring and supervising staff and shop management. Put special emphasis on explaining exactly how you plan to advertise, communicate and run all the programs and events.

At this point you should have already inspected the facilities. The second interview is your chance to make any suggestions.

Add anything to spark the conversation and show them you know what you are doing!

After your second interview the search committee will probably ask you to demonstrate your teaching skills. They know you can manage and run a great program www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

but now they also want to learn about your teaching philosophy and how you execute it on the court. Dress as though you are taking the USPTA certification exam. Wear new clothes and shoes. If the club has an all-tennis-whites policy, then come prepared. A collared shirt should be worn at all times. Arrive at least one hour early so you can get comfortable with the facility. Know where the baskets, hoppers, and teaching aids are and get them ready before the lesson starts.

You may be asked to teach an adult clinic and a junior clinic. During the lesson use the students’ names as much as possible. Give compliments and instruction but don’t spend the entire time correcting their strokes. They just want to see your personality and teaching philosophy in action. If you play with some of the top players at the club, avoid playing sets or games where scores are kept. You could play point and drills without actually keeping track. Have a few copies of your portfolio on hand again for students to read while waiting for their lesson.

Step 7: Accepting and negotiating the offer If you’ve gotten this far, things are going well! Be absolutely thrilled and thank them for offering you the job. Be advised that you do not need to accept immediately.

You know that you will be a very valuable asset and they also know that as well.

You can (and should) ask for 48 hours to evaluate the offer. Get all the details of the compensation package. Now is when you need to ask about salary, hourly private and group rates, percentages of lessons, stringing commissions, benefits, health, dental, USPTA conferences, disability and life insurance, cell phone, time off, 401K, pension plans, relocation fees, housing, and starting date of job.

Once you receive the offer you are at one of the two ideal times to negotiate.

The other opportunity is after the first year of service. That is when you should try to “bump” the lesson rate, salary or benefits.

After you accept the offer and sign a contract, you should inform and give ample notice to your current employer.

Write a letter to your general manager,

immediate supervisor, and members about your positive experiences at the club. You should also inform your references that you were awarded the job and thank them.

Follow these seven steps and be ready to get your dream job: director of tennis!  Patricio Misitrano has been the director of tennis at Tamarack Country Club in Greenwich, Conn., since 2008. Originally from Buenos Aires, Argentina, he has been directing, teaching and coaching throughout the Northeast, Florida and Argentina for more than 15 years. As a player, he holds two USPTA national doubles titles and earned a third place in the USPTA Men’s Open Doubles in 2006. He was an All-American player at Webber International University. Misitrano is a member of the Wilson national advisory staff and a certified USPTA Professional 1. He also is a certified APTA Professional 1 and national tester and was a member of the 2009 President’s Cup National Championship team. He has been ranked as high as 16th in the nation and currently serves as a member of the APTA Exhibitions and Clinics Committee.

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The great teacher in us all

by Ed Wolfarth, USPTA

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e all remember at least one teacher who had an especially positive and lasting effect on our lives. It could have been a kindergarten teacher, a high school history teacher, a college professor or, yes, a tennis coach.

Some of the teachers who stand out in our minds taught us through humor, some kept us awake with smoke and mirrors, others wowed us with their quiet brilliance. In all cases, though, their unmistakable focus was always on us; our learning, our growth, our achievement.

In other words, they were all different, but they did share some of the same teaching philosophies, such as: 1. It’s not about you or anything else; it’s about the students The best teachers I ever had cared whether I understood what they were talking about. They gave constant feedback. They wouldn’t stop until they were absolutely certain that we left the class or lesson knowing more than we did when we walked into the room or onto the court.

One of my finest teachers and coaches was my college coach and mentor. When seeing him many years after he retired, I asked him, “How can I ever thank you for everything you did for me?” He smiled and said, “Your success is my reward.”

5. Do as I say and as I do While this seems obvious, it’s easy to forget that students will echo your words, attitudes and especially actions (beware the ol’ do-as-I-say-not-as-I-do approach).

A class led by an engaged, diligent teacher will surely be full of engaged and diligent students. The best teachers understand that the behavior they themselves model sets the tone for the learning experience of their students. Moreover, the way we treat everyone, from colleagues to parents, has a profound impact on how we are perceived.

If you are a teacher, the power to change lives is within your grasp.

2. Life isn’t fair, but your classroom better be We actually teach more than just the subjects we teach. With our interactions, our words, our decisions and attitudes, we are teaching the “other” subjects. Behavior, open-minded fairness, critical inquiry and “transparency of process” are but a few things our students can learn from us. The carefully consistent practice of fairness with our students increases the chances that they will model that behavior with their peers.

3. Sometimes you just need to jump in An Olympic diver was asked, after performing a very difficult dive, “What was the hardest part?” Without hesitation, he answered, “jumping off the board.” Students know when you’re playing it safe. They also know when you are in the present and engaged, when you are willing to take risks. I believe there is an element of courage in the finest teaching. We need to be aware, on a gut level, that if we want to do our job well we have to make that running leap and hope that we land on our feet. We may remember bellyflopping in the past, but once we’re in the air, we can fly. It’s our courage that gives us flight. www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

4. More interaction, less lecturing, makes learning fun I have a love/hate relationship with lesson plans. Without planning we can lose our way, forget an important point or fail to cover some aspect of our lesson. On the other hand, too much planning stifles the spontaneity and sudden insight that are at the heart of the learning process. Allowing students to take the lead requires practice in facilitating. It may be more work for us as teachers, but our students learn better when they are actively involved in the discovery process. Indeed, students may forget much of the stuff we teach them, but we can be sure that they will never forget the excitement of learning.

While there is no set path to becoming an effective teacher, these five guideposts are a good place to start. It all comes down to key elements that never go out of style: caring for and about our students as both human beings and learners, having the necessary expertise and skills, demonstrating our commitment to fairness, emphasizing the process of active learning, being generous with our time, and practicing respectful behavior.

We can manifest these elements in many different ways, and there is nothing to stop anyone from becoming an effective teacher.

It is our individuality, even our eccentricities, that enable us to reach out, connect and inspire. If you are a teacher, the power to change lives is within your grasp. What a great opportunity! 

Ed Wolfarth is the tennis director at the Meadowbrook Pointe Club in Westbury, N.Y. Besides being an active member of the USPTA Eastern Division, he is also on the regional board of the USTA Eastern Section.

He holds national senior rankings in both singles and doubles and has been USPTA High School Coach of the Year as well USTA Senior Player of the Year. When he’s not on the tennis court, Wolfarth is a Professor of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at both Hofstra University and Queens College.

ADDvantage/November 2011

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2012 USPTA HEAD STAFF CONTRACT Dear USPTA Professional: It’s certainly been a challenging year on the business side with economic uncertainty concerning us all. However it has been a banner year for both HEAD and Penn so while others may be taking a conservative approach, we plan on attacking and continuing to gain market share to help you and our retail partners.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING THE USPTA HEAD STAFF CONTRACT! HEAD Penn Racquet Sports will continue to handle all contracts electronically. You can easily submit your contract via the website link: http://uspta.head.com. The site will be open on November 1st. You can also log onto the USPTA.com website, go to Benefits, then the HEAD section for the link.

You are part of the BEST TEAM in TENNIS and WOW – the TEAM just keeps getting better. Novak switched to the YOUTEK IG Speed and has had one of the best years of all time: # 1 in the World – 3 Grand Slams – 5 Master Series 1000 Titles – Currently 64 – 2 (after the US Open). Andy Murray is # 4. Robin Soderling is # 6. HEAD has 4 of the Top 10, 8 of the Top 15 and 15 of the Top 50 on the ATP Tour. Maria Sharapova joined the HEAD TEAM, introduced the YOUTEK IG Instinct and rose to # 2 in the World. Victoria Azarenka is # 3 in the world.

HEAD is a leader is social media, getting unbelievable exposure for the brand. Novak Djokovic played tennis on the wings of an airplane, Andy Murray launched a “Like” Facebook campaign and Maria Sharapova caught Novak imitating her. All of this helped HEAD gain more than any other brand since year-end 2010. The momentum is strong for HEAD right now. And we’ve got more of the same planned – in 2012 we are introducing the YOUTEK IG Prestige & the YOUTEK IG Radical with new S versions and an all new Radical Pro model. We are on a roll and 2012 is going to be a GREAT year!

HEAD’s 2011 launch of FXP Tour string has been a homerun while Sonic Pro, FXP and Synthetic Gut PPS are all in the top 25 selling strings. The new Tour Team, Prestige and Murray bag lines for 2012 are outstanding and have been very well received.

