BASELINES
FROM THE PRESIDENT
JOSE PASTRELLO
Dear RSPA Florida Members,
I’m excited to invite you to our upcoming RSPA Florida Conference at PGA National Resort. This year’s event is shaping up to be one of our best yet, thanks to a venue that offers top-notch facilities and an incredible setting for learning, networking, and play.
We have built a dynamic schedule designed to bring our community together in meaningful and engaging ways. From our Welcome Party, to XGLOsive pickleball, to our awards evening, there will be no shortage of opportunities to connect with peers and industry partners. We will also kick things off Thursday morning with padel at XCEL Padel and our always-enjoyable golf outing. And by popular demand, we’re bringing back morning cardio tennis: an energizing way to start the day and get back into the swing of things.
Our board has worked tremendously hard to bring in outstanding industry leaders who will share their knowledge, insights, and experiences. This conference is truly a chance to grow professionally while enjoying everything that makes our racquet sports community so special. I’m really looking forward to seeing all of you there. It’s going to be a fantastic few days of learning, playing, and connecting, all in one place.
Warm regards,
THURSDAY
11:00AM - 5:00PM REGISTRATION
8:30AM - 12:30PM GOLF SCRAMBLE-ABACOA GOLF CLUB
*FIRST COME FIRST SERVE BASIS, IF INTERESTED EMAIL MATT BACON AT TENNISPROBACON@GMAIL.COM
9:00AM - 12:00PM PADEL EXPERIENCE - XCEL PADEL WESTLAKE
MARCOS DEL PILAR WILL BE ON COURT TEACHING THOSE WHO ARE NEW TO PADEL THE BASICS AND COURTS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR COMPETITIVE PLAY 3 HOURS OF PLAY FOR ONLY $40!
*PARTICIPANTS WILL RECIEVE $100 FUTURE CREDIT FOR ATTENDING. EMAIL CARY.TIDMUS@RSPA.NET IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO SIGN UP.
1:30PM - 2:45PM EDUCATION #1: USTA FLORIDA WOMEN’S EMPOWEREMENT WORKSHOP
LAURA BOWEN, USTA FLORIDA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
3:00PM - 4:00PM EDUCATION #2: YOU MAY BE A COACH, BUT YOU ARE ALSO A BUSINESS
TOM DAGLIS, RSPA MASTER PROFESSIONAL
4:00PM - 4:45PM OPEN NETWORKING TIME *HEADSHOTS AVAILABLE
5:00PM - 6:00PM FAST FEEDING COMPETITION
6:00PM - 7:00PM WELCOME RECEPTION
FRIDAY
7:00AM - 8:00AM CARDIO TENNIS WORKOUT
MICHELE KRAUSE
8:00AM - 3:00PM REGISTRATION
8:45AM - 10:00AM EDUCATION #5: BREAKFAST & BRAINSTORMING
RSPA FLORIDA BOARD
RSPA FLORIDA DISTRICT PRESIDENTS & VICE PRESIDENTS
10:15AM - 12:00PM EDUCATION #6: PICKLEBALL ON COURT SESSION
PABLO TELLEZ, PPA TOUR PLAYER
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM PAST PRESIDENTS & 30+ YEARS OF SERVICE MEMBERS LUNCHEON *INVITE ONLY
1:15PM - 2:45PM EDUCATION #7: THE LEADER WITHIN: UNDERSTANDING STRENGTHS, BARRIERS & LIMITATIONS
DR. JACK GROPPEL, RSPA HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE
3:00PM - 4:00PM EDUCATION #8: GENERAL MANAGERS PANEL
CHRIS EVANS, QUAIL CREEK COUNTRY CLUB
MATT LAMBERT, THE COUNTRY CLUB AT MIRASOL
RYAN WALLS, BALLENISLES COUNTRY CLUB
4:15PM - 5:15PM EDUCATION #9: NATIONALS UPDATE
MILOS VASOVIC - RSPA VICE PRESIDENT
TRISH FAULKNER-RSPA NATIONAL & FLORIDA PAST PRESIDENT
5:30PM - 7:30PM VENDOR TRADE SHOW
8:00PM - 10:00PM XGLOSIVE PICKLEBALL PARTY
7:00AM - 8:00AM CARDIO TENNIS CLINIC
MICHELE KRAUSE
8:00AM - 9:30AM FLORIDA LEADERSHIP TEAM MEETING
10:00AM - 11:00AM EDUCATION #10: LADIES TEAMS BEST PRACTICES
KRISTINE MENDIVIL, RSPA FLORIDA DISTRICT 10 VICE PRESIDENT
11:15AM - 12:15PM EDUCATION #11: HOW TO SUCCEED AS A FIRST TIME DIRECTOR AND BEYOND
MICHAEL JORDAN, DIRECTOR OF RACQUETS AT DALLAS COUNTRY CLUB
1:30PM - 2:30PM
GREG ‘MOOSE’ DEMOUSTES, RSPA FLORIDA DISTRICT 16 VICE PRESIDENT
EDUCATION #12: DIVERSITY OF THOUGHT: WHY DEI IS ESSENTIAL IN OUR INDUSTRY
KELVIN RIVERA, DIRECTOR OF RACQUET SPORTS AT LAKE NONA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
LISA PUGLIESE-LACROIX, FOUNDER & CEO OF LOVE SERVING AUTISM
2:30PM - 4:30PM ON COURT TEAM PLAY SATURDAY
5:30PM - 7:30PM
Serving a Greater Cause: ITEC and South Florida Unite to Empower the Next Generation
For 50 years, the Israel Tennis & Education Centers (ITEC) has remained committed to a simple yet powerful mission: to empower children across Israel through sport, education, and personal development What began in 1976 as a vision to create opportunity through tennis has grown into a nationwide network of 25 centers and satellite programs, serving children from all backgrounds - Jewish and Arab, from underserved communities, and those facing social or economic challenges At ITEC, social labels disappear, and children come together in a safe and structured environment to grow, learn, and respect one another
