Inside this issue
2014 Tennis Teachers Conference – 44 If I Only Knew Then What I Know Now – 54 The Hardest Working Clay Court in the Southland – 60 Departments: 56 USPTA Benefits 58 USPTA News 40 CEO’s Message 62 Career Development 42 Vice President’s Message 44 Tennis Teachers Conference 64 Member News Read more articles online at www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com On the cover: Join USPTA at the US Open during the Tennis Teachers Conference in New York, Aug. 22-25! Photo credit: Walking around the grounds of the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center at the US Open 2013 © Andy Beal Photography / Flickr (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)
CEO’s Message
New York, New York!
by John Embree
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t is difficult for me to comprehend that the time to begin talking about our World Conference is already upon us. It seems like only yesterday we were gearing up for Orlando. Yet here we are, only two months from a much larger event known as the Tennis Teachers Conference, Aug. 22-25. As most of you are aware, we are trying a different approach this year. We partnered with the USTA to host a combined event, marrying up the best features of the previously held Tennis Teachers Conference with the strength of our own World Conference. The goal is to make this collaboration bigger than what both of us could do separately and to offer the entire industry an opportunity to gather together and improve the educational platforms for tennis professionals while celebrating the grandest of all of the Grand Slams, the US Open. The idea was born out of a conversation that I had with Kurt Kamperman of the USTA early on after assuming my role as CEO. The concept was simple: how do we make 1+1= 3? Could we stage a non-branded event that would be open to everyone in our industry? We would never know if this is a worthwhile endeavor until we tried it. So, why not? Because our usual World Conference has typically been staged in mid to late September, there are many members who were forced to make a choice as to which event they could attend – the Tennis Teachers Conference in New York or our World Conference. Few could afford to do both nor could very many afford the time away from family and work to attend each. In addition,
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there are many USPTA pros who have never been to New York and have never been to the US Open. Now, they can attend all three. Another consideration was the fact that the third week of September is always problematic for those members associated with indoor clubs. Once Labor Day rolls around, they are in the midst of getting their programs ready and court time rolling for the long indoor season. In addition, those professionals in the Midwest and Northeast with extensive platform tennis seasons gear up the day after Labor Day, which means that our traditional dates in September made it impossible for them to attend. Thus, a conference in late August is opportune for a segment of our association that has been unable to be with us previously. It will be nice to see some new faces! Finally, the manufacturers appreciate the fact that they won’t have to bear the expense of participating in two trade shows within one month of each other. Their staffs are already in New York for the US Open, so it is more efficient for them to exhibit once. The biggest bonus to the entire premise is the fact that the USTA is giving FREE grounds passes for the first day of the US Open, Monday, Aug. 25. In addition, they have arranged for FREE transportation out to the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center and back to the hotel for every registered conference attendee along with FREE access to the Hospitality Pavilion where our members can escape the heat, the crowds and relax to get a drink or
something to eat. This is an incredible benefit that we could not get without the support of the USTA. Lastly, anyone who cares to stay over for extra days can do so at the same hotel at the conference rate (which is cheap by New York standards), and have that same bus transportation back and forth to the tennis center through Aug. 28. This benefit cannot be taken lightly. While there are so many positives to champion about the 2014 Tennis Teachers Conference, I recognize that some have reservations about whether this joint production is good for the USPTA. I have heard it all and I respect those opinions, but I am fully confident that this will be a smashing success. I encourage you all to join us in New York and experience this one-of-a-kind event firsthand. We will be eager to hear feedback and will listen to what our members have to say about their experience. Even though this is not going to be like the typical USPTA World Conference, it might actually end up being better. Having the resources of the USTA to book speakers that we could not normally get at a World Conference is a huge advantage. Being in New York during the US Open gives us access to talent previously unavailable to us. Being able to attend the US Open, compliments of the USTA, is beyond generous. On top of all of that, one can enjoy New York and all that it has to offer. I want to express my sincerest thanks to Kurt and his team for putting their considerable expertise to work in order to make this conference extra special. I look forward to welcoming everyone to New York, which will showcase the absolute best that our association and our industry as a whole has to offer. h
Vice President’s Message
You Get Out What You Put In
by Diane Selke
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n life, no matter what career you decide to go into, you always get what you put in. This will be my 30th year as a USPTA member, and I am proud to be part of this association. This is a great time to belong to the USPTA. As Co-Chair of the Diversity and eong, Inclusion Committee with Bill L we are making great strides. As the fifth pillar of the USPTA Strategic Plan, we will have a document in place by August 2014 that every member will have an opportunity to serve on a 2016 USPTA national committee. We have changed the Diversity and Inclusion Mission Statement to read: The USPTA recognizes and appreciates diversity and inclusion within the game of tennis and within its membership of tennis professionals. By promoting the USPTA as a more diverse and inclusive organization, we will enrich the sport of tennis and add deeper, richer and a broader experience for everyone. Diversity and inclusion permits the USPTA and its members to embrace the world and also allows the organization to reflect its society. We are looking at diversity and inclusion with its roles and responsibilities, recruitment and development strategies and tactics, and a strategic plan that we can incorporate into all of our five USPTA pillars. ab As Chair of the USPTA Convention Committee, I want to thank my committee and sub-committee for all their hard work on producing a great docu-
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ment about New York City. Go to uspta. com > Certification & Education > Education and look for Tennis Teachers Conference in the right hand column. We hope you will join us at the Tennis Teachers Conference, Aug. 22-25. ab The USPTA Board, Executive Committee and CEO John Embree are supporting the Under 30 Initiative so the U30 professionals will be organized and running in several divisions. You are the future of the USPTA. We need you and you need us! Advice I would give to a U30 professional: • Participate in one USPTA program – Lessons for Life™, Junior Circuit™, Tennis Across A merica™, Adult leagues, Champion of C hampions, etc. • Find time to volunteer in a community fundraiser or start one that is close to your heart. • Ask for help! Mentors are willing to help you move forward. • Attend divisional and/or world conferences when you can – ask your head pro/director of tennis to find funds from your facility. • Get educated with many online offers from USPTA and your division • Toot your own horn; done properly you will be noticed. • Review your goals yearly. • Set up your Retirement Gold+ Program using USPTA endorsees. Advice for those who have been SPTA Professionals for 10+ years: U Tennis careers will have their bumps and bruises. If you stick with it and never ever give up, you will look back and say, “I have never worked a day in my life.”
