Addvantage 1995 September

September 1995

Introducing SENSATION™16 string.

Acute sensitivity. Deadly control.

-Like a spider's web, new Sensation™ 16 string looks harmless enough. But, pity the unwary opponent that buzzes up to the net lor a closer look.

Sensation 16 string is made with Xycro™ micro-libers, an advanced polymer material supplied by DuPontE The string's sensitivity comes Irom our Dynelastic™ technology, an exclusive wet-wrap technique that twists and wraps these libers at the same Sensation 16 string time. It s not unlike a spider

spinning its web.

The result is a revolutionary string with Dynamic Elasticity In other words, it "holds" the ball just a little bit longer, giving you optif 1 1 1 11 1 1 leel and deadly control Or your shots.

Said the Spider to the

rly, "Tennis anyone?"

Other new strings Synthetic Uut eAtren

(a]so avai!aUe in 18/17 anj

Spin 15L gauges) & Ham,nerLast^ 1Q (also available in 10 gauge).

UKfeon

The Rigfnt Equipment Makes The Dirrerence™

antage1 ting professionalsIW v_x

CONTENTS FEATURES 4

1995-96 USPTA National Board of Directors Pros benefit from affiliation with retailers

6

8

Preparing for tomorrow, today — New endorsement offers financial planning services

Volleyball is a popular event in the Battle of the Divisions at the National Convention.

DEPARTMENTS

National Life of Vermont offers insurance, investment information

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CEO's message

1995 National Convention update

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Past president's message

8 16

Wilson racquet line reaches new heights with Stretch

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Growing the game

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Ask the professor

Going for the big shot — 'Virtual reality' drilling helps develop player confidence

25

Dates that rate

by Joe Dinojfer, USPTA

ZU

Industry action

Practicing with target areas helps players develop winning

shots

22

Meet the "lefties' challenge" with new attitude

by Gerry Berkheimer, USPTA

28

Learn how to play left-handers with confidence

Pro Penn Quarterly Discount

Special section — USPTA Little Tennis™... from scratch This special pullout section will help the professional develop a USPTA Little Tennis program at his or her facility. It includes information on the new USPTA Starter Kit, a checklist for getting started and a sample daily schedule.

On the cover Child's play USPTA pros (from left) Andy Bruner, Gary Plank, Lynette Turek, Ron Holmberg and Dale Cronm practice the sandwich drill, a popular exercise with young

VOLUME 19 ISSUE 9

juniors. More than 20 Houston-area USPTA professionals met at the World Headquarters to help prepare the USPTA Little Tennis Starter Kit. ADDvantage/September 1995

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Introducing...

The Tennis Magazine Primer!

The Tennis Magazine Primer has been designed to enhance your programs and impact the game in a very positive way It is written

by Alexander McNab, Senior Instruction Editor and author of the just-published book—Arthur Ashe on Tennis Technical accuracy has been verified by Instruction Editor Tony Trabert.

To Order: Prepaid Orders Only Check Payable to Tennis Magazine Price: Quantities less than 30—$1.00 each Quantities 30 and over—$.60 each (includes shipping & handling)

Send Orders to: Tennis Magazine Primer Public Relations 5520 Park Avenue TrumbullCT 06611

CEO'SMESSAGE

Yearly convention showcases role of teaching pros, USPTA successes

I

t's hard to believe that it's September, again!

This month has always been a busy one for our Association, September marks the anniversary of the founding of USPTA — 68 years ago this year. It also means that we will celebrate our anniversary with another annual USPTA National Convention — an activity that has grown into one of the most spectacular events in the tennis industry.

As we gear up for another convention, it gives us a chance to review the past year and showcase USPTAs accomplishments and those of our industry. If you are able to attend the National Convention, you will see first hand what you and your fellow teaching professionals have been doing over the past 12 months. However, if you cannot work the convention into your schedule, I hope the following summary will make you proud of USPTA, your membership within the Association and your role in our industry.

USPTA Little Tennis ™ — The program, formally introduced at last year's convention, ignited enthusiasm among professionals, young players and the tennis media. The program and USPTA received valuable publicity m national tennis and club industry magazines, in newspapers and other regional publications throughout the United States and through localized television coverage.

Tennis-teaching professionals and other industry representatives were also introduced to Little Tennis through Specialty Courses at divisional conventions. USPTA will continue to promote the program

through educational activities in the coming year.

The national office has fielded hundreds of calls from parents interested in placing their children in USPTA Little Tennis programs If you are running a program, please give the Sports Marketing Department a call. We are collecting information on programs nationwide and need your help to create a more accurate listing for those people interested in taking part. At last count, we had at least 150 Little Tennis chapters nationwide, but we know there are many more out there.

Heckler This issue of ADDvantage features special information on how to create your own USPTA Little Tennis program from scratch. It offers a brief synopsis of Little Tennis, a thorough checklist for planning and implementing a program and a sample lesson plan.

1

to see

*/you in Boca

Raton for a Game, Set, Success-foil" convention

USPTA's Tennis Across America — Tennis Across America celebrated its sixth year in May and was recognized on national televi sion and earned a spot on the White House tennis court for the fifth consecutive year.

USPTA hosted 100 multicultural clinics this year — including the White House event with special guests Pam Shriver, and former Congressman and NBA player Tom McMillen, co-chair of the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports.

Willard Scott of NBC's "The Today Show" spotlighted Tennis Across America on the morning weather segment. After the announcement, the national office received more than 500 calls from people all over the see CEO, page 21 ADDvantage/Sepfember 1995

THE I99S-96

There being no additional nominations for the Board of Directors, the 1995-96 officers will be:

USPTA

NATIONAL BOARD or DIRECTORS The National Board of Di be installe ' USPTA Na

PRESIDENT

KATHYWOODS

FIRST VICE PRESIDENT

KURT K A M P E R M A N

ICE PRESIDENTS

WILL. HOAG

JOSEPH THOMPSON JIM DAVIS DAVE PORTER SECRETARY-TREASURER USPTA World Headquarters One USPTA Centre 3535 Briarpark Drive, Houston Texas 77042

MARK MCMAHON

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT GORDON COLLINS

Pros benefit from affiliation with retailers

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SPTA professionals who own or work at pro shops and have an account with Wilson Racquet Sports can take advantage of Wilson's new demo racquet program.

After purchasing at least six specially priced demo racquets, the professional will receive a free demo racquet display. The display, which holds up to eight racquets, can be taken out to the court, hooked onto a teaching basket or fence, or set on the ground. As a result, clients who have not obtained a playtest model through the pro shop can still be exposed to new racquets. This will benefit the professional who owns a one-man shop, because it allows him to take his merchandise to the court with him.

"If a pro is out on the court teaching a lesson, he s got a captive A

ADDvantage/Septemberl995

audience," said Brian Dillman, Wilson's senior marketing manager for tennis racquets. "And if they won't go into the shop, he can bring his shop to the court."

