New York Tennis Magazine January -February 2024 by United Sports Publications

NYTennisMag.com • November/December 2023 • New York Tennis Magazine

New York Tennis Magazine • November/December 2023 • NYTennisMag.com

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NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

January/February 2024 • Volume 14, Number 1

nytennis

Table Of Contents

MAGAZINE

New York Tennis Magazine

Rafa’s Last Dance

New York Tennis Magazine

Spanish great Rafael Nadal ready for one more year on tour See page 13

1228 Wantagh Avenue, Suite 203 Wantagh, NY 11793-2202 Phone: (516) 409-4444 • Fax: (516) 409-4600

Photo credit: Lee Seidner/New York Tennis Magazine

Web site: www.nytennismag.com

Staff David Sickmen Publisher (516) 409-4444, ext. 309 david@usptennis.com Brian Coleman Senior Editor (516) 409-4444, ext. 326 brianc@usptennis.com Joey Arendt Art Director Marie Santora-Lent Advertising Coordinator (516) 409-4444, ext. 301 Marie@usptennis.com Emilie Katz Assistant Marketing Coordinator

Highlights 4

Junior Player Spotlight: Zizou Ahmad, John McEnroe Tennis Academy By Brian Coleman 8 USTA Eastern’s Annual College Showcase Day Connects College Coaches and High School Players By Brian Coleman 16 Metro Corporate League Season Recap presented by Advantage Tennis Clubs 18 A Look at the Mental Side of Tennis 22 Parsa’s Picks: The State of the Real Estate Market With Parsa Samii 30 Beyond the Baseline: Jordana Shmidman, Gilad Bloom Tennis Academy By Brian Coleman 32 2024 Guide to the Top Tennis Clubs/Programs 48 2024 Australian Open Preview 54 2023 New York Girls’ High School Recap

Dr. Tom Ferraro Contributing Writer Rob Polishook Contributing Writer Steve Kaplan Contributing Writer Event Team Nadia Buffa Remy Buffa Aryn Feldman Nyla Gershfeld Julia Isham Eva Jalosky

Abby Kleiman Brielle Marcus Sanam Mehta Saharsh Peddireddy Victoria Wroblewskii Chloe Zigman

Advertising To receive any information regarding advertising rates, deadlines, and requirements, call (516) 409-4444 or e-mail info@usptennis.com. Article Submissions/Press Releases To submit any material, including articles and press releases, please call (516) 409-4444 or e-mail info@usptennis.com. The deadline for submissions is the first of the month preceding the target issue. Subscriptions To receive subscription information, contact (516) 409-4444 or e-mail info@usptennis.com or check out our Web site: www.nytennismag.com. Fax subscription changes to (516) 409-1600. Statements of fact and opinion in New York Tennis Magazine are the responsibility of the authors alone and do not imply an opinion on the part of United Sports Publications Ltd. New York Tennis Magazine reserves the right to edit, reject and/or postpone the publication of any articles, information or data.

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Features 7 NMI For All Your Fence and Windscreen Needs 11 Tennis: Beyond the Court By Nikki Carnovale 12 The Benefits of Pursuing Competitive Tennis By Jay Pinho 21 Finding Balance in Junior Developmental and Competitive Training By Chris Destefano and Baloo Turcsik 24 USTA Eastern Metro Region Update 27 The Importance of Routines in High-Performance Junior Tennis By Sam Gornes 28 Swiatek, Nadal, Djokovic and The Western Forehand By Chris Lewit 50 Key Nutritional Concepts for Tennis Players By Daniel Deymonnaz Apud 53 What Is Red Ball Tennis? By Xavier Luna 58 Bring Your EGOH, Not Your Ego, On The Court By Rob Polishook 60 How To Regain Joy of Tennis By Dr. Tom Ferraro 62 Across Metro New York…News and Notes From Across the New York Metro Tennis Community 64 How Many Hours A Week Should a College-Bound Junior Play Tennis? By Gilad Bloom New York Tennis Magazine is published bi-monthly by United Sports Publications Ltd. • Copyright © 2024 United Sports Publications Ltd.

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junior player spotlight junior player spotlight junior player spotlight junior player spotlight junior player spotlight junior player spo

Junior Player

spotlight By Brian Coleman

Zizou Ahmad John McEnroe Tennis Academy year ago, Izyan “Zizou” Ahmad joined some of the top junior tennis players in the world in Tarbes, France, where he competed in Les Petis As, one of the globe’s most prestigious 14 & Under events. He would not advance far in the singles event but did reach the semifinals in the doubles event, playing alongside Buffalo’s Michael Antonius. Those results did not meet Ahmad’s expectations. “I didn’t do as well as I hoped, so as soon as I finished that tournament I had my eyes set on this year’s USA Playoffs to try and bounce back and do better than I did last year,” said Ahmad, who hails from Wayne, New Jersey. That motivation set Ahmad, now 13-years-old, on the course to continuing to work hard throughout the year with the goal of getting back to France. That manifested itself in the fall of 2023 when Ahmad captured the Boys’ Singles title at the seventh edition of the Les Petis As USA Playoffs. Ahmad fought back from a set down in the semifinals against Arjun Krishnan before rolling to a 6-3, 6-1 victory over Tabb Tuck in the championship match, ensuring his place in this year’s Les Petis As event in France. “I was happy to be able to come out and win the tournament, and the confidence is definitely high coming off

of that,” said Ahmad. “I think the biggest thing for me is representing America properly. Last year it didn’t go well for me in terms of results, so this year I’m really looking forward to bouncing back and representing the United States, John McEnroe Tennis Academy (JMTA) and my family in the best light, and hopefully do really well.” Ahmad takes great pride in not only competing for himself, but also his family and his extended tennis family at the JMTA. He began playing tennis because of his parents, who would take him to their local park when they would go hit, and it wouldn’t take long for him to pick up a racquet himself. Growing up, Ahmad competed in both soccer and tennis, and while he says he was a better soccer player when he was younger, he made the commitment to tennis when he was about seven-years-old. Tennis was able to give him something that soccer didn’t. “I personally didn’t like playing with a team in the sense that I hated to get subbed out of games, and didn’t like having to rely on teammates for things,” he explains. “Not in a selfish way, but I was more comfortable with me being accountable for everything while playing, and being out there by myself. If I win it’s because of me, and if I lose it’s because of me. I don’t get to blame my teammates for something, and I embrace that

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

er spotlight junior player spotlight junior player spotlight junior player spotlight junior player spotlight junior player spotlight junior

sort of accountability.” Once he committed himself to tennis, Ahmad began training at JMTA, after participating in one of the academy’s scholarship tryouts. He was selected to join the program and is currently a part of the JMTA/BNP Paribas Mac 1 program, a special group within the JMTA that provides support in the way of financial assistance for training, traveling and more, to help its players reach the next level and their true potential. “They have been my rock since day one,” Ahmad says of JMTA. “I started training there when I began playing tennis full-time, and they have been so supportive ever since. They provide everything a player could need. All the coaches are amazing, I have really good relationships with all of them, including the staff members and other players in the programs. Both Mr. McEnroes (Patrick and John) have been incredibly supportive and are at my

practices sometimes, so it’s such a great team effort and environment, and they have helped me tremendously on my journey to trying to become a professional.” A crucial aspect of Ahmad’s training at JMTA is the ability to compete against players that are both older and bigger than him, which helps prepare him for the big events as well as bolsters his goals of taking his game to the next level. “I’m a bit younger than many in the program which means I get to play against and hang out with some of the older kids, and they really take me under their wing,” he said. “I know it’s tough for the older kids to practice against a little guy like me, but they take it well and it has helped me so much.” Ion Efrim, Ahmad’s current coach, said: "Zizou is one of a kind. He is a tennis obsessed kid who makes me thrilled I decided to become a coach. In this day

and age, it's very refreshing and exciting to see someone as passionate about tennis as Zizou. While he is very special on the court, he is even more special off the court." Ahmad’s tennis journey has allowed me to experience some incredible moments, even beyond traveling the world competing in high-level tournaments. During the 2017 U.S. Open, Ahmad proposed a question to Roger Federer, his tennis idol, asking if he could continue playing on the tour long enough for Ahmad to be able to play against him. The two made a pinky promise, and in 2022, that promise was fulfilled. Through a partnership with Barilla and Boomerang, Ahmad was flown out to Zurich for a surprise, where he not only got to meet Federer, but played against him on court, trading shots which included some tweeners, for an unforgettable experience. continued on page 6

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

junior player spotlight continued from page 5

“It was a surreal experience and I still can’t believe that it happened,” Ahmad said. “Hitting a tennis ball with Mr. Federer is the best thing that has happened to me. He was so generous and down to earth and made me feel comfortable because I was sort of freaked out after seeing him. He gave me a lot of amazing advice and tips that I’ll always remember. I’ll cherish that experience for the rest of my life.” Just this past fall, Ahmad was onhand to present the U.S. Open trophy to Coco Gauff as she won her first major title. “I watched the entire match up close and being around her, and seeing how happy she was after completing such a feat, it makes you want to try to achieve that in your life,” he said. “I’ve been working hard to try and reach that level

and hopefully get there someday to do it myself.” Ahmad has set high goals for himself, as he dreams to one day become a world number one, and win a Wimbledon title. As he continues his training and dedication to his craft, Ahmad hopes to be able to break into the ITF Tour this year as one of the next steps towards chasing his dreams. “If I can do that,” he says of beginning to play ITF events. “It would be really amazing and good preparation for the pro tour. I want to keep rising to the occasion and play against better competition, and see what sort of results I can get there.” When Ahmad isn’t playing tennis, he enjoys spending time with his family and hanging out with his younger sister and cousins who often come to visit. Like

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

most kids his age, he likes playing video games with his friends, and plays a lot of pickup basketball. “I practice a lot, but if it gets to be too much, we focus on doing other things to help take my mind off of that,” said Ahmad. “The team around me, my coaches, parents and myself, pick and choose the tournaments to play in and adjust based on how things are going, so we make sure to find the right balance.” Years from now, tennis fans may turn on their television to see Ahmad competing on the professional tour, and the teenager plans on working as hard as he can to become the best version of himself, both on and off the court. Until then though, Ahmad is excited for what’s to come in 2024, which for him begins in France at Les Petis As.

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NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

USTA Eastern’s Annual College Showcase Day Connects College Coaches and High School Players By Brian Coleman

or high school-aged tennis players, looking towards the future and where they will embark on the next chapter of their lives in college can be a daunting endeavor, and it can be difficult to know where to even begin when searching for the right fit. Similarly, for college coaches, searching for the right players and people to enter your program is an equally-difficult task, with so many players out there to choose from. Enter the USTA Eastern College Showcase Day, one of the pillar events of the Eastern Section which has helped revolutionize and simplify the college recruiting process for all the parties involved. The 35th annual USTA Eastern College Showcase brought together 120 students and 45 colleges to The Saw Mill Club in Mount Kisco to form a bridge between high school tennis players and collegiate tennis coaches, providing both unparalleled in-person interaction, but also an array of informative materials and resources players can

use. “Student athletes and their families can easily feel intimated or overwhelmed by college recruitment, and our goal with College Showcase Day is always to help clarify and simplify that process for those who attend,” said Julie Beal, Senior Director of Competition for USTA Eastern. “One of the great joys in hosting this event is getting the chance to walk around and observe all the

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

conversations between players and coaches in attendance.” The Showcase runs all day and includes an array of different activities for both players and coaches to take part in. As it always is looking to innovate and add more to this event, new to the Showcase this year was the addition of College Showcase Camps. “We’re always brainstorming ways to make College Showcase Day an even more innovative, informative and inclusive experience,” Beal added. “We thought the camps would be a fantastic opportunity for younger players to get their first taste of college tennis. The camps ended up being a big hit and a highlight of the entire day.” The camps were designed for high school freshmen and sophomores. Modeled after a typical college practice, they were run by college coaches, including Fordham women’s tennis head coach Michael Sowter. “The camp was for freshmen and sophomores in high school so, for

many of them, it was their first introduction to meeting college coaches,” said Sowter. “By participating in some college-style drills and hearing from different coaches about what it's like to play college tennis, my hope is that the camps gave them the confidence and motivation to keep working on

allowed players to demonstrate how they compete against different types of competition, while coaches were able to see how these players handle pressure moments and match scenarios. “I can’t sing the praises of this continued on page 10

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their tennis and consider college tennis as an option as they move into their junior and senior years of high school.” Spread out across the 13 courts at the Saw Mill Club, players took part in match play, both singles and doubles, as coaches rotate around the courts and observe. This

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

usta eastern’s annual college showcase day continued from page 9

event enough,” said Kevin Kane, the Vice President and General Manager at the Saw Mill Club. “It’s a great marketplace of ideas, where you get a chance to put kids who are good players and give them a recruitment opportunity in front of Division I, II and III schools. When Julie and I connected on this event about a dozen years ago, I knew it was the perfect thing for our club to sponsor. We close down for a day, put carpets down on our two show courts which then serves as the main room where all the coaches and colleges set up. These players ought to be playing tennis for life, and this event provides the venue to find their ideal collegiate tennis fit.” Helping to create a showcase that covers all aspects of the college recruiting process are the workshops and seminars that take place throughout the day. Two former Eastern junior players, Lorraine Bergmann and Dylan Lachmenen, who are currently collegiate players at Fordham and Rider, respectively, spoke to the students in attendance about their recruiting experience, and offered tips and advice. Scott Treibly of USTA Collegiate 10

gave a talk on How to Get Recruited, and this year he was joined by Danielle McNamara, who was the head coach at Yale for more than a decade after playing four years at Michigan, and now runs her own company helping junior players find their collegiate home. “This was my first time at the USTA Eastern College Showcase and I was really impressed with the event. The turnout was fantastic, the day ran incredibly smoothly and it was filled with incredibly valuable playing opportunities and education for the players and parents. Julie and her staff did an amazing job and I really think this is a model that all USTA sections should consider implementing for the junior players in their area, if they don't do something already,” said McNamara. “The objective of the recruiting presentation was really to give players and parents a general overview of the recruiting process and some best practices on how to navigate the process. I hope that everyone was able to learn something that they didn't know already about the landscape of college tennis and how to best set themselves up to find the right

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

college tennis fit for them.” A high school sophomore who attended the showcase, Laura Perez, added: “It’s helped me realize how big of a process it is, but also that if you take it slow, it’s going to be okay. The Showcase helped me realize that I can do it, and I’m really excited to see where I go.” For the last three decades, the USTA Eastern’s College Showcase Day has been a pinnacle event for the organization, and an integral one for its overall mission of growing the game. The 2023 edition of the Showcase was another indicator of USTA Eastern’s desire to play matchmaker for student-athletes and colleges, and continue to ease a process that can oftentimes be difficult and stressful. “Sometimes students will have never heard of a particular school and through these discussions realize what a great fit it could be, considering both the tennis program as well as what they hope to study,” added Beal. “We’re very proud to help facilitate these connections. As we begin planning next year’s event, we will definitely discuss how we can expand and enhance this offering.”

Tennis: Beyond the Court ennis is not just a sport played on the courts; it's a life lesson in itself. Beyond the athletic ability and the exhilarating matches, tennis offers a profound experience that extends far beyond the boundaries of the court. It's a unique blend of competition, mental fortitude, and characterbuilding that can shape individuals in ways that few other sports can match. Tennis is an embodiment of grit. The sport demands physical endurance, mental resilience, and an unwavering determination to overcome challenges. Every match, every point lost or won, serves as a lesson in resilience. In the face of setbacks, players learn to recalibrate their strategies, stay composed under pressure, and persist despite the odds. These skills seamlessly translate into life off the court, enabling individuals to navigate challenges with a resilient mindset. The game's ever-changing dynamics necessitate quick thinking and adaptability. Tennis players must swiftly adjust their tactics based on their opponent's style, the court surface, and environmental conditions. This ability to adapt on the fly instills a valuable life lesson—being adaptable in the face of unpredictability. It teaches individuals to embrace change, pivot when necessary, and thrive in diverse situations, a vital skill in a rapidly evolving world.

