Professional Documents
Culture Documents
April 2020 Racquet Sports Industry (v2)
April 2020 Racquet Sports Industry (v2)
Should your players To sell tennis, build The USRSA lists its top New USTA CEO
use compression trusting relationships 50 strings based on Mike Dowse talks
socks on court? with your clients years of playtest results about his goals
April 2020 / Volume 48 / Number 4 / $5.00
PICKLEBALL
MEANS BUSINESS
From new paddles to sport-specific shoes
to expanded facilities, pickleball’s
Formerly Tennis Industry
popularity continues to reach new heights.
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www.tennisindustrymag.com
COVER PHOTO: SIMONE JARDIM & KYLE YATES AT 2019 MINTO US OPEN PICKLEB ALL CHPS, NAPLES, FLA./PHOTO BY MICHAEL GAUTHIER; THIS PAGE: BRIGHAM CITY, UTAH/PHOTO BY BELINDA DETTMAN
4 Industry News
12 Racquet Tech
14 Your Players
16 Apparel
18 Student Athletes
40 Your Serve, by Bob Patterson
FEATURES
30 Pulling the Right Strings
The USRSA compiles its
Top 50 performers.
34 Selling for Success
Building relationships is the
key to retaining players.
38 Catching Up With . . .
New USTA CEO Mike Dowse.
INDUSTRY NEWS
4 Hundreds pay tribute
to Dennis Van der Meer
4 TIA partners with association
management firm Bostrom
4 WTT sets season schedule;
adds franchise in Chicago 2020
6 Ashaway introduces first
Guide to Pickleball
hybrid string set for squash
7 Short Sets
8 PTR names three
international master pros
9 Solinco unveils latest FACILITIES PADDLES FOOTWEAR
tennis string
Full-Court Hitting Covering
9 Diadem launches new frames
Press New Heights The Court
9 USTA New England, Wilson
partner to grow tennis Pickleball-specific shoes
Pickleball’s soaring Technological
10 Peoplewatch popularity is prompting improvements continue are taking advantage of
10 PTR honors award winners communities to to enhance the game technology to balance
at annual Symposium construct and and provide more weight, comfort
11 Tourna expands Premium expand facilities. options for players. and responsiveness.
Poly string line P. 20 P. 26 P. 28
PLUS
p.41 43 From the CEO
Tournament-quality
sport surfacing products.
OFFICIAL
R
SURFACE
OF THE USPTA
MEMORIAL
H
marketing, especially in the area of content
strategy, Bostrom says. The TIA’s office in
Hilton Head Island, S.C., closed in January.
undreds of friends, “We are thrilled to welcome TIA to our
teaching professionals growing client community,” says Bostrom’s
and industry execu- president, Randy Lindner. “Our work with
tives packed into a me- a wide variety of industries and professions
morial service for the brings a diversity of innovation that carries
late Dennis Van der Meer, the founder of across our client work in creative ways. We
the Professional Tennis Registry, on Feb. can’t wait to get started and see results of
9 in Hilton Head Island, S.C. The event our partnership come to light.”
took place just before the start of the The TIA can be contacted through White
PTR International Tennis Symposium. at bryanwhite@tennisindustry.org.
Tennis teaching pro and coaching
legend Van der Meer passed away on
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IndustryNews
First Hybrid
the additions of the Orlando Storm and
Vegas Rollers in 2019. Last season also
saw the creation of a four-team WTT
playoff, which will return in 2020 to
the Orleans Arena at The Orleans Hotel
String Made
& Casino in Las Vegas. Home to the for Squash
A
Vegas Rollers, the Orleans Arena will
host the WTT semifinals on Aug. 1, and
the WTT final on Aug. 2. shaway has introduced the stringing in squash is the same argu-
first hybrid string set made ment used for any change in string:
New N.C. Facility to be Named specifically for squash. improved performance,” says
Swing Racquet + Paddle Incorporating Ashaway’s Ashaway’s Steve Crandall. “Hybrid
Swing Racquet + Paddle will be the PowerNick 18 red for the mains and stringing offers more variety, another
name of the state-of-the-art racquet Powerfusion white for the cross strings, way to optimize that triad of tension,
sports facility under development in Brier Oblivion hybrid strings offer a high- durability and control, and enhances
Creek, N.C. A USTA and U.S.A. Pickleball power, low-shock combination for the playability of your racquet to suit
Association-endorsed sports complex, amateur and professional players seek- your particular game.”
it is scheduled to open in 2022, and will ing a lively and durable means to gener- Oblivion is available in 18 x 18-foot
offer a 30,000-square-foot, world-class ate excellent ball speed and control, packaged sets and in special double
fitness facility, including a 10,000 square- says the company. reels containing 195 feet of each string.
foot multi-purpose gymnasium. “The biggest argument for hybrid Visit ashawayusa.com for more info.
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Short
Sets
Over 2,600 players will see action in case its business and innovations in sports Southbury, Conn., resident Matt McCon-
the 4th Annual Minto US Open Pickleball lighting. Visit frasurereps.com or email non, from longtime owner Pat Decker.
Chps., April 18-25 in Naples, Fla., which patrick@frasurereps.com to subscribe.
will feature 5,500 matches—a record In February, the Macon-Bibb County
for the sport. Organizers expect 8,000 The USTA will donate $25,000 to the Commission voted unanimously to name
spectators at the world’s largest pickleball USTA Pacific Northwest Section to help the tennis facilities at the South Bibb Rec-
complex, with 60 permanent courts. The grow tennis in the region, as part of the reation Center in Macon, Ga., the “Randy
event offers $70,000 in prize money. USTA’s Fed Cup Legacy Program. The Stephens Tennis Center,” in honor of
program is designed to leave a lasting Stephens’ contribution to the community
Universal Tennis has been honored mark in the communities that host Fed and the sport of tennis.
as PTR Partner of the Year. The PTR says Cup ties in the U.S. Everett’s Angel Of The
Universal Tennis has been committed to Winds Arena played host to the Fed Cup Game-Set-Match Inc. has opened its
supporting PTR and the growth of tennis tie in early February, when the U.S. beat fourth retail specialty racquet sports store
through a collection of coaching resources Latvia 3-2. The U.S. plays April 14-19 in the in Boulder, Colo. The new retail location
for PTR members. 2020 Fed Cup Finals in Budapest. has been the longtime home of Rocky
Mountain Racquet Specialists, owned by
Lighting consultant Frasure Reps LLC has The six-court Middlebury Racquet Club the late Steve Vorhaus, who tragically lost
created a quarterly newsletter to show- in Connecticut was recently purchased by his life last July.
