Net News Nov Dec 2024

Tomas Etcheverry in the Hypercourt Supreme 2

IEmbracing Opportunities To Advance

t is amazing how quickly the year passes when we spend our days outside at the courts. Here we are at the end of the year, and it came faster than I imagined it would. Remember the slowdown I mentioned in January? Well, that slowdown period is upon us. Just like that, the time has come to wrap up 2024 with a pretty bow and set it on the shelf as another completed year. Many of you have completed multiple seasons of play across our tennis and pickleball leagues, and some of you are just wrapping up the fall season. I hope each of your ALTA seasons has been enjoyable.

This year, like most years, has been quite active, but this has been an essential element for fueling our momentum. When you have only a year and several missions, finding ways to avoid obstacles and steer clear of any traffic that will slow your progress is imperative. To get it all done, there is a balance to be struck between sustaining a manageable pace and calendar management. What happens behind the scenes at ALTA is no different from what happens for you on the courts. We have a game plan that we want to implement. This necessitates being mindful not to rush our undertakings, while remaining observant of events that might require us to change

our plans. I believe we have accomplished our goal to continue to build on last year’s momentum and proceed with our forward progression.

Our initiatives have been concentrated on refreshing and enhancing our leagues to encourage growth and laying the groundwork for future league expansions. As a mainstay in our community, we continue to embrace opportunities to advance ALTA and our efforts to grow. Special attention has been paid to learning more about the needs of our membership, and how we can incorporate these details into our planning. Our present successes and future achievements represent a collective effort, and I am appreciative of the time I have been afforded to captain the league. Thank you all for a memorable and energetic year. I look forward to witnessing our continued evolution that is sure to stretch far beyond my imagination.

Chequetta L. Allen 2024 ALTA President

Our present successes and future achievements represent a collective effort, and I am appreciative of the time I have been afforded to captain the league.

For the latest news, information and events.

altatennis.org

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IT’S GOT TO BE GOLD

2024 ALTA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

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

President Chequetta Allen

First Vice President Rita Maloof

Secretary Keri Beck

Treasurer Susan Levin

VP Men’s League Greg McAfee

VP Thursday Siobhan Schaeffer

Women’s League

VP Sunday Loretta Phillips

Women’s League

VP Senior Day Leagues Joan Marcinko

VP Senior Leagues Seth Appelbaum

VP Mixed David Rowe

Doubles League

VP Junior Leagues Wendy Fee

VP Junior Gina Woods

Challenge Ladder

VP Special Programs Mark LaRotonda

VP Events & Tournaments Marla Michalewicz

VP Pickleball Jerry Niemeyer

President’s Appointee John Lowell

2023 President Linda Shepherd

2022 President Lamar Scott

ALTA Foundation Rep Karen Harris

2024 ALTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair Debbie Gaster

2022 ALTA President Lamar Scott

2023 ALTA President Linda Shepherd

2024 ALTA President Chequetta Allen

The ALTA Foundation Cameron Turner

President

2023 Elected Member Mike Wright

2024 Elected Member Stephen Murray

Treasurer Susan Levin

Secretary/

First Vice President Rita Maloof

2024 THE ALTA FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President Cameron Turner Treasurer Susan Levin Secretary Karen Harris

Larry Lebovitz

John Hanna

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

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2024 ALTA CALENDAR

2

NOVEMBER

MARCH

3

DECEMBER

APRIL

JANUARY

SENIOR MIXED DOUBLES

Jan. 4 Winter play begins

Feb. 15 Winter play ends

Feb. 22 Winter playoffs (rain date 2/23)

Feb. 23 Winter playoffs (rain date 3/1)

Mar. 1 Winter playoffs (rain date 3/2)

Mar. 8 Winter City Finals (rain date 3/9)

MIXED DOUBLES

Jan. 5 Winter play begins

Feb. 16 Winter play ends

Feb. 23 Winter playoffs (rain date 3/1)

Mar. 1 Winter playoffs (rain date 3/2)

Mar. 2 Winter playoffs and City Finals for AA levels (rain date 3/8)

Mar. 9 Winter City Finals for A, B and C levels (rain date 3/16)

SUNDAY WOMEN

Nov. 2 Fall AA City Finals (rain date 11/3)

Nov. 3 Fall playoffs (rain date 11/5)

Nov. 10 Fall City Finals for A, B, and C (rain date 11/17)

Jan. 1 Spring roster registration begins

Jan. 21 Spring roster registration ends

Feb. 27 Spring league schedules post online

Mar. 16 Spring play begins

Apr. 27 Spring play ends

MEN

Nov. 2 Fall AA City Finals (rain date 11/3)

Nov. 2 Fall playoffs (rain date 11/3)

Nov. 9 Fall City Finals for A, B, and C (rain date 11/16)

Jan. 1 Spring roster registration begins

Jan. 21 Spring roster registration ends

Feb. 27 Spring league schedules post online

Mar. 15 Spring play begins

Apr. 26 Spring play ends

THURSDAY WOMEN

Jan. 1 Spring roster registration begins

Jan. 21 Spring roster registration ends

Feb. 27 Spring league schedules post online

Mar. 13 Spring play begins

Apr. 24 Spring play ends

Apr. 29 Spring playoffs (rain date 5/1)

SENIOR DAY WOMEN

Nov. 4 Fall City Finals for all levels (rain date 11/11)

Jan. 1 Spring roster registration begins

Jan. 21 Spring roster registration ends

Feb. 27 Spring league schedules post online

Mar. 11 Spring play begins

Apr. 22 Spring play ends

Apr. 28 Spring playoffs (rain date 4/30)

SENIOR DAY MEN

6 Fall City Finals for all levels (rain date 11/13)

Jan. 1 Spring roster registration begins

Jan. 21 Spring roster registration ends

Feb. 27 Spring league schedules post online

Mar. 12 Spring play begins

Apr. 23 Spring play ends

Apr. 30 Spring playoffs (rain date 5/2)

JUNIOR LEAGUES

Nov. 2 Fall City Finals (rain date 11/3)

Nov. 2 Fall playoffs (rain date 11/5)

Nov. 9 Fall City Finals (rain date 11/10)

Jan. 1 Spring roster registration begins

Jan. 24 Spring roster registration ends

Feb. 19 Spring league schedules post online

Mar. 8 Spring play begins

Apr. 19 Spring play ends

Apr. 26 Spring playoffs (rain date 4/29)

JUNIOR CHALLENGE LADDER

Dec. 2 Ladder closes

Dec. 7 Season ending party at Bitsy Grant TC

WHEELCHAIR – RUN/ROLL

Feb. 18 Spring roster registration begins Mar. 4 Spring roster registration ends Mar. 11 Spring play begins Apr. 22 Spring City Finals (rain date 4/29)

PICKLEBALL

Jan. 1 Spring roster registration begins

Jan. 21 Spring roster registration ends

Feb. 27 Spring league schedules post online

Mar. 10 Spring play begins

Apr. 21 Spring play ends

Apr. 28 Spring playoffs (rain date 4/30)

Ansley Golf Club Hosts 31st Annual Make A Difference Charity Pro-Am Weekend

The Ansley Golf Club held its annual “Make A Difference” Charity Pro-am Weekend August 14-18. This year’s event included a Tennis Pro-am for 160 players, a Ladies 18-hole Golf Pro-am for 45 players, a Men’s 18-hole Golf Pro-am for 95 players, a ladies’ Pro-am pickleball tournament with 32 players, a men’s pickleball tournament with 32 players and a clay shooting competition with 32 participants.

One of the highlights of the weekend was the 70’s and 80’s themed Saturday night gala that included live music, silent auction, Ansley Classic Arcade, and some of the best food in town prepared by Ansley’s culinary team. This event has

grown to include the entire club and Ansley has risen to the occasion to support its charitable giving to the community with more than $180,000 going to charity this year.

The money was divided among the Georgia Tennis Foundation, Chris 180, Operation Feed Atlanta, Goizueta Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, and the Southeastern Brain Tumor Foundation. As the largest Pro-am in the Southeast, this event has earned multiple awards, including the USPTA National Charity Event of the Year.

Country Club of Roswell Hosts Charity Pro-Am

The Country Club of Roswell hosted its 46th Charity Tennis Pro-am in August. This truly unique event saw 56 members and 56 local pros battle it out in a twoday tournament that inlcuded an amazing Friday night Spurs and Sparkles Gala! The club’s long tradition of giving back to local charities continued with support for Special Populations Tennis, Stand Up for Kids, For the love of Ryan, and Daughters against Alzheimer’s. Members, alongside their pros, competed in the flighted Round Robin tennis tournament with eventual champions crowned on Sunday afternoon. It was a great finish to a yearlong planning process led by Committee Chairperson and member Joyce Clark along with Tournament Director Marcus Rutsche. Organizers exceeded last year’s fundraising goal and raised $120,000.

St Ives Raises $90,000 for Charity

St Ives Country Club celebrated the 30th year of its Pro-member Tennis Invitational in August. The event was established by Creig Matthieson, director of tennis, in 1993. The theme this year was “30 Love” in honor of Matthieson’s last Pro-member at St Ives; he is retiring in December 2024. The team format resulted in a win for Team Flying Diamond: Members Bill White (captain), Kim Vanetta, Susan Matt, Anne Connelly, Brittany Staley, Lance Dasher, Doug Levit, Hugh Robb, and Pro players Valentino Caratini, Manuel Pilotto, Zach Waldo, Phillip Gresk, Zsophi Lanstiak, Suzanne Zenoni, Sophia Sassoli, and Page Love. Second place went to Team Last Dance: Creig and Carol Matthieson, Matt King, Rich Vaughan, Nik Delfavero, Travis Pruitt, Jennifer Sobocinski, Teri Hernandez, Ellen Jenny, and Kim Kindrick with Pros Salif Kante, Julius Kaufman, Michael Kay, Eric Matthieson, Eugenie Gwodog, Calena Redondo, Laura Alvarez Tello, and Linda Hancock.

St Ives thanks its members and sponsors for helping to execute the club’s most successful Pro-am to date. Additionally, St Ives recognizes its Pro-member Committee: Chairman Bill White, Jill Angove, Misti Howie, Lori Baum, Ashley Guelfo, Sarah Little, Creig Matthieson, Bonnie Weaver, Stuart Marcus, Davis Dawson, and Cindy Paynter. The event raised $90,000 for the Charity Guild of St Ives/Johns Creek.

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

Sugarloaf Raises

$110,000

TPC Sugarloaf hosted the inaugural Pickleball ProAm on Aug. 9, 2024, kicking off the “week of charity” for Birdies for the Brave. This PGA Tour charity supports local and national non-profits throughout the United States, helping families in need. This year, with the addition of the Pickleball Pro-Am to Sugarloaf’s

Dunwoody CC Raises $600,000

The 35th Dunwoody Country Club Charity Event Tennis Pro-Am was held in August to benefit Special Olympics Georgia and St. Jude Research Hospital for kids from Atlanta.

This year’s event was once again led by chairman Lee Durham, a longtime ALTA member. The tennis Pro-am is fashioned on the ALTA league format, and Team Orange took home the trophy as the 2024 champions.

The event included a one-day golf tournament along with a team tennis exhibition provided by the local guest pros and DCC pros. The DCC pros prevailed over the local pros. The event was capped off by a final-night gala. Once again, the nationally known band Six Wire came from Nashville to entertain the members of DCC. Performing with Six Wire that evening were Skunk Baxter from the Doobie Brothers, Ed Roland from Collective Soul, Dereck St. Homes from the Ted Nugent Band, and Charles Esten from the hit TV show “Nashville.”

The DCC Charity Event raised over $600,000 for the two very wor

ALTA ONLINE

BY JOAN APPELBAUM, ALTA IT MANAGER

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

Can you tell me who gets the lineup when it’s published?

