contents the total professional – enhancing your career
departments 2 Executive Committee
16
Batting 1,000 – Dave Porter credits players, fellow pros for reaching milestone record – by Clair Maciel, USPTA staff writer
3 CEO’s message 5 Secretary-treasurer’s message 7 Cardio Tennis 9 Classifieds 10 USPTA drills
24 Getting your name and message across: creative promotional opportunities
12 USPTA mailbox 21 Question of the month 28 Career development 30 Industry action
news 15 Promote your Little Tennis® program by running a Tennis Across America™ event 21
Award nominations due July 3, 2008
21 2008 USPTA Cardio Tennis Feeding Shootout competition
On the cover … Dave Porter coaches his son Dillon in the finer points of today’s backhand. Dillon Porter played for Coach Porter’s BYUHawaii men’s tennis team.
volume 32 • issue 4
www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com ADDvantage magazine editorial offices USPTA World Headquarters 3535 Briarpark Drive, Suite One Houston, TX 77042 Phone – 713-978-7782 800-USPTA-4U Fax – 713-978-7780 e-mail – magazine@uspta.org www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
Editor Managing editor Circulation Advertising
Shawna Riley Kimberly Forrester Kathy Buchanan John Dettor
Office hours: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Central time ADDvantage is published monthly by the United States Professional Tennis Association.
The opinions expressed in ADDvantage are those of the authors and not necessarily those of ADDvantage or the USPTA. Copyright© United States Professional Tennis Association, Inc. 2008. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any portion of the magazine is not permitted without written permission from USPTA. ADDvantage/April 2008
1
USPTA Executive Committee Division presidents, regional vice presidents and past national presidents:
California Division
National Board of Directors: Harry Gilbert President 386-793-0084
Tom Daglis First vice president 231-250-8241
Mark Fairchilds Vice president 209-571-2582
Jack Groppel, Ph.D. Vice president 847-658-1077
Randy Mattingley Vice president 281-358-2181
Tom McGraw Vice president 502-895-4646
Tom West President 714-271-7266 Eric Stephens Regional vice president 562-598-8624
Eastern Division Mark Savage President 845-565-7600 Steve Diamond Regional vice president 973-228-1800
Florida Division Dave Richardson President 239-495-8100 John Joyce Regional vice president 561-488-6996
Hawaii Division Cathy Nicoloff President 808-879-1958 Ron Romano Regional vice president 808-955-6696
Intermountain Division Paula Scheb Secretary-treasurer 239-495-3573
Ron Woods Immediate past president 361-991-7501
Adrian Games President 303-674-6884 Kim Davis Regional vice president 719-536-0797
Mid-Atlantic Division Joe Cappellino President 804-360-0398 Pat Hanssen Regional vice president 434-295-6167
Middle States Division Mark Centrella President 302-654-8691 Tom Sweitzer Regional vice president 717-421-2209
Midwest Division Dan Moster President 260-422-5561, ext. 2135 Molly Card Beckman Regional vice president 317-582-1550, ext. 229
Missouri Valley Division Gary Trost President 405-848-2994 Kendell Hale Regional vice president 816-235-6377
New England Division Avis Murray President 978-526-8900, ext. 357 Jacques Faulise Regional vice president 401-952-7000
Northern Division Tom Boice President 952-829-8400 Bruce Gullikson Regional vice president 952-830-7900
Northern California Division Paul Garron President 707-864-0660
Pacific Northwest Division Ross Eaton President 206-949-7105 Nancy Cox Regional vice president 503-399-3252
San Diego Division Doug Bradley President 858-259-0676 Dophie Poiset Regional vice president 858-756-4459
Southern Division Jeff Hawes President 504-482-4084 Dave Dvorak Regional vice president 770-392-7788
Southwest Division Britt Feldhausen President 520-886-1885 Sara Stablein Regional vice president 602-636-9841
Texas Division Joe Snailum President 281-863-5795 Joey Molina Regional vice president 214-691-3313
Past presidents David T. Porter, Ed.D. (2003-2005) 808-675-3755 Joseph Thompson (1999-2003) 303-278-1130 Will Hoag (1997-1999) 954-564-7386
CEO’s message How to get ‘tennis boom’ compensation and respect in today’s tennis market
N
ot a month goes by that I don’t get a phone being relegated back to the courts to make a larger call from a club manager who wants to portion of their living. As tennis pros renegotiated pick my brain about hiring the perfect new contracts they were asked to make concessions to allow clubs to realize more profit. In many cases head pro or director of tennis. Most managers, even if they’re former tennis this meant pros were giving up larger percentages teachers themselves, are quick to rattle off many of of their own lesson fees and those of their assistant the characteristics they desire for these positions. In pros. Tennis professionals were also asked to give up a nutshell, they want a superhuman for the job. The their pro shops so that clubs could hire lower-paid employees to operate the shop and primary qualification they stress is take all of the profits. “CHARISMA.” And, why is this one I’ve talked to many members characteristic so important? Because over the years who agreed to make they want someone who can spend concessions in their first and maybe time with members, cater to their second contract negotiations, only needs and sell a member on spending to be back in the same predicament more time and money at their facility the next time their contract came up while also recruiting new members to for renewal. Many pros eventually do the same. give up and move on to another job If it’s a tennis director they want, when talks break down. The problem they are also looking for a person is that they can’t continue to give up who can manage the operations and money, spend more hours on the maintenance of a full-service tennis Tim Heckler court, support their families and program. So, in addition to a great personality, they want a person who is qualified to grow professionally. It seems the “comprehensive professional” – a supervise staff, direct court maintenance, promote pro shop sales, implement and direct tennis pro- person who once received a salary, the full pro shop, gramming and more. Some managers even want lesson and activities concession – is becoming a tennis directors to oversee fitness and swimming contradiction in terms nowadays. Experienced and talented tennis professionals are increasingly asked programs! One of my first questions to any manager is about to “contribute” to the club’s bottom line by new, the value of the compensation package they have in and mostly younger, managers who show up with mind for a particular position. The response I get a seemingly single goal in mind – to balance the inevitably leads to a lengthy discussion on “you get club’s overall bottom line at the expense of the tennis department. This trend is particularly prevalent what you pay for.” The bottom line is – well, it’s the bottom line. if a facility is operated by a corporation that owns Facility managers want a head pro or tennis director many clubs. The manager’s goal is to quickly make a who can do it all, but they don’t want to pay what name for himself by cutting expenses and increasing should be considered a reasonable compensation income before moving on to a bigger and better club within the corporate ranks. This often means the package to get it. What follows might help explain why tennis tennis program loses an experienced pro and keeps professionals are fighting an uphill battle when it the assistant pro who makes less money and doesn’t yet have the skills to direct a tennis program. comes to salaries and their jobs. The real contradiction in most situations is that As the tennis boom began to fade in the late if a pro is constantly on the court trying to make a 1980s, it became apparent to me and many in our profession that tennis-teaching professionals were living he or she can’t build relationships with members
Only by highlighting and demonstrating your qualifications ... can you help us prove to owners and managers that the “comprehensive professional” is out there and is a necessary position within their management team.
continued next page www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
ADDvantage/April 2008
3
from previous page that lead to increased profits, more memberships, and more sales in the pro shop and food and beverage areas. This creates quite the enigma. I’ve asked managers how they expect their head pros or directors of tennis to be in two places at once. Of course, they don’t understand the question at first, but I explain that it’s ironic that they want a professional who will do much more than teach tennis, yet they don’t provide a work environment or salary that will permit a tennis teacher to do all those “extra” things that make members happy and the bottom line bigger.
