Inside this issue Prince Gives Players TeXtreme Advantage – 44 Leadership and Coaching – 46 Influential Women of the USPTA – 53 Departments: 40 CEO’s Message 41 USPTA News 42 Vice President’s Message 44 Endorsee News 46 Inside Coaching 50 Growing Your Business 52 USPTA News 54 Master Pro Corner 56 Career Development 57 U30's Serve 60 Member News Read more articles online at www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com On the cover: USTA to Launch Thousands of Tennis Play Events. Host a Tennis Play Event to Promote Your Upcoming Programming. See Page 50.
CEO’s Message
Enhancing value
O
ver the past 12 months, we have worked hard to create quantifiable and tangible benefits for our membership. It just is not good enough to have product discounts for goods and services. Having liability insurance is a necessity, but there has to be more to being a member of the USPTA that will not only impact your pocket book positively but prolong your professional career. Two of the watershed benefits that materialized in 2014 were the establishment of the Retirement Gold+ program and the ability of our members to get health care coverage for themselves and their families. While many professionals already have a qualified retirement plan and/or medical insurance set up through their employer, so many of our independent professionals have neither. Yet, we all know how vital it is to have both. Having family health care, even for those professionals with pre-existing conditions, is now more accessible than ever before through our partnership with Digital Insurance and Woodruff-Sawyer. Planning for your long-term future has to begin early. Just a small monthly contribution to an investment savings account in a non-qualified plan (after tax) through our third party provider (Paloma Financial) over 20 to 30 years will give our young members a start to having financial security. So when their bodies can no longer take the pounding of being on court and it is time to hang up their sneakers, they won’t have to worry about how they will live. A unique element of the Retirement Gold+ program is the vendor contribution that so many of our endorsees are making to support those pros who purchase their products for their pro shops. Why leave money on the table when you can promote the products of our endorsees and benefit from the contributions that they will make to your future?
40 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
by John Embree I am delighted to report that there are currently six companies that have readily embraced this aspect of their endorsement relationship with the USPTA. Topping the list is Prince, which was the first to commit to a percentage of their sales on tennis racquets, balls, accessories and Play and Stay products. Since that time, Fromuth has stepped up to offer the same level of contributions based on the purchases of Nike footwear and apparel for retail. NetKnacks and HopA-Razzi followed suit, but in their case you don’t have to have a pro shop to benefit. Just by purchasing NetKnacks’ promotional items and trophies and Hop-a-Razzi’s ball hoppers, you will get something back from each. Toward the end of 2014, we added two new endorsees that also recognize the opportunity to grow their business within the tennis marketplace. 2XU is an Australian company that is a leader in compression apparel. They launched their brand through running, cycling, triathlons, etc., but saw the potential in tennis. Through our new endorsement, they too will contribute to individual Retirement Gold+ accounts based on purchases. Power Plate is whole body vibration technology that has helped professional athletes in all sports with recuperation, muscle stimulation, flexibility and strength. They specialize in machines for commercial use at health clubs and fitness facilities but also offer options for consumers at home. If a USPTA Professional can influence his or her club to bring in a machine or encourage any client to purchase a home model, that professional will receive a generous contribution to his or her Retirement Gold+ account. I would be remiss if I did not also mention our prescription drug card and our affiliated partnership with TrueCar.com. At some point, everyone needs to buy or lease a new or preowned vehicle. I myself have done it
and TrueCar.com made the experience of getting a new car so much more hassle free and pleasant. I knew the savings that I would be receiving and there was no haggling with the dealership. The savings that members are receiving from using the prescription card range from 40 to 80 percent, and with every transaction, the USPTA Foundation receives a $1 donation and the Breast Cancer Research Foundation gets $.50. Those savings are real. I am delighted to report that several other companies recognize the value of being associated with the USPTA and have been approved by our board. Announcements of those endorsements will be forthcoming in the weeks and months ahead. But in each instance, it is up to us to get behind these brands, not just in words but in action. Buying their products or encouraging your customer base to buy their products is what makes these new agreements “win-win” for everyone. The common theme with all of our endorsees or affiliations is that we, as an association, have to perform. Only when products are purchased by our members do the individual members benefit and therefore, the USPTA benefits. In today’s economy, companies seek those affiliations that will grow their business. The days of people paying large guarantees just for the sake of having visibility and exposure are long gone. We have to prove our worth and deliver on the premise that our members can influence business and drive sales for the brands that have put their trust in us. I realize that it takes time for our members to recognize new opportunities that exist with our endorsees. Each agreement that is constructed brings value to our membership. By taking advantage of the products and services being offered by our endorsees and affiliated partners, there should be no hesitation about writing your check each year for your dues. h
USPTA News
Proposed Slate of 2016-2017 National Board
T
he national Nominating Committee has completed its task and proudly submits the following slate for the 2016-2017 USPTA national Board of Directors. Additional nominations may be made by the general membership in accordance with the USPTA Bylaws, Article VII, Section 3. Procedures and information for running for a board position may be obtained from the national office after April 1, 2015. In order for a new candidate to be added to the ballot, he or she must be nominated by at least 120 members. Only one nominee per office will be added to the slate. h
President
Chuck Gill
First vice president
Gary Trost
Vice presidents
Alan Cutler Feisal Hassan Jack Michalko Diane Selke
TM
R.J. Tessier Immediate past president
Tom McGraw
As submitted by Molly Card Beckman, USPTA Nominating Committee Chair.
