Building Big Connections
Ilove the following quote: “The greatest illusion of leadership is to think that one can be led out of the desert by someone who has never been there.” It emphasizes the importance of experience and learning tough lessons from people who have walked the walk, particularly when facing challenges. I think this accurately illustrates our association and the network we have from it.
“The greatest illusion of leadership is to think that one can be led out of the desert by someone who has never been there.”
Networking is a critical skill and benefit of our association because it opens doors that skills alone sometimes can’t. I don’t, however, think we are taking it as seriously as we should. Here are a few reasons why you should commit regularly scheduled time each week to network:
1. Opportunities
• Career growth: Whether it is today, next month or next year, networking can lead to new jobs, more exposure, collaborations, invitations or speaking events.
in the Aloha State
Brian Dillman | RSPA CEO
• Business expansion: If you’re launching something like a new on-court program, reservation software or racquet sports facility, the right network connects you with investors, advisors and early adopters.
2. Learning & Insights
• You gain industry knowledge that isn’t in books or Instagram—like emerging trends, best practices or even what not to do. We say be curious, but to succeed in the racquets industry, we must be experts at what we do.
5. Visibility
• Mentorship and advice from seasoned pros can help you avoid common pitfalls and have someone in your corner to bounce ideas off or troubleshoot with someone who has been where you are.
3. Reputation Building
• People trust people they know (or who are recommended by people they trust). Networking helps you build credibility and your personal brand.
• When you show up consistently, help others, share value and show you care, people start to associate you with excellence and leadership.
4. Support System
• Especially in high demanding, customer centric fields like racquet sports, hospitality and service businesses, having a network gives you access to emotional support, collaborators and cheerleaders.
• “Out of sight, out of mind.” Networking ensures people know about your work, your ambitions and what you stand for.
• Creating and expanding your network and being consistent with your values will help build your long-term reputation, and set you up perfectly for great success.
One of my favorite principles is from the Japanese concept of Kaizen: “Strive for one percent improvement every day. You can always improve yourself. Whether it is learning something new or perfecting a skill you already have, there is room for improvement in everyone’s life.” Attending a World Conference is is an example of continuous daily improvements. It is a time to re-connect and expand your network and an opportunity to re-ignite your passion for our industry by learning from world-class experts in the Racquet Sports field. On court, off court, leadership skills, career enhancement, inspiration and celebrations – this is what the 2025 World Racquets Conference will bundle together for you this year.
Our industry continues to grow and thrive, but we can’t put our heads in the sand and ignore the challenges: land and people. Tennis courts are still not filled because we need more passionate people
who care about using racquet sports to build thriving racquet sports programs, which can change lives in the public sector. Pickleball courts and stand-alone facilities are under pressure to figure out a profitable business model that will support a positive ROI for the investors. Padel is poised to thrive, but many developers are under pressure to get permits approved, courts installed and the right people to kick off the programming aspect. Platform had a great season, but we need to continue to develop more coaches who understand platform programming to continue to grow successful businesses. Squash is also limited in the number of coaches who are skilled to run successful youth, high school and college programs.
through amazing experiences and inviting, passionate programming. Today, the landscape is exactly the same. People make all the difference, and the Racquet Sports Professionals Association is inviting you to step up, be noticed, share your experience with those who can learn from your “walk through the desert.”
We look forward to seeing you in Hawaii for one of the most special World Racquet Conferences ever offered to our membership. Your body, mind and spirit will be better for it and so will our industry!
Over the history of our association, now 98 years old, we have always advocated for the people who work in our industry as a career, who grow our sports
Brian Dillman RSPA CEO
Meet Moose!
Each month, the RSPA uses this column to select someone who helps our association run to give better insight into what the many faces of our association do to grow racquet sports. This month we are featuring Greg ‘Moose’ DeMoustes.
Greg ‘Moose’ DeMoustes is a dedicated leader in racquet sports, recognized for his commitment to diversity and inclusion. With 17 years of certification through organizations like the RSPA, PTR, PPR and PADEL MBA, he has influenced the sport while fostering an inclusive environment.
As Regional President of RSPA Florida and a key member of the RSPA National LGBTQ+ DE&I Task Force, DeMoustes has been instrumental in promoting inclusivity since 2020. He also serves as a liaison for the RSPA National Adaptive Committee, collaborating with organizations like Love Serving Autism to expand opportunities for athletes with disabilities.
Beyond his official roles, he founded We Play For Pink and We Play For Pride charity tennis tournaments, supporting breast cancer awareness and LGBTQ initiatives. His passion for inclusivity extends far beyond the court.