To learn more about HEAD strings and accessories visit our website at: www.head.com.

Our Pro Penn tennis balls continue to be a dominant brand on the courts. Pro Penn has been the official ball of the USPTA for almost 40 years, and we are proud to present our new PRO PENN MARATHON premium tennis ball that will begin shipping in January 2012. The new Pro Penn Marathon has an enhanced Encore Technology core that lasts 22% longer than our current Pro Penn +, as well as our long-wearing High Tenacity LongPlay Felt. This is the next evolution in premium tennis balls for the pro specialty market, and you’ll be blown away by the exciting new packaging and advertising support accompanying our new Pro Penn Marathon ball. Thank you for making Penn balls the US market leader year after year, and please contact your DSM or visit www.pennracquet.com for additional information.

We’re proud to be partners with USPTA and we take our relationship seriously. This sponsorship is our single largest investment and we appreciate you and your efforts to grow the HEAD Penn brands and the game of tennis every day when you step on the court.

All the best,

Greg Mason Amy Wishingrad Roger Petersman V. P. Sales and Marketing National Promotions Manager Senior Category Manager

2012 USPTA HEAD STAFF CONTRACT PROCEDURES How to place your HEAD Penn contract:   



Complete the HEAD Penn Contract online starting November 1st, 2011 at: http://uspta.head.com or log onto USPTA.com, go to Benefits, choose HEAD. Your order will be confirmed instantly with a number on screen and a complete recap of the order to a valid email address you supplied.

You can also follow with one reorder at this site for additional equipment you may wish to purchase.

Complete your contract as soon as possible and no later than January 31st, 2012.

Please call TEAM HEAD at (800) 289-7366, Option #1, if you have any questions.

PLEASE NOTE: 1. “*” If a member who has a contract with HEAD purchases $1,000 worth of HEAD products through his shop, to be sold at retail, he will receive one additional HEAD racquet free. This is to be documented by HEAD and the retailer. If the facility has more than one member on a HEAD contract (i.e. three pros), and that facility purchases several thousand dollars in HEAD product, the additional member pros at that facility (who have a HEAD contract), will also receive one free racquet for the additional $1,000 increments of product purchased (i.e. $3,000 purchase will cover three pros at one racquet each).

This offer is limited to one racquet per member.

- - OR - -

A USPTA member who has a contract with HEAD but does not have a pro shop and works at a facility that does not have a pro shop can also benefit from a different program. HEAD will offer a “Friends and Family Program” a minimum of twice a year. This program will allow any USPTA member to purchase up to $600 worth of HEAD products during each of these promotional periods at Preferred Player Price. If that member, with a HEAD contract, purchases a cumulative $1,000 worth of product during the promotions, they will receive one free racquet. This offer is limited to one racquet per member. The above options cannot be combined.

2. All contracts are due on or before January 31, 2012.

3. All contracts must have a U.S. address. We do NOT ship internationally.

4. Product will start shipping in March 2012. For contracts and other orders with credit card information, your card does not get charged until your order is shipped.

5. Contracts vary for the different levels of Master, Pro 1, Pro 2, Pro 3 and Recreational Coach. The system will recognize your current level based on your USPTA member number and last name.

6. Pro 2 Contracts require Credit Card information to receive the “buy one, get one free” contract (one time only). You do not receive the free product portion without a racquet purchase.

7. Pro 3 & Recreational Coaches are eligible for preferred pricing as are all other levels when ordering additional product.

Credit card information must be complete for the order to be processed.

8. Please check your order confirmation received by email for correct product and address information. An email address must be noted when filling out the contract.

9. There is a “No-Exchange” policy on racquets and equipment. If it is a shipping error, we will exchange up to 30 days of receipt of product.

10. HEAD Penn is not responsible for product shipped to an address that is no longer valid. It is your responsibility to notify Team HEAD of any changes to the address once the contract has been submitted.

11. HEAD Penn is not responsible for lost or stolen goods.

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USPTA drills Net destroyer drill

Type: Doubles Levels: Intermediate/adv.

prepared by Jorge Capestany, USPTA

Description and goals: The goal of this drill is to teach the players to keep the ball deep and to attack the net on short balls.

Organization: Players are positioned on baselines with the pro by the net post.

Pro feeds a deep ball to either side of the court. Players rally until a shot lands inside the service line. The team that receives the short ball must go to the net and play out the point. Pro then feeds a ball to the team on the baseline and the point is played out. The third ball is played like the second. If a rally ends without a short ball, then both teams play another baseline point. The team that wins 2 of the 3 points stays in, while the other team rotates out and is replaced by waiting team.

Stinger drill

Description and goals: The goal of this four-ball drill is to teach the different shots of aggression in doubles and how to defend against them.

Organization: Players are positioned in usual one-up and one-back position with net player on opposite side of the court from the pro, positioned as the server’s partner. Pro feeds a short ball to A who hits a “stinger” shot to D and comes in. The teams play out the point. Pro then feeds volley to B, then a volley to A, then an overhead to either A or B. The point is played out on all feeds. Rotate players when the four-ball sequence ends. www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Variations: Feed second and third balls as lobs over the team at the net. Keep score as a team.

Key points: Players should focus on keeping the ball deep and taking advantage of the short ball. Remember, the team receiving the short ball must go to the net.

Type: Doubles Levels: Intermediate/adv.

prepared by Jorge Capestany, USPTA

Category: Doubles/strategy & tactics Time/players: 20 minutes/1-8

Category: Doubles/strategy & tactics Time/players: 20 minutes/1-8

Variations: Vary approach shot (FH & BH). Change approach to a transition volley. Keep score as a team. With 8 players, rotate as a team. Alternate to ad court.

Key points: Players should focus on being aggressive on the short ball, easy volleys and overheads. Defenders should keep the ball low to the net players and learn to defend overheads.

Generated by iTennisSystem – www.InterTennis.com

ADDvantage/November 2011

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USPTA World Conference 2011 Honorees Ben Press, Coronado, Calif. – Presidential Award Ben Press is a USPTA Master Professional who has been teaching tennis for more than 65 years. He began as a player, specifically an All American at UCLA. He played against some of the greats including Bill Tilden, Pancho Gonzales, Bobby Riggs, and Tony Trabert, to name a few.

His contributions to tennis are immeasurable. As a coach, he coached San Diego’s only two Wimbledon champions, Maureen Connolly (Brinker), the first woman to win the Grand Slam, and Karen Hantz (Susman), winner of three Wimbledon titles, one singles and two doubles with Billie Jean King.

He was also responsible for coaching Brian Teacher to an Australian Open singles title.

Press was one of the founders of World TeamTennis. He invented the Scepter Racquet (the first of all graphite racquets in the marketplace). Press has also been very involved with the USPTA. He has served as the USPTA San Diego Division president and vice president and on several USPTA committees, including awards, public relations and testing. He is also on the board of the Southern California Tennis Association and the San Diego District Tennis Association and current president of The Greater San Diego City Tennis Council.

His dedication to community work and impact on tennis has been recognized by many. In fact, in mid-August American Express and USTA honored Ben Press by pledging one of four $50,000 “Fresh Courts” grants to renovate La Mesa’s La Mesita Park Tennis Facility. He was honored with the USTA/USPTA Community Service Award in 2005. He was also in the first class inducted into the San Diego Tennis Hall of Fame, and was recently inducted into the Southern California Senior Tennis Hall of Fame.

USPTA World Conference photos are now available online for purchase!

To view photos from the conference: Go to WWW.EHFOTO.COM Click on: WEBSITES tab (at the top of the page) Under recent photos click on: USPTA 2011 If pictures don’t come up immediately, click CONTINUE to go to pictures.

Steve Wilkinson, St. Peter, Minn. – Presidential Award Steve Wilkinson, who is a USPTA P-1, has been a member of the association for nearly 40 years. He played tennis for Iowa University before he began his teaching career. He has also been ranked No. 1 nationally in men’s 45s, 50s, 55s, and 60s.

Wilkinson’s impact and influence as a tennis teacher is tremendous. He has a strong commitment to building strong tennis players and stronger human beings and in the process has touched and changed the lives of thousands of people. As head coach of Gustavus Adolphus College, he has built a dynasty for 40 years with multiple national championships, numerous singles and doubles championships and more than 35 conference titles. He founded the Tennis and Life clinics/camps more than 25 years ago and has dedicated his time and effort to improving the tennis performance of youth and adults.