• Stay certified: you will gain knowledge you will need over your career. (Once you obtain a certification in anything don’t let it lapse.) • Find an area you excel in: coaching adult or juniors, stringing, programming, teaching TAUT, high performance, Cardio Tennis. Begin with one area and dare yourself to take on another one. • By being a member, you have a voice, you have a vote! • Be a mentor to a U30 professional – Pass your knowledge along. • If you are truly retired (not teaching tennis), congratulations, contact USPTA and see what membership is offered where you can make your vote count. • Learn how to balance family, friends and work to smell the roses. Tennis is a sport of a lifetime and sometimes it takes a lifetime to create a career that you can enjoy. We change, life changes; embrace the change and keep an open mind on how you can be a part of the best sport – TENNIS. I am here to serve all of the USPTA membership and can be reached at 303-514-1967 or dsgogreengowhite@ gmail.com. h NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS Tom McGraw President Chuck Gill First Vice President Vice Presidents Past President CEO Legal Counsel
Alan Cutler Jack Michalko Dan Moster Diane Selke Gary Trost Tom Daglis John Embree George Parnell
Tennis Teachers Conference
How to Get the Most Education at the Tennis Teachers Conference
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Register. Make the first step toward your continuing education and register to attend the conference. While there are several ways to earn your education credits at home, nothing beats being here. You have the unique opportunity to be face-to-face with the top experts and leading manufacturers in the tennis industry. You will earn eight education credits by attending the Tennis Teachers Conference – satisfying your continuing education requirement through 2016! There are five education tracks: n n n n n
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Business & Professional Development Club & Team Coaching Competition & Play 10 and Under Tennis High Performance
Attend sessions. Did you know that attending individual sessions can earn you an additional 8.5 credits? Each session you attend (not including the workshop or specialty course) is worth a half credit each. Just be sure to scan your QR code (look for information on using the SmartCode Education System in the August issue, conference program, or search ‘QR code’ on uspta.com).
#TTC14 Education Credit Breakdown: 8 – Registration and attendance at the Tennis Teachers Conference 2 – 10 and Under Workshop 2 – Specialty course 2 – Purchase and view a DVD (0.5-2 credits per DVD) .5 – Seminar
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Take a specialty course or workshop. You can earn extra education credits on top of your conference attendance by attending either the specialty course or workshop offered on Friday. Master Professional Feisal Hassan is teaching a specialty course on creative doubles drills from 8-11 a.m., and Butch Staples and Leah Friedman are conducting a 10 and Under Tennis Workshop from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Both of these sessions will count for two education credits each.
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Pro Shop. USPTA’s pro shop will be on site with an assortment of educational DVDs and books for purchase to help you further your career. You can earn from half to two credits each for purchasing and viewing educational DVDs.
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Ask questions. Listen to the speakers share their knowledge and experiences, and come prepared 2014 US with OPEN to their sessions questions. Attending the TTC attendees are invited totoOpening Day at the 2014 US Open on Monday, August 25, 2015. Join your colleagues in conferenceAllprovides the opportunity communicate the Hospitality Pavilion at the Chase Center located on the grounds of the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center with these tennis industry leaders directly, and asking throughout the day. them to elaborate on specific points or topics can only help you better understand a concept. A ticket or grounds pass is required to enter the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.
Access to purchase US Open tickets to Arthur Ashe Stadium is available via the TTC ticket block through June 13, 2014. Tickets will also be available for purchase through usopen.org. A grounds pass will be available to TTC attendees for Monday, August 25. TTC attendees will also have access to US Open bus transportation from the Grand Hyatt through Thursday, August 28. TTC Guest Package: $199.00 Includes grounds pass and access to Hospitality Pavilion at the Chase Center for Monday, August 25, 2014 plus access Meet people. to bus transportation to/from US Open Monday, August 25 – Thursday, August 28, 2014. This is the premier gathering for
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tennis industry professionals. Take advantage of being able to meet and network with other tennis professionals from around the world. Chat with the person sitting next to you in a session, meet up for a cup TTC AWARDS Monday, August 25, 2014 ! 8:30 AM – 9:00 AM of coffee in the morning or enjoy a meal together one eveIn celebration of several individuals who demonstrate continuedning. excellence in theknow tenniswho industry, the TTC willcareer present You never can help your or what the Faculty Emeritus, USPTA Hall of Fame Inductee and USPTA Pro thelearn Year Awards. Also recognized are the USOC youofcan from striking up a conversation. Coaches of the Year and the USTA/USPTA Community Service Awards.
THE TENNIS SHOW, presented by the Tennis Industry Association
www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com 45 Sunday, August 24, 2014 ! 5:15 PM – 10:00 PM This dynamic evening event highlights the latest equipment and technology designed to help grow your business.
Tennis Teachers Conference
Understanding the Value of Attending the Conference By Ian Thomson, USPTA
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here are many reasons why a professional should consider attending this year’s Tennis Teacher’s Conference: networking, education and the buying show. While these are vital reasons to attend, there are other benefits of the conference, such as a planned vacation. Attending the conference gives USPTA members an opportunity to meet many of the board members at the national and divisional levels, and this is a great way to get acquainted with the professionals who are helping shape the future for the USPTA. There is also the opportunity to meet the staff from the USPTA World Headquarters, and talking with them really helps a professional to understand the inner workings of the organization and what they do to help the tennis profession. Tennis professionals are offered a high level of educational opportunities
throughout the whole event. Anyone a wonderful way to have a connection who wants to learn about the profeswith someone who has the experiences sion needs to attend the conference that may be of value to your future. to gain from the knowledge offered Networking is another reason to throughout the week. Classroom semiattend the annual conference. Seeing nars, on-court teaching, and panel disprofessionals from other parts of the cussions are sure to provide a variety country or your own division/state of learning opportunities. While many is valuable for comparing notes. Atprofessionals go to the conference to tending the division party allows the find new drills to professionals to add to their list, it is Attending the conference is a get together and important to under- great way to get acquainted talk about tennis stand that each drill with the professionals who or anything else can provide multiple that comes to mind. adaptations for dif- are helping shape the future Meeting different ferent levels, adding for the USPTA. professionals can to the number of help shape the path drills offered. One of the best things of a tennis career. about attending a seminar or specialty While you can enjoy talking with course offered by various speakers is pros in your own section, a better way that they will provide their contact to network may be to talk with other information for any questions, share professionals about what they are more detailed information about what doing at their clubs at various places was discussed, or answer any questions around the country. You can also find that arise from the discussion. This is tennis professionals who are near your area and who want to form some interclub competition or have ideas on adding new events for the members. No tennis professional will have the opportunity to advance his or her career without some form of networking. There is nothing wrong with staying at the same place, but networking is still important regardless of the career path you choose. Tennis professionals put in long hours on the court in sometimes tough conditions, and the mental toll of being on the court can be dulling to the senses. Vacations are designed to recharge the batteries and allow the professional to come back ready to teach, and by attending the annual conference, they come back with a couple of new ideas as well. Your only responsibility is to attend the parts of the conference you find interesting, and in the evenings, enjoy the sights of the area. Networking is great reason to attend the annual conference. Seeing professionals from other parts of the Bringing the family or just your country or your own division or state is valuable for comparing notes.
