Net News November December 2023 by New South Publishing

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE ATLANTA LAWN TENNIS ASSOCIATION, INC.

ALTA, WHERE ATLANTA COMES TO PLAY

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

2023

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2023 Inaugural ALTA Pickleball page 70

Photo Contest Winners p. 28 Thank You ALTA Volunteers p. 40 Holiday Gift Guide p. 60

IMPROVED SUSTAINABILITY

SAME GREAT BALL NEW PACKAGING

CONTENTS

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 VOLUME 33 NUMBER 6

FEATURES

LEAGUE NEWS

COURT CUISINE

2023 Photo Contest Winners

Junior Challenge Ladder

Seniors

ALTA Foundation Annual Wrap-Up

Wheelchair

Thank You ALTA Volunteers

The Beauty Of ALTA

2023 Holiday Gift Guide

IMPROVING YOUR GAME

Fall Flavors

IN EVERY ISSUE 4

President’s Letter

ALTA Calendars

Jensen Zone

Heard Around Atlanta

Proper Strength Training

Tennis Headlines

To Improve Your Game

EXTRAS

Good Question

Double Science

Classifieds

Stephen Huss

About ALTA

Trivia Contest Winner Meet Stephanie McKendree, Sweetbottom Women’s B7, the winner of last issue’s trivia contest.

Net News Trivia Contest Enter our trivia contest for a chance to win a great prize.

ALTA Pickleball League

HEALTH & FITNESS 54

Physiology of Playing Tennis in Cold Weather

ON THE COVER 2023 ALTA Holiday Gift Guide Turn to p. 60.

Net News, USPS 553–850, is mailed bimonthly by New South Publishing Inc., 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210, Atlanta, GA 30350 and is the official publication of the Atlanta Lawn Tennis Association, Inc., © Copyright 2023. Copies are mailed to members as part of their annual dues. Periodicals postage paid at Atlanta, Georgia and additional mailing offices. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: ALTA, 300 Colonial Center Parkway, Suite 140, Roswell, GA 30076. 2

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

Hello And Goodbye

t has been my pleasure and honor to serve as your 2023 President. I am sad that my term is ending, however I’m excited to introduce your 2024 President, Chequetta Allen. Chequetta is a longtime, dedicated volunteer who will be a fantastic president. Along with her are a talented slate of officers who are excited and willing to serve. This year has been a thrilling journey for me with all types of adventures along the way. I began by asking, “why me?” And now I say, “why not me?” As my term comes to an end, I want to share some of the highlights of my year with you. In January, we voted to make our Junior Pilot Program permanent within ALTA. Our goal is for junior players, 16 and 17 years of age, to have the opportunity to play in selected adult leagues. This gives them an opportunity for different competition and sometimes they may even get the chance to play with family members. In March, we brought back the table decorating contest to our City Finals. All the teams were eager to show off their creativity again. We also started a new tradition of giving each team member of the winning table a bag tag to display proudly on their tennis bags. April brought a new league to ALTA, Pickleball! We appointed Marla Michalewicz to head up the league and she did an excellent job. Marla led our committee meetings, was head of the Pickleball Rules Committee, commissioned volunteers to be coordinators, and more. Our inaugural season brought just over 4,000 new members and over 200 rosters. Pickleball will have a new VP in 2024 and a two-season schedule. In May, an incredible, young ALTA player reached out to me. His suggestion was for ALTA to expand into more middle schools and high schools. He suggested creating a junior member outreach program. Along with the Junior League VP and others within ALTA, we agreed and created the position of Junior Tennis Ambassador. Of course, we asked him to volunteer for the job! He has worked with us to expand our social media in a way that interests juniors to join ALTA. A special thank you to Saketh Ramakrishnan for his suggestion and dedication in growing ALTA. In June, we again partnered with USTA Atlanta to raise money for the Atlanta Youth Tennis & Education Foundation, AYTEF. We purchased tickets to an Atlanta Braves game where a percentage

For the latest news, information and events.

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

of the tickets sales went directly to support AYTEF. This was a hometown win for everyone! July brought the well-attended Atlanta Open with a new tournament director, Peter Lebedevs. ALTA was highlighted at the tournament with coin toss opportunities, on-court recognition, t-shirts flying through the air to lucky winners, and so much more. Hosted daily by our own volunteers, ALTA’s booth was a popular spot for visitors to learn more about our organization. August was a fun month for ALTA volunteers who had joined our Executive Committee. Together with our board members, we were treated to a fun afternoon of pickleball followed by a nice appreciation dinner. ALTA has many volunteer opportunities. Of course, there are our team captains and co-captains. Maybe you have been a captain for several years and would like to move into a coordinator role. Look for the link on our home page to sign up and join the fun. Maybe you would like to join our volunteer team as part of our Wheelchair Leagues, which along with our clinics, are held year-round. We always need volunteers to play in the Run/Roll League or assist in other areas. Hopefully, you are aware of the ALTA Foundation. It was created to promote health, character, sportsmanship, and responsible citizenship by using the game of tennis to support amateur athletes and programs for the disadvantaged, the physically and mentally challenged, and to provide new opportunities for under-served youth. The ALTA Foundation soared to new heights this year. We awarded 15 regular grants totaling $63,800; nine scholarships totaling $22,500; and our START program is on track to award $30,000 this year. This growth in funding is due in part to generous donations from you, and as we look forward to increasing our outreach, we encourage you to continue supporting the ALTA Foundation. In September, our fall leagues are all in action. October brings another new surprise — the grand opening of our first online ALTA store! I hope you will check out all the cool merchandise. These items make great gifts as well as merchandise for you to show off your ALTA pride. Thank you all again for the opportunity and for your support.

Linda Shepherd, 2023 ALTA President altatennis.org facebook.com/Atlanta Lawn Tennis Association instagram.com/ALTA_tennis netnewsmag.com

GET YOUR

K C A B E C N U BO

2023 ALTA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 300 Colonial Center Parkway, Suite 140, Roswell, GA 30076 Phone: 770.399.5788 Website: altatennis.org President Linda Shepherd First Vice President Chequetta Allen Secretary Mimi McFall Treasurer Larry Waters VP Men’s League Greg McAfee VP Thursday Karen Sullivan Women’s League VP Sunday Susan Levin Women’s League VP Senior Day Leagues Joan Marcinko VP Senior Leagues Gina Clance VP Mixed John Lowell Doubles League VP Junior Leagues Wendy Fee VP Junior Stacey Simmons Challenge Ladder VP Special Programs Mark LaRotonda VP Events & Tournaments Marla Michalewicz President’s Appointee Tammi Copelli 2022 President Lamar Scott 2021 President Debbie Gaster ALTA Foundation Rep Cameron Turner

WITH

2023 ALTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair Sandy Depa 2021 ALTA President Debbie Gaster

visit ATSports.com to learn more

A DIVISION OF AT SPORTS

2022 ALTA President Lamar Scott 2023 ALTA President Linda Shepherd The ALTA Foundation Rita Maloof President 2022 Elected Member Keri Beck 2023 Elected Member Mike Wright

Infinite hits, zero pickups.

Treasurer Larry Waters Secretary/ First Vice President Chequetta Allen

2023 THE ALTA FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Rita Maloof Treasurer Larry Waters Secretary Cameron Turner

NEW SOUTH PUBLISHING, INC. 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210, Atlanta, GA 30350 Phone: 770.650.1102 President Larry Lebovitz Vice President/Publisher John Hanna Net News Editor Emmy Powell Features Editor Cory Sekine–Pettite Art Director Tracy Stalling

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NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Advertising & Megan Willis Production Manager Account Executives Jennifer Gonzalez Sherry Gasaway Circulation Manager Amy Fine Accounting Marilyn Walker Copy Editor Jena Pace Copy Editor Michelle Camay Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Direct all advertising, circulation and editorial inquiries to 770.650.1102. All information herein has been checked for accuracy to the best of the publisher’s ability. No responsibility is accepted for deletions, omissions, errors and/or inaccuracies. Printed in U.S.A. The ALTA logo is a protected trademark™.

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2023-2024 ALTA CALENDAR 4 5 6 7 18 20 26

NOVEMBER 2023 S M T W 1 5 6 7 8 12 13 14 15 19 20 21 22 26 27 28 29

Pickleball – Schedules post online Pickleball – team add-ons begin (up to 6 players) Senior Mixed - Winter play begins Mixed Doubles - Winter play begins Adult Spring Leagues – Roster registration ends Pickleball - Winter play begins Junior Spring Leagues – Roster registration ends

NOVEMBER 1 Senior Day Men – Fall playoffs (rain date 11/3) 2 Thursday Women – Fall City Finals for A, B and C (rain date 11/9) 4 Men – Fall playoffs and fall City Finals for AA (rain date 11/5) Sunday Women – Fall City Finals for AA (rain date 11/5) Junior Leagues – Fall playoffs (rain date 11/7) Junior Leagues – Fall City Finals (rain date 11/5) 5 Sunday Women – Fall playoffs (rain date 11/7) 6 Senior Day Women – Fall City Finals for all levels (rain date 11/13) 8 Senior Day Men – Fall City Finals for all levels (rain date 11/15) 11 Men – Fall City Finals for levels A, B and C (rain date 11/18) Junior Leagues – Fall City Finals (rain date 11/12) 12 Sunday Women – Fall City Finals for A, B and C (rain date 11/19) 16 ALTA Annual Meeting 23 Office closed – Thanksgiving holiday 24 Office closed – Thanksgiving holiday

DECEMBER 1 2 3 22 25

All Winter Tennis 2024 Leagues – schedules post online All Winter Tennis 2024 Leagues – team add-ons begin (up to 6 players) Junior Challenge Ladder – Ladder closes Office closed – Christmas holiday Office closed - Christmas holiday

JANUARY 2024 1

Office Closed - New Year’s Day holiday All Spring Leagues – Roster registration begins

23 24 25 29

Wheelchair – Roster registration begins Senior Mixed - Wiinter play ends Mixed Doubles - Winter play ends Junior Spring Leagues – Schedules post online Junior Spring Leagues - Spring team add-ons begin (up to 6 players) Wheelchair – Roster registration ends Senior Mixed - Winter playoffs (rain date 2/25) Mixed Doubles - Winter playoffs (rain date 3/2) Senior Mixed - Winter playoffs (rain date 3/2) All Adult Spring Leagues – Schedules post online

MARCH 1 2

3 9

10 12 13 14 16 17 19 23

All Adult Spring Leagues - team add-ons begin (up to 6 players) Pickleball - Winter play ends Mixed Doubles - Winter playoffs (rain date 3/3) Senior Mixed - Winter playoffs (rain date 3/3) Mixed Doubles - Winter playoffs and City Finals for AA levels (rain date 3/9) Pickleball - Winter playoffs (rain date 3/10) Junior Leagues - Spring Play begins Senior Mixed - Winter City Finals for all levels (rain date 3/10) Mixed Doubles - Winter City Finals for A, B, C levels (rain date 3/16) Senior Day Women - Spring play begins Wheelchair - Spring play begins Senior Day Men - Spring play begins Thursday Women - Spring play begins Pickleball - Winter playoffs (rain date 3/17) Men - Spring play begins Sunday Women - Spring play begins All Summer Leagues – Roster registration begins Pickleball - City Finals (rain date 3/24)

APRIL 9 20 23 24

All Summer Leagues – Roster registration ends Juniors - Spring play ends Senior Day Women - Spring play ends Wheelchair - Spring City Finals (rain date 4/30) Senior Day Men - Spring play ends

F 3 10 17 24

S 4 11 18 25

S M T W T F 1 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 11 12 13 14 15 17 18 19 20 21 22 24 25 26 27 28 29 31

S 2 9 16 23 30

DECEMBER 2023

FEBRUARY 9 17 18 21 22

25 27 28 29 30

1 2

3 4

5 6 7 8 9 11

12 13

16 17 18 19 21 27 28 30 31

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Thursday Women - Spring play ends Juniors - Spring playoffs (rain date 5/2) Men - Spring play ends Sunday Women - Spring play ends Senior Day Women - Spring playoffs (rain date 5/1) Thursday Women - Spring playoffs (rain date 5/2)

MAY

14 15

T 2 9 16 23 30

Senior Day Men - Spring playoffs (rain date 5/3) Thursday Women - Spring City FInals for AA levels (rain date 5/7) Thursday Women - Spring playoffs (rain date 5/7) Run/Roll – Roster registration begins Juniors - Spring City Finals (rain date 5/5) Juniors - Spring playoffs (rain date 5/7) Men - Spring playoffs (rain date 5/5) Sunday Women - Spring playoffs (rain date 5/5) Men - Spring playoffs (rain date 5/11) Sunday Women - Spring playoffs (rain date 5/11) Senior Day Women - Spring playoffs (rain date 5/8) Thursday Women - Spring playoffs (rain date 5/9) Wheelchair - Spring Clinic Senior Day Men - Spring playoffs (rain date 5/10) Thursday Women - Spring City Finals for A, B, C levels (rain date 5/16) Juniors - Spring City Finals (rain date 5/12) Men - Spring City Finals for AA levels (rain date 5/12) Men - Spring playoffs (rain date 5/12) Sunday Women - City Finals for AA levels (rain date 5/12) Sunday Women - Spring playoffs (rain dae 5/14) Junior Challenge Ladder – Online registration begins Senior Day Women - Spring City Finals for all levels (rain date 5/20) Wheelchair - Spring clinic Senior Day Men - City Finals for all levels (rain date 5/22) All Summer Leagues – Schedules post online All Summer Leagues - team add-ons begin (up to 6 players) Men - Spring City Finals for A, B, C levels (rain date 5/25) Sunday Women - Spring City Finals for A, B, C levels (rain date 5/26) Wheelchair - Spring Clinic Office Closed - Memorial Day holiday Run/Roll – Roster registration ends Wheelchair - Spring Clinic Senior Women - Summer play begins Senior Men - Summer play begins

2023-2024 ALTA CALENDAR BY LEAGUE SENIOR LEAGUES Jan. 6 Feb. 17 Feb. 24 Feb. 25 Mar. 2 Mar. 9

Winter play begins for Senior Mixed Winter play ends for Senior Mixed Winter playoffs for Senior Mixed (rain date 2/25) Winter playoffs for Senior Mixed (rain date 3/2) Winter playoffs for Senior Mixed (rain date 3/3) Winter City Finals for Senior Mixed (rain date 3/10)

MIXED DOUBLES Jan. 7 Feb. 18 Feb. 25 Mar. 2 Mar. 3 Mar. 10

Winter play begins Winter play ends Winter playoffs (rain date 3/2) Winter playoffs (rain date 3/3) Winter playoffs and City Finals for AA levels (rain date 3/9) Winter City Finals for A, B, C levels (rain date 3/16)

SUNDAY WOMEN Nov. 4 Nov. 5 Nov. 12 Jan. 1 Jan. 18

Fall City Finals for AA levels (rain date 11/5) Fall playoffs (rain date 11/7) Fall City Finals for A, B, C levels (rain date 11/19) Spring roster registration begins Spring roster registration ends

MEN Nov. 4 Nov. 11 Jan. 1 Jan. 18

Fall playoffs and City Finals for AA levels (rain date 11/5) Fall City Finals for A, B, C levels (rain date 11/18) Spring roster registration begins Spring roster registration ends

THURSDAY WOMEN

SENIOR DAY WOMEN

Nov. 2 Jan. 1 Jan. 18

Nov. 6 Jan. 1 Jan. 18

Fall City Finals for A, B, C levels (rain date 11/9) Spring roster registration begins Spring roster registration ends

Fall City Finals for all levels (rain date 11/13) Spring roster registration begins Spring roster registration ends

SENIOR DAY MEN Nov. 8 Jan. 1 Jan. 18

Fall City Finals for all levels (rain date 11/15) Spring roster registration begins Spring roster registration ends

JUNIOR LEAGUES Nov. 4 Nov. 11 Jan. 1 Jan. 26

Fall City Finals (rain date 11/5) and playoffs (rain date 11/7) Fall City Finals (rain date 11/12) Spring roster registration begins Spring roster registration ends

JUNIOR CHALLENGE LADDER Dec. 3 Ladder closes Dec. 10 Awards Banquet

WHEELCHAIR

Feb. 9 Feb. 23 Mar. 12 Apr. 23

Spring roster registration begins Spring roster registration ends Spring play begins Spring City Finals (rain date 4/30) NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

HEARD AROUND ATLA NTA REPORTED BY EMMY POWELL, CORY SEKINE-PETTITE AND JOHN HANNA

Special Pops Tennis Annual Adaptive Tennis Tournament Draws Athletes From Nine States The 18th Annual Fall Classic Brings Together Hundreds of Athletes and Volunteers to “Play Tennis. Make Friends. Live Life.” The 18th Annual Fall Classic (from October 6-8) drew more than 100 Special Pops Tennis Athletes, over 225 volunteers, and countless family members for a much-anticipated adaptive tennis tournament. Lifetime Athletic and Tennis in Peachtree Corners hosted the event, which drew participants from Georgia, Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Kansas, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Texas, and Virginia. “Kathryn Bergquist, tournament co-director, along with 15 other volunteer leaders and I have been preparing all year,” shared 2023 Fall Classic Tournament Director, Helen Boudreaux.