His involvement with the USPTA includes serving as regional vice president and division president and serving on the tournament committee. Wilkinson has also served as a USTA clinician for high school coaches clinics, Tennis Festival of the North and Tennis and Life clinics.

Wilkinson has done much to promote tennis and sportsmanship, and as a result of all of his efforts and dedication, he has been inducted into the hall of fame of three different USTA sections and the Intercollegiate Tennis Association Hall of Fame, and was the recipient of the tennis hall of fame education merit award.

Feisal Hassan, Midlothian, Va. – Alex Gordon Award for the USPTA Professional of the Year Feisal Hassan has been involved in tennis and has been a USPTA member for more than 20 years. Hassan, who is also a USPTA Master Professional, grew up playing junior tennis at the local and national level in Zimbabwe, Africa, before moving to the United States. After playing collegiate tennis for four years at Virginia Commonwealth University and earning a degree in marketing, Hassan began his tennis-teaching career.

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

continued next page ADDvantage/November 2011 23

from previous page He has been very committed to the USPTA. He is currently a tester and on the national education and diversity committees. He has served as the director of testing/certification and education for Middle States. In addition, he has also been highly involved with the USTA as a High Performance Coach and a national trainer for QuickStart and Recreation Coaches. He has been a coach for USTA competitive training centers and USTA Intersectional and Zonal Teams.

Hassan has also been a USPTA speaker at both divisional conventions and the World Conference, as well as a USTA speaker and trainer at both regional and national USTA workshops.

In addition, he has coached at the national/international level for the country of Zimbabwe. His roles included director of coaches’ education for Tennis Zimbabwe, national coach of the Junior Davis Cup for Zimbabwe and the coach of Zimbabwe 18’s national team.

Hassan has also made giving back to the community a priority. He and his family are heavily involved with the developmentally challenged population and community. His efforts include volunteer work with Trinity Lutheran Church, Ministry to the Developmentally Challenged Adults (Special Needs Ministry), Nathaniel’s Hope Buddy Break (a free kids/respite program where kids with special needs make new friends and get to try new activities) and serving as a seasonal tennis coach for Special Olympics.

Hassan authored the book, “How to Handle Difficult Players and Conditions” and has also published more than 80 articles in international, national, division and local publications.

He is currently on the HEAD/Penn National Advisory Board and Speaker’s Bureau, and on the Tennis Industry Association’s National Cardio Tennis Speakers Team. Previous accolades include the USPTA Industry Excellence Award in 1999, the Tennis Industry’s 40 Under 40 in 2000, five-time Division Tester of the Year, 10-time USPTA Division/State Pro of the Year, and seven-time national Top-10 point holder in the USPTA’s Career Development Program.

Matthew Boughton, Eau Claire, Wis. – USPTA Industry Excellence Award Matthew Boughton, who is the director of tennis and a tennis professional at the Eau Claire YMCA, has had a tremendous impact on the growth of the junior tennis program, membership and revenue. In 2011 alone, after taking over the junior team tennis, participation has increased by 40 percent to more than 140 kids and has tripled the number of junior events in the city for the summer. In addition, he has created scholarships so that everyone has the opportunity to join regardless of income. Under Boughton’s leadership, the YMCA is working on a collaboration with the LIVESTRONG foundation to offer cancer survivors free tennis programming and training to help them with their physical fitness. During his four years at the YMCA, Boughton has managed to help increase membership revenue by 20 percent and lesson revenue is up 39 percent. He has encouraged the use of promotions through social media to help increase pro shop revenue to more than 35 percent. The total facility revenue has increased by 26 percent since Boughton started.

Philip “Fitz” Paccione, Portland, Ore. – USPTA Star Award Fitz Paccione, who is the tennis director of Portland After-School Tennis & Education (PAST&E Inc.), and the NFL Category Information Analyst for Nike, Inc., has made significant contributions to tennis in Portland. The program works to develop young tennis athletes from poor families into successful tennis players who graduate from high school. Paccione, who has worked in practically every capacity at PAST & E Inc., from volunteer instructor to tennis director, has led the organization to the No. 1 national ranking for tennis chapter in development. He has helped to secure grants from USTA, Nike, Portland Parks & Rec., and other national organizations. His current goals for the organization are to increase the annual budget of PAST & E Inc. to more than $300,000 and to increase the retention rate to 100 percent, and have all students graduate from high school as varsity tennis athletes.

Michael Andrews, Fort Wayne, Ind. – USTA/USPTA Community Service Award Mike Andrews has been a USPTA member for more than 15 years, and has continued to give to his community through tennis. He is very active in the tennis industry and is a former USPTA Midwest Division president, as well as a current USTA Northern Indiana Junior Davis Cup Coach, Recreation Coach Workshop Clinician, QuickStart Tennis Specialist, and USTA Schools Clinician.

In addition, Andrews serves on several committees for charity work in the Fort Wayne area, including The Vera Bradley Classic fundraiser for breast cancer research, The Tennis Ball fundraiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and Parkview Foundation – Tennis Slam for the Ronald McDonald Family Room

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ADDvantage/November 2011

at Parkview Hospital. Andrews has also worked Arthur Ashe Kids Day at the U.S. Open in New York. He was named 1998 USPTA Indiana Professional of the Year. Originally from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Andrews holds a degree in Recreation Management from Lake Superior State University where he played college tennis. He is currently the managing professional at Wildwood Racquet Club in Fort Wayne, Ind. Fernando Velasco, Austin, Texas – Lessons for Life Individual Award Fernando Velasco has hosted numerous charity events at the Circle C Tennis Club in Austin, Texas. The goal of the events is to introduce the game of tennis to adults and juniors who may feel that because of their disabilities or finances, they cannot play tennis. The events have included First Volley Clinic (free clinic for amputees and those with physical challenges), Toys for Blue Santa (mixer and toy donation with the toys donated to Blue and Brown Santa programs in Austin), Dennis Ralston Fundraiser (tennis fundraiser with proceeds benefiting Dennis Ralston, whose leg was amputated after an infection from ankle surgery, complimentary tennis clinics (for both juniors and adults), cardio tennis for local elementary schools, and wheelchair workshops. Velasco is the owner, general manager and director of tennis at Circle C Tennis Club.

Bill Mecca, Garden City, N.Y. – Tennis Across America Individual Award Bill Mecca, along with the Eastern Division, hosted TennisFest 2011, a free event for more than 1,500 attendees featuring free tennis lessons, exercise and other instruction. The event was made possible through volunteer efforts, the work of partners including USTA national and Eastern Section, and numerous sponsors. The event, which was held at Saw Mill Tennis Club, was a mix of tennis clinic, cardio tennis, pilates, competitions and a concert for the kids. While the event was for all age groups, there was an emphasis on 10 and under tennis.

Boys and Girls Clubs were invited to participate and buses were provided for kids to attend the event from Brooklyn and Harlem.

Ira Peskowitz, West Palm Beach, Fla. – USPTA Diversity Award Ira Peskowitz is the creator/founder and director of the Kids and Police Tennis Association (KAPTA), Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Police Athletic League’s nonprofit organization. The program, which uses the 10 and under tennis QuickStart Format of play, is comprised of 300 kids between the ages of 4 and 16.

The goal of the program is to give kids an activity to help them to look outside their community and see something other than crime (specifically those in high crime, multi-ethnic and low-income neighborhoods), to positively interact with law enforcement and to learn a sport that they would never have been exposed to. The motto is “Our courts or criminal courts? You choose.”

His involvement led him to become USPTA-certified. Peskowitz is also a deputy sheriff at the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.

Raul Saad, Shreveport, La. – Manager of the Year – Small Facility Raul Saad is the general manager of Pierremont Oaks Tennis Club in Shreveport, La. The club, which has a membership of more than 500 families, has 21 tennis courts and 17 QuickStart courts, a comprehensive fitness center and dining areas. It is one of the biggest clubs in the region. When Saad took over, the organization was facing significant turmoil and had lost more than 200 memberships. He was able to turn things around by implementing a new schedule of tennis programs, corporate culture development training and a clearly defined mission statement. The club does require all tennis-teaching staff to be USPTA-certified, and to upgrade to P-1 within two years of employment.

Staff continuing education and professional development are cornerstones of Saad’s management philosophy. In addition to running Little Tennis, Tennis Across America and other industry programs, the club hosts a blood bank, free clinic with racquets, and an event to benefit Saint Jude Hospital.