It’s up to USPTA – and you – to educate facility owners and managers about your skills as professionals. So, now what do we do? It’s up to USPTA – and you – to educate facility owners and managers about your skills as professionals. Don’t hesitate to explain how your experience and knowledge can translate into better programs, happier members and increased revenue. Last year, USPTA began its launch of an extensive public relations and advertising campaign titled “Who We Are.” The messages in this promotional and educational push target owners, managers and consumers through multiple avenues and extol the qualities of USPTA members. This campaign needs your help to ensure its success. How can you do your part? USPTA offers many benefits that will allow you to take charge of your career and help us reverse the
4
ADDvantage/April 2008
mindset that so many of our most talented members face. If you’re unsure about your management or sales ability, we offer you an amazing array of educational options. Watch a DVD from the hundreds USPTA offers on its Web site and receive education credit. Choose your courses at www.usprotennisshop.com. Review more online resources by logging into the members-only area of our Web site (www.uspta.com) and then go to “Education” where you can see a schedule of live courses offered throughout the country at division events, conventions and our annual World Conference. You can also access information about USPTA’s specialist degrees, our Player Development Program, Lessons online and more. Rewrite your resume and brush up on interview tips by visiting our Career Center, also in the members-only area of our site. Along with resume and interview tips, check out the tools available for your job search, public relations needs and teaching. This is also where you’ll find out how to use your USPTA personal Web site and our Find-a-Job benefits. If our PR campaign creates a “superhuman” image of USPTA Professionals, it’s imperative that you also commit to a plan for self-improvement and promotion of your credentials. That’s why USPTA is putting so much effort behind building the industry’s most extensive educational and promotional machine for teaching professionals. Only by highlighting and demonstrating your qualifications during interviews or to current employers can you help us prove to owners and managers that the “comprehensive professional” is out there and is a necessary position within their management team. K
www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
Secretary-treasurer’s message Diversity is the best education
I
think the best way to start talking about diversity is to first define the word. We all have a general understanding of the word, but to have a working definition for discussion purposes is helpful. From the University of California at Berkeley, here is what I have found to be one of the most quoted definitions of the word diversity: “ Diversity refers to human qualities that are different from our own and those of groups to which we belong; but that are manifested in other individuals and groups. Dimensions of diversity include but are not limited to: age, ethnicity, gender, physical abilities/qualities, race, sexual orientation, educational background, geographic location, Paula income, marital status, military experience, parental status, religious beliefs, work experience, and job classification.” Diversity as a concept focuses on a broader set of qualities than race and gender. In the context of the workplace, valuing diversity means creating a workplace (in our case, association) that respects and includes differences, recognizing the unique contributions that individuals with many types of differences can make, and creating a work environment (association) that maximizes the potential of all members. And, under the leadership of President Harry Gilbert, I am very proud to tell you that diversity is one of the major goals for our association. As a matter of fact, Harry is bringing in someone to speak with your Executive Committee, national board and national staff on the very subject of diversity at our April meeting. Hats off to Harry for recognizing the importance of addressing this topic during his term of office! A number of prominent people throughout our country’s history have spoken of the importance of diversity. Maya Angelou, the famous poet and lecturer, had a very profound quote regarding the subject: “We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS
all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter what their color.” Interesting, right? So, if we can all agree on the definition, why would diversity be important to us personally and to our association? Diversity is important, for obvious reasons, to prevent discrimination and promote inclusiveness. And, I know we all realize the importance of that basic premise. In addition, there is evidence that it can improve our association’s (and our individual) response to an increasingly diverse world of members/clients/customers; improve relations with the communities we work in; increase our association’s (and our own) ability to cope with change; and, finally, to expand our personal creativity, and the creativity of the Scheb USPTA. Having a diverse membership, board and staff can increase productivity and enhance our ability to maneuver in an increasingly complex and diverse environment. In a nutshell, I think Malcolm Stevenson Forbes said it very well: “Diversity: the art of thinking independently together.” I can also share this with you based on personal experience – being a woman in a male-dominated field, being on a board with six men. Please know, I appreciate the fact that we are a progressive association, with equal opportunity and an acceptance of the different roles different individuals play. We have an open mind to our differences and work for mutually beneficial goals for our members. With that being said, it is hard to fully know and understand a viewpoint unless you have lived that viewpoint. It is hard for an indoor professional to understand the outdoor professional world, or vice versa. It is hard for a resort professional to understand the differences for the year-round professional. But, if you have representation of all groups, you begin to have an understanding of the differences. So, what am I asking from you with regard to this article? I am asking, if you know someone who you think could help to make a difference with diversity in our association, get them involved. We want to include them, we need to include them. It is in our continued next page
President
Harry Gilbert
First Vice President Vice Presidents
Tom Daglis Mark Fairchilds Jack Groppel Randy Mattingley Tom McGraw
Secretary-treasurer
Paula Scheb
Past President
Ron Woods
WORLD HEADQUARTERS CEO
Tim Heckler
Director of Operations
Rich Fanning
Executive Assistant
Marty Bostrom
Director of Communications
Shawna Riley
Creative Services Director
Julie Myers
Publications Manager/ Managing Editor Director of Public Relations
Kim Forrester Poornima Rimm
Communications
Jill Phipps
Director of Marketing
John Dettor
Sports Marketing Coordinator
Rick Bostrom
Digital Asset Coordinator/ Clair Maciel Technical Writer Video Production Director
Joe Birkmire
Video Editor
H.R. Topham
Video Editor
Jason Lee
Director of Fred Viancos Professional Development Corporate Janice Stollenwerck Services Administrator Receptionist
Erin Ortbal
Director of Information Technology
Dan Wilson
Information Technology/ Multimedia
Scott Bucic
Director of Kathy Buchanan Computer Services Membership and Certification Manager Membership
Vicky Tristan Sylvia Ortiz
Membership/ Melony DeLoach Insurance Assistant Director of Finance Payroll/Benefits Controller
Kathy Ladner Renée Heckler Ellen Weatherford
Merchandise/ Shelina Harris Accounting Assistant
Legal Counsel Attorney-at-law
Paul Waldman
For information, write the USPTA World Headquarters 3535 Briarpark Drive, Suite One Houston, TX 77042 Phone 713-97-USPTA 800-USPTA-4U Fax 713-978-7780 e-mail – uspta@uspta.org Internet – www.uspta.com Office hours: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Central time
ADDvantage/April 2008
5
from previous page best interest as an association to have many points of view. This is one of the ways we grow, individually and collectively. Send me an e-mail at paulas@bonitabaygroup.com with any ideas. Are you ready? Let me close with this thought from Mark Twain: “It were not best that we should all think alike; it is difference of opinion that makes horse races.” K
Tips from the pros
Calling all writers … Writing for ADDvantage magazine offers USPTA members numerous benefits. They can share knowledge from their field of expertise, such as coaching, pro shop management, sport science and club management. Having an article published can enhance a pro’s career or add to a resume. Also, being published in ADDvantage is worth 25 points toward USPTA Master Professional certification (a maximum of 50 is allowed). 5 Articles should be approximately 2,000 words long. 5 Articles should cover some aspect of a teaching professional’s job. 5 Articles must be typed in a narrative form. The article should not be an outline or written as notes. 5 Contributions will be edited for magazine format and focus, and a copy will be sent to the author to review. 5 Please send good quality, in-focus photos related to the topic, if available. Digital files should be sent as TIFF or JPEG files and must be at least 300 dpi. 5 Articles submitted to ADDvantage are forwarded, with the name of the author removed, to the USPTA Technical Review Committee for approval. 5 Authors must sign a release form for any work submitted to us. This form assures us that the article is your original work, that you have not released the article previously to any other publication and prevents you from releasing it for further publication for a period of six months from the date of the agreement. 5 Please include a brief biography and a black and white photo (bust shot). 5 Send articles to the attention of the managing editor at the USPTA World Headquarters or via e-mail to magazine@uspta.org. 5 ADDvantage magazine does not pay authors for their articles.
6
ADDvantage/April 2008
www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
Tips from the pros
Training the essentials of shot making in a Cardio Tennis workout by Feisal Hassan, USPTA Master Professional
The ingredients of a good cardio class consist of a warm-up, cardio workout – Drillbased, sideline drills and play-based – and a cool-down.
R
eady position. Grip. Backswing. Point of contact. Follow-through. These are the stroke components that have been drilled into us during tennis lessons, and they are important components of shot making. But what are the true essentials that lead to a successful tennis stroke? It is my belief that seeing/watching the ball, moving to the ball, maintaining balance when hitting the ball, and controlling the racquet head are the real fundamentals. For decades, players have been told to “watch the ball,” “move your feet,” “keep your balance,” and “control the racquet or swing.” These phrases seem to be maxims that should solve all problems when playing tennis. And these phrases are fine if the purpose is to make the student aware of what he/she needs to fix. But how does one learn to watch the ball better or maintain their balance during a stroke? It’s like telling
someone to “concentrate.” Saying it isn’t going to make one concentrate. A player needs to be taught and trained on how to “concentrate.” Likewise, a player needs to be taught and trained on how to: “watch the ball,” “move your feet,” “keep your balance” and “control your racquet.” Thus, I believe the essentials (or necessities) of shot making can be broken down into four stages: continued next page
Seeing/watching the ball, moving to the ball, maintaining balance when hitting the ball, and controlling the racquet head are the real fundamentals. www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
ADDvantage/April 2008
7
from previous page 1. SEE the ball 2. MOVE/USE footwork to get into position to hit the ball 3. BALANCE to hit the ball solidly 4. SWING/control of the racquet head
DRILL: Ball training One player (holding two balls) stands 3 to 4 feet from another player. The player holding the balls throws them simultaneously, and the other player must catch one ball in each hand. As the catching partner improves, he may want to cross his arms to make the catch.
