Addvantage 1989 January

Youft looking at the clear advantage to dampening vibration.

Introducing the Prince Graph Tech DB™ The GraphTech DB (Double Bridge) is the first racquet ever to dampen both string and frame vibration simultaneously.

And the reason-as you seeis clear. A see-through absorbing elastomer material is positioned within the double construction of the racquet.

The result? Hours of comfortable play © 1988 Prince Manufacturing, Inc.

with the benefit of a true performance commitment to help you play a better racquet. And the GraphTech DB game of tennis. And that's something has other performance we want to make perfectly clear. advantages. as well. A racquet of medium firm flex, the GraphTech DB helps generate power without sacrificing control.

And its aerodynamic shape allows LET THE GAMES BEGINTM for better racquet maneuverability and Prince. The Exclusively Endorsed Racquet, Shoes, quickness. The Prince GraphTech DB Apparel, Ball Machine and Stringing Machine of the is another innovative example of our United States Professional Tennis Association .

•

PIIRCB®

i

Q Volume 13 - Issue 1

The Trade Magazine of Tennis Teaching ProfessionalsTI'

January 1989

The Voice Of The Tennis Teaching Profession

NATIONAL BO~RD OF DIRECTORS President Rod Dulany First Vice President Jack Justice Vice President Gordon Collins Vice President · Dave Sivertson Treasurer Kathy Woods Secretary Allan Henry

On the Cover...

One of America's brightest young stars, Andre Agassi, is shown during match play.

Past President Jim Reffkin

CONTENTS

CEO Tim Heckier LEGAL COUNSEL Paul Waldman NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS Assistant to the Executive Director · Rich Fanning Office and Membership Coordinator Elaine Sroka Communications Coordinator • Bill Gordon Marketing Coordinator Dana Stull Public Relations and Magazine Coordinator Becky Senseney

•

Financial Manager Renee Heckler

Coordinator of Corporate Services Christi Neumann Computer Services and Club Relations Kathy Buchanan Membership Processing Donna Woodstead General Secretary Laraine Reid Membership Services Anne Lepkoske Merchandise Services and Accounting Stephanie Hulbert Director of Certification and Academies George Bacso Co-Director of Certification and Academies BiiiTym Advertising/Marketing Information Phone(813)973-3777

ADDvantage is published monthly by the United States Professional Tennis Association .

For information, write USPTA National Headquarters at Saddlebrook, The Golf and Tennis Resort, P 0 . Box 7077, Wesley Chapel, Florida 34249, or phone (813) 973-3777.

Office Hours: 9:00-5:30 EDT Copyright© United States Professional Tennis Association, Inc. 1988. All ri~hts reserved.

Reproduction of an)' portion of th1s magazine is not ' permitted w1thout written permission from the publisher.

2· Announcements ....................................... 4 Letters . ................................................. 6 CEO Tim Heckler's Message ..........................

Applying Mathematical Game Theory to Service Strategy by Jon Zolin •••••••••••••••••••••••

1"0

Ask the Professor

12 Dates That Rate ..................................... . 14 New Members ...................................... . 17

by Dr. Jack Groppel ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

USPTA International Tennis Teachers Championships .............................

18 National Participation Day .......................... 19

Test Your Players with the USTA Sport Science Protocol by Paul Roetert ••••••••••

20 USPTA Specialty Courses ............ ~ .............. 23 Industry Action ...................................... 24 Division News ...................... .................. 26 President Rod Dulany's Me.ssage ................... 28

.State of the Association '89

by Tim Heckler, CEO

w h the start of the new year, it is a good time to review the growth and direction of USPTA over the past 12 months and look ahead to the next 12 months.

Entering its 63rd year, the Association has never stood taller, or on firmer ground. In 1988, USPTA's membership grew to 7 ,000, triple what it was at the beginning of this decade. Our accelerating growth, a source of wonderment throughout the industry, is attributable to progressive leadership at all levels, sound management and solid member support.

Whereas growth has been great, fiscal management has followed a prudent and conservative path . Spending atal levels has been weighed carefully to ensure a correct appropriation of funds. National administration has gradually shifted US PTA away from

2

costly project sub-contracting toward inhouse production . At the same time, production has outpaced expenditures due to the National Headquarters' extensiva computer operations, notably its selective database capabi Iities.

Thanks to this, the marketing of USPTA and its vast network potential and a disciplined savings program at the national level, we hope to begin construction this year on a new National Headquarters on land adjacent to our present office at Saddlebrook Golf & Tennis Resort, in Tampa, Fla. When completed in 1990, this elegant, 10,000-square-foot structure will provide needed breathing space for our expand ing business operations and will also house the National Center for Continuing Tennis Teacher Education 5M, with classroom space and tennis courts.

The new National Headquarters will go a long way toward fulfilling a broader goal an enhanced public image for the tennis professional. Toward this end , USPTA will explore additional means for publicity, as -well as projects which increase consumer awareness.

USPTA's primary objectives remain in the areas of certification and education . In 1989, we will upgrade our certification program , expand our education offerings and increase our involvement in grassroots projects such as USPTA National Participation Day, National Tennis Month and the Plymouth Ladies Doubles Classic.

Accordingly, the challenge in becoming USPTA certified will be greater, yet more convenient. Educational standards are being raised for some certification ratings to include the required taking of Specialty Courses 5 M, designed to put the teaching professional in tune with advancements in the industry. We will offer more Certification Exams at more locations for greater convenience to prospective and current members. And we will provide additional means for achieving success on the exam . The recently released study manual, How to Prepare for USPTA

Certification, is an important step in this direction.

USPTA's overall publishing efforts will move forward . In 1988, we introduced two additional publications, The USPTA Sport Science and Sports Medicine Guide and How to Hire a Tennis Professional. Already, these books are making their mark in the industry, and they will continue to do so. In 1989, we expect to produce as many as four new educational anq informational publications, and we will expand to monthly publication of our trade magazine, ADDvantage.

Through our publishing efforts, we fulfill two objectives: educating and informing the membership and building the prestige of the Association .

In 1989, we will do more to enhance your career as a tennis-teaching professional.

We will expand and improve our Club Relations Program and its Job Bureau employment listing service. And we will continue to provide outstanding benefits and services such as $1 million liability/ personal property insurance coverage, extensive giveaway product packages, national tournaments and prize money, national player ran kings, national publicity and promotion, US PTA logo merchandise, automatic credit lines and cooperative instructional activities, to name a few.

As in the past, we will work with allied organizations such as USTA, CMAA, IRSA, ATl F, WITA and ATP on projects to promote the game and the teaching profession. These mutually beneficial relationships enhance our allies' awareness and understanding of USPTA, boosting the image of each and every USPTA member.

Being the trade association of the tennisteaching profession , USPTA has an obligation to do all it can to insure your immediate and long-term future. Therefore, in 1989, our commitmentto excellence will be greater than ever before.

As always, I look forward to working with .n you .

@ BUICK Time Flies When You're Having Fun So Don't Forget to Schedule Your 1989 National Tennis Month Events NOW!

+ Buick Amateur Mixed Doubles Tourn<hmentsOpen & Intermediate + National Tennis Month Clinics + National Tennis Month Tournaments Call For More Information: 1-800-344-4469

IIJll

"'

In CT, (203) 373-7024

Su~ported by the United Stoles Professional Tennis Association

Has Your Address Changed, WW It Be Changing?

In order to ensure that all mailings and publications reach you in a timely manner, you must report any change of address, as soon as possible, to the National Headquarters office in writing or by telephone. The US PTA cannot be responsible for any mailings that do not reach members due to an incorrect or outdated address. If your address has changed, or is about to change, please fill out the coupon below and return to: USPTA National Headquarters Computer Services Department P.O. Box 7077

Wesley Chapel, FL 34249

Effective Date _ _ _ _ _ __ Name - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - M e m b e r Number _ _ _ _ _ __ Address - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - , - - - - - - - - - - Division _ _ _ _ _ __ City _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _.:.___ _ _ _ _ State _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Zip Code _ _...;___ _ __ Home Telephone - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Work T e l e p h o n e - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

3

ANNOUNCEMENTS

MASTER PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS

REVISED

BY NATIONAL BOARD With careful consideration, the USPTA National Board has revised its resolution on upgraded requirements for Master Professional certification .

Neither current Master Professionals nor 1989 applicants will be required to take Specialty Courses. Beginning with the 1990 applicants, the Specialty Course requirements are as follows: 1990 applicants 1991 applicants1992 applicants 1993 applicants-

three (3) courses five (5) courses seven (7) courses 10 courses

Upon fulfillment oftheir requirements, applicants will not be required to take any additional courses. Current Master Professionals, meanwhile, will be encouraged to take courses by having them offered at no cost.

It is important to note that applications ~ill be modified yearly to reflect changIng course requirements, therefore, requirements listed on each application will apply to that year only. Applicants who fail to submit their application to the Master Professional Committee on or before June 1 of the year in question will be asked to use the following year's application, with its upgraded requirements.

4

EMPLOYERS COVERAGE If you are interested in Additional Insured Coverage for Employers contact the Insurance Department at the National Headquarters at (813) 973-3777 . This insurance provides protection for employers should the USPTA member be negligent. For members who added their employers to the 1988 policy you must contactthe Insurance Department at the National Headquarters as a renewal notice will not be sent.

INSURANCE CERTinCATES Members should request Certificates of Insurance in January 1989 for the new policy year (if proof of liability insurance is requested by employer). To receive your Certificate of Insurance contact the Insurance Department at the National Headquarters at (813) 973-3777 for cost and information needed to process your certificate.

NON-MEMBER LIABILITY INSURANCE Contact the Insurance Department at the National Headquarters in January 1989 at (813) 973-3777 for details on insuring nonmember assistants. For members who insured their assistants in 1988 you must contact the Insurance Department at the National Headquarters each year as a renewal notice will not be sent.

DON'T FORGET TO SUBMIT YOUR MEMBER PROnLE SURVEY The USPTA National Headquarters would like to thank all of the members who participated in the 1988 Member Profile SuNey. The response has been excellent, and we would like to encourage those of you who have not sent in your questionnaire to do so.

This marketing suNey enables USPTA to compile critical data related to membership demographics in an effort to determine the profile of the membership. This information will help us to represent you in the most appropriate manner.

It's not too late to submit your questionnaire.

This is your opportunity to receive a complimentary copy of USPTA's newest publication How To Hire A Tennis Professional. The book is a valuable tool to employers of the tennis business and teaching professionals looking to advance their careers.

If you have any questions pertaining to the member profile survey or the new publication, the staff at the National Headquarters will be happy to assist you.