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Vice President’s Message Professional Tennis Management Programs Build the Next Generation of Tennis Professionals
by Dan Moster
An Interview with Derek Ameel, Ferris State University Professional Tennis Management Director 1. If you had time to give a quick elevator pitch about USPTA’s Professional Tennis Management program, what would you say? In 1986, the USPTA and Ferris State University worked to create the country's first four-year bachelor of business degree in Professional Tennis Management. It combined an emphasis on teaching tennis skills and the management of tennis as a business, which uniquely prepares its students for tremendous careers in the tennis industry. 2. In a more in-depth conversation, what additional information would you share? The PTM program was developed to meet the increasing demand for well-trained tennis professionals. USPTA recommends and accredits the Ferris program and uses it as an industry model for other such programs.* The Ferris program provides a solid, well-rounded business foundation in addition to the marketing or resort management emphasis. Additionally, all PTM students become USPTA-certified tennis professionals upon graduation. Courses include management, marketing, accounting, sales, retail merchandising, computer information, law and other business courses. Classes and hands-on workshops in racquet repair, clay court maintenance, tournament administration and teaching techniques are presented by USPTA experts. Ferris PTM students receive onthe-job training by completing two paid outside internships at clubs, resorts and facilities all over the United States. This is a great way for USPTA pros to hire interns for a summer to round out their teaching staffs. 3. You are in a very unique position, not only as a graduate of a PTM program, but you are now a director of Ferris’ PTM program. Briefly tell your story. I started teaching tennis in 1983, the
42 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
summer before my senior year of high school. It was mainly to help the other players on my high school team. I really enjoyed it and it was very rewarding because I saw their improvement; I felt like I had a knack for teaching. After graduation, I ran a small summer tennis camp for the local park and rec program. Later I became the assistant tennis coach for my high school. I read everything I could find on teaching tennis and really wanted to be the best teacher possible, but had no real mentors at the time. I was selftaught as both a player and teacher. In 1986, I became aware of a new program at Ferris State University in professional tennis management. I was convinced this was the opportunity I was looking for, but unfortunately I lacked the financial resources. In 1987, I enrolled in a community college and by 1991, I was finally able to save and borrow enough to transfer to Ferris. I was the first person in my family to attend and graduate from college, so it was a pretty big accomplishment and confidence booster in what I could achieve if I put my mind to something. Immersing myself in the Ferris PTM program allowed me to not only expand my network in tennis but really understand the industry and business. I learned so many things that became the foundation for my career as a tennis professional. 4. Do all PTM students have to become teaching professionals? Is that the only job they prepare for? No, however most of the entry-level jobs in the tennis industry are on-court teaching positions. This is where the demand is, and in my opinion, the best way to start in the industry. I believe this allows you to have a better understanding of what is happening in our industry, starts developing your network, and best prepares you for the transition into other positions
within our industry. The program prepares you for the workforce and many graduates make a seamless transition down the road if they choose. 5. What kinds of jobs and involvement in the tennis industry do graduates have? Traditional jobs can range from on-court teaching professionals, directors of tennis, general managers, and even business owners. Others have moved toward manufacturing, sales and advertising to name a few. Many have become involved with their USTA and USPTA sections from paid staff to executive directors. 6. How have graduates of USPTA’s Professional Tennis Management programs made their mark in the tennis industry? Many have been USPTA award winners, sit on national boards and sectional committees, own tennis businesses, and even publish national tennis-related magazines. 7. What can USPTA members do to spread the word about PTM programs and make an impact on growing our PTM programs? Education is critical for any industry to be successful and the best education in tennis is through PTM programs. We must build the next generation of tennis professionals, and the PTM programs need the full support of our membership. The industry has made some great improvements, but unless we continue to increase the skills, ability, and knowledge of our entry-level tennis professionals, we will be shy of our full potential as an industry. h *USPTA pros can encourage students interested in pursuing a career in the tennis industry to look at any of the unique PTM programs. Go to uspta.com/education and click on Professional Tennis Management in the menu for links to all of the accredited PTM programs.