Many people who take tennis lessons do not know much about racquets, Dillman said. To help address this problem, the demo racquet display also features information to help players determine their swing speed and stroke style. Teaching pro fessionals can then lend their expertise in advising players on the types of racquets that are best for the players' style of play.

Professionals who are interested in the program but do not have a Wilson pro shop account may contact their local Wilson sales representative for information on accounts near them. These profes-

sionals then have the opportunity to develop an arrangement to refer clients to the store. In return, when someone purchases a racquet from a retailer and then inquires about tennis lessons, the retailer can recommend the professional. The cross-promotional opportunities are limitless.

Special incentives for professionals who participate in the program are being developed and will be announced when available.

Since the program's inception in October 1994, Wilson has shipped more than 1,200 display racks. Professionals are finding these displays to be easy to use and a definite selling tool.

For more information about the demo racquet program, call Wilson at (800) 272-6060. <ÂŁ

PAST PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

Time for a reality check

The Voice of the Tennis Teaching Profession

M

any of us perform our jobs in beautiful clubs located in upscale markets and communities. Over the years, these clubs have been relatively successful, with a full complement of members.

The clubs have been financially solvent and our careers have seemed very secure. Unfortunately, this very positive picture is changing.

The overall decline in the tennis industry has begun to hit home. Many of the finest clubs in the country now have openings for their tennis memberships, with the list growing daily. If your initial reaction is, "How does that affect me?", then I suggest you do a "reality check." For us to have prosperous obs in Gordon the future, we need to be sure that our club industry stays strong.

Professionals should ask themselves the'following questions.

• "How is my club doing financially? ' • "Is the tennis membership expanding or contracting?"

• "Am I an integral part of the club s plan?"

• "What is the club's mission statement or purpose, and what is my role in it?"

• "What impact would my absence have on the club? Do I have an impact on many of our members?"

• "Does a good percentage of my business come from nonmembers?"

• "Are my reviews ust OK or are they outstanding?"

• "Are my customers receiving outstanding value for the goods and services I supply?"

If you are unsure or answer negatively to some of these questions, the following suggestions may help.

Meet with the club manager or president.

The only way to be informed is to stay in touch with your supervisors. Even if they do not ask for regularly scheduled meetings, be sure to take the initiative and make it happen. Determining the club's overall business plan and how you can help achieve those goals should be at the top of your agenda. The goals may change on a regular basis, and it is critical for the professional to stay up on them. In most clubs, the finances are driven by monthly dues or in door court time. The professional's input, enthusiasm and insights are valuable to the club s decision-making process. Be sure to show that you want to be involved in the Collins success of the entire club, not just your personal segment.

Even if a professional's personal business is doing well, it is imperative to be a team player for the health of the entire club.

Seek continuous input from your associates, customers and fellow professionals.

Along with staying in touch with your supervisors, make sure your associates and customers feel you are approachable and open to comments, both positive and negative. The "I know it all" attitude is certainly the kiss of death. The professional should make everyone feel important for suggesting their ideas, and acknowledge how much their comments are appreciated.

If the customer is receiving excellent value, it is the ultimate in ob security. The professional should stay in touch with his customers and never take their business for granted. Ask fellow USPTA professionals for their comments regarding you and your program. Although criticism can be difficult to take, it provides valuable insight. see Past president, page 2.4.

NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Kathy Woods First Vice President Kurt Kamperman Vice Presidents Will Hoag Joseph Thompson Jim Davis Dove Porter Secretary-Treasurer Mark McMahon Past President Gordon Collins

WORLD HEADQUARTERS CEO Director of Operations Director of Communications Communications Business Operations Magazine Coordinator National Marketing Coordinator National Marketing Assistant Marketing Assistant David Rudzinski Public Relations Dan Soine Coordinator Corporate Services Manager Corporate Secretary Computer Services and Club Relations Director of Education Kirk Anderson Education Coordinator Susan Thompson Membership/Education Vicky Tristan Financial Manager Renee Heckler Controller Theresa Weatherford Ellen Schmidt

LEGAL COUNSEL Attorney-at-law Paul Waldman

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

For information, write the World Headquarters USPTA One USPTA Center 3535 Briarpark Drive Houston, TX 77042 Phone(713)97-USPTA or fax (713) 978-7780 Office hours: 8:30 a.m. 5 p . m .

Central time Copyright© United Stated Professional Tennis Association, Inc. 1995.

All rights reserved.

Reproduction of any portion of the magazine is not permitted without written permission from the publisher.

ADDvantage/September 1995

c

Preparing for tomorrow, today

New endorsement offers financial "For individuals concerned with protecting the things they treasure and for which they've worked, there

are two simple options Plan to SMcaed} or fail to plan *' â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Donald McLaughlin

ADDvantage/September 1995

W

ith lessons, clinics, tournaments, member services and pro shop operations, a tennis professional's daily demands leave little time to devote to simple matters, much less figuring out complicated retirement and estate planning issues.

However, with the help of one of the most respected names in the insurance industry, planning for the future may now be a little easier.

USPTA announces its new endorsement of National Life of Vermont, one of the oldest life insurance companies in the country. National Life will provide USPTA members with insurance advice and financial planning, retirement planning, estate planning, investment opportunities, free seminars and other information services.

"Wise financial planning is critical to success in any career," said USPTA President Kathy Woods. "The new services offered by National Life of Vermont will make it much easier for USPTA professionals to prepare for their financial future. This new relationship is a natural progression in our efforts to provide further professional benefits for USPTA members."

Through personal and confidential services, National Life will help members ensure future financial security through

customized plans that meet specific objectives. National Life will survey USPTA members in the coming months to determine their concerns and tailor programs for teaching professionals. With its relationship and needs-based approach, the company will help interested members identify and prioritize their individual

How much capital will you need at age 65 for retirement?

Current age

To generate this amount of pre-tax retirement monthly income (today's dollars)

$5,000 35 $5,186,000 45 3,184,000 55 1 955,000

$10,000 $10,373,000 6,368,000 3,909,000

Assumes 5 percent inflation, earnings at 5 percent net after tax

financial concerns, and develop affordable plans to help achieve financial goals.

National Life has the experience to assist members in answering key questions for financial planning. Founded in 1850, the company lists more than $5 billion in assets, ranking it among the 25 largest mutual life insurance companies. The company is rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best Company, the leading independent insurance analyst, and is one of only a small per-

centage of life insurance com panics licensed to do business in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

"Both USPTA and National Life of Vermont are solid, established and respected leaders in their fields," said Donald McLaughlin, vice president of marketing and development services for National Life of Vermont. "We are both committed to enhancing the health â&#x20AC;&#x201D; be it physical or financial â&#x20AC;&#x201D; of our members and clients. We look forward to a successful working relationship with USPTA professionals."

When it comes to planning for retirement or protecting family members, studies show that fewer than 3 0 percent of the population ever create a plan that adequately protects assets that have taken a lifetime to build. Yet, failure to plan properly can lead to dramatic changes in a family's lifestyle after retirement or a premature death.

