Addvantage 2013 July

contents the total professional – enhancing your career 7 This is such an exciting time to be a member of the USPTA! – by John Embree, USPTA CEO 11 Dutch touch – by Christiana Johns, USPTA staff writer 15 The percentage game – How to improve the probability of winning a point by using the geometry of the court to your advantage – by Cosmin Cotet, USPTA 31 Certification Exam Preparation Part II – Private & group lessons – by Ryan Thompson, USPTA 32 James Ridgley honored as Washington D.C. Tennis Professional of the year – by Joni Hannah, USPTA

departments 2 USPTA Executive Committee 3 CEO’s message 9 CMAA corner 17 Staff spotlight 33 Pro to pro 34 Classifieds 36 Career development 38 Industry action

news 4 Make your voice heard 34 The USPTA and Emirates Airline US Open Series announce exciting collaboration

convention 19 2013 USPTA World Conference schedule 21 Q&A with Pat Williams 22 Scan QR code with smartphone at World Conference 22 Exciting new look for USPTA awards presentation at World Conference in Orlando 23 Q&A with Nick Bollettieri 24 Q&A with Peter Burwash 25 Club operations tips from the experts 26 2013 World Conference tournament info.

26 Hotel registration information 27 Conference registration form 28 Eight tips on getting the most out of the World Conference 29 Orlando backdrop provides several activities for World Conference attendees and guests

volume 36 • issue 7

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 – 713-358-7794 email – magazine@uspta.org www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Managing editor Circulation

Kimberly Forrester Kathy Buchanan

Office hours: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Central time

On the cover – Besides the World Conference, Orlando offers plenty of family-friendly activities. See Page 29.

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. 2013. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of any portion of the magazine is not permitted without written permission from USPTA. ADDvantage/July 2013

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USPTA Executive Committee TM

Division presidents, regional vice presidents and past national presidents:

National Board of Directors: Tom Daglis

President 910-630-7147

Randy Mattingley First vice president 281-358-2181

Nancy Cox Vice president 503-409-2567

California Division Mike Gennette President 805-495-0111 Cari Buck Regional vice president 310-314-9492

Eastern Division Joe Roediger President 914-373-6232 Warren Lem Regional vice president 631-766-2318

Middle States Division Bill Kurtain President 609-731-0505 Wilson Pipkin Regional vice president 717-898-3102

Midwest Division Paul Marcum President 248-626-9880, ext. 4006 Mark Faber Regional vice president 419-381-9661

Pacific Northwest Division Bill Fletcher President 509-943-8416 Ross Eaton Regional vice president 206-949-7105

San Diego Division Dophie Poiset President 858-756-4459 Nelson Alapi Regional vice president 858-382-6571

Jeff Hawes Vice president 504-482-4084

Tom McGraw Vice president 239-262-4701

Dan Moster Vice president 260-249-9424

Gary Trost Vice president 405-848-2994

Harry Gilbert Immediate past president 386-793-0084

Past presidents Ron Woods

(2005-2007) 361-991-7501

David T. Porter, Ed.D.

(2003-2005) 808-675-3755

Joseph Thompson

(1999-2003) 720-470-6550

Florida Division Brad Leu President 772-231-3102 Jeff Cohen Regional vice president 561-995-5213

Hawaii Division Bruce Nagel President 808-262-2057 Lee Couillard Regional vice president 808-944-5835

Intermountain Division Andrew Booth President 970-349-6127 Cary Hodges Regional vice president 303-771-0055

Mid-Atlantic Division John Cleary President 301-340-6185 Carl Clark Regional vice president 804-287-1300

Missouri Valley Division Angela Koumaris President 405-848-2994 Richard Slivocka Regional vice president 620-662-1140

New England Division Christopher Stevens President 603-610-0183 Doug Eng, Ed.D., Ph.D. Regional vice president 617-281-8368

Northern Division John Schollmeier President 952-232-1334 Bruce Gullikson Regional vice president 952-830-7900

Northern California Division Andrea Barnes President 650-736-7272 Monty Basnyat Regional vice president 916-316-7577

Southern Division Todd Upchurch President 704-258-7220 William Phillips Regional vice president 337-849-5821

Southwest Division Vicki Foster President 602-930-8423 Christopher Brewer Regional vice president 623-215-6500

Texas Division David Webb President 817-427-6680 Jenny Gray Regional vice president 512-282-2829

CEO’s message Renewed partnership with USTA

F

or those who have been paying attention be proactively pursued by each and every member. to the USPTA Strategic Plan that is now in As an industry veteran who has campaigned place, you are keenly aware of the five core for programs that will build our player base for pillars, which have been touted on many occasions. the future, who has had concerns about the general One of those key strategic initiatives centers on the health of our sport over the course of my career on need for the USPTA to be more strongly aligned the brand side, I am convinced that 10 and Under with any allied organization that has a stake in the Tennis is the cornerstone of increasing the share game of tennis. Whether it be the of the pie. To ensure that we have CMAA (Club Managers Association sustained growth so that we increase of America), TIA, the Tennis Chanthe number of frequent players, it is nel, IHRSA, among others, it is essential that the USPTA be much essential that the USPTA be on the more forthright in promoting blendforefront of any activities that these ed lines, establishing Play Days and organizations undergo that involve advancing our kids into Junior Team tennis. After all, we are the delivery Tennis and entry-level tournaments. system for any programs that impact We are in the business of creating our customers, our members and players who will stay active in tennis our clientele. for their entire lives.

At no time has the relationship Let me tell you how we are supJohn Embree with the USTA been more critical porting 10 and Under Tennis. First, to our success than the present. The fact that we produced, with support from the USTA, many of our divisions have strong collaborations 2,000 posters that have been distributed to every with their respective USPTA member Being more strongly aligned with the USTA USTA sections is an who attended their indication that the respective division is not only good business, it is the right two associations can conference this year. thing to do. Let’s embrace this opportunity and do work hand in These posters are to support each other, knowing that it is in hand to help grow large promotional our best interest to be successful. the game. The same tools that can be cooperation should displayed in clubs take hold at the national level as well and it is my and facilities and will help parents and kids alike intent to facilitate that partnership. to understand the rationale for why 10 and Under So, I wanted to utilize this space to summarize Tennis is good for them. By the way, this poster is the initiatives that have already been accomplished co-branded USPTA and USTA. in just a few short months that demonstrate the Secondly, we recently filmed a segment of closer working relationship with the USTA. And “On Court with USPTA” for the Tennis Chanthere are many. For starters, 10 and Under Tennis nel that was totally dedicated to 10 and Under is absolutely the right program for our members Tennis. Having Patrick McEnroe as the “on-air” who have to justify their existence every day to talent was a HUGE plus as the show was geared their bosses by demonstrating increased family to inform parents and coaches about the benefits activities, driving more revenue for themselves of 10 and Under Tennis with a call to action to and their facilities, building their base of players, register for summer programs. And we thank the etc. The benefits of establishing a vibrant 10 and Tennis Channel for giving us a prime-time slot on Under Tennis program are far-reaching and should Saturday, June 1 and June 8 at 2 p.m. Eastern both

National Board of Directors President First Vice President

Tom Daglis Randy Mattingley

Vice Presidents

Nancy Cox Jeff Hawes Tom McGraw Dan Moster Gary Trost

Past President

Harry Gilbert

WORLD HEADQUARTERS CEO

John Embree

Creative Services Director

Julie Myers

Publications Manager/ Managing Editor

Kim Forrester

Director of Public Relations

Poornima Rimm

Communications Coordinator

Christiana Johns

USPTAplayer.com Manager Randy Jenks Digital Asset Coordinator/ Ramona Husaru Tennis Multimedia Management Graphic Design Specialist Nick Warwick Director of Video Production Chris Maale Video Editor/ Videographer

Andrew Robertson

Director of Fred Viancos Professional Development Corporate Janice Stollenwerck Services Administrator Director of Information Technology

Dan Wilson

Information Technology/ Multimedia

Scott Bucic

Director of Computer Services

Kathy Buchanan

Director of Membership and Certification

Vicky Tristan

Membership/ Melony DeLoach Insurance Coordinator Human Resources Director Matt Stotts Director of Finance Controller

Kathy Ladner Ellen Weatherford

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 uspta@uspta.org www.uspta.com Office hours: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Central time

continued next page www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

ADDvantage/July 2013

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from previous page days as its French Open coverage was winding down. The content is exceptional and it goes to show what can be accomplished when three organizations (USTA, USPTA and Tennis Channel) come together to create a motivational and inspiring piece that will help the industry.

Thirdly, with the revamped format of the 2013 World Conference in Orlando, our very first day of education (beginning Tuesday, Sept. 23) is going to be entirely dedicated to 10 and Under Tennis. Kicking off an exciting schedule will be a panel discussion with Patrick McEnroe, Kurt Kamperman and Dr. Brian Hainline (NCAA Chief Medical Officer) for a 75-minute presentation on the state of 10 and Under Tennis and why it can benefit you and more importantly, your students. As the day winds down, we will put the skills of each division to the test with an reinvigorated “Battle of Divisions” on 36-foot courts using shorter racquets and red felt balls with a social atmosphere including food and drink for all. What a way to commence our World Conference!

One additional program that we are committed to executing this year is a series of regional 10 and Under Workshops across the country to help educate our members on the finer points of implementing a dynamic 10 and Under Tennis program at their clubs or facilities. Each division has been tasked to set up at least one session between now and the end of the year that will be supported by the leading 10 and Under Tennis experts who will help educate our pros. Be on the lookout for that schedule of events.

But the cooperation with the USTA does not center only on 10 and Under Tennis. The recent announcement about the collaboration with the Emirates Airline US Open Series tournaments, whereby all USPTA Professional-level members in good standing get FREE access to the grounds of those events (except Canada) early in the week (sessions designated by tournament directors), is another indication of the willingness of the tournament directors

to work with the USPTA in those markets. Talk about a tangible, quantifiable benefit for our membership!

And the burgeoning relationship with the USTA does not stop there. I am proud to announce that our 2014 World Conference will be a part of a much larger Tennis Teachers Conference in New York during the first weekend of the US Open! Thanks to the USTA, every REGISTERED attendee of that conference will be given FREE tickets plus transportation out to the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center for the first day of the 2014 US Open. How about that? For those professionals who have never been to the US Open, you now will have a golden opportunity to get incredible education while celebrating our own Grand Slam Championship and visiting New York. I cannot wait for this spectacular event.

Finally, we all agree that elevating the standards of tennisteaching professionals and coaches is our stated mission. In order to put our money where our mouth is, we not only have to consider PRE-certification education but also POST-certification continuing education. Toward that end, we will be working with the USTA to create entry-level education for all incoming professionals focused on 10 and Under Tennis beginning in 2014.

Make no mistake, the USTA values and appreciates the impact that the USPTA has on their programs at the grassroots level.

Without our active participation and support of their programs, tennis will never grow. For that reason along with many others, the USTA is going to be a willing partner with us for years to come.

You can look forward to hearing about other joint efforts that will be mutually beneficial to both associations down the road.

Being more strongly aligned with the USTA is not only good business, it is the right thing to do. Let’s embrace this opportunity to support each other, knowing that it is in our best interest to be successful. We cannot do it alone... 

Make your voice heard Ballots must be postmarked on or before August 14

Don’t forget to cast a ballot in the election of national board members who will help lead the USPTA for the next two years.