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Endorsee News
Prince Gives Players TeXtreme Advantage
T
his spring, Prince® Global Sports is launching a new line of racquets featuring TeXtreme® technology. As the Official Racquet of the USPTA, Prince sees this new line as a game-changing opportunity to solve the technical and performance contradictions of today’s racquets. By using a material designed to be thinner, lighter and more durable than traditional woven fibers, Prince’s TeXtreme line provides a unique and highly beneficial set of advantages. Using Spread Tows instead of yarns, TeXtreme Spread Tow woven laminates are created with a thinner structure and straighter carbon fibers to create a composite material that is 20 percent lighter in weight with improved stiffness. Applying this material in the shaft and lower hoop with a 45-degree orientation, Prince has reduced racquet twisting by 25 percent without increasing overall frame stiffness or weight. “As we looked at the game of tennis, it was alarming to see how racquets were getting stiffer and stiffer in order to keep up with the demands of the modern game,” said Tim Puttock, Manager Hardgoods Design and Development, Prince Global Sports. “A stiffer racquet will give more stability when taking aggressive swings, however this increase in stability comes with a significant loss in touch and feel. Prince’s TeXtreme line solves that technical and performance contradiction. “By adding TeXtreme to the frame, we are able to provide superior torsional stability, which results in increased power and control. The structure of the TeXtreme material has a mechanical benefit without losing the material characteristics of the fiber for optimal performance. The orientation isolates the resistance to twisting while allowing the frame to bend – delivering all of the playability benefits while reducing potential damage to the player’s arm.”
44 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
The new TeXtreme® racquet models will be available in Spring 2015. There are four frames in the new TeXtreme line. The Tour line offers the Tour 95, perfect for players who want precision but don’t want to give up the classic feel; and the Tour 100T, the perfect blend of performance, allowing easy head speed while still delivering explosive power. In the Warrior line there is the Warrior 107, which offers greater power and a more responsive feel than current Tweener frames, allowing the player to hit with more penetration from the baseline; and the Warrior 107T, which is the most versatile racquet of the line. A true baseline weapon, it delivers increased maneuverability designed to elevate the game of those players who are looking to play aggressively from the baseline but still need a more maneuverable frame. “TeXtreme provides an increase in power and control. As a player hits the ball there is less racquet twist and more power is transferred to the ball,” said Puttock. “This also reduces the outbound angle, producing a more consistent ball trajectory. With a smaller
range of angles, the player will have more consistency with each shot.” If you’re wondering how all this new technology looks, the entire Prince TeXtreme line has a distinctive look that is certain to be the talk of the tennis community in 2015. And true to Prince Tennis history, this is definitely a technology that can be felt and seen. “Prince has always prided itself on having visible technology,” said Puttock. “When we apply the TeXtreme to the frames, it is clearly visible from the shaft up to the bottom of the hoop. This is not smoke and mirrors; it’s real, it’s visible and players will feel the difference when they play.” Developed and play tested at the Prince Innovation Center located at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla., the TeXtreme line will be soft launched at the BNP Paribas Challenge, March 9-22 in Indian Wells, Calif. The new TeXtreme® racquet models will be available in Spring 2015. For more information, contact your local Prince Brand Manager or visit teamprince.com. h
Inside Coaching
Leadership and Coaching
By Alan Cutler, USPTA Master Professional, and Bruce Levine, USPTA
W
hat makes a great leader, and how does that relate to being a great coach? Great coaches tend to be great leaders, but are you born with those skills or can they be developed? Much money has been made in attempting to define leadership. And while an accurate definition of a leader still alludes us, we all know a leader when we see one. There’s the neighborhood kid that the other kids follow, or the athlete who can turn the team spirit around with a gesture or remark. Some people are born with natural leadership ability. For others, it takes a little more to develop these leadership skills. What is a leader, someone who gets people to follow and listen, to buy into their goals and objectives, and gets them done? And isn’t that what great coaches do also? But just as not all leaders are directors or supervisors, and not all directors are leaders, the same is true for coaches. Leaders are big picture thinkers, who look down the road at the desired results. They “do the right thing and not just do things right,” according to Warren Bennis, author and internationally recognized authority on leadership. Leaders take educated risks, learn quickly from failures and errors, and have a sense of humility. Leaders tend to be great communicators. They are lifelong learners with their own area of expertise, yet they surround themselves with highly skilled people. They have multiple advisers they consult with and take advice from. Great leaders continue to learn and develop their skills on a regular basis. A good coach does all these things on a regular basis. After all, isn’t a coach someone who motivates athletes to push themselves harder than they would push themselves without a coach? Coaches and leaders share many qualities, among them, the following: They are passionate. The dictionary’s definition of passion is “strong and barely controllable emotion.” It is the desire to be
46 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
A good coach is someone who motivates athletes to push themselves harder than they would push themselves without a coach.