According to Barren's (July 12, 1993), based on current savings rates, the typical 45 year-old married couple in the United States will have only 60 percent of what they'll need to maintain their existing lifestyle at retirement. And, with the growing demands on Social Security due to an aging population, the federal program will only provide 3 per-

planning services cent to 28 percent of The power of consistent, their current income. long-term investing Even very conservative planning can help a $2,397,000 teaching professional enjoy a comfortable and secure retirement. For example, based on Standard & Poor's 500 50year stock index history from 1944 to 1994, an individual setting aside only $1,000 annually in a mutual fund would have amassed $2,397,000 in savings. Though not everyone has 50 years to plan for retirement, the example shows the value and potential of a consistent, an option at all." affordable savings program.

Throughout the coming For individuals with sizable year, National Life will outline estates, estate planning can be basic planning tools for vitally important to ensure that USPTA members in free semifederal and state government nars at national and divisional agencies do not determine disconventions. Topics will inposition of one s assets. In clude retirement and estate some states, even verbal agreeplanning, capital accumulation, ments with heirs may not guarbusiness planning, disability antee that designated protection and more. individuals or charities will reThe first National Life ceive property. Also, taxes and seminar for USPTA members, inflation may consume more "Success Isn't Goal Setting, It's than half the value of the estate.

Coal Getting," will be presented "For individuals conSept. 23 at the USPTA Nacerned with protecting the tional Convention, which runs things they treasure and for Sept. 16-24 at the Boca Raton which they've worked, there (Fla.) Resort & Club. are two simple options," For more information McLaughlm said "Plan to sucabout the services offered by ceed, or fail to plan. In today's National Life of Vermont, constantly changing world, we USPTA members may call believe the latter option is not (800) 667-8521 $t>

:;;.-.: ;:"'.,<'>'

ADDvantage/September 1995

-j

1995 National Convention update 1995 USPTA Industry Excellence Award The 1995 Industry Excellence Award will o go to the person who has done the most to grow the game.

The award will be given at the 1995 National Convention in Boca Raton, Fla., in September. To be considered for the individual award, applicants must answer the following questions: 1 What have /you done in the past 12 months (October 1994 to September 1995) to grow the game of tennis in the United States and/or worldwide?

2. How have your efforts increased player participation in tennis?

3 Describe in as much detail as possible the results of your efforts to grow the game. Quantify your

answers when possible (e.g., number of new players introduced to the game, length of program, number of people involved in administering the program/event, etc.).

Include the names and phone numbers of individuals who can verify your participation.

4. How has your program directly benefited the tennis industry's business concerns (e.g., increase in equipment/ apparel sales, tennis facility revenue, lesson revenue, etc.)?

Faxed or mailed answers to these questions must be received at the USPTA World Headquarters by Aug. 23. A committee will judge responses. Fax responses to (713) 978-7780, or mail them to USPTA, 3535

Briarpark Drive, Attn. "Industry Excellence Award," Houston, TX 77042.

USPTA, USTA offer sport science education, testing USPTA professionals may prepare for the USTA Sport Science Competency Exam with a series of courses offered at the National Convention. Following each course, the USTA will administer one of three subtests of its Level II Sport Science Competency Exam. See your convention brochure or the July or August issue of ADDvantage for a schedule.

General sessions highlighted Peter Burwash International president and USPTA member Peter £|0f Burwash will lead a general session from 10 a.m. to I I 30a.m. Wednesday,

Sept. 20, called, "Qualities of a Great Leader " Immediately following, there will be a general session led by a panel of industry experts.

USPTA professional and Tennis Industry Association grass-roots coordinator Kurt Kamperman will lead a discussion on "Growing Your Business Through Player Participation," 11-45 a.m. to I 15 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 20.

Vic Braden will discuss the "Implication of the Science of Brain Typing on Tennis Pros" at the convention, Friday, Sept. 22, from 12.30 to I 30p.m.

Resort parking available Convention attendees who drive to the Boca Raton Resort & Club may self park for a one-time $15 fee. Those who choose to valet park their cars will be charged $ 5 per day. ££

Wilson racquet line reaches new heights with Stretch

T

he newest addition to the Wilson Sledge Hammer family of performance tennis racquets is the Sledge Hammer 2.8si Stretch, which will be introduced at the U.S. Open.

The new tennis racquet is one-and-one-half inches longer than the 27-mch conventional racquet. It is designed to help players with short, compact strokes reach for demanding shots with more ease. The added length, combined with a high 2.8 swing index and a 116-inch headsize, is intended to improve the ADDvantage/September 1995

power and response of club players games.

The Sledge Hammer 2.8si Stretch also features a wider hoop in the head shape that offers more stability on off-center hits.

This larger hitting area results in is longer cross strings that help expand the sweet spot horizontally across the string bed.

The construction of the racquet (80 percent graphite and 20 percent high modulus graphite in a dual taper beam design), along with its unique rectangular geometry (patent pending), helps re-

duce frame torsion on impact. This design results in a racquet with a very high stiffness at a much lower cross section than other widebodies in the same stiffness range.

The Stretch features dark metallic gray cosmetics with copper and burgundy accents, and comes with a matching cover. The racquet will be available at authorized Wilson dealers Sept. 1 at the suggested retail price of $269.99.

For more information about the Stretch or other Wilson racquets, call Wilson customer service at (800) 272-6060. Computer users can inquire through America On-Line (mailbox: wilsonracq) or the Internet (mailbox: wilsonracq@aol. com). J25

A1SO BRINGS YOU THE WORLD'S BEST STRINGS. We at Penn are proud to announce that we've joined forces with Babolat.

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USPTA's World Headquarters Professional Tennis Instruction Facility The USPTA selected from the best in tennis court design and construction when they built their new instruction facility in Houston, Texas.

These brands and services are Approved" by the USPTA. >esigner GLOBAL CONSULT Gl

inc.

800-327-8379 Fax 804-971-6995 Lighting LSI COURTSIDER SPORTS LIGHTING 513-793-3200 Fax 513-793-0147

Nets, Posts and Windscreens DOUGLAS INDUSTRIES, Inc. r 4 800-553-8907 Fax319-285-4163 ,| ,^ Contractors MALOTT PETERSON RENNER, Inc. 303-744-3631 Fax 303-777-0706 AUSTRALIAN COURTWORKS, 800-537-2613 Fax 601-825-6509

Inc.

Project Coordinator XSPORTS, Inc. 516-767-9114 Fax 516-767-7548

"We're very pleased with USPTA's new Tennis Centre. The design of the facility met all of our expectations. The courts and surrounding area offer low maintenance and excellent quality of play. And, the court system is valuable in that it allows us to change the payability of the surface."

GEORGE BACSO, USPTA Director of Certification and Academies

Sledge Hammer 2.8 Stretcn

We're proud to announce an addition to tne Sledgfe Hammer ramily.

An additional 1.5 inches r to be exact.

It's a Wilson! We named it, "Stretch" It arrived at 28 5 inches, weighed in at 9-4 ounces, and delivers all the right tools ror improving your game.