At its core, ITEC uses tennis as a gateway to something greater Beyond the court, participants gain mentorship, structure, and a safe environment where they can build confidence, discipline, and resilience Through donor-supported scholarships, access is never limited by financial barriers, ensuring every child has the opportunity to grow and succeed.
To date, more than 500,000 children have come through ITEC programs, carrying these values into their lives and helping shape a stronger, more connected society
Looking ahead, the organization remains focused on expanding its reach and deepening its impact Future initiatives include the development of new centers in key regions and the continued investment in holistic support services, particularly in mental health and trauma care for children navigating the realities of ongoing conflict These efforts reflect ITEC’s long-term vision: not only to grow the game of tennis, but to strengthen communities and empower the next generation.
Against this backdrop of purpose and progress, March 2026 marked a significant milestone as ITEC celebrated its 50th anniversary with an exceptional exhibition tour across South Florida.
The tour featured 16 stops spanning multiple private clubs across South Florida, including premier communities in Miami Beach, Aventura as well as Boca Raton and Palm Beach Each event blended an exciting on-court program with inspiring storytelling On court, the visiting delegation of young athletes played alongside hosting club members, creating authentic connections through a shared love for tennis Many stops also featured a short exhibition match including Grand Slam Champions Jonathan Erlich & Andy Ram, as well as talented South Florida RSPA teaching professionals Off court, intimate receptions offered a deeper perspective, as the young delegation athletes shared personal stories of growth, resilience, and opportunity, bringing ITEC’s mission into clear and powerful focus.
The result was both inspiring and impactful The 2026 South Florida tour raised over $3 9 million, marking a significant increase from prior years These funds will directly support critical initiatives across Israel, including the development of a new center in the southern region and expanded mental health and trauma support programs for youth in need
More than a fundraising effort, the tour reflected something deeper, a shared commitment between ITEC and the South Florida community to give back & support youth development, creating a lasting impact that extends far beyond the court.
Interested in Hosting an ITEC Exhibition at Your Club?
Clubs across South Florida played a vital role in the success of this year’s tour, and the opportunity to be part of this impactful initiative continues to grow.
Hosting an ITEC exhibition event offers a unique and meaningful experience for members combining high-level tennis, inspiring personal stories, and the chance to directly support a powerful cause These events are thoughtfully curated to create both an engaging on-court experience and a memorable social atmosphere for your membership
Clubs interested in learning more about hosting a future ITEC fundraising exhibition are encouraged to connect directly:
Israel Tennis & Education Centers (ITEC) 3275 W Hillsboro Blvd., Suite 102 Deerfield Beach, FL 33442 (954) 480-6333 itecenters.org
Learnin’ with Vernon: Valley of the Alley
Whatareyouafraidof?Letmeguess...THEALLEY.Thereyou are,standingcloserandclosertothedoublesalley, challengingyouropponenttohittheballdowntheline
Meanwhile,thealleyisonly4'6”wide,andfromthemiddleof thead-boxtothemiddleofthedeuceboxis13’6” Soyou hover,protectingthesmallestareaofthecourtastheball continuestotravelcross-courtoverandoveragain When youfallintothevalleyofthealley,youallowyouropponentto takecontrolfromthebaselineasyouwatchtheballgoback andforth,missingopportunitiestofinishthepointwitha volley
VERNONGETTONE,JR. DISTRICT9PRESIDENT
In turn, you should be in charge because you are at the net, in a commanding position So, in a one-up, one-back versus oneup, one-back scenario, if you are at the net, stay involved by standing more in the middle of the service box, daring them to hit the ball down the alley
By doing this, you will make the court seem smaller for your opponent at the baseline and give you more opportunities to be involved and potentially hit a winning volley
Maintain a good position at the net and don't fall into the "VALLEY OF THE ALLEY!"