the best you can be by going the extra step, doing an extra rep for fitness, another run through of a drill. It is getting excited about what you are doing, and following though to make sure it’s done well. Passion for what you are doing is a requirement. Without this, you should find something else to do. It can't be faked or acted out as your athletes will know and then it’s over. Your effectiveness will have been diminished.
They show respect and are respected. As a leader you need respect from your athletes, but if you don’t show them respect, you will most definitely not get any. You have to show you are in charge but have enough self-confidence to show respect for others. Let them provide input, make suggestions and then explain yourself and your actions. This will show you care about their thoughts and you are
confident enough to hear their points of view. Insist that everyone acts respectfully toward others. This should hold true for your own players as well as toward other players and coaches, and you must be the best example of this principle. You don't get respect without giving respect. They communicate. Communication is not just stating what you want, but being honest and fair. It is a critical tool for achieving success in any size, shape or form. Your players must know what you expect of them, otherwise they, and most likely you, will have no direction. A clear understanding of the goal, the path required to achieve the goal, and the expectations from all involved must be clearly communicated. Done poorly, it will leave all wondering what happened and who was supposed to do what job. Take time to PREPARE your communications, know the goal and how the steps toward the goal are laid out, and make sure the communications get you there, CLEARLY! They have knowledge. You’ve got to know what you’re talking about, and that the information is current. It doesn’t matter whether you learn from a book, a course, other coaches or from your experience growing up playing or not. And while you need not be the “all-encompassing” expert, you have to continue learning your trade. They exhibit confidence. We define confidence as sensible fearlessness; having the guts to take the needed steps forward and letting your athletes know you have done so and why. We also like to call it controlled aggression, which means: go for it, but do it sensibly. We understand that sometimes being reckless may seem like fun, but as a leader you have responsibility not to be reckless, just aggressive and gutsy. Confidence will also show in your stride, body language and demeanor; unfortunately so will the lack of it! They focus on the goal. A good leader sees the end result and then works back to set the steps to reach the desired result or goal. As Yogi Berra said, “You can’t get where you're going if you don't know where it is.” A good leader will clearly explain the goals and objectives to the athletes and show them the steps needed to get to the goal. A good leader will also share the difficulties involved in reaching the goal.
Good leaders tend to make great coaches. They know how to gain respect from their athletes ... are compassionate, and are open to new ideas.
They have compassion. A strong leader understands what an athlete is going through during stressful and trying performance conditions. Because of this, the best leaders don’t place blame; instead they take responsibility for a situation and look for solutions (aka coaching). If the leader is not part of the solution, he or she becomes part of the problem. Great leaders learn from failures and come up with positive solutions to issues. As an aside, when a good leader has a team or athlete that loses, you will often find them working on the problem-solving area almost immediately; not in a punitive manner, but in a productive way. Go to the practice courts and see who is there an hour or two after a loss; don’t be surprised to see players and coaches who had tough matches working through things! They encourage new ideas. They listen to everyone's ideas and then make decisions. Aside from listening, some leaders take the extra step of doing additional research and take their findings into consideration. Leaders don’t make decisions without advice and input, and they give credit where credit is due. When the ideas come from within, there is buy-in from your athletes or teams. An example of when the ideas come from outside is when a player works with several coaches and the coaches give each other credit for the mutual effort of improving the player’s performance. Coaching teams and individuals While the leadership and coaching skills are the same, there are differences in coaching individuals and teams.
Coaches of an individual athlete seem to work more as part of the team, whereas coaches for team sports motivate the group to a common goal. The differences are subtle. As we mainly work in the field of tennis, it is important to understand that tennis can be both an individual or team sport, and as a coach you must be equipped to handle both scenarios. Being aware of the subtle difference can help you be a better leader in both instances. So in a nutshell, understand that leadership and coaching are closely related skills to each other. Being a good coach does not make you a natural leader, but generally speaking, good leaders tend to make great coaches. They know how to gain respect from their athletes, have confidence, keep the end result in their sights, are compassionate, and are open to new ideas. The next time you walk on the court, take stock of your skills; do you have these traits? It’s great if you do but also important to keep improving them. We know you have great leadership in you, just let it out and keep improving it. If you need some ideas or help on this, the USPTA has many great opportunities to allow you to do this. Join in committees, divisional leadership and contribute as well as learn. h Alan Cutler (left) has more than 25 years of teaching, coaching, and programming experience and is the founder of Playtennisforlife.info. Bruce Levine (below) is founder and CEO of Tennis 2 Tennis LLC, a consulting group that advises tennis clubs as well as works in the tennis industry on various tennis-related projects.