These stages are realistic to the required sequence of events when hitting a ball.
Movement drills
Can these “essentials” be trained in a typical Cardio Tennis class?
DRILL: Tag sprints Player A is sitting down on the baseline facing the net. Player B is standing against the back fence. On the whistle or command of “GO,” Player B tries to tag player A before the latter touches the net.
Let’s first look at the ingredients of a good cardio class, which consists of the following segments: Warm-up Cardio workout Drill-based, sideline drills and play-based Cool-down
DRILL: Push-up and catch Player A is in a push-up position on the baseline facing the net, player B or a coach rolls a ball between Player A’s legs, player A sprints and catches the ball before it passes the service line.
The warm-up is roughly 5-10 minutes at the start of every session.
The cardio segment (30-50 minutes) may consist of drillbased and/or play-based activities and sideline drills.
DRILL: Get-ups Player is sitting (with hands back) on the baseline, and on the command of “GO” the player gets up and sprints to the net.
Drill-based activities are great for players of all ability levels at one time and some participants may prefer to just “drill” or work out and not compete.
Play-based or “live-ball” action creates competitive points and is good to use with players of similar playing abilities.
The purpose of the sideline drills is to build strength and improve conditioning and could be used with larger groups or longer drills to “keep everyone moving.”
The cool-down segment (5-10 minutes) may consist of a lighter activity at the end of the session that could include static stretching.
I have had success training the “essentials” of shot making during all the segments (warm-up, cardio, cool-down) of my cardio classes. I would now like to share some of the drills I use. As a cardio coach, these drills could be used in any segment of the cardio class as you see fit.
Stroke-specific balance drills Serves
DRILL: Two-ball collision Player has a ball in each hand. He mimics the serve motion and releases both balls to try to make the two balls hit each other. Great for synchronization of the hands on the serve DRILL: Eyes-shut and server Player starts and completes the serve motion with her eyes shut. The player’s goal is just to hit the ball with the racquet. Return of serve
DRILL: Cap drill Player has a cap down with the brim covering his or her face. On hearing the ball being struck on the serve, the player looks up and attempts to return the serve. DRILL: 360-degree turn As the server tosses the ball, getting ready to strike the serve, the player spins around (360 degrees) and attempts to return the serve. Groundstrokes and volleys
Vision drills DRILL: Two-ball rally Both players have a ball. On the count of three, both players feed their ball to the other player and try rallying cooperatively with two balls in play. DRILL: Distraction rally Rally normally from the baseline, while two other players are diagonally across from each other at the net hitting volleys (or touch shots) back and forth simultaneously. I typically use this drill during the warm-up or cool-down segment of Cardio Tennis.
8
ADDvantage/April 2008
DRILL: One-legged volleyer Volley rally while hopping on one leg. DRILL: Pencil-head drill Have players play points (singles or doubles) with each player keeping a pencil behind his or her ear. If the pencil falls anytime during the point, the opponent wins the point. Overheads
DRILL: Cup o’ water Player hits overheads with a cup of water in his nondominant hand. The player’s goal is to avoid spilling water from the cup. www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
Control of the racquet
A. Relaxation and swing development drills/exercises DRILL: Heavy racquet Add weight to the racquet head. This could be done by using the racquet cover on the racquet and taking six to eight swings with the cover on. As soon as this is done, the player removes the racquet cover and takes six to eight swings at the ball without the racquet cover on the racquet. This drill has helped players feel the swing of the racquet. DRILL: Breathing Players generally hold their breath when hitting the ball. I tell players to breathe out on their forward swing. Doing this helps players to relax the muscles. DRILL: Three-finger swing I tell players to think of using three fingers on their motions. Doing this helps players use a looser grip while still maintaining racquet control. For the forehand groundstroke, I have players relax the thumb and index finger and swing more with the other three fingers. For the backhand groundstroke, serve and overheads, I have players relax their pinky and ring fingers and swing more with the other fingers.
B. Pure acceleration drills/exercises DRILL: Contrast drills Drills in which the player’s muscles are over stimulated and immediately under stimulated or vice-versa to force a faster than normal response. This effect is achieved by alternating the use of heavy and light objects. DRILL: Medicine ball Player throws a medicine ball six to eight times (this throw mimics the stroke motion) at full speed followed by six to eight hits (of the same stroke) at maximum speed. This is a set. Do three or four sets. DRILL: Badminton racquet Player swings six to eight times with a badminton racquet followed by six to eight hits with a tennis racquet at maximum speed. This is a set. Do three or four sets. Conclusion: Trying to simultaneously develop the “essentials” of shot making during a Cardio Tennis class can be a challenging task for any coach. This article is an example of how this might be achieved. The drills presented are some examples and should only serve as guidelines. Good luck! K Correction: In a previous Cardio Tennis article titled “Unique solutions to potential challenges II” it was stated “One of the big differences between the Polar F5 and F6 is in the size of the plastic transmitter” which is incorrect. It should have stated the Polar F5 and F6 have the same size plastic transmitter but there is no “transmitter interference” with the F6. The Polar F11 has the smaller (2 inch) transmitter as opposed to the 5 and 6 which is about 7 inches. www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
CLASSIFIEDS BOOKS AND VIDEOS www.TennisExpress.com Wholesale prices on strings, balls, racquets, apparel, footwear, bags and accessories. Get baskets, carts, training equipment, books, videos and more. 800-833-6615.
www.netprofittennis.com Log on and see why NETPROFIT: The Business Program for Club Tennis Professionals by Dave Sivertson is a must for the career development of all tennis professionals or call 805-493-9046.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Tennis and Health Club for Sale. Four indoor courts with Nautilus and free weights. Pro shop and racquetball courts. Six outdoor courts with clubhouse and garage. www. toddsmith.usptapro.com. Phone 423-764-8444. Florida Tennis Club for Sale. Eight Har-Tru courts – six with lights, swimming pool, clubhouse, two practice hitting walls and soccer playing fields on 6.7 acres. Room for expansion. Fifteen minutes from the beach. Call Roberto Leon, 203-329-1070.
EMPLOYMENT USPTA’s Find-a-Pro. The best job-posting service so you can find the best jobs, free. For more information, visit uspta.com.
TENNIS PRODUCTS SLINGHOPPER DRILL BAGS. Feed with Speed! USPTA Pros receive 20 percent off by going to www.slinghopper.com and entering “USPTA” in the promo code.
TENNIS SOFTWARE SportsMatchSoftware.com – a NEW way of managing your ladders, leagues, tournaments and court reservations. Affordable for all clubs.
iTennisSystem – Download Free Drills. Tennis instruction software for tennis professionals. Organize your tennis knowledge. Illustrate tennis drills and lessons graphically. An advanced and easyto-use system for representing and organizing your tennis programs. Includes over 100 free drills. Visit us at www.interTennis.com for more information. Call 919-7401403 or e-mail sales@interTennis. com to order. iTennisRound-Robin & iTennis Ladder. New ladder and roundrobin software. Run and manage multiple tennis ladders and round robins simultaneously. If you are not running a ladder at your tennis facility, it’s time to get started. Let us show you how: www. interTennis.com. Automate your tennis events and save hours each week. Call 919-740-1403 or e-mail sales@interTennis.com to order.
VACATION OPPORTUNITIES Vacation opportunities for tennis professionals at the No. 1 allinclusive Sandals and Beaches resorts in Jamaica and St. Lucia for you and your partner. Certification required. For information contact Mike Romisher at 847-207-9475 or e-mail Vis10sPro@aol.com. Vacation/Exchange Program. Stay at the Iberostar in Mexico in exchange for tennis lessons. www. vacationingcoaches.com. Telephone 937-885-0468. Five-Star Caribbean Resorts are Waiting for You! Working vacations available for certified tennis professionals. Family and Couple Resorts available. Contact: www.fitbodiesinc.com or call Denise Cox, 678-778-4673. EGYPT – Tennis pros travel free. Organize your own group or join ours, 2-3 week trips year round, combine tourism with playing tennis at local clubs. For additional information, www.egyptgrouptours.com, TEL 416-727-1040.
Rates: $30 for 20 words, minimum per issue. 50 cents per word thereafter. Pay by check, money order, Visa or MasterCard. Prepayment is required. Supply typed copy and include full name, telephone number, credit card number and expiration date. (No agency or cash discounts.) Issue closes 15th of month, two months preceding cover date. Fax to 713-978-7780, attn: ADDvantage classifieds. No classifieds will be accepted by telephone. No exceptions are made. USPTA cannot verify nor be responsible for the contents of any advertisement. The USPTA is committed to the policy that all people have equal access to its programs, facilities, employment and membership without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, disability, marital or veteran status. USPTA is an equal opportunity employer. USPTA reserves the right to reject any advertisement at its discretion, or to edit the advertisement to be certain that any employment requirements set forth in it conform with the law.