Tennis is as much a mental game as it is physical. Players need to maintain focus, control their emotions, and stay composed, even amidst intense pressure. Learning to manage emotions during high-stakes situations on the court fosters emotional intelligence and mental toughness. These skills are invaluable in personal and professional spheres, aiding in decision-making, leadership, and maintaining composure under stress. Success in tennis is a product of rigorous training, disciplined routines, and unwavering commitment. It instills a strong work ethic and discipline, emphasizing the value of consistent practice, perseverance, and dedication. These attributes are transferable to various aspects of life, fostering a mindset where hard work becomes a pathway to achievement and success. Tennis is not just about the game

By Nikki Carnovale

itself; it opens doors to numerous opportunities. From scholarships at prestigious universities to careers as coaches, commentators, or sports analysts, the sport can pave the way for diverse career paths. Moreover, the values imbibed through tennis— such as teamwork, leadership, and determination—make individuals attractive candidates in various professions. Tennis is more than a sport; it's a profound teacher of life lessons. Beyond honing physical skills, it cultivates qualities that shape individuals into resilient, adaptable, and disciplined individuals. The values imbibed on the court pave the way for success in various facets of life, offering opportunities and molding character in ways that extend far beyond the final score of a match. Tennis, in essence, serves as a powerful blueprint for navigating the challenges and triumphs of life.

Nikki Carnovale is Tennis Canada's Manager of Advanced Coaching Courses and High Performance Coach. She may be reached at nikkicarnovale@gmail.com.

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

The Benefits of Pursuing Competitive Tennis By Jay Pinho

hile nearly all players start their tennis journey exclusively from a fun perspective, some elect to take a deeper approach and pursue competitive tennis. Even though there’s not a right or wrong approach, as both the recreational and competitive paths can add to one’s life in a positive manner, I’d like to emphasize the often neglected benefits of the competitive route. These include, in no particular order, the following aspects:

2. Better opportunities to travel and getting to know other regions and even countries. As the player becomes more competitive, traveling to different regions and sometimes even countries become part of their routines. Even when there’s not a lot of time to explore the venue, it is definitely a plus to the experience to get to know new places that one may not have otherwise gone to if it wasn’t for his/her tennis.

1. Improved ability to understand and experience the “mastery” process; what it takes to become highly proficient at a particular activity. Such a trait is highly transferable into other areas and can help shape the player’s character and personality.

3. Enhanced self-belief and ability to become an independent problem solver. A major aspect of becoming a competitive player is to be resilient and an effective problem solver. This can empower the individual’s self-belief that s/he will

be able to find solution to different problems, or at a minimum, have them to deal better when all sorts of adversity arises. 4. Develop friendships with other likeminded individuals who are going through a similar path. One of the main reasons why juniors continue to participate in organized sports is because of their involvement with their peers. Going through organized programs and playing multiple times a week can enhance one’s ability to develop deeper relationships, which can add value to the entire journey as a consequence. The pursuit of mastery towards any activity is not for everyone. While there are many challenges that come as a result of such endeavor, the benefits can often outweigh its negatives. Regardless of one’s aspirations and goals, it’s important to value the process at least just as much, if not more, than the destination itself. Lastly, it is important to always keep in mind why the player’s started in the first place. That is because tennis is a healthy and fun activity! Jay Pinho is the Head Professional of 10U and High-Performance at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. He is a USPTA Elite Professional, a former NCAA DI coach and player, and has specialized in developing competitive junior players over the past decade. Currently, he is the private coach of three national champions and a WTA touring pro.

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

Rafa’s Last Dance Spanish great Rafael Nadal ready for one more year on tour By Brian Coleman

hey say all good things must come to an end. In life, unfortunately, we know that ultimately nothing lasts forever, and whether we like it or not, that is inevitable. And that brings us to 2024 and a fresh year on the tennis tours. But for one of the sport’s legendary players, it will unfortunately be his last. Rafael Nadal will retire from professional tennis at the end of this season, closing the curtains on one of the most decorated and dominant careers in not just tennis history, but in all of sports. During the middle of 2023, Nadal revealed he would sit the rest of the season out after undergoing surgery with the intent of making 2024 his final year on tour. “It’s not a decision I’m making, it’s a decision my body is making,” said Nadal last summer. “My goal and my ambition is to try and stop and give myself an opportunity to enjoy the next year that will probably be my last year in the professional tour. That is my idea, but I can’t say 100 percent it will be like this, but my idea and my motivation is to try to enjoy and say goodbye to all the tournaments that have been important to me. You can’t keep demanding more and more from your body, because there

comes a moment when your body raises a white flag. Even though your head wants to keep going, your body says this is as far as it goes.” Injuries have been a consistent theme for the 37-yearold from Spain, who had hip surgery in 2023 to add to his long list of ailments, so the expectations for Nadal in 2024 should be tame. He announced he will begin his “retirement tour” in Australia at the Brisbane International, one of the year’s first events and he reinforced that even he doesn’t know what sort of tennis we will get to see from him. “I have been afraid to announce things because in the end, it’s been a year without competing and it’s a hip operation,” Nadal said. “But what worries me most is not the hip, it’s everything else. I think I’m ready and I trust and hope that things go well and that it gives me the opportunity to enjoy myself on the court.” Australia is the last place tennis fans saw Nadal compete, as his last action on tour was at the 2023 Australian Open. He was eager to return to one of the continued on page 14

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rafa’s last dance continued from page 13

biggest stages in tennis, but a muscle tear suffored in Brisbane forced him to withdraw. Nadal being unsure of how his body will respond as he returns to competition was something he anticipated entering this season. And he emphasized that he doesn’t know what to expect from himself, and that he is just eager to return to the court and be able to compete, no matter what comes of it. “I have internalized what I have had throughout my life, which is to demand myself the maximum. And right now, what I really hope is to be able not to do that, not to demand from myself the maximum, to accept that things are going to be very difficult at the beginning and to give myself the necessary time and forgive myself if things go wrong in the beginning, which is a very big possibility,” he said candidly. “But knowing that there may be a not-too14

distant future in which things can change if I keep the illusion and the spirit of work, and the physique responds to me, without any doubt.” That perhaps will be the biggest challenge for Nadal. Of course, the emotions of playing at these events for the final time in his career will be overwhelming at times, but Nadal has always been a player who prides himself on his competitive nature and the physical brand of tennis he plays. At his age, and with his rolodex of past injuries, reining back that intense style of play could be a difficult proposition for Nadal. But it will be important for him to pace himself, especially in the early parts of the year, in order to remain healthy and be able to complete the season. When you look at the ATP Tour Rankings, you have to scroll down several pages before you arrive on Nadal’s name. He currently sits at 663rd in the world heading into

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

2024, so he will receive wild cards into the tournaments he chooses to play. The top-ranked American Taylor Fritz was asked about Nadal’s comeback and what it will be like to be in the draws with Nadal this coming season, where Nadal will be unseeded. “I mean, I expected that, it’s Rafa,” said Fritz. “I don’t think that he was ever going to just retire and not give it another go, so I definitely, after the amount of time he’s had off, I expected him to come back to start the year. So I think that it’s good news for tennis as a whole. “ Fritz added: “I think that maybe it’s going to be tough. Maybe he might be a little bit rusty. I think it’s going to be pretty crazy having him in draws where he’s going to be unseeded. So anybody can play Rafa in the first round, so it’s going to be pretty

crazy.” 2024 will be a fresh start for professional tour players, but for one it will be both a fresh start and the beginning of the end. As we’ve seen with retirement tours in other sports, such as Derek Jeter or Kobe Bryant, there will likely be pageantry and ceremonies at many of the events Nadal decides to play, and the fact that he is going out on his own terms should be comforting to the Spaniard. As we enter a new year, tennis fans would love to see Nadal maintain his health and make a run at each major one last time. Nadal will try to give all of his fans some final memories as we says goodbye to professional tennis. But before we get that far ahead, tennis fans should be grateful that Nadal is not done playing yet, and will give everyone a chance to appreciate one of the greatest athletes of all-time for the final time(s). Brian Coleman is the Senior Editor for New York Tennis Magazine. He may be reached at brianc@usptennis.com.

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

Metro Corporate League Looking Towards 2021 Presented by Advantage Tennis Clubs

Winter 2023 Season Comes to a Close

Advanced Champions: Bloomberg

Advanced Intermediate Champions: Neuberger Berman

Intermediate Division Champions: HSBC he holiday season brought with it the end-of-the-year finals for the Winter 2023 Metro Corporate League. The top teams from each of the league’s divisions gathered at Roosevelt Island Racquet Club to battle it out for league supremacy, and celebrate another successful season in the Corporate League. Featuring a spread of catered

food and open bar, the parties featured not only the teams competing in the championship, but was also open to all members of the league which created a fun night for all who attended. While enjoying the food and drinks, spectators were treated to some outstanding tennis on the clay courts of Roosevelt Island, the perfect way for both the spectators

and players to wrap up the season. “We always have a lot of fun competing in the Corporate League, Neuberger Berman has been participating in this league for quite some time and we get to play against strong players, including former college athletes, while improving our own game and forming new tennis relationships,” said Fleura Shiyanova. “In

The Winter/Spring 2024 season gets underway in early February, and there is still time to sign-up a team or join one. For more info, please contact Luis Espinoza at (347) 886-3117, or e-mail luis@metrotennis.com. 16

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

addition, the event helps us meet and bond with colleagues from across our firm and meet other industry participants which makes it even more fun.” Shiyanova is the captain of the Neuberger Berman team, and on this night, her and her team captured the Advanced Intermediate title. “The key to our success was

teamwork and our athletes’ commitment to winning another title,” added Shiyanova. “Our team has a good mix of players who are solid at the baseline as well as players who are active at the net, and that combination helped us perform well in both singles and doubles.” As a result of their title win, Neuberger Berman moves up to the

Advanced Division next season. In the Advanced Division championship this season, Bloomberg once again captured the title as it continued its dominance in the league. In the Intermediate Division, HSBC took home the title, and it will move into the Advanced Intermediate Division for the Winter 2024 season.

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NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

A Look at the Mental Side of Tennis Dr. Tom Ferraro is a sport psychologist with a Ph.D. from SUNY Stony Brook, with more than 25 years of experience working with professional teams, coaches and Olympic athletes across a broad range of sports. Dr. Ferraro is a board-certified psychoanalyst, which allows him to properly diagnose and treat the symptoms an athlete may bring to his him and help them understand any underlying reasons for selfdefeat. He has been published

internationally and has been featured in the New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The London Times, and is a regular contributor to this publication. Rob Polishook, MA, CPC is the founder of Inside the Zone Sports Performance Group. As a mental training coach, he works with the whole human athlete helping them to unleash their mental edge (heart.energy.spirit) through mindfulness, somatic

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

psychology, animal wisdom and mental training skills. Rob is author of 2 best-selling books: Tennis Inside the Zone and Baseball Inside the Zone: Mental Training Workouts for Champions. He can be reached by phone at (973) 723-0314, by email rob@insidethezone.com, by visiting insidethezone.com, following on Instagram @insidethezone. ometimes, as a tennis player, you exist on an island. Alone, solo, under the lights of your local club or drenched in the sun, there you are … between the lines,

either gaining the accolades of glory hitting the winning shot or facing the weight of defeat. There are no teammates to pass to; no backup in case you throw a bad pitch or have a bad shift; no defense to pick you up after the offense turned the ball over…it’s just you who must deal with the adversity of this individual sport. Mental toughness is what gives top players a competitive leg up over the opposition. Training one’s mind to deal with nerves, anxiety and quickly move onward past mistakes can be the difference between being crowned “champion” and “finalist.” These individuals help players focus, find their groove and enter the zone to success. It’s the ability of the player to quickly get back on track once rattled that can make the difference between bowing out in the first round of a tournament or hoisting the trophy at the end of the day. New York Tennis Magazine was fortunate enough to sit down and chat with multiple experts in the field of sports psychology to pick their brains and gain insight into their role as one of the most vital members of a tennis player’s support staff. What is the best way to manage bad calls made by an opponent or a referee? Ferraro: Bad calls made by an opponent or referee are very common. The correctness of a call is often tough to determine since it is difficult to accurately assess from a far distance. Invariably, you will feel that calls are unfair and this causes anger. The best way to manage this is to channel the anger into aggression on the court. The ability to channel anger into focus and good game play is one of the keys to winning. What can a player do when they are in pressure situations such as closing out a match? What can they do

to settle down? Polishook: First off, it’s important to note that this usually happens because the player is focusing on something outside of their control, the outcome and winning. Their thoughts are about “one more game” or “if I win this game, I will win this set.” Both of these thoughts have to do with the future, thus both are out of their control. Now, of course, it’s natural to have all kinds of thoughts when competing, however, the key is which thoughts will you attach to? And which thoughts will you let go and bring yourself back to thoughts and a place that you can control? I suggest shifting your focus to W.I.N., which stands for What’s Important Now. When a player focuses on what’s important in the here and now, the outcome is no longer their main thought, rather the answer may be to take an extra few second to towel off, settle down by using their breath, and then go through their pre-serve routine or return routine. This shift in focus takes them out of the future and into the present moment. The ability to know when you have lost focus and come back to center in a balanced and calm place is the goal. From this place a player can play the next point to their best. How does one a player regain the joy of tennis? (See full article in this volume for a full exploration of this important subject) Ferraro: Competitive youth tennis has virtually destroyed the joy of playing the game. Thanks to the presence of social media, rankings, scouting and getting Division I scholarship have become obsessions. The atmosphere created by social media destroys the fun of tennis and many young players talk about quitting the game they once loved because of pressure, overzealous coaches and over-involved parents. I once did an article about Swedish golfers

and why they were all so dominant despite the fact that Sweden is a cold place to live. The main reason is that the less pressure and hype the young player is exposed to, the greater the chance they will find joy and optimal performance. Where is it written that you have to be the next Roger Federer or Novak Djokovic in order to enjoy the game of tennis? The answer is that it isn’t written anywhere. Let’s push for a little more happiness. Parents often share with me that their son or daughter tends to give up when they are behind; they seem to throw in the towel! What can they do? Polishook: What’s important to understand is what the player is experiencing at this moment. Usually, the player is in an overwhelmed state because they are focused on the outcome. They are scared to lose, more so, they feel trapped and helpless. This results in the deer in the headlights look! What they are not focused on is what they need to do to problem solve. They are focused on the threat of losing, as opposed to the challenge of competing. I call it threat vs. challenge. When a player can shift to a challenge mentality, they will play from a problem-solving mentality. Again, from this place, the player’s energy will be about what’s important now. What do I need to do to change the momentum of the match? How can I change the patterns? And most importantly, if I looked at this as a challenge vs. a threat, what would be different in my mentality? Adapting this mentality is really the game within the game. What are the signs and symptoms of burnout? Ferraro: Burnout is as common continued on page 20

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

a look at the mental side of tennis continued from page 19

of an occurrence there is in youth tennis. There are phases of burnout. In Phase One, performance flattens and the player begins to play in a stale, unenthused manner. In Phase Two, the athlete becomes prone to illnesses as the immune system depletes itself due to exhaustion and lack of sleep. And in Phase Three of burnout, the athlete becomes injury prone with due to overuse of muscles. This can even lead to career ending injuries. If you find yourself in any of these phases of burnout, it’s time for rest and recovery. What do you think is the most important mental attribute for a player to succeed and maintain

consistency as they develop through the age brackets and college and possibly professional tennis? Polishook: There are a lot of components to this question. However, I would share with the player, parents and coach that the most important attribute is balance. It’s important that there is an understanding that there will be ups and downs, and the focus must be long term and on the process, not the immediate results. To gain this balance, I believe that the player, coaches and parents must not lose sight of the personal talents that the player has in addition to their physical talents. A person’s unique cultural experiences are also imperative, the things that

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

don’t make them better or worse than another player, but makes them who they are. Tennis is not who the player is, rather it’s what they do. When a player and team understand this, they recognize that the outcome is not personal, and perfection is not required. The player does not need to protect anything, and they have nothing to prove. From here, the focus can be on “just playing” and “just competing” and being their best. Imagine how freeing this would be for a player? It would allow them to focus on the process, and make adjustments based on what happens rather than judging them. There is no such thing as a bad loss, but instead it’s something to learn from.