PUBLISHER
JEFF WILLIAMS
EDITOR
PETER FRANCESCONI
MANAGING EDITOR
SCOTT GRAMLING
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
IAN KNOWLES
SENIOR EDITOR
COACHING ED McGROGAN
L
SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR
orenzo Beltrame, Doug Cash and Dan Santorum (above, from left) have BOB PATTERSON
been named PTR International Master Professionals. The designation CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
recognizes those who have made significant contributions to PTR and the CYNTHIA CANTRELL, PEG CONNOR,
game of tennis throughout their careers. DAVID LASOTA, JUDY LEAND, KENT OSWALD,
CYNTHIA SHERMAN, MARY HELEN SPRECHER
Beltrame, of Windermere, Fla., is an award-winning coaching authority who has
vast experience in mental training for sports, and has worked with dozens of ATP CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
and WTA touring pros. Cash, of Seymour, Ind., is an expert in helping tennis clubs BOB KENAS, DAVID KENAS
thrive. Santorum, of Hilton Head Island, S.C., has been guiding the growth of PTR ASSOCIATE EDITOR
for 33 years as the organization’s CEO. TIM McARTHUR
EDITORIAL DIRECTION
10TEN MEDIA
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
JOHN HANNA
770-650-1102, x125
hanna@knowatlanta.com
APPAREL ADVERTISING
CYNTHIA SHERMAN
203-558-5911
cstennisindustry@gmail.com
Solinco Unveils Latest Elevate is Diadem’s control series, de- USTA New England, Wilson
Tennis String: Confidential signed for players who want precision, Partner to Grow Tennis
Solinco has announced the release of spin and feel. It comes in two models: USTA New England announced a new
Confidential, a co-polyester tennis string. the Elevate FS 98 and Elevate FS 98 Tour. partnership with Wilson Sporting Goods
Initially developed for top touring pros, Diadem says the Nova frames deliver that will have a deep impact on the deliv-
Confidential is now available for all play- explosive power and have been redesigned ery of tennis programming throughout
ers. The company says the string features inside and out with new cosmetic and New England.
Solinco’s blend of spin, power and con- flagship technologies. The Nova series “Wilson will be putting equipment
trol with added playability. Confidential includes the 100 FS, FS 100 Plus and FS directly into the hands of kids in public
is available in 16, 16L, 17 and 18 gauges 100 Lite. Visit www.diademsports.com. parks who otherwise might not have ac-
in both 12-meter individual sets and
200-meter reels.
“We had not originally planned to add
this co-polyester string to our product
line," says Solinco Director KT Kim.
"However, as more players heard and
tested the string, a strong interest and
demand for the product grew, and we
ultimately realized that we needed to
make this available for everyone.”
Visit solincosports.com for more info.
TRU-BOUNCE
Visit uniquesports.us or call 770- TM
O
In today’s market, convenience is
king. What would make your service
ne of the most frequent Depending on your situation, that more convenient for customers? Pick-
questions we get at the may mean getting more training to up and/or delivery? Easy communica-
USRSA is, “How can I improve your skills, or investing in a tion via text? Find out.
grow my business?” The better stringing machine or additional
question comes from equipment to offer your clients more 4. Use Social Media And Other Tools
stringers at all stages of business—from services. It may be as simple as promot- You can reach a broad audience through
those brand new to the industry, to ex- ing your skills and services to make social media. Create social media pages
perienced stringers looking to be out on clients aware of what you have to offer. for your business and offer incentives
their own, to established racquet tech- Becoming a USRSA Certified Stringer for new clients.
nicians faced with an evolving market. or Master Racquet Technician is a great Don’t make every post an ad. In-
There is no standard answer. But way to show customers and potential stead, educate your clientele about the
there are some key factors that hold clients that your skills have been veri- need for services, promote local tennis
true in almost every case, which can fied by an independent organization. events, and slip in some soft advertise-
always help to set the stage for success. ments along the way. If you are in a
2. Promote Your Skills, Workmanship highly competitive market, consider a
1. Be Known For Your Work and Work Ethic loyalty program to reward clients.
The best way to set yourself apart from Doing good work and being certified is This industry continues to change
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the competition is to be the best you just the beginning. You need to pro- at a rapid pace. To keep customers
can be. Producing quality work and mote that at every opportunity. Don’t satisfied, you’ll need to stay tuned and
exceeding your client’s expectations be afraid to let potential clients know constantly adapt while maintaining
will always work to your advantage. about your business and your skill set, good, sound business practices. •
D
on winning.
“Focusing on performance—hitting
own 1–4 in the opening control the bad part,” says former Top your shots and doing things within
set of a Chicago Catholic 10 player Brad Gilbert. your control and ability—will actually
League match last spring, Anxiety on the tennis court leads make it more likely that you will be
a high school player came to tense muscles, reduced flexibility, victorious,” says sports psychologist
over to chat during the fatigue, lower concentration and poor Robert Weinberg, author of Winning the
changeover. “Coach, I can’t believe how decision-making—all of which affect Mental Game.
nervous I am,” he said. “I know I can performance. Studies have shown that Relaxation for some players can even
beat him, but I can’t shake the jitters.” there is an inverse relationship between start in the locker room. Coco Gauff
My player’s game was up to par, but fear and confidence. As anxiety rises, relaxes before a match by watching
his mental state clearly was not. He confidence drops. YouTube videos.
needed to relax and sharpen his focus. Knowing how to harness relaxation Not everyone is Coco, but with prac-
“Breathe deeply,” I said. “Stay fluid. techniques such as these can help your tice, your young players can use simi-
Concentrate on following through on junior players win the mental game: larly simple and proven strategies to
each shot.” He eventually recovered and beat on-court jitters in any situation. •
won in a third-set tie breaker. Breathe: Anxiety causes quick, shal-
Helping players deal with on-court low breathing. Focus on deep, smooth,
anxiety is a complex issue. Whether rhythmic breaths to counteract tension. Joe Tedino, a retired public
players are simply nervous or are in- Slow Down Between Points: Players relations executive and
PTR-certified instructor,
timidated by the situation or opponent, who race to the baseline after a lost
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Apparel
In the last few years, training, recovery and injury According to the International Sports Sciences Association
prevention have become more prevalent in sports, with (ISSA), compression gear can help prevent injuries and pain.
tennis no exception. Serena Williams vividly illustrated that It does this by increasing pressure on particular muscles
when she made her comeback in the 2018 French Open, and re-routing excess fluids, which in turn increases blood
donning a full-body catsuit. While it was undoubtedly a flow and reduces swelling. Sports compression socks, as an
fashion statement, there were other factors behind the outfit example, can relieve shin splints and calf cramps, prevent
choice. Williams’ catsuit and compression tights offered a injury and speed recovery. With moisture-wicking and anti-
number of wellness benefits, including better blood microbial properties, this type of footwear can be the best
circulation, increased overall energy and reduced stress. preventive medicine for your legs and feet.
PERFORMANCE GEAR
A Feet-First Approach
Promoting better blood circulation,
compression socks can help prevent injury,
speed recovery and increase overall energy.
By Cynthia Sherman
SockWell’s Run/Fitness Long a standard of medical- Zensah’s Tech+Compression With years of research and
merino wool compression grade support wear, Bauer- Socks feature graduated development behind their
socks offer anti-odor pro- feind has expanded into compression. Lightweight, products, Bombas socks of-
perties, ankle support and compression sports socks, moisture-wicking, anti-odor fer medical-grade compres-
arch support. Breathability providing targeted support and thermal regulating, the sion thanks to a honeycomb
and ventilated flex zones to stimulate muscles. The seamless construction and support system for added
boost moisture control. “Figure-8 Taping Zone” and ultra-zone ribbing wards off arch support and which
Seamless toe closures ease padding in key areas provide blisters and provides arch continues through the toe
discomfort for players prone stability, support and absorb support and ankle stabiliza- area, also aiding in comfort.
to toe-jamming. SockWell shock and vibration. The tion. They’re specifically Made of 100 percent cotton,
features a variety of colors knee-length sock comes in designed for each foot, avail- the compression sock
and lengths, and retails from four colors and a range of able in five colors and retail comes in four colors and
$16.99 to $26.99. sizes, and retails for $49.99. for $49.99. retails for $18.