Moose was a featured speaker at the 2024 World Racquets Conference, where he presented Diversity of Thought, emphasizing the importance of welcoming all players.
“Creating safe, inclusive spaces is at the forefront of my mission,” he says. “It’s about love and respect.” His advocacy has earned him accolades such as the RSPA FL Bob Ryland Diversity Award (Fla.), PTR Florida Pro of the Year, and USTA FL Volunteer of the Month. As a USTA FL Community Coach and Leadership Academy graduate, he continues mentoring the next generation of athletes and coaches.
As a board member of Women Coaching Racquet Sports, DeMoustes is committed to empowering women, LGBTQ+ individuals and underrepresented groups. His vision for racquet sports prioritizes inclusivity, respect and community-building, ensuring a welcoming future for all players.
Where Racquets Meet Paradise:
IMark Faber | RSPA First Vice President & RSPA Elite Professional
Inside the RSPA World Conference in Kona
n September, the RSPA will be gathering in Kona, Hawaii, for the 2025 World Racquet Conference (WRC).
Now, I do not know about many of you, however, this will be my first trip to the state of Hawaii, so I am also making it one with my kids, something I hope many of you are at least thinking about doing.
This year’s conference journey started two years ago with an amazing presentation by past RSPA Hawaii President Cathy Nicoloff and past First Vice President Ikaika Jobe to the RSPA Executive Committee (ExCom). After their presentation and discussion, the ExCom voted to give our membership the opportunity of a lifetime for education and cultural experience.
Since then, the RSPA national staff has been working very hard to not only provide a top-notch speaking line-up, but also create an event that is new, fresh and provides personal and family time for those that will be bringing their family.
Now, I could write about how awesome WRC is going to be and highlight different sessions, but instead, I am going to bring a little Hawaii to all of you in preparation for this outstanding conference.
In September, our RSPA Ohana will be gathering from Sept. 21-25 at the Outrigger Resort on the Big Island. This resort is an amazing place and will provide all our attendees a truly firstclass Hawaiian experience. Hopefully, when you book (or booked your room), you request one with a Lanai. There will be so much for you to do and special hotel offerings even for your Keiki. Always a highlight of our conference is our Industry Village and awards and hall of fame banquet. While these will both have new and exciting looks, they will still be showcasing our association’s endorsees, industry leaders and induct ing the newest members into the RSPA Hall of Fame. I am sure these Hoʻolauleʻa will be one to remember and I am sure we will hear Ono when it comes to what the hotel prepares for these events.
Our hope from day one is for those that can attend not only is that you have an educational experience of a lifetime, but also create a lifetime of memories with fellow industry friends and family (professional and personal). Our journey will start and end with a huge Aloha and each person and family thinking… Hana Hou.
So, as the RSPA continues the pono, let us all continue to do our part in not only raising the standards of the industry, but to champion the passion for racquet sports by developing professionals who lead with integrity, innovate in coaching and inspire a diverse and inclusive racquet commu-
Now, as many of us Haole arrive for our Hui Aʻo, we are truly gathered together for not only the purpose of imi naʻauao, but also for networking, making friends and experiencing some mo’olelo.
Each morning, you will be greeted with a huge Aloha kakahiaka as you embark on a day of learning and island adventures. There is so much to learn and see (i.e. Heiau), just make sure you avoid those areas in which you see a sign that says Kapu, something that you will never see as you head to one of our RSPA education sessions or events!
For those of you attending the WRC 2025, please accept this challenge. Whomever sends me the translation of all the Hawaiian words and how they fit into this article first, I will purchase you a coffee or morning drink of your choice at this year’s WRC. Email the translations to mfaber@twosathleticclub.com.
A hui hou
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.
WRC25: All About You, the Member
Collin Brazan | RSPA Director of Marketing
Aloha from Kona, Hawaii!
We’re thrilled to welcome you to Kona, Hawaii, for our annual World Racquets Conference this September. Set against the stunning backdrop of Kona, this year’s event promises unparalleled networking and professional development. Registration is now open, and with limited availability, we encourage you to secure your spot soon. Hotel rooms are expected to sell out quickly.
Come
Early, Stay Inspired
We invite you to fly in on Saturday, Sept. 20 and take advantage of our exclusive hotel rate—$229 or $269 per night, depending on room type—available to registered attendees only. This gives you the perfect opportunity to unwind and explore both the resort and the natural beauty of the island before the conference officially kicks off.
The Fun Kicks Off Sunday!