ADDvantage/April 2008
9
USPTA drills Building a weapon – the two-handed backhand prepared by Rick Macci, USPTA Master Professional
Type: Singles Category: Backhand/conditioning/groundstrokes Levels: Beginner/int./adv. Time/players: 10 minutes/1-4
Description and goals:
This drill incorporates three around-the-cone backhand drills. The goal is to have the student recognize an incoming ball and select the best shot.
Organization:
Place a cone on the baseline at the center mark. Have student start at the cone then move in along the baseline or back, depending on the feed. Student selects the appropriate response, moves around the cone, and prepares for the next shot. For variation, mix the feeds.
Key points:
Have student focus on movement, hitting through the ball, and shot selection.
Low volley drill
prepared by David T. Porter, Ed.D., USPTA Master Professional
Type: Singles/doubles Levels: Intermediate/adv.
Category: Doubles/volley Time/players: 10 minutes/1-6
Description and goals:
Drill designed for low volley practice and closing to finish the point.
Organization:
Teams A and B start opposite each other on the service lines. Coach starts 2 meters (6 feet) behind the “T” on the side of team B. Coach feeds the ball, below the net to team A. All four players should close toward net as shots allow. Point is played out and score kept to 5 points. If team A wins, they stay for another game with team C. If team B wins, they replace team A opposite the coach and play team C. Variations: Have team B start on the baseline. Do it for singles with player B on the baseline and player A hitting low volleys.
Key points:
Cannot hit a winner off the feed. Make competitive with goal to win four consecutive games.
Overhead game
prepared by Mike Andrews, USPTA
Type: Singles/doubles Levels: Beginner/int./adv.
Category: Overhead/passing/volley Time/players: 25 minutes/1-8
Description and goals:
The goal of this drill is to gain proper position to execute the overhead and to control the pace and placement of the overhead.
Organization:
Two players begin at the net posts, all other players are on pro’s side of the court. As pro feeds a lob, player A or B tracks it down and hits an overhead to either player C or D. Players play out the point. If players hitting overhead win the point, then pro feeds a volley to either player A or B as other players rotate in on pro’s side. If players on pro’s side win point then they run to track down the lob (pro feeds lob when players are at the net posts) as other players rotate in and players A and B run back to pro’s side of the court and get in line. Count every point you win – play to 20. Variations: You can do it as a singles drill.
Key points:
Be sure to feed the lob when team is at the net posts. Players should get in best position possible to hit overhead and cover the net. Keep drill moving at a fast pace.
10
Generated by iTennisSystem – www.InterTennis.com ADDvantage/April 2008
www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
USPTA drills Start on defense (groundstroke) prepared by Tim Heckler, USPTA Master Professional
Type: Singles Category: Groundstrokes/strategy/tactics Levels: Intermediate/adv. Time/players: 20 minutes/2-4
Description and goals:
Players are put in a defensive position by feed. Players must identify and hit a shot that will neutralize their opponents’ advantage. Points are played out.
Organization:
Players A, B and C are on one side of the court. Player D begins at either corner of the singles sideline and the baseline. Player A feeds a ball from the center of the baseline to the opposite corner of the court from where player D is positioned. Player D must hit the shot on the run (mostly deep and crosscourt), change the situation from defensive to neutral and eventually take control of the point. Rotate after five minutes. Variations: Have players receiving feed start at other corner.
Key points:
Players receiving feed must hit a well-placed shot on the run in order to neutralize opponent. Feeders must make challenging but not impossible feed. Learn how to build a point from being in and out of control.
Swing volley (forehand)
prepared by Rick Macci, USPTA Master Professional
Type: Singles Levels: Intermediate/adv.
Category: Approach/volley Time/players: 10 minutes/1-4
Description and goals:
A drill to work on the swing forehand volley and the movement required. Take the ball early and high to take time away from your opponent.
Organization:
Place a target area near the corner of the baseline and singles sideline on the opposite side of the players. Have players start at the baseline near the center mark. Coach feeds high looping ball to player A who moves diagonally forward to cut off ball around the service line and hit a swing forehand volley. The player then recovers to the back of the line. Coach then feeds looping ball to next player. Variations: Set up target for a crosscourt volley. Vary feeds so players must decide whether to swing or hit traditional volley.
Key points:
Important for the players to take the ball early and high so as to take time away from opponent. Feed high looping ball in the upper-level strike zone. Make sure players load weight prior to shot.
Three on three
prepared by Mike Andrews, USPTA
Type: Doubles Category: Doubles/overhead/passing/volley Levels: Beginner/int./adv. Time/players: 15 minutes/6-8
Description and goals:
A fast-paced doubles drill that works on moving at the net, volleys, overheads while at the net, and groundstrokes and passing situations to keep the ball away from the net player when on the baseline.
Organization:
There are three players on each side with two at the baseline and one at the service line. Pro stands behind players on one side and feeds a ball to one of the players along the other baseline. The net player may not cut off the feed from the pro. Play point out. If you win the point you stay in the formation you are in, if you lose the point you rotate from the deuce court up to the net, from the net to the ad court and from the ad court to the deuce court. Variations: You can only win the point with a volley, forcing the net player to be active and have other players come to the net. Place two players at the net and one at the baseline. With more players, rotate them in to the deuce court and have ad court player sit out.
Key points:
Make sure net players are moving and being active to cut off as many shots as possible. Make sure baseline players work at keeping the ball away from the net players.
Generated by iTennisSystem – www.InterTennis.com www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
ADDvantage/April 2008
11
USPTA Mailbox Hi Jack (Groppel), I loved your article in January’s ADDvantage. The sidebar “Why play tennis?” should be hung on every club, public facility and pro shop bulletin board across the land! Best regards, Jill Fonte, Chair USTA National Tennis Innovation Committee Dear Mr. Heckler, My name is Barry Curley. I am the director of tennis at the Marsh Landing Country Club in Ponte Vedra, Fla., and have been for the last 17 years. I have been a USPTA member for longer than that. I would like to tell you a success story (about a service) that I’m sure many of us take advantage of, but maybe don’t take the time to thank the proper people involved. I currently have a job opening at my facility, and am using the USPTA “find a job” service for the first time. I’m a bit embarrassed to tell you that it’s the first time, but historically, quality pros have always found their way to my doorstep without much searching on my part. As our club and program is maturing, I thought I owe it to my membership to embark on a more comprehensive search. In less than two weeks of posting, I have found myself with no less than 25 resumes of tennis pros from throughout the country with the highest of qualifications. Getting the list of candidates to a more manageable number is its own story. After spending a full day on phone interviews, I have managed to whittle my list down to seven candidates that I know
12
ADDvantage/April 2008
would be able to come to my facility and serve my members well. After the interview process is over, my problem will most certainly be to pick just one. I’m sure that pros are quick to pick up the phone and complain or fire off an e-mail in disgust, but I thought you might enjoy hearing from one pro how much success has been found with the “find a pro” feature of the Web site. I’m sure there are more pros
sistent success. Recently, one young man I coached became an effective serve and volleyer within three years of learning tennis. My coaching peers heckled me mercilessly, until their experienced players were defeated by my newcomer. I write to say keep up the good work, and refer to the “traditional” game once in a while. Dennis J. Benjamin, USPTA Rocky Mount, N.C.
“ I find one-time or short-term teacher/student relationships to be great opportunities to share unique and sometimes invaluable insights that may not be a part of the ‘regular’ instructor’s methodology.” out there like me who had not utilized this valuable tool, but it will become a regular part of my hiring processes in the future. Keep up the good work. Barry Curley, USPTA Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. Dear USPTA, Just being a part of the USPTA’s role in growing tennis has been very rewarding, to say the least. As a parks and recreation tennis instructor, the youths and adults who take the classes and clinics all benefit from the tips and drills gleaned from the USPTA. However, the nagging questions of traditional versus modern stroke production tend to muddy the instructional water. As a youth, I was taught closed stance forehands, serve-andvolley techniques, and classic strategies. While I have helped players who have some competitive experience (modern game), I share what and how I’ve learned with my beginners (youth and adult), with con-
The following letter is in response to the substitute teaching article in the September 2007 mailbox section of ADDvantage. Dear USPTA, I am NOT a believer that a substitute tennis pro should ever visualize the experience as something to “get through” unscathed, an exercise in pacification or, worst of all, a time for lowered expectations. Even a slight hint of babysitting “fragrance” will fill the court with the aroma of wasted time, especially if the pro is able to successfully get “out of the way” and/or distract the student from the real tasks at hand. I find one-time or short-term teacher/student relationships to be great opportunities to share unique and sometimes invaluable insights that may not be a part of the “regular” instructor’s methodology. I am, in effect, a new set of eyes with a new and valuable point of view. The act of visualizing myself as anything less is, quite frankly, not healthy
or productive on either side of the court, and any thought that I may not be well received by the student will only nourish that self-fulfilling prophecy. As for students who have off-court thoughts fueling their fire ... bring it on! With the right guidance, based on competent interactive skills and the “right” attitude, ANY excitement inside a student’s mind or body, even disgruntled anxiousness, can be channeled into a progressive tennis experience. In many professions, there are times when a preferred practitioner may refer you to a specialist, who you may only see once or twice. I think this is the best perspective from which to view substitute teaching. You are not there just because the student’s favorite pro isn’t. You are there because that person wants help, and the universe has provided a rare opportunity for him or her to receive those unique gifts that only you can offer. It’s actually more like a tennis camp, academy or resort experience than it is childcare. Sincerely, Rick Johnson, USPTA Mount Shasta, Calif.
