Addvantage 1998 March

the .,....,ne '"men andwom)!~XJ.1.a.~ 9e

ADD

the total professional- enhancing your career

departments

8 The Roth IRA: options, flexibility and for some, increased income Taxpayer Relief Act of I 997 eases tax burden and provides opportunities to set money aside.

growing family tennis

3

CEO's message

4

Little Tennis tips

5

Vice president's message

14 Highlights of the 1998 USPTA World Conference on Tennis

10

Growing the game

15 Conference and education program schedule

19

Career development

V'·Ostll1!lS:P'l't,t

22

Industry action

23

Classifieds

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On the cover .. . Venus Williams, one of the young, new tennis stars, will be a force to be reckoned with this year. Photo by Russ Adams Productions.

special section USPTA's Tennis Across America welcomes USA Tennis This issue contains a complete program guide for running a USPTA Tennis Across America clinic. Pull it out and get started on yo ur clinic today!

l ADDvantage magazine editorial offices One USPTA Centre, 3535 Briarpark Drive

VOLUME 22 • ISSUE_3_1 Editor Assistant editor

Shawna Riley Ju lie Myers

Houston, TX 77042

Circulation

Kathy Buchanan

Phone - (713) 978-7782

Advertis ing

Diane Richbourg

(800) USPTA-4U Fax - (7 13) 978-7780 e-ma il - magazine@uspta .org

Office hours: 8:30a.m. - 5 p.mc Central time AOOvantage is published monthly by the United States Professiona l Tennis Associatio n.

The opinions expressed in AOOvantage are those of the authors and not necessarily those of AOOvantage or the US PTA. Copyright© United States Professional Tennis Association, Inc. 1998. All rights reserved.

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

ADDvontoge/Morch 1998

1

â&#x20AC;˘

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It's the most significant advance in tennis in 15 years.

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TENCAP makes every match a challenge. + Events are more competitive. With TENCAP everyone has a chance to win. + TENCAP generates revenue. Leagues and tournaments will be better attended. Plus, earn income from TENCAP fees. + TENCAP helps manage your players. A built-in database keeps track of players and their scores.

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For more information, call 612-591-9495 or e-mail at tencap@aol.com.

l

1

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mes-sage~-----.

US PTA's Tennis Across America welcomes USA Tennis Members urged to grow the game by hosting free clinic in May

I

n completing this issue ofADDvantage, we wanted approximately 2 ,000 professionals giving free clinto celebrate USPTA's ninth ann ual Tennis Across ics annually, we felt this was the p erfect way to contribute to the industry's effort to grow the America program and introduce a new concept through which yo u- the USPTA member- can game by recruiting new players. earn recognition and monetary compensation for Another USPTA program- Little Tennis can also contribute to the USA hosting a Tennis Across America clinic Tennis effort. You might choose as part of the new USA Tennis pro to use Little Tennis activities as a gram.

When USTA announced it would way to recruit yo ung players to yo ur Tennis Across America clinrename its previous Play Tennis ic. These students can be encourAmerica campaign USA Tennis I-23 and celebrate irs kickoff in May, aged to sign up for more Little we worried about the confusion ¡a Tennis lessons and participate in second eve nt would create. Since USA Tennis. With more than USA Tennis wo uld be celebrated on I ,600 professionals running Little Tennis progr ams, USPTA the same day as Tennis Across Amermembers can contribute thousands ica, we decided to us e the new proof new players to the industry's efgram to our advantage. We have been Tim Heckler working with USTA to combine the fort to reach irs five-year goal. two programs so that USPTA members can get Remember that yo ur Association will always the recognition they deserve as the industry's prisupport any program that helps grow the game. mary delivery force while at the same rime mainEven more importantly, USPTA's tennis programs taining the nine-yea r tradition of Tennis Across are crea ted by teaching professionals for teaching America. professionals . Although the programs can work in combination with other industry efforts, they Not only do we want yo u to host a Tennis Across are d esigned to benefit the tennis-teaching proAmerica clini~, but we hope the information includfessional. ed in this magazine will make it pay off for you in new students, more business and a little e'xtra cash We urge yo u to maintain yo ur involvement in from USTA and TIA. Through USA Tennis I - 2 - 3 USPTA activities, including the important role yo u play in the success of Tennis Across America and other USA Tennis programs, the industry hopes to generate 800 ,000 new players in t he next five and, ultimately, USA Tennis.

USPTA is doing everything possible to work years.

Tennis Across America has always demonstratwith the USTA and the entire industry to grow tennis. In doing so, we are asking yo u to conduct ed USPTA's strong commitment to grassroots tena Tennis Across- America clinic in cooperation with nis. Since I990, USPTA has run this program and USA Tennis day. Your complete Tennis Across has provided free lesson s to at least I million peoAmerica guide is in this issue. Good luck! <§>e ple over the course of the last eight years. With

Tennis Across America has always demonstrated USPTA)s strong commitment to grassroots tennis.

ADDvontoge/Mmch 1998 -

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little Tennis Tips

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The vampire

Serving for sodas

When learning to hit forehands and backhands, having the same finish to a swing will ensure consistency. You can make this fun for kids to learn by teaching them the vampire finish- showing them the eyes over the forearm. The wrist on the vampire cape hand (racquet hand) should have the back of the hand facing the player. This will limit the amount of wrist used for power and add to the topspin, creating more control of the ball. If they swing every time using the vampire finish, their ¡swing will develop consistency..

This is a practice drill to use after teaching young students ( 5 years old and older) the serve. The pro sits in a chair in the service box and the children serve at him crosscourt from across the net. The students are divided into groups, and one group at a time attempts to hit the coach with their serves. The children love it when the pro reaches out to catch the ball, and when he makes a big deal out of getting hit. Count hits as a group - when the total hits in a group equal 10, they all get a soda . When they get to nine, the pro can scrunch down and act like he won't help anymore. The kids love it and try to get more accurate.

John Foster, USPTA

Patti Heidorn

Wiggle those hips!

Houston

Adios amigos ¡ This drill has children 5 years old and older working on forehands and backhands. Line up the children in a single-file line and have them come up to the service line (or closer to the net for younger children) one at a time. The instructor pitches a forehand, and if the student hits it over the net, she gets to try a backhand. If the player misses the first ball, she gets to try again. Each ball gets tossed farther away from the hitter as she progresses. All of the other students count the number of balls hit- in Spanish. When the hitter misses, everyone yells, "Adios amigos!" Any language that the children know can be used in this drill.

It's a good idea to reinforce the names of the strokes as the children hit them. For example, "Here comes a forehand. Now a backhand."

If playing for prizes, include all the children. For example, say, "If anyone gets eight or more in a row, everyone wins a soda," or ''I'll do 20 pushups! "

Patti Heidorn, USPTA

Young children often do not like relays. I came up with the idea of Wiggle Those Hips one day when the music was playing and I was moving my hips to the music. The children could not stop laughing at my dancing abilities. I implemented Wiggle Those Hips into a relay.

Set a cone or basket about 20 yards away. Divide the children into teams and pick a basic skill like balancing the ball on the racquet.

When they run -i:o the cone, they put their racquets and balls down and wiggle their hips.

Then they pick up their racquets and balls and return to the line. They love it!

David Minihan, US PTA Norman, Okla.

Boynton Beach, Fla.

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4 ADDvontoge/Morch 1998

iee president's

A mes-setge~-- usptao

v

We are the USPTA

Building our unified strength

NATIONAL BOARD OF D IRECTORS

T

he USPTA is the oldest and most respected tennis-teaching organization in the world.

Since I 92 7, US PTA has stood for excellence and integrity in determining the way the world learns to play tennis. But what really is USPTA? Is it the World Headquarters in Houston? Is it the comprehensive testing and certification criteria? Is it the most ad vanced and individualized web · site program of any similar organization in the world?

No! T he USPTA is you. It is me.

It is the more than I I ,000 professionals worldwide who, united, form the most potentially influential force in the game today. It is our individu~ al and unified pride, determination and service.

As we continue to believe in and David 1 take pride in ourselves, we will increase our positive impact upon others. As our individual commitment increases, so will th e respect and admiration of not just the t ennis industry, but the tennis public. Increasing respect and building our unified strength begins with us.

Each of us can immediately work toward this goal in three ways : increasing USPTA name recognition; "owning" USPTA programs; and using and highlighting USPTA endorsees.

Increasing USPTA name recognition Take pride ~n being a USPTA member. Use creative ways to let people know about the Association and that you are a member. Some ideas -might be: 0

• Identify yourself as a USPTA member on your business phone answering machine.

•

List the USPTA initials after yo ur name whenever it is in print. "'

•

Include the US PTA Pro Penn ball name in tournament schedules and on entry forms.

M ake your name synonymous with USPTA m your local area. When people hear the name USPTA, they will think of yo u.

Owning USPTA programs Four years ago, we introduced USPTA Little Tennis TM to the world. Many of you have run, and are running, successful Little Tennis programs. Think what could happen if we all made a commitment to this inspired program. If each member were to introduce only 25 new children to Little Tennis every three months, that would mean IOO new tennis- playing children each year for each professional.

With more than I I ,000 certified members, well over I million new players in a crucial target age group would be brought into the game every year.