www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com 47
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ZOOM CAGE 2
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Growing Your Business
USTA to Launch Thousands of Tennis Play Events Host a Tennis Play Event to Promote Your Upcoming Programming
S
tudies have shown that an early, positive experience in sports is vital and creates a lifelong commitment to an active lifestyle. During the month of March, the USTA will launch thousands of Tennis Play Events throughout the country in celebration of World Tennis Day taking place on March 10. USTA Tennis Play Events invite families and kids of all ages and skill levels to try tennis at local events and facilities across the country. These Tennis Play Events are a great way for tennis facilities, parks, and municipalities to introduce tennis to kids and provide a platform to register children for spring programs. March is the No. 1 time nationally when parents begin registering their children for spring programs. By hosting a Tennis Play Event, tennis organizers have the opportunity to showcase their junior tennis programs and attract new players to the sport. The USTA is making it easier and more fun for kids to get into the game— and stay in the game. Kids are learning to play faster than ever before through USTA’s youth initiative, which is geared toward getting more kids to participate in tennis using modified equipment and courts tailored to a child’s size. By hosting a Tennis Play Event, tennis organizers To host an event, please visit Youthhave the opportunity to showcase their junior tennis Tennis.com. programs and attract new players to the sport.
Host a Play Event This March Get a $50 Gift Card!
Kick off your spring programming and host an event in March to get new players on the court and in the game. Events can be for kids and families of all ages and skill levels, or host a Play Day to introduce kids to the thrill of competition. Visit YouthTennis.com/ host or call 800-990-8782 to sign up and the first 2,000 event hosts will receive a $50 Amazon.com* Gift Card.** Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect more families to your programs! Registration is open now and ends on March 30; events can be held any date in March. h
* Amazon.com is not a sponsor of this promotion. Except as required by law, Amazon.com Gift Cards (“GCs”) cannot be transferred for value or redeemed for cash. GCs may be used only for purchases of eligible goods at Amazon.com or certain of its affiliated websites. For complete terms and conditions, see www.amazon.com/gc-legal. GCs are issued by ACI Gift Cards, Inc., a Washington corporation. All Amazon®, ™ & © are IP of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. No expiration date or service fees.**No purchase necessary. Registration on YouthTennis.com starts at 12:01 on January 15, 2015 and ends at 12:01 on March 30, 2015. United States Tennis Association Incorporated reserves the right to substitute in its soled discretion, limit of 1 GC available to the first 2,000 registered events. USTA is not responsible for delivery or redemption. © 2015 United States Tennis Association Incorporated. All rights reserved.
50 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
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strips at top allow one person to roll up and secure entire unit in less than 30 seconds. SAVES COSTLY LABOR TIME in last minute pre-storm preparations. Also fully attached to it. useful for better tournament viewing.
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USPTA News
USPTA Indoor Championships Begin 2015 Surface Tournament Season
T
he 2015 USPTA Surface Championship season begins this month in Memphis, Tenn., with the USPTA Indoor Championships. This three-day tournament takes place March 27-29 at the Racquet Club of Memphis and is open for registration to USPTA-certified Professionals through March 15. The Racquet Club of Memphis is hosting the Indoor Championships for the first time this year. It is home to 10 indoor courts and 16 outdoor courts, and is the only private club in the world to host a professional ATP men's indoor tennis event – the Memphis Open in February. Total prize money for the tournament is $5,000 and will feature events in the following categories: men's and women's open singles and doubles competition, men’s and women’s 35 singles, men's and women's 45 singles, men's and women’s 45 doubles, men’s 55 singles and doubles, and men’s 65 singles and doubles.