~

Crown Manufacturing 'Wishes Yl[[ ill¥T.9l Members a Prosperous aruf J{appy ~w :Y"ear

"~

8:~ •:-

ee

''It Would Be Impossible To Teach Advanced Pupils Without The Versatile Coach.''

Tennis machines have come along ways since I invented the first oscillating ball machine.

I am 87 and have been a teaching Pro since 1926, at my age it would be impossible to teach advanced pupils without the versatile "coach."

The machine can be programmed to challenge their advancement and condition.

Fred A. Earle, Jr. Master Pro Honorary USPTA and PTA

Fred A. Earle, Jr. Master Pro Honorary USPTA and PTA Call today for more information on "The Coach " and our other quality products and the name of your local distributor.

Call Toll Free

(1-800) 251-6716

For More Information Contact , CROWN MANUFACTURING 2480? Tibbits Avenue, Valencia, CA 91355 • In Calif: (805) 257-7714 5

LeHers Convention Dear USPTA Executive Committee Members: I would like to thank you for all of your efforts during our caucus and meetings in Palm Springs.

There is no question in my mind that our Association has never been more focused, with such a clear sense of direction after seeing the cohesiveness and sense of purpose we all exemplified.

I look forward to working with you in the future and seeing you in Boca Raton in 1989 for what promises to be USPTA's best convention ever: Mark McMahon President, Florida Division

I came away from this year's USPTA Convention just glowing from the experience .

You all should be rightly proud of what you have accomplished over the years. As an old-timer, I remember when 100-200 people attended. Now when I see over 1,000 capable , proficient, dedicated teaching pros convene, it is so exhilarating and encouraging .

I also think that you have a wonderful mix of seriousness , fun , competitive opportunities and camaraderie . lt's a tremendously ins iring week and one which certainly recharged my own batteries for another year .

I also compliment you on how you have the group dining and socializing together each evening.lt is such a wonderful feature .

Everyone is together mixing, matching, and talking - and it also saves everyone financially.

We look toward to a continued close relationship with the USPTA. You're a wonderful group.

Many thanks again ,

congratulate you on the continuing efforts that you are making in behalf of tennis.

I look forward to a close working association with you in the pursuing months and wish you well in your continuing endeavors.

Leigh S. Strassner Chairman, USTA Education and Recreational · Tennis

6

James L. Brown California Youth Tennis Foundation

Every time I attend a USPTA convention I am amazed at how you are able to improve on the prior year 's event. Well, you did it again . Thanks to you and your staff.

I must also say that I am impressed with your efforts to keep the organization headed in a positive direction. The preparation from your office in making the executive meetings run efficiently was especially impressive.

Good work and thanks to all those who made the entire 1988 Palm Springs meeting so great.

How to Hire a Professional was a lifesaver.

Recently I renegotiated my club contract. I used the sample contract in the booklet as an outline . What a professional impression it created .

Without the guidance of the whole booklet I would have been lost.

Thanks for a great membership service.

Gary Horvath Intermountain Division

Doug Welsh Florida Division

How to Hire

~AMMA·~~~~ ..

Get your game under control ~AMMA·~FU~ Super-soft, extra thin and absorbent over-grip in blue, gold, or black.

~AMMA·~~~~ ~

New, ultra-thin high-traction over-grip in blue, green, gold, or black.

Eve Kraft USTA Center for Education and Recreational Tennis

It seems as your annual convention completed was a long time ago when in reality it was just a few months.

I finally had a chance to come up for air and to extend my thanks and appreciation to you and your entire staff for the hospitality that you extended to me and the other USTA members in attendance.

Your convention was professi<!lnally orch. estrated and very well done. It was full of good balance and information, and I certainly

Thank you for having Tennis Buddies at the Convention.

It was an incred ible experience to have the whole audience come down at you wanting more information.

I have had a lot of positive feedback.

Thank you for making it possible .

~AMMA

HI-TECH GRIP Non-slip, shock-absorbing replacement grip in brown or black.

JIA CALFSKIN SUPER-PRO GRIP

f)Al Jll I-' rTI rTI

I

~ ....._, __ ,... ~

Highest quality ultra-tacky replacement grip in tan or black.

Gommo 'Vnlhetle gnps ond Gommo G"t' strings "" ""'"''"'' ondoffiod by the United States Professional Tennis Association.

TEN EX • 559 Rodi Road, Pittsburgh, Po. 15235 (412) 243-0335 Telex: 350405

Ask The Professor Dear Dr. Groppel: In the November issue of NewsJournal you were asked by foreign tenn is coaches about their sixteen-year old girl who seemed to hit her forehand quite well from the service line but hit short when making the same stroke from the baseline. They appeared to concentrate entirely on mechanics, and maybe her form left something to be desired.

Why not place her on the baseline , toss a ball to her and ask her to hit it as near the opposite baseline as poss ible. Concentrate entirely on that one item . If she hit it short, I would remark, "You hit it very shallow, didn 't you? Now really try to hit it as near the baseline as possible . Don 't be concerned if you happen to drive the ball too far."

If she should ask, " How do I do that?" I wou ld respond with , " If I give you a ball and tell you to throw it to the baseline and you threw it short, what would you do with the next throw? " to which she would reply, " I'd throw it farther." She would not have to ask how, she would instinctively make, or attemp{

to make, the correction . She might throw too far or a little short, but within a few tries she would be coming close to the target. In tennis, she is throwing with a racquet rather than with her hand but the principle remains the same . She will hit the ball higher and /or harder, the necessary corrections to attain greater depth, instinctively. As I see it, she must learn the feel of hitting with depth.

Certain mechanics will certainly help, but in the last analysis, she will be hitting from varying positions on the court so that her mechanics wil have to change in adjusting to those various positions, hence the neccessity of attaining the feel of hitting the desired shot.

Once my players were warmed up, juniors or varsity, I insisted that they never accept second bounces. Taking second bounces meant that they were lazy with concentration and lazy with footwork, two channels to mediocre tennis. In taking only first bounces, or volleys, they were learning to drtve deep from varying positions on the court. And then even early in the learning process they were taught to develop a net game, yes, even the eight and ten-year olds. They loved it.

You will notice that I used the word instinct

ANNOUNCING THE COMPLETE RACQUET STRINGING MANUAL! P-iesenting The 1989 Stringer's Digest, a 200 page, vinyl 3-ring stringer's workbook that gives you a wealth of information including: • Easy-to-understand stringing info for over 1400 tennis, squash, racquetball and badminton frames.

• A comprehensive step-by-step tutorial for beginning stringers. Even if you're a seasoned pro, the Digest offers useful technical hints and tips. Plus important marketing and customer service ideas.

• Names & numbers for hundreds of frame, string and machine suppliers.

constantly. ! employ it heavily in my teaching .

It won 't do everything but it does shorten the learning procedure dramatically in many ways. We do not have to teach everything to beginners.

Don Klotz Missouri Valley Division

USPTA AOOvantage welcomes letters to the editor concerning issues of interest to the membership and the tenn is industry, as well as commentary on articles published. Please address correspondence to: Letters To The Editor, USPTA ADDvantage, PO Box 7077 , Wesley Chapel, FL 34249. If you are a USPTA member, please include your member number and daytime telephone number. Letters may be edited for clarity and length. Letters received, whether publ ished or unpublished, cannot be. returned.

O%uDD~~@V THE FIRST NAME TO KNOW IN COURT EQUIPMENT

You 'll also receive a monthly 16-24 p1ge newsletter, free consultation, special supplier discounts and offers, low-cost insurance, and a discount on stringer certification. Yau 'll be an important part of a professional stringer's network 5200 strong!

The Stringer's Digest is also available free with the purchase of the Ektelon Model H stringing machine

D

I want to join! My $48 annual dues are enclosed.

D

Send me more info about the USRSA

Name ----------------------------------------------------Address ---------------------------------------------------

City ---------------------------=---- State ________ Zip ___________ Telephone --------------------------------------------------MASTER CARD 0 EXP. DATE _ _ _ _ _ __ CHECK VISA D VISAIMC NUMBER _ _ _

D

___!._ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

USRSA, Dept. A19, PO Box 40, Del Mar, CA 92014. (619) 481-3545

TOLL FREE

Wi th t he full lin e of Bal l

1-800-323-5417 Hopper p roducts you have SHIPMENT IN 24 HOURS

Call for our latest catalog

t he right c ourt equipment a nd a ccessories at the right pric e.

