February 2020 Racquet Sports Industry Magazine

OUTLOOK 2020 CUSTOMER SERVICE PLAYER PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT
Check out the latest For pickleball How visual training Continually re-assess
strings, apparel, players, promote can help your your business plan
shoes and racquets customization students improve to ensure success
February 2020 / Volume 48 / Number 2 / $5.00
formerly Tennis Industry
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Contents February 2020

DEPARTMENTS
4 Our Serve
7 Industry News
14 Racquet Tech
16 Business Planning
18 School Coaches
29 Industry Calendar
30 Outstanding Facility-
of-the-Year Awards
34 Teaching Pros: Visual Training
36 Ask the Experts
38 String Machine Review:
Wilson Baiardo L
40 Your Serve, by Mary Helen
Sprecher
INDUSTRY NEWS
7 PTR Symposium, Van der
Meer tribute in HHI
7 US Open court surface to
change to Laykold
7 Har-Tru announces staff
moves, promotions
PRESENTS
/ OUTLOOK 2020 /
7 U.S. Fed Cup team to host
Latvia in Washington state
8 Wilson is new partner
for Roland Garros, FFT
8 10-S Tennis Supply is ITA
official equipment provider
8 College MatchDay events set
at USTA National Campus STRINGS APPAREL SHOES RACQUETS
10 Third Annual New York Extended Hints of Re-Building Working
Tennis Expo set for Feb. 9 Coverage Spring Foundations Together
C OV E R P H O T O O F B A B S O N C O L L E G E T E N N I S C O U RT S C O U RT E S Y A S B A /A C T I V I TA S I N C.
10 WTT Celebrity All-Star Event
scheduled for March 1 String manufacturers Retro and vintage, Using the newest Racquet brands
11 Laver Cup Boston 2020 are expanding lines with a modern twist, materials, brands are offering frames
tickets on sale in March of their proven characterize this are pushing the designed to enhance
11 Federer partners with Swiss products, giving year’s new limits on shoe on-court performance
running shoe brand players more options. on-court looks. construction. for all types of players.
P. 20 P. 22 P. 24 P. 27
13 Equipment performance data
PLUS
p.41
42 From the CEO
47 First Vice President's

48 51 54 57 Message
A Lifetime on the Build Your Make the Basics Using Human
56 New USPTA Instructor
Court: Scott & Players' Mental Interesting: The Connections
Category
Cathy Simpson and Emotional Challenge for All to Grow Your
Strength Tennis Coaches Business 58 Wilson Triniti
59 Career Development
Read more articles online at www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
2 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY February 2020 www.tennisindustrymag.com

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ALL EVENTS PART OF
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OurServe
PUBLISHER
EDITOR'S NOTE JEFF WILLIAMS
Pay It Forward EDITOR

PETER FRANCESCONI
In an industry dependent on volunteer MANAGING EDITOR

SCOTT GRAMLING
involvement, recognition for all of the CREATIVE DIRECTOR

IAN KNOWLES
good things going on is essential. SENIOR EDITOR

ED McGROGAN
ART DIRECTOR
CRHISTIAN RODRIGUEZ
O

PRODUCTION EDITOR
ANDREA WOO
SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR
ur Champions of Tennis living in this industry, and for those who BOB PATTERSON
awards issue, which are volunteers. And it’s the volunteers— CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
appeared last month, is collectively—who I’d like to call out. CYNTHIA CANTRELL, PEG CONNOR,
always one of the most So much of this industry depends on DAVID LASOTA, JUDY LEAND, KENT OSWALD,
CYNTHIA SHERMAN, MARY HELEN SPRECHER
satisfying issues of the volunteer help. The USTA, for in-
year for me. I long ago realized that it’s stance, fosters volunteer involvement CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
important to the success of this sport to throughout its structure—from the top BOB KENAS, DAVID KENAS
recognize the people, organizations and national board president and board ASSOCIATE EDITOR
companies that are doing great things in of directors right on down to the most TIM McARTHUR
this industry—and it’s probably some- local of grassroots organizations. I see
thing most organizations in this industry it firsthand with the sections, CTAs and EDITORIAL DIRECTION
10TEN MEDIA
too often take for granted, or just don’t NJTLs I deal with. Our Champions of
spend time doing. Tennis awards recognize many of these RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY
There’s a very practical side to this volunteers for what they do to promote 250 Park Avenue, Ste 825, NY NY 10017
recognition, too. At least a few times a this sport—especially on the local level. 646-381-8735
[email protected]
year, after our awards issue comes out, One of the most effective and enjoyable
I receive a call or email about how one meetings I go to annually is the ASBA ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
of our honorees—because they received Technical Meeting, and a lot of the JOHN HANNA
national recognition in our magazine— ASBA’s growing success is due to the 770-650-1102, x125
was able to get a grant or other support engagement, involvement and recogni- [email protected]
that helps sustain them and all the good tion of the volunteers throughout that
APPAREL ADVERTISING
they do. That’s really the most satisfying organization, which is encouraged not CYNTHIA SHERMAN
for me, and it is continuing evidence that just by the group’s leadership (itself all 203-558-5911
we’re doing the right things here at RSI. volunteers), but also by the top-notch [email protected]
For the last several years, I’ve had management company guiding the
ASBA, the Stringfellow Management Racquet Sports Industry is published 10 times per
Group. year: monthly, January through August with combined
issues in September/October and November/
In your own organization or company,
Take the time to recognize take the time to recognize and genuinely
December, by Tennis Channel, Inc., 250 Park Avenue,
Suite 825, New York NY 10017. Periodical postage
and genuinely appreciate the people and groups that

paid in Duluth, GA and at additional mailing offices
(USPS #004-354). February 2020, Volume 48, Number
appreciate the people and are important to growing your business 2 © 2020 by Tennis Channel, Inc. All rights reserved.
and growing this industry. Whether
Racquet Sports Industry, RSI and logo are trademarks
groups that are important you’re dealing with volunteers or em-
of Tennis Channel, Inc. Printed in the U.S.A. Phone
advertising: 770-650-1102 x 125. Phone circulation
to growing your business ployees, a little recognition goes a long and editorial: 646-381-8735. Yearly subscriptions
$25 in the U.S., $40+ elsewhere. POSTMASTER: Send
and this industry. way to paying it forward. address changes to Racquet Sports Industry, 250
Park Avenue, Suite 825, New York NY 10017. Racquet
Sports Industry is the official magazine of the USRSA,
the pleasure of recognizing some of our Peter Francesconi TIA and ASBA.
award winners in the late fall at both the Editor Looking for back issues of Tennis Industry/Racquet
USTA New England Tennis Weekend and [email protected] Sports Industry? Visit the archives at our website
the ASBA’s annual Technical Meeting.
at TennisIndustryMag.com for free digital versions.
Both events are terrific, with lots of great

information for both those making a

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IndustryNews
IndustryNews Information to help you run your business
INDUSTRY EVENT
PTR Symposium Feb. 10-13;

Tribute to Van der Meer Feb. 9
US Open Court Surface to Change
From DecoTurf to Laykold
The 2020 US Open will be played on a
Laykold court surface—the first time since
1978 that DecoTurf will not be the surface for
the U.S. Grand Slam. The tournament will be
held from Aug. 24 to Sept. 13.
Laykold will also be the new court surface
for the US Open Series’ Western & Southern
Open tournament in Cincinnati, which will
be held from Aug. 15 to 23. The USTA picked
the Laykold surface in late 2019.
Har-Tru Announces Moves

for Taylor, Lynch, Gentry
Har-Tru LLC has added former USTA
National Coach Dustin Taylor as its busi-
ness development manager and promot-
ed two longtime employees, Tracy Lynch
and Brandy Gentry. The company says
T
the moves support short- and long-term
goals, particularly its expansion into the
hard-court coatings market.
he Professional Tennis and to register, visit ptrtennis.org. Taylor comes to Har-Tru from the USTA,
Registry will host the Symposium presenters include coach where he was lead national coach. At the
International Tennis Judy Murray; former doubles No. 1 Gigi 2019 US Open, he oversaw a group of top
Symposium Feb. 10-13 Fernandez; former singles No. 4 Robin American men on the ATP tour. Prior to
at the Sonesta Resort on Soderling; Craig O’Shannessy, pro-tour the USTA, Taylor was the associate head
Hilton Head Island, S.C. More than 45 strategy analyst; Marie France Mercier coach at the University of Virginia.
industry experts will conduct classroom of Tennis Canada; LTA Coach Develop- Lynch, who has been with Har-Tru for
and on-court presentations. ment’s Martin van de Braam; perfor- 21 years, is the company’s new vice presi-
A gathering and reception celebrat- mance psychologist Dr. Jim Loehr; and dent of sales and marketing. Gentry, in
ing the life of PTR founder Dennis Van Corey Gauff, who coaches Coco. Topics her 13th year with the company, has been
der Meer, who passed away July 27, will range from business and sport science promoted to marketing manager.
be Sunday, Feb. 9, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at to teaching tactics and techniques. More
the Sonesta Resort. (Visit ptrtennis.org than a dozen three-hour professional U.S. to Host Latvia in Fed Cup,
and click on “Remembering Dennis” for development courses will be offered. Feb 7-8 in Everett, Wash.
more information.) The Society for Tennis Medicine and Fed Cup tennis will come to Washington
The Symposium will again feature a Science has also scheduled its confer- state for the first time, as the U.S. Fed Cup
Tennis Trade Show with demo courts ence at the beginning of the Symposium. team will take on Latvia in 2020 Fed Cup
C O U RT E S Y P T R
and a prize money tournament. Attend- Immediately following the Symposium Qualifying. It will be held Feb. 7-8, indoors,
ees also take part in the Parade of Na- is the Professional Pickleball Registry at the Angel Of The Winds Arena in Everett.
tions Flag Ceremony and enjoy awards (PPR) East Coast Conference (Feb. 13- The U.S., with 18 Fed Cup titles, is the
presentations. For more information 14) and Championships (Feb. 15-16). most successful nation in the international
www.tennisindustrymag.com February 2020 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 7

IndustryNews
women’s team competition. The Ameri- the Official Ball and Official Stringing As part of the partnership, 10-S Ten-
cans last won the championship in 2017, Partner of Roland Garros. nis Supply will create and private label
and reached the final in 2018. The Quali- Wilson will provide a new co-branded, the "Official Net of the ITA," which will
fying competition vs. Latvia is a best-of- high-performance tennis ball designed be a high-quality tournament net that is
five match series played over two days. specifically for the clay courts of Roland expected to be available for purchase in
Matches will be played on a temporary Garros. The new ball will be used for all early summer 2020 and offered at a dis-
indoor hard court. matches during the tournament and counted rate to ITA members. Additional
"As a native Washingtonian, I'm for various pre-tournament activations court equipment, such as windscreens
thrilled to see Fed Cup come to Washing- starting in 2020. Wilson will also bring its and net posts, will also be available to ITA
ton for the first time," said USTA Chair- global stringing team to the French Open. members.
man of the Board and President Patrick In addition, Wilson and the FFT will “The ITA seeks partnerships that cre-
Galbraith, a Tacoma native. launch a range of co-branded, premium ate value for our member programs, and
The winner of this matchup advances Wilson/Roland Garros products, includ- that is why we are so excited for this new
to the 2020 Fed Cup by BNP Paribas ing tennis balls, racquets, string, tennis relationship with 10-S Tennis Supply,”
Finals, to be held April 14 to19 in Bu- bags and accessories. During the tourna- says Corey Pegram, ITA director of Part-
dapest, Hungary—a new format for the ment, Wilson will operate an experiential nerships, Alumni and Membership.
finals in which 12 nations converge on retail space. Visit 10-S.com or contact sales@10-S.
one venue to compete for the title. com or 800-247-3907 for more info.
Visit usta.com/fedcup for more info. 10-S Tennis Supply is ITA
Official Equipment Provider College MatchDay Events Set
Wilson Is New Partner The Intercollegiate Tennis Association at USTA National Campus
for Roland Garros, FFT (ITA) and 10-S Tennis Supply announced a The USTA announced the three
The French Tennis Federation and sponsorship partnership that will make 10-S marquee matchups that will headline
Wilson Sporting Goods have entered Tennis Supply the "Official Court Equipment the College MatchDay schedule at the
into a new five-year partnership for Provider of the ITA." USTA National Campus in Orlando,
Fla., in 2020:
• Florida vs. Florida State (Men), Sat.,
Feb. 1, 5 p.m. ET
• Notre Dame vs. USC (Women), Sat.,

All-in-one More bookings, less admin Feb. 15, 5 p.m. ET
tennis Online booking for players • Florida State vs. Ohio State (Wom-
en), Sun., March 1, 4 p.m. ET
No contracts
management Admission is free for each College
5 Star FREE customer support
software MatchDay, which will feature kids’ ac-
tivities, live music, specialty food and
drinks, games and giveaways on-site
at the National Campus. Guests can
reserve free tickets on Ticketmaster.
Visit ustanationalcampus.com.
Get access today www.kourts.com

AP PHOTO

IndustryNews
Short
Sets
With over 60 percent of the vote, the more mentally resilient and building men- to the community that helped shaped her
International Tennis Federation re-elected tal strength through imagery, purpose, passion for sports and its many rewards.
American David Haggerty as ITF President confidence and goal setting. Rossetti, who
for the four-year term from 2019 to 2023. is president of USTA Connecticut and ten- The U.S. won its third consecutive Junior
It also elected 14 to its Board of Directors nis director at the Weston (Conn.) Racquet Fed Cup title recently at the USTA National
for the 2019-2023 term: Katrina Adams Club, has set two Guinness World Records Campus in Florida, defeating the Czech
(USA), Carlos Bravo (CRC), Martin Corrie with his twin brother, Ettore, for rallying Republic, 2-1.
(GBR), Bernard Giudicelli (FRA), Jack a ball consecutively for over 14 hours and
Graham (CAN), Nao Kawatei (JPN), Anil volleying a ball more than 30,000 times The Chinese Tennis Association was
Khanna (IND), Ulrich Klaus (GER), Salma without a bounce. Visit tennacity.org. recently honored with the International
Mouelhi Guizani (TUN), Camilo Pérez Tennis Hall of Fame’s Global Organization
López Moreira (PAR), Alexey Selivanenko TGA Premier Sports has expanded into of Distinction Award, for its success in
(RUS), René Stammbach (SUI), Stefan Tz- its 77th U.S. market, California’s Central growing tennis in China.
vetkov (BUL) and Bulat Utemuratov (KAZ). Coast. TGA Premier Sports Central Coast
in Ventura County, Calif. was launched In August, First Lady Melania Trump
Tennacity is a new book by longtime recently by Kristin Hatfield, a local execu- wielded a ceremonial shovel and broke
tennis director Angelo A. Rossetti of tive, inventor, entrepreneur, working mom ground on construction for a new White
Hamden, Conn., that focuses on becoming and lifelong athlete, as a way to give back House tennis pavilion on the South Lawn.
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HalfPage-InsideTennis.indd 1 11/17/19 2:19 PM

