President’s MESSAGE
RSPA Mid-Atlantic Section Members,
It's hard to believe we're already past the Fourth of July and well into another busy summer. I hope each of you has had the opportunity to enjoy what has been an exciting and active year for the racquets industry. The continued growth we've seen throughout 2026 is a testament to the passion and commitment of professionals like you who continue to elevate our game every day
I want to take a moment to recognize several individuals who have made a tremendous impact on our section and encourage all of our members to stay involved, share ideas, and let us know what's happening in your clubs and communities.
First, I'd like to thank our new Executive Director, Mike Caboy, for the outstanding job he has done working with our National office I’d also like to thank Taylor Newman for successfully organizing and administering a Feeding Workshop in Virginia Beach and ensured the RSPA had a meaningful presence at the Special Olympics event Finally, I'd like to thank Chris Tran and Jeff Tucker for organizing the upcoming High School and 10 & Under Coaches Workshop in August.
As we continue to build momentum, I also want to encourage everyone to consider attending the World Racquets Conference in Dallas this September. Whether you're looking for new programming ideas, leadership strategies, coaching techniques, or simply the opportunity to connect with colleagues from around the world, this conference delivers tremendous value. The educational lineup will be released soon, and I hope to see many of our Mid-Atlantic members representing our section in Dallas
If you're planning to attend the Mubadala DC Open at the end of July, I look forward to seeing many of you there. It's a wonderful opportunity to watch the world's best players compete right here in our own backyard while connecting with fellow racquets professionals from across the region.
Thank you for everything you do for our industry and for your continued support of the RSPA Mid-Atlantic Section. Have a fantastic rest of the summer, and I look forward to seeing you soon!
Mark DiChiara President, RSPA Mid-Atlantic Section
Executive Director’s Update
I would like to thank the entire leadership of the RSPA along with all of the Mid Atlantic members for the incredible amount of support shown to me during my first few months as your Executive Director I feel extremely lucky to work alongside the board members of the Mid Atlantic division. I am excited to meet more of the members within the division in the months to come.
The division has experienced growth with a large number of new members, as well as all of the activity mentioned by Mark in the President’s message.
If you have news you would like to share with the division, job postings, a promotion, or an upcoming event, then please send the information to me at mike.caboy@rspa.net. Also, please follow us on all social media platforms.
I would encourage all Mid Atlantic members to attend the RSPA World Racquets Conference 2026. We will have an incredible line up of speakers and presentations where all members will be able to share ideas and grow the profession
Remember, this is your organization, my advise to all members is to get involved!
NEW MEMBERS
Robin Beard, Alexandria, VA
John Kircher, Washington, DC
Martin Fidler, Bowie, MD
Anthony Mujica, Fairfax, VA
Alex IX, Charlottesville, VA
Margaret McGrath, Annapolis, MD
Heather Herman, Severa Park, MD
Laura Sangaila, Easton MD
Will Davenport, Annapolis, MD
Ivo Njosa, Silver Springs, MD
Dominique Davis, Clarksville, MD
Alex Isakson, Stafford, VA
Amanda Sutter, Annapolis, MD
Brian Kuhn, Odenton, MD
David Perkins, Lynchburg, VA
Tim Mowry, Annapolis, MD
Monica Maloney, Annapolis, MD
Dante Ross-Johnson, Towson, MD
Antonio Costa, Bethesda, MD
Matthew Bugenhagen, Baltimore, MD
Jorge Paucar, Crofton, MD
Timothy Ghazzawi, Washington, DC
Grey Coker, Washington, DC
Kyle Patrick, Virginia Beach, VA
Michelle Whalen, Williamsburg, VA
From Continuing Education to Continued Idea Exchange
Article by: Mark DiChiara, RSPA Mid-Atlantic President
That
Why is there still a stigma around Continuing Education (CE) in the world of tennis professionals?
In nearly every profession, continued learning is encouraged, expected, and often required. Doctors, lawyers, accountants, and educators all understand that growth is part of professionalism Yet in tennis, many professionals still operate under the mindset: “As long as I know more than my students, I know enough.”
mentality creates stagnant coaches, stagnant clubs, and stagnant environments.
