aspire to inspire
FBrian Dillman USPTA CEO
or the past few months, I have shared some insight into my thoughts, philosophies and beliefs. With the 2024 World Racquets Conference around the corner and its Racquets United theme, I want to highlight the thoughts I have received from you during my travels from Rhode Island to Los Angeles, Northern California, New Jersey and the many stops in between. However, I must first thank the rockstar team in Lake Nona who manage the daily business and details. Our leadership at National Headquarters is service-minded, always willing to help each other and our association. I would also like to thank and acknowledge all our wonderful executive directors in our 17 divisions and our divisional leadership for managing the day-to-day business of our association, organizing and executing the divisional education conferences (DEC) and staying close with our membership.
1
What does membership in the USPTA mean to you?
• It has allowed me to grow and gain confidence as a professional
• I feel like an industry leader with advanced skills both on and off the court
• I am part of a community, family and love the networking and mentoring opportunities
• Membership has helped me build credibility as a well-rounded professional
• Being an Elite Professional has helped me advance my career
• Sharing ideas and common issues have helped me immeasurably
• It feels like being part of Top Gun
2
What improvements would you like to see from the USPTA?
• A larger voice in the racquet sports industry
• Make our profession desirable and cool – recruit more diverse people to represent the lesson-taking population
• Explain to industry and hiring managers why being certified is critical for their customers and safety
ance and health insurance
• Liability coverage for events
• Marketing partners for new, younger members
• Enhanced welcome package for new members to help promote yourself
• Expanded mentoring program – more accessible
• Provide more pathways for additional certification – college coaching, 10 and under, public facilities, high performance, etc.
• Better education on teaching and managing underserved populations: autism spectrum, diabetic, hearing impaired, adaptive, special ed students and more
Once again, thank you. We take this feedback and critical information for us to enhance the value of your membership in our association. Under the Racquets United theme at WRC24, we are not only focused on all racquet sports, but once again, focused on being UNITED. We are here to serve you and the feedback we have received will be a guidepost for our future strategic direction.
During our “road trips” throughout the first half of this year, we (our national board and myself) attended each DEC and opened the floor to listen to our membership. We really wanted to know what you are thinking, what you would like to see from our association and how we can better serve our membership. There was a lot to hear and disseminate from the conversations, and we all learned some invaluable insight from you. Thank you for sharing, but more importantly, thank you for caring. Our association is 97 years young, and we have many passionate members who have put their hearts and time into the USPTA. Many of the answers we heard can be grouped into themes, so here we go:
• Build the brand for professionals to raise their profile
• Partnership with other associations to promote being “certified”
• Better website and improved marketing
• Enhanced career services and better recruiting of new members
• Commercials and sponsorship – spread the word about certification and our association
• More options for other racquet sports certification
• Conference or event tie-ins with tennis, padel, pickleball and platform events
What benefits would you like to see from your association?
• Retirement program, disability insur-
In February, we hired an agency to assist us with building a strategic plan. We recruited 20 of your colleagues and went through a series of meetings and brainstorming sessions to plan the future of our association. We will be sharing the results of this work at WRC24.
The most inspiring part of this strategic planning process was the passion and commitment your fellow colleagues put into the project. They care passionately about this association and to a person, everyone was interested in our associations long term health, success and growth. The spirit of the process included some lively debate, finding common ground and working from the position of aspiring to inspire our current members, lost members and new members. We look forward to seeing you in September at our conference to share more about the future of our association.
As always, please feel free to reach out to me anytime at brian.dillman@uspta. org or 773-551-6541.*
OKevin Theos USPTA Vice President
ne of the hidden benefits of being a USPTA member is the access you have to the wealth of knowledge and experience of other members. No matter what aspirations you have or difficulties you are experiencing, it is almost certain that other members have faced similar situations. The question, then, is how can you learn about and use the experiences of others to build a thriving career and a successful life? In considering this question, it occurred to me that our USPTA Master Professionals have broad and deep experience in racquet sports and in life. They may be willing to share their experiences and perspectives in interviews. Earlier this year, I began interviewing USPTA Certified Master Professionals.