PBI Announces 2020 Adult
World Tennis Camp Series
Peter Burwash International (PBI) has
announced the locations and schedule of
its 2020 World Tennis Camp Series. The
four- to five-day intensive camps are fea-
tured at some of the most beautiful and
highly rated tennis destinations in the
world. Visit pbiworldtenniscamp.com.
INDUSTRY EVENT • JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort &
N.Y. Tennis Expo Set for Feb. 9 Spa (Palm Desert, Calif.), Feb. 1-4 and
Dec. 3-6
T
• Punta Mita (Mexico), April 1-4
he third New York Tennis Expo will be Sunday, Feb. 9, at NYCB Live, home • Naples Grande Beach Resort (Naples,
of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on Long Island. The event is Fla.), April 22-26
held in conjunction with the New York Open ATP tournament and is on the • Bio-Hotel Stanglwirt (Going/Tirol,
first day of qualifying for that event. Expo guests can see the action free of charge. Austria), June 21-26 and Sept. 6-11
The Expo, which is free to attend, will feature an exhibitor hall with tennis clubs • Carmel Valley Ranch (Carmel, Calif.),
and programs, camps, travel destinations, products, apparel companies and more. April 30- May 3
There will be activities for kids along with multiple tennis courts for play, which • Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort (Cu-
will be supervised by coaches. Two speaker sessions will cover an array of tennis racao, Netherlands Antilles), May 14-17
topics, and there will also be a live band and DJ. • Silverado Resort & Spa (Napa, Calif.),
The New York Open’s Draw Ceremony will take place at the Expo’s Broadcast Aug. 6-9
Plaza, and guests will have the chance to meet and get autographs from some of the • Jumeirah Beach Hotel (Dubai), Dec. 1-5
ATP World Tour’s top players. Register at 2020NYTennisExpo.EventBrite.com. • Baha Mar (Nassau, The Bahamas),
Dec. 2-6
WTT Celebrity All-Star

Event Set for March 1
World TeamTennis is serving up a

new twist for its 45th season, with an
All-Star event featuring many of the
best American tennis players.
WTT will showcase much of its top
C O U RT E S Y N E W YO R K T E N N I S E X P O ; A P P H O T O
talent from its 2019 season and soon-

to-be-announced celebrities from the
tennis and entertainment industries
when it introduces the WTT Celeb-
rity All-Star Match—a pro-am tennis
event on March 1 at the Omni La Costa
Resort & Spa in Carlsbad, Calif. Tickets
are on sale now at www.WTT.com.
Five-time Grand Slam singles
champion and WTT veteran Maria
Sharapova (above) and 2019 WTT
stars Bob and Mike Bryan, Sam Quer-
rey, Taylor Fritz, CoCo Vandeweghe,

IndustryNews
Madison Keys, Ryan Harrison and at the Ronald McDonald House, which gives U.S. Racquet Stringers Assn.
Taylor Townsend are set to play in the families with critically ill and traumatically Names New MRTs, CS
Celebrity All-Star Match. injured children the gift of togetherness, and Master Racquet Technicians
keeps them close to the care and resources • Marco Chivilo, Spilimbergo, Italy
Laver Cup Boston 2020 they need. Pull tabs are collected by various • Michael Duron, Houston, Texas
Tickets On Sale in March organizations and brought to the House, • Andrea Gobitta, Udine, Italy
Tickets to the fourth edition of the Laver where staff and volunteers bring them to a • Alessandro Gregorini, Udine, Italy
Cup, to be held at TD Garden in Boston local recycling center. • Austin Lee, Bradenton, Fla.
Sept. 25-27, will go on sale to the general The ball can tops are expected to cover
public in early March. Premium Hospital- a family’s stay at the Ronald McDonald Certified Stringer
ity Ticket packages are available now. House for over a week. • Darren Heck, Lees Summit, Mo.
Created three years ago, the three-day
team competition, designed to honor
past legends of the game, pits the best six
players from Europe, captained by Bjorn
Borg, against their counterparts from
the rest of the world, captained by John
McEnroe. To date, Laver Cup has sold out
in Prague, Chicago and, most recently,
Geneva. Europe is 3-0 in the competition.
Multi-session tickets without hospital-
ity will go on sale to the general public in
early March, with single session tickets
to follow. Prices for multi-session tickets
without hospitality will start at $250 (for
all five sessions over three days). Visit
LaverCup.com.
Federer Partners with Swiss

Running Shoe Brand On
Tennis legend Roger Federer has
partnered with Swiss running shoe
brand On, becoming an investor in
the company as well as a contributing
designer and brand representative.
Federed ended his long sponsorship
agreement with Nike in 2018. He
partnered with Uniqlo for apparel, but
hadn’t signed a new footwear deal.
The On brand was created in Zurich
in 2010. The company says it has seen
strong sales in Europe and the U.S. In a
statement on its website, On officials
said Federer “will use his unique
experience to help take our product
development, marketing and fan
experiences to new levels.”
USTA Employee Group Donates

12,000 Tennis Ball Can Tops
The USTA Employee Green Committee
donated 12,000 metal tennis ball can
tops, taken from tennis ball cans collect-
ed at the 2019 US Open, to the Ronald
McDonald House of the Greater Hudson
Valley in Valhalla, N.Y.
The Ronald McDonald House Pull Tab
Collection Program generates funds to
help underwrite the cost of a night’s stay

IndustryNews
People
Watch
The ATP has named Massimo Calvelli Tennis Champions Center in College Park, previously was the Western Tech Rep for
its chief executive officer. The unanimous Md., where he had worked for the last Head Penn Sports.
choice of the ATP board of directors, the seven years.
45-year-old Italian has been a sports Carol Hogan, who served as execu-
executive in global sales, marketing, American tennis star Taylor Fritz is an tive director of the ASBA (formerly the
operations and product development for investor in RekTGlobal, the global esports USTC&TBA) for more than 20 years,
the past 20 years. He’ll work closely with business authority and parent company of passed away unexpectedly Nov. 23 at her
fellow Italian Andrea Gaudenzi, the ATP’s professional esports organizations Rogue home in Ormond Beach, Fla., at age 71.
new chairman. The two serve in a new split and the London Royal Ravens. Fritz is the
role at the helm of the ATP, replacing the third pro-traditional sports athlete to join Former USTA New England president
combined position of executive chairman the ReKTGlobal team. and USTA National board member Leo
and president, which was held by Chris Power passed away Nov. 22 at his home in
Kermode through 2019. Selkirk Sport announced that Enrique Massachusetts, at age 84.
“El Condor” Ruiz was recently inducted
John Borden is the new COO of the into the USA Pickleball Hall of Fame. Jaime Kaplan, Lenny Simpson and Jack
Washington Tennis and Education Tuero were inducted into the Southern
Foundation. He had been the General Head has promoted Sophia Bott to Tennis Hall of Fame at a ceremony on
Manager/Director of Tennis for the Junior Grassroots Marketing Specialist. She Jan. 18 in Atlanta.
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IndustryNews
YOUR PLAYERS Tennis Racquet Performance

James Blake Endorses at Specialty Stores
New CrampsAway Pro Jan.-Sept., 2019 vs. 2018

Units 2019
2018
471,039
453,160
C
% change vs. ’18 4%
rampsAway Pro is an all- Dollars 2019 $79,640,000
natural, non-pharmaceutical 2018 $73,923,000
liquid that the manufacturer % change vs. ’18 8%
says provides a fast, safe solution to Price 2019 $169.07
muscle cramps. Athletes can take it 2018 $163.13
before or during competition to prevent % change vs. ’18 4%
or relieve muscle cramps. Former pro
players James Blake and Magnus Nor- Top-Selling Racquets
man are part of the CrampsAway team, at Specialty Stores
and the product has been certified “safe
for sport” by NSF International, an By year-to-date dollars,
independent certification organization. Jan.-Sept. 2019
Athletes swish CrampsAway Pro
in their mouth, then swallow it. The Best Sellers
manufacturer says the product restores 1. Wilson Clash 100 2019 (MP)
nerves to their normal state and allows 2. Babolat Pure Aero 2019 (MP)
cramped muscles to relax within sec- 3. Babolat Pure Drive 2018 (MP)
onds. Visit CrampsAway.com. 4. Wilson Clash 100 Tour (MP)
5. Head Graphene 360 Speed MP (MP)
“Hot New Racquets”

(introduced in the past 12 months)
1. Wilson Clash 100 2019 (MP)
2. Babolat Pure Aero 2019 (MP)
3. Wilson Clash 100 Tour (MP)
4. Babolat Pure Aero Team 2019 (MP)
5. Babolat Pure Aero Lite 2019 (MP)
Top-Selling Tennis Shoes

at Specialty Stores
By year-to-date dollars,
Jan.-Sept. 2019
1. K-Swiss Hypercourt Express

2. Nike Zoom Vapor X 2018
3. Nike Zoom Vapor X 2019
4. Nike Zoom Cage 3
5. Asics Gel Resolution 7
C O U RT E S Y C R A M P S AWAY, O N C O U RT O F FC O U RT
COURT EQUIPMENT Top-Selling Strings
'Topspin Solution' Offered at Specialty Stores

By year-to-date units,
Jan.-Sept. 2019
Oncourt Offcourt has introduced skill levels. 1. Babolat RPM Blast

the Topspin Solution, which attaches The manufacturer says that while the 2. Wilson NXT
to a fence and allows students to Topspin Solution is ideal for topspin 3. Wilson Sensation
practice virtually all shots. The unit, groundstrokes, it can even be used to 4. Luxilon Alu Power
which has a suggested retail price of practice both slice and kick serves. For 5. Head Synthetic Gut PPS
$89, can be used at home or on the more information, visit OnCourtOff-
court, and is designed for all ages and Court.com, or call 888-366-4717. (Source: Tennis Industry Association)

Racquet Tech
I began to hear other players

talk about paddles they
felt were “too light” or “too
heavy” for them. Like in
tennis, there is room for
customization in pickleball.
“The only alterations or additions
that may be made to a commercially
made paddle are edge guard tape, lead
tape, changes to the grip size or grip
wrap, and name decals and/or other
identification markings on the paddle
face,” according to the International
Federation of Pickleball rulebook.
“Decals and tape can extend no farther
than 1.0 inch (2.54 cm) above the top
of the grip nor more than 0.5 inch (1.27
cm) inside the outer edge of a paddle
CUSTOMER SERVICE or, if an edge guard is in place, 0.5 inch
A Made-to-Order Moment inside the edge guard. Pen markings are

allowed on the paddle-playing surface
as long as they do not impact the surface
With pickleball on the rise, promote roughness and are in good taste.”
Much like tennis forbidding the
grip, weight and swingweight services. infamous spaghetti string, pickleball
rules prohibit alterations to the surface
By Bob Patterson to enhance spin: “The paddle hitting
surface shall not contain holes, indenta-
Executive Director, USRSA tions, rough texturing, or any objects or
features that allow a player to impart
additional spin on the ball.”
Unlike tennis, which has very specific
I
limits on length, width and headsize,
pickleball uses a formula of total square
inches, allowing a paddle to be longer or
am a newbie on the pickleball that is comfortable and helps my shots. wider but not both.
court, but I have been string- Soon after taking up pickleball, I “The combined length and width,
ing and customizing ten- began to hear other players talk about including any edge guard and butt cap,
nis racquets for most of my paddles they felt were “too light” or “too shall not exceed 24 inches (60.96 cm).
life—so it’s pretty safe to say heavy” for them. Like in tennis, there is The paddle length cannot exceed 17
I’m a racquet nerd. Just like room for customization in pickleball. inches (43.18 cm). There is no restric-
someone who can’t order from a restau- And just like with tennis racquets, tion on paddle thickness. There is no
rant menu without asking for changes, I pickleball paddles come in a variety of restriction on paddle weight.”
need the racquet, or paddle, customized weights and sizes, to suit a variety of Some racquet and paddle shops I’ve
just the way I like it. players and playing styles. Even though spoken with are adding pickleball grip
At 6-foot-5, the standard 4-1/4-inch the paddle is much shorter than a tennis and weight/swing-weight customiza-
grip size on my pickleball paddle just racquet, swingweight is still one of the tions to their offerings, although they
wouldn’t do for me. In tennis, my most critical characteristics, since that haven’t really promoted those services.
SHUTTERSTOCK
handle size is 4-5/8, but a handle of that is a measure of what the player feels. My advice is to let players know what
size is actually too big for my pickleball According to the official rules of pick- you can do—otherwise they may not
paddle. I settled somewhere in the leball, customization is legal, but there know to ask, and you could be missing
middle, with a pickleball paddle handle are some limitations. an opportunity. •

Business Planning
RETAIL MANAGEMENT was good or bad. You need to use the
information you have to plan for the
Time to Review, Adapt future. Did you hit your goals? Further-
more, did you set goals?
and Plan Once a business is established, owners
often get consumed with just maintain-
No matter how long you’ve been ing and handling the day-to-day opera-
tions—and that is important. But you
in business, you need to continually also need to be aware of what is working
well, what could be improved, and what
evaluate what you do. isn’t working at all. For this, you need
hard data.
By Bob Patterson
Point-of-Sale Programs
These days, data is easy to capture with
W
point-of-sale software that can identify
categories and specific items that are
ith a new year under way, it is a good time to take a hard look at last doing well and those that aren’t.
year—good or bad—and evaluate your business plans before moving With that data in hand, you need to
forward. I regularly speak with many retailers, and it seems that assess the “why” part of the equation,
the longer they have been in business, the less they rely on a formal and this takes an honest evaluation. Is
business plan to guide them. It seems that once we get going, we let the business go a product not selling just because you
on autopilot. That can be dangerous, especially in the current market where things made a bad buy and it isn’t working?
seem to be changing at a mind-boggling pace. That happens. You have to cut your
losses and move on, making sure the
Many consider a business plan as Consider the Past lesson learned will help your future
a necessary step to launching a new An essential part of planning for the buying choices.
business—and it is. But it should be future is reflecting on the past. Legend- But you also need to consider any
much more than that. A good business ary basketball coach John Wooden once other factors that may have affected
plan is not just a document to present said, “Success comes from knowing that the sales results. Has the demand
to investors about turning an idea into you did your best to become the best changed? Has the market changed? Is
reality. An effective plan is something that you are capable of becoming.” there another competing product that
that evolves as your business grows. It is To become your best, you have to take influenced its success or failure? What
a living document that must be tweaked a critical look at the past. How was last can you do to adapt?
constantly to ensure that your business year? Look beyond the bottom line—
is on the best path forward. regardless of whether that bottom line
A good business plan

is not just a document to
present to investors
about turning an idea into
reality. An effective plan is
something that evolves
as your business grows.
Having a handle on what is working
and what is not working for your busi-
ness—and why—will pay big dividends as
you move forward. This is why, whether
you’re just starting out in this busi-
ness or are a veteran in this industry, it
SHUTTERSTOCK
is essential to continually assess your

business plan, and adapt it to make sure
your business is growing, and is the best
that it can be. •