Everyone who is a part of the team gets the published lineup. When republishing, all who are affected by the change, plus those in the lineup, get that email with the option to send or not send to all others on the team.

Does ALTA look at college rankings differently than they used to?

Yes, college team players hold their ranking until their 30th birthday. ALTA also has a new distinction for Division II players needing to play on teams A3 and above. Players with rankings need to be sure those rankings are checked in their account profile.

Emailing team members on the ALTA website.

ALTA has added a “Select All” check box to make it easier to select who will receive the emails. You can uncheck all at one time to then check only those to receive the email if all are not desired as recipients.

Linda at Wimbledon

As an avid ALTA tennis player and lover of the Grand Slam tournaments, 2023 ALTA President Linda Shepherd had long dreamed of attending Wimbledon. Finally, she made that dream come true this past summer and flew to London with her friend and former college roommate, Shelly Martin.

The pair called Jonathan Lockeretz of Harrison Tennis Center to handle the logistics of attending such a large and popular event. They said he put together the trip of a lifetime. Originally from Surbiton, a town outside of Wimbledon, Lockeretz knew all the local “ropes” and made the whole experience a breeze. From coordinating transportation to finding accommodations and obtaining Center Court tickets, he made the pair’s “bucket-list” trip to Wimbledon a seamless adventure. As a bonus, they were able to play a round robin on grass courts and attend a welcome dinner at Harrison Tennis Center.

“Through it all, Jonathan was our fearless leader who created a warm atmosphere for our group,” Shepherd said. “He gave us a priceless gift by making our oncein-a-lifetime trip smooth, simple, and more memorable than we could have even dreamed.”

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INTENNSE Comes to Atlanta

BY RHIANNON POTKEY

Imagine fans cheering during points and players engaging in good-natured trash talk. Imagine nonstop action in fast-paced matches with coaches making substitutions at key moments. Imagine tennis played in a team format at warp speed in a fan-friendly environment.

The founders of INTENNSE are making it possible with a new brand geared toward revolutionizing tennis across the country, with Atlanta and the Southeast region as the launching ground.

“Tennis is a very traditional sport that has been going on for hundreds of years, and a lot of other sports have evolved with different formats that are shorter and more dynamic to attract younger audiences. To this point, tennis hasn’t,” said Yannick Yoshizawa, INTENNSE VP of Experience. “With attention spans shorter now, our format creates more excitement and allows the Gen Zs and Millennials to follow the

The INTENNSE format features six players and one coach per team, with male singles, female singles, and mixed doubles contested at each session. Individual matches are divided into “bolts,” which consist of 10 minutes of play with a 20-second serve clock (one toss, one serve with lets played). Teams are allowed one timeout and two team substitutions per bolt.

INTENNSE will feature four levels — Pro, Adult, Junior and University — played in a multi-day sports festival atmosphere. The INTENNSE Pro League debuts in June of 2025, with a draft scheduled for next April.

B E R , P I C K L E BA L L E R

The all-electric pickle phenom joins our line of high-per formance pickleball machines. With the tallest launch point available for realistic shot trajectories, it holds 185 balls and comes with preloaded drills, making it ideal for clubs, schools, and home cour t owners to maximize their drilling and amp up their game!

“Considering tennis has billions of fans, the number of participants who can actually make a living is very small. There is a need to fill that void, and this format can do that while helping create local heroes,” said CEO Charles Allen. “These players will live and train in a specific area and can interact with the fans. They will feel more relatable than the pros in tennis now.”

INTENNSE has been holding test events in the Atlanta area. Junior Open #1 took place at Olde Towne Athletic Club in Marietta. Nine matches were contested in the span of four and a half hours on one court.

“The INTENNSE Junior Open #1 was an entirely new experience. The competition was fast and intense, with rules that really tested our mental and physical skills,” said

Cataleya A. Brown, a nationally ranked sixth grader from Marietta. “With no second serve allowed, we had to make every serve count.”

INTENNSE held an event featuring top junior players, current Georgia Tech men’s and women’s players, Georgia Tech and University of Georgia legends, and recent graduates of the programs at Georgia Tech’s facility on October 26. Another junior event will be held at the Windy Hill Athletic Club on November 9.

“We believe this will transform the sport. We believe that the team aspect of it is something that players are hungry for, and I think families are hungry for it too,” Yoshizawa said.

For more information, visit intennse. com.

It’s Not Goodbye … It’s Thank You

BY GINA CLANCE, NET NEWS CONTRIBUTOR

Imagine spending your career on and around tennis courts. Imagine earning a living being involved with a sport you love. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, two of North Fulton’s long-time tennis professionals have lived that dream for decades! Jeff Chandley, Director of Racquet Sports at Atlanta Athletic Club, and Creig Matthieson, Director of Tennis at St Ives Country Club, have become synonymous with metro Atlanta tennis.

Chandley and Matthieson have devoted their lives to the game of tennis, and both are stepping down at the end of 2024 after long, successful careers. Both have pushed tennis to elevated levels at their respective clubs, and they have left their marks on many lives — coaching players at the highest levels, encouraging players to become coaches and tennis directors along the way.

Chandley is retiring after serving in various roles at the Atlanta Athletic Club since 2008. He has held the position of Director of Racquet Sports since 2012 and has collected awards too many to list, but include the 2023 USTPA Georgia Director of the Year, 2023 GPTA John Callen Lifetime Achievement Award, and 2024 USPTA Southern Professional of the Year.

so he said he focused on teaching and the business side of the sport. South African tennis player Peter Van Lingen was a considerable influence in Chandley’s life.

“Peter was a teacher, and I spent five years learning from him and getting to know how to analyze players’ strokes and games,” he said. “His methods still hold up 44 years later. Peter Van Lingen took a chance on me, and I hope feels it paid off.”

Growing up in Tennessee, Chandley was not introduced to tennis until just before his senior year of high school. He challenged himself to earn a scholarship at Walter State Junior College, improving his game but eventually losing in the junior college tournament. The loss pushed him to figure out how to get better. He took a year off school to play tournaments and then returned to Trevecca College in Nashville. Chandley earned a scholarship at Trevecca and finished out his college career there.

Touring with the pros was not part of Chandley’s future,

Next up for Chandley is spending more time with his wife, Robin, and spending as much time as possible at the beach.

Matthieson began his tennis career as a junior player in Texas. He played on the USA Junior Team and then played for the University of Texas/Dallas. Since taking the helm at St Ives, he and his staff have coached many ALTA and USTA champions (adults and juniors), resulting in dozens of city and state championships.

“The biggest influences in my life were my tennis coaches as a junior player, Bud Guion and Art Foust; my former bosses [Guion and Fernando Velasco] and my good friend, Tom Smith [Southern Tennis Hall of Fame],” Matthieson said. He also praised his teammates on the St Ives AA1 Senior Men’s ALTA team. This group has won 20 City Championships!

After he retires, Matthieson will still be spending time on the tennis court. “My next chapter will include captaining the AA1 team, coaching at various locations around Atlanta, and spending time with family and friends,” he said.

North Fulton-area tennis players may be saying, “Congratulations and thank you!” to two long-time tennis directors, but they will not be saying goodbye to these legends. The mark these two men have left on tennis courts will be long remembered.

Tecnifibre Hosts Star-Studded Brand Celebration in New York City

In the days leading up to the US Open, Tecnifibre held a special event in Manhattan to celebrate the brand’s success and to unveil upcoming projects. Tennis stars Daniil Medvedev, Iga Swiatek, and Danielle Collins, along with eight other Tecnifibre players from the US Open main draw, headlined the evening.

“We’ve had an incredible journey building this brand alongside our athletes and industry partners and bringing everyone together for a night like this was truly special,” said Marco Baron, CEO of Tecnifibre USA. “There was much to celebrate, but this is just the beginning. The next three months hold exciting milestones that will propel us to new heights.”

The event brought together Tecnifibre’s top accounts, ambassadors, tennis media partners, and elite players for a night dedicated to celebrating the brand’s growth in racquet sports and its expanding roster of athletes. This year’s

US Open featured 18 Tecnifibre players in the main draw, including 14 players in singles.

“It was an incredible night,” said Philippe Oudshoorn, head of marketing for Tecnifibre USA. “In Manhattan, just before the US Open, we were surrounded by the world’s best players, giving guests the chance to share a drink, snap a photo, and even hit a few balls on our mini court. For any tennis fan, it doesn’t get better than this.”

In addition to the celebration, Tecnifibre revealed its upcoming flagship franchise, the TFight, set to launch in January, giving attendees an exclusive preview. The brand also announced its plans for 2025, including a year-long partnership with Tennis Channel for a series of Tecnifibre commercials. The night ended with custom gifts for the attendees as the athletes were getting ready for the fourth and final Grand Slam of the year, the US Open.

2024 US Open Breaks Records, Introduces Event ‘Firsts’

The 2024 US Open set out to “Celebrate the Power of Tennis” and became a record-setting event that showcased the world’s healthiest sport at its best. In addition to becoming the first US Open to surpass one million attendees and deliver completely sold-out sessions across both Arthur Ashe and Louis Armstrong Stadiums, the three-week event eclipsed all previously held records for food and beverage and merchandise sales. With more than 500 celebrities and VIPs in attendance and the greatest social media reach in history at 2.3 billion engagements, the US Open further cemented itself as a must-go, must-follow pop culture destination.

Record-setting highlights and other ‘firsts’ from this year’s US Open include:

Historic champion and American player on-court success

• Aryna Sabalenka won her first US Open and third career Grand Slam women’s singles title. Winning both the US Open and Australian Open singles titles in 2024, she became the fifth player in the Open Era to win both women’s singles hardcourt Grand Slam titles in the same season.

• Jannik Sinner won the men’s singles title, becoming the first Italian US Open men’s singles champion and the third

man in the Open Era to claim his first two Grand Slam titles in the same season.

• Singles finalists Taylor Fritz and Jessica Pegula carried the standards established by Americans. Fritz and Pegula made the 2024 US Open the first since 2002 to feature an American men’s and women’s singles finalist. Semifinalists Emma Navarro and Frances Tiafoe also made this the first Grand Slam to feature two American men’s and women’s singles semifinalists since the 2003 US Open.

• Lyudmyla Kichenok postponed her wedding to win the women’s doubles title with Jelena Ostapenko, while the Aussie tandem of Max Purcell and Jordan Thompson won their first men’s doubles title together. Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori won the mixed doubles title over American wild-card tandem Taylor Townsend and Donald Young, who made a dream run to the final in Young’s final pro tennis event before retiring.

• US Open Junior championships were captured by Mika Stojsavljevic (girls’ singles), Rafael Jodar (boys’ singles), Emily Sartz-Lunde and Malak El Allami (girls’ doubles), Maxim Mrva and Rei Sakamoto (boys’ doubles), Ameri-

can Charlie Cooper (boys’ wheelchair singles), Yuma Takamuro (girls’ wheelchair singles), Rio Okano and Takamuro (girls’ wheelchair doubles) and Ivar van Rijt and Benjamin Wenzel (boys’ wheelchair doubles).

Fan Week firsts include more than 216,000 attendees.

The US Open saw a 37-percent increase in Fan Week attendance over 2023, with 216,029 fans taking advantage of the full, eight-day tennis and entertainment festival featuring free grounds admission and a full slate of activities and signature events. Those included:

• The new US Open Mixed Madness presented by IHG Hotels and Resorts and the fan-favorite Stars of the Open presented by Chase signature events totaled nearly 40,000 attendees combined.

• Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day saw a record crowd of 47,875.