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Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Tips and info on the 2014 Tennis Teachers Conference
Register at usta.com/TTC Conference site
significant other can really make it a vacation where you can attend some of the events and then spend time enjoying the sights of the city. Not having to worry about lessons at home, answering phone calls or emails, or being on the court all day allows time to relax and recharge the batteries. Concerned about the cost? Many clubs provide some money to have their professionals attend events to better themselves, but many do not. Three ways a professional can attend the conference no matter where one works are budgeting to include education, asking the boss or employer to chip in, or having a fundraiser by hosting an event at the pro’s own club. One of the other advantages that accrues from attending this event, if one personally pays for it, is that it will be a tax write-off with the benefits showing at the end of the year. Education, networking and a vacation to NYC – with the opportunity to attend the US Open – are all great reasons for attending the 2014 Tennis Teachers Conference. When a professional takes the time to make a plan and sticks with it, the conference can be enjoyed and the amazing experiences will last a lifetime. h
Education, networking and a vacation to NYC – with the opportunity to attend the US Open – are all great reasons for attending the 2014 Tennis Teachers Conference.
USPTA Elite Professional Ian Thomson is a tennis professional at Buckhead YMCA in Atlanta. In 2010, he was a top 10 education recipient at the USPTA World Conference and the Industry Excellence Award winner from USPTA GA. Thomson is currently an Elite Etcheberry Certified Coach in Conditioning, Footwork & Speed for Tennis.
The TTC will be held at the Grand Hyatt New York. The deadline to reserve a room at the discounted TTC rate is July 24. The official reservation link will be in your registration confirmation email, and hotel reservations must be made through that link only. The TTC rate will not be honored for reservations made via telephone. The reduced rates will be available through Aug. 28.
US Open
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Come to the Tennis Teachers Conference and get a free grounds pass plus transportation to the opening day of the US Open! You also get access to the USTA hospitality pavilion. (The bus pass is good through Aug. 28.)
• Bringing a guest? Purchase the Monday US Open guest package for $199. This includes the Monday grounds pass, a four-day bus pass and access to the hospitality pavilion. (This must be selected during the registration process. It will not be available at the door.)
Stay connected
Keep up with the TTC via social media leading up to and during the conference. Look for #TTC14 and follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/USPTA.Official), Twitter (@USPTA_Tennis), and Instagram (Instagram.com/ USPTA).
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Tennis Teachers Conference
Education Information/ Conference Schedule
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he 2014 Tennis Teachers Conference at the Grand Hyatt New York, in conjunction with the US Open, is a four-day conference, beginning on Aug. 22. It brings together the leading tennis-teaching professionals and coaches in the industry to share best practices, and will include a series of interactive on-court sessions and presentations. Attendees can register at usta.com/ttc. The event aims to provide the best learning experience for tennis teachers and coaches by offering educational resources, facilitating innovative teaching techniques, and creating networking opportunities among the members of the various associations. This year’s keynote speakers include Patrick McEnroe, USTA Player Development General Manager; Paul Annacone, Australian Open doubles champion and former coach of Roger Federer and Pete Sampras; Judy Murray, mother of Andy Murray and British Fed Cup Captain; and retired Admiral James Stavridis, Dean of the
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Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. In addition, attendees will receive access to the US Open and are invited to a special reception at the US Open’s Opening Day, Aug. 25. “The 2014 Tennis Teachers Conference will be a tremendous opportunity to further professional development and elevate the level of coaching in the U.S., while giving attendees the thrilling and exciting experience that the US Open offers,” said Paul Lubbers, Director of Coaching Education & Performance, USTA. “It is a unique occasion to gather and share ideas and insights, as well as create a memorable experience for the best and brightest tennis teachers, coaches and pros in our sport.” In 2014, the USPTA World Conference, which has traditionally been held two weeks following the conclusion of the US Open, will not be held. Instead, USPTA will join the USTA in hosting the Tennis Teachers Conference. With this greater attendance and shared resources, the conference hopes to
enhance and strengthen the education and development of more teaching professionals across the country. “One of the core pillars of our strategic plan is to be more closely aligned with our allied organizations, and the opportunity to combine our resources with the USTA for this event allows us to continue elevating the standards of tennis-teaching professionals and coaches,” USPTA CEO John Embree said. “Along with providing quality education and reaching more tennis professionals by combining our efforts, the chance to attend the US Open is a significant benefit to USPTA members.” The Tennis Teachers Conference will include access to The Tennis Show 2014, an exhibit featuring products and services from the leading tennis industry companies, organizations and manufacturers. The Tennis Show is coordinated through the Tennis Industry Association and will take place on Aug. 24. Please visit usta.com/ttc for more information on the 2014 Tennis Teachers Conference. h
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Competition & Play Finding true enjoyment in play and competition is a process. Specialists in this positive reinforcement to help players develop and maximize their experience. Club & Team Coaching Tennis is the ultimate team sport. Learn from the best coaches on how you can and college team practices and drills for club level players. Business & Professional Development The most successful coaches develop off-court skills to grow their business an industry. Gain an edge from the experts on navigating the road to personal adv
High Performance As players develop, their needs change. Coaches and sport performance experts who work with highly- skilled tournament players provide valuable insights into the world of high performance.
10 and Under Tennis Effective coaches and programmers know kids want to have fun when they play. The experts agree teaching and developing young players using equipment sized right for age and level will keep them engaged.
Competition & Play Finding true enjoyment in play and competition is a process. Specialists in this area focus on non-elimination and positive reinforcement to help players develop and maximize their experience.
Club & Team Coaching Tennis is the ultimate team sport. Learn from the best coaches on how you can conduct fun and dynamic high school and college team practices and drills for club level players.
DOWNLOAD YOUR USPTA MEMBERSHIP CARD You will need this for scanning your attendance at each session.
USPTA Members All seminars and general sessions are worth .5 USPTA education credits each when scanned using the SmartCode Education System. The specialty course is worth 2 credits. In addition, those who register for and attend the TTC will earn 8 education credits. (Daily-registered attendees will receive fewer credits.)
Business & Professional Development The most successful coaches develop off-court skills to grow their business and build their brand in a competitive industry. Gain an edge from the experts on navigating the road to personal advancement.