Participating players are eligible to receive tournament favors such as bags, badges, T-shirts and towels. On Saturday night, March 28, players will be treated to a catered player party in the ballroom of the facility beginning at 7 p.m. As an added convenience for tournament players and guests, the official tournament hotel – the Doubletree by Hilton on Sanderlin Avenue in Memphis – is located 50 yards from the tournament site. As a benefit to certified members, the surface championships provide an opportunity to play against other USPTA Professionals, showcase skills, and win prize money. Members who play in the surface championships have the opportunity to play their way into the USPTA Master’s Invitational. The brand new event will be held at the 2015 USPTA World Conference in New Orleans. This tournament, which replaces the International Championships, gives USPTA-certified Professionals an
added opportunity to compete and earn a portion of the $15,000 prize money, which is the largest amount awarded of all the USPTA tournaments. Players receive points in both the main draw (if they win at least one match) and in consolation play (if it is offered). In consolation matches, a player or team advancing by default will receive credit for a win as long as that player or team does not default the next match. Doubles players will receive individual rankings. Entry deadline for the 2015 USPTA Indoor Championships is March 15. Register online at www.usptaplayer. com/tournaments/813. The USPTA Surface Championships are open to all USPTA-certified Professionals in good standing. To see the current rankings or learn more about ranking rules, sanctioned tournaments, and tournament regulations and requirements, go to uspta.com/ tournaments. All tournaments are run through usptaplayer.com. h
USPTA Indoor Championships March 27-29, 2015 Racquet Club of Memphis Memphis, TN
USPTA Clay Court Championships April 30-May 3, 2015 Landings Yacht, Golf and Tennis Club Fort Myers, FL
USPTA Grass Court Championships May 29-31, 2015 Desert Highlands Scottsdale, AZ
USPTA Master's Invitational Sept. 21-23, 2015 Hilton New Orleans Riverside New Orleans, LA
USPTA Hard Court Championships Nov. 6-8, 2015 Hollytree Country Club Tyler, TX
52 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
Influential Women in the USPTA In celebration of Women’s History Month, USPTA recognizes some of the women who have made a difference in the association and in the tennis industry. They have served as leaders and educators, both on and off the court.
Do you know any USPTA members, male or female, who have had an impact on their community? Send his or her name to magazine@uspta.org and tell us how these leaders have made a difference.
Katrina Adams, Elite Professional Member 15 years Chairman of the Board, CEO & President, USTA Executive Director, Harlem Junior Tennis and Education Program (NY)
Michele Krause, Elite Professional Member 23 years TIA Cardio Tennis Manager
Rosie Bareis, Master Professional Member 29 years Past President, Northern California Tennis Director, Claremont Hotel, Club and Spa (Calif.)
Avis Murray, Master Professional Member 44 years Past President, New England 2013 Alex Gordon USPTA Professional of the Year Master Professional, Manchester Athletic Club (Mass.)
Bunny Bruning, Master Professional Member 28 years USPTA Head Tester USPTA National Board of Directors, 2009-2011 Past President, Missouri Valley Tennis Director, Wakonda Club (Iowa)
Paula Scheb, Master Professional Member 32 years USPTA Tester National Board of Directors, 2007-2009 Past President, Florida Director of Tennis, Bonita Bay Club (Fla.)
Cari Buck, Elite Professional Member 19 years President, California Division Manager of Client Services, Tennis Channel
Diane Selke, Master Professional Member 31 years Vice President, National Board Past President, Intermountain Head Tennis Professional, Valley Country Club (Colo.)
Trish Faulkner, Elite Professional Member 47 years First Vice President, Florida Tournament Chairwoman, 2014 ITF Senior World Championships Director of Tennis and Fitness, BallenIsles Country Club (Fla.)
Kathy Woods, Elite Professional Member 37 years USPTA President, 1994-1996 Past President, Middle States Director of Tennis, Racquet Club of St. Petersburg (Fla.)
Master Pro Corner
Recharge Your Batteries With the 5L Formula for Success
By Skip Johnson, USPTA Master Professional
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or many, teaching tennis is a dream job – sharing your passion with eager students, being outside all day, seeing your coaching make a difference in other people’s lives. But sometimes, it doesn’t always go your way. Maybe you have some students who just don’t care. Or a general manager who keeps demanding more when your schedule is already full. Frustration is a common denominator in any job, but learning how to cope with it makes the difference between giving up and rediscovering your first love. One day, I came home from the courts and finally realized there was just nothing I could do to change the people who seemed to be causing me so much frustration. So, I decided instead to change what I could change – me – and Frustration is a common denominator in any job, but learning how to cope with it makes the difference between giving up and rediscovering your first love.
incredibly, it worked! I discovered a formula that just might take things back to the way they were when you first started – when you loved every day. I call it the 5L formula for success. The first “L” stands for “Looking for the Good.” This means finding what's working in ourselves, others, and life in general. When we hit a rough patch, it becomes easy to start looking for what's wrong – and we start finding it everywhere. I know I sure did. So we’ll want to change that perspective first. The second “L" is for “Laughter.” I realized very quickly I had lost all the fun in what I was doing. So I looked each day for chances to laugh and enjoy whatever I was involved in, and miraculously I found opportunities all around me. The next “L” is for “Live for Today.”