Like each Sledge Hammer in the ramily, 2.8 Stretch inherits the benefits or Hammer technology, super light + heaa heavy ultimate game improvement, with the added beneiit ot length (1 5 inches longer rrom head to handle) The culmination or this new design provides ror enhanced periormance in three specrhc areas. 1 Stretch's extra length helps reach dinks and lobs easier.

2. The patented rectangular geometry creates a stirier, stronger racquet ror greater stability on orr-center shots. 3. The wider hoop design expands the sweet spot across the hitting area.

Sledge Hammer 2.8 Stretch. Only Wilson technology could combine power, ' control and size to create this ultimate weapon. It's the difference between making a longer racquet and making a longer Sledge Hammer.

To demo, call 1-800-WIN-6060 for a dealer near you.

Tne Right Equipment Makes Tne Dirrerenceâ&#x201E;˘

W. Sledge Hammer and THE Right Eguipmenl Makes The Difference are trademarks and Wilson is a registered trademark of Wilson Sporting Goods Co. Š 1995 Wilson Sporting Goods Co.

Out wear your opponent.

Atkco, Inc is an authorized licensee of Wilson Sporting Goods 1-800-990-0000

IDi&on Tke Rigkt Equipment Makes Tke Differenceâ&#x201E;˘

GROWING THE GAME ^^

''

Total education goal of tennis program

C

hildren who attend the Tennis & College Club (T&CC) in Montevallo, Ala., learn more than just tennis. They are also taught about God and are given a rigorous study program to encourage them to do well in school and go on to college.

USPTA pro Mark Crisswell established the Tennis & College Club in 1992. The purpose of the organization is to help children develop their spiritual, mental and physical potential in order to live a full and productive life. The Tennis & College Club is a nonprofit grassroots organization dedicated to making a difference in the lives of underprivileged and abused children. It is also a nondenommational Christian organization which accepts each child unconditionally, regardless of problems they may be struggling with in their personal lives.

The club is designed to inspire, motivate, encourage, educate and support. Children receive free tennis lessons, racquets, shoes, clothing, string and grip, transportation to and from lessons and tournaments, entry fees for tournaments, supervision and meals during tournaments, and Bibles and Bible study material.

In addition to tennis, chil-

dren are taught about Christianity through Bible study and prayer. Local churches support the T&CC financially.

The T&CC guarantees its students a college education through scholarships, foundations or grants. It provides money for college through its own scholarship fund, or helps students find money from other scholarships and grants. The staff monitors children's grades and takes them to receive aptitude testing. Speech teachers and tutoring are provided when needed. Children are also taken on educational field days to visit with various professionals in their work places.

New students are given an eight-week trial period to see if they like the program and for the staff to determine if they are really serious about it. If they decide to stay, they are required to attend 70 percent of the time, participate in Bible studies, turn in their report cards and do community service.

Crisswell said 90 children are currently in the program, including six who are attending college and one who is in the military. The program is open to children

ages 7 to 18, but the majority are between 9 and 14 years old.

When a student enters 1 1th grade, a T&CC staff member will sit down with him and look over his grade point average and financial background. If the student wants to go to college, they will start applying to colleges and looking for funds.

By the time the student is a senior, he will know where he is going and how he will pay for it.

Crisswell's goal for the T&CC is to be a part of the participants' lives for a long time. He will provide tutoring for those who are attending college, help them get jobs afterward, or go with them to a banker the first time they need a loan for a house or car.

Board members of the T&CC include USPTA professional Wade Herren and tour great and USPTA member Stan Smith. Smith has held several fund-raisers for the program.

The T&CC has one corporate sponsor and several individual contributors.

They also receive donations in the form of racquets, balls and stringing machines. {ÂŁ

The club is designed to inspire, motivate, encourage, educate and support.

ADDvantage/September 1995 13

AmericanAirlines Somethingspecialm iheairÂŽ

W

hether you're just beginning your first junior program or are an experienced veteran of teaching tennis to children, this insert offers helpful suggestions for organizing and implementing a successful USPTA Little Tennis program.

USPTA Little Tennis combines lessons, activities, equipment, teaching professionals and parents in the common goal of athletically developing children, ages 3 to 10, It is organized at the local level by pros and parents, and is a flexible, quarterly series of lessons and league activities. Depending on age and ability, children practice motor skills or learn basic tennis-specific skills which lead to playing on "short' courts.

In the coming months, USPTA will introduce a new USPTA Little Tennis Starter Kit that will include lesson guidelines, drills, games and activities. The kit will also include suggestions for organizing the program, sample charts to track your students' progress and promotional materials to publicize your programs.

USPTA will continue to offer Little Tennis educational events in all divisions and nationally.

Mark McMahon, USPTA Master Professional and director of tennis at the Dunwoody (Ga.) Country Club, credits the program for a 30 percent increase in junior tennis at his club. Nearly 200 children, ages 3 to 7> signed up this year, up from 143 last year. He also reports a direct impact on the sale of junior tennis racquets and a"pparel.

Dennis Covington, USPTA, head professional at the Richland Country Club in Nashville, Tenn., is pleased with the USPTA Little Tennis program.

"It is the perfect program to help us achieve two of our goals this year," he said, which include improving family programming and increasing the number of younger participants in junior programs.

"Teaching professionals heavily impact local tennis communities and are the ones who have experience in instruction," said USPTA CEO Tim Heckler. "We also encourage parents to help out as much as they can. By doing this, we can get families back on the tennis courts and having fun."

A free USPTA Little Tennis brochure, developed by Wilson Racquet Sports, is available to all USPTA professionals and contains information on the program, supplemental equipment and teaching aids, and how to get involved. The brochures may be sent to schools, parks and recreational facilities, club tournaments and parents at club tournaments. To request free copies of the brochure, call the USPTA Sports Marketing Department, -^f

SPONSORED

As part of the continuing development of USPTA Little Tennisâ&#x201E;˘; this special insert provides basic information for building a program from the ground up.

Checklist for starting a USPTA Little Commit with club administration to conduct a USPTA Little Tennis program Evaluate anticipated students through parent survey/poll.

Reserve courts and times in yearly master plan for seasonal schedule Lessons Practice League Special days Note: Consider typical lesson and court problems associated with extra balls, equipment and noise from young children.