• Louis Armstrong Stadium made its official debut as a bonafide concert venue and showcased its versatility, hosting ‘Sounds of the Open’ headlined by Dierks Bentley to kick off Fan Week and later the third annual Flavors of the Open presented by DOBEL Tequila food tasting, which featured offerings from as many as 10 celebrity chefs.

• The US Open’s Fan Access Pass — the digital resource unlocking a multitude of Fan week benefits and beyond — saw 205,000 registrants this year, a 20-percent increase from 2023.

• More than 300,000 unique devices visited the Fan Week Section on USOpen.org, a 30-percent increase over last year.

Atlanta Open’s Eddie Gonzalez inducted into Southern Tennis Hall of Fame

The Southern Tennis Foundation recently announced the induction Eddie Gonzalez, Paul Pittman, and Bryan Shelton.

Gonzalez served as Atlanta Open Tournament Director and Chief Business Officer from 2013-2020 and was instrumental in establishing the ATP tournament as a major event.

Gonzalez’s influence in Southern tennis is as expansive. He began promoting Southern tennis starting in 1990 when he was named USTA Southern Director of Sales & Marketing. The next step in his career was serving as Athlon Sports Vice President of Sales/National Accounts for 14 years. Gonzalez has donated his time as a local charity fundraiser for the Atlanta Youth Tennis & Education Foundation, YMCA, and Giving Kitchen.

As a final career step, Gonzalez was named Atlanta Open Tournament Director and Chief Business Officer in 2013 and headed the ATP World Tour 250 event for 10 years. Paul Pittman of Florence, South Carolina, has served as a USTA volunteer on the local, state, section levels. His passion is growing tennis in his hometown. Huntsville, Alabama native Bryan Shelton won two ATP Tour singles titles before becoming the first head coach in DI college tennis history to win a women’s national title (Georgia Tech, 2007) and a men’s national championship (Florida, 2021). He was named the 2007 ITA National Coach of the Year, the ACC Coach of the Year four times, and SEC Coach of the Year four times.

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RecycleBalls and Laykold Partner For Sustainability

RecycleBalls, the leader in tennis ball collection and reuse, and Laykold, the world’s number-one court brand, have partnered to transform tennis’ environmental performance. This alliance brings together RecycleBalls’ expertise in collecting and repurposing used tennis balls with Laykold’s cutting-edge surfacing technology to create “the world’s greenest tennis surface.”

Collaboration will help to off-set the carbon equivalent of 26,000 cars

Figures from The World Bank show that in 2023, over 150 million tennis balls were imported into the United States. These balls quickly make their way to landfill and take over 400 years to decompose. Each tennis ball weighs about 2 ounces but carries an outsized carbon footprint of 1.2 pounds. Every year, that’s more than 19,250,000 pounds of tennis balls with the carbon equivalent of 26,000 cars being driven for a full year. This carries a significant environmental impact that demands innovative solutions.

“The environment is the most pressing sustainability issue of our time. Our partnership with RecycleBalls is an important part of our investment focus on bio-based and renewable ingredients, carbon reduction, and recycling,” said Dave Wheaton, Laykold’s director of sales. “Giving a second life to old tennis balls and keeping them within the courts themselves is an innovation we’re incredibly proud to be championing.”

EXPLORE OUR HOME IN THE MOUNTAINS

Racquet, Golf, Wellness, Lake sports and more

From old balls to new courts. The power of a circular economy. RecycleBalls is committed to reducing the environmental impact of discarded tennis balls, taking a circular approach to extend their life. They’ve developed an international collection network and community that has repurposed more than 14 million tennis balls. With this partnership, RecycleBalls and Laykold are leading the charge in revolutionizing how tennis balls are recycled and how tennis court surfaces are constructed. By integrating recycled tennis balls into Laykold’s court systems, this partnership exemplifies the power of a circular economy — where waste is not merely disposed of but transformed into a valuable resource.

John Eagleton Named Tennis Director at Longboat Key’s Cedars Tennis Club

Cedars Tennis Club and SportsEdTV jointly announced the appointment of John Eagleton as the new Tennis Director at Cedars Tennis Club in Longboat Key, Florida.

Eagleton, a former top-ranked junior player and a four-time All-American at the University of Miami, brings with him a wealth of experience spanning over three decades. As a certified ATP Tour Professional and USPTA Pro, he has coached athletes at every level. His immediate focus will be on providing exceptional service to current members while implementing new programs and events that will elevate the club’s tennis offerings. “I’m thrilled to join Cedars Tennis Club and look forward to contributing to the community here at Longboat Key,” said Eagleton. “Together with the talented team at Cedars, we will work to create an unparalleled tennis experience that caters to players of all ages and abilities.”

His appointment is also a strategic collaboration with SportsEdTV, where Eagleton serves as Tennis Director and co-founder. SportsEdTV, a global leader in online sports education, will work closely with Cedars Tennis Club to introduce innovative content and training methodologies, helping to promote the club and its offerings to a wider audience.

Last Issue’s Trivia Contest Winner Is …

Congratulations! We drew our winner from a pool of readers who submitted correct answers, and Pete Caruso, Double Gate Men’s C2, won a pair of shoes from K-Swiss! 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. When and where is the Special Pops Fall Classic? Sept. 20-22 at Lifetime Tennis and Athletic in Peachtree Corners.

2. One local pro and one ATP pro conducted the Junior Challenge Ladder clinic at Georgia Tech. Who are they? Mattia Belluci from Italy and Tony Burke with Ansley Golf Club.

3. Which two players won back-to-back doubles titles at the Atlanta Open? Jackson Withrow and Nathaniel Lammons

November/December Trivia Contest

Enter for your chance to win a racquet from Tecnifibre!

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

Entry deadline: Wednesday, December 4.

1. Which two tennis professionals who have been involved in Atlanta tennis for decades are retiring at the end of this year?

2. Who will be taking over as the ALTA President in 2026?

3. What is the name of the pickleball facility that recently opened in Buford, and in which Georgia city is the next location scheduled to open in late 2025?

Please submit a favorite courtside recipe along with this entry to be eligible.

Photo Contest

Prizes courtesy of

Overall Winner

COURTSIDE

Zermatt, Switzerland

Seth Pesek

Runner Up

Courtside

Evening Sets

Gabriella Rico

Winner Children For the Love of the Sport Kristin Cheatwood

Runner Up Children Game, Set, Match

Bryan Shepherd

Winner Action And She’s a Righty!

Runner Up Action

Slice, Slice Baby Michael Munx

Runner Up

Humor/Novelty

Oh deer, can someone check the net? Scott Brandonisio

Traci Leong

Winner Humor/Novelty Hey partner, mind holding my ball? Kathy Cornish

Winner Pets Hazel, the Tennis Ball Hopper

Teresa Lokhorst

Photo Contest 2024 Net News

Winner

Still Life

A House Divided

Melissa Yung

Runner Up

Still Life Hats off! David Skillen

Runner Up Pets

I got next!

Jon Becker

GAME CHANGERS:

How Your Member Donations are Elevating ALTA Foundation Programs

BY CAMERON TURNER, ALTA FOUNDATION PRESIDENT

Each year, because of your generous donations, the ALTA Foundation can deliver high-quality programs that make a real difference in our community. Through grants and scholarships, we provide access to tennis and pickleball for underserved populations, Title 1 schools, and high school seniors pursuing higher education.

Programmatic Grants: Changing Lives Through Tennis and Pickleball

ALTA Foundation grants are awarded year-round to nonprofits that bring tennis and pickleball to special populations. Thanks to your contributions, in 2024 alone, we’ve supported 18 organizations with over $62,000 in funding to create impactful programs. Here are just a few of the initiatives you’ve helped make possible:

• Shepherd Center: Adaptive tennis and pickleball clinics for individuals with disabilities.

• Special Olympics of Georgia: Sponsorship of the Summer Games, where over 200 athletes competed in the tennis event.

• Center for Movement Challenges: Pickleball clinics for individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

• Keeping Pace, a program of Pace Academy: Summer clinics for Title 1 students in partnership with LaAmistad.

• Henry First: Hosts the American Wheelchair Championships every fall.

by Laura Barnard

Photos

These are just a few examples of the incredible work your donations support, creating opportunities for all to enjoy the benefits of tennis and pickleball.

Scholarships: Empowering the Next Generation

The L. Keith Wood Scholarship program is another way your donations are changing lives. This year, eight outstanding high school seniors received $2,500 scholarships to help with tuition. These students are role models in academic excellence, community service, and ALTA league tennis participation. In total, we awarded $20,000 in scholarship funding in 2024, and we’re excited to increase this in the coming years!

Expanding Opportunities for Title 1 Schools

Through the START Program, we’re supporting tennis programs at Title 1 schools across metro Atlanta. During the spring 2024 high school tennis season, your support helped us fund 10 schools with over $25,000. But we’re not stopping there. As we look ahead to 2025, we’re aiming to grow the program by 60 percent, reaching even more schools and expanding opportunities for students who might not otherwise have access to tennis.

How You Can Continue to Make a Difference

As we enter the final quarter of the year, many families begin considering their yearend giving. With most ALTA members renewing their memberships in November and December, this is the perfect time to make an additional donation to the ALTA Foundation. Every contribution helps us continue this important work. Here’s how your gift can make an impact:

• $800 can provide a new ball machine for a Title 1 high school.

• $450 can cover the coaching fees for three wheelchair clinics.

• $150 can supply 10 racquets for underserved youth who lack access to equipment.

• $50 can provide a tennis uniform for a Title 1 high school student.

• $30 can purchase indoor pickleball balls for Parkinson’s players.

Thank You for Your Ongoing Support

Your generosity is at the heart of everything we do. Together, we’re promoting health, character, and sportsmanship across the greater Atlanta area. Every month, your donations are making a difference — and we couldn’t do it without YOU.

To make a donation, please scan the QR code or visit altatennis.org/AltaFoundation. aspx and scroll down to the green DONATE button. If you would like to make a yearend donation through your donor advised fund or by check, please contact Cameron Turner at foundationpresident@altatennis.org. You can also add on a donation when you renew your membership for 2025!

Thank you for being a part of this journey. Let’s keep the momentum going!

How Your Gift Makes an Impact

Ball Machine

$800 PROVIDES A NEW BALL MACHINE FOR A TITLE I HIGH SCHOOL

Coaching Fees

$450 COVERS COACHING FEES FOR THREE WHEELCHAIR CLINICS

Racquets

$150 SUPPLIES 10 RACQUETS FOR UNDERSERVED YOUTH

Tennis Uniform

$50 PROVIDES A TENNIS UNIFORM FOR A TITLE I HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT

SCAN TO DONATE!

Meet your 2025 ALTA Executive Committee

We’re sending out big congratulations to the list of nominees for the 2025 Executive Committee, which was recently approved by the ALTA Board of Directors. They are as follows:

President (not included in the vote)

Rita Maloof

First Vice President Loretta Phillips

Secretary Keri Beck

Treasurer Susan Levin

Men’s League Vice President Drew Meyer

Thursday Women’s League Vice President Siobhan Schaeffer

Sunday Women’s League Vice President Diane Royston

Senior Leagues Vice President Seth Appelbaum

Senior Day Leagues Vice President Rusty Jones

Mixed Doubles League Vice President David Rowe

Junior League Vice President Kim Freeman

Pickleball League Vice President Greg McAfee

Events and Tournaments Vice President Carol Brasher

Junior Challenge Ladder Vice President Gina Woods

Special Programs Vice President Mark LaRotonda

Volunteers have always been the backbone of the ALTA organization, which is led by and includes the Executive Committee and the Board of Directors. The officers are voted on by

the general membership at the 2024 ALTA Annual Meeting.