Finding Balance in Junior Developmental and Competitive Training By Chris Destefano and Baloo Turcsik

becomes more defensive and suddenly if it’s reasonably close, it must be uring my coaching career, there isn’t as loose as before. The reason for accepted that your opponent is of similar seems to be one theme that falsely this is simple: pressure. Although this is ability. Although aesthetically pleasing, permeates through the parent body natural at any level, there shouldn’t be a the beauty of one’s strokes also plays little of competitive junior tennis players—the huge difference in the playing style of role in distinguishing levels. idea that their child must always be At Gotham Tennis Academy, we playing “up” in competition. Although “up” the player upon playing different levels. When we see a player who plays promote a competitive atmosphere competition is indeed vital in a child’s drastically different when playing where players get a healthy combination development, it is no more valuable than “down” in competition, this indicates to of “up” matches, even matches and playing opponents of a similar level, or us that they have been playing too “down” matches. This is all critical in even a level below. To truly become a many matches against higher developing a successful competitive skilled competitor, all three of these player. Without this balance, true competition, and haven’t been exposed different levels must be touched upon in a potential cannot be reached. A parent to pressure. practice setting. must be aware and supportive of this With some exceptions, the narrative We all know that it feels great to play concept. Having your child compete against better players, but constantly doing of “I play better when I play better against players of different levels is players” is one that means a player is so evades the aspect of tennis most people extremely valuable in the development of probably trying to avoid stressful hate: pressure. We see this constantly matches. If you barely beat someone, or your child’s tennis game. during match play at our academy. During a match where one player is playing up, Chris Destefano and Baloo Turcsik are co-directors of the Gotham Stadium Tennis that player is playing loose, freely NYC Junior Program. Chris was born and raised in NYC and was a top-ranked swinging and generally playing more junior and college player at Penn State University. Baloo is from Budapest aggressively than usual. However, once Hungary where he was a top-ranked junior and then became a national coach. this same player plays against a perceived They have coached many top national and sectional players and can be reached by email at chris@gothamtennis.com and baloo@gothamtennis.com or by visiting www.stadiumtennisnyc.com. lesser player, it all changes. The player

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

PARSA’s picks The State of the Real Estate Market with Parsa Samii he real estate market is a constantly changing one, and something that can be difficult to evaluate on the outside looking in. We spoke with Compass Real Estate’s Parsa Samii, a Manhasset native and former Division I tennis player, about the state of the market as we head into 2024.

How would you assess the market as we head into 2024? As much of the world knows, we are in historic times with low inventory and higher interest rates than we have been in the last couple years. What’s happening in the markets, because the supply is so low, is that prices are still only going up incrementally, but interest rates are making it more expensive for buyers to actually purchase. There are essentially two separate markets: people who need to buy and sell, and people who would like to buy and sell. The people that are in the market right now need to follow the 5 Ds of real estate which is diaper, diploma, diamonds, death and divorce; those 5 Ds are the basics and they account for about four million real estate transactions worldwide. And that’s basically what the current market is as we head into 2024, although we have seen a slight uptick in inventory in the last month or two, compared to a normal November or December market of years past. What is some of the best advice you can give to both potential buyers/sellers as we move into the new year? The best possible advice I can give to someone, and I have mentioned it before in articles in this magazine, is the importance of finding your real estate expert. Someone who really understands things and can interpret the data that is out there. As markets are constantly fluid and go through ebbs and flows; by the time you read this article, 22

the data has changed. What you should be doing is picking up the phone and calling me and saying, ‘Hey, I read this article, what’s going on?” I am happy to talk real estate at any time, and of course to my fellow tennis players, I always love talking a little tennis and real estate at the same time. That’s my best advice; find the person who knows what they are talking about and can guide you in the best possible way. It is crucial that you work with a professional who does this full-time in these current market conditions, as things are always fluid and you need to be set up for success. What effects do sport courts, tennis specifically, have on the worth of someone's home? Is it worth someone installing one to increase their home value? It’s a very good question. The sport court phenomenon is continuing, and we are seeing a lot of people wanting to put in pickleball courts and, in general, sport courts that can couple as a basketball court and tennis court and more. They do increase the value of a property, but not as much as you may think, in that certain expectations will exist on a property. For example, if you live on the North Shore of Long Island and you have a two acre lot, you are sort of expected to have a sprot court or tennis court on the property. If you are putting it on a smaller property, in a different house, then it takes up the entire backyard, and the question then becomes should I take out the court to increase the amount of green space. It’s a fluid situation, and the advice of a real estate professional is the most important part for your particular property. Do you have buyers who come to you and are looking for homes with courts? Believe it or not, it is something that is often asked for, but not necessarily like, ‘I want a tennis court and only want to look at a house that has one’. But more times than not, people will say I want a tennis court, or at least I want the room to be able to put one in or put in another sport court. So I think there are definitely specific people who will look to put one in as they search for their properties. How is the market different from what the landscape was heading into 2023? Interesting question. The market itself from last year is pseudo-similar. We were on a nosedive heading into

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

PARSA’s picks 2023, but I think things are a bit more settled heading into 2024, and we know the lay of the land on how the markets are going to act. Because we know that interest rates, according to the Fed, are not going to be going up, there is definitely a settling of the dust across the marketplace, and we have a ground zero to work from. I think things will become a lot clearer. Will the market be better or worse? I can’t really answer that, I’m not a prognosticator, but I can tell you that we will have more clarity in 2024, which is very important because you have to know what buttons to push and when to push them, and I think the answers to that will become more obvious in 2024. What tips do sellers need to hear when listing their home in 2024? This is crucial and the best information you can get. This is a tennis and racquet sports magazine, but you are going to get the number one real estate advice right now. Homes that are renovated and staged and put together, and are seamless through the exterior to the interior, every floor of your house, to the backyard, put together in such a way

definitely sell faster and for more money, there is no doubt about it. When you have an expectation of having the buyer trying to imagine themselves in the house or in the space post-renovation, they will generally take longer to sell and sit in the market a little longer, and a lower sales price because of the extra work the buyer has to do. Not every buyer profile is going to be in that arena, so because of that you have less buyers looking at your property, and because of that it snowballs down to having less bidders, less buyers and therefore probably a lower sales price. Now, if everything was done perfectly, and you are going to be able to maximize the amount of potential buyers, therefore you are most likely be able to get the price you are looking for, and that’s where it is. I should add one more thing, pricing is absolutely crucial. Everyone has access to the data, whether it’s your agent, or the consumer themselves, and everyone knows for the most part where something should be priced, based on the available data. And so when you price a home directly to the market or close enough to it, you will have the greatest chance of success of moving the property for the greatest amount of money possible.

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NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

USTA Eastern Metro Region Metro League Team Scores Third Place at USTA League Nationals It was an Eastern feast! also rely on other A staggering 12 USTA teams’ scores to Eastern squads scored a Top advance. 4 finish at the 2023 USTA “We didn’t really League National know how to process it Championships, held in because we were so October and November at close [to the upset],” various locations across the Chong said. “But then country. One of those teams we had a team meeting hailed from the NYC area. where we were like The section’s 18 & Over 4.0 ‘What’s our direction Men’s team placed third in now?’ We were set to the division at their event, play NorCal the next held October 20-22 in day. I said, ‘Hey, let’s Surprise, Arizona. make a statement. Let’s Finishing the third-best be disruptors. Let's team in the country show them that we can ultimately exceeded captain Eastern’s 18 & Over 4.0 Men’s team poses after finishing in third place knock out one of these Simon Chong’s wildest top teams!’” expectations, he said. The The matchup the players—many of whom didn’t even know each other following morning proved to be a contrast in styles before before the 2023 season began—had only recently started anybody even hit the court. competing together after separately getting recruited by a “[The NorCal team] was all wearing matching T-shirts, mutual friend. eating protein bars,” Chong said with a laugh. “They were “I remember there was one [early-season] match where I doing drills before the match, training like competitive took the subway out to Queens and then got picked up in a athletes. And then on my team, some of our guys were white van to go to the courts,” Chong recalls with a laugh. eating donuts! When we were called over by the referees, “We were all a bunch of strangers with tennis gear sitting some of our players were gone because they were in the in a white van. I was thinking ‘What is going on here?’ bathroom and I had to apologize. Maybe it was because [But] from then to now, we really went a long way of the loss to Southern that we were just a little more chill.” together.” Regardless of outward appearances, Team Eastern Indeed, they did. Upon arriving in Surprise, Chong and would go on to deliver the upset they envisioned and his fellow players immediately realized that they were perhaps the upset of the tournament, capturing all five of considered heavy underdogs, with chatter around the their courts against the group from California. The favorites grounds centering on formidable teams from USTA certainly made Chong and his players earn the W: Southern, USTA Florida, USTA Northern California and Eastern’s No. 1 singles player Srini Laliwala claimed his USTA Southern California as the major favorites. The hard-fought, protracted battle 11-9 in a match tiebreaker Eastern contingent would ideally need to beat two of those after he and his competitor split 7-5 sets. teams—Northern California and Southern—in round robin “We didn’t expect [the win],” Chong said. “We went from competition to have any chance of reaching the semifinals. barely losing to Southern in our second match to sweeping They ultimately lost 2-3 [the division plays two singles and NorCal in our third. That was very exciting for us.” three doubles courts] to Southern in a heartbreaker of a The NorCal victory—along with a nail biting 3-2 result match that came down to one third-set tiebreaker. The result over Mid-Atlantic in their final round robin contest— somewhat dashed their hopes of making the final four; ultimately helped propel the Eastern team into the they’d have to claim decisive victories over their remaining semifinals. There, they’d end up taking another tough opponents Northern California and USTA Mid-Atlantic and loss—this time to USTA Middle States—in a duel that again 24

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

USTA Eastern Metro Region came down to a close tiebreaker. While the players were upset they wouldn’t make the final, they resolved to give it their all in the thirdplace match against USTA Florida, another early favorite. Despite soaring temperatures and conditions to which their opponents were no doubt more accustomed, the underdogs would eventually come out on top 4-1. “A lot of ups and downs, but mostly ups,” Chong said of the weekend. “We had some really good moments. But the most fun thing was bonding with my teammates. We rented two Airbnb’s, and we’d eat together, play games. We’d just have fun talking about tennis and stuff outside tennis. And of course we had so much fun cheering everyone on match by match. In a sense, it was kind of like camp, and you just don't get to do things like that as much as an adult.” The experience has motivated the Eastern group to get out on court even more, Chong said. “It’s got everyone fired up!” he noted. “We’re even entering singles 4.0 singles player Laliwala went undefeated over the course of the tournaments together now. Yeah, there’s a lot of good energy on our entire weekend team.”

USTA Eastern To Honor Metro Volunteers and Organizations at Annual Awards Ceremony With its annual awards, USTA Eastern honors those who have made remarkable contributions toward growing and promoting tennis at the local level. Three of the organization’s 2023 recipients hail from the five boroughs. Isis Gill receives the 2023 Clinician of the Year distinction. Gill is a former top-ranked Eastern junior and player at Saint Joseph’s University who got her start with the New York Junior Tennis & Learning (NYJTL) NJTL in Crown Heights. She is now the CEO of SG Next Level Tennis, whose mission is to help create equity in tennis as well as financial literacy for girls of color. Gill has volunteered her time and expertise to many Metro Region partnership events, including the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development Spring into Health weekend events and its Health Signature Event. Deb-Rose Andrews will be honored with the 2023

Umpire Service Award. A former Metro Region Council Vice-Chair, Andrews still volunteers her time with the council, helping to facilitate junior council initiatives and offering her support and expertise in other areas as needed. Andrews currently serves as a USTA Roving Official, Referee, Chair, Chief and Line Umpire, as a Certified Intercollegiate Tennis Association Official and as an International Tennis Federation Referee. Jan Walker has been named the 2023 Metro Region Volunteer of the Year. Walker—who is a certified tennis instructor and serves as an assistant coach for women’s and men’s tennis at York College in Queens—has volunteered at many Metro Regional Council events, including the annual free clinic for essential workers and Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day. The recipients will be honored at a ceremony in late January. Congratulations to all our Metro Region awardees!

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

USTA Eastern Metro Region Eastern to Hold Tennis Innovation Summit at Billie Jean King National Tennis Center Mark your calendars. The Eastern Tennis Conference is entering a whole new era. The section is proud to announce that it will hold its firstever Tennis Innovation Summit on Saturday, March 23, 2024 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. The event will feature on-court demonstrations and classroom sessions highlighting the latest advancements in the industry as well as networking opportunities with tennis facility managers and business owners, teaching pros and coaches. There will also be special content designated for P.E. teachers, parents of juniors and USTA League captains. Visit the USTA Eastern website for the latest updates. Event registration will be available in January.

Eastern Launches New Coaching Hub

Are you interested in coaching the sport you love? Are you a tennis facility owner or manager looking for new coaches? Find the latest available positions from across the section—or, post your own opportunities—at our new jobs hub. Visit usta.com/easternjobs to get started.

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

The Importance of Routines in High-Performance Junior Tennis By Sam Gornes

n the world of high-performance tennis, routines are the foundation upon which success is built. From the relentless grind of training sessions to the intense pressures of competitive matches, routines serve as the framework that shapes a player's mental, physical, and emotional preparation. They are the secret weapon wielded by athletes seeking to elevate their game and achieve greatness on the court. Whether it's the conditioning programs, practice drills, or recovery routines, players willing to adhere to these habitual patterns not only create a sense of stability and familiarity but also fine-tune their own performance. For instance, a structured warm-up routine prepares the body for the physical demands of the game, ensuring that muscles are primed, and reflexes are sharp. This repetition not only optimizes physical readiness but also cultivates mental focus, enabling players to enter a flow state more easily when it matters most. Notably, routines instill discipline and foster a strong work ethic. In the grueling world of competitive tennis where hours of training are invested to master strokes, footwork, and strategy, it's the adherence to these schedules that separates champions from contenders. The commitment to a daily regimen, from fitness workouts to on court practice sessions, develops muscle memory and hones skills, ultimately

translating into a player's ability to execute under pressure. Beyond the physical aspects, routines play a pivotal role in mental fortitude. Tennis is as much a psychological battle as it is a physical one. Pre-match routines involving visualization, breathing exercises, or mental rehearsals help players enter a zone of concentration, shutting out distractions and calming nerves. The ability to focus and regroup is key. At the end of the day, the best in the world are humans too; all minds can falter and become distracted. Those that can move on and flip the switch to dial back in are able to compete for longer. These rituals aid players in staying present and grounded, providing a sense of control amidst the unpredictable nature of competition. For high-performance tennis players, routines extend far beyond the confines of the court. Nutrition plans, rest, and recovery schedules, and even sleep routines are meticulously crafted to the individual to optimize performance. Adequate rest, a balanced diet, and proper recovery are vital components that support the intense

physical demands of training and competing at the highest level. Many high-performance juniors end up committing to high level college teams. The integral skill of time management to juggle both their tennis training schedules along with their schoolwork will be a pivotal ability to have to be an asset their teams. Furthermore, routines foster resilience. In a sport where setbacks and losses are inevitable, a structured routine serves as a source of stability during challenging times. Knowing that their disciplined approach will ultimately lead to progress, those that can bounce back stronger will be able achieve success. In essence, routines in highperformance tennis are the scaffolding upon which success is constructed. They shape the athlete's mindset, habits, and performance, providing the framework for consistent growth and improvement. While talent and skill are fundamental, it's the dedication to these daily rituals that propels tennis players towards their goals, enabling them to thrive in the demanding and competitive landscape of the sport.

