RSPA ADDvantage Magazine - July Edition by RSPA

Rebrand You:

OBrian Dillman | RSPA CEO

A New Wave Begins in Hawaii

nce a year, it’s a good idea to evaluate where you are, set goals for where you want to go and determine how to get there. If you’ve heard me speak anytime this year, I’ve talked a lot about personal rebranding. At last year’s World Racquets Conference (WRC), Kevin Warren asked the pointed question, “What version of the iPhone are you? Are you version 7 or are you upgraded to the latest version 16?” What we’re both asking you is, have you taken the time to look yourself in the mirror, assess where you are, ask what you’re happy about, and write your future headline?

WRC25: The perfect moment to shape your professional future

The World Racquets Conference will be held in Hawaii from September 21-25, and we believe it’s the perfect opportunity to do some soul-searching, catch a few waves and write your brand-new headline for who and where you want to be over the next 12 months. While January is the typical time for ringing in the New Year and reflecting on the past year, resetting and planning the future, we view the World Racquets Conference as the racquet sports New Year. This

is when you’ll have an opportunity to hear from the best in and outside our industry and spend time in personal rebranding sessions and with your peers to learn as much as you possibly can to help build your brand into the newest version. This is critical for you and for our industry. We are the leaders and need to set the tone, trend and lead! If something in the industry is not working, change it. If you are frustrated about your current position, do something about it. You owe it to yourself and our association. Racquet Sports Professionals need to advocate more for themselves to help validate the industry. For instance, as much as 70% of our Racquet Sports industry professionals do not have a professional profile on LinkedIn. We can all help to change this, one professional at a time.

industry. From the national staff to the RSPA National Board of Directors, to the Executive Committee and our task force, this rebrand to the Racquet Sports Professionals Association (RSPA) has opened more opportunities for our members and brand than we could’ve ever imagined.

From Rebranding the Association to Rebranding You: Aligning your personal growth with industry momentum

Last year at the World Racquets Conference, we rebranded our association. The monumental effort the entire association put behind this once-a-century event and announcement which was years in the making, was unmatched by any we’ve seen in the racquets

In several recent topline surveys, almost 85% of all facilities in the United States offer at least two racquet sports. The trend right now is tennis and pickleball are offered most often, followed by platform tennis and padel. Tennis-only facilities represent only 15% as reported by those who participated in the survey. Even if that number was doubled to 30%, if we had a more detailed/robust survey, this shows that 70% of our facilities in the United States today offer multiple racquet sports. Not only does this create new opportunities, it creates new challenges, new requirements and a new way of thinking. Just like a software upgrade or a firmware upgrade, it’s time to go back to school a little bit to relearn and rethink how the industry is shaping up. We don’t know exactly what the industry is going to look like in the next five to 10 years, but an educated guess would tell us that the trend of 70 % of facilities with multi-racquet sports will only become more dominant. The opportunity for growth now lies in what you do with this data. Do you want to become a director

of racquet sports, do you want to own your own facility, do you want to create unbelievable programming that gets you to an 85-90% retention rate? All these topics and many more will be addressed at the World Racquets Conference. We’ll also create opportunities to have access and get insights from professionals in the industry who have gone through changes in their own careers, their way of thinking and who have created a whole new level of opportunity.

The key role of the RSPA in your career development

When the RSPA was founded in 1927, the idea was to professionalize tennis. Not on the court for the playing professionals, but for the club professionals who are growing, teaching and promoting the game every day at the grassroots level. That level of professionalism remains constant today, and as we shoot for higher levels of education and knowledge-building in the industry, our mission is to share your passion and enhance your career potential through professional development and learning new sports, new programming and new ways of thinking.

