Net News May June 2023

Hello my fellow members! It’s May! A beautiful time of the year. We’ve had a great spring season, and many teams are heading to the playoffs, with the hopes of making it to City Finals.

May is also my birthday month! I could not have asked for a better present than to be your 2023 ALTA President.

Every day is something new. I have enjoyed learning about ALTA in a different way, meeting and working with talented people, and even getting a laugh when playing a match and someone points out they are playing against the president. We have such a great group of volunteers taking care of the leagues, the business, and our members. I cannot thank you all enough.

Team captains — a big shout out to you. It takes a dedicated member to be willing to accept the role of team captain. ALTA understands how important the captains are, not only to ALTA, but to their own team. Starting with getting their teams registered, they then move to the weekly duties of setting the lineups and entering the match scorecards.

Here is a snapshot of their many duties.

• Call the visiting captain.

• Review the directions to the courts.

• Inform the opposing team as to know how many courts they can provide and the surface type.

• Confirm the order of play.

• Inform the captain of any special restrictions.

• Exchange lineups.

• Enter the scorecard.

• Start again the following week by creating a lineup that does not violate any player movement or sandbagging rules.

Each week, the captain or acting captain is present at the beginning of a dual meet to exchange lineups and is also responsible for the behavior of their players and spectators.

I encourage all captains and players to take advantage of ALTA’s team management system. Both the captain and players have found it easy to navigate. Checking your active teams will show everything including your schedules, scorecards, the lineup checker, and player availability. It even shows a player how they are doing. All the resources a player or captain might need are at your fingertips!

My next shout out goes to the teams and individual players who show exceptional sportsmanship both on and off the court. I have witnessed teams waiting extra time for players caught in traffic, players helping their opponents when an injury occurs, and teams helping teams off the court for issues that are not tennis related. When I read through all of the sportsmanship nominations, it truly makes me smile. Do not forget if you experience some type of exceptional sportsmanship, tell me about it.

Go ahead…make my day!

Pickleball! It has ALTA’s attention, and I hope by now it has yours, too! How exciting for all of us. Our members can now have two memberships to ALTA. You can choose to play tennis, pickleball, or both! I’m looking forward to trying it myself.

ALTA will always be dedicated to our “roots” as tennis players. We believe offering pickleball will enhance a member’s opportunities; a sport to play on Monday nights with friends and neighbors at your own courts!

I’ll close, as I like to do, by thanking each of you for being an ALTA member.

Shepherd, 2023 ALTA President

2023 ALTA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

300 Colonial Center Parkway, Suite 140, Roswell, GA 30076 Phone: 770.399.5788 Website: altatennis.org

President Linda Shepherd

First Vice President Chequetta Allen

Secretary Mimi McFall

Treasurer Larry Waters

VP Men’s League Greg McAfee

VP Thursday Karen Sullivan

Women’s League

VP Sunday Susan Levin

Women’s League

VP Senior Day Leagues Joan Marcinko

VP Senior Leagues Gina Clance

VP Mixed John Lowell

Doubles League

VP Junior Leagues Wendy Fee

VP Junior Stacey Simmons

Challenge Ladder

VP Special Programs Mark LaRotonda

VP Events & Tournaments Marla Michalewicz

President’s Appointee Tammi Copelli

2022 President Lamar Scott

2021 President Debbie Gaster

ALTA Foundation Rep Cameron Turner

2023 ALTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair Sandy Depa

2021 ALTA President Debbie Gaster

2022 ALTA President Lamar Scott

2023 ALTA President Linda Shepherd

The ALTA Foundation Rita Maloof

President

2022 Elected Member Keri Beck

2023 Elected Member Mitch Falkin

Treasurer Larry Waters

Secretary/

First Vice President Chequetta Allen

2023 THE ALTA FOUNDATION

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President Rita Maloof

Treasurer Larry Waters

Secretary Cameron Turner

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President Larry Lebovitz

Vice President/Publisher John Hanna

Net News Editor Emmy Powell

Features Editor Cory Sekine–Pettite

Art Director Tracy Stalling

Advertising & Megan Willis

Production Manager

Account Executives Jennifer Gonzalez

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Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Direct all advertising, circulation and editorial inquiries to 770.650.1102. All information herein has been checked for accuracy to the best of the publisher’s ability. No responsibility is accepted for deletions, omissions, errors and/or inaccuracies. Printed in U.S.A. The ALTA logo is a protected trademark™.

MAY

1 Senior Day Women – Spring playoffs (rain date 5/3)

2 Thursday Women – Spring playoffs (rain date 5/4)

3 Senior Day Men – Spring playoffs (rain date 5/5)

4 Thursday Women – Spring playoffs and City Finals for AA (rain date 5/9)

5 Run/Roll League – Roster registration begins

6 Men – Spring playoffs (rain date 5/7)

Sunday Women – Spring playoffs (rain date 5/7)

Junior Leagues – Spring playoffs (rain date 5/9)

Junior Leagues – City Finals (rain date 5/7)

7 Men – Spring playoffs (rain date 5/13)

Sunday Women – Spring playoffs (rain date 5/13)

8 Senior Day Women – Spring playoffs (rain date 5/10)

9 Thursday Women – Spring playoffs (rain date 5/11)

10 Senior Day Men – Spring playoffs (rain date 5/12)

11 Thursday Women – Spring City Finals for A, B and C (rain date 5/18)

13 Men – Spring playoffs and City Finals for AA (rain date 5/14)

Sunday Women – Spring City Finals for AA (rain date 5/14)

Leagues – Spring City Finals (rain date 5/14)

14 Sunday Women – Spring playoffs (rain date 5/16)

date

21 Senior Men – Summer playoffs (rain date 7/23)

24 Thursday Women – Fall playoffs (rain date 10/26)

25 Senior Day Men – Fall playoffs (rain date 10/27)

26 Thursday Women – Fall playoffs and fall City Finals for AA (rain date 10/31)

28 Men – Fall playoffs (rain date 10/29)

Sunday Women – Fall playoffs (rain date 10-29)

Junior Leagues – Fall playoffs (rain date 10-31)

29 Men – Fall playoffs (rain date 11/4)

27

29

AUGUST

5

6

SEPTEMBER

Sunday Women – Fall playoffs (rain date 11/4)

30 Senior Day Women – Fall playoffs (rain date 11/1)

31 Thursday Women – Fall playoffs (rain date 11/2)

NOVEMBER

1 Senior Day Men – Fall playoffs (rain date 11/3)

2 Thursday Women – Fall City Finals for A, B and C (rain date 11/9)

4 Men – Fall playoffs and fall City Finals for AA (rain date 11/5)

Sunday Women – Fall City Finals for AA (rain date 11/5)

Junior Leagues – Fall playoffs (rain date 11/7)

Junior Leagues – Fall City Finals (rain date 11/5)

5 Sunday Women – Fall playoffs (rain date 11/7)

6 Senior Day Women – Fall City Finals for all levels (rain date 11/13)

8 Senior Day Men – Fall City Finals for all levels (rain date 11/15)

11 Men – Fall City Finals for levels A, B and C (rain date 11/18)

Junior Leagues – Fall City Finals (rain date 11/12)

12 Sunday Women – Fall City Finals for A, B and C (rain date 11/19)

16 ALTA Annual Meeting

23 Office closed – Thanksgiving holiday

24 Office closed – Thanksgiving holiday

DECEMBER

1 All Winter 2024 Leagues – schedules go online and add-ons begin Dec. 2

3 Junior Challenge Ladder – Ladder closes

22 Office closed – Christmas holiday

SENIOR WOMEN

May 18 Summer schedules post online; team add-ons begin 5/19

Jun. 1 Summer play begins

Jul. 13 Summer plan ends

Jul. 20 Summer playoffs (rain date 7/22)

Jul. 22 Summer playoffs (if needed- rain date day to day)

Jul. 27 Summer playoffs (rain date 7/29)

Aug. 5 Summer City Finals (rain date 8/12)

SENIOR MEN

May 18 Summer schedules post online; team add-ons begin 5/19

Jun. 2 Summer play begins

Jul. 14 Summer play ends

Jul. 21 Summer playoffs (rain date 7/23)

Jul. 23 Summer playoffs (if needed – rain date day to day)

Jul. 28 Summer playoffs (rain date 7/30)

Aug. 6 Summer City Finals (rain date 8/13)

MIXED DOUBLES

May 18 Summer schedules post online; team add-ons begin 5/19

Jun. 3 Summer play begins

Jul. 15 Summer plan ends

Jul. 22 Summer playoffs (rain date 7/23)

Jul. 23 Summer playoffs (rain date 7/29)

Jul. 29 Summer playoffs and City Finals for AA (rain date 7/30)

Aug. 5 Summer City Finals for A, B, and C (rain date 8/6)

SUNDAY WOMEN

May 6 Spring playoffs (rain date 5/7)

May 7 Spring playoffs (rain date 5/13)

May 13 Spring City Finals for AA (rain date 5/14)

May 14 Spring playoffs (rain date 5/16)

May 21 Spring City Finals for A, B, and C (rain date 5/28)

MEN

May 6 Spring playoffs (rain date 5/7)

May 7 Spring playoffs (rain date 5/13)

May 13 Spring City Finals for AA and spring playoffs (rain date 5/14)

May 20 Spring City Finals for A, B, and C (rain date 5/27)

THURSDAY WOMEN

May 2 Spring playoffs (rain date 5/4)

May 4 Spring city Finals for AA and spring playoffs (rain date 5/9)

May 9 Spring playoffs (rain date 5/11)

May 11 Spring City Finals for A, B, and C (rain date 5/18)

SENIOR DAY WOMEN

May 1 Spring playoffs (rain date 5/3)

May 8 Spring playoffs (rain date 5/10)

May 15 Spring City Finals (rain date 5/22)

SENIOR DAY MEN

May 3 Spring playoffs (rain date 5/5)

May 10 Spring playoffs (rain date 5/12)

May 17 Spring City Finals (rain date 5/24)

JUNIOR LEAGUES

May 6 Spring City Finals (rain date 5/7) and spring playoffs (rain date 5/9)

May 13 Spring city Finals (rain date 5/14)

JUNIOR CHALLENGE LADDER

May 15 Ladder registration opens

Aug. 14 Ladder registration closes

WHEELCHAIR - RUN/ROLL

May 5 Summer roster registration begins

May 30 Summer roster registration ends

June 6 Summer play begins

July 18 Summer City Finals (rain date 7/25)

REPORTED BY EMMY POWELL, CORY SEKINE-PETTITE AND JOHN HANNA

Tennis Night at Truist Park

ALTA and USTA Atlanta are teaming up again to bring you one of the best events this summer on June 7, and you’ll not only be supporting a great local charity but receiving one of the best bobbleheads of the season. The first 15,000 fans through the gates will receive a “hometown” bobblehead featuring Austin Riley. Proceeds from the ALTA/USTA ticket sales will benefit AYTEF (Atlanta Youth Tennis & Education Foundation). Show your tennis

pride by wearing your best ALTA and USTA swag.

Stop by our pre-game party at ASW Distillery, starting at 5:00 p.m. and be among the first 500 fans to get a oneof-a-kind, free gift. Spread the word to your teammates, friends, and family and get your tickets now while they last. You have to scan our QR code to purchase tickets.

Event: Braves Tennis Night with ALTA and USTA

Braves vs. New York Mets

Date: Wednesday, June 7, 2023

Time: 7:20 p.m.

Location: Truist Park

Another Step Forward for ALTA and Mizuno Tennis

Mizuno Tennis is once again taking a step in the right direction to help ALTA members be perfectly outfitted for their upcoming matches. Congratulations to this C7 Mixed Doubles team, captained by Leslie Badger, who came up with their team name, the “Roaming Oh’s and Juli-Nets of Notting Hill,” and that earned them the top prize from our contest, sponsored by Mizuno Tennis. Mizuno’s Zach Burkart helped make the delivery of the Wave Excel Tour 5 AC tennis shoe to each member of the team. Way to go Notting Hill!

Photo by Laura Barnard

ALTA Pickleball is Here!

ALTA is pleased to announce the start of its inaugural pickleball league. The season will run from July 10 – August 21. Playoffs and City Finals will be held across the Atlanta area on Sunday, August 27.

Pickleball registration will open on May 1 and run through May 31. You must purchase a 2023 ALTA pickleball membership for $20.00 and have an approved ALTA facility at which to play.

You need to gather your teammates for

summer league play. You are required to have five men and five women to form a team. A dual meet will consist of one line of men’s doubles, one line of women’s doubles, and two lines of mixed doubles. Each team will play 3 games in a dual meet. Games will be played to 15, winning by 2 points. Matches will begin on Mondays at 6:30 p.m.

More information can be found at altatennis.org.

TELL US!

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

Photo by Laura Barnard

BY JOAN APPELBAUM, ALTA IT MANAGER

You've got questions—we've got answers!

How can I add pickleball courts to my facility that is already ALTA approved?

Please complete and submit the online Facility Request New/ Modify and indicate the number of pickleball courts to be approved by court type.

Where do I get my pickleball membership?

You will go to your Member Portal > My Account > My Membership Renewal. There you will see a 2023 pickleball membership to

purchase for $20. Please pay for your membership here and keep your current ALTA membership number.

I think I submitted my roster for the upcoming season but am not totally sure. How can I check this? Great question! Please go to your Member Portal > My Rosters & New/Reinstate > My Rosters and look for your new roster at the top of the roster listing.

Congratulations Karyl!

Congratulations again to Karyl Fox, Laurel Park Sunday Women C8, our trivia winner from March/April. She won a new pickleball paddle from GAMMA. For your shot at this issue’s prize, see page 36.