Look at the time, energy and money the industry has expended in trying to bring new players Porter to the game in the past couple of years. According to Tennis Industry Association statistics, in I 997, 78,000 new players , mostly through your efforts, were introduced to tennis though Play Tennis America clinics. Almost 3 8 ,000 people signed up to continue lessons .

Play Tennis America is a wonderful program and one we should continue to support. But also look at how many more could be added to that total with a small, consistent, unified commitment to one of our own existing programs.

In I 990, US PTA started Across America Tennis Day. We changed the name in I995 to Tennis Across America. Its success has drawn national attention and media exposure with more than 2,000 of us participating each May. Our program has been so successful that soon all tennis agencies in this country will be focusing their attention and seeking to expand on our program.

Just think what would happen if on May 9, I I,OOO of us held a USPTA Tennis Across America clinic. The impact would send an irreversible message to the--iadustry and the public. see Porter, page 18

President

W ill Haag

First Vice President

Joseph Thompson Townsend Gilbert Da vid T. Porter Mark McMahon Ron Woods

Vice Presidents

Secretary·Treasurer Post President

Ha rry Gilbert Kurt Kamperman

WORLD HEADQUARTERS

Tim Heckler

CEO

Rich Fanning

Diredor of Operations

Executive Assistant

Marty Bostrom

Diredor of

Showno Riley

Communications Communications

Courtenay Dreves

Com munications

Jill H. Phipps

Magazine Coordinator

Marketing

Julie Myers

Diane Richbourg

Coord inator

Jim Peavy

Spo rts Marketi ng

Coordinator

Public Relations

Dan Saine

Coordinator

Computer Systems

David Rudzinski

Administrator

Christi Coll

Webmaster and

Corporate Services Manager Computer Services

Kathy Buchana n

and Club Relations National Divisional

Kelly Dolan

Administrator Divisional Executive

Amy PrueH

Administrator Educational Ad ministrator

Melissa Stevens

Membership/ Education

Vicky Tristan

Membership/

Nicole Anderson

Education Assistant Financial Manager Controller

Renee Heckler Theresa Weatherford

Insurance/ Merchandise Services Director

Ellen Schmidt George Bacso

of Certificatio n and Academies

LEGAL COUNSEL AHorney-ot-low

Paul Waldman

For information , write

the World Headquarters USPTA One USPTA Centre 3535 Briorpork Drive Houston, TX 77042 Phone (713) 97 -US PTA (800) USPTA-4U Fox (713) 978-7780 e-mail- uspta@uspta.org Internet - wwvv.uspta.org Office hours: 8:30a.m . Central time

5 p.m.

ADDvontoge/Morch 1998

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Logo on back of men's and women's warmups $29

white (pictured) 1-S/M, 2-UXL, 3-XXL VEST "Star" . . . . . .

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USPTA Gift Shoppe, 3535 Briarpark Drive, Houston, TX 77042 tel (713) 97-USPTA • fax (713) 978-5096 • e-mail proshop@uspta.org • www.uspta.org

The Roth IRA: options, flexibility and for some, increased income t has been said that the underlying premise of our country's tax law- what makes it work - is that we voluntarily comply with it. But if that's really the case, how come most of us don't feel very happy about the volunteer work we've been doing all these years? Could it be because our "contributions" keep going up? Or is it that we're not sure the "charity" to which we're donating is one of our own choosing? Either way, there is some relief on the horizon and it is corning in the form of the Taxpayer Relief Act of I 997 (TRA-97).

TRA-97 was designed to both ease our tax burden and provide us with opportunities to set aside money for such things as retirement or first-time home buyer expenses. And one of the mechanisms created under TRA97 for setting this money aside is called the Roth IRA, a flexible savings tool providing unique benefits to people of all ages.

Working taxpayers with an adjusted gross income (AGI) below $95,000 ($ I50,000 if filing jointly) may contribute to a Roth IRA. Married taxpayers filing separately, however, may not. Like regular IRAs, the maximum contribution that may be made to a Roth IRA is IOO percent of an individual's annual compensation up to a maximum annual contribution of $2,000. For married individuals, a total contribution of up to $4,000 may be made- even if one spouse does not work - providing the income of the working spouse is at least equal to the contribution and that not more than $2,000 annually is contributed to a Roth IRA for each spouse. And like regular IRAs, contributions to a Roth IRA for the preceding tax year may be made up until April I 5 of the current year. A Roth IRA must also be designated as such at the time it is established.

Unlike regular IRAs however, because there is no age limit, contributions to a Roth IRA may continue for as long as an individual is working. And unlike regular IRAs, Roth IRAs are not subject to minimum distribution rules before the death of the owner. After death, however, beneficiaries are subject to the regular minimum distribution rules.

But perhaps the most striking difference between regular and Roth IRAs is that no current deductions are allowed

for contributions made to a Roth IRA. On the other hand, "qualified distributions" from a Roth IRA may be received tax free. Distributions from Roth IRAs - including all investment gains - are considered to be "qualified distributions" and can be received tax free if the account is held for at least five years AND -the individual reaches age 59 Yz, or - the individual dies, or - the individual becomes disabled, or -is used for first-time home buyer expenses.

I

8 ADDvantagw'March 1998

Distributions from Roth IRAs are treated as having been made from contributions first and all of an individual's Roth IRAs are aggregated for this purpose. To better understand this concept, consider the following example: Jim contributes $2,000 to Roth IRA No. I in I 998. H e then contributes $2,000 to Roth IRA No. 2 in I 999. In the year 2000, Roth IRA No. I is worth $2,300 and Roth IRA No.2 is worth $2, I 60. Jim decides to close out Roth IRA No. ~ and take a distribution of $2,300 and not roll it over to another Roth IRA. Because the distribution of $2,300 does not exceed Jim's aggregated nondeductible contributions ($ 4,000), the distribution is not includable in his gross income - even though it is not

Is a Roth IRA right for you?

To determine whether a Roth IRA is right for you, you' ll want to weigh the importance of the current deferral against yo ur potential future tax rate and income needs. Consider the following example: Mary, age 40, is eligible to make contributions to either a regular or Roth IRA. She plans to work to age 65 (25 years) and to make a $2,000 contribution each year. Based on average life expectancies, she plans to spend I 5 years in retirement (to age 80) . She is currently in a 28 percent tax bracket but expects to be in a lower tax bracket in retiremertt ( I 5 percent). Her pre-retirement investment return is assumed to be 8 percent, moving to a more conservative interest rate of 6 percent after retirement.

At age 65 , Mary's account would be worth $I57,900 (annual deposits of$2,000 for 25 years assumed to earn 8 percent). This amount would be the same for either type ofiRA since both grow tax free during the accumulation phase. The difference shows up in her aftertax payout: Distributions taken from Roth IRAs, including all investment gains, are received tax free while distributions from regular IRAs are fully taxable since no tax has been paid on the contributions.

technically a "qualified distribution. "

Had Jim's distribution exceeded his aggregated nondeductible contributions prior to the five year and age 59 Yz requirement being met, the amount of the distribution in excess of the aggregated nondeductible contributions wo uld have been included in his income.

(Note: For individuals who are under age 59 Yz, an additional IO percent penalty tax will also be imposed.)

--

Regular IRA

Roth IRA

Account va lue at age 65 (assuming 8 percent pre·retirement growth)

$157.900

$1 57.900

Level annual payout (after tax for regular IRAl (assuming 6 percent post·retirement growth)

$ 13.043

$ 15,345

Total of after tax distributions (15 yearsl

$195,649

$230.175

In this example, the Roth IRA generates a retirement payout that is I 7.5 percent greater than the regular IRA. And the relative advan tage of the Roth IRA increases if the individual's after retirement tax bracket is ass umed rr=•·=~ to be the same or even higher than the current tax bracket. But what about the

tax savings that Mary would have had with a regular IRA. What if she had invested those savings and added them to her retirement account?

see Roth IRA, page 21

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continued confidence

Growing the game

by Brad Patterson

Offkort system introduces tennis

A

USPTA professional was instrumental in starting a pilot program in Florida last summer that may be the forerunner of a major national event.

King Thaxton, a longtime USPTA pro from Palm B-each, helped put together a five-week instructional program for beginner playe rs using the OffkortÂŽ tennis system. Thaxton invented the Offkort system , which involv es a small ballthrowing machine and a target.

The program enables beginner players to learn fundamentally sound strokes by attempting to hit the ball into a target.

The program was a joint effort between Thaxton , David M arkin (former president of the USTA) , the Tennis Industry Association and the National Associ ation of Police Athletic Leagues .

Thaxton invented the Offkort system several years ago, and with the help of W e st Palm Beach businessman Irving Young, they marketed the invention to teaching professionals and tennis facilities. The pair put togeth e r an eightmonth instruction program for element ary school students in 1995.

Tha x ton and Young met with TIA Executive Director Brad Patterson last spring . P a tterson

10 ADDvantage/Morch 1998

King Thax ton, lift, teaches a student the proper grip .

thought that the Offkort system had the potential to become the tennis-teaching program for the National Association of Police Athletic Leagues.