Send your letters to the editor, along with a daytime phone number or e-mail address, to ADDvantage, USPTA, 3535 Briarpark Drive, Suite One, Houston, TX 77042; fax to 713-358-7794; or via e-mail to kim.forrester@uspta.org. Letters may be edited for length and clarity. www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
Promote your Little Tennis® program by running a Tennis Across America™ event
U
SPTA will celebrate the 19th annual Tennis Across America on May 10. All members have an opportunity to help the children, adults and senior citizens of their communities get involved in the game. Hosting a Tennis Across America event and promoting Tennis – for the Health of it! S M not only puts people on the court, but also shows tennis is a great way to get healthy, stay fit and have fun. The program not only attracts new players to tennis, but also targets former and current players of all ages who want to jump-start their spring and summer tennis activities. Hosting a Tennis Across America event and promoting Tennis – for the Health of it! SM not only puts people on the court, but also shows tennis is a great way to get healthy, stay fit and have fun. Many people often ask how they can make their Tennis Across America event unique year in and year out. We suggest that they add a little excitement to their clinics by bringing different programs into the mix. For example, Little Tennis is an extremely powerful tool for those who wish to play, promote or teach tennis to very young children and their families. It uniquely caters to teachers, parents, kids and program organizers. It not only helps
www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
children learn the game but also involves their parents and grandparents. If parents and children are invited to participate in a day of tennis fun together, it may increase enrollment in children’s after-school and summer programs and get parents to sign up for lessons as well. Parents usually love the physical component of tennis because today’s children don’t get enough exercise. Little Tennis provides exercise and social interaction in a healthy environment. Last year, teaching professionals planned and publicized their free Tennis Across America grassroots clinics, and they are still reaping the benefits by drawing in new players, filling lesson programs and receiving positive publicity. Get credit for hosting your Tennis Across America event by registering it today! The deadline to register your 2008 Tennis Across America events is July 1! Registered public events will be promoted on USPTA’s Web site. Also, registered events help your division get credit in the race to be No. 1 in Tennis Across America participation. For more information about Tennis Across America or Tennis Around the World, please contact Rick Bostrom at 800-USPTA-4U (877-8248) or sports@ uspta.org K ADDvantage/April 2008 15
Batting 1,000
Dave Porter credits players, fellow pros for reaching milestone record by Clair Maciel, USPTA staff writer
O
ne thousand career wins. It’s a milestone only a handful of college coaches have reached, not only in tennis, but in any sport. David T. Porter, Ed.D., the men’s and women’s tennis coach at Brigham Young University-Hawaii, tallied win No. 1,000 in dual matches March 10 when his women’s team defeated Dixie State College to remain undefeated for the season. Porter, a USPTA Master Professional, is only the sixth collegiate tennis coach to join the 1,000-win club, along with David Elliot (Harding) and Jim Brockhoff (Xavier), and USPTA members Jim Schwitters (Hawaii), Robert Screen (Hampton) and the late Walt Attaway (Shorter). Porter, however, has accomplished the feat in the fewest total number of contests (1,128) for any coach in any college sport.
It’s about the kids and their lives and seeing them do well. “Each set of wins, whether it’s 20 one year or 30 another year, involves a different group of kids, and it’s all about that moment for them,” he added. “The accumulation of all of that is an indication of how many times I’ve had great opportunities to work with wonderful young people.” In addition to being one of the most
Porter’s level of expertise in tennis and coaching has given him an advantage as a coach and has helped him reach this 1,000-win milestone.
Porter is only the sixth collegiate tennis coach to join the 1,000-win club.
In his 24 years leading the BYUHawaii men’s tennis team, a program he established in 1984, Porter has amassed a record of 548-115 (as of press time), while the women’s team has recorded a nearly flawless 452-13 record (as of press time) under his 16-year guidance. In addition, his teams have combined for 11 national championships in NAIA and NCAA Division II competition. As remarkable as those numbers and records are, Porter remains modest about the accomplishment, instead giving credit to his players and reflecting on the talent he has had on his teams during his career. “I don’t think the number really has any special meaning outside of the fact that it’s an indication of how lucky I’ve been to work with so many good kids,” he said. “As I look back on those years, I think about the players, not the wins or the national championships because it’s not about that.
experienced and knowledgeable tennis professionals in the industry, Porter humbly admits that much of his success as the BYU-Hawaii coach is due to the many USPTA Professionals around the world who have sent their most talented players to him in his North Shore paradise. He named Peter Burwash, Bernard Guzman, Karl Hale of Canada, Yue Wang of China and Wei-Yu Su of Taiwan as a few of the many pros who have recommended players for the BYU-Hawaii team. “So many top USPTA Professionals have sent outstanding players to me who have made monumental differences to our program,” Porter said. “The players I have received from USPTA pros are extremely well prepared in the fundamentals of the game and have been taught how to compete. This makes such a difference. To have players come to a university setting who are prepared correctly makes any continued Page 18
16
ADDvantage/April 2008
www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
Porter from Page 18 college coach’s job easier. I’m sure there are many other USPTA pros all over the country – and world for that matter – who are doing the same thing for other college coaches and contributing largely to their success.” USPTA CEO Tim Heckler, who has worked closely with Porter for the past 15 years, said Porter’s level of expertise in tennis and coaching has given him an advantage as a coach and has helped him reach this 1,000-win milestone. “Dave has a unique advantage as a recruiter of players,” Heckler said. “First, he is one of the most highly respected professional coaches within the USPTA. Second, he has proven to be one of the most knowledgeable people in the world on all aspects of the game, particularly in being able to ‘have the eye’ to choose the most qualified players. All one has to do is review his college recruitment record for proof of this.” In the same manner that USPTA pros are helping Porter in his career as a coach, Porter is in turn continuing the cycle, giving back to USPTA pros by inspiring his students to become coaches. Porter has such an enthusiasm and passion for the game that it’s no surprise so many of his former players have decided to continue down the same path. And that’s something
Porter said he considers to be the most rewarding part of his job. “I think I have more than 50 former players who are now USPTA teaching pros around the world, and who have embraced tennis as a life career,” he said. “It’s been fun to see them grow and develop and learn both about playing and coaching and then choose to do that with their lives.” A full-time professor in exercise and sport science, Porter was also an accomplished tennis player himself, representing BYU-Utah during his collegiate playing career. Since taking over as head coach for the BYU-Hawaii tennis programs, he has turned winning into an annual tradition with the Seasider teams. And to prove it, the men have clinched two national championships, while the women claimed nine championship titles and haven’t finished below second place in the last 11 years. Much of what Porter said he learned about successful coaching early in his career came from USPTA Master Professionals Jim Loehr, Ed.D., and Jack Groppel, Ph.D., as well as other college coaches such as Stanford’s Dick Gould, Dick Leach (University of Southern California) and Larry Hall (BYU). “There were a lot of coaches that I looked up to and respected around the country, coaches who I tried to watch to
Porter has led the Player Development Committee for the last six years alongside tennis’ expert minds such as Jack Groppel, Jim Loehr, Rick Macci, Paul Roetert, Nick Bollettieri, Emilio Sanchez and Tim Heckler.