T
scholarships. While this may sound
great, it means coaches are now scruti-
ennis providers can be U.S. that have tennis as a part of their nizing recruits much more closely.
valuable resources in athletic offerings. In 2017-2018, the
helping their young play- breakdown of tennis programs was: Academics vs. Tennis
ers find the right college • D-I: Men 255, Women 315 For college-bound players, finding
for them, and even helping • D-II: Men 166, Women 227 schools that balance academic and ten-
them to find tennis scholarships. • D-III: Men 329, Women 366 nis needs is key. This means looking at a
Students searching for scholarships • NAIA: Men 110, Women 114 coach, a team and, most important, aca-
need a reliable and trusted mentor. And • In addition, community colleges demics. In addition, the location should
as a tennis provider with years of ex- also have men’s and women’s tennis offer a community environment that
perience in this industry, you can help programs. leads to growth on and off the court.
guide your players in finding a place Students need to be aware that there For players who want to stay in tennis
to both continue their education and are many differences when it comes to but don’t plan to play professionally,
prepare for their future. college scholarships. Generally, NCAA suggest they seek a degree in Profes-
In my decades-long experience of- Division I and II colleges provide ath- sional Tennis Management. There are
fering seminars to high school players letic scholarships of varying types and at least seven schools across the coun-
and their parents about playing college amounts. For instance, the Ivy League try offering undergraduate programs
tennis and finding scholarships, one of and eight other schools that compete on and three with PTM graduate programs.
the most important things a tennis pro- the D-I level do not offer athletic subsi- Recommend that students develop a
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vider can do is remind student-athletes dies. Some D-II schools offer financial “must haves” list in regard to a school. It
to stay true to their needs and not be assistance, yet others don’t. Athletic would also be wise for young players to
swayed by others’ choices and desires. grants aren’t available at D-III schools, contact college and university coaches.
There are nearly 1,900 schools in the but they provide academic scholarships, Make sure the student is the one to
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Full-Court
has hosted the Tournament
of Champions since 2015 at
Rees Pioneer Park, recently
broke ground for six more city-
owned pickleball courts.
Press
Pickleball’s soaring popularity is nomical,” says Dan Santorum, CEO of
the Professional Pickleball Registry
prompting communities to construct and Professional Tennis Registry.
“Anyone and everyone can play.
and expand facilities. Unlike tennis, the most popular aspect
of pickleball is doubles because you
can play with friends and in large
By Judy Leand groups. It’s like life-size ping pong.”
The USAPA sanctioned approxi-
mately 200 pickleball tournaments
in the United States last year, and
reported that known places to play
As numerous communities across “There is plenty of sustainable pickleball totaled 6,885 at the end of
the U.S. are discovering, pickleball growth because of its many positive 2018, representing approximately 85
courts—whether at private clubs, qualities—pickleball is social, healthy new locations per month.
resorts, or public parks and venues— and fun. This societal impact provides The organization says the number
are becoming magnets for players a lot of room to grow. It’s an activity of courts for pickleball play has tripled
of all ages and ability levels. In part, that can transcend sport and benefit in five years, through 2019.
this is because the game is bringing people positively in society.” All of this means that there is now
vibrancy and fun to the areas in which Friends and relatives, Bauernfeind more demand than supply for pickle-
the courts are located. adds, are key to introducing new ball courts—and many communities
Pickleball’s many proponents players to the sport, and indoor facili- are eagerly responding.
point out that the game can be played ties are providing another avenue of
indoors or outdoors, is easy for begin- growth, particularly in cold northern Multi-Generational Appeal
ners to learn—yet can be fast-paced climates during winter. At Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort
and competitive for experienced play- About 3.3 million Americans played in Hilton Head Island, S.C., pickleball
ers—and has developed a passionate pickleball in 2019, according to data has become a major focus because it
following due to its social nature and from the Sports & Fitness Industry draws a multi-generational group of
multi-generational appeal. Addition- Association, and the number is enthusiasts. Over the past four-and-
ally, the equipment is inexpensive and expected to climb in coming years. a-half years, the venue has converted
easily transportable. The USAPA reported that it had some of its tennis courts into pick-
On a larger scale, pickleball’s grow- 40,000 members at the end of 2019, leball courts, and currently boasts
ing participation and the resulting representing a tenfold spike over a 24 lighted pickleball courts as well
increase in court construction are six-year period. The 50-plus crowd as 19 clay tennis courts. The resort
helping to revitalize the racquet sports comprises about 60 percent of play- also runs an 1,800-square-foot pro
industry. ers, and the under-50 age group is shop that carries paddles, shoes and
“I don’t think pickleball’s growth also growing, with males ages 35 to 49 pickleball apparel. Besides serving a
is a fad or a boom,” believes George being the fastest-growing segment. By large number of visitors, the resort
Bauernfeind, USA Pickleball Associa- gender, 60 percent of players are male, counts about 300 local members in its
tion’s managing director of marketing and 40 percent are female. pickleball club and offers league play,
and communications. “The growth of pickleball is astro- lessons and clinics.
“We have a very active vibe here,” home to the Hilton Head Pickleball next five years, we’ll have 12 total pick-
says John Kerr, Palmetto Dunes’ Open, a four-day national event run by leball courts, plus two movable Mapei
director of tennis and pickleball APP (Association of Pickleball Profes- courts that can be put over paddle
operations. “League play is growing in sionals) that is part of a 14-city series or tennis courts, or even located in a
the area and is helping to fuel growth. of events that includes pros and age- parking lot next to the tennis courts.”
We run daily round robins and have group divisions. The tournament, held Founded in 1898, Baltimore Coun-
had as many as 100 people sign up to in March, attracts about 200 players try Club has hosted many national and
play in one day. and offers a $25,000 purse for the pros. international golf and racquet sports
“People who used to play tennis tournaments over the decades, and in
are coming out to play pickleball, and Pickleball on Clay 2017 added the National Clay Court
PHOTO BY BELIINDA DETTMAN
we’re also seeing a good number of The sport is also thriving at Baltimore Pickleball Championships to the
golfers taking up the sport because it Country Club in Maryland, one of roster. This year, the event will be held
allows spouses to do something active just 36 clubs around the country that in September and is expected to draw
and social.” offers clay pickleball courts. about 250 players.
Kerr reports that the resort is con- “Clay is soft on the body but plays While facility design is key, Chirico
stantly looking to add programming, the same as a hardcourt and is the believes it is crucial for all clubs to
and has hired pickleball touring pro future of pickleball—especially as the focus on having the right staff to grow
Sarah Ansboury, who serves as direc- game breaks into country clubs,” says the entire racquet program.
tor of instruction and certifies pros to Jarrett Chirico, Baltimore Country “Pickleball is a good transition
teach pickleball. Palmetto Dunes is also Club’s director of racquets. “In the sport for kids who want to get into
tennis, and it also gives older players expects to have all 24 lighted courts The 122-year-old Baltimore
Country Club in Maryland is
another way to remain active in the up and running in time for the 2020 one of just 36 clubs around
community and at your club,” he says. Tournament of Champions in August. the country to offer pickleball
play on clay courts.
“In this industry, if you don’t innovate, This year’s event, part of the 14-city
you’ll die. For pros getting into the APP Tour, has been extended from
game, PPR certifications are key; it’s four days to five, is expected to draw
important to invest in staff and get about 700 competitors, will include a ational appeal is driving its growth.
them certified.” new Super Senior division for players “We’ve never had an easier time
ages 65 and up, and will offer $75,000 convincing the city council of the need
PHOTO COURTESY JARRETT CHIRICO
Adding More Public Courts in prize money. for more money to invest in pickleball!