Credit One Charleston Open Partners with Multiple Charitable Organizations

In partnership with several charitable organizations, the Credit One Charleston Open brought support and awareness to numerous causes throughout the 2023 tournament this past April. The event is the largest women’s-only tennis tournament in North America and was recently named the WTA 500 Tournament of the Year.

Charitable initiatives included complimentary tickets to military members and juniors, a Special Olympics clinic, and fundraising efforts for Ukraine, Turkey and Syria.

Complimentary Tickets:

In partnership with Credit One Bank, all active duty, veteran and retired military members and their families received complimentary tickets for all

night sessions, as well as semifinals and finals. In addition, Credit One Bank pledged to grow the game of tennis by offering all juniors — 16 and under — free general admission access to the tournament with a ticketed adult.

Pro-Am for Ukraine:

The Credit One Charleston Open and WTA Charities partnered with Ukrainian player Elina Svitolina to host a special Tennis Plays for Peace Pro-Am on Sunday, April 2, benefitting Ukraine and the Elina Svitolina Foundation. The Tennis Plays for Peace (tennisplaysforpeace.com) initiative seeks “to bring the tennis community and fans together to support the humanitarian relief efforts for the war in Ukraine.” The tournament, in conjunction with WTA

Charities, hosted a Pro-Am in 2022 as well, raising $100,000 for relief efforts in Ukraine.

Aces for Earthquake Relief:

The WTA, ATP, ITF and the four Grand Slams have united to launch Tennis Plays for Love, a fundraising campaign to support those impacted by the disastrous earthquakes in Turkey and Syria. The Credit One Charleston Open partnered with WTA Charities in support of Tennis Plays for Love to raise money for Global Giving’s Turkey and Syria Earthquake Relief Fund, helping provide emergency relief and fuel longterm recovery efforts. The tournament donated $100 for every ace made by a player during the tournament.

Special Olympics Clinic:

The Credit One Charleston Open, with support from WTA and Morgan Stanley’s Come Play program, hosted a Special Olympics clinic onsite with 30 Special Olympics South Carolina athletes and WTA tennis players. The program supports and inspires the Special Olympics’ global inclusion movement to end discrimination against and empower people with intellectual disabilities.

The nine-day Credit One Charleston Open showcases a singles draw of 56 players, a qualifying draw of 32 players and a doubles draw of 16 players. The event traditionally hosts more than 90,000 attendees on Daniel Island.

PALMETTO DUNES TENNIS & PICKLEBALL CENTER

S tay & P lay

Photo: Elina Svitolina

Spreading Love for Summer Campers

The Cueny team of Ansley Real Estate hosted its second annual Love Cures Cancer fundraiser in March which directly benefits Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Summer Camp Program. It was a day filled with a tennis round robin, lunch, shopping with local vendors, and door prizes.

Through community and client participation and generosity, the Cueny team raised $10,000 that will benefit the CHOA Summer Camp. This donation enables 10 children to experience camp at CHOA and have the amazing summer camp experience they so deserve and need. For many kids, summer camp is a rite of passage. At CHOA summer camps, kids with a chronic illness and or disability can connect with other kids who understand the struggles they face, all while participating in fun, traditional camp activities. Camp is a place where kids can get back to just being kids! Thank you to everyone who participated in this worthwhile event.

Blazing A Trail For Youth And Veterans

BY RITA MALOOF, ALTA FOUNDATION PRESIDENT

For the third consecutive year, the ALTA Foundation is excited to partner with BlazeSports America as it continues to grow and expand adaptive tennis in the metro area. With funding from the foundation, tennis was added to BlazeSports program offerings in 2021.

BlazeSports America is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is the legacy organization of the 1996 Paralympic Games held in Atlanta. These games, the first held on American soil, were the realization of the dreams of thousands of Americans involved in the growth and promotion of sports for persons with physical disabilities in the United States.

BlazeSports provides a variety of sport and recreation programs for kids and teens who have physical challenges. Athletes receive training, support, and the

opportunity to increase independence and improve health. BlazeSports’ current youth programs include wheelchair basketball, adaptive track and field, adaptive swimming, and wheelchair tennis.

BlazeSports also provides veterans with PTSD/PTS, physical disabilities and injured active-duty service members with opportunities to become active and healthy throughout the year. BlazeSports current veterans’ adaptive programs include archery, cycling, water aerobics, cross fit, rowing, yoga, bowling, pickleball, and tennis.

During the spring and summer, weekly tennis clinics are held on Thursdays at Hudlow Tennis Center to expose youth with physical disabilities to wheelchair tennis and to develop both new and experienced veteran tennis players. These

Photos by Laura Barnard

clinics are free to the athlete and help participants meet the recommended amount of moderate to vigorous physical activity each week. Veterans start play at 5:00 p.m., followed by the wheelchair youth at 6:30 p.m. Since the inception of tennis, participation in these clinics has more than tripled! An annual tennis tournament for Wheelchair Tennis and Veteran Tennis also is held to increase exposure and opportunities to play tennis for the adaptive communities.

BlazeSports America is committed to changing lives through sports and recreation, training, and education. According to Executive Director Dawn Churi, “Our goal is to provide an adaptive tennis program where the opportunities to play are equal to those without disabilities. We see first-hand the incredibly positive impact

adaptive sports can make for people with physical disabilities on and off the field of play.”

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

Net News Photo Contest Celebrates 20 Years!

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the ALTA photo contest, we have added a special category to commemorate this milestone. Please send in your favorite ALTA tennis anniversary photo. No wedding photos please. Maybe it’s a photo with your multiple ALTA Championship plates or an old photo of your team/captain who has been playing ALTA for 20 years or more. Details to enter are on page 34.

Prizes courtesy of

Major Change to ALTA Senior Mixed Doubles It’s now a five-line league!

Beginning with the 2024 winter season, Senior Mixed Doubles will consist of one line of men’s doubles, one line of women’s doubles and THREE lines of mixed doubles! This change will do away with the post-season tiebreaker when a dual meet is split 2-2. It also will eliminate playing in reverse order in the playoffs and City Finals.

What this means for captains:

• A roster must have at least 12 players (6 men and 6 women) to be submitted.

• Regular ALTA movement and sandbagging rules will apply to the Mixed Doubles lines only. If you need a reminder of these rules, please see page 24 in the Captain’s Handbook on the ALTA website.

• Men’s and Women’s lines can be defaulted before a Mixed line, but Mixed lines must be defaulted from line 3 Mixed first.

Start talking to your friends NOW! Registration for 2024 will begin in September, and you’ll want to make sure you have plenty of players.

2023 State Summer Special Olympic Games Tennis Volunteers Needed!

Come out to Emory University on May 19-21 and enjoy the 2023 State Summer Special Olympic Games! More than 2,000 athletes, unified partners, and coaches from across the state of Georgia will come to Emory University’s beautiful campus to compete in Athletics, Cheerleading, Flag Football, Gymnastics, Soccer, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis and Volleyball! Projected athlete participation for these games has now exceeded pre-Covid numbers.

Since 2003, the ALTA Foundation has been a proud partner of the State Summer Special Olympic Games and the sponsor of the Tennis Venue. In addition to financial support, ALTA members, their families, and friends volunteer during the three-day event as umpires, scorekeepers, ball persons, unified partners, and fill various other

roles. More than 1,600 volunteer hours have been donated by our membership in the past working side-by-side and cheering on these special athletes during their tennis matches.

Approximately 175 3-4 hours volunteer slots will need to be filled to help execute the Tennis Games at Emory University this year. No experience, except for general tennis knowledge, a strong desire to give back, and a smile, are necessary to volunteer. We welcome all volunteers over the age of 8 — with parental accompaniment for those under the age of 12. Training is provided where needed. This is a perfect opportunity for those looking to complete a few more community service hours before summer begins!

For more information on how you, your family, and/or your organization can participate in the Summer Special Olympic Tennis Games, contact Marla Michalewicz at eventsvp@altatennis.org, or Rita Maloof at foundationpresident@ altatennis.org.

Volunteer registration can be found online at ataltatennis.org. Or register now by scanning the QR code.

Photo by Laura Barnard

BACK IN FULL SWING

The Atlanta Open is quickly approaching and we are underway with tic k et on sales and player announcements for another amazing tour nament!

We are excited to announce that with Leylah Fernandez being healthy and back on the court we are bringing back our pr ev ious m atc h up for the 2023 Sunday S howdown pr es ented by UPS This y ear will feature Coc o Gauff tak ing on Leylah Fernandez for our headlining match on Sunday, J uly 23 at 7pm. There are two ways to secure your tickets for this match: you can purchase weeklong s eats and join us for every serve of the tournament or with a tic k et to just the Sunday Showdown. Both are on sale now at atlantaopentennis.com !

The tournament r etur ns onc e again to Atlantic St ation, Ju ly 22- 30, 2023. Our ALTA members are always top of our list to create discounts and experiences for and this year is no different. We once again are pleased to offer a discount for all ALTA members for 30% off single session tickets for sessions 1-9 (Monday - Friday afternoon)! U Usse e c coodde e A ALLTTAA330 0 at checkout. We hope to see you at the tournament checking out all things re-imagined for this year

As we look forward to introducing new items for the 2023 Atlanta Open we are pleased to announce that fans can look forward to a new rotation of food truck options this year. We are working diligently on incorporating other new and exciting items into the tournament to keep it fresh each year. As mentioned previously, atlantaopentennis.com will also be receiving a refresh. We are working closely with the ATP to launch the new site which will look to go live in the middle of May. The new website will provide a better mobile experience, more videos, news articles, statistics, players to watch, recaps and more!

If you have any questions regarding sales, packages or special events please visit our website or contact our Director of Sales Marc Gerstein at 678-894-3939.

— Peter Lebedevs EVP, Tennis Atlanta Open Tournament Director

“I want to get back to the things I love. That’s why I chose the best in orthopedic care.”

International Tennis Hall of Fame Announces New Leadership

The International Tennis Hall of Fame (ITHF) has named Dan Faber as the new Chief Executive Officer and Patrick McEnroe as the ITHF President. Faber and McEnroe will partner with the Executive Board, Board of Governors, and staff to further the Hall of Fame’s non-profit mission to preserve tennis history, celebrate its greatest champions, and inspire the sport’s next generation. In their roles, Faber and McEnroe succeed Todd Martin, who resigned as the ITHF’s CEO at the end of 2022.

As CEO, Faber brings over 20 years of tennis industry experience to Newport, including 10 years in his current position as Chief Executive of the USTA Foundation. Under his direction, the National Junior Tennis & Learning (NJTL) network of more than 300 national chapters fully merged within the USTA Foundation and has seen its financial impact grow by 20 percent each year. In 2019, Faber was recognized as Racquet Sports Industry’s Person of the Year.

“Throughout my life, I have been passionate about tennis and education. As I look at all the International Tennis Hall of Fame does for the sport in storytelling, preservation and global outreach, I am very excited at the opportunity to inspire leaders on and off the court through the history of the game and its champions,” Faber said. “I look forward to working alongside a dedicated Board of Governors and innovative staff in Newport.”

A familiar face to tennis fans around the world, Patrick McEnroe has been one of tennis’ preeminent broadcast commentators since 1995. During his 10-year professional career on the ATP Tour, McEnroe captured the 1989 French Open doubles title alongside Jim Grabb and reached the semifinals in singles at the 1991 Australian Open. He became the United States’ Davis Cup captain in 2000, a position he held until 2010, and piloted the American team to the 2007 Davis Cup title. From 2008 to 2014, McEnroe was the USTA’s General Manager of Player Development.

“Throughout my career, I’ve long appreciated the International Tennis Hall of Fame’s mission to preserve and promote the history of tennis, and share the fun side of the sport,” McEnroe said. I’m energized about and looking forward to the

opportunity to help lead and advance this mission, especially as we look forward to presenting the ultimate honor in tennis to the next generation of Hall of Famers.”

To learn more about the ITHF, visit tennisfame.com.

PROUD CORPORATE PARTNER

Patrick McEnroe

Dan Faber

Bob Bryan Named U.S. Davis Cup Captain

The USTA announced recently that tennis legend and Davis Cup champion Bob Bryan has been named the next captain of the U.S. Davis Cup Team. Bryan will make his debut as full-time captain with the U.S. team’s Group Stage Finals matches from Sept. 12-17, 2023.

“I am extremely honored and humbled for this opportunity to captain the United States Davis Cup Team. I have been inspired watching these young American players continue to rise and I am motivated to contribute to this positive momentum,” Bryan said. “I feel grateful to have represented my country in Davis Cup. These experiences have offered me my proudest moments on the court and my most unforgettable memories. Playing Davis Cup was a dream for me as a young junior and the goal of making the team pushed me while I played on tour. I am passionately looking forward to working with the players, their coaches, teams, and the USTA support staff in our mission to bring the Cup back to the United States.”

Bryan competed in 31 ties for the U.S. from 2003-20 and was part of the U.S. team that won its record 32nd Davis Cup title in 2007. He and brother Mike went 25-5 together in Davis Cup doubles matches for the U.S., setting records for team doubles wins and years played (15), and landing high on the team records list in many other categories.

Bryan also was closely involved with the team as a coach in 2022. He assisted captain Mardy Fish and coach David Nainkin for the team’s Qualifying victory and served as acting captain of the team in its Group Stage Finals ties, guiding the U.S. to a 2-1 record and Final 8 qualification.

As captain, Bryan also will have an active, year-round role with USTA Player and Coach Development, traveling to tournaments and camps to support American players and serving as a mentor for American pros and juniors.