He explained that the TIA had built a relationship with the National PAL organization that began in the late 1980s. He said that the challenges in setting up a national program were many, including the fact that most PAL chapters around the country did not have a chapter leader who was well-versed in tennis instruction, nor did many of them have access to tennis courts, teaching professionals or proper equipment.

With the Offkort system, all PAL chapters could take part, no matter how many young people might be enrolled. An area of only 65 square feet is needed for an individual to practice groundstrokes , volleys a~d the serve.

This would enable PAL chapters to run the program inside a clubhouse, a gymnasium, at a school or outside. It could also be run at a tennis facility if there is one nearby. PAL chapter leaders do not need any knowledge of tennis since the Offkort officials provide the training.

Efforts are under way to secure the necessary funds to put together a pilot pro-

gram with 20 PAL chapters around the country, beginning this spring.

A pilot PAL tennis program was held last summer, thanks to a $5,000 donation from Markin, USTA president in 1989-90. The Palm Springs, Fla., PAL ran a five-week program for 27 boys and girls at The Tennis Club of the Palm Beaches. At an end-ofseason banquet, trophies and awards were given out to individuals and teams . All 2 7 participants in the program received a junior racquet.

"I think it is terrific that a guy like David Markin, truly one of the most influential people in tennis , thought enough of this program to put up his own money to help fund it, " said Thaxton. "He recognizes that this will help get kids into tennis, and we all know that kids are the future of the sport."

Markin credits Thaxton for having the insight to come up with such a system.

"King should be complimented for his design of such an efficient training system, and then combining it with a superb introductory teaching program that I believe can easily turn the kids on to the game and keep their attention ," said Markin. "A successful beginners' program that can reach the masses is what the tennis industry needs . The Offkort team tennis stroke development program does just that. " '8'-

Brad Patterson is the executive director of the Tennis Industry Association.

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USA Tennis 1-2-3 is the new industry name for Play Tennis America.

The entire industry is supporting this program in a joint effort to increase the popularity of tennis .

.· Your Tennis Across America kit contains: • Promotional tips that will help you publicize your event • Press information. Fill in the appropriate blanks on the press release and public service announcement sheets (photocopy or create your own) and deliver them to newspapers and television and radio stations • Information on how to receive payment from the TIA and USTA for your efforts in conducting this event .

• A color poster for promoting your event • An outline on how to run a 90-minute clinic at your facility for Tennis Across America • Ideas for optional activities

Tennis Across America 1 998

Suggested guidelines Run a 90-minute clinic

Optional activities

Introduce yourself and your sta t'f to the participants.

Briefly discuss USPTA and how it promotes tenni~ in the grassroots through programs such as Tennis Across America, USPTA Little Tennis_rM , the USPTA Adult Tennis League 5 M and USA Tennis 1-2-3. Point out tennis' lifetime benefits and how your .teaching programs can help im prove their skills.

Conduct a free demo If your facility has a pro shop, you may wish to conduct'a free demo session to encourage your members to t ry new products. This would also be an excellent time to have a pro shop sale, since most shops are fully stocked with spring and summer goods. The options are endless - put your imagination to work. Tenn is Across America is a great opportunity to increase lessons, pro shop sales and exposure for you, your staff and your club.

The depth of your clinic will depend upon the skill levels of your participants. Your clinic may consist of any skill level , and students may be juniors and adults. The sample lesson plan is ideal for social-level players. For more advanced players, you may wish to incorporate a drill format.

Run a social round robin Assign each player a number and begin with social round robin doubles. Play may be divided into men 's and women 's doubles. This is a great public relations opportu nity. Have the teaching staff socialize with the participants and offer advice and tennis tips.

A large group lesson plan is included in this pullout. This lesson plan was designed to get the students playing quickly and having fun.

Add a luncheon Your social program can include a reasonably priced luncheon or cookout at the cou rts . The cookout should follow the clinic or the optional round robin .

Review the clinic Allow 10 to 15 minutes to review the points discussed in the clinic and have a question-and-answer session . Explain the importance of regular practice and offer practice tips , such as how to use backboa rds and ball machines. This is a good time to distribute information on lessons and pro shop merchandise.

-¡

...,.

I

2

Tennis Across America 1 998

Compensation guidelines Members and divisions may be compensated for their participation in USTA and USPTA programs. See below for specific guidelines and requirements .

- $750 to the division with the second highest percentage of member participation . The winning division must have at least 20 percent of its total division membership participate.

- $250 to the division with the third highest perce(ltage of member participation. The winning division must have at least 20 percent of its total division membership participate.

Division contest • A $1 ,000 cash incentive is offered to each division, based on the division having a minimum of 20 percent of its members participate in the event - $175 from the division 's incentive will be designated for the member in the division who recruits the highest number of new entries into USA Tennis 1-2-3, formerly known as Play Tennis America .

- $75 of the incentive will be designated for the member in the division who recruits the second highest number of new entries into USA Tennis 1-2-3.

A division is only eligible for one award.

Free lesson incentives TIA will compensate professionals $2 for each person that receives a free lesson in any USA Tennis 1-2-3 Tier I, II or Ill city. In order to be paid this incentive, professionals must return the blue participant cards and the data collection form to the TIA for credit. Also, send a copy of the data collection form to USPTA to enter the contest for the personal and divisional monetary awards mentioned above.

• $2,500 will be awarded at the World Conference to the divisions with the highest number of members participating in Tennis Across America . Awards are broken down as follows: - $1,500 to the division with the highest total member participation . The winning division must have at least 20 percent of its total division membership participate.

- $750 to the division with the second highest total member participation. The winning division must have at least 20 percent of its total division membership participate.

- $250 to the division with the third highest total member participation. The winning division must have at least 20 percent of its total divi~ion membership participate.

Follow-up incentives The USTA will compensate professionals $5 for each person who signs up for USA Tennis 1 -2-3 Level I. Payment will be made to professionals anywhere in the United States, not just Tier I, II and Ill cities (professionals must request payment). In order to be paid this incentive, professionals must return the yellow participant cards and the data collection form to the USTA for credit. Also, send a copy of the data collection form to USPTA to enter the contest for the personal and divisional monetary awards mentioned above.

• $2,500 will be awarded at the World Conference to the divisions with the highest percel).tage of mel)1bers participating in Tennis Across America. Awards are broken down as follows: - $1,500 to the division with the highest percentage of member participation. The winning ·division must have at least 20 percent of its total division membership participate.

The blue and yellow participant cards and data collection cards may be obtained by attending a USA Tennis 1-2-3 to~ n hall meeting or by contacting your local USA Tennis 1-2-3 Free-For-All captains.

3

Tennis Across America 1 998 Promotional checklist ~

Tennis Across America is an excellent opportunity to promote tennis as a fun means of physical fitness and to generate publicity for you and your facility. Whether your event is for the public or for club members only, the following steps to promote your clinic can help ensure its success:

~ ~

~

~

~

~

Organize committees or solicit pros to assist with various aspects , such as public relations, refreshments and invitations to local dignitaries .

~

Contact local VIPs or dignitaries, such as city council members, the mayor or loc,al celebrities, and invite them to attend your clinic. Make one of them an honorary chairman, which would provide good photo opportunities for advance press releases and would encourage greater publicity through local media.

If you are hosting .or assisting with a public clinic, contact local volunteer groups, such as the Boys Club, the Girl Scouts, community tennis association (CTA) , high school coaches or the local chamber of commerce, to help organize the event and to increase the number of participants.

~

Ask your facility, CTA, coaches¡ or local parks ~nd recreation department to donate racquets and tennis balls for participants who may be unable to provide their own.

~ ~

Encourage local, soft-drink bottling companies , snack distributors and restaurants to gain public exposure by providing free or low-cost refreshments for participants during the event. Hold drawings for donated prizes.

Compile a local media list of daily and weekly newspapers , television and radio stations, regional tennis publications and community newspapers, as well as contacts at the USPTA national office. You may also wish to include the chamber of commerce, the local tourism bureau and school newspapers. Be sure to gather information regarding deadline.~. too.

~

I I

I ~

Your media list should include the names of contacts for: Newspaper: Sports editor, tennis writer, Jifestyle editor, photo editor Television: Sports director, news director, assignments editor Radio: News director, sports director, community program hosts

I,

Send a ~ress release to those on your media list announcing the event. You may type the appropriate information in the blank spaces on the sample press release provided, or you may create your own . If you write your own press release , remember these basic rules : The press release should be typed and doublespaced; provide your name and phone number where people may reach you for more information; number and label each page; and check for proper spelling and that all facts are correct.

Send a public service announcement to the television and radio stations on your media list. You may use the sample public service announcement provided, or you may create your own. If you write your own, follow the same basic rules for press releases and be sure to include the length (30 seconds or 60 seconds) of the announcement for programming purposes. Remember that public service announcements are much shorter than releases for print media.

Encourage your students to invite friends and family to participate in the event. Remember, Tennis Across America is a great opportunity for introducing new players to programs and lesson series .

Sign up clinic participants for USA Tennis 1-2-3, Level I. Display the poster and sign-up sheet included in this packet at your facility or other locations where people will see them, such as health clubs or doctors ' offices .

Appoint three people to take photographs of your event and send copies to the local newspaper, the USPTA national office for possible use in ADOv.antage magazin~ and USPTA's Web site, and to other tennisrelated publications. Remember to identify those in the photo (from left to right), the location of the event and the host professional. Also , be sure to include your name and phone number and mention that you are a USPTA professional.