Sam Gornes is the S&C Specialist and Tournament Team Coach at the Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning. He grew up playing in programs at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center before playing collegiate tennis at Binghamton Tennis. He is a USPTA certified coach, as well as a certified personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine. He has coached at all levels of tennis, from 10&Under through adults, and now coaches Tournament Team, high-performance and adults on court, as well as fitness for the Cary Leeds Center Academy. He may be reached at sgornes@nyjtl.org. NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

Swiatek, Nadal, Djokovic, and the Western Forehand By Chris Lewit e have all heard warnings about the dangers of using a western grip, especially from coaches in the United States. “You will shank (miss hit) the ball too much,” coaches often say. “You won’t be able to handle fast-paced balls when you are older,” is a common refrain. “You will miss too many low balls and be susceptible to slice backhands,” is another frequent admonition. “You won’t be able to produce pace and hit through your shots to make it to the big-time,” the criticism continues: “You won’t be able to take the ball on the rise,” coaches chide. And last but not least: “You could get injured with such an extreme grip,” coaches counsel. For the average parent or player listening to this constant drum-beat against the western forehand grip, you’d have to be ignorant or brazen to try and teach the grip or learn it for yourself, right? Well, three of the greatest players in the world all decided to play with a western (Swiatek), or near-western grip (in the case of Djokovic and Nadal). Considering their success, perhaps the coaching world

should reevaluate the merits of the western grip in today’s modern game.

coaches call a near-western or extreme semi-western grip.

What is a western grip? For those who are not very familiar with grip structure, the eastern grip is when the index knuckle is on level 3 (according to USPTA and PTR classification), essentially a shake hands grip (see accompanying grip diagram). It was the grip of Pete Sampras and many other top pros in the 1980s and 1990s, for example. A modified eastern forehand grip with the index knuckle between bevel 3 and 4 is sometimes referred to as a composite grip. This grip was made popular by Roger Federer and more recently, Carlos Alcaraz. The semiwestern grip is currently the most popular forehand grip on both the ATP and WTA tours, and features the index knuckle on bevel 4. The western grip that Swiatek uses features the palm more under the handle and the index knuckle at bevel 5 (full-western) or bevel 6 (extreme fullwestern), Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal have a grip in between bevel 4 and bevel 5, which is what many

Do Western grips cause more miss hits? Certainly, anecdotal coaching and playing experience supports this concept. It makes sense that a player holding an eastern grip, essentially a shake-hands grips, would have a clean approach to the ball with a vertical string face making a miss hit less likely. On the other hand, the western grips angle the racquet face more downward on approach to ball impact and likely do increase the risk of a miss hit. The forearm has to rotate in an extreme way to make the racquet face vertical enough to lift the ball and create a shot trajectory that clears the net. While this added complexity certainly makes miss hits more possible with a near-western to western grip, pros like Nadal, Djokovic and Swiatek have proven that this challenge is surmountable. Western grips make it difficult to handle low balls such as slice backhands This is not a myth, and keeping the ball low against a western or near-western grip player is an excellent strategy. Low balls are typically hard to handle with the very closed racquet face orientation found in western grips. This is definitely a go-to game plan against a player with an extreme western grip, western or nearwestern grip. I’m surprised that no player on the WTA tour has been able to effectively hurt Swiatek by attacking her forehand with low slice or flat shots. It may have been serendipitous for Iga that Ash Barty, with her exceptional slice backhand, retired from the game at a young age, leaving Swiatek to dominate.

Winter Program at NYTC Indoor January-April—5 Group Sessions a Week Outdoor semester starts April 1st at Riverdale Tennis Club Groups, Private Lessons and Tournament Travel Come train with Gilad Bloom: 27 years of High Performance coaching 13-year career on Pro Tour, including Davis Cup and Olympics

Call 914-907-0041 or E-mail Bloom.Gilad@gmail.com www.GiladBloom.com 28

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

Western grips make it hard to produce depth and pace With western (bevel 5) and semi-western (bevel 4) grips, I’ve observed that players can still hit with optimal power and depth,

especially if they are muscularly explosive with good amounts of fast-twitch muscle fibers. It’s probably not a myth that some western grip players can have trouble hitting cleanly through the ball to generate high amounts of MPH, but they are likely less physiologically powerful to begin with. After enough practice, I have found that some players with western or near-western grips are able to drive through the ball with power. The extreme western grip is really the most limiting in terms of being able to generate pace and depth without a miss hit. Western grips make it difficult to take the ball on the rise This makes intuitive sense because on-therise balls are often played at low impact points. Combine low impacts, a fast incoming shot, and an extreme grip that closes the racquet face towards the ground on approach, and miss hits or difficulties getting under the ball can certainly happen. Nadal, Swiatek, and Djokovic have managed to ameliorate that potential liability with excellent footwork, low body position, and quick racquet face adjustments with the wrist and forearm. Sometimes simply playing deeper in the court can help, and you see a lot of men in today’s game playing deeper behind the baseline without negative effects. Sometimes players, despite their western grip structure, manage to learn to meet the ball early and on the rise with little

difficulty, if they practice the skill enough times and gain mastery. What are the advantages of a more western grip? What makes the forehand of Iga and Rafa so special and dominant? It’s the topspin of course! The western and nearwestern grips allow a player to hit a very heavy ball with high spin rates. That is a major advantage on the forehand in today’s modern game, where a powerful topspin forehand can be the most important weapon in a match. The grip also helps to handle high bouncing balls on the receiving end as well--another benefit. Every commentator and spectator marvel at Swiatek’s heavy topspin forehand attack, but few junior coaches in the trenches will ever let a kid experiment with her style of full westerngrip. That disconnect doesn’t feel right to me! Does it seem right to you? A reconceptualization of what makes a “bad grip” may be needed! I would wager that the majority of coaches--when working with a young

kid--would be quick to change a nearwestern grip like the ones that Djokovic and Nadal use successfully, and almost all coaches in the US would change a young kid who showed up on court with Swiatek’s full-western grip. That’s a shame because perhaps we should reevaluate what a bad forehand grip is exactly. Perhaps the dynamics of today’s modern pro game have shifted, and a nearwestern (at bevel 4⁄5) or a full-western (at bevel 5) grip are now more viable at the top levels of the game, especially considering that court speed at most venues has slowed, balls have been slowed, and bounces tend to be higher, even on the grass courts at Wimbledon. The success of Swiatek, Nadal, and Djokovic support this conclusion. In my own coaching practice, working with many of the top players in the country and building the foundations of many serious kids, I encourage the semiwestern grip as the most well-rounded grip, but when my players shift a little farther, I only change it after a detailed discussion with the parents and player about the potential risks, and potential positives and negatives.

Chris Lewit is a former number one for Cornell and pro circuit player. He is a highperformance coach, educator, and the author of two best-selling books: The Secrets of Spanish Tennis and The Tennis Technique Bible. He has coached numerous top 10 nationallyranked players and is known for his expertise in building the foundations of young prodigies. Chris coaches in NYC and year-round at his high performance tennis academy in Manchester, VT, where players can live and train the Spanish Way full-time or short-term. He may be reached by phone at (914) 462-2912, e-mail Chris@chrislewit.com or visit ChrisLewit.com.

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

BEYOND THE BASELINE

BEYOND THE BASELINE BEYOND THE BASELINE

BEYOND THE BASELINE BEYOND

beyondthebaseline Jordana Shmidman, Gilad Bloom Tennis Aademy By Brian Coleman pon hearing the news about what happened in Israel last fall, New York City native Jordana Shmidman wanted to do her part to help bring some relief to all the people affected, which included a lot of family and friends who lived in the region. “When the war broke out in Israel on October 7, I was devastated,” said Shmidman. “My family and friends are there, and I just felt so uncomfortable knowing that they were in danger while I was safe here in the United States. After hearing about the Jewish Orthodox Women’s Medical

Association (JOWMA), I immediately knew I wanted to help, as JOWMA was sending doctors to Israel to help in hospitals and help with trauma training.” Shmidman decided to use the sport she loved, tennis, as the vehicle to show her support to Israel. “When deciding what to do, I knew I wanted to incorporate tennis,” she said. “Not only is it something I love to do, but my tennis coach is Israeli so I felt it was only right to include him as well.” Her coach is Gilad Bloom, who runs

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

his own tennis program in New York City following a decorated playing career on the ATP Tour, competing in all four major tournaments, and representing Israel in Davis Cup play for more than 10 years, as well as at the Olympics in 1988 and 1992. “Jordana is very much in tune with current events and has a wide range of interests. When the war in Israel started she immediately told me that she wanted to do something to support the Israel defense efforts and that she had an idea to organize a tennis event,” said Bloom. “Within a

OND THE BASELINE

BEYOND THE BASELINE BEYOND THE BASELINE

few days there was an event in the making and it was not only a beautiful fun outing for all who attended, she also raised a lot of money and awareness for the cause. It made me proud of her and she is such an outstanding young person!” Bloom helped Shmidman organize the event and created a tennis fundraiser, Tennis4Israel, at New York Tennis Club in Manhattan. “When it came time for the event, I was so nervous that I wouldn’t make enough to really make a difference in Israel,” she admitted. “But wow, was I wrong. The day before the event even happened I had already raised $30,000 and after the event I raised even more. The turnout was excellent and the support was incredible. I couldn’t believe it.” Shmidman added: “When everyone came out to support my fundraiser, I was so grateful. Knowing so many people cared was really inspiring, and knowing that when Israel is in danger, so many people were able to make time in their schedule to show support was so meaningful to me.” Being able to use tennis to raise money for a cause that meant a lot to her was another example of the impact the sport can have, and more specifically, the generosity of the tennis community as a whole. Shmidman, who is 15-years-old, began playing tennis when she was very young but didn’t start playing seriously until the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. During that time, she would join one of Bloom’s clinic to accelerate the growth of her game. She was excited to play and eager to impress. “The first day I joined, I was terrified,” said Shmidman. “I

specifically remember telling my mom after the first practice that all I wanted was for Coach Gilad to yell at me because it would mean I was good and that he cared enough to make me a better tennis player. Gilad still reminds me of that until this day.” While of course Bloom did not yell at her, he did care enough to make her a better tennis player and she has become a staple in his programming. “From the first time I met Jordana, it was clear she was passionate about tennis,” added Bloom. “She always shows up with enthusiasm and a smile, and is thirsty for instructions. Jordana is a very social person and is always very friendly to the other students, and as a coach, that’s very rewarding.” She had wanted to play with Bloom since the first time she started playing, and that desire has created a very motivated player who has demonstrated progress in the time since she began practicing in Bloom’s program. “I would hear him coaching from the other court when I was playing. He was a tough coach but his students were talented and I wanted to be one of them so badly,” she said. “I wasn’t too good when I first joined, but even after just a month, I had made so much progress. Now it’s been two

BEYOND THE BASELINE BEYOND THE years and I can’t stop going. I love it. He brings out the best in each of his students and pushes us to be the best possible versions of ourselves.” Shmidman is excited to continue playing and keep progressing as she works with Bloom to become both a better tennis player but also a better person. She is a shining example of the positive impact tennis can have. “What I love most about tennis is the community I’ve surrounded myself in,” said Shmidman. “The other kids in my clinic are brilliant and the coaches are wonderful. I love the feeling of working hard and improving. Though I don’t always play my best, I always come out of each practice feeling happy.” Despite her feeling like she doesn’t always play her best, she is using tennis to be the best version of herself and make a profound impact on causes that mean a lot to her, which is clearly evidenced by the fundraiser she held. As Shmidman moves through her sophomore year of high school, she is committed to working hard on and off the court, and is embracing the training and practice habits she has learned under Bloom. “He continues to amaze me with his fantastic stories and hidden talents,” she added. “It’s truly an honor to be his student, and I’m so lucky to be able to call him my coach. He took a chance on me in the beginning when I wasn’t too good. Gilad is an amazing coach and a great role model.” Brian Coleman is the Senior Editor for New York Tennis Magazine. He may be reached at brianc@usptennis.com.

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

Your 2024 Guide to New York Tennis Magazine’s

Top Clubs & Programs

New York tennis players have great choices when it comes to where to play tennis. We have compiled a list of some of the top clubs and programs 32 New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com with descriptions of what each has to offer.

Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning 1720 Crotona Avenue l Bronx, N.Y. l (718) 247-7420 CaryLeedsInfo@NYJTL.org The Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning houses a two-story, 12,000square foot clubhouse, educational spaces, and access to 20 courts (10 bubbled for winter/indoor use) and two stadium courts that seat up to 800 spectators. Led by a world-class team of tennis professionals offering programs and private lessons for juniors and adults of all skill levels, the Center also hosts summer camps, tournaments and community-based events. The Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning is the flagship home of New York Junior Tennis & Learning (NYJTL), the largest youth tennis and education non-profit in the nation. In serving its larger mission, the Cary Leeds Center provides 6,000 hours of free tennis court time to the community.

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

CaryLeedsTennis.org

Centercourt® Tennis Academy 222 N Passaic Ave. l Chatham, N.J. 07960 (973) 855-3111 l Conrad@CentercourtClub.com Centercourt Tennis Academy boasts the toughest playground in the Northeast and has created a true culture of excellence as proven by results: 3 CTA players making the Wimbledon Junior Finals from 2019-2022. The quality and intensity of programs, the daily in-person academic support, and the personalized competitive scheduling as well as hosting a full calendar of UTR/ITA tournaments monthly, makes Centercourt Tennis Academy the top choice. Coaches Our coaches have walked the pathway and take pride in delivering only the best cutting edge Player Development Programs which are personalized to the needs of each athlete. Centercourt’s methodology is well-proven with the number of top players coming from our programs. Our specialized approach, teamwork, world-class facilities makes Centercourt a great place to call home. Our world-class staff of coaches are proven globally in the industry and boast decades of experience at the highest levels. Academics Centercourt encourages a tennis culture of excellence and places a strong emphasis and focus on academics and work ethic. Centercourt’s scholar- athletes have committed to play collegiate tennis at strong academic institutions such as many of the Ivy League Colleges and other top D1 schools. Centercourt offers schooling through ICL Academy, K12, Laurel Springs and The Dwight School. Centercourt’s point of difference is our on-site teachers who work individually with each student-athlete. We firmly believe in communication between the players, parents and coaches and that players need to be developed holistically to become the best they can be. Competition We believe that Competition is the backbone to development with players competing locally, nationally and at ITF level regularly. Centercourt’s full- time athletes become proficient in Technical through the use of our SMAP Video Analysis Programs and also undertake regular seminars on Mental Toughness, Match Analytics, Nutrition and other key areas of development as well as bringing in guest speakers often. Centercourt® Pathway The pathway starts early with our specialist NEW! Red Ball Development Center. We have a dedicated area for young players to become athletes under specialist coaching. The foundations of Elite Players are formed through Technical and Tactical skill development using key footwork patterns and cutting edge teaching methods in conjunction with our established curriculum.