The competition involves singles play on Friday for Level III, IV and V Athletes. The competition also includes traditional and unified doubles play on Saturday and Sunday for Level II, III, IV and V Athletes. Each athlete is placed in a competitive division with each division playing in a two-hour segment which included three timed matches.

Each athlete attended the division award ceremony immediately following his/her division matches. “The Annual Fall Classic is a full weekend of fun to give everyone in attendance a great experience and to make many wonderful memories,” said Jim Hamm, Special Pops Tennis executive director.

TELL US! Send your stories, compliments, complaints and questions to altaeditor@altatennis.org.

Dunwoody Country Club Hosts Charity Pro-Am Dunwoody Country Club (DCC) held their annual charity ProAm benefitting Special Olympics GA and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for Atlanta children. The event was held on the last weekend of August, which turned out to be the hottest weekend of the summer. While the weather had its challenges, the participants played through the heat to complete five matches over the weekend. Through the generosity of the DCC members, the event raised over $750,000.

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

The event included a tennis Pro-Am with 48 local tennis pros donating their time and talents to partner with 48 DCC members. The event also hosted a golf tournament and culminated at a gala with entertainment from the Nashville band “Six-Wire” and the lead singer from the band “Boston.” This year’s event was chaired by longtime ALTA member and team captain Lee Durham. Durham’s leadership and vision created a wonderful event enjoyed by all.

Marcus Rutsche Presented 2023 USPTA Star Award The United States Professional Tennis Association, Inc. (USPTA) presented the 2023 USPTA Star Award to Marcus Rutsche of Johns Creek (Southern Division). As director of racquet sports at the Country Club of Roswell, Rutsche plays an integral role as the tournament director for the club’s annual Charity Tennis Pro/AM Invitational. Last year, through their 44th event, he helped raise more than $75,000. This enabled the Country Club of Roswell to make large contributions to both Special Pops Tennis and StandUp for Kids. This award-winning tournament has raised more than $1 million for local charities since its inception. In 2022, the club was able to make donations to Camp Horizon and Goizueta Alzheimer’s Research Center.

USPTA endorsee Tennis Warehouse sponsored the Star Award for the second year. To honor this year’s recipient, Tennis Warehouse is donating 50 pairs of tennis shoes on Rutsche’s behalf to Special Pops Tennis in Atlanta. Special Pops enriches the lives of children and adults with intellectual disabilities by offering an adaptive program specifically designed to share the lifetime sport of tennis. “Marcus’ ideas and work have clearly had a huge impact on his community, and he is so deserving of the USPTA Star Award for his efforts,” USPTA CEO John Embree said.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

HEARD AROUND ATLA NTA

Laurel Springs Racquet Club in Suwanee Receives 2023 USTA Outstanding Facility Award The USTA recently announced that the Laurel Springs Racquet Club in Suwanee, Georgia is one of 29 winners in the USTA’s annual Outstanding Facility Awards program, which recognizes excellence in the construction and/or renovation of tennis facilities throughout the country. Laurel Springs offers services and amenities akin to a country club but with the inviting and welcoming atmosphere of an HOA. They have recently made significant investments in improving the facility, including the addition of LED lighting to all eight tennis courts, updating the stadium seating, and redesigning their pro-shop. Since partnering with RedZone Racquet Sports, the site now offers entirely

new programs that cater to all ages and levels. “Great tennis facilities like the Laurel Springs Racquet Club help us to grow the game at the grassroots level, and we are proud to recognize them for their ongoing impact on the sport of tennis,” said Craig Morris, chief executive, community tennis, USTA. “Laurel Springs Racquet Club has embraced many of our tennis initiatives and kept the sport at the forefront of its community each year.” Facilities were judged on the following criteria: overall layout and adaptation to site; excellence of court surface and lights; ease of maintenance; accommodations for players, spectators, and press/officials; aesthetics; graphics (including the use of signs and landscap-

ing); amenities, such as casual seating for spectators, food services, and social areas; and the facilities’ participation in grassroots tennis programs. Nominated facilities were voted on in the following categories: public courts that are either small tennis centers with 2-11 courts or large tennis centers with 12 or more courts; private facilities that offer both USTA and public programming designed to help grow tennis (small: 2-11 courts; large: 12 or more courts); and educational institutions such as colleges, universities, public and private grade schools, middle schools, or high schools. All 2023 award winners will receive a wall plaque and an all-weather sign, which can be mounted at the facility.

Senior Day Men

These winning Senior Day Men’s team photos didn’t make it into the Sept/Oct issue because of rainouts. Presented here are A5 The Overlook @Marietta CC (Steven Hein, captain) and B3 Rock Springs Park (Sungdo Kang, captain).

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

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HEARD AROUND ATLA NTA

ALTA ONLINE

BY JOAN APPELBAUM, ALTA IT MANAGER

You've got questions—we've got answers! I’m not getting emails from the ALTA website, what can I do?

What’s an easy way to enter a match scorecard?

How can I order my City Championship team photo?

You might see a note in your

Click Sign In/Join on the ALTA

Majestick Photography posts

Member Portal indicating that

Home Page, and then go to My

all the photos on its website at:

you need to validate your email

Active Teams. The system will

https://majestickphotography.

address. Go to My Account > My

request your login information

shootproof.com. The link is

Profile and see the not validated

and then take you to your teams

also listed at the bottom of

notice and button to validate

in season. At the top, click on

the home page on the ALTA

your email address. Please click

Scorecards.

website.

to validate which generates an email with a code to be entered to complete the validation.

Congratulations

Congratulations to the Atlanta Tennis community for helping make Atlanta’s only ATP event such a success!

Signature Tennis Courts Proud builder of the courts … since its inception! mike@signaturetennis.com

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

North Atlanta FitLife Expo is a Big HIIT! It was a perfect day for this year’s FitLife Expo at the Alpharetta City Center. Dozens of vendors, including ALTA and USTA Atlanta, were on hand to encourage others to stay fit, and what better way to do that than to play tennis? Health and wellness vendors, fun events for the entire family, health screenings, a blood drive, and plenty of free fitness classes capped off the day for this year’s Expo. Some of the free pop-up fitness classes included High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), pilates, and jazzercize. The mission of the FitLife Expo is to connect, encourage, and inspire the FitLife family, and based on this year’s community who participated in this fun, interactive, and family-friendly day, it appears the organizers fulfilled that mission!

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HEARD AROUND ATLA NTA

Ansley Golf Club Hosts 30th Annual Charity Pro-am Weekend The Ansley Golf Club held its annual “Make A Difference” Charity Pro-am Weekend August 17-20. This year’s event included a tennis pro-am for 160 men and women players, a ladies’ 18-hole golf pro-am for 45 players, a men’s 18-hole golf pro-am for 95 players, a ladies’ pro-am pickleball tournament with 30 players, a men’s pickleball tournament with 24 players, and a clay shooting competition with 24 participants.

will set a record in sponsor participation. As the largest proam in the Southeastern U.S., this pro-am has earned multiple awards over the past couple of years, including the USPTA National Charity Event of the Year. Organizers say they look forward to continuing this event in the future and know that the efforts put into it will benefit very deserving groups.

One of the highlights of the weekend was the Saturday night gala that included live music, silent auction, cash calls, and some of the best food in town prepared by the club’s Executive Chef, Shannon Farmer. This event has grown to include the entire club and Ansley has risen to the occasion to support its charitable giving to the community with more than $150,000 going to charity this year. The support that Ansley shows for the charities benefitted (Southeastern Brain Tumor Foundation, UnTeal There’s a Cure, and Respite Care Atlanta) was so great this year that they

Country Club of Roswell Hosts 45th Annual Charity Pro-Am The Country Club of Roswell (CCR) hosted it’s 45th annual Charity Pro-Am August 4-6. Chosen beneficiaries are local and close to the hearts of the CCR Community. The proceeds from this year’s events benefit Special Populations Tennis, helping kids and adults with intellectual disabilities train and compete in Tennis; Stand Up For Kids, serving at risk youth in mentoring and financial support in their education; Goizueta Alzheimers research at Emory; and For the Love of Ryan, helping families deal with depression and mental health issues. The Tennis Round Robin event saw 56 CCR members teaming up with local tennis professionals and players. The Sunday finals day saw some fierce competition with seven different champion doubles teams awarded for their achievements. As the fundraising numbers come together, the hopes are of beating last year’s efforts of $80,000 for these charities. 18

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

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HEARD AROUND ATLA NTA

Southern Tennis Hall of Fame Announces 2024 Inductees The Southern Tennis Hall of Fame and USTA Southern have announced the 2024 class of HOF Inductees. Congratulations to Manuel Diaz, Jane Preyer, and Keith Richardson.

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Manuel Diaz, the SEC’s all-time winningest coach with 767 career victories, led the University of Georgia Bulldogs to another conference championship and deep run in the NCAA tournament in 2023. Coach Diaz’s career accomplishments include the following: • Has compiled a 767-192 (.800) record in 36 years as the head men’s tennis coach at the University of Georgia. • The all-time winningest coach in SEC history, just ahead of Bulldog legend Dan Magill. • Led Georgia to six national championships and a remarkable 29 SEC titles.

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Keith Richardson, a native of Rock Hill, South Carolina, is known for defeating Kevin Curren (twice), John Lloyd, Eliot Teltscher, and Eddie Dibbs in his four-year run on the ATP Tour. In 1977, he hit a career-high singles world ranking of No. 63 and No. 146 in doubles in 1979. His career highlights include the following: • Achieved a career-high ATP singles ranking of No. 63 and No. 146 in doubles. • Inducted into these Halls of Fame: South Carolina, North Carolina, Appalachian State University Athletic Hall of Fame, and the York County (S.C.) Sports Hall of Fame. • Defeated Kevin Curren (twice), John Lloyd, Eliott Teltscher, and Eddie Dibbs while playing on the ATP Tour. A Hall of Fame Selection Committee appointed by the STF Board of Trustees selects the inductees each year. Inductees consist of players, volunteers, administrators and officials who have notably contributed to Southern tennis. To learn more, visit southerntennisfoundation.com.

Photos from Southern Tennis Foundation

Jane Preyer’s long and successful career was rooted in tennis glory and expanded into a dedication to volunteerism and environmental protection. As a player, she achieved a No. 43 world ranking. Preyer played six years on WTA Tour, with two appearances at the US Open and Wimbledon. Among her career highlights, she defeated Evonne Goolagong, Manuela Maleeva, Sue Barker, and Betty Stove.

St Ives Country Club Pro Member Tennis Invitational St Ives Country Club celebrated the 29th year of the St Ives Country Club Pro-Member Tennis Invitational in August. The event was established by Creig Matthieson, director of tennis in 1993. This year, there was a surprise visit from tennis pro and 2023 Wimbledon quarter finalist Chris Eubanks. St Ives Team format resulted in 1st place team Archadeck Outdoor Living: Members Mark Salazar (captain), Cory VanGundy, Joe Lazewski, Michael Li/Bryan Li, Susan Matt, Nicole Vu, Ashley Pettoni, Wendy McWilliams; and pro players Salif Kante, Aleksa Ciric, Darryl Hale, Bryan Bailey, Ellen Jang Milsten, Maria Cardenas, Vanessa Streng, and Jessica Pickron. The 2nd place team, Elite Personalized Medicine: Members Melea & Mark Connett (captains), Lance Dasher, Matt Pettoni, Hisham Araim/Ted Pappas, Kim Vanetta, Amanda Beaton, Holly Knowles; and pro players Agustin Tamagnonex, Thomas Cook, Manuel Pilotto, Matt Sloan, Justine Lespes, Calena Redondo, Zsofia Lanstiak, and Ysabel Gonzalez Rico. St Ives Country Club would like to thank its members and sponsors for helping them have the most successful pro-member of all time. They send special thanks to the Pro Member Committee: Chairman Bill White, Jill Angove, Misti Howie, Glen Brincefield, Lori Baum, Ashley Guelfo, and Sarah Little. The charity event raised $70,000 to benefit The Charity Guild of Johns Creek.

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NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

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TENNIS HEADLINES

Wild West Tennis Offers Unique TennisTravel Opportunities for 2024 Wild West Tennis, which specializes in offering well-planned, fun tennis camps and vacations, has two distinctive travel opportunities for tennis fanatics. Location #1 is Palm Springs, California, in March 2024 where Wild West will provide two camps where guests can train in the morning with USPTA trained professionals then take in the BNP Paribas Open in the afternoon. Location #2 features both Mallorca, Spain and Wimbledon for a potential dream vacation for tennis enthusiasts. Enjoy a Mallorca tennis camp on clay and an opportunity to see the Mallorca Open ATP tournament, followed by a trip to London and Wimbledon. To learn more, visit wildwesttennis.com.

Jessica Pegula and Madison Keys to Play in the Credit One Charleston Open World No. 4 Pegula and World No. 12 Keys join Charleston field already showcasing four top 15 players Jessica Pegula and Madison Keys will play the 2024 Credit One Charleston Open, the largest women’s-only tennis tournament in North America, March 30 - April 7, 2024, on Daniel Island in Charleston, South Carolina. The WTA 500 tournament, which is the clay season kickoff event on the Hologic WTA Tour, also is scheduled to include three-time Grand Slam finalist and 2023 Charleston Open champion Ons Jabeur and World No. 15, Olympic Gold Medalist and 2022 Charleston Open champion Belinda Bencic. Pegula is currently ranked No. 4 in the world in singles and shares the No. 2 doubles ranking with her frequent partner, Coco Gauff. Her most recent title came at the WTA 1000 Canadian Open in August. World No. 12 Keys is the 2019 Charleston Open champion. She recently reached the semifinals of the US Open for the third time in her career. Pegula and Keys have both advanced to the quarterfinals or better in all four Grand Slams. The two were members of Team USA at this year’s United Cup, contributing to the team’s 22-2 match record and title. “Jessie and Madi are two of the biggest fan favorites in our sport, so we are delighted to bring them back to Charleston next year,” said Bob Moran, tournament director and president of Beemok Sports & Entertainment. “Not only are they incredible tennis players but they are also remarkable women off the court, each founding their own nonprofit organizations and inspiring the next generation of players. With four top 15 players already committed, we know that next year’s tournament will feature world-class competition right here in the Lowcountry.” The nine-day Credit One Charleston Open showcases a singles draw of 56 players, a qualifying draw of 32 players, and a doubles draw of 16 players. The event traditionally hosts more than 90,000 attendees on Daniel Island.