While each Master Professional is different in terms of where they played, what roles they have taken, and how they progressed in their careers, there are some noticeable similarities in the ways that they think. I’ll share a few.
Master Professionals have all placed value in and have taken a proactive
approach to personal development. While they recognize the indispensable importance of on-the-job learning and experience, they have also demonstrated a hunger for learning and self-improvement. They have done so by attending conferences and workshops, and they have found the knowledge and networking to be well worth the cost in terms of time and money it takes to attend.
Beyond attending conferences, Master Professionals have pursued excellence by getting involved. By volunteering within and outside the USPTA, they have developed new skills and expanded their personal networks. On a practical level, gaining new skills and fostering new relationships can pay off when seeking future employment opportunities, but this isn’t what they emphasized. Instead, they primarily focused on the rewarding,
enriching and priceless value of fostering friendships of a lifetime.
In terms of career planning, when they started their careers, many Master Professionals didn’t know exactly what they wanted to do long-term; they didn’t have firm plans with everything mapped out. Rather than seeking certainty or waiting for inspiration to strike, many of them approached their careers with a spirit of curiosity and openness to possibility. They weren’t afraid to pursue different opportunities before choosing a direction. This message should be reassuring and inspiring to younger professionals who are still figuring out what career direction to take.
I have highlighted just a few of the takeaways from interviews with Master Professionals. There is much more to learn, and I encourage you to listen to or watch the interviews. The USPTA national staff has done a terrific job of creating a podcast on Spotify called “Game, Set, Chat! Career Stories with USPTA Master Professionals” where you can listen to the interviews. Alternatively, you can watch the interviews and get educational credit at TennisResources.com.
Beyond benefitting from the insights Master Professionals have shared in their interviews, you have the opportunity to learn more by connecting with them. Some of those I interviewed are part of our Facebook group “Career Coaching with USPTA Master Professionals.” If you haven’t already, I encourage you to join the group and ask questions to this phenomenal group of USPTA professionals. *
many of them approached their careers with a spirit of curiosity and openness to possibility and weren’t afraid to pursue different opportunities before choosing a direction.
MORE CONFERENCE THAN EVER!
TCollin Brazan Director of Marketing & Communications
he USPTA World Racquets Conference 2024 (WRC24) brings the most offerings to a USPTA conference we have ever had.
The historic USPTA World Conference you love is back—and bigger. We're evolving the conference you love with an expansion to all of our racquet sports, hence the new name, in line with our Racquets United theme.
To commemorate all our industry has to offer, we're giving you more opportunities to learn and network than we ever have. Two entire new full days of education, new events, more meals and a more affordable room rate are set to make WRC24 the USPTA's largest and most welcoming conference yet, no matter which racquet sports you teach and play.
The USPTA World Racquets
Conference is the world's largest gathering of racquet sports professionals, industry leaders, representatives, manufacturers and wholesalers. This year, we’re bringing five full days of racquet sports teaching education, expanding our usual half day on Thursday to a full day of education, with a new closing event to cap off the conference.
In addition to robust educational offerings that'll let you learn in the classroom and on-court, the USPTA hosts meetings, industry discussions, networking and socializing events and the 2024 Awards Luncheon.
Our Division Olympics will span the length of the conference, weaving between education sessions and taking place at each of our networking events. You’ll tally up the score against other divisions, where the highest scoring divisions will
be awarded at our Wednesday evening finale event. Look out for Division Olympics registration information from your executive director in your email inbox.
And in the spirit of bringing our association together and celebrating all that we have accomplished, our Monday welcome session will break down the future of our organization, as informed by membership feedback.
Early bird registration lasts until July 15. Take advantage of our biggest discount ever, for our biggest conference ever, by registering at uspta.com/wrc24 or scanning the QR code below.*
SCHEDULE
SUNDAY, SEPT. 15
8:00 am - 12:00 pm
On Court/Classroom Education Sessions
8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Specialty Course 1* - Women in Coaching: Ideas for Career Advancement
1:00 - 5:00 pm
Specialty Course 2* - Creative Drills & Games for all Levels
6:00 - 8:00 pm
Opening Party
*Specialty Course cost is $75.