All certified members in good standing (up-to-date on dues) will receive a ballot in the mail for the election of USPTA vice presidents. Ballots will be mailed mid-July. Four nominees on the proposed board of directors slate have one challenger each. The positions of president and first vice president cannot be challenged.

The candidates for national vice presidents are: Slated Nominee: Jeff Hawes – Challenger: Jack Michalko Slated Nominee: Nancy Cox – Challenger: Diane Selke Slated Nominee: Alan Cutler – Challenger: Bunny Bruning Slated Nominee: Raul Saad

– Challenger: Dan Moster

USPTA-certified Professionals who did not receive a ballot may contact the USPTA World Headquarters at uspta@uspta.org.

Thank you for voting! Remember, ballots must be postmarked on or before August 14.

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www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

This is such an exciting time to be a member of the USPTA!

by John Embree, USPTA CEO

T

hose of you who have had the chance to meet with me Pillar No. 1: Become financially stable during my extensive travels to various division conferences While we have a strong balance sheet and own our own building in the first half of this year have heard my message about outright, we implemented a number of staffing changes in Houston the exciting changes that are coming to our association. Unfor- to make us more efficient, and we had to improve the leasing income tunately, the audiences at these conferences are limited to less in our building. We cut the size of the staff to be more responsive to than 10 percent of our membership in those respective divisions, our membership and relocated everyone to one floor so we can all be thereby leaving a massive number of USPTA members who have together, lowered our percentage of unoccupied space in our building no idea about all of the good things that are happening within by aggressively marketing the remaining open offices in the building, our organization. and negotiated lower energy costs beginning December of 2013.

Until now, I have only been able to touch on a few items of However, the single most critical priority that we face is the consequence in past issues of ADDvantage (within my CEO mes- status of our endorsement picture as of Jan. 1. It would be presage column) since assuming my leadership position at the World mature for me to conjecture or surmise what is going to happen Headquarters Jan. 1. While the at this point in time, but suffice Board and the Executive Comit to say, our financial health and Our Strategic Plan has five key initiatives mittee received a comprehensive well-being is contingent upon us overview of the plan when they all having strong partnerships with the that are providing a “roadmap” for our future. came to Houston in April, there manufacturing brands who want to has not been an opportunity to be our partners and who believe in paint the entire picture for the rest the value of the USPTA member. of our members in the field who are grinding it out on the court Pillar No. 2: Grow our membership each day trying to make a living for Each division has been given themselves and their families. specific targets to increase its mem As a result, the Board has asked bership by NET 5 percent per year that I take the time in this issue over the next three years. We have of ADDvantage to spell out many reached out to lapsed members and of the action steps that are being applicants who never took our test accomplished; all of them are in in an effort to bring them back in. support of our Strategic Plan. My We are making a concerted attempt intent is to give you a taste, a small to reach out to younger markets (as tease of what to expect in the near our association is getting older) by future and comment on some of collaborating with the USTA Tenthe many positive changes that are nis on Campus program in order to taking place within the USPTA. So, attract those passionate club players buckle up and enjoy the ride because in college to consider tennis teachyour USPTA is changing, and for the ing as an admirable and aspirational better! career choice. Finally, there are a ton Over the course of the next several months, we will be announc- of professionals who are on the fence about becoming certified or ing a variety of new programs that are going to make the USPTA a who just have never gotten around to joining. I implore each and dynamic organization that we all love. During the World Conference every member reading this article to bring in one new colleague to in Orlando, you can expect to hear a number of significant additions our association between now and year-end. You must be a part of to our benefits package that will motivate you to stay engaged in our the process and help strengthen our association by building it one association and will make the USPTA more attractive to potential brick/one member at a time. new members. We want them to join!

However, the key to truly growing our association is to develop Our Strategic Plan has five key initiatives that are providing a quantifiable and tangible benefits that are attractive to not only a “roadmap” for our future. Everything that we do from now on has younger audience but to our membership as a whole. Toward that to impact one of these five pillars, or it is likely that we won’t do it. end, we hope to be able to announce in Orlando the establishment By being narrow and focused, we can accomplish a great deal. of a Retirement program and a Health Care program beginning in continued next page

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

ADDvantage/July 2013

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from previous page 2014, which are the two most-requested benefits that our membership desires. This is a work in progress but if we can pull these two programs together, they will be “game changers” for our association!

But there are a couple of other measurable benefits that you will be hearing about before Orlando. Thanks to our new collaboration with the Emirates Airline US Open Series, any USPTA-certified Professional who wants to attend ANY Emirates Airline US Open Series Tournament this summer (except Canada) will be able get FREE admission during the early rounds of the event just by showing their USPTA membership card. So, if you ever thought about traveling to one of those tournaments that lead up to the US Open, now you can do it!

And look for the announcement about a special USPTA exclusive trip to the 2014 Australian Open in January! Thanks to a suggestion from a USPTA member, we have been in discussions with the Australian Open tournament staff who has put together an incredible itinerary for USPTA Pros and guests who want to go to Australia, participate in the tennis teachers conference prior to the Australian Open for education, and visit some of the fantastic sights in and around Melbourne while taking in the first week of the tournament. While it won’t be inexpensive, no one can offer this experience at the price we have negotiated. Be on the lookout for upcoming registration information.

Pillar No. 3: Enhance our education and certification We want to make our World Conferences “must-do” events that every USPTA Pro cannot afford to miss. As a result, we have had to completely overhaul the format for Orlando in order to make it more functional, interesting and hopefully, more fun. You will see a major departure from what existed at previous World Conferences.

Assuming you read what is in store for the conference in the May and June issues, I encourage you to read through all that we have planned for September in this July issue. You owe it to yourself to be there.

In our effort to do things differently, how about going to New York in 2014 to celebrate our own Grand Slam Championship?

Yes, that is right: our conference is moving to the last weekend in August in 2014 so that we can go to the US Open for the first time ever! And thanks to the USTA, every registered professional who attends this conference will get a FREE ticket to the first day session of the 2014 US Open!

But also as part of this No. 3 core strategic initiative, the Board and Executive Committee have approved a REVISED membership structure that will be implemented in January of 2014. Under this new concept, we are streamlining the testing procedure and modifying the current membership ratings to make it easier for the consumers to understand. This will also make it easier to market USPTA Professionals to CMAA clubs and facilities.

Most importantly, there will be a continuing education component post-certification along with a modest pre-certification educational requirement. If we are serious about following our mission, which is to “elevate the standards of tennis-teaching professionals and coaches” across the country, it is only logical that we demand more of ourselves and those who come into our association as new professionals. Come to Orlando when we announce this exciting new development.

As we work hard to get ready for this transition over the next six months, we have to revamp our entire online learning management system, testing curriculum, training manuals, support materials, etc.,

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to accommodate the changes in how we will operate under this new structure. Make no mistake, this is a major undertaking involving the Education, Membership and Testing committees, comprised of dedicated volunteers who will help us be ready when the switch goes on in January.

By the way, we are going to redesign our website as well to make it much more user-friendly by creating a universal login. Hurrah!

Pillar No. 4: Be more strongly aligned with our allied partners The USPTA is going to be on the forefront of any industry initiatives that impact our sport. It starts with the USTA, both nationally and divisionally (please see my CEO message in the front of this issue). But this also includes our burgeoning relationship with the Club Managers Association of America (CMAA). In many cases, these are the people who hire us and impact our incomes. It is vital that we educate and inform them of the value of our professionals and the impact that we have on club or facility revenue and activities.

Notwithstanding, we want to cooperate with the PTR to advance the cause of teaching professionals across the country. You can look forward to hearing very shortly about how the two organizations will be aligned on four major initiatives. From there, it is our hope that further conversation will take place that will bring our two associations closer together.

Finally, how we partner with the Tennis Channel, the TIA, ITA, AAHPERD, IHRSA, PFIT, various high school associations, etc., is going to determine how our organization thrives in the years to come. We look forward to embracing those endeavors with these and many other affiliate organizations.

Pillar No. 5: Be more diverse and inclusive This is a longer term mission that is vital to making our association more relevant and vibrant. Whether it be growing our female population or reaching out to the African-American, Latino, Asian or adaptive communities, it is incumbent on us to embrace all ethnicities and reflect the general landscape of America. It is common sense to do so.

Conclusion: There you have it: a quick snapshot of just some of the numerous projects on our plates, all intended to make the USPTA a thriving entity that is committed to growing our sport while advancing the careers of tennis-teaching professionals. And there is more in the pipeline that I did not have time to mention here but will be forthcoming.

As you can gather, I am particularly bullish about the transformation of the USPTA. Needless to say, the industry is watching as well because they sense the new direction that is taking place. I know that change can be hard for many; that staying the same is the easy way out. But we can no longer do things as they have always been done.

The time has come to embrace change and look to our future with excitement and optimism. Your Board and national staff are committed to making you proud to be a member of the USPTA. With all that is coming down the pike, who wouldn’t be enthused about our future?

Thanks for all that you do to promote our association and to become a better professional. It has been a fabulous first six months for me to help lead the organization. The support that I have received from so many members is very gratifying. See you in Orlando!  www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

An interview with Steve Richardson, immediate past national board member of CMAA

by Jack Michalko, USPTA Steve Richardson has been in the club business for 35 years. He spent 19 years at the Country Club of Peoria, three years at Indian Springs Country Club prior to that and four years at North River Yacht Club before becoming the general manager/chief operating officer at Paradise Valley Country Club in Paradise Valley, Ariz., a position he has held for the past 10 years. Steve has a passion for the club business that becomes very apparent the minute you meet him. He sums up his occupation in one sentence, “I love what I do, so it doesn’t feel like work to me!” It is important to note that his country club has a waiting list to get in, which means that he must be very good at what he does as well. I hope all our USPTA members enjoy reading this interview as much as I did putting it together.

Q: What has been your involvement with Club Managers Association of America (CMAA)?

A: I have been a national board member of CMAA for one year. My other leadership roles within CMAA include serving as the president of the Greater Southwest Chapter (consisting of Arizona, New Mexico and Nevada) for three years and serving as chapter president for two years for the Illini Chapter.

have to match the pro with the club and take into consideration what kind of membership you have and what your needs are at your club. I operate a family-valued, full-service, year-round country club in Paradise Valley, Ariz. Here at PVCC, I hired Mark Frampton, former USPTA Southwest Pro of the Year in 2002 and 2009. When I was hiring Mark, I was looking for a pro who was a high-energy, personable, organized, polished, positive professional with prior country club background and proven customer service standards … and who was certified with USPTA.

Q: How did you become involved in CMAA on Steve Richardson a national level?

A: I love CMAA. I have been involved with national committees Q: What percentage of time do you feel the tennis director should spend on the court? for the past 20 years and have served on various committees. I have a passion for the club business and have always seen great A: I think it depends upon the club and how the facility is set up. But generally I think a 50/50 balance of being on court value in being involved with fellow club managers. and handling the tennis business needs of the club seems about right.

Q: How many members does CMAA have nationally and how are your districts/divisions structured?

A: CMAA has 6,500 members across 2,500 clubs. The 46 chapters Q: In the past 10 years have you seen the tennis director’s job description change? If yes, in what ways? are structured based on geographic proximity to the clubs in the state or region. They have done a nice job setting up the divisions A: The job has definitely changed. The role has become more of a business leader, especially if the pro owns his/her own to try to touch the most members within the corresponding pro shop. In the past, tennis pros just had to be great players regions while at the same time taking into consideration cost and teachers, but today, they need to wear a variety of hats and ease of travel for the membership. off the court.