Create a follow-up press release with information on the attendance, location, pros who participated and any notable happenings. This release should be sent to those on your media list within 24 hours of the event (preferably the day of the event) . Try to write the release before the clinic, so that you may simply fill in . the details at the end when time is more pressing.

CopyrightŠ U ni ted States Professiona l Tennis Association Inc. 1998. Al l rights reserved. Reproduction of any portion of this material is not

~ pocm,ttod wtthoot wdttoo pocm'M"c of the pobh, hoc.

T

NEWS RELEASE UNITED STATES PROFESSION AL TENNIS ASSOCIATION, INC. World Headquarters, 3535 Briarpark Drive, Houston, TX 77042 (713)"97-USPTA (978-7782) • fax (713) 978-7780 toll free: (800) USPTA-4U (877-8248) ~ e-mail: uspta @uspta.org • web: www.uspta.org

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT TIME:

:30

CONTACT: (name)

(pho ne)

Join the f u n - - - --....,------- for our ninth annual Tennis Across America free tennis (date)

clinic, this year joined by USA Tennis at - ----'- - -- - - - - - - -- -- - - - - - - - - - - (club/facility)

The event, sponsored by the United States Professional Tennis Association and supported by the United States Tennis Association, will be held from --.,----,-----,----,---- to ---.,.....-----· Be among the thou(starting time)

(ending time)

sands of players hitting millions of tennis balls in this nationwide celebration of the sport for a lifetime. Contact - - - -- ----,---- - - - - at (name)

-----~---,-------

(phone)

USPTA is a nonprofit organization of tennis-teaching professionals.

-30-

for more details.

NEWS RELEASE UNITED STATES PROFESSIONAL TENNIS ASSOCIATION, INC. World H eadquarters, 3535 Briarpark D rive, H ouston, TX 77042 (713) .97-USPTA (978-7782) • fax (713) 978-7780 toll free: (800) USPTA-4U (877-8248) ·. e-mail: uspta@uspta.org • web: www.uspta.org

CONTACT: (name)

(phone)

(date)

Free tennis lessons offered through USPTA's Tennis Across America TM and USA Tennis

-----------,-,.....,....,.,.....,.,--,------------- m - - - - - - - - - - - , - - : - - - - - - - - - - w ill (club/ faci lity)

(city)

be part of the nation's biggest tennis event in M ay, that will involve hundreds of thousands of players hitting millions of tennis balls, according to - - - - - - - - - - - - : - - - - , - - - - - - - - -' tennis professional at ------....,..,....,.,;=---7,---,,-------(pro)

(d ub/fac ility)

The ninth annual USPTA Tennis Across America program is sponsored by the United States Profess ional Tennis Association. This year the program will j oin forces with USA Tennis, the tennis industry 's new program . The events will be free to the public and will feature an instructional tennis clinic. Beginners and advanced players, both juniors and adults, as well as those w ho have never played tennis before, are invited to _ _ _ _ __..:..._ _ _ _.....,....,,...,.....,.,.....,,.,-.,------------ on (dub/facili ty)

---,--,.-------beginning at-----,...,...-...,...--- to participate in this nationwide tennis event. (date)

(time)

"Millions of Americans have already discovered that tennis is an enj oyable way of keeping fit," said Tim H eckler, CEO of U SPTA. "Through this event, we hope to show millions more that it can be fun for them , too, and that tennis is a sport fo r life. " U SPTA is the world's oldest and largest nonprofit organization of tennis-teaching professionals. Tennis Across America is designed to promote tennis as a means of exercise and fun, bringing new players to the game and fo rmer players back to the courts.

For m ore information on USPTXs Tennis Across America, call --~----,----,-------- at (name)

-----..,---,--.....,.-----' or contact the USPTA World H eadquarters at (800) USPTA-4U . Information about the nationwide (number)

program , as well as player tips, is also part ofUSPTX s web site at www. uspta.org.

-30-

~

·•

I

I .

TM

TIME: _ _ _ _ _ __

LOtATION: - - - - -

DATE:_:.........__ _ _ __ · ARE PLANNED

THE FOLLOWING EVENTS

Tennis Across America

";'

.,

.

I

I ,

US PTA's Tennis Across America 1 998 and

1t1fA Ttw~l ~E~

Free lesson sign-up sheet Date

Name

Phone

-

.

.

-

~

.

-

. _,.

Clinic Yes No

USA Tennis Yes No

REGISTER! REGISTER! REGISTER!

C

USPTA's Tennis Across America brings the sport to dearly 150,000 players each year.

reated expressly to help grow the game,

USPTA's Tennis Across America is for new players looking for a fun, social way to exercise, current players who want to play more and former players who would like to get back into the sport.

TM

What is Tennis Across America â&#x201E;˘?

Why register?

Sponsored by the United States Professional Tennis

To register your event , return the form below to

Association- the world 's oldest and largest

USPTA or sign up on the internet at www.uspta .org . Your

organization of tennis-teaching professionals- Tennis

registered clinic earns your division points toward

Across America is an exciting instructional grassroots

national USPTA awards . This also enters you in the

program consisting of three segments:

contest to personally win cash awards . This year, a

e

division can win up to $1 ,500 and an individual can wi n, as

Free clinics held during the month of May at public and private facilities across the nation

e e

much as $175. Be sure to register any assistants who help in conducting your event .

100 multicultural clinics to introduce the sport to groups that do"not normally have the opportunity

USPTA promotes Tennis Across America through national

to play

advertising and publicity campaigns . Calls to USPTA from the public are referred to local pros and clinics

Follow-up programs to provide players with an

nationwide. This year, USPTA

opportunity to pursue their new enthusiasm for

will list local events on the

tennis

Internet through its web site

Who can run clinics?

at www.uspta .org .

Play~

Any USPTA professional or tennis enthusiast who wants

retention

programs

to help grow the game can participate.

,---- - - - ---- - ------ - ------- ---- - --- - -----, 1

I I 1

Register for USPTA's Tennis Across America!

Copy th is form, complete and mail to the address below. Use additiona l sheets if needed.

Yes, I will participate in USPTA's Tenn is Across America as a/a n

D host professional D ass istant US PTA member D ¡yes Member number _ _ __ D no

Name Clu b/facility - -- - - - - - - - -- - -- - - -- - - - Division - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1 Street address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Daytime phone ( _ __ I City _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ State _ _ _ ZIP _ __ 1 1

I Date of clinic _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ My c"iinic/socia l wil l be open to D the publ ic D members only I Location of event - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - -- - - -- - -Street address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ I City _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Stote _ _ _ ZIP _ __ Facility phone ( _ __ 1

I The following people wil l assist at my event: I -----------------

USPTA member D yes I _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ USPTA member D yes

I I

D no D no

Member number _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Member number _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __

USPTA Wo rld Headquarters, One USPTA Centre, 3535 Briarpark Drive, Houston TX 77042 Questions? Ca ll (713) 978-7782 or (800) USPTA-4U, fax (7 13) 978 -7780 or se nd e-ma il to sports@ uspta.org

L-- - - - ---- - - - ---- - - - --------- ------------~

Tennis Across America 1 998

Sample lesson plan The following lesson plan is based on a series of progressions to help tennis professionals handle clinic participants with varying degrees of tennis experience and ability. Professionals should be aware of these options so more advanced players do not get bored . However, all players should not be expected to make it through every step of each progression.

bounce, then bump it up into the air, let it bounce and bump it up again. Foot movement is allowed. Those who can do five in a row go to the next progression .

While this lesson plan concentrates on the forehand groundstroke , many ~f the same progressions may be used to teach the backhand.

Introduction (2 min.)

A.

II

Introduce yourself and give a brief description of what you plan to accomplish in this lesson .

A. Jog around the perimeter of the court to warm up.

3.

Perform bump-ups with a bounce keeping both feet still.

4.

Do a self-test. Let everyone do bump -ups and count successive hits for 30 seconds .

D . Alley rally- Place a target (e.g ., hula-hoop or cones) in the middle of each of the hitting zones (there are three hitting zones on half the court) and one bucket with about five balls in the middle of each zone . Have the partners stand back-toback on or near the target , walk three paces and turn to face each other. For instance, the pair using the service boxes should stand back-to-back on the center service line, take three steps away from each other and turn around. Shift each player two steps left of center so they are lined up to hit forehand to forehand.

B . Perform simple stretching exercises such as arm swings, neck rolls , stretches , toe touches , wrist rolls , etc.

Ill Ball-handling drills (1 0 min.)

Spread players evenly around the court. This exercise helps players to watch the ball.

1.

Perform bump-ups with a bounce while moving only one foot . Right-handers can move only the left foot and left-handers move only the right foot. Those who can do five in a row move to the next step.

C . Use the results from the self-test to put partners together. Pair similar abilities.

Warm-up (5 min.)

A.

2.

Place the ball on the racquet strings and hold it at wa ist level in front to do the following movements without the ball falling off: aJ Raise your arm to head level , hold it and then lower it again

1.

b) Take th ree steps forwa rd c)

Turn around

¡ 2.

Have both partners take a big step back.