upcoming certifications
REGION UPDATES
Region1-Panhandle/Tallahassee
On March 21, Region 1 District President, Gary Bertoldo, hosted a educational meeting and tournament Prior to the meeting, members gathered to attend the University of West Florida match. 35 people attended the meeting where the upcoming Florida Division Conference was discussed along with certifications needed for the area, World Racquets Conference in September and overall RSPA discussions.
High School Junior, David Ward, defeated former college player, Miguel Cabrera with the final point being a 45 ball rally!
REGION UPDATES
District4-CentralFlorida
February 21 saw District President, Marco Herrera, and Vice President, Vasco Belaunde, put on a district meeting following the conclusion of the Padel Certification led by Marcos Del Pilar. Marcos ran through the proper lesson planning for padel and then the group gathered to play padel together at this new indoor padel club in the heart of Orlando.
District9-VeroBeach
District 9 President, Tim Brueggeman, brought in speaker, Steven Chambers, who gave members insight into recent advancements in AI and it’s impact on everyone both professionally and personally. Dr. Chambers is a veteran technology executive with 25+ years leading major AI and voice-technology companies. Members then had the opportunity to network with each other and play a round of padel.
REGION UPDATES
District10-WestPalm
District 10 had a great time with Marcos Del Pilar, as he led an educational session on shaping a lesson plan for today’s padel players. District President, Mario Cobo, and Vice President, Kristine Mendivil, then put together time for our members to play on the courts at the beautiful new XCel Padel in Westlake.
District12-Naples
Our District 12 members met at the Sanchez Academy on April 10 to discuss handling the busy season, how to continue growing without burning out and the upcoming Florida Conference. District President, Matt Kuk, and Vice President, Alex Sweet brought together over 25 pro’s to discuss relevant topics and network with each other.
REGION UPDATES
District 14 - Lee County
District 14 President, Caio Bardauil, kicked off his first term as president with a bang! He brought together over 20 members in the Lee County area to discuss relevant topics, the upcoming Florida Division Conference and how each person is handling events at their clubs.
Level Up Your Doubles Volleys QUICK TIP
Ifyouplayregularlydoubles,youalreadyknowhow importantthenetgameis Andifyou’relikemostplayers, volleyscaneitherfeelgreat oralittlerushedand inconsistent
Here’sasimpletipthatcanmakeabigdifference:keepyour handssoftandswingshort Alotofplayerstryto“hit”their volleyslikeagroundstroke,takingabiggerswingthan necessary Indoubles,thatusuallyleadstomissedtimingor ballsflyinglong
Instead,thinkofyourvolleyasmoreofablockorapunch Keepyourracquetoutinfront,useacompactmotion,andlet theballdothework
Another key? Stay relaxed. Tension in your hands and arms makes it harder to control the ball. Try loosening your grip just a bit you’ll be surprised how much better your touch and placement become.
Next time you’re on court, focus on this: short punch and racquet out in front. It’s a small adjustment, but it can really help you feel more confident at the net and that’s where doubles matches are often won.
See you on the court!
FRIDAY, MAY 29 8-10PM A glowing end to a great day of learning! See you on the court in your neon gear!
DELRAY BEACH OPEN
The RSPA Florida Division made its presence felt at the 34th annual Delray Beach Open this February, blending professional networking with the high-octane energy of ATP Tour tennis. The week kicked off with a bang on Monday night, as the division hosted an exclusive social gathering that drew over 40 RSPA members. The event served as a perfect baseline for the week, allowing teaching professionals and industry leaders from across the state to connect, share insights, and celebrate the growth of racquet sports in Florida.
Continuing the momentum onto the Stadium Court, Cary Tidmus (Executive Director) and Isabella Graf took center stage to represent the RSPA. In a highlight moment for the division, the duo stepped out onto the pristine hard courts for the official coin flip at center court.
Their appearance at the Delray Beach Open was more than just a ceremonial duty; it was a strategic effort to maintain a strong RSPA presence at one of the premier stops on the ATP 250 tour. By bridging the gap between the professional tour and the dedicated coaches who grow the game at the grassroots level, the RSPA Florida Division ensured that the blue and orange was well-represented in the heart of Delray Beach.
We look forward to 2027!
Division Leadership
REGION
RSPA FLORIDA DISTRICT PRESIDENTS & VICE PRESIDENTS