MONDAY, SEPT. 16
7:00 am - 7:45 am
Cardio Tennis/Padel/Pickleball Play
8:00 am - 9:30 am
Opening Session
10:00 am - 4:15 pm
On Court/Classroom Education Sessions
6:00 - 10:00 pm
Trade Show with Food & Drinks Included
TUESDAY, SEPT. 17
7:00 - 8:00 am
Networking Breakfast
8:30 am - 6:00 pm
On Court/Classroom Education Sessions
6:00 - 7:00 pm
Women’s Meeting & Party
7:00 pm
Division Parties
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 18
7:00 am - 7:45 am
Cardio Tennis/Padel/Pickleball Play
8:00 am - 6:00 pm
On Court/Classroom Education Sessions
12:30 - 2:30 pm
Awards Luncheon
7:00 - 10:00 pm
Divison Olympics Finale Dinner Party
THURSDAY, SEPT. 19
7:00 am - 7:45 am
Cardio Tennis/Padel/Pickleball Play
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
On Court/Classroom Education Sessions
6:00 - 9:00 pm
Conference Closing Dinner Party
KATRINA ADAMS Q&A with
FCollin Brazan Director of Marketing & Communications
rom a lauded tennis player to an author, USTA president, International Tennis Hall of Fame board member and so much more, USPTA Tim Heckler Hall of Fame inductee Katrina Adams has dedicated a lifetime of passion to tennis. In this Q&A, she discusses her earliest days in tennis, how her journey has brought her full-circle with her beginnings and her advice for those beginning their professional career.
HOW DID YOUR TENNIS JOURNEY BEGIN?
"I first picked up a racquet at the age of six. I was a tag-along sister to my two older brothers who attended a summer program for kids between ages nine and 18. I had to sit outside the fence for about two weeks until I begged my way into the program. And fortunately for me, there was a tennis coach who thought I had talent and wanted to take me under his wing after the program was over.
I was the most improved player out of all the kids. So, I mean, I loved it from the first moment I struck the tennis ball and was able to continue into the fall on a basketball court at Old Town Boys Club. I played the following summer at a pilot NJTL program called Youth Action.
I played my first tournament with the ATA Nationals in New Orleans.
My parents were middle class—both
teachers—and really didn't know much about tennis, nor did they have the means to support me for lessons and tournaments and travel. We soon joined the Chicago Prairie Tennis Club, the oldest black tennis organization or club under the ATA, and they fundraised for me.
I became a top-ranked junior, won my high school state singles championship and became the first African American and first city public school player to win Chicago’s city championships. I got a scholarship at Northwestern University, helped our team win the Big 10 championship my freshman year and my doubles partner and I won the NCAA championship my sophomore year.
I left school after that year. Turned pro, played for 12 years. Was ranked as high as 67 in singles, as high as No. 8 in the world in doubles and won 20 doubles titles along that journey. When I retired from that, I became a national coach for the USTA. My first certification was with the USPTA, done by Fred Viancos."
WHAT WAS THE TRANSITION FROM PLAYER TO TEACHING PROFESSIONAL LIKE?
"You spend more time off the court than you do on the court when you're a professional. And I was fortunate enough that when I turned pro, one of my mentors was my doubles partner, Zena Garrison. I traveled with Zena and with Lloyd McNeil, who I also played doubles with.
I had the good graces of traveling with their coaches, John Wilkerson and Willis Thomas, who was my coach, who
took both of those girls to the top 10 in the world. And I learned a lot from John and Willis over time. So, as I was developing as a player, I was also developing as a coach.
I had the highest level of training being on tour, but I didn't really have the basics. I understood them, but I did have to go through that certification to pick up on how to translate and transfer them to others.
I literally went from playing in Wimbledon on a Friday to coaching on Monday. I coached with the USTA for about four and a half years and then worked with a rising professional, Bea Bilic, who had just won the NCAAs at Wake Forest. Then I took a break, I kind of threw the racquets in the closet because I was burnt out from playing from the age of 6 to my 30s without really ever taking a break.
I later moved to New York to take on the executive director role at the Harlem Junior Intensive Education Program, which is at NNJCL, and I fell back in love with the teaching part again. I got back on the court full time for a few years while doing the administrative work. I wanted to make sure we were running one of the best programs in in the country."