Meanwhile, Brigham City, Utah, has “All demographics and all walks of Our mayor has fully bought into the
also become a pickleball hotbed. Since life meet and interact at the pickleball importance of what the sport does for
2015, it has hosted the Tournament of courts,” says Kristy Wolford, com- the community,” Wolford notes.
Champions, a city-owned, USAPA Tier munity activity & services director In addition to the Tournament
One event. The main pickleball venue at Brigham City Corp. “We have a of Champions, Brigham City holds
is Rees Pioneer Park, which provides vibrant senior community with 150 specialized tournaments every month,
17 courts, plus Utah’s first standalone regular players, but the dynamics of including the regional Brigham City
championship court. who plays is expanding.” Memorial, the PTSD Pro-Am, and the
Brigham City recently broke ground Wolford points out that unlike other Brigham City Community Hospital
for six more courts, including another sports, pickleball grew backwards Tournament that supports Meals on
standalone championship court, and from seniors. The game’s multi-gener- Wheels (and contributes $5,000 to
C
COURTESY PALMETTO DUNES OCEANFRONT RESORT; PIKES PEAK PICKLEBALL ASS OCIATION; STEVE TROLANDER/PPPA
that charity annually). Players in the located in Bear Creek Regional Park, In Colorado Springs (top two
photos) and Palmetto Dunes
community can take advantage of les- southwest of Colorado Springs in the (bottom photos), pickleball
sons, drop-in clinics, city leagues and foothills of Pikes Peak. The existing play draws players and
spectators to the courts.
summer youth offerings. tennis courts are being converted to
A new statewide junior pickleball pickleball courts. There will be other
initiative kicked off in March and improvements as well, such as a new
features a tournament in each of four main park restroom facility, new fenc- waiting list to use the pickleball courts
state regions, with the winners quali- ing and upgraded parking lots. during the summer and on seasonally
fying for the Tournament of Champi- “Currently, our destination hosts nice days, so the new complex will be a
ons. TOC has $12,000 in scholarship the annual Great Plains Regional much needed and welcome addition.
money held by the American Dream Pickleball Tournament at Monument “Our pickleball community is
Foundation. John A. Gullo, a major Valley Park, which offer 13 courts,” strong and growing,” she says.
investor in the Brigham City pickle- says Cheryl McCullough, director of Clearly, pickleball is red hot around
ball facility, runs the foundation. sports and special events at Visit the country, and on track to inflame
Colorado Springs. “The new facility at the passions of an ever-increasing
More Courts, More Tournaments Bear Creek Park will enable us to host pool of participants.
Colorado Springs, Colo., is also making additional, larger tournaments and “This is the golden age of rac-
a big name for itself on the pickle- these new courts will also accommo- quets,” says Baltimore Country Club’s
ball scene. A new 12-court pickleball date our very active pickleball com- Chirico. “There is now an opportunity
complex is currently in the works and munity of over 1,000 members.” to expand growth across all racquet
slated to open this June. The venue is McCullough notes that there is a categories, fueled by pickleball.”
Low–Temperature
Cold Weather Products
• Extend your season
• Shorten drying time
• Cure below 0˚ C / 32˚ F
PADDLES 1 /GAMMA
The arms race is on. Some may increased use of carbon fibers—and 2 /VULCAN
mourn the quirkiness of pickleball quality across the industry. Manu- vulcansportinggoods.com
paddles from yesteryear that emerged facturers are building thicker cores, 800-826-6373
after being jigsawed from plywood in many with polymer honeycombs, for
a garage or basement, but they can’t their competition paddles. There is The 5-year-old company presents its
deny how today’s technological en- more consistency every time the ball V700 series performance racquets that
hancements improve the pleasures of rebounds from the paddle, greater are all priced at $149.99 and support
P H O T O S F R O M T H E M A N U FA CT U R E R S
this game, created 55 years ago. durability, and an increased number of a range of games with their tapered,
These improvements owe some- options for players who want to make rectangular heads, polycarbonate cores
thing to the natural evolution of the sure the paddle fits their game. and fiber-reinforced polymer faces. The
sport of pickleball, but it is also true For the foreseeable future, the hits 7.9-ounce V710 balances power and
they are coming ever faster as manu- will just keep coming as the larger control, which are also the key features
facturers compete for the attention manufacturers are entering the field of the lighter 7.4-ounce V710L. The
and dollars of a growing mainstream and the smaller companies are forced 7.9-ounce V720 is designed for control
audience. Trends include improve- to push the envelope to keep and ex- and feel. The 7.9-ounce V730 maximiz-
ments in materials—a reduction of pand their current influence. Here are es power, and also has a lighter version,
lightweight fibers and aluminum, and some of today’s top innovators. the 7.4-ounce V730L.
6 8
5 7
The newest Onix highlight is the Evoke The online retailer has its own brand The 2020 Amped Invikta ($150),
Premier ($149.99), a paddle balancing of paddles, including the lightweight, inspired by Tyson McGuffin, is a
power and swing speed on which Matt teardrop-shaped Champion Graphite midweight paddle with an elongated
Wright and Lucy Kovalova collabo- Elite ($84.99), designed for maneuver- handle. The premier paddle in the
rated. It’s available in three weights and ability. The Champion Graphite XL Amped series features a fiberglass face
features a honeycombed polypropylene ($84.99), in four colors, provides extra catering to those who rely on touch,
core and a minimally coated composite reach and a vibration-reducing core. while the honeycombed polypropylene
face. For enhanced control, the Voy- The Champion Graphite X ($84.99) is a core delivers exceptional power and
ager Pro ($109.99) is a wide-body also wide-body, focused on control through stability. Paddle graphics and color
available in three weights, and all with a robust sweetspot. All have a 1/2-inch stories are also bolder and more
a premium-coated graphite face and honeycombed polypropylene core and dynamic thanks to enhanced printing
honeycombed polypropylene core. a textured graphite face. capabilities.
Featuring a textured graphite face and Head, which is a sponsor of the Profes- Putting power into the hands of every
honeycombed graphite polymer core, sional Pickleball Registry, is timing the player, the wide-body Juice ($109) and
the Tempest Wave Pro ($159.99), in five launch of two new paddles to the Minto long-body and slightly lighter Juice XL
colors, is designed for those seeking US Open Pickleball Championships ($99) have fiberglass composite faces
accuracy, consistency and touch. The in April. The Gravity ($149.95) at 8.1 that are textured to provide a control
newest Bantam paddle, the EX-L Pro ounces and the 7.5-ounce Gravity Lite element for aggressive hitters, and
($149.99), is available for customization both feature 3/5-inch low-density cores vibration dampening honeycombed
via the website, with a textured, poly- with larger sweetspots for greater play- polypropylene cores. The Juice is a
carbonate surface and a honeycombed ability and consistency. Available in dif- solid fit for doubles players who can
polymer composite core. The Phoe- ferent color versions, the faces of each rely on its larger sweetspot for touch
nix series, including the Genesis Pro are a hybrid of graphite and composite around the net, while the Juice XL lets
($119.99), provides a balance of power fibers, to enhance power, comfort and experienced players maximize their
and control. control, says the company. hitting potential.