“Few players in the history of the game have personified a champion the way Bob Bryan has,” said Brian Hainline, chairman of the board and president, USTA. “Bob’s consistent and long-term success at the highest levels, as well as his demonstrated leadership in a team environment, make him an ideal captain for the Davis Cup Team amid such an exciting era for American men’s tennis.”

FILA Celebrates 50 Years in Tennis

In February, at the 2023 BNP Paribas Open, FILA kicked off a series of celebrations commemorating the brand’s legacy in tennis. As the Official Apparel and Footwear Supplier of the tournament, FILA’s footprint at the 2023 BNP Paribas Open anchored around the brand’s ‘50 Years in Tennis’ celebration.

Key elements from the brand’s history, including archival outfits and artifacts transported all the way to Southern California from the Fondazione FILA Museum in Biella, Italy, were featured at the FILA retail store on-site at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden for fans to interact with as they shop their favorite brand apparel and essentials.

On court, high-profile FILA-sponsored players Barbora Krejcikova, Karolina Pliskova, John Isner, Diego Schwartzman, and Brandon Nakashima sported the new Tie Breaker Collection as they competed in the desert.

For more on FILA’s history, visit their website, fila.com/tennis, and see our Gear Guide beginning on page 60.

Photo by Laura Barnard

Swiss Brand On

Signs Iga Swiatek and Ben Shelton

Switzerland-based athletic apparel and shoe brand On, partially owned by Roger Federer, has signed Polish tennis star Iga Świątek and rising star Ben Shelton as its first tennis ambassadors.

Świątek, who is currently ranked No. 1 by the Women’s Tennis Association, is a three-time major singles champion, having won the French Open in 2020 and 2022 and the US Open in 2022.

“I’m very excited to be the first tennis player to work with On. I’m really excited about how the ‘Lightning’ innovation team works and adapts the technologies to the individual needs of the athletes,” Świątek said in a statement. “It was very inspiring for me to develop my ideas and needs together with the team and to work on my current and future gear.”

Atlanta native Shelton turned pro in 2022 and already has impressed tennis fans, most notably by advancing to the quarterfinals of the 2023 Australian Open.

“As someone just starting out in their pro career and a challenger on the tour, I think it’s fantastic to be working with a company that has years of experience in performance technology and is expanding into the tennis world. I’m thrilled that to be the first male tennis player to be sponsored by On,” Shelton said in a statement.

Going forward, both players will be wearing the company’s newly developed on-court collection for professional competition and custom editions of THE ROGER Pro shoe.

R A P I D LY A C H I E V E YO U R G OA L S

Legislation Introduced to Award Congressional Gold Medal to Billie Jean King

Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Democratic co-lead Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ) recently introduced legislation to recognize Billie Jean King with the Congressional Gold Medal.

The bill, H.R. 1831, was put forward, “To award a Congressional Gold Medal to Billie Jean King, an American icon, in recognition of a remarkable life devoted to championing equal rights for all, in sports and in society.”

To date, 11 individual athletes (as well as the 1980 U.S. Olympic team) have been awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, but all have been men. Billie Jean King would become the first female athlete to receive this distinction.

“I am honored to be considered for the Congressional Gold Medal and I want to thank Rep. Fitzpatrick, Rep. Sherrill, and the USTA for their leadership and support of the effort as we join together to celebrate the 50th anniversary of equal prize money at the US Open,” said King.

“Billie Jean King is an incredible athlete and unmatched trailblazer for women and girls in sports,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “As we continue to celebrate International Women’s Month, I am honored to introduce this legislation honoring her important accomplishments, and I thank Congresswoman Sherill for joining me in recognizing Billie Jean’s tireless advocacy for female athletes.”

“This is a woman who has truly impacted the lives of so many,” said Congresswoman Sherrill. “We are still not where we need to be, or want to be, but we would not be anywhere near where we are today without Billie Jean King.”

SET TO CHANGE THE GAME

• LED Retrofits

• Custom Tennis Lighting & Maintenance for your unique application

• Private, Country Club or Neighborhod Courts

Enjoy the beauty of the north Georgia mountains and Big Canoe for your next get away with your tennis and pickleball crew! We will put together the ultimate tennis and/or pickleball get away to get you ready for the season, enjoy your spring break, and spend some quality time on the courts!

Big Canoe Racquet Club

706-268-3367

PHIT America Introduces Pickleball to Thousands of Children

The National Charity, PHIT America, launched a new physical activity and sports program, PLAY PICKLEBALL, to elementary schools in this spring. PLAY PICKLEBALL will be added to PHIT’s current physical activity offerings, including AMPED Running/Walking, PLAY TENNIS, and PLAY GOLF programs.

The new pickleball equipment kit and program is a complete offering for elementary schools with the curriculum provided by USA Pickleball. PLAY PICKLEBALL consists of top quality products and training aids including 24 paddles, 30 indoor balls, 30 foam balls, two Billie Jean King Multi-Sport Sweet Spot Training devices, a top-quality net, EZ Scan Fitness Tracking and more. Additionally, PHIT America will award three schools the opportunity to secure an installed, multi-court playing surface for their school in 2023.

Jim Baugh, Founder of PHIT America, explains why PHIT America is launching PLAY PICKLEBALL. “Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America and we want to make sure youth have the opportunity to learn the lifetime sports of tennis, golf, and now pickleball. And, while we already have over 1,500 schools with 850,000 children who have benefitted from receiving PHIT America grants, programs, and equipment, many of our PE Teachers are asking about pickleball.”

Hope Tolley, managing director of Recreational Programs for USA Pickleball adds, “As the National Governing Body, USA Pickleball is pleased to support PHIT America’s new PLAY PICKLEBALL initiative by providing educational resources and tools. This inclusive program that introduces pickleball into schools is an ideal setting to welcome future generations of diverse players into the sport.”

Elementary schools can inquire or complete application form (https://zfrmz.com/ en6oxX8gP8AqOmsUbpL1).

Geoff Hedges Racquet Club Director ghedges@bigcanoe.org

PHIT America invites interested companies and individuals to help get more kids playing through pickleball while supporting a national 501(c)3 charity. Baugh adds, “Any company or organization should want to grow this game, which is so accessible to so many youths. As importantly, supporting PHIT America means kids will have the best learning experience and, just as important, you will support a charity that is dedicated to getting kids physically active to create healthier, smarter and happier kids.”

PHIT plans to ship more than 100 kits to schools in 2023 and can easily pass that mark with more additional support. If anyone is interested, please contact Jim Baugh at Jim@PHITAmerica.org.

STRENGTH AND SPEED

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11. Judges reserve the right to title photos if no title is provided and to change the category into which a photo has been entered.

12. Photos not taken by the entrant must be accompanied by a release form signed by the photographer. ALTA and Net News are not responsible for any copyright violations.

13. Judges reserve the right to disqualify any entry that does not meet the above rules and regulations.

NEW!

Photography

2. When uploading images from your phone, always choose the "Actual Size" option.

CATEGORIES: HUMOR | ACTION | COURTSIDE | CHILDREN | PETS | STILL LIFE | DEADLINE IS SEPT. 15TH! Upload original digital photos through the Net News website at netnewsmag.com/photo_contest All photos must relate to tennis • All entries due September 15, 2023 T W ENTIETH A N NIVERSARY PHOTOGR A P HY YEARSCONTEST plus... Anniversary!

ALL ACCESS PASS

Amenities Include (but are not limited to): Indoor and Outdoor Pools, Restaurant/Bar, Community Social Events, Certified Personal Trainers, Fitness Equipment and Free Weights, Indoor Basketball and Volleyball, Racquetball and Squash Courts, Outdoor Tennis, Pickleball Courts (new), Fitness Classes including Reformer Pilates, Yoga, Cycling, HIIT and much, much more

Last Issue’s Trivia Contest Winner Is …

Congratulations! We drew our winner from a pool of readers who submitted correct answers, and Bethany Chatterjee, Camden Pointe Thursday Women A7, won a HEAD Boom racquet! Try your luck with this issue’s contest and see if you can join the ranks of our previous trivia contest winners. Here is the original quiz and the correct answers:

1. What is the name of the captain whose Senior Women’s team won the Mizuno shoe contest and out of which facility does this team play? Mary Jo Gobold and Horseshoe Bend Country Club

2. Besides Cherokee and Forsyth counties, which counties will be added as part of ALTA’s boundary expansion? Hall, Jackson and Barrow counties.

3. Which ALTA league is changing its format from four lines of doubles to five lines of doubles in the winter season of 2024? Senior Mixed League

May/June Trivia Contest

Enter for your chance to win a FILA hat and bag!

To enter the contest, correctly answer the following three questions, in addition to submitting a new favorite courtside recipe, and mail it to New South Publishing, Attn: Cory Sekine-Pettite, 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210, Atlanta, GA 30350. Answers and recipes may also be submitted online at netnewsmag.com. Hint: The answers can be found in this issue.

Entry deadline: Monday, June 5.

1. What was the name selected as the winner for the most recent Mizuno shoe contest and out of which facility do they play?

2. What are the registration dates for ALTA Pickleball?

3. What is the name of the captain and facility out of which his team plays who agreed to work with the opposing team to accommodate their request to adjust their match time due to the funeral of a teammate?

Rebuilding An Atlanta Destination

The Concourse Athletic Club undergoes major transformation

BY EMMY POWELL, NET NEWS EDITOR

The Concourse Athletic Club is a unique facility where health, fitness, racquet sports, and fun collide in one iconic location. Since opening its doors in 1989, the Concourse has become known for unparalleled facilities and exceptional programming. Nestled between the legendary King and Queen buildings at the intersection of I-285 and Hwy 400 in Sandy Springs, the club has recently come under new local ownership and management, and they’re taking things to the next level — with extensive renovations and exciting additions planned over the next two years. And speaking of exciting additions, the club now features pickleball! With so much to offer, the Concourse Athletic Club is the place to be in 2023.

Pickleball at The Concourse

“With its rapidly growing popularity, one of the first enhancements we decided to focus on for our members was providing pickleball,” said Neil Doherty, president, and COO of Concourse Athletic Club. “We’re excited to announce that the Concourse is near completion of eight dedicated, professional-grade outdoor pickleball courts in addition to our three indoor pickleball courts lined on the basketball court.”

F or those who haven’t yet had the chance to try this popular sport, Concourse is taking this opportunity to introduce you to pickleball and its many benefits. The game is both social and physical. “It’s very easy to pick up and is also very social,” says John Rebol, director of tennis and pickleball and head tennis professional at the Concourse. “Because the game is so new, a lot of people get out and play, but their identity isn’t tied to it. It’s just fun.”

Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It can be played either indoors or outdoors on a court the size of a traditional badminton court (about a fourth of the size of a tennis court). The plastic pickle ball is like a wiffle ball, and the paddle is slightly larger than a ping-pong paddle. The game is easy to learn and can be played by people of all ages and skill levels as singles or doubles, and the rules are simple to follow. Just like tennis, the objective of the game is to hit the ball over the net and onto the opponent’s court. The player scores a point when his/her opponent is unable to return the ball or hits it out of bounds.

Pickleball’s Benefits

Pickleball is not only a fun, social and exciting game to play, it also offers numerous health benefits. It is a great way to get active and stay fit, as it requires players to move around the court and demands use of their entire body. It can help to improve hand-eye coordination, balance, and agility, as well as increase cardiovascular endurance. “One of the best parts of pickleball is that you can learn the game and start playing the same day,” says Rebol. This makes it ideal for people who might not be the most athletic but who are looking for a new, fun workout. Games are played to 11 points. Matches, which are best of three games, typically take about 45 to 60 minutes.

A nother great thing about pickleball is that it can be played by people of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting out, you can enjoy the game and improve your skills over time — just as you have with your tennis game. It also is a great social activity, as it can be played with friends or in organized leagues (such as ALTA’s new league) and tournaments. It also makes for a great team building opportunity.

Getting Started with Pickleball

I f you’re interested in trying out pickleball, Concourse Athletic Club offers a range of opportunities, and they even can provide paddles and balls. The club also offers private lessons and several clinics for those who are new to the sport.

For those who are interested in playing competitively, Atlanta now has several organized leagues, including ALTA, and tournaments that cater to players of all skill levels. These events are a great way to meet other pickleball enthusiasts and to test your skills against other players.

Concourse is excited to bring pickleball to its members and welcomes new players every day. With its new outdoor and indoor courts, there’s never been a better time to try out this popular game. Whether you’re looking to get fit, meet new people, or just have fun, pickleball has something to offer. So, grab a paddle, hit the court, and play some pickleball!

In addition to tennis and pickleball, the Concourse Athletic Club boasts a full-size basketball court , four squash courts , two racquetball courts , indoor and outdoor saline heated pools, steam rooms , saunas , full-service bar and restaurant, café, and live entertainment Members can also take advantage of a multitude of lessons, classes, and leagues, and so much more. To learn more about how you can join the pickleball craze at Concourse Athletic Club, contact John Rebol at Jrebol@concourseclub.com.

Nestled between the legendary King and Queen buildings at the intersection of I-285 and Hwy 400 in Sandy Springs, the club has recently come under new local ownership and management, and they’re taking things to the next level.

Juniors Making Lasting Memories

BY WENDY FEE, JUNIOR LEAGUES VICE PRESIDENT

I’ve always found it interesting to look at before-and-after pictures. Whether it is watching home improvement “fixer upper” shows, or what I find even more fascinating, in watching our kids grow and progress in life. Many may not know that ALTA is over 50 years old and has evolved a great amount since its creation.