Q: What do you look for when hiring a tennis director?

A: Gone are the days when you hired a former touring pro! Nowa- Q: How has the economy affected country clubs in the past 10 years and how has this affected the director of tennis? days it is all about building strong rapport with our membership A:

In our experience, the downturned economy has kept members combined with a strong business background. But I believe you continued next page www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

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from previous page close to their homes and not travelling as much. Members are re-evaluating their priorities, including how they use their clubs.

Their focus is really on value proposition. Tennis is an economical sport for members who want a great workout in less time than it takes to play nine holes on the golf course. Nationally, we have seen a decline in golf operations due to the costs and time involved in the game. However, it’s the opposite with tennis.

Q: In the past it was understood that the director of tennis was ultimately responsible for, but not limited to, member retention, new member attraction, running the department as a business, and staying on budget. Has this changed in recent years?

A: No, I would say it hasn’t changed at all.

Q: What can CMAA and USPTA do to build a stronger relationship?

A: It would be great to see CMAA members and USPTA members interacting more. Maybe combine efforts at the divisional meetings with CMAA or at the National Conferences so that there is some overlap of club-allied associations.

Q: How could our tennis pros help to enhance the relationship between CMAA and the USPTA? A: I think it’s a combined effort for the tennis pro and general manager to get involved with one another’s organizations … maybe

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alternate as guest speakers every other year for a greater appreciation of the value each organization brings to the industry. I think the USPTA certification standards bring great value to your club, not only for the tennis director but also at the assistant pro level.

Q: What can CMAA and the USPTA do collectively to grow the game of tennis and support the career-enhancing efforts of both organizations?

A: Credentials and education are important in the club industry.

Discerning memberships expect their staff to be the best of the best. It is important for general managers and tennis directors as a course of action to certify their assistant pros and lead managers. I think encouraging involvement and open communication as to the benefits to each organization is the key in the future success of club operations. Personally, I wouldn’t be where I am today if not for my involvement in CMAA and I think knowing that is half the battle.  Article reprinted with permission from the Southwest Division newsletter.

Jack Michalko was the director of tennis at the Phoenix Country Club in Phoenix from 1970 until he retired in 2009. He has been the executive director for the USPTA Southwest Division since 1990. Michalko is a former two-term president of the USPTA Southwest Division and was Pro of the Year in 1984 and again in 2004. He was inducted into the USTA Central Arizona Hall of Fame in 2010. He serves on the national USPTA Job Market Committee.

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Dutch touch

by Christiana Johns, USPTA staff writer

W

hen Hans Römer was deciding on a career path fresh out of high school, he knew two things: he wanted to work in sports and didn’t want a job where he had to wear a tie.

“By putting a lot into the USPTA, I get a lot out of it ...

I want to embrace all of the different challenges that tennis can offer you.”

Growing up in the Netherlands, Römer played a variety of sports such as soccer and basketball but was drawn to the individuality of playing tennis.

“In Holland, everybody plays tennis,” he said. “You can’t go around it, it’s everywhere.”

Römer said he recognized at a young age that tennis had more to offer professionally than other sports and began to pursue a career as a tennis professional. He was accepted to the CIOS Sport College and earned a bachelor’s degree in physical education with a concentration in tennis.

After graduation and serving his country’s mandatory military service, Römer became a member of the coaching staff of the KNLTB (Royal Dutch Lawn Tennis

­ ssociation) Junior Development ProA gram. During this time he also obtained his KNLTB “High Performance C-License,” the highest tennis coaching certificate in the Netherlands.

But Römer wanted to come back to the United States. During the summer between graduation and the start of his military service, he worked at a summer camp in upstate New York and fell in love with the country. So in 1996, he moved back to the U.S., this time to California where he worked with USPTA Professional Vic Braden. “He opened some more doors for me and then I got involved with the USPTA,” Römer said.

Despite obtaining the highest certificontinued next page

Römer hopes his speaking engagements and TV appearances will show other pros the benefits of being proactive in their profession.

Growing up in the Netherlands, Römer played a variety of sports ... but was drawn to the individuality of playing tennis. www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

ADDvantage/July 2013

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from previous page cation in his home country, he was encouraged to seek certification in the U.S. through the USPTA. “I came here with my Dutch certification and even though they are very thorough, a lot of clubs still say you need to get your American papers even though in comparison, the A-license in Holland is basically a six-month course,” he said.

Römer has earned many USPTA awards and accolades over his career, including being named the Pro of the Year in his division three times – California Orange County in 2001, New England Regional in 2007, and Northern California in 2012 – and was named the New England 45 & Over Player of the Year in 2006. He became a USPTA Master Professional in 2009 and travels around the country speaking at USPTA conferences and conventions.

“By putting a lot into the USPTA, I get a lot out of it,” Römer said. “I want to embrace all of the different challenges that tennis can offer you.”

He recently visited the USPTA World Headquarters in Houston to film two episodes of “On Court with USPTA” – “Secrets to the One-Handed Backhand” and “Developing Depth as a Weapon” – in addition to a few 60-second tennis tips.

Römer said he hopes that his speaking engagements and TV appearances will show other pros the benefits of being proactive in their profession.

“Hopefully it’ll show other pros that you don’t have to stay at your club,” he said. “If I were to be in the same club every day, teaching the same people every week, I would get bored after two years.

Some people don’t; I guess they like that continuity. But hopefully it will encourage them to step outside their comfort zone.”

He encourages other professionals to be more proactive in their profession by attending conferences and connecting with other tennis pros.

“You build up relationships – a lot of friendships,” he said. “You build a huge network that can help you professionally because you share views, you share drills, and you share philosophies. It helps you to network for potential new jobs.”  Hans Römer is a USPTA Master Professional and has been a USPTA member for 14 years. For more information about Römer, visit www.oranjetennis.com.

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On Court with USPTA “Secrets to the One-Handed Backhand” In this episode, USPTA Master Professional Hans Römer shares six secrets to help your student elevate his one hander to the next level.

1. Use of the nondominant hand: Involving the nondominant hand allows for a smooth and efficient grip change.

2. Determine distance to the ball: One of the most common errors is being too close. Show your student the correct distance.

3. Placement of front foot: Make sure your student turns the front foot so the toes are closer to the baseline than the heel to help with rotation.

4. Hide logo of shirt: Keep the upper body “quiet.” Players have a tendency to shift the contact point when they hit. By keeping the logo on the shirt hidden, your student will develop a cleaner and longer contact point.

5. Difference between supination and pronation: Pronation is a medial rotation of the forearm where the radius comes over the ulna.

Supination is the opposite direction. At full speed, you can imagine the increased acceleration.

6. Imagine throwing a Frisbee: Use a Frisbee to demonstrate how to step properly and improve aim.

“Secrets to the One-Handed Backhand” will air on the Tennis Channel in August. Stay tuned!

www.oncourtwithuspta.com www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

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www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

The percentage game –

How to improve the probability of winning a point by using the geometry of the court to your advantage

by Cosmin Cotet, USPTA In today’s tennis, it pays to be stubborn Those of us who watched the 2013 Australian Open men’s final saw how defending champion Novak Djokovic captured his fourth title in Melbourne at the expense of Andy Murray in a thrilling four-hour match. It was a performance that showcased 20 to 30 rallies per point on many occasions. Just a few years ago, some of those rallies would make for “the point of the match or the tournament.” But in this case – and in today’s game overall – these long rallies are becoming more and more characteristic of the modern game.

Tennis has become more physical than and the victory would be sealed. ever, so stamina – not just power – is a But now, with more emphasis placed crucial part of a player’s fitness and success. on conditioning, players have managed Big servers such as Goran Ivanisevic, Greg to adapt to the speed of the ball, and the Rusedski, Mark Philippoussis, Richard sanctity of the monster serve has diminKrajicek and, more recently, Andy Roddick ished considerably. and Ivan Ljubicic used to be at the top of In the current men’s top 10 rankings, the food chain in professional tennis. All the big server is a rare animal with only they had to do was blast through their John Isner and Milos Raonic getting a sniff service games and fight for a break of serve, at this exclusive club. But even they, too,

Playing the percentages can help all players be more successful, especially in longer rallies.

can play from the baseline. Today’s top 10 players have enabled themselves to stay in long rallies by improving their stamina, strength and speed on the court. These improvements have played a critical role in maintaining their focus through an increasing number of long, grueling matches.

And that is where the difference is made – playing “percentage tennis” throughout an entire match. In other words, playing the type of tennis that gives you the highest probability of keeping the ball in play.

Playing the percentages There are two basic mistakes you can make during a tennis match: hit the ball into the net – the obstacle that stands exactly in the middle of the court between you and your opponent – or hit outside the court’s lines, either long or wide.

If we consider the geometry of a singles court – a rectangle – a couple of aspects can be easily spotted: the net gets higher as you go from the middle of the court toward the sides (3 feet in the middle and 3.6 feet on the sides), and the crosscourt distance is longer than the down-the-line distance (82.5 feet compared to 78 feet, respectively). Also, the service boxes are more accessible for a taller player who can hit the ball harder, since the angle at which the ball is hit by his racquet is smaller than the one required for a shorter player.

From a probability point of view, we can conclude that during rallies, there is higher risk in hitting a down-the-line shot compared to hitting crosscourt. Hitting down the line requires a higher margin for the ball to clear the net, and at the same time, a shorter distance for the ball to travel in the air before the court ends (both of which require more energy to create spin on the ball). And when hit at a high speed, the risk increases even more. continued next page

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from previous page It is even more risky when the angle at which the ball is redirected increases because the timing necessary to perform this change in direction is crucial. For example, if an opponent hits a shot down the line, a player would have to hit the ball earlier than usual to change its direction to crosscourt. This action requires fast footwork.

Similarly, if the ball comes from crosscourt, in order to redirect it with a down-the-line trajectory, it needs to be hit a bit late, again requiring good timing. Thus, the safest way to return the ball is to maintain its direction and increase the number of balls that travel through the middle part of the net.

Let’s consider a regular point during a match, with one player serving and the other returning. The server has the highest probability of winning the point, as he makes the first decision and sends the ball to the returner at X mph. The returnof-serve points won is one of the most important variables in match statistics to predict who will win or lose a match. To improve this statistic, a player should apply the same rule of percentages in returning as he does in rallying: return the ball to the direction it came from. Therefore, a wide serve requires a crosscourt return, not only to have the ball pass through the lower part of the net and maintain a low redirecting angle, but also to give a player more time to return to the court by sending the ball on a longer path.

A serve “down the T” calls for a return down the line or down the middle of the court – as you find yourself inside the court – but you will be returning the ball toward the lowest part of the net at the lowest redirecting angle possible. After the successful return, the rally begins, and the returner’s chances of winning the point have already increased.

Consistency favors percentages During the rally, it is important to maintain a ball speed that is realistic based on the player’s ability to stay consistent. In other words, hitting a 90-mph forehand inside the lines 10 times in a row has a low probability of success. But if you lower the speed of the forehand, the probability increases. Again, percentage tennis is in play with the safest shots going through the middle of the net at the lowest possible

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Remember to stay consistent when you’re pushed back by getting more net clearance. redirecting angle.