November/December 2024 2023 • NYTennisMag.com • NYTennisMag.com 34 New York Tennis Magazine • January/February

Centercourtcta.com

Chris Lewit Tennis Academy 3997 VT-100 l Londonderry, Vt. l (914) 462-2912 Chris@ChrisLewit.com l YouTube.com/Chris Lewit Chris Lewit Tennis Academy (CLTA) is a serious high performance academy set in the natural paradise of Vermont. The club offers European style red clay courts and indoor hard courts, gym and clubhouse. We never get rained out! Families love to visit nearby Manchester, Vermont, known internationally as a mountain tourist destination for its quaint village and charming shops and restaurants. We are also looking for families to move to Manchester full-time to train with Chris personally every day! CLTA offers year-round full-time training, short-term training, and a world-famous high performance boarding summer camp. All players get to work on court directly with Chris. Chris is not just a figurehead; he is active on court working with players in the trenches daily. That’s what makes CLTA unique and special, and that’s why players come to train with Chris from all over the world. Chris Lewit is one of leading high-performance junior development coaches in the United States. Author of the bestselling book, The Secrets of Spanish Tennis, Chris has spent the last 17 years studying with many of the legendary coaches in Spain and Europe. He brings the most cutting-edge training methods from Europe back to the U.S. for his students. Chris is known as an expert in technique and biomechanics, and in Spanish training methods. He has recently coached the number 1 player in the US and gold ball winner Maggie Sohns, Ukrainian phenom Vlada Hranchar, and numerous top 10 nationally-ranked juniors, one Little Mo National champ Elana Zaretsky, and one national finalist Henry Holtz, and many elite players now graduating to the pro circuit. He also has unmatched experience building the foundations of young prodigies. CLTA offers a unique teaching system based on the Bruguera Method, Toni Nadal Method, and the system of William Pato Alvarez—all from legendary coaches in Spain. Chris is one of the only coaches in the world who has attained certification in these three systems, and he brings unparalleled experience to this who want to train authentically the Spanish Way. Chris is known internationally for his expertise in technique and biomechanics, and he is currently studying for an advanced degree in kinesiology. CLTA features cutting edge sports science, athletic assessment and training, talent identification, injury prevention, high speed video technical analysis, and more. Come experience the best in Spanish training or technical/biomechanical development year-round at the CLTA. You will be treated like part of the family!

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

CourtSense Tennis Training Centers at Tenafly and Bogota Racquet Club 195 County Road l Tenafly, N.J. l (201) 366-2317 156 W. Main St. l Bogota, N.J. l (201) 366-2898 CourtSense offers the most up to date tennis facilities in Northern New Jersey and provides a comprehensive program of tennis instruction delivered by professional full-time coaches, using the finest techniques and technologies. With CourtSense, you’ll achieve your personal best, because our training is of the highest professional caliber—and easily tailored to suit your age and skill level. Children under 10 years of age benefit immensely from a proper training foundation—eliminating poor techniques that could limit their game later in life. We love helping juniors and adults achieve their goals on and off the tennis courts, and our ultimate goal is for everyone that steps into our facilities to learn something new while leaving with a smile on their face. CourtSense Tennis Training Centers have a whole range of activities to support junior and adult tennis lovers. From red-ball tennis and afterschool clinics to high-performance full-day program including a partnership with the Dwight School and ICL Academy, Hit to Fit tennis, internal and USTA leagues, and private and group sessions, we have something to suit everyone. CourtSense students have access to 15 indoor tennis courts with new LED lighting, world-class strength and conditioning centers and luxury players’ lounges. The indoor facilities have also been updated with state-of-the-art UVGI systems that are constantly sanitizing the air inside the facilities and making sure that air is of the highest quality. CourtSense’s club in Bogota, N.J. primarily specializes on the high-performance and tournament players. We have worked with players who have become ATP- and WTA-ranked players, U.S. Olympians, as well as many college scholarship athletes, and currently work with some of the top juniors in the Eastern Section. CourtSense’s high-performance coaches, in collaboration with its fitness staff, have developed a program that maximizes athletes’ strengths, both on and off the court. The goal is to use tennis as a vehicle to teach life lessons by tapping into the spirit of every player, with passion, expertise and character. We want our juniors to be the best tennis players they can possibly be, but at the same time, be prepared to be successful in anything they want to be once their tennis careers are over. Another unique aspect to the CourtSense’s facilities is the fitness programming provided in partnership with Magnus – Sports Performance. Magnus’ team has the ability to assess, correct, enhance and reassess an athlete–giving you everything you need to compete at the best of one’s abilities. For more information on CourtSense programs, call (201) 366-2317 and (201) 366-2898 or e-mail Info@CourtSense.com. Registration is now open for the winter and summer sessions at www.courtsense.com.

CourtSense.com

New York Tennis Magazine • November/December January/February 2024 2023 • NYTennisMag.com • NYTennisMag.com

Evert Tennis Academy 10334 Diego Drive South l Boca Raton, Fla. 516-488-2001 l brendan.conroy@EvertAcademy.com The Evert Tennis Academy (ETA) is located in the Mission Bay area of Boca Raton, Fla. With 23 courts, pristine grounds, state-of-the-art-equipment, a caring staff and family atmosphere combine to make ETA a beautiful and unique training environment. As the proud home to more than 15 Grand Slam participants and over 100 Division I college athletes, the Evert Tennis Academy has a proven record of success in developing champions at the highest levels. Chris Evert, tennis legend and winner of 18 Grand Slam titles, and John Evert, world-renowned developmental coach and academy director, believe in designing personalized programs that consist of a strategic balance between technical, tactical, mental and physical training. They pride themselves on handpicking some of the finest developmental coaches working in the sport who are dedicated to the instruction, development and success of each athlete Academy and Developmental Programs The Academy Program at Evert systematically addresses every aspect of a player’s game through a daily regimen of technical, tactical, mental and physical training. The Morning Training Session is composed of drilling, and strength and conditioning. The program is continued in the afternoon with a focus towards competition and tactics. The Developmental Program at Evert Tennis Academy is designed to take players to the next level by providing a very exclusive, individualized program and the difference between it and the Academy Program lies within the daily 1:1 lesson. Boarding students age 18 and younger enrolled in the Full-Time, Weekly or Camp programs, stay in our on-campus three-story dormitory. Each dorm room houses up to two students during the school year and up to four students during Camp and Summer Sessions with boys and girls being housed in separate buildings. Evert Tennis Academy conveniently provides one-on-one airport transportation for its boarding students, for a fee (subject to change), to all three area international airports: (PBI) West Palm Beach (35 minutes), (FLL) Fort Lauderdale (35 minutes), (MIA) Miami International (55 minutes). All transportation coordination is handled directly through the Academy, making it stress-free and easy for you. Please contact Evert Tennis Academy at (561) 488- 2001 for more information or e-mail brendan.conroy@EvertAcademy.com

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

EvertAcademy.com

Gilad Bloom Tennis (914) 907-0041 Bloom.Gilad@gmail.com Gilad Bloom Tennis has been operating in New York City since 2000 and is a boutique junior program geared for juniors ages six through 18, who want to take their game to the next level. It is a year-round program which offers group sessions, private lessons and tournament travel, seven days a week. The program is personally run by Gilad Bloom, there's a strong emphasis on technique and footwork, and a lot of personal attention, as well as attention to detail, with a maximum of four kids per court. During the outdoor tennis season, Gilad Bloom Tennis runs sessions at Riverdale Tennis Club between April-October, and in October, it moves indoors to New York Tennis Club Indoors until April. Gilad Bloom Tennis' Advanced Group Sessions meet Monday through Thursday from 5-7:00 p.m. and every Saturday from 2-4:00 p.m. Groups for players aged 4-7 year-olds meets on weekdays from 4-5:00 p.m. Bloom is a former Israeli Davis Cup player and two-time Olympian, who has been running his own tennis program since 2000. Gilad served as director of tennis at John McEnroe Tennis Academy for two years. He played on the ATP Tour from 1983-1995, reaching the fourth round of the U.S. Open in 1990. Gilad reached a career-high singles ranking of 61st in the world and was Israel’s singles champion on three occasions. For more information, visit GiladBloom.com or e-mail Gilad Bloom directly at Bloom.Gilad@gmail.com.

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

GiladBloom.com

Gotham/Stadium NYC 725 Exterior Street at East 152nd Street and the Harlem River Bronx, N.Y. l (718) 665-4684 Gotham Stadium NYC is located just minutes from Manhattan, several blocks south of Yankee Stadium at East 152nd Street and the Harlem River. This popular facility is quickly shaking its label as “the best-kept secret in New York City tennis,” featuring 16 cushioned, US Openstyle Deco-Turf hard courts, including 12 indoor courts, which are open for indoor play from October through April. The “Gotham Stadium Bubble” continues to reign as one of the largest tennis bubbles or tennis domes of this type in the world, covering an area of more than four million cubic feet and a footprint of more than 75,000-square feet. The “Bubble” features high 65 ft indoor ceilings and spacious backcourts. These offerings please the playing public and aspiring junior players from throughout the metropolitan NYC region including beginners and advanced beginners, intermediate and advanced tournament level, interscholastic and collegiate players who train and compete at and call Stadium Tennis Center their “home court.” Stadium Tennis Center also offers complimentary on-site parking to the north of the facility. The on-site Clubhouse will welcome you to host special events, birthday parties, and tennis gatherings for all of your family and friends, and the updated Pro Shop offers all your tennis necessities. The Clubhouse also features clean, secure locker rooms and lounge areas, Wi-Fi computer access, a workspace where children can do schoolwork and read. This highly-touted facility offers a full complement of tennis programs for juniors and adults of all skill levels and ages. In partnership with Gotham Tennis Academy, a leader in developing and operating tennis programs in New York City and the Hamptons, Stadium Tennis Center employs high level, experienced tennis professionals from all over the world who have established a strong sense of ownership in the success of the total Stadium Team. Stadium’s Elite High Performance and Junior Development Programs including the Gotham Stadium NYC Summer Camp and the 10 & Under Junior Program are proven programs that get results in a fun, supportive atmosphere. For adult players, fast-paced group clinics, liveball and cardio tennis workouts are offered daily, in addition to indoor seasonal court rentals, private lessons, gamearranging, and leagues. For more information about Stadium Tennis Center at Mill Pond Park, visit StadiumTennisNYC.com or call (718) 6654684.

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

StadiumTennisNYC.com

Manhattan Plaza Racquet Club 450 West 43rd Street l New York, N.Y. Between 9th & 10th Avenue off of 43rd Street.

(212) 594-0554 Open Every Day 6am-Midnight MPRC offers year-round temperature-controlled indoor tennis with five beautifully surfaced hard courts in the heart of Manhattan. Come check out our: • Private Lessons and Group Lessons for all ages and levels • Game-Arranging • Leagues • Kids Tennis Camps • Doubles and Singles Match Play • Tournaments • Stringing Services • Locker Rooms • Indoor Parking available on the premises MPRC membership includes a full membership to Manhattan Plaza Health Club which allows access to • Fitness Classes • Climbing Wall • A Gym • Glass-Enclosed Swimming Pool • Sauna and Steam Room MPRC offers several categories of membership, including the Advantage Passport MultiClub Membership to Roosevelt Island Racquet Club & Sports Park and the New York Tennis Club. Call now at (212) 594-0554 to explore Advantage Tennis Clubs Passport Membership or for more information about any of our offerings!

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

AdvantageTennisClubs.com

MatchPoint NYC 2781 Shell Road l Brooklyn, N.Y. l (718) 769-0001 MatchPoint.NYC 2350 East 69th Street l Brooklyn, N.Y. l (718) 444-3600 MatchPointComplex@gmail.com 9000 Bay Parkway l Brooklyn, N.Y. (718) 372-9000 l MatchPoint.NYC MatchPoint NYC is the sports and fitness destination for the entire family, located in Brooklyn, N.Y. only 20 minutes away from downtown Manhattan. Spread across 120,000-square-feet, MatchPoint’s premier health and fitness complex features a cutting-edge tennis facility that includes nine indoor tennis courts. MatchPoint’s Tennis Coaching Team is led by Numrud Nino Muhatasov, co-founder and director of MatchPoint NYC (a former coach of top WTA and ATP players, former captain and number one singles and doubles player for the St. John’s University Tennis Team, Big East Conference Finalist and two-time Most Valuable Player), together with featured Coach Alona Bondarenko (Australian Open Doubles Champion in 2008, ranked in the top 20 in the world in singles and top five in the world in doubles) and Head Pro Alexander Demidenko (Davis Cup Team Member, head coach of the former USSR Girls National Team). MatchPoint NYC’s world-class junior tournament training programs (by invitation only) are comprised of highly-ranked players on national and international levels. The club offers personalized coaching for each player, plus private lessons, intensive drills, match play, tennis-specific fitness conditioning and mental conditioning. MatchPoint has a wide range of programs for all levels, including adult leagues, QuickStart, Junior Development (beginner, intermediate, and advanced) and private lessons taught by accredited USPTA-certified coaches. MatchPoint NYC’s WiFi-enabled Café is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Relax and unwind after a game, grab a bite to eat or relax while you watch your child on the court. Enjoy a healthy snack or get refreshed with a smoothie at the juice bar. Stop by the Pro Shop if you forgot something or if you need your racquet restrung. Free parking is also offered on premises. Additional club features include a luxury full-sized gym, three group fitness studios, a Junior Olympic pool, a basketball court and a variety of youth and adult recreational and competitive training programs. MatchPoint NYC-certified instructors and personal trainers are friendly, approachable and ready to assist in your individual fitness objectives. The group swimming and exercise classes in Matchpoint’s specialized studios or outdoor field, health metrics assessments, and one-on-one training will get you the desired results in your quest for a healthier lifestyle. Complete your day of health and fitness by winding down and relaxing in the steam sauna. Join MatchPoint NYC and FIND YOUR GAME!

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

MatchPoint.NYC

New York Tennis Club 3081 Harding Avenue l Throgs Neck (Bronx), N.Y. (718) 239-7919 Founded in 1886, New York Tennis Club is the oldest active tennis club in New York. With six HarTru courts in a quiet corner of The City. A short, thirty minute drive from both the Upper East Side and the Upper West Side, NYTC is a tennis lover’s respite from the hustle and bustle of our daily city grind.

Come check out our: • Free Parking • Adult Programs • Game Arranging • USTA Sanctioned Tournaments • Advanced Junior Development Program • Updated Clubhouse and Lounge • Locker Rooms • Stringing Services Passport memberships includes free summer court time on reserved courts at Roosevelt Island Racquet Club (RIRC) and New York Tennis Club, plus membership privileges at Manhattan Plaza Racquet Club. Call now at (718) 239-7919 to book court time and explore our offerings!

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

AdvantageTennisClubs.com

Roosevelt Island Racquet Club 281 Main Street l Roosevelt Island, N.Y. Take the F train from Manhattan or Queens to Roosevelt Island or take the tram 60th Street at 1st Avenue.