The action begins Sunday evening with the Industry Village, a fresh and elevated take on our traditional trade show experience. This high-energy kickoff event includes:
• Direct access to industry experts and leading voices
• Showcases from iconic racquet sport brands
• Complimentary food, beverages and a drink ticket for all conference attendees (with a cash bar also available)
From there, you will experience our renowned, world-class education on- and off-court, reimagined social and networking events driven by member feedback, and time to relax or explore our once-in-a-lifetime destination.
Scan the QR code to register for the newly named World Racquets Conference 2025!
A New Era in Racquet Sports
From the continued evolution of tennis to the explosive growth of pickleball and padel to emerging technologies and modernized club models, the racquet sports industry is evolving fast, and that means exciting new opportunities for professionals. Whether you’re a coach, club operator, entrepreneur or aspiring industry leader, WRC25 is designed around you. And it isn’t just about getting you up to speed in an evolving industry—it’s about helping you lead it.
Join us in Kona and be part of what’s next.
CERTIFICATION CALENDAR PREVIEW
JUNE 2025
JUNE
JULY 2025
Winning Trust
Stan Smith Book Can Benefit Players & Teaching Pros Alike
Steve Flink, International Tennis Hall of Fame
PHOTO CREDIT: Laura Barnard
Speaking recently with Stan Smith about his new book “Winning Trust”—written in tandem with longtime friend and business partner Gary Niebur— I found myself impressed once more by the clarity of his mind and the essential integrity that has carried him through a lifetime as a central figure in the world of tennis. As a player, he was a member of seven victorious American Davis Cup teams from the late 1960s into the early eighties. He captured the first Grand Prix Masters crown at Tokyo in 1970, took the US Open title in 1971, won Wimbledon in 1972, triumphed at the WCT Finals in 1973 and resided at No. 1 in the world. For his considerable exploits as a competitor, Smith was inducted at the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1987.
When his playing days concluded, Smith did not rest on his laurels. He spent twelve years working for the USTA in their Player Development Program, serving as Director of Coaching from 1986-94. He was the President of the International Tennis Hall of Fame from 2011 until just a few years ago. He has run the Smith-Stearns Tennis Academy in his hometown of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina since 2002. Meanwhile, his Adidas Stan Smith tennis shoes have been around for more than half a century and given him fame in another stratosphere.
who sign up for these trips make the jour neys because they know they are in the presence of a royal tennis figure.
Niebur has been by Smith’s side throughout all these years at “Stan Smith Events.” Working in a field where trust is the essential ingredient in everything they do, both men realized that “Winning Trust” (“How to Create Moments that Matter”) could be enormously beneficial to not only the tennis population but people from all walks of life.
The V in the acronym is for volley which is for finding solutions for problems. And the second E for elevate is taking care of the details. If it is not done well at these events, that can leave a sour taste.”
Niebur is convinced that teaching pros in tennis can pick up innumerable tips from the book. Before he started the company with Smith, that was his line of work. He says, “Our book can be important for teaching pros. They have problems to solve. The book can help them grow. There is so much to unlock around problem solving. If they create the right environment at their club, on the courts, in their relationships, the goal is not just to win trust but accelerate it That is the purpose of this book— to encourage people to find that right environment through SERVE.”
The major theme of the book revolves around the acronym SERVE, which stands for Strategize, Engage, Recreate, Volley and Elevate.
Meanwhile, 30 years ago, Smith started “Stan Smith Events” accompanying groups who want to attend major sporting events like the four Grand Slam tournaments in tennis, the Olympic Games and The Masters in golf. Those
Strategizing is something Smith understands very well. As Smith explains, “Gary and I work with our clients to see what is the best way to do an event and what the hook is to get them there. We strategize. Obviously with the major tennis events they want to watch great tennis at the biggest venues. But they also want to engage and to recreate so they not only watch tennis, but in some cases play it.
To be sure, this joint venture between Smith and Niebur in “Winning Trust” is a product of the three dynamics of working together, learning from their wide range of experiences and finding common ground in their decision making.
As Smith says, “We collaborated on codifying what we have been doing for the last 30 years and celebrating some of the leaders we have dealt with.
The book has a lot of quotes from top executives around the country and it is about the philosophy of leadership and relationships and how trust is developed. Davis Love gives a great example of when he was Ryder Cup captain and he showed how much he cared about his players by helping them with their clubs and other things that ordinarily a leader would not do.”
One of the most significant themes in the book is conducting business with a personal touch. If leaders in the tennis industry or anywhere else are speaking robotically or acting as if their work is a chore, clients will inevitably be turned off. Niebur is well aware of that potential pitfall.
