Net News Sept Oct 2024

Tomas Etcheverry in the Hypercourt Supreme 2

Welcoming The Fall Season

The shift from summer to fall brings a succession of things for which we bid farewell. At this point, we’ve already said goodbye to our favorite summer vacation destinations near and far. Leisurely poolside lounging has come to an end. Summer break is over, and the kids have resumed school and school-related activities. This, in turn, has prompted the return to a normal work schedule and longer commute times for most of us. Yet, despite indications of summer’s end, the Georgia heat remains as the last vestige.

Since our warm temperatures linger well into the fall, parting with summer tends to allow for a long and gentle goodbye. If you are anything like me, I’m happy to welcome the fall and all that comes with it. I look forward to experiencing the seasonal landscape color changes. The most perfect weather for our fall tennis season is on the horizon, and it comes as a welcome change from the

relentless heat we have endured this summer. We also get to return to the teams we last played on during the spring season. Fall tennis provides us with a brief respite as we reacclimate to the post-summer hustle and bustle of life. It is the breather we need to build momentum in preparation for the end of the year.

It’s hard to believe, but the fall season is the last ALTA season of 2024. Now that summer has ended, it feels like we are moving at warp speed. I welcome the progression, transition, and fresh start this new season embodies. We all have one more season in 2024 to enjoy, another opportunity to win a division bag tag, and an additional shot at becoming City Champion. What makes it better is this can all be done in the company of friends while appreciating everything the fall season has to offer.

Chequetta L. Allen 2024 ALTA President

Fall tennis provides us with a brief respite as we reacclimate to the post-summer hustle and bustle of life. It is the breather we need to build momentum in preparation for the end of the year.

For the latest news, information and events.

altatennis.org facebook.com/Atlanta Lawn Tennis Association facebook.com/ALTANetNews instagram.com/ALTA_tennis netnewsmag.com

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SEPTEMBER

2 Office Closed – Labor Day holiday

3 Senor Day Women.– Fall play begins

3 Wheelchair – Fall play begins

4 Senior Day Men – Fall play begins

5 Thursday Women – Fall play begins

7 Juniors – Fall play begins

7 Men – Fall play begins

8 Sunday Women – Fall play begins

12 All 2025 Winter Leagues – Roster registration begins

OCTOBER

10 All 2025 Winter Leagues – Roster registration ends

15 Senior Day Women – Fall play ends

15 Wheelchair – Fall City Finals (rain date 10/22)

16 Senior Day Men – Fall play ends

17 Thursday Women – Fall play ends

19 Juniors – Fall play ends

19 Men – Fall play ends

20 Sunday Women – Fall play ends

21 Senior Day Women – Fall playoffs (rain date 10/23)

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

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

23 Senior Day Women – Fall playoffs (rain date 10/25)

24 Thursday Women – Fall playoffs (rain date 10/29)

24 Thursday Women – Fall City Finals for AA levels (rain date 10/29)

26 Juniors – Fall playoffs (rain date 10/29)

26 Men – Fall playoffs (rain date 10/27)

26 Sunday Women – Fall playoffs (rain date 10/27)

27 Men – Fall playoffs (rain date 11/2)

27 Sunday Women – Fall playoffs (rain date 11/2)

28 Senior Day Women – Fall playoffs (rain date 10/30)

29 Thursday Women – Fall playoffs (rain date 10/31)

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

31 Thursday Women – Fall City Finals for A, B, C levels (rain date 11/7)

NOVEMBER

2 Juniors – Fall City Finals (rain date 11/3) Juniors – Fall playoffs (rain date 11/5)

Men – Fall playoffs and City Finals for AA levels (rain date 11/3)

Sunday Women – Fall City Finals AA levels (rain date 11/3)

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

4 Senior Day Men – Fall City Finals all levels (rain date 11/11)

6 Senior Day Men – Fall City Finals (rain date 11/13)

9 Juniors – Fall City Finals (rain date 11/10)

Men – Fall City Finals A, B, C levels (rain date 11/16)

10 Sunday Women – Fall City Finals A, B, C levels (rain date 11/17)

14 ALTA Annual Meeting

28 Office Closed – Thanksgiving holiday

29 Office Closed – Thanksgiving holiday

DECEMBER

SENIOR MIXED DOUBLES

Sept. 12 2025 Winter roster registration begins

Oct. 10 2025 Winter roster registration ends

MIXED

DOUBLES

Sept. 12 2025 Winter roster registration begins

Oct. 10 2025 Winter roster registration ends

SUNDAY WOMEN

Sept. 8 Fall play begins

Oct. 20 Fall play ends

Oct. 26 Fall playoffs (rain date 10/27)

Oct. 27 Fall playoffs (rain date 11/2)

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)

MEN

Sept. 7 Fall play begins

Oct. 19 Fall play ends

Oct. 26 Fall playoffs (rain date 10/27)

Oct. 27 Fall playoffs (rain date 11/2)

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)

THURSDAY WOMEN

Sept. 5 Fall play begins

Oct. 17 Fall play ends

Oct. 22 Fall playoffs (rain date 10/24)

Oct. 24 Fall playoffs (rain date 10/29)

Oct. 24 Fall AA City Finals (rain date 10/29)

Oct. 29 Fall playoffs (rain date 10/31)

Oct. 31 Fall City Finals for A, B, and C (rain date 11/7)

SENIOR DAY WOMEN

Sept. 3 Fall play begins

Oct. 15 Fall play ends

Oct. 21 Fall playoffs (rain date 10/23)

Oct. 23 Fall playoffs (rain date 10/25)

Oct. 28 Fall playoffs (rain date 10/30)

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

SENIOR DAY MEN

Sept. 4 Fall play begins Oct. 16 Fall play ends

Oct. 23 Fall playoffs (rain date 10/25)

Oct. 30 Fall playoffs (rain date 11/1)

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

JUNIOR LEAGUES

Sept. 7 Fall play begins Oct. 19 Fall play ends

Oct. 26 Fall playoffs (rain date 10/29)

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)

JUNIOR CHALLENGE LADDER

Dec. 2 Ladder closes

WHEELCHAIR – RUN/ROLL

Sept. 3 Fall play begins Oct. 15 Fall City Finals (rain date 10/22)

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

ALTA Wants You!

BY JOHN LOWELL, PRESIDENT’S APPOINTEE

That’s right! The largest local tennis league in the world is run almost entirely by its members. If you are one of those members and you’ve been in the Adult Leagues for at least five years, you’re one of the people ALTA is searching for as we look to expand our volunteer ranks.

Why do we need volunteers? Our paid staff is small — just a handful of people working full- or part-time — while the rest of the work is done by hundreds of members just like you who give of their time to keep ALTA the greatest value in recreational sports.

You probably have seen that the most visible of those volunteers are the coordinators — those people who approve scorecards, explain the rules, and serve as the main points of contact between teams and the league. But there are many more roles. That’s why we’re seeking people with a variety of skills and as great a variety of interests to help us out.

I know; you’re probably asking yourself the same question I asked myself when I got involved. Why me?

I’ll tell you why I did it. I was a many-time captain and scorekeeper, longtime player, and ardent observer. I thought, and still do think, that ALTA is a great sports league. I also thought it could be better, and I thought I had some pretty good ideas. My choices were to complain or to step up and do something about it. I’ve been volunteering ever since. You can make the same decision. What skills and interests can be valuable to us? Perhaps you’re a talented photographer or videographer who would like to help at City Finals or special

events. Maybe you’re a customer service professional who would be a great liaison for new members. Or your passion could be working with people with special needs, and you’d like to get involved with the ALTA Foundation. As the world becomes even more married to technology, IT wizards become more and more valuable to us. We always need finance professionals to ensure that we allocate and spend our resources prudently and spend our money wisely so we can keep our dues as low as possible. We need upbeat personalities to run our booths at special events. And there is nothing better than people who simply want to help and will do whatever is needed when ALTA comes calling.

For those with higher ALTA aspirations, we need leaders — people who are willing to take a shot to step up and run a business or a part of it because after all, that’s what ALTA is. We’re a membership association in the business of providing a world-class recreational sports experience for roughly 60,000 members.

You have a choice. You can be the member who sits in the background, plays your matches, and perhaps complains from time to time. Or, you can do what hundreds of your fellow members have done and make that decision to get involved.

When you do make that decision just as I did, you really won’t know what’s ahead of you. For most of you who do choose to volunteer, you’ll become part of a great, close-knit, diverse community of volunteers dedicated to keeping ALTA the place where Atlanta Comes to Play.

Winning on and off the Court

Laura Jean Leal, Bitsy Grant Thursday Women B3, won our May/June trivia contest and took home a new Babolat Pure Drive 30th Anniversary racquet! Congratulations, Laura! Don’t miss your chance to take home a great prize. Enter this issue’s trivia contest on page 34 for a chance to win a great prize pack. And don’t forget to include your best courtside recipe!

Enter the Annual ALTA/ Net News Photo Contest!

The deadline to enter the ALTA photo contest is Sept. 13, 2024. That date will be here before you know it, so start gathering your favorite tennis photos (categories are humor, action, courtside, children, pets, and still life), or keep your camera with you during your matches.

Full details and contest rules are available on page 32, as well as on our website at netnewsmag.com/ photo-contest. Winners will receive prize packages from HEAD and will be featured in the November/December issue of Net News. Good luck!

2023 Pets winning photo from Melissa Yung

ALTA ONLINE

You've

got

BY JOAN APPELBAUM, ALTA IT MANAGER

questions—we've got answers!

Is it possible to filter the playoff page to see teams in the playoffs by facility? Yes! We recently added a facility search to that page based on a member’s request.

I get confused about the 3rd set tiebreak in the Senior Leagues and how it is entered on the scorecard. When playing the 3rd set as a 10-point tiebreak set, it’s scored 1 for the winner vs 0 for the loser.

Online Tennis Community GoTennis! to Host Fall Festival

New startup GoTennis! wants to revolutionize the tennis community by connecting players with coaches, sharing valuable industry insights, and promoting local businesses. The online platform features an extensive calendar of events, a podcast, and a well-curated shop offering exclusive discounts on premium brands.

Basic membership is free and includes access to deals and the platform’s coaches network. Premium members enjoy extra benefits, including significant savings on tennis gear, fitness programs, and event access. The company says GoTennis! fosters a

sense of community and offers worldclass information so everyone can elevate their game and enjoy the sport to its fullest.

This fall, GoTennis! is hosting its inaugural Fall Festival on November 9, at James Creek Tennis Club in Cumming, Georgia. This premier tennis and pickleball event, presented in collaboration with Universal Tennis, RMC, and T2 Tennis, will feature ALTA, USTA Atlanta, Tennibot, Body Helix, RacketStats, ProDrive, and more. Participants will have opportunities to enjoy pies from Southern Baked Pies and shop for tennis

I need to make a change to my last name in my profile. How do I do that? Most information in your profile can be changed with the exceptions of first name, last name, gender, and birthdate. That information must be updated by calling the ALTA office at 770-399-5788.

equipment while interacting with the vendors and sponsors.

Attendees will have the chance to test out the latest equipment from leading brands, and certified coaches will conduct drills and provide expert guidance. Pickleballers will enjoy time with Georgia’s top pickleball coach, and the festival will offer fantastic prizes including racquets, paddles, shoes, and more.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with fellow tennis and pickleball enthusiasts, explore new gear, and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of activities. For more information about the event and to register, visit LetsGoTennis.com.

Time Tennis Chooses Atlanta as its Hub, Announces Player Recruitment for Pro League

Time Tennis, the new professional team tennis league employing world-class players, has selected Atlanta as its official hub. Known for its vibrant tennis community and rich sports culture, Atlanta offers the perfect backdrop for Time Tennis to launch its groundbreaking format that blends athletic excellence with top-tier entertainment, the company says.

As Time Tennis gears up for its inaugural pro league season, kicking off with an event from November 15-17, organizers are looking for talented players who embody the spirit of equality, sustainability, and entertainment. The league is not just about competi-

tion; it’s about creating a unique and engaging experience for fans and players alike.

“Atlanta is a city with a deep passion for sports and a thriving tennis scene, making it the ideal location for Time Tennis to set its roots,” said Thomas Archer Bata, co-founder of Time Tennis International. “We are thrilled to begin our journey here and bring an exciting, new dimension to the sport.”