SPECIALTY COURSE Creative Drill Design for Doubles
Go to uspta.com > Certification & Education > Member Documents
DOWNLOAD YOUR USPTA MEMBERSHIP CARD You will need this for scanning your attendance at each session.
USPTA Members All seminars and general sessions are worth .5 USPTA education credits each Education System. The specialty course is worth 2 credits. In addition, those w earn 8 education credits. (Daily-registered attendees will receive fewer credits
10 and Under Tennis Effective coaches and programmers know kids want to have fun when they pla developing young players using equipment sized right for age and level will kee
This year, all education sessions fall under one of five themes:
EDUCATION INFORMATION
High Performance As players develop, their needs change. Coaches and sport performance exper tournament players provide valuable insights into the world of high performanc
This year, all education sessions fall under one of five themes:
EDUCATION INFORMATION
Tennis Teachers Conference
Meet some of the 2014 Featured Speakers Paul Annacone
Jorge Capestany
Emma Doyle
Paul Annacone is the former coach of all-time Grand Slam champion Roger Federer and former World No. 1 Pete Sampras.
Jorge Capestany, USPTA Master Professional, is general manager of the DeWitt Tennis Center on the campus of Hope College in Holland, Mich.
Emma Doyle, USPTA, has been a performance coach for more than 20 years and has consulted with players, organizations and clubs around the world.
What will you be speaking about at the 2014 Tennis Teachers Conference? I will be participating on the Grand Slam panel where we’ll have a discussion about various topics surrounding the events. What is the biggest challenge facing touring coaches today? Understanding the complexities of the individuals we work with. There are lots of different areas to relate to as a coach and each ingredient that makes up the player, so managing all those ingredients well is a challenge. Describe your coaching philosophy. Eyes and ears open – help understand the player and his life, his tennis and understand what his goals are — then plug that into the best strategic way to maximize his talent.
What will you be speaking about at the TTC? “Tennis Drills for All Levels.” Attendees will see 14 tennis drills demonstrated for both singles and doubles play and how each drill can be used for all levels of play. Please provide a short tip. Coaches need to realize that they have probably forgotten more drills than they can remember. It is OK to have some “go-to” drills that are your favorites, but the key is to rotate in new drills so your classes do not get stale. What is the best incentive to encourage members to participate in club tennis leagues? Emphasize the competitive nature of the league program. The fact that players will have regularly scheduled matches to look forward to will make people excited and give them a reason to keep playing and improving.
Tell us about your session at the TTC. “Australian Activities to Inspire Your Red Ball Players.” Each activity provides a movement, mission and mindset benefit. You will walk away with ideas for setting up a creative learning environment so that you can encourage players to cultivate a life-long love for tennis.” What do you like most about coaching? I enjoy seeing my players ... improve and grow holistically. My greatest satisfaction comes from helping people maximize their potential. Courts, racquets and balls are now sized right for children. How important is that in tennis? It is critical if you want to develop technically sound, tactically aware and mentally resilient tennis players. It will have a direct impact on the next generation of champions, taking them to an even higher level.
Leah Friedman
Feisal Hassan
Keynote speakers ...
Leah Friedman is the USTA’s National 10 and Under Tennis professional and recreational coaches trainer.
Feisal Hassan, USPTA Master Professional, is general manager and the director of tennis at the Midlothian Tennis Club in Midlothian, Va.
David Epstein – In his best-selling book, “The
How important is the role of a coach in a player’s development? “It is proven that kids fall in love with the coach before they love the sport. When introducing new kids to the sport, it is important to meet the players where they are and connect with them. With a creative mindset, tennis can now develop not only forehands and backhands, but grow the player off the court as well. What is your most effective go-to tip for getting children to pay attention on court? Coaches who have just as much fun, if not more, on the court will see better focus on the courts. Engaging in every aspect of the lesson will encourage every player to continue practicing. Be the joyful leader and your players will follow.
What will you be speaking about at the TTC? “Creative Drill Design for Doubles Teams.” This specialty course will help attendees to know what factors to consider when designing drills, how to scale or modify drills to fit all levels of play, identify and drill the skills that need to be practiced, and how to simulate actual doubles situations. Please provide a short tip. Continue learning by attending conferences and taking courses. In short, stay green and growing rather than ripe and rotting. What do you like best about being involved in the tennis industry? I like to develop and train players to be gameready, and to teach players of all levels to be proficient at all areas of the game.
Sports Gene,” award-winning author and Sports Illustrated senior writer Epstein explores the complexities of the elite athlete.
Judy Murray – The current captain of the British Fed Cup team, Murray is the mother of Jamie, the 2007 Wimbledon mixed doubles champion, and Andy, the 2012 US Open and 2013 Wimbledon singles champion and the 2012 Olympic singles gold medalist. She will share her perspective on raising athletic children who thrived by playing multiple sports as youngsters. Admiral (ret.) James Stavridis – Stavridis is the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and also an accomplished tennis player. He played varsity tennis at the Naval Academy, from which he is a distinguished graduate. Stavridis also served on the staff of the Chief of Naval Operations and is currently dean of the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. h
More from these interviews is available at www.addvantageuspta.com
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“Attend court maintenance seminars for all types of courts – you never know what kind of surface your future employer will have. Attend buying shows – the more knowledge you have, the more valuable you become.” ~ Lawrence Sagel
If I Only Knew Then What I Know Now … USPTA leaders share court supply and maintenance wisdom with under 30 peers
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By Stephen C. Dettor, President, 10-S Tennis Supply
ave you ever said or thought, “If I only knew then what I know now?” Have you ever pondered how great it would be if we aged in reverse? Imagine the possibilities if you were able to pair the wisdom acquired through time and experience with the energy and passion of youth!