As the VP of the ALTA Junior League, I am fortunate to work alongside great friends who have been part of this respected organization from the beginning. One such friend, Angie Boland Baker, decided to volunteer as a Junior coordinator two years ago. Recently, I learned that she and her sister played in the ALTA Junior League as far back as when she was 8 years old. Not only had she been playing ALTA for more than 40 years but also has been captain and co-captain for her many adult teams. Now, as an ALTA coordinator, Baker says it’s rewarding to give back to this organization that offered so much in her life.

It also is gratifying to hear comments from tennis professional, Desmond McLennon, who has been coaching junior players for more than 10 years. He stated, “The past few years have been challenging, but I’ve seen ALTA’s positive mental health impact on my players — both in the boys and girls. ALTA has made kids laugh, smile and sometimes shed a tear, all while boosting self-confidence, respect, and individuality.” McLennon says some of these junior players previously had never considered trying out for their high school tennis team. However, not only did they make the team, but they were captains and led volunteer initiatives in their respective communities. “With hard work and dedication, anything is

JUNIORS

Fall registration is June 22 - July 28

Fall season runs Sept. 9 - Oct. 21

possible, and I’m proud to see that effort and commitment reflected in my players’ matches with ALTA,” McLennon adds.

On a more personal note, my two sons started playing tennis within the Junior League. Fast forward many years, as they are now 28 and 25 years old and are still active ALTA members. They play in both the Men’s and Mixed Doubles Leagues. To this day, the friendships they made as junior players remain intact. Not only have their court skills improved since playing junior tennis, but the camaraderie and friendships continue as they play on adult teams. Because of their age difference, the two brothers were not able to be on the same juniors team but, as adults, they can play as partners. Another treat is they get an opportunity to play with their father. This advantage in being a member of ALTA is unlike any other sport, one in which you have the privilege to team up with your entire family.

There is so much growth within ALTA today, between the Junior Challenge Ladder, the Wheelchair League, and now the new ALTA Pickleball League, which is expected to start up in July. ALTA truly is for everyone and continues to grow, as we all do.

From experience, I can assure you if you start reaching out to ALTA members, volunteers, team managers, and pros/ coaches, there are so many amazing stories to be told. I feel blessed to be a part of such a healthy, flourishing organization.

As Coach McLennon says, “Tennis, as with life, is a journey.” Here’s to continuing on playing and making those wonderful memories!

Photos by Laura Barnard

PICKLEBALL

Summer registration is May 1 - May 31

Summer season is July 10 - Aug. 21

Men’s Spring Regular Season Is Over…Now What?

BY GREG MCAFEE, MEN’S LEAGUE VICE PRESIDENT

You’ve just completed another fun season of Men’s tennis, and you are thinking to yourself, “What am I going to do this summer to top that?” Well, I have the answer for you: Play ALTA pickleball!

Here are the steps you’ll need to take to get in on the action.

1. Get at least five men and five women together to form a team.

2. Figure out where you are going to play. It could be your neighborhood, tennis center, or private club. It can be anywhere that has either dedicated pickleball courts, lines on a tennis court using the tennis net or using a pop-up net, or perhaps an indoor court.

3. Check if your courts have been approved for ALTA pickleball play. Use the Facility Search on the ALTA website to see if your facility has pickleball courts listed. If your facility does not have any pickleball courts listed, you should then submit a request to add them by using the Request New/Modify Facility and complete the form.

4. Choose your captain and register the roster. Once your facility has approved pickleball courts, you can register your team’s roster during the open roster period. Be sure

to have enough players to cover availability during the busy summer travel season. You will be able to add up to six additional players once the schedule comes out.

ALTA pickleball is an exciting, new league that will combine the team environment ALTA is known for with the competitive and fun sport of pickleball. Play will consist of a one line of men’s doubles, one line of women’s doubles, and two lines of mixed doubles. You will play three games to 15, win by two, and your team will get a point for each game won. That will total up to 12 possible points that are up for grabs during a team match.

Enough of the boring details. You will likely have a lot of questions, such as “What level do I sign up for,” or “How long is the season going to last?” If you have already played pickleball, you likely have a good idea of what level you are relative to tennis, but if you haven’t played, a good rule of thumb will be to sign up for the same level (A, B or C) that you play in tennis. If you play A3 tennis, then sign up for a higher A pickleball league, or maybe a low A if you’ve never held a pickleball paddle. Pickleball’s learning curve is small, and you’ll be dinking and smashing in no time. Just get out there, play, and have fun!

Photos by Laura Barnard

SENIOR DAY

Fall registration is June 22 - July 13

Leveling The Senior Playing Field

BY JOAN MARCINKO, SENIOR DAY LEAGUES VICE PRESIDENT

As you read this, your season of spring Senior Day tennis may be finished! But as I am writing this article, our season is just about to begin. I’d like to make you all aware, again, that a lot of work goes into scheduling a season for an ALTA tennis league. First, captains submit rosters, and every captain also has a chance to write an RFR (Request for Review) with their roster. After all rosters are submitted, our system analyzes and organizes the teams with values from low to high, based on a team’s past record of success and on the addition/ deletion of players to their roster. Our software also accounts for other factors such as a team’s past winning percentage and if a team was a City Champion or City Finalist. Then, the fun begins.

The league vice president and the overall coordinators carefully review this information and make level adjustments where needed. This initial process, called leveling, takes many hours to research. If a captain writes in an RFR, “I’ve lost the top line of my team,” it is our job to look up all the team’s history to make sure that this is indeed an accurate situation and a possible problem for that team staying at their assigned level. It is easy for us to find all the historical information/data to support a captain’s request to move their team down a level. However, if a captain says, “Half of my team will be out with injuries this season,” but submits the roster with the same player names, we have no idea if the team has truly been weakened, or who’s injured and who’s healthy.

If players have been added to an existing team, the top eight senior players on the team will give the team its mathematical value. Again, we look carefully at the values of the newly added

Fall season runs Sept. 5 - Oct. 18

players. Every new player used in the calculation is researched to see if that player’s value used is totally valid. So, if you add a new AA player to your team, we look to see if that player has a solid winning record at AA. If the player does not, (i.e., did not actually play on that AA team, lost at all line positions, losing record overall, etc.), then we don’t allow that AA player to bump up the team. This process also is done when a new team that has not played Senior Day is added to our league. The top eight players on a new team are looked at to make sure they are placed at the right level. Teams also are grouped into manageable numbers, so there are no more than six divisions in any level. We may choose to move a team up or down just to make these numbers work.

The second and last part of this scheduling process is called mapping. This is basically the reason why I wanted to write this article to our Senior Day League players. In mapping, the computer initially puts teams together in divisions of eight, seven, or four based on geography. Again, hours are spent on making the most appropriate grouping of divisions. This past spring season, we intentionally created many four-team divisions to spare teams from driving great distances. Some teams in their RFR asked not to be put into a four-team division, and those requests were honored. Again, a lot of thought and time went into this process, and I am hopeful that it was a good experience for our teams!

So, moving forward to the fall season, please let us know how we did. I look forward to hearing your feedback, and I thank you in advance for your thoughts. Email me at seniordayvp@ altatennis.org.

Photos by Laura Barnard

Fall registration is June 22 - July 13

Fall season runs Sept. 10 - Oct. 22

What Is Sportsmanship?

BY SUSAN LEVIN, SUNDAY WOMEN LEAGUE VICE PRESIDENT

How many times as a child did our parents or teachers tell us “It’s important to be a good sport?” Then, as we become parents, teachers, or coaches, we in turn teach our children the importance of good sportsmanship.

But what is meant by sportsmanship? Here are a couple of definitions. As noted, the common behavior in almost every definition is fairness and respect toward the opposing players. Webster’s defines sportsmanship as “conduct (such as fairness, respect for one’s opponent, and graciousness in winning or losing) becoming to one participating in a sport.” The Oxford Dictionary defines it as “fair, generous, and polite behavior, especially when playing a sport or game.”

Regardless of why we play ALTA, whether it’s because we love the sport, the camaraderie, meeting new players, or a combination of all of these, we should exemplify good sportsmanship. ALTA not only encourages good sportsmanship, but expects it, as noted in our Adult Rules IV. Dual Meets I. We also encourage our guests and spectators to show courtesy and respect to the players on the court.

Our Sunday Women League comprises a great group of ladies, and the number of good sportsmanship stories I’ve received is uplifting. Being able to spend a Sunday afternoon playing a competitive match with a nice group of ladies is fun, and when it’s over, no matter who wins, there’s a friendly handshake or fist bump. Many of the good sportsmanship stories have been about captains and players who have gone over and above — truly the spirit of ALTA!

Numerous stories took place before the scheduled match occurred. It may have been a wedding, spring-school break,

etc., that teams couldn’t provide a full lineup for the day of the match. Because the opposing teams were gracious and understanding, they went out of their way to cooperate to ensure some lines could play early. In a conversation, one of the captains said that her ladies play ALTA because they love tennis. They would much rather play, regardless of the match outcome, than to win by default. This gives all ladies a chance to play. And who knows, one day they may be in the same situation. Good behavior is often rewarded.

There are hundreds of stories about amazing long-term friendships that first started one Sunday afternoon when opponents faced each other in a grueling match, and now years later these former opponents are longtime friends.

Did you know that ALTA presents Sportsmanship Awards to teams and individuals that have demonstrated exemplary sportsmanship? Every season, there are players, captains, and teams that are nominated for a sportsmanship award by their opponents. If there are teams or players that you’ve played or worked with that exhibited exceptionally good sportsmanship, I encourage you to nominate them. You can send an email to your coordinator or submit the nomination form found in ALTA Documents on our website at altatennis.org.

In closing, I thought I would share a quote from Serena Williams that I came across during the process of writing this article: “The success of every woman should be the inspiration to another. We should raise each other up. Make sure you’re very courageous: be strong, be extremely kind, and above all be humble.”

SUNDAY WOMEN

Photos by Laura Barnard

THURSDAY WOMEN

Fall registration is June 22 - July 13 Fall season runs Sept. 7 - Oct. 19

The Team Spirit Of ALTA

BY KAREN SULLIVAN, THURSDAY WOMEN’S LEAGUE VICE PRESIDENT

It’s amazing how quickly the seasons fly by! We will be in the midst of wrapping up the spring 2023 season by the time you read this. It seems that spring can bring a significant amount of stress to a team and its captain. Many teams have several players out of town during the spring season, and it can be difficult to field a complete lineup some weeks. Please do consider playing some lines early if requested by a team. The easiest way to do this is to play the entire match at an earlier date. In this way, a captain will not have to deal with possible movement issues that can arise when a match is only partially completed. Remember, the match is tracked from the date the last line is played. Additionally, your level coordinator is there to help you with any questions you may have during the season. The coordinators are such an asset to our organization, and I may be biased, but I believe our Thursday coordinators are

some of the very best! Please remember that our coordinators are all volunteers and be respectful.

This respect also should carry through to our interactions with other captains and players. I know it seems like we have so many rules and regulations, and we can get so wrapped up in the minutia that we forget what drew us to play ALTA. The teams we play on often include our best friends, neighbors, and sisters. They can be a part of our lives long after we have finished a match. We certainly can remind ourselves every season; we are meeting new people and going to new places (even if they sometimes seem so very far away) and spending time participating in a sport we all love!

I would like to take the time this and every season to savor the delights of playing tennis, and I wish you the same! Here’s to many seasons of sunny skies and fun matches!

Photos by Laura Barnard

Growing The Game: ALTA Wheelchair Leagues Continue To Thrive

BY MARK LAROTONDA, SPECIAL PROGRAMS VICE PRESIDENT

As we approach May, the ALTA Wheelchair program is in full swing. In April, we completed our spring competitive matches and are now preparing for our May weekly clinics. These clinics are great for any level player, from someone who would like to try wheelchair tennis for the first time, to someone looking to fine-tune their skills.

In June, we will begin our annual Run/Roll competition, which runs through July. In Run/Roll, a doubles team is

made up of one wheelchair player and one standing player. These matches always are fun, competitive, and likely to have a bit of trash talking.

Competitive wheelchair matches and clinics are held every Tuesday evening at Hudlow Tennis Center in Norcross. We would love for you to join us and see what we’re all about. If you are interested in participating in any of these programs, please reach out to our VP of Special Programs at specialprogramsvp@altatennis.org.

Photos by Laura Barnard

Good Sportsmanship

BY CHEQUETTA ALLEN, FIRST VICE PRESIDENT

ALTA takes great pride in the longstanding tradition of good sportsmanship during all aspects of league play, and it has remained a top priority among the ALTA volunteers for decades. We love hearing the stories from our members who take the time to share a great experience of an opponent going the extra mile on and off the court. ALTA rewards these acts of kindness and sportsmanship with the ALTA Sportsmanship Award. Here are a few of the stories from previous ALTA seasons.

Dellinger Park

Senior Mixed A5

Captain: Lawanna Wilson

Nominated by Alice Billups, captain at Sugar Creek

Our teams had some competitive matches at Sugar Creek during playoffs. I would like to recognize Dellinger Park for their wonderful sportsmanship, from the players to the fans. Everyone was complimentary and giving props to each other. The weather was beautiful, and the overall attitudes of the players and fans was as well. At the end of the matches, everyone shook hands, and some even shared hugs. The folks from Dellinger wished us well in our next playoff round. I can honestly say, it was a great day, and everyone left with a smile.