Player Recruitment Now Open

Time Tennis is recruiting players ready to showcase their skills in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. Visit the company’s page on LinkedIn and apply to become one of the first players in this ground-breaking entertainment experience.

Stay Connected

For those interested in getting tickets or staying updated with the latest news and announcements from Time Tennis, visit news.timetennis.com/subscribe and follow the company on social media (@timetennisintl) to be the first to know about all things Time Tennis.

LEGO Discovery Center Atlanta Celebrates National Pickleball

Day

LEGO Discovery Center Atlanta recently held an event in recognition of National Pickleball Day (August 8). The team there, including Assistant Master Model Builder, Noah Novak, went hilariously literal, creating “Pickles.” The build used approximately 150 bricks. Guests can spot America’s fastest growing sport in mini form at the attraction’s MINILAND.

Merlin Entertainment’s LEGO Discovery Center Atlanta is located at Phipps Plaza and boasts millions of LEGO bricks and various experiences for families.

IHG’s ‘Rally Room’ Continues Debate Over Divisive Color of a Tennis Ball

As part of its sponsorship and promotion of the US Open, IHG Hotels & Resorts took a tonguein-cheek approach to the longstanding debate over the color of tennis balls. Are they yellow or green? The hotel chain built out two suites — available at Kimpton Hotel Eventi in New York City and Hotel Indigo Atlanta Downtown — in a palette only tennis fans could love.

For years, people on the internet have been rallying back and forth on the color of a tennis ball, IHG stated in a news release. Even the G.O.A.T.s themselves have weighed in with differing opinions. The question remains among Americans...is a tennis ball green or yellow?

LOB_Netnews_0624 2.qxp_half horizontal 6/5/24 4:01 PM Page 1

Asking tennis fans to weigh in, IHG discovered the nation’s opinions are split. Fifty-six percent of Americans believe a tennis ball is yellow, while 44 percent are convinced it’s green. Embracing this light-hearted debate, the company launched an over-the-top, tennis-ball-themed suite that caters to both sides of the court: the IHG Rally Room. The rooms are sliced down the middle by a tennis court center line, with one half featuring bright green décor and the other half showcasing striking yellow touches.

“Whether a tennis ball is green or yellow is up to our guests to decide. We love how the ‘IHG Rally Room’ taps into this fun conversation at a time when all eyes are on tennis during the US Open, where IHG is a proud, longstanding partner,” said Connor Smith, VP of Masterbrand & Partnerships at IHG Hotels & Resorts.

The suites were made available for a maximum of twonight stays throughout the two weeks of the US Open main draw.

B I G G E R , TA L L 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!

$125M Racquet Center Slated for Raleigh

A new tennis and pickleball facility is under construction in Raleigh, North Carolina. The developers claim it will be the largest racquet sports facility in the world.

Tennis player Rob Autry and partner Jason DeGroff are spearheading the $125-million development at 6121 Mt. Herman Road in Brier Creek. The 44-acre campus will feature pickleball, tennis, padel, and volleyball courts and is expected to be ready in 2026.

The so-called Swing Racquet + Paddle facility has started work on the project, which will include 25 pickleball courts, 28 tennis courts, 15 padel courts, four beach volleyball courts, and a ping-pong lounge.

“Racquet and paddle sports are thriving, and Swing is here to elevate the player experience for generations to come,” said Autry, founder and CEO of Swing Racquet + Paddle. “Swing will offer much-needed court inventory while becoming a vital community hub where deeper connections and unforgettable memories are made.”

The City of Raleigh granted the project $10 million in funding. Swing’s flagship campus is expected to drive $360 million of economic impact in its first three years and attract more than one million visitors to the Raleigh area annually.

“Racquet and paddle sports are among the sports indus-

try’s hottest businesses,” said Raleigh Mayor Mary-Ann Baldwin. “We are excited to see the huge impact Swing creates in terms of jobs, tourism, and special events that will bring amateurs and professionals to our region for competition. Swing will be an extension of our existing parks and recreation programs with trails that connect to our existing greenways. This partnership further enhances Raleigh’s commitment to a common connection centered on sustainability, social good, and inclusion.”

Visit SwingNC.com for more information.

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Congratulations to the Georgia Tennis Hall of Fame Class of 2024!

EXPLORE OUR HOME IN THE MOUNTAINS Racquet, Golf, Wellness, Lake sports and more

The Georgia Tennis Hall of Fame has selected its 2024 inductees. Gery Groslimond and Philip Johnson joined the ranks of the state’s best in the August 10 ceremony held at the Marietta Country Club. In addition, Sam Crenshaw received the prestigious Dan Magill “Impact” Award.

Groslimond has helped develop 12 NCAA All-Americans, five NCAA national champions, and more than 250 future college players in a 50-year coaching career that followed his playing days at Stanford, where he was a key member of a historic NCAA championship team. He also served as the men’s tennis coach at Georgia Tech from 1983-1988 and was ACC Coach of the Year in 1985.

Johnson clinched the University of Georgia’s first men’s tennis national

championship in 1985 and continued his success at UGA when the Bulldogs won a second team title in 1987. He became a two-time college All-American and the first Georgia native to reach the top 150 on the ATP Tour.

A tireless ambassador for the sport of tennis across the Peach State, Crenshaw’s impact in the sports media world is noteworthy. He currently hosts USTA Southern’s “Talking Tennis Southern Style” podcast, a weekly snapshot on all things Southern tennis. He also has hosted “Matchpoint Atlanta,” a weekly tennis program that aired regionally on SportSouth and locally on 11Alive.

Congratulations to this year’s Hall of Fame inductees. To learn more about the Georgia Tennis Hall of Fame, visit georgiatennisfoundation.org.

Philip Johnson

Sam Crenshaw

Gery Groslimond

NOV 9, 2024

JCL Players Enjoy Court Time With the Pros at the Atlanta Open

BY GINA WOODS, JUNIOR CHALLENGE LADDER VICE PRESIDENT

The ALTA Junior Challenge Ladder (JCL) players recently had an exhilarating experience that served as a grand slam in their young tennis careers. They were given the incredible opportunity to rally with a professional tennis player at a clinic before the much-anticipated 2024 Atlanta Open.

“We are so thankful for the opportunity to hit with Mattia Bellucci, as it was very cool to hit with a pro player,” said JCL member Addison Merrill. The drills took place at Georgia Tech with Bellucci and local pro Tony Burke from Ansley Golf Club. The players all seemed to have a great time

meeting everyone and playing some great tennis.

“The Atlanta Open was an amazing experience for me,” recalled JCL player Hannah Lee. “I got to meet the amazing Mattia Bellucci. At first, I was nervous to meet the other players because it was my first clinic. However, after playing with the others, I started to lose my nerves slowly.

“The other players were nice and had good sportsmanship,” Lee continued. “Not only that, but when leaving we got to see Frances Tiafoe practicing on the courts!”

Lee added that it’s one thing to watch the pros on TV but playing on the court alongside them was an entirely different experience. “The pros were strategic and had a different speed. I learned so much. It seemed to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for all of the players.”

After the clinic, the JCL players made their way to the tournament grounds of the Atlanta Open. The atmosphere was electric, buzzing with an energy that only such a unique experience could generate. As the kids took to the center court, the applause and recognition they received for their par-

ticipation in the JCL was a moment of pure joy and pride.

“It was such an exciting opportunity and day for us since we got the chance to see so many pro players and be recognized on center court at the Atlanta Open,” said Merrill. “It was also an amazing experience to watch the matches leading up to our recognition on Center Court and seeing players from the practice courts."

It was a testament to their dedication and love for the game, a memory that will undoubtedly serve as inspiration for their future endeavors in tennis.

by Laura Barnard

Photos

Demand for Pickleball Facilities in the U.S. Reaches New High

The Sports Facilities Companies (SFC), which manages the largest network of sports and recreation facilities in the nation, reports that demand for facilities with pickleball courts has reached an all-time high in 2024. Nearly half of SFC’s facilities accommodate pickleball, led by the newly opened Rhythm and Rally Sports and Events in Macon, Georgia, touted as the world’s largest indoor pickleball facility after converting a vacant mall.

SFC announced it will manage the Lake Kennedy Racquet Center, which is under construction and set to open in July 2024. This facility in Cape Coral, Florida, is designed to become a central hub for both competitive and recreational pickleball players featuring 32 permanent pickleball courts next to 12 tennis courts.

SFC reports that more than 90 percent of community planners and facility developers consider including pickleball in their feasibility studies for new complexes. For venues without permanent courts, new and existing facilities can easily convert their playing surfaces to accommodate pickleball courts.

“Pickleball is more than a sport; it’s a catalyst for community development and social engagement,” said Jason Clement, CEO of The Sports Facilities Companies. “Through the establishment of facilities like Rhythm and Rally and the upcoming Lake Kennedy Racquet Center, we are not only meeting current demands but are also influencing the future of urban sports facilities.”

“It’s clear that The Sports Facilities Companies is at the forefront of the pickleball movement and helping our community meet the demand for courts,” said Southern Pickleball co-founder Paul Midkiff. “Notably in Macon, we’ve had the ability to host events at what is now the world’s largest indoor pickleball facility which has significantly enhanced the player and spectator experience.”

SFC’s existing and future venues that accommodate pickleball include:

• Myrtle Beach Sports Center, Myrtle Beach, SC

• Rocky Mount Event Center, Rocky Mount, NC

• Crown Sports Center, Fruitland, MD

• Iron Peak Sports and Events, Hillsborough, NJ

• Highlands Sports Complex, Triadelphia, WV

• The Bridge Sports Complex, Bridgeport, WV

• Cedar Point Sports Center, Sandusky, OH

• Hoover Met, Hoover, AL

• Bill Noble Park, Gardendale, AL

• Sand Mountain Park, Albertville, AL

• Brandon Parks and Rec, Brandon, MS

• Starkville Parks and Rec, Starkville, MS

• West Monroe Sports and Events, West Monroe, LA

• Legends Event Center, League City, TX

• Morristown Landing, Morristown, TN

• Wintrust Sports Complex, Bedford Park, IL

Wilson Releases RF Collection as Federer Winds Down Pro Career

As part of Roger Federer’s farewell tour — of sorts — to tennis, Wilson has released a limited assemblage of gear for one of the greatest to ever play the game. The new RF Collection includes a racquet (RF 01) “for the future of the game,” as well as multiple bags, leather grip, dampeners, and more.

Wilson says the racquet is versatile, maneuverable, and forgiving, adding that the SABR Frame Design allows for the pace, spin, and direction changes signature to Federer’s game. Players should notice a fast head speed thanks to Glide Guard B&G, and a great ball-pocketing feel from Braid 45 Technology. It’s finished with an RF-branded leather grip for a premium feel.

“I want to see the next generation having the same excitement I had when I got my first Wilson racket,” Federer said in a released statement.

See the full range of the RF Collection at Wilson.com.

2024 BNP Paribas Open Nears $1-Billion Economic Impact

The 2024 BNP Paribas Open, a combined ATP Masters 1000 and WTA 1000 event held at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden this past March, generated an estimated total gross economic impact of more than $852 million on the Coachella Valley regional economy. This represents a 51-percent increase over the last economic impact study conducted following the 2022 BNP Paribas Open.

Total gross economic impact is derived by calculating the direct ($568,988,608) and indirect and induced ($247,822,499) economic impacts and then adding them together to show the incremental spending above and beyond what would have been expected had the BNP Paribas Open not been held in the area. Direct spending includes money spent by out-of-town visitors, vendors, sponsors, and the tournament organization to a business in the region. Indirect and induced impact is the re-spending of this money by the regional businesses in the regional economy.

The BNP Paribas Open also studied the impact that the tournament had on regional employment, and based on total direct economic impact, the fulltime equivalents of those employed by the event is estimated at 12,149.

A total of 493,440 fans attended the tournament over the two-week period earlier this year — a new event record.

On average, each person attended the tournament 3.18 days. An impressive 94 percent of all unique spectators traveled from outside the region equating to 145,860 out-of-town visitors from which the economic impact is calculated. The record-setting attendance in 2024 resulted in an increase of nearly 44,000 out-of-town visitors compared to the results of the 2022 study. In addition, the unique tournament experience encourages repeat visitors, and the extensive media coverage exposes hundreds of millions more to the area.