Derrick Barnett, Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. – Manager of the Year – Large Facility Derrick Barnett is the general manager of BallenIsles Country Club in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. He oversaw the planning, design and completion of a 72,000-square-foot sports complex with extensive tennis and fitness facilities. He also approved additional special event funds targeted to create excitement and promote the sport of tennis, which has led to several exhibition matches with current and former tour players. The club, which has more than 1,400 members, a 72,000-square-foot clubhouse, 22 tennis courts, pro shop, pilates, aerobics and spinning studio, and physical therapy suite, requires all www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

tennis-teaching professionals to be USPTA certified. All tennis professionals are encouraged to participate in local workshops, maintain membership and attend conventions, all of which the club supports financially. The club also believes in giving back to the community by donating courts for at least six charity tournaments a year and by supporting various outreach programs, including free clinics through Tennis Across America and First Serve.

Vincent Horcasitas, East Hampton, N.Y. – Men’s 45-and-over Player of the Year Vincent Horcasitas was the winner of the men’s 45 singles at the Hard Court Championships in 2010 and was a semifinalist in the men’s 45 singles and doubles at the 2010 USPTA International Championships. He was USPTA’s No. 1-ranked player in men’s 45 singles in 2010.

Jackie Mueller Egelhoff, Mequon, Wis. – High School Coach of the Year The Homestead High School girls’ team went undefeated while the boys’ team went 20-2, and both teams were crowned conference and sectional champions, under coach Jackie Mueller Egelhoff. In addition, the girls finished in first place and the boys finished in second place at the state tournament. Egelhoff is also the manager/head tennis professional at The River Tennis Club and the co-director and head tennis professional for Wisconsin Advantage Kids/Adults Special Needs Tennis.

Kimm Ketelsen, Tyler, Texas – Men’s 55-and-over Player of the Year Kimm Ketelsen was the winner of the men’s 60 singles at the 2010 USPTA International Championships and the men’s 55 singles at the 2010 USPTA Hard Court Championships. He was the USPTA’s No. 1-ranked player in men’s 60 singles and co-No.-3 ranked player in men’s 55 singles in 2010. Ketelsen is the men’s assistant tennis coach and chair of the professional tennis management program at Tyler Junior College.

Mike Gennette, Newbury Park, Calif. – Co-College Coach of the Year As head men’s tennis coach at California Lutheran University, Mike Gennette led his team to an impressive 21-3 record for the 2010-2011 season overall. The team won its first 19 matches (a school record). The team finished No. 3 regionally and No. 7 nationally. Two of his players were named All-Americans.

Gewan Maharaj, Tampa, Fla. – Men’s 55-and-over Player of the Year Gewan Maharaj was the winner of the men’s 55 singles at the 2010 USPTA Clay Court Championships. He was the USPTA’s co-No. 3-ranked player in men’s 55 singles in 2010. Maharaj is the director of tennis at the Tampa Yacht and Country Club.

Peter Smith, Rossmoor, Calif. – Co-College Coach of the Year As the head men’s tennis coach at the University of Southern California, Peter Smith led the men’s tennis team to a remarkable 27-2 record overall for the 2011 season, including the first season the team has gone undefeated in the Pac 10 league play since 1987. In addition to the impressive record, the team won the NCAA men’s championship (for the third year in a row), the NCAA men’s singles championship, and won both the Pac 10 conference singles and doubles championship.

Amy Alcini, Malibu, Calif. – Women’s Open Player of the Year Amy Alcini was the winner of women’s open doubles at the 2010 USPTA International Championships. She also won the women’s open doubles title at the USTA Open National and the women’s 40 doubles title at the USTA National Hard Courts.

She was the USPTA’s co-No. 3-ranked player in women’s open doubles in 2010.

Kendall Brooks, Austin, Texas – Touring Coach of the Year Kendall Brooks is currently the director of junior development, director of women’s programming, junior team tennis coordinator and academy coach at Austin Tennis Academy in Austin, Texas.

Brooks has been working with Molly Fisher, who is ranked No. 348 by the USTA nationally in girls 14s for two years, and with Meghan O’Malley, who is ranked No. 591 by the USTA nationally in girls 14s, for four years. O’Malley has a record of 32-34, including an upset of the No. 9 seed at the Texas sectionals, while Fisher has a record of 34-20, including an upset of the No. 3 seed at the Texas sectionals, and a 5th place finish at the Texas Sectionals, under Brooks this year. Brooks has also worked with Brooke Hughes, Sydney Young, Meredith Parks and Abigail Chin.

Ben Rakusin, Fort Lauderdale, Fla. – Tester of the Year Ben Rakusin, a USPTA Professional 1, is a tennis professional at the Country Club of Coral Springs. He has been a tester for the Florida Division for 19 years and has tested 69 people in the past year. He makes it a priority to maintain regular communication among the team of testers and with the World Headquarters, and values and incorporates all feedback (positive or negative) from applicants. He is committed to make every applicant’s experience the best possible first impression of the USPTA. Tony Larson, Minneapolis – Men’s Open Player of the Year Tony Larson was the men’s open singles winner at the 2010 Hard Court Championships. He was the USPTA’s No. 3-ranked player in men’s open singles and No. 2-ranked player in men’s open doubles in 2010. Larson is a tennis professional at Moore Lake Lifetime Fitness in Brooklyn Park, Minn.

Robin Keener, Melbourne, Fla. – Women’s 35-and-over Player of the Year Robin Keener was the winner of the women’s 35 singles at the 2011 USPTA Clay Court Championships, a finalist in women’s open singles and runner-up in women’s open doubles in the 2010 USPTA International Championships. She has been USPTA’s No.1ranked player in women’s 35 singles since 2007. Keener is the director of tennis at the Swiss Inn Tennis Center in Melbourne, Fla. Kathy Vick, Lubbock, Texas – Women’s 45-and-over Player of the Year Kathy Vick was the winner of the women’s 50 singles, 50 doubles and 45 doubles at the USTA’s Bocage Senior Invitational and a finalist in women’s 50 doubles at the USTA National Women’s 40 & 50 Indoor Championship. She was USPTA’s No. 10-ranked player in women’s open singles in 2010. Vick is the head tennis professional at Hillcrest Golf & Country Club in Lubbock, Texas.

Binki Thalheimer, Prescott, Ariz. – Women’s 55-and-over Player of the Year Binki Thalheimer was the champion of the women’s 60 singles at the 2010 USPTA International Championships. She was USPTA’s No.1-ranked player in women’s 60 singles in 2010. She was also the mixed 55 doubles champion and women’s 45 doubles finalist at the USTA’s Mile High Open. She was named the 2010 Southwest Women’s Senior Player of the Year. Thalheimer was head tennis pro at Prescott Racquet Club and is currently a title officer at Yavapai Title Agency in Prescott, Ariz.

Kamil Kuchta, Fort Lauderdale, Fla. – Men’s 35-and-over Player of the Year Kamil Kuchta was the champion of the men’s 40 singles at the 2011 USPTA Clay Court Championships and the 2010 International Championships. He was the USPTA’s No.1-ranked player in men’s 40 singles and doubles in 2010. He is the director of tennis at Wycliffe Country Club in Wellington, Fla. www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

ADDvantage/November 2011

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2011 Honorees

Ira Peskowitz accepts USPTA’s first Diversity Award.

Divisional awards Large Division of the Year – Texas Small Division of the Year – Southwest Newsletter of the Year – Southern

Division growth Greatest number of new members – 1. Southern 2. Florida Greatest percentage of new members – 1. Intermountain 2. Southern Tennis Across America™ Greatest number of participants – 1. Texas 2. Northern California 3. Midwest Greatest percentage of participants – 1. Texas 2. San Diego 3. Missouri Valley 2010 Lessons for Life™ Most money raised – Southern Most money raised per capita – Southwest Top education participants – 2010 Ian Thomson – Top credit earner David Hardy Warren Lem Bill Mecca Pat Whitworth Joe Roediger Fernando Mateu Craig Wells Ron Woods Simon Harrington

Master Professional Darryl Lewis Emilio Sánchez Vicario

USPTA Specialists in Competitive Player Development Hector Hernandez Stephen Schram Jon Winegardner

Lessons for Life Individual Award Fernando Velasco

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ADDvantage/November 2011

Tennis Across America Individual Award Bill Mecca

Diversity Award Ira Peskowitz

Education merit award for 10 years of continuing-education participation Avis Murray Nancy Tielke

Sportsmanship award winners

Samantha Ardenfriend, Sarasota, Fla. Micky Navarro, Tyler, Texas Ronny Gould, Cocoa Beach, Fla.