THE FUTURE OF
TENNIS STARTS HERE
Get free tools & resources when you sign up:
Comprehensive curricula developed to help deliver the highest-quality instruction
Access to the Net Generation Mobile App where you can build custom
lesson plans and connect to players in order to provide assessments and
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Free listings in Net Generation’s searchable directory of local providers
A Net Generation welcome pack including coaching manuals
*Access to different features may vary based on your provider type.
JOIN TODAY AT NETGENERATION.COM

OFFICIAL YOUTH TENNIS OF THE USTA © 2019 USTA. All rights reserved.
School & College Tennis
I realized that for our tennis
teams to be noticed, inside and
outside of the school, they had
to be better managed than
other sports teams.
USTA’s Net Generation, geared to 5- to

18-year-olds. With Net Generation,
schools link with a community partner.
Plus, the Net Generation curriculum is
excellent, as is the coaching app.
Engage with the Community: Form

relationships with local clubs. This
also benefits clubs, which can gain new
members. In addition, team players
may use the club’s services such as court
PROGRAM PROMOTIONS
time, the pro shop and stringing. Also,
volunteer with local organizations and
Visible Support charities. Let them know your team is

available to run or help out with events.
Raise the profile of your school or college Use the Local Media: In addition to
tennis programs to grow, inside and out. publishing match results, make sure
local media knows about any special
By Bruce Knittle accomplishments by your players. Find
out who the local tennis correspondent
is and develop a relationship. Many col-
T
leges have radio stations; make sure they
know you’re available for interviews.
hroughout the school on a consistent basis, but regardless,
year, tennis coaches you want to make sure they are man- Be on Social Media: If you don’t have
should be looking at all aged properly, fairly and with integrity. someone posting about your tennis
aspects of their programs, When I was coaching, I realized that for team regularly, learn how to do it your-
including recruiting, our tennis teams to be noticed, inside self. You want to continue to promote
training strategies, practice schedules and outside of the school, they had to be what your team and players are doing.
and fundraising. But one thing that’s of- better managed than other sports teams.
ten neglected is how to raise the profile Here are some other tips to help raise While your school or college’s tennis
of the team and the tennis program. the profile of your teams and programs: program may not have the visibility of
Tennis programs at many high the football or basketball programs, you
schools and colleges are not viewed on Run School Clinics and Camps: Get can bring more attention to the sport,
the same level as sports such as football, other students and faculty involved with your team and your players. •
basketball and baseball. Often, athletic this. These events bring attention to the
administrators have a limited familiar- team while promoting your players, who Bruce Knittle was formerly the president
ity with tennis, so the sport receives less help make the events successful. of a consulting company specializing in
attention—and less money. This trickles working with sports camp owners and
down to the students and the communi- Support Other Tennis Classes, Clubs directors, as well as collegiate athletic
ty, leading to sparsely attended matches and Intramurals: They will increase departments. Previous to that, he was
that are lightly promoted, if at all. enthusiasm for the sport and can serve a tennis camp owner, teaching pro and
SHUTTERSTOCK
One of the first steps in raising the as feeders for your varsity and JV teams. tennis coach for many years. In 2014, he
profile your teams and program is to en- was inducted into the College of Staten Is-
sure that they are a model of excellence. Join the USTA’s Net Generation: Coach- land’s Athletics Hall of Fame for his years
Yes, it certainly helps if your teams win es and schools should register with the as a successful collegiate tennis coach.

2020
2020
EQUIPMENT & APPAREL STRINGS
Extended
Coverage
Equipment String manufacturers

are expanding lines
of their proven
Outlook
products, giving
players more options.
By Bob Patterson
New strings, apparel, shoes and Rather than create completely new
offerings to begin the decade, manu-
racquets are designed to give your facturers have added new gauges,
shapes and compositions to string
customers the winning edge on court. lines that have already been suc-
cessful. The hope is that players will
be more comfortable in purchasing
something they already know.
ears ago, cell phones shoes and apparel through their own
turned on by flipping the websites, where retailers and consum-
physical face up, rather ers had access to the information.
than by detecting the user This has, of course, led to its own
with Face ID. And tennis equipment challenges. Namely that for consum-
manufacturers would make sure new ers, and even many retailers, there is
products were first introduced to the an awful lot of product out there to
trade media before being shown in choose from. How do you make intel-
consumer publications. ligent choices on what to stock? How Gosen
But as the internet changed the can you take advantage of developing gosen-usa.com / 424-999-8683
nature of retailing, manufacturers re- trends to best serve your customers,
alized that the lines between trade and and anticipate what they’ll want or Gosen introduces the G-Spin3 Crim-
consumer were getting blurred. Many need in the short- and long-term? son Red 17 gauge, a soft polyester
brands seemed to rely less on giv- Our annual Outlook section is monofilament with a hexagonal shape
ing the press two to three months of designed to help. A throwback and to provide more spin. Also new is
lead time to make sure pro-shop and a look-ahead, these nine pages will Polylon 18 Black, a specially blended
specialty-store staff were well-versed examine some of the latest and soon- monofilament polyester, previously
in their new product, and instead to-be introduced equipment that your available only in 17 gauge. Both are
chose to roll out new racquets, strings, customers will want to know about. available in sets and reels.

Babolat Gamma Yonex
babolat.com / 877-316-9435 gammasports.com / 800-333-0337 yonexusa.com / 424-201-4800
Babolat expands its popular RPM Gamma’s TNT2 Fat Core XL features Yonex launches a new color—blue—
string line with the introduction of a high capacity synthetic core that as well as the new 18-gauge version
RPM Power featuring a new Co-PET- is 15 percent larger, which enhances for the popular PolyTour Pro lineup.
C construction. The special coating string strength, while the outer wrap This string line now comes in four
allows more power and a crisper feel is designed to resist notching. The different gauges and four colors, so
than the original RPM Blast. The design, says Gamma, yields a string players can find what looks and works
string is a unique bronze color and that is durable and offers long-lasting best for them.
will be available in both 16 and 17 performance. It’s available in 16 and
gauges, in both sets and reels. 17 gauges, in both sets and reels.
P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y G O S E N, B A B O L AT, G A M M A , Y O N E X , H E A D, S O L I N C O
Dunlop
dunloptennis.us / 888-215-1530
Dunlop introduces the Explosive

Spin, a new shaped polyester string
available in 16 and 17 gauges, in both
sets and reels.
Tecnifibre
tecnifibre.com / 888-301-7878
Tecnifibre is launching a new squash
string, Dynamix V.P., which the
Head Solinco company says is its most powerful.
head.com / 800-289-7366 solincosports.com / 310-201-0166 The string is available in 17, 17L, and
18 gauges, in both sets and reels.
Head's new Lynx Tour is designed The latest addition to the Solinco
for hard-hitting intermediate to lineup is a string named Confidential, Volkl
advanced players. The six-sided which expands the company’s high-
volkltennis.com / 866-554-7872
co-poly provides a blend of comfort performance line of co-polyesters.
and spin. The monofilament is made Confidential is available in 16, 16L, 17 Volkl introduces two new strings, the
with a new co-polymer mixture and 18 gauges. V-Square 19 (a thinner version of the
designed to increase durability while popular V-Square) and the Power
still comfortable to play. Fiber Pro 18 multifilament.

2020
APPAREL
1
Hints of
Spring
Retro and
vintage, with a
modern twist,
characterize this
year’s new looks.
By Cynthia
Sherman
Vibrant colors, bold

prints, sharp graphics:
they have transitioned
from the runway to
streetwear to the courts,
and check all the boxes
for fashion and function.
Lightweight wearable
fabrics with UV protec-
tion are an added bonus.
C O U RT E S Y S O F I B E L L A , F I L A , B LU E F I S H S P O RT, LU C KY I N L O V E
1 / Sofibella
sofibellawear.com /
877-696-0424
Vintage is alive and well
with Sofibella, which goes
retro this spring with its
stunning Match Point col-
lection. The “Sofi-premier”
fabric is light, breathable
and antibacterial, and
features UV protection of
50 UPF. Shown is a mesh
tank ($70) in berry red,
black and white, with a
French toile vibe. The 13-
inch tiered berry and black
skort ($70) is a fresh, flippy
complement piece.

Apparel manufacturers are giving retro looks a modern
update, adding in features such as lightweight fabrics, UV protection
and moisture-management properties.
2 2 / Fila
fila.com / 410-773-3000
Fila’s Mad for Plaid collec-
tion revamps the orange
hue that has been going
strong for a few years; the
melon, coral and white
group of bold prints will be
featured at Roland Garros
this spring. The A-line
skater dress ($80) shows
off dimensional piping,
and the printed bottom
pleat panels are finished
with a playful ruffle hem.
3 / Bluefish Sport
bluefishsport.com /
305.381.5024
Beachy blue-green is fea-

tured prominently in this
Bluefish Sport collection
for spring. The contrast
3 4 cami ($60) in the “Drink”
color has UPF 50 fabrica-
tion and a built-in shelf
bra. The matching UPF
50 skort ($88) comes with
compression shorts with
pockets for tennis balls.
4 / Lucky in Love
shopluckyinlove.com /
305-638-5484
Lucky in Love’s future

Retro line continues its
cutting-edge vibe. Sport-
ing bold graphic prints in
black with flashes of bright
yellow, red and blue, its sig-
nature print cami top ($70)
has a shelf bra in a breath-
able poly-spandex blend.
The go-with Long Love Line
skirt ($78) completes the
look in a black graphic print.

2020
FOOTWEAR
Re-Building Foundations FILA

Using the newest materials, manufacturers are fila.com / 800-845-FILA
pushing the limits on shoe construction. New colorways themed for the Aus-
By Kent Oswald tralian Open and BNP Paribas Open
will be a cosmetic highlight of the
Axilus 2 Energized shoes ($110). Their
When talking about footwear, few in the industry comment on how shoe stylishness often masks their perfor-
mance features, such as the updated
manufacturers are increasingly leaving behind natural leather. The leather
outsoles and breathable sockliners
upper was once the calling card of a top-of-the-line tennis shoe, but it has lost made of anti-slide nylon. These quali-
its competitive edge in terms of performance. The prevalence of synthetics is ties make them a favorite of World
a tribute to the increasing amount of science and research going into the foun- No. 1 Ashleigh Barty, World No. 2
dation of everyone’s game. Karolina Pliskova, as well as John
According to Wilson Global Marketing Specialist for Racquet Sports Brian Isner. A Junior Axilus 2 Energized
C O U R T E S Y F I L A , H E A D, W I L S O N, Y O N E X
Ruehlmann, “Tennis players have increasingly preferred higher performance ($65) will arrive mid-February.
materials than leather for lightness, comfort, breathability and moisture Debuting later in the spring will be
management. These materials also allow brands to be more creative regarding the company’s first pickleball-specific
design and aesthetics.” performance shoe, The Volley Zone
Josh Wilder, New Balance tennis and lacrosse footwear product manager, ($110), which will incorporate many
features of the Axilus 2 Energized.
echoes the sentiment, saying, “There’s a plethora of knit, woven and synthetic
The Zones will include three color-
options that allow much more customization than stitching classic leather up- ways for men and two for women.
pers. These newer materials allow designers to push the limits of what’s been The shoes will feature a branded Fila
done with footwear construction while also inherently being lighter, stronger pickeball logo and will be featured in
and more breathable.” marketing materials along with a new
You can say this change in focus has been hiding in plain sight, but you can’t pickleball apparel line.
say it’s been hiding. In any case, it is well represented among our highlights here.

The prevalence of synthetics is a tribute to the increasing amount of
science and research going into the foundation of everyone’s game.
Head Wilson Yonex

head.com / 800-289-7366 wilson.com / 773-714-6400 yonexusa.com / 424-201-4800
The new year will see the newest The full range of technical and style The flagship Eclipsion3 ($155) will
addition to the company’s shoe line, innovations are displayed across be worn by three-time Grand Slam
the lightweight Revolt Evo ($99.95) Wilson’s footwear line. There are nu- champion Stan Wawrinka, among
for men and women featuring syn- anced differences in the heel counter, other professional players, and will be
thetic leather and breathable mesh. rubber thickness on the outsole and available for men, women and juniors
Cosmetic updates are on offer for EVA cushioning between the men’s ($70). It has been redesigned with a
men’s and women’s versions of the and women’s lines, as well as hard- one-piece sole for additional stability,
Sprint SF ($159.95), with its supreme court, clay-court and all-court sole greater comfort for the big toe, longer
balance of weight and durability; the pattern versions. lasting cushion through the mid-sole,
all-court Sprint Pro 3.0 ($129.95), also New colorways will be available for additional support for the heel and a
available for juniors ($59.95); and the the Amplifeel ($159). New also are the larger graphic plate for more robust
performance Revolt Pro 3.15 ($119.95) lighter Kaos 3.0 ($129) for women, movements toward the net.
in both hard and clay-court soles, as and Kaos SFTs ($129) made with new The FusionRev3 ($145) for men and
well as a junior model ($79.95). The molds for men and women, as well as women is available in new colorways
Revolt Team ($99.95) is built using a series of Kaos junior versions, from and continues to offer a performance
only the men’s last, and the Sprint the 3.0 ($79) to the QL ($69), and fit with its flexible, synthetic inner
Team ($99.95) is created only from a Kaos Kid ($55). New colorways have bootie, and its long-lasting cushion-
women’s last. been added for the Rush Pro 3.0 and ing. Finally, the SonicAge2 ($120),
The company sponsors the US 2.5 for men and women and a junior also available for men and women, is a
Open Pickleball Championships, version, the Rush Pro QL ($69). model for those players needing more
among other pickleball events, where Also making a first appearance will width. It offers stable, flexible comfort
they promote the cross-functionality be a pickleball-specific shoe, the Rush and support for quick and easy direc-
of their footwear primarily identified Pro 2.5 Men’s Pickleball ($99), with tion changes. In all, Yonex’s array of
with tennis. similar features to its tennis sibling. options should please many.