Order toll free 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. No waiting .

~~~~

PITISBURGH, PA 15235 .

7

~egendary­

WarryWopman ...

"The Greatest Coach Ever."

Tennis Magazine, December 1986 Of the 21 Davis Cup teams captained by Harry Hopman. 16 of them won the trophy sought by every tennis playing nation.

His proven training methods were the basis of his tennis camp which attracted players and coaches from over 95 countries. His tradition has continued at Harry Hopman/Saddlebrook International Tennis. His drills. techniques and strategies are all part of our on-going program which welcomes adults and juniors of all ability levels from beginners to touring professionals. The renowned Harry Hopman tennis program features year-round daily clinics. five hours of intensive instruction with never more than four players per court and instructor. Overseen by Mrs. Harry Hopman. Tommy Thompson (Head Professional) and Howard Moore (Camp Director) head the staff of experienced Harry Hopman instructors including Alvaro Betancur and Roland Jaeger. Dr. Jack Groppel directs high-tech physical and mental conditioning.

We hope to welcome you to the USPTA Headquarters, where the H~me Court Advantages are yours: • • • •

37 tennis courts • 10% Commission or discount on packages 10% OFF Hopman/Saddlebrook daily clinics Group Rates & Scholarship Awards for Hopman/Saddlebrook tennis • Complimentary accommodations. tennis and spa for members accompanying groups of four or more.

• 60% or more OFF airfare on Eastern and Delta AND You earn 10 CHANCES to win a TRIP 1D WIMBLEDON

Call today ... and take advantage of us! Toll-Free: 1-800-237-7519; in Florida, 1-800-282-4654

~~1r!!~l!l£ll~

100 Saddlebrook Way . Wesley Chapel. FL 34249 Telephone (813) 973-1111. Telex 522621 SADDLEBROOK WSCL

,...----....,

Gift Shoppe Order Form ITEM

·au AN.

DESCRIPTION ** PLEASE CIRCLE COLOR & SIZE FOR ITEMS BELOW. 501 Ladies' Pleated Tennis Skirt (Prince) 502 Men 's Tennis Shorts (Prince) 503 Discontinued 504 Ladies' Polo Shirt (Prince) 505 Men's Polo Shirt (Prince) 506 USPTA Tennis Professional T-Shirt 506S USPTA Tennis Professional Sweatshirt (Not Shown) 507 USPTA Standard of Excellence T-Shirt 508 USPTA Black T-Shirt with "A" Logo 508S USPTA Black Sweatshirt with "A" Logo (Not Shown) 509 White T-Shirt with Gold and Navy "A" Logo (Not Shown) 510 · Child 's White T-Shirt with "A" Logo (Not Shown) USPTA White Sweatshirt with "A" Logo (Not Shown) 511 512S USPTA EagleT-Shirt, Short Sleeve 512L USPTA EagleT-Shirt, Long Sleeve (Not Shown) 513 USPTA Eagle Sweatshirt (Not Shown) 514 Cotton Twill Cap with USPTA Logo 515 Men 's White Crew Socks (Not Shown) 516 Ladies' White Roll Top Full Socks (Not Shown)

COLOR

SIZE

WHITE

6 8 10 12 14

NAVY OR WHITE

32 34 36 38 40

WHITE OR LILAC

SML

RED OR WHITE

S M LXL

WHITE

S M LXL

WHITE

M LXL

WHITE

S M LXL

BLACK

S M LXL

BLACK

M LXL

WHITE

M LXL

WHITE

ML

WHITE

M LXL

WHITE

S M LXL

WHITE

S M LXL

LIGHT GRAY

M LXL

RED. WH ITE OR BLUE

ADJUSTIBLE

WHITE

FITS ALL

WHITE

FITS ALL

UNIT PRICE

AMOUNT

36 .00 39.00 26.00 28.00 10.00 21.50 10.00 10.00 21 .50 10.00 6.50 21.50 10.00 15.00 21.50 7.00 5.00 5.00

TOTAL AMOUNT

-

.

PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY

NAME ADDRESS

!NO P0 BOXES • ALL ORDERS ARE SHIPPED UPSI

CITY

STATE

PHONE (

ZIP DATE

)

USPTA MEMBERSHIP# D Check or Money Order Enclosed

Please Charge My 0 VISA D MasterCard Account Number (all digits) I

I I I

Exp. Date

I I I I I I I I I I I I I

I

I

I I

I.

Name of Credit Card Holder Signature of Credit Card Holder Enclose check or money order made payable to: USPTA GIFT SHOPPE P.O. Box 7077 Wesley Chapel, FL 34249 (813) 973-3777

See merchandise on back cover.

I

¡Applying Mathematical Game Theory to Service Strategy

by Jon Zolin

A n interesting question involved in try-

Jon Zolin graduated from Florida State University with a _master's degree in criminology. A USPTA tester and USTA/Volvo League verifier, Jon is currently a tennis professional at the Capital City Country Club in Tallahassee, Florida. He also has just completed a tennis video called Tennis Tips.

As a player, Jon 34, was Delaware's State Men 's Singles Champion and runner up in 197 4 and 1978. He has also been a finalist in several twenty-five (25) and over sanctioned tournaments in Florida.

ing to play percentage tennis is how to deal with the element of surprise. Knowing shot percentages alone does not indicate which shot should be used if surprise is an important factor.

If, for example, you believe your opponent has a 90 percent chance of returning a serve to his forehand and a 70 percent chance of returning a serve to his backhand, do you always serve to the backhand? If you do, your opponent will soon expect it and probably increase his percentage of returns by being prepared . The usual advice about this is to mix it up a little to keep the opponent off guard, but how do you determine the best mixture? There is a mathematical technique known as a game theory which applies directly to this question .

Service strategy is particularly appropriate for rational strategizing because it is the most deliberate shot in tennis- the server has time to deliberately choose a strategy and the receiver has time to try to anticipate the server's choice of strategy. Game theory techniques can be used to find the strategy which maximizes the average return to each player by following the steps outlined below.

step 1: Define possible strategies for yourself and for your¡ opponent such as the following : Server's Strategies S, = Serve to the forehand S2 = Serve to the backhand Receiver's Strategies R, =Anticipate serve to the forehand R2 =Anticipate serve to the backhand

10

NOTE: The model can be expanded to include more strategies such as serving down the middle, serving with spin , serving deep, serving short, etc., but two strategies for each player are sufficient to illustrate the principles involved.

step 2: Estimate your percentage chance of winning a point with each of your strategies against each of your opponent's strategies and put them in a payoff matrix as indicated.

(See Figure 1.)

PAYOFF MATRIX Receiver's Strategies

Server's Strategies

R,

R2

1/2

3/4

7/8

5/8

Figure 1 The meaning of the numbers in Figure 1 is that if the server chooses Strategy S, (Serve to the forehand) and the receiver chooses Strategy R, (Anticipate a forehand serve) the server will win the point half the time. Similarly, when the server chooses S2 and the receiver chooses R,, the server will win the point 7/8 of the time. Given the percentages in Figure 1, if the server always serves to the backhand, it will be anticipated and the server will win 5/ 8 of the points. If the receiver always expects a forehand, the server can win 7/8 of the points by serving to

PAYOFF MATRIX R, R2¡

PAYOFF MATRIX R, R2 s,

1/2

3/4

4

6

7

5

X8= s2

7/8

5/8

Figure 1

Figure 2

the backhand; and if the server always prepares for a backhand , the server can win 3/4 of the points by serving to the forehand.

Both players in this situation have some- â&#x20AC;˘ thing to gain by trying to keep the other guessing as to the placement of the serve and the receiver's strategy for receiving it.

The question is what mixture of strategies will maximize the points for the server and what combination of strategies will minimize the points lost by the receiver. This is the kind of strategy question that mathematical game theory is designed to answer by the procedure outlined .

First of all, the game theory formula is easier to apply if fractions in the payoff matrix are converted to whole numbers. This can be done by multiplying all the fractions by a constant which converts Figure 1 to Figure 2.

The average return to the server (i.e., the number of points he can expect to win) can be found by multiplying the payoffs in a column and by the odds with which they are used and dividing by the total number of serves. It is necessary to then divide by 8 because of the multiplication by 8 in Step 2.

step 3: Apply the game theory formula to the payoff matrix in Figure 2.

Using Figure.2, the server's best strategy mix is determined by subtracting Column 2 from Column 1, attaching the number for Row 2 to Strategy 1 and the number for Row 1 to Strategy 2. Minus signs are to be ignored. (See Figure 2A.) Conclusion: Server should serve to the forehand and backhand in a ratio of 2:2 or, equivalently, 1:1 .

(4 ) (2 ) + (7 ) (2 ) X1/8 = 11/16

4 This means that the server can expect to win 11 /16 of the points by serving to the forehand and backhand in a ratio of 1:1. It is assumed that the serves will be used in an absolutely random manner to achieve maximum surprise. This strategy mix can be proven to maximize the return to the server.

Any other strategy mix will produce a lower average return given the percentages assumed in Figure 1. If the server chooses not to mix his strategies and simply concentrate on the highest percentage shot, the best he can do in Figure 1 istoalwaysservetothe backhand and win an average of 5/8 of the points.

Winning 11/16 of the points represents a 10 percent improvement over winning 5/8 of the points.

The receiver's optimum strategy mix can be obtained in a similar manner from Figure 2A. (See Figure 28.)

6

7

5

Author's Note: The game theory formula is presented in cookbook fashion. Derivation and proof of the formula can be found in standard texts on mathematical game theory.

Also, I would like to acknowledge Elizabeth Burdgraff, an enthusiastic tennis student who initiated and helped produce this article.

PAYOFF MATRIX R, R2

PAYOFF MATRIX R1 R2

4

Conclusion: Receiver should anticipate a backhand serve 3 times out of 4 and a forehand serve 1 time out of 4.

Following this strategy, the receiver will lose the point 11/16 of the time, which is better than losing it 3/4 of the time . Losing 3/4 of the points is the best the receiver can do in Figure 1 by always using his highest percentage strategy which is to prepare for a serve to the backhand.

These results are fairly surprising . lt would be hard to guess on the basis of the assumed percentages in Figure 1 that the server should only serve to the backhand half of the time, and it would be even harder to guess that the receiver is only serving to the backhand half the time . The main principle to be learned from this exercise is that the element of surprise can really affect how percentage tennis should be played . You may have to use the high percentage shot considerably less often to achieve the opti.a mum degree of surprise.

4 - 6 = -2

Figure 2A

7-5= 2

2><2

s,

4

6

s2

7

5

4- 7 = 3

6- 5 = 1

1:><3

Figure 28 11

"ASK THE PROFESSOR"

Practice What You Teach

by Dr. Jack Groppel

I am aware of what is being said to help our players, young and old, relative to fitness and nutrition for improving their performance. My question is this: Should teaching professionals follow the same advice even if we are not competing anymore?

Q.

Dr. Jack Groppel is the Director of Player Development for Harry Hopman/ Saddlebrook International Tennis and the Director of Sports and Health Development for Saddlebrook Resort. He is a USPTA Master Professional and the 1987 USPTANational Pro of the Year. The author of over 150 articles about biomechanics. fitness and nutrition , he is a technical editor for World Tennis magazine. Dr. Groppel is also the Chairperson of the USPTA Advisory Committee on Sport Science and Sports Medicine and he is a Sport Science Advisor to the US PTA Player Development Program.

12