Explain that to hit deeper, they must hit higher or harder, and they will find that higher is better. Ask them to try for five in a row again before going to the next step .

3.

This time, pairs back up so they are standing inside the doubles alley. Take the target out of the center of the court and give each player

d) Lower the racquet to the ground, hold it and then raise it again e) Take three steps backward B . Bump-ups with a bounce 1.

Let the ball fall off the racquet strings and '

I

@

Have the players hit gently or tap the ball to each other over the target. Have pairs hit five in a row before moving to the next step.

Tennis Across America 1 998

their own target. Have each person place the target where they think they will have to hit the ball so it bounces within reach of their partner when he or she stands in the alley. (In other words , the players will put their targets deep on their partner's side of the court.)

Have them try to rally for at least five shots.

4.

Now let the players rally for a record score.

5.

Let more advanced players play a game for points . They should¡set up their targets as above (d) . During the rally, players receive two points every time they hit their ta rget.

a) Step 1: Hitters are halfway between the net and the service line. Stroke starts at contact point (no backswing) to full follow-through, or goes from 0 to 5 . b) Step 2: Hitters are at the service line.

Stroke has a 1 backswing and full follow through (5). c)

V

IV Forehand basics (8 m~n.)

Players should work with their partners through the following drills:

A. Demonstrate the grip, having all players "shake hands" with their racquets. "Place hand flat on the racquet strings and slide it down the racquet to shake hands with the racquet.

B.

C.

toss.

B.

Have one partner toss and the other hit the ball back, using controlled toss and hit and then switch .

C . Let the players take two steps back and then try to rally with one another using the same gentle taps again .

Place spots in hitting positions 3 feet from the net. One partner from each pair stands in the hitting position and the other stands several feet behind with a bucket containing several balls .

Each player in hitting position should draw a line out from his or her front foot to show racquet alignment for contact point and be a target for dropping the ball.

2.

Toss and hit (1 0 min.)

Have pairs face each other across the net, each standing inside the service line. Place spots/targets midway between the net and the service line. Have the pairs take steps back toward the service line when they have success.

A. Teach players to feed one another by controlled

Have them practice self-feeds with the nondominant hand, palm up, tossing the ball high enough so that it bounces to waist level. It may be helpful to place a target on the ground at each hitting position for this .

1.

Step 3: Hitters are halfway between the service line and the baseline . Stroke has a 3 or 4 backswing and a full follow -through.

D. When the players reach the service line, have them start points with a self-drop and rally until they miss. If the players can get five in a row, move them further back.

E.

Explain contact point and the length of the backswing and follow-through on a number scale. For example, contact point is 0 and a full follow-through is 5. The shortest backswing is 1 and a full backswing is 5. (Or, use another system you are comfortable with , such as the clock .)

Have the players count consecutive hits as partners or hold a contest for most consecutive hits .

VI Play mini-tennis (8 min.)

A . Two pairs are playing at the net. Rules are as follows:

For the following progression, keep waiting time to a minimum. Have the hitters drop-hit three or four balls and then change places with their partners who are supplying them balls.

14

1.

Balls must land in the service box.

2.

Balls cannot be angled into the adjacent service box so the receiver has to enter the box to retrieve it.

3.

No volleys are allowed.

4.

Players alternate drop-h itt ing (self-feed drop) from behind the service line .

Tennis Across America 1 998

â&#x20AC;˘ 5.

For scoring, each point won is worth 1 point.

6.

An alternative is to have the pairs play doubles.

B . Behind each baseline, set up a net so play is across the width of the court. Use the same rules as above.

C.

1.

Play for a period of time (e.g. , four minutes) and then rotate, letting winners play each other and their opponents play each other.

VII Serve

2.

Space the other four students facing the fence from about 6 feet away. Place targets on the fence, such as a square formed with tape, or just have students envision a space.

3.

Have both groups perform the following sequence, using the step of the service motion progression with which they are most comfortable (e.g ., the trap, tray, V position or full serve).

A. Do the following sequence at the fence : (5 min.)

1.

â&#x20AC;˘

2.

Have the students trap the ball against the fence. Discuss proper grip.

Demonstrate and have students perform the following steps. When they have success with one, they should move to the next one. a) Trap- Students extend their arms reach ing their racquets upward, use an underhand toss and trap the ball against the fence as it reaches its peak.

a) Throw at the target b) Shadow a serve c)

b) Tray - The forearm and palm of the hand are laid back so that the racquet face is in the position of a tray carried above the head of a waiter. The toss is made and trapped against the fence as it reaches its peak. c)

â&#x20AC;˘

4.

V position -The elbow is high with the racquet hung back from the wrist (almost in back scratch position) . The toss is made and trapped against the fence as it reaches its peak.

d) Full serve - Racquet drops behind the ba9k, making a loop before coming forward to trap the ball as it reaches its peak.

Note: Students may not progress to a full serve in this less9n. Throughout the service lesson , ask them to use the service motion closest to the full serve with which they have success.

B.

have the groups swap positions. (1 0 min .)

Before beginning, teach students to find the correct sideways service stance. An easy way is to have them hold the edge of their racquets and point the racquet at the target , then touch their front toe to the strings and the back foot to the handle.

Space four students across the court about 4 feet from the net. Place a target in the center of each service box.

Serve at the target Keep the hitters in sync by calling out, "Ready, throw," "Ready, swing" and "Ready, serve."

If players do not hit the target with the serve, have them continue to throw, shadow and then serve. When they hit their target, players should take one step back and repeat the sequence .

Note: If the toss is keeping players from having success, have those players return to the fence and toss and trap the ball as in the first serving practice drill.

C . Target game (5 min.)

Let the players at the net and the fence serve every ball . They must make one of every two serves (in the service box or in the target area) in order to take a step backward. If they do not make one serve, they must stay. After a minute or two , have the players switch from net to fence and vice versa .

Place half the class at the fence and half at the net , but everyone will practice the same sequence. After six or eight serves ,

D. Scoring game (5 min .)

Again, half the players are on the service line

15

Tennis Across America 1 998 - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - ,

Be sure at this point to promote your follow-up program.

USA Tennis 1, 2, 3 is a suggested program to retain these players, and you get compensated by the USTA for each player who signs up for this prog ram .

facing the net and half are facing their targets on the fence from 6 feet away. Explain the tennis scoring system, then have the players play a game. Players get two serves each point. If they make their first or second serve, they win the point. If they double-fault, they lose the point.

W ithout alternating from the deuce to ad court, have the players keep score for an entire game.

After one game, .have them switch from net to fence and vice versa.

This is a critical time for these players. If they do not continue through some type of follow-up program, many will not continue at all.

Additional notes:

VIII Serve and return (1 0 min.)

Place two players on each end of the court.

The four players each serve once and return once before the whole group is replaced by four more players. The goal of the returners is to get the ball back, aiming for the middle of the court. Points should not be played out.

Those waiting may want to shadow the serve or return.

Breaks 1. Offer breaks between the forehand and service portions of the lesson. Have half the class break while the other half plays more mini-tennis, and then switch.

2. Offer another break after the service lesson and before practicing the serve and return. Have half the class serve, return and play out the points while the other half breaks, and then switch.

IX Doubles play (1 0 min.)

Place a doubles team on each baseline.

Again, each player should have a chaqce to serve (each should get two chances at a successful serve) and return. This time, the points should be played out. After four points have been played, bring new doubles teams onto the court.

Scoring alternative If there is a difference in player ability, the players can count their individual consecutive shots. The rules are as follows : 1. No volleys are allowed.

2. Either player can drop-hit the first ball. Thereafter, the player who missed the last shot starts the next ball in play.

3 . Scoring : Players count their individual hits during each rally. The player who wins the point retains the number of hits as his or her score; the player w ho missed starts the next point with a score of 0. Each ball successfully struck in the next rally is added to each player's score until a player misses and returns to a score of 0 .

For example: Players A and B have a five-ball rally, w ith player A successfully striking the fifth ball , her third shot, and Player B hitting his third shot into the net. Player A starts the next rally with 3 points and Player B starts with 0. Next, both players count two successful strokes, then Player B misses again. Player A has 5 and Player B has 0.

16

Highlights of the 1998 USPTA world conference on Tennis

E

ach year the national office receives numerous inquiries about the USPTA World Conference on Tennis and the International Championships. In order to better inform our membership, we have put together a list of frequently asked questions.

The majority of seminars and functions will start on Sept. 23 .

When should I attend?

Most people who are not competing in the tournament arrive Wednesday, Sept. 23 and leave Sunday, Sept. 27, so they can get the most affordable airfare.

Why should I attend?

Where and when is this year's convention?

The convention will be held at La Quinta Resort and Club in La Quinta, CaliÂŁ, Sept.

19-26.

Why is the convention so long?

The convention runs for eight days, but that includes the International Championships, which start on Saturday, Sept. 19, and end on Wednesday, Sept. 23. The main convention begins Wednesday, Sept. 23, and ends Saturday evening, Sept. 26, with the final party.

Do I need to rent a car or book other means of transportation?

This is optional. USPTA has negotiated prices for a shuttle to and from the hotel for a minimal fee of $ 3 5. If you prefer to rent a tar, USPTA has obtained a convention rate with Budget for daily and weekly rates.

