Addvantage 2015 November/December

Inside this issue The True Warrior – 50 USPTA World Conference Wrap Up – 54 Remembering Rich – 65 Departments: 63 Inside Coaching 44 CEO’s Message 46 Vice President’s Message 64 Master Pro Corner 66 Career Development 48 Endorsee News 68 Member News 50 Beyond the Court Read more articles online at www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com On the cover: Jorge Capestany, 2015 Alex Gordon USPTA Professional of the Year.

CEO’s Message

The Big Easy!

by John Embree

A

s I write this, we are still ­basking rants and social activities, be it in the in the aftermath of what was French Quarter or in the adjacent Waretruly a remarkable World Conf- house District, made it incredibly conveerence in New Orleans. Putnient. Clearly, the access to Harrah’s Cating on a World Conference of this magsino right across the street from the front nitude is a six to nine month process door of the hotel made the location that that epitomizes teamwork. What goes much more ideal. Having indoor courts on behind the scenes cannot be comto run our first-ever Masters Invitational prehended by the attendees, as all they and to be able to have on-court seminars see is a well-oiled machine that delivin the climate-controlled environment ers outstanding service and a first-rate made for comfortable viewing. What I event. Kudos to the USPTA staff! clearly heard from a wide spectrum of at­ rleans Total attendance equaled that of our tendees was that the Hilton New O Riverside should definitely be a part of WC in La Quinta in 2008 with almost our World Conference rotation. I agree.

1,000 people coming and going during Arguably, the opening reception at the six days. More significantly, total The National WWII Museum on TuesPAID attendance surpassed every year day night may go down as one of the since Las Vegas of 2006. More than 120 most memorable events to have ever were first-time attendees! Whether our taken place at a USPTA World Conferstrong participation was an indication ence. The Tom Hanks’ production of of the drawing power of New Orleans as “Beyond All Boundaries” is a 50-mina destination or a function of pros committed to fulfilling their professional ute, numbing experience, which is a development responsibility or because must see for every American. It would the education offered was so stellar, each take nine days to see everything that was a factor to bringing our association museum has to offer, so if you ever get together for a fantastic celebration. a chance to visit New Orleans, make a SmartCode Education System One reason why people were so enpoint of dedicating time to immerse thusiastic about this year’s conference yourself in this chapter of our history. was the central location of the hotel. To One of the true highlights of the be able to walk to a potpourri of restauweek was the appearance by the current Register your Accredited Professional Coach (APC) education credits with the quick and easy‐to‐use USPTA SmartCode Education System. This uses your smartphone to instantly register your attendance to all seminars and specialty courses earning APC education credits.

To use the system, you will need: • •

998

Registered attendees

Once the QR Code scanning application is installed, test your phone using the QR Code below. You will select “yes” or “open browser” or “follow link” to open/launch Web page.

A smartphone with data access, Web-browsing capabilities and camera. Apple iPhone and Google Android phones are fully supported. Blackberry and Windows phones may also work.

A barcode scanning application for your smartphone that can scan QR codes. Use your device to search the Apple Store or Google Play for these free applications: ~ iPhone/iPad – Qrafter. ~ Android – Barcode Scanner. ~ AT&T – AT&T Code Scanner comes with your phone) OR Use the QR code scanner in the CrowdCompass World Conference app. Download the app at crowd.cc/usptawc15.

Using the SmartCode Education System

3,900

To use the system at a seminar, general session or specialty course, you must scan two QR codes. One is your personal QR Code on your conference badge or a sticker. It is also on your membership card. The second QR code will be in your conference program and on a poster at the end of a session. It cannot be scanned until the end of the session or the beginning of the next session.

If your test was successful, you should see the SmartCode Education System test Web page with the green “thumbs up” icon.

Courses successfully scanned

Scan one of the QR codes (it does not matter which one you start with) using the scanning app. Select “yes” or “open browser” or “follow link” to see the SmartCode Education System Web page that confirms you have scanned the first code. You will see the barcode scan symbol to let you know that you need to scan the second code.

227

1st Barcode Scan Successful, Now Scan 2nd Code

Go back to the scanning app and repeat the process on the second code.

Once the second code is scanned and the Web page opened, you will see a green check mark to confirm that your APC education credits have been registered in the USPTA education system. You will also receive an email to your primary email address to confirm that your credits were registered.

Borrow a Smartphone The USPTA SmartCode Education System is designed so that you can borrow a friend’s smartphone to register your credits. The phone’s owner can register his/her credits first by scanning the personal code then session code. After confirmation, you can scan your codes to get credit as well.

6,985

Education credits earned during the World Conference

2015 $ Individual specialty courses taken

This does not include those that were submitted by form or email – those are yet to be entered

Credits Successfully Registered

$16,000+ Amount raised for the USPTA Foundation with the raffle and online and silent auctions

World Conference by the numbers

44 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Mayor of New Orleans, Mitch Landrieu, along with his father Moon Landrieu, the former mayor, who addressed our opening general session. Both are tennis advocates who riveted the audience with stories about how tennis has impacted their respective lives. Then, there were 35 other sessions and three specialty courses that did not just focus on forehands and backhands. A wide range of topics focusing on sportsmanship, club management, independent contractors vs. employees, building your brand, and the dangers of early specialization (just to name a few), all enhanced the dynamic schedule put together by our Education Committee.

Our Buying Show Thursday evening was the largest trade show ever with over 75 booths taken. Vendors who had never exhibited previously were present because they recognize that our show is the only one of its size in the tennis industry during the year. Of course, I would be remiss if I did not thank our now 13 endorsees, including Prince and Fromuth, for their continuing commitment to our membership. And, a special shout-out goes to TuringSense who sponsored this World Conference.

Lastly, the week culminated with our finale Awards Luncheon on Friday. Rick Dickson, Tulane University’s Athletic Director, talked candidly about the fate of non-revenue sports in the changing world of college athletics. His message was simple and direct: the entire industry needs to make tennis much more relevant on college campuses if we expect our sport to survive the looming restructuring of college athletic departments.

All in all, it was an incredible week.

For those of you who were in New Orleans, I extend my gratitude for your commitment to be with us. For those who could not come, be sure to join us next September at the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort and Spa in Calif., so that you too can follow our mission of “elevating the standards of tennis- teaching professionals and coaches.” h

Vice President’s Message

Getting my monies worth!

by Jack Michalko

I

joined the USPTA in 1970 at the age walked into my first seminar on “Tenof 23. I had just completed graduate nis Programing” all that changed. At school and secured my first (and last) the podium was a teaching pro sharing one great idea after another. When the job shortly thereafter. seminar was over I approached him and My main reason for joining the association was educaintroduced myself.

My USPTA membership was the tion and networking.

We became very close best investment I ever made in my While I was a good friends and found career. I can’t imagine how things high school and college we were very much would have unfolded for me had player, I realized that alike in almost every I not joined this association and did very little to prearea, including type become an active member. pare me as a teacher of club, pro shop and or to run a business. It was obvious I philosophy. Both our wives were even would need help if I was to succeed in the our pro shop managers and buyers. tennis-teaching profession.