“The BNP Paribas Open continues to deliver a positive impact on the Coach-

ella Valley economy,” said Philippe Dore, chief marketing officer of the BNP Paribas Open. “With nearly $1 billion in total impact this year, and a 51-percent increase compared to 2022, we remain poised for sustained success and growth in the community for years to come.”

The total fiscal impact of the BNP Paribas Open on the Coachella Valley was estimated at nearly $50 million, generated through tax revenues for city and county governments in the form of sales tax, TOT (Transient Occupancy Tax) or bed tax, and property tax.

The study, conducted by The George Washington University, uses estimates for direct and indirect impact that are based on industry standard methodology, visitor survey results, and the data provided by the organizers and sponsors.

For more information about the BNP Paribas Open, visit bnpparibasopen. com.

ESPN Names Top Tennis Players of the 21st Century

This past summer, ESPN took it upon themselves to declare a top 10 list of the best male and female tennis players of the 21st century, based largely on each player’s accomplishments. Read through the lists below and then let us know who’s in your top 10.

Top 10 men’s tennis players of the 21st century:

1. Roger Federer

2. Novak Djokovic

3. Rafael Nadal

4. Andy Murray

5. Andre Agassi

6. Carlos Alcaraz

7. Pete Sampras

8. Andy Roddick

9. Stan Wawrinka

10. Lleyton Hewitt

Top 10 women's tennis players of the 21st century:

1. Serena Williams

2. Venus Williams

3. Maria Sharapova

4. Justine Henin

5. Iga Swiatek

6. Kim Clijsters

7. Naomi Osaka

8. Ash Barty

9. Angelique Kerber

10. Amelie Mauresmo

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Rafael Nadal

Serena Williams

Novak Djokovic

The Atlanta Open The Grand Finale

Photos by Laura Barnard, Nick Grace, and Mady Mertens.

It was a fun-filled week with a who’s who of ATP players, in addition to previous tournament competitors and organizers who returned for this grand finale of the Atlanta Open. Atlanta Open team leaders rallied to deal with several rain delays and managed to entertain ticket holders throughout the nine-day event.

Speaking of entertainment, Taylor Townsend stole the show during her exhibition, as she wowed the crowd during her victory over Sloane Stephens. Townsend was just coming off her big Wimbledon doubles championship. After an hour-long rain delay, she and Stephens kept the crowd engaged, while showing their competitiveness but also keeping the match friendly and fun.

Top players, such as Ben Shelton, Denis Shapovalov, David Goffin, Frances Tiafoe, and Jordan Thompson also had great competition at this year’s tournament. In the end, it was Yoshihito Nishioka who defeated Jordan Thompson in three sets in the final that ended after midnight. The doubles final also finished in the early morning hours when backto-back Atlanta Open doubles champions Nathaniel Lammons and Jackson Withrow saved a match point and defended their title by defeating Andre Goransson and Sam Verbeek.

As we bid farewell to this ATP tournament, we hope you’ll enjoy some of the highlights from this final Atlanta Open.

L to R: Americans Jackson Withrow and Nathaniel Lammons defended last year’s doubles crown with a challenging defeat over Swede Andre Goransson and Dutchman Sam Verbeek. “This is our best time of the year,” Withrow said. “We love to be back in the States and here in Atlanta, where we are happy to get the title.” | Luke Jensen, a successful professional tennis player who earned a French Open doubles title, entertained the crowd throughout the tournament as the on-court announcer and professional player interviewer. | It was much more than an exhibition during the Sunday Showdown. Taylor Townsend wowed the fans and showcased her humorous side as she took down Sloane Stephens.

It took more than 5 hours of rain delays, but Japan’s Yoshihito Nishioka was able to slug it out in three sets to defeat Australian Jordan Thompson for the Atlanta Open title. The 28-year-old rallied past the fourth seed, securing his first tour-level title since 2022. “This is an amazing feeling,” Nishioka said. In the final edition of the Atlanta Open, Nishioka became the only champion not from the United States (10) or Australia (3).

2024 ALTA Board Chair and 2021 ALTA President, Debbie Gaster, and her husband, Jeff, take in the action from the ALTA suite on ALTA night.

It was more than just the grand finale for our ALTA Mixed Doubles AA3 City Finalists. Both teams showed great sportsmanship and had some impressive points on the court. Bitsy Grant, captained by Ashley Massengale, took the AA3 Mixed Doubles plate, but Vermack, captained by Holly Blake, brought great excitement and pride with their action on the courts. They competed on Semi-Final Saturday and enjoyed the afternoon matches during the tournament.

2024 ALTA President, Chequetta Allen, and Sunday Women’s League Vice President, Loretta Phillips, enjoy the shaded box seats in the ALTA suite.

2024 ALTA President, Chequetta Allen, welcomed Bob and Mike Bryan who dropped by the ALTA suite along with former Atlanta Open Tournament Director Eddie Gonzalez. The Bryan brothers were able to pull out a victory over John Isner and Andy Roddick during the Champions Challenge exhibition on ALTA night.

We love our ALTA volunteers. Pictured L-R: Former ALTA president and current Events VP, Marla Michalewicz; Mixed Doubles VP, David Rowe; and former Thursday Women’s League VP, Karen Sullivan.

Among the many highlights of the week were the number of ALTA members who came to visit us at the ALTA tent and claim some great prizes. Along with Events VP Marla Michalewicz, volunteers Michelle Ruiz and Barbara Ingram (pictured L-R) spent the last several years running the booth.

Past, present, and future ALTA presidents are recognized on Center Court on ALTA night. Pictured L-R: 2025 ALTA President Rita Maloof, 2024/2025 ALTA Foundation President Cameron Turner, 2024 ALTA President Chequetta Allen, 2023 ALTA President Linda Shepherd, 2022 ALTA President Lamar Scott, 2021 ALTA President Debbie Gaster, 2018 ALTA President Joyce Vance, and 2016 ALTA President Marla Michalewicz.

Birthday Bash and Ladies Day! ALTA member Romi Lilford and her teammates and friends celebrate her birthday in a big way at the Atlanta Open. They all had a great time hamming it up with pro player Alejandro Davidovich Fokina

ALTA would like to thank our sponsors Coca-Cola, Ameris Bank, and R.S Andrews. Pictured here are Jake Powell, Director of Operational Marketing – East Region for Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, and John Hanna, Net News Publisher.

A major shout out to our current and former ALTA Foundation volunteers. Pictured L-R: ALTA Foundation Secretary Karen Harris, ALTA Foundation President Cameron Turner, and former ALTA Foundation President and 2025 ALTA President Rita Maloof.

2024 ALTA President, Chequetta Allen, welcomed back former Atlanta Open players to the Champions Challenge on ALTA night. The Bryan brothers were joined by John Isner and Andy Roddick.

THE 21ST ANNUAL NET NEWS Photo Contest

NEW! Contest Rules and Regulations

1. You must be a member of ALTA.

2. Photos must relate to tennis and/or tennis play.

3. Do not use filters on photos with the exception of black and white or sepia.

4. Do not send screenshots.

5. Do not take photos of printed photos.

6. All contest submissions must be received ONLINE by 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 13, 2024.

7. Decisions of the judges are final.

8. Limit three entries per ALTA member.

9. Do not resubmit photos from a previous year.

10. Each photo entry must include a completed ONLINE entry form.

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

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

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

14. All winning photos will be featured in the annual November/December edition of Net News

15. Questions may be addressed to production@ knowatlanta.com.

NEW! Photography Specifications

1. Photos must be provided in a high resolution format. (300dpi at a minimum of 5" x 7") This means your photo will be a file that is between 1.5MB and 3MB in size!

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

3. Low resolution, non-reproducible images will not be considered for the photo contest.

Prizes courtesy of

Last Issue’s Trivia Contest Winner Is …

Congratulations! We drew our winner from a pool of readers who submitted correct answers, and Danielle Sheppard, Princeton Square Sunday Women C7 won a prize pack from Tecnifibre! Try your luck with this issue’s contest and see if you can join the ranks of our previous trivia contest winners. Here is the original quiz and the correct answers:

1. Which tennis professional talks about the importance of playing within the limitations of your body in order to avoid injury, particularly as you grow older? Marcus Hurtig

2. Which team went the extra mile and even wore pink at their match and made a special flower wreath to honor their opponent’s co-captain who was undergoing breast cancer treatment?

Steeplechase Senior Women C1

3. Which league vice president encourages his league players to carefully get rosters set before the season to avoid lineup issues and get your team on a path to make a playoff run? Greg McAfee

September/October Trivia Contest

Enter for your chance to win a pair of Hypercourt Supreme 2 shoes from K-Swiss

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

Entry deadline: Monday, October 7.

1. When and where is the Special Pops Fall Classic?

2. One local pro and one ATP pro conducted the Junior Challenge Ladder clinic at Georgia Tech. Who are they?

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

3. Which two players won back-to-back doubles titles at the Atlanta Open?

An ALTA Tribute To Our Scholars

Meet the 2024 L. Keith Wood Scholarship winners

BY CAMERON TURNER, ALTA FOUNDATION PRESIDENT

The ALTA Foundation supports so many amazing causes in the Atlanta area, and you, as a member, are a big part of that philanthropic effort. A portion of your annual membership dues, in addition to various other funds, is donated to the foundation. The organization uses the game of tennis to support not only amateur tennis athletes, but also programs for the disadvantaged and the physically and mentally challenged. It also provides new opportunities for underserved youth and other local tennis programs. During the last eight years, the foundation has been fortunate enough to have granted funds through the L. Keith Wood Scholarship program, awarding $165,000 to graduating high school students who have participated in either ALTA junior programs or other initiatives sponsored by the foundation.

The selection process is always a difficult one. This year, eight well-rounded individuals rose to the top and will receive a $2,500 award toward their college education expenses. These students were recognized during the final Atlanta Open in July. Please join us in congratulating the 2024 ALTA Foundation scholarship winners and their families!

I love country music, and one of my favorite bands is the Zac Brown Band.

Prisha Mody

Atlanta, GA

ALTA Facility: Dekalb Tennis Center

Graduate of: Chamblee High School

Attending: Georgia Tech

Do you want to study abroad? If so, where would you like to go and why? I would like to study abroad — hopefully at Georgia Tech’s Europe campus. I’ve always wanted to eat bread in Paris!

Do you speak any languages other than English? Yes! Korean, German and un poquito Espanol.

What talent do you have that most people don’t know about? I’m excellent at guessing people’s heights!

What was the last TV show you binge-watched? “Love is Blind” is my guilty pleasure.

by Laura

Photos

Barnard

Isabelle Coursey

Riley Hamrick Peachtree Corners, GA

ALTA Facility:

Peachtree Station Swim and Tennis

Graduate of:

Norcross High School

Attending: University of Georgia

A genie grants you three wishes. What are they? Travel the world; good health for my whole life; and to have a positive impact.

What is the best vacation you’ve ever had? Venice, Florence, and Rome in Italy.

Who is your favorite professional tennis player and why? Coco Gauff because I loved watching her at Wimbledon in 2019.

What was the first thing you said you wanted to be when you grew up? A teacher.

Prisha Mody Johns Creek, GA

ALTA Facility: Peachtree Station

Graduate of: Johns Creek High School

Attending: University of Georgia

What is one thing you want to do your first week of college? I want to check out the rock-climbing wall at Ramsey.

Do you speak any languages other than English? Yes, Hindi and Gujrati.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? I hope to be practicing medicine as an orthopedic surgeon.

What is your favorite type of music, and do you have a favorite band/singer? I love country music, and one of my favorite bands is the Zac Brown Band.

Mara Opre Suwanee, GA

ALTA Facility: Sharon Springs Park

Graduate of: Lambert High School

Attending: Anderson University

Do you hope to study abroad? If so, where would you like to go and why? I would love to study abroad in Madrid, Spain. I’ve always wanted to visit, and I think I would learn a lot from the experience. I’ve been learning Spanish since I was 12 and would love to experience living in a Spanish-speaking country.

Do you speak any languages other than English? Romanian, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Athena Misewicz Dunwoody, GA

ALTA Facility: Dunwoody Country Club

Graduate of: Dunwoody High School

Attending: University of Georgia

Do you hope to study abroad? If so, where would you like to go and why? I hope to study abroad. I’d love to study in London for a semester at the London School of Economics so I could gain knowledge of my major in one of the world’s financial capitals.