Much has been made of the “aging” issue faced by the tennis industry in general and the teaching profession specifically. The numbers don’t lie – our membership is getting older. However, it’s time to turn this supposed “negative” into a positive for our younger, upcoming USPTA members! 10-S Tennis Supply is a strong supporter of the USPTA’s Under 30 initiative, a budding effort to deeply engage the
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next generation of USPTA professionals. We want to play our part to help this next generation succeed in leadership positions. So, 10-S Tennis Supply asked 50 leading USPTA tennis directors around the country one question: “What are the top few things you wish you knew about court supplies and court maintenance when you started your career?” Here are their answers, organized in five broad themes. A great looking, “Ready to Play” facility drives member satisfaction and … your career! Whitney Kraft, tennis director at the USTA National Tennis Center in New York recommended, “Make sure you have the right equipment for the right maintenance task – there are subtle differences between different drag brooms, drag mats, court rakes and scarifiers – using the right one at the right time will make all the difference in the playability of the courts and the happiness of your players.” Many of our respondents highlighted tips and tricks that helped them get players back on the courts as quickly as possible after a rain. Maury Bozman, former tennis director at Midtown Athletic Club in Weston, Fla., stated, “I wish I knew what a valuable tool the Dolphin Super Sopper is for clay courts. If you have clay courts and do not have
this product you are missing out on improving the re-opening time of your courts after inclement weather.” Mike Puc, tennis director at Gleneagles Country Club in Delray Beach, Fla., replied, “I’m not rich enough to buy cheap stuff. Don’t be fooled by cheap equipment. As an example, I used to buy economy tennis nets based solely on price. After several seasons of replacing the net on the same court it dawned on me to buy quality, proven nets with double vinyl headbands to reduce maintenance. Less down time, happier members, happier director – I now apply this logic to all my purchases.” Clay courts are great – but wow they are a lot of work! Conrad Cowan, tennis director at Interlachen Country Club in Winter Park, Fla., summed it up best, “The thing that most people don’t realize is the amount of resources and labor it takes to keep a sprinkler-irrigated clay court facility in tip-top shape. I spend more time devoted to maintaining the facility than teaching and running events. Most general managers, tennis committees and members do not understand this, so make sure you take the time to educate them.” Not surprisingly, many of the “if I only knew” comments were focused on tips to keep clay courts in top shape: • Use a Court Rake, Gator Rake or Steel Drag Broom on a regular basis to prevent hardness and court growth. • Alternate grooming patterns on a daily basis. • Install drains or a swale at the low ends of your clay court to ensure proper runoff and drainage. • Avoid or remove landscaping that blocks drainage or features root structures that can damage the surface. However, our favorite response to the question, “What are the top few things you wish you knew...?” was from Greg Wheaton at Broken Sound Country Club in Boca Raton, Fla., – “How heavy those damn bags are!”
Build and nurture a great court maintenance staff “Getting a good court person that cares and knows his stuff is key! Provide your court personnel continuing education and keep them involved in all decisions – this makes a huge difference. I have had bad court guys; when you get a good one, keep them happy!” said Brad Leu, tennis director at Sea Oaks Tennis Club in Vero Beach, Fla., and President, USPTA Florida Division. This advice was echoed by nearly all our respondents. Frank Swope, tennis director at Ballenisles Country Club in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., advised, “Develop a rapport and work closely with your tennis court maintenance supervisor so that daily two-way communication is the standard. If you perform the work yourself, hold yourself to the highest standard of knowledge and accomplishment; your players and career will benefit greatly!” Jeff Cohen, tennis director at Woodfield Country Club in Boca Raton added, “Having a knowledgeable, reliable and dedicated crew will mitigate a lot of potential problems.” So hire, train and retain a great team – this will pay dividends for you and your facility. Have a continuous learning mindset Lawrence Sagel, tennis director at Delaire Country Club in Delray Beach, emphasized the importance of continuous learning. “Attend court maintenance seminars for all types of courts – you never know what kind of surface your future employer will have. Attend buying shows – the more knowledge you have, the more valuable you become.” Here are some additional drops of knowledge from your USPTA peers: • Talk to other USPTA professionals to learn what equipment they use and why. • Pay close attention to what
you like and dislike at other facilities you visit for USPTA meetings, tournaments and events – don’t be afraid to borrow ideas from other places, as not many people reinvent the wheel – take photos so you remember what you saw. • Remain open minded regarding court technology changes and improvements and never ever feel like you have “seen or done it all.” That’s the point when you are likely to miss something. Be willing to learn! Create partnerships with vendors More than 75 percent of our respondents cited the importance of creating strong relationships with your vendor partners. The following advice was typical, “Customer service is important. If I don’t have enough material, windscreen ty-raps, or tools on hand and an unexpected storm strikes, I’d better have a dependable source to help me or I will have unhappy members and pressure. Sometimes you need your vendor partners to bail you out.” Craig Wittus, tennis director at Royal Palm Yacht Club in Boca Raton, stated, “Business is all about cultivating relationships – find a vendor that will go the extra mile for you and reward them with your loyalty.” As a trusted vendor to more than 10,000 tennis facilities and players worldwide, 10-S Tennis Supply agrees wholeheartedly with these comments. We look at all of our customer relationships as partnerships. 10-S Tennis Supply exists to help you succeed and make your facility the best it can be. We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the 50+ USPTA professionals that contributed their thoughts on this topic. If you would like to add your voice to this conversation, please post your own thoughts and comments on our blog at courtauthority.10-s.com. We look forward to seeing everyone at the Tennis Teachers Conference in New York City in August! h
10-S Tennis Supply is the official tennis court equipment supplier of the USPTA. To learn more about any of the products mentioned in this article, please contact 10-S Tennis S upply at 800-247-3907 or visit their website at 10-S.com.
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USPTA Benefits
Grow Tennis by Growing the USPTA Foundation
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ou know that USPTA’s mission is to elevate the standards of tennis-teaching professionals and coaches. But did you know that USPTA has a foundation whose mission is to provide donations devoted to programs that help economically disadvantaged people learn tennis? The USPTA Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) charitable foundation that was established to serve as the charitable arm of the USPTA. Beneficiaries this year include Inner City Tennis Foundation (Minneapolis), Mardy Fish Children’s Foundation (Florida), Saint Paul Urban Tennis (Minneapolis), Antioch College YSTCA (Ohio), ThanksUSA, Blue Sky Foundation, Inc. (Florida), Herder/Speckman High School Tennis Club (Missouri), and A’s & Aces Foundation (New Orleans). Capital in the Foundation generally comes from two sources: The USPTA Silent Auction, held during the annual
World Conference, and by a donation option on the USPTA dues invoice. This year, the silent auction will not be held due to the condensed format of the Tennis Teachers Conference, leaving the Foundation without its primary fundraiser. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation of cash or appreciated securities (stocks, etc.,) to the USPTA Foundation. If you would like to donate shares of stock, please contact Kathy Ladner at 800-877-8248, ext. 105, or kathy.ladner@uspta. org for details. Checks can be sent to USPTA Foundation, 3535 Briarpark Drive, Suite One, Houston, TX 77042. To donate by credit card, please contact Kathy Ladner. Please help our tennis communities grow by sending in your donation today. For more information about the foundation or to apply for a grant, go to uspta.com/About > USPTA Foundation. Stay connected with the Foundation on Facebook (facebook.com/ USPTAFoundation) and Twitter (@ usptafoundation). h
A’s and Aces in New Orleans received a donation from the USPTA Foundation.