From that point on we got together Since I was beginning my new job at the USPTA World Conference each just about the time the 1970 USPTA year and met a second time each year World Conference was being held, I at his club. At this second meeting we wasn’t able to attend a conference until discussed our total tennis operations: the following year (1971). I’ve attended maintenance, pro shop, programing, every one since! problem-solving, staff and what was and When I attended the USPTA World wasn’t working. These sessions continued until he retired in 1992.

Conference at Lakeway World of Ten Looking back I would have to say the nis in 1974, the last thing I was lookmost important benefit I gained from ing for was a mentor; however, when I

my USPTA membership was my mentor. I can’t imagine how my career would have turned out if I hadn’t met Harry Parten, Director of Tennis at River Oaks Country Club in Houston. Harry was at ROCC for 36 years before retiring (it was his only job). He spent so much time guiding me to understand the tennis business and gave me great advice along the way. I owe him a great deal.

I am now retired after 39 years as Director of Tennis at the Phoenix Country Club in Phoenix. I’m happy to say that my relationship with Harry continued until he passed away in June of this year. We use to visit each other after we both retired and the topic was always the same – reminiscing about our tennis careers!

My USPTA membership was the best investment I ever made in my career. I can’t imagine how things would have unfolded for me had I not joined this association and become an active member. h

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Endorsee News

Prince a Big Presence at World Conference

P

rince Global Sports was a smash at the recent USPTA World Conference in New ­Orleans. The Exclusive Racquet Partner of the USPTA showcased its full retail line of TeXtreme racquets, balls, bags and accessories. All USPTA conference attendees were able to get their hands on their choice of the new TeXtreme racquets during the two demo sessions that Prince ran.

The new TeXtreme Tour 100P was a big hit as pros were challenged to take the Tour 100P Challenge. Prince says they’re so confident in the winning performance of the new TeXtreme Tour 100P they are offering a 30-Day Satisfaction Guarantee*.

The highlight of the conference was the Prince-sponsored session with USPTA Master Professional and Prince Pro Nick Bollettieri. Giving highlights on his life as a coach, Bollettieri covered his highly successful approach, which he says not only builds athletes on the court, but more importantly, prepares them for

Prince sponsored seminar with USPTA Master Professional Nick Bollettieri

Prince demo session

a successful life. Bollettieri expanded his vision when he joined forces with IMG to turn the tennis academy into a multi-sport training facility, also home to Prince’s flagship, advanced Tennis Innovation Center.

Prince was also sure to spend some quality time getting to know the

­ SPTA Pros in attendance, hosting a U Team Prince Pro meeting and taking center stage as the featured exhibitor at the USPTA Buying Show. Also on display was the brand new Prince 7000 stringing machine, which was put to active use stringing racquets on site for the duration of the conference. h

* If you are not fully satisfied with the performance of your TeXtreme Tour 100P ­ ealer. ­racquet within 30-days of purchase, simply return it with your receipt to your d You will receive a full credit of your purchase toward any other Prince r­ acquet or product of similar value.

48 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Beyond the Court

The True Warrior

By Nate Chura, USPTA

I

n 1968 an amateur tennis player named Arthur Ashe defeated Dutchman Tom Okker at Forrest Hills to win the first ever US Open Men’s Championship. The victory made Ashe a legend. Few people know, however, that at the time, the legend was a lieutenant in the U.S. Army. After his historic win, Ashe returned to his bachelor’s quarters at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where he was stationed for nearly three years from 1966-69. It probably goes without saying, but Ashe was not your typical soldier.

“Ashe is the perfect antithesis of the people at this place,” said Jim Poling, the head coach of the Army men’s tennis team.

In his iconic book “Levels of the Game,” John McPhee captured the essence of Lieutenant Ashe in his vivid description of the US Open champ’s quarters on post. “[Ashe] stumbles as he crosses the room, because any number of objects may be on the floor. There is always an Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day volunteers

50 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

“Tennis is the best game in the whole world ... You’re on your own. It’s kinda like life.

You learn how to win, how to lose. You walk off the court after a loss and it’s all you.

You, alone, have to take the responsibility.” open, half-filled suitcase somewhere.

Tennis clothes fan out of it like laundry spread out to dry. Racquets are all over the place, strung and unstrung – on the floor, on bookshelves, the bed. There are piles of unanswered letters. Ripped envelopes are so numerous that they should probably be removed with a rake.”

Not exactly the image that comes to mind when one thinks of an Army ­ fficer. o “If you’re living in the barracks,” said Poling, “it’s gonna be neat. Every so often they have a thing called a ‘sammy,’ which is like a white glove inspection.

Everything is dusted. Everything’s put away. Everything is just the way you would think it would be –” in the Army.

Despite his irreverence as a soldier, the Army honors the memory of Ashe, as it does all members of its ranks, but the tennis team even more so. During his time in the service, Ashe forged an unbreakable bond with the team.

“Playing with the cadet varsity players,” observed McPhee, “one has only to watch him on the courts to see the extent of his athletic generosity and his affection for what he is doing. He gives away points when he knows that the cadets will not suspect him. He plays at a minor pace with a spectacular suggestion of high effort. He mixes encouragement with instruction and humor in an unending stream of words across the net.”

Last month that bond was strengthened even further.

For the tenth consecutive year, Poling’s squad – along with the Army women’s team – was called up to feed tennis balls on the USPTA’s court for Arthur Ashe Kids Day, which kicks-off

From left to right: Jeff Rothstien, Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day court leader (USPTA), Paul Peck (Army women’s coach), Jim Poling (Army men’s coach), and Mark Savage (USPTA Eastern President) present the Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day 10 Years of Service award to the men’s and women’s Army tennis teams for helping the USPTA court.

the Open. I met with Poling prior to the big day to find out more about his team, his philosophy on the game, and the current state of American tennis.

Clean-shaven with a neat, gray mustache, and clad in an Army-green T-shirt and camouflage cap, there’s no mistaking: Poling is a West Point man. He carries himself like an officer, which is not surprising. After graduating from Clemson University, he reached a career-high rank of first lieutenant in the Army (the same as Ashe). He fell in love with West Point when he played in the third Army Championships in 1971 (three years after Ashe won the Open). Shortly thereafter, Poling began his lifelong career as a college coach. Today, he lives on post, and in the 13 years he’s been the head coach of the team, the “Black Knights” have clinched the Patriot League title five times. They’re currently the reigning league champion.

“We’re pretty good,” Poling said modestly.

To give me a better idea of the team’s level, he recounted a recent performance against the University of ­Virginia in the NCAA Championship.

“We gave, I think, an incredible showing. Virginia’s coach told me afterwards it was the toughest first round match they had in years.”

“We talk about being the true warrior here at West Point.