What is the best vacation you’ve ever had? The best vacation I’ve ever had was my month-long trip to Greece where I visited family and explored my ancestral homeland.

I would love to study abroad in Madrid, Spain. I’ve always wanted to visit, and I think I would learn a lot from the experience.

Mara Opre

Who is your favorite professional tennis player and why? Simona Halep. She’s Romanian, like me, and I’ve grown up with her as an inspiration for my game.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? I would love to be a pediatric nurse practitioner in 10 years.

What talent do you have that most people don’t know about? I have perfected my recipe for Bearnaise sauce.

Who is your favorite professional tennis player and why? Maria Sakkari. She is an all-around talented player who continues to improve in her skill and mindset. She also makes Greece very proud!

My favorite holiday is Christmas. It’s a month of giving, reflecting, and the pure energy in the air is one of the greatest feelings in the world.

Davis Wall

Ben Stone Suwanee, GA

ALTA Facility: Mayfair/St. Clair

Graduate of: Lambert High School

Attending: University of Alabama

Do you collect anything? What? Why? How long? I collect wristbands from different teams, places, schools, etc. I’ve been doing it for about four years.

Ally Turnbough Snellville, GA

ALTA Facility Briscoe Park

Graduate of: Greater Atlanta Christian School

Davis Wall Duluth, GA

ALTA Facility: Canterbury Woods

Graduate of: Peachtree Ridge High School

Attending: University of Georgia

I see myself doing missionary work on or off the court and traveling around the world.

Ally Turnbough

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? As a civil engineer working on different residential projects for a firm in Atlanta, as well as starting a family.

What was the last TV show you binge-watched? The Bear.

What is one thing you want to do during your first week at college? Meet everyone in my dorm hallway and in the fraternity where I receive a bid.

Attending: Clark Atlanta University

What is one thing you want to do during your first week at college? Meet new friends and make new connections

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? I see myself doing missionary work on or off the court and traveling around the world.

Who is your favorite tennis player and why? Serena Williams. She always helps me to remember to give it 110% every time I’m on the court and push past mental battles.

What talent do you have that most people don’t know about? I crochet!

Do you hope to study abroad? If so, where would you like to go and why? I do hope to study abroad. I want to experience new parts of the world and cultures I’ve never seen. Currently, I’m looking at programs in Cape Town, South Africa and Sydney, Australia. I’m an outdoors person, so the ideal place for me would have beautiful scenery.

Favorite holiday? My favorite holiday is Christmas. It’s a month of giving, reflecting, and the pure energy in the air is one of the greatest feelings in the world.

What was the first thing you said you wanted to be when you grew up? A paleontologist! Dino digs were my favorite as a kid!

Do you collect anything? What? Why? How long? I collect pictures! I think it’s super important to look back on not only the good times, but also the bad times. Life is all about making mistakes and learning from them.

by

Photos

Laura Barnard

Special Pops Tennis

To Host 19th Annual Fall Classic in Peachtree Corners

BY JIM HAMM, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SPECIAL POPS TENNIS

Special Pops Tennis (SPT) is an adaptive tennis program offered at more than 17 locations in metro Atlanta. The programs are supported by local tennis enthusiasts, business sponsors, area public parks, country clubs, neighborhood tennis associations, and many others. But the one organization that has consistently been supportive of this organization is the ALTA Foundation.

The Fall Classic has become a destination event for so many athletes with special needs, their families, and volunteers. This can be attributed to the support of the metro Atlanta tennis community in sharing their passion for the sport of tennis and helping others. This three-day event showcases the spirit of the athletes in competition and in a social setting. The central theme of the feedback we hear is that the event has created new friendships and lifetime memories. Some SPT athletes refer to it as their “US Open event.”

We share this information with you to highlight your value as an ALTA league player. A portion of your annual membership fees is aimed at building stronger communities through the lifetime sport of tennis. The leadership of the ALTA Foundation has been consistently supportive of SPT from our early days of organizing and starting this journey.

The best way to understand adaptive tennis is to recognize the population served by SPT. The athletes are individuals with intellectual disabilities and the partners/coaches are a variety of tennis enthusiasts and/or persons with a passion for serving others.

Thank you to all ALTA league players and to the ALTA Foundation leadership for the continuing support!

Special Pops Highlights:

• The Fall Classic is our marquee event that provides this special population an opportunity to experience an event that is bigger than themselves, to play competitive tennis, and to make new friends resulting in a more fulfilling and enriched life.

• The partnership and support of the ALTA Foundation ensures that we can recruit volunteers who are enthusiastic about playing tennis.

• More than 130 athletes and 250+ volunteers, including playing partners, participate each year.

• Social features include karaoke and a Saturday night dinner/dance with a DJ.

• We provide colorful t-shirts for athletes and volunteers, and quality medals are earned and awarded.

• Competition includes both singles and doubles play.

• The location for tennis competition is at the first-class venue of Lifetime Athletics and Tennis – Peachtree Corners.

• Matches begin Friday, September 20 at 10 a.m. and go through Sunday, September 22 at noon.

• Get involved by registering to volunteer at specialpopstennis.org, or email jhamm@ specialpopstennis.org. Registration for athletes closes September 7.

by Laura

Photos

Barnard

MIXED DOUBLES

Winter registration is Sept. 12 – Oct. 10

Winter season runs Jan. 5 – Feb. 16

Communication And Kindness Make For Great Matches

BY DAVID ROWE, MIXED DOUBLES VICE PRESIDENT

As the summer Mixed Doubles season is behind us and we turn our attention to winter registration, I think it is important to say a few things about communication and accommodation, which can lead to fewer frustrations between captains and teams. Many problems can be avoided well before the start of play.

The first step is to communicate any possible issues with travel and court details. Living in Atlanta, we know the weekends are busy and traffic can be ridiculous. There are many local festivals and activities about which many people are not always aware, and communicating those events to opposing captains is important. Please make sure you reach out by phone or email to your opponents three to four days before the match, and let them know of any special circumstances with your facility or neighborhood that could cause problems with travel times or parking.

The second suggestion is to try and accommodate teams that need to play a line or two early. Sometimes, a team may not have enough players on match day, so playing a line early keeps them from having to default. It is always important

to keep in mind if a team defaults out for the season, all the points you had taken from them will be erased, which can adversely affect your playoff standings.

The last item is a rule that captains either forget or disregard about exchanging scorecards at the beginning of a match. I cannot tell you how many matches go sideways every season because scorecards are not exchanged, which creates uncertainty and even suspicion. If you as the captain cannot be at a match, please ensure someone on the team is present as acting captain and has a scorecard ready to exchange. My suggestion to captains is to not get on the court until the scorecard has been exchanged.

I am just finishing my second season as vice president, but I have learned a great deal from our ALTA members, and I have enjoyed the role. One message I continue to promote is that kindness and sportsmanship are always the right approach. Opposing teams might not always reciprocate as you would like, but afterwards you will never feel bad about yourself or your team if you are guided by those two things.

by Laura Barnard

Photos

SENIOR MIXED

Registration is Sept. 12 – Oct. 10

Season runs from Jan. 4 – Feb. 15

Why Would You Play A Game Without Knowing The Rules?

BY SETH APPELBAUM, SENIOR LEAGUES VICE PRESIDENT

The ALTA summer Senior Leagues for women and men were hot, hot, hot — and I mean with competition and the weather! More than 10,633 players took the courts to play on Thursday and Friday evenings this past summer.

Most players were on the courts to get steps in, to enjoy the company of teammates, and to show good sportsmanship to their opponents. But there was a small percentage of players who took some of the fun out of recreational tennis because they did not know the rules and/or displayed poor sportsmanship.

If you think you may fall into the latter category, please think about your actions and make changes. Would you play poker, golf, checkers, euchre or any other games without understanding the rules? Knowing the ALTA rules is just as important as knowing the rules in other competitions. Some of the most questioned rules each season involve the following:

• The 10-point, third-set tiebreak is the default in ALL Senior Leagues. If all four players agree to play a full third set, it may be played. If even one player on the court does not want to play a full third set, play defaults to a 10-point tiebreak.

• Captains are to control their players and spectators at a match.

• Poor sportsmanship is not acceptable behavior for any player, but for seniors, it is ugly. Please show respect for everyone on and off the court.

• Checking your cell phone during a match is not acceptable.

Please read the ALTA rules and play by them. Maybe put a copy in your bag as reference just to save time and headaches. Or download a copy to your phone. The more players who are familiar with the rules, the better. We thank you and hope to see you on the courts!

One Last Wheelchair Tennis Exhibition At The Atlanta Open

BY MARK LAROTONDA, SPECIAL PROGRAMS VICE PRESIDENT

As part of the final year of the Atlanta Open, ALTA Wheelchair League tennis players put on an hourlong exhibition that showed off their talents of shot making, speed, and agility.

As the ATP doubles semi-finals let out of Center Court, the crowds built to almost three rows deep to watch the exhibition on the family zone court. Even some of the ball kids came over to participate, including taking turns in the big chair as the umpire. Longtime wheelchair tennis organizer, volunteer, and 12-year ALTA veteran Rob Popelka, who played in this year’s event, has played in Atlanta Open exhibitions in years past. This one was just a little different.

“I was surprised at the number of spectators that stopped to watch for a moment,” he said. “Several people came up to us after the event and asked about wheelchair tennis or just let us know how fascinating it was. We also put the ball kids in the chairs after we were done, and they had a blast trying wheelchair tennis! It is bittersweet because Atlanta is losing a great professional tennis event.”

Jennifer Speer has been in the ALTA Wheelchair League for about eight years and is also on the Shepherd Center tennis team and helps with the Shepherd Center Health and Wellness tennis clinics. She was in this year’s exhibition. “It’s always exciting to show the public what we’re capable of and the fun we have. It was an honor being able to do it on the last year of the Atlanta Open,” said Speer. She added that most

people don’t realize wheelchair tennis is a competition sport and how lucky we are to have one of the biggest wheelchair tennis communities right here in Atlanta.

Popelka agrees and says anytime there is an opportunity to showcase wheelchair tennis, it benefits the ALTA Wheelchair League tennis program, but it also promotes activities for disabled people in general. “Before I was injured, I had never seen or known anything about wheelchair sports. Events like this might not directly reach the disabled community, but if someone sees it, they can let others know it exists,” he said. Popelka says his brother happened to be playing a match at Hudlow Tennis Center when Popelka was first injured, saw the wheelchair players there, and told him about it. “I went to Hudlow on a random Tuesday to check it out. As soon as I tried wheelchair tennis, I fell in love with it; therefore, I encourage any promotion of the sport.”

When this year’s exhibition was over, some of the ball kids got in wheelchairs and tried their skills at wheelchair tennis. Even though their strokes were good, they realized the difficulty of getting in position to take a shot was not that easy. Even a young man from the crowd jumped in a chair to try it out. I believe this is an experience he will never forget. Speer says anyone can learn the sport: “Come out and give it a try. You have nothing to lose. It’s simply another opportunity to play tennis, meet new people, and learn some things about wheelchair tennis.”

Photos by Laura Barnard

Good Sportsmanship

BY RITA MALOOF, ALTA FIRST VICE PRESIDENT

Re member the Sly & the Family Stone song, “Hot Fun in the Summertime?” Our summer league players had fun, but boy was it hot! Between Mixed Doubles, Senior Men, Senior Women, and Pickleball, close to 10,000 matches were played. Thankfully, we were fortunate to have only a few reported cases of extreme heat distress. The heat tends to bring out the best and the worst in us, and yet our summer sportsmanship winners overcame their own challenges to rise to the assistance of others.

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.

Beth Gallof, Berkeley Hills Country Club, Mixed Doubles B8

Nominated by Karen Jones, Captain, Medlock Bridge

Medlock Bridge had a player who was suffering from the heat today to a point that she could not stand without getting dizzy. Beth Gallof (our opponent) was playing on the court next to where the distressed player was playing. She came over to help and would not leave our player until she was sure she was ok. When asked, Beth said, “If this is taking too long, I will gladly retire from my own match to sit with her.”

I really want to express my gratitude to her for her care. Beth’s behavior was a fantastic display of sportsmanship.