(212) 935-0250 Open Every Day 7am-Midnight New York City’s oasis on Roosevelt Island with temperaturecontrolled indoor tennis all year round. The Club features 12 well-maintained HarTru courts and an expansive and comfortable clubhouse. Easily accessible and just minutes by train and by tram from both Manhattan and Long Island City Roosevelt Island is still an undiscovered secret for great indoor tennis facilities for both Manhattan and Astoria. Come check out our: • Beginner Tennis Lessons • Intermediate Group Lessons • Advanced Match Play • Cardio Tennis • Game Arranging • Social Parties • Junior Development Program for any skill level of children 4-17 years old • Summer Camps • Comfortable Lounge • Locker Rooms • Gym and Fitness Area • Stringing Services • Free Parking Advantage Tennis Clubs’ Passport membership includes free summer court time on reserved courts at Roosevelt Island Racquet Club (RIRC) and New York Tennis Club, plus membership privileges at Manhattan Plaza Racquet Club Call now at (212) 935-0250 to explore Advantage Tennis Clubs Passport Membership or for more information about any of our offerings!

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

RIRCTennis.com

Ross School Tennis Center 20 Goodfriend Drive l East Hampton, N.Y. TennisCenter@Ross.org l (631) 907-5162 Ross School Tennis Center (RSTC) is the premiere training center in the Hamptons, boasting a beautiful tennis facility that is open to the public and located on the Ross Upper School Campus in East Hampton, N.Y. The Tennis Center features six HarTru courts that are enclosed by a bubble from mid-fall through mid-spring, allowing for year-round play. The Tennis Center features state-of-the-art amenities such as spacious locker rooms, lower level lounge, convenient snack bar, and ping-pong tables, and the staff provides a fun and supportive atmosphere that allows for the greatest amount of success. After-school programming, a dynamic program for junior players, and specialized summer programs are offered to make Ross Tennis Center the place to play tennis in the Hamptons. After-school Programs (Pre-K–Grade 12) • Nursery–Grade 4: Specialized one-hour training program where players build a strong foundation through a variety of game-based and cooperative activities using 10U age-appropriate (Red, Orange, or Green) balls and nets that will prepare them for eventual full-court play. • Grade 5–Grade 12: Players build off their 10U foundation to further develop fundamental skills and techniques as they transition into yellow balls and prepare for full-court tournament competition. Ball control, strategy, and work ethic are all emphasized in this 90-minute session of drills and point play. Players in kindergarten and higher are required to play twice per week in this program. • RSTA Yellow+ is for players over 12 years old who play either on a JV or Varsity school team. There will be practice every day for two hours after school. Tryouts can also be evaluated by an RSTA coach if you are not yet a team member. Participation at both UTR and USTA tournaments is encouraged but not a requirement. • Lessons and Court Rentals: Ross Tennis Center also offers adult clinics, court rentals, and private and group instruction for all ages and levels. The Tennis Center is also used for a variety of special events and is available for private parties.

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

Ross.org/Tennis

SPORTIME Randall’s Island Home of the John McEnroe Tennis Academy and the Johnny Mac Tennis Project

1 Randall’s Island l New York, N.Y. (212) 427-6150 l NYC@SportimeNY.com SPORTIME Randall’s Island is now the largest and best indoor tennis club and training facility in the world, featuring 30 climate-controlled, hard and soft-surface courts, housed in buildings and bubbles. The club now also offers 12 hybrid pickleball courts. Located on Randall’s Island in Manhattan, the club is the flagship location of the John McEnroe Tennis Academy (JMTA). SPORTIME Randall’s Island features more than 250,000 square feet of tennis courts and amenities, including 11 indoor and five indoor/outdoor Laykold tennis courts, 7 indoor HarTru soft-surface clay tennis courts, and 7 indoor/outdoor HarTru clay tennis courts that feature HiQ sub-irrigation technology. All indoor/outdoor courts, including a stadium court, are lighted at night when outdoors. This extraordinary club also features: a functional training and fitness center; comfortable lounge areas with excellent viewing; a pro shop featuring top brands and 24-hour stringing; spacious locker rooms; a café serving healthy food, snacks and beverages; and classrooms, party rooms and meeting facilities. In addition to tennis, SPORTIME Randall’s Island offers 12 beautiful, new Pickleball courts on which players of all ages and skill levels can learn, compete or just play for fun with friends. Program offerings include instructional clinics, social open play sessions and competitive tournaments throughout the year. Our NYC pickleball facility is also the ideal venue for pickleball events such as birthday parties, corporate outings and professional competitions. In 2010, SPORTIME and New York tennis legend John McEnroe launched JMTA at SPORTIME Randall’s Island. The Academy is led by New York tennis legend Patrick McEnroe, assisted by SPORTIME’s Executive Director of Tennis, Mike Barrell, and joined by Director of Sports Performance, Richard-John Mensing Jr. and many other world-class directors. The athletic development and tennis coaching staff includes more than 55 experienced professionals from around the world, selected by the SPORTIME/JMTA leadership team, who implement the innovative and unique vision of JMTA. SPORTIME/JMTA is proud to have developed hundreds of players who have received scholarships or favored admission to top colleges and universities through their tennis. In addition to world-class group training for top juniors, SPORTIME offers a wide variety of programming for players of all ages and levels, including SPORTIME Bounce for preschoolers, JMTA’s trademarked Mac Red Ball and Mac Orange Ball programs for younger, developing players, and the best group programming and facilities in New York City for adult players. Also based at SPORTIME Randall’s Island is the Johnny Mac Tennis Project (JMTP), a 501(c)(3) organization, which, in partnership with SPORTIME, provides scholarships to motivated and deserving young players and introduces the sport of tennis as a lifelong health, fitness and social activity to thousands of under-resourced New York City area kids.

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

SportimeNY.com/NYC

USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center Flushing Meadows Corona Park l Flushing, N.Y. (718) 760-6200 The USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, home of the US Open Tennis Championships, is the largest public tennis facility in the world. It is, most certainly, a “Tennis Welcome Center.” The Tennis Center is open to the public year-round for court rentals and offers exciting programming, as well as numerous events throughout the year. Programs are offered for all ages and levels, as well as clinics, private lessons, leagues, tours, field trips, summer camps, corporate events, birthday parties, and tournaments. The NTC also supports all USTA Community Tennis and Player Development initiatives. The professional staff of the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center also conducts community tennis programs, including 11 & Under Tennis for children 11 years of age and under to learn tennis in a fun and dynamic way; USTA Junior Team Tennis for youth match play; USTA League Tennis for competitive, level-of-play competition, and an official Cardio Tennis site for on-court heart-pumping fitness. There is an extensive summer camp program which provides basic tennis instruction starting as young as 11 and under up through and including Academy level players. Camps include instruction and fitness programs; the encouragement of good sportsmanship leading to general character building for the children of all ages and levels. These services are provided at a nominal cost, making it affordable for youngsters who would not otherwise get the chance to attend camp or receive tennis instruction. Lastly, the Project ACES (Alternative Classroom Environment for Students), implemented at the NTC in 2009, is geared towards children from schools from the New York City Metropolitan Area. This program provides students the opportunity to visit the NTC and learn about the history and the game of tennis. The kids are given a tour of the entire site, including Center Court in Ashe, a video presentation on the history of tennis and the great players of the sport, followed by an hour of on-court tennis instruction.

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

NTC.USTA.com

COMING IN MARCH

Distribution scheduled for 03/05/24 This edition will feature: • Guide to the Top Tennis Camps • Guide to the Top Court Builders & Manufacturers • Boys’ High School Tennis Preview • 2024 Australian Open Recap

Print distribution across New York at 300+ locations. Digital distribution across website and social media pages, and the e-Edition will be e-mailed out to our full data base.

Don’t miss the advertising opportunities in the next edition of New York Tennis Magazine March/April 2024! Facebook-www.Facebook.com/NewYorkTennis Instagram-@NYTennisMag • Twitter-@NYTennisMag

COMING IN MARCH: CAMP GUIDE & COURT BUILDERS GUIDE Submissions for both advertising and editorial are due by February 1, 2024 NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine 47 For more information, please call 516-409-4444 or e-mail Advertise@NYTennisMag.com

he 2024 Australian Open will run from Sunday, January 7 through Sunday, January 28 and serve as the year’s first major tournament. As we prepare for a new year of professional tennis, Long Island Tennis Magazine breaks down some Contenders, Pretenders and Sleepers:

Contenders - Men’s Singles Novak Djokovic The greatest player of all-time will be seeking another major title when he arrives in Australia, and he enters this year’s event as a pretty heavy betting favorite. Djokovic has won the last four titles Down Under that he has played in, and in his career has 10 total. Djokovic will be seeking to expand on his record as he pursues his 25th career major, and if someone wants to dethrone the Serb, they will have to take it from him, as Djokovic’s championship mentality is as strong as ever. Jannik Sinner When we enter a new season on the ATP and WTA Tours, its fun to look at some of the top players and see who has a legitimate chance of winning their first major. On the men’s side, look no further than Jannik Sinner. The 22-year-old Italian continues his ascent and enjoyed the best year of his career in 2023, creating momentum he hopes to bring into this year. Sinner ended his season on a high note, defeating Novak Djokovic at the ATP Finals and reaching the championship match of that event before then leading the Italian team to the Davis Cup title. Sinner finally broke through into the semifinals of a major last year, reaching the final four at Wimbledon, but has only reached the quarterfinals of the other three majors, including at the 2022 Australian Open. He is one of the hardest hitters on tour which will translate well to the fast courts Down Under, and he has seemed to find the right coaching staff to get the most out of his game after bringing on Darren Cahill, which bodes well for his chances to win this year’s Australian Open.

Contenders - Women’s Singles Aryna Sabalenka The second-ranked woman in the world will enter this year’s Australian Open in an unfamiliar position: as the defending champion. Sabalenka won her first major a year ago and will now set out to win it for the second 48

consecutive time. One of the biggest hitters on the women’s side, Sabalenka has the type of game that is perfect for the first major of the season, which makes her a favorite once again. Sabalenka’s struggles with her serve seem to be in the rearview mirror now. She followed up her Aussie title last year by winning in Madrid, and then reached the finals of the U.S. Open. Sabalenka has shown she can win on the biggest stages, and has the game that allows her to hit through anyone, making her a strong favorite to open up the year defending her Aussie title. Iga Swiatek It’s strange to say, but Iga Swiatek did not have the typical dominant season we have become accustomed to, especially in comparison to 2022. But she still managed to win six titles, capture another French Open title and finish the year as the world number one, and is unequivocally still one of the most dominant players on tour. Swiatek was bounced early in Melbourne a year ago, falling to Elena Rybakina in the fourth round, but the year prior she reached the semifinals, and is poised to go further this time around. Despite an early exit at the U.S. Open, Swiatek finished her year in strong fashion, winning the China Open and finishing her season by dominating the WTA Finals, not losing a single set throughout the event to reestablish her position atop the women’s game. Now that she has regained the #1 spot in the WTA Rankings, look for an even more motivated Swiatek in 2024, which will begin with her pursuit of her first Australian Open title.

Pretenders - Men’s Singles Taylor Fritz For the last couple of years, while holding the highest ranking amongst Americans, Taylor Fritz has held the mantle of the best American man on the ATP Tour while holding the highest ranking. However, Fritz is still searching for Grand Slam success, at least consistently, and that struggle may continue when we begin the season at the Australian Open. Fritz has never made it out of the fourth round of this event, and that result, in 2022, is the only time he even made it to the fourth round. Fritz has never been able to find his rhythm Down Under, he was defeated in the third round in 2023, and the top-ranked American could be in for another early exit in 2024. Andrey Rublev The notion that a player can’t win “the big one” is an often used cliché that exists across all sports. For Andrey Rublev,

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

that applies to him playing in Grand Slam quarterfinals. Nine different times Rublev has reached the final eight at the majors, and all nine times he lost. Each has its own circumstances, and you never want to label someone as not being clutch enough to win the important matches, but the numbers don’t lie. Rublev has consistently been in the Top 10 and is undoubtedly one of the best players in the world, but his inability to win in the latter stages of the majors has been a consistent theme, and something that could persist at the 2024 Australian Open.

Pretenders - Women’s Singles Jessica Pegula Similar to Andrey Rublev, American Jessica Pegula seems to save her worst tennis for the quarterfinal stages of majors. The American is 0-6 in her career when playing in the final eight of Grand Slams, and that includes three consecutive quarterfinal losses at the Australian Open. She has been a consistent player for the last several years now, consistently ranked inside the Top 10, and enters the year as the fifth-ranked player in the world. When the ranking is that high and you have been so close before, expectations are different, and she has to show us she can win a quarterfinal before she can be considered a threat to win a major. Ons Jabeur The greatest player to ever come from Africa, Ons Jabeur, has been such a consistent force in the women’s game over the last several seasons. The Tunisian has reached three Grand Slam finals in her career, and has the game style, with her craft and variety, that can frustrate the power players she goes up against. But she has not been successful in her career at the Australian Open; in fact, it has been historically her worst event. She made the quarterfinals once, back in 2020, but other than that it has all been first, second and thirdround exits for Jabeur, including a second-round departure a year ago. Jabeur has established herself as one of the best players on tour, but her lack of success at the Aussie Open is a trend that could continue into the new season.

Sleepers - Men’s Singles Ben Shelton The darling of the 2023 U.S. Open actually burst onto the scene on the other side of the world last year. At the Australian Open, in just his second career major, he powered his way into the quarterfinals, which really opened up the eyes of tennis fans to what he could do. A few months later, Shelton was thrust into the spotlight

when he reached the semifinals at the U.S. Open. With more experience and a fresh start to the season, Shelton could be due for another deep run Down Under. Alex de Minaur Competing in your home country for a Grand Slam comes with a lot of expectations, and players can either crumble or thrive under the pressure that it creates. For Alex de Minaur, he will look to do the latter, and use the backing the home fans to make a deep run this year. De Minaur is the highestranked Australian player and is aiming to post his best result yet in Melbourne. For the last two years, he has reached the fourth-round but that’s where his runs ended, losing to Jannik Sinner in 2022 and then Novak Djokovic in 2023. Currently ranked 12th, De Minaur will be out to represent his country in grand fashion, and try to become the first Australian man to win the event since 1976.

Sleepers - Women’s Singles Karolina Muchova Perhaps the best player on the women’s tour that mainstream tennis fans don’t know about is the Czech Republic’s Karolina Muchova. The hard-hitting Muchova had a resurgent season in 2023, climbing 100 spots in the early part of the year following an injury-riddled 2022 campaign. Muchova reached the finals of the French Open and then the semifinals of U.S. Open and currently finds herself ranked eighth in the world as we head into 2024. Before injuries stifled her progress in 2022, Muchova was a semifinalist at the 2021 Australian Open, and should be one of the event’s favorites. Caroline Garcia In the middle part of 2023, Caroline Garcia peaked at number four in the world rankings and was seemingly destined to make a deep run at one of the majors. At the end of 2022, she was a semifinalist at the U.S. Open which led many to believe her 2023 season would build on that. It didn’t work out that way, however. She did reach the fourthround of the Australian Open to begin the season, but was inconsistent for much of the rest of the season, which has resulted in her dropping nearly all the way out of the Top 20. Garcia has a fantastic forehand and an extremely aggressive game which causes her to hit many winners but also commits unforced errors. If she can find the consistency and the form from the end of 2022, Garcia is a major threat to win the 2024 Australian Open.