A. The answer to your question is a definitive yes! Even though some tennis fitness parameters such as speed, response time and agility may not be important to you now in your non-competitive state, there are . several areas of fitness and nutrition that are crucial to your high-performance occupation and lifestyle.

Relative to fitness, there are three concepts to work on : cardiovascular fitness, strength and flexibility. With ideal levels of these fitness parameters, you can perform your job duties in an outstanding fashion and you can enhance the quality of your life as well. When exercising aerobically, compute your estimated maximum heart rate by the following equation: 220 - your age = Maximum Heart Rate. Now determine 60 percent and 75 percent of the estimated Maximum Heart Rate and these will serve as the lower and upper limits of your training heart rate. And just as you advise your clients, do not begin an exercise program without the consent of a physician if you have not been exercising.

The second area of fitness is strer)gth.

This is not strength as in body building but it is strength as in maintaining optimal health

and fitness. A total body strength training program can be extremely beneficial and I heartily recommend getting started on one.

If you are concerned about not being knowledgeable enough to begin on your own, make an appointment to visit a ¡ certified strength trainer or an exercise physiologist to get the right information. Even if yo do not get started on a total body strength program, at least begin a program of abdominal muscles. Weak abdominal muscles are the number one cause of lower back pain so at least try to work on them.

The third area of fitness is flexibility. This involves the range of motion about the body's joints and is obviously a crucial component of general fitness for the tennisteaching professional. When beginning your flexibility program, remember several points: (1) never force your stretching, (2) do not bounce (bouncing may elicit a stretch reflex response from the muscle and tendon which could cause serious injury), and (3) avoid the philosophy of no pain, no gain.

How often should you exercise? The rule of thumb for exercising is that you should train aerobically three days per week maintaining your target heart rate for between 20-30 minutes. Three other days per week should be devoted to strength training with rest occuring between 48-72 hours between strength training sessions. Flexibility training should take place virtually every day after exercise when your body is the warmest.

Remember to warm-up before all exercise sessions. Do this by breaking a light sweat and then follow the warm-up with some very

light stretching. Just as importantly, remember to cool down after the exercise period and then you can conduct your flexibility workout.

Regarding nutrition, the tennis professional's body is continuously exposed to highly sfressful situations, and cannot function at peak performance unless fueled with the right octane foods, like those in a highenergy diet. Misconceptions abound , however, about what constitutes a high-energy diet. At one time, the popular belief held that fat contained the good calories needed to boost us through a tough day. Not so, says the current research . The truth be known, fat foods contain restrictive agents that zilch high performance-whether in the athletic arena or in the business world .

The bad news: today's average diet contains up to 40 percent fat. Compare that to the caveman 's epicurean fare that had no • more than 10 percent fat. The reward : cancer and coronary heart disease were

AT

practically nonexistent. The good news: today's designated food champions are complex carbohydrates, fruits, fresh vegetables and whole grain (unrefined) products.

They are easy to get and they are good for you . As such , they should make up at least 60 percent of the tennis-teaching professional 's diet. This, combined with the 1520 percent protein and 25-30 percent fat in your diet, will make for a healthy, productive · and high-performance lifestyle.

Foods high in protein include meats, poultry, fish , cheese, eggs and nuts. The zinger: many high-protein foods are also high in fat concentrations. Do not avoid the so-called bad foods but consume them in moderation, being watchful that you do not go over your recommended dietary allowances.

If you are just getting started in changing your dietary habits, try keeping a daily record of everything you consume. Nobody said it was going to be easy but this will be a

S.~:~~ated800•854•7071 0

R D

E R

T 0

L L

F R E E

suppliers

SUPPLIES FOR PROFES.SIONALS

STRINGMETER • IDEAL FOR CHECKING TENSION DURING OR AFTER STRINGING. USE TO SHOW CUSTOMERS TENSION LOSS OVER TIME. TENNIS OR BADMINTON. 16.50

SYNTHETICS PRINCE STAR

ADD•ON • ACCURATE. CONVENIENT AND EASY TO USE. ADD•ON IS THE LAST WORD IN GRIP BUILD-UP MATERIAL. HALF AND FULL SIZES AVAILABLE 5.95 MICROLIGHT • THIS SMALL HAND-HELD 30X MICROSCOPE IS PERFECT FOR CLOSELY INSPECTING BROKEN STRING OR CRACKED FRAMES. 14.95 POLY RACQUET BAGS • THE PROFESSIONAL FINISHING TOUCH FOR YOUR WORK. 50 PER PACKAGE. 5.95

BY

TECNIFIBRE

HEAD

GAMMA•GUT TOA

WILSON

TEN EX

VOLLMER

BOW BRAND

BLUE ALPHA

GOSEN WINN GUT STRINGS BY VS PACIFIC BOW BRAND GRIP

TENEX

TOURNA GRIP

AME GRIP RACQUET BALANCE GAUGE • THE PERFECT TOOL FOR CUSTOM BALANCING RACQUETS. USE FOR COMPARING OR MATCHING FRAMES. 5.95

tremendous way to keep track of how you are doing. Record keeping begins with a complete listing of everything ingested during the day-both solids and liquids. This means recording all snack foods as well.

Construct a chart with a heading that includes the four basic food groups: dairy products, meat, fruits and vegetables, and breads and cereals. Just to keep you honest, add a fifth category entitled junk. Under each category list the foods consumed throughout the day.

If this sounds silly or frivolous, try recording all the candy, cakes, pies, sweets, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages consumed during a typical day or week. Sure, some carbohydrate benefit is derived but the majority of these foods are wasted calories. Just for fun, replace the bad items on your list with fruits and vegetables. You will see why, at the end of the day after consuming these kinds of foods , you will be the big hitter in the pinch while your competition is in the n showers.

SAl

BY

GRIPSY

NEUMANN

PRO LEATHER HOPPER

GRIPS

FAIRWAY

ACCESSORIES THORLO

LASTRAP

GAMMA• TACKI MAC GAMMA· BY

BALL

BABOLOT

STRINGS & GRIPS ·~.lllllll!.

DONNAY

.

TENNIS STRING INTERNATIONAL

P.O. BOX 1015

BERKLEY. Ml 48072

- - - - - - - ATS FEATURES PRODUCTS BY: - - - - - - -

GAMMA•GUT • TENEX • PRINCE • WILSON • HEAD • BABOLAT GOSEN • TECNIFIBRE • WINN • BLUE STAR • BOW BRAND PACIFIC • TOA • FAIRWAY • NEUMANN • AME • TACKI MAC • TOURNA GRIP • EKTELON • ETERNAL TOE ~ SHOE GOO • & MUCH MORE

ORDER TOLL FREE

800·245·0208 MUCH. MUCH MORE-CALL FOR PRICES. CATALOG & DISCOUNTS

13

Dates That Rate The following dates and sites are the revised schedule of USPTA educational events to be held in 1989. These dates are slightly different from those that appeared in the last issue due to last minute additions. For further information, contact the Education Department at the USPTA National Headquarters, (813} 973-3777.

Certification Training Courses January 19 January 27 January 28 February 12 February 18 February 24 February 25 February 25 March 3 March 4 March 11 March 11 March 13 March 17 March 19 March 25 April 5 April 14 April 16 April 22 April 29 May 12 May 14 May 16 May 20 May 21 May 27 June 17 June 17 June 23 June 24 July 9 July 22 July 29 July 29 July 30 August 6 August 18 August 19 August 20 September 10 September 25 October 21 November 17 November 18 November 19 December 16

Chicago, IL Boca Raton, FL Tampa, FL Atlanta, GA Rochester, NY Sarasota, FL Hershey, PA Murrieta, CA Palm Coast, FL Malibu, CA Cincinnati, OH Detroit, Ml Carmel Valley, CA Miami, FL Tampa, FL . Niceville, FL Copper Mount., CO Bradenton, FL La Jolla, CA Chicago, IL Tampa, FL Orlando, FL Cleveland, OH Tyler, TX Wilmington, DE Vienna, VA Nashville, TN New Braunfels, TX New Haven, CT Ponte Vedra, FL Nashville, TN Murrieta, CA Monroeville, PA Nashville, TN Flushing, NY Vienna, VA Denver, CO Destin, FL Nashville, TN Atlanta, GA Murrieta, CA Chicago, IL Tampa, FL Tampa, FL Columbus, OH Los Gatos, CA Tampa, FL

Tennis Teacher's Courses January 25-27 February 22-24 March 16-18 April 19-21 April 26-28 14

Tampa, FL Murrieta, CA Tampa, FL Chicago, IL Tampa, FL

May 18-20 May 24-26 June 21-23 July 26-28 August 16-1 8 October 18-20 November 16-18 December 16

Vienna, VA Nashville, TN Nashville, TN Nashville, TN Nashville, TN Tampa, FL Los Gotas, CA Tampa, FL

Exams/UPgrades January 9 January 9 January 10 January 13-14 January 14 January 15-16 January 19-20 January 27-28 January 28-29 January 28-29 February 5-6 February 10-11 February 12-13 February 14 February 18-1 9 February 19-20 February 24-25 February 24-25 February 25-26 . February 25-26 March 3-4 March 4-5 March 4-5 March 11-12 March 11-12 March 13 March 13-14 March 14 March 17-18 March 17-18 March 19-20 March 19-20 March 25-26 April 5-6 April 9-10 April 11 April 14-15 April 16 April 16-17 April 16-17 April 22-23 April 24 April 28 April 29-30 May 7-8 May 8 May 9

Woodland Hills, CA La Jolla, CA Flushing, ~y Des Moines, lA Vienna, VA Dallas, TX Chicago, IL Boca Raton, FL Tampa, FL Wayland, MA Denver, CO Amelia Island, FL Atlanta, GA Flushing, NY Rochester, NY Houston, TX Indianapolis, IN Sarasota, FL Hershey, PA Murrieta, CA Palm Coast, FL Malibu, CA Mill Creek, WA Cincinnati, OH Detroit, Ml Redlands, CA Carmel Valley, CA Flushing, NY Miami, FL Minneapolis, MN New Braunfels, TX Tampa, FL Niceville, FL Copper Mount., CO Oklahoma City, OK Flushing, NY Bradenton, FL Big Rapids, Ml Birmingham, AL La Jolla, CA Chicago, IL Fresno, CA Kahuku , HI Tampa, FL St. Louis, MO Woodland Hills, CA Flushing, NY

May 12-13 May 14-15 May 16-17 May 19-20 May 20-21 May 21-22 May 27-28 June 2-3 June 4-5 June 13 June 17-18 June 17-18 June 23-24 June 24-25 July 9-10 July 10 July 14-15 July 14-15 July 17 July 19 July 22-23 July 29-30 July 29-30 July 30-31 August 6-7 August 8 August 18-19 August 18-19 August 19-20 August 20-21 August 20-21 September 10 September 10-11 September 11 September 25-26 October 7-8 October 9 October 10 October 21-22 October 22 October 30 November 3-4 November 5-6 November 12-13 November 13 November 14 November 17-18 November 17-18 November 18-19 November 18-19 November 19-20 December 1-2 December 2-3 December 10-11 December 12 December 16-1 7 December 18-1 9 December 27

Orlando, FL Cleveland, OH Tyler, TX Stowe, VT Wilmington, DE Vienna, VA Nashville, TN Portland, OR Denver, CO Flushing, NY New Braunfels, TX New Haven, CT Ponte Vedra, FL Nashville, TN Murrieta, CA Redlands, CA Minneapolis, MN Orlando, FL Chicago, IL Sacramento, CA Monroeville, PA Nashville, TN Flushing, NY Vienna, VA Denver, CO Princeton, NJ Destin, FL ¡ Niceville, FL Nashville, TN Atlanta, GA Montgomery, TX Vienna, VA Murrieta, CA Woodland Hills, CA Chicago, IL Ft. Washington, PA San Fransisco, CA Flushing, NY Tampa, FL Detroit, Ml La Jolla, CA Bellevue, WA Salt Lake City, UT Houston, TX Redlands, CA Flushing, NY Boca Raton, FL Tampa, FL Columbus, OH Farmington, CT Los Gatos, CA Minneapolis, MN Columbia, MO Las Vegas, NV Flushing, NY Tampa, FL Denver, CO Crystal River, FL

A Lesson In Teaching

TENNIS TEACHERS' COURSESM >>

Tennis Professioruds

The Course emphasizes: • • • • • • • • •