2024 ALTA Annual Meeting

Date: November 14

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Place: The Atlanta Athletic Club 1930 Bobby Jones Dr. Johns Creek, GA 30097

The agenda will include discussion on items set forth in ALTA’s bylaws, in addition to the minutes from the last EC meeting in November. The meeting is led by 2024 ALTA Board Chairman Debbie Gaster, who will deliver her Chairman’s Report and will also include the Treasurer’s Report from Susan Levin, the President’s Report from Chequetta Allen, a report from the 2025 ALTA President Rita Maloof, and other ALTA league business.

Members in good standing are entitled to send in write-in nominees which must be received in writing at the ALTA office by Nov. 10, 2024.

JR. CHALLENGE LADDER

2024 JCL Season Party Dec. 7 at Bitsy Grant TC, 3:00 - 6:00 p.m.

A Phenomenal Start To The Season

BY GINA WOODS, JUNIOR CHALLENGE LADDER VICE PRESIDENT

The Junior Challenge Ladder (JCL) has indeed taken off with a bang! 27 eager, young players attended the season’s kickoff on August 18 at the Bitsy Grant Tennis Center. The invaluable experience of coaches like Sergio Santos and Kellen Simmons was nothing short of spectacular. The drills were not just exercises, but steppingstones to the thrilling round robin matches that followed. It was so exciting to see parents actively participating in the free pickleball clinic led by Coach Emory Clark.

The JCL energy is palpable, and the 66 matches already played are a testament to the dedication and competitive spirit of these young athletes. The ladder truly embodies the spirit of unity and the joy of competition. It’s heartwarming to see how it transcends the boundaries of mere sport, nurturing a sense of camaraderie and collective growth among its participants.

Several of our players have had a phenomenal start to the season, showcasing exceptional skill and dedication on the field. Their outstanding performances have set a high bar and promise an exciting season ahead.

#1 HARRIS UNELL

#6 NICHOLAS HALLIGAN 3-0

#13 LANDON BROWN 3-1

#18 NIRANJAN RANJITH 3-0

GIRLS LADDER

#1 ALYSSA BRAUDE

#13 DAISY HOPKINS 3-0

#15 SUHANA MISHRA 2-0

May the JCL continue to flourish, bringing together communities and igniting the passion for sports in the hearts of young champions. Here’s to the future stars of the JCL and the adventures that await them!

Photos by Laura Barnard

ALTA Sportsmanship Awards

BY RITA MALOOF, ALTA FIRST VICE PRESIDENT

As we enjoy cooler temperatures, shorter days, and taking to the courts with over 60,000 ALTA tennis enthusiasts, the memories made by our summer/fall sportsmanship recipients will not soon be forgotten.

It’s easy to recognize extraordinary behavior but there’s only a small few who will take the extra step and act on what they witnessed. Thank you for taking the time to bring outstanding acts of sportsmanship to our attention. Nominations can be made at any time and are reviewed seasonally. Award winners receive a letter from the ALTA president, a sportsmanship bag tag, and are recognized in Net News Magazine.

Briarcliff Woods, A7 Sunday Women’s League

Nominated by Sara Eden, Druid Hills

Our ALTA team (Druid Hills, Sunday A7) has been together for approximately 10 years. One of our dear friends and teammate, Allison Rose, has been diagnosed with cancer and has been battling it since February of this year. As the first match approached this past Sunday, our dear friend made the difficult decision to bring in hospice. Our team jumped into action to create a memorable experience for Allison who loves live music, particularly a celebration called porch fest in her neighborhood. We decided to recreate that for her in her backyard and per the family’s wishes, this could only happen on Sunday afternoon at 3.

Our captain contacted the other team’s captain, Kim Brown, the day before the match, asking if they’d be willing to play earlier on Sunday. I told her our teammate had an awful cancer diagnosis, was bringing in hospice, time

was critical, and we had a chance to bring music to her and her family, and afternoon was best for Allison with her energy level. Not only did they graciously comply but they were supportive and kind. I started to thank them for being so gracious and kind for playing early, and I burst into tears. She came to me later and tearfully gave this to me … a tiny heart. Her daughter left dozens of these around her house when she left for college as “little pieces of love.” She apologized for it being beat up but explained she’s been carrying it in her wallet but wanted me to have it to help with the hurt. It was such a kind gesture. She said she was humbled by the love and loyalty demonstrated by our team and acknowledged Allison must be a very special person and friend.

Richard Kienel, Hamilton Mill C8 Men’s League

Nominated by Blake Rouse, Three Chimneys Farm

In our match today, there was a point where Rick hit a fantastic short shot that I had to dive for. I barely got the ball and flipped it past Rick. The ball did not change direction, and I didn’t hear anything, and I thought Rick missed the ball. His partner then hit a winner that would have kept the point going. Rick’s partner, my partner and I all thought they won the point, but Rick said he touched the ball resulting in our side getting the point and game. He could have said nothing, and nobody would have been the wiser, and they would have kept the game going. Instead, he made the fair call against himself at their expense. Rick and Ben were great competitors, and their team were great hosts today (despite rudely beating us 1-4). I’ve seen plenty of bad calls in the past and this was one nobody would have known about, but Rick did the right thing. Great sportsman.

The Club at Edgewater, B7, Senior Day Women’s League

Nominated by Katy Nix, Village at Deaton Creek

I would like to nominate our opponents for today’s match (The Club at Edgewater, B-7) for the sportsmanship award. On Sept. 3, 2024, the first match of the fall season for Senior Day Women’s league, one of our line 3 players did not show at the agreed upon time. The teams had agreed to start all lines at 9 a.m. to avoid the excessive heat we’d been experiencing this summer. Our line 3 player was in the process of moving and stressed out. She did not read the comments sent about when to arrive, but instead looked at the ALTA site this morning and saw 11 a.m., so she was late. Cynthia Krajec and Wanda Green, the line 3 players, agreed to wait until Debbie arrived. She arrived at 9:35. They had a great match, and our ladies ended up winning in a third set.

The Edgewater ladies could have easily said they wanted to take the point as a default, but they didn’t. They just wanted to play. It turned out to be a cool day with a nice breeze, which is extremely unusual for early September.

Allan McLeod, Somerset/Cobb B1 Pickleball League

Nominated by Will George, Atlanta Pickleball Center

Allan and the Somerset team provided snacks and drinks when we played their team. Back before the pandemic, ALTA seemed to be not just about playing a sport but also getting to know your opponents and teammates after the matches. In addition, Allan and the team brought a great energy to our match — lots of fun to play against them.

GOOD QUESTION

By Rita Maloof, First Vice President

HOW DOES AN ALTA RULE GET CHANGED?

ALTA has a Rules Committee that meets monthly. The committee is chaired by the first vice president. All other members of the committee are vice presidents of the individual ALTA Leagues. The committee looks for any revisions to the rules that may be needed and brings to the table any issues/ problems that arise in one league so that they may be discussed. This results in procedures agreed upon so that consistency will exist throughout all leagues. These agreed upon changes are then submitted to the Executive Committee for discussion, adoption, or rejection. In addition to rule changes, the Rules Committee is responsible for creating, revising, publishing, and maintaining a handbook for courtside use by all ALTA captains. The committee also prepares answers to questions submitted by the membership in the Net News magazine.

WHAT RULES ARE CHANGING FOR 2025?

Below are rules that have been updated for 2025. The list is not comprehensive. Be sure to review your actual adult rules document and member handbooks for all current updates.

2025 ALTA ADULT RULE CHANGES

League Considerations and Rankings

Recognizing the advanced and continuing skills of our college rostered players, additional level requirements for play along with an age level expiration date has been adopted.

Once a player is listed on a college roster, that player must play at the following minimum levels until the age of 30:

NCAA Division I: AA

NCAA Division II: A3

NCAA Division III, NAIA and all other college players: A

All high school team players must play at the B level or higher. Any player that holds

or has held ATP or WTA point(s) must play at the AA level until the age of 30, or until the expiration of their points.

Scoring – Playoffs and City Finals

The use of the ALTA Lineup Checker is now required for playoff and City Final lineup verification.

All playoff and City Finals lineups must be entered into the ALTA Lineup Checker BEFORE each playoff or City Final dual meet is played. Lineups must be based on relative strength of teams as determined by positions played and win-loss records established during the regular season. Any changes in a playoff or City Final lineup must be entered into the ALTA Lineup Checker. If the change is not entered into the ALTA Lineup Checker, the captain must be aware that the lineup can be declared illegal if it does not meet the standards of an ALTA-approved playoff or City Final lineup. Refer to the Adult Members handbook for additional information.

SENIOR AND DAY LEAGUES

Adding clarity and consistency to our Senior Leagues, the regular season formats will extend throughout the playoffs and City Finals.

1. Playoff and City Final matches will no longer play in reverse order.

2. The third set default in all Senior and Senior Day leagues for the regular season, playoffs and City Finals will be a third set tie-break unless all four parties agree to play a full third set.

3. In a 4-line league, if necessary, the last players on the court will play a Super-Tie break (10-point) to determine the outcome of the match during the playoffs and City Finals.

SENIOR MIXED LEAGUE

The default make-up date for Senior Mixed play has been moved from six days, Friday night at 6:30 p.m. to seven days, Saturday at 3:30 p.m. Refer to your individual league rules for default make-up days for weeks six and seven.

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.

by

Headshot photos

Laura Barnard

Highs, Lows, And ‘Buffaloes’ From the US Open

Tennis fans, it’s the holiday season of tennis awesome! What a massive gift the 2024 US Open was with a record 1-million-plus people going through the gates at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. From start to finish, the matches were so good!

My highs, lows, and “buffaloes” of the Open are easy. I was extremely impressed with the Americans — Fritz, Tiafoe, Navarro, and Pegula. What a great run by these talents! Additionally, it was a pleasure watching playmaker Donald Young in his final US Open in mixed doubles with another American super star, Taylor Townsend, reach the finals.

There is a tangible American confidence these days on both the ATP and WTA tours. It is a confidence that was gained through the generations of legendary champions from Budge and “Little Mo” Connelly through to Roddick and Serena. There are so many programs in America producing players, but the bottom line is it takes confidence to carry the torch. The competition is as tough as it’s ever been, but no other country has won more major championships than the United States.

This generation of the red, white, and blue walk with a strut and vision to win like the generations before them. I see it in the intensity with which they practice. With the focus they put in at the gym, and the way they go for it on the big points. There also is a calm confidence evident in players like Pegula, Navarro, and even youngsters like Iva Jovic from California. Jovic reached the second round of the main draw, losing to Alexandrova., but her poise earned a main draw wild card at the Open after winning the girls 18 national championships. The future is star-spangled awesome for American tennis.

My low from the Open was the performance from defending champion Coco Gauff. In the summer of 2023 Gauff’s coach, Brad Gilbert, had her playing disciplined and consistent tennis. My evaluation is going into the 2024 season, Gauff set the bar higher, and expectations put pressure on the process. With a poor performance against Swiatek, the Gilbert approach began to unravel. By the time Gauff reached New York after compet-

ing at the Paris Olympics, she had turned off the Gilbert approach and gone back to a Williams sisters style of playing. The Williams sisters were brilliant in the fearless way they would go for the lines and if they lost that way, they would always say they were just going to go for their shots.

The challenge for Gauff was, even though there are similarities to the Williams sisters in serve, speed, and backhand, her temperament is much different. Watch any Venus or Serena match and you will see a mindset that even if shots were missed it didn’t affect their mindset. However, when Gauff begins to misfire, her body language shows panic and doubt. If you take big chances, you must be calm until the storm passes. I’m sure this is a plateau for Gauff, but unfortunately, firing Gilbert shows walking away from a coach on the Mount Rushmore of the game.