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

US Open Welcome 950,000 Spectators over Three Weeks According to the USTA, the US Open set new standards for attendance in 2023, breaking its two- and three-week attendance records and becoming the first Grand Slam to welcome more than 950,000 spectators over a three-week period. The US Open welcomed 957,387 fans over the 20 days, encompassing the Main Draw and Fan Week, a near 8-percent increase over 2022, the USTA reports. The US Open’s 2023 main draw attendance was a US Open record 799,402. All 25 sessions in Arthur Ashe Stadium sold out for the second year in a row, and both the Men’s (28,804) and Women’s Championship (28,143) sessions were the highest-attended Championship sessions in US Open history.

Har-Tru Acquires Armor Crack Repair Har-Tru, LLC, the global leader in court construction and surfacing solutions, has acquired Armor Crack Repair, the leader in court crack repair and maintenance. This strategic addition reinforces Har-Tru’s commitment to offering comprehensive and innovative solutions to the tennis and sports building industries, the company says. With this acquisition, Har-Tru is positioned to provide clients with a seamless and end-to-end approach to court construction, repair, and maintenance. Armor’s expertise in repairing cracks on asphalt courts complements Har-Tru’s extensive portfolio of premium court surfaces, equipment, and solutions, executives say. “Armor is an exceptional product that has been a godsend for thousands of tennis court owners for decades,” said Har-Tru President Pat Hanssen. “I am grateful that Dan Clapp and Ellen Bratlof have entrusted Har-Tru to nurture the brand and care for their customers. We couldn’t be more excited to have this essential court repair solution and top industry brand as part of our company.” Armor Crack Repair has earned a reputation for its cutting-edge technology and techniques in repairing and rejuvenating courts, extending their lifespan, and enhancing playability. This acquisition allows Har-Tru to enhance its service offerings, ensuring that customers have a full range of tools to keep their courts in optimal condition throughout their lifecycle. “The Armor Crack Repair System was developed in the 1990s to extend the life of cracked tennis courts,” stated Dan Clapp, founder of Armor Crack Repair. “It was a breakthrough, filling the gap between ineffective crack fillers and expensive reconstruction. In 2000, Armor became the pioneering fabric crack repair product for contractors. While many imitators have come and gone, Armor has remained a trusted solution. After over two decades, it’s time for a fresh start. I’m thrilled to have a company with shared values and a strong customer commitment take over Armor. Har-Tru’s history, commitment and expertise will elevate Armor to the next level. I look forward to Armor’s promising future.” NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

TENNIS HEADLINES

Carlos Alcaraz Extends Contract with Babolat Carlos Alcaraz, the 2023 Wimbledon champion, signed the latest extension of his contract with racquet manufacturer Babolat during his recent stint in New York for the US Open. “For more than 10 years now, Babolat experts have been constantly working close with me to provide the best tennis equipment for my performance,” Alcaraz said. “It means I’m a member of the Babolat family, and that there are people at Babolat I think of as part of my team. They listen carefully to my needs and my feedback, and it’s a constant, constructive two-way process.” Alcaraz signed his first contract with Babolat in Spain at the age of 10. At 13, he joined the international Babolat team, and at just 20 was the youngest world No. 1 in tennis history and already has two Grand Slam titles to his name (US Open 2022, Wimbledon 2023). Since the start of the 2022 US Open, Alcaraz has played with the Babolat Pure Aero 98 racquet, an updated version of the Pure Aero VS, and strings it with Babolat RPM Blast strings (gauge 130/16).

Penn’s Commitment to Sustainability Shown in Environmentally Improved Tennis Ball Can Penn, America’s top-selling tennis ball brand sold by the HEAD USA Inc., has improved the recyclability and biodegradability of their cans. Penn tennis ball plastic cans have been enhanced to be more efficiently recycled, the company says. The new design includes a shorter, removable sleeve (covering two-thirds of the can instead of the full can), which means less ink is used and it can be more easily separated by automatic waste separation technology. The new cans also have another environmentally friendly feature. Because approximately 90 percent of all plastics end up in landfills, the biodegrading process is particularly important. Most plastics take hundreds of years to break down, but Penn is injecting an organic additive produced by Midori Bio Inc. into its new cans and plastic lid caps. So, if the cans end up in a landfill, they will break down within five years. Jeff Ratkovich, senior dusiness manager for Penn Tennis, said, “Tennis balls are an integral component in the sport of tennis, 26

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

and we have to be socially responsible, so it’s absolutely appropriate that we are making our ball cans and lids more recyclable and environmentally friendly. “Our first priority is to promote and encourage the tennis-playing community to recycle their discarded packaging, but we also understand that most of these materials are destined for landfills,” he continued. “So, we’re cutting down the biodegrading time by partnering with Midori Bio and incorporating their pioneering organic additive in our new ball cans and plastic lid caps. It is the responsible thing to do.” Pro Penn Marathon and Penn Tour premium balls have already started hitting shelves, Penn Championship cans are due out later this year, and the remainder of Penn’s ball range is scheduled to hit stores in 2024. Unlike some other biodegradable products which require specialized environments to degrade, Penn ball cans are consumed (as a food source) by microbes in local landfill sites. The Midori Bio additive

allows the buried cans to expand with ground moisture, attracting microbes to the plastic which treat it as food, thereby eating it and breaking down the chemical bonds of the plastic faster. For more information on this biodegradation technology, please visit midori-bio.com. Ratkovich added, “For us, the performance of the product is paramount, and it goes without saying that the Penn balls themselves remain unchanged. It’s a case of same great ball — better packaging. As a company, we are committed to improving our operational sustainability, and as part of this effort, we’re delighted to make it easy for tennis players to dispose of their Penn tennis ball cans with a clear conscience. For us, this is another important step towards greater sustainability.”

Smart Doubles — A Perfect Fit for ALTA players Are you looking for a great holiday gift for your captain, tennis partner, or a young player who is learning the game? “Smart Doubles” might be the answer. Longtime tennis player and coach Ron Shields developed the strategy behind the book during the pandemic. His teaching/learning program was developed here in Atlanta where he primarily taught doubles strategy. He later relocated to the Sarasota/Bradenton, Florida area and worked in Longboat Key. He was able to see the varying philosophies and ways for teaching recreational doubles players. “I chose to label and promote my program to give players the option to see and learn the difference between ‘dumb doubles’ and Smart Doubles. With the book, Shields says he is hoping to create more interest, access, spark, and excitement about tennis and specifically the game of doubles. An exciting part of the book are “Ron’s Riffs,” which are memorable phrases that reinforce and enable more doing (less thinking) and commitment to executing high percentage shots, good positioning, and intentional strategy. It was inspired during clinics with his Atlanta and Longboat Key teams/clients. A few of his favorites are Money Middle, One and Done, and High you Die. You’ll have to read all about the strategy in the book. By utilizing Smart Doubles as a program, Shields believes he can attract more players and keep them engaged in the sport long-term. “In my view, the game of doubles is the best vehicle to create more excitement about tennis and more opportunities for people to fully enjoy the game of doubles. For all ALTA members and recreational players, the book provides a visual and written playbook of basic, common sense doubles strategy, proper positioning, communication, and partnership that he hopes other pros will incorporate into their drills. “It is my attempt to promote tennis with a ‘keep it simple’ approach that will energize and impact new, returning, and current players.” Shields played on ALTA teams at the AA level and coached many ALTA teams. “After my C7 Thursday Women’s League team won City Finals, I was hooked on the ALTA experience,” he says. Getting juniors hooked on ALTA and the sport is also a key goal for Shields. “If they are simply having fun and making friends, they are likely to play and enjoy the sport recreationally. Eventually, they will become adults and can enjoy tennis recreationally for a lifetime throughout their senior years.” Shields has fond memories of the ALTA food spreads and all the fun with his teammates. “The best part about ALTA and working in ‘Tennis Town USA’ was the friendships and connections that were made. From my ALTA team in 1998 I met Randy Schubert, director of tennis at the Huntcliff River Club. Randy was the best man in my wedding. Because of tennis, I am very blessed to have met my wife, Brenda, who is my best friend and love of my life.” The book Smart Doubles can be purchased online at smartdoubles.com., Amazon, Barnes & Noble and soon other retail stores and pro shops in the Atlanta area.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

The 20th Anniversary

Net News

Prizes courtesy of

Photo Contest 4Overall Winner

ANNIVE

TWE

H T E

CHILDREN Tasting Victory Penny Brandt Roy

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Y E A RS

3Runner Up CHILDREN Happiest on the Court Zachary Landy

5Winner

SA ST

HUMOR Drying The Courts Andy Roach

3Runner Up

HUMOR Guess Who Plays The Net Pamela Rotchford NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

3Runner Up ACTION The Human Tornado David Skillen

6Winner ACTION Gunshow David Skillen

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5Winner STILL LIFE Time For Spring Tennis Beth Sisson

4Runner Up

STILL LIFE Barbie Is Coming To ALTA Kavya Mistry

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

3Runner Up

PETS BARC (Ball Auto Retrieval Canine) Peter Gijzen

6Winner PETS Love/Love Melissa Yung

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

5Winner COURTSIDE Cotton Candy Sky Gabriella Rico

3Runner Up

COURTSIDE So Hot The Bench Melted Todd Hudson

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

3Winner ANNIVERSARY Cheers to 20 Years of Sparkling Photos Michael Munoz

6Runner Up

ANNIVERSARY Anniversary Score: Photo Contest 20 years – Me 32 years Brant Mercer

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Last Issue’s Trivia Contest Winner Is …

Congratulations! We drew our winner from a pool of readers who submitted correct answers, and Stephanie McKendree, Sweetbottom Women’s B7 won a racquet from HEAD! Try your luck with this issue’s contest and see if you can join the ranks of our previous trivia contest winners. Here is the original quiz and the correct answers: 1. Which American tennis player was the top seed and captured the Atlanta Open singles title and whom did he defeat? Taylor Fritz and Aleksandar Vukic 2. What is the name of the professional pickleball team in Atlanta which will compete in the MLP tournament here in September and who owns the team? Atlanta Bouncers and Anheuser-Busch 3. Who were the three people recognized and honored during the 2023 Georgia Tennis Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony? Robby Ginepri, Stephen Enochs, and Mary Hatfield

November/December Trivia Contest Enter for your chance to win a bag from Tecnifibre! To enter the contest, correctly answer the following three questions, in addition to submitting a new favorite courtside recipe, and mail it to New South Publishing, Attn: Cory Sekine-Pettite, 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210, Atlanta, GA 30350. Answers and recipes may also be submitted online at netnewsmag.com. Hint: The answers can be found in this issue. Entry deadline: Monday, December 4.

Please submit a favorite courtside recipe along 1. Who will be the 2025 ALTA President?________________ _________________________________________________________ 2. What is the name of one of the newest grant recipients from the ALTA Foundation that operates

with this entry to be eligible. Name______________________________________________________________ Address____________________________________________________________

out of Henry County, GA?

City___________________________________ State________ ZIP______________

_________________________________________________________

Email_______________________________________________________________

3. What is the name of the author who wrote the book,

Phone______________________________________________________________

“Smart Doubles”? _________________________________________________________

League_____________________________________________________________ Team_____________________________ Level _____________________________

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

A LTA F O U N D AT I O N

“As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands. One for helping yourself, the other for helping others.” –Audrey Hepburn

Building Stronger Communities

BY RITA MALOOF, ALTA FOUNDATION PRESIDENT

Photos by Laura Barnard

udrey Hepburn could have been talking about ALTA. With a primary function of scheduling league play for adult teams and junior teams in the five-county metro area, ALTA’s secondary function — through the ALTA Foundation — is to serve the community. Since 1986, the foundation has been promoting health, character, sportsmanship, and responsible citizenship by using the game of tennis to support, not only amateur tennis athletes, but programs for the disadvantaged, the physically and mentally challenged, and to provide new opportunities for under-served youth and other tennis programs. More than $115,000 in grants and scholarships were awarded by the foundation in 2023. Special Olympics Georgia, Special Pops Tennis, Blaze Sports, Tennis People, AYTEF, Cobb CTS, Rising Stars Tennis Association, and Get A Grip Tennis Association were all welcomed back and supported with grants. The Dunwoody Country Club Special Olympics Day and the American Wheelchair Championships returned for the first time since COVID. Extending our hand further, we were thrilled to announce a partnership with another Atlanta icon, the Shepherd Center. ALTA is now a sponsor of the Shepherd Center Recreational Therapy Rehabilitative Tennis Clinics offered to all Shepherd Center patients. We also welcomed Above the Net, Inc., Smoke Rise Country Club’s Racquet Rally, and Center for Movement Challenges to the foundation’s community. The Foundation START (Support for Teaching Recreational Tennis) Program for Title I high school continues to branch out. After a successful pilot of two schools in 2020, the program, which provides funds for coaching, equipment, and uniforms, now boasts 10 schools in metro Atlanta and is one of our fastest growing, most impactful ventures.

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Photos by Laura Barnard

Nine, $2,500-scholarships were awarded through the L. Keith Wood Scholarship program. Included in these awards was our first adaptive athlete scholar winner. This recipient came to us first as part of the Blaze Sports Youth Wheelchair program and then joined the ALTA wheelchair league when she was of age. Thanks in large part to generous donations from the Wood family, more than $140,000 has been awarded from the ALTA Foundation to outstanding high-school seniors over the past seven years. As you can see, Audrey Hepburn would be proud. The second hand of ALTA, the ALTA Foundation, has been busy helping others — building stronger tennis (and now pickleball) communities throughout Atlanta. In conclusion, I have had the pleasure to serve as ALTA Foundation President for the past two years. It’s been an amazing journey and one I’ll never forget. I couldn’t have done this alone. Thank you, Cameron Turner, Foundation secretary; and Larry Waters, ALTA and Foundation treasurer, for your time, effort, and dedication to the foundation. We made a pretty good team! I’d also like to thank the ALTA Board of Directors for their trust and support as we brought the foundation back from COVID to where we are today. In two years, we funneled more than $200,000 in grants and scholarships back into the community. Additionally, I’d like to give a shout out to ALTA Director of Marketing, Emmy Powell, and our friends at Net News for helping the foundation update its brand and community exposure during this time. With the growth of our partner programs, we have increased our media footprint from one article in two issues of the magazine to two pages of coverage in every edition along with an active social media presence. Lastly and most importantly, thank you to our ALTA membership. Without you and your passion for the sport of tennis, there would be no ALTA Foundation, a true helping hand.