Angelia Huggins and Maria Pittarelli

Plantation North, Mixed Doubles B4

Nominated by Jodi Bossak, Captain, Chadds Walk

Because of the holiday weekend, we literally had ONE woman available to play on Saturday morning (out of a roster of roughly 20 people). Angelia, Maria, and their entire team moved around T2 matches and other commitments so that we could play ALL FIVE LINES early. They were communicative, beyond kind, and truly exemplars of not just ALTA values, but tennis values. I could not be happier with their partnership and willingness to get all these matches in. They are wonderful and I want to make sure they are recognized.

GOOD QUESTION

SWING AND A MISS!

During a match, the server tossed the ball and attempted to hit it and missed. Is this a fault?

Loretta Phillips, Sunday Women’s League Vice President Yes. See Friend at Court, Part 1; ITF Rules of Tennis. 19. SERVICE FAULT. The service is a fault if: b. The server misses the ball when trying to hit it.

SO CLOSE AND YET?

My daughter was playing a 15U junior match at 1 Singles. The other team was ahead 7-6 and the score was 30-30. The other team won the next point making it 40-30. The player walked off the court saying she had won. My daughter told the player she agreed it was 40-30 and informed the player the match was not over. The opponent left the match anyway. On the scorecard I put down that the player retired the line and the final score became 9-7 (8-game pro set for 15U). We took the win and extra point to make the score 9-7. Is this correct?

Wendy Fee, Junior Leagues Vice President

Yes, retirement (R) is the correct choice when a line cannot complete a match that has been started, Junior Coordinator Handbook page 32. The system will auto-add enough games, to a score of “9,” including the bonus point to give the winner of a retired match the “win” on the original scorecard.

STALL TACTICS

Per the Friend at Court handbook (section 29-a), players are allowed a two-minute break between sets and per the ALTA Adult Tennis Rules, players can take up to a 10-minute break between the second and third sets. We had a mixed doubles opponent announce she was taking her “rightful” 10-minute break after losing the first set. She walked off the court for 10+ minutes after losing the first set, grabbed a sandwich, chit-chatted, went to the bathroom, etc. Unfortunately, we weren’t sure what to do at the time. How do we enforce/address this while it’s happening? Are there any penalties or things we can do when an opponent does not follow the changeover rules (i.e. intentionally playing mind games and stalling/icing the match)?

Greg McAfee, Men’s League Vice President

You are correct, you’ll find the answer in USTA’s Friend at Court under ITF Rules of tennis number 29. The time allowed between sets is 120 seconds. ALTA utilizes item 29.d in allowing 10 minutes after the 2nd set. Now, what should you have done about it? Once the player announced that she wanted to take a 10-minute break, you should have insisted that she be ready to play by the end of two minutes or they would need to retire the match. Certainly, you can allow extra time in the name of good sportsmanship, but it was well within your right to claim the point if they blatantly failed to follow the “continues play” rules outlined above. These days, it’s easy to download or look up the rules on the ALTA website. Players should carry a copy of the ALTA and/or USTA rules in their tennis bag.

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

Modernizing The Tournament Experience

Tennis fans, how is your game? My summer was so much fun! I traveled to tennis destinations such as the Atlanta Open, Mubadala Citi DC Open in Washington D.C., Cincinnati Open, and the US Open!

My bucket-list stops on the tennis tour have evolved since my days on the tour. Today, the fan experiences are amazing with access to players like never before. When I played, practice courts were closed off to the fans; these days, player practice schedules are promoted as part of the tournament experience.

I work with tournament media and promotions teams on fan experiences for the pro tour. I find that today’s players understand their role model responsibilities better than the previous generation of players. Tour players today have a great sense of their own personal promotion. They are more fan-friendly and interactive with you, the fans!

I’m sad that tournaments like the Atlanta Open and Newport are done, but excited for the future of these 12-day “mini grand slam” events beginning in 2025. This will focus the tennis world on better, elite player fields and leading player match ups. Does this move tennis into more popularity? I think it does. For example, I watched Nadal play Djokovic in the Olympics in Paris for the 60th time in their rivalry. Only Evert and Navratilova played more times. Rivalries are interesting how they evolve and end up. The new tournament calendar will create more chances for Sinner and Alcaraz to play … wow, I’m in on that!

I ran into a Jensen Zone fan recently. Christie told me she just won a 4.0 tournament and during the pressure matches she would turn to the Jensen Zone tips in the articles that helped her become victorious! I was so impressed and humbled that my advice helped. I’m obsessed with player development for all levels — to see the smiles when the bad shots turn good! Over the years, I’ve shared many shots, drills, and approaches to try to be the difference in your game. So, here’s another one: If you’re nervous or if you’re not sure how you will compete, I want you to fill your mind with positivity. Put a smile on your face and face the pressure of the moment.

Always enjoy your tennis and make a personal goal of bringing a friend who doesn’t play tennis to tennis! Introduce our wonderful sport to your friend group.

— LUKE JENSEN

Luke Jensen

Plan.

Execute. Reflect. Understanding the fundamentals of technique and tactics is the toolbox you pull from when you’re in the heat of battle.

BY MICHAEL PEREIRA, MS SPORT MANAGEMENT, HEAD RACQUETS PROFESSIONAL

Wouldn’t it be nice to read an article and immediately improve your game? It can be done. In my early teaching years, shifting the paradigm of my students’ minds was not a priority for me. Now I believe it’s imperative to set up students for success. The way you think and process information can drastically change your results. As George Clason said in his book The Richest Man in Babylon, “our acts can be no wiser than our thoughts, our thinking can be no wiser than our understanding.” This article will explain the thinking process I use to progress through my matches, which has led me to many nationally ranked wins and a 12.3 UTR rating. I encourage you to try it out for yourself.

Understanding the fundamentals of technique and tactics is the toolbox you pull from when you’re in the heat of battle. To me, the fundamentals of technique fall under five parts: ready position, shoulder turn, contact point, follow through, and balance. The fundamentals of tactics are also divided into five parts: consistency, accuracy, positioning, playing to an opponent’s weakness, and playing to your strength. Mastering the fundamentals requires an intense focus on the details and understanding the relationship between each part. For example, you change direction on the ball to your opponent’s weakness (a tactic) by adjusting your contact point, shoulder turn, and balance (technique). This is too much to think about when playing and should be discussed with your personal coach. When competing, however, your

thought process must be simpler.

The beauty of my paradigm is that it is simple. All you need to do is increase your knowledge about the toolbox and then implement a three-step system for each point. That system is Plan-Execute-Reflect . It’s simple, yet efficient. Follow along with a hypothetical plan while I describe the implementation. Our first plan at the beginning of the match is to hit three balls crosscourt. You step up to the line, serve it in, and

then execute the plan by thinking about one thing — hit three balls crosscourt. The result is that our opponent misses the second shot in the net, setting us up for reflection. Ask yourself, what was the result and why did it happen? The potential answer is our opponent is terrible and can’t make two shots in a row. Do we develop a whole new plan now? The answer is NO! Repeat the plan that worked the first time.

Our second point results in a long point that went well beyond what we planned. The opponent hit six shots

in play before we hit a ball in the net. Our plan was well executed, and now we reflect. Our minds can go into a variety of directions, including why we missed our shot in the net. It’s not wise to dwell on the negative here, and many people make this mistake. The plan was executed, and we should reinforce positive thought processes. Develop a new tactical plan that makes sense, like adjusting our next plan to include a high backhand to our opponent. That is a winner’s mentality.

As the match continues, there is a variety of directions our minds can go. Pick anything in your toolbox to use to

Our minds can go into a variety of directions, including why we missed our shot in the net. It’s not wise to dwell on the negative here, and many people make this mistake.

assist your action plan. Examples can include hitting two crosscourt and one down the line, an earlier contact point, moving forward sooner, and even smacking the ball hard enough to take the felt off. Learn from the results that happen in real time through reflection and repeat the winnable patterns. If you’re losing, continue to explore new patterns or adjust your techniques to correct your mistakes. Take it one point at a time and only do one thing related to either your technique or tactics for each point. If you’re able to execute your plan, no matter whether the plan worked or not, positively reinforce your ability to adjust. A negative mindset is not helpful to reaping positive results. Follow this process, and you will most assuredly improve your game.

GPTA TEACHING PROFESSIONAL SPOTLIGHT: MICHAEL PEREIRA

Submitted by USTA

Hometown (City/ State): Gainesville, Georgia

How did you get involved in teaching tennis? I started teaching while I was in college playing for the University of North CarolinaWilmington. I have always had a passion and love for the sport and wanted to share my love of tennis and the lessons I’ve learned from it with everyone I meet.

Diehard fan of what sports team? UNC-Wilmington Seahawks Best part of your game? Defense Dream doubles match would be me and… Fabrice Sanotoro in his prime vs. a retired Bob and Mike Bryan.

When I’m not teaching tennis, I’m… Gardening and maintaining a household of two children under 3.

My favorite tennis memory is: Winning the first Conference Championship for UNC-Wilmington in 2009.

My favorite professional player is: Roger Federer

#1 reason why I enjoy teaching & coaching tennis: I’m in an environment where I feel competent, get to play the sport I love, and create a meaningful impact in people’s lives. What important tennis message do you want to promote? Tennis is a lot like life, you don’t do well if you don’t serve well.

PLAY TO YOUR STRENGTHS

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

HUSS 75 76 TENNIS AT CROOKED CREEK

Iwas at a pro tournament recently watching a doubles match and there was a team playing together that consisted of one very good singles player and one player I had never heard of before. They beat the team on which the player I was coaching played, and I was struck by the differences between the two players on the other team.

One was a strong singles player who served and stayed back, hit strong groundstrokes, returned well, and stood close to the net to volley when his partner was serving.

The other lobbed or bunted the return, did not have strong groundstrokes, served and volleyed, and ran to the net at every opportunity.

It was a good reminder that despite it being doubles, players need to play to their strengths, maximize the number of times they can play their best shot and minimize the number of times a weaker part of their game is exposed.

Something to think about for our own side of the net and the opponents’.

BABOLAT PRO PLAYERS MAY PLAY WITH A CUSTOMIZED OR DIFFERENT MODEL THAN THE EQUIPMENT DEPICTED

TEAM

Return To Tennis After Joint Replacement

BY RICHARD BERGER, M.D., JOINT REPLACEMENT SURGEON AT MIDWEST ORTHOPAEDICS AT RUSH

Whether you are an elite tennis player with trophy aspirations or you are just yearning to be a regular on the court, no one welcomes these words from a doctor: “It’s time for a hip (or knee) replacement.”

But just as you don’t quit on the court, you shouldn’t throw in the towel after joint surgery. From robotic surgery to 3D printed personalized implants, surgical technologies and techniques are paving a manageable path for joint replacement patients who want to return to tennis. With the proper recovery procedures, you can get back to the court within four to six weeks.

And the data is promising as well. One study with players from the United States Tennis Association (mean age = 70 years) who had undergone total knee replacement found that at seven years, players reported a significant mean improvement in overall mobility, ability to play on various surfaces, weight shifting, and follow-through.1

The nice part of the minimally invasive surgery is that patients can get back to whatever activity level they want — whether it is competitive tennis or

just playing with friends. I don’t put any restrictions on my patients. I want them to live life to the fullest.

Postoperative exercise all begins with the fundamentals, i.e., a proper warm up. And it is important to include dynamic stretching to prepare your body and muscles. I recommend the following:

• It is best to practice playing alone or with a partner before attempting a match. Practice hitting the ball against a wall or net before attempting a match to make sure that you’re properly healing.

• If you are planning on returning to competitive-level matches, you may want to find a coach who can fully assess your movement and work with you to help you regain strength.

• Start on a clay court first — it is softer and slower than a typical tennis court and reduces stress on the joints while giving you more time to prepare for your hits.

• Play doubles before playing singles to help to limit your movement, as it is smaller area of the court to cover and will be less demanding for both you and your recovering joint.

• Stretch before and after every game or practice and use ice for recovery. Stretches are needed for the WHOLE body, not just the recovering joint.

One high-level example of a swift recovery after total joint surgery is Master’s Doubles Tennis World Champion Joe Perdue of Peachtree City, Georgia. After undergoing minimally invasive knee replacement, he was back on the court in three and a half weeks, with his doubles partner, Oren Motevassel, proclaiming that Perdue was, “jumping at the net like a gazelle!”