Team Championships Florida defeated Southern, 24-7

2011 Awards Committee Bunny Bruning, chair Avis Murray Shelly Solomon-Heller Ron Woods

Years of Service 60 years Chuck Boyle Ted Withall

Luis Cuadra Lee DeYoung Jim Davis Ralph Drumheller Elizabeth Derry Mike Duncan Mike Dickens Christine Eddy Greg Dredge Roy Emerson 55 years Bob Fann Carlton Buerger Brittin Feldhausen Scott Ford Bill Foreman Neil Chase Roger Furman Steve Gallagher 50 years Paul Gagon Sharyn Gatter Clarence Mabry Gary George Bill Gerdts Joseph Pizzat Florin Giuglescu Robert Gomez Frank Schuler Carlos Goffi Dick Gould Dennis Van der Meer Linda Gohagan John Guevara Dennis Grainger Dan Halvorsen 45 years Fernando Guarachi Jon Hardman Dave Anderson Jake Hannas Donald Harring John Bregin Charlie Herrington Rod Harris Ron Fenasci Mike Hoctor Sarah Hatgas Ed Foster Norman Kalkhoff John Heiss Ty Fuller Jeff Kefalos Doug Hofer Ed Gordon Nancy Kirsten-Barnes John Holladay Don Henson George Kosloff Ron Holmberg Harry Hoffmann Tom Krukiel James Hunt Chuck Kellogg Judy Martindale Arun Jetli Robert Luedtke Joseph McGurrin Ted Kopren John Rountree Mark Medow Rod Laver Andrew Moffat Mike Lewis 40 years Thomas Morlock Larry Lewis Lee Adams Peter Moss C.W. Lewis Tom Bass Barbara Ann Mueller Mike Lewitt Bob Bayliss Ted Murray Lee Libby Stephanie Bird Karen Neuman Rodger Lolley Sydney Brass Vicki Patton Omar Lopez Joseph Butchee Jean Peabody Gregg Manning Dan Cox Steve Plaisance Don Maxa Bob Ecuyer Carl Poske Brian McCoy Paul Fein Celeste Pregracke Ted Meyer Joe Felice Roy Riley Peter Minarich David Fowler Phyllis Roach Cheryl Moore Jay Gilliford Steven Sarver Jim Moulton Bill Guilfoil Susan Selke Richard Newman Greg Hilley Tim Smith Dan O’Connell Laurel Holgerson Raymond Smith Dennis Oricchio David Howell Ted Sprinkmann Richard Palmer Brad Humphreys Muriel Stine Becky Plowman-Hahn Dave Kozlowski Fred Stolle David Ray Hilary McGuire Joseph Thompson Weston Reese Avis Murray Michael Tiberg Gene Renuart Boots O’Brien Steve Tidball Dave Schobel Chuck Pate Leo Vorwerk Al Secunda Andrea Rains John Waltz Mike See Ron Rebhuhn Holly Weitendorf Allen Shapter Jim Robinson Wayne Wookey John Shelander Lenny Schloss John Worley Kirk Shoemaker Jeff Unger Gary Zimmerman Dan Smithyman Don Usher Bob Spilman David Yorks 30 years

Lawrence Standiford Charles Zimmerman Jim Alstad Andrew Stanfield

Ray Anders Matt Stiltz 35 years Doug Atkinson Barry Stout John Adams Scott Barr Paul Susz Paul Adler Jerry Baskin Russ Tapper Lawrence Axtell Zachry Bator Steve Tiffin Jonathan Bailin Jose Benjumea Mark Trach Dale Balun Ben Bishop Larry Vroom Skip Bishop Phil Blackwelder Paul Waldman Scott Buell Carey Brading Ross Walker David Buerkle Lee Brockman Paul Waltz Patti Burns Mark Brown Bob Watson Tim Butorac Frank Carleton Joel Whitesides Sandy Cadel Steve Chapman Marceil Whitney Gordon Collins Jim Cole Mike Wilkinson Art Cramp Dennis Crowell Tim Wynne Geoffrey Crawford Tom Cuming Jim Crouse Tom D’Aquin Joe Csandli Curly Davis www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

International Championships

2011 Draws

USPTA International Championships Men’s open singles

Men’s singles finals Men’s open – Adrian Zguns (1), Orlando, Fla., def. Oren Motevassel (2), Sunnyvale, Calif., 6-3, 6-2.

1. Adrian Zguns (1) Orlando 2. BYE

Men’s 35-and-over – Marcin Rozpedski (1), Palm Desert, Calif., def. Denny Rager (2), Fort Myers, Fla., 6-2, 6-0.

3. Tye Myers

Men’s 40-and-over – Oren Motevassel (1), Sunnyvale, Calif., def. Mark Palus (2), Tampa, Fla., 6-1, 6-1.

Indialantic, Fla.

6-2, 6-3

Oren Motevassel (2)

6-3, 3-0

Valter Paiva

Naples, Fla.

Long Beach, Calif.

Maputo, Fla.

15. Ronny Gould

Franco Mata (3)

6-3, 6-3

Ronny Gould

Oren Motevassel (2)

7-5, 6-3

Franco Mata (3)

Cocoa Beach, Fla.

1-6, 6-4, 6-4 16. Keith Ginnetti

Men’s doubles finals

Mixed 45-and-over – Miguel Navarro, Tyler, Texas, and Kathy Vick, Lubbock, Texas, def. Carolyn Franca, Tampa, Fla., and Gewan Maharaj, Tampa Fla., 7-5, 6-3.

Sunnyvale, Calif.

14. BYE

Women’s 50-and-over – Kathy Vick, Lubbock, Texas, round robin winner.

Finals open – Agata Cioroch, Atlanta, and Marcin Rozpedski, Palm Desert, Calif.

(1), def. Robin Keener, Melbourne, Fla., and Denny Rager, Fort Myers, Fla., 6-1, 6-1.

Kurt Pessa

13. Franco Mata (3)

Women’s 35-and-over – Robin Keener, Melbourne, Fla., def. Christie Bradley, Sanibel, Fla., 4-6, 6-4, 6-1.

Mixed doubles

6-2, 6-3 12. Valter Paiva

Women’s open – Agata Cioroch, Atlanta, def. Nicole Berger, Key West, Fla., 6-1, 6-0.

Women’s open – Vicki Foster, Chandler, Ariz., and Sara Stablein, Phoenix, def.

Brenda Mertz, Nokomis, Fla., and Jennifer MacAlister, Naples, Fla., 6-4, 6-1.

6-2, 6-2

11. Jon Call

Women’s singles finals

Women’s doubles finals

Nathan LeFevre (4)

Rockville, Md.

10. BYE

Men’s 65-and-over – Hank Brenner, Lookout Mountain, Tenn., and Fernando Velasco, Austin, Texas, def. Gustavo Castillo, Potomac, Md., and Francisco Castillo, Miami, 1-6, 6-4, 6-3.

Adrian Zguns (1) 6-1, 6-0 Nathan LeFevre (4)

9. Oren Motevassel (2)

Men’s 70-and-over – Algis Juodikis, San Jose, Calif., def. Dudley Bell, East Burke, Vt., 6-0, 6-0.

Men’s 60-and-over – Tommy Connell, Houston, and Kimm Ketelsen, Tyler, Texas (1), def. Terry See, Fort Myers, Fla., and Gewan Maharaj, Tampa, Fla., 7-6, 3-6, 6-2.

Sea Bright, N.J.

Men’s 65-and-over – Geoffrey Moore (2), Boynton Beach, Fla., def. Fernando Velasco (1), Austin, Texas, 6-0, 6-1.

Men’s 50-and-over – Greg Neuhart, Loxahatchee, Fla., and Carlos Triana, Aventura, Fla., def. James Katterfield, Fort Myers Beach, Fla., and Frank Swope, Jupiter, Fla., 6-1, 6-3.

8. Neal Castillo

Men’s 60-and-over – Kimm Ketelsen (2), Tyler, Texas, def. Tommy Connell, Houston, 6-4, 6-1.

Men’s 45-and-over – Kevin Gillette, Meridian, Miss., and Robert Horsch, Laguna Niguel, Calif., (1), def. Joe Biedenharn, Vero Beach, Fla., and Tim Brueggeman, Vero Beach, Fla., 6-3, 6-0.

7. Kurt Pessa

Men’s 55-and-over – Stephen Shortridge (1), Fort Myers, Fla., def. Greg High, Sarasota, Fla., 4-6 (ret.)

Men’s 40-and-over – Page Buck, Tampa, Fla., and Mark Palus, Tampa, Fla., (1), def. Jason Gilbert, Miami Gardens, Fla., and David Freiman, Tampa, Fla., 6-3, 6-1.