Academy Park

Senior Mixed B3

Captain: Scott Harrison

Nominated by Kate Olsson, captain at Hamilton Commons

It was late on a Friday afternoon, and one of my players called to say she was sick and unable to play the next morning. The only available player I had could be on the court only if the match began at 9 a.m. (an hour earlier than the normal match start time.) The weather forecast was for 32°. I texted the opposing captain about starting the women’s doubles at 9 a.m. and 15 minutes later, he had already checked with his players, and they said they could do it! Also, when we played, his entire

team was extremely nice, and it was a wonderful day of tennis. The weather even cooperated.

Rivermist

Mixed Doubles B6

Player: Pete Fox

Nominated by Beth Stewart, player at Woods of Parkview

After a cold match, I was emptying the trash. Our trash can did not have a trash bag in it. It was filled with garbage and rainwater. I dumped it out, got a trash bag, and Pete volunteered to pick up the wet, moldy trash. I was so thankful. I had just finished playing line 5, and my husband and I were locking up the facility and making sure all of the trash was empty. It was starting to rain. Pete certainly did not have any responsibility to help, but he did. I would like to nominate him as a super sportsman!

Georgetown Senior Mixed C1

Captain: Martin Chen

Nominated by Darlene Caldwell, captain at Saddle Ridge Lake

When it was necessary to reschedule a Saturday Senior Mixed League match this past winter due to the funeral services of a former teammate, we were fortunate to find our opponent more than willing to work with us. Contacting Martin Chen, Georgetown’s captain, a week in advance, I received an immediate response that he and his team would do anything possible to play the lines early. Martin stayed in constant contact until all four lines were scheduled to play. He and his entire team were beyond understanding of our issue, and each player sincerely expressed condolences for the loss of our tennis friend. Georgetown’s willingness and graciousness (even playing lines on a holiday) displayed an example of sportsmanship that ALTA should recognize. Our team was greatly touched, humbled, and honored by their cooperation.

Photos by Laura Barnard

PLAYER NOT ON ROSTER

I tried to enter the scorecard, but one of my opponents’ players wasn’t listed in the drop-down menu options. I chose “Player Not On Roster.” What’s the deal?

Gina Clance, Senior Leagues VP

Occasionally, if a player isn’t listed on the team roster, it means that person has not been added to the roster and thus, is an illegal player. More often, this means the captain used a different name on the scorecard than is listed in the ALTA database. People get married or go by nicknames, and when scorecards are handwritten or printed from a program other than the ALTA Lineup Checker, the player’s name is different. Printing your scorecards from the ALTA system will avoid the confusion of a player having a different name. Every player should make sure the ALTA database has his/her correct name entered and should check his/ her contact information to make sure it contains a current email address and phone number.

LINE CALL DISPUTES

We had multiple line call disputes during our match. Can the captains stand in as line judges?

Greg McAfee, Men’s League Leagues VP No. While it would be great if every court had Hawkeye electronic line calling, it is up to the players on court to make the calls. According to the Adult Rules, under Section IV.H, “COACHING IS ILLEGAL. Spectators (including teammates, coaches and fans) may not volunteer advice on line calls, scoring or conduct of a match. They may not offer advice or instruction that is audible, visible or by electronic device to the players on the court.” Furthermore, as stated in the Captain’s Handbook under “During a Dual Meet,” the players may request a copy of the rules, but no one may intervene or assist in any way. Additionally, the USTA Code states, “A player should always give the opponent the benefit of the doubt when making calls.”

SERVICE WINNER?

I played a doubles match, and my partner was receiving. A hard serve hit me in the knee and our opponents claimed the point. Is this correct, as obviously, the serve was nowhere near the correct service box? Why is it their point?

Karen Sullivan, Thursday Women’s League VP Rule 24, Case 7 from USTA’s Friend at Court states in the instance where, “a ball that has just been served hits the receiver, or in doubles the receiver’s partner, before it touches the ground, the server wins the point, unless it is a service let.”

ILLEGAL TOUCH

Standing at the net, a ball is hit at me chest high. As I hit the volley, the ball strikes my backhand, and crosses over the net. Is that an illegal touch, or is the backhand considered an extension of the racket handle?

Chequetta Allen, First VP Rule 24i from USTA’s Friend at Court advises, “The point is lost if the ball in play touches the player or anything that the player is wearing or carrying, except the racket.”

DID YOU EVER WONDER ABOUT … ?

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

Photos by Laura Barnard

Luke Jensen

The Benefits Of Playing Collegiate Tennis

Iam really excited about this edition of the Jensen Zone. Tennis has been a huge part of my entire life. My dad was the Ludington High School tennis coach, so the sport has had a massive, constant presence in my life.

I share my beginnings in the game because the current, hottest player on the ATP Tour is American Ben (“Dangerous”) Shelton. Last year at this time, he was finishing up a stellar college career at the University of Florida where he helped clinch a National Team Championship his freshman year and followed that up with a NCAA Singles title his sophomore year. Like me, Ben grew up in the game of tennis. His father, Bryan, was an extraordinary competitor at Georgia Tech and an elite professional on the ATP Tour with a career-high ranking of 55 in singles and 52 in doubles. Ben’s mother is an accomplished player and is part of a legendary tennis family from Carmel, Indiana. Ben’s un-

cles, Mark, Todd, and Rick Witsken, all earned ATP world rankings. Uncle Todd was ranked as high as 43 in the world in singles and 4 in doubles with a win over Jimmy Connors in the 1986 US Open. Bryan Shelton and Todd Witsken played doubles together in the 1994 Indianapolis ATP Tournament.

Growing up in the game with so much tennis family success doesn’t always equate into success in the game. In my experience, knowing so many generations of professional tennis players, the vast majority of them do not push their children into competitive tennis. I have come to believe that the successful tennis player (when he or she becomes a parent) knows extremely well how difficult it can be to become an elite player. The long and lonely road filled with enormous sacrifices is only for the ultimate road warriors that are driven beyond the average tennis player with absolutely no guarantees of victory.

Knowing Ben’s journey is a pathway I highly recommend to all parents with little tennis stars. Ben and sister, Emma, who competes for the University of Florida, had tennis around them as Bryan coached at Georgia Tech (and currently at the University of Florida), but the game was not pushed on them. Ben’s first sports love was football, but through his high school years, the tennis development pathway was developing a game for tomorrow’s success. He had many early losses in juniors to more consistent players. Ben’s freshman year at the University of Florida had him in the middle of the lineup, but he kept working on building a greater game that takes time. College tennis really applied the foundations of greatness that you see today. College tennis allowed Ben’s talent to grow, and with all the matches played, it helped him develop his game for future professional success. Players that did not have a growth mindset just a few years ago who used to beat Ben now watch him beating the best players in the world. No player in the world has risen faster up the professional rankings than Dangerous Ben Shelton.

Every time I see Ben, he is having fun. On and off the court, that enormous smile and positive energy is a superpower that convinces me that Ben can be the best in the world. In a game that is global and filled with extremely talented players, those who have fun will reach their full potential. The players who love being on the court and hate leaving it will hold the biggest trophies on Sundays. It always will be impossible to beat someone who is never defeated. Ben will do extraordinary things in his tennis journey.

— LUKE JENSEN FRENCH OPEN DOUBLES CHAMPION

Tennis Hand/Eye Coordination & Triple Vision

BY DAVE NEUHART, TENNIS DIRECTOR, GREEN ISLAND COUNTRY CLUB

“Watch the ball.” This cliché is probably used more than any other on the tennis court. If you are struggling to make good contact, it’s not due to a lack of watching the ball but simply because of hand/eye coordination. If your eyes are open, you already see the ball. Even the worst players still will swing at the ball since they see it approaching. The reason for not hitting it solidly in the center of the racquet is not lining up the ball.

Ophthalmologists have explained to us that as the ball gets nearer we begin to lose sight of it; the ball becomes blurry. We hit the ball through the mental process between our brain, eyes, and hands. This is an actual skill that varies day to day. Fortunately, it is a skill that can be taught and developed. Beginning tennis players gradually improve their hand-eye coordination to a certain degree by themselves. They hear or feel the ball striking the racquet frame and with this awareness, they gradually improve how they line up the ball more into the center of the racquet.

Watching the ball becomes less of an issue as your tennis game improves. Why? Three things require your visual attention and awareness: ball, court, and opponent. It’s not necessary to constantly worry about the ball since you need to be aware of the location of your opponent and what they’re doing, plus the openings and target areas for your next shot. Triple vision is stressed in other sports but the fallacy of the need to “watch the ball” still exists today. Contacting the ball out in front of you will always help you use your peripheral vision, to encompass all three aspects of triple vision. When watching a professional tennis match, notice how they are staying aware of all three factors during competitive play. This is one of the many factors that allow you to become more instinctive when playing the great game of tennis.

GPTA TEACHING PROFESSIONAL SPOTLIGHT: DAVE NEUHART

Hometown (City/ State): Columbus, GA

How did you get involved in teaching tennis? Played college tennis at Southwest Baptist University. Started by teaching in the summers from college at parks and recreation departments. Then after college took a position with PBI and that began my teaching career.

Diehard fan of what sports team?

Kansas City Chiefs

Best part of your game? Volley and backspin backhand

Dream doubles match would be me and… Roger Federer

When I’m not teaching tennis, I’m Planning for our next event at the club. Days off are spent with my wife, Lori.

My favorite tennis memory is: First would be attending the US Open in the President’s Suite with my wife and the Southern Board. Second would be having a private conversation with Jeanne Moutoussamy-Ashe, Arthur Ashe’s wife, about Arthur’s tennis and life. I have looked up to Arthur all my life. They are two of the classiest people ever. I learned a lot from Jeanne.

My favorite professional player is: Roger Federer

#1 reason why I enjoy teaching & coaching tennis: I love the joy and excitement on students’ faces when they get excited about what they have learned. My goal is to have that happen with everyone I teach, every day. I want to make sure they have that “ah-ha moment.”

What important tennis message do you want to promote? Tennis, contrary to a lot of thinking, is an easy game to learn if taught properly from the start. We start up close and learn the fundamentals before working your way back. I feel if the student doesn’t get better and have fun, it is the professional’s fault, not the student.

The Strike Zone

BY STEWART RUSSELL, PARTNER, UNIVERSAL TENNIS MANAGEMENT

It’s important for us as coaches to clearly define the strike zone immediately after the technical foundation of ground strokes have been developed. After students have established the ability to play “live ball,” we need to allow them to grasp the idea that each stroke has a purpose and can be hit with a multitude of heights, thus defining their personal “strike zone.”

By definition, a zone is an area having a particular characteristic, purpose, or use, or subject to particular restrictions. In this sport, the strike zone refers to the area ranging between the knees to one’s shoulders.

The tennis strike zone is like that of a baseball strike zone. We need students to understand that, by hitting the ball from different heights, they can generate different types of shots and have a different purpose behind each stroke, depending on their strike zone. Ted Williams (arguably the best hitter in baseball history) had a different purpose behind hitting a pitch that was thrown somewhere other than his personal strike zone. Could we be doing students a disservice by continually feeding them balls that bounce up to their waist? I would agree that a waist-high ball could be considered the optimum strike point, but please have students understand that this is NOT their strike zone. Rather, ask yourself: How many balls do you feed (when in a controlled environment/private lessons) that bounce at different heights to the student? Reason being, transitioning to live ball can influence students to think that their strike zone depends on how the opponent’s ball arrives to them.

The strike zone stays a strike zone, no matter the incoming ball. Could students begin to understand the ability to flatten out a groundstroke when they begin to grasp the leverage on the height over the net that they gain when attempting it around shoulder level? (Think about Juan Martin del Potro.). Could students begin to understand the ability to add more topspin when attempting to hit balls from below the height of the net and knee level or below? (Think of Rafael Nadal.). We tend to use terms like “take the ball on the rise,” “take the ball early to take time away from your opponent,” “Don’t let the ball drop too low.” Let’s make sure we clearly define the “area” and “purpose” that one should have when attempting to hit balls from the range between their knees and shoulder.

Fun facts: Ask a student to visually show you their strike zone and I would bet nine out of 10 would point to a spot at or around their waist level. It’s not a strike point; it’s a strike zone; please make them aware that it’s OK to hit balls from anywhere in this area.

Pro-fed slice and topspin balls are a great way to mix up incoming shots, and a much better way to bridge any gaps that may arise if students are becoming acclimated/dependent on their opponents to dictate the variety in their games. Each student’s personal strike zone may vary based on factors like size, strength, footwork, and ball recognition skills. Pre-planning on what shot you can hit that can lead you to hit the next stroke in your personal strike/ “happy” zone is a strategy that needs to be reinforced more in high-level players.

CONSIDER ADJUSTING YOUR POSITION

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

Ioften ask the players I coach and support if there are any rules in tennis that tell you where you must stand? This is because almost all players stand in the same place to serve, to return, and around the net. You can stand wherever you like! Here are some scenarios where you should consider adjusting your position to increase your chances to win your match:

• When the opponent’s serve is weak. Get up there and apply pressure by taking the ball earlier. When their serve is strong, move back and get yourself more time. A serve’s speed is measured off the racket and then progressively slows down the further it travels.

• When you have a clearly stronger side. Move to your left to get more forehand returns. Serve from wider on the Ad side so your next shot is more often a forehand.

• Serve from closer to the T to improve your angle to find an opponent’s weaker backhand on the Deuce side.

• Further back when at the net if an opponent hits a lot of lob returns. When I played against Max Mirnyi/ Jonas Bjorkman, I stood further back against one and closer to the net against the other because one hit lobs and the other never did.

I bet you can think of more if you give it some thought! So, do NOT get locked into standing in the same place just because everyone else does it.

Do You Have A Sleep Protocol Like The Best Athletes In The World?