IS WORKING WITH HARLEM
JUNIOR TENNIS AND EDUCATION PROGRAM A BIT OF A FULL CIRCLE MOMENT FOR YOU, HAVING STARTED TENNIS AT SUCH A YOUNG AGE AND NOW WORKING
WITH JUNIORS FULL TIME?
"Oh, absolutely. It's a full circle moment and it's a labor of love. I started a program like this in Chicago, and now I'm running an NJPL program. This program gave me my opportunity to be in the sport for a lifetime and help develop the life skills that have taken me to network with the greatest leaders and businesspeople all over the world. It’s been a lifeline, if you will, getting that energy that I get day in and day out when I walk into the facility and see the smiles on these kids' faces, the innocence that they have and not having a clue as to what
their future holds.
Many of our coaches are alums of the program. So, the mere fact that these coaches have come through the program, have gone on to college, have played in college, have gotten their own degree, may have their own businesses or work elsewhere and still come back to the program to coach in the after-school program, you know, it says a lot."
AND YOU'VE SERVED QUITE A FEW OTHER ROLES IN TENNIS, TOO. WE TALK ABOUT ROLE MODELS AND THE MANY INCREDIBLE MINDS YOU'VE MET, BUT I THINK YOU'VE CERTAINLY GOT YOUR OWN ACCOLADES, WHETHER AS USTA PRESIDENT, YOUR POSITION AS AN ITF BOARD MEMBER AND AS WRITER OF "OWN THE ARENA." CAN YOU SPEAK TO HOW THOSE HAVE CHANGED YOUR CAREER AND YOUR ABILITY TO IMPACT THE SPORT?
"When I was on tour, I was on the WTA Players Association Board. So early on, I had a knack or a passion for wanting to get involved and give back and to learn and to be a leader. When I retired, I had the opportunity to apply to be on the USTA board.
I was fortunate enough to eventually become the president, chairman and CEO in 2015, and then to do another term in 2017. It was a huge honor that further allowed me to run for the ITF board, to then be elected for that board and then be the vice president. And I ran for that board twice, was elected twice, and served as the vice president for 8 years and was appointed as the chair of a couple of their prestigious committees, the Village and King Cup Committee — and what is now the Advantage All Committee — which focuses on gender equality. I'm still involved in and things that I'll always be passionate about: gender equality and diversity and inclusion at all levels, not just on the court, but off the court on the business side of our sport."
WITH ALL OF YOUR SUCCESSES, WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS JUST STARTING THEIR TEACHING CAREERS?
"I think the most important thing is to know yourself, understand who you are and what it is that you're passionate about. And then find your find your nook and your hook. Once you do that, then you've got to own your voice and go after it. Because if you don't speak up or speak out for the things that you're passionate about and let people know what it is that you want to then it's never going to happen. So, you have to have a plan. You have to be knowledgeable about the things that you want to accomplish, and then go after it. You have to network."
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WANT TO IMPART ON OUR MEMBERSHIP?
"I'm really honored to be recognized and to be brought into the USPTA Hall of Fame.
People have always said when they've met me, “Kat, no matter where you go, you've always walked into a place as if you've owned the room.” Because I've always had that air of confidence. The title of my book is Own the Arena because people said no matter where I was, I owned that arena. I own my courage. I own my voice. I own my identity. And I think
that's what has allowed me to get ahead and make a difference. Tennis, as an individual sport, has given me the life skills to allow me to believe that I can succeed no matter where I am. And it's because of the life skills and the people who have surrounded me and supported me within my sport that have been able to achieve all that I have. I am very grateful for that." *
Honoring USPTA Tim Heckler Hall of Fame Inductee
JIM REFFKIN
Though, tragically, USPTA Tim Heckler Hall of Fame inductee
James “Jim” Reffkin passed away in 2023, his shining example in and beyond tennis will continue to inspire and serve as a guiding beacon for many lifetimes.
Jim’s transformational work as a former USPTA president shaped national education and testing and was just a small fraction of a life full of impact for the 1996 USPTA Professional of the Year.