What is covered by my convention registration fee?

Each registered attendee receives a con-

PERFECT PRACTICE PARTNERS

Career enhancement, seminars, Specialty Courses, networking with your peers , tennis exhibitions and parries are just a few of the reasons why you should be at this year's convention in La Quinta.

Should I bring my family?

US PTA wants to grow family tennis and has scheduled activities for registered spouses and children throughout the week, including tennis aerobics, Little Tennis clinics, a luncheon, nightly parries , golf and tennis. In addition to the activities offered

by USPTA, La Quinta Resort & Club has an organized children's program.

Should I register my spouse and children?

Absolutely. Name badges are required to attend functions and no individual tickets will be sold. Each spouse registration, which is half the member price, includes the same items as full member registration, as well as daily tennis aerobics and a spouses' lu~cheon.

This year, there is a special children's registration that includes a daily children's program from 8 a.m. to noon ( 12:3 0 p.m. on Sept. 24) and a special children's menu at the evening parties. Children also receive USPTA and endorsee giveaway items.

... Durable ... Reliable Call (800) 526-4041 and find out how a LOB-STER can give you more productive training time.

Who do I contact to play in the team championships?

Contact your division president.

Mots Wilander SEVEN TIME GRAND SLAM SINGLES CHAMPION

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vention notebook and name badge, which allows them to attend all seminars, the Buying Show and evening parties. Also included are US PTA and endorsee giveaway items.

Although not included in the convention fee, attendees will receive a low-cost room rate at a five-star resort in a beautiful setting.

Who should I book my travel arrangements through?

US PTA has negotiated a deal with Conventions in America, which offers 10 percent to 20 percent off on all airfares across the United States . ~

9:00 a.m.-6:00p .m.

Tournament

9:00 a.m.-6:00p.m.

Tournament begins other events

9:00.10:00 a.m .

4:00-5:00 p.m.

seminars

9:00 a.m .-6 :00p.m.

Tournament begins men's open

Sept. 21

CTC ion courtl upgrades only 1:00-4:00 p.m.

seminars

seminars

Upgrades ion COUrt) 9:00 a. m.-1:00 p.m .

1 :30-5:30 p.m.

Specialty course

seminars

8:00-9:00 a.m .

9:15-10:15a.m.

10:30-11 :50 a.m.

11 :45 a.m.-12:45 p.m .

2:45-3:45 p.m .

4:00-5:00 p.m .

9:00-10:00 a.m.

10:30-11 :30 a.m .

2:00-3:00 p.m.

3:3o-4:30 p.m.

9:G0-10:00a.m .

10:30.11 :30 a.m.

2:00-3:00 p.m.

3:30-4:30 p.m.

Wednesday

Sept. 23

Children 's programs _ -

1:00-6 :00 p.m.

Tournament fina ls

TUesday

Sept. 22

-

9:00 a.m.-6 :00p.m.

Tournament

Monday

Sept. 20

Education

Sunday

-

Sept. 19

;Tennis

saturday

Testing

Product demonstrations ion court!

Written exam 9:00 a. m.-1 :00 p.m.

Product demonstrations ion court!

CTC iclassrooml 2:00-5:00 p.m.

Upgrades ion court!

2:00-5 :00 p.m.

CTC ion courtl 9:00 a.m .-1 :00 p.m.

8:00 a.m .-2:00p.m.

Buying show

6:00-10:00 p.m .

Buying show

11 :00 a.m.-1 2:30 p.m.

Spouses' luncheon ·

9:00-10:30 a.m .

Spouses· tennis aerobics

1:00-6:00 p.m.

Penn golf tournament

1:00-5:00 p.m .

Specialty course

10:15-11:45 a.m.

Spouses' tennis aerobics

1;00.5:00p.m.

Sl)edalty course

semtnars

seminars

8:00-9:00 a.m.

9:15· 10:15 a.m.

10:30-11 :30 a.m.

10:00·11 :00 a.m .

Keynote speaker 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

2:45·3:45 p.m .

4:00.5:00 p.m.

1 :00·6 :00 p.m .

Team tournament

1:00-6 :00 p.m.

Team tournament begins

8:00 a.m.- 5:00p.m.

Certification test

1:00-6:00 p.m.

Battle of the Divisions

8:00-9 :30 a.m.

Award s Breakfast

Sept. 27

sunday

Sept. 26

Saturday

Sept. 25

Buying show

Friday

-

9:00-10:30 a.m.

Spouses· tennis aerobics

5emlnars

8:00·9:00 a.m.

9:15-10:1 5 a.m.

10:30·11 :30a.m.

11 :45 a.m.-12:45 p.m .

2:45-5:45 p.m 4:00-5.00 p.m .

1:00-6:00 p.m Open tenni s play

Thursday

Sept. 24

Spouses' programs

Parties

Growing family tennis

conference and education program schedule

1998 US PTA world conference on Tennis, La Quinta. Calif.

It's Like Playing Indoors!

Sun Happens! And too

·•

much of it on outdoor courts can take the skin off your nose, as well as years off your life. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 800,000 people in the U.S. will develop skin cancer this year due to 1mproper sun exposure.

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Skin Research Labs, Inc. PO Box 19 109 1 Dallas, TX 752 19 Approved product of the Un ited Stales Pro fessional Tennis Association Founding Member, National Coalition for Sun Safety, under the auspices of the American Academy of Dermatology

US PTA Personal WebsitessM are US PTA's newest free member benefit - even if you don't have a computer. ~ US PTA pros get a free pe rsonalized site on the

Internet's World Wide Web at www.usptapro.org. ~

Show off your biography, color photos of you and your club, and playing tips (provided by US PTA) .

~ Be a hero to your students, friends, club members

and employers. Give them your personal password and they'll get full access to worldwide tennis news and events, business, family fun, ¡ travel , finance, games and much more. ~

Looking for a tennis job? Send a prospective employer your site address and password and "wow" them with your marketing savvy!

~ This web site would literally cost thousands

of dollars for each member to produce independently.

Don't miss out on one of the most exciting benefits brought to you by US PTA, always first with the newest and best benefits for professionals and the tennis industry. _ _ _

Call (713) 978-7782 for a Personal Website registration form. Or, check out USPTA's site at www.uspta.org for complete details. ___j

/

your career with a USPTA Personal Website!

if we highlighted those endorsements.

Porter from page 5

Using and highlighting USPTA endorsees USPTA has been successful at attracting quality endorsees who recognize the impact our endorsement can make on their bottom line. Many of yo u are grateful for these endorsements and loyally support t hem.

Once again, think about the power we have as a gro up. Even though we may not all play with the same racquet or ball, or wear the same brand of clothes or sunscreen, just imagine what it wou ld be like

Every pro shop would prominently display Wilson racquets , shoes and accessories. USPTA Pro Penn balls would be displayed and u sed at all club events.

SmartShield sunscreen products would be conveniently located in locker rooms and National Life ofYermont literature would be available for interested parties.

This is not in any way to say that all USPTA m embers should exclusively use each of our endorsed products. Many of us have existing agreements wit h other companies and we should not be expected to change. But imagine what it would be like if every USPTA professional car-

ried and promoted each of our endorsed products as part of their overall inventory. Consider the impact we can have as an organization by letting current and po tential endorsees see t he power of our unified voice.

USPTA is one lo n e professio n al, teaching o n a quiet court in Vermont, New Mexico, O regon or Fiji. It is also I I ,000 members who are proud of their certification, their education, their continuing service to the tennis industry both locally and nationally, and the power their unified voice can have in determining t he way the world learns to play tennis. t.f>e

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Career Development Division conventions

Coaches Workshop

Tennis Teachers Course

(5 credits)

(2 credits each)

( 4 credits for each eight-hour segment)

Aug. 14

April 22-24

April1 - 5

Intermountain Division Park City, Utah

April 3-5

N orthem California Division Santa C lara, Cali£

April24-26

Southwest Division Alb uquerque, N.M.

April 30May 3

New England Division Brewster, Mass.

May 26-31

Florida Division Sanibel Island, Fla.

Jun e 5-7

Pacific Northwest Division Seattle, Wash

June 19-21

Hawaii Division Honolulu, Hawaii

Aug. 21 -23

Southern Division Biloxi, Miss.

Aug. 21 -23

Northwest Division Minneapolis, Minn.

July 11

Midwest Division Homewood, Ill.

July 17- 19

Midwest Division Homewood, Ill.

(To order a review, use the form on the next page.)

(2 points for CTC only)

(2 credits per four-hour course; 4 credits per eight-hour course)

I~

I§ I~

~

I

To order a copy of the book, contact Martin at 6734 Shadowcreek Drive, Maumee, Ohio 43537, or send a fax to (419) 865- 1840. T he book costs $52 in the United States and $55 outside the United States (s hipping and handling included) .

Exams, upgrades & Certification Training Courses

Specialty Courses

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

Book review

This book focuses on the art and science of being a tennis-teaching professional, using the spokes of a bicycle to delineate personal characteristics, critical skills and knowledge needed to be at the top of your game.

( 1/ 2 credit and up) Midwest Division Aurora, Ill.

Aurora, Ill.