Physical Habits - Racquet and Footwork The Volley Objectives of Drill/Match Play Groundstrokes The Serve Overhead and Specialty Shots Moving from the Physical to the Mental Game Singles and Doubles Strategies Creating and Sustaining the Optimum Emotional/Psychological State of Mind • Presenting the Ideal Lesson

>>

Pre-registrants receive: • Tennis: A Professional Guide • The USPTA Tennis Professional's Business Manual • The USPTA Junior Development Manual

Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _-=-----City _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ State _Zip _____ Daytime Phone _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ USPTA Member #

Division - - - - - - -

FEE: $400 (A non-refundable $50 deposit is required).

D D D

Register me for the USPTA Tennis Teachers' Course (check location and date above).

Also, register me for the optional8-hour Certification Training Course (CTC) 5 M in preparation for the Certification or Upgrade Exam (at no additional charge for Tennis Teachers' Course attendees).

I plan to take the Certification Exam or portions of it for upgrading upon the completion of the Certification Training Course. I have registered with the US PTA Membership Department and have paid all applicable fees.

Make checks or money orders payable to USPTA. Return this form and payment to: United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) National Headquarters, P. 0. Box 7077, Wesley Chapel, FL 34249 • (813) 973-3777.

IMPORTANT - Fees are subject to change. A non-refundable $50 deposit or full payment of $400 must accompany this form to reserve a space in the Tennis Teachers' Course. If space is available, you may register at the door. USPTA reserves the right to cancel any Tennis Teachers' Course which does not meet the minimum number of registrants. Should this occur, a full course refund will be issued. Hotel accommodations are not included in the course fee . Pre-registrants will receive information on the hotels of their selected course site.

USPfA Gift Shoppe Order Fonn SHIP TO (Please print clear1y) NAME _____________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS

(No P.O. BoiCes u all ordens are shipped UPS)

APT.# __________________

CITY --------------------------------STATE_ _ _ _ _ _ _ ZIP _ _ _ _ _ _ __ DAYTIME PHONE

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - USPTA MEMBERSHIP# ________

We will call you only if we have a question concerning your order.

METHOD QF PAYMENT - Be sure to allow for Shipping, Handling & Insurance Amount Enclosed $ ---------------------------------Or Charge My Account With _MASTERCARD _VISA

_Check

_Money Order

Name Of Cardholder---------------------------------Signature Of Cardholder Date-------------------CHARGE CARD ACCOUNT NUMBER~---~=--~~~-~

Expiration Date:

MO. I ____YR

QUAN. ITEM#

314 315 316 317 318 319

Mastercard Interbank No. _ _ _ _ _ ____

DESCRIPTION

UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

Tennis: A Professional Guide USPTA Junior Development Manual USPTA Tennis Professional's Business Manual USPTA Complete Guide to Coaching, Vol. 1 USPTA Accounting, Business & Financial Management Handbook US PTA Sport Science and Sports Medicine Guide

25.00 15.00 15.00 15.00 22.00 25.00

TOTAL AMOUNT

FLORIDA RESIDENTS ADD 6% SALES TAX SHIPPING, HANDLING AND INSURANCE (See chart below)

TOTAL AMOUNT OF ORDER Shipping Information: We usually ship orders within 3 days of receipt of order. For custom orders, allow 4-6 weeks. We prefer to ship via UPS and need your street address and Apartment number for UPS delivery. Items ordered together might NOT necessarily be shipped together.

SHIPPING, HANDLING AND INSURANCE If Your Order Totals Please Remit

S 50.00 or under $50.0110$100.00 $100.0110 $150.00 $150.0110$198.98 $200.00 & OVER UPS 2nd DAY AIR add $3.00 to above

$4.95 $8.95 $7.95 $8.95 $9.95

Please make checks and money orders payable to: USPTA GIFT SHOPPE P. 0. Box 7077 Wesley Chapel, FL 34249 (813) 973-3777

"NEW MEMBERS" A hearty welcome to the new USPTA members how have fulfilled all requirements for membership from October 12, 1988 to November 30, .1988. The following is a list of those members, their member sponsors and their divisions.

NEW MEMBERS

CALIFORNIA Robert S. Childers Mark C. Heffernan V. Steve Hunt J. Russell Jones Wojtck Pietrowski James K. Sweeney FLORIDA Vivian Blanco Kirby W. Krauter INTERMOUNTAIN Charles Berwald Warren Pretorius INTERNATIONAL Douglas J. Hague MIDDLE STATES Chad D. Costa Ken Merritt Brian L. Wills MIDWEST Kathleen R. Bryan Charles C. Cunningham

SPONSORS

NEW MEMBERS

SPONSORS

J. Barajas A. Thurm M. McGuire B. Mitchell M. Hirtler L. Link

Kelly J. Greene Scott Meier Toby L. Scott Louis J. Stein John R. Thomas Kent VanGieson Bryan Zowin

K. Waters K. Waters W. Herrick J. Jimenez W. Herrick T. Ciurej T. Holmes

D. Kurtz C. Petra

MISSOURI VALLEY Jeffrey M. Sweeney

W. Christie

NATIONAL Brian G. Young B. Lowe B. Lowe

R. Workman

G. Weinhold G. Bacso R. Desmond ·

G. Alexander M. Toole

J. Byron

NEW ENGLAND Rath Wilson

A. Dorato

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA Michael Braymer Stacey M. Connell Stephen Gordan-Poorman Ron K. Ingram Casey S. Swan

A. Rosiles M. Orwig M. Rothfels M. Hill D. Upton

NORTHWEST Pau I M. Bates Matthew L. Patterson

E. Zittlow R. Madson

SPONSORS

NEW MEMBERS

T. Curtiss J. Johnson

Dean Rudrud Sandy M. Sherbarth

SAN DIEGO Allison L. Allen Babette A. Bernard Angela R. Horacek William A. Jones Brian Martin Bill M. Ray Tim Riley SOUTHERN Sergio 0 . Carvalho Wibowo Hadisubroto Robert N. Hood Karl R. Pingry Ann Tarwater Noah E. Williams SOUTHWEST Craig S. Maron John L. Schultz

K. Smith

T. Monahan T. Monahan B. Lowe D. Henson D. Henson D. Henson

D. Cline D. Cline L. Karagcanes S. Haddon D. Snively B. Willett

R. PelgramM. Van Zutphen

U.S. TERRITORIES AND CANADA John J. Cersosimo S. Novak

•

Upcoming Events for 1989 Club Managers Association of America (CMAA) Convention -January 21-26, 1989 - Honolulu, HI.

USPTA National Participation Day- April 1-2, 1989.

The Super Show - February 9-12, 1989 - Atlanta, GA.

USPTA Texas Division Convention - January 13-15, 1989 -Dallas, TX.

United States Tennis Association (USTA) Tennis Workshop in conjunction with The Super Show - February 7-8, 1989 -Atlanta, GA.

USPTA Eastern Division Convention- January 14-15, 1989 -White Plains, NY.

IRSA, the Association of Quality Clubs Convention- March 1-5, 1989 - Reno, NV.

US PTA Middle Atlantic Division Convention- January 27-28, 1989 - Richmond, VA.

United States Tennis Association (USTA) Annual Meeting -March 25-April 1, 1989 - Maui, HI.

USPTA Mid-West Division Convention - January 27-29, 1989 - Chicago, IL.

Lipton International Players Championships (LIPC)- March 20-April 2, 1989 - Key Biscayne, FL. United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) International Tennis Teachers' Championships in conjunction with Lipton- March 27 -April2, 1989- Key Biscayne, FL.

USPTA California Division Convention - February 12, 1989 -UCLA Tennis Center.

USPTA San Diego Division Convention- February 12, 1989 - Hotel Del Coronado.

11

ENTRY FORM 1989 USPTA INTERNATIONAL TENNIS TEACHERS CHAMPIONSHIPS To Be Held In Conjunction With The Lipton International Players Championships at the International Tennis Center on Key Biscayne in Miami, FL March 27 -April 2, 1989 TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR: Will Hoag

event in the three days prior to the main event.

On March 24 & 25, a Qualifying Tournament will be held if necessary (site to be announced).

TOURNAMENT CO-DIRECTORS: C.W. Lewis Tom Krukiel GENERAL INFORMAION: The Court surface will be Laykold " Cushion 3000." The balls to be used are USPTA Pro Penn championship yellow.

ELIGIBILITY: Only current national and international members of USPTA who have paid 1989 dues will be eligible. All membership requirements including completion of the certification test must be submitted at least 60 days prior to the entry date of the tournament.

DRAW EVENTS: *There will be two divisions of play: 1) Men's Open (Singles & Doubles) 2) Women 's Open (Singles & Doubles) The Men's Draw will be limited to 64 entries in Singles (32 Doubles). The Women 's Draw will be limited to 32 entries ( 16 Doubles). Players will be permitted to play both events. *The Tournament Committee reserves the option to conduct (or cancel) a qualifying

ENTRY QUALIFICATIONS: Players will be accepted into the tournament based on the following qualifications: ATP/WITA Points (rankings) National Rankings USPTA Rankings Sectional or State Rankings Individual Playing Records (win/ loss record must be elaborated on the second sheet) Wild Cards: The Tournament Committee reserves the option to keep four Wild Card positions in the main draw for use at its · discretion ENTRY DEADLINE: Entries must be received no later than Friday, February 24, 1989 and must include the entry fee. No entries will be accepted unless accompanied by a check or money order made payable to USPTA International Championships.

Absolutely NO entries will be accepted over the telephone or without an entry fee.

ENTRY FEE: $50/player for singles and $20/player for doubles. Total entries received in each event will determine the proportionate prize money for each event. Make checks payble to: USPTA International Championships.

TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS: All airline reservations, car rentals, and hotel accomodations should be made through Around the World Travel. Outside Florida call 1 (800) 323-3218, inside Florida call 1 (800) 432-4347 and in the Miami area call (305) 443-7706.

Airline Reservations: Eastern Airlines will offer an attractive discount off the regular coach fares when booked through Around the World Travel.

Car Rentals: Contact Caroline Pittman at Around the World Travel.

Hotel Accomodations: Local hotels will offer special discounted "player rates" for reservations made through Around the World Travel.

Detach form below and mail.

MAIL ENTRIES TO: 1989 USPTA International Championships USPTA National Headquarters P.O. Box 7077 Wesley Chapel, FL 34249

DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 24, 1989

NAME ------------------------------------------TELEPHONE _________________________________________ ADDRESS------------------------------------- CITY _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ STATE _____________ ZIP------------USPTA MEMBER# - - - - - - - USTA # ________

COVERING ENTRIES IN THE FOLLOWING EVENTS:

SSN # _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ AMOUNT E N C L O S E D $ - - - - - - - - (Make checks payable to: USPTA International Championsh ips)

SINGLES

DOUBLES

PARTNER

MEN 'S OPEN WOMEN 'S OPEN

CURRENT PLAYING RECORD:

1) ATP/WITA Points (Ranking) 2) National Rankings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 4) Sectional Rankings - - - - - - - - - 3) USPTA Rankings - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5) Individual R e c o r d s - - - - - - - - - (Include separate sheet of wins and losses if you wish to have them considered)

18

USPTA National Participation Day isSei

U

SPTA will conduct its International

Tennis Teachers Championships March 27 through April2 , 19'89 in conjunction with the Liption International Players Championships (LIPC) to be held March 20 through Apri l 2, 1989 in Key Biscayne, Florida.

Our continuing association with player organ izations including the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) and the Women 's International Tennis Association (WITA), as well as LIPC, allows USPTA to gain tremendous visibility from this prestigious event each year. Many tenn is industry groups and the general tennis public are exposed to US PTA and its representation of the tennisteaching professional.