Envisioning Your Career Path

In one of the professional development training sessions I attended, the exercise asked us to look 5 to 10 years down the road and write your headline. Pretend that you pick up the Wall Street Journal one day, five years from now and read your own headline. What does it say? What have you achieved? Once you’ve written this headline, post it on your mirror, your bulletin board or on your phone, and keep it as a reminder every day. The path to achievement starts with a commitment to envision/imagine what your future could look like. If you can see that headline visually and mentally, you can get there. Some of the steps along the way require changing the way you think, learning new things and being open-minded to opportunities in front of you. While my roots were centered in tennis, I would’ve never imagined I would be leading an international apparel expansion and living in London, England. Neither would I have ever imagined I would be pioneering a new fitness concept in the United States, but with a propensity for curiosity and being open minded, everything is possible. And everything that I’ve achieved, accomplished and learned, led me to where I am today. So, I invite you to go back and write down your path and include some of the decisions that you shared and encountered along the way. Did you plan this past specifically, or did the concept of sliding doors lead you into new opportunities and growth potential? It’s also OK to go backwards once-in-a-while, but only if you know what your true path forward should look like.

The new wave to help shape the future of racquet sports starts in Hawaii

I am so excited to see everyone again in Hawaii in September, to share these ideas and share this concept of rebranding you. If our industry can stand up with each other, help each other and motivate each other, our industry will be untouchable. Since I started my role as CEO, I’ve shared that there’s never been a better time to be in the racquet sports industry. That momentum continues with now having access to all racquet sports certifications under our umbrella at the RSPA. We can’t wait to help you go through your own assessment, learn from industry experts and leave Hawaii feeling refreshed, reengaged, and reenergized to help you become the professional you want to be- on and off the court.

Brian Dillman RSPA CEO

Kona, Colleagues

Career Growth: WRC &

This September 21–25, I’ll be joining friends and colleagues from across the industry at the RSPA World Racquets Conference (WRC) in Kona, Hawaii—and I hope you will too. We haven’t been to Hawaii in years and this year’s event is shaping up to be special.

The setting speaks for itself—the Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa, perched above the Pacific Ocean, offering everything from snorkeling and kayaking to cultural events and incredible views. But what really sets this conference apart is the balance of professional value and personal experience. It’s the kind of event where you grow your career and still find time to recharge.

Top-Tier Education

I always look forward to the educational sessions at Racquet Sports Professionals Association (RSPA) events and this year’s agenda looks better than ever. Whether you work in club management, coaching, retail, or facility operations, there will be relevant, forward-thinking seminars to help us all stay sharp and evolve with the sport.

We’ll hear from industry leaders, explore practical tools and strategies, and get inspired by new ideas and approaches. The sessions are designed to be interactive, insightful, and immediately useful in our day-to-day work.

Rich Slivocka, RSPA National Past President, RSPA Master Professional

Real Connections

Another reason I’m going?

The people. RSPA events are known for their strong sense of community and that’s something I always value. Whether I’m reconnecting with old friends or meeting new faces, these conversations often lead to great ideas—and sometimes even new partnerships. From casual breakfasts to evening social events, the setting in Kona will make it easy to engage, relax and build relationships that last well beyond the week.

A Rare Opportunity— for Family, Too

One thing I really appreciate about this year’s conference is the flexible schedule. It leaves space for downtime—whether that’s some solo beach time or making the trip a family getaway. I’m planning to bring mine, and the resort makes it easy, with activities for all ages and plenty to explore together.

There’s something refreshing about attending an event that’s professionally enriching and personally rewarding. I’ll spend my mornings learning from some of the best in the business and my afternoons discovering the Big Island with loved ones.

Don’t Miss It

If you’ve been looking for a reason to recharge, reconnect and get inspired—this is it. The WRC isn’t just another industry event; it’s a chance to grow, connect and experience something extraordinary.

I’ll be there. I hope you will be too.

Rich Slivocka, Master Professional RSPA National Past President

More than a Conference.

Collin Brazan | RSPA Director of Marketing

Why We’re Headed to Kona

Last year, the RSPA debuted a bold new brand that reflects the dynamic transformation of racquet sports and centers you, the member, in everything we do. That spirit carries into this year’s World Racquets Conference with a powerful message: it’s all about your growth, goals and future. Each year, we have collected feedback after our conference concludes to tailor the following year’s experience around our members’ needs. This year, in bringing the conference to Hawaii, we are using that feedback to drive an intimate conference that puts you, the member, at the center of the learning and professional development experience.