Lotto K-Swiss
lotto.sportlife.us / 484-261-2100 kswiss.com / 800-938-8000
Mid-level to high-performance players will appreciate the Rolling out in the first few months of the year, the Hy-
support, stability, breathability—and especially the light- percourt Supreme ($135) is the company’s hero model,
ness—of Lotto’s Mirage 200 ($125), available with both clay- available in a wide variety of looks for aggressive men and
and hard-court outsoles and available beginning February 1. women counting on technology to provide superior energy
return and durability. The comfortable, lightweight and
breathable Express Light Pickleball shoe for men and
women ($100), with customized logo and sockliner, will also
continue receiving new colorways throughout the year.
C O U R T E S Y L O T T O, N E W B A L A N C E , B A B O L AT, K- S W I S S , H E A D, Y O N E X
Babolat New Balance

babolat.com / 877-316-9435 newbalance.com / (800) 595-9138
The Jet Tere ($100) for men and women debuts this year. The 996v4 ($129.99) will be available in both sulphur yellow
The lightweight, sleek performance shoe features high- and white versions that will be worn by Americans Coco
quality foam within for comfort, a breathable mesh upper, Gauff and Reilly Opelka in Melbourne. This light, respon-
and the durable, Michelin-designed sole. While the Jet Tere sive shoe is an update of the lightweight knit 996v3, with a
will be the company’s only completely new shoe, the Jet 2-ounce weight reduction, an updated knit upper, Fuel Cell
Mach II ($140), Propulse Fury ($120) and SFX3 ($100) lines foam cushioning the interior (which proved its mettle dur-
will have new colorways and other cosmetic tweaks avail- ing tests in the company’s running shoes), and additional
able for both men and women. outsole features for durability.

2020
RACQUETS
Working
Together
Racquet brands
are offering frames
designed to
enhance on-court
performance for all
types of players.
By Bob Patterson
For players, it’s all about finding

the right frame that works for their
game. For retailers, it’s all about
spending time with your custom-
ers and players to help them find
that ideal racquet—and the good
thing is, you have plenty to choose
from, as manufacturers continue
to improve their products, offering
new frames and line extensions.
Here are some of the latest.
Head Yonex
head.com / 800-289-7366 yonexusa.com / 424-201-4800
Head launches the latest version of the racquet to ball, says Head. The Yonex launches the latest EZone
the venerable Prestige and Speed Graphene 360+ Speed line will launch lineup, featuring new technologies
lines. The new Graphene 360+ globally in early March and includes including Liner Tech, which im-
Prestige offers distinctive new frames the Speed Pro, Speed MP, Speed MP proves power and comfort; Isometric
shaped for precision and featuring Lite, Speed S, Speed Lite and Speed Expansion designed to enhance the
a unique spiral fiber construction PWR frames. sweetspot; and M40X, a new graphite
that the manufacturer says pro- material that promotes flex and pow-
vides a clean feel at impact. The line er, says the company. The new racquet
launched globally in mid-January and also features Vibration Dampening
Head extends its
includes the Prestige Pro, Prestige popular Prestige Mesh (VDM) currently used in the
MP, Prestige Tour and Prestige Mid. and Speed lines VCore Pro series of frames. The new
with new Graphene
The new Graphene 360+ Speed line 360+ models
EZone line includes the 98, 98L, 100,
offers a blend of flex and stability with featuring spiral fiber 100L, 100SL, 105, 104, Ace, Game,
an enhanced energy transfer from construction. Feel and Junior.

For retailers, it’s all about spending time with your customers
and players to help them find that ideal racquet—and the good thing
is, you have plenty to choose from.
Babolat Volkl Dunlop

C O U R T E S Y B A B O L A T , D U N L O P, V O L K L
babolat.com / 877-316-9435 volkltennis.com / 866-554-7872 dunloptennis.us / 888-215-1530
Babolat introduces a special version Volkl introduces its latest frame tech- Dunlop launches its new SX line of
of the popular Pure Aero racquet nology, V-Cell, which the company racquets, designed with Spin Boost
with its new Pure Aero VS. Designed says is a light, strong cellulose mate- Technology that allows for 46 percent
for players who use spin and power rial added to the racquet’s construc- more string glide and 13 percent more
to dominate the court, the smaller tion and designed to improve feel and consistency and control, says the
98-square-inch head size and thinner responsiveness. New racquets in the company. The new line includes the
beam profile along with the open (16 line include the V-Cell 4, V-Cell 6, SX 300 Tour, SX 300, SX 300 LS, SX
x 20) string pattern work together to V-Cell 8 285g, V-Cell 8 315g, V-Cell 9, 300 Lite and SX 600.
provide ample spin and power. and a junior model, the V-Cell JR 25.
Also new for 2020 is the V8 Pro.

2020 | TENNIS INDUSTRY EVENT CALENDAR
2020 January Event Date Location Event Name 2020 July
S M T W T F S S M T W T F S
2020Jan. 20 - Feb. 2 Melbourne, Australia Australian Open
1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4
Jan. 20-Feb. 2 Melbourne, Australia Australian Open
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Jan. 21-24 Orlando, FL Racquet &Paddle Sports Show/ 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
19 20 21 22 23 24 25 TOM Conference/ Lake Nona Experience XX20 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
26 27 28 29 30 31 Feb. 8-12 Grapevine. TX CMAA World Conference 26 27 28 29 30 31
Feb. 10-13 Hilton Head Island, SC PTR International Tennis Symposium
2020 February Feb. 21-23 Costa Rica ASBA Winter Meeting 2020 August
S M T W T F S March 9-22 Indian Wells, CA BNP Paribas Open S M T W T F S
1 March 10-11 Washington, DC National Health Through Fitness Day 1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
March 18-21 San Diego, CA IHRSA Annual Meeting
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
16 17 18 19 20 21 22 March 23 – April 5 Miami, FL Miami Open 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28 29 March 27-30 Orlando, FL USTA Annual Meeting 23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30 31
April 1-4 Lake Nona, FL Tennis On Campus National Championship
2020 March April 4-12 Charleston, SC Volvo Open 2020 September
S M T W T F S April 18-24 Budapest Fed Cup by BNP Paribas–Final S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 May 24 - June 7 Paris, France French Open 1 2 3 4 5
8 9 10 11 12 13 14 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
June 29 - July 12 London, England Wimbledon
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 13 14 15 16 17 18 19
22 23 24 25 26 27 28 July 5-6 London, England ITF Worldwide Participation Conference 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
29 30 31 July 12-19 Newport, RI Hall of Fame Open for the Van Alen Cup 27 28 29 30
July 12-30 Various locations World Team Tennis Season

2020 April July 17-19 Newport, RI International Tennis Hall of Fame 2020 October
S M TW T F S Enshrinement Weekend S M T
T F W
S
1 2 3 4 July 18 Newport, RI Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony 1 2 3
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 July 25 - August 2 Atlanta, GA BB&T Atlanta Open 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
July 31-Aug. 1 Las Vegas, Nev. World Team Tennis Playoffs
19 20 21 22 23 24 25 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
26 27 28 29 30 August 1-9 Washington, DC Citi Open 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
August 3-9 San Jose, CA Mubadala Silicon Valley Classic
August 7-16 Montreal, Canada Rogers Cup (Women)
2020 May 2020 November
S M T W
F T S August 8-16 Toronto, Canada Rogers Cup (Men) S M T W T F S
1 2 August 15-23 Mason, OH Western & Southern Open 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 August 22-29 Winston Salem, NC Winston Salem Open 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
10 11 12 13 14 15 16 15 16 17 18 19 20 21
August 31 New York, NY TIA Tennis Forum
17 18 19 20 21 22 23 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Aug. 31 - Sept. 13 New York, NY US Open 29 30
31 September 5-8 New York, NY USTA Semiannual Meeting & Conference
September 20-24 New Orleans USPTA World Conference
2020 June 2020 December
September 25-27 Boston Laver Cup
S M T W T F S S M
T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 6 October 27-29 Orlando, FL NRPA Conference & Expo 1 2 3 4 5
7 8 9 10 11 12 13 November 15-22 London Nitto World Tour Finals 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
14 15 16 17 18 19 20 November 23-29 Madrid, Spain Davis Cup Final 13 14 15 16 17 18 19
21 22 23 24 25 26 27 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
December TBA Naples, FL ITA Coaches Convention 27 28 29
28 29 30 31 30 31
December 3-8 San Antonio, TX ASBA Technical Meeting
Dates subject to change. Holidays
Industry Events Grand Slam Tournaments US ATP Masters 1000 / WTA Premier / WTT Event / Special Event US Open Series Tournaments Davis Cup / Fed Cup / Olympics
DOI S
U TT ISNTG
AUN IDSIHNEGD FFAACCI ILLI ITTY-
Y-OOFF- T- THHEE-Y
-YEEAARR AAWWAARRDDSS
COURT CONSTRUCTION
Outdoors and Outstanding

Award plaques to the four Outstanding
winners shown on these pages and
recognition for the Distinguished
Racquet Sports Industry and the ASBA

winners were presented at the ASBA
Technical Meeting held in early December
in Orlando, Fla. For more information,
bring you the best in tennis and pickleball visit www.sportsbuilders.org.
court construction and design.
I
n 2019, there were 13 tennis and six pickleball project winners in the > Babson College Tennis Courts,
Racquet Sports Industry/American Sports Builders Association (ASBA) Wellesley, Mass. (above left)
Facility-of-the-Year Awards program.
Eleven of the winning projects were multi-court outdoor tennis facili- > Anthem Community Pickleball
ties. But pickleball came on strong this year, with five award-winning Center, Anthem, Ariz. (above right)
multi-court outdoor projects. On the residential side, two private tennis
courts were honored, along with one two-court residential pickleball project. > “White Picket Fence”
Each year, based on entries submitted by an ASBA member who designed or Residential Tennis Court,
built the facility or court, the association selects outstanding tennis and pickleball Montecito, Calif.
facilities that meet the standard of excellence in design and construction deter-
mined by the judging committee. While the panel of judges deemed 19 projects to > Liberty Residential Pickleball
be worthy of special recognition, two of the tennis winners and two of the pickle- Courts, Liberty, Mo.
ball winners, shown on these pages, were chosen for “Outstanding” honors:

The four winning projects shown here were recently honored with
Outstanding Facility-of-the-Year honors at the annual
Technical Meeting of the American Sports Builders Association.
A B
Babson College Tennis Courts Anthem Community

Wellesley, Mass. Pickleball Center
Anthem, Ariz.
Nominated By: Activitas Inc.
Architect/Engineer: Activitas Inc.
General Contractor: R.A.D. Sports Nominated By: Elite Sports Builders
Specialty Contractor: Cape and Island Tennis & Track Contractor: Elite Sports Builders
Surface: Cape and Island Tennis & Track Surface: California Products
Fencing: R.A.D. Sports Lights: LSI
Equipment: Sportsfield Specialties Nets, Posts: Edwards
Babson College’s existing tennis courts needed to be relo- After an extensive design process that included architects,
cated due to expansion of the school’s indoor athletic facility. engineers, local pickleball club members and representa-
The eight new post-tension concrete courts, in two banks of tives from the USAPA, construction began immediately on
four, were constructed in a previously undeveloped, wooded the new center. But, contrary to the soils report, a “hard dig”
area, which required stripping out a layer of unsuitable soil condition was found to exist, requiring the use of hydraulic
and dealing with a 3:1 slope. The new courts were built into ram-hoe excavators and a heavy drill rig to penetrate the
the hillside with a significant amount of cut and fill. A retain- rock and native soils, creating production delays. The final
C O U RT E S Y A S B A
ing wall with elevated spectator seating was provided north project, with 10 post-tension concrete courts, includes
of the tennis courts. The project also included site drainage, custom-designed large shade structures with a custom
electrical improvements, and tennis court and site lighting. central kiosk, which acts as a main gathering and social area.

DOI S
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COURT CONSTRUCTION
C D
White Picket Fence Liberty Residential

Residence Pickleball Courts
Montecito, Calif. Liberty, Mo.
Nominated By: Zaino Tennis Courts Inc. Nominated By: McConnell & Associates Corp.
Specialty Contractor: Zaino Tennis Courts Inc. Number of Courts: 2
Surface: ICP General Contractor: McConnell & Associates Corp.
Nets, Posts: Edwards Surface: McConnell & Associates Corp.
Post-Tension Cable, Hardware: Tech-Con Systems
The new post-tension concrete court at this Montecito Nets: Douglas Sports
residence replaces a badly cracked and sinking asphalt
court. To solve major drainage issues, the new court was The homeowner wanted a set of pickleball courts with a
shifted slightly north and west to provide a better subgrade. leisure area, but the gradual downhill slope of the property
A channel drain was added at the south end along with made location a challenge. The contractor had to create a
a new 10-inch drain to transport rainwater to the storm gravel equipment road to gain access to the site, and retain-
drain. The custom-built fence uses 6- by 6-inch square ing walls were constructed and fill soil was imported. Uphill
posts over 3-inch round pipe. The wood top and center rainwater is collected at the retaining wall and directed
C O U RT E S Y A S B A
rails hold up green powder-coated square mesh. A pergola around the court, and trench drains between courts collect
matching the unique fence design was added to the east side and redirect surface water. The courts were aligned end-to-
for seating and viewing. end with a slight contour that mirrors the existing hillside.