Jim's tennis career began at Marquette University, where his love and passion for the game flourished. After
graduating from Marquette, a trip to California led him to Tucson, Arizona, in 1963 where he found his true calling teaching speech and English and coaching the boys’ tennis team at Salpointe Catholic High School. He later took on the role of athletic director. Driven by a desire to turn his love for tennis into a career, he secured a teaching position at the Tucson Racquet Club. In 1975 he became the director of tennis for the City of Tucson, where he spent an astounding 42 years crafting a tennis legacy, inspiring countless individuals with his unwavering dedication and expertise.
Jim maintained his role as the tennis coach at Salpointe Catholic High School for the girls' and boys' teams, leading them to multiple state championships. Beyond the high school level, Jim coached the Pima Community College Women's Tennis Team, leading them to two National NJCAA titles and numerous regional titles. Through his guidance, he instilled in his student-athletes the values of sportsmanship, resilience and a love for the game, shaping the upcoming generations of tennis talent.
Jim's leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to advancing
tennis extended beyond any institution. He actively engaged with tennis associations, prominently the USPTA and USTA. He tirelessly championed tennis in the Southwest through these affiliations, making it accessible to all and fueling its popularity in the region. His impactful work earned him recognition, including his tenure as USPTA president, as well as president of the USTA Southwest Section. Notably, he was also inducted into the Salpointe Catholic High School's Sports Hall of Fame, Pima County Sports Hall of Fame, USTA Southwest Hall of Fame and International Tennis Hall of Fame.
In recognition of Jim's profound contributions to the Tucson tennis community, in 2009, the Randolph Tennis Center was
renamed the Jim Reffkin Tennis Center. This change symbolizes his lasting influence, his enduring spirit and the impact he made on the world of tennis.
His legacy will inspire future generations of players, coaches and enthusiasts who will gather at the center that now carries his name. Above his professional achievements, Jim's greatest joy came from his family, the cornerstone of his life. He shared 53 years of marriage with the love of his life, Lu, and cherished his daughter, Amy, son-in-law Greg and grandchildren Max and Sophia.
Jim Reffkin's legacy is one of excellence, inspiration, and unwavering love. He will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by those who had the privilege to know him. His impact will continue to illuminate the Tucson community, reminding us all to embrace life with dedication, kindness and an authentic passion for our pursuits.*
certification workshops tennis | Level 2 professional
July 1 - 3
July 22 - 24
Aug. 12 - 14
Aug. 16 - 18
Oct. 19 - 21
Oct. 22 - 24
Oct. 24 - 26
Oct. 25 - 27
Dec. 6 - 8
Dec. 9 - 11
Pittsford, NY
Boynton Beach, FL
Cincinnati, OH
La Jolla, CA
Cerritos, CA
Wilmington, DE
Portland, OR
Atlanta, GA
Big Rapids, MI
Oklahoma City, OK
RANCHO MIRAGE Your Guide to
Collin Brazan, Director of Marketing & Communications
Rancho Mirage, Calif., part of the Greater Palm Springs Area, surrounds the USPTA World Racquets Conference 2024 with sweeping mountainsides and the beautiful, golden desert. With five full days of education and entertainment, there will be more to do at the conference than ever before, but the city of Rancho mirage offers quite a bit of fun to fill your extra time with.
WHERE TO EAT
BAR CECIL: A staple of Rancho Mirage’s Michelin Guide, this heavily coveted bar requires an advanced reservation to take advantage of its seafood and classic American faire, with roasted king crab legs and Ossetra with blini serving as highlights.
CHEEKY’S: Another Michelin Guide standout, Cheeky’s brings local flavor to the front and center for those who want to experience all Rancho Mirage has on offer: most of its produce is from the nearby area. The menu is constantly in rotation, so the more spontaneous and adventurous eaters have much to explore.
WALLY’S DESERT TURTLE: Peruvian artifacts and mirrored ceilings adorn
this Mobil Travel Four Star, AAA Four Diamond, and DiRoNA Award winner. Live music nightly frames a robust menu that includes an expansive wine list and a happy hour.
UNCLE CHAI THAILAND STREET FOOD: Looking for some of the best Asian faire in the city, a spot locals consistently rave about? Look no further!