We are thrilled to welcome you to WRC25 in Kona, Hawaii, where personal and professional development seamlessly blend with relaxation and adventure. This year’s event is hosted at the Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa, an exquisite destination with luxury, cultural richness and breathtaking scenery.

Your Ideal Retreat: Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa

Nestled atop the stunning cliffs of Keauhou Bay, this resort delivers the perfect balance of comfort and island charm. Enjoy:

• Fully Renovated Accommodations –Rooms feature island-inspired décor and furnished lanais offering spectacular views of Keauhou Bay, the lava cliffs or lush landscapes.

• Voyager 47 Club Lounge – Elevate your stay with exclusive access to complimentary breakfast, evening appetizers and a curated selection of local craft beer and wine.

• Holua Poolside Bar & Lounge – Unwind with island-inspired cuisine and tropical drinks at the lagoon-style pool.

• Holoholo Market & Café – Pick up quick meals, gifts, clothing, toiletries and snacks for your adventures.

• Cultural Activities – Immerse yourself in daily experiences such as yoga, hula lessons, lei making and ukulele classes.

Professional Growth Meets

Island Adventure

At WRC25, you’ll refine your teaching abilities on the court and enhance your brand off the court, all while exploring the unparalleled beauty of the Big Island.

Unforgettable Kona Experiences:

• World-Class Snorkeling – Dive into crystal-clear waters with Fair Wind Cruises, Sea Quest Hawaii or Anelakai Adventures. Whether you’re gliding alongside manta rays under the stars or exploring hidden sea caves, Kona’s snorkeling scene is unparalleled.

• Beyond the Beach Adventures –Immerse yourself in the Big Island’s landscapes, flavors and traditions:

+ Soar over volcanoes and waterfalls with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters.

+ Hike hidden trails with expert guides from Hawaii Forest & Trail.

+ Indulge in local delights, from Kona Coffee at Greenwell Farms to Big Island Bees’ raw honey and hand-harvested Hawaiian sea salt at Kona Sea Salt.

WRC25 is more than a conference! It’s an opportunity to grow, connect and experience the magic of Hawaii. We look forward to welcoming you to this unforgettable retreat in Kona.

• Canoe with Eka Tours – Step aboard a handcrafted Hawaiian outrigger canoe and discover Keauhou Bay’s rich cultural heritage and captivating legends.

CERTIFICATION CALENDAR PREVIEW

JULY 2025

AUGUST 2025

Jack Draper Is Ready for a Spectacular Five Year Run

Steve

Flink, International Tennis Hall of Fame

PHOTO CREDIT: Fred Mullane, CameraWorksUSA

British tennis fans were eupeptic when Andy Murray—toppling none other than Novak Djokovic in the final— won Wimbledon for the first time in 2013. He established himself as the first British male competitor since Fred Perry claimed his third singles crown in a row 77 years earlier to take the world’s premier tennis title. Murray was victorious again on the lawns at the All England Club in 2016. That was a singularly celebratory stretch not only for this highly charged and immensely dedicated craftsman, but for the nation at large. The English tennis population did not take those twin Murray successes for granted. They rejoiced.

Murray, of course, also secured a U.S. Open title in 2012 and was twice a gold medalist at the Olympic Games in 2012 and 2016. Avid British followers of the sport will sorely miss him.

And yet, they now have someone else in the men’s game who will be contending for major titles with regularity over the next five to seven years. He stands 6’4” tall. He is 23 years old. His name is Jack Draper.

This imposing British left-hander is arguably the most improved player in the upper reaches of the game this season. Over the first five months of 2025, he made his presence known powerfully in three tournaments which lifted him to an entirely different level. At the ATP 500 event in Doha, Draper made it to the final before losing to Andrey Rublev. At Indian Wells in California, he upended the surging Brazilian Joao Fonseca, Americans Jenson Brooksby, Taylor Fritz and Ben Shelton, Spain’s dazzling Carlos Alcaraz and the tenacious Dane Holger Rune to capture his first Masters 1000 crown. The only set he lost was to Alcaraz in the penultimate round.