My buffalo from the Open is easy. I’ve been part of the US Open in many ways since 1981, and it was that 1981 experience that turned my life’s purpose into pursuing professional tennis. Watching Stan Smith, Evert, Navratilova, Borg, King, Mac, and all the pros made my focus an easy one. This year, Murphy and I were part of the US Open’s USTA Adaptive Invitational Tournament. The extraordinary inspiration these athletes from around the planet displayed will stay with me for the rest of my days. Seeing individuals overcome obstacles to find joy in our wonderful game and play at a world class level were inspiring. For example, I was amazed when watching Nicolas Basaez (a true legend on YouTube) rip shots from all around the court — with no arms — with a smile on his face no matter if he won or lost the point. Seeing him makes one of my double-faults on break point no big deal.

It’s holiday season, so are you getting fired up for new gear? There are tons of solid deals all over the place. To be honest, Uncle Wilson has put a new Fed frame in my stocking, and I’m excited about hitting winners with it. I’m also a big sneaker freak, so a pair of Ben Shelton’s On’s may be exactly what I need to hit a few more aces going into next year!

Go for the lines this holiday season and you’re never sorry for a net cord winner!

Luke Jensen

Doubles Tennis As An Exchange of Time

Here are some ways that can help you gain control over the time exchanged in a doubles match and how you can ensure limited options for your opponents.

BY PIYUSH SALEKAR, ST. MARLO COUNTRY CLUB

Ty pically, doubles players get tied up in match strategy, the quality of their strokes, volleys, communication, and positioning. To simplify all these elements, I look at doubles tennis as a mere exchange of time. Understanding how to control the flow of the match is key to gaining control of the match. This also can help in limiting the options and time granted to our opponents to make decisions during crucial points in a match.

In doubles, the dynamics of time are controlled by multiple factors such as speed of the serve, depth of shots, pace of shots, positioning of players, and the nature of rallies. Unlike the independent nature of singles, doubles introduces a team element that can complicate the timing of movements and decisions made within a team.

Every shot played involves negotiations of controlling time and the options given to your opponents. When you hit the ball, you are not only thinking about the placement of your shot but also the positioning of yourself and your opponent. What are the major placement options for your opponent when they get to the ball, and how can you and your partner cover the area where the ball is most likely to go?

Limiting time and options for your opponents

Here are some ways that can help you gain control over the time exchanged in a doubles match and how you can ensure limited options for your opponents.

Closing the net: Closing the net has always been one of the best strategies in doubles as long as you and your partner have good communication and positioning. Closing the net puts pressure on your opponents as they are required to react quicker with a limited view of the open court and placement options. Being well-positioned at the net also will open up more options, angles, and spaces for you and your partner to hit a winner.

Variety in shots: While closing the net or setting up your partner, there are going to be multiple options. It is ideal to keep the ball low, so keep practicing your slice. Keeping the ball low cuts down many options for your opponents and forces them to lift the ball up to clear the net, thus giving your team the opportunity to put the ball away.

Targeting weaknesses: Playing the majority of your balls to the weaker player or to the weaker side of your op-

ponent will put them under pressure and force them into making more errors. Targeting their weakness also will ensure a dull return and give your team the advantage.

Positioning: Positioning plays a vital role in limiting your opponents’ options. To understand what the best position is during any point, you need to change your perspective. Think about your opponents’ positioning while they are about to return your ball. Think about the high-percentage placement options they have and position yourself to cover most of those. While doing that, it is completely okay to leave smaller open spots on

the outer sides of the court. This way, you and your partner will limit your opponents’ options.

Conclusion

Doubles tennis is just as much about time management as it is about technique and skills. In most match situations, it is challenging to think about fixing our technique or sharpening your skills. Rather, simplifying and thinking about controlling the exchange of time during the match could be useful. Placing your shots in a way that takes time away from your opponents while limiting their options is the ideal way to ensure your success.

HIT TO SPACE

BY STEPHEN HUSS, 2005 WIMBLEDON DOUBLES CHAMPION, PROGRAM DIRECTOR, HUSS

75 76 TENNIS AT CROOKED

ICREEK

would ask all ALTA players to reflect on their matches and their shots and consider how often that hit directly AT their opponents. In all levels of tennis, people can get irritated or upset if they think their opponent tried to hit them with the ball.

I am encouraging everyone to hit to where the space is, so you can hit more winners and because it will make your opponents run to get the ball back. While it is certainly a tactic to hit a high volley or an overhead directly at your opposition, that gives them a chance to reflex it and get it back. If you can hit your offensive shot to space, it will most likely be a winner.

So where is the space? You won’t always know, but if you pay attention, you will get better at noticing it. If your partner hits a T serve, then the space is behind the returner; after a wide serve, the space is in the middle of the court. Sometimes, the space is a drop shot because both opponents are at the baseline. Sometimes, the space is over their heads because they are standing so close to the net.

Find the space and hit to it for better results!

Sleep Your Way To Better On-Court Performance

These advanced, research-backed strategies from the Kovacs Institute can significantly improve your sleep quality after a demanding day of tennis.

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

Getting quality sleep after a demanding tennis session is essential for recovery. Sleep not only accelerates muscle repair but also optimizes cognitive function, hormone function, and many other biological processes that improve function. Here are five scientifically backed strategies that we utilize with many of our professional players and may be advantageous to add to your routine.

1. Utilize cold water immersion post-play

Cold water immersion (CWI) is a highly effective recovery technique that can enhance sleep quality. Studies show that CWI can reduce muscle inflammation, lower core body temperature, and accelerate short-term recovery processes, all of which are conducive to better sleep. A 10–15-minute immersion in cold water (50-59°F or 10-15°C) is the general recommendation. Cold water immersion helps your body cool down faster, promoting a state of relaxation and reducing the risk of overheating during sleep, which can disrupt rest. Just remember that this practice should not be utilized more than three days per week if your goal is to increase muscle mass and strength gains.

2. Time your caffeine intake strategically

Caffeine is commonly used by athletes to enhance performance, but its timing is critical for sleep. Research indicates that caffeine has a half-life of about five to six hours, meaning it stays in your system long after consumption. To prevent caffeine from interfering with your sleep, avoid consuming caffeinated beverages or supplements at least eight hours before bedtime. This general recommendation is good for most people. If you want to get more advanced, you can be evaluated to see if you are a caffeine responder or non-responder via a genetic test.

3. Leverage magnesium and tart cherry supplements

Magnesium is a vital mineral that plays a significant role in muscle relaxation and the regulation of neurotransmitters involved in sleep. Supplementing with

200-400 mg of magnesium glycinate or citrate before bedtime can improve sleep quality and reduce nighttime muscle cramps. In addition, tart cherry juice or supplements, rich in natural melatonin, have been shown in studies to enhance sleep duration and quality. Consuming tart cherry juice post-training can help increase melatonin levels and promote deeper, more restorative sleep. Before starting a supplement routine, it is always recommended to speak with a trained professional.

4. Practice controlled breathing and progressive muscle relaxation

Engaging in controlled breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, often referred to as the “rest and digest” system, which is essential for promoting sleep. Techniques such as the 4-7-8 breathing method — inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7 seconds, exhale for 8 seconds — have been scientifically shown to reduce heart rate and encourage a state of calm. Progressive muscle relaxation, which involves tensing and then relaxing different muscle groups, also can help release tension accumulated during play, making it easier to fall asleep.

5. Use light therapy and block blue light exposure

Light exposure plays a critical role in regulating your circadian rhythm, the body’s natural sleep/wake cycle. Light therapy, particularly morning sunlight exposure, helps set your internal clock, ensuring that you feel alert during the day and sleepy at night. Conversely, exposure to blue light from screens in the evening can disrupt melatonin production. Use blue light-blocking glasses or set devices to night mode to minimize this impact. Research has shown that reducing blue light exposure for at least two hours before bedtime significantly improves sleep onset and quality.

These advanced, research-backed strategies from the Kovacs Institute can significantly improve your sleep quality after a demanding day of tennis. By integrating these practices into your post-play routine, you’ll not only enhance your recovery but also optimize your on-court performance, setting you up for continued success in your tennis journey.

Atlanta International School In New Winning Partnership

Legendary Coach Patrick Mouratoglou Launches New Tennis Program at Atlanta International School Sandy Springs Campus

Atlanta International School (AIS) is breaking into the tennis world by partnering with Patrick Mouratoglou, the legendary tennis coach of Serena Williams and mentor to numerous rising and leading professionals on tour. This collaboration brings the first ever prestigious Mouratoglou Academy to Georgia, located at AIS Sandy Springs Campus, offering students an unparalleled experience both in the classroom and on the court.

A Perfect Match

“I am proud to bring exceptional coaches and implement our programs to an already outstanding facility, giving young players the opportunity to learn the Mouratoglou Methodology and embrace our philosophy,” said Mouratoglou.

Nestled in the peaceful wooded setting of AIS Sandy Springs, the Mouratoglou Academy Atlanta (MAA) will make use of brand new hard courts. The innovative program, open to boarding and day students in Grades 9 - 12, will combine rigorous tennis training with the AIS world-class International Baccalaureate education. MAA l AIS students don’t have to choose between hitting the books and hitting aces!

Meeting potential on and off court.

Kevin Glass, Head of AIS, shared his excitement: “Whether the MAA student athletes are coming from here in Georgia or from anywhere around the world, with our new Day and Boarding programs, they will get the very best International Baccalaureate education, and be part of a welcoming international community of friends.”

The Mouratoglou Academy Atlanta at AIS Sandy Springs will provide world-class tennis coaching, strengthen connections to US colleges, and create opportunities for athletic scholarships.

Performance Holiday Eating

BY PAGE LOVE, RDN, CSSD, USPTA AND HAILEY MACKE, DIETETIC INTERN

The holidays do not need to be a time of being completely being off track with your performance eating plan. In fact, many holiday foods can fit right in and are full of nutrients that will enhance your performance as well as provide lots of antioxidant nutrition. With a few modifications, you can convert your traditional rich recipes into low-fat, high-fiber, high-energy sport nutrition choices. Let this holiday season be a time of peaking with your sports nutrition!

Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you approach this calorie-laden time of year!

• With a mindful approach, you can modify choices and stay very much on track and avoid gaining that holiday weight.

• Try to eat all of your regular meals, ideally, breakfast and lunch even before an evening celebration so that you do not arrive too hungry and overindulge.

• It is fine to save up a little, such as eating lower fat before the larger holiday meal, but try not to miss the key food groups or protein and grain that stabilize your blood sugar levels and help control cravings.

• Stay hydrated during the day, especially if you plan to have any alcoholic beverages in the evening.

• Be moderate with alcohol: one drink vs two, choosing hydrating mixers like

seltzer or diet decaffeinated soda; and try to alternate alcoholic beverages with water and low-calorie drinks.

• Even if you feel like you have overdone it, try to get right back on track the next day. Don’t skip your breakfast either because this will only continue the cycle of extreme hunger followed by over eating.

Here are some simple recipe modifications that can make those holiday recipes sport nutritionized!

• Turkey: Try injecting fat-free chicken broth instead of butter. Also explore more herbs (with sprigs of sage, oregano, thyme, rosemary) and aromatics (onion, apple, lemon, orange) instead of fats and oils for flavor. Focus on eating more of the white vs the dark meat; the dark meat is higher in fat and cholesterol.

• Stuffing: Consider using a higher fiber bread or use 1 ½ cups brown rice with chicken sausage and veggies. Cook the rice in low-fat chicken or vegetable broth.

• Other protein options: Consider high omega 3 fish, such as salmon, to receive more anti-inflammatory benefits. A quinoa and salmon salad is a colorful addition to the holidays! For this recipe go to delicious.com.au/recipes/quinoa-salmon-super-salad/0Lf1BPJj

• Sweet potato casserole: Instead of the traditional marshmallow, you can do an oatmeal topping consisting of al-

mond meal, oats, coconut sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and pecan halves. All these changes will increase fiber and antioxidants and lower sugar and fat.