Lifting A Community: Above The Net, Inc. ALTA Foundation is thrilled to announce the award of a 2023 grant to a firsttime partner that continues to lift its community, Above the Net, Inc. Henry County lacked a tennis program in most middle schools and as a result students would begin participating in other sports at that grade level. In turn, high school tennis programs began to falter. In 2021, Caniece Haywood, Brenda Gant, and Monica Johnson, three avid ALTA tennis players in Henry County, were determined to do something about it. With an underutilized resource of tennis courts at Richard Craig Park and the local high school and middle school ranking in the bottom 25 percent of schools in the state, the founders decided to create Above the Net, Inc., a non-profit all about growing youth participation in tennis and leveraging that sport for college scholarships, strengthening communities, and building life skills. Sharing a vision that mirrors ALTA Foundation’s mission of “Building Stronger Communities,” a partnership between Above the Net, Inc. and the ALTA Foundation was inevitable. More than 350 adults and children (90 percent) in Henry County have already been introduced to tennis through programs offered by Above the Net, Inc. “We are a certified NJTL organization, we have an apprentice program that meets weekly at Richard Craig Park, and we also teach tennis at the Shaquille O’Neal Boys & Girls Club,” says Haywood. “The grant from ALTA Foundation will allow some of the more interested and advanced kids at the Boys & Girls Club, as well as some of the general Henry County community, to participate in our Elite program which meets three days a week to accelerate their progress. Many kids that started with us just two years ago in the Elite group have made their high school tennis teams and/or are actively competing in tournaments.” This year-round program, combined with the determination of the company founders, is guaranteed to lift deserving athletes, Above the Net. For more information on Above the Net, Inc. please visit abovethenettennis.org.

Focused on building stronger communities, the foundation supports the growth of tennis in underserved populations in the Atlanta area. The generosity of our ALTA members makes it all possible. All donations are appreciated and can be made online on the ALTA website at the time of membership renewal, by scanning the QR code below, or by mail to the ALTA office. For inquiries on stock gifts, in memorandum gifts, or establishing a scholarship, contact Rita Maloof, 2023 ALTA Foundation president at foundationpresident@altatennis.org or 770.399.5788 ext. 126. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

Meet your 2024 ALTA Executive Committee

he slate is in, and ALTA’s Board of Directors has approved the list of nominees for the 2024 Executive Committee. They are as follows:

President (not included in the vote) First Vice President

Chequetta Allen Rita Maloof

Secretary

Keri Beck

Treasurer

Susan Levin

Vice President Men’s League

Greg McAfee

Vice President Thursday Women’s League Vice President Sunday Women’s League Vice President Senior Leagues Vice President Senior Day Leagues Vice President Junior Leagues

Siobhan Schaeffer Loretta Phillips Seth Appelbaum Joan Marcinko Wendy Fee

Vice President Mixed Doubles League

David Rowe

Vice President Junior Challenge Ladder

Gina Woods

Vice President of Events and Tournaments

Marla Michalewicz

Vice President of Special Programs

Mark LaRotonda

Vice President of Pickleball

Jerry Niemeyer

The Executive Committee and its team of volunteers work year-round to make sure ALTA’s leagues run smoothly. The officers are voted on by the general membership at the 2023 ALTA Annual Meeting.

2023 ALTA Annual Meeting

Date: November 16 Time: 7:00 p.m. Place: The Atlanta Athletic Club 1930 Bobby Jones Dr. Johns Creek, GA 30097

The agenda will include discussion on items set forth in ALTA’s bylaws, in addition to approval of the minutes from the last EC meeting in November, the Chairman’s Report, Treasurer’s Report, President’s Report, and other ALTA league business.

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NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

A LTA V O L U N T E E R S

Thank You TO OUR

Volunteers

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Photos by Laura Barnard

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP

The Beauty Of ALTA Carrying your neighborhood banner into combat BY JOHN IRVIN, PTR-US HOT SHOTZ TENNIS ACADEMY

n 1989, when I was a tennis director in Chicago, I read an article proclaiming there was an Atlanta tennis league boasting 60,000 players. “That must be bull crap,” I told my staff. “We have four, in-house leagues, each with 16 players, and we have a hard time leveling those ladies and keeping them happy!” But yes, it was true. So, I eventually decided to make a career move to witness this phenomenon. It’s truly amazing that there are 28 levels of adult ALTA, and there is so much parity at each level and within so many divisions. But what I really want to share are the things that make ALTA unique. For example, elsewhere, players develop in a club environment where they are taught tennis etiquette. But in Atlanta, most of ALTA is neighborhood-based, so you see a lot of interesting things, such as players high fiving when their opponents double-fault; players walking behind your court during matches; opponents’ teammates cheering when your partner misses an overhead; and family members confirming questionable line calls. One thing I could not figure out was, why players were so passionate about playing and winning. Up north, we had Interclub leagues, but you could join one club one season and play for another the next season. So frequently in Atlanta, you are fighting for the honor of your neighborhood, or as one player put it, “carrying your neighborhood banner into combat.” As a coach, I stress the importance of turning your shoulders at the net when hitting volleys. I was watching my first-ever ALTA ladies’ match when, on the fifth point, one of my players hit a volley into the net. She turned to where I was sitting (quiet and motionless) and yelled, “I know! I know! I didn’t turn my shoulders!” They eventually won the match, but I got cited by the other team for coaching! I wondered, is this what it’s like every match? Fortunately, the answer is no! When I was teaching at Bradshaw Farms, they had a bulletin board with just one scrap of paper — an AJC article that read: “Worst Sporting Event in Town: Any Hawks Game. Best Sporting Event in Town: Any Thursday Women’s City Finals match

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

where the players would gladly give a kidney or worse to get a bag tag and a plate.” LOL! Speaking of City Finals, I saw a doozy 10 years ago that sums up what makes ALTA great. The A1 Thursday Women team I coached had split the first four lines, but our line 4’s were down 6-1, 5-1. Our players tightened things up and the opponents started to miss. We ended up winning 6-3 in the third to take the title. The ladies who lost that match were tarred and feathered and became neighborhood pariahs (not really). In Chicago, I never saw alcohol at any match. I noticed immediately that Men’s ALTA was slightly different. Drinking beer was encouraged during and after matches. It lent itself to the social aspect of ALTA, which is partly why the league is so popular. Also, the food at matches is amazing here, and occasionally renowned. The line call situation also is legendary. Once, I coached a new G10u ALTA team and we spent an entire lesson teaching them how to play a match. One of the girls asked, “Coach John, if the ball hits any part of the white line, is it in?” I replied, “Yes, it is … except on Thursday morning.” I also saw a T-shirt years ago that had a lob bouncing on the baseline and below it in big letters it read “ALTA OUT.” Too funny! ALTA warm-ups are like no other in the country. First, there is the women’s “short court warmup,” which late great teaching pro George Amaya called, “an Atlanta phenomenon.” Second, in other parts of the country, if your opponent looks dynamite in the warm-up, they can play poorly during the actual match. In ALTA, it tends to be the opposite. I don’t think this is deliberate, but dang, it might be! In closing, I have devoted entire lessons to how to beat “old ladies.” They place their shots with unerring accuracy, make the tactical adjustments correctly all the time, and are masters of psychological warfare. After a particularly brutal loss to a bunch of 70-year-old women, one of our opponents exclaimed, “We love beating those ponytails.” This, my friends, tongue-in-cheek and in a nutshell, is what makes ALTA beautiful.

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LEAGUE NEWS

Keep Climbing The ALTA Junior Challenge Ladder BY STACEY SIMMONS, JUNIOR CHALLENGE LADDER VICE PRESIDENT

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

is our incredible volunteer team, the ladder managers. Ladder managers are the main ingredient to a successful JCL season. They get the calls, emails, and text messages from the parents and players. Parents put their trust in our capable ladder managers to make sure it’s a smooth, safe, and fun ladder season. Junior Challenge Ladder Managers • Gina Woods — Boys Upper Ladder Manager • Amish Mody — Girls Lower Ladder Manager This is my second year as VP of the Junior Challenge Ladder. I’ve been involved with the ladder for six years. Both of my boys have played the ladder. The ALTA Junior Challenge Ladder has brought friendships and great tennis to the junior tennis players of Atlanta, and I’m excited about this current season. We have strong players and incredible ladder managers. I know this is going to be an unforgettable season. This noble, ambitious JCL season is a backbone for junior tennis and the growth of tennis in Atlanta. Many players on the ladder go on to play college tennis. Good luck to all the players this year, and we look forward to recapping the year with the final standings in our March/ April issue of Net News in 2024.

Photos by Laura Barnard

JUNIOR CHALLENGE LADDER

he ALTA Junior Challenge Ladder season is here! The season started on August 27, and we have more than 75 junior players competing throughout Atlanta. The goal of the 14-week season is to play tennis in a fun and low-pressure environment. The best part of the JCL is meeting new tennis friends across Atlanta. The ladder is ambitious, and our JCL players will play more than 1,000 matches over the course of the season. We started the ladder season with a kickoff event at Sandy Springs Tennis Center. We added an extra flair this year and created a “Davis Cup” event. The players divided into two teams, Argentina and France. The players played three singles lines and two doubles lines. At the end, Argentina won with some great playing. The winning team consisted of Nick Ivchenko, Amanda Tanaka, Tyler Austin, Josh Gaus, Jacob Dorland, William Hackney, Grayson Perlman, and Alexandria Roberts. Part of the fun of the JCL are the four, fun events that we host each year at Sandy Springs Tennis Center. Members get the chance to meet other ladder players, play tennis, eat, and have fun. The ladder is bolstered by parents who schedule and drive their players to their matches. The glue to our ladder season

28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38. 39.

Dylan Luke Brantley Grooms Kavin Sivasubramanian Vishnu Tadipatri Nicholas Prather Aaryan Ralkar Lawson Kassinger Nikhilesh Thiru Caleb Burkhalter Finn Doyle Mukil Siva Avril Jain

GIRLS 1. Bella Arwood 2. Myra Wu 3. Alyssa Braude 4. Keza Macharia 5. Amanda Tanaka 6. Athithi Ayyappam 7. Hannah Lee 8. Bridgette Butler 9. Addison Merrill 10. Sofia Johnson 11. Isabella Massay 12. Lily Kate Bell 13. Sophie Henry 14. Myra Punekar

15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42.

Dylan Merrill Harshene Ramsankar Aashini Ayyappan Jamaya Williams Mirka Punekar Jaala Screws Kalya Sharp Lydia Sweeney Prathishta Girish Natasha Varas Julia Bealle Pragnya Girish Julia Marcotte Aanya Patel Molly Marsden Riya Chiang Tania De Wet Allison Howe Anjali Patel Lekha Selvakumar Sana Kamalraj Alexandria Roberts Kaavya Selvakumar Navaeh Patel Veda Nair Maria Escalera Emma Rhodes Prisha Mody

Photos by Laura Barnard

BOYS 1. London Vasilescu 2. Jacob Dorland 3. Nicholas Ivchenko 4. Micah Screws 5. Mike Hughes 6. Grayson Perlman 7. Moulik Jain 8. Brandon Kim 9. Tom Hughes 10. Lucas Vasilescu 11. Adit Bhatia 12. Thailesh Muruganandam 13. Meet Soni 14. Satyajeeth Sk 15. Josh Gaus 16. Parker Albin 17. Samuel Abdulaev 18. Tyler Austin 19. William Hackney 20. Joshua Ford 21. Tucker Turknett 22. Karaya Macharia 23. Holton Milstead 24. Joseph Biscotti 25. Teo Alizadeh 26. Alessio Toniolo 27. Elias Panguito

JUNIOR CHALLENGE LADDER

Junior Challenge Ladder Mid-Season Standings

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

LEAGUE NEWS

Unoffendable

SENIOR MIXED Winter season runs Jan. 6 – Feb. 17

Tennis Life, Choice, and Sportsmanship

SENIOR LEAGUES

s a member of ALTA, you obviously enjoy playing the game of tennis for fun. We all joke that we don’t get paid to play, so let’s just have fun! Right? Most of the time, ALTA matches are fun. They are a time for us to get out and enjoy some social time with people who share our love of the game. They are a time to get a bit of exercise and get our competitive juices flowing. But what happens when ALTA matches turn chippy? When arguments start over a line call? An overzealous shot? A snide comment? Too many times, matches can take on a sour feeling. We’re not having fun anymore. We just want to retaliate for the “injustice” we feel we’ve been served. Sometimes, serious arguments happen. Foul language is used. Hackles are raised. Tempers flare. This is where choice comes into play. We have the choice of getting angry or not getting angry when something doesn’t go our way on the tennis court. Our opponent makes what we think is a bad line call. We’re offended by the call. We can choose to question it, or not. I know I’ve questioned calls before — never has my opponent said, “Oh yeah. My bad. I’ll change my call. Your point.” Never. So I no longer choose to question calls. I’ve seen it make my opponent angry too many times. Letting it go is my choice. It keeps the peace in my head and keeps things more pleasant on the court. Over the past several years, we (collectively) have become offended by more and more everyday things. Being offended by something that happens in a tennis match is a great example of offensiveness getting out of hand. We are fortunate to be able to play recreational tennis! Think back to 2020 when even some tennis courts were off limits. We need to keep things in perspective and be thankful for the opportunity to play this game. During the recent Senior League City Finals, I heard from captains and players who were offended because their opponents couldn’t accommodate their schedules for makeup

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

matches. They didn’t take into consideration the other team may have had a conflict when they wanted to play. No. The offended team couldn’t accept the fact they weren’t getting their way. They became angry and accused the opponents of cheating. One situation escalated into a screaming match courtside. What should have been a fun night of tennis turned into a team packing up their tennis bags and refusing to play, because they were offended. Being offended is a choice. I just read a book called “Unoffendable” (Brant Hansen). This statement stood out to me: “If you’re constantly being hurt, offended or angered, you should honestly evaluate your inflamed ego.” The world doesn’t revolve around what makes us happy. We can choose to become angry about things that are not supposed to anger us — and take others down with us — or we can choose to let some things roll off our backs and become more unoffendable. I know which one I’m choosing. Sportsmanship is when players or spectators of competitive events treat each other with respect and exhibit appropriate behavior. Good sportsmanship means being fair and ethical — to both your teammates and your opponents. We all know this. We try to teach our children to show good sportsmanship in whatever games they play. Congratulate the winner when you lose. Be encouraging and kind to your opponent when you win. We all want to win! Why would we play if we didn’t, right? The art of good sportsmanship seems to have gone down a disappearing path. Let’s bring it back to the ALTA tennis courts! The next time you face a negative situation during a match or when trying to schedule an ALTA match, remember this: You have the choice to be offended or angry. Choosing to not be offended or angry is one of the most refreshing, freeing things we can do for ourselves. Choosing not to retaliate with words or actions will most likely diffuse the situation, and the match can be what it was supposed to be — fun!

Photos by Laura Barnard

BY GINA CLANCE, SENIOR LEAGUES VICE PRESIDENT

WHEELCHAIR

ALTA’s 2023 Wheelchair Tennis Program Fall season runs Sept. 5 – Oct. 17

Another Successful Year BY MARK LAROTONDA, SPECIAL PROGRAMS VICE PRESIDENT

Photos by Laura Barnard

he 2023 ALTA Wheelchair Tennis program just finished a successful 30-week agenda which included two wheelchair doubles sessions, two five-week wheelchair tennis clinics, and our annual summer Run/Roll League competition. Our wheelchair doubles matches prepared our players to compete in tournaments around the Southeast. Our clinics gave folks who were new to wheelchair tennis an opportunity to try the sport as well as teach skills to several of our up-andcoming junior players. In addition, our annual summer Run/ Roll League competition brought together old friends and new,

vigorous competition, and even some good old trash talking. We had several new players join us this year. We sent three of our players off to college; one went on a wheelchair tennis and basketball scholarship while another was a recipient of an ALTA Foundation Scholarship. We are at the Hudlow Tennis Center in Norcross on Tuesday evenings. If you are interested in joining us for either of the wheelchair sessions/clinics or Run/Roll, or know someone who might be, please reach out to our Vice President of Special Programs at specialprogramsvp@altatennis.org. 2024 is just around the corner! NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

GOOD QUESTION THE DEFAULT When a team is given a default from an opposing team, when and how does this transpire? Joan Marcinko, Senior Day Leagues Vice President

If team A is playing team B and team A is NOT able to have enough players for a match, it is the polite thing to do to let the team B captain know in advance. If you are the team B captain that is receiving the default in advance you MUST have written communication (email or text) from the team A captain stating that he/she will not have players present for the bottom line(s) for that match day. It is a good idea to have the players from team B present to receive the default. Team B does not technically receive the defaulted point until it is time (plus 20 minutes) for that line to take the court on match day. Also, our ALTA rules state: “Should inclement weather occur at the normal default time of the line being defaulted, regular inclement weather rules apply, and the default does not occur.”