Following up on that sterling perfor-

mance, Draper advanced to the final of the Masters 1000 tournament in Madrid with impressive victories over Tommy Paul and Lorenzo Musetti, losing a hard fought battle in the title round to Casper Ruud. After that stirring showing on the red clay in Spain, Draper moved deservedly into the top five in the world. Although he lost to Alcaraz in the quarterfinals of Rome in his next appearance, Draper had demonstrated beyond a doubt that he belonged among the elite. Although Draper’s sparkling form in 2025 was astounding to some, the fact remained that many in the cognoscenti were not that surprised by his ascent. In 2024, he worked inordinately hard and applied himself diligently in winning 39 of 61 matches, taking two titles in the process. Most importantly, he reached his first major semifinal at the U.S. Open without dropping a set prior to his defeat against Jannik Sinner. Draper got sick on the court more than once during that skirmish in the harsh New York humidity, but the good health of his game was indisputable.

Draper was asked after his loss to Sinner if he needed to change anything in his approach or his game to reach the

ultimate level of tennis.

He replied, “I don’t think I need to do anything different. I think it’s just a matter of time. I’m constantly trying to improve. When I came to the U.S. Open last year, I was No. 120 in the world and now I will leave here ranked in the top 20. I’m breaking down new barriers the whole time of what I think is possible.”

Those were prescient words. Draper envisioned then where he might be now. He understood who he was and what he can eventually accomplish. He realized that there is no substitute for unwavering commitment. He was aware that he was soon going to be on the cusp of greatness as long as he stayed fit, avoided too many injuries, kept his mind uncluttered and pursued his goals persistently.

He did have some injury issues earlier this season which are surely a constant source of concern for all players. After being stretched to five sets in three consecutive victories at the Australian Open, Draper was unable to complete his fourth round contest against Alcaraz. After dropping the first two sets 7-5, 6-1, he retired. But that is simply part of the process of building himself into a more durable and resilient athlete, of training intelligently, and of shaking off setbacks while simultaneously learning from them.

To be sure, he has the tools to eventually get to the very top of his trade. His southpaw serve is devilish. Draper mixes up his speed and spins remarkably well. Being a lefty is a considerable advantage. He disguises his delivery cleverly and knows when to go for his biggest serves down the middle in both the deuce and ad courts. His wide slice in the ad court is beautifully produced and enables Draper to serve-and-volley selectively after surgically opening up the court.

The serve has long been a weapon but, over the past year, he has improved it decidedly. Be that as it may, Draper has made even larger strides off the ground. His two-handed backhand is now formidable in terms of depth, control and pace. He can rely on that shot more than

ever to keep himself in rallies and eventually set up his explosive forehand. That forehand is a stupendous shot. There are distant shades of Rafael Nadal in the Draper forehand when he unleashes it with heavy topspin and makes the ball bound up high. But what is most enjoyable to watch is the Draper forehand down the line. He flattens that one out and wallops it supersonically. Until last year, that forehand could sometimes get away from him. He would experience rough patches, spraying balls out of court and losing his range.

Not anymore. This isn’t to say he never misses, but the fact remains that Draper is far more reliable off that side these days. Quite simply, his forehand has become one of the single biggest and best shots in all of tennis. He almost always measures it impeccably now, knowing when to unleash it at full force, recognizing when to pull back a bit and give it greater topspin, sensing how well he is feeling the ball and when to make the necessary adjustments. Meanwhile, Draper has a sixth sense of when and how to get to the net and end points with his aggressive volleys.

I am writing this column about six weeks before the start of Wimbledon. In my view, Draper is surely one of the top four candidates to win on the preeminent stage in the sport. The two-time defending champion Alcaraz, Sinner and seven-time victor Djokovic are the only players I believe have a better chance of prevailing on the grass in London. Draper is awfully difficult to break on all surfaces, but his serve is even more deadly on the lawns. The effusive crowds cheering him on unabashedly could boost the British competitor significantly this time around at Wimbledon. He just might be ready to meet the moment.

But this much is certain in my estimation: Jack Draper is going to secure some majors over the coming years. Even if he does not win Wimbledon this year, he will inevitably do so in the seasons ahead.

Collin Brazan, RSPA Director of Marketing

Honoring the Dr. Dave Porter RSPA’s Newest Hall of Famer:

The Racquet Sports Professionals Association is honored to induct Dr. Dave Porter into its Hall of Fame this September at the World Racquets Conference.