In addition, USPTA and its members are fo rtunate to be in a position to develop these re lationships furthe r by making the International Tennis Teachers Championships and Li ton even more successfu l.

We would like to encourage all members

to host a special event on USPTA National Participation Day to insure the success of our tournament and to continually enhance our relationship with LIPC. Here's how you can become involved: 1. Organize a fun social event at your club (i.e., round robin, clinic, social mixed doubles etc.)

2. Set up an area within the club where members and the ir guests can view the finals of LIPC immediately following your scheduled National Participation Day event.

If this is not possible , try arranging to meet at a location where the tournament can be watched by everyone.

3. Complete the registration form below establishing your commitment to USPTA National Participation Day. As more USPTA professionals become involved in this special event, our chances increase for recognition and exposu re on national television .

Of pri mary importance, you as a USPTA

LIPTON INTERNATIONAL PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIPS

professional will be a part of yet another major grassroots event to motivate recognized play at the recreational level.

To assist you in planning your particular event, ESPN is currently scheduled to air the Women's Championship match live at 1:30 pm on Saturday, April1, and the Men's finals at 4:00pm on Sunday, April2 . If you agree to plan an event for Saturday, Sunday or both days, you will rece ive an official certificate to display at your club. For further information , contact the marketing department at the USPTA National Headquarters, (813) 973-3777.

USPTA professionals have a great friend in Lipton and in LIPC Tournament Chairman , Butch Buchholtz. This friendship has and continues to help propel the image of OS PTA members to the forefront of the tennis industry. You can help solidify th is relationsh ip for years to come by supporting USPTA National Participation Day.

USPI'A NATIONAL PARTICIPATION DAY Return to: USPTA National Headquarters, P.O. Box 7077 , Wesley Chapel, FL 34249.

____ Yes!

I plan to organize an event for USPTA National Participation Day.

Tennis Facility /Address - -- - - - -- - - - - - - - - -- -- -- - - - - -- - - - - -- - - - City _ _ __ _ _ __ __ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _.____ State _ _ _ ___ Zip _ _ __ _ _ __ Tennis Director

Telephone (.- --

-

_ _ _ __ _ _ _ __

Signature USPTA Professionals Participating ****************************************************************************************************************************************

Type of Event Held : Number of Participants: - ---.---- - - - - - - - - - - - -LIPC Tournament Viewing: [

]. Yes

-

- - - - -- -- - - - - - - - - - --

No

19

Test Your Players with the USTA Sporl Science Protocol

by Paul Roetert

A s tennis-teaching professionals, you can help your students reach their greatest potential by motivating them to achieve greater fitness levels and teaching them that tennis is much more tha n outstanding strokes. To assist you in selecting appropriate fitness measures and provide you with some available data, the USTA has implemented a working sport science testing protocol. Designed, under the direction of Dr. Jim Loehr, by a sport science advisory group of the USTA player Development Program , this protocol is modified from a comprehensive test including a posture and flexibility examination , a medical and playing history questionnaire, a physical fitness test battery and a psychological performance inventory.

This article is the USTA Protocol. Before your players begin the exercises listed, we strongly recommend a three to five minute warm -up period followed by flexibility exercises.

Sit and Reach 1. The athlete is seated with knees and legs flat against the floor.

2. Lean forward with arms extended and measure the distance from the fingertips to the toes.

3. If the athlete does not reach his/her toes, the figure is expressed negatively in centimeters.

Have players take their resting heart rate upon awakening in the morning. Take the pulse for 30 seconds and multiply the score by two.

Flexibility

20

Strength and Endurance Sit-Ups 1. Athlete is positioned on his/her back with hips flexed to 45 degrees and knees flexed to 90 degrees.

2. The feet are held stationary by one of the examiners.

3. The hands are locked beh ind the head .

4. The athlete performs as many sit-ups as possible in a sixty-second time period .

5. To count as a complete sit-up, the elbows must touch the knees, the shoulder blades must touch the mat and the hips are not allowed to leave the mat.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Athletes with any history of lower back pain or problems with low back should not perform this test. Addition ally, this type of sit-up should not be done for training purposes.

Resting Heart Rate

The complete flexibility protocol can be obtained from the USTA Sport Science department. The sit and reach test can be easily administered by coaches, however the remainder of the flexibility test requires special training .

4. If the athlete reaches past his/her toes, the figure is expressed positively in centimeters. (See Figure 1.)

Figure 1. Flexibility - The Sit and Reach Test measures how far one can stretch past his or her toes.

U.S. National Team member Martin Blackman prepares to give it his best shot.

Push-Ups 1. The athlete is positioned prone with hands shoulder width apart and the weight of the lower body on the toes.

2. The athlete starts with arms extended and the head, shoulders, back, hip, knees and feet in a straight line.

3. The number of push-ups the athlete can perform in a sixty-second period is recorded .

4. To count as a complete push-up the upper arm must reach parallel to the floor or below, the arms must be completely extend-

ed and the straight body alignment must be maintained.

Grip Strength A Lafayette grip strength dynamometer is used to measure dominant and non-dominant hand grip strength in kilograms. Each athlete gets one trial¡.

Power Vertical Jump 1. Have the athlete stand beside a wall and touch as high as possible .

2. Mark the spot.

3. Extend a yardstick up the wall from the highest reach of the athlete 's fingertips and attach it to the wall .

4. Instruct the athlete to jump with his/her legs together (without a running start), reaching as high as he/she can on the yardstick.

5. The difference between the standing . reach and the highest point of the jump is the athlete's score .

6. Give each athlete three trials and score the best. (See Figure 2.)

Medicine Ball Chest Pass The athlete sits six inches away from a wall , with his/ her shoulders touching the wall, holding a four pound medicine ball.

From chest height the ball is pushed with both hands. The distance between the wall and t~e spot where the ball lands is measured. (Norms are not yet available.)

I

Figure 3. Agility and Speed- Brian MacPhie , a member of the U.S. National Team, pulled out all the stops during the hexagon test. He was being timed by Paul Roetert, USTA coordinator ot research .

Body Composition 1. Body composition is appraised by the skinfold procedure .

2. Two measurements are taken at each of the three sites all on the right side of the body.

3.The average number of the two measurements is recorded .

4. The sites for female athletes are: triceps, suprailiac and thigh .

5. The sites for male athletes are: chest, abdomen , and thigh .

6. The accuracy of the tests depends upon locating the precise site for the skinfold and using the caliper correctly.

Agility and Speed

I

Figure 2. Power- Reaching higher is the goal for Ann Grossman, a member of the U .S. National Team , as she participates in the Vertical Jump.

Hexagon 1. Using masking tape , make a twentyfour inch per side hexagon on the floor with angles of 120 degrees.

2. Have the athlete stand in the middle of the hexagon facing forward, as he/she must for the duration of the test.

3. He/ She begins by jumping forward over the tape with both feet and immediately back into the hexagon.

4. Then , continuing to face forward, he/she jumps over the next side and back into the hexagon .

5. This pattern will be continued by jumping over all six sides and back to the middle for three full revolutions.

6. When the feet enter the hexagon after three full revolutions the clock should be stopped and the time recorded .

7. Each athlete gets one practice trial.

8. The test will be taken three times and the fastest time will be recorded using a stop watch . (See Figure 3.)

20- Yard Dash Mark off 20 yards on a tennis court using masking tape . Using a stop watch record fastest time of three trials.

Spider Test 1. Using masking tape mark off a 12 inch by 18 inch rectangle behind the middle of the baseline using the baseline as one of the sides.

2. Position five balls on the court. One ball is placed on each of the corners where tha baseline and singles sidel ine meet. One ball is placed on each of the sides where single sideline and service line meet. One ball is placed on the "T". (See Figure 4.)

3. Starting at the middle of the baseline each ball has to be retrieved and placed in the rectangle , one ball at a time in a counterclockwise direction.

4. Remove each ball after it is placed in 21

Test Your Players obtained by using conversion tables in Brian J. Sharkey's book: Prescribing Exercise for Fitness Weight Control and Health, Human Kinetics Publishers, 1979. Conversion tables can be obtained by contacting Paul Roetert at the USTA.

Response Time 1. Have the athlete sit at a table with forearms lying flat, hands off the table in a vertical position and thumbs and forefingers two inches apart.

2. Stand in front of the athlete holding two yardsticks at the top so the bottom ends are even with the athlete 's fingers.

3. You can drop either yardstick, waiting at least a second and no more than ten seconds after the athlete is ready. The athlete reacts by catching the yardstick between his/ her thumb and forefinger.

4. Do not practice before taking this test.

5. The best of five trials is recorded in inches. (Norms are not yet available.) (S~e Figure 5.) ~~

Figure 4.

the rectangle to prevent the athlete from stepping on it.

5. The time will be recorded using a stopwatch.

6. As soon as the last ball is placed in the rectangle the time is stopped .

Aerobic Capacity 1. After a rest have the athlete step up and down on a bench (15% inches high for men;

13 inches for women) at the rate of 22V2 steps per minute. (A metronome or other device programmed for 90 beats per minute should be used.)

2. After 5 minutes ask him/ her to sit down and take a post exercise pulse count (from 15 to 30 seconds after the test) .

3. The body weight and post pulse are used to determine aerobic fitness. Conversions of raw scores to ml/kg/min can be

Figure 5. Response Time- U.S. National Team member AI Parker demonstrated his reaction time to the falling yardstick during a test in the USTA Sport Science Protocol.

22

Paul Roetert is the Coordinator of Research for the United States Tennis Association (USTA) Player Development Program, based in Princeton , NJ . Roetert is responsible for the testing, evaluating and tracking of upand -coming young American Tenn is players and providing them with the most current information on sport science. He also integrates scientific principles of training in USTA national programs, serves as staff coordinator to the USTA Sports Medicine Committee, administers th e USTA research grant program and secures grant monies from outside agencies.