1 /FILA
fila.com
800-845-3452
1
FOOTWEAR
Covering the
Pickleball demands less 2 /WILSON
court coverage than tennis, wilson.com
but it necessitates no less 800-401-7967
quality in its shoes. While
4
6
• The five-stripes brand has • The black-on-black Jet • When the game goes • Head is the “official
just dropped its Express Tere ($100) for men and indoors, recommended footwear sponsor” of the
Light Pickleball shoe ($100) women features a breathable shoes are the 65Z2 ($130) Minto US Open Pickleball
in two colorways each for mesh upper and high-den- with its seamless design, Championships. The Sprint
both men and women. This sity foam inside. Providing mesh ventilation and SF ($159.95) for men is a
lightweight, breathable shoe support and performance, improved stability through premier lightweight, durable
arrives with comfort fea- the lightweight shoe also the midsole, and the 65X2 shoe providing superior en-
tures such as an enhanced delivers superior durability ($120) with extra space for ergy return. The Revolt Evo
cushioning midsole and a confronting hard surfaces the big toe, mesh ventilation ($99.95) for men and women
sock liner with wicking and thanks to its Michelin-de- and additional heel support. is favored for its wider fit,
anti-microbial properties, signed rubber outsole. When outdoors, consider the comfortable features like a
as well as a focus on perfor- lightweight, comfortable and memory foam collar, syn-
mance and durability. stable Sonicage2 ($120) with thetic-leather/lightweight-
enhanced shock absorption. mesh upper, and a vent that
opens under the removable
insole for keeping cool.
a large number. But these 200 strings and published in RSI. The most recent We’re sure you’ll find some old
are, arguably, the cream of the crop— USRSA string playtest published was favorites on these lists, and we hope
they were specifically selected for the Prince Diablo Prism 17 in the you’ll find these rankings helpful as
testing by their manufacturers as the January 2020 issue. you look to stock your shop with the
strings they were most excited about We thought it would be interesting best strings for your customer base.
1 Wilson Natural 16 Jun-06 4.33 3.25 3.99 4.05 4.29 4.25 4.03 3.75 3.43 3.93
2 Ytex Quadro Twist 16L Feb-12 3.51 4.36 3.69 3.85 3.03 3.21 4.28 3.82 4.23 3.78
3 Head Sonic Pro Edge 16 Feb-13 3.58 4.36 3.58 3.97 3.31 3.33 4.11 3.61 4.03 3.76
T4 Tourna Big Hitter Silver 7 Tour 17 Sep-19 3.53 4.47 3.43 3.90 3.27 3.37 4.27 3.40 4.13 3.75
T4 Tourna Big Hitter Blue Rough 17 Feb-11 3.65 4.15 3.59 3.88 3.12 3.26 4.15 3.68 4.24 3.75
6 Klip Screamer (gut mains) 17/17 Jun-05 3.99 3.40 3.97 3.87 3.89 3.89 3.46 3.60 3.49 3.73
T7 Tecnifibre HDX Tour 17 Sep-14 4.01 3.29 3.70 3.75 3.87 4.12 3.36 3.63 3.59 3.70
T7 Klip X-Plosive (gut mains) 17/17 Nov-04 3.81 3.71 3.98 3.81 3.74 3.66 3.48 3.48 3.64 3.70
T9 Genesis Black Magic 17 Aug-11 3.53 4.42 3.45 3.79 3.11 3.29 3.87 3.61 4.11 3.69
T9 Victory Acelon Seven 16L Mar-14 3.57 4.10 3.53 3.70 3.10 3.23 4.27 3.57 4.10 3.69
T11 Prince Synthetic Gut w/Duraflex 17 Mar-93 4.00 3.80 3.50 3.80 -- -- -- 3.80 3.20 3.68
T11 Prince Premier LT 17 Mar-09 4.05 3.05 3.67 3.97 4.03 3.97 3.64 3.51 3.21 3.68
T13 Tourna Hybrid Poly Gut (poly mains) 16/16 Jul-05 3.81 4.10 3.62 3.82 3.21 3.43 3.46 3.54 4.04 3.67
T13 Wilson NXT OS 16 Jun-04 4.08 3.76 3.58 3.81 3.54 3.65 3.46 3.51 3.60 3.67
T15 Tourna Big Hitter Black 7 17 May-12 3.58 3.85 3.58 3.67 3.24 3.24 4.36 3.45 3.97 3.66
T15 Dunlop Max Comfort 16 Feb-97 3.60 3.90 3.40 3.60 3.70 -- -- 3.70 3.70 3.66
T15 Head Sonic Pro/Natural Gut 16/17 Aug-09 3.86 3.81 3.81 3.86 3.44 3.56 3.50 3.39 3.67 3.66
18 Klip X-Plosive (poly mains) 17/17 Nov-04 3.82 3.94 3.89 3.67 3.47 3.48 3.47 3.32 3.77 3.65
T19 Tecnifibre Razor Code 16 Apr-13 3.41 4.38 3.53 3.94 2.97 3.13 3.47 3.66 4.28 3.64
T19 Gamma Zo Verve 17 Sep-11 3.49 4.40 3.58 3.88 2.95 2.98 3.86 3.60 4.00 3.64
T19 Prince Diablo Prism 17 Feb-20 3.59 4.31 3.41 3.78 3.16 3.25 3.50 3.53 4.19 3.64
22 Luxilon M2 Pro 1.25 May-09 3.49 4.49 3.57 3.78 2.92 3.03 3.76 3.59 4.00 3.63
T23 Luxilon M2 Plus 1.3 Jan-10 3.59 4.26 3.72 3.69 3.15 3.21 3.49 3.58 3.92 3.62
T23 Tecnifibre X-One Biphase 17 Jul-04 3.94 3.38 3.84 3.79 3.65 4.03 3.50 3.21 3.26 3.62
25 Solinco Tour Bite 18 Jul-10 3.51 4.21 3.56 3.54 3.03 3.21 3.72 3.66 4.03 3.61
T26 Tourna Big Hitter Blue 17 Jan-08 3.49 4.45 3.47 3.57 3.00 3.18 3.66 3.55 4.05 3.60
T26 Gamma TNT2 Touch 16 Jun-10 3.82 3.50 3.67 3.72 3.64 3.83 3.53 3.47 3.22 3.60
T26 Gosen Polylon SP 17 Sep-05 3.54 4.20 3.53 3.61 3.16 3.24 3.29 3.81 4.01 3.60
T29 Tecnifibre Black Code 16 Jul-09 3.50 4.28 3.39 3.75 2.89 3.19 3.61 3.42 4.28 3.59
T29 Kirschbaum Pro Line II Rough 1.25 Jul-16 3.38 4.21 3.15 3.82 3.06 3.26 4.09 3.50 3.82 3.59
T29 Tecnifibre TGV 16 Jul-08 3.68 3.62 3.38 3.84 3.54 3.92 3.43 3.57 3.30 3.59
USRSA STRING RANKINGS ARE B ASED ON RATINGS FROM MORE THAN 200 STRING PLAYTESTS SINCE 1992.