18
ADDvantage/April 2008
Porter is giving back to USPTA pros by inspiring his students to become coaches. see how they did things,” Porter said. “I used to try and go to as many conferences as I could where Jim or Jack were speaking because I was so interested in what they had to say. As far as the strategic and technical side of tennis, I had a pretty good understanding of what I wanted to do, but in terms of understanding how the athlete thinks and some of the latest sport science research, I thought I could get the most from those two individuals. They were major motivations for me.” Porter has definitely gained from that knowledge, and he now uses it to benefit not only his college players, but also the USPTA. He is a past national president, is currently chairman of the USPTA Education Committee and has led the Player Development Committee for the last six years alongside tennis’ expert minds such as Groppel, Loehr, Rick Macci, Paul Roetert, Nick Bollettieri, Emilio Sanchez and Tim Heckler. Given Porter’s solid reputation as a renowned teaching pro, it’s not likely his tradition of maintaining a winning record at BYU-Hawaii will end anytime soon. And the USPTA is certainly proud to have such an individual on its team. K www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
Spring special on jackets A
A. Unisex Windjacket – Water resistant, 100 percent micro polyester, poly mesh lining. Rib-knit collar with white tipping; white panel contrast; drop tail open bottom with elastic drawcord. Black, red, blue, green. Sizes S, M, L, XL, XXL. $42
D. Clubhouse microfiber jacket – 65 percent polyester, 35 percent cotton poplin, ergonomic metal zipper pull, comfortable elastic bottom and cuffs, self-locking pockets, inside zip pocket. S, M, L, XL, XXL. $52
B. Windcheater windshirt – 85 percent polyester, 15 percent nylon with full nylon lining; two on-seam pockets; split sleeves; rib-knit cuffs and bottom with a high V-neck with contrast trim. Olive, stone, navy. Sizes S, M, L, XL, XXL. $44.
E. Player microfiber jacket – Lightweight jacket with USPTA star logo. Shell 85 percent polyester, 15 percent nylon. Lining 65 percent polyester, 35 percent cotton. S, M, L, XL, XXL. $52
C. Windshirt – 85 percent polyester, 15 percent nylon. Rib-knit cuffs and bottom, high V-neck. Navy. Available in sizes S, M only. Was $44, now only $22!
D B C E
www.usprotennisshop.com or (800) 877-8248
Award nominations due July 3, 2008 USPTA is accepting nominations for the 2008 National Awards Program through July 3. If you know of a deserving USPTA Professional who goes above and beyond his or her call of duty as a tennis-teaching professional, send in a nomination today! All Professional-level members are eligible. Award category definitions, nomination forms and guidelines are available at www. uspta.com, by calling 800-877-8248 or by sending a request to pr@uspta.org. Award categories include: • USPTA Star Award – Recognizing dedicated service to grassroots tennis • Industry Excellence Award – Sponsored by Tennis Industry Association and Tennis Tutor • Alex Gordon Award for Professional of the Year • Facility Manager of the Year (open to nonmembers) • College Coach of the Year • High School Coach of the Year • Touring Coach of the Year • Player of the Year – in eight categories: men’s and women’s open, 35-and-over, 45-and-over and 55-and-over • George Bacso Tester of the Year Division award recipients are not automatically nominated for national awards. Division award recipients should ask division leaders if they should complete their own nomination form. All nominations must be received at the World Headquarters by July 3. National awards will be presented Sept. 18 during the World Conference on Tennis at the La Quinta Resort & Club in La Quinta, Calif. K
Harry Gilbert poses with Jane Hines, 2007 USPTA Star award winner www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
Q Q
uestion of the month ...
If you have a question for USPTA, you may send it to the World Headquarters mailing address or the ADDvantage magazine e-mail address listed on Page 1 of this issue.
Where can I see a video tip of the week that used to be on the uspta.com home page? Video tips that have appeared as tips of the week will be archived in lessons online in the Members’ only section of uspta.com.
www.uspta.com
2008 USPTA Cardio Tennis Feeding Shootout competition
T
he 2008 USPTA Cardio Tennis Feeding Shootout competition is in full swing. USPTA pros from across the country are rising to the challenge of the 2008 format. Division winner scores have ranged from 34 to 53 with Adrian Games from Intermountain owning the current high score of 53. Last year the national winner, Ricardo Mendivil, scored 66! The court diagram and rules are available on www.partners.cardiotennis.com on the home page, under announcements; check this out so you can practice before your division convention. Division winners earn a spot in the finals at the World Conference in La Quinta for a grand prize of $500. If you cannot attend your division convention but will be at the World Conference you can compete in a qualifying competition for a few spots in the final. Division winners: Middle States – Mark Trach California – David Schwartz Midwest – Jorge Capestany Texas – Cary Lothringer Northern California – Bill Kreger Missouri Valley – Craig Gansen Intermountain – Adrian Games Mid-Atlantic – Carl Clark Southwest – Glenn Gerbino Hawaii – Neil Archer ADDvantage/April 2008
21
Getting your name and message across: Creative promotional opportunities
W
hen looking for ways to promote yourself as a USPTA Professional and your tennis business, paid advertising is an option, but definitely not the only one. When deciding between advertising and public relations to get your name and business out to the public, you might want to give public relations a try. For starters, public relations is often cheaper than advertising and, at times, may touch more prospective customers than traditional advertising. In other words, public relations is a great, economical way to get the image of your business out to the public and build the brand of USPTA tennis-teaching professionals. Successful public relations usually leaves the public with a positive feeling about your firm or your products. It’s not uncommon for positive feelings created through public relations to be translated into more customer traffic, sales and profits.
Public relations is a great, economical way to get the image of your business out to the public and build the brand of USPTA tennis-teaching professionals. You do have a choice. Numerous creative, low-cost public relations opportunities are available to you right now as you attempt to get your name and message across to the public. And these opportunities are not limited to press releases, photo opportunities and the occasional special event. Since we previously focused much of our attention on these publicity tools, which are still available online in the USPTA Career
Center, we will now focus on other lowcost promotional opportunities. To refresh your memory or obtain these templates, members can visit uspta.com and hit PR tools under the Career Center. At the World Headquarters we are doing our part to promote the USPTA brand for the benefit of our entire membership, but this will be most effective if members also do their part to build their businesses
Stage a tennis demonstration and invite the public at no charge. This will help build interest in tennis and may lead to new students and more lessons. Little Tennis and Tennis Across America clinics are great programs for demonstrations.
24
ADDvantage/April 2008
and the USPTA brand at the local level. To get you thinking about the ways creative public relations can enhance your promotional efforts, here are some examples: Booklets – In our information-conscious world, customers are often delighted to receive “how-to” or instructional booklets on new products, problems they face or other topics of popular concern. Publish your own booklets or purchase stock material and imprint it with your name and address, and make it available to your customers and prospects. USPTA already has information booklets available on Little Tennis® and will soon have booklets and other information pieces available on Tennis – for the health of it! SM These can be used as takeaways on the great mental and physical health benefits of tennis for current and potential students. The USPTA also has materials such as fliers on other programs that may be useful to students. Bouncebacks – A “bounceback” is simply a repeat-business incentive. You might, for instance, place “bounceback coupons” on shopping bags that are distributed to people as they leave your place of business; the bag coupons entice customers to come back. Bounceback coupons, special offers or announcements of customer educational programs can be produced on the back of receipts, enclosed with invoices and statements, or given to people as they leave your retail outlets. For example, tennis-teaching professionals can do a take on this and offer coupons or certificates for half-off a lesson for any student who refers a friend or new student. Or for new students who sign up for five lessons, give a sixth lesson free as an added incentive. Bumper stickers, car magnets, T-shirts, luggage tags and pens – If you have a group of loyal fans, ask them to place bumper stickers bearing your firm’s name on the www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
backs of their vehicles. The publicity value of these stickers can be enormous. Why not give away USPTA car magnets ($3/each), T-shirts ($3.80/each), luggage tags ($1/each) or pens ($1.50/each) to new students as a way to show appreciation for coming out and trying tennis or use them as prizes for on-court contests? These items are a great way to build name and brand recognition for yourself and your affiliation with the USPTA. Bulletin boards – The community bulletin board phenomenon is sweeping the nation. These popular bulletin boards are located in banks, shopping malls, grocery stores, laundromats, libraries and numerous other locations in just about every community. Many of these bulletin boards can be accessed at no charge and others require a modest advertising fee. Either way, you can use community bulletin boards to promote everything from customer events to special product offers. Why not use these to promote free Tennis Across America™ clinics, Little Tennis programs, Junior Circuit™ or tennis lessons in general with your USPTA contact information? People do read these! Consultation – By offering advice or consultation to the public at no charge, you’ll establish yourself as an authority in your field and you’ll identify a ready-made pool of prospective customers. You might set aside a day of the month or a time each week when you’ll be freely available for consultation. This can be slightly altered to promote a first half-hour lesson free with a USPTA-certified teaching professional. This is a great way to generate interest and build relationships and a student base, especially if you are a new tennis-teaching professional in your area. Charitable tie-ins – Not-for-profit organizations throughout the nation are searching for new fundraising ideas and are usually eager to form revenue-producing partnerships with commercial firms. If you’re trying to introduce a new product or service in the marketplace, you might publicly note that a portion of the proceeds will benefit a favorite charity. Or you might offer a charity a large number of retail coupons at no charge. The charity can sell the coupons at face value and you can end www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
If you’d like to attract the attention of the mass media, don’t hesitate to stage a made-for-the-media event. Hold a Tennis Across America clinic or Little Tennis event and invite local celebrities out to participate with kids. This will be a great photo opportunity for local media.