A United States Professional Tenni s Association member, Roetert previously served as a tennis professional at the East Hartford Racquet Club in Hartford, CT, and the Neispic Tennis Club in Glastonbury, CT. Roetert is currently working to complete his doctorate of philosophy at the University of Connecticut Department of Sport and Leisure Studies, concentrating in biomechanics and motor learning.

USPTA'S OPTIONAL COURSES FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS Principles of Success in Tennis February 13 - 14, 1989 (Bill Tym, Instructor)

Strategy and Tactics February 15 - · 16, 1989 (Bill Tym, Instructor)

Stroke Analysis February 17- 18,1989 (George Bacso, Instructor)

This course will examine the principles involved from the beginning to intermediate stages of player development.

Course contents include:

This course will cover the progression of strategy and tactics from the intermediate level through the advanced level of play for both singles and doubles. Topics featured are:

This course features an in-depth analysis of each stroke and corrective techniques associated with problem areas. Strokes covered:

• Basic Habit Formations in Stroke Technique and Footwork Patterns • Human Condition • Progressions Leading to the Success of the Player • Progressions of Fundamentai StrokesandFootworkforthe Volley, Groundstroke, Serve and Overhead

• Intermediate and Advanced Stroke Production • Specific Drills for Habit Patterns • Basic Game Plan for Singles and Doubles with Advanced Options • Progression Drills for Intermediate and Advanced Techniques

• • • • • • • • •

Forehand Backhand Serve Return of Serve Volley Lob Overhead Approach Shot DropShot

These Specialty Courses will be held at the Vanderbilt University Tennis Center in Nashville, Tennessee, from February 13--18. Hotel accommodations are available at two convenient locations near the Vanderbilt University Tennis Center. The Holiday Inn will be offering rooms at $50 per night (single or double) and is only two blocks away from the course site. The Days J;nn is located one mile from the course site and will have rooms for $32 per night'(single or double). Make room reservatiofiS by contacting either of these hotels directly: Holiday Inn (615) 327-4707 Days Inn (615) 327-0922 Also, please mention "Vanderbilt Athletic Rate" when securing hotel accommodations to assure quoted rates. To register for these Specialty Courses, fill out and return the registration form below. Any questions concerning room accommodations or registration for these courses, please contact ·the Education and Testing Department at (813) 973-37n.

USPTA SPECIALTY EDUCATION COURSE REGISTRATION FORM

II

FEES

Please register me for the following courses: c::J Principles of Success in Tennis D Strategy and Tactics c::J Stroke Analysis

Name

II

1 .Course 2 Courses 3 Courses

---------------------------------------------------

$200.00 $350.00 $400.00

Member Number

-----------Street A d d r e s s - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - City_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ State _ _ _ _ Zip Telephone _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Registration Deadline: February 3, 1989. (Absolutely NO Registrations Accepted Without Registration Fee) Return to: USPTA Specialty Education Courses • P.O. Box 7077 ·• Wesley Chapel, FL 34249

INDUSTRY ACTION

ATLANTA TO HOST USTA TENNIS WORKSHOP AT THE SUPER SHOW Princeton, NJ-Atlanta, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) has a peach of an event for you! Before Atlanta extends its southern hospitality to the Super Show, the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta will showcase the USTA Tennis Workshop, February 7-8.

A distinguished faculty of 15 experts including Jim¡ Loehr, (USTA Director of Sport Science), Tom Gullikson (USTA National Coach) and Peter Burwash (President, Peter Burwash International) will discuss the latest tennis topics ranging from on-court drills to business skills and the fascinating world of sport science.

In addition to exciting new on-court techniques, the 1989 Workshop will feature a full day of lectures devoted to sport science.

Authorities including Paul Roetert (USTA Coordinator of Research), Ann Grandjean (Founder, International Center for Sports Nutrition) and Robert singer (Chairperson, Department of Exercise and Sport Sciences, University of Florida-Gainesville) will discuss all facets of athletic development from nutrition and exercise to physiological testing and performance strategies. The USTA and its panel of top advisors are on the cutting edge of the field, working to integrate sport science into the new USTA Player Development Program.

On the recreational side, regional tennis experts Barbara Braunstein (Director of the USTA's Florida Schools Program), Randy Chamberlain (Director of Tennis, Wild Dunes Resort) and Randy Stephens (Tennis Manager, City of Macon, GA) will share their expertise on marketing, business systems, adult programming and working ' with vol unteers.

On court and off, the USTA Tennis Work-

24

shop has it all. Send for a brochure containing a complete schedule and registration materials to United States Tennis Associ ation, 707 Alexander Road , Princeton, NJ 08540, Attention: Helen Keeler, workshop coordinator.

TENNIS MAGAZINE

will feature reviews - based on playtests and lab tests - of the newest and best high-performance racquets from more than 35 manufacturers. The magazine will categorize the racquets according to players' skill levels to help them with the selection process. For more information, call Jeff Para, national equipment sales manager, at (212) 463-1451 .

PLANS FIRST RACQUET COIIPENDIUM NEW YORK, NY - TENNIS Magazine, recognizing the need to help its readers and tennis players everywhere sort their way through the increasing number of hightechnology tennis racquets in the market- ¡ place, will publish the industry's first Racquet Compendium . The special64-page section will be the cornerstone of the March 1989 issue of TENNIS Magazine. At the same time, TENNIS ' sister publication, TENNIS BUYER'S GUIDE (TBG), will publish the Compendium in its March issue, with a special editorial included to help the tennis retailer.

"Tennis racquet technology has undergone a revolution in the past year, with the introduction of aerodynamic and widebody frames, " said TENNIS editor Alex McNab. "Virtually every manufacturer will have new frames with different playability characteristics in their 1989 lines."

"Our goals with the Compendium are twofold. First, we want to give our reader, and players everywhere, a guide to what's available in racquets in 1989. Second, and more important, we want to help point the reader in the right direction so he or she can make an informed choice and select the new racquet that's right for his or her game.

We hope to eliminate the confusion that the availability of so many new models presents to a reader when he or she decides to buy a new racquet. " The first annual Racquet Compendium

P

~'t6

~

I

lrp

VJJ

Step up to either of the highest quality stringing machines available today.

Available at TSI 800/245-0208 ATS 800/854-7071 Ball Hopper Products Inc. 800/323-5417 559 Rodi Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15235 .

FREE

AIDS IN SPORT PAMPHLET AVAILABLE FOR COACHES No health-related issue has captured American 's attention quite like AIDS . It can be transmitted in a variety of ways. At this time, it has no cure . And, contrary to public opinion , anyone can contract AIDS. Coaches nationwide at all levels of competition have been asking - questions about AIDS as it relates to sport. In response to this overwhelming request for information , the American Coaching Effectiveness Program (ACEP ~ has produced a 32-page pamphlet entitled Aids in Sport, which will be distributed to any coach who sends in a selfaddressed , stamped envelope with 40 cents postage to the ACEP National Center in Champaign , Illinois.

This is the first nationwide effort to educate coaches about AIDS as it pertains to sport.

The pamphlet was written by Dr. Gregory Landry, MD, Head of Sports Medicine at the University of Wisconsion-Madison . The pamphlet specifically addresses AIDS and how it relates to sport participation . The pamphlet is written in an easy-to-read question and answer format , allowing coaches to find answers to specific questions quickly.

Coaches today are asking many questions about the AIDS virus, such as: Should an athlete be allowed to compete with AIDS? In which sports? What precautions should be taken? Should I drain the swimm ing pool if an AIDS-infected athlete bleeds in it?

The Aids in Sports pamphlet answers all c1f these questions and more .

The American Coaching Effectiveness Program (ACEP) is dedicated to improving the sporting experience of the nation:s youth .

ACEP has developec:J a multi-level coaching

education program designed to educate coaches utilizing the latest sport-science, sport management, sports medicine and sport-specific information.

ACEP is now offering the Aids in Sports pamphlet as a free service to all coaches. To obtain a copy of the pamphlet, simply send a self-addressed, stamped envelope with 40 cents postage to: AIDS in Sport Pamphlet, ACEP National Center, Box 5076, Champaign, IL 61820.

number of team members, number of indoor and outdoor courts, and how many full and partial scholarships are available .

For information on how to obtain a copy of USTACollege Guide 1988-89 contact USTA, 707 Alexander Road , Princeton, NJ 98540 or call 1-800-223-0456.

USTA COLLEGE GUIDE NOW AVAILABLE Princeton, NJ-The SAT scores are in.

The junior prom is over. Inevitably, high school tennis players are flocking to their coaches with that eternal question, "Where can I play college tennis? " The United States Tennis Association (USTA) has the answer: the USTA college Tennis Guide 1988-89. The guide is a perfect way for coaches, players and parents to make an educated decision about selecting a college tenn is program , including how to obtain a tennis scholarship .

The USTA College Tennis Guide 1988-89 gives advice on what to look for in choosing the college tennis program best suited to an individual player's needs and hints on how to go after a scholarship. Opportunities in collegiate tennis abound for players of all ability levels, from schools looking for only nationally-ranked tournament players to those interested in players with a high school tennis background .

The directory provides information on tennis programs and scholarships at nearly 1,500 two-and four-year colleges and uni versities across the nation. Listed alphabetically by state for easy reference , each entry includes key names, phone numbers and addresses, as well as a school 's national athletic association affiliation, team record ,

6 SIZES, 8 MODELS, 3 COLORS A full line of ruggedhfast operating pickup baskets, all wit flip down replay stands for practice & teaching tennis.

New construction adds strength & smooth bottom surfaces to avoid court damage.

CALL FOR BROCHURE, PRICE LIST, LOCAL SOURCE U.S. PAT #3,926,465

IIOAG ¡CC)

1062 NORTH VINEDO AVE. PASADENA, CA 91107 TEl C818l 798-8609

25