Naples, Fla.

6. BYE

Men’s 50-and-over – Greg Neuhart (1), Loxahatchee, Fla., def. Michael Lawver, Fort Myers, Fla., 6-1, 6-3.

Men’s 35-and-over – Jonas Lundblad, Georgetown, Texas, and Cary Lothringer, The Woodlands, Texas, def. Denny Rager, Fort Myers, Fla., and Jeff Diggs, Cape Coral, Fla., 6-4, 6-1.

Adrian Zguns (1) 4-4 (ret.)

Tye Myers

4. BYE

5. Nathan Le Fevre (4)

Men’s 45-and-over – Rill Baxter, Sarasota, Fla., def. Jeff Cohen (1), Boca Raton, Fla., 6-3, 6-3.

Men’s open – Franco Mata, Maputo, Fla., and Kurt Pessa, Indialantic, Fla., def.

Jonas Lundblad, Georgetown, Texas, and Cary Lothringer, The Woodlands, Texas, 6-7, 6-3, 6-4.

Uniontown, Ohio

Women’s open singles 1. Nicole Berger Key West, Fla. 6-1, 6-0 Agata Cioroch Atlanta

Agata Cioroch 6-1, 6-0

Men’s open doubles 1. Mata/Pessa (1) Maputo, Fla. BYE 2. Griffin/Idi

Bradenton, Fla.

7-6, 6-2

Mata/Pessa (1) 6-4, 6-2 Gould/Paiva

Gould/Paiva

Mata/Pessa (1) 6-7, 6-3, 6-4 Lundblad/Lothringer (2)

Cocoa Beach, Fla.

3. Lundblad/Lothringer (2)

BYE

4. LeFevre/Porter

Sea Bright, N.J.

6-1, 6-3

Lundblad/Lothringer (2) 6-2, 6-3

Castillo/Navarro

Castillo/Navarro

Mixed open doubles

1. Cioroch/Rozpedski (1)

Atlanta/Palm Desert, Calif.

6-1, 6-0

Cioroch/Rozpedski (1)

Schlader/Berger 6-1, 6-1 Clive, Iowa/Key West, Fla. Keener/Rager

2. Keener/Rager

Melbourne, Fla./Fort Myers, Fla.

6-3, 6-3

Ardenfriend/Hatori Naples, Fla./Naples, Fla.

Cioroch/Rozpedski (1) 6-1, 6-1

Adrian Zguns (1) 6-3, 6-2 Oren Motevassel (2)

USPTA raises more than $6,500 during Lessons for Life™ silent auction

T

he United States Professional Tennis Association raised $6,587 from its silent auction held at the USPTA’s Tennis Buying Show during the World Conference on Tennis from Sept. 19-24, at the Saddlebrook Resort in Wesley Chapel, Fla. During the silent auction, attendees had an opportunity to bid on a variety of items, including: • Andy Murray–autographed racquet, courtesy of HEAD Penn Racquet Sports

• 6-ft-by-10-ft. Tuffy windscreen panel with a 3-ft-by-3-ft onecolor logo, courtesy of Aer-flo • Dartfish Connect 6.0 annual license +90 Dartfish TV, courtesy of Dartfish • Two tickets to the 2012 U.S. Open, courtesy of USTA • Nolan Ryan–autographed baseball, courtesy of Olshan • Two-night stay in a deluxe view room at Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in ­Orlando, Fla., courtesy of Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress The auction benefits the USPTA foundation, which through grants supports various programs in the community that help to grow tennis and bring the game to those who might not otherwise have the chance to play. 

Sixth annual Cardio Tennis Feeding Shootout is close, exciting competition

A

great time was had by all at the 2011 World Conference at Saddlebrook and the Feeding Shootout was no exception with 22 professionals competing in Thursday’s qualifying competition.

The final competition on Friday consisted of 20 participants who earned their spot by winning at their division convention or qualifying at Saddlebrook. The 20 were divided into four groups of five and the top two scorers from each group moved on to the quarterfinals, where they were seeded based upon high score.

This year’s competition was a three-balls-across/diagonal (leftto-right-feed) variation with each target worth 1 point.

The 2011 champion is Samantha Ardenfriend from Florida and from qualifying to the finals she shot a 39, 46, 50, 51, and 54. ­Ardenfriend is no fluke as she was the runner-up in the 2007 competition. Jonas Lundblad from Texas was the runner-up and the shootout between him and Ardenfriend was a nail-biter and a master demonstration of top-notch feeding skills. In the end, Ardenfriend beat him by 1 point.

Congratulations to Samantha Ardenfriend, the 2011 USPTA National Feeding Shootout Champion, who took home $300 in prize money.

Each year the competition is tweaked a bit to make it more challenging and keep it fresh, and 2012 will be no exception. We encourage all of you to try the competition at your division convention in 2012. Even if you don’t get to your division convention it is a great way to practice and improve your feeding skills at home as well as a useful tool for training your staff. You can find all the shootout formats, rules and diagrams at www.partners.cardiotennis.com.  2011 Top eight finals competition Jonas Lundblad – Texas (Runner-up) Mark Palus – Florida Richard Spurling – California Mike Lawver – Florida Keith Ginnetti – Midwest Jeff Diggs – Florida Troy Miller – Middle States Samantha Ardenfriend – Florida (winner) Jonas Lundblad (Texas) 54 Richard Spurling (California) 31 Mark Palus (Florida) 47 Mike Lawver (Florida) 37

Jonas Lundblad vs Mark Palus 50 48 Jonas Lundblad vs Samantha Ardenfriend 53 54

Keith Ginnetti (Midwest) 39 Keith Ginnetti vs Samantha Ardenfriend Jeff Diggs (Florida) 35 45 51 Troy Miller (Middle States) 46 Samantha Ardenfriend (Florida) 50

28

ADDvantage/November 2011

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Ron Woods takes his place in Texas Tennis Hall of Fame

R

on Woods, USPTA Master Professional and longtime contributor to the growth of the game, recently became one of four 2011 inductees into the Texas Tennis Museum and Hall of Fame in Waco, Texas.

Other Hall of Fame inductees for 2011 are Jim Chaffin of Dallas, past president of the USTA Texas Section and a former USTA board member; Quinn Connelley (deceased), former tennis coach for Rice University; and Dick Landenberger of Dallas, former No. 1 ranked state and national tennis player who represented the United States in several World ­Championships.

The mission of the Texas Tennis ­Museum and Hall of Fame is to preserve tennis history, educate the public about the sport, and to provide role models for generations. Previous inductees include Maureen Connolly Brinker, Zina Garrison, Randy Snow, Dick Stockton, Tut Bartzen, and many other tennis greats.

This year’s Induction Gala took place at the Texas Sports Hall of Fame on Oct. 15. USPTA Texas filled two tables at the dinner, according to Christy Sobey, executive director of the Texas Division. Members in attendance included Paul Christian, Randy Mattingley, Jim ­S ciarro, Charlotte Wylie, Ken ­McAllister, Jenny Gray, Karen Crumpton, Gerry Maingot, Loyce Woods and Sobey.

“It was said to be the largest crowd at a Hall of Fame dinner and, in true Texas form, there was a lot of celebrating!” Sobey said.

And the magic of the moment was not lost on Woods. “It was a great honor and very humbling to be inducted into the Texas Tennis Hall of Fame,” he said. “It was a very special night, not only because of the occasion, but because of so many members of my family and close friends and peers who attended. To be so honored in the state where I grew up playing and working in tennis is doubly rewarding as tennis has truly been my life.

“It is really unbelievable to be enshrined with such great tennis players, volunteers and administrators who have made the

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

“It is really unbelievable to be enshrined with such great tennis players, volunteers and administrators who have made the state of Texas such a force in the sport of t­ennis.” ... I hope to continue to serve as a volunteer for my community, the USTA Texas Section and USPTA Texas Division for many more years to come and to give back to the game that has given so much to me.” state of Texas such a force in the sport of tennis,” Woods continued. “The thing that amazes me most is how many of the past inductees I have known who have influenced me, taught me or competed against me throughout my tennis career…. I hope to continue to serve as a volunteer for my community, the USTA Texas Section and USPTA Texas Division for many more years to come and to give back to the game that has given so much to me.”

USPTA CEO Tim Heckler said that “Ron Woods is the epitome of the ‘teacher’s teacher,’ and one of the most ferocious promoters of Texas tennis that I’ve had the pleasure of knowing. From the grassroots level in Corpus Christi, Texas, to committee service at the USTA national level, Ron has been a constant force within Texas tennis and beyond for more than 46 years.”