“One of the most significant themes in the book is conducting business with a personal touch”
As he recounts, “I remember when I was on the court early on before Stan and I started the company. I knew it was all about building relationships with these people and their families and them knowing that I cared about them as a person, understood who they were, and what they were about. That is what ‘engaged’ is all about. If people are just selling tennis lessons or selling memberships and not really getting to know their [students] well, then it feels transactional. We want these people to come to Wimbledon or the U.S. Open and feel like they can open up so we get to know them and find out what is important to them.”
Crucial for readers of “Winning Trust” is recognizing the value of SERVE without downgrading the three closing chapters which are classified as “Second
Serves.” As Smith conveys in the book, “Your first serve doesn’t always go in. When it doesn’t, you have to let it go— move on. Take the second serve. If you lose the match, move on again. Take the next opportunity to accelerate your game, to accelerate trust. Do the next good thing.”
That philosophical message transcends tennis and is a metaphor for life. In many ways, that is the essence of the book— to simultaneously examine the macro alongside the micro, to put everything in perspective and ultimately make sense of it all.
In the final analysis, the book is, more than anything else, about trust in every sphere. There could be no better messenger for unwavering straightforwardness than Stan Smith, and Niebur has built his reputation around uprightness. That is why their book has credibility.
As Niebur asserts, “Stan has a very good name and he has always been a man of his word. You really see it at these events we have. Whoever he engages with is kind of blown away by how much he invests time wise, how well he listens and what a deep thinker he is.”
As Smith wraps things up in terms of his aspirations for “Winning Trust,” he says, “I hope it will give many people ideas about what they can do to improve in relationships that are personal and professional. Maybe racket sports leaders will read the book and it will help make them become better people, better leaders and better teachers.”
Niebur adds, “My hope is people apply this book to their life at work and at home and at the end of the day understand the acronym SERVE and realize that the secret sauce behind what we have done is very applicable to their lives.”
Tweener Lighting Systems: Rethink Pickleball & Tennis Court Lighting
After taking the tennis court lighting industry by storm in Europe with over 1,500 installations in 23 different countries, Tweener lighting systems has now begun to make a name for itself in the United States. First publicly launched in the states in December of 2021, the new innovative lighting solution has been installed on over 350 tennis and pickleball courts at more than 150 different facilities in 23 states. For many country clubs, HOAs, and residential courts around the country, this system has become the best and sometimes only solution to light their courts for several reasons.
What is Tweener?
The system is made up of sixteen 12’ 6” fixtures that run 100 feet in length down each side of the court or bank of multiple courts to light the playing area. These fixtures are mounted directly to the vertical fence posts within the existing fencing structure at 9-10 feet in height or directly below the top rail. Each 100 foot run is powered by a power supply box that is mounted directly to a vertical fence post in the same fashion as the fixtures.
Easy Installation
The design of the system makes installation and maintenance a quick, easy, and inexpensive process for players and facilities looking to light their courts. With no need for concrete footers, 24’ poles, or lift rentals, Tweener can be installed and fully functional for about half the price of traditional lighting in as little
as one to two days with no structural or building permitting required.
Cost/Energy Efficiency
The ability to install the Tweener system in a fraction of the time compared to traditional lighting not only saves time but also money for its customers. On average, Tweener saves its customers up to 30 percent on materials and installation costs compared to a traditional high mast LED installation for a single court and more than 50 percent on a bank of two courts.
Minimal Lighting Spillage/Pollution
This installation process along with the system’s low mounting height allows it to be used in areas where traditional high mast lighting can’t. Tweener’s linear design produces Class III/IV level lighting as classified by the USTA and USA Pickleball while also meeting light height regulations almost anywhere.
In addition to areas with light height restrictions Tweener can be used in places with light spillage restrictions. It produces less than one foot candle of light spillage 10 feet outside the fence line of the court meeting most lighting ordinances in strictly regulated areas.
Why Players Love Tweener
Peter McFadden, General Manager of The Lauderdale Yacht Club, said the following about his recently installed system:
“The Tweener Lighting System has completely transformed our evening Tennis matches! The lighting is bright, evenly distributed, and glare-free, making play so much more enjoyable and easier on the eyes. Installation was straightforward and the sleek design blends perfectly with the court. We’ve had numerous compliments from players about how professional the setup looks and feels. Highly recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade their tennis court experience!”
To learn more about the cutting-edge lighting technology, visit www. tweenerusa.com or contact Nick Schultz at 954-824-2001 or nick@10-s.com.