BY MARK KOVACS, PH.D., CTPS, MTPS, KOVACS INSTITUTE

Th ere are certain things ALTA captains and their players should keep in mind when looking for a coach. Perhaps you’ve had the same coach for years and want to look in a new direction. Here are some suggestions to optimize your choice of a tennis professional and to increase your teams’ chances to have fun and win.

At our Institute, we work with some of the best professional athletes on the planet, as well as top executives and performers. The one thing they all have in common is the need to maximize sleep because of a challenging schedule and excessive/unique travel. I wanted to provide you with some tips and techniques that we use in our sleep protocols. You can use these techniques to help improve your physical and mental recovery:

• Stick to a regular sleep schedule: If this is possible, it is ideal. However, nearly everyone I work with has unique schedules. For example, MLB

baseball All-Stars who play 162-game seasons, or top professional tennis players who travel all over the world during an 11-month season.

• Create a sleep-friendly environment. Your bedroom should be quiet, cool, and dark. Use blackout curtains, earplugs, or a white noise machine to block out any disruptive noise. Keep the temperature between 60- and 67-degrees Fahrenheit for optimal sleep.

• Establish a relaxing bedtime routine. This helps to signal your body that it’s time to wind down. This might include taking a warm bath, reading a book, or doing some gentle stretching or yoga.

• Limit caffeine and alcohol. Caffeine and alcohol can disrupt sleep, so it’s best to avoid them in the hours leading up to bedtime. We perform caffeine tolerance tests with our clients to help determine when and how to reduce caffeine as they get closer to

Sleep Aids

Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Taking a melatonin supplement can be effective for improving sleep quality and reducing the time it takes to fall asleep.

Magnesium is a mineral that is involved in many bodily functions, including sleep regulation. Taking a magnesium supplement can help improve sleep quality and reduce insomnia, particularly in individuals with low magnesium levels.

bedtime. Alcohol also is restricted as much as possible.

• Avoid electronics before bedtime. The blue light emitted by electronic devices can interfere with sleep by suppressing the production of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep. Try to avoid using electronics for at least an hour before bedtime. Also, I recommend blue light blocking glasses for all our clients to use 60-90 minutes before bed.

• Use relaxation techniques. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep.

In summary, these techniques have some solid research support and we have implemented all of these in different ways with hundreds of athletes and executives to improve health, performance, wellness, and recovery.

After you’ve tried all these techniques, other options that may be considered with the help of a trained professional could include non-prescription and prescription sleep aids. The most common non-prescription supplementation that have some solid research support include the following:

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is a neurotransmitter that is involved in promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. Taking a GABA supplement may help improve sleep quality and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep.

Lavender is an herb that has been used for centuries for its calming and relaxation properties. Taking a lavender supplement or using lavender essential oil may help improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety.

Valerian root is an herb that has been used for centuries for its sedative properties. Taking a valerian root supplement may help improve sleep quality and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep.

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Can Processed or Convenience Foods Fit in Your Training Diet?

BY PAGE LOVE, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD, USPTA AND JESSIE HULSEY, RDN, LD

To be a high-performing tennis player, you need to fuel your body with the right foods. But if you think that means shunning processed foods, think again. Processed foods have their own set of benefits that can help you perform well. Let’s explore what processed foods are and why they can fit into a tennis player’s diet.

Processed food

Combined with an overall healthy eating plan, processed food can be incredibly beneficial for when you are looking to refuel your bodies without slowing down your active life.

Food processing can transform the way food looks, tastes, and feels before it reaches our plates. Whenever you pop something in the microwave or grab a snack from your pantry, it’s likely that someone has already taken extra steps to make sure the food will be safe and nutritious when you eat it. Through various techniques such as freezing, drying and formulating ingredients together, food processing can transform basic items into delicious options we know and love.

Possible benefits to processed and convenience foods

For tennis players, nutritional demands can be particularly challenging to meet, making processed foods beneficial to have in your pantry. While fresh fruits and vegetables are a key element of any diet, processed foods have an important role as well — providing essential fuel when you need it most. Many of them provide a concentrated source of energy and protein, making them especially beneficial for your tennis play. For example, sports drinks can replenish fluids, electrolytes, and carbohydrates lost during a long workout or race. On the other hand, protein bars can provide a small amount of high-quality protein plus carbohydrate for a convenient snack before or after exercise. Processed food products also provide a wider array of options for maintaining variety in a tennis player’s diet, allowing them to consume nutrient-rich foods without sacrificing convenience. Processed foods also are often pre-cooked or precut into convenient portions for easier meal preparation. This can save time in the kitchen and make it easier to create healthy meals without having to spend hours. Combined with an overall healthy eating plan, processed food can be incredibly beneficial for when you are looking to refuel your bodies without slowing down your active life.

Common examples of processed foods include:

• Canned and frozen fruits and vegetables.

• Packaged foods labeled “natural” or “organic,” such as cereals, fresh meat and poultry, and jarred foods.

• Foods with health and nutrition claims on the label, such as “may reduce risk of heart disease,” “low in fat” or “high in calcium.”

• Foods fortified with nutrients such as fiber, vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids.

• Foods prepared in quick-service restaurants, cafeterias and food courts, sports arenas, coffee shops and other locations.

TYPE OF PROCESSED FOOD

Foods that require little processing or production (also called “minimally processed”).

Foods processed to help preserve and enhance nutrients and freshness of foods at their peak.

Foods that combine ingredients such as sweeteners, spices, oils, flavors, colors, and preservatives to improve safety and taste and/or add visual appeal.

Foods packaged to stay fresh and to save time.

NORMAL TRAINING DIET EXAMPLES

Washed and packaged fruits and vegetables; bagged salads; roasted and ground nuts

Canned tuna, beans and tomatoes; frozen fruits and vegetables; pureed/jarred foods

Some packaged foods, such as instant rice or potato mixes, bakery items, jarred tomato sauce, spice mixes, dressings and sauces.

Breakfast cereal, flavored oatmeal, crackers, jams and jellies, nut butters, ice cream, yogurt, garlic bread, granola bars and energy bars, bakery, fruit chews, rotisserie chicken, luncheon meat, cheese spreads, fruit drinks, sport drinks, and carbonated beverages.

Can frozen meals fit into your performance meal plan? What should you look for?

Tennis players recognize the importance of nourishing their bodies with healthy, balanced meals, but with their busy work and training schedules and long travel times, preparing those meals can be difficult. Fortunately, there are now frozen meals on the market specifically designed to meet the nutrition needs of active people. These convenient meals usually contain a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals, ensuring that athletes receive the nutrients they need while on the go. In addition to being nutritious, many of these meals also taste great, which is an added bonus for players who want to enjoy their food as much as possible!

Tips for finding healthy frozen meal options — consider these 5 buying tips:

Trying to find a healthy, frozen meal option can feel daunting, especially when trying to navigate the ever-growing frozen foods aisle. Fortunately, there are a few tips and tricks for ensuring your meals fit your dietary needs.

1. Read the nutrition label. Aim to find meals with the following: at least 500 calories and up to 800 calories, less than 20 grams of fat, 5 or more grams of fiber, and 15 -20 grams or more of protein.

2. Reach for meals with a combination of lean protein, vegetables, and whole grain item or starchy vegetable.

3. Meals that contain a complex carbohydrate like rice, potatoes pasta, and also higher in fiber will help to keep you fueled and satisfied.

4. To increase protein, consider adding ½ cup of beans or a serving of nuts or a serving of cottage cheese or yogurt to the side of your meals.

5. Most frozen dinners are lower in vegetable bulk, so try adding a side salad or extra steamed vegetable side.

Page Love is an avid ALTA participant and sport dietitian/nutrition advisor for the WTA and ATP professional tours. She has served on the USTA sport science committee for 25 years and has a private practice in Sandy Springs. You can reach her at nutrifitga.com. Jessie Hulsey is an Atlanta based consultant registered dietitian, specializing in both behavioral and long-term care nutrition and is a consultant to Nutrifit. She also consults with brands to provide nutrition content, recipe development, and food photography.

Cookies

If there’s one thing on which we all can agree, it is that cookies are great! We might have different tastes when it comes to our favorite flavors, but there’s no arguing the fact that cookies are the undisputed champion of sweet treats. Below we present some of your favorite cookie recipes. Enjoy!

Crispy & Nutty

Mimi Hall’s Butter Cookies

Anne McCollum, Victor Lord Park

Thursday Women B4

1 15.25 oz. box butter golden cake mix

1 3.4 oz. box of vanilla instant pudding mix

¼ tsp. salt

1 cup toasted pecans, chopped

1 cup vegetable oil

1 large egg, lightly beaten

2 tsp. vanilla

Preheat oven to 325º. Combine cake mix, pudding mix and salt in a large bowl. Add pecans, oil, egg and vanilla; beat with electric mixer on low until combined. Drop by rounded teaspoons 2 inches apart on parchment paper on a baking sheet. Bake about 15 minutes until lightly browned. (Makes a crispy cookie.)

Easy & Delicious

Magic Cookie Bars

Charity Muldoon, Baldwin Farms

Thursday Women B8

½ cup butter

1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

1 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk

1 6 oz. package semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 ½ cups flaked coconut

1 cup chopped nuts

Preheat oven to 350º. In a 13x9 pan, melt butter in oven. Sprinkle crumbs over butter; pour condensed milk evenly over crumbs. Top with remaining ingredients; press down. Bake 25 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool, chill if desired. Cut into bars. Store loosely covered at room temperature.

It’s A Winner

Ace Oatmeal Cookies

Gail Jones, Summit Family YMCA, Senior Day Women B1

2 cups plain flour

1 tsp. cinnamon

½ tsp. salt

½ tsp. baking soda

½ cup sugar

1 cup brown sugar

2 large eggs (beaten)

1 cup butter

1 Tbsp. vanilla

2 Tbsp. honey

3 cups oats

1 cup (heaping) raisins or craisins

1 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Mix dry ingredients. Set aside. Cream butter, both sugars, eggs, vanilla, and honey. Add dry ingredients. Add oats, raisins, and pecans. Put in refrigerator for 30 minutes — no less, no more. Place by spoonful (flatten a little) on cookie sheet (can be lined with parchment paper if preferred). Bake at 350 degrees for 10-18 minutes, until lightly browned.

BRANDED CONTENT

Get Faster To The Ball

AS TENNIS ENTHUSIASTS, YOU’RE ALL FAMILIAR WITH THE BABOLAT BRAND. Many of you use their racquets. But do you know much about Babolat’s history in tennis and its product innovations? The Lyon, France-based company started by making the first natural gut strings for racquets in 1875, one year after Walter Clopton Wingfield devised the rules of lawn tennis, and not long after producing the brand’s first badminton strings. By 1925, Babolat began producing the first synthetic racquet strings, and by the 1950s, the company was a household name in racquet sports around the world.

A turning point in the brand’s history came in 1994. After more than a century at the leading edge of the stringing and racquet accessories market, Babolat launched its first tennis frames. By creating a complete range, including the Pure Drive, Pierre Babolat invents an extraordinary racquet globally associated with new playing styles. Initially launched in France, it is soon marketed in Spain (1995), Italy (1996), Austria (1997) and Germany (1998), before conquering countries worldwide, including Japan in 1999, and the United States in 2000. Since then, Pure Drive has become an iconic and internationally best-selling racquet.

Seeking to innovate in every aspect of the game, in 2003 Babolat teamed up with another French brand — Michelin — to launch its inaugural footwear line. The combined expertise of these two specialists results in a series of shoes offering guaranteed technical quality. After launching its first clothing range for club players, Babolat now offers a complete range of equipment for tennis, badminton, padel, and pickleball players.

Today, Babolat continues to modernize tennis with racquet technology and footwear technology. The company has worked diligently to help you get faster to the ball. Stylish designs feature player-driven advancements that enhance agility, stability, and comfort. Babolat makes tennis shoes for men, women, juniors, and kids of all ages and abilities. Looking for speed? Try the technology-loaded Babolat Jet Mach 3. Need extreme durability? Check out the Babolat Propulse Fury. Desiring comfort and a wide-fit tennis shoe? Your feet will love the Babolat SFX3.

Babolat Jet Mach 3

Looking for a lightweight, high-performance shoe that prioritizes support & comfort? Check out the latest Jet Mach 3. Loaded with technology, the Jet Mach 3 is one of the most popular shoes on court around the world for a reason. The re-engineered Jet Mach 3 is designed to increase players’ confidence and speed on the court. This shoe is the ultimate weapon to get you faster to the ball. The upper fabric is woven together to create more elasticity, providing flexibility and comfort. A softer, shock-absorbing EVA foam pad offers excellent heel protection for an added layer of comfort and support.

It features Babolat’s KPRSX system for optimal shock absorption, Matryx EVO fabric technology, an OrthoLite insole, ACTIVE FLEXION for quick response, and a Michelin Premium rubber outsole.

ceptional lateral support. Situated between the midsole and the Powerbelt, this reinforcement piece increases lateral support and anchors you to the ground for increased stability.

In addition to the KPRSX system and OrthoLite insole, the Fury 3 features 360 FIT, a built-in tongue system providing a snug performance fit around the foot with the right amount of comfort. The shoe’s GEN-PROTECT tech is a polyurethane finish featuring vibrant designs that provides exceptional comfort and increased durability.

Babolat SFX3

Whether you have a wider-than-average foot or your priority is to feel comfortable in your shoes, the Babolat SFX3 is THE tennis shoe you need. It’s the benchmark for comfort in the Babolat range. With comfort and performance as a priority, the flexible and breathable upper means you can spend hours on court. The thicker insole and Kompressor cushioning system provide impact protection all day long.