It is true that spectators will always remember those amazing shots that Roger Federer or Novak Djokovic hit during a match, and they will learn to judge their genius based on that. But if you study their rallies, those shots were nothing but outliers in an otherwise consistent pattern of play.

At this year’s Australian Open, Djokovic was the most able to abide by these rules, a strategy that earned him $2.4 million. In today’s modern tennis, it pays to be stubborn. The more your body and mind are ready to play by the laws of probability, which favor success in tennis, the more successful you will become as a player.

We always hear Federer stating that his fiercest opponents “understand” the game.

Top tennis players do understand the game, that is how to increase their chances of winning. It is a mixture of strength and conditioning, technique, mental toughness and tactics that, when put together in the right way, produces a tremendous display of tennis greatness. I call this the right way being stubborn on the tennis court.

There is an ongoing debate about what is the most important stat in tennis as more data is now gathered from

tennis matches than ever before. So is it the number of unforced errors, winners, second-serve percentage points won or break points won, that separates the champions from the rest? The “win equation,” the Holy Grail of tennis, you name it, is a soup of all the above ingredients, and it differs from one player to another.

But it is the stubbornness of constantly increasing their chances of winning that propels them above the rest.  Cosmin Cotet, 28 years old, is the C4 Tennis Academy Director at Oasis Beach & Tennis Club in Rockwall, Texas, and is a former Division I coach at SMU, college player at TCU and professional tennis player. At SMU, he coached the 2011 Indoors National Champion, Marta Lesniak, using the same principles stated in the article. She was the first female tennis player to win a national title for SMU. Also in 2011, the team reached the Sweet Sixteen in NCAA Division I with Cotet as the assistant coach. He is originally from Romania and has lived in Dallas for the past four years. He has a Bachelor’s of Science in International Communication from Texas Christian University and an MBA in Finance from Southern Methodist University. Cotet recently accepted the Assistant Academy Director position at the John McEnroe Tennis Academy in New York City and will be starting there in August.

Cotet can be reached at Ccotet@gmail.com. www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

• How long have you worked at USPTA and what do you do here? I have worked for USPTA for 19 years. My title is Controller and my main duties are accounts payable, handling merchandise orders and inventory, bookkeeping for two divisions, auditing five other divisions and assisting with budgeting and financial statements. I also get to help with planning for the World Conference. I love working at the World Conference and have only missed one since I’ve worked here.

I enjoy getting to see members that have become friends over the years and having the opportunity to meet others for the first time. Our association is full of fantastic members!

• What’s your education background? I studied accounting at Texas A&M University. Yes, I am happy we are now part of the SEC and love Johnny Football.

• Where have you lived besides Houston? I was born in Kansas City, Mo., and moved with my family to Congers, N.Y., a small town close to the Hudson River outside of New York City, when I was 3. Mom and Dad enthusiastically loved history and took us all over New England to visit many historical sites. We moved to Houston in 1972.

• Do you have a specific work ethic or personal philosophy that you live by? I still try to follow the advice my mother gave me when I graduated from babysitting to a “real job” at age 16. She told me to anticipate what needs to be done and do it without being told, to work harder than anyone else and to do anything my boss told me to do unless it was illegal, immoral or indecent.

She also told me that I would be exposed to a lot of different types of people, being poor or different is not a sin, and all people deserve to be treated with respect until given a reason not to be.

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

• What are your hobbies? What do you like to do outside of work? I love to travel and have been to most of the United States.

I am also interested in art and love visiting art museums. I have taken a few painting classes and do not have any natural talent but am still interested enough to pursue it for fun. I’m fascinated by the parallel between art and life; things look much different when separated by distance, level of involvement or the passing of time. Also, different people interpret and experience the same masterpiece or event in vastly different ways.

• Tell us about your recent trip to Alaska. In May I took a cruise through the Alaska inside passage. The cruise originated in Seattle, which is one of my favorite cities. I was able to spend time in Seattle before and after the cruise, which alone would have been a great vacation. The cruise stopped in Ketchikan, went in the Tracy Arm fjord to see the majestic Sawyer glacier, and stopped in Juneau, Skagway and Victoria, Canada. The beauty of the wildlife, icebergs, glaciers and the landscape carved by glaciers is spectacular.

• What would be your dream vacation? My dream vacation would start with a cruise to several Scandinavian capitals and St. Petersburg, Russia. From there I would like the freedom to travel through Europe starting in Holland with only a loosely based itinerary stopping to see some big landmarks and also some places off the beaten path. Realistically my dream vacation is too extensive and expensive to do in one trip but hopefully with some careful saving and planning I will be able to make several trips over the next couple of decades to see all I want to see. Of course then it will be time to start all over again!

• What’s it like growing up in a large family? I am the eighth of nine children and consider being part of my large family a huge blessing. I have six brothers, two sisters, 17 nieces and nephews and five great nieces and nephews. Mom and Dad were extremely organized, very hard-working, frugal and loving.

They taught us children to love and respect each other. When we fought and the issue was resolved we were forced to “kiss and make up.” UGH. It was awful punishment at the time.

They weren’t afraid to spank, but even worse was Mom’s look letting you know you had let her down. The family is now spread around the country but we still love to spend time together. In June we had a reunion in Tennessee. Family came from Oregon, California, Illinois, Texas, Florida, Virginia, Georgia, New York and New Jersey and all nine siblings were there. I am blessed many times over.  ADDvantage/July 2013

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2013 USPTA

World Conference Schedule

Key: [I] - Indoor [O] - On court

Speakers and times are subject to change.

Monday, Sept. 23

9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Specialty Course 1 Cardio Tennis – Michele Krause

Tuesday, Sept. 24

Wednesday, Sept. 25

Thursday, Sept. 26

Friday, Sept. 27

10 & Under Tennis

Club Operations

Teaching/Sport Science

High Performance

6:30 – 7:30 a.m.

Cardio Tennis

7 – 8 a.m.

Cardio Tennis

7 – 8 a.m.

Cardio Tennis

7 – 8 a.m.

Cardio Tennis

8 – 9:45 a.m.

General Session (I) USPTA update – John Embree/ Positioning youth tennis for success – Dr. Brian Hainline with Kurt Kamperman and Patrick McEnroe

8:30 – 9:45 a.m.

General Session (I) CMAA Panel Discussion – Jim Singerling, Mike Leemhuis, Richard LaRocca with Tom Daglis moderating

8:30 – 9:45 a.m.

General Session (I) The professional forehand return – John Yandell

8:30 – 9:45 a.m.

General Session (I) A total lesson: on and off court– Nick Bollettieri

10 – 11 a.m.

Seminar (I) Linking TAUT competencies with long-term player development – Paul Lubbers, Ph.D.

10 – 11 a.m.

Seminar (I) Event programming on steroids – Paula Scheb

10 – 11 a.m.

Seminar (I) The healthy tennis teacher – Jane Savage

10 – 11 a.m.

Seminar (I) Guide to injury prevention – Kinesiotaping – Chris Baker

Seminar (I) Management: A learned skill – Ajay Pant

Seminar (I) Stroke mechanics in 3D technology – Brian Gordon, Ph.D.

Seminar (I) Skill acquisition in tennis – Warren Pretorius

11:15 a.m.– 12:15 p.m.

Seminar (I) Pro shop profitability – Pat Shields

11:15 a.m.– 12:15 p.m.

Seminar (I) Revolutionary match analysis – Brett Hobden

Seminar (I) The next generation of teaching professionals – Glenn Arrington

Seminar (I) Learn how to eat like the pros – Page Love

Seminar (I) Mechanical and tactical: How to maximize development in 10U – Julio Godreau 11:15 a.m.– 12:15 p.m.

Seminar (I) Linking training and competition for 10 and Under success – Craig Jones Seminar (I) The double goal coach – Positive Coaching Alliance

2:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Specialty Course 2 Tennis footwork and movement – Mark Kovacs, Ph.D.

Lunch

Lunch

Lunch

1:30 – 3 p.m.

General Session (O) To the red court & beyond: Navigating your players along the 10U pathway – Rita Gladstone

1:30 – 3 p.m.

General Session (I) Leadership and service – Peter Burwash

1:30 – 3 p.m.

General Session (O) Corrective techniques for the forehand, backhand and serve – Rick Macci

2:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Specialty Course 3 10 and Under Tennis: Teaching progressions using kid-friendly buzzwords – Feisal Hassan

2:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Specialty Course 4 Leadership: Strategies for the workplace – Barbara Fackel

3:15 – 4:15 p.m.

Seminar (I) Police Athletic League Kids & Police Tennis Association – Ira Peskowitz

3:15 – 4:15 p.m.

Seminar (I) Budget & financials: Know what to expect & if you are getting it – Doug Cash

Seminar (O) When can I play again? – Mike Barrell

Seminar (O) Creative doubles drills for all levels – Joe Dinoffer

4:30 – 5:30 p.m.

USPTA Membership Meeting

4:30 – 5:30 p.m.

Seminar [I] USPTAPlayer.com – Randy Jenks and Kathy Biggs

6 – 7:30 p.m.

Battle of the Divisions

7:30 – 10 p.m.

Welcome Party

Keynote speaker: Pat Williams 2:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Specialty Course 5 Mental Training – Lorenzo Beltrame *** HPI Mentally Tough Certification Course

Seminar [O] 50 shades of gray – Kathy and Ron Woods 7:30 – 9 p.m.

Tournament Players’ Party

Noon – 2 p.m.

Awards Luncheon

6:30 – 9 p.m.

Division Parties

3:15 – 4:45 p.m.

Manufacturers Ad Staff Meetings

2:30 – 3:30 p.m.

Seminar (I) The key techniques of motivation – Antoni Girod Seminar (O) Drills for mental skills – Spike Gonzales

5 – 10 p.m.

USPTA Reception and Buying Show

3:45 – 4:45 p.m.

General Session (O) Technique and other skills – Jeff Salzenstein

*** HPI Mentally Tough Certification Course will be held after the Mental Training specialty course on Friday, which is part of the HPI program.

The course continues Saturday, Sept. 28 from 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 29 from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Attendees can either sign up for just the Friday specialty course or the entire program. There is an additional charge to do the entire program. The specialty course is $40.

Q&A with Pat Williams Pat Williams, basketball Hall of Famer, co-founder and senior vice president of the NBA’s Orlando Magic, is the keynote speaker for the USPTA awards luncheon at the World Conference in Orlando.

1. You’ve worn many hats/served in many roles. To date, what do you consider your most important role and why?

I have worn many hats, but my most important role is husband, father and grandfather.

2. You’ve served as GM of several teams, but how did you get involved with sports? What was your first job in the NBA? I began my career in baseball and spent seven years with the Phillies baseball organization as a minor league catcher and a minor league executive. I was contacted by the 76ers in 1968 by Jack Ramsey who was the coach and GM at that time, and I was hired to run the front office. I was then hired by Chicago as their GM at the age of 29 and spent four years with them (from 1969-1973), one year in Atlanta after that, and then 12 years back in Philadelphia.

I moved to Orlando 27 years ago to start up the then-expansion team, the Orlando Magic. This July will mark 45 years in the NBA. 3. Who has been your favorite NBA player to work with?

I’ve been lucky to have interacted and worked with several greats, including Jerry Sloane, Chet Walker, Charles Barkley, Pete Maravich, Julius Erving, Moses Malone, Shaquille O’Neal and Dwight Howard.