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

Key Nutritional Concepts for Tennis Players By Daniel Deymonnaz Apud

ll of us should have a healthy and varied diet to provide us with the nutrients we need to be healthy, feel good and have energy. For an athlete, food is also essential for: • Increase in physical performance • Faster recovery • Have fewer injuries and illnesses

The ideal diet for an athlete is not very different from the recommendations suggested for any healthy person. The basis is the same: eat varied, nutritious foods and in the right amount, according to our individual needs. Then, depending on the level of activity as well as the intensity, we will have to adjust some requirements. Complex or slow absorption carbohydrates Carbohydrates provide us with the energy for the body to function properly. They are stored in the form of glycogen, mainly in the muscles and liver, to be used when the body needs them. Slow absorption carbohydrates are mainly present in potatoes, sweet potatoes, cereals (wheat, rice, oats...) or legumes. This type provides us with energy slowly. Then there are those of fast absorption: they are the simple sugars (present in honey, fruit, juices, sweetened drinks...) useful in the athlete when they need fast 50

energy when the reserves have been exhausted. Fruit sugars are natural and are therefore the healthiest. Moderate the consumption of sugars present in ultra-processed products. Proteins Proteins have several functions in our body among which are muscle contraction, repair and formation of body tissues and hormonal. The following are sources of proteins: meat, eggs, legumes or vegetable protein, fish, dairy products, eggs and poultry. It is recommended to limit the consumption of red meat as well as the intake of sausages and processed meats such as bacon, chorizo, etc. and to prioritize other healthier sources. Healthy fats Not all fats are the same. The most beneficial are those that provide us with the so-called omega 3, which have an anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective function. They are found in olive oil, avocado, blue fish such as salmon and nuts. When the body needs energy, it first consumes glycogen, but after that, energy is obtained from fats. They also help to keep warm and form cell membranes that help to absorb certain vitamins. Water

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

Water is very important and should be our main source of hydration, yet the most forgotten by athletes. It is essential to keep the body hydrated and at the proper temperature. The body can lose several liters of sweat during an hour of intense exercise. Without good hydration, no matter how we eat, the body will not be able to perform well. Now that we know which foods we should eat more often than others, how do I organize my meals? Half of the plate should have fruits and vegetables, a quarter should have a source of healthy proteins, and the other quarter should feature carbohydrates, including healthy fats, and water as the main drink. This is how the general population should distribute plates in order to eat in a balanced way (always adjusting quantities according to age). Although it is not necessary to apply this distribution strictly in each intake (and sometimes it is not possible), it should serve as a basis for the distribution of nutrients throughout the day and in the main meals. In the daily routine of an athlete, a diet based on the above should be followed. However, it is necessary to adapt it on specific occasions of intense training or

competitions where the requirements increase and it is necessary to provide the body with what it needs. Before a match • Hydration: the ideal is to arrive at training sessions and matches in a good state of hydration, which implies drinking water on a daily basis, not only when we feel thirsty (critical state). A good way to know our state is by observing the color of urine; it should not be very dark and concentrated which implies that we lack hydration. It is recommended to drink a glass of water every 15 minutes; and one hour and a half before the activity, and stop drinking for at least 30 minutes before, to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort. Dehydration causes an earlier

onset of fatigue and lowers performance. • Food: About 12-24 hours prior to a match, you must ensure the intake of a meal rich in carbohydrates and decrease physical activity to increase muscle glycogen stores, a source of energy. One option could be a plate of pasta, rice, potato... together with a source of proteins and vegetables. Pre-competition food It is essential to arrive nourished to a training or match. You should eat two-to-four hours before the match and have a diet rich in carbohydrates (2-4 gr/kg of weight), moderate in protein, low in fat to facilitate digestion, and low in fibrous foods to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort. Some good options would be: low-fat dairy products, some

cereal (oatmeal, wheat, rice, pasta, bread), along with a low-fat protein food (legume, chicken, fish, egg), fruit and water. Avoid fried foods, not very nutritious foods, fizzy drinks, very abundant meals as well as new foods. It is important to take into account the hours so as not to arrive at the matches with a full stomach so that digestion affects performance. During a match Food: In matches lasting more than 60 minutes, it is recommended to consume a small amount of food rich in carbohydrates to obtain energy since the deposits after this time have decreased considerably and muscle fatigue and decreased performance may begin. Some options may be a piece of fruit (banana, apple, grapes), fruit continued on page 52

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

key nutritional concepts for tennis players continued from page 51

smoothies, isotonic drinks, cereal bars, dried fruits (figs, raisins, dates) or rice pancakes. • Hydration: It is recommended to drink 150-200 ml of water every 15-20 minutes. We will also have to take into account the weather and adapt it individually. Ideally fresh water, not too cold for better absorption. When the exercise is longer than 75-90 minutes, it is recommended to drink isotonic beverages to replenish water, glycogen and electrolyte loss through sweat, which are very important for proper muscle function. It is important to take a good look at the composition of these drinks so that they adjust to our needs; they can also be homemade.

After the match After a very intense activity, the main needs to be covered are: • Recovery of glycogen with carbohydrates • Hydration • Reducing inflammation and muscle damage Within the first hour after the end of the match, it is very important to

hydrate and eat properly. Dairy products, fruit and cereals are easy to digest and would be an ideal choice. Later, in the next main meal, we must continue to restore muscle glycogen levels, so the food should be rich in carbohydrates and with some protein food to promote protein synthesis and muscle glycogen recovery.

Daniel Deymonnaz Apud is the Director at Pozuelo Tennis Club in Madrid, Spain, and is joinig Centercourt Tennis Academy in 2024. Daniel has a long history of working with Elite Players from Spain and Argentina and Works with ATP & WTA Pros. Daniel is the FOunder and Creator of Tennisfit method, which is widely used across Spain and has been recommended by the Madrid Tennis Federation. He has also developed multiple programs and is leading the way with his specialized CLA Methodology (Constraints Led Approach).

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914.462.2912 CHRIS@CHRISLEWIT.COM Chris with Elana Zaretsky, Top 10 USTA National Rank 52

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

What Is Red Ball Tennis? By Xavier Luna

any in the tennis world – fans, recreational players and professionals – have been interested in helping children ages 10 and under get into the game and have a positive experience right from the beginning. Red Ball Tennis offers exactly that. The pathway to success on the courts for the youngest players Red Ball Tennis is the equivalent of Little League baseball, AYSO soccer or youth basketball. Designed by the United States Tennis Association (USTA), the governing body of tennis in the United States, this innovative program was launched in 2008. All Red Ball programs, including ours at Advantage Tennis Clubs, include lessons and playing opportunities that aim to make tennis more accessible to children ages 4-10. Young players move quickly through a series of transitional stages. Customization makes the game accessible right away Graduated sizes of racquets, lowerbouncing balls and scaled-down court sizes create a game that is customized to each child’s age and ability The result? Players learn to rally faster and enjoy the game sooner. Children eventually move to full-court tennis and a lifelong love of the game. Red Ball is the world’s fastest-growing children’s tennis program, with more than 400 participating professionals and sites around the NYC Metro area alone!

Why Red Ball Tennis works The format overcomes the factors that intimidate young players: full-sized courts, and full-sized racquets. These hurdles put the game out of reach for

many, making tennis instruction more like a lesson in frustration! Red Ball is the polar opposite. It offers “real tennis,” scaled down for children in every way – from equipment to court size. Youngsters can start playing during their first lesson, making the game available, accessible and enjoyable. What better way to introduce boys and girls to the game! Stages of Junior Development play • Red 1: The first stage is for beginners ages 4-6. Customized for the smallest players, it features a 36’ x 18’ court, large red foam/felt balls and 19” racquets. The balls bounce lower and travel less distance. This means children can control the ball and racquet, develop proper swing technique and get a real sense of playing the game. • Red 2: This stage is for players ages 5 to 8 who can consistently hit the ball over the net with the instructor. Still using the smaller courts and 21” racquets, players now work with large red felt balls and learn basic technique for forehand, backhand, volley and serve. • Orange Ball: When children ages 6 to 9 can maintain an extended rally with the instructor and use basic tennis techniques, they move to the orange stage. Now they play on

larger courts, 60’ x 21’, with racquets that range from 23” to 25.” They also use a low-compression ball that travels a little faster and farther than in previous stages. Students are taught intermediate technique for footwork, net play, and serves as well as basic strategy, how to play points and keep score. • Green Ball: This stage is for students ages 8 to 12 who can rally, place the ball with intention, place the volley for winners when necessary and are beginning to understand strategy and tactics. Players move to regulation size courts and use green felt balls to continue learning the game for 6 to 18 months. In conclusion, Red Ball Tennis has successfully transformed the landscape of tennis for children aged 10 and under. Through customized equipment and scaled-down court sizes, Red Ball Tennis eliminates the barriers that typically intimidate young athletes, fostering a positive and enjoyable learning environment. As the world's fastest-growing children's tennis program, Red Ball Tennis has proven its effectiveness in making tennis not only accessible but also a source of lifelong enjoyment for the next generation of players. The success of this program underscores its pivotal role in introducing boys and girls to the game, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on their tennis journey.

Xavier Luna is the Director of Advantage Tennis Clubs’ Junior Tennis Programs. A coach for more than 35 years, Luna is a member of the Professional Tennis Registry and holds certification from USPTA. His players have gone on to play at such prestigious institutions as Harvard, Columbia, Princeton, Brown and more. He may be reached at xluna@advantagetennisclubs.com. NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

2023 New York Girls’ High S Beacon Girls’ Reclaim PSAL “A” Division City Title he title To round of New out the York singles City PSAL action, “A” Beacon’s Division Mia Girls’ Sarzynska Champions posted a 6has 4, 6-1 win at returned to third singles. Beacon Sarzynska after the secured a Blue crucial break Demons to go ahead defeated 5-4 in the Bronx opening set The Beacon girls’ are the NYC “A” Division Champions for the second time in three years Science 4-1 before in the city continuing title match. that Beacon was anchored by its senior leader momentum in the second set, and moving her team to Chantajah Mills, who once again delivered for her a 3-0 overall lead. team the way she had all season. Mills defeated At first doubles, Nyla Ferdinand & Patrycja Filonik Margaux Vasilescu 6-1, 6-2 by serving well and using were 6-0, 6-2 winners over Arielle Fleischer & Sofia her strong baseline game to hold off any possible Lee Verovic, while Chase Thomas & Olivia Barker Dell rally from Vasilescu. came back from a set down to win 4-6, 6-2, 10-8 at “Chantajah was indeed the team leader. The second doubles to complete the shutout victory for players looked up to her and listened to her when she Beacon. offered advice,” said Beacon head coach Keith Miller. For Beacon, it’s the program’s second “A” title in “Not only is Chantajah a gifted tennis player, but she the last three years, and the first under Miller, who is also a wonderful person, student, daughter and made his head coaching debut for the team this sister. She brought a positive winning attitude to our season. meetings, practice and matches, and was a major “I thanked the players for welcoming me and component in the team’s success.” allowing me to be a member of this incredible team,” Debra Gil continued the momentum for her squad as added Miller. “I was very fortunate to take over a she notched a 6-4, 6-1 victory over Leila Patel of team that was so disciplined and high-performing, Bronx Science at second singles. Gil was down a and a lot of the credit has to go to Ms. Choi, who break at 3-4 in the opening set before turning the was the head coach before me. The players were so tables, breaking back immediately before holding her skilled and approached the season professionally. As serve, and proceeding to break one more time to head coach, I made sure to stay out of their way close out the first set. In the second set, she got off to when I needed to and helped out when it was a fast start and never looked back to secure the win. necessary.”

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

School RECAP Bard Claims NYC PSAL “B” Division Championship teammate Jaya Lewis ver the last notching a 6-4, 6-3 victory several years, in the second singles the Bard-East position. Houston girls’ tennis Matilda Cox ensured the team had been close to singles sweep for the Lady capturing a New York Hawks as she won 6-4, 6-2 City title. Competing in at third singles. the “B” division of PSAL, In doubles play, Laurathe Lady Hawks were in Albane Peyronnet & Matilda the championship match Gannon-Sias won 6-0, 6-3 last year, and in the at first doubles, while the semifinals each of the second doubles pairing of prior two seasons, but Gillian Chan & Rosemary came up short each time. Bard is the 2023 New York City “B” Division Champions Soule were 6-0, 6-0 winners This year was at second doubles, to finalize the 5-0 win for Bard. different, however, as the ninth-seeded Bard squad took on Bard claimed its first ever NYC championship, while third-seeded Frederick Douglass Academy, and secured its Frederick Douglass had its best season in recent memory, city title via a 5-0 victory. reaching the championship match after failing to make the Frances Byrne got her team started as she was a 6-0, 6-0 postseason in each of the last two seasons. winner at first singles, which was followed up by her

Beacon Captures NYJTL Mayor Dinkins Cup Title Mayor’s Cup was the perfect he decorated season for the way to wrap up her high school Beacon girls’ tennis career and share one more team culminated not just victory with her teammates. with a PSAL “A” Division “For me it proved that we title, but also by winning were truly the best public school the prestigious NYJTL team in New York City, and that Mayor Dinkins Cup our hard work throughout the Varsity Team season paid off. That was an Championship. amazing feeling,” said Mills. “It The Blue Demons meant a lot to be a part of this battled it out against top successful season, and being teams from New York one of the leaders leading the Beacon capped off an undefeated season and won the Mayor Dinkins Cup team. I will always remember City which included Bronx Science, Brooklyn Tech and James Madison. In the this year, it was so much fun. Our team was so supportive of finals, Beacon defeated Bronx Science to claim the Mayor each other and it really felt like a family. I think that played a big role in our success and I hope to have that same feeling on Dinkins Cup title. Chantajah Mills, senior captain for Beacon, said winning the my future team.”

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

2023 long island girls high school recap continued from page 55

Bronxville Claims First-Ever New York State Championship

Bronxville claimed the NYS Division 2 Championship with a thrilling win over Cold Spring Harbor

fter beginning the sectional playoffs as the 12th seed, Bronxville compiled a Cinderella-like postseason run, which concluded with a 3-2 victory over Cold Spring Harbor to win the NYSPHSAA Division II Championship. “We didn’t have a remarkable regular season,” said Bronxville head coach Steven Klurfeld. “Before the finals, we were a little nervous but super excited, and wanted to do the best we could. It was the biggest match these players will ever play, and was at the home of the U.S. Open, and there were many people watching.” Competing at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, Bronxville was led by last year’s state individual singles champion Victoria McEnroe, who notched a 6-1, 6-0 victory at first singles to get her team started. Cold Spring Harbor responded as Taylor Winthrop & Kaitlynn Hanna won at first doubles 6-2, 6-0 to even the overall score at 1-1. All three of the remaining matches would go to deciding third sets, and Astrid Pulkkinen & Rose

Woolery brought Bronxville team within one win of the state championship as they outlasted their second doubles opponents 6-4 in the final third set. The clinching match for Bronxville would come from captain Hanna Shammas, who delivered a three-set victory at third singles to seal her team’s championship. “From the pep talks to the practices to the on-court cheering, everyone was incredibly supportive of one another and did everything they could to help those around them was a huge contributor to our success,” said Shammas. The victory was the second state tennis title for the Bronxville program as the boys won the title in the spring “I am just proud of what both teams accomplished,” added Klurfeld. “They went about it in different ways, but achieved the highest award you can get in high school tennis. Dedication is the common thread. I am really fortunate to have players on both squads that are respectful and great athletes, and interested in competing while having fun.”