The true warrior says yes to it all. Which means when I walk on the court and play you and it’s hot, I say, ‘Okay, I got it.

It’s rainy ... It’s windy ... You’re cheating me.’ I accept it, I say, ‘It’s part of the game.’ What am I gonna do? I have to learn how to handle it. The true warrior says, ‘I got this.’”

But the truth is, at West Point, tennis is more of a means to an end. Given the cadets will spend five years in the service after graduation, it’s unlikely many of Poling’s players will go on to be pros like Ashe. Instead, he focuses on the aspects of the game that will make his players better leaders and citizens.

“Tennis is the best game in the whole world,” Poling declared. “You’re on your own. It’s kinda like life. You learn how to win, how to lose. You walk off the court after a loss and it’s all you.

You, alone, have to take the responsibility. We talk about being the true warrior here at West Point. The true

warrior says yes to it all. Which means when I walk on the court and play you and it’s hot, I say, ‘Okay. I got it. It’s rainy ... It’s windy ... You’re cheating me.’ I accept it. I say, ‘It’s part of the game.’ What am I gonna do? I have to learn how to handle it. The true warrior says, ‘I got this.’”

The most obvious skill Poling’s players develop is teamwork, but unlike many college tennis programs, the Black Knights benefit from the Academy’s core curriculum.

“They’ve been through the firing squad, basically,” said Poling, in reference to his team. “They’ve been through the gas chamber together.

They’ve been bivouacked. They’ve been out doing land navigation ...

These guys have a bond.”

While Coach Poling was warmingup with my 9-year-old daughter, I couldn’t resist the urge to ask him if he would be doing any recruiting on Kids Day. He smiled and said no, but added, “We are doing some good recruiting, though. We have some good kids coming up.”

To those who say the state of American tennis is retracting, Poling exclaims, “Baloney! American tennis is on the rise. I don’t care what people say,” and he ticked off a long list of up-and-coming American stars. And to further illustrate his point, he recounted his own positive experience recruiting new talent, an especially telling sign, since the Army team is all American. Every player has to be a U.S. citizen.

“Last year we had three five-star players on our team,” he said, “and we have several four-star players.”

For those who are unfamiliar with college recruiter terminology, the top-25 players in the nation are “blue chip” players, the next 50 are “fivestar,” the next 100 are “four-star,” and so on – in reverse of the military ranking system.

“When I got here,” Poling remembers, “it wasn’t that level.”

Perhaps a true warrior may emerge from the ranks after all. h Nate Chura is a USPTA Elite Professional and journalist. He is currently the director of tennis at Onteora Club, as well as the head tennis professional of The Heights Casino in Brooklyn, N.Y.

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com 51

USPTA World Conference

USPTA World Conference Returns with a Bang in Big Easy

T

he USPTA World Conference returned to its original format in 2015, and with New Orleans serving as this year’s host for the first time, it was one for the record books.

Nearly 1,000 people came to the ­Hilton New Orleans Riverside throughout the week.

“I think this is one of the best conferences we have ever had,” said USPTA Florida President Trish Faulkner.

“Hotel was great with a friendly staff.

Having the courts inside and within walking distance is a plus. The whole location next to the Riverwalk and within walking distance of so many excellent restaurants and sights was great.”

In an effort to enhance the attendee experience, USPTA introduced its conference app powered by CrowdCompass and sponsored by TuringSense, which launched its company in New Orleans at the conference.

The app allowed attendees to receive instant notifications for updates and changes, create custom schedules with reminders, connect with other attendees, and much more straight from their

54 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

mobile devices.

USPTA also offered those who could not attend the conference a chance to receive education credits. For the first time, USPTA live streamed its four general sessions on YouTube with an opportunity for members to earn 3 education credits.

This year’s keynote speakers included Martin Blackman, USTA Player Development General Manager; Gigi Fernandez, former No. 1 doubles player, 17-time Grand Slam champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist; Tom ­Gullikson, former U.S. Davis Cup captain with 16 top-level doubles titles; Nicole M. LaVoi, Ph.D., faculty in the

School of Kinesiology at the University of Minnesota and associate director of the Tucker Center for Research on Girls & Women in Sport; Michele Krause, Cardio Tennis manager; and Rick ­Dickson, athletics director at Tulane University and keynote speaker at Friday’s Awards Luncheon.

Other noted speakers were Mark Macdonald, world-renowned fitness and nutrition expert; Jeffrey D. ­Morgan, CEO of the Club Managers Association of America (CMAA); Craig S. Jones, USTA Director of Junior Play; and many, many more.

USPTA Immediate Past President Tom Daglis especially enjoyed Craig O’Shannessy’s session. “One of the best seminars I have ever attended. Great info and great presenter!” Daglis said.

One of the top highlights of the conference was the Welcome Reception on Tuesday night at The National World War II Museum. Attendees were treated to heavy hors d’oeuvres and a drink before viewing the moving documentary, “Beyond All Boundaries.” The museum was also open throughout the evening to explore the various exhibits in the European and

Asian wings.

“This was a touching film that allowed us to go to a wonderful museum dedicated to a very dark time in our history,” Faulkner said.

USPTA Past President Harry Gilbert called the welcome reception and film “a wonderful and moving experience” and that this year’s conference “was one of the best.”

Another new tradition was born in the Big Easy this year with the first Masters Invitational. Top players from the USPTA Surface Championships were invited to play in this tournament, which culminated on Wednesday with the trophy presentation. Congratulations the men’s open singles champion, Stefano Ianni, the women’s open singles champion Zorana George,

and to all of the winners!

The traditional division parties on Wednesday night also returned this year, along with the USPTA Buying Show and Silent Auction to benefit the USPTA Foundation on Thursday evening. The show saw several first-time exhibitors such as Asics, adidas, EleVen

by Venus, Life Fitness, and new USPTA endorsees Connor Sport Court, 2XU, Power Plate, Plannit and Jeunesse.

The conference ended on a high note by recognizing our outstanding members at Friday’s Awards Luncheon and inducting two new members into the USPTA Hall of Fame – Dennis Van der Meer and Tom Gullikson – along with honoring five new Master Professionals; Jorge Capestany, the 2015 USPTA Alex Gordon Professional

of the Year; David Muir, the George Bacso Lifetime Achievement Award recipient; and Lisa Gilbride, the USTA/­ USPTA Community Service Award winner.

Although the excitement and energy in New Orleans made for an excellent place to return, the experience of professionals and industry leaders coming together for a week of learning, networking amd fun made for a successful conference.

USPTA Eastern Division President Mark Savage said this year’s conference gave him “a chance to ‘rejuvenate and educate.’ Loved New Orleans, the food, the friends, the expertise, and most of all the USPTA participants who all showed what true professionalism is.” h

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com 55

USPTA World Conference

2015 Honorees

USPTA honored those who stand out and go above and beyond in all aspects of the tennis industry at the 2015 USPTA World ­Conference. USPTA, the world’s oldest and largest association of tennis-teaching professionals, recognized tennis coaches, ­industry leaders and volunteers during its annual national awards presentation at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside.