4. Who has been the most influential person in your career?

R.E. Littlejohn (owner of the Phillies Minor League Baseball Team in Spartanburg, S.C.). I worked for him from 1965-1968.

He was a wonderful, wise businessman who basically adopted me, invested in me and taught me. He really was there, counseling, advising and steering me. At such a young age to have someone investing in me – it’s hard to put a price tag on that.

5. What is your favorite sporting event?

I grew up with baseball and I played in college and the minor leagues. I still study it and watch it. My son, Bobby, is a pro scout for the Los Angeles Angels and I keep connected that way too.

6. What do you enjoy most about working in sports?

Each day is different, there’s no repetition. In sports there are also some of the most fascinating characters and personalities in the world. We are in a sport-crazy nation and we can really use that influence/impact to make a difference for good through sports.

7. What would you like to see change/improved in the sports business?

I would like to see every athlete and coach taking seriously their role of positive influence and really avoid trouble (no violence, no guns, etc.).

8. Are you a tennis fan? Do you play tennis?

No, I don’t play, but I do follow the game and keep up with it and I have my fan favorites.

A key to a successful life lies at the point of intersection between your greatest strengths and your greatest passion.

9. What are you looking forward to most about speaking at the USPTA World Conference during the awards luncheon?

This is my first time attending a USPTA World Conference and I look forward to it. I really appreciate the opportunity and the invitation to speak. It is a high privilege to be able to speak at the USPTA World Conference.

10. You’ve run an astounding 58 marathons in the last 15 years! You’re clearly hooked now. Tell us about it.

From 1996 to 2011, I ran 58 marathons during my midlife, basically between the ages of 55-70. I ran the Boston Marathon 13 times. It was four per year basically, so I just trained continuously during that time period. I have great memories – they were great times and I made great friends. Marathons have grown greatly and I have witnessed that.

11. Tell us about your experience climbing Mount Rainier – another amazing feat!

I climbed in early September 1996. It was life-changing. I even wrote a book about it, “Secrets from the Mountain.” I only climbed one; one was enough. My wife said, “No more mountains, marathons – yes.”

12. In terms of your family, what led you to adopt so many children when you had five of your own?

We have 19 children. We had three birth kids when we decided to adopt two little girls from South Korea (they were both 2 and 3 at the time) and are both in their 30s now. They gave us a marvelous

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from previous page experience. We had no plan to adopt so many, but when other kids became known to us it went to a family vote and I always had the final vote. The thought was always what’s two more…

13. You’re very dedicated to different cancer groups and serving as a support system for others with cancer. Can you tell us where things are now for you personally and how your treatment is progressing?

I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma 2 ½ years ago. I am doing well now. I meet with my doctors regularly and get my treatment regularly. My progress is good – I’ve reacted/responded well to treatment. I’m leading a full life and can do everything I normally would but run marathons. With the cancer battle we face, I’ve taken this as a calling. I’m involved in speaking engagements, fundraising and one-on-one counseling (with others who have cancer). Cancer is a battle we all face with one in two men and one in three women getting cancer, but there are 12.5 million cancer survivors. The treatment is good, the chemo is good. Life expectancy is much better than 20 years ago, but lots of funding is needed.

14. What advice do you have for tennis professionals and what they can do better to mentor kids?

We have an obligation in the sports world to reach down and make a difference. Give freely of your time – after all someone did that for you. Give back, plant seeds. We are seed growers.

Mentor, coach, teach. There’s nothing more rewarding and satisfying – to see a whole generation of youth and know that we’ve made a difference.

15. Can you give us a quote to leave our readers with?

A key to a successful life lies at the point of intersection between your greatest strengths and your greatest passion. 

Scan QR code with smartphone at World Conference Conference attendees who are participating in the APC program will be able to confirm their attendance at seminars and specialty courses using their smartphone instead of filling out the APC credits form. Using your smartphone is quicker and easier than filling out the form, is more accurate, and registers your credits instantly.

To use this method, you will need the following: • A smartphone (Android or iPhone/iPad) with a data connection to your wireless service provider.

• A QR barcode reading application for your smartphone (For iPhone/iPad we recommend Qrafter or the AT&T Code Scanner, for Android we recommend Barcode Scanner).

To test whether your scanner application is installed and working correctly, the QR code above should take you to USPTA.com.

More details on QR scanning will be available at the World Conference. 

Exciting new look for USPTA awards presentation at World Conference in Orlando

T

he USPTA’s annual awards program, where the association’s top awards are presented, gets a whole new look and format this year during the World Conference, Sept. 23-27 at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in Orlando, Fla. The awards luncheon, which takes place on Friday, Sept. 27, will feature keynote speaker Pat Williams, sponsored by USPTA’s newest endorsee Rezilient Direct.

Williams is the co-founder and senior VP of the Orlando Magic, a basketball Hall of Famer and one of the nation’s top motivational speakers. He has been an integral part of the NBA, including bringing the NBA to Orlando and serving as general manager for teams in Chicago, Atlanta, Philadelphia and now the Orlando Magic. He has also authored more than 80 books. Williams and his wife, Ruth, are parents of 19 children, including 14 adopted from four nations.

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The luncheon will honor the recipients of the association’s highest distinctions, including USPTA Tim Heckler Hall of Fame Award, Alex Gordon Professional of the Year Award, USPTA Master Professionals and USTA/USPTA Community Service Award.

The conference, which is the premier educational event for the tennis industry, will feature numerous general sessions, seminars and specialty courses. Each day will feature a theme focusing on a core competency: 10 and Under Tennis, club operations/business, player development and teaching/sport science. The conference will offer all things tennis including the nation’s largest tennis-only buying show, International Tennis Championships, networking opportunities, industry meetings, parties and more.  www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Q&A with Nick Bollettieri USPTA Master Professional. Founder of the Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy, now IMG Academy. Coached 10 No. 1 players in the world. One of three inductees into this year’s USPTA Hall of Fame.

1. Congratulations on your induction into the USPTA Hall of Fame! What does this honor mean to you?

I have been inducted into several halls of fame, each one an honor unto itself. However, when you are inducted into the USPTA Hall of Fame, it is the highest honor a teaching professional can have bestowed upon him/herself. It recognizes the most accomplished members among a field of outstanding teachers across the world.

4. What will you be speaking about at the USPTA World Conference this year and what can we expect from your session?

My subject will expand on what it takes to be a teacher of the game of tennis and that a lesson is far more than just an hour of your time on court. Each coach has his or her own style of teaching the game. I will give suggestions on how to make their lessons more productive for both the coach and the student.

2. You have worked with some of the biggest names in tennis: Andre Agassi, Jim Courier, Monica Seles, Maria Sharapova, Venus and Serena Williams and Anna Kournikova just to name a few.

Which player or players were your favorite to coach and why?

I have been so darn lucky to have worked with 10 players that have reached No. 1 in the world, not to mention the countless other highranked players and the thousands of children that went Photos courtesy of Nick Bollettieri on to college and continue to play tennis throughout their lives. It would be impossible for me to name one that stood out with me, but I will say that they were all totally different.

God gave me the ability to take what they had and help them to win, not just play the best they could.

5. What is the best piece of advice you can give to tennis professionals?

The most constructive advice I can give coaches today is for all of them to know that life is a series of ups and downs.

Coaches must be able to not only teach the game of tennis, but also to prepare their students for life. At the IMG Academy, this is the single most important factor that we stress with our students. Students must realize that there will be good times and bad times. You must survive whatever time you are in.

3. What is the secret for having so many successful students?

There are a few very important reasons that I have experienced this success: • Jim Courier said when interviewed a few years ago that I provided them with scholarships, balls and racquets. That attracted many of the best players in the world to come to the Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy, now known as IMG Academy.

• I also started the Nick Bollettieri Travelling Team. My son, Jimmy, was one of the coaches, and the players traveled throughout the world as a team.

• My staff and I preached every day that playing the best that they can play was not acceptable; it was all about winning.

• In the 80s and 90s it was important for me, as the leader, to be on the road six to eight months each year going through the many ups and downs that are a necessary part of the climb to the top of the ladder. www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

6. Of all of your achievements throughout the course of your career, which one is the most special to you and why?

There is no greater achievement in my life that can beat the smile on a young child’s face when he says that he had fun and will be back!

7. If you could play against any player in the world – past or present – who would you choose and why?

The player that I would love to play against would be me! Why? So that I get better and am able to do more for the USPTA. 8. Do you have a hidden talent? What would we be surprised to know about you?

My hidden talent is very simple. I’m with my eighth and final wife. My new mantra is “Date them; don’t marry them!” 

Nick with wife, Cindy.

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Q&A with Peter Burwash Founder and President of Peter Burwash International, one of the world’s largest tennis management companies. Speaker. Former Canadian No. 1. Winner of 19 International singles and doubles titles.

Named “One of the One Hundred Most Influential Forces in Twentieth Century Tennis.”

1. Growing up in Canada, you played both tennis and hockey. What made you pursue tennis?

I got injured in hockey and decided to try the tennis tour. It turned out to be a good decision as I have had a wonderful journey in the tennis world 2. After you retired as a player, you founded Peter Burwash International, a tennis management firm.

What made you decide to do that?

I had such a terrific time during the seven years on the tour that I wanted to give an opportunity to those tennis professionals who were not good enough to play the pro tour but could stay in the profession they love and still travel and live in different cultures. We have run programs in 134 countries to date.

3. What was the most challenging aspect of starting your own company?

I had saved $6,000 from the seven years on tour so finances were obviously a problem to start with. I could not get a loan. Plus, there were many more famous and well-known players who were also starting management companies, so trying to convince managers of clubs and resorts that a lowly ranked player could impact their program was a huge hurdle.

4. You will be speaking about leadership and service at the USPTA World Conference. What can we expect from your session?

Everyone involved in our profession is in the service industry first and foremost. And the key to great customer service is to make sure that EVERYBODY involved in the operation of a facility

must have outstanding leadership skills. Those attending will have a blueprint on how to be a better leader for both their team and themselves.

5. For tennis teachers and pros who want to move off the court, what is the best advice you could give them that you wish someone would have told you when you started your business?

The key is to develop a strong understanding of how a business is run. This requires transcending the tennis arena and parallels your learning with those in the business world. Study successful companies and take the most applicable hallmarks for your enterprise.

6. What is the most memorable match you played in as a pro and why?

I was fortunate to have a lot of exciting matches, mostly long ones because I wasn’t good enough to win matches easily. The most gratifying was playing the finals of The Canadian Nationals.

I remember pulling out a letter I had carried for three years, which was from the President of the Canadian L.T.A. suggesting I quit the game because I wasn’t good enough.

Winning that match was satisfying as it not only got me the No. 1 ranking but I was able to prove to that president that I wasn’t as bad as he said.

7. What are some of your hobbies outside of tennis?

I love reading; I subscribe to more than 100 magazines and have a pile of books next to my desk. I am not a TV watcher when home and do not watch movies on the plane. Those quiet moments are spent reading. I was a straight D student in school where I obviously was not fascinated with reading but now I absolutely love it. As a side note, I prefer a book in my hands to a Kindle.

8. If you could meet anyone in the world, who would it be and why?

For sure it would be Ghandi. He embodied everything I personally find inspiring. He was principled, determined, lived simply, spoke with conviction and accomplished a major undertaking in a non-violent manner. There is a reason he is one of the most quoted personalities in the last few centuries. 