PARKING AT MATCHES Can the home team offer alternate parking without their opponents having the option to offer their courts?

At a Junior League match, the team manager of the home team was not present and they did not have green dot balls for all the matches played. The line two doubles players played their match with whatever balls were available, which happened to be the yellow USTA-approved balls. However, the 12U group is supposed to use the green dot balls. The opposing team was aware that they were not the correct balls, but they played anyway. Should the home line two doubles team have to forfeit the points played because they did not have the correct balls? Wendy Fee, Junior Leagues Vice President

No. The matches stand and there will be no forfeit of points since the matches were played.

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

This isn’t a case where the home team is unable to provide their home courts. Since the home team courts are available, there is no need for the visitors to offer their courts. However, the visiting team can still offer their courts to the home team for the match.

I’m a fairly new captain and wondering where I can find the details on a 7-point tiebreaker. Who serves after it has ended? Greg McAfee, Men’s League Vice President

The 7-point tiebreak is played when the set score is tied 6-6. Details can be found in the Adult Captains Handbook, page 29, #10. Once the tiebreak is completed, the team that served the first point of the tiebreak will receive in the first game of the next set. Therefore, the team that received the first point of the tiebreak will serve the first game of the next set. Teams also change ends before the next set.

DID YOU EVER WONDER ABOUT … ? If you’ve ever had a situation occur in a match where no one on the court knew the rule that applied, send your inquiry to Good Question. ALTA officials answer questions in each issue of Net News and yours could be chosen next. Submit your question, along with your name, league, team name and level to altaeditor@altatennis.org.

Photos by Laura Barnard

GREEN DOT BALLS

Susan Levin, Sunday Women’s League VP

THE 7-POINT TIEBREAKER

JENSEN ZONE Luke Jensen

A Look Back At The US Open

n my last column, I wrote about the awesome underdog from Atlanta, Chris Eubanks. I’ve been so impressed with his ability to handle the fame while maintaining focus on his game. He’s only going to continue to rise! As we close out another year, I have to touch on the incredible US Open. More than 950,000 fans showed up over the three weeks. The best value in the tennis world is US Open Fan Week. It’s the week of qualifying and the extremely important week of preparation for the main draw players. Organizers did well to promote the fact that tennis fans can attend Fan Week free of charge — with opportunities to watch unique exhibitions and interviews with their favorite tennis stars. Anyone can be courtside at Ashe Stadium watching the practices of Djokovic, Gauff, Alcaraz and more. More than 150,000 fans passed through the gates during Fan Week alone this year, and I expect it to grow in 2024. If there is just

one event I would recommend you put on your tennis bucket list, it is the 2024 US Open Fan Week. It is such a unique experience. I saw many tennis directors from clubs bringing their members by the dozens to experience the brightest tennis stars in the world in the front row! Fan Week was really a springboard to all the must-see tennis of the US Open. I am so impressed with Coco Gauff. To really evaluate her game at Wimbledon and see that she needed a “Jedi Master” like Brad Gilbert shows a ton of maturity. There are no free lunches on tour, so to speak, with so much amazing competition. So, the smart players are coachable to reach their full potential. Gauff went on a tear over the summer with Gilbert and lost only one singles match. She always has been a player who didn’t know her tactical identity. Inspired by the Williams sisters, it always seemed to me like she was trying to play like Venus and Serena. There are simi-

larities, but Gauff sees the game differently than her idols. She plays her best when she is running and rallying into long exchanges from the baseline. The confident power comes from an elite serve and locked-in backhand. It’s the management of her forehand that has been the difference. Under pressure, Gauff used to rip away at the forehand and spit out numerous errors. When that happened, her overall confidence suffered. Conversely, the Williams sisters were raised to be mentally bulletproof — no matter how many errors they hit. Basically, always on their terms … missing never affected their supreme mindset. When Gilbert coaches a player, they must have the ability to win majors. He doesn’t want to work with “pretenders.” Then he takes what they do well and makes that the focus of the battle plan. He makes sure that the weaker shots are steady while the weapons win the matches. Gilbert had Gauff fall back on the returns to create long, extended rallies that turned into physically punishing her opponents with fitness during the Open. This was the Andre Agassi model during Gilbert’s years coaching him. Agassi is one of the greatest pure strikers in tennis history and was extremely accurate with his placement. When Agassi began grinding you down it was just a matter of time before your legs began cramping. I’m super excited to see how Gilbert preps Gauff for the Australian Open in January 2024. One thing is for sure: Brad won’t mess up something that is working!

— LUKE JENSEN FRENCH OPEN DOUBLES CHAMPION

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

IMPROVING YOUR GA ME

Proper Strength Training To Improve Your Game

BY JIM HARPER

fter more than 30 years as a tennis coach, I can say with certainty that there is one thing that pushes the tennis needle forward no matter your level. Get fit! The key to game improvement will be found in the gym. I can give you a million tips on how to improve your technical skills, or I can bore you to tears with the tactical formations and fundamentals of doubles. I can even fill your brain with a myriad of patterns for singles matches. All of those will indeed move the needle. But strength, endurance, and power are the real game changers. Fitness is the dial you should reach for! For most of us, the real key is a sound strength and conditioning program that is specific to your tennis game. So, what needs to be targeted?

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Target your core

Leg day

From the serve to reaching for a volley or ground stroke, your core is the balance point between the upper and lower body. Try during each workout to add around three core exercises to your routine: dead bugs, glute bridges, and superman’s can really help you maintain a stronger midsection and lower back. Let us not leave out the ultimate core challenge — the plank — or some good old V ups!

“Yay leg day,” said nobody ever! Don’t just focus on routine exercises like lunges and back squats (those too). You need to emphasize single leg strength and stability — exercises that target jumping/landing and stopping and starting/strength. Romanian Dead Lifts, single leg squats, jumping routines, jump rope, box jumps, and lateral side lunges, will have a direct impact on your game! You may be a little sore the next day so plan accordingly.

GPTA TEACHING PROFESSIONAL SPOTLIGHT: JIM HARPER

Working your upper body

When working out the upper body, we tend to focus on “bi’s, tri’s and fly’s” (biceps, triceps and shoulders/back), and those are all great! However, we need to focus more on shoulder stability as well as general strength. The rotator cuff is made up of small muscles that when we push larger weights may leave out the smaller muscles. In addition to those “beach body muscles,” we need to add some external and internal rotation exercises for the shoulders and just more band work for those areas. The muscles around the upper back around your scapula (shoulder blade) should get some work as well.

Training for power

Training power as an adult can be as simple as some plyometric training or some high pulls with dumbbells, or a straight bar among others. For tennis, the plyo part is not difficult to manage, but it will tire you quickly. Some of the exercises needed for power output require a bit more training and usually the help of an experienced trainer. A single leg jump (with minimum height) repeated five times, for three sets on each leg, can improve your general power if done correctly and repeated a couple times per week.

Hometown (City/ State): Cumming, GA. How did you get involved in teaching tennis? I needed money and it was the only skill I had! Diehard fan of what sports team? Atlanta Falcons

Functional mobility

Functional mobility and balance combined with strength and stretching (yoga checks these boxes perfectly), is a must for the adult player. As I have reached that pinnacle age of mid 50’s, I not only relate to the need for better range of motion, balance, strength and stability, I live it. I regret not discovering the benefits of yoga earlier in my life. Yoga is a one-stop shop when it comes to our overall strength and range of motion needs. No matter your age, it has shown great benefits to athletes. Every age group can benefit from yoga’s gifts, but as we age it becomes increasingly important. Finally, there are many ways to approach tennis fitness. Before you do, you should check with your doctor first and make sure you are ready for any increases/changes in your fitness routine. Also, try not to hit the gym all “Rocky” like or you may end up on the player to be named later list! Tennis beats the body up, it requires flexibility, strength, stamina, and power. Most players either are not fit enough, or do not target the right areas in their routines. Turn the needle up with a targeted fitness plan and you will see your opponents in second place!

Best part of your game? My mind. Dream doubles match would be me and… My daughter, against Federer and Serena. When I’m not teaching tennis, I’m… Gardening My favorite tennis memory is: Traveling to England and spending a week at Wimbledon. My favorite professional player is: Jamie Murray #1 reason why I enjoy teaching & coaching tennis: There is something about when a player comes back for a visit and they call me Coach. It has some intrinsic meaning for me. Something I did right, something I helped that player do. What important tennis message do you want to promote? I think tennis is a great deal like riding a bike for the first time. At first you struggle and it is daunting to learn, but then as it gets better, it takes you places. And in the end, although you had guides, you did it yourself.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

IMPROVING YOUR GA ME

Doubles Science – The Back Volleyer BY JIM RICHARDS, SMOKE RISE PRO REPRINTED FROM THE MARCH/APRIL 2019 ISSUE OF NET NEWS

n club tennis, doubles teams play one up/one back because of the possibility of an opponent hitting a lob or too many balls at their feet, but even on the pro tour, the one up/one back formation also is common. Serving and staying back, hitting too many returns to the net person, leaving the middle wide open, hitting too many volleys to the outside of the court and hitting too many touch volleys occur at the highest levels of the game. Successful doubles teams, such as the Italian duo Roberta Vinci and Sara Errani, play like this but they are to be respected. In 2014, they hung tough and came back from being down 5-2 in the third to win the Australian Open doubles title. When it comes to developing as a player, you should be learning to attack the net and hit down the middle by practicing approach shots, volleys and overheads. A chess master understands positioning, and so should a tennis master. The aim in doubles is to finish points at the net. Lisa Raymond is a great example. The Bryan brothers said, “Lisa Raymond is money in doubles.” She was in the top 10 in doubles at age 40. It should be mandatory for all women playing college tennis to watch at least five minutes of film of Raymond playing doubles. Certainly, your approach shots, overheads and volleys need to be just as good as your ground game, but hey, you don’t want to be the same year in and year out, hoping your opponent makes more mistakes than you. You want to learn “big kid” tennis, and that means finishing points at the net. 52

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Try these drills to reinforce attacking the net:

Game 1. In this drill, there are no net players (ghosts). Instead, the server and returner play out points by hitting diagonally cross-court to each other. There is no better away to practice serves, returns, ground strokes, approach shots and volleys. When it comes to overheads, playing against a club player who is good at lobbing will give you a good workout. If they are not rushed, they can lob close to the baseline every time. A good drill progression for getting players comfortable coming to the net in doubles is: • Feeding high lobs to the net player to start the point. • Feeding low balls to the net player to start the point. • Self-feed an approach shot to the baseline player to start the point.

BE A GOOD SCOUT TO GAIN AN ADVANTAGE

Game 2. Players all the way up to college scholarship athletes play like 3.5 ladies in an NTRP club league. So, I have a rule for ALTA league players practicing doubles. At every team practice, for at least 20 minutes, I have my players play one-bounce doubles. If the ball lands a second time on your side of the court, you automatically lose the point. The one-bounce rule in doubles develops and teaches the instinct to go forward.

Game 3.

Game 4.

Try an offense/defense drill with two players at the net and two at the baseline. This is an excellent gamebased drill for teaching baseliners to hit lobs and dipping, off-pace passing shots at the feet of the net players. It teaches net players to volley hard down the middle, to angle overheads and to hit drop shots.

The game “105” is an excellent indicator of how much offensive capability (finishing points at the net) players have. Two teams on either side of the court start at the baseline. In pairs, they to try and win points for their team like this:

A fun, self-regulated variation is “Capture the Net.” In this game, 10 to 15 balls lie on each side of the net. The net team feeds a ball down the middle, which must land in the back box. If the net team wins the point, they feed another ball from their side of the court. If they lose the point, they run back to the baseline while the baseline team runs to the net and feeds one of their balls. The team who gets rid of their balls first wins the game.

• 1 point for an opponent error • 3 points if the opponent hits the net from the coach’s feed • 3 points for a ground stroke winner

BY STEPHEN HUSS, PROGRAM DIRECTOR, HUSS 75 76 TENNIS AT CROOKED CREEK

t the recreational level, it is common that someone will have an obvious weakness in their game. Your job is to find that weakness and exploit it at every opportunity. Using your brain, as well as your tennis skills, will improve your win percentage. In the warmup, keep a close eye on what shot they want to hit more and what shots they want to avoid. It is common at all levels for players to prefer their forehand volley and continually move to their left to hide their backhand volley. Perhaps they avoid overheads, or their second serve is weak. Sometimes, playing two back and hitting everything to an opponent’s backhand volley can win you a match; it has worked for me! Identifying an opponent’s weakness and exposing it as much as possible is not unsportsmanlike; its effective competing!

• 5 points for a volley winner • 10 points for an overhead winner (ball cannot bounce) The team that loses the point rotates off, and a new pair take their place. The game is excellent for getting players to win points at the net in doubles. The longer the game lasts, the less offensive the group is. Adult club players find it difficult when they first play this game to get more than one point at a time. For them, scoring moves at a glacial pace. In such situations, “55” might be a better alternative until they learn to win more points at the net. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

HEALTH & FITNESS

The Chilling Challenge: Physiology of Playing Tennis in Cold Weather

BY MARK KOVACS, PHD, CSCS, FACSM, CTPS, MTPS, KOVACS INSTITUTE

ennis is a sport that demands peak physical and mental performance. However, when the cold weather sets in, playing tennis becomes an entirely different challenge. As the weather starts to cool, let’s explore how the body responds to the cold and what you can do to maintain optimal performance under frigid conditions. Cold weather’s impact on the body

Mitigating the impact of cold weather

When exposed to cold weather, the body undergoes several physiological responses to maintain core temperature and overall function. These responses can significantly affect tennis players:

While cold weather presents physiological challenges for tennis players, there are strategies to mitigate its impact and optimize performance:

1. Vasoconstriction: In response to cold, blood vessels constrict (vasoconstriction) to reduce blood flow to the extremities and retain heat in the core. This can lead to reduced circulation in the hands and feet, potentially affecting a player’s grip and dexterity. 2. Muscle stiffness: Cold weather can cause muscle stiffness and decreased flexibility. This stiffness may hinder a player’s ability to move quickly and perform explosive movements, such as rapid changes in direction and powerful shots. 3. Decreased sensation: Cold temperatures can reduce tactile sensation in the fingers, making it challenging to feel the racquet handle and control shots accurately. 4. Increased energy expenditure: The body burns more energy in cold conditions to maintain its core temperature. Tennis players may find themselves fatigued more quickly, affecting their overall endurance on the court.