T29 Tourna Quasi Gut 16 Apr-10 3.94 3.39 3.67 3.64 3.75 3.83 3.39 3.44 3.22 3.59
T33 Klip Screamer (nylon mains) 17/17 Jun-05 3.88 2.82 3.68 3.76 3.67 3.83 3.65 3.59 3.36 3.58
T33 Tecnifibre Ruff Code 16 Apr-12 3.24 4.35 3.53 3.74 2.94 2.94 3.85 3.59 4.06 3.58
T33 Gamma RZR Rx 16 Aug-13 3.61 4.03 3.48 3.82 3.21 3.42 3.67 3.52 3.42 3.58
T36 Tourna Quasi Gut Armor 16 Nov-13 3.86 3.26 3.71 3.71 3.94 4.17 3.06 3.40 3.06 3.57
T36 Solinco Tour Bite 17 Jul-10 3.42 4.19 3.64 3.67 2.92 2.75 4.11 3.44 4.00 3.57
T36 Pacific Power Hybrid (poly mains) 16L/16L Nov-08 3.37 4.17 3.40 3.83 3.09 3.14 3.60 3.66 3.86 3.57
T39 Wilson K Gut 16 Mar-08 3.68 3.53 3.43 3.65 3.59 3.78 3.19 3.51 3.68 3.56
T39 Luxilon Alu Power Fluoro 1.23 Apr-08 3.43 4.51 3.31 3.77 2.83 2.91 3.37 3.74 4.17 3.56
T39 Tecnifibre X-Code 16 Jan-11 3.58 3.86 3.39 3.67 3.42 3.53 3.22 3.64 3.72 3.56
T39 Isospeed Black Fire 17 Sep-13 3.50 4.07 3.50 3.73 2.93 3.27 3.43 3.50 4.10 3.56
T39 Ashaway Gutfire 16 Feb-95 3.20 4.00 3.30 3.80 3.10 -- -- 3.60 3.90 3.56
T39 Prince Synthetic Gut Soft 16 Mar-96 3.70 3.30 3.50 3.90 3.50 -- -- 3.70 3.30 3.56
T39 Prince Synthetic Gut Multifilament 16 Jan-07 3.79 3.67 3.34 3.85 3.48 3.67 3.30 3.45 3.45 3.56
T46 Gamma Zo Sweet 17 Nov-05 3.50 4.27 3.45 3.61 3.12 3.18 3.55 3.61 3.70 3.55
T46 Isospeed Professional 17 Jun-07 3.61 3.72 3.50 3.75 3.33 3.61 3.50 3.36 3.58 3.55
T46 Pacific Poly Power Pro 16 Mar-10 3.33 4.51 3.44 3.70 2.69 2.86 3.41 3.70 4.31 3.55
T46 Gamma Moto 16 May-13 3.38 4.16 3.22 3.70 2.78 3.11 4.08 3.38 4.14 3.55
T50 Wilson Sensation NXT 16 Feb-98 3.70 3.40 3.50 3.70 3.60 3.70 3.40 3.50 3.40 3.54
T50 Tecnifibre Duramix HD 16 Jul-11 3.78 3.42 3.58 3.58 3.78 3.83 3.25 3.22 3.44 3.54
T50 Head Gravity 17/18 Feb-15 3.38 3.85 3.46 3.54 3.15 3.09 3.96 3.55 3.84 3.54
USRSA STRING RANKINGS ARE B ASED ON RATINGS FROM MORE THAN 200 STRING PLAYTESTS SINCE 1992.
11 Klip X-Plosive (gut mains) 17/17 Nov-04 3.74 T10 Mantis Comfort Synthetic 16 Sep-10 3.97
12 Wilson Optimus 16 Jun-14 3.73 12 Tecnifibre TGV 16 Jul-08 3.92
T13 Dunlop Max Comfort 16 Feb-97 3.70 13 Diadem Evolution 1.3 Jan-18 3.91
T13 Kirschbaum Touch Multi-Fibre 1.25 Sep-00 3.70 T14 Klip Screamer (gut mains) 17/17 Jun-05 3.89
15 Mantis Comfort Synthetic 16 Sep-10 3.68 T14 Tecnifibre Xr3 16 May-08 3.89
16 Klip Screamer (nylon mains) 17/17 Jun-05 3.67 16 Tecnifibre Multifeel 16 Mar-16 3.86
T17 Tecnifibre X-One Biphase 17 Jul-04 3.65 T17 Gamma TNT2 Touch 16 Jun-10 3.83
T17 Wilson NXT Control 16 Jan-12 3.65 T17 Tourna Quasi Gut 16 Apr-10 3.83
19 Gamma TNT2 Touch 16 Jun-10 3.64 T17 Klip Screamer (nylon mains) 17/17 Jun-05 3.83
20 Tecnifibre Xr3 16 May-08 3.63 T17 Tecnifibre Duramix HD 16 Jul-11 3.83
T17 Gamma ESP 16 Mar-03 3.83
1 Pacific Poly Power Pro 16 Mar-10 4.31 11 Gamma Moto 16 May-13 4.14
T2 Tecnifibre Razor Code 16 Apr-13 4.28 T12 Tourna Big Hitter Silver 7 Tour 17 Sep-19 4.13
T2 Tecnifibre Black Code 16 Jul-09 4.28 T12 Gosen Polylon SP 16 Sep-05 4.13
4 Tourna Big Hitter Blue Rough 17 Feb-11 4.24 14 Prince Hybrid Power EXP 17/16 Sep-09 4.12
5 Ytex Quadro Twist 16L Feb-12 4.23 T15 Genesis Black Magic 17 Aug-11 4.11
6 Prince Diablo Prism 17 Feb-20 4.19 T15 Prince Beast XP 16 Mar-11 4.11
T7 Luxilon Alu Power Fluoro 1.23 Apr-08 4.17 T17 Victory Acelon Seven 16L Mar-14 4.10
T7 Tourna Poly Big Hitter 16 May-04 4.17 T17 Isospeed Black Fire 17 Sep-13 4.10
9 Pacific Xcite 16L Mar-12 4.16 T17 Wilson Polylast 16 Jan-01 4.10
10 Gamma Zo Dart 17 Nov-12 4.15 20 Tecnifibre Ruff Code 16 Apr-12 4.06
key to retaining players in this sport. close to close,” the “hate drill” and how
“doubles is a vertical game.”
2. Selling Skills. There are definite
By Greg Lappin skills to understand and master that
have a dramatic impact on creating a
greater number of successful players,
which we’ll talk about.
3. Your Personal Enthusiasm. If you
sincerely believe in the product and can
I
project that sincerity and confidence to
the buyer, there is obviously a greater
n our first installment of the experience, which helps make being a chance to retain the player. The best
“Selling for Success” series, in tennis pro a fun and meaningful career. way to project this is to be yourself.
the March issue, we clarified
a few key points about this In this and subsequent articles, we’ll Selling Skills
industry and the tennis profes- explain what is needed—in concrete A sale is all about creating a relation-
sional’s role in it, mainly: actions—for a tennis professional to be ship, and all relationships begin with
a successful sales person and improve creating trust. Trust is created through
• Tennis pros must understand they are player retention. a series of interactions. For a tennis pro,
not in the tennis business—they are in The first concept to understand is trust is created when you are on time
the positive lifestyle change business. that there is no magic involved. In any for the lesson, teach what was adver-
industry, sales are successful when tised, are affirming with your students,
• The biggest make-or-break factor for proven techniques are applied . Know have a well-planned lesson, build
successful selling is to understand that that the tennis player would not make capability and demonstrate credibility.
you are not selling tennis, you’re selling the effort to be with you if they did Analyze other elements that go into
the benefits of tennis. not have some interest. Whether they building trust and implement them, in-
become more involved will depend a lot cluding asking trust-building questions.