Woods has hosted a large Tennis Across America event for many years. He also helps groups raise money for tennis programs that assist underprivileged and at-risk youth. A member of USPTA since 1967, he is a past president of the association and the 2010 Alex Gordon Professional of the Year. He served as the executive director of the USPTA Texas Division during the time it garnered six straight national Division of the Year awards.

Working with his wife, Loyce, Woods directed the tennis program at the Corpus Christi Country Club for 31 years. He had previously worked as an assistant professional at the H.E.B. tennis center in Corpus Christi. He began his career at that facility during the summers while attending the University of Houston.  ADDvantage/November 2011

29

USPTA Mailbox Tim (Heckler), I hope all is well. I wanted to let you know how awesome your staff is. I am sure you get more complaints than anything, but I just had an experience with Shawna that was 100 percent perfect. She responded within two minutes, was professional and made me realize how fortunate I am to have the USPTA as a supporter of what I do. Thanks to her and all your staff for the “little things” you guys do that make my membership worth every penny!

I hope that our national board realizes what a great job you have done in surrounding yourself with quality employees! Nice leadership, Tim! Sincerely, Kevin Brandalik, USPTA USTA High Performance Coach Dear Tim (Heckler), Thank you for your letter.

Fifty years is a long time! Dennis is doing much better, thankfully, after a tough match. He’s such a great competitor.

Best regards, Pat and Dennis Van der Meer, USPTA Hilton Head Island, S.C. Dear Tim Heckler, I just read your “CEO Message” (July 2011). It brought back old memories. The T Bar M in 1970 was my first conference as well and I’ve made every conference since then, never missing one! I’ve made a lot of friends through the World Conference and brought back a lot of ideas to my club that made me money from the education side of things, and even though I’m retired

now I still feel like I’d be missing something if I didn’t attend the World Conference. Thanks for all you do and thanks for bringing us to the top of the professional ladder when it comes to tennis!

Your Friend, Jack Michalko, executive director USPTA Southwest Division Phoenix

Dear USPTA staff, I wish to thank and congratulate all of you who were at Saddlebrook this year and those back in Houston for another great national convention. Last year I was unable to attend the convention in LaQuinta, but this year made up for it. From registration to the final seminar, everything was perfect. We did, however, miss Shawna, and like all of you, were extremely concerned about Rich ... This has been a turbulent year for all of us.

But even with all that was going on and two of the “main team” not being present on site, you still made it happen – the sign of professionalism! Thanks again for a great convention and especially for all you do for us throughout the year.

Will Hoag USPTA Past president Fort Lauderdale, Fla. USPTA staff, Many thanks to all who worked to prepare and carry out the USPTA World Conference.

I enjoyed seeing Saddlebrook for the first time and listening to all the great lectures.

Best of luck for the rest of 2011 and 2012.

Sincerely, Chuck Coleman, USPTA Danville, Calif.

Send your letters to the editor, along with a d­ aytime phone number or ­­­e-mail address, to ­ADDvantage, ­USPTA, 3535 Briarpark Drive, Suite One, ­Houston, TX 77042; fax to 713-358-7794; or via e-mail to kim.­forrester@uspta.org. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

30

ADDvantage/November 2011

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Drills NEED TENNIS DRILLS? USPTA Master Professional Jorge Capestany’s new website has more than 700 videos of tennis drills and tips. Log on to www. tennisdrills.tv to see (and print) more than 18 free samples.

Employment TennisJobs.com – The tennis industry’s ONLY international tennis professional employment service. Subscribe today!

Tennis products PRO/COACH PRICING on racquets, apparel, shoes, bags, balls, strings and accessories. Get baskets, carts, training equipment, books, videos and more. www.TennisExpress.com/800833-6615.

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GRIP COACH is a brilliant product that has simple and easy to follow guidelines making it ideal for adults and kids to learn tennis grips. Players and Coaches love the Grip Coach because it maximizes coaching time for every one.

Visit: www.gripcoach.com.au.

VACATION OpportuniTIes Five-Star Caribbean Resorts are Waiting for You! Working ­vacations available for certified tennis professionals. Family and couple resorts available. ­Contact: www.fitbodiesinc.com or call ­Denise Cox, 678-778-4673.

Rates: $30 for 20 words, minimum per issue. 50 cents per word thereafter. Pay by check, money order, Visa or MasterCard. Prepayment is required. Supply typed copy and include full name, telephone number, credit card number and expiration date.

(No agency or cash discounts.) Issue closes 15th of month, two months preceding cover date. Fax to 713-978-7780, attn: ADDvantage classifieds. No classifieds will be accepted by telephone. No exceptions are made. USPTA cannot verify nor be responsible for the contents of any advertisement. The USPTA is committed to the policy that all people have equal access to its programs, facilities, employment and membership without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, disability, marital or veteran status. USPTA is an equal opportunity employer.

USPTA reserves the right to reject any advertisement at its discretion, or to edit the advertisement to be certain that any employment requirements set forth in it conform with the law.

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Get Courtside ad

Career Development

conventions

(division conventions, 5 credits; World Conference, 8 credits)

exams, upgrades & certification review courses

Nov. 12-13

Northern California Division Gold River, Calif.

(4 credits for PTCA I segment)

Jan. 21

Jan. 26-28

San Diego Division La Jolla, Calif.

Jan. 27-28

Northern Division Twin Cities, Minn.

Jan. 27-28

Southwest Division Scottsdale, Ariz.

Jan. 27-29

Hawaii Division Honolulu, Hawaii

Jan. 28-29

California Division Carson, Calif.

Feb. 9-12

Texas Division Grapevine, Texas

Feb. 17-19

Northern California Division Stanford, Calif.

Nov. 12 Nov. 12-13 Nov. 12-13 Nov. 13 Nov. 14 Nov. 18-19 Nov. 20 Nov. 21 Nov. 28-29 Dec. 2 Dec. 3 Dec. 3-4 Dec. 4 Dec. 4 Dec. 4 Dec. 4 Dec. 4-5

Midwest Division Lincolnshire, Ill.

Feb. 17-19 Missouri Valley Division

Wichita, Kan.

specialist degrees Little Tennis® Facility Management  Computer Technology  Sport Science  Competitive Player Development  Pro Shop Operations  



Sacramento, Calif.

Big Rapids, Mich.

Boca Raton, Fla. White Bear Lake, Minn.

Williamsburg, Va. Houston* Indian Wells, Calif.

Greenwood, Colo.

San Francisco Minneapolis Gastonia, N.C. Atlanta Nashville, Tenn.

Richmond, Va. Hilton Head Island, S.C. Lexington, Ky. Los Angeles

Dec. 8-9 Dec. 9-10 Dec. 10-11 Dec. 10-11 Dec. 11 Dec. 11 Dec. 11 Jan. 20-21 Jan. 28 Jan. 29 Feb. 4-5 Feb. 9-10 Feb. 10-11 Feb. 12-13 Feb. 18 Feb. 24-25

Port Washington, N.Y. Houston* Rockville, Md. Boca Raton, Fla. San Antonio White Bear Lake, Minn.

Rome, Ga. Houston* Carefree, Ariz.

Hilton Head Island, S.C. Portland, Ore. Las Vegas Atlanta Dallas Gastonia, N.C. Houston*

* This course is held at the USPTA World Headquarters.

Exam reservations must be made at least 21 days prior to the dates listed. Each date includes an exam, upgrade and PTCA I unless noted. Exam cancellations must be received no later than 14 days before the exam, or a cancellation fee will be charged accordingly. Applicant: late cancellation fee – $95; failure to cancel – application fee is forfeited. Certified members: late cancellation fee – $25; failure to cancel – $25 plus the upgrade fee is forfeited. Registration for another exam will not be accepted until cancellation fees are paid.

specialty courses No troubles in this doubles, Nov. 13, Gold River, Calif., G. Patton

Wheelchair Tennis

CPD (Competitive Player Development) – Gained through the USA ­Tennis High Performance Coaching Program a ­ dministered by the USA Tennis Coaching E ­ ducation Department.

For more information about USPTA’s specialist degrees, including applications, please visit our website at www.uspta.com or contact the USPTA Education Department at 800-USPTA-4U or education@uspta.org.

cardio tennis Nov. 19 Destin, Fla.

Please visit www.growingtennis.com (workshops) to register online.

The deadline to register and/or cancel a course is 15 working days before the event. Anyone canceling late or failing to cancel will forfeit one-half the course fee. Schedule is subject to change.

Call the USPTA Education Department for more information or email education@uspta.org.