Dave was awarded the association’s George Bacso Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023 for his prolific and unparalleled collegiate coaching career that saw him conduct professional testing both internationally and across the United States and bring countless professionals into what became the RSPA.

“Honor, high standards, complete dedication and passion are just a few words to describe Dave Porter. His influence has resonated throughout the Racquet Sports Professionals Association and around the world. Dave’s passion for tennis, coaching and learning are at the highest level, which is why Dave’s election to the RSPA Hall of Fame is so worthy,” said RSPA CEO Brian Dillman

Dave brings his accomplishments within the association and beyond full circle in Hawaii, where he started the Brigham Young University-Hawaii men’s tennis program in 1984 and later took over the women’s team in 1992.

During his 33-year coaching tenure there, his teams secured 11 national championships—nine for women and two for men—and achieved more than 40 NCAA DII and NAIA national tournament appearances. Dave then moved to BYU in Provo, Utah, where he finished his collegiate coaching career. As men’s tennis head coach at BYU, Porter saw 28 wins and coached two singles players to national rankings in Sean Hill (2021) and Wally Thayne (2023). Dave also oversaw the women’s program as director of tennis. The women earned 38 wins over three seasons and a No. 54 national ranking in March 2023. Dave’s alma mater—where he graduated in 1975 with a bachelor’s degree in physical education and in 1977 with a master’s degree in exercise physiology—earned eight All-WCC honors under his leadership. Dave also later earned a doctoral degree in education from the University of Hawai’i!

Throughout his coaching career, which spanned more than 40 years, Dave coached 57 All-Americans.

With an astonishing 1,438 career victories, Dave is the winningest coach in collegiate tennis history. His legacy is marked by numbers and the lasting impact he made on every athlete and program he worked with.

“While winning matches and champi-

onships are important, I believe that they are the result not the cause of real success. To look back and be able to remember the practices, in addition to the wins and championships, are what made coaching so enjoyable for me,” Dave Porter said. “When I think back and remember individual players I remember their work ethic, their commitment to school and team and smiles as much as their wins and losses.”

A six-time recipient of the ITA National Coach of the Year and honored over 30 times as district, regional or conference coach of the year, Dave’s excellence has been recognized at every level. His influence extends far beyond the collegiate courts, as he assisted with the Chinese women’s doubles team to Olympic gold in 2004 and coached champions who won at the Australian Open and Wimbledon in 2006. Dave was instrumental in introducing our association to China by conducting testing clinics in the country. His career is a testament to passion, perseverance and the power of mentorship on the global stage.

Dave has been one of the paramount leaders in the association’s educational program and played an integral role in designing the way tennis is taught in the modern day.

“I am truly honored to receive the prestigious Tim Heckler Hall of Fame Award,” Dave said. “Tim was a player, teacher, leader, mentor and friend. He taught me a lot about tennis but even more about life. To be recognized by friends and peers, and honored in the name of our greatest member is humbling and gratifying.”

Rebrand You: A New Wave Begins in Hawaii

Collin Brazan, RSPA Director of Marketing

World Racquets Conference 2025 is on the way, and this time, it’s personal.

At WRC24, we redefined what it means to be part of this association. Now, in 2025, we shift the focus to you.

Introducing the WRC25 Theme

This year, it’s about transformation. It’s about stepping boldly into the next version of yourself: more confident, more adaptable and more prepared for the future of racquet sports. Across tennis, pickleball, padel, platform tennis and squash, change is happening at an unprecedented pace. This year, we want to help you do more than keep up; we want to help you lead.

WRC25 is your moment to redefine your game, your presence and your impact.

Why Hawaii?

Because a new perspective demands a new setting.

Hawaii isn’t just a place. It’s a mindset where reinvention happens naturally, where the waves shape the shoreline, where the environment inspires transformation.

Imagine refining your skills while standing at the edge of the Pacific, the ocean stretching infinitely before you. Picture building your professional brand with fellow leaders while surrounded by volcanic landscapes and golden sunsets. In Kona, growth thrives.