Obtain equipment Court products Little Tennis carnival equipment mr. peeWee tennisÂŽ equipment Assorted balls and teaching aids Existing junior equipment Racquets Awards (e.g. stickers, certificates) Pro shop Clothing Racquets Home kits Specialty items (e.g. pens, pencils) Adult staff and volunteer clothing USPTA Little Tennis Starter Kit

Pricing Sponsorships Estimate group size to determine price

Publicity Video (show in pro shop and at club events) Posters Charts Demo with children Demo with adults Pro-am with Little Tennis participants Bulletin boards Press release and PSA to local media Photos and editorial coverage Banners (available from USPTA) Club newsletter Fliers around club and community Communication with local tennis associations Inform USPTA World Headquarters of program

Sign-up and registration Permission forms Medical release Travel (if league play with other clubs)

Parents Orientation Explain family involvement Training

Kick off event Staff orientation Front desk/reception Food and beverage Teaching staff Maintenance Pro shop

Carnival Play day Refreshments Prizes

Tennis program from scratch Written plans (Starter Kit offers useful suggestions) Unit plans Design complete program Lesson plans Write individual lesson plans for each age group

Special days Carnivals Birthday parties Little Tennis Olympics Camp format After-school format Family day Mother's day out

On-court training Professionals Assistants Volunteers

Preschoolers Graduation with awards

Follow-up promotions Press releases

Implementation Charts

Local Tennis association newsletters

Incentives Awards Refreshments Newsletter articles Bulletin boards T-shirts and caps (available from USPTA) Supplemental materials to keep parents

Update to USPTA national and division office

Registration for next session Make available during special days and guest events

informed of child's progress Weekly letter about goal of the week Practice suggestions

Evaluation Obtain feedback from participants and parents

Home activities

Lessons -

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USPTA

Communicate with other local clubs to coordinate Little Tennis activities

Skills competition SPONSORED BvU)iÂŁiOtl

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ASK THE PROFESSOR

BY JACK GROPPEL. PH.D

Keep grip consistent to avoid interruption of rhythm Question: I have a student who has a unique idiosyncrasy on her serve. As she takes the racquet back into her backswmg, she actually loosens and readjusts her grip and then continues the swing. What do you think of this?

Answer: Any time an adjustment in a stroke occurs during mid-swing, I have major concerns with an interruption of rhythm. I have seen this phenomenon several times in my career and, in every case, have observed a major negative effect on performance. As teaching professionals, our goal must be to assist the athlete in developing efficient and effective techniques.

When an idiosyncrasy shows up that could have a negative effect on performance, we must exhibit great care in our technique to change or improve it. First, we must be sure the movement is truly a negative one. For example, Bjorn Borg's technique was criticized, but he was pretty effective and had a great career. The same was true of Jay Berger's starting position on his serve, yet he was in the top 10.

On the serve, my goal for any player is to control exces-

grip at the top of the backswmg. When we videotaped serves during which the player did this, it definitely changed the movement. It's virtually impossible to do this without altering the motion of the racquet. And, if the racquet's path of motion is changed during the swing or if the player's arm stops to make such a grip adjustment, rhythm may be sacrificed.

Obviously, the grip must be loose, but the fingers should stay in contact with the racquet handle. If they Keeping a light but consistent grip during the depart from the handle, it's backs-wing will prevent an interruption of the difficult to say how the restroke's rhythm. sult will be affected. My cue sive wrist movement. The ideal is to keep the grip light, but wrist position from my perkeep the fingers (especially the spective is keeping the hand little finger) in contact with and forearm in a straight line the racquet all the way through all the way to the top of the the swing. This is different for backswmg. I've seen players the player who holds the butt who initiate the service motion of the racquet grip inside the with a flexed or hyperextended palm of his hand. When this is wrist. As you might imagine, the case, the finger at the bottom of the racquet stays on the more body parts you have in motion that don't need to the grip, while the ones below be, the greater the chance for a it will be off the grip. mistake. At some point during In summary, the service the backswmg, these players backswmg should be deliberate always correct the wrist posiand purposeful, yet relaxed. tion to what I described earThere is no need for an idiolier. The problem is extraneous syncrasy that alters arm and motion. racquet motion, nor one that Some players adjust the affects rhythm. J2$

Jack L. Groppel, Ph.D., is the executive vice president of LGE Sport Science Inc. He is an instruction editorfor Tennis magazine, and is the author o/High-Tedh Tennis and co-author of The Science of Coaching Tennis.

Groppel is a USPTA Master Professional and was named 7987 USPTA Professional of the Year.

ADDvantage/Sepfember 1995

c

Going for the big shot

'Virtual reality7 drilling helps byJoeDinoffer,USPTA

G

Joe Dinoffer, USPTA, is president ofOncourt Off court Inc., and developer of Play Tennis in the Ropezone Drill Book and Target System.

His most recent book, Play Tennis in the Airzone, accompanies the first portable air target training system.

Dinoffer has conducted clinics and exhibitions in more than jo countries since 7973. HÂŁ ^' rects adult clinics and camps in Dallas, and is a frequent speaker at conventions. j

ADDvantage/September 1995

one are the days when a steady ralher from the baseline, like former great Ken Rosewall, can dominate tennis. Great players today/ have "big" o shots, hitting o a higher percentage of winners than in previous decades.

This pattern is shaping the style of play that will be effective for the next generation of players. It will affect competitive juniors most, but also competitive and recreational adult players.

This creates a challenge for teaching professionals.

Students aspiring to be "great players" are eager to hit these big shots and walk in the shoes of Andre Agassi or Steffi Graf. It is up to the professionals to not only teach their students how to hit the big shots, but also how to develop the confidence needed to execute them in real match play.

Five common big shots are: 1 winning angle volleys after approaching the net 2. overhead smashes 3 power groundstrokes with short high balls 4- attacking a second serve 5 high mid-court volleys Most professionals feel comfortable teaching the techniques of these shots, but more is required. The major challenge lies in the transition

from success in repetitionstyle practice to success in a real match. An effective transition stage can be called "virtual reality" drilling. These are drills that students can perform in a supervised, yet pressure-packed, competitive situation. They have to be able to feel the tingling pressure of the situation and still succeed to develop real match-play confidence.

Without transition drills, students who look and feel great in a lesson come back to us after a match with their heads down, saying, "But I did so well in the lesson.

Then, in the match, I missed every overhead. I got so upset I became nervous on practically every shot for the whole game!"

These are the words of a player who is poorly prepared for match play, not having properly gone through the transition. Successful competitors tell themselves, "Oh, great! Here comes a lob.

Now I can win the point!"

Tentative competitors say to themselves, "Oh, no! Another lob." Overheads pro vide a good example of how a player's confidence can easily peak or plummet during a match.

A major cause of matchplay pressure is mental distraction. During casual play, distractions can include the weather, a tough day at school

or work, an argument with a friend or spouse, or a dozen other "excuses." In match play, the primary distraction is often the pressure to win. Consider champions like Pete Sampras, Chris Evert, Bjorn Borg. Their focus is always tremendous, and distractions are few and far between.

D

rilling with a target is an excellent aid to avoiding match-play distractions. The typical target system used on a tennis court has always been a "bull's eye target," such as a cone or racquet cover. However, the ideal target system will clearly define specific court areas, with ropes, cones or balls placed in a pattern.

To develop match-play confidence, players must know without a doubt that if they hit the ball consistently in a specific area, they will win. If they use high-definition visual target areas with success in practice (both repetitive and "virtual reality" competitive drilling), they will have greater success focusing and executing winning shots in real match play.

There is an affirmative behavior pattern in focusing on target areas and placement, and the possibility of distraction is greatly reduced.