The Trench Pro's Cycle to Professional Success, by Thomas J. Martin and Karen M . Fellabaum

Division meetings/activities April 26

Eastern Division DeWitt, N.Y.

Little Tennis, April 2, Park City, Utah (4 hours) , T Heckler Tennis Operations and Administration , April 3, Park City, Utah ( 4 hours), M. McMahon Stroke Analysis, April 4, Park City, Utah (4 hours) , G. Bacso Building and Repairing Fundamentals , April 5, Park City, Utah (4 hours) , D. Koz:fowski Science and Psychology of Competition , April 5, Santa Clara, Cali£ (4 hours), K. DeHart /

The deadline to register and/ or cancel a course is I 5 working days before the event. Anyone canceling late or failing to cancel will forfe it one-half the course fee. This sched ule is subject to change.

Call the US PTA Membership Department for add itional information or write via e-mail to members hip@ uspta.org.

April I -2 April 3-4 April4-5 April4-5 April4-5 April 6-7 April 8-9 Aprili7-I8 April 17-18 April 18-19 Aprilr8-I9 April 23 -25 April25-26 April 25-26 April 25-26 April 26-27 April26-27 May 2-3 May 3-4 May 8-IO May 9-10 May 9-10 May 16-1 7 May 16-17 May 17-18 May 23-24 May 29-30 May 30-3 I May 30-31 June6-7 June 6-7 June 6-7

Park City, Uta h Bloomington, Minn.

Haines City, Fla. Charleston, S.C. Augusta, Ga. Santa Clara, Cali£ North Merrick, N.Y. Bradenton, Fla. Eugene, Ore. Murrieta, Cali£ Birmingham, Ala. Albuquerque, N.M. Aurora, Ill. Bever! y Hills, Cali£ Boca Raton, Fla. Atlanta, Ga. Tyler, Texas Nashville, Tenn.

Richmond, Va. St. Louis, Mo. Mandeville, La. Pensacola, Fla. Orlando, Fla. Conway, Ark. Pleasanton, Cali£ Fountain Valley, Cali£ Wilmington, Del. Hilton Head Island, S.C. Malibu, Cali£ Rochester, Mich.

Jefferson City, Mo. Austin, Texas

June 7-8 June 7-8 June 10-11 June I 3- 14 June 14-l 5 June 18-20 June 20-21 June 21-22 June 25 -27 June 27-28 July 4-5 July 9-II July II July Il-12 July II-12 July 12-13 July 20-21 July 25-26 July 26 Aug. 1-2 Aug. 2-3 Aug. 4-5 Aug. 7-8 Aug. 8-9 Aug. 8-9 Aug. 13-14 Aug. 15-16 Aug. 9-10 Aug. 21-23 Aug. 27-28 Aug. 15-16

Boca Raton, Fla. Baltimore, Md. East Seatauket, N.Y. Burbank, Cali£ La Jolla, Cali£ Mesa, Ariz.

Greensboro, N.C. Atlanta, Ga. Mesa, Ariz.

Ventura, Cali£ Boca Raton, Fla. Santa Teresa, N.M. Rochester, Mich.

(CTC only) Flushing, N.Y. Orlando, Fla. Industry Hills, Cali£ Birmingham, Ala. Fountain Valley, Cali£ DeWitt, N.Y. Jacksonville, Fla. Atlanta, Ga. Evergreen, Colo.

Bloomington, Minn.

Beverly Hills, Cali£ Kingwood , Texas Banksville, N.Y. Park City, Utah Carmel, Cali£ Tulsa, Okla.

Queens, N.Y. Nashville, Tenn.

Exam reservations muse be made ar lease 21 days prior to the dates listed. Each date includes an exam, upgrade and CTC unless noted. Exam canceUations must be received no later chan 14 days before rhe exam, or a canceUation fee will be charged accordingly. Affiliate members: late cancellation fee- $75; fai lure to cancel- applicarion fee is forfeited. Certified members: late cancellation fee - $25; failure to cancel- $25 plus the upgrade fee is forfeited. Registration for another exam will nor be accepred unril cancellation fees are paid.

ADDvontoge/Morch 1998

19

Career Development USPTA book, video, audiocassette and review order form Send or fax order to US PTA Gift Shoppe, 3535 Briarpark Drive, Houston, Texas 77042 .

For information, call

978-7782, fax

978-5096, or e-mail

@ us

.

Amount

Net Results : Training the Tennis Parent for Competition, Jim Loehr, Ed.D. and E.J. Kahn Ill (1 lb.)

Reading a USPTA book, listening to an audiocassette or viewing a videotaped Specialty Course and completing the review is a convenient home -study method of obtaining your Career Development credits .

Each book and video review is eligible for 2 credits and the audiocassette is worth 1 credit.

There is a $15 charge per review to cover processing . If only reviews are ordered, shipping charges do not apply.

Shipping & handling charges:

The Trench Pro's Cycle to Professional Success, Thomas J. Martin, Koren M. fe//oboum

1 . Contiguous 48 states $4 first lb . plus $.50 each additional lb.

2. Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico & Canada Price from grand total plus $10 second-day air or $15 next-day air 3. Other countries $20 first lb. plus $6 each additional lb.

Subtotal 1

Video purchase Video rental Video deposit ($46.95 each) ($35 each) ($50 each)

Videos

No. of reviews ($15 each) Amount

Competitive Dou bles Patterns, Tom Martin Inco rporating System 5â&#x201E;˘ Into Lessons, George Bocso Sports Physiology, Todd Ellenbecker, Paul Roetert Strategy and Tactics, Sean Sloane Tennis Business Management, Kurt Kompermon

Ship to:

(please print clearly) No P. 0. boxes please.

Nome _ _ __ __ __ __ _ __ _ __

Add ress

Subtotal 2 USPTA member No. _ _ _ _ __

Apt. No. _ _ __

City _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ State ZIP _ _- - ' - - - Doytime phone (include area code) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _

Subtota l 2

Method of payment __ Check lnlernolional orders must pay by Visa or MasterCard.

Visa MasterCard Nome as it appears on cord _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Credit cord No. - --

- - --

- - - - - Exp. dote _ __

Signature - - - - -- - - - -- -- -- --

20 ADDvontoge/Morch 1998

Subtotal 1

- -- -

Houston (MTA) residents odd 8.25% tax; other Texas residents odd 7.25% tax Shipping & handling (see above) Grand total

Roth IRA from page 8 In this case, Mary would have received a current tax deduction equal to $5 60 ( assuming a 28 percent tax bracket). If she had invested this amount each year to retirement at a net pre-retirement investment return of 5.76 percent (8 percent times 72 percent, reflecting her 28 percent tax bracket) , her additional savings would have grown to $31,4I7.

Added to her retirement account, this would have increased Mary's level annual payout for the expected I 5 retirement years by $3,05 3 (post-retirement investment return assumed to be 7 percent). The combination of these retirement savings and the regular IRA payout after taxes would have generated a larger retirement benefit. The question is, would Mary have had the discipline to invest the amount equal to the tax savings each and every year?

As important as current and expected tax brackets are to deciding whether annual contributions should be made to a regular or Roth IRA, they are even more import:int when deciding whether to conve!t an existing regular IRA to a Roth IRA. In this case, a general rule of thumb is that a lower future tax bracke.t (for example, at retirement) will generally make it more advantageous to keep a regular IRA. Also, persons who will need to access their account within a few years may not find converting to a Roth IRA advantageous since paying current taxes could wipe out any future tax advantages.

However, individuals who expect their tax bracket to be the same or even increase in the future, and who may want to pass their accounts on to a beneficiary, may be better off converting. Those who survive at least five years after conversion may pass their accounts to their beneficiaries income tax free.

In these cases, where an individual's tax bracket is assumed to remain the same or increase, conversion to a Roth IRA would generate a greater after-tax total retirement income than a reg!flar IRA. Is a Roth IRA right for you? Your financial adviser can help you analyze your goals and objectives and help you determine the best way to go. But one thing is certain: setting aside money for yourself - voluntarily- will feel so much better than donating it to that "charity" you 've supported for so long!

For an outline of other changes created by the Taxpayer Relief Act of I 997, call National Life's toll-free number reserved exclusively for US PTA members- (888) USPTA-NLV - to request a complimentary copy of At-a-

m

Soft green clay surface reduces body stress, impact & fatique.

ffi Cooler playing surface allows

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ro Consistent ball bounce that is W preferred by many tennis players.

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ADDvuntuge/Murch 1998 21

US PTA USPTA professionals from Tennessee lent their time and support to the Virginia Slims Legends Grassroots Challenge in Nashville, Tenn. Charles Batt, Gordon Pennington and Bill Riddle each hosted a Virginia Slims Legends Grassroots Challenge tournament for women's doubles 3 .5, 4.0 and 4. 5 teams at their facilities.

During the challenge,

Mark Fentriss, Jon Hains, Lorinda Weiss, Glenn Crouch and regional coordinator Riddle conducted a tennis clinic with Legends players for recreational players and sponsors.

USPTA member Mervyn Webster has been named one of I2 USTA National Coaches that will be hired under the restructured USA Tennis Player Development program.

Rick Vetter, US PTA, was the 1997 Wilson advisory staff member of the year. Regional advisory staff members of the year were Mike Woody , North Central , Billy Freer, South, and Kirkland Gates, West.