In addition to the four Outstanding winners, 15 locations
were chosen as excellent examples of court construction, receiving
Distinguished Facility-of-the-Year Awards.
RSI/ASBA AWARDS
Overland Park Racquet Club
Distinguished ST
INGUISH Overland Park, Kan.
(McConnell & Associates Corp.)
Facility
ED
DI
OUTDO
ITIES
Honors R
IL
TEN N I S FAC
O
INGUISH
ST
ED
DI
OUTDOOR
ILITIES
In addition to the four > Distinguished Outdoor
Outstanding Facility Award Tennis Facilities PI
AC
CKLEBALL F
winners, these 15 locations
were chosen by the 2019 Silver Award
panel of judges for the Hoover Tennis Complex > Distinguished Outdoor
ASBA as excellent examples Hoover, Ala. Pickleball Facilities
of court construction, (Lower Bros. Co. Inc.)
receiving Distinguished Silver Award
Facility-of-the-Year Bronze Award Toscana
Awards. The ASBA also Tempe Kiwanis Tennis Center Indian Wells, Calif.
awarded Silver and Bronze Tempe, Ariz. (Zaino Tennis Courts Inc.)
awards in various catego- (Elite Sports Builders)
ries. You’ll read more about Crow Valley Gold Club Tennis Facility
these winners in upcom- City of Golden Valley–South Wesley Davenport, Iowa
ing issues of RSI. (The Park Tennis Complex (All Weather Courts Inc.)
nominating company is in Golden Valley, Minn.
parentheses.) (Fred Kolkmann Tennis & Sports Menominee Park Pickleball Complex
Surfaces LLC) Oshkosh, Wis.
The deadline for the 2020 (Fred Kolkmann Tennis & Sports
Outstanding Facility-of-the- City of Oshkosh–Menominee Park Surfaces LLC)
Year Awards is June 1, and Tennis Court Complex
awards will be presented at Oshkosh, Wis. Wildwood Park Pickleball Complex
the 2020 ASBA Technical (Fred Kolkmann Tennis & Sports Golden Valley, Minn.
Meeting, to be held in San Surfaces LLC) (Fred Kolkmann Tennis & Sports
Antonio, Texas, Dec. 3-8. Surfaces LLC)
For details, contact the Grand Valley State University Tennis
ASBA at 866-501-ASBA or Courts
[email protected], or Allendale, Mich. INGUISH
ST
visit www.sportsbuilders.org. (GMB Architecture + Engineering)
ED
DI
RESIDE
CILITY
Lakewood National Golf and Country Club TI

FA
Lakewood Ranch, Fla.

N
AL T NIS
EN
(Welch Tennis Courts Inc.)
> Distinguished Residential
Liberty North High School Tennis Facility
Liberty, Mo.
(McConnell & Associates Corp.) Silver Award
Dan Berry Residence
Lincoln Park Tennis Courts Birmingham, Ala.
East St. Louis, Mo. (Lower Bros. Co. Inc.)
(McConnell & Associates Corp.)
Northeastern University–Carter
Playground Tennis Courts
Boston, Mass.
(Stantec’s Sport Group)

Teaching Pros
cult for these players. But now, “VT To
Go” can help you help them.
For coaches, it could be those begin-
ning students who love tennis, but
struggle getting the ball on the center
of the string bed. No matter how good
your coaching, how much desire they
have or how much they practice, as the
session continues, the framing gets
worse. Coaches, this is not your fault!
And it’s not because your students lack
coordination.
Combatting ‘Convergence Insufficiency’

The culprit is eye muscle teamwork,
or what Dr. Polan calls, “binocularity.”
This is likely due to visual fatigue be-
cause their eyes are struggling, fighting
at each contact to converge on the ball.
Technically, what is called “conver-
gence insufficiency” is very common
considering our increasing amount of
screen time. The fact is, most Ameri-
cans stare at a screen for 10 hours or
PLAYER PERFORMANCE more a day. And notice how close both
Visual Training ‘To Go’ children and adults hold a cell phone
to their eyes—it’s even closer than one
would hold a book.
Blending visual exercises with When you compare that to the arm’s
reach of computer screen distance,
head and body movements is a key we think there is a generation of eye
muscle skills at serious risk. Again,
to better on-court performance. the good news is, by using “VT To Go,”
coaches can help.
By Jonathan Bailin, Ph.D. First, as we discussed in the January
article, all sports participants need a
with Dr. Eric Cobb, D.C. yearly Dynamic Visual Acuity eye exam
from a developmental optometrist. We
believe there is no more difficult sport
I
for visual skills, or healthier sport for
the human retina or reading skills, than
n the January issue, with the improve eye skills because they are tennis. We can grow this sport by grow-
help of Dr. Gary Polan, O.D., learned, rather than given at birth, like ing eye skills.
we outlined in the article Are hearing skills. So, for competitive ath- The modern Developmental Optom-
Your Students Visually Fit? how letes who are looking for that 1 percent, etry office has new retinal scanning
excessive hours staring at a 2 percent or more improvement in per- technologies (for example, Optomap)
screen can affect the eye skills neces- formance, VT is a great place to start. that painlessly take a high-definition
sary to see a tennis ball effectively. We This article is more about the popu- picture of the retina and can find and
also offered some quick tips and advice. lation who might like tennis but don’t help diagnose disease early. RightEye
In this article, with Dr. Eric Cobb, choose to pursue it because, “It looks is another technology that analyzes
D.C., we arm coaches with a more too difficult.” We believe these are the the ability to track eye movement and
profound tool to help students improve people we are losing as an industry, and brain function. After the test, you can
their vision at home—what I call, it’s showing up in participation num- see how well, or poorly, your eyes track
“Visual Training To Go.” bers. They like tennis for many reasons, movement.
For students who have played sports but they choose jogging, swimming, We believe all contact sports par-
as children, the need for visual train- bicycling or indoor training in a gym ticipants should require a RightEye
ing (VT) is not as critical. That said, for exercise. analysis before a concussion occurs for
every athlete, no matter how elite, can Tracking a tennis ball seems too diffi- comparison or baseline. All players of

visually intensive sports like tennis can One key element of the simple drills Jonathan Bailin, Ph.D., USPTA, received
improve on these tests. in this video is the blending of vision ex- his doctorate in Biomechanics/Exercise
ercises with head and body movement. Physiology while coaching for the USC
Visual Training At Home It is one thing to coordinate the eyes women’s tennis team. In 1995, he founded
My trusted source for “VT To Go” is alone, but building visual control while and moderated the first panel of physi-
Dr. Eric Cobb, D.C., the founder of the body is in motion is critical in tennis. cians and specialists on the web to ad-
Z-Health Performance. Among his Usually, we can sense when our eye dress the epidemic of Repetitive Strain
important advice and techniques is a muscles fatigue, although we can’t Injuries. A nationally noted author,
five-minute video every tennis coach really sense anything else about eye speaker and consultant on sports
and student should watch. Dr. Cobb muscle operations. Becoming sensitive medicine and ergonomics for 30 years, he
believes this information should be to how these muscles operate during coaches in Marina Del Rey, Calif. Visit
passed along freely because this area of tennis and how training these muscles TennisDr.com or ErgonomicsDr.com.
knowledge, called “Applied Neurology,” can provide quick and visible results is
is so important to everyone. For this VT a profound new feeling. Eric Cobb, D.C., completed his chiroprac-
program, go to zhealtheducation.com. I tell students visual training might tic degree at the University of Western
(The specific link is https://zhealthe- well help their game more than my States in 1994. In 2003, he founded
ducation.com/vision-training-the-next- coaching or actual practice. When these Z-Health Performance, which specializes
level-episode-293.) students start to feel their eye fitness in innovating advanced, neurologically
This is a potent tool to find visual improve, they’ll have that skill for life. centered rehabilitative and sports perfor-
weaknesses and improve them any- I also believe Applied Neurology will mance programs based on emerging re-
time, anywhere. If students who soon become a cornerstone of physical search. He and his team train fitness and
struggle to see a ball approach apply therapy, occupational therapy, Western athletic coaches, therapists and physi-
themselves to these exercises daily, medicine and sports coaching. With cians around the world, with an emphasis
their tennis will improve noticeably, this training, coaches can actually see on elite sport. For more information, visit
without even hitting a ball. their students seeing better. • zhealtheducation.com.

AskTheExperts
want to begin. Once you have the frame
mounted, measure the length (12 to 6)
and width (3 to 9); remeasure once the
job is finished. You shouldn’t see any
variance more than a millimeter or two.
Every machine is different, so consult
the machine’s manufacturer about how
the frame should be mounted, and what
to expect during the process.
Tension Variance
Q: I had a request to string a Babolat
Aero Drive frame with main string
tension at 42 pounds and cross strings
at 61. This was such an unusual request
I refused on the grounds that it could
break the racquet. Am I justified? Even
though both tensions were within the
recommended limit, it did not feel safe
to string with that difference.
A: I think you made the right call. My

experience is that such a drastic differ-
ence in tension is not only ineffective, it
can stress the frame, as you feared.
To Re-Adjust or Not mounting system, all contact points I was once confronted with a similar
should hold the frame but in no way request from a client who was a struc-
distort it; the contacts should snug up to tural engineer and had worked out the
Q: For the past 29 years, I have used the frame but not press against it to the math based on the structural tension of
stringing machines with a six-point point of distorting the shape. concrete—his field of expertise. De-
mounting system (main supports and Some systems move each point spite explaining how tennis string and
12 and 6, with additional supports at 2, individually, while others have one frames were different from bridges and
4, 8, and 10). When I mount a frame, I knob that synchronizes the movement concrete, he insisted. So, I had him sign
snug up the side supports just enough of two or more points. The key is that off that he was responsible for the cost
so they support the frame. As I string the frame should be held securely by of time and materials regardless if the
the mains, the frame distorts, and the vise, without even a millimeter of frame survived, and I did as he requested.
the side supports become tight to the distortion. Once you have the frame The racquet survived, but was un-
frame, so I loosen the side supports to mounted securely, then begin stringing playable. He paid me, then requested
again be just snug to the frame, because the mains. As you described, often the I reduce the variance slightly and re-
I’m concerned I could crack the frame. frame will slightly distort during the string it. I ended up stringing the frame
As I string the cross strings, the frame process and then go back as the crosses four times for his experiment, until
compresses, and I have to tighten the are installed. This is normal, and most there was a 5-pound difference, which
side supports to keep them snug to the describe this as allowing the frame to was what I had suggested in the begin-
frame. I have done this on over 8,000 “breathe.” Retightening the vise during ning. He liked that and ended up using
frames and have never had a problem, or after the mains could prevent the that set-up for several years.
but now I’m wondering: Should I be frame from returning to its intended In cases like this, I recommend
adjusting the side supports as the shape and could cause the frame to re- getting customers to sign an acknowl-
stringing process takes place? main distorted and/or fatigue the frame edgement or waiver that you won’t be
prematurely. responsible for damage that occurs
A: Everything I have been taught from Since you have a long record with from the service, and that they will need
SHUTTERSTOCK
experienced stringers, machine design- no issues, I am not sure I would advise to pay you regardless of the outcome.
ers and racquet designers/engineers changing anything. However, if you
advise against adjusting the vise during haven’t been measuring your frame We welcome your questions. Email them
the stringing process. On a six-point before and after stringing, you may to [email protected].

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Stringing Machine Review
It takes two people to lift the ma-
chine and steady it on the stand, but
other than that, assembly is a one-
person task. Even if you are able to lift
the machine by yourself, though, it’s
essential to have someone else there to
help guide it to its resting place and line
everything up properly.
We first assembled the stand by
bolting the foot plate onto the verti-
cal column, a fairly simple task. The
column is much lighter since it doesn’t
have a separate motor, as on the origi-
nal Baiardo. The floor plate has leveling
adjustments, so this eliminates a rock-
ing start.
With the stand assembled, we
adjusted the height; it is much easier
to adjust before the heavy machine is
attached. The adjustment may not be as
easy as a button push, but for a manual
operation, it is fairly simple—there is a
screw knob located on the right side of
EQUIPMENT the stand. To adjust, loosen the knob.
On the left side of the stand, a pin
Acceptance Letter allows the machine to be manually low-
ered or raised, with a distinctive click in
While less glitzy than the original, the internal track. Once the machine is
attached, this will be a two-person job
the new Wilson Baiardo L is a solid, in order to lift the machine on the track
or to keep it from dropping too quickly.
quality stringing machine. Once the height is adjusted, simply
tighten the knob to secure.
By Bob Patterson The stand has a great range, from
T
39.5 inches (100.4 cm) to a maximum
height of 51.3 inches (130.4 cm). For
someone that is 6-foot-5, this provided
he Wilson Baiardo > Manual height and tilt adjustments. a comfortable working height.
stringing machine was > Mounting posts that adjust inward Mounting the machine to the stand
revolutionary when it to better accommodate badminton was also fairly simple. Three small
was introduced several racquets. screws are on each side of the small
years ago. With all of its > Five-teeth clamps to maximize grip plate atop the column. After loosening
high-tech innovations, while minimizing string interference. these, the machine is placed on top and
it changed the way we string—and has The Baiardo L model is certainly fits securely on the plate. Tightening
now become a staple in tournament lighter than the original, but it is still a the six screws holds everything in place.
stringing rooms and shops everywhere. solid piece of machinery. We took one
The new L version appears to be an for a test drive and strung a variety of Operation
identical machine, built on the ar- frames. Here’s what we found. The machine’s operation is pretty
chitecture and design of the original straightforward. Once it was plugged in,
award-winning Baiardo. But upon clos- Assembly we toggled the switch on, and the ma-
er inspection you will note some key Our Baiardo L arrived in two boxes, one chine quickly started. The LED display
differences. The “L” stands for “light,” weighing 80 pounds containing every- immediately begins a countdown: 9999,
C O U RT E S Y W I L S O N
and the new machine is a simpler, more thing but the turntable, which was in 8888 and so on. When the display hit
lightweight option for stringers. This the second box, weighing 30 pounds. 0000, the machine head traveled back
version’s features include: Assembling the machine was pretty along the track and then returned to its
> 20 percent lighter weight than the straightforward; the manual provided a forward position, ready to work.
original Baiardo. step-by-step pictorial guide. The display is simple and intuitive.