FRENCH ROTISSERIE CAFE: Excellent French cuisine, lauded service and outdoor dining make this spot along the highway easy to access and an outstanding place to dine.
WHAT TO DO
JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK: If your family is joining you for the conference and is looking for a day trip, or if you wish to extend your trip beyond the conference, the beloved national park, set deep within the desert, is just a 45-minute drive away from the hotel.
CHILDREN’S DISCOVERY MUSEUM OF THE DESERT: Newly reopened after an extensive reimagining and refurbishment, few locations in Rancho Mirage are filled with more exploration, excitement and discovery for families.
BRANDINI TOFFEE FACTORY TOURS: The world-renowned toffee brand’s flagship location is situated near the site of WRC24, where you can watch the art of toffee making and get your hands on Brandini Toffee, toffee popcorn and decadent milkshakes. *
should have absolutely no regrets andy murray
Steve Flink
International Tennis Hall of Fame
This one is a tribute to Andy Murray, a celebration of a scintillating career, an examination of a champion who is on his way out of the game, and an analysis of a man with the credentials to be considered far and away the greatest of all modern British players, not to mention the second best of all time behind the estimable Fred Perry. Of this I am certain: when Murray puts the racquet down permanently, as he inevitably will do very soon, he need not harbor any regrets. In his own way and essentially on his own terms, Murray has played a very prominent role in the realm of tennis history. Most expert followers of the sport these days believe unequivocally that the trio of Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer—inarguably the “Big Three” of the first quarter of the 21st Cen-
Photo Credit: Susan Mullane; Camerawork USA
tury— are also the three greatest players ever. Yet, too easily overlooked by younger authorities are the supreme exploits of Lew Hoad, Rod Laver, Pete Sampras and a whole host of historical wizards including Bill Tilden, Don Budge, Jack Kramer and Pancho Gonzales.
But let’s leave that discussion about the best ever for another time and simply look at Andy Murray’s contribution to his dazzling era. The weight and scope of his achievements are unassailable, leading some authorities to place Murray in the same boat professionally as Djokovic, Nadal and Federer by classifying these luminaries as the “Big Four.”
I won’t go that far. As I write this piece, Djokovic has amassed a men’s record of 24 Grand Slam singles titles with Nadal in second place at 22 and Federer third at 20.
Murray, of course, is nowhere near that lofty territory. But he irrefutably looms large in his own right. He has taken three major singles crowns, capturing the US Open in 2012 and Wimbledon in 2013 with impressive final round victories over Djokovic, triumphing at Wimbledon again in 2016. Moreover, he collected gold medals in singles at both the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games, toppling Djokovic and Federer back-to-back to realize that goal for the first time, overcoming the mighty Juan Martin del Potro four years later.
When he claimed the U.S. Open title twelve years ago, Murray became the first man from his nation to win that Grand Slam event since Perry in 1936. Similarly, he established himself spectacularly in 2013 as the first British man since Perry 77 years earlier to succeed on the lawns of the All England Club. Murray also concluded 2016 with a clutch display when he stopped Djokovic in the title round contest at the ATP Finals with the yearend No. 1 ranking on the line. Add this to that list of credits; in 2015, he spearheaded Great Britain’s run to their first Davis Cup victory in 79 years.
And yet, despite spending nine years in a row (2008-2016) stationed among the world’s top ten (primarily in the top
four) and collecting 46 career ATP Tour titles including 14 Masters 1000 events, he was always surrounded by gigantic figures through his prime. Murray finished with a respectable 11-14 career head-to-head record versus Federer but was beaten in all three of their finals at the majors. He was 7-17 against Nadal, losing seven of their nine battles at Grand Slam events. Facing Djokovic, Murray is 11-25 as of this writing, and the Serbian ousted his formidable British adversary in five of seven title-round duels at Grand Slam tournaments.
Nonetheless, Murray’s elite status is indisputable. After his magnificent 2016 season which he closed with a remarkable 24 match winning streak and five titles in a row, he was never the same player. Sorely hampered by injuries thereafter, he had hip surgeries early in 2018 and
In his own way and essentially on his own terms, Murray has played a very prominent role in the realm of tennis history.
REFLECTIONS
again in 2019.