Babolat Propulse Fury 3

If durability is your priority, check out the new Propulse Fury 3, which comes with a six-month warranty. The Propulse Fury has been reinvented while remaining true to its DNA. The Powerbelt strap wraps around the midfoot and offers ex-

The single-layer Matryx piece on the forefoot gives extra support for lateral movements. The OrthoLite insole is molded to hug the shape of the foot. And the Michelin Original rubber composition on the outsole has proven its worth over the past 15 years and beyond. It offers a great combination of grip and durability to meet the extreme demands of tennis footwork.

The modern tennis game requires equipment that not only helps players hit better shots, but propels competitors to the ball faster and keeps them supported and stable while doing so. For whatever style of play you prefer, Babolat footwear has you covered. To see the full range, visit babolat.com/us.

SHOES

The Rush Pro 4.0 upgrades dynamic court movement thanks to a pair of innovations in the midsole and outsole. An evolution of the Rush Pro 3.5 chassis construction, 4D Support Chassis 2.0 splits the chassis into two pieces for a dual purpose: one piece runs under the foot for enhanced support and forward propulsion, while the other runs laterally for additional stability and control. In the forefoot of the midsole, Energy Cell features a lightweight EVA foam designed to optimize the transfer of body weight through impact for more explosive propulsion. wilson.com

2 K-Swiss Pickleball Supreme

The Pickleball Supreme targets a more competitive player who is looking for a light, responsive shoe with added comfort features. This top-performing model incorporates Surge 7.0 for maximum energy return, new Durawrap flex upper for ideal fit and protection, and Dragguard 7.0 outsole for durability. kswiss.com

3 Babolat Jet Mach 3 Women

The re-engineered Jet Mach 3 is designed to increase players’ confidence and speed on the court. This lightweight shoe is the ultimate weapon to get you faster to the ball. The upper fabric is woven together to create more elasticity, providing flexibility and comfort. A softer, shock-absorbing EVA foam pad offers excellent heel protection for an added layer of comfort and support. babolat.com

4 Diadora Blushield Torneo 2

The Diadora Blushield Torneo 2 is the perfect combination of comfort, stability and durability. Worn by world #25 Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, the Torneo 2 features Blushield technology which works with the foot to create best-in-class cushioning and balance at all points on the court. Available in both all court and clay outsoles. diadora.com

GEAR GUIDE

By Cory Sekine-Pettite

As the summer ALTA season begins, make sure your equipment is in top form. Should you need any new clothes, shoes, racquets, or strings, our 2023 Gear Guide has you covered. So, get out there. Play fairly. And remember to have fun!

5

The NEW Prince Phantom 1 has a retro style with technologies built-in to provide the support and stability needed for aggressive movers. Players love the mid cut which delivers a supportive fit with plush padding around the ankle. The low-to-the-court ride keeps you feeling light on your toes. The toe-box is designed for extra stability on quick changes of direction, while the X-Light Endurance rubber compound provides superb traction on a variety of surfaces. tennis-warehouse.com

6

Wave Exceed Light AC

Designed for the active player, the Wave Exceed Light takes lightweight cushioning to another level. Whether your game is tennis or pickleball, you can stay on court all day long as the Wave Exceed Light is one of the lightest shoes on the market. MIZUNO ENERZY is utilized in the heel, allowing for an extremely high level of energy return and responsiveness from the first serve to the final point. A new forefoot design provides a relaxed, wider fit while the X10 outsole supplies added durability. The total result is a luxurious, yet lightning-fast shoe created for all-day play. MizunoUSA.com

The Axilus 2 Energized is FILA’s premium lightweight performance tennis shoe, and one of the brand’s most popular performance shoes to date. The shoe offers a lightness and responsiveness that allows for optimal agility on the court, with a protective, molded forefoot cage that offers abrasion resistance, stability and an overall maximum comfort fit for all players. fila.com/tennis

1 Wilson Rush Pro 4.0

Prince Phantom 1

Mizuno

7 FILA Axilus 2 Energized

8 K-Swiss Ultrashot 3

The Ultrashot 3 is built for competitive, aggressive, and powerful tennis players who demand a shoe with the highest level of performance. The Ultrashot 3 offers maximum energy return with Surge 7.0 midsole technology; stability from the 360 Plantar Chassis; and Dragguard 7.0 for durability. Comes with a 6-Month Outsole Guarantee. Worn by ATP and WTA professional athletes. kswiss.com

9 Mizuno Wave Enforce Tour AC

Designed for the advanced player, the allnew Wave Enforce Tour AC is the ideal shoe for powerful competitors who love to dictate points from the baseline. Equipped with MIZUNO ENERZY throughout the footbed, the Enforce Tour provides highenergy return and plush cushioning for quick transitions without added weight. The DuRubber outrigger outsole supports forceful rotational movement, maximizing stroke power and footwork stability, and works in conjunction with a unique upper blend of TPU and mesh to produce a professional level of durability. The proprietary Dyna-Heel Lock system improves the fit and alignment of the ankle and heel, further enhancing stability and maneuverability. Includes a 6-month warranty. MizunoUSA.com

10 Wilson Rush Pro Ace

The most generous fit in the popular Rush Pro line, the Rush Pro Ace earns high grades for tennis players with a strong preference for comfort on the court. Highlighted by its wider toe box to accommodate wider feet, this shoe also helps stabilize the foot through its 4D Support Chassis: a symmetrical heel-toe chassis that limits supination to help control pivot movements. Layered with Sensifeel on the upper for additional breathability, the Rush Pro Ace delivers an appealing blend of comfort, stability, and aesthetic for supreme confidence with every step. wilson.com

11 Yonex SONICAGE PLUS

The Yonex SONICAGE PLUS is engineered for recreational and intermediate players looking for a super-wide (4.5E) shoe. This unisex allcourt shoe features a seamless tongue, TPU Shank, and Flexquip durable skin to provide maximum comfort and stability. Additionally, signature POWER CUSHION + technology is incorporated for increased shock absorption and repulsion. yonex.com/us

12 Babolat Propulse Fury Men

The New Propulse Fury has been reinvented while remaining true to its DNA. The Powerbelt strap wraps around the midfoot and offers exceptional lateral support. Situated between the midsole and the Powerbelt, this reinforcement piece increases lateral support and anchors you to the ground for increased stability. This is the only shoe in the Babolat range offering a 6-month outsole warranty. babolat.com

13 Diadora B.ICON

2

Diadora’s premium performance shoe, the Speed B.Icon 2, gets updated with some slight changes to the upper for durability. Taking the midsole super foam DD Anima from their premium running shoes and infusing it into the B.Icon, you’ll find great shock absorption, while also being extremely light and responsive. The D-Skin upper material hugs the foot uniformly to help maximize the support, and to reduce stress on pressure points. An outer hook on the lateral side of the shoe is connected to the lacing system, which helps to lock-in the heels, and boost support around the ankles. Available in both all court and clay outsoles. diadora.com

14 K-Swiss

SpeedTrac

The SpeedTrac is the next-generation tennis shoe designed for quickness and movement around the court. The new 180 PSC design for lightweight midfoot support incorporated with a new outsole pattern provides maximum speed around the court. kswiss.com

15

Mizuno Wave Exceed

Tour

5 AC

Faster, lighter and more flexible than before, the all-new Wave Exceed Tour 5 AC is designed for the advanced tennis or pickleball player looking for the utmost in explosive on-court performance. MIZUNO ENERZY, is integrated in the midsole at the forefoot and throughout the sockliner to deliver quicker turns, starts and stops for optimum performance and ultimate energy return. An all-new “bootie” construction and a remodeled 3D-SOLID upper design offer greater flexibility and comfort, allowing the foot to truly integrate with the shoe no matter how intense the movements. MIZUNO WAVE Technology increases ankle stability and shock re-distribution while the DuRubber outsole provides the durability and longevity top players demand. Includes a 6-month warranty. MizunoUSA.com

RACQUETS + PADDLES

1

Babolat Pure Aero Rafa

The 2023 Pure Aero Rafa racquet is defined by Rafa without any dampening system for a natural-sounding shot. While only having a static weight of 10.2 ounces, this racquet provides power and spin from an even balance frame, open string pattern, and higher swing weight of 290 kg cm2 — which means this racquet swings like a traditional Pure Aero racquet. babolat.com

2 Wilson Burn v5

For players who love to hit from the baseline, Wilson’s Burn brings the heat. This tennis racquet packs a powerful punch. Featuring a carbon fiber composition with increased frame stiffness, the lightweight frame unleashes plenty of pace upon contact. The v5 is highlighted by a burnt orange color that’s sure to pop on court. wilson.com

3

GAMMA Voltage 5.0 Pickleball Paddle

The GAMMA Voltage 5.0 Pickleball Paddle is for discriminating players who want a responsive paddle that produces intense spin. The specialized micro bead surface creates texturing to bite extra ball rotation with every shot. The Voltage 5.0 features a 14mm thick polymer core which offers great power and touch. The broad hitting area and unique shape improves swing speed and results in less drag so you can focus on hitting deep penetrating shots while keeping on top of the pace of play. gammasports.com

4 Yonex 7th Generation VCORE 100

Endorsed by Grand Slam Champion Elena Rybakina, the Yonex VCORE 100 is the perfect frame for the all-around player looking to add spin and speed to their game. The 7th Generation VCORE features an enlarged frame top at the 2 o’clock and 10 o’clock positions, increasing ball contact area and producing a higher launch angle. String it with Yonex POLYTOUR REV for the ultimate spin combination. yonex.com/us

5 GAMMA Neutron 5.0

Pickleball Paddle

The GAMMA Neutron 5.0 Pickleball Paddle is all about control. The graphite hitting surface spreads out the sweet spot and delivers consistent feel throughout, and the specialized micro bead surface treatment enhances spin for consistent shot placement. The polypropylene core is 12mm to minimize shock, making it easier to maintain the correct position at the No Volley Zone during intense rallies. gammasports.com

6 HEAD Radical

MP

Upgraded with state-of-the-art Auxetic technology, the highly versatile Radical MP offers all-court performance players a modern blend of power, control, and spin. head.com/en_US

7 GAMMA Obsidian 16

Product Description: The GAMMA Obsidian 16 was introduced earlier this year for players looking to up their game. It features a 16mm NeuCore Polypropylene core material and a raw graphite surface. It weighs just 7.8 oz. and will have your opponents envious of both your shots and your game-winning paddle. gammasports.com

8 Prince Ripstick

Prince combines the speed, spin, and power of a modern player’s racquet with uncommonly high levels of comfort in the Ripstick. Available in a 300g and a 280g version, the 100-square-inch head offers controllable power and the open 16x18 string pattern delivers easy access to spin. An armfriendly frame featuring the most evolved version of Prince’s O-Port Technology, one of the game’s time-tested and proven technologies for comfort, as well as stiffness ratings in the mid to low 60s. tennis-warehouse.com

9 HEAD Gravity MP

Aggressive next-generation performance players can dominate the game with the Gravity MP, with its huge sweet spot, revolutionary frame, and innovative Auxetic technology. head.com/en_US

10 GAMMA Micron 5.0

Pickleball Paddle

The GAMMA Micron 5.0 Pickleball Paddle provides a mix of accessibility and precision thanks to its broad face and unique micro bead texture. The 12mm polypropylene core provides a wide sweet spot for responsive shots at all times, even when hitting outside the center of the paddle. Unique spin technology on the surface makes it easier to change up your shots and control the pace of the game. gammasports.com

11

HEAD Gravity Tour

The all-new Gravity model comes with a distinctive flip design and a massive sweet spot shape that combines the great power you want with a soft impact feel you need. It combines HEAD’s latest technologies that work together for an ultimate paddle experience. head.com/en_US

12 GAMMA Atomic 5.0

Pickleball Paddle

The GAMMA Atomic 5.0 Pickleball Paddle is a confidence-inspiring paddle that can handle fast exchanges at the kitchen line and put maximum pace on your serves and groundstrokes. The fiberglass face and 14mm thick polymer core create tremendous performance and reliable feedback providing maximum power and precision while the wide face also affords plenty of surface when blocking from a defensive position. gammasports.com

13 Wilson Pro Staff v14

The Wilson Pro Staff v14 is a precision-oriented racquet ideal for advanced players. Slightly lighter than the Pro Staff RF 97, it still has a high weight that’s concentrated in the handle. Designed with Paradigm Bending technology to optimize the bending profile between the shaft and hoop, this racket offers precision and pinpoint control. wilson.com

PERFORMANCE WEAR

FILA La Finale Racerback Tank

A classic and stylish tank that completes any tennis outfit, the La Finale Racerback is available in two signature colors emblematic of the collection’s trademark look. Flattering color blocking style pairs with contrast color binding and side panel piecing to produce the ultimate blend of comfort and style fila.com/tennis

1 Diadora SS Polo Icon

Using premium stretch polyester piquet, this retro-inspired polo will keep you cool all day long. The SS Polo Icon features contrasting knitted inserts on the collar and on the sleeve hems. The logo design complies with all tournament regulations. diadora.com

2 Pique Sleeveless Polo & High Waist Pique Skirt

Lucky In Love redefines the polo tank and high waist skirt in a new, hip fit length that keeps you covered. Performance Pique fabric brings a new feel to the court, as the mesh paneling and neon piping bring accents of flair and color. shopluckyinlove.com

3 The Break by Fortyall

Crafted for the players who are ready to break their classy counterparts who always hold serve. Wrinkle-resistant and sweat wicking capabilities makes for an essential top for any athlete. Custom-sourced fabric with top-line moisture wicking capabilities and UPF-50 protection makes this a staple for all tennis bags. Fortyall.com