Target areas can be used to specifically develop focus during repetition drilling. These

develop player confidence repetition drills can be done with the pro or practice partner feeding, by hitting with a partner, or by using a ball machine. During the first phase of confidence building, the student grooves the proper technique and realizes, "Yes! I really can hit this shot." Once they can hit with solid technique into a designated target area at least four out of five attempts, they are ready for the match transition drills or "virtual reality."

In his Specialty Course at the 1994 USPTA National Convention, Bill Tym said, "If a player can hit any shot 10 times in a row, I tell them that they now own that shot."

C

ompetitive drills have two phases. The first is to play with the target areas still set up on the court.

The second phase is executing competitive-style drills with the target areas removed. This avoids any possible dependence on physical targets. It is important to make this transition during the same practice session to ensure strong visual carry-over.

The teaching professional will easily notice whether or not this transition is successful. When in doubt, the players should be questioned on how strong their visualization is of their target zones. If they have problems, the pro should determine whether the

difficulties are techniquerelated or strictly with the process of visualization.

If their transition to "virtual reality" drilling without the targets in place is successful, the players are ready for a final reality check before stepping into a match. Ask them to compare their emotional response to these virtual reality drills with their emotional response to pressure situations in match play. If the emotions are the same, they're ready.

On the other hand, if their emotional comparison reveals differences, the coach and player should work together to identify the specific emotions in each circumstance.

Go over them one by one until the student consciously experiences the same emotions in competitive practice as in real match play.

Students should develop

confidence with these critical "big shots," which create the real turning points in match play. The tentative volleyer will see a short ball and hesitate to come in to the net, knowing that hitting a volley can be risky business. The player who looks forward to getting close to the net to win the point will be the same player who steps in decisively to take charge on all short balls. They will eagerly see set-up balls as opportunities to win. 2$

(Upper) A player practices moving in on a short ball to hit her two-handed forehand into the down-the-line target area. The baseliner attempts a passing shot.

(Lower) The player has pulled her opponent well out of position and hits the volley crosscourt into the short angle target area for a winner.

ADDvantage/September 1995 IT

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TIA's Play Tennis America â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Many USPTA professionals are organizing Play Tennis America programs in their respective areas. USPTA members also represent a large number of the program s regional coordinators.

We have promoted the TIA's 25 city blitz through letters to our members in the blitz cities and through promotions in ADDvantage.

USPTA members have made these programs a success, and I am optimistic that these activities will have a major impact on the growth of tennis.

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Excellent compensation and fringe benefit program. Send resume with cover letter, salary history and work related references to: Oakwood Club 1516 Warrensville Center Road Cleveland, OH 44121 Attention: Mr. Jonathan Polster ADDvantage/September 1995

21

Meet the "lefties' challenge"

by Gerry Berkheimer, USPTA

R

Gerry Berkheimer, USPTA, owns Berkheimer's Tennis Services Inc. (BTSI) in Vero Beach, Fla, BTSI. contracts USPTA professionals to individuals, families, corporations, clubs and resorts, and provides consulting services.

Berkheimer is the academy director at Club Med Sandpiper in Port St. Lucie, Fla., and a professional at Grand Harbor Racquet Club in Vero Beach. He also coaches Angela Lettiere, the 1994 NCAA women's champion.

22 ADDvantage/September 1995

ight-handers seem perplexed, even a little unnerved, when the time comes to play a left-hander.

Inevitably, an anxious signal goes off in his head that he faces a bigger chore than usual.

The following comments may .arise: "His backhand is really his forehand," "He always serves those dreaded spins, especially in the ad court," "I am not accustomed to the angles he hits at the net," and the simplistic approach, "He plays backward." Most righthanders prefer to play other right-handers and avoid much of the pregame trauma that occurs when playing lefties.

Personally, I like the lefties challenge.

Let's take a closer look at some ways to solve this southpaw dilemma.

Player attitude First, as with any project, the player must have the proper frame of mind and attitude, and view this as a puzzle to be solved or question to be answered. It is no different from understanding the types of serves and when to use each one most effectively, the reason behind split-stepping before the volley or service return, or why a player should come in behind a short ball. As with the lefty question, there is always an answer if the player chooses to find it.

Seek out lefties After accepting the challenge, the player needs to actively seek out left-handers

and ask them to play. The more times someone plays a lefty, the more methods may be tried to attain victory.

There are more right-handers than left-handers, which ensures that right-handers will play more of their own than they will play lefties. This gives the southpaw a higher degree of comfort and explains why it is vital for the righty to locate the lefty.

In the process of searching for a left-hander, a competitor is taking a step to create "mental" adrenaline for the upcoming match as well as reinforcing the primitive, but very applicable, concept of being the hunter vs. being the hunted.

Serve, spin and placement The next step is to look at the serve on court. This is where the difference is strikingly clear. For some reason, probably because they see how previous lefties fared so well, the left-hander quickly learns the value and practical application of spins, particularly the slice, into the ad court. Although the right-hander has the same benefit of the slice to a lefty in the deuce court, he does not use it nearly as often as the lefty does. The right-hander will opt for the lower percentage flat serve, while the lefty relies on the point-gaining, high percentage results of spins, or more specifically, the slice. If all righthanders were taught spin serves first, rather than flat, this serving advantage now

enjoyed by the lefty would be equally enjoyed by the righty.

In playing a southpaw, the most important types of serves to master are the slice, topspm and flat serve, in that order.

For the right-hander serving the lefty in the deuce court, using the slice serve out wide or into the body produces maximum results. In addition, the topspm out wide or into the body also gives successful results. In the ad court, the slice to the body or down the centerlme and the topspm wide and into the body have created the best solutions in serving the lefty. Keep in mind that the above suggestions should be put into perspective.

Each lefty may need to be played and served to differently, just as every righthander has various weaknesses.

Probe with the serve until you find the Achilles heel.

The finest example of a right-hander serving a lefty is Arthur Ashe playing Jimmy Connors in the 1975 Wimbledon final. Ashe picked his spots and served judiciously. His best serves were a mixture of slices out wide and flat up the middle on the deuce court, and out wide and up the middle serves in the ad court. He threw in body serves to keep Jimmy honest. The returns were down the middle or short and gave Ashe some excellent opportunities to put the ball away, or at least get it to Jimmy's short forehand. In a match he was expected to lose, Ashe, with premeditated

with new attitude serving intelligence, turned the match completely around.

Server positioning Use the Sliding Server System when playing a lefty.

The idea behind the Sliding Server is to have the server move to different calculated spots at the baseline and take advantage of the angles into the service boxes. It also eliminates, to an extent, the predictability of serves based on a singular serving reference point. In addition to the serving advantage that can be established, the server is in the best position for the return.

Traditionally, players line up to cover the return first when they serve, rather than choosing to assess the best serving position.