Earn education credits from World Conference DVDs

accredited professional coach

Receive your education credit report card via email by visiting the members-only section of uspta.com.

To receive APC credits, professional members must accurately fill out APC attendance forms with the seminar/course number, their name, presenter’s name, and they will have the ability to rate the seminar/course. The form must then be turned in at the end of the seminar/course. The forms will be available as members arrive at seminars or courses and must be turned in as members leave. If members arrive late or leave early, then they will not receive credit for attending.

32

ADDvantage/November 2011

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USPTA ad

Industry action Members The Rush-Copley Healthplex Fitness Center in Aurora, Ill., held its third annual Rally for the Cure on Oct. 25. Participants enjoyed a tennis clinic, match play, lunch and raffle. Teaching pros who took part include USPTA Professional Mike Lange, manager of tennis services, USPTA member Sean RageeNelson and Michael Kures.

Connie Megan McHugh is celebrating two milestones in her life as a USPTA pro. First, the Vineyard Tennis Center that she built on Martha’s Vineyard marks its 15th

anniversary this fall. The club opened in 1996 as a two-court indoor facility with only a small lounge and locker rooms. Three building additions later, the club now hosts a complete health club called The Workout.

The full club offers a dozen additional spaces for group fitness, free weights, personal training, massage and cardio.

One of the most popular programs is the Vineyard Tennis Escape, a tennis camp run every summer for residents and visitors alike. McHugh also received her certificate for 25 years of service with the USPTA this fall Cypress Lake Country Club in Fort Myers, Fla., has hired tennis professional Terry See, USPTA, as its director of tennis.

See See will provide

USPTA Master Professional Hans Romer, right, is the new owner/director of tennis at the Monterey Bay Racquet Club, on the beautiful property of the Hyatt Monterey, Calif. Monterey Bay, located less than a mile from the Pacific, has six courts (two lighted) and a large tennis shop. It offers memberships, lessons, corporate clinics, TRX® training, bicycle rentals and much more. The club has a Facebook page where those who are interested may hit the “like” button and become a fan: http://www.facebook.com/montereybayracquetclub.

34

ADDvantage/November 2011

Five Seasons Sports Club-Dayton (Ohio), under the direction of Kevin Brandalik, USPTA, recently held a “Rally For The Cure” tennis clinic and luncheon at Five Seasons. This exciting event drew more than 50 ladies and raised more than $2,000! It included a tennis clinic, silent auction, fashion show by Kohl’s department store and emotional talks from breast cancer survivors. Kendon Warren, USPTA, and Rob Downey, USPTA, along with Al Pico and Cami Hubbs, University of Dayton assistant tennis coach, all helped with the charity event. individual and group lessons for members of all ages and levels. See previously was employed as the head teaching professional at another local country club. In addition, he serves as the lead tennis coordinator for Lee County Schools, offering free tennis lessons to students at schools throughout the county. See is a member of the USTA, as well as a USPTA Pro 1. He has both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in physical education and has earned a number of professional tennis honors, including a Florida district USPTA Pro of the Year award in 2006.

Associations Registration is now open for the 85th World Conference and Club Business Expo sponsored by the Club Managers Association of America.

The 2012 event will take place at the New Orleans Marriott and New Orleans Morial Convention Center on Feb. 24-28. The CMAA Conference offers more than 70 education sessions on topics such as family-friendly club programming, the latest industry trends, enhancing the member experience and strategic planning, as well as peer networking events, and previews of the latest products and services at the Club Business Expo.

Featured speakers will be former New Orleans Saints quarterback Archie Manning and Joseph A. Michelli, Ph.D., international speaker, author and organizational consultant. For more information or to register, visit www.cmaa.org/conf.

Special rates are available until Jan. 12.

The National Association of Tournament Directors has officially been launched www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Industry action in conjunction with w ­ ww.

NATDweb.org. The NATD is the first and only professional association that unites tournament directors of all sports to leverage buying power and knowledge through networking and commerce. In addition to tournament directors, the NATD brings together athletic trainers, event administrators, sports officials and others to provide valuable services and costsaving opportunities.

The association is offering several levels of membership, including associate membership, designed for companies and sports professionals that provide a Primary Member with services and/or products. More information is available at www.NATDweb.org.

Manufacturers Dunlop has introduced its most technologically advanced racquet ever, the Biomimetic 700.

Aimed at players looking for a frame that’s both powerful and comfortable, the 700 uses Dunlop’s Biomimetic technologies, plus the 3Dom grommet system. This technology includes Anti-Friction Grommets that provide padding, allow for greater freedom of string movement and dampen vibration, making the racquet easier on your arm at impact. Another unique design of the 700 is its Anatomic Construction, which is based on the study of bone structure and serves to minimize torsion and instability. The Biomimetic www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

700 is an ideal racquet for beginner to intermediate players. MSRP is $210.

For more information, visit Dunlopbuzz.com.

Lee Tennis Court Products has changed its name to Har-Tru Sports and has launched a bold new virtual presence, hartru. com, to introduce the new name. Har-Tru believes champions are born when players train and compete on clay court surfaces.

This Chralottesville, Va.-based company has introduced various products to promote the development of junior players, most recently launching temporary 10 and Under Tennis lines designed to allow facilities to quickly and easily put down lines for training 10-and-under players and running 10-andunder tournaments. Pat Hanssen, USPTA, is director of sales and marketing. For more information, visit www. hartru.com.

USTA The Boys and Girls Club of Austin, Texas, received a “DreamCourt” provided

by Sport Court® as a result of several youthadvocate organizations working together. The club held a ribbon cutting for the new court on Oct. 21. The DreamCourt is designed by Sport Court with two playing surfaces that can be used for both

basketball and tennis. The event was sponsored by Sport Court’s advocacy partners, the Nancy Lieberman Foundation, the Manifest Foundation and the USTA. The USTA provided a $10,000 Facility Assistance Grant to Austin to help make this project happen.

DreamCourt construction is planned for about 30 U.S. cities by Sport Court and its partnering organizations. The Lieberman Foundation was started by basketball coach Nancy Lieberman to use basketball as a motivational tool for youth and the Manifest Foundation is dedicated to creating positive change by impacting the lives of children.

Miscellany Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach (Fla.) has partnered with Peter Burwash International to direct a new tennis program for the property.

PBI will coordinate instructional programs and tennis activities for the resort’s two Har-Tru tennis courts, and also oversee the pro shop for this facility with a scenic location overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. PBI has named Richard Brown as the resort’s tennis professional. Brown will introduce PBI’s widely acclaimed Tennis for Life® program featuring highly personalized private and group instruction, junior tennis, social tennis mixers, drill workouts and player matching.

For more information on Four Seasons Resort

Palm Beach, visit press. fourseasons.com/ Palmbeach or call 561582-2800.

Tennis Channel and the Women’s Tennis Association, the governing body of women’s professional tennis, have extended their programming agreement through 2016, ensuring the network’s place as the year-round home of such stars as Maria Sharapova, Kim Clijsters, and sisters Venus and Serena Williams. The six-year deal keeps at least a dozen premierlevel tournaments on the network each season, as well as the WTA’s year-end championships, which will take place in Istanbul, Turkey, for the period 2011-2013. Tennis Channel has been the television home of WTA tennis since 2004.

The Campbell’s Hall of Fame Tennis Championships will debut newly renovated courts at the 2012 staging of the ATP World Tour 250 grass-court tournament, to be held July 9-15 in Newport, R.I. Renovation work on the front lawn competition courts is currently under way. The courts will be laser graded to within 1/16 of an inch before new bentgrass sod, trimmed by Kentucky Bluegrass, is installed.

Similar renovations were made to the facility’s Stadium Court three years ago. The historic courts were the site of the first U.S. National Tennis Championships in 1881 and have hosted an ATP World Tour tournament since 1976.

ADDvantage/November 2011

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contents

ADDvantage magazine editorial offices USPTA World Headquarters 3535 Briarpark Drive, Suite One Houston, TX 77042 Phone – 713-978-7782 800-USPTA-4U Fax – 713-358-7794 email – magazine@uspta.org

Shawna Riley Kimberly Forrester Kathy Buchanan John Dettor

Office hours: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Central time

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Editor Managing editor Circulation Advertising

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

The opinions expressed in ADDvantage are those of the authors and not necessarily those of ADDvantage or the USPTA. Copyright© United States Professional Tennis Association, Inc. 2011. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of any portion of the magazine is not permitted without written permission from USPTA. ADDvantage/November 2011

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ADDvantage/ September 2000