The reality is that no professional should aspire to spend an entire career inside the same coaching bubble. Over time, players stop being energized by coaches who stop evolving Great professionals stay curious
Part of the issue is the perception attached to CE Too many pros interpret continuing education as an admission of weakness as if attending conferences or certifications means you “don’t know enough.” In response, many dismiss educational opportunities with comments like:
“Those presentations never help me.”
“I could give that talk.”
“I already know all of this.”
The problem is that they are viewing it as education instead of what it truly is: idea exchange.
I recently attended the RSPA World Conference and listened to a presentation from a longtime friend and colleague. The concept itself was not revolutionary teaching players to find consistent, solid contact Every tennis professional already understands the importance of contact point.
But his method of communicating it was outstanding The following week, I brought that concept back to my club and introduced it to 15 players. Fourteen improved almost immediately. That wasn’t “education” in the sense that I learned something completely new It was a Continued Idea Exchange (CIE) one professional sharing an approach that helped another professional become more effective.
From Continuing Education to Continued Idea Exchange
That exchange happens thousands of times at conferences, certifications, and workshops. At the same conference, I also completed a Padel coaching certification despite not yet having padel courts at my club. Even so, concepts from the course immediately improved how I teach tennis and platform tennis. Ideas about programming and economics also gave me new strategies to apply within pickleball programming
That
is the value of CIE: one idea in one sport or environment can positively impact several others.
How to Get More from CIE Oppurtunities
Be fully present
Turn work mode off during sessions You cannot absorb ideas while distracted by emails and court schedules
Do not expect everything to be new
Most growth comes from hearing familiar concepts explained in a different, more effective way
Adapt ideas to your environment
A presentation aimed at large country clubs may still apply to commercial clubs, resorts, or public facilities if you focus on the customer experience principles behind it
Ask questions
Some of the best relationships and insights in our industry begin with one thoughtful question after a presentation
Students Already Understand This
Cost vs. Value
Continuing education can be expensive Between registration fees, travel, and missed teaching hours, the costs add up quicklyBut clubs and professionals should stop viewing CIE as an expense and start viewing it as an investment.
A great idea brought back from a conference can improve programming, member experience, retention, staff culture, and revenue for years The challenge is creating systems that encourage professionals to pursue growth while also demonstrating value to the facility.
Examples might include: Incentivizing online education through measurable implementation Rewarding pros who successfully apply new event or programming ideas. Supporting professionals who contribute presentations or speak at conferences The long-term return often far outweighs the short-term expense
Ironically, our students already embrace the value of multiple perspectives A player may work with several coaches, attend camps, watch videos online, and compete in different environments They improve because they absorb the best ideas from many sources
Yet some professionals become territorial, claiming ownership over a player’s success instead of recognizing the collaborative nature of development. No one coach knows everything But collectively, our industry knows a tremendous amount The professionals who continue to grow are the ones willing to listen, share, experiment, and evolve That is why Continuing Education should really be viewed as what it truly is: Continued Idea Exchange.
2026 Asian Tennis Tournament
Article by: Chris Tra
The 2026 Asian Games Tennis Tournament was a tremendous success, bringing together more than 100 players from across the region for a weekend filled with competition, camaraderie, cultural pride, and community spirit.
Hosted with the support of the Reston Association and organized by Strike/Zone Tennis, the event showcased the growing strength and diversity of the local tennis community. Players proudly represented six teams: China, Philippines-NOVA, PhilippinesVB, Korea, India, and Vietnam
The tournament was directed by Christopher Tran, with invaluable administrative leadership provided by Vivian Pham. Their efforts, along with the support of team captains, volunteers, sponsors, and participants, helped create a memorable experience for everyone involved
The weekend could not have been blessed with better weather. Under beautiful sunny skies, players competed with passion and sportsmanship while families, friends, and supporters cheered from the sidelines The event began with a Walk of Nations and team introductions, creating an atmosphere that celebrated both competition and cultural unity
After two days of outstanding team competition, Team China emerged as the 2026 Asian Games Champion, earning the championship trophy through exceptional play, teamwork, and determination.
In addition to exciting team matches, participants enjoyed a variety of special activities throughout the weekend. During the lunch break, players participated in a fun and highly competitive One-Point Tournament, which quickly became one of the highlights of the event.