Dennis Van der Meer (Hilton Head, S.C.) and Tom Gullikson (Boca Raton, Fla.) joined the ranks of only 16 others when they were inducted into the USPTA Hall of Fame. The association’s Van der Meer Gullikson highest honor recognizes excellence in the tennis profession and commitment to USPTA. Jorge Capestany (Holland, Mich.) received the USPTA Alex Gordon Professional of the Year Award, the association’s top annual member award.

The George Bacso Lifetime Achievement Award went to David Muir (Blue Island, Ill.), the first time the award has been presented since 2008.

Lisa Gilbride (Topsham, Maine) received the USTA/ USPTA Community Service Award for her contributions to her community through tennis, presented annually by the United States Tennis Association as part of the USPTA’s awards program.

For the second consecutive year, a Texan has won the Tennis Across America Award. Master Professional Ron Woods (Corpus Christi, Texas) was recognized for his efforts to increase tennis participation in his community.

John Dale Evans (Oakland, Calif.) received the association’s Diversity Award for his work to increase diversity within the USPTA. Craig O’Shannessy (Austin, Texas) is this year’s ­recipient of the Tim Gullikson Touring Coach of the Year award. O’Shannessy is also one of the world leaders in strategy analysis for the ATP World Tour, WTA, the New York Times and the Australian Open.

Charles “Reedy” Toney (Kingsport, Tenn.) was named the High School Coach of the Year. As the head boys and girls tennis coach at Tennessee High School in Bristol, Tenn., Toney led his players to multiple championships in 2015.

Warren Lem (Naples, Fla.) was awarded the USPTA President’s Paul Waldman Award by USPTA President Tom McGraw for his contributions to the USPTA Foundation.

Rolando Vargas (Troy, Ala.) was named the College Coach of the Year after leading the men’s and women’s teams to conference championships at Auburn University Montgomery in 2015, posting a combined 44-10 record for both teams. Vargas also coached the women’s team to the 2015 NAIA National Championship title.

In recognition of his business acumen and ­ dvancing the sport of tennis in his community, a Lane Evans (Hendersonville, N.C.) received the USPTA’s Industry Excellence Award, which recognizes members who increase tennis activity in their ­communities.

Tom Ingram (Cedar Park, Texas) was named the George Bacso Tester of the Year. Ingram is a USPTA Elite Professional and has been a member for more than 37 years. He has served as a tester for 21 years, 17 of those as a head tester. He administered the USPTA certification exam to 50 people over the last year.

Trenton Corvino (Portland, Ore.) was awarded the USPTA Star Award for his efforts to provide tennis to at-risk children as the program director with the Portland After School Tennis and Education program.

Levander Kelley (North Chesterfield, Va.) was named the Top Education Credit Earner for 2014 after earning an astounding 350 education credits as part of the USPTA Career Development Program.

Suzanne LaBelle (Oklahoma City) is the recipient of the Lessons for Life Award for her extensive contributions to her community. In 2014, she helped raise more than $130,000 for various organizations through tennis.

56 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Ryan George (Odessa, Texas) was named the Facility Manager of the Year, Small Facility. George has been the general manager of the Odessa Country Club in Odessa, Texas, for the past seven years and has continually made the commitment to support tennis and tennis-teaching professionals.

Richard Macey (Bradenton, Fla.) was named the Facility Manager of the Year, Large Facility. Macey has been the manager of IMG Tennis at the IMG Academy for the past three and half years.

Jeremiah De Jose (Wilmington, Del.) is the first recipient of the U30 Award, new to the awards program in 2015. The U30 Award recognizes a USPTA Professional aged 30 or under for their contributions to tennis.

Player of the Year Awards Men’s Open Singles Adrians Zguns Men’s Open Doubles Paulo Barros Stefano Ianni Men’s 35s Singles Paulo Barros Men’s 40s Doubles Frank Vermeer Kamil Kuchta

Men’s 50s Doubles Patricio Madariaga Carlos Triana Men’s 60s Singles Gewan Maharaj

Women’s 50s Doubles Kimberly Jones Christie Bradley

Men’s 60s Doubles Mike Barnes Larry Gagnon

Mixed Open Doubles Adrians Zguns Ristine Olson

Men’s 65s Singles Mike Barnes

Mixed 40s Doubles Trish Riddell Jack Steyn

Men’s 45s Singles Kamil Kuchta

Women’s Open Singles Carrie Kalapala

Men’s 45s Doubles Bryan Biever Mike Vidmar

Women’s 40s Singles Trish Riddell

Men’s 50s Singles Steve Brady

Women’s 50s Singles Ruth Hessert

Mixed 50s Doubles Susie Brown Patricio Madariaga

Division Awards Large Division of the Year – Texas Small Division of the Year – New England Newsletter of the Year – Texas Division growth Greatest number of new members – Southern Greatest percentage of new members – Missouri Valley

Tennis Across America™ Greatest number of participants – Midwest Greatest percentage of participants – San Diego

Lessons for Life™ Most money raised – Southern Most money raised per capita – Southern

Women’s 40s Doubles Trish Riddell Susan Evans

Education Awards Top education participants – 2014

Specialist Degrees USPTA Specialists in Competitive Player Development Andrew Diefenbach Luciano Battaglini Edward Duffy Jeff Bearup Boris Fetbroyt Nestor Bernabe Kerry Giardino Amine Boustani Tomas Hlavaty Igal Buberman Jimmy Jackson Vivian Chhetri Brenton James Jerry Christoforatos Jason Kinder Pat Colbert Brian Kuscher Janusz Conradi Esu Ma’at Ellen Considine-Miller Andrew Martin Calin Constanceanu Brad Minns Nicholas Cote Cesar Morales Devin Crotzer Benny Morentin Rick Davison Tony Mule Jimmy Delevante Jean Desdunes

USPTA Specialist in Sport Science Bobbie Campanaro Feisal Hassan

Murphey Parker Vesa Ponkka Bert Poole John Pratt Tyler Pullen Farhad Roshanaie Andres Sanchez Brian Schubert Bryan Smith Jeri Stewart Jeffrey Wiedemann Steve Williams Jason Winegar Gwinyai Zengeni Anzela Zguna

USPTA Specialist in Facility Management Eric Winn

Levander Kelley – Top credit earner

Josh Jorgensen

Michael Baugh

Bill Riddle

Lane Evans

Chad Empey Rodolfo Cordova Gary Cimperman Michael Moriarty Dan Beedle

Education merit award for 10 years of continuing education participation Karl Akkerman Ron Dyson Warren Lem

Bill Mecca Jeff Rothstein Keith Swindolll

Master Professionals Five USPTA members earned Master Professional status, the highest professional rating within the tennis profession:

Michael Chamberlain (Memphis, Tenn.)

Christopher Chopra (Bloomington, Ind.) Stan Oley (Viera, Fla.) James Shaughnessy (Enid, Okla.)