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

1. Proper warmup: A comprehensive warm-up is crucial in cold weather. It helps increase muscle temperature, blood flow, and flexibility. Dynamic stretching and light aerobic exercises can prepare the body for the demands of tennis in the cold. Attempt to break a sweat before stepping on the court. 2. Layered clothing: Dressing in layers allows players to regulate their body temperature effectively. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from the skin. Add insulating layers to retain warmth, and finish with a windproof and waterproof outer layer to shield against the elements. 3. Hand and foot protection: Keeping hands and feet warm is essential. Players can wear thermal gloves designed for sports, use hand warmers, and invest in tennis-specific socks that provide warmth. 4. Maintaining hydration: Cold weather can lead to reduced awareness of thirst, but hydration is just as crucial as in warmer conditions. Drinking warm fluids, such as herb-

al tea or warm water with lemon, can help maintain internal body temperature and hydration levels. 5. Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats provides the necessary energy to combat the increased energy expenditure in cold weather. Carbohydrates are vital for sustaining endurance during long matches. 6. Adapted game plan: Adjusting one’s game plan to the conditions is essential. Players may opt for a more controlled and patient style of play, focusing on consistency rather than power and aggression, which can be compromised by the cold. 7. Mental toughness: Playing in cold weather requires mental fortitude. Players should prepare mentally for the challenges they may face, stay focused on their goals, and not allow discomfort to affect their concentration. Conclusion Playing tennis in cold weather presents unique physiological challenges that demand careful preparation and adaptation. Understanding how the body responds to the cold and employing strategies to mitigate its effects are key to maintaining peak performance on the tennis court. By focusing on proper warm-up routines, clothing choices, nutrition, and mental toughness, tennis players can excel in frigid conditions and continue to enjoy the sport, even when the temperatures drop.

BRANDED CONTENT

Babolat Strings: The Engine Of Your Racquet

s tennis enthusiasts, you’re all familiar with the Babolat brand. Many of you use their racquets. But do you know much about Babolat’s history in tennis and its product innovations? The Lyon, France-based company started by making the first natural gut strings for racquets in 1875. By 1925, Babolat began producing the first VS synthetic racquet strings, and by the 1950s, the company was a household name in racquet sports around the world. Research and innovation are the hallmarks of Babolat, making it among the most successful tennis racquet manufacturers globally. In fact, the company sells a new racquet about every two minutes! To be sure, Babolat never has forgotten its roots; it continues to develop new and improved strings regularly. In fact, the company says strings are the engine of the racquet, providing half the performance for any frame. So, continue reading to see how Babolat strings may be the best choice for your style of play. Easy on the arm B a b o l a t ’s To u c h VS natural gut is used extensively on the professional tours and is known as an industry benchmark for power, feel, touch, and comfor t. Collagen from natural fibers creates an elastic string that increases contact time with the ball, providing unrivaled feel. Thus, with its elasticity and exceptional tension maintenance (due to the twisted fibers), Touch VS is easy on the arm and therefore ideal for players with wrist or elbow issues. Improved feel The Xalt, Xcel, and Addixion multifilaments are perfect for players looking for an improved feel over a basic synthetic gut. Multifilament string consists of hundreds of synthetic fibers that mimic the construction and performance of natural gut at a lower price point. Xalt is Babolat’s latest string. Special polyamide filaments combined with glass beads create a consistent, high-performing string. Xalt is designed for players with a medium swing speed who are looking for comfort and control, or for advanced players with a fast swing who are aiming for comfort. Similarly, Babolat Xcel string feature an ultra-soft polyamide structure with a polyurethane matrix. It provides the closest feel to natural gut and provides excellent shock absorption. It perfectly suits players with shorter swings who would like to play deeper balls.

Babolat’s Addixion string is a great entry-level multifilament with much greater feel and power than a standard synthetic gut. With less polyurethane than Xcel and extra multifilament density for added durability, Addixion helps players with shorter strokes to play deeper balls without sacrificing comfort or control. More power and spin The RPM family of monofilaments — RPM Blast, RPM Rough, RPM Team, RPM Power, RPM Hurricane and RPM Soft — are designed for durability and added spin for advanced players who want to experience the snap-back effect of the string. For example, RPM Blast is Rafael Nadal’s string of choice. Its unique octagonal shape and silicone coating help generate spin by allowing for greater string movement than a round or uncoated string. The shape and coating of RPM Blast reduces the friction between strings, which allows for greater movement and snapback. RPM Hurricane is the predecessor to RPM Blast and has the same shape and construction. The biggest difference is that RPM Hurricane doesn’t have the silicone coating and is slightly softer, offering slightly less spin but a little more power. Meanwhile, RPM Team is a little softer due to the air bubbles introduced into the string while it is extruded. Use it for spin and control. RPM Rough is one of the softest strings in the RPM family and provides the most spin. Its rough texture (achieved by stamping the Babolat flag logo into the string) increases the amount of friction between the string and the ball. Unlike most members of the family, RPM Power is round, and therefore produces less spin, but it has crisper feel and more power. It combines a unique, low-temperature extrusion process and a new coating that provide more power and improved feel. Finally, RPM Soft offers more comfort and power than the other types of RPM. It shares the same monofilament construction as the rest but is made of a different material (polyamide). RPM Soft has a silicone coating, but its round shape doesn’t provide as much spin as some members of the family; however, it does hold tension better than any of the other RPM strings. The modern tennis game requires equipment that not only helps players hit better shots but helps them control the game over their opponents with every swing. For whatever style of play you prefer, Babolat strings has you covered. To see the full range, visit babolat.com/us.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

NUTRITION

Tailgating Season Is In Full Swing Healthy tips for your ALTA team table PAGE LOVE, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD, USPTA AND SKYLAR RAINE SMITH, UGA NUTRITION STUDENT

Include multiple fruit and vegetable options on a crudité tray at your tennis tailgate to get an overall assortment of colorful foods for antiinflammatory and muscle soreness benefits.

hat are the important components to consider when preparing for a tailgating theme table at your next tennis match? To create a training diet/snack table for a tennis match, focus on four, key training diet components: protein, carbohydrates, colorful fruits and vegetables, and fluids. Protein is critical for muscle recovery after a match and helps with satiety/fullness throughout the day. Good sources of protein for a match include chicken salad, tuna salad, hard boiled eggs, and lean deli meat. Complex carbohydrates are the main energy source for quick, high-energy tennis movements. Consider easily digestible, complex carbohydrates or grains/starches, such as pretzels, or high-carb energy bars (like Clif or Pro Bar meal bars) before matches. When there is a long wait to get on the court, complex carbohydrates are beneficial to stabilize blood sugar levels. Some better choices to include variety for a tennis tailgate include whole grains, breads, pastas, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Sports beverages also are key for quick energy before and in-between matches. “Color” is recommended for fruit and vegetable options. Color-rich sources contain varying concentrations of key vitamins and phytonutrients that lessen muscle pain and aid in recovery and hydration. Blue- and purple-colored fruits and vegetables contain anthocyanins which can help alleviate muscle soreness. Rich-color fruit and veggies also contain high water content which helps with

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

hydrating a tennis player. A tennis ball-sized fruit or vegetable can contain a half-cup of hydrating fluids. Include multiple fruit and vegetable options on a crudité tray at your tennis tailgate to get an overall assortment of colorful foods for anti-inflammatory and muscle soreness benefits. Good choices are baby carrots, grape tomatoes, sugar snap peas, broccoli, and multi-colored peppers. Adequate fluids are essential for maintaining hydration and preventing heat illness. Tennis players should keep both water and sports beverages on hand during matches to replenish fluids and electrolytes lost through sweating. For a quick check on a player’s hydration, check urine color to prevent under-hydration or over-hydration — the goal is to have light-yellow color for good hydration pre-match. The recommended ALTA table offerings for a tennis match day: • 2-3 hours prior: carb + protein + fat meal — ex., peanut butter & jelly sandwich or bagel, or turkey sandwich with fruit and 2 cups of water. • 30-60 minutes prior: carb snack — ex., pretzels or high-carb energy bar with fruit and 2 cups of water. • During, every hour: 30-60 grams of carb — ex., sports beverage w/electrolytes containing 100 mg sodium per 8 oz or 1 cup. • Within 30 minutes after: carb + protein snack — ex., chocolate milk + granola bar. • Within 2 hours after: carb + protein + fat meal — ex., sub sandwich with meat, cheese, veggies and 2 cups of water.

How can I properly and safely store my food? When you are tailgating or storing food outdoors, it is important to consider the safety and stability of the food, specifically perishable foods. The temperature danger zone is the temperature range between 40°F and 140°F where disease-causing bacteria grow most rapidly. Therefore, food should not be left in that temperature range for more than two hours, and no more than one hour if room/outdoor temperatures are above 90°F. The USDA promotes keeping hot foods hot (i.e., at or above 140°F and on warming trays, etc.) and cold foods cold (i.e., at or below 40°F and on ice). Foods needing refrigeration should be kept in a cooler with ice throughout the ALTA match tailgate. It is good practice to keep a cooler thermometer in the cooler with the foods to assure the outdoor temperatures are not raising the cooler temperature above 40°F. Shelf- or counter-stable foods are safe to keep out of a refrigerator or cooler. For example, pretzels, fruit, most breads. What about alcohol in your ALTA tailgate? A tennis player’s consumption of alcohol is something of which to be mindful. Alcohol is a depressant and dehydrates the body. A tennis player should be cautious of the metabolic, neurological, cardiovascular, and muscular effects of alcohol. Alcohol impairs performance and slows recovery. Thus, it is advised to eliminate alcohol consumption 48-72 hours before a match to lower risk of dehydration and heat illness after a match. For players who are consuming alcohol after their match, it is recommended to keep a secondary beverage in hand that is hydrating to counter the dehydrating nature of alcohol, i.e., pairing beer with water. Also consider NA beers which are good sources of carbohydrate and sodium without alcohol.

Sample Snack and Meal Ideas for your ALTA Tailgate Table What to keep on hand for pre-and post-exercise fueling (3-4 hours prior):

• Meat/fish/egg, cheese, vegetable wrap or sandwiches • Pasta salad • Chicken salad or tuna salad • Yogurt parfait with Greek yogurt, granola, nuts, and fruit • Hummus, pita chips, and veggie sticks • Peanut butter & jelly sandwich • Bagels w/light cream cheese (especially for earlier matches)

What to keep on hand for pre-exercise fueling (3060 minutes prior):

• Trail mix with grains like cereal, pretzels; proteins like nuts • High-carb energy bars — Clif, Pro, Gatorade Fuel Bar • Sports drinks w/electrolytes, especially sodium and some energy

What to keep on hand for refueling in-between and during exercise: • Sports drinks that contain sodium • Fruit • Granola bars such as Nature Valley Bars or Kodiak • Pretzels • Peanut butter crackers

What to keep on hand for post-exercise recovery (within 30 minutes): • Chocolate milk and granola bar • Apple and nut butter • Cottage cheese and fruit • Turkey jerky and grapes

Other snack and meal ideas for the spectators are: • Chili • Baked potatoes • Fruit salad • Wheat crackers and cheese • Veggie tray and dip • Trü frü — dehydrated fruit with dark chocolate

Page Love is an avid ALTA participant and sport dietitian/nutrition advisor for the WTA and ATP professional tours. She has served on the USTA sport science committee for 25 years, and has a private practice in Sandy Springs. You can reach her at nutrifitga.com. Skylar Smith is a dietetic intern with the University of Georgia Dietetics Practicum program. She is a Double Dawg, completing her bachelor’s in Dietetics and pursuing her master’s in nutrition. Skylar works with University of Georgia Performance Nutrition and looks forward to working in sports dietetics and wellness nutrition soon! NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

COURT CUISINE

Fall Flavors

There are more fall flavors to enjoy than a PSL from your favorite coffee shop (not that there’s anything wrong with those). So, step out of your latte foam comfort zone and try the following recipes as submitted by your fellow ALTA players.

Simple & quick Cranberry Brie Tarts Susan Kemeter, Woods of Parkview Senior Day Women B3 1 1 ½ ¼

tube Crescent rolls (8 oz.) wheel of Brie cup whole cranberry sauce cup chopped pecans Sprig of rosemary

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Grease 24 mini muffin tins. Roll out Crescent dough by pinching together seams. Cut into 25 squares and place into muffin tin cups. Cut Brie into pieces and place into cups. Top with a spoonful of cranberry sauce. Sprinkle with pecans and a little rosemary. Bake about 15 minutes.

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Not a PSL, but…

Party pleaser

Pumpkin Spice Dip Elizabeth Yarbrough, Peachtree City TC Senior Day Women A5

Pumpkin Crisp Danielle McAauley, Kennworth TC Thursday Women AA1

1 2 1 1

1 1 1 1 1 1 1

block cream cheese, softened cups powdered sugar can pumpkin pie filling tsp. pumpkin pie spice Sliced apples and shortbread cookies, for serving

Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until creamy. Stir in the pumpkin pie filling and spice. Beat until creamy. Chill overnight. Serve with apple slices and cookies. Enjoy!

(15 oz.) can of pumpkin cup of evaporated milk cup sugar tsp. of vanilla extract (18.25 oz.) package of butter flavored cake mix. cup of chopped pecans (optional) cup melted butter Whipped cream (optional) Nutmeg (optional)

Stir first 5 ingredients and pour into a 9x13 slightly greased baking dish. Sprinkle cake mix evenly over pumpkin mixture, sprinkle evenly with pecans. Drizzle melted butter over pecans. Bake at 350 for 1 hour-and-5 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Flavor bombs

Mmm … muffins

Cinnamon + Almond Clusters Elena Vasilescu, Chastain Sunday Women AA3

Paleo Apple Muffins Kelly Ashman, Triple Crown Thursday Women A3 2 cups applesauce 4 eggs ½ cup blanched almond flour or almond meal cup coconut flour, sifted cup finely chopped walnuts cup finely chopped pecans ½ cup shredded coconut cup sliced almonds 1 tsp. cinnamon ½ tsp. nutmeg ½ tsp. cloves Salt to taste ½ tsp. baking soda 1 fresh cooking apple, cut into small pieces

2 ¼ ¼ ¼ 3 1

Thanksgiving to go! Baked Turkey and Cranberry Sliders Jennifer Lee, Avocet Club Sunday Women B3 Cooking spray 1 stick butter, melted 1 ½ Tbsp. Dijon mustard, or more to tast 1 Tbsp. dried minced onion 1 ½ tsp. Worcestershire sauce 1 (12 count) package Hawaiian bread rolls, split 1 Tbsp. mayonnaise, or to taste 1 (14 oz) can jellied cranberry sauce ½ - 1 lb. cooked honey-roasted turkey, shaved 6 slices Havarti cheese, cut into halves Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9x13-inch pan with cooking spray. Whisk melted butter with Dijon mustard, dried onion, and Worcestershire in a small bowl. Place the bottom halves of the rolls into the prepared pan. Spread mayonnaise and additional Dijon mustard to taste along the rolls. Spread cranberry sauce. Add turkey and 1/2 slice of cheese to each. Spread melted butter mixture evenly over tops. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven, uncover, and continue to bake until cheese is melted, 10 to 15 minutes.

cups almonds, roughly chopped cup coconut flakes, roughly chopped cup sesame seeds cup rice malt syrup tsp. cinnamon tsp. vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Combine almonds, coconut flakes, and sesame seeds in a mixing bowl. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the rice malt syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Mix wet and dry ingredients until combined and sticky. Pour the mixture onto the baking tray, making sure not to spread too thin to ensure ingredients cluster together. Bake for 20 minutes, remove and let cool. Place in fridge to set for 15 minutes. Store in air-tight container for up to 1 week.

FROM THE VAULT Pumpkin Bread Submitted by Pat Harrison, DeKalb Tennis Center, 1992 3½ 3 1½ 2 3 2 1 4 2 ½ 1

cups unsifted flour cups sugar tsp. salt tsp. baking soda tsp. cinnamon cups of canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie mix) cup of vegetable oil eggs cup water cups of butterscotch morsels cup of golden raisins (optional) cup of chopped nuts (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease or line a muffin pan with silicone or paper muffin cups. Roughly chop almond slices for smaller pieces (aiming for rolled oat size). Mix eggs, applesauce, and spices in a large bowl. Stir to combine. Add chopped nuts and shredded coconut and stir to combine. Combine almond flour, coconut flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir into wet ingredients until fully incorporated. Fold in fresh apple pieces. Spoon batter into muffin tins, rounding out the tops. Bake for 30 minutes, until tops are starting to turn golden brown.