The Baiardo L is a high-end
stringing machine that
also can mount badminton
frames (right).
Pictorial icons allow for the setting of

the tension in pounds and kilograms.
Pre-stretch function can be set to 10
percent or 20 percent. The pulling
speed can be set to one of three speeds.
You can turn on the “beep” alert for
tension reached, or toggle it off for a
quiet session. There is a button for one-
time tension increase pull for knots.
Tension displays to one decimal point.
The six-point mounting system is
easy to adjust with two knobs on each
end of the table. One controls the in-
ner supports and the other controls
the outer arms. The machine comes
with badminton adapters for the inner
mounts, and smaller inserts for the
outer arms that can easily swap out.
The clamps are just as easy to work
with in a two-part operation. A lever
engages the string clamp, and a simple
turn of the base clamp handle locks the For stringers who have wanted a Baiardo but couldn’t pull
base in place. The string clamp has a the trigger because of the cost or were put off by the
dial on the back for easy adjustments.
The clamps glided smoothly and locked
weight of the machine, the Baiardo L may be the answer.
in place securely with little effort. My
previous experience with the Baiardo
was at a pro tournament using an machine toward the user, and clockwise Conclusion
earlier model, and these clamps on the to tilt it away from the user. It is an easy The Baiardo L is a solid, high-end
new model are a vast improvement in task for those who like this feature for stringing machine that gets the job
both quality and operation. weaving the cross strings. done and then some. If you have been
The tension head is well-positioned The tool tray is small but adequate to wanting a Baiardo but just couldn’t
and the diablo and pulling action hold frequently used tools, and there is pull the trigger because of the cost or
worked smoothly and precisely. We had also a supplemental tool tray. I like the the weight of the machine, then your
no issues with any slippage or entangle- two-tray system, as it allows me to keep prayers have been answered with the
ments using a variety of different string my pliers, cutters and starting clamp Baiardo L, which has a suggested retail
types and gauges. within easy reach, and my other less- price of $3,750, although Wilson indi-
The turntable brake is a simple used tools handy but not in the way. cates that special pricing may be avail-
operation of pulling a small lever under able through their Territory Managers.
the table to engage. I have heard some Pros If you are a single user, then the
complaints from Baiardo users that the > Heavy—so it is stable motorized height adjustment is
brake didn’t always hold, but we had probably not something you use very
no issues. Like the original Baiardo, the > High-tech abilities, but simple and easy often. The same goes for the motor-
L has a separate friction brake under- to operate ized tilt operation. (Being somewhat
neath that can be activated to the user’s old-school, I never really got the hang
preference. This comes in handy when > Good clamp system of the tilt, so I only used it for test and
using the machine’s tilt operation. demonstration purposes.)
Unlike the original Baiardo, the tilt > Wow-factor appearance While I would never refer to the
adjustment on the L model is not mo- Baiardo L as a stripped-down model, it
torized, but it is easy to use. Using the Cons is certainly less glitzy than the original.
supplied 6mm x 150mm Allen wrench, > Heavy—so it is not very portable But it is clearly a quality machine, and
a recessed bolt atop the machine is at a price point that can attract more
turned counterclockwise to tilt the > No keypad users than ever before.

YourServe
We need to stop blaming any
one sport for the decline
of any other sport, and just
take care of our own.
traveling to other cities and making a
vacation of it. They make friends and
post their experiences on social media
and get others excited about playing.
Casual tennis participants? They might
have a few pick-up games with no real
frequency and no real plans to improve
as players. They rarely compete and
rarely buying anything.
My point is the goal of any sport can’t
just be increasing participation. It has
to be increasing the quality of participa-
SPORTS PARTICIPANTS tion—meaning increasing the numbers
of those core people who invest in the
Creating a 2020 Vision sport. That’s the only way that not just
the sport, but also the economy sur-
It’s not just about getting more rounding it, will flourish.
I don’t want to see my industry—or
players, but about increasing the quality yours—go into a tailspin because we’re
not doing all we can to drive engagement
by promoting how much fun competi-
of participation. tion, participation and travel can be. Get-
ting players invested, then showing them
By Mary Helen Sprecher a great ROI, is a key to survival for us all.
We need to stop blaming any one sport
I
for the decline of any other sport, and
just take care of our own. Every national
governing body should have a campaign
recently had the chance to look Obviously, the industry SDM serves based on driving people into at least one
at data from the annual State is driven by trends in sports: what’s tournament or competition this year—
of the Industry Report pub- emerging, what’s growing, and what’s whether it’s a local event, state senior
lished by the Sports and Fitness bringing people to travel to cities for dif- games, or anything else that is offered. If
Industry Association (SFIA), ferent tournaments and competitions. we welcome new athletes properly and
the trade association for sporting goods There’s a lot of money for destinations get them engaged, their next stop might
and fitness brands. It’s tempting to pick that welcome sports travel and generate be the pro shop for new equipment and
and choose statistics to show how things great experiences for the athletes them- to sign up for lessons.
are growing (or not growing) in order to selves. So when I read in the SFIA report Maybe that should be our 2020 vision. •
make your case regarding the viability of that there has been a shift in the type
certain sports. of sports activity—with a majority of We welcome your opinions and comments.
As the managing editor of Sports Des- people now identifying as casual sports Email [email protected]
tination Management (SDM), a business- participants, rather than core sports
to-business publication covering site participants—I was alarmed.
selection and business decision-making Casual vs. core participation is a mat- Mary Helen Sprecher
for sports event owners and rights- ter of economics. Core tennis players is managing editor
of Sports Destination
holders, I’m interested in looking at the join leagues, take lessons, get member-
SHUTTERSTOCK
Management, the
data through the lens of sports tourism. ships in the USTA and spend money leading B-to-B publica-
Our readers are the people who choose at pro shops on shoes, racquets and tion for site selection for
locations for tournaments, decide which apparel. They also participate in tour- sports events.
insurance to buy, etc. naments (key for my business), often

February 2020
USPTA Elite Professionals

Scott & Cathy Simpson (Midwest)
12112019_Addvantage_February.indd 41 12/20/2019 3:36:23 PM

USPTA From the CEO
Ramping Up 2020
John R. Embree, USPTA CEO
T his is such an exciting time at

the USPTA; 2020 is going to be
a great year. It’s our second year of
published by our Communications
team; our members have some
incredible stories.
Gary Trost for his leadership as
President these last two years, and
to Chuck Gill and Cari Buck for their
full accreditation from the USTA, The 2019 World Conference service on the previous Board. Like
so the time has arrived when we in Las Vegas was a huge success those who served our Association
can truly state that we are elevating with over 1,000 attendees. Eight- before them, we are stronger now
the standards of tennis-teaching time Grand Slam champion Andre because of their vision, commitment
professionals and coaches. Agassi headlined a slate of over 40 and leadership.
But to truly appreciate the educational sessions, including We are thrilled to unveil a new
magnitude of what is to come, let’s a full day dedicated to female certified membership category –
take a moment to appreciate all we speakers. We presented 18 national USPTA Instructor – that has replaced
did in 2019 to get to this point. awards, introduced five new Master the Recreational Coach category.
Membership grew by 10 percent in Professionals and inducted two The new USPTA Instructor category
2019, thanks in part to an increase in legends, Stanford coaches Dick Gould is designed to offer a pathway into a
both the quantity and quality of our and Frank Brennan, Jr., into the career in coaching for high school and
testing. Returning members have USPTA Hall of Fame. college players, part-time coaches
also increased to the point where we We’ve gotten great feedback on the and other tennis enthusiasts. Check
have surpassed membership totals continuing education opportunities out my article on page 56 of this issue
from 2017. But our growth extends far offered in 2019, both at the World of ADDvantage Magazine for more
beyond membership. Conference and at our two Leadership information.
In 2019, Association revenues Academies in Lake Nona. More I’m really looking forward to
outpaced expenses, yielding an than 40 members attended those this year’s World Conference in
operating surplus for the seventh workshops, which emphasize off-court September. We’ll be at the Hilton
year in a row! A strong stock market skills to help teaching professionals New Orleans Riverside where we had
also helped the USPTA investment become better industry leaders. We a fantastic conference in 2015. After
account grow by 10 percent, will communicate details on this year’s last year’s success in Las Vegas, this is
strengthening our reserves. workshop in the coming weeks. an event you do not want to miss.
We also partnered with the IPTPA I’m very proud of the Association’s Lastly, I want to reiterate that I
to offer certification in pickleball, success in 2019, but now it’s time to am always available to speak with
which is growing rapidly at clubs and look ahead. you. I welcome our members’ input,
facilities throughout the country. We Feisal Hassan began his term as and I’m grateful for your positive
certified more than 350 professionals USPTA President last month and contributions to our Association.
and we anticipate surpassing that Jason Gilbert and Lane Evans joined We have a lot to be proud of, but
number next year. the National Board of Directors. We there is so much left to do. As we
Have you seen us on social media? had a very productive meeting with continue through 2020, make sure
Look out for the Tuesday Quick Tip the new Board here in January and you’re earning your continuing
presented by National Head Tester our committees and task forces are education credits. Improve as a
Sid Newcomb. I’ve also enjoyed ready to hit the ground running. professional every day. We will all be
reading the weekly member profiles I want to take a moment to thank better for it!*
42 - ADDvantage Magazine — February 2020

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First Vice President’s Message USPTA
involvement at the division level. This

is where you can make an immediate
impact on the professionals in your
area and learn what it really means to
take on the responsibility of serving on
a board of directors.
After serving on a division board,
Help Wanted!
the next step in USPTA involvement is
serving on a national committee. The
USPTA has four national committees.
Rich Slivocka, USPTA First Vice President They and their chairs are as follows:
I want to first take the time to thank

all the division officers and national
committee members for their service
that encouraged me to get involved
with the USPTA. I remember asking
myself and those professionals, “How
Education & Certification
Rich Slivocka & Trish Faulkner
Membership
and their dedication over the past do I get involved?” Mark Faber & Lane Evans
two years. All those men and women I had been part of the USPTA for Marketing
dedicated their time and energy several years at that point, but my Bill Mountford & Jason Gilbert
in trying to shape our Association, involvement didn’t extend far beyond Finance
which has given us all so much in our the continuing education opportunities. Rich Slivocka
professional careers. But make no mistake, the division
The new two-year term has just and national education offered by In addition, each committee has
begun, and the various Board and the USPTA are great. They’re where several subcommittees dealing with
committee members have grabbed the you network and build relationships different issues. Serving on these is
with other a commitment, but volunteers with
Gustavo Reyes / USPTA
professionals. passion and subject matter expertise

When I asked are tremendous assets. When everyone
that question works together, the conference calls,
all those years projects and task forces are worth it.
ago, I was Everyone involved would like to leave
lucky because the Association in better shape than
many of those they found it.
mentors were Just as seasoned tennis professionals
serving on offered me a road map when I was young,
division boards I hope this article provides you with
or national the same map. Getting involved in the
committees, or USPTA can change your career – really,
Slivocka ( left) and new National Board Member Lane Evans they had done your life – in ways you never imagined.
(right) at the 2019 World Conference in Las Vegas. so previously. When the USPTA says it values
Their strong its members, it’s because everyone
reins. As they take their positions, they’ll example provided me with a road map has something, some way they can
be looking for volunteers. And if you’ve on getting involved with the USPTA. By contribute. As coaches, we all know
ever been interested in getting involved getting your foot in the door through the importance of continual learning.
with the USPTA, volunteering is a great volunteering, you not only contribute Getting involved in the USPTA is its
way to start. to our Association, but you prepare own sort of education, and over time,
Nineteen years ago, I made the yourself for the bigger responsibility volunteers become agents of change
decision to give back to the Association of serving on the division boards and and progress.
that had given me so much. I was a national committees. If you have any questions about
young tennis professional trying to find Division boards are so important in getting involved, please reach out to me
my place in the industry and I had been governing our Association. Nearly all or your division boards and we would be
mentored by numerous professionals national board members started their happy to assist you however we can. *
February 2020 — ADDvantage Magazine - 47

USPTA
A LIFETIME ON THE COURT:

Scott & Cathy Simpson
Lucas Casás, USPTA Communications
C athy Simpson didn’t pick up a his assistant for about seven
Courtesy of Cathy Simpson

tennis racquet until she was 25 years. The rest is history.
years old. “Scott could tell that I
She was a life-long athlete – she worked well with kids so he
played basketball, volleyball and other asked if I would be interested in
sports – but not tennis. Not until helping. As I was moving up the
her cousin took her to the courts in ranks with my player level, he
Danville, Ill. said I should go get tested and
Her life changed that day. try to get certified and I did. I
She found a new sport. She found a think this is my 26th year with
sport that would soon be her livelihood. the USPTA. I just totally fell in
And she also found a husband. love with the game and wanted
Well, not at first. When Cathy to continue to work with kids.
met Scott Simpson, a USPTA Elite It’s just been great.”
Professional, he was the director of Scott stayed at Danville
tennis at Danville Tennis Club. until 2002, when he moved to
“I went from a 2.5 player to a 5.0 Champaign Country Club. A
player in about 10 years,” Cathy said. few years after that, Cathy took
“Just started helping him work. I was Scott’s old job as director of
tennis at Danville, which she
made hers over 10 years. Then

two years ago, Cathy, also an
Elite Professional, moved
over to Champaign CC.
That way, they could keep In March, the couple will celebrate
coaching lessons together. 20 years of marriage.
“One of our philosophies that
we’ve really been emphasizing is $1.97 for life
fun,” Scott said. “The people just Tennis wasn’t always part of Scott’s
like being together. We could’ve life, either.
used all four courts but they He was about 13 years old, and a few
preferred the camaraderie of being friends were playing tennis. As soon as
together on a couple courts. We he joined them, he fell in love. So he got
work great together. She’s so easy to a racquet of his own.
get along with. We don’t ever have “I bought a $1.97 racquet and broke
any problems at all.” it the first time I played,” he said. “Not
“That was the hard part when temper, it was just a cheap racquet.”
I was running Danville, was not He stuck with tennis, though,
getting to work together as much,” evidently long enough to make history.
she said. “Now we’re both getting to “In 1982 my brother and I broke
Scott and Tom Simpson set a world record
for continuous doubles play by a team and an work together all summer long. We the world record for continuous play
individual in 1982. both love that.” by a doubles team,” Scott said. “We

USPTA
Scott and Cathy Simpson (middle) with their family during Thanksgiving 2019. (not pictured: Kayla and her husband Brad)
played 108 hours and two minutes. “Somehow he was able to do both, Today, the family is spread across
We raised over $5,000 for the be a dad and still be my coach,” the country. They were mostly able
American Cancer Society.” Chad Simpson said. “I think just his to get together over Thanksgiving,
The rules allowed for five minutes emphasis on sportsmanship, honoring though. And even though it can be
of rest for every hour played. They the game. It wasn’t to be No. 1 in all difficult to get everyone together,
took their first respite after 42 these rankings or you have to win what they taught their kids and
consecutive hours. every match or beat your arch rival. grandkids will be with them for the
Scott’s brother, Tom, is the head It was just, go out and give your best rest of their lives.
tennis coach at Coker University. His effort, have good sportsmanship. And “The way he always evaluated me
sister, Kerry, played tennis at Ball he always said he’d be proud of me.” was, I’d come off the court from a
State. Tom’s son, Billy, is the head pro Chad is in his fifth season as head match and he’d go through it,” Chad
at a club in Columbia, S.C. coach at Point University in Georgia. said. “How was your preparation,
Scott and Cathy have five kids from He and his wife, Emily, have three short-term and long-term? How is
previous marriages. Tara and Amy, the small children. your effort, mental and physical?
oldest, are Scott’s. Then come Tony And for each of their first birthdays, And how is your sportsmanship?
and Kayla, Cathy’s kids. Chad, Scott’s just like the rest of their grandkids’, “I think that was building to me
son, is six months younger than Kayla. Scott and Cathy got them a tennis and to my heart and to my character
They were blessed, they said, at how racquet. more than just being able to win a
seamlessly their families came together. “They’re getting exposed to it,” Scott match,” Chad said. “The integrity
“My kids love Cathy and her kids said. “That’s the key, is not to push. and the character that he, not just
love me,” Scott said. “We have 13 Expose them, but don’t push them.” said was important but took me
grandkids between the two of us.” Their philosophy appears to be through a process as a developing
paying off. Their oldest grandson, one youngster. That impacted me. Now
Expose, but don’t push of five adopted boys of Tara, qualified as a coach, that’s what I’m here to do,
It can be difficult for coaches not to get for the Illinois state high school tennis to impact young men and women to
caught up coaching their own kids. But tournament two years ago. be their best and prepare them to
Scott and Cathy found a way to balance “Four generations of playing go lead in homes and the workplace
the two. tennis,” Scott said. “Kinda neat.” and their communities.”*