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Find-a-Cure Rx Card USPTA and Catamaran have made an agreement to offer a prescription drug discount card to USPTA members (on this page). It can save you up to 85 percent on your prescription costs (average savings are 35 percent, with most savings coming from generic medications). As a bonus, with every purchase, $1 is donated to the USPTA Foundation and $.50 is donated to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation. The card is accepted at more than 60,000 pharmacies nationwide, including most of the major chains such as Walgreens, Rite-Aid, CVS, Walmart and Target. It may be copied and reproduced for distribution to friends and family. If you have any questions, call the Pharmacy Helpline at 877-459-8474.
USPTA Benefits USPTA Partners with Paloma Financial, John Hancock to Offer Members Long-Term Care Insurance Options
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SPTA recently announced an agreement with Paloma Fi ancock to nancial and John H offer a discounted, long-term care insurance program to its members. The program provides a 5 percent discount to all USPTA members – and their eligible family members – who apply for long-term care coverage. The program provides valuable benefits in a variety of care settings and gives USPTA participating members a choice when it comes to where care will be administered. “Along with the health care options we began providing last year, being able to deliver a long-term care insurance program is another tangible benefit of being a USPTA member,” USPTA CEO John Embree said. “Several members have requested this benefit, and we are proud to work with Paloma and John Hancock in order to provide this resource to them.” Long-term care is the term used to describe chronic illness or injuries that result in the inability of an individual to perform normal activities of daily liv-
ing without assistance. Long-term care insurance provides the dollars necessary to pay for daily care needs such as eating, bathing, walking or transferring. Nearly half of those receiving long-term care assistance are under the age of 65. Paloma Financial is an insurance and financial services organization headquartered in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., and services the needs of USPTA members nationwide. Paloma manages
the USPTA Retirement Gold+ plan. John Hancock is a respected name in the insurance industry with strong financial ratings and was a pioneer in the long-term care insurance industry. Today, Hancock remains one of the leaders in long-term care insurance coverage. For more information on the USPTAendorsed John Hancock Long-term Care Plan, visit usptaretirement.com or call Paloma Financial at 888-737-4289. h
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USPTA News
USPTA, Emirates Airline US Open Series Continue Collaboration in 2014
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nce again, the USPTA has partnered with the USTA to make the 2014 Emirates Airline US Open Series available to the USPTA and its members. The partnership began in 2013 to provide USPTA Professionals access to the U.S.-based tournaments in the Series and was modeled after other successful agreements already in place in Stanford, New Haven and Cincinnati. “The tournaments that comprise the Emirates Airline US Open Series not only showcase world champions to the fans, but serve as a platform to cultivate emerging pro tennis talent,” said J. Wayne Richmond, General Manager, Emirates Airline US Open Series. “This ongoing partnership with the USPTA is truly emblematic of the greater mission of our sport – growing and developing the game at every opportunity.” Now in its 11th season, the Emirates Airline US Open Series continues to serve as a true regular season of hard court tennis, linking eight summer tournaments to the US Open. In 2013, the Series reached more than 30 million television viewers and totaled nearly 400 hours of broadcast coverage throughout the summer on ESPN2, CBS Sports and Tennis Channel. “Part of our mission at USPTA is to promote the growth of tennis, and it’s imperative to continue supporting these professional tournaments in the U.S.,” said USPTA CEO John E mbree. “Our members understand the importance in creating interest with consumers in these events, and since we had such a great response from USPTA members who were able to attend the tournaments last year, we were thrilled to be able to offer this benefit again.” Rafael Nadal and Serena Williams won the 2013 US Open and Emirates Airline US Open Series men’s and women’s titles, each earning a record tennis paycheck of $3.6 million. For more information on the Emirates Airline US Open Series please visit www.emiratesusopenseries.com. h
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2014 Emirates Airline US Open Series Schedule Availability to USPTA Professionals is listed below. USPTA members must show current valid membership card. Subject to availability in the U.S. only (Canada excluded)
BB&T Atlanta Open – July 21 – 27 | Atlanta, Ga. Monday through Wednesday (July 21-23), all sessions
Bank of the West Classic – July 28 – Aug. 3 | Stanford, Calif. Monday through Thursday (July 28-31), day and night sessions in the 300 level, subject to availability. Complimentary tickets can only be claimed within one hour of the session start time.
Citi Open – July 28 – Aug. 3 | Washington, D.C.
Saturday through Friday (July 26-Aug. 1) grounds pass for Sessions 1-8.
Western & Southern Open – Aug. 10 – 17 | Cincinnati, Ohio Tickets or grounds passes to any session, depending on availability. Must pick up at Will Call on day of event only.
New Haven Open at Yale – Aug. 17 – 23 | New Haven, Conn.
Grounds pass only Sunday through Tuesday (Aug. 17-19) *Any USPTA Pro who assists on Monday, Aug. 18 at the Tennis Across America event from 1-4 p.m. will receive a ticket for the Monday evening session.
Winston-Salem Open – Aug. 17 – 23 | Winston-Salem, N.C. Sunday through Thursday (Aug. 17-21) all sessions
The Hardest Working Clay Court in the Southland By Thomas Penner, USPTA Thomas Penner makes the case for clay courts making better players on hard courts.
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n a recent summer evening my father-in-law, Ray, and I broke from his weekly lesson to check on the six Hydrocourt dark boxes at the rear of this still young Har-Tru clay tennis court. A heat wave had hit the Southland and a dry white “hot spot” had begun clouding the court’s southern baseline. That’s like playing on patches of slippery ice; not good for students, not good for business. This is a working court after all. Ray popped the lid off the second box and studied the small plastic gauge governing the amount of water seeping upward from the court’s underground tapestry of PVC pipes (I’d opted against hosing and sprinklers). He casually tweaked the gauge and two days later the hot spot had vanished. The court was uniformly hydrated. We were lucky that time, or maybe just getting the hang of things. Several months later during a service visit, the court builder, Rick Newby, studied the slightly pummeled ad-court area. “Tom,” he surmised, “I think you must have the hardest-working clay court in Southern California.” I smiled, “I hope so. I don’t know anyone else doing what I’m doing.” Granted, I don’t get off the property enough, but I do wonder sometimes
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Thomas Penner
if I’m not the only USPTA pro in the Southland teaching all lessons exclusively on clay. I’m an anomaly at least. Since the court was built (it has my family home attached), I’m always busy. I’m either teaching lessons, or waiting to teach, or maybe a few guys from the high school team I coach drop by for a hit, or maybe the women’s team from a local Christian college. Then there’s the court maintenance. Friends and fellow tennis enthusiasts, as first-time visitors to the court always ask the same question: “Isn’t there a lot of maintenance with a clay court?” “A clay court’s like a big needy pet,” I begin. “It demands a lot of grooming and care – everything from adjusting the hydro-boxes, patching divots, dressing and scarifying, brushing the
lines and don’t get me started on the leaves from the giant pecan tree in the yard! But it’s not too much. And I kind of like it actually.“ But how can I claim to be a clay court specialist? I grew up pounding the sunbaked hard courts of Southern California. My backhand slice, my pearl, was taught to me by John Ellis, a lanky, transplanted Texan who once constructed a pint-sized “teaching court” of crushed red-brick clay in the backyard of his home. We loyal students, now gladly converted to clay, learned to slide and chip and chop and get many, many balls over the net. I used to help maintain the court too – watering, patching, dressing, sweeping. Later in college I heard American pros could get work teaching and playing tennis for clubs in Europe. So while I was acquainted with clay, I knew nothing about competing on it, and in what was then West Germany I gamely acquired the bloodied knees and general humiliation to prove it. What I learned in Europe is not exactly revolutionary, but it should be imprinted upon the minds of every earnest, hard-court junior warrior: Be patient. The magic of clay is simple; it slows the game for all youth (and grown-ups) a wee bit overeager, or perhaps with too much to prove too fast. But clay doesn’t let you do anything in a hurry. It asks you to wait.