Dr. Berger practices at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush and has performed over 25,000 surgeries and more outpatient joint replacements than any other U.S. orthopedic surgeon. Equipped with a mechanical engineering degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dr. Berger has designed a unique technique that eliminates the need to cut muscle, tendons, or ligaments — meaning less pain and a speedier recovery. Learn more at www.outpatienthipandknee.com.

Reference

1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9934420/

A Path To Longevity And Enhanced Healthspan

BY

In the quest for a longer, healthier life, the spotlight often shines on diet, genetics, and medical advancements. However, an often-overlooked pillar of longevity is physical activity, particularly sports. Among various sports, racquet sports stand out for their significant impact on healthspan and longevity. As a sports scientist and player, I have been studying the game for more than 20 years. Some of the most exciting research is around how playing racquet sports regularly is one of the best ways to improve your health and live longer. One major 25-year study titled the Copenhagen Heart Study showed that tennis increased life expectancy by 9.7 years compared to sedentary behavior,

and tennis was the best sport or physical activity for increasing longevity.

The Longevity Benefits of Racquet Sports

Racquet sports, including tennis, badminton, squash, and pickleball, are more than just recreational activities. Research indicates that these sports can add years to your life. A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that playing racquet sports was associated with a 47-percent reduction in all-cause mortality, the highest among all the sports studied. This remarkable statistic underscores the profound impact of racquet sports on longevity.

Cardiovascular Health and Beyond

The benefits of racquet sports are multifaceted. Firstly, these sports are excellent for cardiovascular health. They require quick bursts of intense activity, which is great for improving heart function and endurance. Regular play enhances cardiovascular fitness, lowers blood pressure, and improves lipid profiles, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Moreover, the dynamic nature of racquet sports involves a combination of aerobic and anaerobic exercise. This not only burns calories but also builds muscle strength and improves flexibility. The quick lateral movements, jumps, and swings enhance agility and coordination, contributing to better overall physical fitness.

Mental and Cognitive Benefits

Racquet sports are not just a workout for the body; they are also a workout for the mind. These sports demand strategic thinking, quick decision-making, and sharp reflexes. Engaging in such mentally stimulating activities helps maintain cognitive function and may delay the onset of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and slow cognitive decline.

Additionally, the social aspect of racquet sports cannot be overstated. Playing doubles or participating in club leagues fosters social interaction, which is crucial for mental health. Social engagement has been linked to lower rates of depression and anxiety, contributing to a better quality of life and improved longevity.

Enhancing Healthspan

Healthspan refers to the period of life spent in good health, free from chronic diseases and disabilities. Racquet sports contribute significantly to extending healthspan by promoting overall physical and mental well-being. The combination of cardiovascular, muscular, and cognitive benefits helps maintain a high quality of life well into older age.

Furthermore, the habit of regular physical activity, such as playing racquet sports, encourages other healthy behaviors. Players often become more conscious of their diet, sleep, and overall lifestyle choices, creating a positive feedback loop that enhances their health and total life enjoyment.

Conclusion

Incorporating racquet sports into your lifestyle is a powerful strategy for enhancing both longevity and healthspan. These sports offer a comprehensive workout that benefits the heart, muscles, and mind while providing a social outlet that enriches your life. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or a beginner, picking up a racquet is a key to a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling life. Share this with information with friends and introduce them to our great game.

MARK KOVACS, PHD, FACSM, KOVACS INSTITUTE

Benefitting charities supported by the ALTA Foundation and the Rotary Club of Johns Creek – North Fulton

Saturday, October 26

ITA Atlanta | 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Best Costume Contest

Individual registration: $75

Scan QR code to register

Three Divisions Available

• Beginner

• Intermediate

• Advanced (4.0+ Open)

Round Robin Style Play

Three guaranteed matches before medal round

For sponsorship information, contact hgeerdes@gklawgroup.com

Sponsors will have priority for available player spots

Creating A Performance Nutrition ALTA Table For Fall Tennis!

BY PAGE LOVE, MS, RD, CSSD, LD

It is that time of year again when we are making plans for our team tables for the fall ALTA season. Net News regularly provides tasty and colorful recipes, but often they are not performance based. One of my clients, who is an avid ALTA participant, suggested I do an article on what a performance nutrition host table could look like. This can help you better plan for team assignments of what your team members should bring to a match to enhance your team’s performance for the day.

For performance nutrition, there are really three considerations: Pre-, During, and Postmatch food and fluid choices.

Pre-match host table choices (should be brought by Line 1)

Fluids: Water and diluted sport beverages. Please provide those with some calories, as some of you may need more than sugar-free beverages for the longer, three-set matches! Ideally, don’t supply any caffeinated beverages at your table, which would not be an appropriate hydration choice. If you are waiting to play, consuming two cups of hydrating (decaffeinated) fluids with your pre-match snack can keep the average player reasonably hydrated.

Foods: Salty, complex carbohydrates and bland, raw fruits. Good choices include pretzels, crackers, high-carb energy bars (Clif, Bobo, or Kind Energy); also Fig Newtons and trail mixes containing similar components (pretzels, cereal,

granola). Fresh fruits that would be appropriate include bananas and melons of all types for their high-water content and high potassium. Even a low-fat pasta salad at this time would be a consideration. And consider oat-based energy bites made with nut butter prior to a match (see recipe). These are always a winner; we use them on the WTA tour. Some of the world’s top players love these!

At a minimum, most players need a complex carbohydrate choice of approximately 1 to 1 cup at pre-match snack time.

During match choices (should be brought by Lines 2 and 3)

Similar to pre-match with water and sport beverages, consider some additional on-court choices like bananas and even sport gels or chews that are mainly carbohydrate- and electrolyte-based such as Gu gels or Honey Stinger Waffle chews or Clif Shot Blocks. Make sure to purchase those without caffeine because the caffeine could increase dehydration/heat illness risk.

Post match choices (should be brought by Lines 4 and 5)

Here is where appetizer and meal options come in with both proteins and carbs. When Lines 1 and 2 are coming off the court, lean proteins and more complex carb options are needed for recovery. Simple suggestions would be sub sandwiches or roll ups with lean luncheon meats like turkey and ham. Other sport nutrition-appropriate appetizers and simple options would be a pita and hummus plate with raw veggies. Here is where slight modifications to all those great recipes that the Net News publishes come in. Aim to use part skim cheese, fewer heavy dips, and consider yogurt-based dips or guacamole. More pasta salad dishes at this time work well, but consider adding low-fat cheeses like feta and lean meats like chicken and ham. Other quick protein sources to have available would be nuts and jerkys. Even making a charcuterie board would be appropriate for recovery. Make sure to provide enough protein for players to eat at least a 3-oz. serving of meat minimally, or 20 grams of protein.

ENERGY BITES RECIPE

1 ¼ cups oatmeal

½ cup peanut butter

2 tablespoons chia seeds

⅓ cup honey

1 teaspoon vanilla extract dash salt

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients into a large bowl and use a spoon to combine well.

2. Place in refrigerator for 30 minutes.

3. Use a tablespoon scoop to remove mixture and roll into balls and bring to match.

Another popular and trendy option would be a build-your-own performance bowl station containing components such as lean meats, grains (rice and beans), part-skim shredded cheese, and tortilla chips, lettuce, tomato or salsa (also salty to help meet sweat sodium losses). Players should try to eat this protein within 30 minutes of finishing playing — the sooner the better to help with rebuilding muscle after the normal catabolism that occurs in competitive matches.

Additionally, at this time make sure there are plenty of beverages, including more water-based or decaffeinated options like sparkling waters and juices (Even tomato juice, which could help with replenishing sweat losses as well.). Lastly, return to your childhood and consider having chocolate milk on hand in individual cartons for a perfect recovery beverage!

Page Love, MS, RDN, CSSD, USPTA is an avid ALTA participant and on the USTA Sport Science Commission and is a nutrition consultant to both the ATP and WTA professional tennis tours. She runs a private practice in Sandy Springs and Buckhead, and can be reached at nutrfitga.com.

International Fare

Inspired by the recent Olympic Games in Paris — and by your always interesting recipe submissions — we are featuring a collection of your favorite international cuisine. If any of these dishes or flavors are foreign to you, we encourage you to give them a try!

Fromage is French for Cheese

Baked Brie En Croute

Michael Friend, White Columns

Men’s B5

17 oz. Frozen Puff Pastry

8 oz. Brie Cheese, round ¹/8 cup toasted almonds, sliced ¼ cup raspberry preserves

Preheat oven to 425. Lightly grease cookie sheet. Roll puff pastry out slightly. Place cheese wheel on top (leave rind on). Place preserves on top of cheese. Place almonds on top of preserves. Bundle puff pastry up and around the cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Let cool for five minutes. Serve with crackers and bread.

South of the Border

Mexican Casserole

Kelly Magee, Camden Pointe

Thursday Women A7

¾ lb. chicken breast, cubed

1.25 oz. taco seasoning

15 oz. can black beans, drained 8.75 oz. can sweet corn, drained

¼ cup salsa

1 cup shredded cheese

1 ½ cups tortilla chips, crushed

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Sauté chicken. Add taco seasoning, beans, corn, salsa and a splash of water. Simmer for 10 minutes. Put in 9x13 pan, topped with half of the cheese and all the tortilla chips. Bake for 15 minutes. Add remaining cheese and bake for an additional 5 minutes. Enjoy!

Mediterranean Delight

Greek Pasta Salad

Anne McCollum, Victor Lord Park

Thursday Women B4

1 (12 oz.) box angel hair pasta

1 (6 oz.) feta cheese, crumbled

1 (4 oz.) diced pimento, drained

1 (2 ½ oz.) sliced black olives, drained

6 green onions, thinly sliced

Dressing (whisk together):

½ cup extra virgin olive oil

3 Tbsp. Greek Seasoning

3 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice

3 Tbsp. mayonnaise

Prepare pasta according to directions on package. Toss pasta with remaining ingredients and then add dressing. Serve or chill up to 2 days.

A Must-Try From India

Avocado Chickpea Chaat

Arya Arunprasad, Juniors 12U C5

Avocados – packed with heart-healthy fats, creamy avocadoes make for the perfect base for this chaat. Just remember to pick firm avocados so they are easy to dice.

Chickpeas – an excellent source of protein and fiber, pantry-friendly canned chickpeas come in handy for making quick meals.

Red onion – thinly sliced red onion adds crunch and a pop of color.

Pomegranates – for a burst of color and flavor.

Yogurt – good source of protein and calcium, creamy yogurt with a hint of sugar and salt rounds out the flavors.

Cilantro & Mint – garnish with lots of cilantro and mint for fresh flavor and aromas.

Spices – tangy chaat masala, a hint of spice from red chili powder, and earthy cumin to enhance this dish.

To a medium salad bowl, add chickpeas, avocados, and lemon juice. Add red onions and pomegranate arils. Tear off cilantro and mint leaves and add to the salad. Whisk together yogurt, sugar, and salt in a cup and drizzle over. Sprinkle green chili, ground cumin, red chili, and chat masala on top.

A U.K. Standard

Mini

Yorkshire Puddings

Jenna Ritter, Central Park Sunday

Women A2

Vegetable oil

¾ cup whole milk

2 large eggs cup all-purpose flour

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1 yellow onion, thinly sliced

¼ tsp. granulated sugar

8 oz. thinly sliced roast beef

2 Tbsp. prepared horseradish sauce

1 Tbsp. chopped fresh chives for garnish

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place a 24-cup mini muffin tin on a rimmed baking sheet. Add enough vegetable oil to each muffin cup to coat the bottom. Transfer to the oven so it gets hot as the oven preheats. Whisk together the milk and eggs in a large liquid measuring cup. Next, add the flour, 1/4 tsp. salt and 1/4 tsp. pepper and whisk to combine. Set aside.

Heat a sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 Tbsp. of vegetable oil and the onions. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions begin to soften. Stir in the sugar and 1/4 tsp. salt. Continue cooking until the onions are slightly browned and softened, about 10 minutes. Turn off the heat and set aside.