This breathtaking setting isn’t just a backdrop for learning; it’s a catalyst for evolution. Here, you’ll gain fresh insights, sharpen your vision and carve out your unique place in the industry with clarity and confidence.

“This isn’t just another conference.”

What to Expect?

Career Growth

Expand your expertise, earn new certifications and take control of your career trajectory with an impressive lineup of educators dedicated to your professional development. Whether you’re refining your coaching approach, deepening your technical knowledge or discovering new ways to lead, WRC25 offers tailored opportunities to elevate your skillset.

Professional Identity

Your presence in the industry is more than your title, it’s your brand. Define what success looks like for you, refine how you present yourself and build a reputation that ensures you stand out in a crowded field. At WRC25, you’ll gain the strategies and insights necessary to position yourself as an authority and a leader.

Connection & Community

Surround yourself with high-performing athletes, bold innovators and passionate leaders who are shaping the future of racquet sports. Engage in dynamic discussions, build lasting partnerships and discover new opportunities through powerful networking opportunities.

Advocacy for the Profession

The future of racquet sports depends on its leaders. By investing in your growth, you contribute to the advancement of the industry itself, helping to push boundaries, set new standards and inspire the next generation of professionals.

WRC25 provides a more intimate, hands-on experience than ever before.

This is more than a conference, it’s a movement. A new wave begins in Hawaii and it starts with you.

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KWorld-Class Adventure and Rich Culture

Ikaika Jobe, RSPA Hawaii Division President

ona holds a special significance in my life. Growing up, it was the backdrop of countless childhood tennis tournaments, where I honed my skills and endurance to become a stronger competitor. Now, as a parent, it’s a place I find immense joy exploring and sharing my Hawaiian heritage with my children.

Kona’s appeal is multifaceted — the coastline is a tapestry of golden sands, dramatic black lava fields and crystal-clear waters. Calm, sheltered bays are ideal for snorkeling, diving, paddleboarding and kayaking, revealing an underwater world teeming with vibrant coral reefs, colorful fish and graceful Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu). The famous manta ray night dives are a truly unique and unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to swim alongside these majestic creatures as they feed on plankton illuminated by lights. For those who prefer to stay dry, submarine tours also offer a glimpse into this marine wonderland.

Beyond the ocean, Kona’s landscape extends to the slopes of the active Hualālai volcano (one of several active volcanoes on the island), offering diverse terrains for hiking and exploration. The climate is consistently mild and sunny, providing perfect conditions for yearround outdoor adventures. It also hosts an array of exceptional tennis, and more recently, pickleball courts, at its worldclass resorts.

Of course, no mention of Kona is complete without its world-famous coffee. The region’s unique volcanic soil and ideal climate produce some of the most sought-after coffee beans globally. Tours of local coffee plantations offer a fascinating glimpse into the meticulous process of coffee cultivation, from bean to cup, culminating in delicious tastings of this smooth, rich brew. Beyond coffee,

Kona’s culinary scene boasts fresh seafood, local produce and a growing emphasis on farm-to-table experiences, all contributing to a vibrant gastronomic journey.

Kona is more than just a beautiful backdrop for leisure; it’s a place steeped in rich Hawaiian history and culture. Kailua-Kona, the heart of the region, was once the seat of power for King Kamehameha I, who unified the Hawaiian Islands. Visitors can explore significant historical sites such as Huliheʻe Palace, a former royal vacation home, and the sacred Ahuʻena Heiau, a temple of immense spiritual and historical importance. Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, also known as “Place of Refuge,” offers a profound insight into ancient Hawaiian law and sanctuary. Learning about these sites and their significance deepens one’s understanding of Hawaiʻi’s past and the resilience of its people.

To be a truly outstanding visitor means embracing the spirit of “Aloha,” a philosophy of love, kindness and respect that extends to people, land, and traditions.

Being a considerate and respectful traveler in Kona involves several key practices:

• Respect the Land (Mālama ʻĀina): Hawaiʻi’s natural landscapes are sacred and ecologically fragile. Stay on designated trails, avoid touching or disturbing coral reefs and marine life (maintain a safe distance from honu and monk seals), and dispose of trash properly, minimizing plastic waste. Avoid taking rocks, sand or any natural “souvenirs” from beaches or parks, as it’s illegal and considered bad luck.