• Brussel sprouts: Drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper, and roast in your oven for 30 minutes. You also can do a lemon parmesan seasoning. It’s a great way to add another anti-inflammatory vegetable.

• Green Bean Casserole: Instead of canned soup, 2% Greek yogurt can be used with various spices and mushrooms to increase antioxidants (more veggies) and even boost the calcium content for bone health!

• Mashed Potatoes: You can use Greek yogurt and change to 2% milk for lower fat content and higher protein with same creamy result. Again, another way to increase bone- and muscle-building nutrients!

• Cranberry Sauce: Lower the sugar by sweetening with honey or maple syrup instead. These are natural inflammation fighting foods. Remember, “eat red” with your produce choices to lower your muscle and joint inflammation.

• Pumpkin Pie: Add a scoop of vanilla or protein to the pumpkin pie filling and use whole-wheat flour for the crust.

• Apple Pie: Whole-wheat flour can be used for the crust with light whipped butter, nonfat milk, and maple syrup can replace sugar in your filling.

Fall Favorites

Fall is the best time of year; not only for the better weather, but because we can start enjoying all the best autumnal flavors. From apples and cinnamon to pumpkin and caramel, enjoy these fall favorites submitted by your fellow ALTA players.

Once You Pop…

Caramel popcorn

Mohammed Awaiz, Mountain Park Men’s C2

6 quarts popped popcorn

2 cups packed brown sugar

1 cup butter, cubed

½ cup corn syrup

1 tsp. salt

3 tsp. vanilla extract

½ tsp. baking soda

Place popcorn in a large bowl and set aside. In a large saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, corn syrup and salt; bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat. Stir in vanilla and baking soda; mix well. Pour over popcorn and stir until well-coated. Pour into two greased 13x9-in. baking pans. Bake, uncovered, at 250 degrees for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. Cool completely.

Two Please!

Pumpkin Spice Dip

Elizabeth Yarbrough, Peachtree City Tennis Center Senior Day Women A1

1 block cream cheese, softened

2 cups powdered sugar

1 can pumpkin pie filling

1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Sliced apples and shortbread cookies, for serving

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

Sure To Be A Hit

Pumpkin Crisp

Danielle McAuley, Kennworth TC Thursday Women AA2

1 15-oz. can of pumpkin

1 cup of evaporated milk

1 cup sugar

1 tsp. of vanilla extract

1 18.25-oz. package of butter flavored cake mix.

1 cup of chopped pecans (optional)

1 cup melted butter

Whipped cream, optional Nutmeg, optional

Stir first 4 ingredients and pour into a 13X9 slightly greased baking dish. Sprinkle cake mix evenly over pumpkin mixture, sprinkle evenly with pecans. Drizzle melted butter over pecans. Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour and 5 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Quick Snack

Cinnamon-Sugar Roasted Chickpeas

Rosalind Rosenburg, Eagle Watch Senior Women B7

2 (15-oz.) can chickpeas, rinsed

2 Tbsp. sugar

2 tsp. ground cinnamon ground black pepper to taste

2 Tbsp. olive oil

Place rack in the upper third of oven; preheat to 425. Drain and rinse chickpeas then pat them dry. Spread onto a rimmed baking sheet and bake 20 minutes. Mix sugar, cinnamon, and pepper in a small bowl. Transfer the chickpeas to a bowl and toss with oil. Then put them in a separate bowl to coat with mixture of cinnamon and sugar. Return to the baking sheet and bake until browned and crunchy (10 to 15 min.) stirring once. Let cool. Enjoy. Store in covered container; don’t refrigerate. Makes 8 servings.

Crispy Satisfaction

Caramel Pretzel Magic Bars

Ann Moren, Georgetown Sunday Women B4

1 ½ cup graham cracker crumbs

6 Tbsp. butter, melted

14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk

50+ pretzels (e.g. Snyder’s Snaps)

1 cup of caramel bits, located near choc. chips at the grocery store.)

1 cup milk chocolate chips

1 cup sweetened coconut flakes

Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press in a sprayed 13x9in pan. Pour about half the can of condensed milk over crust. Layer your pretzels as close together as you like over the condensed milk/crust. Sprinkle caramels, chocolate chips, and coconut flakes. Pour remaining half of condensed milk on top. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-30 min. until lightly brown. Let cool completely before cutting and serving.

Crunch Time!

Apple

Salsa

Maureen Knapp, Bishop’s Green Senior Day Women A5

3 Tbsp. apple jelly, warm for a few seconds in microwave

3 apples finely diced (use different varieties with different colors)

3 Tbsp. finely diced carrots

3 Tbsp. finely diced celery

3 Tbsp. lemon juice

3 Tbsp. raisins, Craisins or combo of both

Combine apples, carrots, and celery with the warm jelly. Microwave 15-20 seconds. Add lemon juice and raisins. Combine. Serve with cinnamon sugar pita chips. Makes 6-8 servings.

Tips: The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons each of lemon juice and apple jelly. Depending on the size and type of apples used, adjusting the amount of lemon juice and/or apple jelly might be necessary to suit your taste. I usually use at least 4 tablespoons of each. In a pinch, apricot preserves or agave nectar can be used in place of apply jelly. The salsa can be stored for one week, refrigerated, but I prefer to eat mine within a few days. I use a food processor to dice the apples. Because of the small quantity of carrots and celery required, I prefer to dice them by hand.

Fall Delight

Paleo Apple Muffins

Kelly Ashman, Triple Crown Thursday Women A3

2 cups applesauce

4 eggs

½ cup blanched almond flour or almond meal

cup coconut flour, sifted cup finely chopped walnuts

cup finely chopped pecans

½ cup shredded coconut

cup sliced almonds

1 tsp. cinnamon

½ tsp. nutmeg

¼ tsp. cloves

¼ tsp. salt

½ tsp. baking soda

1 fresh cooking apple, cut into small 1/4” pieces

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

Bags, Packs & Duffles 1 3 2 5

1 Team Dry Standbag The Tecnifibre Team Dry Stand Backpack Bag holds up to 3 racquets in a dedicated compartment, while the main area has a divider for extra gear. tecnifibre.com/en/tennis 2 Babolat Pure Strike Backpack The Pure Strike Backpack offers ample volume (XXL) and a 3-compartment structure, providing excellent organizational capacity. babolat.com 3 Lucky Tennis Bag Who says accessories aren’t meant to shine?! Lucky In Love’s new, iridescent tennis sling bag will definitely bring a shine to your game. shopluckyinlove.com 4 Babolat Pure Aero Rafa 12 Pack Bag With 3 main compartments, you can carry loads of gear and split up your racquets and gear while both sides of the bag offer an exterior accessory pocket. tennis-warehouse.com 5 HEAD Pro Duffle M This bag features space for up to 6 racquets, inside mesh pocket and outside pocket, and an adjustable shoulder strap. head.com/en_US

gift guide

the Player Who Has Everything!

Fast Track Tennis

The patented “Feedback System” by Fast Track Tennis is the world’s first training device that sets up in any small space for infinite real ball hitting. fasttracktennis.com

Lobster Padel Ball Machine

Perfect for players at any level, this machine helps elevate your skills and master the game. lobstersports.com

Elite Grand Five LE

This ball machine has been designed to be the ultimate combination of functionality, performance, and ease of use with 18 shot locations and 12 pre-loaded drills. lobstersports.com

The Pickle Champion

Offering cutting-edge technology unrivaled among pickleball ball launchers, Lobster’s all-digital pickleball machine feels like you are playing against another human being! lobstersports.com

Tourna Ballport Mini Tennis and Pickleball Caddy

Picks up both tennis balls and pickleballs using an interchangeable rods system. uniquesports.us

Tourna ES-550

Holiday Lighting: We Handle It All!

The Elite Liberty

Want an electric machine that won’t break the bank? Six-point mount, rotary gripper, turntable brake, ruler, and adjustable V supports provide a professional string job without the high price. uniquesports.us

WISE GUYS

With throws up to 70 mph, plus adjustable topspin and backspin, a Lobster will help you train to defend the most challenging of shots. lobstersports.com

LIGHTS

Custom Holiday Lighting

No matter the holiday they have you covered. The lights can adorn rooflines, bushes/trees, columns, and even walkways. Evergreen wreaths and garland (lit or non-lit) also are available. wiseguysprowash.com

“We saw some beautiful houses in our neighborhood done by WiseGuys and had to do the same on ours! The lights look

1

2

Racquets & Paddles

3

4

1 Babolat Pure Strike 100 16/20 The all-new Pure Strike 100 16/20 is for aggressive counter-strikers who control the baseline to keep constant pressure on your opponent. babolat.com 2 HEAD Radical MP 18x20 Innovative Auxetic technology delivers an outstanding impact feel and enhanced playability. tennisexpress.com 3 Boom Tour EX For aggressive players who dream of serving and returning big. head.com/en_US 4 Ektelon Inferno RS Now boasts thermoformed construction — improving power, durability, comfort, and vibration control. tennis-warehouse.com 5 HEAD Boom MP & MP Mint Blending explosive power with the enhanced, sensational feel of the new Auxetic 2.0 technology, the 2024 Boom allows you to play your best tennis. head.com/ en_US 6 Prince ATS Textreme Tour 98 Carbon These best-selling racquets are perfect for the intermediate player who wants controllable power and great feel. tennis-warehouse.com 7 Tecnifibre TFight Played by Grand Slam champions and world number ones, this racquet offers quick handling, spin-friendly targeting, and exceptional feel. tecnifibre.com/en/tennis 8 Tecnifibre TF-X1 Designed for extra power and forgiveness, its X-damp technology reduces vibration by 36%, easing strain on your shoulder, elbow, or wrist. tecnifibre.com/en/tennis 9 Wilson Shift 99 v1 Revolutionary performance racket with modern bending technology to generate heavy spin with controllable power. wilson.com/en-us 10 Babolat Pure Aero The 100 in² head combined with a new, tighter 16/19 string pattern increases control compared to the previous generation, while maintaining power and spin. pgatoursuperstore. com 11 Yonex VCORE Sand Beige This seventh generation VCORE is a well-crafted combination of precise spin and exceptional control. yonex.com 12 Yonex EZONE Pickleball Paddle Incorporating a proprietary two-layer HT-graphite carbon layup and glassfiber layer, this paddle provides captivating power and accuracy across the court. yonex.com

5

6

7

8

9 11 10 12

Tennis Shoes

Babolat Jet Tere 2

This is the lightest model in Babolat’s range and offers excellent comfort and stability. babolat.com

HEAD Motion Pro

The Motion Pro Pickleball shoe features extra tread around the outsole, a hard-wearing rubber toecap, reinforced upper and Lateral Control+ technology for stability. head.com/en_US

Lacoste AG-LT Men’s Shoe

The premium performance shoe that provides the ultimate support and stability for players who move powerfully on the court. tennis-warehouse.com

Yonex Ad-Accel Incorporating Accel Booster carbon plate technology to enhance strength and flexibility, the Ad-Accel will have you covering all corners of the court. yonex.com

HOLIDAY gift guide

K-Swiss Hypercourt Supreme 2 Its newly engineered soft bootie collar gives a sturdier fit, while a high-rebound Shock Spring inner foam on the forefoot allows quicker reaction in every step. kswiss.com

Mizuno Wave Enforce Tour AC Equipped with Mizuno Enerzy Core throughout the footbed, the Enforce Tour provides high energy return and plush cushioning for quick transitions without added weight. mizunousa.com

K-Swiss HyperCourt Express 2 K-Swiss elevates its best-selling Hypercourt Express 2 by incorporating Surgelite midsole technology for enhanced lightness and comfort while maintaining breathability and a roomy fit. pgatoursuperstore.com