The tournament was also fortunate to receive support from several sponsors A special thank you goes to Sun Ray Sports, which generously donated two beautiful collectible tennis racquets for the raffle drawings and One-Point Tournament prizes.
CAPTION
2026 Asian
Beyond the competition, the event provided an opportunity for players from different backgrounds and communities to connect, build friendships, and celebrate their shared love of tennis. The sportsmanship displayed throughout the weekend reflected the true spirit of the Asian Games.
Strike/Zone Tennis would like to extend its sincere appreciation to the Reston Association for supporting the event and providing outstanding facilities. Special thanks also go to all team captains, volunteers, sponsors, and players whose dedication and enthusiasm made this year's tournament such a success
The success of this year's event would not have been possible without the tremendous behind-thescenes efforts of the organizing team, led by Tournament Director Christopher Tran and Director of Administration Vivian Pham Their commitment to creating a first-class experience helped make the event run smoothly from start to finish. With strong participation, outstanding competition, and overwhelming community support, the 2026 Asian Games Tennis Tournament has established a solid foundation for continued growth in the years ahead.
We are already looking forward to the 2027 Asian Games and expanding the event even further If your community or organization is interested in fielding a team and representing your country in next year's competition, please contact Strike/Zone Tennis for more information. We welcome new teams and look forward to continuing to celebrate tennis, culture, friendship, and community through this unique event.
Congratulations to Team China on capturing the 2026 Asian Games Championship, and thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this year's event an unforgettable success.
CAPTION
Why Performance Should Never Come at the Cost of Self-Worth
Article by: Natasha Dziamidzenka, Director of Player & Program Development
As someone who stepped onto the international tennis circuit as a teen, I understand the dream, the pressure, and the cost of chasing results at a young age.
For many junior players, the journey begins with passion. But somewhere along the way, the sport can become tied to identity, approval, and self-worth. Wins feel like validation Losses feel personal Mistakes feel dangerous The athlete begins to believe, quietly and often unconsciously, that they are only as valuable as their last result.
I know that feeling, and I also know there is a better way.
As coaches, we have the opportunity and responsibility to build players from the inside out. Technical development matters. Rankings matter. Competition matters. But none of it is sustainable if the player does not feel seen, valued, and emotionally safe enough to grow.
What’s interesting is that this doesn’t just show up in junior tennis I see the same patterns every day in adult players, whether they are in group classes, doubles clinics, or social match play. Players who are accomplished and confident in their professional lives can step onto the court and suddenly become tight, self-critical, and outcomedriven. A missed ball turns into frustration, and a simple error turns into self-judgment, as the inner voice becomes louder than the game itself
his has very little to do with tennis and everything to do with how we relate to ourselves under pressure. At every level, the same pattern appears: players are trying to perform while fighting themselves internally. They become focused on outcome instead of process, they judge instead of adjust, and they try to control instead of trust. Over time, that internal pressure becomes heavier than anything happening on the other side of the net
Why Performance Should Never Come at the Cost of Self-Worth
The shift isn’t about lowering standards; it’s about changing the foundation. We don’t need less competitive players. We need players with stronger internal foundations players who can compete without losing themselves, make mistakes without spiraling, stay present under pressure, and understand that performance is something they do, not who they are
There are a few simple ways we can begin to support this shift. First, language matters, because what players say to themselves especially between points shapes how they perform. Second, mistakes should be treated as information rather than identity, since the best competitors adjust quickly when they don’t attach emotion to every error. Third, confidence grows from safety, not perfection, and players perform better when they feel allowed to take risks and fail without losing their sense of self.
Whether it’s a 12-year-old stepping onto the court for the first time or an adult playing in a weekend doubles match, the goal remains the same: to compete freely, to stay connected to yourself under pressure, and to walk off the court knowing your value was never on the line.
Because in t we’re not developing players. W shaping people expe challenges, and growth court
Feeding Workshop in Virginia Beach
Article by: Taylor Newman, RSPA Mid-Atlantic Regional Vice President
What began as a friendly debate between my coworker Uros and me about who was the better feeder quickly evolved into a feeding seminar and competition.