John Trinity (Randolph, N.J.)

The USPTA National Awards program is conducted annually. Nominations are submitted by the organization’s 17 divisions and by individuals. Recipients in each category are decided by the USPTA Awards Committee. 2015 Awards Committee: Diane Selke (chair), Jennifer Gray, Mark Savage, Bill Weber, Bruce Gullikson

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com 57

Years of Service 30 Years Greg Alexander Dan Aubuchon Henry Avants Juan Ayala Jan Bardot Jim Barnish Van Barry Dennis Bartlett Lou Belken Craig Bell Cindy Benzon Pat Birney Ernest Blachowiak Paul Blankenship Chrisann Boehm Ross Boling Donnia Bondallian Doug Boswell Sue Boyle Fred Burdick Daniel Burgess Lynn Bybee Tom Caldwell Dale Caldwell Enrico Campi George Carlsson Mike Carrico John Carrizosa Lillo Casesa Bwana Chakar Simba Ed Charles Will Cleveland Bob Cofer William Cole Scot Collins Stacey Comartos Joe Concialdi Anne Cook Chris Cordano Jim Corn Rob Cornell Dennis Covington Conrad Cowan Karen Crumpton Glenn Davis Joe Deitchler John DePew Frank Dorsky Cliff Drysdale Arnold Dun Kevin Eby Mary Pat Faley Marilyn Feinstein Mary Fink Steve Garman Sig Garnett Johan Garos Ed Gaskell Dennis Gibbens Mark Goldin Teri Goodman Bill Gordon Todd Grange Cecil Green Bruce Haase Christopher Hagman Yasutoshi Hamaguchi Tadaaki Hamaguchi Craig Hardenbergh Larry Haugness

Bill Henness Pat Hennessy Greg High Steven Hill Jim Hinson Jimbo Hobson Robert Hollis Masamitsu Hondo Anne Hopson Glen Howe Dick Howell Takeshi Ide Tadashi Iwasaki Mark Jacques Judy Jeanette Bud Johnson Barbara Johnston Hill Craig Jones Marvin Jones John Joyce Henry Kamakana Yukitoshi Kawabata Junzo Kawase Masahiko Kawashima Gordon Kent Dennis Killelea Patricia Kirch Barbara Kissick Larry Kline Peter Koekkoek Craig Koessler Tom Komassa Glenn Kommer Shubrick Kothe Chris Kretchmer Shoji Kunitoshi David Kuras Mike Lange Patrick LaSalle Katherine Lashbrook Barry Lewis John Lippman Carolyn Lumber Marc Majdick Tim Mangan James Marion Tony Martin Sean McCarthy Bill McClain Chauncey McFarland John McSween Anne Meigs Cliff Menke Dale Miller Leslie Moe Tina Montagnet Akio Naraki Aurae Nemesis Ben Neveras Rick Ninete Diane O’Brien Steven O’Connell Sean O’Neil Shushichiro Ono Duke Paluch Morio Parker Kevin Pease Ann Pellow Bob Peterson Jose Pico Jim Pitkanen

58 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

David Pitts Gary Plank Richard Ralston David Redding David Richardson Bob Risinger Dennis Rizza Stephen Robinson Drew Robinson Clay Robinson Ron Romano Martin Rothfels Dennis Royal Kevin Rust Ron Salazar Nick Saviano Tom Schuett Mark Schwartz Bailey See George Shaw Bill Simmers Thomas Simpson Stan Smith Arthur Snow Renie Sokolowski Sharon Spiegel Ron St. John Bill Stahr Susie Staloch Brian Stanley Seabury Stanton Paul Steele Marisa Stone Akira Sukegawa John Sutter Tom Sweitzer Bill Swift Jerald Taggart Satoshi Takahashi George Tarangioli Frank Taylor Andrea Taylor Yukitaka Temma Catherine Thomas Kohei Tomioka Robert Trogolo Mike Van Zutphen Fred Viancos Mark Vines Bob Wagstaff Winston Wai Pancho Walthall Tom Warfel Hirotsugu Watanuki Campbell Watts Chip Weber Jim Wegener Darin Weidenheimer Jimmy Weinacker Keith Wheeler John Whitlinger Dave Wiest Lawrence Willens Mark Williams Ron Williams Doug Wright Carrie Zarraonandia Anne Zarraonandia Daniel Zirolla

35 Years Patricia Allar Rich Andrews Martha Bass Janan Batchelor Eileen Berry David Boggs David Bohrnstedt Chris Bradley Mike Brzoska Jim Buck Tim Burke Steve Carberry Mike Carrigan Mike Casey Sheldon Chazen Marjorie Collins Mike Collins Robert Cox Todd Curtiss Eddie Davis Jorge Del Moral Becky Desmond David Dilettuso Dave Dollins Gary Druckman Kurt Edelbrock Richard Ehrenreich Charlie Ellis Ron Filstrup Mark Fleming Jim Flesch Ann Flint Steven Gervickas Ann Grubbs Artie Guerin Jonathan Hains Kevin Hamilton Robert Harjes Richard Hatfield Michael Hurley Lawrence Hyde Scott Irwin Gordon Jones Martha Jones Dean Kadera Richard Kaufman Steve Kroupa Jack Lackey Angel Lopez Dixie Mabe Creig Matthieson Mindy McCarthy-Oki Ken McEwan Tom McGraw Robert McNichols Ed McQuillin Rick Meyers Jim Moellering Patricia Mraz Paul Muesing Claudia Myers-Whiteley Bob Myerson Bruce Nagel Bob Northcut Mike O’Connell Ken Ouellette Mike Owens Jim Parker Christine Parker Cliff Price

Gary Quandt David Rapp Robyn Ray Gwendolyn Ritchie Ralph Robbins Bob Rodgers Franklin Sacks Charles Sanfilippo Ted Sayrahder Scott Schultz Terry See Richard Sharton Gary Sherby Mark Simcina Jonathan Spear Carlene Stephens Judith Stiff James Strassle Ken Sumrow Tim Sunderland Jim Swiggart Stan Tamura Norma Taylor Jim Tierney Robert Travnicek Wendell Troy Larry Turville Betty Walsh Gideon Weber Dean Werner Joe Wesson Marnie Whalen Steve Wild Pete Zannis Jonathan Zolin Bob Zysk 40 Years Susan Allshouse Bob Anderman Asa Atkinson Mike Baldwin Jak Beardsworth Sherry Bedingfield Terry Bennett David Birnbaum Hank Brenner David Buksa Doug Cash Sam Ciulla Tommy Connell Mark Davis Ken DeHart Dave Fleury Janet French Morton Greenberg Tom Gross Sara Hamilton Bob Helton Howard Hunt John Ingram Dean Ives Roberto Leon Elliot Lovi Gewan Maharaj Barbara Maitland Ken McAllister Jim McCabe Bob McInerney Mike Morse Thomas Nelson