I noticed I was worrying about life and about my future so much that I couldn't focus on what I was trying to accomplish at the moment. This obviously affected my attitude and the people around me. So I set my goals, and then started concentrating on living in the present. The fourth “L” is for “Listening.” I really didn't realize how poor my listening skills had become. I was so caught up in my own discontentment that I wasn't paying close attention to other people and their needs. When I reenergized my listening skills, I noticed all of a sudden that people loved being around me and they felt valued and appreciated. And that made me feel better, too. The final “L” is probably the most impacting one. It stands for “Love the Challenge.” It kind of took me back to my competitive playing roots. I began to embrace the difficulties I faced, instead of hoping they would disappear – which they never did, by the way. I began to try and relish challenging situations and the chance to rise above them. Each time I did that I felt empowered and I felt more confident to handle the different issues that came to me. The 5L formula is not only a great way to re-energize our own lives and careers, but in the tennis business we have the opportunity to share this message and impact the lives of hundreds and thousands of people. Give it a try today and you may just be amazed at the results. h
Skip Johnson is an inspirational speaker and author of the new book “Grateful for Everything: Learning, Living and Loving the Great Game of Life.” He is the Vice President of Operations at the award-winning Gold’s Gyms of West Georgia and he may be reached at skipperjo@aol.com.
54 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
Career Development Exams, Upgrades & PTCA I
(5 credits)
(2 credits) March 8 May 26-31
(4 credits for PTCA I segment) March 9
Specialty courses
Conventions
La Jolla, Calif.
San Diego Division Convention La Jolla, Calif. Florida Division Convention Naples, Fla.
March 12 Minneapolis March 13
Rochester, N.Y.
March 13
Nichols Hills, Okla.
March 14-15 March 22
March 2
Video analysis – Biomechanics & techniques Fairfield, Ct.; Doug Eng. Ed.D., Ph.D. March 21 Creative programming Brunswick, Maine; Hans Romer
Rye, N.H. Columbus, Ohio
March 27-28 Houston March 28-29
Paradise Valley, Ariz.
* This course is held at the USPTA World Headquarters. 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.
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.
56 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
Free Webinars (.5 APC credits) March 18
Club programming, Chuck Gill 2 p.m. EST
More information will be available in the e-news and education calendar on uspta.com.
April 23
USPTAPlayer.com
TAUT Workshops (2 credits) March 7
Memphis, Tenn.
March 29
San Antonio
March 21
Tuscaloosa, Ala.
March 31
Chicago
Tournament Module 2 p.m. EST To register, contact Randy Jenks at randy.jenks@uspta.org.
Go to www.coachyouthtennis.com for more workshops or to register.
Education requirements All USPTA-certified Professionals must earn 6 education credits in a three-year period to remain current. Go to USPTA.com/Education for a list of eligible activities. Please send verification (email, letter, certificate, receipt, etc.) that shows you attended the event/activity and submit it along with the date and agenda to education@uspta.org to receive your credit. (International members, Recreational Coaches and those over the age of 65 are exempt.) Questions? Write to education@uspta.org or call 800-877-8248, ext. 147.
U30’s Serve
USPTA Changes Benefit Young Pros
By Jimmy Roesch, USPTA
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any changes have been made lately, and all of them have our organization going in the right direction. First, the reform to the certification process as well as the required educational credits are a big step in making our association more reputable. Furthermore, by adding regional educational days, the monetary and travel demands are minimal for tennis professionals to meet the educational credit requirements. The new certification process gives USPTA Elite Professionals a step up on their competition and allows motivated individuals to distinguish themselves more easily. The continuing education requirements raise the standard for even the average USPTA Professional. This will encourage country clubs and other tennis
facilities to hire only USPTA-certified Professionals, not based on the on-court liability insurance but on the guaranteed quality of the USPTA Professional. Second, as a young USPTA Professional, the U30 program has had an enormous impact on my career. In USPTA Florida, Jason Gilbert has done an incredible job incentivizing young professionals to participate in USPTA and USTA educational sessions. Seeing all of the hungry young professionals attending these sessions has kept me motivated. I have also gained knowledge of cutting-edge teaching skills and of the managerial aspects needed to be a director while attaining a network of professionals wiser than myself to go to for help at any time. Finally, I want to make sure our U30 group recognizes the responsibilities we
have. Higher expectations come with new job opportunities. We have been given these opportunities due to our hard work, and we must continue to impress. Our original U30s are maturing, and our success or lack thereof will affect the fate of those coming next. With success at high-level positions, we can build the U30 group into a prestigious fraternity that presents more opportunities for the next members. It is important for us to remember that we will be hiring from this group in the near future. So let’s get out there and be successful, taking full advantage of the opportunities given. Let’s continue to build the USPTA and USPTA U30 brand! h
Jimmy Roesch is Director of Women’s Tennis at Royal Oaks Country Club in Dallas.