Grease and flour 3 large bread pans. In bowl, combine flour, sugar salt, baking soda, and cinnamon. Set aside. Blend pumpkin, oil, eggs and water. Gradually add dry ingredients. Stir in butterscotch morsels, nuts, and raisins. Fill pans 1/2 to 1/3 full with batter and bake at 350 degrees for 50-60 minutes. Insert toothpick to test for doneness. Cool. Note: if you use medium-sized mini-pans, baking time will decrease to 45-50 minutes. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

Holiday Gift Guide NET NEWS 2023

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2022

HolidayGift Guide

Bagged It!

1 FILA Fully Loaded Tennis Bag With two separate racquet compartments and four accessory pockets, this backpack is a one-stop-shop for your haul to and from the courts. FILA.com 2 Oliver Thomas Bags This machine-washable backpack is that friend that helps you look great while keeping your stuff together. yourserve.com 3 Wilson Team Backpack Lightweight and just the right size for your court essentials, the Wilson Team Backpack is a great option for everyday use. tennis-warehouse.com 4 Tennis Express Bags Need a bag but don’t know where to start? Tennis Express bags offer the most basic needs that any tennis player starting out is sure to appreciate. tennisexpress.com 5 Babolat Pure Drive RHx6 With room for up to 6 racquets, an insulated Isothermal compartment protects your equipment from extreme temperatures while zippered accessory pockets keep you organized. babolat.com NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

Racquets & Paddles 1 Babolat Pure Drive The 10th generation Pure Drive takes your game to the next level with point-ending explosive power and increased feel. babolat.com 2 GAMMA Voltage 2.0 The super-responsive graphite face provides exceptional feedback, touch and durability, while the aramid core is pilotable and ultra-responsive for all shots. pgatoursuperstore.com 3 Yonex EZONE Pickleball Paddle Yonex Pickleball Paddles are optimized with a proprietary carbon graphite layup. The EZONE series is for power players. yonex.com/us 4 HEAD Radical Tour Raw Thanks to the raw carbon hitting surface, “controlled spin” becomes a reality. head.com/en_US/pickleball 5 Babolat Boost Rafa The Boost Rafa is a perfect first racquet that is ideal for the casual player looking for power and maneuverability. babolat.com 6 Wilson Shift 99 Pro V1 Ideal for experienced players who prefer a medium-heavyweight frame looking to add spin to their game. pgatoursuperstore.com and wilson.com 7 Babolat Pure Aero 98 Compared to the standard Pure Aero, the 98 features a more compact head along with a denser string pattern and a thinner, more flexible beam. tennis-warehouse.com 62

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

HolidayGift Guide

8 Babolat Evo Drive This affordable performance racquet provides easy power and comfort as you enjoy tennis and reach your full potential. babolat.com 9 HEAD Radical MP Upgraded with state-of-the-art Auxetic technology, this racquet offers all-court performance with a modern blend of power, control, and spin. head.com/en_US/tennis 10 Yonex PERCEPT The all-new Yonex PERCEPT is the perfect racquet for control and feel. yonex.com/us 11 Yonex VCORE Pickleball Paddle Yonex Pickleball Paddles are optimized with a proprietary carbon graphite layup. The VCORE series gives you greater control and spin. yonex.com/us 12 Ben Johns Hyperion CFS 16 Designed in partnership with the world #1 Ben Johns, this paddle is designed to perform highly in all categories. tennisexpress.com 13 Wild Monkeys Pickleball Paddle Your Serve Tennis offers a great selection of pickleball paddles from many well-known brands, including Wild Monkeys. yourserve.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

Shoes for Days 1 Yonex SONICAGE 3 Built for lightweight comfort and speed, the SONICAGE 3 boasts flexibility, stability, and durability. yonex.com/us 2 Adidas Courtflash Lightweight and breathable, the mesh upper on the Courtflash Speed shoes makes them perfect for high-speed tennis. pgatoursuperstore. com 3 Wilson Rush Pro Ace The most generous fit in the popular Rush Pro line, the Rush Pro Ace earns high grades for tennis players with a strong preference for comfort on the court. wilson.com 4 On Roger Pro On created a shoe that features some of the brands’ signature technology, but with new additions to ensure it holds up to rigorous lateral movement on the tennis court. tennisexpress.com 5 Mizuno Wave Enforce Tour AC The DynaHeel Lock system improves alignment of the ankle and heel, enhancing stability and maneuverability. mizunousa.com 6 HEAD Pickleball Revolt Evo 2.0 Along with an extra-wide fit, this shoe offers high levels of cushioning, padding and flexibility, as well as breathability. head.com/en_US/ footwear/men/pickleball.html 7 Nike Air Zoom Vapor Pro 2 The low-to-the-ground design and the springy Zoom Air cushioning helps you break from baseline to baseline, with that familiar Vapor comfort that keeps you fresh on unforgiving surfaces. pgatoursuperstore.com 64

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HolidayGift Guide

8 FILA Mondo Forza The Mondo Forza strikes the perfect balance of flexibility, support, and style. FILA.com and tennisexpress.com 9 ASICS GelResolution 9 The GEL-Resolution 9 offers high-performance stability and durability with improved flexibility and comfort compared to previous versions. tennis-warehouse.com 10 KSwiss Hypercourt Supreme 2 The Hypercourt Supreme 2 is the pinnacle model of the hyper family and now features a more secure fit, increased support, and higher durability while providing maximum comfort. kswiss.com 11 Mizuno Wave Exceed Tour 5 AC A 3D-SOLID upper offers greater flexibility and comfort while the Mizuno Wave plate increases ankle stability and shock re-distribution. mizunousa.com 12 Adidas Avacourt A great alternative for players who loved the Stella Court, these shoes feature a specific midfoot support system to combat women’s softer arches. tennis-warehouse.com 13 On Roger Advantage The Roger Advantage Men’s Shoe is inspired by tennis but it was made to be worn all day. tennisexpress.com 14 Wilson Rush Pro 4.0 4D Support Chassis 2.0 splits the chassis into two pieces: one piece runs under the foot for enhanced support and forward propulsion, while the other runs laterally for additional stability and control. wilson.com NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

Wearin' It Well 1 Ellesse Tilney Tee Relive the golden age of tennis in a style that evokes wooden rackets and net-rushing. newcobrands.com 2 Lucky In Love Metallic Scallop Skirt A shimmery, lightweight performance jersey fabric brings the fun and function to your game. shopluckyinlove.com 3 Ellesse Crusoe Track Jacket Stay warm en route to the tennis and pickleball courts with the Crusoe Track top. newcobrands.com 4 Lucky In Love High Waist Boxer Skirt An easy-fitting skirt with bold color blocking that sits higher on the waistline then breaks into a slight A-line silhouette for ease in movement. shopluckyinlove.com 5 Lucky In Love Essentials Collection The Essentials Collection – Hip Fit Polo Tank, Long Pleated Smocked Skirt, and Stretch Visor – is designed with comfortable, performance fabrics for a stylish, winning court outfit. shopluckyinlove.com 6 FILA Heritage Long Sleeve Crew This comfortable crew features stitched FILA lettering across the chest for a retro look and feel. FILA.com

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

HolidayGift Guide

7 Lucky In Love Metallic Long Sleeve This easy-fitting, white throwover features drop shoulders, a bungee cinch waistline, and shimmering rose gold and gun metal collegiate stripes. shopluckyinlove.com 8 Ellesse Danver’s Tank Topspin guides a ball through the court. The accents adorning the shoulders of this piece allude to this vital part of both tennis and pickleball. newcobrands.com 9 Lucky In Love Palm Island Collection The Island Tank With Bra is the perfect piece for resort season with a fun tropical print accented with a multicolor Navajo-inspired ribbon print. The coordinating Ruche Skirt features a fishnet mesh and Navajo-inspired beaded flounce border. shopluckyinlove.com 10 Lucky In Love Metallic Stripe Tie Back Tank The tie back allows you to wear it open for a loose fit or tied for a contemporary, ruched look. shopluckyinlove.com 11 Ellesse Guinevere Dress Make a statement with this beautiful dress and its ruffled finish after each and every point you win. newcobrands.com 12 FILA Samari Hoodie Complete with a drawcord hood and kangaroo pocket, this is the perfect cozy fleece to stay loose and warm on and off the tennis court. FILA.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

Favorite Things 1 Babolat Xalt The recently launched Xalt strings will allow you to hit with controlled power to dominate your opponent. babolat.com 2 Luxilon Eco Power LXN Eco Power offers a durable, heavy-duty construction that’s oriented for power, spin and control, yet forgiving when hitting delicate shots. wilson.com 3 Pro Penn Marathon Pro Penn Marathon is Penn’s longest lasting tennis ball featuring exclusive Encore Technology and LongPlay Felt for extended play. head.com/en_US/ tennis/balls.html 4 RIA Forte This full rim, classic rectangular shape, features integrated spring hinges and soft rubber nose pads to provide optimal comfort on court. riaeyewear.com 5 Tifosi Swank Sunglasses Tifosi Swank Sunglasses are a single-lens model perfect for several outdoor activities. Active wearers will enjoy a slip-free experience thanks to Hydrophobic Rubber ear and nose pieces. tennisexpress.com 6 Lobster Pickle Champion Offering cutting-edge technology unrivaled among pickleball ball launchers, this pickleball machine feels like you are playing against another human being! lobstersports.com 7 Tourna Net Check Give your tennis player a handy tool to measure the net in seconds. uniquesports.us 8 Your Serve Tennis Gift Card Available in any amount and never expire, these YST Gift cards are the perfect gift for the tennis player in your life. yourserve.com 68

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

HolidayGift Guide

9 Fast Track Tennis Fast Track Tennis is a patented solo trainer that sets up anywhere and feeds 20 real balls per minute in a continuous loop. FastTrackTennis.com 10 Tifosi Crit Sunglasses Tifosi Crit Sunglasses are an interchangeable-lens model with 100% UVA and UVB protection, as well as adjustable ear and nose pieces made with Hydrophobic Rubber. tennisexpress.com 11 Lobster Elite Liberty The Elite Liberty is perfect for beginner to intermediate players looking to hone their strokes. lobstersports.com 12 RIA Vantage This semi-rimless frame style features both adjustable temple tips and an adjustable nose piece to ensure optimal fit on court. riaeyewear.com 13 Tourna Pickleball Paddle Bottle Opener Tourna’s Pickleball Paddle Bottle Opener is a keychain, so you’ll never let the good times end. uniquesports.us 14 Lobster Elite Grand Five LE This ball machine is the ultimate combination of functionality, performance and ease of use with 18 different shot locations. lobstersports.com 15 Tourna 350-CS Save on stringing costs with the newly upgraded 350-CS. You could break even on the cost of your family string jobs in well under a year. uniquesports.us 16 Atlanta Open Holiday Packs Atlanta Open Holiday Packs are on sale now! Join us for the 2024 Atlanta Open, running July 22-30. With the holiday pack you’ll receive two tickets to a weekday night session match in rows 9-21, plus a mystery gift* — all for just $140! (*while supplies last). Get yours now. atlantaopentennis.com NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

PICKLEBALL

Dink Positive!

ALTA ‘Relishes’ Its Inaugural Pickleball Season BY MARLA MICHALEWICZ, PICKLEBALL VICE PRESIDENT

Photo by Laura Barnard

an you believe it? ALTA is in the pickleball business. Some of you may ask why? Shouldn’t ALTA stay in their lane — the tennis lane? Let’s think about that. As you know, pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the country. (I believe it is a rule that when someone says “pickleball,” that someone must immediately affirm that it is the “fastest growing sport in the country.” At ALTA, we follow rules.) You also probably know that cute story about the two bored families who created the game using their badminton net, ping pong paddles, a Wiffle ball, and a dog named, Pickles. It is a great story of American ingenuity, family fun, and memorializing the family pet. Everyone loves this story. There are many similarities between tennis and pickleball. Both sports use a racquet/paddle, a ball, and a net on a court with lines on it. You can play singles or doubles. You can join teams and ladders or play in tournaments. The skills required to play pickleball can be picked up rather quickly, especially for tennis players. It is one of those “a minute to learn, a lifetime to master” things. (Oh, but it takes at least a month to learn how to keep score.) As the popularity grows, neighborhoods and municipalities are providing venues for their residents to use. Tennis courts are being modified to accommodate the game of pickleball. In fact, tennis courts are being eliminated to make way for dedicated pickleball courts. Pickleball requires less real estate than tennis. They can easily fit two pickleball courts in the space required for one tennis court. The economies of scale have made this an easy decision for tennis centers: same facility, two sports, more customers. Also, as tennis players age, and their joints start speaking to them, the smaller court has a lot of appeal. Tennis players and others throughout the Atlanta area want to play pickleball. So, ALTA responded. Whenever you take on the task of creating a new league for a new sport, you expect some pitfalls along the way; of which we

had a few. But with the help of some wonderful volunteers — the pickleball committee and our coordinators — and our amazing staff, we made it happen. We had to adapt the website, approve facilities and courts, write rules and other publications, design logos, and recruit pickleball people to guide us through this extensive process. I am proud of what we accomplished. I guess you can say it took a village. Our first season was a big success with over 4,000 members, and the results are in the record books. In this issue of Net News, you can see the smiling faces of City Champions showing off their beautiful awards, but we are not stopping there. You may have heard about the next season, Winter 2024. Rosters have been submitted, schedules will be published soon, and the process begins again; just like with tennis. Matches will begin January 20. The league will continue with the 4-line mixed doubles format: Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, and two lines of Mixed Doubles. If you played in the summer season, thank you! If you have not played pickleball, you should give it a try. But remember, stay out of the kitchen! NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

PICKLEBALL

“As someone who’s passionate about Atlanta and pickleball, it is the perfect opportunity to get involved.” TRAE YOUNG

BA All-Star and Atlanta Hawks Point Guard, Trae Young, is the latest celebrity athlete to join the pickleball craze, as the newest investor in the Anheuser-Busch owned MLP team, the Atlanta Bouncers. With this partnership, Young will serve as the sole investor of the Bouncers as they enter their second season. “As a pickleball player and fan myself, I am thrilled to be partnering with the Bouncers,” said Young. “It’s especially exciting to invest in a team that has Atlanta in its DNA. As someone who’s passionate about Atlanta and pickleball, it is the perfect opportunity to get involved.” Young joins a growing list of celebrity investors as pickleball continues to swell in popularity nationwide. MLP investors include athletes such as LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Tom Brady, Drew Brees and Draymond Green, as well as celebrities such as Michael B. Jordan and hip-hop artist Drake.

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

“We couldn’t be more excited to bring Trae on as a partner with the Atlanta Bouncers,” said Matt Davis, VP of partnerships at Anheuser-Busch. “He is an icon within Atlanta and has incredible vision for the future of this team. As we continue to invest in communities and local fanbases with our sports parnterships, we are eager to work alongside Trae to bring the Bouncers and the MLP to new heights.” The Atlanta Bouncers are entering their second season as an MLP expansion team. Anheuser-Busch established the Bouncers in 2023 in Atlanta, a city well known for its sports fandom, massive tennis community, and rapidly growing pickleball scene. With Atlanta’s equally famous bar scene serving as inspiration for the team name, the Bouncers are proud to represent the south. The Bouncers roster is composed of pickleball heavyweights, each with their own impressive resume — Parris Todd was the 2022 MLP MVP and has already won 25 medals in tournaments this year. Simone Jardim is Parris’ APP women’s doubles partner and the former #1 women’s pickleball player. Pablo Tellez led the Bay Area Breakers to two MLP championships and Hunter Johnson, the season one captain of the Bouncers, is a 25x medalist at APP Tournaments in 2023. Despite these individual accomplishments, the Bouncers strength lies in the team chemistry, all having played with each other before and living close enough to regularly practice together, an advantage few other teams possess. To learn more about the Atlanta Bouncers, visit majorleaguepickleball.net/team/bouncers and follow the Bouncers on Facebook, Instagram and X @AtlantaBouncers.