Henry Offner Eleanor Peden Craig Petra Fred Pinho Charlotte Primer Dennis Prinos Ed Richardson Bill Roberti Carl Robinson Jeff Rothstein John Russo Lester Sack Jane Seiffert Ron Shapiro Scott Simpson Dean Snyder John Somerville Steve Stefanki Tony Trabert Wayne Uglem Andy Ventress Tena Ventress-Soller Eric Zatman Brent Zeller 45 Years David Benjamin Arnold Bradshaw Barry Butcher Vilis Cakans Fred Drilling Ramsey Earnhart Mike Eikenberry Fritz Gildemeister Don Hebert Walter Johnson Larry Kast Bob King Alan Koth John Lawrence Bruce Mahler Denis Moss Melvina Nozick Terry Petersen Dave Power Robert Ruzanic Sidney Steinour Bill Thompson Bill Tym Fernando Velasco Carol Weymuller Ray Yost 50 Years Asher Birnbaum Frank Brennan Charles Enge Richard Henderson Chet Murphy Sean Sloane 55 Years Dieter Ehlermann Joseph Fait Ed Garcia Alan Laveson 60 Years Charles Eisenberger Ed Reid Brick Warden

USPTA World Conference

Seen on Social Media

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com 59

USPTA World Conference

Top Players Take Home Honors in USPTA’s $15,000 Masters Invitational

T

he best of the best were on display this week at the first USPTA Masters Invitational, with several of the USPTA’s top Surface Championship winners taking home a portion of the $15,000 prize money. The first annual USPTA Masters Invitational was held during the USPTA World Conference at the Hilton Riverside New Orleans.

This invitation-only tournament, which replaced the International Championships, gave USPTA-certified Professionals an added opportunity to showcase their skills and earn more prize money.

Stefano Ianni of Miami earned the men’s open singles division title after defeating Adrians Zguns of Orlando, Fla., by a final score of 1-6, 6-1, 6-1. The pair partnered up earlier in the week to take home the top prize in the men’s open doubles division.

Zorana George of Cordova, Tenn., was the top woman in the tournament after earning the women’s open singles division title with a decisive victory over Miranda Rodriguez of Baytown, Texas, 6-2, 6-0.

Floridians had a strong showing at the tournament. The USPTA Men’s 35 Singles Player of the Year, Paulo Barros of Winter Garden, Fla., won the Masters Invitational title in the same division. He was also named the Men’s Open Doubles Player of the Year along with Ianni.

Longtime tournament participant Jeff Cohen of Boca Raton, Fla., won the men’s 45 singles division crown after edging Frank Vermeer 6-4, 7-6. Cohen and Vermeer also paired up to earn the men’s 45 doubles division title by defeating Tom Breece and Rob Horsch 6-0, 6-2 in the finals.

60 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Stefano Ianni

Hans Gallauer of St. Petersburg, Fla., went down to the wire with Pat Serret by came up victorious with a three-set win 7-5, 1-6, 6-4 for the men’s 55 singles division title.

The USPTA Masters Invitational featured the top point earners from the four USPTA Surface Championships in 2014-15 who were selected to compete based on their finish.

Divisions included men’s 35 singles, men’s 45 doubles, men’s 45 singles, men’s 55 singles, men’s open doubles, men’s open singles, and women’s open singles. The total prize money for the event was $15,000, which was the largest amount awarded of all the USPTA tournaments.

Full results of the 2015 USPTA Masters Invitational are available on

getcourtside.com.

Additionally, USPTA recognized the organization’s players of the year after the Masters Invitational Finals. The winners are determined by the total number of USPTA player points earned during the 2014 calendar year based on each player’s finish at USPTA tournaments.

Adrians Zguns of Orlando was named the Men’s Open Singles Player of the Year and Carrie Kalapala of Austin, Texas, was named the Women’s Open Singles Player of the Year. For a full list of the 2014 USPTA Players of the Year, see the list on Page 61.

For more information on player rankings, the USPTA Surface Championships and the Masters Invitational, visit uspta.com/tournaments. h

2014 USPTA Players of the Year Men’s Open Singles – Adrians Zguns (Orlando, Fla.) Men’s Open Doubles –Paulo Barros (Winter Garden, Fla.); Stefano Ianni (Miami) Men’s 35 and Over Singles – Paulo Barros (Winter Garden, Fla.) Men’s 40 and Over Doubles – Frank Vermeer (Jacksonville, Fla.); Kamil Kuchta (Boynton Beach, Fla.) Men’s 45 and Over Singles – Kamil Kuchta (Boynton Beach, Fla.) Men’s 45 and Over Doubles – Bryan Biever (Saint Paul, Minn.); Mike Vidmar (Saint Paul, Minn.)

Men’s 50 and Over Singles – Steve Brady (Tampa, Fla.) Men’s 50 and Over Doubles – Patricio Madariaga (Miami Beach, Fla.); Carlos Triana (Aventura, Fla.) USPTA Master Invitational players Thiago Barbosa, Rudy Obregon, Adrian Zguns and Stefano Ianni.

2015 USPTA Masters Invitational Winners Men’s Open Singles – Winner: Stefano Ianni (Miami); Runner-up: Adrians Zguns (Orlando, Fla.) Women’s Open Singles – Winner: Zorana George (Cordova, Tenn.); Runner-up: ­Miranda Rodriguez (Baytown, Texas) Men’s Open Doubles – Winners: Stefano Ianni (Miami)/Adrians Zguns (Orlando); Runners-up: Rudy Obregon (San Antonio)/ Thiago Barbosa (Glendale, Ariz.)

Men’s 35 Singles – Winner: Paulo Barros (Winter Garden, Fla.); Runner-up: Mathieu Soto (Boca Raton, Fla.) Men’s 45 Singles – Winner: Jeff Cohen (Boca Raton, Fla.); Runner-up: Frank Vermeer (Jacksonville, Fla.)

Men’s 60 and Over Singles – Gewan Maharaj (Tampa, Fla.) Men’s 60 and Over Doubles – Mike Barnes (Fort Myers, Fla.); Larry ­ agnon (Fort Myers, Fla.) G Men’s 65 and Over Singles – Mike Barnes (Fort Myers, Fla.) Women’s Open Singles – Carrie Kalapala (Austin, Texas) Women’s 40 and Over Singles – Trish Riddell (Lakeland, Fla.) Women’s 40 and Over Doubles – Trish Riddell (Lakeland, Fla.); Susan Evans (Marco Island, Fla.) Women’s 50 and Over Singles – Ruth Hessert (Pocono Pines, Pa.) Women’s 50 and Over Doubles – Kimberly Jones (Fort Myers, Fla.); Christie Bradley (Sanibel, Fla.) Mixed Open Doubles – Adrians Zguns (Orlando, Fla.); Ristine Olson (Austin, Texas)

Men’s 45 Doubles – Winners: Jeff Cohen (Boca Raton, Fla.)/ Frank Vermeer (Jacksonville, Fla.); Runners-up: Tom Breece (Phoenix, Ariz.)/Rob Horsch (Laguna Niguel, Calif.)