• Matching the benefits of tennis to the on the skills of the lesson giver. Let’s emphasize this one more time:
player will create a positive and lasting You need to relax and enjoy the We are not in the athletic club business.
Goodbye sprinklers.
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regulating, fully-adjustable sub-surface irrigation
system. No more sprinklers, no more guessing.
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We are in the positive lifestyle change
business. Your players are there for a
reason known to them. It is your job to
gain knowledge of what that reason is
and match your talents and expertise to
benefit them.
For some people, they’re at your
facility because they just want to have
fun and compete—purely for pleasure.
Others may be new to town and are
using tennis to make connections and
friendships. Or maybe advanced play-
ers are at your courts to learn how to
sharpen their mental skills to overcome
their apprehensiveness on key points.
Players could be at your facility for
some very personal reasons—maybe
they just lost a loved one and are
searching for ways to help cope with
the situation. A parent could be looking
for a physical activity and new friends
for his or her shy child.
Most of us underestimate how much
we can help our customers. I met a
former student standing in line at a deli
recently. We had not seen each other playing tennis a long time?” “Have you language. Get a feel for their openness.
for 25 years. She shared with me, “Greg, been a member here very long?” “So, Ascertain their social style.
when I was in your tennis program, my what’s the best part of your game?”
husband was very ill. My mother and Make this relationship discovery
brother passed away. I do not know how Create a Relationship phase a comfortable part of an ongoing
I would have survived all of that if it had Every buying decision is made to fulfill conversation, in which you are collect-
not been for the group of tennis friends a need. Most buying decisions have an ing insights into why your students are
and the fun of the tennis programs.” emotional base. This initial period is there, and are interacting and respond-
Tennis is a great tool to increase the used to focus on your players’ needs. ing to what they’re telling you. If you
pleasure or minimize the pain of our The conversation should be at least 70 can tap into an area of personal interest,
customers. percent listening on your part. At this a relationship can form more quickly.
Every tennis director should ask stage, you are not trying to improve a The more effective you are at draw-
their professionals, “Why is so-and- forehand, you are trying to learn more ing out your students in a comfortable,
so in your class? What is the primary about the player by asking questions. nonthreatening way, the more suc-
benefit they are seeking?” The success- You are conducting a needs analysis. cessful the interaction will be, and the
ful pro should be able tell the director better the chance of retaining them in
exactly why each person is there. • Ask nonthreatening, closed- and the sport—and in your business.
open-ended questions to identify your
The Personal Introduction students’ needs and state of mind. Future articles in this series will contin-
What should your first interaction with Closed-ended questions elicit a specific ue to provide a clear and comprehensive
students look like? answer: “Have you ever had a private selling program for you and your staff.
First, greet the students by sticking lesson before?” Open-ended questions
out your hand to welcome them. Confi- open up the response. “So tell me, why
dently introduce yourself. did you come here today?” “What is Greg Lappin is a
“I’m Paul. I’m one of the tennis pro- your opinion of where your game is at?” highly respected
fessionals. How can I help you today?” tennis and athletic
Be simple and direct, and take charge. • Listen. Always give an affirmative, club developer, man-
In any interaction with a new person, empathetic response after each answer. ager and owner. He
introduce an icebreaker. Ask a few “I see,” “very good,” “that’s interesting,” has won many awards
simple questions to begin to create a “yes, I don’t like that either.” It may be for tennis program-
relationship and gain knowledge of worthwhile to summarize and paraphrase ming, club operations
why they chose to come onto the tennis back. “So what you’re telling me is …” and design. Greg has been a presenter
court at this time. at multiple IHRSA, USPTA, PTR, ATP,
“How’s your game?” “Have you been • Observe. Read the players’ body WTA, TIA and USTA conferences.
Access to the Net Generation Mobile App where you can build custom
lesson plans and connect to players in order to provide assessments and
reward them with digital badges
I
do so informed by hard metrics that
validate if what we’re investing in is
indeed driving new participation and
n January, Michael Dowse Dowse, who will be based at the USTA retention. If validated, then we will
took over as Chief Executive National Campus in Orlando, Fla., grew accelerate and continue to support
Officer and Executive Director up playing tennis and was part of a fam- the program. If participation in that
of the USTA, replacing Gordon ily committed to community tennis. He area continues to decline, then we will
Smith, who retired after 12 joins the USTA from Wilson Sporting recalibrate and work to find the correct
years in the role. Goods, where he was president since formula for that community.
In his new position, Dowse is tasked 2013 and responsible for the company’s
with leading the USTA’s overall vision global strategy, corporate opera- RSI: Overall U.S. tennis participation
and its strategy for the growth of tennis tions and manufacturing across 160 has been relatively flat over the last
participation, while ensuring diversity countries. Prior to his role as Wilson decade. How can we fix that?
throughout the sport. He’ll collaborate president, he held positions with Amer Dowse: As mentioned earlier, we need
with USTA sections, districts, CTAs and Sports, and before that, with Nike as its to get people active and have robust
C O U RT E S Y U S TA
national committees for all of the USTA’s director of tennis footwear. entry-level programs at the grassroots
grassroots efforts, and will set the RSI recently caught up with Dowse level, with Parks & Rec as the first point
strategic direction and lead the USTA’s and asked about his plans for tennis, as of contact and engagement. Then we
involvement in professional tennis. well as the USTA. need to develop a clear pathway to core
1.27
mm
1.22
mm
40 ft 360 ft 720 ft
[ 16 gauge ] [ 17 gauge ]
set reel reel
racquet stringing patterns, the USRSA tools and information to help them in
their business like the Racquet Selector,
Racquet Customizer and String Selec-
continues to move this sport forward. tor. The handful of stringing patterns
first gathered and published by the
By Bob Patterson USRSA now total well over 11,000 in our
extensive database, which now includes
S
detailed specifications of racquets as well
as the stringing instructions.
Through the years, the USRSA raised
tarting this new decade put That same summer in 1975, Carol the professional bar for racquet techni-
me in a reflective state of Anderson and her husband, Rick Pray, cians by creating certifications for Certi-
mind. I learned to string looked at this onslaught of diverse rac- fied Stringer (CS), Master Racquet Tech-
racquets 45 years ago, in the quets and saw a need and an opportunity. nician (MRT) and Professional Racquet
middle of the tennis boom. If They set out to gather all the stringing Advisor (PRA). A couple of years ago we
you had asked me in that summer of 1975 instructions for the racquets from the brought back “The Stringer’s Assistant,”
what stringing racquets in 2020 would be various manufacturers—and the U.S. in the form of an e-newsletter.
like, I would have had no clue. Racquet Stringers Association was born. We continue to explore ways to set the
In the mid-1970s, most top-end pro Carol took the helm as executive standards in an ever-evolving indus-
P H O T O S C O U RT E S Y B O B PAT T E R S O N/ U S R S A
shops had a Serrano stringing machine. director while Rick headed the retail try and strive to help our thousands of
The pedal-operated, drop-weight Ser- arm of Associated Tennis Suppliers members provide their clients with the
rano (shown above) was a beast, but it got (ATS). ATS sold a variety of strings, tools best advice and service possible. No one
the job done. Wood racquets still domi- and supplies, and the USRSA provided knows what the next 45 years may bring,
nated and all had pretty much the same patterns and instructions, including the but we plan to be here to help through
pattern, but steel and aluminum racquets book, Stringing Racquets for Profit. “The whatever comes our way.
were coming onto the market. The Stringer’s Assistant” was the monthly
Prince oversized racquet was introduced, newsletter mailed to USRSA members. Longtime stringer and MRT Bob Patterson is
and it required special adapters to fit on Over the coming decades, the racquet the executive director of the USRSA.
most machines. That was soon followed industry and USRSA would grow at a rap-
by many new composite racquets with a id pace. When I learned to string in that We welcome your opinions and comments.
never-ending array of patterns. summer of ’75, I had no idea one could Email info@tennisindustrymag.com.