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www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Club operations tips from the experts Conference attendees have expressed a genuine interest to have more opportunities to learn about the business of tennis as they aspire to advance in their careers and learn how to become directors of tennis, directors of sport and even general managers.

We invited some of the finest general managers within the Club Managers Association of America, plus established directors of tennis and teaching professionals, to share their wisdom during our Club Operations Day, Wednesday, Sept. 25 at the USPTA World Conference. Here are some of their favorite tips from career advancement to programming.

Robin Hood management

by Michael Leemhuis, CEO of Congressional Country Club, Bethesda, Md. I am often asked by young managers what they should do to help develop their careers in the club business and my answer is always the same, “Become the ‘Robin Hood’ of the club industry.” No, not robbing from the rich to give to the poor. That certainly wouldn’t get you very far in the club business. Rather, it’s the concept of filling up your quiver with “career arrows.”

When it comes to getting your next club management position, I believe it is the applicant/manager with the most “career arrows” who wins.

Assuming that all other considerations are equal – similar appearance, experience, connections, etc. – “career ­arrows” are those things that you put into your “quiver” that separate you from the crowd (different) and make you stand out. Nowadays it’s expected that most applicants will have an

You got to move it, move it

by Joe Dinoffer, USPTA Master Professional Have you ever tried to get your players to move better and be more active in doubles? Have you ever strained your voice trying to motivate your players to move better? If you answered “yes” to both of these questions, here’s a tip to help. Let’s focus on the server’s partner at the net. Have him start off facing the server instead of the receiver! Then, when the server makes contact with the ball, the player spins to face the net. You’ll find that his energy level and bounciness will often double with this one little trick.

Learn more about programming for doubles during Dinoffer’s seminar, “Creative doubles drills for all levels,” Wednesday, Sept., 25 at 3:15 p.m.

(ET).

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

undergraduate degree, but a master’s degree would be considered a “career arrow.”

I have a master’s degree and have followed my own advice for the last 30 years. The other “career arrows” I have in my quiver are: PGA Master Professional, Certified Tennis Professional (in South Africa), Certified Club Manager (CCM), Certified Chief Executive (CCE), and 40 marathons and six Ironman Triathlons completed.

More importantly, what “career arrows” do you have in your quiver and do they separate you from the crowd?

Learn more from Michael Leemhuis and other club management experts at the CMAA Panel Discussion general session, Wednesday, Sept. 25 at 8:30 a.m. (ET).

Shrinking the court

by Kathy Woods, USPTA Past President, and Ron Woods, USPTA Master Professional You’ve probably always heard and taught players to avoid the middle of the court or no-man’s land. In fact, learning to play shots from mid-court can be a great tactical advantage. From that spot, lobs are more easily covered, drop shots retrieved and offensive volleys can become a weapon.

Opponents have less time to read and react to your shot. Players just need to work on the new skills from the mid-court with a little coaching from you on the technique of these specialty shots.

Hear more about lesson programming for senior tennis players during the Woods’ seminar, “50 Shades of Gray,” Wednesday, Sept., 25 at 4:30 p.m. (ET). continued next page ADDvantage/July 2013 25

from previous page

A key to job security

by Paula Scheb, USPTA Master Professional In an informal survey of approximately 50 general managers, their definition of a good tennis program was one with a great tennis club events calendar. It was their No. 1 item on a list of 10 things that defined a good director of tennis.

Don’t underestimate the importance of this to your general manager. They assume we are great on-court teachers; they would not continue the interview process if they did not believe we were great “people-people.” It is their emphasis on this aspect of our job which ultimately makes programming extremely important to job security!

2013 World Conference tournament info ...

The 2013 USPTA International Championships will take place Sept. 20-23 in Orlando, Fla., before the USPTA World Conference at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress.

The tournament is part of the USPTA National Surface Championship Series.

The tournament will feature events in the following categories: men’s and women’s open singles and doubles competition and men’s and women’s 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70 and 75 singles and doubles competition and mixed open and 45 doubles.

Registration deadline is Sept. 9. The tournament and conference fees must be paid separately. For conference and tournament registration visit usptaworldconference. com or call 800-USPTA-4U. Only current USPTA-certified Professional members in good standing who preregister for the World Conference are eligible. 

Pick up more great tips from Paula Scheb during her seminar, “Event programming on steroids,” Wednesday, Sept. 25 at 10 a.m. (ET)

Hotel room reservations Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Please go to tinyurl.com/USPTAhotel to make your reservations. $132 – Single or double occupancy The published room rates do not include a daily hotel fee of $22 plus tax, which will be added to your rate and includes Internet, transportation to Disney, Universal and Sea World, watersports rental and more. Additional charges for self-parking ($13/night) or valet parking ($23/night) will apply. Any additional gratuity to the hotel staff is at your discretion.

An extra charge of $15 per person per day will be assessed for each additional guest.



All reservation requests must be received by Aug. 19, 2013.

Requests received after this date, or for dates other than the main conference period, will be accepted on a space-available basis only.

 Cancellation notice of seven days prior to arrival is required for a refund. Changes and cancellations should be done in writing. When canceling or changing your reservation by telephone, be sure to obtain a cancellation number in writing.



Please include a deposit for the first night’s room revenue and 10 percent tax as a deposit in the form of credit card (with an expiration date valid through date of departure) or check, which will hold your room until midnight of the arrival day.

 The hotel will make every effort to honor requests for specific types and locations of rooms. However, on occasion when such requests cannot be met, the hotel reserves the right to provide alternate accommodations.

Check-in time is after 4 p.m. E.T.

 Early departures will be charged one night’s room/plus tax.

Check-out time is at noon E.T.

You may also make reservations by calling 888-421-1442 and identifying yourself as a USPTA conference attendee.

Eight tips on getting the most out of the World Conference The 2013 USPTA World Conference in Orlando, with its new format and all of the exciting changes with the USPTA, is sure to be an engaging, educational and fun experience for USPTA members. To help make this experience worthwhile, here are eight tips to get the most out of this premier educational event in the tennis industry.

1. Do your homework. The World Conference website (usptaworldconference.com) is your guide between now and September.

Whether you need hotel information or want to see a schedule of events, planning ahead can help you avoid headaches later.

Check back frequently for updates.

The website has a list of the scheduled speakers and their bios, along with the topics they will discuss in their sessions.

Do your research about these experts in order to ask thoughtful questions to get the most out of each session or seminar. Write down your questions or points of interest you want to know more about so you will be prepared for each topic and get more information that a speaker may not have discussed otherwise.

2. Create your own agenda. The new format of the World Conference this year makes it easier than ever for conference attendees to plan ahead and prepare for which sessions fit their needs. Use the schedule at usptaworldconference. com to help you plan your day.

3. Get social. One of the best benefits of attending the World Conference is the opportunity to network and connect with colleagues in person, but you don’t have to wait until September to reach out. Social media is a great way to connect with pros, speakers and industry leaders you want to engage with. Leading up to the event, let others know you’ll be in Orlando through your LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter updates and follow the USPTA event page on Facebook. Find out which colleagues will be attending and exchange ideas on what their plans are.

The USPTA Facebook and Twitter pages are also great ways to stay connected and get up-to-date information. Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/uspta.official and on Twitter­­ @USPTA_Tennis. Use the hashtag #USPTAWC when posting updates to keep up with the conversation.

4. Be prepared. Make yourself a checklist of all the things you need to do and bring beforehand so you are not scrambling at the last minute. Pack appropriate attire. Make travel arrangements ahead of time and be aware of check-in and check-out times for your hotel. Don’t forget to keep receipts for your expenses for tax information if you need to do so. Familiarize yourself with 28 ADDvantage/July 2013

the hotel when you check in so you know where to go. Getting these details out of the way will save you time when you arrive in Orlando to enjoy your time at the conference.

5. Be on your game. Attending the World Conference is an opportunity to connect with industry leaders and colleagues, and improve your skills and expertise as a tennis-teaching professional. Be prepared to ask questions, engage and network with people in your field with a positive, friendly attitude. You never know what might come out of striking up a friendly conversation with someone while waiting for a session to begin, whether it be a job opportunity, a great tip or piece of advice, or simply a new contact or friend who can relate to the challenges and changes in your profession.

6. Get your credits. Wear your name badge at all times, not only to make it easier to identify yourself to new acquaintances but to make sure you scan the QR code on your badge to receive APC credits for attending sessions and seminars. Download an appropriate app now and test it out to make sure you know how to use it. Visit the World Conference website for details and recommended apps to utilize this system.

7. Follow up after the conference. Did you meet a pro with tips on something you’ve been struggling with? Perhaps you connected with a club manager who had lots of advice on moving to the business side of the industry. Take advantage of the opportunity you had to connect with these industry leaders and thank them for their help or simply shoot an email to say nice to meet you.

You never know how these contacts can benefit you in the future.

Also, if there was something that really worked or something that you felt could be improved upon for next year, don’t be afraid to let us know. We love to receive feedback from our members on how we can better serve them.

8. Remember to have fun! While the World Conference is the premier educational event in the tennis industry, it is also designed for everyone to enjoy themselves. There are tons of social events and activities in the Orlando area and plenty of opportunities to meet up with old friends or make new ones and have a great time.  www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Orlando backdrop provides several activities for World Conference attendees and guests

T

he 2013 USPTA World Conference is slated to bring together the best in the tennis industry, but with this year’s event in Orlando, it is a great way for friends, colleagues and families to connect and have fun together, too. The World Conference’s new format this year allows attendees to choose which sessions are most important to attend, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the city of Orlando.

First, get your day started throughout the week with an energizing cardio workout. Our schedule features Cardio Tennis in the mornings. This is a tennis class that is turned into an upbeat aerobic (and anaerobic) workout with lots of movement and popular music. It’s a real high-energy session with music.

One of the best advantages of this year’s conference being in Orlando is the opportunity to enjoy Walt Disney World at a discounted price.

USPTA World Conference attendees may purchase discounted tickets to enjoy any of Disney’s theme parks with options to add a Park Hopper pass to visit multiple theme parks or multi-day passes at an even bigger discount. (Please note: these are advance purchase tickets, and the Ticket Store closes at 9 p.m. (ET) on Sept. 23, 2013.*) Head to usptaworldconference.com and click on the Hotel/Travel tab to visit the special link exclusively for USPTA World Conference attendees for additional information on pricing.

Adventure seekers can also enjoy other theme parks in the Orlando area such as Universal Studios and the Islands of Adventure, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter or Legoland. Discover the marine wildlife at Sea World or Discovery Cove, or take a boat ride through a Florida swamp at one of the various swamp tours

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

offered throughout the area.

If shopping is your idea of an adventure, Orlando is filled with plenty of places to whet your spending appetite. The Orlando Premium Outlets – Vineland Avenue are just three miles around the corner, and the Florida Mall and Mall at Millenia are both a little more than 10 miles down the road, to name a few.

There are also tons of fun things to do without even leaving the hotel.

The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress has various activities whether you like to stay active or sit back and relax. Enjoy a beautiful Florida day with a round of golf or go on one of three trails for a nature walk or bike ride around the 1,500-acre grounds.

Lake Windsong, the private 21-acre lake on the property, is a fantastic water adventure spot for guests. Take a leisurely ride in a paddleboat or relax in a kayak. There are a variety of water crafts including hydro bikes, canoes, aqua cycles and sailboats.