• Honor Sacred Sites and History: When visiting historical sites like heiau (ancient temples) and Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau, maintain a demeanor of quiet respect. Obey all posted signs,

refrain from climbing on structures and understand these places hold deep spiritual significance for Native Hawaiians. Research locations before you go to understand their cultural importance.

• Embrace the Aloha Spirit: “Aloha” is more than a greeting; it embodies mutual regard, affection and caring. Extend kindness to locals, be patient and understand that things may operate at a more relaxed pace. Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home. It’s a common local custom!

• Support Local Businesses: Choose to dine at locally owned restaurants and/or prioritize locally sourced ingredients. Shop at local markets and artisan shops. This contributes to the local economy and helps preserve traditional arts and crafts.

• Be Mindful of Your Impact: Consider eco-friendly transportation options, such as walking, biking or public transit, and choose accommodations that prioritize sustainability. Use reefsafe sunscreen (free of oxybenzone and octinoxate) to protect the precious marine ecosystem.

• Observe, Don’t Exploit: Hula is a sacred storytelling tradition, not just entertainment. Appreciate it with reverence. Avoid taking photos of individuals without their explicit permission. Remember that Hawaiʻi is home to a very diverse population; your actions should not disrupt their daily lives. By embracing these principles, visitors can enjoy the unparalleled beauty and adventure of Kona and contribute positively to the preservation of its unique culture and environment, ensuring this outstanding international destination remains vibrant for generations to come.

2026-2027

National Board Proposed Slate

2026-2027 National Board Proposed Slate

The National Nominating Committee has completed its task and proudly submits the following slate for the 2026-2027 RSPA National Board of Directors:

Members seeking to challenge a nominee proposed by the Nominating Committee must notify the national office by July 1 of their intention to challenge and specifically designate whom they are challenging for the board. In soliciting signatures from the membership, the membership nominee must use the official notification process proscribed by the national office.

If there are no challenges by July 1, then the proposed slate will be accepted for commencement of the new term beginning on January 1, 2026. If an election is necessary, it will be held for a threeweek period in October. The new slate would be announced by November 3.

To qualify as a candidate nominated by the Nominating Committee, an

individual must have applied to be a candidate to the Nominating Committee during the current election cycle.

run against the person nominated by the Nominating Committee for President or First Vice President.

The challenger must present their credentials confirming that they have secured the requisite support from the membership before August 18 of the election year. Only one nominee per office will be added to those persons nominated by the Nominating Committee — and the one name added will have received the greatest number of nominations from the membership (“Membership Nominee”). To qualify as a Membership Nominee, the candidate must be endorsed by at least 120 members (which shall be deemed the “requisite support”). In the event there is a tie in the number of nominations obtained by the Membership Nominees, the Membership Nominee with the highest number of continuing education points during the 10-year period prior to and through July 1 of the current election year shall be added to the ballot. In the event the Membership Nominees remain tied after counting the number of continuing education points, the board shall select the name of the Membership Nominee to be added to the ballot. A Membership Nominee may not

Once the slate and Membership Nominees, if any, has been determined, each candidate shall be permitted to submit an approved video in support of their candidacy, which shall be made available to the membership of the association. All videos will be two minutes total and will be filmed during the general membership meeting in Orlando. All videos will be prepared utilizing the exact production requirements to be promulgated by the national office.

Members shall cast their votes electronically. In the event a member cannot cast their vote electronically, the member may request a paper ballot from the national office. In the event the candidates receive the same number of votes, the proposed nominee who has the highest number of continuing education points, shall prevail. In the event the nominees remain tied after counting the number of continuing education points, the nominee presented by the Nominating Committee shall be declared the winner.

Any slight variances from the above deadlines or procedures may be authorized by the board and will be based on reasonableness and fairness to all candidates. Thanks for supporting the RSPA democratic process for the selection of our future leadership. Thank you to the Nominating Committee for their great work!