Mixed 40 and Over Doubles – Trish Riddell (Lakeland, Fla.); Jack Steyn (Bradenton, Fla.)

Men’s 55 Singles – Winner: Hans Gallauer (St. Petersburg, Fla.); Runner-up: Pat Serret (Alexandria, La.)

Mixed 50 and Over Doubles – Susie Brown (Delray Beach, Fla.); Patricio Madariaga (Miami Beach, Fla.)

Women’s Open Winner Zorana George with USPTA President Tom McGraw and Dan Moster.

Men’s Open Winner Stefano Ianni with USPTA President Tom McGraw and Dan Moster.

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com 61

Inside Coaching

Competitive Fight + Emotional Control = Competitive Balance

By Ben Loeb, USPTA

P

icture yourself walking across a tightrope with your hands out to each side to help your ­balance.

On one hand is “Competitive Fight” and on the other hand is “Emotional Control.” In competitive athletics and specifically in a tennis match you need both. Competitive fight without emotional control will leave you frustrated and angry. You will not be at your best to solve problems in the match.

If you have emotional control but not enough competitive fight, you will be playing the match while driving in neutral. That’s not good enough to get to where you want to go against strong competition. You need positive energy to fuel the competitive fight. Consequently, strive to have proper emotional balance by having a combination of both competitive fight and emotional control.

A helpful acronym in the form of a question during competition is “Are you ‘CALM’ in the storm of competition?”

C – Are you Centered in the here and now?

A – Are you Accepting of what is?

L – Are you Logical in your thinking?

M – Are you Mindful of your next move?

As a player on the court or as a person dealing with life, you are more likely to have emotional balance if you are centered in the here and now; accepting of what is; logical in your thinking; and mindful of your next move. So stay “CALM” in the heat of competition.

Another key to emotional balance is composure. Composure is something easier said than done when faced with obstacles, especially when the outcome is in doubt. This applies on and off the tennis court or any athletic field of play as well as in dealing with life’s obstacles.

Ask yourself, “how well am I dealing with mistakes on and off the court?”

“How well do I handle things when

things are not going as planned?” Keep in mind the 3 R’s for Composure.

Recognize you are dwelling on mistakes Regroup by interrupting the chain of thought Refocus on the next play/move.

You can get back into emotional balance faster if you keep the 3 R’s in mind during the battle. It’s hard enough to battle your opponent. Why are you spending so much energy battling yourself? You could repeat the 3 R’s to yourself (“Recognize-Regroup-Refocus”) between points to change your perspective if need be.

If we can find the proper emotional balance we will discover a better version of ourselves on and off the tennis court.

A final key ties emotional balance with viewing the situation as a great opportunity. So many of us become obsessed with the outcome. We want to win! The opponent wants to win, too!

Now that we have the “given” part out of the way, we can focus on viewing the situation as a great opportunity to be part of the contest, the game, the unknown. It’s an opportunity for challenge, for self-discovery and if you are part of a team, for achievement for all. Can you look at the situation as an opportunity for play, for exercise, for testing your mental, emotional and physical skills against someone else? You can choose to see the opportunity as part of the reward. The opportunity can be a gift in itself and winning can enhance the feeling of accomplishment. But either way you or your team can choose to put yourself

out there and get something worthwhile out of the experience. This one is probably too long for automatic recall but it can be reviewed during quiet times of reflection.

Look for your OPPORTUNITY in sport and in life.

O – Open to self-discovery P – Passionate P – Persistent O – Opposition (you can deal with it) R – Responsible T – Trustworthy (be trustworthy with others) U – Unity (respect differences and value things in common) N – Nourish your relationships with other people I – Introspective (honestly look at yourself ) T – Transformation (you can welcome and handle life’s changes, good and bad) Y – You count, too!

When you have opportunities in sport, you get the chance to play. If in life, you get the chance to participate.

That’s a good thing. There may be some people who are opposed to you being successful out of envy, jealousy or resentment. You cannot let them stop you from pursuing the “opportunity” for your own success. Be thankful for the opportunity in itself and allow that to help you with your own emotional ­balance.

If we can find the proper emotional balance, we will discover a better version of ourselves on and off the tennis court. h Ben Loeb is the head boys’ and girls’ tennis coach at Rock Bridge High School in Columbia, Mo. He was named the USPTA Missouri Valley High School Co­ach of the Year in 2010, 2011 and 2014.

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com 63

Master Pro Corner

Pay yourself first

By Sean Sloane, USPTA Master Professional

F

or tennis professionals, preparing for retirement is crucial.

Who wants to be feeding balls eight hours a day at age 66?

In order to be well prepared for retirement at an age of your choosing, pay yourself first! Whatever your age, be sure to establish a retirement plan and contribute to that plan from every paycheck. The amount is not important – what is important is that you begin regular contributions. As you and your retirement plan mature, you can increase the amount of contributions as your paycheck i­ ncreases.

In addition to your own contributions, ask your employer if there is a matching retirement plan available to you. If there is, take full advantage – this is free money!

Be sure to research the many possibilities available to you through ­USPTA. Every dollar contributed to

64 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

your retirement plan by USPTA licensees is free money – leverage these opportunities to the hilt! Do you patronize the USPTA licensees below? Then you have already begun preparing for your retirement! n Prince

n Fromuth/Nike

Every dollar contributed to your retirement plan by USPTA licensees is free money – leverage these opportunities to the hilt!

n Jeunesse

how little, the longer your money has to grow, and you will be surprised and amazed at the power of compounding.

Do you know anything about IRAs, Roth IRAs, and the stock market?

Check out USPTA’s Retirement Gold+ plan and begin preparing now for a well-deserved retirement at the age you choose! h

If you are a young pro and haven’t thought yet about retirement, start now! The earlier you begin contributing to a retirement plan, no matter

Sean Sloane is the men’s tennis coach and men’s/women’s squash coach at Haverford College in Haverford, Pa. He also has served as an adjunct professor of English at Rowan University in Glassboro, N.J.

n NetKnacks

n 10-S Tennis Supply n Aer-Flo

n Hop-A-Razzi n Power Plate

n Connor Sport Court n 2XU

n Plannit

Remembering Rich

By Shawna Riley Long-time USPTA member Rich Fanning passed away on Friday, Aug. 21. He served as USPTA’s Director of Operations for nearly 27 years, retiring in 2013. This tribute is written by Shawna Riley, who served as USPTA’s Director of Communications for 22 years.