The Sliding Server System allows the server the strongest serving and return position at the same time. In serving to a lefty m the deuce court, on a first serve, try moving out to the singles sideline and hit a three-quarters speed or faster wide slice to his backhand. If it is hit well, the lefty must go into the alley or out farther to make the return. In fact, to keep the serve from hitting the side fence or curtain, the southpaw must move in, and pick the ball up on the rise. The end result is usually a ball up the middle or a weak cross-court as the lefty is stretched out too far to be comfortable for a drive return. If he moves out before the ball is hit, serve

the ball down the middle or slice into his body. If the first serve is strong and wide enough to either the deuce or ad court, the down-the-lme return from either wide side is an extremely low percentage one and the southpaw receiver is virtually obligated to bring the ball to the middle or crosscourt. This leaves the control of the first rally in the hands of the righty. With the Sliding Server on the second serve, move a little closer toward the center of the court to be in prime position for the 'return. In the ad court against a lefty, move out at least halfway between the center mark and the singles sideline and try various serves until you find the one(s) that win (s) the point most often. It may be a topspin out wide or into the body, or even a flat serve out wide.

Although the server appears vulnerable with the open court, the speed of the ball will prevent the receiver from straightening out the wide serve down the line with any consistency. The same holds true when a three-quarters speed or faster ball comes in on a player's forehand from the crosscourt area. The percentage shot is back crosscourt, not down the line.

However, (and this is particularly important in either the service or forehand illustration) if the ball is hit at less than three-quarters speed, the receiver or groundstroker can

change the direction of the ball more easily.

The effect of the Sliding Server is equally felt in the doubles game, especially if the left-hander is in the deuce court. The scenario is about the same as m singles with the player retrieving the wide slice serve from outside the alley and leaving the entire middle open. If the partner covers the middle, take the volley to the wide side.

After serving, the serve return is crucial. This is a little tricky against the leftSee Lefty, page 24 ADDvantage/Sepfember 1995

23

Past president

Lefty

from page 3

from page 2j

Knowledge is power.

We are called professionals because we have a particular expertise that the average individual does not. That expertise is formulated and developed from the use of knowledge.

The successful professional of the future will always have the "knowledge edge," and they will achieve this by constantly improving their skills, which translates into superior services and products.

Being merely "content" with your programming and services will inevitably lead to failure.

USPTA makes available to us a wealth of knowledge. It can be gained through national and divisional conventions, Specialty Courses, publications and videos. Regardless of your preference, be sure to choose at least one to ensure your success in our great profession. ÂŁ$

bander. Unlike playing a right-hander where the service-return percentages are set in stone, it is not so with the southpaw, who may take the righthander s return percentages and routinely knock off a winner. Quickly deduce what serves the lefty can execute from either side and adjust the court position accordingly for the return, then return to the weaker side. On a hard first serve, percentages dictate the right-hander's return to the middle or slightly off center- on a spin first or second serve, the return should be hit to the weaker side to start the point. In the case of a serve and volleyer, hit the return to his feet as you would to a right-hander.

Find the weak links Once the ball is in play, quickly assess the lefty's weaker side because the ensuing rallies will

most likely be crosscourt, and you want your stronger side to his weaker one. Obviously, both the shortcourt game and the overheads should be directed to his weaker side. I have found the club-level left-hander to possess a weaker backhand, with the forehand being more suspect as the player progresses. On an individual basis, trial and error is the most accurate method for producing the statistics necessary to win.

Learn to play left-handed It may be a good idea for right-handers, especially teaching professionals, to become adept at playing left-handed. Playing left-handed provides new insights into the southpaw's shot possibilities, as well as gives righthanders added depth as a professional when teaching lefties. Rather than asking a lefty to think like a righty, you can now show him from his natural hitting hand. It is also very

impressive because you have taken the time to learn the game from his perspective. Also, those right-handed pros who teach quite a bit and like to play competitively can extend both careers by teaching their lessons lefthanded and taking some pressure off the right arm.

Start first with the lowerlevel players and work your way to the advanced groups.

Right-handers should take these suggestions to heart and become better equipped to handle all the challenges of a left-hander.

Finally, in eliminating many of the fears righthanders have in playing lefties, right-handers may well give lefties a better match and push them to greater heights in their own game. Southpaws may benefit from using the Sliding Server System, too, as they can become more of a problem for the righthanders as well as increasingo their odds when playing fellow lefties. ÂŁr>

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ADDvantage/September 1995

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c afes EXAMS, UPGRADES & CERTIFICATION TRAINING COURSES Each date ncludes an exam upgrade and CTC unless otherwise noted Sept Sept Sept Sept.

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Exam reservations must be made at least 21 days prior to the dates isted Exam cancellations must be received no later than 4 days before the exam, or a cancellation fee wi be charged accordingly. Affi ate members: late cancellation fee $75, fa ure to cancel application fee is forfeited Certi fied members, late cancellation fee $25, fai ure to cancel $25 plus the upgrade fee is forfeited Registration for another exam wi not be accepted unti these cancellation fees are paid

SPECIALTY COURSES Four-hour courses are denoted by an asterisk are eight hours.

Sept 30 Dec. 3

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Personal & Professional Fort Washington, Pa. Development Teaching Effective Strokes Washington, D.C. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; The No. 1 Job of a Tennis Professional

CONVENTIONS Sept 16-24 Feb. 9-1 1

Nationa Convention Texas Division

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DIVISION MEETINGS/ACTIVITIES Sept. 8 Sept. 8-10 Sept. 9-10 Sept. 1 1 Sept. 20 Sept 30 Oct. 2 Oct. 7 Oct. 13 Oct. 14 Oct. 16 Nov. 5 Nov. 12 Nov. 12-13 Nov. 20

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COACHES WORKSHOPS .Sept. 10 : Oct. 8 If Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct 27-29 Nov. 4 Nov. 18 Nov. 18 Nov. 18 Nov. 18-19

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The deadline to register and/or cancel a course is 5 working days before the event Anyone canceling late or failing to cancel wil forfeit one-half the course fee. This schedule is subject to change. Ca the USPTA Membership Department for additiona nformation ADDvantage/Septemberl995

25

usf^y aetiorv USPTA Beth Barden, USPTA, was chosen as the Great Midwest Conference s Coach of the Year.

She is in her third year as the women's head tennis coach at DePaul Bar den University in Chicago. She has brought the team from the last position to finishing second, behind the University of Alabama-Birmingham.

Five USPTA members competed for Georgia in the USTA 1995 Southern Senior Cup Team Championships in June. The team won the men s overall championship and the Gil Stacy Award, presented to the team with the highest number of individual matches won. Team members were David Mathews, Armistead Neely Brian Marcus, Roger Pearce, and Lee Myers-Brandt.

Two USPTA members coached tennis teams in the 1995 U.S. Olympic Festival, the nation's premier event for top American amateur athletes. Chuck Kingman coached the North team and Tim Harvey coached the East team.

Florida Division professionals Paula Scheb, director of tennis at the Bomta Bay Club, and Dolly Goldberg, head professional, raised $750 for the United Way of Lee County in a 24-hour tennis mara26 ADDvontage/September 1995

thon. Scheb and Goldberg played each other and other club members.

"It was a real challenge for us, both mentally and physically," Scheb said.

"We were very happy with the show of support from our membership."