Variety and spin, the nuances of the game, suddenly appear. Mein Goethe! (as the Germans say) I loved the clay – the sliding, the dirt in the socks at the end of the day, the Rafalike diving and rolling. I loved it and hoped to conquer it one day. Eventually I’d get close, and for the record, each time I returned from the clay courts of Europe I was a better hard-court player. In “New Rules” for American tennis, Bill Simon of Inside Tennis magazine wrote “Americans need to get used to the idea of clay. Period.” When I saw Brad Gilbert’s “1-minute Har Tru” training spots during the 2012 French Open telecasts, I thought, “Wow, this clay court thing is actually happening!” There was also that brilliant “Har Tru Tennis” ad, the one featuring a serious-minded tennis pro standing on a court that is half Har Tru clay, and half cement. The copy read (in part) – “88 percent – The percent of top 10 players who learned to play on clay.” Compared to… “12 percent – The percent of top 10 players who learned on hard court.” This dynamite ad went on to urge the entire U.S. tennis community to “transform your players into champions.” I also enjoyed the Emilio Sanchez “1-minute Har Tru lessons” during the 2013 French Open. And there was Brad Gilbert again, Joe Har-Tru, dutifully promoting the future of U.S. tennis – same as me. I recalled when my court was almost finished, how I dared believe I was a part of some broader clay court movement. We “specialists” would convert the hard court masses. Except it hasn’t happened that way exactly. Oh, I’ve made a few waves I guess. I talk clay all the time, and rarely do I get a dull look. Now and again, certain like-minded pros drop by to see my set-up, visions of clay courts dancing in their heads. They are fellow grunts mostly, the “guys and gals in the trenches” as Billie Jean King once deemed us. We are out there. To be fair, I do know of several Southland clubs or tennis centers dutifully ponying up to the clay court table. Yet are enough pros actually utilizing them? Most, I imagine, are simply trying to earn a living at something they believe in. They aren’t necessarily at liberty to reinvent their professional lives. But here’s the teachable moment: I
Penner (center) with court builder Rick Newby (left) and the general manager of Har Tru, Pat Hanssen, upon the opening day of the court.
taught for decades on hard courts, but when my clay court dream arrived I never looked back. All my students would be taught on the clay, ready or not, with no possibility of returning to cement’s cold comfort. It’s hard to imagine this happening at a tennis club or center. What’s to keep impatient students from straying back to their beloved hard courts? And, more importantly, who and where are the clay court specialists experienced and eccentric enough to persuade the masses the clay will transform their games forever? With my own transition I did lose clients, too many at one point, but maybe the right kind of business sticks around. It’s been two and a half years now since converting my flock and my quasi-annual report reads thus: All well on the West Coast front. Word of mouth is good and there’s absolutely a bubbling undercurrent of curiosity regarding clay court tennis. This is never so apparent as when the parents of students sheepishly admit they’ve brought their own shoes and racquets to their kid’s lesson. Wow, maybe the days of California tennis lovers viewing clay as somehow messy and icky are gone? It’s a simple enough proposition anyway: Have fun. It starts with the first visit to the court as kids (and grown ups) are urged to leave their hard court pasts at the steps, abandon all former tennis expectations and simply thrive, grin, and go for it. Playing on the clay’s slower, more agreeable surface lets students dis-
cover a mental zone they never knew they possessed. They find themselves hitting 20, 30 balls over the net in a single rally – an incredible confidence builder. I’ve seen this happen constantly, these remarkable first-time visits. One particular evening, in the wake of an 11-year-old boy’s utterly astonishing first lesson, I queried his somewhat stunned father. “Now, does Noah hit like that all the time?” I asked him. He stood there shaking his head in disbelief. “No. Never.” Two months ago the high school team I coach (once a powerhouse of North Orange County) recaptured their league championship. That’s after a seven-year drought. We also dominated league play-offs, and saw a maximum four players qualify for CIF Individuals. I figure it took a year for all team members to finally warm up to the idea; those who hit on the clay more, thrived more. I called the court our “secret weapon” and watched as their games gradually broadened to include overall consistency, slice and drop shots, bunts and can openers, and generally a more extreme variety of topspin that lands deep and spirals deeper. Where will the next specialists come from? Will tomorrow’s top junior players be a part of that cherished 88 percent? Could a future French Open champion hail from the Southland? All I can say is when my students arrive to play, the clay’s soft surface will be lovingly prepared, immaculate, ready to ignite their dreams and indeed transform them into champions. h
Thomas Penner is a screenwriter and USPTA teaching pro living in La Mirada, Calif., with wife Jenny and their three tennis-loving kids.
www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com 61
Career Development Exams, Upgrades & PTCA I
Conventions (Division conventions, 5 credits; World Conference 8 credits; dates subject to change) Aug. 14-16 Texas Summer Retreat Grapevine, Texas Tennis Teachers Conference Aug. 22-25 NYC
(4 credits for PTCA I segment) July 7 Frederick, Md. Fort Wayne, Ind. July 12 Boca Raton, Fla. July 12-13 July 19 Clayton, Mo. Des Moines, Iowa July 19 Coronado, Calif. July 20 Tuscaloosa, Ala. July 20 July 25-26 Houston* July 27 Ocala, Fla. Aug. 1 Kansas City, Mo. Huntington Beach, Calif. Aug. 2-3 Fort Worth, Texas Aug. 3 Hilton Head Island, S.C. Aug. 3 Lakewood, Colo. Aug. 6-7 Port Washington, N.Y. Aug. 7-8 Wilmington, Del. Aug. 8 Aug. 9-10 Louisville, Ky. Tallahassee, Fla. Aug. 10 San Francisco Aug. 11-12 Oklahoma City Aug. 15 Rochester, N.Y. Aug. 15
Specialty Courses Aug 22
Creative drill design for doubles New York; Feisal Hassan
Cardio Tennis * 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.