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WRC25: Professional Development & Networking Opportunities
WWe are just a few months away from the 2025 RSPA World Racquets Conference in beautiful Kona, Hawaii at the Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa which includes five days of amazing professional development, seminars and social events. Attending the World Conference is a unique opportunity and experience for two reasons: professional development and networking.
Professional development is of paramount importance in racquet sports for coaches, players, and even enthusiasts who want to enhance their knowledge and skills. Here are several reasons why professional development is crucial in racquet sports:
Skill development: Racquet sports are sports that require a diverse set of skills, including technical, tactical, physical, and mental abilities. Professional development helps coaches stay up-to-date with the latest techniques, strategies, and training methods to improve their overall performance and stay competitive.
integrate the latest trends into their game, enhancing their effectiveness on the court.
Tactical knowledge: Racquet sports are as much a mental game as they are physical. Learning and refining tactical knowledge through professional development enables coaches to analyze opponents’ strengths and weaknesses, develop effective game plans and make better strategic decisions during matches with their players.
Injury prevention and management: Racquet sports place considerable physical demands on the body and injuries are a common occurrence. Ongoing education provides valuable insights into injury prevention techniques, fitness training and rehabilitation strategies. This knowledge can help coaches minimize the risk of injuries for their players and manage them effectively when they do occur.
Evolving the game: Racquet sports are dynamic and constantly evolving. New playing styles, equipment advancements, rule changes, and tournament formats emerge over time. By pursuing professional development, players and coaches can adapt to these changes and
Rule updates and officiating: Racquet sports each have specific rules and regulations that evolve periodically. Staying informed about the latest rule updates through professional development ensures that players, coaches and officials have a comprehensive understanding of the game. This knowledge helps maintain fairness and consistency during matches and avoids any unnecessary penalties or disputes.
Coming together for a common cause to gain education is an organic and amazing way to network and collaborate with each other in the industry. Here are some reasons why networking is so important in racquet sports:
Knowledge sharing: Networking provides an opportunity for coaches to share their experiences, insights and knowledge with one another. Coaches can discuss different techniques, training methods and strategies that have worked well for them. This exchange of information helps coaches expand their coaching toolbox and gain new perspectives that can positively impact their coaching approach.
Problem-solving and support: Coaching can be a challenging profession, and teaching professionals often encounter various obstacles and dilemmas. Peer networking allows coaches to seek advice and support from others who have faced similar challenges. By sharing their concerns, they can receive valuable feedback, suggestions and solutions to overcome difficulties. This support system can help to navigate through coaching-related issues more effectively.
Partnerships: Networking with peers in the coaching community can lead to collaborative opportunities and
LOBBIN’ WITH LINDA
partnerships. Teaching professionals can work together on joint projects, training sessions, or even organize events. Collaborative efforts bring together diverse perspectives, strengths, and experiences, allowing coaches to create innovative coaching approaches and deliver enhanced training experiences for their players.
Mentorship and role models: Peer networking provides a chance for coaches to find mentors or role models within the coaching community. Establishing relationships with more experienced teaching professionals can be invaluable for professional development. Mentors can offer guidance, share their expertise and provide valuable insights that can accelerate a coach’s growth. Learning from respected individuals in the field helps refine their coaching skills and leadership abilities.
Community and camaraderie: Networking fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among teaching professionals. It creates a support system where coaches can connect, share their experiences, celebrate successes and empathize with challenges. Building relationships with like-minded individuals who share a passion for coaching can enhance job satisfaction, increase motivation and create a sense of belonging within the coaching profession.
NATIONAL 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 & Contributing Editor Brian Dillman
Legal Counsel George Parnell
Keeping up with industry trends: Networking with peers enables professionals to stay informed about the latest industry trends, research and advancements in racquet sports coaching. Through discussions and interactions, teaching professionals can learn about new training methods, technological innovations, and scientific insights that can help them improve their coaching techniques and optimize player development.
Personal growth and motivation: Engaging in professional development shows a commitment to personal growth and development. It fuels motivation, fosters a growth mindset and encourages individuals to strive for excellence in their chosen field. Whether it’s improving as a player or expanding coaching expertise, the pursuit of knowledge in racquet sports helps individuals maintain a lifelong love for the sport. Professional development and networking are essential for tennis professionals. By staying informed and continuously seeking new knowledge and experiences, teaching professionals can excel in the sport while contributing to its growth and development as well as learning, growing, and thriving in their professional careers and positively impacting the players they work with. To learn more about all the amazing opportunities at this year’s RSPA World Racquets Conference and to sign up, go to www.rspa.net.