Rather sit back and relax? Catch a sunset on the 1,000-foot white sand beach, head to the hotel spa for a massage or salon services, or just kick back by the pool without ever leaving the hotel.

Whatever your or your guests’ idea of a good time is, the USPTA World Conference in Orlando provides several fun things to help you enjoy your stay. See you in Orlando this September!  * Disney ticket pricing may change without notice, there is no advanced notice of ticket pricing changes. If you plan on purchasing tickets, you are advised to place your ticket orders as soon as possible. Visit usptaworldconference.com under the Hotel/Travel tab for more information on how to obtain discounted tickets.

ADDvantage/July 2013

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Certification Exam Preparation Part II – Private & group lessons

by Ryan Thompson, USPTA

I

had been teaching private and group lessons for about a year and a half and felt pretty comfortable handling both environments when I went in to teach the lesson portion of the USPTA test.

Even though I felt a little more seasoned with the teaching part of the test, there were still a few curveballs that came my way that I was unprepared for.

Keep in mind that the grading for this test is not done on an average. If you ace every portion of the test but fall short in just one area, your overall rating will suffer. So it’s important to be on the ball with every facet of the exam on test day.

Stay on task On test day you will be given a very explicit technique to teach.

This technique will range from the forehand volley to teaching topspin. Make sure you do not stray from teaching your given technique one iota! For my private lesson, I was told to teach the slice spin serve. During my lesson I had my student warm up by hitting a couple of flat serves and a couple of spin serves. While she was doing this I discussed some of the differences between the two serves. Big mistake! I was docked points for not staying on task when I talked about the flat serve. Please don’t repeat my error.

Play by the rules While you may be able to teach a technique using your own flair and inventive way of getting the information communicated, be aware that the testers grading you are looking for very specific items covered in each lesson. They want textbook, and that’s exactly what you should give them if you want a solid score.

You can find exactly what the testers will be looking for under the “Upgrades” tab on the USPTA member’s only website where there will be links to the different parts on the test including the private and group lesson portions. In addition to this you can go to lms.uspta.com and access the online review course, something I’d highly recommend. (Contact the membership department if you don’t remember your login information.)

It’s definitely worth taking a look at either the review course or the PDFs on the USPTA website because there are a couple of very specific things your testers will be on the lookout for. Some of these items include asking each student three things about themselves, listing three things about yourself, assigning them drills they can do off the tennis court, saying each of their names six times and so on.

Be prepared for the unexpected After working as a full-time professional for more than five years and with two different clubs, I’ve taught my fair share of unorthodox lessons. One of the things I came across on test day during my private and group lessons definitely caught me off guard though. For my private lesson I taught this sweet 65-year-old woman who was a 3.0. For my group lesson, not only did I teach this same woman, but she was joined by three other people who couldn’t have been more different in age and skill level!

Like I noted above, the testers want it all to be done by the book, regardless of the situation. So if you end up teaching the same person in your group lesson that you had in your private, or vice versa, go through your checklist from top to bottom all the same.

Find a practice partner Giving these lessons will most likely be different from ones you’ve done before, so it’s important to run through a practice lesson or two and make sure you get it right. Go through the test materials and come up with a checklist of items your testers will want you to go over. This checklist should include grips, footwork, your private or group warm-up, etc. It will feel bizarre to teach a lesson and check off items, but it’s better to practice it all and feel a little odd doing so than give what you think is a great lesson on test day only to receive a P-3 in that portion of the exam and have no clue where you fell short. www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Cross your T’s and dot your I’s Remember that when you are teaching these lessons to be professional the entire time. This begins with coming to the exam dressed professionally and ends with you cleaning up your court when you’re done. This may seem obvious, but there was a person in my group who finished up his group lesson with serves and just walked off the court when he was done teaching, leaving at least a hundred balls on the court. It’s not hard to think what ran through the grader’s mind when he had to clean up after this particular professional.

Make sure when test day arrives that you’ve done your homework ahead of time and are ready for anything unexpected that might come your way.  Ryan Thompson, USPTA, is writing a series of articles based on his experiences taking the Certification Exam. He has been a teaching pro at the Claremont Country Club in Pleasant Hill, Calif., for five years and recently joined the staff at Blackhawk Country Club. He played collegiate tennis for U.C. Santa Cruz and U.C. San Diego from 1998-2002. Thompson is a USPTAcertified Professional and received a B.A. in Communications from U.C. San Diego in 2003. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in sport management at the University of San Francisco.

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James Ridgley honored as Washington D.C. Tennis Professional of the Year

by Joni Hannah, USPTA

J

ames Ridgley has certainly come a long way in his tennis career without ever leaving his hometown of Washington, D.C. Ridgley first learned to play tennis when he was 9 years old with his neighborhood friends using a tennis racquet that he made himself out of plywood. Now, at the age of 80 years young, Ridgley is the recipient of this year’s USPTA Mid-Atlantic Division award for the Tennis Professional of the Year in Washington, D.C. Inspired by photos of his childhood hero, Pancho Gonzalez, Ridgley was an avid recreational player when he was young. He began playing tournaments in his mid-30s and went on to win numerous national titles in both singles and doubles in the USPTA and in the American Tennis Association. (The AfricanAmerican tennis organization dates back to 1916 and was formed to provide competitive opportunities for players banned from playing in then-segregated USLTA tournaments.) Most recently, Ridgley won national titles in singles in the 80-and-over age group at the USPTA International Championships in Monterey, Calif., and the

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ATA Nationals in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. In addition to his playing ability, Ridgley has worked tirelessly in the community to grow the game of tennis and has won numerous service awards, including the USTA/Washington Tennis Association Outstanding Service Award.

During his 26 years working for the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Ridgley was the driving force behind the Center’s decision to build six clay courts and two lighted hard courts in the 1970s that are still in use today.

Since his retirement from NASA in 1988, Ridgley has owned and operated Ridgley Tennis Shop, which sells strings, racquets and other tennis equipment in the D.C. area. He also donates his time to many worthy charitable causes, including assisting with the Washington Area Health and Fitness Expo for the past 20 years.

Ridgley recognizes the important role that tennis has played in his life. “If I didn’t have tennis I might not be alive,” he said. Well, Ridgley is not only alive and well at 80, but is leading the way for his tennis professional peers in Washington, D.C. 

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Pro to pro – tips and techniques from USPTA members

The Australian formation trick will leave your opponents dumbfounded

by David Kamisar, USPTA The Australian formation (where the server and net partner line up on the same side) has many advantages in doubles:

1. Have you and your partner start in a normal doubles formation (where the server is on one side, and the net partner on the other).

1. It is easier to poach since the net player is closer to the middle.

2. Then have the server call out “Australian formation” and have the net partner move to the same side of the court as the server (note, the server may have to move a little toward the middle as well).

2. You can force the returner to hit to the server’s stronger side (forehand or backhand).

3. It changes things up.

4. It freaks some people out (a lot of people will tell you you are on the wrong side) and some don’t even know it is legal.

However, once you line up in the formation, and maybe explain to them that it is legal, it loses its effect giving the opponent too much time to figure out where to return the serve.

To solve this problem, simply follow these steps:

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3. Serve the ball immediately (as soon as you and your partner have adjusted your position. Note, if your net partner uses signals, he or she could give you a signal just before you serve).

By serving immediately after you have lined up in the Australian position, you will give your opponents no time to think about where to place the return. They won’t know what hit them (maybe the ball after they return it to your net partner). 

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The USPTA and Emirates Airline US Open Series announce exciting collaboration

T

he USPTA and the USTA have joined forces to make the Emirates Airline US Open Series available to the USPTA and its members. The partnership is modeled after other successful agreements already in place in Stanford, New Haven and Cincinnati. The goal is to develop partnerships in the other Emirates Airline US Open Series cities and use the Series to promote tennis and the USPTA. “The Emirates Airline US Open Series is a great platform for tennis fans, old and new, to enjoy our sport,” said J. Wayne ­Richmond, General Manager, Emirates Airline US Open Series. “The teaching pros are so vital to the success of tennis throughout the country and we are delighted to work with the USPTA on several fronts to grow our sport.”

The Emirates Airline US Open Series is in its 10th year and links nine events during the five-week period leading into the US Open. The Series has boasted a television audience of more than 30 million in past years and an overall attendance of more than 750,000 in 2012. This year, the Series will air more than 200 hours of live tennis and more than 350 hours total.

“The USPTA has an obligation to support professional tournaments in the U.S. We owe it to those tournament directors to create interest in their events with the consumers that we touch by encouraging them to attend Emirates Airline US Open tournaments in those respective markets,” said USPTA CEO John Embree. “In return, our members receive a tangible benefit by being able to go to the tournaments early in the week as a guest of the tournament.”

For more information on the Emirates Airline US Open Series please visit www.emiratesusopenseries.com. 

The Emirates Airline US Open Series links nine events during the five-week period leading into the US Open.

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CLASSIFIEDS Camps TENNIS CAMP INSTRUCTOR’S MANUAL – Training tool and

resource for your summer staff.

See sample at the Coach’s Store at www.jobeasier.com.

Subscriptions FREE SAMPLE Bob Larson’s Tennis Jobs newsletter. Daily newsletter lists new tennis jobs in USA. For sample, email jobs@tennisnews.com.

Clay court maintenance

Tennis products

The Smith 3C Clay Court Conditioners are the next generation of highly engineered/ powered equipment to keep your fast-dry courts in desirable likenew condition. Manufactured in the U.S. and available for immediate shipment starting under $3,000. You can scarify a light top-dressing, mill 5/8" back to like-new powder, loosen hard packed sub-surface watered courts, or remove algae. Rejuvenate and renew your fast-dry courts. Call M. Kohlman at 805-550-0149 or email mkohlman@tcsn.net.

For more information, visit ­www. claycourtconditioner.com.

PRO/COACH PRICING on racquets, apparel, shoes, bags, balls, strings and accessories. Get baskets, carts, training equipment, books, videos and more. www.TennisExpress.com/800833-6615.

Drills NEED TENNIS DRILLS? USPTA Master Professional Jorge Capestany’s new website has more than 700 videos of tennis drills and tips. Log on to www. tennisdrills.tv to see (and print) more than 18 free samples.

Employment TennisJobs.com – The tennis industry’s ONLY international tennis professional employment service. Subscribe today!

QM-1 Portable Camera Support.

Extendable pole, precalibrated system places on fence, from either side, quick and easy. MyTennisTools.com.

GRIP COACH is a practical product that has simple and easyto-follow guidelines, making it ideal for adults and kids to learn tennis grips. Players and coaches love the Grip Coach because it maximizes coaching time for everyone. Visit: www.gripcoach. com.au.

VACATION OpportuniTIes 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.

Rates: $30 for 20 words, minimum per issue. 50 cents per word thereafter.

Prepayment is required. Supply typed copy and include full name, telephone number, credit card number and expiration date. Email magazine@uspta.org or fax to 713-358-7794, 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. www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Career Development

conventions ( Division conventions, 5 credits; World Conference 8 credits; dates subject to change)

exams, upgrades & certification review courses (4 credits for PTCA I segment)

Sept. 23-27 USPTA World Conference

Orlando, Fla.

Nov. 15-16 Middle States Division

Princeton, N.J.

July 6 July 6 July 8 July 13-14 July 13-14 July 13-14 July 14 July 15 July 19-20 July 21 July 22

Fort Wayne, Ind. Myrtle Beach, S.C. Frederick, Md. Boston Jackson, Miss.