Oct. 9 Nov. 8 Nov. 9
CT CT TRX CT
Fayetteville, N.C. New York New York
Please visit www.cardiotennis.com to register online.
to instantly register your attendance to all seminars and specialty courses earning APC. To use the system at a seminar, general session or specialty course, you must scan two QR codes. One QR code is on your conference badge. The second QR code will be in your
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Aug. 1 Aug. 3 Aug. 9 Aug. 9 Aug. 14 Aug. 22 Aug. 30 Sept. 13 Sept. 26 Oct. 19 Dec. 14
Washington, D.C. San Jose, Calif. Fayetteville, N.C. Tallahassee, Fla. Cincinnati New York West Palm Beach, Fla. Key Biscayne, Fla. Boulder, Colo. Fayetteville, N.C. Fayetteville, N.C.
Go to www.coachyouthtennis.com for more workshops or to register.
Accredited Professional Coach Register your Accredited Professional Coach (APC) and specialty course credits earned with the USPTA SmartCode Education System. This uses your smartphone
TAUT Workshops
conference notebook and cannot be scanned until the end of the session or the beginning of the next session. If you do not have a smartphone, you may use someone else’s. Forms are available upon request.
TM
Member News • USPTA Professional Craig O’Shannessy has just released a new coaching website product called the “25 Golden Rules of Singles Strategy.” Craig is the lead strategy analyst for the ATP World Tour, WTA Tour, New York Times and Tennis magazine. The 25 Golden Rules focuses on the four elements of the sport – serving, returning, rallying and approaching – and uncovers the most efficient patterns in each area and the winning percentages to back them up. Coaches get concrete facts on what actually works at the elite level of the sport and how best to teach it to their students. The cost is $49.95 and is available on Craig’s website www.braingametennis.com. • Elite Professionals Billy Chadwick and Timon Corwin were inducted into the Intercollegiate Tennis Association’s Hall of Fame in May at the 2014 ITA Men’s Collegiate Hall of Fame Enshrinement Banquet during the NCAA Division I Men’s & Women’s Tennis ChamChadwick Photo credit Ole Miss Athletics pionships held at the University of Georgia in Athens, Ga. Corwin • The inaugural Tennis Owners & Managers Conference, presented by the Tennis Industry Association, April 3-4 in Charleston, S.C., brought together leading experts in club and facility management and programming to provide practical information and key “takeaways” to help tennis facility owners and managers become more competitive and profitable. The TOM Conference included many speakers, including top executives at national tennis and health companies, successful tennis club owners, experts in legal and financial matters, a promotion expert, a retail consultant, club membership and compensation experts, 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
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tennis programming and coaching professionals, and sports research experts. The keynote speaker at the conference was USPTA Professional Cliff Drysdale, an ESPN commentator, former pro player and 2013 inductee into the International Tennis Hall of Fame. • The South Suburban Tennis Academy’s first USPTA/Prince Tennis Across America Clinic was held in April. 27 people showed up on a chilly Chicago day. Prince provided demo racquets, banners and giveaway prizes. SSTA was created to provide quality lessons, camps and clinics in the south suburbs of Chicago. USPTA Professional Andy Ventress, president of SSTA, said the main goal always has been to make tennis fun. SSTA manages and directs tennis programs at four park districts – Orland Park, Tinley Park, Mokena and Frankfort – and recently conducted a summer camp at Andrew High School. It offers training for instructors, private lessons for players and has more than 200 participants in park programs. • Several USPTA pros had a strong showing at the USTA National Senior Men’s and Women’s Hard Court Tennis Championships at the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club in La Jolla, Calif., in May. Winners included: Martha Downing – Women’s 60s Doubles Susan Whiteside – Women’s 50s Doubles. • Four USPTA Professionals won five division championships and eight were runners-up in five categories at the 2014 ITF Seniors World Individual Championships at the BallenIsles Country Club in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. Winners are: Mikael Pernfors – Men’s 50 Singles & Men’s 50 Doubles Tobias Svantesson – Men’s 50 Doubles Aldo Burga – Men’s 45 Doubles Mike Tammen – Men’s 55 Doubles
Managing editor Circulation
Kimberly Forrester Kathy Buchanan
Office hours: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Central time ADDvantage is published monthly by the United States Professional Tennis Association.
• USPTA member Dick Stockton’s Blue Sky Foundation recently held its first T3 (Thanking our Troops through Tennis) event of 2014. The event was held in conjunction with the grand opening of eight new courts at Eglin Air Force Base in the Florida Panhandle. Approximately 75 people participated in the various clinics. Stockton has announced that four or five more events will be held at various military bases this year. Helping out in the event at Eglin AFB were USPTA Pros Mario Contardi, Sam Vickroy, Jr., Mario Alvarez, Purple Heart recipient Sam Vickroy, Sr., Steve Contardi, Joe D’Aleo, Brett Beattie, veteran Chuck Straley, Glen Howe, former Wimbledon Doubles Champion JoAnne Russell, veteran Tommy Wade, Dick Stockton, Kevin Dunworth, and Greg Bennett. • James Markert, USPTA, who has been teaching tennis to all ages and levels for 20 years, is also a novelist and a screenwriter. His award-winning historical novel, “A White Wind Blew,” is available in hardcover, paperback, or any e-reader. His first movie, “2nd Serve” (The Group Entertainment), was released in the fall, and recently became available to stream on iTunes. “2nd Serve” is an indie feature comedy about tennis pro Owen “Game Set” Match and his quest for redemption after being fired from the most prestigious club in town only to pick himself back up again at the local rec center, where nets are fixed with tape and odd-ball pros are aplenty. It stars Josh Hopkins (Cougar Town), Cameron Monaghan (Shameless, Vampire Academy, The Giver), Kevin Sussman (Big Bang Theory), Guillermo Diaz (Scandal), and Dash Mihok (Ray Donovan, Silver Linings Playbook, I Am Legend). For more information, visit iTunes or watch the trailer at bit.ly/2ndServe-y. 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. 2014. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any portion of the magazine is not permitted without written permission from USPTA.