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Build Your Players’ Mental

and Emotional Strength With
“Compete-Learn-Honor”
Peter C. Scales, Ph.D., USPTA Professional
F or the past decade, I’ve used a

slogan with the boys and girls high
school junior varsity tennis teams I
* The Compete-Learn-Honor
Habits for Strengthening Mental
and Emotional Skills for Tennis:
• Take notes and then study the notes
• Improving is a better goal
than winning
coach in suburban St. Louis to help • Mistakes are necessary to improve
organize our season, especially around Compete: • Play the ball, not the opponent
teaching mental and emotional • Think during practice—feel • Always change a losing game—
skills. The slogan is just three words: during the match never change a winning game
“Compete, Learn, Honor.” • Physical fitness leads to
mental toughness Honor:
Compete: We will give our best • Proper breathing leads to a relaxed • Respect all: teammates,
effort 100 percent of the time. body and a clear mind opponents, coaches, officials
• Love the battle and solve the puzzle • Love the game more than
Learn: We will be open, curious, • Have a game plan and routines how you perform
humble learners. • Have a purpose and a target • Do not strive for victory—strive
for every stroke for grace, balance, patience,
Honor: We will bring credit • Expect the ball to come back and and clarity
to ourselves, our families, our expect it to be a tough shot • Use positive self-talk and show
teammates, our school, and the game • What matters is right now, this positive body language
of tennis, on and off the court. shot, this point • Never give up
• All points are big points • Make no excuses
I teach these in reverse order, • Use time effectively (give to you, • Give your all—it makes you
Honor—Learn—Compete, because take away from your opponent) tougher for your next match
Honor is the foundation. • Combat stress (by being humble,
We hang up laminated posters with smiling, moving, drinking water, Love the game more
a couple of these habits on them every and having a plan) than how you perform
day at practice and discuss them. Half of competitors lose in every
It doesn’t take long. But repeated Learn: match. If you’re only enjoying tennis
every day over the course of a season, • Lose your “self”—humility allows when you win, then you’re guaranteed
it really makes an impact on how you to learn to not have much fun! After winning
players think and act, on and off the • Mental toughness isn’t given, his 19th Slam at the 2019 US Open,
court. it’s developed Rafa Nadal said he wasn’t playing to
Here’s what I put on the posters • Adjust-Adapt-Survive end up with more Slams than others.
and some examples of how we talk • Learn one new thing every time “I play tennis because I love playing
about them: on the court tennis,” he said.

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USPTA
mental-emotional. The 80% of the
Rena Schild / Shutterstock.com
time between points, thinking the

right way is crucial, yes. But for the
20% of a match when you’re actually
playing points, we want to help
players let go of thoughts, allow the
senses, instincts and feel to take over
as they get more and more trusting of
their mind-body system. Players will
make more thoughtful decisions in
matches, without thinking, because
they were full of thoughts in practice!
What matters is right now

USPTA Master Professional Mark
Rearden tells the story of a time that
an old coach asked him what the most
important shot in tennis was. Mark
Coco Gauff ( left) and Maegan Manasse (right) shake hands after Gauff ’s qualifying guessed the serve. Nope. The old guy
win at the Citi Open in Washington, D.C., on July 27, 2019.
said, “The most important shot is the
next one, because that’s the only one
Never give up and 2019 US Open, Billie Jean King said you can do anything about.” I have
make no excuses her parents never asked her if she players focus on literally saying, “What
The only reason you lost a match was won or lost. Instead, they asked, matters is right now,” to help drive
that your opponent was better than you “How did it go today?” Win or lose, out other distracting thoughts. I also
that day. That’s it. It wasn’t the sun or they asked, “Did you give your best? have them smell the tennis ball. That
wind, the lights if you’re indoors, that If you did, that is enough.” Players sensation can remind them of why
your opponent was too quiet or too can control whether they improve they love playing, calm them down and
talkative, or that, if you lost in doubles, and whether they give their best, not get them back to present tense.
you’re “really a singles player.” And, if whether they win. Focus on that. These things are not magical.
you wish for your opponent to tank, or Our job is also to create a mistake- But for most players, applying the
double fault, etc., that’s not honorable. friendly zone so they can make Compete-Learn-Honor approach to
Try to beat them when they’re playing mistakes because they’re stretching mental and emotional training will
their best. That’s the contest! themselves. Then we help them get help them enjoy tennis more, give
faster at understanding the mistakes it their best consistently every day
Lose your “self” and calmly dealing with them. and stay in the game longer because
Real experts are humble – no expert they’re playing better and having
ever feels like they have “mastered” Think during practice, more fun.*
their craft. There is always more to feel during the match
learn, as the constant tinkering of the Practice is for tearing everything * Adapted from Peter C. Scales. (2019).
top players reminds us. If the focus is apart to the smallest movements Mental and Emotional Training for
on learning itself, then winning and and decisions, for deliberate focus Tennis: Compete-Learn-Honor.
losing and all the issues that go along and rehearsal, both physical and Monterey, CA: Coaches Choice.
with worrying about those outcomes
aren’t even in the picture.
Improving is a better goal Peter C. Scales, Ph.D., is a developmental psychologist and a USPTA Professional.
than winning & mistakes are Scales coaches the JV boys and girls tennis teams at Parkway South High,
necessary to improve Manchester, Mo., and is the Mental Strength Consultant for the Washington
At the Women’s Tennis Coaching University in St. Louis women’s tennis team. Scales has been a USPTA member
Association conference during the for 11 years.

USPTA
Making the Basics Interesting:

The challenge for all tennis coaches
João Pinho, USPTA Elite Professional
I n simple
terms, what
differentiates
will hopefully help you think about
creating a “Fun-to-Learning” ratio
that suits your classes and programs.
a highly
competitive Develop the lesson;
player Content is king!
from a less Regardless of the level and age group,
accomplished be sure that your “meat and potatoes”
one? In most cases it comes down to are there, meaning there’s a clear and
their basics. While technique alone The program’s objectives meaningful message.
does not guarantee success, someone and audience.
who has better split steps, smoother • Your staff and players, should be
swing paths and better movement is • Is your program focused on 10U? very clear on what the focus is for
likely to be more successful. That said, Recreational junior development? that given day or drill.
one of the biggest challenges I see in High-performance? Adults? Clear-
our industry is how a professional ly, each of these groups requires a
navigates the fine line between making unique balance between fun and
their sessions rich in fun but poor in content. However, the process of
content, or the other way around. thinking through your lessons can
It’s fair to say that we have all seen be similar; more to come on that.
lessons in which the professional(s)
did a tremendous job of getting The characteristics of the
players excited, but underachieved professional staff.
in providing material that will help
the player develop in the medium to • Does your staff have experience
long term. On the other hand, we also working with that particular
see lessons that are full of lectures segment? Or do you need another Err on the side of simplicity.
and good content, but that do not coach on staff to fill a gap on your Tennis is a simple game. The people
connect with the player and motivate team? It’s also possible that your make it complicated!
them. While I have been guilty of current personnel could be devel-
both scenarios, and each has value, it oped to fill the roles you seek. • Focus on basic and specific skills,
is crucial to fine-tune your plans in such as split steps or simple unit
order to find a balance that best fits In my experience, having a turns. Focus the drill on one or two
the player or group that you have in system to create your lesson plans such skills.
front of you. This skill is more art than and progressions can significantly
science. A professional should consider simplify executing the lesson for • As players develop, go deeper into
several factors when deciding where to the coach and enhance the learning those aspects and add variations to
draw the line. curve for the player. The list below the concepts.

USPTA
Create realistic drills and games.
Gustavo Reyes / USPTA

• While researching new drills can
be helpful, ask yourself: What are
the scenarios or skills that are
important and relatable to this
particular player or group? Your
players are your best source of
drill ideas! They tell you every day
what they need to work on. It’s our
job to interpret and deliver in the
best way possible.
• Once you have an area of focus,

work backwards to create drills
that will isolate that skill and build
from there. For example, start
Pinho gave a presentation on teaching methodology at the 2019 World Conference
with dead-ball drills and progress
in Las Vegas.
to live-ball controls and points.
• Be sure to avoid the common Turn your drills into individual and other communication cues
mistake of the “standard class,” and team competitions when that affect how your message is
where the coach gives virtually the appropriate. received. The first person that
same lesson regardless of who the needs to get excited about the next
student is. This can make a coach’s • Knowing that most players prefer drill/activity is you!
life easier in the short term, but playing points over drills, look to
there will inevitably be a decline in create the same excitement and As we know, our industry’s growth
quality and student retention. accountability that we naturally rate is concerning. As USPTA-
get when competing. You shouldn’t certified teaching professionals, we
Be a master of tweaking always use this technique; it’s have a huge influence on the future
simple drills. important for players to learn to of our sport; our connections with
In a sport where repetition is key, it’s focus on the process. But turning players can be the difference between
nearly impossible to avoid repetitive dead- or live-ball drills into a tennis trier and a tennis player.
activities. However, making small competitions can significantly Balancing fun and learning is essential
adjustments to drills can significantly increase player engagement. to keep players interested.
change the player’s experience and If you found this article helpful,
make the lesson more productive. Present your activities share it with your colleagues.
with enthusiasm! Sometimes the simplest ideas are
• For example, how many ways can the most powerful. If you have any
you do a simple cross-court rally • Your students’ energy is often questions or comments, please
drill? You can have your students: a result of your own! Be aware don’t hesitate to contact me at
of your tone, facial expressions [email protected].*
1. Play their inverted strokes
2. Count consecutive shots
3. Count shots into a particular zone
4. Start the rally with a serve, and João Pinho is the Head Professional of 10U and High-Performance at the USTA BJK
so many more. National Tennis Center in New York. A former NCAA Division I coach and player, he
has specialized in developing competitive junior players and is currently the private
The point is we don’t always need a coach of three national champions and a WTA touring pro. Since 2014, he has
totally new drill to keep it interesting. presented at many different conferences and workshops across the country, including
Possibilities are endless! the 2015 and 2019 USPTA World Conferences.

USPTA
So, what’s the deal with this new

USPTA Instructor category?
John R. Embree, USPTA CEO
L ast month (in the CEO message),

we introduced you to a new
membership category that we are
will also offer liability insurance. The
beauty of this program is that we are
making it available on an annual basis
training, and a background screen,
CPR/AED training, plus 3-4 hours of
other online education that supports
rolling out in early 2020 called for only $199. But, to become a certified the face-to-face workshop and will be
USPTA Instructor. Comparable to USPTA Instructor, there will be a available shortly. Thus, the USPTA
our current Recreational Coach significant requirement for additional Instructor will have a total of 30 hours
category, this new membership education, which is a good thing. of targeted and refined education,
is intended to attract part-time First and foremost, anyone new to making them much more prepared to
professionals, high school or college the USPTA who wishes to become a deliver tennis than ever before.
players, seasonal professionals, USPTA Instructor will be required Any current USPTA Rec Coaches
or those who are thinking about to complete a 14-hour, face-to-face who wish to convert to this category
becoming full-time certified workshop called Teaching Essentials must complete the Safe Play training,
professionals in the future. The 1. These workshops will be held over be background screened (USTA will
USPTA Instructor will be the first two days (7 hours per day) and taught cover the cost), and attend one of
step for aspiring career tennis by subject matter experts that are the upcoming Teaching Essentials
teachers or for those who want to be USPTA members. workshops. The current Rec Coach
involved in our game by giving back A combination of 16 hours of category will end at the end of 2020 as
through part-time teaching. online education, in addition to the the new certification pathway begins
The advantage that the USPTA on-court workshop, will be required in 2021. So, we strongly encourage
Instructor will have over our present to attain the Instructor certification. Recreational Coaches to complete
Recreational Coach designation is that The online content will include this process before the year ends. Yes,
it will be a certified classification that coachyouthtennis.com, Safe Play the Recreational Coach category that
exists today will go away.
Courtesy of Steve Keller
This new offering is a significant

addition to our existing
classification. The person who goes
through the process to become a new
USPTA Instructor will deliver entry-
level programs for adults as well as
juniors, which will help grow our
game. The goal is to have a veritable
army of professionals who will bring
newfound expertise to clubs, parks
and recreation facilities and schools.
They will certainly be more educated
than our existing force of part-time
teachers.
Our stated mission at the USPTA
is “to elevate the standards of
tennis-teaching professionals and
coaches.” The new USPTA Instructor
Sierra Junior Tennis Association - Reno, Nev. Teaching Essentials 1 workshop will unquestionably support that
conducted by USTA. mission.*

USPTA
Rhonda Rabanal Uses Human

Connections to Grow Her Business
Lucas Casás, USPTA Communications
U SPTA Elite Professional Rhonda manages her own business,
Courtesy of Rhonda Rabanal