up with more customer traffic. For Lessons for Life, you can hold a tournament where half of the proceeds go to a local charity or have half of all the proceeds from the lessons in October go to your favorite, local charity. Or if a local charity is looking for donations for auction items, you may want to donate a free lesson package from a USPTA-certified professional. This can be a package of lessons once a week for a month, for example. You will be esteemed as a great contributor in your community and as a side note you will be building the image of your USPTA tennis business in your area. Cross-promotions – Make a list of noncompeting firms that you believe serve the kind of customers or clients you serve. Ask the owners of these firms if they’d be willing to distribute traffic-building coupons for you in their outlets, if you do the same for them. You’ll build each other’s customer pool in this manner, without diminishing each other’s profits. For example, using Tennis – for the health of it!, you can cross-promote with other health-oriented businesses, such as smoothie stores (Jamba Juice, Smoothie King, etc.), Whole Foods and vitamin stores, to name a few. They can promote your lessons and you can promote their products with coupons, discount lessons, etc.
Demonstrations – People love to watch live exhibits! If you’re interested in promoting a new technique, tool or process, stage a tennis demonstration. Invite the public at no charge and offer liberal opportunities for questions and one-to-one practice. If your community or your market stages public gatherings of people, such as fairs or trade shows, that’s even better. These are perfect opportunities for demonstrations. Try to get involved and hold demonstrations and invite/encourage people to participate. This will help build interest in tennis and may lead to new students and more lessons. Little Tennis and Tennis Across America clinics are great programs for demonstrations. Endorsements – No, you need not run a huge multinational conglomerate. You may want to enlist the help of a spokesman or use a celebrity endorsement. Consider asking a local DJ or entertainer, or ask a not-sofamous amateur with a distinctive voice or face to represent you at public gatherings. Find local media members or local celebrities who love to play tennis and see if they will get behind and help promote Tennis – for the health of it!, Tennis Across America, Little Tennis, Lessons for Life, and any other programs you might have available. Invite them out to tennis events and ask them to help continued next page ADDvantage/April 2008
25
from previous page promote USPTA-certified tennis-teaching professionals and tennis in your area. Media events – If you’d like to attract the attention of the mass media, don’t hesitate to stage a made-for-the-media event: a tasting contest, a celebrity visit, a sporting event, an unusual photo opportunity, or any other novel activity with strong visual appeal. The media loves events with kids and celebrities. Hold a Tennis Across America clinic or Little Tennis event and invite local celebrities out to participate with kids. This will be a great photo opportunity for local media. Public service announcements – Radio and television make “public service” time available to charitable groups and causes. Why not run cause-oriented advertising that associates your firm’s name with a compelling public issue? This is a great tool to promote such programs and initiatives as free Tennis Across America clinics and Tennis – for the health of it! in your community. School programs – If you’re marketing to young people or their families don’t
26
ADDvantage/April 2008
hesitate to make educational materials and opportunities available to teachers and entire classrooms. Videos, printed materials, samples, demonstrations, talks, tours and field trips, all bearing your name, can help cultivate large numbers of prospective customers at one time. Why not promote Little Tennis, Tennis Across America and Tennis – for the health of it! at your local elementary schools? Introducing these programs and doing demonstrations can help build interest in tennis and a new student base. Speaker’s bureaus – Word of mouth can be a powerful promotional force. So consider setting up a simple speaker’s bureau composed of yourself and perhaps one or two trusted associates who can offer informal talks at civic, business and social clubs in your area. Even the smallest of communities can boast of a dozen or more civic organizations and large communities may have hundreds of these organizations, many of them hosting weekly talks for their members. The USPTA’s newest initiative of Tennis – for the health of it! is a great topic
to speak on and one that will resonate with many audiences since health and fitness are such a big focus in our society today. Tie this in with other USPTA programs you have at your club/facility and help generate interest in tennis in your community. Specialized media – Your community or region is probably served by a number of specialized media, in-house company publications, club newsletters, club bulletins and more. Compose a list of these media and, when you prepare press releases, send copies along to them. It is always a good idea to be aware of your local and community media and constantly keep them informed about new initiatives, programs and events at your club or other facility. It is very important to always work on networking and building those relationships. Use these techniques as starting points for your own successful promotions. And remember, only your imagination limits the breadth and depth of the promotions you can develop and the impact your name can make on the public. K
www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
Career Development conventions (division conventions, 5 credits)
exams, upgrades & certification review courses (4 credits for CRC segment)
May 15-17
Southern Division Charlotte, N.C.
May 15-18
New England Division Stratton Mountain, Vt.
May 19-20
Eastern Division Mount Kisco, N.Y.
May 27June 1
Florida Division Delray Beach, Fla.
May 29June 1
Pacific Northwest Division Yakima, Wash.
Aug. 21-23
Texas Division Houston
specialist degrees ■
Little Tennis®
■
Facility Management
■
Computer Technology
■
Sport Science
■
Competitive Player Development
■
Pro Shop Operations
■
Wheelchair Tennis
CPD (Competitive Player Development) – Gained through the USA Tennis High Performance Coaching Program administered by the USA Tennis Coaching Education Department.
April 5-6 April 5-6 April 5-6 April 6-7 April 10-11 April 12-13 April 12-13 April 13-14 April 14-15 April 18-19 April 19-20 April 19-20 April 21-22 April 25-26 April 26-27 April 27-28 May 3-4 May 3-4 May 4-5
Atlanta College Park, Md. Providence, R.I. Los Angeles Flushing, N.Y. Seattle Boca Raton, Fla. St. Paul, Minn. McLean, Va. Tyler, Texas Fayetteville, N.C. Aurora, Ill. San Francisco Des Moines, Iowa Big Rapids, Mich. Lexington, Ky. Wilmington, Del. Hilton Head Island, S.C. Nashville, Tenn.
May 4-5 May 5-6 May 5-6 May 10-11 May 15-16 May 16-17 May 17-18 May 17-18 May 17-18 May 17-18 May 19-20 May 23 May 29 May 31June 1 June 2 June 2-3
Conway, Ark. Williamsburg, Va. Seal Beach, Calif. Orlando, Fla. Stratton Mountain, Vt. Kansas City, Mo. St. Louis Brewster, Mass. San Diego Charlotte, N.C. Houston* West Orange, N.J. Yakima, Wash. Delray Beach, Fla. Hilton Head Island, S.C. San Francisco
* This course is held at the USPTA World Headquarters. Exam reser vations must be made at least 21 days prior to the dates listed. Each date includes an exam, upgrade and CRC unless noted. Exam cancellations must be received no later than 14 days before the exam, or a cancellation fee will be charged accordingly. Applicant: late cancellation fee – $75; failure to cancel – application fee is forfeited. Certified members: late cancellation fee – $25; failure to cancel – $25 plus the upgrade fee is forfeited. Registration for another exam will not be accepted until cancellation fees are paid.
specialty courses Technical solutions to tactical problems, April 14, Houston, B. Hobden
For more information about USPTA’s specialist degrees, including applications, please visit our Web site at www.uspta.com or contact the USPTA Education Department at (800) USPTA-4U or education@uspta.org.
Teaching Little Tennis®, May 16, Stratton Mountain, Vt., T. Gilbert
cardio tennis
Competitive doubles patterns, June 22, NorCal, H. Viragh
April 13-14 May 3-4 May 17-18 June 8-9
TBA, May 19, Mount Kisco, N.Y., R. Macci
Midtown Athletic Club at Windy Hill – Atlanta Houston Racquet Club – Houston Sport Fit Bowie – Bowie, Md. Home Depot Center – Carson, Calif.
Please visit www.growingtennis.com (workshops) to register online.
The deadline to register and/or cancel a course is 15 working days before the event. Anyone canceling late or failing to cancel will forfeit one-half the course fee. Schedule is subject to change. Call the USPTA Education Department for more information or e-mail education@uspta.org.
Earn education credits from World Conference DVDs (Seminar DVDs, ½ credit/specialty course DVDs, 2 credits) Receive your education credit report card via e-mail by visiting the members-only section of uspta.com.