But his ongoing quest to keep competing as best he could never waned. Over the past seven or eight seasons, knowing he has been severely compromised physically, recognizing the diminishment of his skills, realizing the tallest targets might be unattainable, the redoubtable Murray soldiered on honorably. Now, at 37, he seems ready to depart with perhaps some remorse but certainly no regrets. He might bid farewell at the upcoming Wimbledon. But whether that is the case or not, Andy Murray can rest assured that his impending retirement will be a bittersweet moment for devoted tennis fans from all corners of the globe who have deeply appreciated his enduring pride, unflagging spirit, match playing acumen and commendable professionalism. *
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THE LESSONS I HAVE LEARNED...
IKelly Marshall USPTA Master Professional
n the big tournament of life, you never know who or what your next opponent will be. I never would have dreamed I would wake up in a hospital room surrounded by friends and a doctor, who was looking down at me with tears streaming down her face as she said, “Kelly, I am sorry, but you have cancer.”
Everyone in the room began to cry except me. My first thought was, okay, well I just drew the number one seed. What am I going to do to beat this thing… what is our game plan. When do we start practice? Where do I show up?”
I didn’t cry until my first day of chemo. The nurse led me into a room full of people who were fighting to live just one more day, then she tied my arm down and began to pump the poison in me – and I knew that poison was either going to kill me, or it was going save my life. It was at that very moment that I felt like the luckiest person alive! I felt lucky because of all the things tennis has taught me. I have learned I can look raw failure in the face and start all over. I have
learned I can be battered and beaten, bruised and sore and still get back up. Everyone can be cheering against me, and I can still hold my head up and look them in the eye. I can be down 6 – 0, 5-0 and everyone can have counted me out…but I will know I can still win.
I have learned I should be confident but not overconfident, like the time I slammed a ball down in a victory strut
to the net and it came down and hit me square in the head in front of a crowd of people….
Life will serve you what you have coming! Tennis has given me memories I will cherish and friends I cannot forget. Tennis is and has been my life.
As a professional coach, I feel it is my responsibility to teach not only the rules of the game but all the lessons that come
"What an incredible gift it is to be able to give someone a safe space to try and fail, only to then succeed and know the confidence that comes with that success."
with a lifetime sport. What an incredible gift it is to be able to give someone a safe space to try and fail, only to then succeed and know the confidence that comes with that success. Tennis teaches values and character. It teaches discipline and goal setting. It is a healthy stress reliever. It teaches good time management, and the relationships a player develops through tennis are lifelong. Being a professional coach is much more rewarding in the long term than it seems – you are not just a tennis coach!
Besides beating cancer, becoming a USPTA Master Professional has been one of my greatest accomplishments. I will admit, I started the process several times before I finally refused to do anything except complete it! I am so glad I did!
The application process forced me to go back over my career, to reconnect with old coaches and colleagues. It made me slow down as the memories flooded back. I went through all the players I had coached and the committees and events I had been part of in the past. I came to see how much I have grown as a person, as a coach and as a mentor.
The United States Professional Tennis Association has been my go-to for 29 years, and I owe much of who and what I am to the organization and other members. If you are a young professional, do everything you can to get more involved. You get out what you put in and often more than what you put into organizations like this. Knowing more, doing more and growing your network is never a bad career move. Don’t just belong, be an ACTIVE member. If you have been around awhile… don’t be the person who thinks they know it all…as crazy as it may seem – I have learned a lot from millennials! I also want you to consider becoming a Master Professional, it is well worth the work, and if you ever need a hand I am here!*
JAMMIN' WITH
JIM
USPTA
WRACQUETS
e are just a few months away from the 2024 USPTA World Racquets Conference in beautiful Rancho Mirage, Calif. at the Westin Golf Resort & Spa which includes five full days of amazing in-person learning, seminars and social events. Attending the World Racquets Conference is a unique opportunity and experience for two reasons: Education and Networking.
Continuing education is of paramount importance in tennis for players, coaches and even enthusiasts who want to enhance their knowledge and skills. Here are several reasons why continuing education is crucial in tennis:
SKILL DEVELOPMENT
Tennis is a sport that requires a diverse set of skills, including technical, tactical, physical and mental abilities.