PARSONS-LIPSON WIN UST~ NATIONAL MOTHER-DAUGHTER TOURNAMENT Dallas, TX - After losing the first set in both their semifinal matches, the secondseeded team of Loue¡lla Parsons and Leslie Lipson captured their first USTA National Mother-Daughter Hardcourt title at Prestonwood Country Club in Dallas, Texas. Sponsored by the Maureen Connolly Brinker Tennis Foundation, the tournament featured top-ranked players from Texas, California, Pennsylvania, Washington, Connecticut, Illinois and Oklahoma.

Parsons and Lipson, both from Carpinteria, California, won the tournament in an exciting

4-6 , 6-3, 6-4 final over Houston 's Bambi Schuette and Emily Schaefer, the defending champions and current number one ranked Mother-Daughter team in the nation.

"We've been playing National MotherDaughter tournaments for the past ten years," Lipson said , "and we 're thrilled to win our first national title! " Top -seeded Schuette and Schaefer earned a spot in the finals with a 6-3, 6-3 semifinal win over Linda and Debbie Biswell of Plano, Texas, while Parsons-Lipson posted a hard-fought 4-6, 6-1 , 6-1 victory over Dale and Tory Plunkett of Fort Worth .

According to John Ingram, USPTA member and Tournament Director, prize money for the finalists was awarded courtesy of the Maureen Connolly Brinker Tennis Foundation . Gifts for all the players, a hospitality room, a western Bar-B-Que and plenty of Texas hospitality were provided by the spon-

1988 USTA National Mother -Daughter Hardcourt Tournament held in Dallas, Texas. From left to right: John Ingram, Ill, Tournament Director, Leslie Lipson-Louella Parsons, winners, Bambi Schuette-Emily Schaeffer, runners-up and E.L. Mountjoy, Tournament referee.

26

sors and volunteers from the Prestonwood Tennis Association .

Ingram, Prestonwood 's Director ofTennis, reports that next year's event is scheduled for October 14-15, 1989, at Prestonwood.

EIGHTH ANNUAL MIDDLE STATES TENNIS TEACHERS WORKSHOP The Middle States Division of USPTA has been leading the educational path for the last seven years by presenting the Middle States Tennis Teachers Workshop and intends to do so again this year.

USPTA member Stan Smith will be the headline speaker atthe Eighth Annual Middle States Tennis Teachers Workshop which will be held on Saturday, February 11 , 1989 at West Chester University, West Chester, Pennsylvania. Sm ith , a former U.S. Open and Wimbledon champion , was recently chosen as the first Director of Coaching for the USTA's new development program.

Lynne Rolley, a prominent USPTA professional from Northern California who has been selected as a national coach in the USTA development program , and fellow member Chuck Kriese, the well known coach of the powerhouse Clemson University Tennis Team, will join Stan as key note speakers for the day's workshop. Other well known coaches and tennis authorities from the Middle States Section will round out the staff and present a variety of tenn is related topics.

This year's workshop is being presented by the Middle States Division of the USPTA with additional support being provided by the United States Tennis Association, the Middle States Tennis Association, the United Sates Professional Tennis Association and Prince Manufacturing, Inc. All proceeds from the workshop will benefit the Arthur Ashe Youth Tennis Center, Philadelphia, PA.

The cost for the one day workshop is $25.00 (pre-registration, before January 22, 1989) or $35.00 (registration paid after January 22, 1989). For information and registration, contact Becky Desmond (215) 269-8037 or Patty Epps (717) 626-0594.

TENNIS CENTER RENAMED FOR LONG·TIME USPTA MEMBER Waco, TX-Sul Ross Tennis Center has been renamed the Charlie McCleary Tennis Center in honor of long-time US PTA member and Waco resident Charlie McCleary.

Bill Wareham started the move to rename the center after completing his term as chairman of the Sui Ross Advisory Board.

He enlisted the board.'s support along with the Waco Tennis Association . He then wer.~t on to lobby the Cooper Foundation, which has donated money to build and renovate the tennis center over the last 29 years. He also had to get the Waco Parks Commission's approval and , finally, the city council.

"It wasn't a hard sell ," said Wareham .

"You have someone who has given 50 years of his life to the community and city.l thought it would be neat to do something like this."

McCleary, 75, currently oversees the Texas . Tennis Museum and Hall of Fame located in Waco.

"I'm still a little stunned , but I am extremely pleased ," said McCleary. "I've been associated with the tennis center from the very beginning , but the city council didn't have to do this."

TENNIS GREATS PROMOTE TENNIS Winston-Salem, NC- Tennis greats Fred Kovaleski , Rod Laver, Vic Seixas and Tony Vincent assisted by ·o ld Town Club and United States Professional Tennis Associa-

tion member Lane Evans provided a great week of tennis clinics and round robins for various RJR Nabisco executives, their wives and guests. Oddly enough it was not a tennis tournament, but the Vantage Golf Championships held in October at the beautiful Tanglewood Golf Course in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Helping out with extracurricular activities at the Vantage Championships were (1-r) Fred Kovaleski, Rod Laver. Lane Evans, Vic Seixas and Tony Vincent.

a is compul~n~d

the

'to( and

tool des:~~ding pratesused by layers and sional P computcoacheS ... . is now

eriz~d ~ha~~n~ersonal

avallab e owners at computer ery pro can prices ev afford\ iT nnis, you 'II·.

\

Charlie McCleary was on the 1959 committee which c hose the site for the tennis center that now bears his name (Photo credit Rod Aydelotte.)

With compu r: students • Attract mo revenues t • Increase your \ayers' deve\opmen e your P d • Accelerat ,es an pr ograms capab·l·t· II . Improve your • d oaches I ers an c tor paren~s . P ay tact \raining progr~~e intorr'T"'atlon con available. For t Software, \nc. ca 94022 spor s . 201 LOS Altos, A su1te · 949 snerwood vt415) 941-6363

27

Approach Tennis as a Career b y USPTA President Rod Dulany

P.paring for a career as a tennis-teaching professional is much like planning for your future financial security. Both require setting goals, short and long term, and an understanding of how to achieve these goals.

As in financial planning , your career orientation begins the day you decide to get into the tennis-teaching business. Think about where you want to be in 5, 10 or even 20 years. Make a commitment for the long â&#x20AC;˘ haul, not for the quick dollar.

Just as you would have your financial needs reviewed, you should continually assess your current position and devise a plan for reaching the next level. This plan could be as simple as expanding your programs to elevate your club and provide a greater challenge for yourself. There may come a point when you feel that you have taken your club as far as it can go and it is time for you to seek a more challenging position. Or maybe it is time for you to consider buying your own facility. Whatever plateau you are at, the important thing is formulating goals and making them selffulfilling.

Write your goals down on paper. This way you can review them periodically to see if your priorities have changed or if you are deviating from your original path. lt will be an ongoing evaluation, a continuous assessment of where you are and where you want to be.

Look around at your fellow professionals and notice the ones who have made a name for themselves. Who are the ones others seek out for advice on management, programming and personal advancement.

These leaders of our industry were goal setters from day one. Let their success trigger your desire to aim high and their experience give you the strength to reach your aspirations.

The specific amount of money you would like to earn or the ultimate position you would like to attain could be your long-term goal. Your dreams should be of management and eventually even ownership. A substantial amount of thought s'hould be given to what amount of financial security

28

will be necessary to continue your present lifestyle when you retire.

Your short-term goals form a career path to achieve your long-term goals. These short-term goals should be formulated to plan how you can move through the various stages of your career in a smooth manner.

First year assistants need to ask themselves "How do I get to the point of running a club,on my own? How do I learn to become a better teacher, a better stringer? How can I make more money? What can I do to improve my interpersonal skills and management techniques?" When setting short-term goals, make them tough but attainable.

Know how they will fit into your long-range plan .

Personal and professional growth are essential in avoiding complacency in the comfort zone. If we, as professionals, ever become satisfied to stay within our safe little boundaries repeating the same programs and drills year after year while showing no initiative, then we are letting ourselves down as well as the people we serve. Even a good program can be improved. It is the desire to improve that is important in this context.

The educational opportunities are there for the taking. At the national level, USPTA

holds the premier tennis-teaching educational event each year, our National Convention.

In addition, the US PTA offers two day Specialty Courses5M, Tennis Teachers' Courses5M, and Certification Training Courses5 M along with numerous educational manuals and guides. USPTA divisions also hold their own conventions, state and area meetings and workshops. Other available educational reservoirs to be tapped are the USTA Tennis Teachers Workshops in New York and Atlanta. All of these opportunities are accessible to each and every person who wishes to invest time and energy to achieve professional growth.

Personal growth can come from as easy a source as experience and observation. Every day you probably find yourself in decisionmaking situations. Considering how you handled them at that time, could you have done better? Observe how other businesses which generate funds from the service industry such as quality hotels, retail stores and restaurants handle their clientele. For growth in management and supervisory categories, try to gain knowledge in these areas by attending the Club Industry Show, IRSA and CMAA Conventions. Your local colleges offer adult education courses in time management, meeting planning, computers, etc. Whatever it takes to help you reach your goals, use it. You can achieve and even exceed your potential.

Each of you have different goals and ways in which to accomplish them. It is important that you like what you do. So find the area in which you feel confident, learn everything you can and do not stop until you get where you want to go.

Involvement in USPTA, your trade association, and with your fellow professionals is a revitalizing experience in itself. Everyone comes back from a national convention feeling excited and enthused with a renewed interest in our profession . Participating in the USPTA and its unlimited educational advantages will definitely keep you motivated and thinking about your future. From day one, approach tennis as your lifetime career <tt and you will not be sorry.

It isitt easy to kill aPro Thnn.

The new Pro Penn has a 30%longer playing life than our regular termis ball. A fact some of our competitors are finding hard to swallow Available now at your pro shop. Š 1987 Penn Athletic Products Division. For a poster of this ad send $2 to Penn, 306 South 45th Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona 85043

502 501

•"fll9 StardUd of ExcellP"

•

iUSPlrA. UNITED STATES PROFESSIONAL TENNIS ASSOCIATION, INC.

at Saddlebrook, The Golf and Tennis Resort Wesley Chapel, FL 34249

BULK RATE U.S. POSTAGE

PAID Permit No. 3887 Tampa , FL