28
ADDvantage/April 2008
www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
industry action Members Iain Pound, a USPTA member since 1991, recently was appointed the territory sales manager for Prince Sports for Minnesota, Wisconsin and North Dakota. He resigned his director of tennis position at The Club in Gulf Breeze, Fla., to pursue a new challenge in the tennis industry. Pound will continue to be a competitive national age group player and support the USPTA local chapter. The National Federation of State High School Associations has selected USPTA member Lawrence Eyre of Fairfield, Iowa, to receive the 2007 Central Sectional Coach of the Year award for boys’ tennis. As the Central sectional winner, he becomes a finalist for the national Coach of the Year award. In 2007, Eyre led his Maharishi School squad to the Iowa 1-A state team tournament Final Four for the 10th time. Eyre, a 1970 Yale University graduate, started the Pioneers
team in 1988, and it ranks as one of the state’s most consistent and respected programs. In his 20 seasons with Maharishi School, Coach Eyre’s players have earned 16 state championships and seven runner-up finishes in Iowa 1-A singles, doubles and team tennis. Eyre was the 1993 USPTA Missouri Valley Coach of the Year and the 2000 Iowa Tennis Association Coach of the Year. He established a National Junior Tennis League chapter in 1990 and a USTA After-School Team Tennis program in 2003. He also implemented the USTA No-Cut Tennis Team program in 2006. Eyre has served as an Intercollegiate Tennis Association Certified Umpire (Big 10 and Big 12 conferences) since 1998. USPTA member Greg Lappin is host of a half-hour television series on his local PBS station focusing on living a healthy lifestyle. The series covers topics such as exercise, sleep, stress, reasonable eating,
USPTA Professional Hans Romer recently started a unique junior academy in Maine. Targeting players who have a ranking or are about to obtain one, Romer is proud to announce that the teacher-student ratio is 1 to 16. However, a 4 to 1 student-court ratio is guaranteed and students are expected to demonstrate a high level of discipline and cooperation while executing advanced drills. Players proudly show off their new T-shirts from HEAD/ Penn Racquet Sports. Hans Romer pictured back, right. The entire state of Maine has 207 as its area code; that’s why the program is called Tennis207.
30
ADDvantage/April 2008
Brad Blume, USPTA, owner and operator of Tennis Express, recently had two of his USRSA Master Racquet Technicians, Lindsay and Craig Willeford, donate all the proceeds from racquets strung at Tennis Express during a threeday fundraiser for the Houston Tennis Association’s National Junior Tennis League Chapter. The fundraiser was held in conjunction with a local HTA junior tournament. Blume matched the dollars raised by Lindsay and Craig and presented a $1,500 check to Emily Schaefer, USPTA, tennis director for the city of Houston Parks and Recreation Department, and Cheryl Hultquist Horvath, HTA’s executive director, for the HTA NJTL program. The NJTL program was co-founded in 1969 by legendary tennis pro Arthur Ashe, Charlie Pasarell and Sheridan Snyder. The Houston Parks and Recreation Department and HTA sponsor the programs that introduce tennis to 5,000 youth each year. childhood obesity, barriers to living a healthy lifestyle, and healthy attitudes. It airs on Wednesday nights from 6:30-7 p.m. It is on KSMQ, which is the PBS station that serves southern Minnesota and northern Iowa. The show airs for 13 weeks. USPTA member Jeff Chandley has been named director of tennis at the Atlanta Athletic Club in Duluth, Ga. Chandley has been the director of tennis at The Landings Club in Savannah, Ga., for the past 10 years. He has served on the Savannah Area Tennis Association Board, was tournament director for the USTA National Men’s 40 Clay Court Championships and USTA Georgia Super Senior State Championships.
USPTA Professional Daryl Greenstreet recently was appointed tennis director at Wood Valley Racquet and Fitness Club in Topeka, Kan. He will coordinate and direct all tennis activities for juniors, adults, and seniors at Wood Valley Racquet Club and Kossover Tennis Center.
Manufacturers Current ATP rankings show that 33 percent of ATP players ranked in the top 100 are playing with HEAD MicroGEL racquets. Top pros Richard Gasquet, Ivan Ljubicic, and Mikhail Youzhny are playing with the MicroGEL Extreme Pro, Andy Murray and Sebastien Grosjean www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
industry action are choosing the MicroGEL Radical, and Marat Safin and Gael Monfils prefer the new MicroGEL Prestige. WTA players are also using the new MicroGEL racquets. Svetlana Kutnetsova, No. 3 ranked WTA player, uses the new MicroGEL and Amalie Mauresmo, No. 18 ranked WTA player, is currently playing with the MicroGEL Radical.
Miscellany The number of tennis players in the United States grew to 25.1 million in 2007, according to the United States Tennis Association and Tennis Industry Association, it was reported in February. According to the annual Tennis Participation Study, the sport of tennis topped the 25 million mark for the first time since 1999. Research from the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association, which tracks 114 sports, again puts tennis at the No. 1 spot when it comes to traditional sports that have gained in participation from 2000 to 2006. According to the SGMA, tennis participation has grown 12.2 percent in six years, 10 percent more than its nearest rival – golf – and well ahead of other participation sports such as baseball, basketball, swimming and soccer, all of which saw declining participation in the same six years. The number of frequent players in the United States has also been increasing. The latest figures put the number of frequent players, defined as those who play at least 21 times per year, at 5.3 million. Across the board, tennis equipwww.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
ment sales are up, too. Since 2003, racquet shipments to retailers have increased by 42 percent and ball shipments are up by 15 percent. And, in a sign seen as very promising for the future of tennis, sales of youth racquets have shown the biggest gains, up 80 percent since 2003. To download the full TIA Tennis Participation Survey visit tennisindustry.org.
Passings Richard “Ric” Martineau, a USPTA Professional for 37 years, passed away February 28 after a brief bout with cancer. Martineau Avis Murray, president of the USPTA New England Division and a longtime friend, said Martineau was a member of the USPTA since the 1970s and held positions including director of tennis and manager at Bass River Tennis Club, Manchester Athletic Club, Lexington Racquet and Swim Club, and the Wellesley Country Club. He helped start the North Shore Junior League and had a very successful junior team and program. “After retiring from teaching tennis in 2000, you could still find Ric attending the winter conferences and the spring conventions,” she said. “When I went to visit him a few weeks ago, he said, ‘Avis, I heard the winter conference was very, very quiet this year!’ He was insinuating that was because he wasn’t there. You always knew when Ric was in the room. We will miss him dearly.”
USPTA did it (ITC) again! by Mike Baldwin Jr., USPTA
For the third consecutive year the USPTA Florida Division was a visible presence at the ATP International Tennis Championships in Delray Beach. From the Grand Prix Tournament to the free Cardio Tennis clinic for over 200 locals, the USPTA was proudly showing “who we are.” This mutually beneficial partnership has been made possible by the vision and follow-through of Florida Division Regional Vice President John Joyce (Boca West), and the open-mindedness and generosity of tournament director Mark Baron and tournament chairman Ivan Baron. The USPTA benefits greatly from the access we are given at the incredible venue of the Delray Beach Tennis Center. The ITC benefits from the many fans encouraged to come out through our promotion of the event to our thousands of club members and students. At the USPTA appreciation dinner party hosted on site, Joyce presented the Barons with a gift to show our gratitude. The Barons then presented plaques to Joyce and fellow committee members, Florida Division First Vice President Richard Centerbar (Boca Grove), and Boca Raton District President C.W. Lewis (Seasons), for their contributions and support of the ITC. The party was a blast, as usual, thanks to the great organization of Florida Division Vice President Robin Newman, and awesome entertainment from USPTA rockers Brett Kurtz and Dave Oechsle with their band “Superstuff.” The USPTA Grand Prix Tournament was directed by Richard Centerbar with the help of Keith Lipp (Boca Grove), Pete Davis (Tennis Learning Center), and Chris Lee (Aberdeen) with Todd Ruedisili as referee. The matches brought out many members, students, family and friends who cheered on the local pros. The big event is the free clinic, organized by C.W. Lewis. Cardio Tennis was the theme and more than 200 men and women experienced “heartpumping fitness” to upbeat music and high-energy drills led by two dozen USPTA pros who volunteered their time for this terrific event. The ITC enjoyed the largest final weekend attendance ever as Japanese qualifier, Kei Nishikori, stunned No. 1 seed James Blake in three sets. Fans also got to see Max Mirnyi and Jamie Murray upset the top-ranked Bryan Brothers in split sets. The future looks very bright for the USPTA’s growing partnership with the ITC in Delray. And, this year, John Joyce has succeeded in setting up a similar alliance with the ATP/WTA Sony Ericsson Open in Key Biscayne. The USPTA will hold a Grand Prix tournament and free clinic benefiting the children of the First Serve charity.
ADDvantage/April 2008
31
United States Professional Tennis Association, Inc. World Headquarters 3535 Briarpark Drive, Suite One Houston, TX 77042-5235 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA, FL PERMIT NO. 602