Boca Raton, Fla. Des Moines, Iowa Oklahoma City, Okla.

Houston* St. Louis, Mo. Columbus, Ohio

July 27 July 27-28 July 28 July 28 Aug. 1 Aug. 2-3 Aug. 4 Aug. 4 Aug. 4-5 Aug. 8-9 Aug. 9

Kansas City, Mo. Louisville, Ky. Ocala, Fla. Coronado, Calif.

Lakewood, Colo.

Vancouver, Wash.

Hilton Head Island, S.C. Dallas Los Angeles Port Washington, N.Y. Wilmington, Del.

* This course is held at the USPTA World Headquarters.

taut workshops

Exam reservations must be made at least 21 days prior to the dates listed. Each date includes an exam, upgrade and PTCA I 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 – $95; 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.

Aug. 12

Florida Division Boca Raton, Fla.

Oct. 4

Texas Division Austin, Texas

Oct. 12

Pacific Northwest Division Portland, Ore.

Nov. 1

New England Division Woodstock, Vt.

Nov. 9

Northern California Division Larkspur, Calif.

Nov. 15

Middle States Division Princeton, N.J.

Leadership: Strategies for the workplace, Sept. 25, Orlando, Fla., B. Fackel

Nov. 15

Mid-Atlantic Division College Park, Md.

Mental training, Sept. 27, Orlando, Fla., L. Beltrame

Dec. 6

Southern Division Atlanta

specialty courses Cardio Tennis TRX, Sept. 23, Orlando, Fla., M. Krause Tennis footwork and movement, Sept. 23, Orlando, Fla., M. Kovacs 10 and Under Tennis: Teaching progressions using kid friendly buzzwords, Sept. 24, Orlando, Fla., F. Hassan

cardio tennis July 12 Sept. 23

Homewood, Ill. Orlando, Fla.

accredited professional coach Register your Accredited Professional Coach (APC) and specialty course credits earned with the USPTA SmartCode Education System. This uses your smartphone to instantly register your attendance to all seminars and specialty courses earning APC. To use the system at a seminar, general session or specialty course, you must scan two QR codes. One QR code is on your conference badge. The second QR code will be in your conference notebook and cannot be scanned until the end of the session or the beginning of the next session.

If you do not have a smartphone, you may use someone else’s. Forms are available upon request.

Please visit www.cardiotennis.com/courses to register online.

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www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

ADDvantage/July 2013

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Industry action Member news USPTA Master Professional Raul Saad has been selected as a Professional Tennis Coaches Association Master Professional. The PTCA (www.ptcatennis.net) is the ATP & WTA coaches association, and most of the world’s top coaches are members. Saad is one of only three coaches in the world to have a Master Professional status in both the USPTA and PTCA. Additionally, Saad has been nominated to serve as a member of the PTCA Board of Directors.

Mark Pachtner, director of tennis at Troon Country Club in Scottsdale, Ariz., is the 2012 USTA SW Michael Rodriquez Ambassador of Tennis award recipient. This award recognizes the person who demonstrates good sportsmanship and love of the game, and encourages the growth of the game at all levels.

The USPTA Florida Division conference was held at PGA National in Palm Beach, Fla., in June. USPTA Florida Division Hall of Fame inductee Butch Buchholz and USPTA Florida Division Professional of the Year Richard Centerbar are shown below.

From left: John Embree, Brad Leu, Jeff Cohen and Richard Centerbar – USPTA Florida Division Professional of the Year.

The USTA Southern California section hosted its 17th Annual Southern California Wheelchair Section Championships on June 1-2. California Division Pro Cari Buck was on hand serving as the junior tournament director running both the junior singles and doubles divisions as well as running a clinic for all the kids after their matches on Saturday.

From left: Brad Leu, Butch Buchholz and Jeff Cohen at the 2013 USPTA Florida Division Hall of Fame Ceremony at PGA National.

Doug Eng, USPTA, was selected as a recipient of the 2012 United States Olympic Committee Coach of the Year honors. The winners were recognized at the USOC Coach of the Year Awards Reception, which took place as part of the 2013 National Coaching Conference in Colorado Springs, Colo. Eng took home the Doc Councilman Science Award, which recognizes a coach who utilizes scientific techniques and equipment as an integral part of his/her coaching methods or has created innovative ways to use sport science.

Eng adapted a mental training manual for young athletes.

His curriculum has played a critical role in developing athletes at the grassroots level by making basic performance intervention techniques and sport science more appealing to younger athletes.

A regular contributor to USPTA’s ADDvantage magazine, Eng provides a comprehensive approach to sport science and performance at all levels of competition. His philosophy is rooted in feedback from athletes and coaches, which he applies to improve training techniques and reduce injuries through research and collaboration.

Manufacturers

The Club of Riverdale (www.tcr-nyc.com), a premier fitness and tennis club in Riverdale, N.Y., is the first club in the country to offer its members PlaySight Interactive Ltd.’s (www.playsight.com) “SmartCourt” computerized tennis analysis system. Designed to help tennis players of all levels become better, the SmartCourt system is beyond even those used at Wimbledon and the US Open.

Using a five-camera system, SmartCourt digitally records and analyzes every aspect of a tennis match. SmartCourt gives realtime, post-match or post-lesson instant video review with complete debriefing solutions, automatic stats, bio-mechanical analysis and 3D tactical game management, in addition to line-calling and more.

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SmartCourt can instantly isolate specific video segments.

Players can watch video clips whenever they want, accompanied by statistical analysis previously available only to professionals.

All activity during a match is recorded, analyzed and uploaded to Playsight.com where it is stored in members’ personal accounts. Data can be reviewed and shared via email or social media.

PlaySight SmartCourt uses advanced algorithms and image-understanding software.

It knows where the ball and the players are, determines whether players hit a serve, forehand or backhand shot and can call shots in or out of bounds. It can even measure ball speed, player mileage and calories burned. For more information, visit www.tcr-nyc.com. www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Industry action Tennis Across America Through a unique program launched 10 years ago, the Boynton Beach Recreation & Parks Department, its Education & Youth Advisory Board, and Hunters Run Golf & Racquet Club conducted a Youth Tennis Carnival on the Hunters Run courts for kids of all ages.

The event was the idea of Phyllis Stern, a longtime Hunters Run member and tennis player and a member of the Education & Youth Advisory Board. The primary goal is to introduce children, some who have never even picked up a racquet, to the game of tennis.

Hunters Run residents donated old racquets as well as tennis trophies, while director of tennis Dave Cordrey, USPTA, and his entire staff worked hard and used all their resources to make this a fun and educational experience for the kids.

Recently 20 local children, ages 5-14, took part in the free Carnival. Each picked out a racquet, was assigned one of three courts, and started to learn the basics of tennis for the first time. On the courts with Cordrey were Hunters Run pro Madeleine Hakala, Dave’s son Carlyle, John Barwick, Drew Hafets and Felix Raymond of the tennis staff, and other volunteers helping the kids.

“As we know at Hunters Run, it is a game that can be played for a lifetime,” Cordrey said. “We hope this will at least get them started in a relaxed, fun event.”

Parents, city officials and Hunters Run members were in attendance to watch the Carnival. “The City of Boynton Beach Recreation & Parks Department and the Education & Youth Advisory Board value the partnership we have with Hunters Run and appreciate Mr. Cordrey and all the tennis pros who so generously donate their time and talent to make this event happen,” said attendee, Sherri Claude, Assistant to the Recreation & Parks Director.

On May 17, USPTA Professional Annette Malloy conducted tennis drills and supervised games for the students at St. Mary’s Visitation in Elm Grove, Wis. The free clinic was part of the Field Day activities for the K3-8th grade school. Rain forced the event to take place at the school, not at the park with tennis courts. Annette used 10 and Under-sized nets, orange and red balls, and small racquets in the parking lot. The kids were grouped by grade and the games and activities were age-related. Older kids played rally games and younger children were given a short clinic and did skill activities. Many of the kids enjoyed hitting balls against the school wall.

USPTA Tennis Director Chris Robb along with his USPTA staff Elliott Law, Nick Page and Dave Hicks conducted a Tennis Across America Day celebration recently at the Ketchum Downtown YMCA tennis facility in Los Angeles. More than 35 people took part in this annual event.

Pro Jim Emerson, USPTA, returned to assist for the 18th year at Biola’s Tennis Across America event. His task was to work with some promising young players. He also offered some great guidance to their parents, which will enhance their future endeavors.

The annual event served as a chance for the children of La Mirada, Calif., and nearby residents as well as Biola University faculty, staff and alumni to experience tennis for the first time. That aspect of the event has proved to be a valuable opportunity for student tennis players, summer staff and the coaches to get better acquainted.

The most popular court at the event was the young kids’ court.

The little ones rotated around stations and learned skill development activities, including balance, agility, tracking, throwing, catching, receiving and striking. The second portion of their day had relays that allowed kids to work together as a team. The final portion matched up college students with kids two at a time to give each child the opportunity to sustain a rally and get a sense of what tennis is really like. www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

The Biola TAA event was led by members of the men and women’s tennis teams, NJTL summer tennis staff, and volunteers who helped instruct young wheelchair players. A group of students from the advanced tennis class provided the direction for the young kids.

ADDvantage/July 2013

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$13,000 USPTA Hard Court Championships

Oct. 18-20, 2013 – Tyler, Texas

Location:

Tyler, Texas, is located 90 miles southeast of Dallas and 80 miles west of Shreveport, La. American and United offer regional jet service into Tyler Pounds Regional Airport.

Events:

MOS, MOD, M35S, M45S, M55S, M65S, M75S, M40D, M50D, WOS, WOD, W40S, W50S, W40D, OPEN MXD, 40MXD

Eligibility:

Must be Professional-level USPTA-certified member in good standing at time of entry.

Recreational Coaches and applicants are not eligible. USTA membership is not required.

Entry fees:

$80 for each singles event and $40 per player for each doubles event entered. Call 903-581-7788 to enter with credit card. It’s easy to set up a free CourtsideUSA account to enter online at no additional cost to you!

Entry includes: Tournament T-shirt, Friday evening courtside pasta party and Saturday courtside breakfast and lunch. Consolation offered in all events with a minimum of $100 to winning teams.

Deadline:

Entries must be received through http://www.courtsideusa.com/club/uspta-championships/

by Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2013.

Extras:

Limited free housing available. Please email housing requests to jsciarro@gmail.com.

Players must be registered for tournament to request housing. Hotels: Holiday Inn South Broadway 903-561-5800, USPTA rate $89; Country Inn & Suites 903-561-7459, USPTA rate $80; Hilton Garden Inn 903-509-1166; Comfort Suites 903-534-0999; Marriott Courtyard 903-509-4411; Quality Inn 903-597-1301; Priceline options also available.

Prize money:

Prize money based on number of entries in each event. Men’s and women’s open singles winners are guaranteed a minimum of $1,900 with full 16 draws. We will offer first match loser consolation in all events and prize money to consolation winner.

Sponsors:

The Original Evans AC, Quality Investments, Texas Spine & Joint Hospital, Lago del Pino, Tyler Beverages, TCMC Inc., McMillin Holdings, Yvette Brunette State Farm Insurance

For more information, please contact Jim Sciarro at 903-581-7788 or at jsciarro@gmail.com.