We had a blast at Princess Anne Country Club in Virginia Beach, breaking down technique, leading drills, and competing for bragging rights
We focused on eight key categories as it relates to feeding. We spoke about what makes a great feeder and highlighted the importance of consistency, accuracy, efficiency, rhythm, and adaptability. We then focused on the actual fundamentals which consisted of grip, feeding position and basket management We provided instruction and then we led all participants through several drills to work on and incorporate our discussion points
Much of what we discussed might seem obvious or easy to most, but we hoped in doing this everyone could learn at least one thing. For those quote on quote experienced feeders, they were able to test their skills in the feeding competition and we showed them some new drills For those participants just getting started with teaching or who could use some fine tuning with their feeding, it was our goal they gained some confidence and picked up some things to practice.
Brandon Royal, Mike Caboy, Dawson Moody, Mike Caboy, Erik Wright, Taylor Newman, Dee Cvjetkovic, John Fraser, Marcus Robinson, Lorenzo Sison, Martin Black, Uros Petronijevic, and Angela McDowell
Padel in the Mid-Atlantic Region
Article by: Sam Stone, RSPA Mid-Atlantic Maryland State Representative
After being introduced to Padel over the winter in New England at The Sports Haus visiting my family, I was hooked! The fast-paced seemingly endless points, enhanced with ricocheting the ball off the glass walls and strategically finding angles made it a blast to play
I was curious why I hadn't heard of facilities in Maryland. As your Maryland RSPA State Representative, I hunkered down, did a little research and discovered there are several padel facilities in Maryland - you just have to seek them out!
Pine Valley Club White Marsh Rd, Baltimore
Family-owned club offering swim, tennis, yoga, padel, pickleball and platform tennis Membership-based
Glass Box Padel Club College Park, MD
Four outdoor courts, a pro-shop, and inviting sitting areas where you can unwind. Court reservations/player invites via Playtomic
B’More Padel Reistertown Rd, Baltimore
Outdoor facility offering events, classes for all levels, and court reservations Membership-based
Padel Social Bethesda, MD
Opening July 2026!
Three outdoor lighted courts, a proshop, and a social space to enjoy before and after play.
RSPA also has multiple certifications happening across the country over the next several months The padel certification calendar can be found here
Har-Tru Courts Quietly Anchor the US Open Series
When tennis fans think of the summer swing, they picture blistering forehands, high humidity, and the intense competition of the hardcourt season.
As the world’s best players battle for points and momentum ahead of the final Grand Slam of the year, every variable matters. But while players, coaches, and cuttingedge racquets usually take the spotlight, the literal foundation of the sport often goes unnoticed.
Mention the name "Har-Tru," and most tennis aficionados immediately picture the iconic green clay that has defined American tennis for decades However, a quiet revolution has taken place on the professional tour Har-Tru is playing a critical support role in the summer season for both the ATP and WTA tours.
The company’s premier hardcourt product, Proflex high performance surfaces, is the trusted court system for an impressive three out of the eight prestigious tournaments in the US Open Series.
The Mubadala DC Open, the historic Cincinnati Open, and Canada’s premier National Bank Open have all chosen Har-Tru’s Proflex acrylic system as their surface of choice Hosting an ATP and WTA 1000-level event requires flawless execution, and tournament directors can’t compromise on the quality and reliability of their courts
"We are pleased to be working with Har-Tru as our official court surface provider," said Bob Moran, Tournament Director of the Cincinnati Open. "It's an extremely important step for us to be aligning with Tennis Canada and Washington, D.C., to provide the players a consistent speed and surface for the summer swing of the ATP and WTA Tours "
The Proflex system is designed to deliver maximum consistency, medium-fast pace, and a consistently true bounce—crucial factors for top-tier athletes dialing in their timing The multi-layered acrylic formulation is calibrated to ensure that the surface plays the exact same way on center court as it does on the outer practice courts.
Furthermore, Proflex offers durability against the intense summer sun and heavy, aggressive foot traffic. Its vibrant, UVresistant pigments ensure that the courts look as stunningly bright on championship Sunday as they do on opening day, providing bright contrast for both the players and the global television broadcast
The US Open Series is the ultimate proving ground, not just for the athletes, but for the equipment they rely on By anchoring nearly half of the series, Har-Tru has decisively proven that its expertise extends far beyond clay. Whether you are outfitting a world-class stadium, a college facility, or a private club, Proflex delivers tour-tested excellence. The next time you tune in to watch the summer’s biggest hardcourt matches, take a closer look at the surface below. You might just be looking at a Har-Tru hardcourt.