Rabanal (Southern California) Rhonda Tennis, teaching
graduated from UCLA in 2008, just as tennis at various courts
the economy ground to a halt. around LA.
With the job market scarce, her She’s on the court roughly
parents suggested she enlist in the 50 hours a week with
military. After all, her father served students, offering both
in the Navy and her two brothers private and group lessons.
currently serve the Army and Air Force. “Youngest was 4, eldest was
“They were just being realistic and 73,” she said. “I’m genuinely
presenting my options to me,” Rabanal passionate about teaching
said. “The route was either I join the anyone who wants to learn.”
Marines or I get a corporate job. I was Her passion and motivation
like, I don’t want to join the Marines, for teaching is essential to her Rabanal (left) with her mentor Amanda Fink (right) and
so I’m going to go get a corporate job.” success as a freelancer, but USPTA Southern Division President Kevin Theos (middle).
She soon found work in a host of she insists there’s more
industries, including sales in Silicon to it than that. environment,” she said.
Valley, wealth management and a “It looks like it’s just me, but just like It was also a tremendous learning
number of volunteer opportunities. a tennis player on the court, there is experience. Team tennis was new for
She was successful in the corporate a whole backbone of support. For me, her and working with other coaches
world, but her dream of playing that is my family and my boyfriend, and helped her see gaps in her own coaching.
professional tennis kept nagging. my friends, of course.” Rabanal also finds support through
That is, until one day, when it She finds similar support in her the USPTA mentorship program. She
vanished. A car accident left Rabanal clients. The parents of her younger was paired with Elite Professional
temporarily paralyzed from the waist students are supportive of their children, Amanda Fink, a 2019 USPTA U30 Award
up. She said it was like “a message from driving them to and from tennis lessons recipient from San Diego. Rabanal said
the universe.” and buying shoes and racquets. But, the first time she and Fink spoke over the
“Even though at that moment I knew importantly, they trust Rabanal. phone was like she “had connected with
going pro wasn’t for me, I was like, no, “It’s me and the parent teaming up a friend I hadn’t spoken to in years.”
there’s something else here. My heart to say yes, I trust you to be my son or Her intrinsic motivation cannot be
still wants to be on the court,” she said. daughter’s teacher,” she said. “They hire overstated, and she’s always had the
“What can I make for myself?” me and I know that I am employed by support of her loved ones. But Rabanal
For about five months as she the public I serve. But there’s absolutely has seized every opportunity to connect
recovered, Rabanal managed to make it a team component there because there’s with others – to help them, to learn
out to local courts around Los Angeles, no way I’d be able to do this on my own from them – and to grow the game.
offering corrections to players. When without the support of parents.” “My BA degree is in anthropology,”
someone finally suggested she try Rabanal has added a new wrinkle Rabanal said. “I found that being able
coaching, Rabanal was reluctant. to her coaching. Last year, she started to connect with people on a human
“Too many temperaments,” she said. as an assistant coach at Marlborough level first, tennis second, is one of the
“But then as I started coaching more School, an all-girls school in LA. In both backbones of my success. I treat
and more, I realized it was something I her first two years, the varsity team won every person as a human and focus
could do full-time.” the Mission League championship. on the connection. Everything else
Five years later, Rabanal successfully “It’s more proof that I enjoy the team is secondary.”*

USPTA
The Latest Revolution in Tennis is Here:

Wilson Triniti Ball
The United States Professional
Tennis Association, in partnership
T he tennis ball
hadn’t changed
much in 40 years.
feel, and maintains
its liveliness four
times longer than a
with Wilson Sporting Goods Co.,
So Wilson Sporting traditional Wilson
has awarded one case and 24
canisters of the new Wilson Triniti
Goods Co. set out to tennis ball.
tennis ball. create a tennis ball The second
that wouldn’t need element is the
USPTA members who paid their pressurized plastic felt. The Triniti
2020 membership dues by Dec. packaging to maintain ball is covered in
15 were entered in the drawing liveliness. Wilson STR felt, which is
for one case and 24 canisters of LABS, the innovation 50% more flexible
Wilson Triniti balls. hub at Wilson, used than conventional
state-of-the-art tennis ball felt and
Brian Walters (Northern) is the materials to redesign allows for more
lucky winner of the case of Wilson
the tennis ball core compression. The
Triniti balls.
and its felt cover. flexible felt also leads
The result is Triniti. to longer dwell times,
The 24 winners of a canister of
“We see Triniti as meaning the player
Triniti balls are:
a big win for players, has enhanced feel
Steve Bailey (Southern)
the industry, and and control because
Monty Basnyat (Northern California)
importantly, our the ball stays on the
Lynn Bender (Midwest)
environment,” said racquet’s strings
Paige Burke (Intermountain)
Hans-Martin Reh, longer.
Charles Cutler (Southwest)
General Manager, All of these
Mary Fink (Florida)
Racquet Sports. innovations have
Robert Florian (Southern)
“While the tennis ball has not allowed Wilson to start the
Michael Galli (Northern California)
fundamentally changed over latest revolution in tennis ball
Danielle Hall (Eastern)
40 years, it has contributed to technology: a fully recyclable
Elizabeth Henderson (Southern)
landfill issues across the world. paper canister. The redesigned
Gene Holtrey (Florida)
We decided to re-engineer the ball core and felt combine to keep
Richard Lamb (Florida)
from the inside out to be gentler the air pressure inside the ball,
Francisco Martinez Tovar (International)
on our world while not giving an meaning Triniti balls don’t need
David Meeker (Florida)
inch on performance, actually to be stored in pressurized plastic
John Mercer (Mid-Atlantic)
enhancing it.” PET containers to maintain
Marco Meza (Texas)
Two key features mark the their longevity and performance.
Amy Nestle (Midwest)
Wilson Triniti tennis ball. The Wilson Triniti packaging is made
Jade Nguyen (Northern California)
first is the core, which is made of a from recycled cardboard.
Jim O’Connell (Midwest)
plastomer material, which weighs Triniti balls are available in
Jose Pastrello (Florida)
less than traditional tennis ball three-ball containers for $5.49
Eileen Pero (Intermountain)
cores and allowed Wilson product (MRP). Five percent of profits
Bob Peterson (Missouri Valley)
engineers to thicken the core’s from Triniti tennis balls will
Robert Pierce (Florida)
walls. The ball stays in play longer, support Wilson Sporting Goods’
Roger Watson (Texas)
provides more control, spin and global sustainability efforts.*

Career Development USPTA
Career Development
USPTA Certification Testing Dates 2020 USPTA Division Conferences
Feb. 2........................................................ Haig Point Tennis Center Feb. 6-8 Midwest-Indiana...............Indianapolis Racquet Club.
Hilton Head Island, SC . Indianapolis, IN
Feb. 8..................................... McCormack-Nagelsen Tennis Center
Feb. 14-16 Intermountain.................................. Life-Time Fitness
Williamsburg, VA
. Centennial, CO
Feb. 8-9........................................................... Atlanta Athletic Club
Johns Creek, GA Feb. 14-17 Northern California .................... Taube Tennis Center
Feb. 10-11...........................................USTA National Tennis Center . Stanford, CA
Orlando, FL Feb. 20-23 Texas........................................ Horseshoe Bay Resort
Feb. 12......................................................... Carefree Racquet Club . Horseshoe Bay, TX
North Merrick, NY Feb. 21-22 Missouri Valley..................................... Kansas City CC
Feb. 13-14............................................................... Lifetime Fitness . Mission Hills, KS
Centennial, CO
Feb. 28-Mar. 1 Northern...........Fred Wells Tennis & Education Center
Feb. 15-16......................................................Sea Cliff Country Club
. Fort Snelling, MN
Huntington Beach, CA
Feb. 20..................................................... Kansas City Country Club Mar. 1-2 Midwest-Ohio............................. Marriott Northwest.
Mission Hills, KS . Dublin, OH
Feb. 22..................................... John and Fay Menard YMCA Tennis Mar. 13-14 Midwest-Wisconsin...............Hitters Sports Complex.
Eau Claire, WI . Middleton, WI
Feb. 22-23..................................................... Horseshoe Bay Resort Mar. 7-8 San Diego....................... La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club
Horseshoe Bay, TX . La Jolla, CA
Mar. 6-7...................................................Berry Creek Country Club
Mar. 12-15 Mid-Atlantic.......................... Country Club of Virginia
Georgetown, TX
. Richmond, VA
Mar. 7-8.............................................. The City Club at River Ranch
Lafayette, LA May 1-3 Eastern...................International Tennis Hall of Fame.
Mar. 7-8............................................................ Oaks at Boca Raton . Newport, RI
Boca Raton, FL May 1-3 New England...........International Tennis Hall of Fame
Mar. 7-8.........................................................Sea Cliff Country Club . Newport, RI
Huntington Beach, CA May 14-16 Southern.....................................Atlanta Athletic Club
Mar. 9-10......................................... La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club . Johns Creek, GA
La Jolla, CA
May 15-17 Southwest............................Grand Canyon University
Mar. 13...........................................Oklahoma Golf & Country Club
Oklahoma City, OK . Phoenix, AZ
Mar. 14-15..................................................Bayou Bluff Tennis Club May 28-31 Florida.......................Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club
Gulfport, MS . Naples, FL
Mar. 15-16............................................................ ACAC Midlothian June 5-6 Pacific Northwest................................ Linfield College
Midlothian, VA . McMinnville, OR
Mar. 17-18................................................................ Glenview Club Sept. 20-24 USPTA World Conference................... Hilton Riverside
Golf, IL . New Orleans, LA
Mar. 22...................................... Reed Sweatt Family Tennis Center
Divisions not listed have not yet set a date for their annual conference as of press time.
Minneapolis, MN
Mar. 22-23..........................................................Park Crossing Club
Visit www.uspta.com for a complete listing of certification and
Charlotte, NC
Mar. 27..............................................................Nassau Tennis Club educational opportunities
Skillman, NJ • Wheelchair • Pickleball
Mar. 27-28....................................................... Ranch Country Club • Padel • RacquetFit
Westiminster, CO • Platform
Mar. 28-29............................................. Green Island Country Club
Columbus, GA
Exam reservations must be made by calling the USPTA World Visit TennisResources.com to find hundreds of exclusive
Headquarters at 407-634-3050 ext. 2 at least 21 days prior to educational and instructional videos, audio material, articles
the dates listed. Each date includes an exam and upgrade. PTCA and drill diagrams related to all levels and aspects of the game
I is included in the two-day exam. Exam cancelations must be of tennis. The user friendly video interface is great for watching
received no later than 14 days before the exam, or a cancellation on a desktop or mobile device and makes it easy to #GetYourSix
fee will be charged accordingly. wherever you are!

USPTA
Get Social with USPTA Official

Social Media Channels
facebook.com/USPTA.Official
twitter.com/USPTA_Tennis
instagram.com/uspta
linkedin.com/company/
united-states-professional-
tennis-association
youtube.com/TheUSPTA
issuu.com/uspta
Visit TennisResources.com to learn more

In Memoriam
Michael Eikenberry (1947-2019) - Past President

Michael Eikenberry passed away on Sept. 16, 2019, at the age of 72. Eikenberry first learned tennis on the
Thrush Courts in Peru, Indiana, and was a two-time Indiana high school singles champion before being
inducted into the Indiana High School Tennis Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Eikenberry went on to
play No. 1 singles for the University of Virginia, where he earned a law degree. Eikenberry established Four
Star Tennis Enterprises, Inc., a tennis academy, and provided opportunities to Peru youngsters to attend.
Eikenberry served as USPTA President from 1984-86, and was a driving force of the Association using
computers in the national office.
David Muir (1929-2019) - Past President

David Muir passed away on Dec. 10, 2019 at the age of 90. Muir was a graduate of Bradley University, where
he also earned varsity letters in basketball and tennis. Muir taught tennis for over 60 years, coaching
thousands of players, many of whom went on to collegiate and professional playing careers. Muir served
the Association in various roles, including as National President from 1970-72. Muir was inducted into the
Midwest Professional Tennis Hall of Fame in 1991, the Chicago Tennis Patrons Hall of Fame in 2010 and
was presented with the USPTA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2015.
NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS ADDVANTAGE MAGAZINE

President................................................................. Feisal Hassan Editor.................................................................................John Cornell ADDvantage is published monthly by the United States
Managing Editor.................................................................Lucas Casás Professional Tennis Association.
First Vice President.............................................Richard Slivocka
Layout/Design............................................................... Gustavo Reyes
The opinions expressed in ADDvantage are those of
Vice Presidents...............Lane Evans, Mark Faber, Trish Faulkner, Editorial Assistance ...........................Jacquelyn Dahre, Alegna Hollis, the authors and not necessarily those of ADDvantage
Ramona Husaru, Sid Newcomb, Ellen Weatherford, Fred Viancos or the United States Professional Tennis Association.
Jason Gilbert, Bill Mountford
Circulation.................................................................... Trevor Trudelle
Immediate Past President............................................ Gary Trost USPTA World Headquarters Copyright© United States Professional Tennis
11961 Performance Dr. Association, Inc. 2020. All rights reserved. Reproduction
CEO...........................................................................John Embree
Orlando, FL 32827 of any portion of the magazine is not permitted
Legal Counsel........................................................George Parnell 800-887-8248- www.uspta.com without written permission from the USPTA.

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OUTLOOK 2020 CUSTOMER SERVICE PLAYER PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT

formerly Tennis Industry

tennis and pickleball court construction.

• One-stop shopping Strength and Performance

One Stop Shopping

Contents February 2020

47 First Vice President's

2 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY February 2020 www.tennisindustrymag.com

ALL EVENTS PART OF

Tournament-quality sport surfacing products.

Pay It Forward EDITOR

In an industry dependent on volunteer MANAGING EDITOR

involvement, recognition for all of the CREATIVE DIRECTOR

good things going on is essential. SENIOR EDITOR

and genuinely appreciate the people and groups that

Both events are terrific, with lots of great

4 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY February 2020 www.tennisindustrymag.com

IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT MORE SPIN,

DUNLOP SX 300 HAS DUNLOP SX 300 HAS

IndustryNews Information to help you run your business

PTR Symposium Feb. 10-13;

Har-Tru Announces Moves

www.tennisindustrymag.com February 2020 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 7

• Notre Dame vs. USC (Women), Sat.,

Get access today www.kourts.com

8 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY February 2020 www.tennisindustrymag.com

iGENIE Ball Machine

HalfPage-InsideTennis.indd 1 11/17/19 2:19 PM

www.tennisindustrymag.com February 2020 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 9

INDUSTRY EVENT • JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort &

WTT Celebrity All-Star

World TeamTennis is serving up a

talent from its 2019 season and soon-

10 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY February 2020 www.tennisindustrymag.com

Federer Partners with Swiss

USTA Employee Group Donates

www.tennisindustrymag.com February 2020 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 11

with domestic and

12 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY February 2020 www.tennisindustrymag.com

YOUR PLAYERS Tennis Racquet Performance

New CrampsAway Pro Jan.-Sept., 2019 vs. 2018

“Hot New Racquets”

Top-Selling Tennis Shoes

1. K-Swiss Hypercourt Express

COURT EQUIPMENT Top-Selling Strings

'Topspin Solution' Offered at Specialty Stores

Oncourt Offcourt has introduced skill levels. 1. Babolat RPM Blast

www.tennisindustrymag.com February 2020 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 13

I began to hear other players

A Made-to-Order Moment inside the edge guard. Pen markings are

14 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY February 2020 www.tennisindustrymag.com

A good business plan

is essential to continually assess your

16 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY February 2020 www.tennisindustrymag.com

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