The Theory of
Non-Embarrassment
James Shaughnessy, MSS, CSCS, USPTA Master Professional
E mma Doyle answers the phone on a empowerment. And it stuck with her
“I can go to her with anything” speaker, as she showed at the 2019 Doyle has mentored Zervakis ever
It was almost by accident that Doyle World Conference in Las Vegas, where since.
fell into coaching. she gave an on-court presentation “I can go to her with anything,”
She was 14 and the kick-serve had called “Game of Zones – Unlocking the Zervakis said.
just come out. There was only one ROGY Pathway.” Zervakis said Doyle’s knowledge of
coach around who could teach it, but And she’s also proven herself an neurolinguistic programming has been
her parents couldn’t afford another inspiring mentor. especially helpful, and not just on the
private lesson, so Doyle traded a lesson Neely Zervakis, a USPTA Elite court, but in life.
as a student for one as a coach. Professional and the associate director “It’s about how our thinking affects
“I remember walking off the court of tennis at the McCormack-Nagelsen how we feel and how our feelings
after my first lesson, which I realize Tennis Center in Virginia, first met affect how we behave,” she said. “She
is very rare, but thinking this is the Doyle at the USPTA Mid-Atlantic taught me to try to never tell a player
greatest job in the world,” she said. Conference in 2019. what they are doing wrong, but to use
“How can I be the best coach that I “I loved her presentation on Aussie powerful key phrases, like ‘imagine if’
can be? doubles tactics,” Zervakis said. or ‘next time what we can do is,’ which
Doyle has asked herself that “Afterwards I went up to express how allows them to problem solve on their
question nearly every day since. For amazing and helpful her presentation own and build their mental strength.”
her, it’s by reaching other coaches. was. We instantly connected and Not long ago, Doyle ran a Girl Power
She is a motivating, energetic public bonded, sharing our passions.” camp for disadvantaged girls in New
Jersey. She said that the next day, a
Photo credit: Gustavo Reyes / USPTA
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ng
n
m.
Tennis Instructors and the New
Certification Pathway
Sid Newcomb, USPTA National Head Tester
sk
d
T his is such an exciting time in
the world of professional tennis
coaching in our country. We are taking
Dec. 31, 2020, deadline. To make this
change, Recreational Coaches must
complete the Tennis Essentials 1
applicants will need to complete 300
hours of online and/or face-to-face
education, as well as complete Safe
a monumental leap in our certification workshop, Safe Play training and pass Play training and pass a background
process – perhaps the biggest shift in a background check before the end screen every two years.
the history of our Association. of the year. Those that choose not These new certification
The USPTA recently unveiled a to convert to Tennis Instructors will requirements will take effect for all
new certified membership category, become Tennis Instructor Applicant applications started on or after Nov.
s Tennis Instructor, that will replace Members on Jan. 1, 2021. 1, 2020.
h the non-certified Recreational Coach To facilitate this paradigm shift, All certified Professional
category on Jan. 1, 2021. Tennis the USPTA is also implementing a level applicants that start their
Instructors will receive coverage new certification pathway. Starting applications on or before Oct.
under the USPTA’s $6 million liability in 2021, all new applicants who wish 31, 2020, will follow the current
insurance policy for annual dues of to become certified professionals will certification pathway and must
o just $199. need to work under the watchful eye complete all tested components by
y We would like to encourage our of a designated USPTA mentor for six Dec. 31, 2020.
current Recreational Coaches to to nine months of hands-on learning All USPTA divisions are increasing
t
convert to Tennis Instructors by the at a club or facility. Additionally, new testing dates by a minimum of 15%
in the fourth quarter of
Photo credit: Lucas Casás / USPTA
2020 to accommodate
those seeking certification
by the year’s end. Cities
of Orlando, New York,
n Los Angeles, Dallas, and
nd Houston will feature
ies weekly testing in November
and December of 2020,
excluding holiday weeks,
if needed.
Should you have any
further questions about
ur the new certification
pathway or about the new
Tennis Instructor category,
please feel free to contact
the Membership team at
membership@uspta.org. *
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ACTUAL DEPICTION
Career Development
USPTA Certification Testing Dates 2020 USPTA Division Conferences
April 3-4......................................................Bayou Bluff Tennis Club
Gulfport, MS May 1-3 Eastern...................International Tennis Hall of Fame.
April 4.................................................... Mingus Union High School
Cottonwood, AZ . Newport, RI
April 6-7.......................................................USTA National Campus May 1-3 New England.......... International Tennis Hall of Fame
Orlando, FL . Newport, RI
April 10..................................................................Life Time Fitness May 14-16 Southern.................................... Atlanta Athletic Club
West Harrison, NY
. Johns Creek, GA
April 10-11.....................................................................BYU-Hawaii
Laie, HI May 15-17 Southwest........................... Grand Canyon University
April 11....................................................... Trussville Racquet Club . Phoenix, AZ
Trussville, AL May 28-31 Florida...................... Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club
April 11-12...................................................... Atlanta Athletic Club . Naples, FL
Johns Creek, GA
April 15-16........................................................ Tyler Junior College June 5-6 Pacific Northwest................................Linfield College
Tyler, TX . McMinnville, OR
April 17.......................................................Tennis Club of Trumbull June 13-14 Hawaii............................................... Punahou School
Trumbull, CT . Honolulu, HI
April 18-19................................................. Rush Copley Healthplex Sept. 21-25 USPTA World Conference...................Hilton Riverside
Aurora, IL
April 19-20................................................... Burbank Tennis Center . New Orleans, LA
Burbank, CA
May 1..................................................... Newport Tennis & Fitness
Newport, RI
May 1-2....................................................................... Holiday Park
Cheyenne, WY
May 2....................................................................... Wakonda Club
Des Moines, IA
May 2-3.........................................................Sea Cliff Country Club
Huntington Beach, CA
May 8-9......................................................Arlington Tennis Center
Arlington, TX
May 9............................................................. Eastlake High School
Chula Vista, CA
May 9-10.......................................................... Oaks at Boca Raton
Boca Raton, FL
May 11-12............................................................... Bay Clubs SFTC
San Francisco, CA
May 14-15............................................... Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ
May 15..................................................................Tennis Addiction Visit www.uspta.com for a complete listing of certification and
Exton, PA educational opportunities
May 15-16...............................................April Sound Country Club
Montgomery, TX • Wheelchair • Pickleball
May 16......................................................... Ferris State University • Padel • RacquetFit
Big Rapids, MI • Platform
May 17........................ Williamson County Indoor Sports Complex
Brentwood, TN
May 17.................................................................... Dominion Club
Glen Allen, VA
May 20-21.......................................................................... Monaco
Denver, CO Visit TennisResources.com to find hundreds of exclusive
educational and instructional videos, audio material, articles
Exam reservations must be made by calling the USPTA World
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the dates listed. Each date includes an exam and upgrade. PTCA of tennis. The user friendly video interface is great for watching
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