Carefully remove the hot pans from the oven. Add the batter and the onion mix to the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake until the puddings are puffed and golden brown, about 20 minutes; do not open the oven before the 20 minutes are up or the puddings could collapse. Garnish with horseradish and chives.

Island Cravings

“Stamp + Go” Jamaican Saltfish Fritters

Asneth Enriquez, Mountain Park

Mixed Doubles A8

½ lb. salt codfish, flaked

2 small scallions, minced

2 scotch bonnet peppers, seeded + minced

1 small tomato, peeled

2 cups flour

2 tsp. baking powder

¼ cup cold water

Oil for frying

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked fish, scallions, tomato, peppers, baking powder, flour adding enough water to make a soft, sticky batter. Heat oil to 305375 degrees in a heavy pot or deep fryer. Drop fritter mix in by the teaspoon, a few at a time. Fry until golden brown and let drain on paper towels. Serve at your next tennis match!

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

A5

31

SPRINGS TC (BAZZANI) 31

GREEN 31

A6 01 VICKERY 68

FARMS 65

CREEK TC 54 TRADITIONS OF BR 48

ON THE 40 SPOUT SPRINGS TE 34

A1 Rock Springs Park (Hong Tuyet Huynh, captain)

AA2 Dekalb TC (Timothy Maldonado, captain)

AA3 Bitsy Grant/Soft Courts (Ashley Massengale, captain)

AA1 Bitsy Grant/Hard Courts(Kimberly Raley, captain)

EAGLE WATCH (WILKINS) 34

POST OAK REC 20

B1

01 KING VALLEY AT V 77

CARL SANDERS YMC 62

CHASTAIN (TAMAYO) 54

PEACHTREE CITY T 51

BITSY GRANT/HARD 48

CHASTAIN (CROUSE) 45

BITSY GRANT/SOFT 37

BRIARCLIFF WOODS 22

02 ROCKDALE TENNIS (COVALIU) 77

BUNTEN ROAD PARK 74

PEACHTREE STATIO 54

LESLIE BEACH (DUNN) 48

PEACHTREE STATIO 28

LESLIE BEACH (WALSH) 28

06 CENTENNIAL LAKES 82 EAGLE WATCH (BERWALD) 62

WINDY HILL ATHLE 57 INVERNESS 57

MARTIN’S LANDING 48

EAST HAMPTON 37

ROCKDALE TENNIS (NAMKOON) 54

RIVERMIST/GWINNE 51

SOUTHLAND CC 37 WATERS EDGE 34 PANGBORN 17

03 THE OVERLOOK @ M 65 HEDGEROW 62

OLDE TOWNE 51

EAGLE WATCH (AUGER) 48

INDIAN HILLS CC 45

HERITAGE TRACE 42

EAGLE WATCH (HOLT) 42

CANTERBURY 40

04 SPOUT SPRINGS TE 77

DEERLAKE 71 WILD TIMBER 65

CHATTAHOOCHEE RE 51

HIGHLANDS @ BRID 45

RIVERSHYRE 42

STERLING ON THE 34

ST MARLO CC 11

05 CREEKSTONE ESTAT 71

FOX CREEK/FOR 57

BETHELVIEW DOWNS 51

OXFORD LAKES 51

HOLLYBERRY 45 SEVEN OAKS 40

COLUMNS G 40

CC 37 06 DUNWOODY CC 74

RUN 68 HORSESHOE BEND 65 MAYFAIR/ST CLAIR 48

WELLINGTON LAKE 40 HAYNES LANDING 37 CCS -

A6 Wexford (Bobby Lee, captain)

A7 South Fulton Tennis Center (Wayne Brooks, captain)

A4 East Hampton (Marcia Huff, captain)

A5 Four Seasons (Jennie Jones, captain)

A2 Sharon Lester TC (Brian Matthews, captain)

A3 Kings Cove (Ashley Lotz, captain)

Three Chimneys Farm

A8

(Erin Hoover, captain)

B1 Bunten Road Park (Ruby Kim, captain)

B5 Summit Family YMCA (Denise Jackson, captain)

B4 Riverside (Cathy Cox, captain)

B3 Kennworth TC (Scott Byrd, captain)

B2 Brenau University (Allison Hill, captain)

CREEK 42

@ HAM 40

AT HAM 34

WALK 31

CREEK 60

ESTATES 53

LAKES 43

TC 40

CREEK 25

PARK 22

C3 Serenade (Tyler Ledford, captain)

C5 Wild Timber (Jennifer Lineberry, captain)

B8 Lost Forrest (Julie Worly, captain)

C1 Hamilton Mill I (Sarah Reagin, captain)

B6 Rock Springs Park (Jaime Poole, captain)

B7 The Fields I (Jerry Delgaudio, captain)

C7

Brookfield CC (Kerry Emrick, captain)

02 CHADWICK CLUB 82

RHODES JORDAN PA 65

RIVERMOORE PARK (THOMAS)57

RIVERMOORE PARK (FORD) 51

IVEY CHASE 51

DANIEL PARK 42 WHITE OAK PLACE 28

TPC @ SUGARLOAF 20

03 THE FIELDS I 80 KINGSLEY (DELANEY) 62

(THAMES) 57

MILL 57

WOODS 54

ATHLETIC 51

31

TIME ATHLET 5

04 THREE CHIMNEYS F 62

CREEK 62

60

OAKS 60 FOWLER PARK 57 RIVER FALLS 34 PARSONS RUN 34 SHAKERAG 28 05 BLACKBURN 74

S&T 65

37

WOODS 22 06 HICKORY SPRINGS 68

HEIGHTS 65

LAKES 60 OAKWIND 57

ECHO MILL II 54

CHARLTON FORGE 51

PARK AT CEDARCRE 22

MARIETTA CC 20

07 WOODLANDS 71

WOODMONT GOLF & (BARRINE) 60 GREAT SKY 57

BRADSHAW FARM 54

DEER RUN WEST 45

CLAIR 57 FALLS OF AUTRY M 51

CLUB 45

22

IVES CC 20 05 CARL SANDERS YMC 65 VININGS ESTATES 65 PEACHTREE CITY T (NICHOL) 65 TERRELL MILL T C 57 WEATHERSTONE 54

SENTINEL LAKE 51

PEACHTREE CITY T (ROBINSO) 22

CHAPEL HILL 17

06 WESTCHESTER S&T 65

PIEDMONT CHASE 65

SEVEN HILLS 60

SENTINEL WEST 51

BENTWATER 45

MARIETTA CC 42

FALCON CREST 34

STOCKTONS MILL 34

07 GEORGETOWN 74 PEACHTREE STATIO 71 NEELY FARM 62 HORSESHOE BEND 60

SHARON LESTER TC 37 HUNTLEY HILLS 37 DUNWOODY CC 31

RIVER GLEN/FUL 25

08 CHEROKEE TENNIS (MCLARNO) 74

TOWNE MILL 68

FIELDSTONE 65

BRADSHAW FARM 60

ESTATES OF BROOK 37

RIVER GREEN 34

WILDWOOD SPRINGS 31

CHEROKEE TENNIS (JOHNSON) 28

C3

01 TRADITIONS OF BR (PARKER) 74

EDGEBROOK 71

WINDERMERE/FORSY 62

CONCORD FARMS 60

LAKE FOREST SUBD 48

PARKSTONE 45

TRADITIONS OF BR (YOUNG) 20

HAMPTON GOLF VIL 17

02 DRUID HILLS 71

EVERGREEN LAKES 71

MCGHEE TC 71

BRIARCLIFF WOODS 54

BITSY GRANT/HARD 48

SUGAR CREEK 31

RICHARD CRAIG PA 31

HALES TRACE 17

03 ST MARLO CC 74

RIVERMIST/GWINNE 65

GRAND CASCADES 62

THE FIELDS II 54

W P JONES PARK 40

WILDWOOD 37

FOXDALE THE RESE 37

BUNTEN ROAD PARK 28

04 SPRING RIDGE 74

PARK FOREST 71 WILLS PARK 62

LAKE LAUREL 51 CC OF THE SOUTH 48 OXFORD MILL 40 WHITE COLUMNS G 28

GLEN ABBEY I 22

05 TERRELL MILL T C 68 CHESTNUT SPRINGS 68

BENTLEY PARK SUB 62

DELLINGER PARK 51

GEORGIAN 48

S&T 40

FULTON TEN 37

CC 62

C7

01

02

SENIOR WOMEN

AA1

01 DELLINGER PARK 75

AA3

01 VICKERY 83

A5

A1

01

THE EN 42 STERLING ON THE (WHITE) 42 GRAND CASCADES 39

CHATEAU ELAN WIN 25 03 MCGHEE TC 70

S&T 70

MILL T C 58

TOWNE 50 INDIAN HILLS CC 37

RIVERSIDE S&T 33

SANDY SPRINGS TC 29

04 BROOKWOOD MANOR (RICHWINE) 70

BROOKWOOD MANOR (WILSON) 54

WOODS OF PARKVIE 54

BERKELEY HILLS C 45

MOUNTAIN PARK 45

ROCKDALE TENNIS 41

NORTH FORKE 37

05 TOWNE LAKE HILLS 75

CARMICHAEL FARMS 58

BRIDGEMILL ATHLE 58

BROOKFIELD CC 45

WESTCHESTER S&T 41

CHIMNEY SPRINGS 37 HOLLYBERRY 33

TOWNSH 35

A3

01

WYNGATE NORTH 35

WESTCHESTER S&T 32

04 SUGAR CREEK 79

WINDSOR CREEK 70

HUDLOW T C 37 TWIN LAKES 12

A7

01 CANONGATE AT MIR 70 BENTWATER 62

DELLINGER

06 CAMBRIDGE 67

FOWLER PARK 64

SEVEN OAKS (COOK) 57

POLO GOLF & CC 53

ST MARLO CC 46

SEVEN OAKS (WHITE) 39

CHAMPIONS VIEW 35

WINDERMERE/FORSY 32

07 HAMPTON HALL/FUL 71

HUNTCLIFF/FUL 71

NESBIT LAKES 67

HORSESHOE BEND 53

WYNTERHALL 42

ECHO RIDGE 42

CC OF THE SOUTH 32

CC OF ROSWELL 17

B1

01 RICHLAND 67

BOBBY BAILEY TC 64

EE ROBINSON PARK 57

HIDDEN FALLS SUB 53

HEBRON CHRISTIAN 50

THE CLUB @ EDGEW 42 MORNING VIEW 35

TRADITIONS OF BR 28

02 FIELDSTONE (REED) 82 TWIN CREEKS 67

THORNGATE 60

WILD TIMBER 53

FIELDSTONE (MCALPINE) 53

FOWLER PARK 28

WINDERMERE/FORSY 28

LANIERLAND PARK 25

03 TPC @ SUGARLOAF 75

BELLMOORE PARK 60

DEERLAKE 53

CHADWICK CLUB 50

ABERDEEN 50

NORTH GWINNETT H 42

ATLANTA ATHLETIC 35

ST IVES CC 32

04 MONTVALE SWIM & 67

CREEKSTONE ESTAT (BRANDON) 60

BELLETERRE 60

DUNMOOR S&T 57

CREEKSTONE ESTAT (FREDERI) 53

CC OF THE SOUTH 46

THE MANOR GOLF & 28

PINEWALK S&T 25

05 FAIR OAKS TC 67

MARIETTA CC 64

BURNT HICKORY RE 57

BRIDGEMILL ATHLE 50

EAGLE WATCH 46

GOVERNORS TOWNE 42

BROOKSTONE CC 39

TOWNE LAKE HILLS 32

06 BRITTANY 78

EAST ROSWELL PAR 75

CLAYTON COUNTY T 67

VININGS ESTATES 50

SANDY SPRINGS TC 42

RIVER STATION 39 ANSLEY 39

HUDLOW T C 7

07 WEXFORD (BOVE) 71

HEMBREE GROVE 71 LITCHFIELD 100 57

HIGHLAND POINTE 50 FOXHALL 50 ARBOR VIEW 42

HARMONY ON THE L 35 WEXFORD (YOUNG) 21 08 HARRISON TC 82

NORTH 71

64

CREEK 57

WALK 50

FORREST 35

LAKES 28

MILL T C 10 B3

B5

AA1 Dellinger Park (Margaret Ellington, captain)

AA3

Vickery (Natalie Storm, captain)