K-Swiss Express Light Pickleball Designed for players of all levels, this lightweight and breathable shoe ensures optimal comfort and agility on the court. kswiss.com

Mizuno Wave Exceed Tour 6 AC One of the lightest and fastest shoes on the market, the Wave Exceed Tour 6 utilizes the new Dyna-Fit Eyelet and a redesigned and cushioned tongue to elevate the level of comfort and fit for the advanced tennis and pickleball player. mizunousa.com

Wilson Rush Pro 4.5 Harness your power on the court in the Rush Pro 4.5, Wilson’s #1 franchise designed for rock-solid stability, support, and abrasion resistance. wilson.com/en-us

Tennis Apparel

Lucky In Love New Essentials

The Be Tulle Throw Over features tulle mesh inserts, draw cord back, and a raw edge hem that come together to create a contemporary design bursting with modern flair. The Long Be Tulle Pleated Skirt features tulle mesh inserts along the border create a contemporary appeal for the classic pleated skirt. shopluckyinlove.com

Wilson Everyday Performance Tee

A high-performance, technical tennis tee perfect for all day play combined with a soft, cotton feel. wilson.com/en-us

Wilson Tournament Pro Short 7”

Ultralight and ultra-technical, the stretchy fabric has great ventilation. These shorts are unlined and designed to pair with your favorite compression liner. wilson.com/en-us

HOLIDAY gift guide

FILA Challenger Seamless Polo Tank & Pleated Seamless Skort

The seamless polo features FILA’s signature F-Box logo and Heritage Stripe, while the skort offers performance with its stretch fabric and wicking properties. fila.com/us

FILA Country Club Hoodie

Featuring a relaxed fit and bold CASA FILA Country Club graphic, it’s the perfect gift for effortless sophistication whether lounging or out and about. fila.com/us

Lucky Club Ruffle Tank and All Matte Mystique Skirt

Lucky In Love’s best-selling tank features an inverted pleat, ornate stripes on the sleeves, and metallic mesh detail throughout. The pleated skirt is done in a matte champagne shimmer and is the perfect color to give you that bubbly feeling when you wear it. shopluckyinlove.com

FILA Cable Zip Polo

With a 1/4 zip, timeless cable jacquard pattern, and ribbed waistband and cuffs, this iconic FILA polo ensures you’re ready to ace the day in style. fila. com/us

Field House Tank

The perfect layering tank with high neck coverage for sun protection. wilson.com/en-us

The most flattering and comfortable tennis skirt; a seamless interior short with a pleated skirt overlay. wilson.com/en-us

Wilson

Lite

Wilson Midtown Skirt

Photos by Laura Barnard

Leaving Footprints

BY GINA CLANCE, CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Footprints. We leave them everywhere we go. Some footprints can be seen with our eyes — like when we walk in the snow or sand. Some cannot be seen — like in our hearts and memories. Bob Smith, and his passion for staying active and helping others, leaves footprints on pickleball courts and in the hearts of his neighbors and teammates.

Smith, who recently turned 90 years old and has captained ALTA tennis teams for 67 seasons, has picked up the hottest sport around and is helping people learn the game of pickleball. He shows no signs of putting down his paddle any time soon.

“Pickleball is easy for tennis and ping pong players to pick up,” he says. “It is just enough exercise. It is competitive, but it’s fun, too!”

After spending 32 years as an analytical chemist, Smith and his wife of 68 years, Marti, retired to the Atlanta area in 1991. Since he has been an active person all his life — having played softball until spinal surgery ended his time on the diamond — Smith found ALTA right away and picked up a tennis racquet. He jumped on the pickleball wagon in 2013 and is now captain of his Loch Highland B level ALTA team.

“Bob introduced me to pickleball a little over two years ago, and it has changed my life,” said teammate and neighbor Gregory Taylor. “Bob’s game is amazing, and no one underestimates his abilities on the court. He is a great neighbor and friend. He is someone we all should strive to be.”

Before ALTA had a pickleball league, and before clubs and neighborhoods around Atlanta had pickleball courts,

Smith and his neighbors used chalk to draw pickleball lines on their tennis courts. After more people got interested, they moved to painting lines by hand. Finally, they got permission and collected money to have the lines professionally painted onto their courts.

Along the lines of the “Field of Dreams” mantra, “Build it, and they will come,” with proper court lines at Loch Highland and access to equipment, more people started showing up to learn from Smith.

People of all ages come to play with Smith’s groups. He is on the court four or five days a week, teaching, coaching, and playing the game he loves. To make sure the courts are full, Smith texts dozens of people a day to see who wants to play. He said he has about 300 pickleballers in his phone contacts! He is always looking to add more.

“I met Bob two and a half years ago while walking my dogs and watching him play pickleball,” said teammate Mindy Rokosz. “He came over to the fence and said, ‘Want to learn pickleball?’ and I said ‘sure!’”

Several of Smith’s “students” agree his strengths include extreme patience

and encouragement. “I did not have a tennis background, and Bob quickly taught me the game and enabled me to compete on his team for the last two seasons,” Rokosz said. “He acknowledges your strengths. He is an inspiration to us all!”

According to another teammate, Mark Rudel, Smith was one of the founding members of the Fuller’s Park Pickleball (Cobb County) in 2014. Rudel gives Smith credit for his love of pickleball. “Bob is the consummate gentlemen, teacher, and community friend,” Rudel said. “He’s also a student of the game and an advocate for dozens of people who would not have picked up the fastest growing sport in America.”

What is Smith’s secret to his longevity on the court? “I stretch, stretch, stretch every morning,” he says. “And I have good genes, too! A lot of this game is footwork. You have got to be careful!”

Why does he love pickleball so much? “It’s the people really,” Smith answered, looking out at about a dozen people playing pickleball. “These people are like my kids.”

If passion is what keeps our days interesting and helps people leave footprints along life’s paths, Smith’s love for people and pickleball will certainly leave plenty of footprints on the courts of his journey.

by

Photos

Laura Barnard

Pickle and Social Comes to Buford

BY EMMY POWELL, NET NEWS EDITOR

As pickleball continues to thrive across America, owners and operators of pickleball facilities are getting creative to bring more people to see what they have to offer.

Pickle and Social Gwinnett features six indoor courts, two pavilion covered, and eight outdoor pickleball courts, along with a variety of options to engage in the fastest-growing sport in the world. Each court is professionally constructed with true asphalt and dedicated nets. Play with your friends or compete with lessons, leagues, and tournaments. You also can play on the ACL Cornhole Yard and Central Park with all the other yard games offered.

Chris Wolfe, who is widely known in the pickleball world, is Pickle and Social’s Director of Pickleball. He says the Gwinnett facility’s hours of operation are a great fit for people in the Buford area. “Players can come in the early morning or late afternoon. Whether it’s friendly competition or league play, we have something for everyone,” he said. Wolfe adds they also offer some of the best food in town. “We have a great chef and some great food choices year-round.”

The place is packed on the weekends, and they offer social themed nights, such as Halloween and other holiday parties,

poker nights, rewards programs, and a Heroes’ program which gives discounts to veterans and first responders, among many others.

It’s also the perfect place for beginners to learn how to play, and it’s a great fit for corporate outings. There is a charitable component to this unique facility as well. On the day we caught up with Wolfe, there was a charity tournament during open play organized by the Lilburn Women’s Club to benefit Family Promise of Gwinnett County. The organization helps homeless families by providing an overnight shelter in addition to resources to change their lives. “We offer a 30- to 90-day program to help them get jobs, assist with life skills, and increase their personal wealth,” says Carol Love, executive director of Family Promise. She says the volunteers are what make the organization so successful. “We have so many success stories, and it’s great to see the lives we have changed through the years.” The players who participated seemed glad to come together for a good cause, while engaging in some friendly, fun competition.

This facility opened in December of last year. Look for the Alpharetta location at Ga. 400 and Haynes Bridge to open in late 2025. Learn more at pickleandsocialgwinnett.com.

You Have More Time Than You Think!

BY CHRIS WOLFE, CERTIFIED PPR PROFESSIONAL AND DIRECTOR OF PICKLEBALL AT PICKLE AND SOCIAL

I’ve noticed that some of our newer players tend to rush at the last moment. Instead of preparing for the shot, they hurry their swing just to make contact. Here’s a tip: Once you know where the ball is heading, aim to get there before it does. Moving quickly to the ball’s projected location allows you to slow down, giving you ample time to prepare for a precise shot. In contrast, if you’re slow to get to the ball, you’ll have to rush your swing. A hurried swing often leads to difficulty in achieving the correct contact point.

Mastering the technique of beating the ball to its bounce is no small feat; it requires dedicated practice. But mastering this skill is crucial if want to elevate your game. Next time you watch a professional match, observe how the players anticipate the ball’s path and position themselves well in advance. This movement gives them the time to prepare and hit the ball out in front, directing it precisely where they want it to go. Remember, you should be dictating the ball’s path, not the other way around! Learn more and get more pickleball tips on Instagram by following Wolfe @chriswolfepickleball and @Chris Wolfe on Facebook.

PICKLEBALL

Spring registration runs Jan 1. – Jan. 21

Spring season is Mar. 10 – April 21

Looking In The Rearview Mirror And Checking Ahead

BY JERRY NIEMEYER, PICKLEBALL LEAGUE VICE PRESIDENT

By the time you read this, the 2024 summer season will be fading in the rearview mirror, and we will be looking ahead to 2025. The summer season was highly successful! We had a 31% increase in players to 6,230 by the end of the season. There were more than 360 teams in the summer league, and we continue to see solid growth after only three seasons. Our numbers increased from 4,815 ALTA pickleball players in 2023 to 8,219 in 2024. There still are rough edges to be smoothed out, but with continued growth, I know the league will continue to improve.

Over the large metro area covered by ALTA Pickleball, travel time to away matches is a difficult problem to solve.

One way to help is the use of four-team divisions. It is not a solution that most players like, but you will see fewer fourteam divisions as the league grows.

The end of the summer season produced three rounds of playoffs and an exciting day of City Finals at ITA. It was exciting to see both the winners and the finalists sporting their medals. Many thanks to ITA for their help in making the day a first-class event!

2025 will bring a change in seasons for ALTA Pickleball. Based on the results of a survey we conducted earlier in the year, spring and fall were the favored seasons of play. Winter is never an ideal time to play, and with the hot temperatures of the last two summers, it seemed like a

suitable time to transition to spring/fall play for 2025. We are looking at other changes for next year, including a format change (two men’s doubles, two women’s doubles, no mixed doubles) and a change in criteria for new facilities that would provide a more uniform playing environment moving forward. Of course, any change in facility criteria would include a grandfather clause for existing facilities. No format changes have been approved at this time. Please watch your email for any updates.

Be on the lookout for ALTA-sponsored pickleball events and further announcements regarding the spring league. Thank you for your support as we continue to grow ALTA Pickleball.

Photos by Laura Barnard

In a Pickle?

Here are ALTA’s answers to your burning pickleball questions

BY JERRY NIEMEYER, PICKLEBALL LEAGUE VICE PRESIDENT

WHY DID ALTA CHANGE SEASONS FOR THE PICKLEBALL LEAGUE?

Earlier in 2024, we surveyed our pickleball membership regarding various issues. One of the questions was about the preferred season of the year to have a pickleball league. Overwhelmingly, you told us spring and fall, with summer next and winter a distant fourth. We felt 2025 would be a great time to make a change.

DO THE RESULTS OF ALTA MATCHES COUNT TOWARD MY DUPR RATING?

No, ALTA does not report scores to DUPR, as ALTA rates teams rather than players. ALTA rates teams from AA to C with as many as eight flights within any given level. DUPR uses a rating system that rates players from 1.0 to 7.0, with 5.0 generally considered the highest for recreational play. ALTA matches have no impact on your DUPR rating.