www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com 57
Member News • USPTA Hall of Fame inductee Steve Wilkinson passed away on January 21 at the age of 73 after courageously living with cancer for nearly seven years. Wilkinson coached the Gustavus Adolphus College’s men’s tennis program in St. Peter, Minn., for 29 years from 1971-2009 and retired from the school as the winningest coach in the history of men’s collegiate tennis with 923 victories. Wilkinson was involved in numerous national tennis organizations, having served on the executive committees of the USPTA, the Intercollegiate Tennis Association and the USTA. He was inducted into USPTA Hall of Fame in September 2013 at the USPTA World Conference in Orlando, the Iowa Tennis Hall of Fame in 1974, the Northern Tennis Association Hall of Fame in 1983, and the USTA Missouri Valley Hall of Fame in 1999. He also received the International Tennis Hall of Fame’s Tennis Educational Merit Award and The Lifetime Achievement Award from the University of Iowa. Wilkinson, along with his wife, Barbara, founded the Tennis and Life Camps, considered to be among the finest tennis camps in the country. For more than 35 years, the couple dedicated their time and effort to improving tennis performance of youth and adults while teaching life lessons that can be
used off the court. Wilkinson is survived by his wife of 48 years, two daughters, Stephanie and Deborah, sons-in-law Scott and Jon, four grandchildren, Caroline, Eloise, Stephen, and Audrey, and many relatives and friends. • Riverhill Country Club (Kerrville, Texas) tennis director Garry Nadebaum and his wife Kimberly returned from playing the International Tennis Federation 50 Toreno Internacioneal De Veteranos held in Acapulco, Mexico. The Nadebaums were the 45's mixed doubles champions, defeating Veronica Villlar and Antonio Acosta in the finals 6/4, 6/7, 10-8. Garry then won the Men's 45 singles title and was runner up with his singles opponent in the Men's 45 doubles. Garry is ranked No. 1 in USTA National Men's 45 singles and doubles for a second straight year. • USPTA Elite Professional David Benjamin has announced his retirement as Executive Director and CEO of the Intercollegiate Tennis Association. He began his tenure at the ITA in 1979 when he was elected president of the
association while serving as the director of tennis and head men’s tennis coach at Princeton University. He was appointed as the ITA’s executive director in 1981. He was inducted into the ITA Men’s Collegiate Hall of Fame in 2000 and the USTA Middle States Tennis Hall of Fame in 2006. In 2001, he received the USTA’s Educational Merit Award and in 2011 he was honored with the USTA’s President’s Award. Benjamin has been a USPTA member for 45 years.
• Several USPTA members were honored in the January 2015 issue of Tennis Industry magazine in its 14th annual “Champions of Tennis Awards.” The awards feature people, businesses and organizations dedicated to improving the sport and business of tennis in 2014. The 10 USPTA members featured were either recognized for individual awards or their facility or organization received recognition. USPTA members honored in Tennis Industry’s Champions of Tennis issue: • Sales Rep of the Year, Allan Iverson • Youth Tennis Provider of the Year, Simon Gale • Junior Tennis Champion of the Year, Jack Newman • High School Coach of the Year, Laurie Martin • PTR Member of the Year, Nigel Pugh • USPTA Member of the Year, Randy Mattingley • USTA Section of the Year, USTA Intermountain (Rob Scott, Executive Director) For a full list of the 2014 honorees, visit www.tennisindustrymag.com.
NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS President First Vice President
Tom McGraw Chuck Gill
Vice Presidents Past President CEO Legal Counsel
Alan Cutler Jack Michalko Dan Moster Diane Selke Gary Trost
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• The South Texas Professional Tennis Association hosted the CCISD Middle School Tennis Coaches Clinic (in-service). The coaches from Kaffie, Hamlin, Metro, Haas, Driscoll, Cunningham, Grant, Browne, Baker, and South Park were in attendance. The presenters were: Ken de Koning, Alex Johansson, Clay Reuter, Todd Norton and Gerry Maingot – all USPTA Members. The theme for the clinic was “Stroke Techniques for Large Groups.” 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
60 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
Managing editor Circulation
Kimberly Forrester Kathy Buchanan
Office hours: 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Central time ADDvantage is published monthly by the United States Professional Tennis Association.
Tom Daglis John Embree George Parnell
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. 2015. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any portion of the magazine is not permitted without written permission from USPTA.