Continuing education helps coaches stay up to date with the latest techniques, strategies and training methods to improve their overall performance and stay competitive.
EVOLVING GAME
Tennis is a dynamic sport that constantly evolves. New playing styles, equipment advancements, rule changes and tournament formats emerge over time. By pursuing continuing education, players and coaches can adapt to these changes and integrate the latest trends into their game, enhancing their effectiveness on the court.
TACTICAL KNOWLEDGE
Tennis is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. Learning and refining tactical knowledge through
continuing education enables coaches to analyze opponents' strengths and weaknesses, develop effective game plans and make better strategic decisions during matches with their players.
INJURY PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT
Tennis places considerable physical demands on the body, and injuries are a common occurrence. Ongoing education provides valuable insights into injury prevention techniques, fitness training and rehabilitation strategies. This knowledge can help coaches minimize the risk of injuries for their players and manage them effectively when they do occur.
Jim Stockwell, USPTA Director of Membership
RULE UPDATES AND OFFICIATING
Tennis has specific rules and regulations that evolve periodically. Staying informed about the latest rule updates through continuing education ensures that players, coaches and officials have a comprehensive understanding of the game. This knowledge helps maintain fairness and consistency during matches and avoids any unnecessary penalties or disputes.
Coming together for a common cause to gain education is an organic and amazing way to network and collaborate with each other in the industry. Here are some reasons why networking is so important in tennis:
KNOWLEDGE SHARING
Networking provides an opportunity for tennis coaches to share their experiences, insights, and knowledge with one another. Coaches can discuss different coaching techniques, training methods and strategies that have worked well for them. This exchange of information helps coaches expand their coaching toolbox and gain new perspectives that can positively impact their coaching approach.
PROBLEM-SOLVING AND SUPPORT
Coaching can be a challenging profession, and teaching professionals often encounter various obstacles and dilemmas. Peer networking allows coaches to seek advice and support from others who have faced similar challenges. By sharing their concerns, they can receive valuable feedback, suggestions and solutions to overcome difficulties. This support system can help to navigate through coaching-related issues more effectively.
PARTNERSHIPS
Networking with peers in the coaching community can lead to collaborative opportunities and partnerships. Teaching professionals can work together on joint projects, training sessions or even organize events. Collaborative efforts bring together diverse perspectives, strengths and experiences, allowing coaches to create innovative coaching approaches and deliver enhanced training experiences for their players.
MENTORSHIP AND ROLE MODELS
Peer networking provides a chance for coaches to find mentors or role models within the coaching community. Establishing relationships with more experienced teaching professionals can be invaluable for professional development. Mentors can offer guidance, share their expertise and provide valuable insights that can accelerate a coach's growth. Learning from respected individuals in the field helps refine their coaching skills and leadership abilities.
COMMUNITY AND CAMARADERIE
Networking fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among teaching professionals. It creates a support system where coaches can connect, share their experiences, celebrate successes and empathize with challenges. Building relationships with like-minded individuals who share a passion for tennis coaching can enhance job satisfaction, increase motivation, and create a sense of belonging within the coaching profession.
KEEPING UP WITH INDUSTRY TRENDS
Networking with peers enables professionals to stay informed about the
latest industry trends, research and advancements in tennis coaching. Through discussions and interactions, teaching professionals can learn about new training methods, technological innovations and scientific insights that can help them improve their coaching techniques and optimize player development.
PERSONAL GROWTH AND MOTIVATION
Engaging in continuing education shows a commitment to personal growth and development. It fuels motivation, fosters a growth mindset and encourages individuals to strive for excellence in their chosen field. Whether it's improving as a player or expanding coaching expertise, the pursuit of knowledge in tennis helps individuals maintain a lifelong love for the sport.
Continuing education and networking are essential for tennis professionals. By staying informed and continuously seeking new knowledge and experiences, teaching professionals can excel in the sport while contributing to its growth and development as well as learning, growing and thriving in their professional careers and positively impacting the players they work with. To learn more about all the amazing opportunities at this year’s USPTA World Racquets Conference and to sign-up, go to www.uspta.com/wrc24 or scan the QR code below.*