IN A MATCH LAST SEASON, WE WERE GOING TO BE SHORT A WOMEN’S POINT PLAYER UNLESS WE PLAYED THAT LINE EARLY. IS IT OKAY FOR CAPTAINS TO AGREE TO PLAY A MATCH EARLY?

As it turned out, the other team could not play early, and we had to default on the women’s doubles point. Am I correct in assuming the default only pertained to the women’s doubles point and did not impact the remainder of the matches that week?

You are correct on both points. Captains can agree to play any match(es) early. They may not agree to play matches late unless there is a postponement due to the weather. For everyone’s protection, the

agreement to play a match early should be in writing. (See page 23, number 4, under “Confirm the order of play” in the Pickleball Member Handbook.)

Under the current playing format, the default you took at the women’s doubles line did not impact any other lines played in that match. (See page 3 of the ALTA Pickleball rules under “Mixed Doubles.)

WHEN IS ALTA GOING TO EXPAND PICKLEBALL INTO OTHER LEAGUES LIKE WOMEN ONLY, MEN ONLY, AND 55+

SENIOR LEAGUES?

This is a complex issue with many moving parts. First, we would have to be sure we attract 100 to 200 teams throughout the large metro area. Without an adequate number of teams, travel would be a serious problem and take away from the overall enjoyment of the new league. Second, we would need an adequate staff of volunteers to run the new league(s). Currently, most of our volunteers are serving in multiple leagues and do not have the capacity to take on additional responsibility. Last, space on the calendar. Any new league could not conflict with any existing league. This would include conflict in the areas of season play dates, rainout makeup dates, playoff dates, and City Finals dates.

PICKLEBALL

A1

01 BLACKLAND PRIVAT 75 OREGON PARK (FUDGE) 54 OREGON PARK (NGO) 38

PARK 31

02 ITA ATLANTA/HARD (MORAIS ) 79 ITA ATLANTA/HARD (BUI) 76

44 ITA ATLANTA/HARD (PARK) 0

A3

01 PIEDMONT DRIVING 72

(HURTADO) 51

38

(RUBIN) 37 02

CREEK 52

WATCH PICK 38

CC 37

B1

01 DEER RUN NORTH 79 BROOKFIELD CC 63

S&T 30

02

OLDE SAVANNAH SQ 31

05 SOMERSET/COBB 70

PICKLEBA 65 SANDY SPRINGS TC 54

SANDERS YMC 9

06 ALPHARETTA NORTH 87

01 LAKE FOREST SUBD 77

MOUNTAIN PA 58

LAKESIDE (STANLEY) 55

LAKESIDE (SANDERS) 8

LIFETIME (WOODST 84

ASKEW PARK (KRAMER) 76

WYNGATE SOUTH 27

KENNY ASKEW PARK (SCIRE) 11

03 NESBIT LAKES 90

63

33

PLACE 12

04 SEVEN HILLS 75 HAMILTON CROSSIN 61

MARIETTA CC 34

PARK 29

05 SANDY SPRINGS TC 68 CARL SANDERS YMC 56

CC 37 PIEDMONT DRIVING 37

06 ALPHARETTA NORTH 75 WHITE COLUMNS G (LAYTON) 52 WHITE COLUMNS G (ALLEN) 37 TRADITIONS 34

07 TWIN LAKES 73 VERMACK 58

PEACHTREE STATIO 48 ITA ATLANTA/HARD 19

08 GRIMES BRIDGE PA 72 MOUNTAIN CREEK R 69 PRINCETON WALK 44 INDEPENDENCE SQ 13 B5

01 OAKWIND 75 OREGON PARK 69 BURNT HICKORY RE 36 BROOKSTONE CC 19

02 OLDE ATLANTA CLU 70 PARKSTONE 61 BARRINGTON ESTAT 50

52 LAUREL SPRINGS/F 45 WINDWARD LAKE 13

THE RIVER CLUB/G 18

03 ANSLEY 77

CARL SANDERS YMC 45

ITA ATLANTA/HARD 27

WYNTERHALL 0

04 STERLING ON THE 75 CRESSWIND TWIN L 68 RIVERSHYRE 30 WHITE OAK PLACE 26

05 WYNGATE SOUTH 79

TOWNE LAKE HILLS 55

BROOKFIELD CC 48

PRINCETON WEST 16

06 WHITE COLUMNS G 84 MONTEBELLO 56

ALPHARETTA NORTH 37 HARLOW 19

07 ATLANTA ATHLETIC 69 CC OF ROSWELL 66 KINGSLEY 53

PEACHTREE STATIO 51

MARTIN’S LANDING 50 THE FIELDS II (KINDIG) 46 THE FIELDS II (OSTER) 36 NESBIT LAKES 26

B7

01 LAKEHAVEN 62 THE GATES 51 SPRINGMONTE 45

LONGLAKE SWIM/TE 40

02 THE FIELDS II (LOCKER) 69 ITA ATLANTA/HARD 55 THE FIELDS II (JENG) 43

DUNWOODY NORTH 31

03 OXFORD MILL (YOUNT) 75

JAMESTOWN 67

ALPHARETTA NORTH (HART) 60

OXFORD MILL (NESSELROAD) 55

RIVER STATION (WOODFIELD) 48

RIVER STATION (KING) 45

ALPHARETTA NORTH (MEGNA)25

CROOKED CREEK 21

04 LEGACY PARK 61

EAGLE WATCH PICK 56

BROOKSHIRE PICKL 51

WOODSTOCK KNOLL 30

05 REUNION 77

ROPER PARK 59

HAMILTON MILL I 37

CRESSWIND AT LAK 25

06 VININGS ESTATES 75

LIFETIME (PERIME 68

CARL SANDERS YMC 31

CHEROKEE TOWN CL 25

07 LITCHFIELD 100 (MCBRIDE) 61

NORTHAMPTON 58

LITCHFIELD 100 (MAHLER) 48

MANOR NORTH 31

C1

01 INDIAN HILLS CC (DELONG) 70

ELLIS PICKLEBAL 69

WOODLANDS 60

ALEXANDER FARMS 57

INDIAN HILLS CC (LEBRUN) 57

MOUNTAIN CREEK R 39

LOCH HIGHLAND 23

LOST FORREST 22

02 ALPHARETTA NORTH (PANDEY) 79

KIMBALL FARMS 78

ALPHARETTA NORTH (MCCABE) 60

ALPHARETTA NORTH (BARICH)55

ALPHARETTA NORTH (SAHA) 48

LAUREL BROOKE 29

POLO GOLF & CC 28

EDENWILDE 17

03 SANDY SPRINGS TC 77

GRIMES BRIDGE PA 61

MJCCA 50

KINGSLEY 11

04 SHARON SPRINGS P 88

AVIARY (FULTON) 51

GROVE PARK 31

WINDWARD LAKE 27

05 MORE THAN PICKLE 90

RHODES JORDAN PA 58

STERLING ON THE 31

THE FIELDS II 19

06 MCGHEE TC 94

DEKALB TC (GOLDMAN) 47

PIEDMONT DRIVING 33

DEKALB TC (BERRY) 25

C3

01 STERLING ON THE 85 HAMILTON MILL I 59

TRADITIONS OF BR 58

CHATTAHOOCHEE CO 57

OLDE ATLANTA CLU (NICOLET) 41

CRESSWIND AT LAK 36

OLDE ATLANTA CLU (HARRIS) 30

SUWANEE STATION 29

02 LAKE CHARLES PLA 70

INDIAN HILLS CC (BARRE) 66 WHITE COLUMNS G 61 INDIAN HILLS CC (PICKELL) 57

JOHNSONS LANDING 46 VERMACK 35

CC 33

SUBDIV 71

44

BRIDGE - 42

CREEK 41

35 MARTIN’S LANDING 17 04 NOB RIDGE 85 PACES CLUB 65

HILLS 51

CC (MCMAHON) 45

UNITED 42

RUN NORTH 41

CC (CAIN) 40

Photos by Matthew Helton

A3 Piedmont Driving Club (Wilson Kieffer, captain)

A1 Blackland Private Ct (Steve Schnugg, captain)

B1 Somerset/Cobb (Allan McLeod, captain)

B3 Lifetime/Woodstock (Carrie Brown, captain)

B5 Sterling on the Lake III (Jason Demars, captain)

B7 Reunion (Justin Brown, captain)

C1 McGhee TC (Rashida Smith, captain)

C3 Sterling on the Lake III (Ericka Andersen, captain)

C5 Harrington Falls (Peyton Young, captain)

C7 Windermere/Forsyth (Erika McGowan, captain)

C8 White Oak Place (Paula Mullin, captain)

Where Atlanta Comes To Play! Still

ALTA—90 YEARS STRONG. We’re still the tennis leader in Atlanta and have grown to over 60,000 members. From Metro Atlanta to North Fulton, from Newnan to East Cobb, we have you covered. We offer year-round play, neighborly competition, and Southern hospitality, so whether you are a seasoned player or a rookie wannabe, we have something for everyone. Annual membership is only $30 for adult tennis, $15 for juniors tennis (18 and under) and $30 for adult pickleball.

ADULT LEAGUES

JUNIOR LEAGUES

PICKLEBALL LEAGUES

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

Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation

Title of Publication: Net News: Atlanta Lawn Tennis Association. Publication Number: 553-850. Date of filing: Sept. 30, 2024. Frequency of issue: Bi-monthly. Number of issues published annually: Six. Location of known office of publication: New South Publishing, Inc., 9040 Roswell Road, Suite 210, Atlanta, Ga 30350. Owner: Atlanta Lawn Tennis Association, 300 Colonial Parkway, Suite 140, Roswell, GA 30076.

Extent and Nature of Circulation: Circulation of single issue published nearest to filing date: Total copies printed, 47,365. Sales through vendors, dealers, carriers and over the counter: 0. Mail subscriptions, 47,096. Total paid circulation, 47,096. Free distribution (by mail, carrier or other means, including samples) 134. Total distribution, 47,230. Copies not distributed (office use, unaccounted for) 135.

Average circulation for each issue in preceding 12 months. Total copies printed, 45,305. Sales through vendors, dealers, carriers and over the counter, 0. Mail subscriptions, 45,024. Total paid circulation, 45,024. Free distribution (by mail, carrier or other means, including samples) 149. Total distribution, 45,305. Copies not distributed (office use, unaccounted for) 132. Percent paid and/or requested circulation: 99.4%.

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n Read the digital version of Net News

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.

ATLANTA LAWN TENNIS ASSOCIATION

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 770.399.5788 and dial the extension listed next to the officer’s name.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE EMAIL EXT

President – Chequetta Allen

First Vice President – Rita Maloof

VP Men’s League – Greg McAfee

ALTAPresident@altatennis.org 113

FirstVP@altatennis.org 114

MensVP@altatennis.org 116

VP Thursday Women’s League – Siobhan Schaeffer ThursdayVP@altatennis.org 118

VP Sunday Women’s League –Loretta Phillips SundayVP@altatennis.org 117

VP Senior Day Leagues –Joan Marcinko

VP Senior Leagues – Seth Appelbaum

SeniorDayVP@altatennis.org 120

SeniorVP@altatennis.org 121

VP Mixed Doubles League –David Rowe MixedVP@altatennis.org 122

VP Junior Leagues – Wendy Fee JuniorVP@altatennis.org 119

VP Junior Challenge Ladder – Gina Woods JrChallengeVP@altatennis.org 123

VP Special Programs – Mark LaRotonda SpecialProgramsVP@altatennis.org 124

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).

n ALTA office: 770.399.5788

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

Call the office during weekdays as employees occasionally work remotely.

n Membership dues: Adults – $30, Adult Pickleball– $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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