Photo Credit: draftLine/Chris Garrison

Trae Young Buys Stake in Atlanta Bouncers

PICKLEBALL

“It’s exciting to provide a local, worldclass indoor pickleball facility for players of all ability levels...” MOOKIE MCDEVITT

ACE Pickleball Club has Grand Opening in Roswell

ne of the premier indoor pickleball centers recently opened in Roswell. ACE Pickleball Club, located at 1425 Market Blvd., is the first of many scheduled to open across the country. The club in Roswell includes 14 professional-grade, cushioned courts, oncourt instant replay and live streaming, permanent nets and lines, glow-in-the-dark technology, a climate-controlled setting with premium sound and lighting, lockers, and a graband-go café. In addition to unlimited access to open

play and courts reservations, members also can participate in several different programs and events. Members and other VIP guests took part in the grand opening in September, which kicked off with pickleball play by the Atlanta Bouncers, a ribbon-cutting, followed by some great raffle prizes and drawings, and even some glow-in-the dark pickleball. Mookie McDevitt is the ACE VP of Strategic Partnerships. He says ACE is thrilled to be launching the first Ace Pickleball Club here in the Atlanta area. “The racquet sports community here is second to none, and it’s exciting to provide a local, world-class indoor pickleball facility for players of all ability levels,” he said.

ACE Pickleball Club 1425 Market Blvd, Suite 200 Roswell, GA 30076 678-916-6752 acepickleballclub.com 74

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

PICKLEBALL STA NDINGS SUMMER 2023 Photos by Matthew Helton | majestickphotography.shootproof.com

WINNER • FINALIST

PICKLEBALL A1

01 EVERGREEN LAKES 95 ATLANTA PICKLEBA (MOSS) 77 ATLANTA PICKLEBA (SYMOLON) 56 ATLANTA PICKLEBA (GEORGE) 45 ANSLEY 36 PIEDMONT DRIVING 27 CARL SANDERS YMC 9

01 LEGACY PARK LOST MOUNTAIN TE OREGON PARK MARIETTA CC CHIMNEY SPRINGS ATLANTA CC CHARLTON FORGE PRINCETON WEST 02 ALPHARETTA NORTH CROOKED CREEK WEBB BRIDGE PARK WINDWARD LAKE TRADITIONS EDINBURGH LAUREL SPRINGS/F THREE CHIMNEYS F

01 EAGLE WATCH PICK FOXHALL WESTCHESTER S&T LEGACY PARK (LOPEZ) BROOKFIELD CC LEGACY PARK (TUCHMANN)

92 86 59 47 44 30 26 11 71 60 53 48 47 41 39 36 91 84 57 45 38 38

BROOKSHIRE PICKL LITCHFIELD 100 02 OLDE SAVANNAH SQ ST IVES CC BERKELEY HILLS C DEERLAKE MEDLOCK BRIDGE ST MARLO CC STANDARD CLUB THORNHILL

26 19 91 59 58 50 45 30 13 0

KINGSLEY 23 JOHNSONS LANDING 22 04 WEBB BRIDGE PARK 88 WHITE COLUMNS G (LAYTON) 66 ALPHARETTA NORTH (BENEDIC) 64 WHITE COLUMNS G (ALLEN) 58 AVIARY (FULTON) 35 ALPHARETTA NORTH (DEAN) 34 ALPHARETTA NORTH (MCBRIDE) 28 NESBIT LAKES 23

01 MONTEBELLO 79 WOODLAND PARK 61 HICKORY LAKESIDE 59 LAKE FOREST SUBD 55 THE GATES 47 HAMPTON GOLF VIL (KEHOE) 40 EE ROBINSON/PICK 38 HAMPTON GOLF VIL (FERNAND) 16 02 CRESSWIND TWIN L 78 CHADWICK CLUB 75 HAMILTON MILL I 58 STERLING ON THE 50 RHODES JORDAN PA (WILLIS) 41 HIGHLAND OAKS 38 RHODES JORDAN PA (ROSENBE) 36 RIVERSHYRE 21 03 LOCH HIGHLAND 91 GRIMES BRIDGE PA (GRIGGS) 79 MJCCA 52 PEACHTREE STATIO 51 GRIMES BRIDGE PA (PETERSO) 41 INDEPENDENCE SQ 36

01 SEVEN HILLS (TONKER) 77 LOST MOUNTAIN TE 76 OAKWIND 63 DELLINGER PARK 57 BROOKSTONE CC (STEPHENS) 42 SEVEN HILLS (SHELNUT) 35 BURNT HICKORY RE 28 BROOKSTONE CC (PRIAN) 19 02 SOMERSET/COBB 84 MCEACHERN UNITED 71 MARIETTA CC 59 HAMPTON GLEN 59 TOLLESON PARK 38 CHIMNEY SPRINGS 36 LOST FORREST 34 LEGACY PARK 15 03 DEER RUN NORTH 85 WYNGATE SOUTH 76 EAGLE WATCH PICK (WILKINS) 63 NORTHAMPTON 51 EAGLE WATCH PICK (MANDLE) 36 BROOKFIELD CC (CLEMENTE) 35

BROOKFIELD CC (HERMAN) 32 LOCH HIGHLAND 19 04 ANSLEY 80 CARL SANDERS YMC (VEAL) 59 CARL SANDERS YMC (OTKEREN) 50 VININGS ESTATES (HULSE) 47 VININGS ESTATES (HANNA) 47 ATLANTA PICKLEBA (BERRY) 45 ATLANTA PICKLEBA (BONNOT) 42 PIEDMONT DRIVING 26

01 LAUREL BROOKE 90 WHITE COLUMNS G (JOYCE) 66 WHITE COLUMNS G (BOLES) 58 HARLOW 53 POTTERSTONE 47 EDENWILDE 42 CROOKED CREEK 32 WINDWARD LAKE 8 02 PARKSTONE 72 OLDE ATLANTA CLU (DICKSON)60 NETS & TURF AREN 55 BARRINGTON ESTAT 53 OLDE ATLANTA CLU (NICOLET) 53 LONGLAKE SWIM/TE 50 GROVE PARK 30 THREE CHIMNEYS F 22 03 ST MARLO CC 90 THORNHILL 61 OXFORD MILL (YOUNT) 53 WEBB BRIDGE PARK (HART) 50 OXFORD MILL (NESSELROAD) 40 GLEN ABBEY II 39

MEDLOCK BRIDGE 38 WEBB BRIDGE PARK (MCCABE)26 04 NESBIT LAKES 78 THE FIELDS II (JENG) 71 THE FIELDS II (OSTER) 53 THE FIELDS II (DUNLAP) 45 MARTIN’S LANDING 45 RIVER STATION 42 VERMACK 38 PEACHTREE STATIO 25

01 MCEACHERN UNITED 79 NOB RIDGE 76 MARIETTA CC 72 ATLANTA PICKLEBA (PEREIRA) 52 ATLANTA PICKLEBA (MITCHEL) 33 WEST SMYRNA S&T 29 ATLANTA CC 28 KING VALLEY AT V 27 02 INDIAN HILLS CC (MENECHIN) 64 LAKE CHARLES PLA 64 HERITAGE FARMS 58 INDIAN HILLS CC (LEBRUN) 58 INDIAN HILLS CC (PICKELL) 52 THE ARBORS 44 MABRY MANOR 34 SOMERSET/COBB 23 03 STERLING ON THE (DEMARS) 83 STERLING ON THE (WHITE) 72 STERLING ON THE (RUDOLPH) 67 CHADWICK CLUB (PHELAN) 44 HAMILTON MILL I (GIBSON) 42 CHADWICK CLUB (YURKOSKY) 40

Evergreen Lakes (Amy Zimmerman, captain)

Legacy Park (Lisa Degirolamo, captain)

Olde Savannah Square (Sook Chaim, captain)

Webb Bridge Park (Jecksan Jimenez, captain)

NETNEWS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

OLDE ATLANTA CLU 25 HAMILTON MILL I (JENSEN) 23 04 ALPHARETTA NORTH (SAHA) 84 NETS & TURF AREN 66 MEDLOCK BRIDGE 64 MIRAMONT 54 WINDWARD LAKE 42 ALPHARETTA NORTH (NORSWOR) 36 OXFORD MILL 26 LAUREL SPRINGS/F 23

01 ROPER PARK 78 TRADITIONS OF BR (PAPUGA) 73 CRESSWIND TWIN L (BITTING) 59 CRESSWIND TWIN L (BELL) 48 REUNION (JOHNSON) 42 CHATEAU ELAN SPO 41 TRADITIONS OF BR (EAKINS) 36 REUNION (BLAKE) 17 02 HANARRY ESTATES 69 FLOWERS CROSSING 65 MOUNTAIN PARK (GONSALVES) 60 LAURELMIST 52 SMOKE RISE COUNT 44 RIVERMIST/GWINNE 41 MOUNTAIN PARK (PRIOR) 39 COOPERS POND 27 03 HICKORY BLUFFS 89 LARKSPUR 71 EVANS FARMS 58 LIFETIME (WOODST (RUIZ) 57 LIFETIME (WOODST (TURKING) 42 HAMPTON STATION 35

Somerset/Cobb (Doug Heslep, captain) FOXHALL HARRINGTON FALLS

23 21

01 FAIR OAKS TENNIS (BAXTER) 72 INDIAN HILLS CC 70 PINETREE CC 66 HOUSE OF PICKLEB 55 REDFIELD 46 GRIMES BRIDGE PA 44 ATLANTA PICKLEBA 32 FAIR OAKS TENNIS (BONCIMI) 11 02 NOTTING HILL 72 KENNY ASKEW PARK 64 WEBB BRIDGE PARK 60 VICKERY (MAGSTADT) 48 VICKERY (WILSON) 46 THE FIELDS II 46 BROOKSHADE 30 GRIMES BRIDGE PA 26 03 RHODES JORDAN PA (WARD) 79 EDINBURGH 58 FLOWERS CROSSING 57 OLDE ATLANTA CLU 47

St. Marlo CC (Wei Wei, captain)

Hickory Bluffs (Lou Kramer, captain)

RHODES JORDAN PA (BRYAN) 46 GRAN RIVER 41 SMOKE RISE COUNT 35 MOUNTAIN PARK 33 04 CRESSWIND TWIN L 80 VILLAGE AT DEATO (BEVINS) 64 VILLAGE AT DEATO (CORN) 63 FOUR SEASONS ON (AVERY) 52 HAMILTON MILL I (MANCILLA) 42 STEPHENS POINT 41 FOUR SEASONS ON (REED) 38 HAMILTON MILL I (ACEVEDO) 16

Alpharetta North Park (Jit Saha, captain)

Rhodes Jordan Park (Becky Ward, captain) NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

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ATLANTA LAWN TENNIS ASSOCIATION

Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation Title of Publication: Net News: Atlanta Lawn Tennis Association. Publication Number: 553-850. Date of filing: Sept. 22, 2023. Frequency of issue: Bi-monthly. Number of issues published annually: Six. Location of known office of publication: New South Publishing, Inc., 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210, Atlanta, Ga 30350. Owner: Atlanta Lawn Tennis Association, 300 Colonial Parkway, Suite 140, Roswell, GA 30076. Extent and Nature of Circulation: Circulation of single issue published nearest to filing date: Total copies printed, 45,110. Sales through vendors, dealers, carriers and over the counter: 0. Mail subscriptions, 44,817. Total paid circulation, 44,817. Free distribution (by mail, carrier or other means, including samples) 125. Total distribution, 44,942. Copies not distributed (office use, unaccounted for) 168. Average circulation for each issue in preceding 12 months. Total copies printed, 43,687. Sales through vendors, dealers, carriers and over the counter, 0. Mail subscriptions, 43,361. Total paid circulation, 43,361. Free distribution (by mail, carrier or other means, including samples) 125. Total distribution, 43,486. Copies not distributed (office use, unaccounted for) 175. Percent paid and/or requested circulation: 99.71%.

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you a “KNOW IT ALL PRO”—Get connected to the most up-to-date interactive information for racquet sports professionals at racquettech. com. Membership also includes the Stringers Digest, Racquet Sports Industry magazine, manufacturer discounts, free marketing samples, and the only racquet service certification program in the industry. All benefits are available with USRSA Membership - $129. Contact: USRSA, P.O. Box 3392, Duluth, GA 30096, (760) 536-1177, FAX: (760) 536-1171, Email: USRSA@RacquetTECH.com, WEBSITE: RacquetTECH.com.

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TO ADVERTISE: Call John Hanna at 770.650.1102, ext. 125

DEADLINE: Jan./Feb. 2024 issue: Friday, Dec. 29, 2023 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 NETNEWS

ABOUT ALTA Contact Us at 770.399.5788

Questions?

n All ALTA vice presidents (below) have phone extensions at the ALTA office, but do

ALTA office personnel cannot answer your league-related questions. Team members should first contact their captain. If unable to answer, the captain should contact a league official. n Questions about rules must be directed to league officials, which include coordinators, overall coordinators and league vice presidents. n Concerns about team placement and levels should be directed to league officials. n Credit card questions? Call ext. 107. n Want information about new facility requests? Contact the First Vice President at ext. 114. n IT issues? Contact Joan Appelbaum at ext. 103.

not work in the office on a regular basis. Voice messages are checked frequently and answered in a timely manner. n The phone number of your league coordinator is in your captains’ packet. n To contact a member of the Executive Committee, call the ALTA office at 770.399.5788

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

EXT

President – Linda Shepherd

ALTAPresident@altatennis.org

113

First Vice President – Chequetta Allen

FirstVP@altatennis.org

114

VP Men’s League – Greg McAfee

MensVP@altatennis.org

116

VP Thursday Women’s League – Karen Sullivan

ThursdayVP@altatennis.org

118

VP Sunday Women’s League – Susan Levin

SundayVP@altatennis.org

117

VP Senior Day Leagues – Joan Marcinko

SeniorDayVP@altatennis.org

120

VP Senior Leagues – Gina Clance

SeniorVP@altatennis.org

121

VP Mixed Doubles League – John Lowell

MixedVP@altatennis.org

122

VP Junior Leagues – Wendy Fee

JuniorVP@altatennis.org

119

VP Junior Challenge Ladder – Stacey Simmons

JrChallengeVP@altatennis.org

123

VP Special Programs – Mark LaRotonda

SpecialProgramsVP@altatennis.org

124

VP Events & Tournaments – Marla Michalewicz

EventsVP@altatennis.org

125

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Directions & General Information The ALTA office is located at 300 Colonial Center Parkway, Suite 140, Roswell, GA 30076. From GA 400 North, take exit 8 (Mansell Road) to Colonial Center Parkway (1.3 miles west). n ALTA office: 770.399.5788

n ALTA office hours: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

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Call the office during weekdays as employees occasionally work remotely. n Membership dues: Adults – $30, Juniors (18 and under) – $15. Dues are for the calendar year and expire at the end of the fall league season. n ALTA website: altatennis.org n ALTA’s calendar of important dates can be found on the website and in each issue of Net News. n Your membership number is printed on the Net News mailing label and is also available on the ALTA website. n To update your mailing address, log in to your account on the ALTA website and go to My Profile.

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