R

ich Fanning was the first perand true friendship. It’s the sort of thing that gradually reveals itself when you son I met when I drove from least expect it. I began to see another Port Arthur, Texas, to Houston to interview for a job with side of his personality. There was a ­USPTA in 1990. I was nervous, and he sweet, caring and funny man under all didn’t do anything to calm my interview those rules and regulations. jitters. I don’t think he cracked a smile He was very proud of his two daughters and his granddaughter. He spoke of during that first meeting. his time in the Navy, and he shared his I also met Tim Heckler during that enjoyment of stained glass work, and interview, and I figured that they were made some beautiplaying a little “bad ful pieces. I know cop-good cop” sceI’m not the only staff nario to really test member who has at me! I guess I passed least one or more the test because I worked for USPTA of his stained glass for the next 22 years. angels. But, when it During those years, came to matters of I grew to know and the heart, Rich’s lips love Rich. were sealed!

What I realized That started to from the beginchange when I got a ning was that Rich call from a woman was fiercely loyal to who wanted to deliver ­USPTA, and he wanta birthday cake to Shawna Riley and Rich Fanning ed to hire employees USPTA to celebrate who also would be hard working and deRich’s birthday. She wanted to meet me voted to the business of the association outside our office building, and I took the and its members. Rich continued to test cake from her and invited her to join us, me during the first few years of my tenure but she declined. So, Rich had a girlfriend! with USPTA. We sometimes agreed to Rich was surprised by the cake and I disagree on issues, and I knew my boundbegan to ask him a few questions. He was aries and how far to push (or not). tight-lipped and didn’t offer any details.

Rich was former Navy, and it showed.

The staff could tell something was up.

He was the first person to arrive at the ofHe seemed more relaxed and smiled a lot fice and, for many years, the last person to more, but he still refused to talk the day leave USPTA each day. He was famous for he appeared with a beautiful jade ring on his 6 a.m. World Conference staff meethis left hand, only managing one of his ings. He referred to his trusty flip chart as half grins. he ran down the day’s events and pointed The old reporter in me didn’t give up. out who was supposed to be where to I knew that sneaky man had probably gotten married and I was going to find proof. make the conference run without a hitch.

I went to the computer and found out that As the years passed, those 6 a.m. meeta marriage license had been issued to Rich ings were dropped, but I have no doubt and Losa in Harris County (Houston). the staff was able to run the event on auto pilot because of the years of structure and Without telling him we knew, the staff got precision instituted by Rich. I know we all a card, signed it and sent it to his home address to congratulate the new couple! enjoyed the extra sleep!

I am so happy Rich had Losa. After I can’t tell you when it actually happened, but I finally earned Rich’s trust the secret was out, it wasn’t long before

he placed a portrait of him and Losa on his desk. He loved bragging about her, especially her cooking skills. Married life seemed to complete him.

I feel certain Rich would tell us to have no regrets, but I’m sorry I wasn’t able to visit with him more often after we both left USPTA. I’d go through that scary interview from 1990 all over again, knowing now that I’d learn so much working with Rich and at USPTA. Of course, perhaps now, I’d ask him to break out the stash of Peanut M&M’s® in his desk drawer and perhaps get him to crack that smile he wouldn’t crack so long ago! h Rich and Losa Fanning

www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com 65

Career Development Exams, Upgrades Workshops & Courses & PTCA I (4 credits for PTCA I segment) Nov. 1 Lakewood, Calif.

Nov. 1 Richmond, Va. Nov. 8 Rancho Mirage, Calif.

Nov. 8 Hendersonville, Tenn.

Nov. 8 Jackson, Miss.

Nov. 8 New Orleans Nov. 13 Westowood, Kans.

Nov. 14 Mequon, Wisc.

Ocala, Fla. Nov. 14-15 Nov. 14-15 Rye, N.H. Tucson, Ariz.

Nov. 14-15 Big Rapids, Mich.

Nov. 14-15 Nov. 20 Princeton, N.J. Nov. 20-21 Houston* Nov. 21-22 Mountlake Terrace, Wash.

(10 credits per level)

Nov. 11-15 ICI – Spanish Tennis Teaching System (Level 1 & Level2) Emilio Sanchez-Vacario; Houston

Conventions (4 credits) Nov. 6-7 USPTA Southern U30 Conference Nashville, Tenn.

Webinars

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

National Education Day is Nov. 15.

In order to help you reach your goal of six continuing education credits for the 2014-2016 period, every division will host at least one educational event on or around Nov. 15.

Visit uspta.com/education to see the calendar or visit your division’s website at usptaplayer.com.

(.5 credits) Oct. 27

Nov. 18

* 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.

National Education Day

Dec. 9

Developing resilient, confident competitors Larry Lauer Analyzing the Forehand Groundstroke Ramona Husaru The X’s and O’s of adding fitness to your tennis resume Lane Evans

Cardio Tennis Oct. 25 Oct. 26 Nov. 8

CT CT CT

Dallas, Texas Shreveport, Calif.

Wheaton, Calif.

TM

Nov. 14 Nov. 14 Nov. 15 Nov. 29

CT TRX CT TRX CT CT

La Quinta, Calif.

La Quinta, Calif.

La Quinta, Calif.

London

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.

66 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

Please visit www.cardiotennistraining.com to register online.

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 partial 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.

Member News • USPTA Professional Paul Cass and daughter Julie Cass competed in the National Father Daughter Grass Court Championships held at Longwood Cricket Club in Boston. They won their record ninth overall Gold Ball as they won the Senior Division by defeating the Morse-Karzen team 7-5, 6-3 in the finals.

• USPTA Women’s Committee meeting at the 2015 USPTA World Conference in New Orleans.

• The annual Lessons for Life Play for Pink Breast Cancer Fundraiser was held on July 28 at the Bass Rocks Golf & Tennis Club in Gloucester, Mass. Director of Tennis Avis R. Murray (kneeling at left) organized this annual event, which raised more than $1,000. Three round robins were held during the morning at the same time as the golf ladies played, and both fundraisers together raised more than $6,000 for this worthy cause. Avis was assisted by Kimberly Foster, Lynne Salah and Caleb Willett.

• Claudio Armandi was named 2015 USPTA New England Youth Coach of the Year. Armandi is a national expert in junior development specializing in 10-and-under programming and high performance training.

NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS

• The first ever “Hammock Challenge” was hosted by Hammock Dunes Club against nearby Hammock Beach Resort in Palm Coast, Fla. Members of each club played in a friendly tennis competition consisting of men’s, women’s, and mixed doubles then enjoyed a courtside barbeque. Prior to the tennis, Hammock Dunes Club also had the grand opening of their brand new pickleball courts as well. The inaugural event was a coordinated effort by Hammock Dunes Club Tennis and Athletics Director Ryan Khan (pictured in the back row on the left) and USPTA Elite Professionals Gene Paul Lascano, Hammock Beach Resort Tennis Director (pictured front row, second from the right), and Katsiaryna Lukomskaya, Hammock Beach Resort Head Tennis Professional (pictured kneeling on the right).

ADDvantage magazine editorial offices USPTA World Headquarters 3535 Briarpark Drive, Suite 202 Houston, TX 77042 Phone – 713-978-7782 / 800-USPTA-4U Fax – 713-358-7794 email – magazine@uspta.org

68 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.

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

TM

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.