Karen McNamera, USPTA, 1s anew member of The Bannockburn Club's (Bannockburn, Ill. ) tennis professional McNamera staff She has extensive playing experience at the collegiate, ama-

22 ADDvantage/March 1998

teur and professional levels.

Gullikson were

World TeamTennis cofounder Billie Jean King, USPTA, has created the Delaine Mast Award, named after the WTT east coast national program co ordinator. Mast, USPTA , started as a volunteer local league director for WTT in I 986, became a part-time recreational league coordinator in I 987 and has been a full-time national program coordinator since I 990. She has served on the USPTA Middle States Board of Directors for six years.

featured in a clinic and played .jn the tournament. Local USPTA pros who taught or played were Steve

Arthur

Anastopoulo ,

USPTA, is the new tennis superintendent for the City of Macon , Ga. Previously, he was the director of tennis for the City of Charleston, S.C., a position he held for I4 years.

USPTA member Vladimir Smolkin has joined the teaching staff of Ridgewood Racquet Club in Ridgewood, N.J. He is a graduate of the Technical Ins ti tu te in Leningrad where he earned a degree in industrial engineering and tennis instruction.

USPTA professional Ron Steege served as director for the third annual Tennis Racket Pro-Am tournament and clinic to benefit the Colorado Easter Seal Society in October. The tournament was played at the Greenwood Racquet Club in Englewood, Colo., and raised more than $97,000.

Rod Laver and Tom

Campbell, Rhona Howett , Peggy Bernardis , John Benson, Joe Edles, Andy Potter , Mark Vines , Miikka Keronen, Dave Romberg , Honorary USPTA member George Bush Kurt Kopp, Bryan "test swings" his new racquet, a gift from , Conway, Todd USPTA CEO Tim Heckler (r) and Grange, Melody US PTA Texas Division President Paul Partrick, Pam Christian (middle) .

Dodman , served as District I8 direcKatherine Gillis , Sue tor since I 994. Both sons, Dillinger and Dan Gray.

USTA

Albie and David, are former state-ranked junior players.

Albie coaches several topranked Florida juniors, and David works with Net Assets, an organization that promotes the 3 5-and-older Nuveen Tour.

Manufadurers

The Varoski family The USTA/Florida Section honored the Al \Taroski family with the I997 Tennis Fa!llily of the Year award.

Varoski, USPTA, serves as chairman of the new Pro Events Committee and assistant director of District I 8. He was instrumental in f<?_unding the Schools Program in Collier County in I987. His wife, Elaine, has

Penn Racquet Sports-recently unveiled new packaging for its entire line of tennis balls, including Pro Penn, Penn Championship, Penn ATP Tour and Penn Court I. The

Eti new label provides recommended play surface information to help consumers determine which ball is appropriate for them.

Penn will serve as the official ball for the S unshine Cup, Continental C up and The Orange Bowl.

T he 1997 USRSA string survey rated Gamma Racquet Sports ' synthetic racquet strings No. I in playabilit y, durability and overall performance.

Wrap-It, the sports headband with a twist™, keeps hair off the face during sporting activiti.es. It also absorbs perspiration and wraps to hold stereo h eadphones, sports goggles, ball caps and sunglasses straps. For more information, call db design at (707) 586-6626.

Associations The Panama Tennis Federation is establishing a training center for juniors and is looking for coaches and administrators who would be interested in running the program. Con t act Norma Maduro , president of the Panama Tennis Federation, a t ( 507 ) 226 - 4710 or (507) 226-7041 (fax ) for more information.

The International Health , Racquet & Sportsclub Association has launc hed a new web sue: www.healthclubs .org. The site , which is under construction, will include list-

mgs for all of IHRSA's 4,000-plus member clubs , along with photos of many.

Peter Burwash International has expanded its partnership with the Walt Disney World® Resort to include its exclusive management of all tennis programs at the Orlando destination resort.

Tours at (80Q) 289-3 3 33,.

Bob Larson, publisher of several iriteynational tennis publications , has launched a new publication, Th e Tour Coach. The newsletter contains employment news for coaches , players and tennis federations . There will be help wanted and position

(LASSIFIEDS

Miscellany C hampionship Tennis Tours Inc. offers several options for witnessing the world's best tennis players. The 1998 Champion Tours itinerary of events includes the French Open, Wimbledon and U.S. Open. The tours include private coach excursions and cocktail receptions hosted by former Grand Slam champi?ns. Other tour options are the Hosted Traveler packages, Independent Traveler packages or individual ticket purchases . For more information, visit CTT ' s web site at www.tennistours .com , or call (8oo) GO TENNIS or (602) 443 -9449.

Wilson advisory staff members are invited to join the Wilson staff traveling to the French Open, May 2 3. The early round tour includes round-trip air transportation;· six nights at the Alliance St. Germain-des-Pres, tickets to fmir days of ten, nis at Roland Garros, daily continental breakfasts and a Paris ' sightseeing tour. The cost is $2,395 per person, based on double occupancy.

For more information, contact Grand Slam Tennis

wanted sections, a directory of coaches and a list of training facilities. Sixmonth subscriptions cost $57, with worldwide delivery via fax , e-mail or air mail. For mo re information, contact Bob Larson Tennis at ( 612 ) 920-8947 or tennisnews@aol.com.

BUSINESS PROGRAM Net Profit: The Business Program for Club Tennis Professionals by Dave Sivertson. 400 pa ges - guaranteed to make professionals more productive and profitable. Approved for USPTA C areer D evelopment points . $225 , color- $275 . Call (512) 261-777 5.

CLUB FOR SALE The Lake Jackson Racquet & Fitness Club- Lake Jackson, Texas (I hour south of Houston) . Features 14,500 square-foot clubhouse on a bea uriful4 1/ 2 acres with eight clay courts, one hard court, modern fitness center, pro shop, locker rooms , snack ba r, two racquetball courts, aerobic studio, 25-meter lap pool and jogging track. For in formation , please call ( 409) 292-0899 and contact General Manage r, George Schuldberg.

DRILLS New, exciting clinic formats and group drills, plu s drills for private lessons. Free samples! Our products make your job easi er! Call C lub & Resort M arket ing, (800) 5694661.

EMPLOYMENT

o

HOW TO GET A BETTER JOB Bo b !:arson' s maga zin e, TENNIS EMPLOYMENT, lists almost roo jobs eve ry mon t h. Current issu e $1 0. Bob Larson, P.O. Box 243 79H , Edina, MN 5 5424.

WANTED! Tennis professionals

and tennis coaches. The Professional Coaches Association offers numerous oppo rtunit ies for tennis pros and coaches to participate in PCA Working Vacation Programs at exclusive resorts throughout the Caribbean. Join chis long-running and successful program t hat so many professionals have enjoyed.

For information, contact Mark Burns at (617) 552-317!.

EQUIPMENT Finally, real quality tennis nets.

Test drive: Cambridge Industries manufactures nothing but tennis nets . So our living depends on our quality. Manufactured in Canada where the dollar gives you a superior quality. Our sales are increas ing dramatically. Why not cry us ? Dealers wanted thro ughout che U.S. and fore ign soils. Call (416) 481 -2597 collect for serious inquiries, or fax (416) 481-4488.

TENNIS ACADEMY Hawaii's Big Island Tennis Academy. Every Monda y throu g h Thursda y. H awai ian- style fun.

Phone us toll free (888) FUNKONA.

TRAINING AIDS SPEED CHEK Radar Gun only $149 . Plus new national dealer for PLAYMATE and Tennis Tutor Ball Machines . Oncourt Offcourt. Free catalog. GUARANTEED LOWEST PRICES. Call ( 800 ) 752 - 76 73 or visit www.oncourtoffcourt.com.

Rates: $30 for 20 words, minimum per issue. 50 cents per word thereafter. Pay by check, money order, Visa or MasterCard. Prepayment is requ ired . Su pply typed copy and include full name, telephone number, ..credit card number and expi ration date. {No agency or cosh discou nts.)

Issue closes 15th of mont h, two months preceding cover dote. Fox to (713) 978-7780, oHn : ADDvontoge classifieds. No classifieds will be a ccepted by telephone . No exceptions ore mode.

USPTA cannot verify nor be res ponsible for the contents of any advertisement. It reserves the right to rejed any advertisement of its discretion.

ADDvontoge/Morch 1998

23

La Quinta, Calif.

September 19-26, 1998

Over 40 seminars Nightly parties Awards breal<fast .¡

Tournaments International Tennis Buying Show

• All AlP & WTil Draws, Ran~ngs and PriZe money • No lired inslruclion. lancv pants reson stories or sen-serving equipment reviews. our readers know how to play, where to play and wllh what to play.

For lhe intense IN-YOUR-FACE player/reader onlY • lnsrant coverage or Events • 20 Times a Year

NEED WE SAY MORE;» WE DO. BOD • BOO • TENN tennisweell@tennisweell.com

Un ited States Professional Tennis Association , Inc. World Headquarters .· One USPTA Centre 3 53 5 Briarpark Drive Houston, TX 77042- 523 5

BULK RATE U.S. POSTAGE PAID Permit No. 135 Midland, MI