RSPA Events in the Mid-Atlantic
Maryland Special Olympics Pickleball Championships
Taylor Newman and Alyssa Sollenberger enjoyed their time at the Special Olympics event held on June 28th
Level 1 Workshop at the Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD
Participants: Will Davenport,
Coach Developers: Kyle LaCroix and Chris Tran
Coach Developer Kyle LaCroix working with the group during the Level 1 Certification Workshop in May
Amanda Sutter, Heather Herman, Margaret McGrath, Brian Kuhn, Jorge Paucar, Monica Maloney, Laura Sangaila, Tim Mowry, Matthew Bugenhagen
Perks of the Profession: Teaching Vacations for RSPA Instructors
Article by: David Robinson, RSPA Mid-Atlantic Vice President
Approximately 30 years ago I discovered the “teaching vacation” and Fitness Pro Travel, a company that arranges these super discount allinclusive beachfront vacations for fitness, tennis and other specialty instructors.
Unlike some “working vacation” models that require the pro to bring paying guests, this is not our model.
Most resorts only allow one week per instructor although we stay at one resort for two weeks; one week I’m tennis pro and the other week as the pickleball pro. Also note some resorts will allow two weeks of the same sport instructor in the off-season
Countries with large selection of resorts if you desire multi-week are Dominican Republic and Mexico If you want single airfare and short transition time, I suggest looking at resorts in Punta Cana or Cancun where there is high concentration of participating resorts minutes apart
You just show up and teach a couple clinics per day to resort guests that typically dropin, then the rest of the time and vacation is all yours and with same rooms, meals, and amenities that full price guests receive!
The RSPA Connection
In 2024, I reconnected with my former business and doubles partner, Whitney Kraft, to rebrand the company he founded in 1983, Tennis Management Group (TMG), as Racquet Sports Management (RSM). Like the USPTA's transition to the RSPA, the rebrand reflects the rapid growth of racquet sports through pickleball, padel, and squash
To support increasing demand for racquet sports professionals, RSM partnered with Fitness Pro Travel and later with the RSPA to offer teaching vacation opportunities exclusively to current RSPA members These assignments allow professionals to teach at resort destinations while enjoying a working vacation Most instructors who try one return again and again, making teaching vacations one of the most rewarding benefits of RSPA membership.
Perks of the Profession: Teaching Vacations for RSPA Instructors
Article by: David Robinson, RSPA Mid-Atlantic Vice President
What’s Hot?
Pickleball has been exploding at beachfront resorts due to demand, excellent space utilization with low cost to add pickleball courts. There are many teaching vacation openings for pickleball instructors.
Club Med Punta Cana gets rave reviews from the instructors.
Our website where you find and book your trips has reviews from previous instructors so that is a great place to read up to find your slice of heaven.
Padel is growing steadily, but court build costs can be an issue, partly due to higher wind load ratings on the
glass panels used in hurricane zones.
Two chains we work with, Club Med and Iberostar, have committed to more padel courts. Also, resorts that have high percentage of European and South American guests where padel has matured faster than USA.
We are always encouraging resorts to add padel courts and let them know there are available instructors to fill weeks We expect to add padel instructor vacations in near future
Discover Beachfront All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico, the Caribbean, & the South Pacific
Here’s how it works: teach approximately two hours each day, offering clinics to resort guests—no recruiting required. In return, you’ll receive a very deeply discounted
all-inclusive stay for two adults. At family-friendly resorts, you can also bring two kids.
Your airfare is not included, but depending on the resort and time of year, you’ll pay only a booking fee ranging from $400 to $1,200 per week (that’s total, not per person). These stays are valued between $3,000 and $10,000, making this a fantastic opportunity for instructors and their families.
Travel club membership is not required, but joining comes with perks: members enjoy additional discounts, longer advance booking windows, early notice of deals, and exclusive access to special and new resorts. Our portfolio is currently over 100 beachfront locations worldwide.
You can visit our website to get specific details and book a trip
Have questions? Email us at:
David@RacquetSportsManagement com Whit@RacquetSportsManagement.com