A7 Village Grove (Eileen Cobb, captain)

A5 Plantation @ Brookwood (Marion Earnhardt, captain)

A3 Brookfield CC (Tamara Watkins, captain)

A1 Saddle Creek 2 (Laurie Schmidt, captain)

B1 Brittany (Annie Fukushima, captain)

B3 The Fields III (Eileen Matthews, captain)

BRADSHAW FARM 70

HARMONY ON THE L 62

BROOKFIELD CC 50

SADDLE CREEK 2 41

ARTHURS VINEYARD 20

WINDSOR OAKS 12

05 RHODES JORDAN PA 87

NORTH FORKE 70

BAY CREEK PARK 20

TRADITIONS OF BR 20

C1 Woodmont Golf & CC (Kelly Bauch, captain)

C3 Bristol Oaks (Betsy Auer, captain)

B5 Oxford Mill (Nikki Schreck, captain)

B7 Coopers Pond (Mandi Sena, captain)

A5 Sugar Creek (William Byrd, captain)

A7

Carmichael Farms (Michael Avery, captain)

AA1 St Ives CC (Creig Mathieson, captain)

Windermere/Forsyth (Avi Sistla, captain)

B3 Marietta CC (David Armata, captain)

B1 Village Grove (Chris Kim, captain)

CASTEEL HEIGHTS 35

CREEK 28 WINDY HILL ATHLE 7 02 CHATSWORTH 75

71

NORTH (COLE) 60

NORTH (FALLS) 39 LESLIE BEACH 35 04 WOODMONT GOLF & 85

71

LAUREL SPRINGS/F 53 CROOKED CREEK (WESOLOWSKI) 28

CC 28

CREEK (DEAN, JR.) 28

GLEN 28

C1

01 CHADWICK CLUB 67

OAKS LANDI 64

60

39

35

OAK S&R 25

MILTON TENNIS CE 82

SEVEN OAKS (DUDZINSKI) 67 KINGSLEY 50

OAKS (BRAY) 50 DOUBLEGATE 46 MARTIN’S LANDING 46 WOODFIELD 32 SPRING RIDGE 25

03 WOODBRIDGE @ HAM 71

INDEPENDENCE SQ 71 DEER RUN NORTH 57 MOUNTAIN CREEK R 57 KENSINGTON FARMS 50 HARRISON TC 35 HIGHLANDS AT HAM 35

HIGHLAND PARK/CO 21

C3

01 WESTOVER/GWINNET 67 RICHLAND 60 HANARRY ESTATES 57 FOUR SEASONS 57 ROCKDALE TENNIS 53 COOPERS POND 39 FLOWERS CROSSING 35 CONNEMARA 28

02 HAMILTON MILL I 82 SHARON SPRINGS P (KARVANN) 75 SHARON SPRINGS P (GOLI) 71 WINDWARD LAKE 46 PARSONS RUN 39

JAMES CREEK TC 35 SILVER RIDGE 28 MAYFAIR/ST CLAIR 21 03 HARRISON TC 89 CLARY LAKES 75 WILDWOOD SPRINGS 64

BRISTOL OAKS 60 RIVER GREEN 53

CHIMNEY SPRINGS 25 WEXFORD 17

PROVIDENCE OAKS 14

C1 Independence Sq (David Blumenthal, captain)

B5 Brookcliff (Trey Schwartz, captain)

C3

Clary Lakes (Harry Tripp, captain)

B7 Wild Timber (Paul Summers, captain)

Choosing A Pickleball Paddle

BY JOHN YOUNGBLOOD, NET NEWS CONTRIBUTOR

No one can say there are limited options when it comes to choosing a pickleball paddle. With over 400 distinct manufacturers having produced over 1,540 USAP approved models in the past 18 months, there is quite a selection available. The purpose of this article is to provide some guidance and resources on how to search for a paddle to fit your style of play.

For those coming from tennis, it is important to note that pickleball paddles, as presently constructed, are a disposable commodity. At some point (depending on construction as well as the amount and intensity of play), they will lose their surface texture which impacts spin/performance. The cores of most paddles will also degrade with extensive play. It’s not a question of if, but rather when you will need to replace your paddle.

John Kew (johnkewpickleball.com/ paddle-database) is a paddle reviewer and technician whose website offers comprehensive data on many paddles currently on the market. This resource is free, easy to use, and it may help you refine choices in your search. Note: Not all paddles in this database are USAP approved.

Paddles can be broken down into three general categories: Power, Control, and Balanced/All-court/Hybrid.

Power — If you want to style your game based on power, you will be looking for a paddle with a lively core and most likely will come in an elongated or hybrid shape. The construction method known as “thermoforming” helps cre-

ate a powerful core. The disadvantage of these paddles is that you are trading off control elements for power.

Control — These paddles tend to attract players who want to build their game based on superior control and the ability to execute a game plan featuring precision placement. Generally, these paddles offer a much wider sweet spot than power paddles with greater forgiveness on off-center shots. Most are a standard or wide-body shape and thus offer a bit less reach and have less power compared to the power paddles. Players starting the game often find these wider paddles easier to use as they are learning, but this does not mean they are beginner paddles. Several professional players use control paddles.

Currently, the following are popular choices in the control category: Joola Scorpeus, Spartus Apollo, Bread & Butter Fat Boy, Pikkl Hurricane Pro, Volair Mach 2 Forza, and Ronbus FX.R2.

Balanced/All Court/Hybrid — These paddles are designed to provide a balance of power and control. They

tend to come in a hybrid shape, are versatile, and offer strong performance in all areas of the game. Popular allcourt paddles are the Joola Hyperion and Perseus, Bread and Butter Loco, Chorus Shapeshifter, Six Zero Double Black Diamond and Ruby, Hudef Mage Pro Gen 2, and Vatic Pro Prism Flash.

For those looking for paddles offering a lot of bang for the buck, Friday Pickle offers hybrid all-court paddles with fun graphics at a price of two for $100. Vatic Pro, Spartus Pickleball, and Hudef Sports also produce excellent options for those looking for the outstanding price/performance ratios.

When purchasing directly from the manufacturer, it is a great idea to seek out a discount code, as they are readily available online and can usually save 10 percent to 30 percent.

Now you should be armed with some paddle search basics, so go forth and enjoy your paddle search!

John Youngblood is the owner of Guts and Glory Tennis in Sugar Hill, Georgia.

PICKLEBALL GEAR

GOOD QUESTION

In A Pickle?

Here’s ALTA’s answers to your burning pickleball questions

BY JERRY NIEMEYER, PICKLEBALL LEAGUE VICE PRESIDENT

CAN I ADD A PLAYER TO MY ROSTER ON THE SAME DAY AS THE MATCH? WILL THAT PLAYER TO BE ELIGIBLE TO PLAY THAT NIGHT?

The answer can be found in the ALTA Pickleball Member Handbook under Adding Players (page 18). All add-ons are eligible to play when he/she is accepted in the system by midnight of the day before the scheduled dual meet. So, while you can add the player the same day as the match, he/she is not eligible to play until the next day.

WHEN SUBMITTING THE SCORECARD AFTER THE DUAL MEET, I SEE A PLAYER IS NOT LISTED ON THE ROSTER PER THE ALTA WEBSITE SYSTEM. IS THIS AN INELIGIBLE PLAYER? IF SO, WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR THIS PLAYER PLAYING IN THE MATCH?

When you fill out the online scorecard and don’t find the name of one of the players in the drop-down roster, you must use the entry “not on roster” when completing the score card. This indicates that the player is an ineligible player. When an ineligible player is found to have participated in a match, the offend ing team will be penalized by forfeit ing the team points associated with that match.

MY

OPPONENTS AND I WERE CONFUSED ABOUT HOW THE SWITCHING OF COURTS WORKS. WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR EACH GAME?

If team A starts on the south court in game one, team B starts on the south

court in game two. In game three, team A starts on the south court. When either team reaches eight points in game three, a switch is made, and team B finishes the match on the south court. Please refer to the ALTA Pickleball Member Handbook, page 25, #10.

Georgia’s Most Trusted Tennis –Pickleball Construction

Pickleball Is Right At Home At ITA

BY HOWARD HURTADO, ITA ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF PICKLEBALL

As pickleball continues to grow in metro Atlanta, many facilities are adding designated pickleball courts and/or adding pickleball lines to their tennis courts. This sport is attracting young and old and is building a fun and competitive community.

Coming up on a year of being in business, ITA continues to thrive as the largest public racquet sport complex in Atlanta — featuring four covered tennis courts, four outdoor tennis courts, 19 outdoor pickleball courts, and the first four public padel courts in Georgia. Tennis in Atlanta has always been a staple, and now we’re starting to see a boom in pickleball and padel.

Players wanting to compete in a team environment can find a compatible group at ITA due to the vast options of leagues we host. Some of the most notable and successful of those being our ALTA pickleball teams. This summer, we hosted five ALTA teams, three of which made it to the playoffs and competed for the title of City Champion!

Why are our teams so successful? COACHING!

ITA

OFFERS PICKLEBALL OPEN PLAYS THROUGHOUT THE

WEEK, ALLOWING PLAYERS TO MEET AND COMPETE AGAINST OTHERS OF SIMILAR SKILL LEVEL.

Coaching is always helpful for players looking to start a new sport and for players seeking growth. Here at ITA, we are fortunate to have high-quality coaches. Joining me on the ITA coaching staff are Bobby Cozzillio and Rachel Noh. All the coaches offer clinics and private lessons for players ranging from beginners to advanced levels. We strive to be a building block for players’ goals, whether they are aiming to improve for open play or are tournament players looking to reach their highest potential.

Here are two, key tips that have contributed to my personal success on the pickleball court:

1. Drill, Drill, Drill: Often, players have fun playing matches and forget to step back and work on fundamentals. Focusing on drills will improve your game and help you feel more confident during key moments.

2. Believe: It is crucial for players to trust their progress, maintain a positive mindset on the court, and confidently go for the correct shot, even if it is the most challenging one.

Building a social rapport in the community is of huge importance to our facility. ITA offers pickleball open plays throughout the week, allowing players to meet and compete against others of similar skill level. We also have special holiday events here at ITA, putting on Round Robins of anywhere from 25 to 50 players on days like the 4th of July. Our most recent “National Pickleball Day” Round Robin boasted close to 30 players coming out to celebrate the fastest growing sport in America. Keep an eye out for more open plays and special holiday events!

The future is bright for pickleball in the Atlanta area, and ITA is one of the best facilities in the area to give dinking a try!

PRO TIP

THE 21ST ANNUAL NET NEWS

Photo Contest

Contest Rules and Regulations

1. You must be a member of ALTA.

2. Photos must relate to tennis and/or tennis play.

3. Do not use filters on photos with the exception of black and white or sepia.

4. Do not send screenshots.

5. Do not take photos of printed photos.

6. All contest submissions must be received ONLINE by 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 13, 2024.

7. Decisions of the judges are final.

8. Limit three entries per ALTA member.

9. Do not resubmit photos from a previous year.

10. Each photo entry must include a completed ONLINE entry form.

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

12. Photos not taken by the entrant must be accompanied by a release form signed by the photographer.

ALTA and Net News are not responsible for any copyright violations.

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

14. All winning photos will be featured in the annual November/December edition of Net News

15. Questions may be addressed to production@ knowatlanta.com.

Photography Specifications

1. Photos must be provided in a high resolution format. (300dpi at a minimum of 5" x 7") This means your photo will be a file that is between 1.5MB and 3MB in size!

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

3. Low resolution, non-reproducible images will not be considered for the photo contest.

Upload original digital photos through the Net News website at

photos must relate to tennis • All entries due September 13, 2024

Employment

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

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

Services

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

ABOUT ALTA

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

VP Senior Day Leagues –Joan Marcinko

VP Senior Leagues – Seth Appelbaum

SundayVP@altatennis.org 117

SeniorDayVP@altatennis.org 120

SeniorVP@altatennis.org 121

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

VP Junior Leagues – Wendy Fee

VP Junior Challenge Ladder – Gina Woods

JuniorVP@altatennis.org 119

JrChallengeVP@altatennis.org 123

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

Georgia’s Most Trusted Tennis

Pickleball Construction and ReSurfacing Company.

–

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

ALTA website: altatennis.org

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

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

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

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