USPTA member and Peter Burwash International tennis director Drew Crowley offered 24 hours of free nonstop tennis to start the summer tennis season at the Park Hotels Waldhaus in Flims, Switzerland. The weekend event included doubles and mixed doubles tournaments, children's group instruction, wheelchair tennis instruction and a serving speed contest.

The new tennis director for Canyon Crest Country Club in Riverside, Calif., is USPTA professional Brett Stephenson. Previously, he was the head professional at the Inverrary Racquet Club and a former ATP Tour player.

USPTA professional Bill O'Boyle is the new head

Dee Poole (center) is the winner of the Greensboro (N.C ) Tennis Association/Jim Winstead Scholarship. Winstead (left) is a coach, former player and member of the North Carolina Tennis Hall of Fame. Pool is being trained by USPTA professionals Kim Dillard (right) and Mike Belangia.

The award is given to a Greensboro resident who demonstrates a love for tennis and shows promise in his or her development as an athlete. The scholarship will pay for all tournament entry fees for

professional at Providence Country Club in Charlotte, N.C. He supervises all tennis programming and tournaments and has two assistant professionals. He was formerly the head pro at River Hills Country Club m Lake Wylie, S.C., and president of the USPTA South Carolina District.

USTA A record amount of prize

money, $9,862,522, will be offered to players at the 1995 U.S. Open. Equal prize money will be offered to men and women, with the singles champions receiving $575,000 each.

At a recent USTA league tennis match in Trumbull, Conn., Ken Graham of Stratford, Conn., and Bob Migliorim of Hamden, Conn., recorded what may be the longest game ever played and never completed. They were given two hours to play the 4-0 level singles match. One hour and 45 minutes later, they still had not completed the first game. One point during the contest lasted 45 minutes. After the time limit expired, the two teams split the point values for the match.

Manufacturers

USPTA professionals Joe Thompson, Brenda Mote, Serena Quarelli, Tom Lepisto,John McBeth, Gerald Winder, Michael Morse and Jim Munsil were the winners of the World TeamTennis Tencap tournament held at the USPTA Southwest Division Convention.

Wilson Racquet Sports recently honored tennis legend Jack Kramer as the first inductee into the company's Tennis Hall of

Hit Fame. Kramer was chosen for his achievements in the tennis industry and for his long-standing support as a member of Wilson s Senior Advisory Staff.

The Health & Fitness Mall will soon open its doors in Atlanta. The mall is a onestop shopping environment for all health and fitness requirements, and includes a health club, professional medical practitioners, nutritional centers and several apparel and sporting goods retailers.

"The Health & Fitness Mall was created to provide health and fitness devotees with a cornucopia,of products and services all under one roof," said Michael Altman, CEO of Health & Fitness Mall Inc. For more information, call Altman at (404) 416-1 1 I 1 Penn Racquet Sports and Babolat recently signed an agreement for the sales and distribution of Babolat products by the U.S. Penn sales force.

The WTA Tour offers its singles and doubles rankings, prize money leaders and weekly newsletter to subscribers of CompuServe (Go Tennis) For more information, contact Doug Clery at 7675 3 1 13 @CompuServe.Com.

Associations Members of the Club Managers Association of America (CMAA) have pledged $ I 5 million to the Club Foundation s Campaign for Excellence.

More than 80 percent of its members have made pledges, both individually and through their local

CMAA chapters.

The 1995 Master Club Manager (MCM) Monographs are available. The in-depth scholarly analyses were produced by the first six club managers who earned the MCM designation. The monographs are Developing a Club's History Book: An InDepth Guide by James Brewer Lions Among Us: A Study of the: Role and Success Factors of Club Managers Who Have Flourished in Their Clubs by Edward Henderson; Implementing Total Quality Management as an Integral Part of Strategic Management by A. Graham McDeson; The Value of Contract Documents in Club Construction and Renovation Programs by Jerry McCoy Is it Time to Move? Recognising the 'Warning Signs' Associated with Club Manager Job Change by Norman Spitzig; and Innovativeness/Entrepreneurship in Clubs: A Systematic Approach

by Mac Winker.

A volume containing all six monographs is $69-95 and may be ordered by calling Karen Miller at (703) 739-9500.

Several members of the Tennis Industry Association (TIA) met with representatives of the International Tennis Federation (ITF) ATP Tour and WTA Tour at an ITF-orgamzed seminar in London to discuss the current status and future of tennis. They endorsed several concepts designed to increase the spectator and television appeal of the professional game without detriment to the recreational game.

"I thought it was a very/ o productive meeting," said

ust^ '

Florida Division award winners The USPTA Florida Division named Rick Macci the 1995 Coach of the Year. Macci coaches professional player Venus Williams. The division's Professional of the Year Award went to Len Simard. Other award winners are Howard Chodak, USTA/USPTA Service Award; Dave Herman, seminar contest winner; Robin Keener, Women's Open Player of the Year; Judi Stiff, Women's 35 Player of the Year; Jeff Cohen, Men's Open Player of the Year; Scott Espenship, Men's 25 Player of the Year; Simard, Men's 3 5 Player of the Year; and Bill Foreman, Men's 45 Player of the Year. District volunteer awards went to Fernando Guarachi, Mike Leach, Joe Csandli, Ann Beauchamp, Charlie Gaussiran, Cy Smith, Jim Vidamour, Kari Yerg, Ron St. John, Loretta Strickland and Oscar Losada. District I and District 8 tied for district of the year.

Southwest Division award winners Several USPTA professionals were honored by the Southwest Division for their 1994 accomplishments. Award winners are: Scott Nichols, Professional of the Year; Tim Barnes, Coach of the Year; Jim Reffkin, High School Coach of the Year; Kristi Noble, Female Player of the Year; Greg Prudhomme, Male Player of the Year; Maggie Morris, Female 3 5 and Over Player of the Year; Jim Munsil, Male 3 5 and Over Player of the Year; Ruth Ann Gardner, Female 45 and Over Player of the Year; Brian Cheney, Male 45 and Over Player of the Year; Sally Worski-Walton, Community Service Award; and Larry Lineberry, Appreciation Award.

Jim Baugh, TIA president.

"This is really the first step in getting the organizations in tennis to work together to make the game better."

Miscellany In an effort to revitalize tennis in Chicago, Tennis Corporation of America s Mid-Town Tennis Club formed a public/private partnership with the Chicago Park District.

Mid-Town instructors will teach tennis at up to 148 park district sites throughout the city. All profits generated by the program will be used to restore local outdoor courts, introduce the game to disadvantaged juniors and adults and teach disabled players.

Former President George Bush presented 1995 inductee Chris Evert with her International Tennis Hall of Fame enshrmement certificate. Bush and Evert played tennis together several times at the White House during his presidency.

Jim Loehr, Ed.D (USPTA) Jack Groppel, Ph.D. (USPTA) and Pat Etcheberry of LGE Sport Science Inc. have developed the Elite Junior & Adult Tennis Programs. The programs will feature fitness and movement training, mental toughness, stroke production and on-court time with touring pros Rene Gomez and Chris Garner.

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