Immediate

Mark Faber

Kevin Theos

Jenny Gray

Milos Vasovic

Molly Card Beckmann

Mel McRee

Scott Burton

Trish Faulkner

Serve, Learn and Unwind: The 2025 World Racquets Conference Heads to Hawaii

CLinda Gordon | RSPA Membership Manager

oaches, it’s time to trade those tennis tan lines for swimsuit tan lines at the 2025 World Racquet Conference, hosted at the Outrigger Resort & Spa in stunning Kona, Hawaii! From September 21 through the 25, not only will you have a week of engaging and innovative professional development sessions –both off and on court; you also have the opportunity to take some time to relax, reset and immerse yourself in the Hawaiian culture while experiencing all that Outrigger has to offer.

With exclusive discounted resort rates available three days before and after the conference, you and your family can come and enjoy the island, participating in the activities facilitated by the resort. For the adults, enjoy yoga at the Chapel lawn,

or aqua yoga in the adult pool, a Kaukulaelae walking tour, and shopping at the Hooulu Farmers and Artisans Market. For the kiddos, let them compete in the

our Hawaiian-themed family night on the 23rd will incorporate elements of the Luau, including fire dancers , which is already included in your conference

slide race at the pool deck, create their own Ti-Leaf Apo lima bracelet at the Aloha Culture Center, attend a beginner’s ‘ukulele class, or learn about Hawaii’s ocean currents and how minerals attract manta rays to the shoreline at the Manta Learning Center. While the resort will be offering a Feast and Fire Luau Show every Monday and Thursday,

registration!

The resort has a one-stop shop online where you can book a multitude of excursions: a helicopter tour over a waterfall or lava flow, snorkeling at night with manta rays, an early morning or sunset whale watching experience, and a tour of the Kona Salt Farm or Chocolate Farm in Honolii Orchards. These are just a few of the 74 different excursions they have listed on their website.

Piko, Outrigger’s newest dining addition, is a delicious on-site option that you can visit to grab breakfast, graband-go lunch and dinner. For breakfast, indulge in a variety of options with the Piko Breakfast Buffet, or choose from a number of eggs Benedict, omelets and

LOBBIN’ WITH LINDA

HOTEL PHOTO CREDIT: Outrigger Resort & Spa

specialty meals. On the lighter side, enjoy a yogurt parfait or açaí bowl topped with honey produced by Outrigger beehives!

During dinner, start your night with some ‘Ulu hummus, a local cheese board and some garlic kahikolu followed by the island fresh catch of the day, the chef’s daily local offering, or Korean braised

up the sun during a luxury poolside experience, all with a view overlooking the stunning Kona coast. Open daily from 11 A.M. to 7 P.M., sip on specialty cocktails, local canned beers, and fresh fruit juices while snacking on poke bowls, fish and chips, or some volcano fries.

short rib. While eating, local musicians will provide meal-side entertainment daily from 6 to 9 P.M.

Also on-site is the Holua Poolside Bar and Lounge, where you can enjoy food inspired by the island while soaking

If you are interested in starting the racquet sports fun before the conference, or keeping it going after it’s finished, there is a one tennis court – four pickleball court hybrid just steps away. Located just down the road from the Outrigger is the Holua Racquets and Paddle Club, with seven lit tennis courts and 20 dedicated pickleball courts open from 8 A.M. to 10 P.M. every day!

This year, our focus is on YOU –your professional growth, your place

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President. Trish Faulkner

First Vice President Mark Faber

Vice Presidents Jason Gilbert, Jenny Gray, Kevin Theos, Milos Vasovic

Immediate Past President Rich Slivocka

CEO

in the racquet sports community, but more importantly, your well-being. This conference, and the Outrigger Resort, offer the work-life harmony that you may struggle to find or prioritize during your everyday life in the time that you attend. It’s your time. Your event. Your Kona experience.

To register, visit www.rspa.net and the registration will be the first thing you see. After your online registration, you will receive your confirmation email with the link for booking your stay, as well as some discounted airline options, depending on departing airport and flight availability, through United Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines.

For any questions you may have or if you need assistance with registration, please contact membership@rspa.net or give us a call at 407-634-3050, option 2. We hope to see you there!

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Serve, Learn and Unwind: The 2025 World Racquets Conference Heads to Hawaii