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

Scarsdale Continues Dominance, Repeats as NYS Division I Champions

The Scarsdale Raiders completed the three-peat and won the NYS Championship for a third straight season hen the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) introduced tennis team championships to its calendar of events, it was exciting to be able to see teams from all over the state compete against one another for state supremacy. And after three years of the event, Scarsdale has staked its claim as the best team in the state. The Raiders entered the 2023 season as the back-to-back NYSPHSAA Champions, and defended its title once again last November, defeating the Long Island Division I Champions, Syosset, 6-1 in the state championship at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. “The girls had a goal at the beginning of the season to repeat the league, section, regional and state champions,” said Scarsdale head coach Jennifer Roane. “It’s quite an accomplishment for a team to be state champions, but to do that three years in a row is unbelievable.” Playing against Syosset in the state final for the second time in three years, Scarsdale was anchored by the play of its singles players. Katie Kendall was a 6-1, 6-0 winner at first singles, Charlene Dong won 6-0, 6-2 at second singles and Giana Marks won her third singles match 6-2, 6-1. Scarsdale would go on to take three of the four doubles

flights, led by Emma Ha & Kay Cottrell’s 6-3, 6-2 victory at first doubles. At second doubles, Isabel Lin & Jalyn Ryu won 6-3, 6-3, and the fourth doubles pairing of Maya Vora & Yelena Sahakyan won 7-5, 3-6, 10-2. Syosset’s lone victory on the day came from Selena Wang & Taylor Weinstock, who won 6-4, 6-2 at third doubles. “It was the perfect end to such a rewarding four years,” said Vora, a senior co-captain. “It was especially exciting to experience states as captain this year and help to create a positive attitude within the team.” That positive attitude and team spirit is a key factor in the Scarsdale success over the last few years. Not only does the program possess some of the state’s best tennis talent, but the chemistry between the girls goes a long way, as does everyone’s buy-in to the team. “Over the three years, we have had players graduate, so to win these titles with different girls playing on the team is a testament to how strong tennis is in Scarsdale,” added Roane. “I knew that Syosset was going to give us a battle. After the semifinals, the team refocused their mental strategy against Syosset, and every member of the team contributed to the state championship.”

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

Bring Your EGOH, Not Your Ego, On The Court By Rob Polishook e all know that player who constantly brags about their accomplishments. They usually are the same ones that put down other players and belittle their successes. On the court, they expend energy screaming “come on” when they win a point, and “oh my god” when they miss a shot. It seems that their entire identity is tied to the scoreboard; happy when they win and despondent when they lose. In short, they are playing from their EGO and trying so hard to be perfect. The match feels personal and they are constantly trying to prove themselves and protecting an image they desperately don’t want shattered. Counter to many players, coaches and even fans, I believe this false bravado, also known as “bringing their EGO” to the court, can be detrimental to their performance in many ways. Allow me to explain: an inflated ego can lead to poor

decision making and cloud the reality of what’s actually happening on the court. Overconfidence can cause players to underestimate their opponents and not focus on the present moment, instead focusing only on the future outcome. Often times, shot choices are made on protecting pride rather than strategic high-percentage tennis. Playing from EGO can make players overly

concerned about their image and expectations others have of them, which in turn takes the focus off of competing. EGOcentered behavior often leads to poor sportsmanship and lack of focus, as the player’s main concern is getting into their opponents head instead of their own game. Lastly, playing from EGO can stunt growth and improvement as the player is less likely to acknowledge weaknesses and areas of improvement. So, what would happen if a player let go of their EGO, and played with the intention to bring their E.G.O.H on the court? EGOH is an acronym for: Equanimity, Gratitude, Originality and Humility. Playing with the intention to bring your E.G.O.H allows you to control what can be controlled and let go of the rest. It allows you to shift your focus to the process and let the outcome be a consequence of how you managed that process. It allows

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New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

you to play free, loose and in the moment, rather than only being tied to a specific outcome. I’d like to elaborate on the intention of playing with E.G.O.H. Equanimity: competing with equanimity means playing from a calm, centered and composed place. This entails being able to navigate the ups and downs of a match. This balanced mindset allows players to handle success and failures from an objective place and therefore learn from them. Gratitude: competing with gratitude means respecting your opponent as a partner, not an enemy, while being grateful to the game, your opponents, coaches and everyone else who put you in a position to play. By having gratitude, you are more likely to be in the moment, focus on the process and play free. Originality: competing with originality allows you to be you,

and bring your personal, physical and cultural experiences to the court. Originality will help you craft a game style that fits your talents and mindset, one that will allow you to adapt and adjust to various obstacles and challenging situations. Humility: competing with humility allows a player to play without excessive pride and arrogance. Playing this way will help you view your mistakes and successes as part of a process, not something to be avoided at all costs. A mindset of humility will help you view your

opponents as people and worthy to be competing against you. Your focus can then be on being your best instead of being the best. In summary, playing sports with equanimity helps to maintain mental balance and resilience; gratitude helps to appreciate and respect everyone involved; originality helps to encourage creativity; and humility helps to promote respect, cooperation, and being your best. These qualities all add up to a positive sporting experience and paradoxically the quality of performance will be enhanced.

Rob Polishook, MA, CPC is the founder of Inside the Zone Sports Performance Group. As a mental training coach, he works with the whole human athlete helping them to unleash their mental edge (heart.energy.spirit) through mindfulness, somatic psychology, animal wisdom and mental training skills. Rob is author of 2 best-selling books: Tennis Inside the Zone and Baseball Inside the Zone: Mental Training Workouts for Champions. He can be reached by phone at (973) 723-0314, by e-mail rob@insidethezone.com, by visiting insidethezone.com, following on Instagram @insidethezone

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NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

How To Regain The Joy of Tennis By Dr. Tom Ferraro

How does one find the joy of tennis? ompetitive youth tennis has virtually destroyed the joy of playing the game. Thanks to the presence of social media, rankings, scouting and the need to get a Division I scholarship, tennis has changed from a fun activity to a grim vocation; even for 12-yearolds. This atmosphere destroys the fun of tennis and many young players I talk to think about quitting the game they once loved because of pressure created by these factors

as well as coaches and parents. The competitive atmosphere of sports in America is far greater than in Europe. The French are more relaxed, as are the Spaniards. I once did an article about why Sweden produces so many good golfers despite its cold climate, and I discovered that the kids felt less pressure and less involvement from their home environment. Competitive stress in America makes burnout a common occurrence in youth sports. In the first phase of burnout, the player’s performance flattens and they begin to play in a stale, unenthused and lackluster manner. If things don’t lighten up, the athlete then becomes prone to illnesses like colds and the flu as the immune system depletes itself due to exhaustion and lack of sleep. In the final phase of burnout, the athlete becomes injury prone as the muscles weaken. This can lead to career ending injuries and then depression. The tale of Naomi Osaka is the most recent example of severe burnout. Unrelenting competitive stress can also lead to irritability, pouting,

depression and being unable to handle the inevitable bad calls made by either an opponent or a referee. Some athletes even begin to cheat as another way to find an edge. If all this competitive stress sounds grim, that’s because it is.

The stress for competitive tennis is brought on by many factors and takes its toll The piece by Matthew Stewart that appeared in The Atlantic a few years ago helps explain how youth sports got this way. His article, “The Birth of a New Aristocracy”, explained how

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it has become necessary to live in the right zip code, go to the right school and be a member of the right country club in order to achieve status, privilege and safety. All of this got worse after the 2008 financial meltdown with the birth of the concept of the "one percenters." He pointed out the growing gap between the haves and the have-nots based upon income inequality. Kids become aware of all this and are encouraged to optimize their chance of success by getting into a great college via sports. This has created the obsession with ranking, scouting and weekend showcases. Harvard sociologist Hilary Levey Friedman’s book, Playing to Win, describes the same increases in pressure felt by kids who play soccer, chess or dance. Her work shows how the pressures put upon middle class American families permeate to their children, and that the frenzy to get to the top and stay there is supported

by a huge profit-making infrastructure. She suggests, and I think rightfully, that competition and winning can be highly addictive. In the end, what we see is a tennis culture that is overdriven, overworked and over competitive. But rather than producing the next Jimmy Connors, Arthur Ashe or John McEnroe, it is producing lots of unhappy kids who contemplate quitting the game they are good at and love. It is time to pause, take a breath and think about this. If you or your child seems frenzied and unhappy, and on the verge of burnout, you need to step back and observe yourself. If you and your family are on the treadmill of all work and no play,

please ask yourself if there is better way. Where is it written that you have to be the next Warren Buffet, Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos to be happy and gain respect? And where is it written that you have to be the next Roger Federer or Novak Djokovic in order to enjoy the game of tennis? The answer is that it isn’t written anywhere. If America is the land of the free, then we are free to come in second place sometimes. If the constitution urges “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness”, let’s push for a little more happiness. If we can’t find happiness and fun on the court while playing the sport we love, we are all in big trouble.

For consultations, treatment or on-site visits, contact Dr. Tom Ferraro Ph.D., Sport Psychologist, by phone at (516) 248-7189, e-mail DrTFerraro@aol.com or visit DrTomFerraro.com.

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

Across Metro Ne N MatchPoint NYC Names Mani New Tennis Director

Centercourt’s Govila Commits to Columbia

As we begin the New Year, MatchPoint NYC in Brooklyn has named Kiran Mani as its new Junior Tennis Development Director. Mani rises to the position with a rich history of both playing and coaching tennis, including winning the 2008 New York State boys’ doubles title before going on to have a standout career at the University of North Carolina Greensboro. Mani has worked alongside the likes of Ons Jabeur and Caroline Wozniacki, among others.

The Columbia University Men’s Tennis team got itself another local player as Adi Govila, who is part of Centercourt’s Full-Time Tennis Academy, made his collegiate commitment to join the Lions in the Fall of 2025. Govila has an ITF ranking of #154 and a UTR of 11.87.

Roosevelt Island Hosts Parent-Child Tournament

CourtSense Earns Award for Second Consecutive Year

In the name of the holiday season, Roosevelt Island Racquet Club put on a ParentChild tennis tournament, which as the name suggests, featured parents teaming up with their child to compete against other family duos. “We had an amazing time,” said Xavier Luna, Director of Junior Tennis for the Advantage All-City Junior Tennis Programs. “A big thanks to all the participants for making it memorable.”

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

CourtSense Tennis Training Center will be honored at the 2024 USTA Eastern Tennis Conference. The New Jersey facility was the recipient of USTA Eastern's Tournament Excellence Award and will be recognized at the ceremony in January.

New York Chu Captures L4 Championship

… News and notes from across the N.Y. Metro tennis community

Bruno Commits to Michigan

New York City native Evan Chu took home the title at the L4 Open Turkey Bowl Super Six tournament at New York Tennis Club in the Bronx. Chu, who trains at the John McEnroe Tennis Academy, dropped just one set during his five tournament victories, which included a 6-2, 6-0 triumph in the championship match.

Cragg Wins National Indoor Championships Kathryn Cragg went up to Massachussets and brought a National Championship back to New York City. The NYC native, who trains at The Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning, captured the title at the L1 USTA National Indoor Championships in the Girls 12s Singles division. Cragg won all six of her matches in straight sets and lost just 10 games total en route to the title.

USTA Eastern Shows Out at Junior Orange Bowl Players from the USTA Eastern Section went down to the Junior Orange Bowl in Key Biscane, Fla. and came back with hardware. Leena Friedman (pictured left) won the Girls 16s Singles title while Dominick Mosejczuk was victorious in the Boys 16s Singles division, defeating finalist and fellow Eastern player Ronit Karki in the championship.

Ava Bruno, who trains with the John McEnroe Tennis Academy at Sportime Randall’s Island, will be playing her collegiate tennis at the University of Michigan. Bruno, a fivestar recruit according to TennisRecruiting.Net, will join the Wolverines next fall.

CLTA Student Gupta Wins L6 Event Meela Gupta captured the title in the Girls 12s singles division at the L6 Hardscrabble Club Challenger. Gupta, who trains with the Chris Lewit Tennis Academy, earned her trophy thanks to a hardfought 6-3, 3-6, [10-7] victory in the championship match.

NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2024 • New York Tennis Magazine

How Many Hours A Week Should A College-Bound Junior Play Tennis? By Gilad Bloom any of the students I teach ask me how many hours a week they should train in order to reach the college level. The answer is … not that many. It’s the quality and the effort that counts. Anywhere between three to six times a week is a good start, no more than two hours per day, either in a group or private lesson. If you practice about 10-12 hours per week in total, that would still leave you ample time to work on academics and have a normal childhood. I’m not a big believer in sending a child from their home environment to an “academy,” playing tennis all day and living in a dorm away from their parents. I believe that collegiate level tennis can be achieved while staying home and attending a regular school. Having said that, I would also like to add that if you are looking to reach the professional level, I would strongly suggest home schooling as an option and to take a much heavier load of sessions. But to reach the collegiate level, even Division 1, a few things need to happen …

1. Great practice habits This could be the most important aspect of a tennis player and something that every college coach appreciates. With good practice habits, you don’t have to train that long, and as long as the intensity is there, two hours of practice per day is plenty. Just make sure that you don’t take too many breaks (and if you do, make them short). Also, run down every ball without exception. I learned that from the top players in the world from my era. They were all animals on the practice court. In my opinion, when you spend five to six hours a day on the court, the level of concentration and quality declines, especially the intensity. It’s better to go all out for two hours and go home. 2. An extensive fitness program This program should include one to two hours per week with a trainer, and another two or three times when you 64

exercise on your own. Physical fitness was always an important aspect of the game, but in the past, you could get away with not being fit. Today, everyone is in shape … it’s a must. Proper stretching is essential as are regular visits to the trainer for physical sessions in order to stay injury-free.

bring you to college with ample experience in tight matches.

4. Find an outside hobby A musical instrument as an outside interest off the court is highly recommended. We all know how hard and stressful the game of tennis can be at the competitive level. A player needs something to fall back on when things are hard—a release, an escape, something that relaxes them. A musical instrument can be carried around to tournaments, but so can books, chess, movies, art or anything. The point is, there are things out there other than tennis. This can be very useful at a time when injuries are a part of the game.

8. Combine private lessons with group sessions Having one-on-one lessons is irreplaceable. Some parents sign their kids up only for group lessons and that is a mistake. Specific corrections can only be given effectively in private lessons. The instructions in a group setting are a follow up to what happens in a private lesson. A combination is ideal as group lessons are usually more fun and allow kids to interact and compete. Keep the lessons fun and enjoy the journey, even if it’s filled with hard work.

6. Step it up during the summer and when on vacations When off from school, kids should take advantage and double their sessions to twice a day. This is the time to push it a bit. Without the burden of school and 3. Play another sport with a good night’s sleep, most kids are (preferably a team sport) more coachable and are easier to push This current generation is not at all a “Ball to the limit. Just make sure they play, Handling Generation,” unless it’s a video mostly on clay, five to six hours each game. Tennis is a one-sided, asymmetrical day. sport that can cause an imbalance in the body (especially the back). Playing other 7. Take breaks sports will help balance the body, prevent Make sure that kids take two or three breaks per year, at least one week at a injuries and improve coordination. Playing a team sport is a nice relief for a time. It is very important to get away from the game from time to time, in tennis player who is used to being on order to recharge and plan the next step their own all the time. Sure, we all love the individuality of the sport of tennis, but or to just forget about it all and it’s nice to be with the boys/girls out there disconnect. Breaks are also vital in the on the field and develop the ability to win sense they can also prevent future burnout. and lose as a team.

5. Play tournaments regularly on weekends After the age of 12, I’d recommend at least two tournaments per month. Weekend tournaments are essential to the development of the junior player, there is no substitute to a real USTA match. Competition is the breeding ground for improvement and staying sharp for matches throughout your junior years will

New York Tennis Magazine • January/February 2024 • NYTennisMag.com

Gilad Bloom, former Israeli Davis Cup player and two-time Olympian, played on the ATP Tour 1983-1995, reached the fourth round of the U.S. Open in 1990, reached a highest ranking of 61 in singles, was Israel Singles Champion three times. Bloom has been running his own tennis program since 2000 and also was director of tennis at John McEnroe Tennis Academy for two years. He can be reached by e-mail at Bloom.Gilad@Gmail.com.

NYTennisMag.com • November/December 2023 • New York Tennis Magazine

New York Tennis Magazine • November/December 2023 • NYTennisMag.com