4 Diadora Bermuda Icon

A seven-inch short made with stretch microfiber fabric with ball pockets on either side, stretch drawstring waist and polyester piquet insert. diadora.com

5 Ellesse Tournelle Tee

Crafted from a breathable, moisture-wicking fabric, this tee comes in a classic fit, featuring mesh contrast piping and signature branding to the chest. Also features jacquard knits, two color combinations, and twin tipping. The Tournelle Tee comes in a fresh Aqua color and a classic white for a more conservative look. newcobrands.com

PERFORMANCE WEAR

6 FILA La Finale Pleated Skort

The La Finale Pleated Skort is defined by its signature pleating detail and a contrast color waistband and Forza ball short. fila.com/tennis

7 The Hold by Fortyall

A timeless American-made collared tennis shirt built with a classic look. Exactly what the athlete needs to hold their serve as they have trained. Designed to perform under pressure, The Hold will keep you comfortable and composed throughout any match. Custom sourced fabric with top-line moisture wicking capabilities and UPF-50 protection makes this your go-to for those big days at the court. Fortyall.com

8 Metallic Ikat Set

Lucky In Love brought the Ikat trend to the court, and they are making a bold statement by adding a hit of metallic shimmer to this beautiful collection. shopluckyinlove.com

9 Diadora L. Skirt Icon

Retro-inspired tennis skirt made of microfiber, with a pleated finish and contrasting inserts on the waistband make it easy to win in style. Built in brief features ball pockets at the sides. diadora.com

10

Ellesse Gilli Tee

Featuring a stretch moisture-wicking fabric, this tee features contrast paneling and signature Ellesse branding. This tee offers a modern take on classic fabrics and designs with asymmetric color pops and jacquard knits. Available in an Off-White color as well as a traditional White. newcobrands.com

11

Ellesse Ranaldi Dress

Designed with a stretch moisture-wicking fabric, this dress features a bonded hem, contrast piping and signature Ellesse branding. With the asymmetric color pops, jacquard knits, and a modern take on the classic Ellesse style, this dress will become your go-to when you hit the courts. The Ranaldi Dress comes with a built-in compression short. Available in OffWhite and a traditional White for a more classic look. newcobrands.com

12

Ellesse Tolbiac Polo

Crafted from a breathable, moisture-wicking fabric, this polo is part of the Ellesse brand DNA. Coming in a standard fit and featuring a flat knit collar and cuffs, it’s detailed with classic dual-embroidered badges and branded pearlized buttons. The Tolbiac Polo comes in a bright and fresh Aqua color as well as a classic white. newcobrands.com

13

The Deuce by Fortyall

Complete the look and meet your performance goals with these all-court shorts. No matter what’s thrown at these, they were carefully assembled to play through the tightest matches. With sweat and stains in mind, these shorts wick moisture with ease and allow for UPF-50 protection. Fortyall.com

Coral Canyon Pleated Skirt

Lucky In Love embraced spiritual gangster when designing this colorful pleat tier skirt. Bold, abstract florals float across two layers of pleats as a multicolor border trim brings an added pop of color. Paired here with their essential One Love Rib Tank. shopluckyinlove.com

STRINGS + THINGS

1 Babolat Touch VS Natural Gut

Babolat says this is the best string on the market. This string is the most comfortable, and most powerful, offers the best feel of any string, holds tension the longest, and is the most arm friendly, Babolat reports. Your strings are the engine of your racquet and choosing the right string is important. Babolat invented tennis strings in 1875 and has been innovating ever since. babolat.com

2 Yonex POLYTOUR DRIVE

POLYTOUR DRIVE is the newest Yonex string available in the U.S. Endorsed by professional player Dayana Yastremska, POLYTOUR

DRIVE is designed for players of all swing speeds looking for a shaped string at an affordable price. This string is available in 1.25 mm. and colorways of black and silver. yonex.com/us

3 HEAD Hawk Power

Designed for high-performance players and made in the United States, the Hawk Power adds explosive power and control to your game. head.com/en_US

4 Pro Penn 40 Pickleball

The Pro Penn 40 Outdoor is ideal for all players who demand a long-lasting, fast, and consistent ball for high performance tournament play. head.com/en_US

5 PrinceGrip Plus Lotion

Back by popular demand! Prince brings back the original, very popular PrinceGrip Plus Enhancing Lotion! PrinceGrip Plus keeps your hands dry for a more secure grip and better control of your racquet. Used by tennis players, runners, and athletes in a variety of sports needing an additional moisture barrier layer which helps prevent blisters. tennis-warehouse.com

6

Wilson Luxilon Eco Power

LXN Eco Power offers a durable, heavy-duty construction that’s oriented for power, spin and control, yet forgiving when hitting delicate shots. Designed for all-around players who want to level up their game and make a sustainable choice, this hexagon shaped string grips the ball upon contact to create additional spin and keep your shots inside the court. It is the first string on the market made from 100% recycled materials. wilson.com

7 Prince Synthetic Gut w/ Duraflex

Prince Synthetic Gut w/Duraflex is one of the most popular strings ever made. With its seductive all-around playability, this iconic string has attracted generations of players. It also makes the perfect hybrid cross. This string’s magic comes in no small part from Duraflex, a unique material technology that enhances durability without compromising comfort. Once you factor in the price, it’s easy to see why this is one of the best value strings of all time. 12 Colors + Rainbow! tennis-warehouse.com

8 Tourna Tuff

Tourna Tuff is a longer-lasting version of the famous Tourna Grip. Still features max sweat absorption. Still gets tackier when you sweat. Still trademarked blue color. The main difference is its more durable. Six years in development, this grip is ideal for those looking to make their overgrip last longer. Available in 3, 10, and 30 packs. tourna.com

1 Lobster Sports elite two

The elite two features triple oscillation, which produces shots at random width and depth, places emphasis on strong footwork and the ability to adapt to the types of variable shots one sees in match play. Improve your reaction time while you advance your foot speed agility. Sky-high lobs and blistering speeds of 80 mph will take your game to new levels. These battery-powered tennis ball machines will challenge all your strokes, not just your forehand and backhand. lobstersports.com

BAGS + EQUIPMENT

2 Babolat Pure Aero Rafa RH x6

The new Pure Aero Rafa bag design is created to be carried closer to your body, bringing your center of gravity forward, and making it more comfortable. The bag has a hard-wearing waterproof outer for maximum protection; is designed to stand straight up, making it easier to access equipment; and has a large capacity to hold plenty of gear. babolat.com

3 GAMMA Tour Backpack

The GAMMA Pickleball Tour Backpack comes with all the space and features you need to haul your gear. The entire bag is water resistant and comes with lined interior compartments that make them easy to keep clean. Shoe and/or wet clothing compartment at the bottom with air vents prevents odor and moisture from accumulating. Four accessory pockets allow you to stash smaller items. Additional features include a top grab handle, and 2 hooks for hanging the bag on a fence. gammasports.com

4 Lobster Sports elite grand five le

The elite grand five le is designed to be the ultimate combination of functionality, performance and ease of use. Players can choose 18 different shot locations with the press of a button and use this to customize their drills and even save them for future practice sessions. There are 12 pre-loaded drills as well, ready for use right out of the box. Alternatively, create match-like conditions by fully randomizing combinations of speed, spin, placement and feed rate. lobstersports.com

5 The pickle champion by Lobster

Offering cutting-edge technology unrivaled among pickleball ball launchers, the pickle champion by Lobster feels like you are playing against another human being! With the push of a button, players can set endless options for personalized training or choose from the six pre-loaded drills for instant play with our upgraded machine. The pickle champion by Lobster also offers unparalleled, fully random oscillation where balls are tossed randomly throughout the entire court, mixing up ball speed, spin, and trajectory. lobstersports.com

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WHERE ATLANTA COMES TO PLAY

STANDINGS WINTER 2023

Mixed Doubles • Senior Mixed WINNER • FINALIST

MIXED DOUBLES

A1 Kings Cove (Michael Schroth, captain)

AA2 Dekalb TC (Timothy Maldonado, captain)

AA3 Vermack (Holly Blake, captain)

AA1 Lifetime Athletic & Tennis (Kimberly Raley, captain)

CITY T 51

FULTON TC 42

GOLF & 31

MILL T C 68

MILL I 68

OF FERNW 60

PENHURST 60

LOCH HIGHLAND 45

INDIAN HILLS CC 42

CHESTNUT HILL 28

RIVERSIDE 25 04 MURPHY CANDLER 77

BLACKBURN (FOJAS) 65

ECHO RIDGE 57

BLACKBURN (WATERMAN) 51

PEACHTREE STATIO 48

MJCCA 45

CHEROKEE TOWN CL 28

KINGSLEY 25 05 SPRINGMONTE 65

CREEKSTONE ESTAT 62

LANIER SPRINGS 57

MORNINGBROOKE 51

PARSONS RUN 48

THORNGATE 45 LAUREL SPRINGS/F 40

80

65 SMOKE RISE COUNT 57

TRADITIONS OF BR 45

SOUTHLAND CC 37

68

GLEN ABBEY I 65

EAST ROSWELL PAR 60 SPRING RIDGE 57

A6 Chadds Ridge (Shawn Bal, captain)

A7 River Ridge @ Barnwell (Radek Horak, captain)

A4 Lake Forest Subdivision (Kelley Barden, captain) A5 Rock Springs Park (Chau Duong, captain)

A2 The Branches (Zach Kennedy, captain)

A3 Brookfield CC (Katie Tucker, captain)

34

BAKERS FARM 31 02 DEKALB TENNIS CE (MCLELLA) 65

GLENLAKE I (CATTANACH) 65

DEKALB TENNIS CE (JOHNSON)57 TWIN

GLENLAKE I (DOAN) 42 DEKALB TENNIS CE (MCCARTH) 42

CRAIG PA 17

BARRINGTON 77 CHATTAHOOCHEE RE 68

GOLF & CC 60 LONGLAKE SWIM/TE

A8 Leafmore Creek (Melissa Mathews, captain)

B1 Dellinger Park (Todd Williams, captain)

B5 Bitsy Grant/ Hard Courts (Lauren Wheeler, captain)

B4 Avocet Club (Jennifer Lee, captain)

B3 Eagle Watch (Barbara Wilkins, captain)

B2 Blackburn (Grant Malear, captain)

C2 Sharon Lester TC (Rachel Rimmer, captain)

C3 Bradshaw Farms (Lisa Lauletta, captain)

B8 Green Summers (Bob Arena, captain)

C1 Ivey Chase (Brooke Kesinger, captain)

B6 Highlands at Hamilton Township (Larry O’Keefe, captain)

B7 Providence Corners (Antony Fordham, captain)

C4 Northampton (Dave Lair, captain)

BRIDGE C 68

GOLF & (BARRINE) 62

GOLF

C6 Washington Park (Brandon Gzehoviak, captain)

C5 The Fields I (Alicja Brown, captain)

C7 Redfield (Candice Ryan, captain)

SENIOR MIXED

AA1 Laurel Park (Edward Howard, captain)

A1 Kennworth TC (Ron Pinto, captain)

B1 Chimney Springs (Tracey Langford, captain)

A7 Hillbrooke (Ken Agans, captain)

A5 Heritage Farms (Michael Mattix, captain)

A3 Saddle Creek 2 (Ann Long, captain)

B3 Foxhall (Jennifer Autian, captain)

B5 Peachtree City TC (Erin Stoots, captain)

B7 Sterling on the Lake (Jeff Ross, captain)

C1 Hamilton Hall/Dekalb (Joe Meredith, captain)

Employment

Your Serve Tennis – We are looking for new members of the YST team. YST provides a relaxed, fun work environment where our focus is the game we all love — TENNIS! Flexible hours available and weekend availability is required. We have positions available at all of our locations (Buckhead, East Cobb, Johns Creek, Milton, Sandy Springs, Suwanee and West Cobb), ranging from part-time stringers to store managers. We are also hiring for office and shipping/receiving positions out of our Roswell Home Office. For more information visit yourserve.com/jobs or submit your resume/application to jobs@yourserve.com.

PGA TOUR Superstore is looking for fun, energetic tennis enthusiasts to join our team. We are seeking part-time and seasonal sales associates and experienced racquet stringers for our Duluth, Roswell, and Kennesaw locations. For more information, please inquire in person to one of our stores.

Services

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

2023

Contact Us at 770.399.5788

n All ALTA vice presidents (below) have phone extensions at the ALTA office, but do not work in the office on a regular basis. Voice messages are checked frequently and answered in a timely manner.

n The phone number of your league coordinator is in your captains’ packet.

n To contact a member of the Executive Committee, call the ALTA office at

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Questions?

ALTA office personnel cannot answer your league-related questions. Team members should first contact their captain. If unable to answer, the captain should contact a league official.

n Questions about rules must be directed to league officials, which include coordinators, overall coordinators and league vice presidents.

n Concerns about team placement and levels should be directed to league officials.

n Credit card questions? Call ext. 107.

n Want information about new facility requests? Contact the First Vice President at ext. 114.

n IT issues? Contact Joan Appelbaum at ext. 103.

Directions & General Information

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

ALTA office: 770.399.5788

ALTA office hours: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30

Membership dues: Adults – $30, Juniors (18 and under) – $15. Dues are for the calendar year and expire at the end of the fall league season.

n ALTA website: altatennis.org

n ALTA’s calendar of important dates can be found on the website and in each issue of Net News.

n Your membership number is printed on the Net News mailing label and is also available on the ALTA website.

n To update your mailing address, log in to your account on the ALTA website and go to My Profile.

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