Addvantage 2018 March by RSPA

MARCH 2018

USPTA Elite Professional Jason Gilbert with U30 Pros Brittany Hill (left) and Adelaide Wood (right).

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FROM THE CEO

Why are U30’s so important? John R. Embree, USPTA Chief Executive Officer

t is no secret that the tennis industry is getting older. almost every division has launched From manufacturer’s reps to USTA Adult League players, a U30 Committee. If you are reading to members of our association, the numbers continue to be this article and are a millennial that deeply concerning. The average age of a USPTA member is has resisted getting involved with bordering on 50 and the trend continues to head north. What is the USPTA locally, do yourself a going to happen over the next 5-10 years as we age out? Who is favor. Reach out to your fellow U30 going to fill the roles of the jobs that are going to come open? colleagues and make yourself available Young people today do not aspire to be tennis-teaching for any number of U30 activities that professionals even if they have a passion for our sport. For are going on throughout the country. some reason, a career in the tennis industry or specifically in Every one of our new committee chairs has been encouraged teaching tennis does not seem to invite a U30 member to to engender much enthusiasm volunteer for their newly amongst high school players or appointed respective national collegians. I cannot figure out committee. We need the why that is… perspective that only a Therefore, it is incumbent on millennial can bring to those all of us to recruit, encourage, committee discussions. and lead those young players As General Dunwoody so into our profession. The eloquently stated during problem, however, is that the her general session here millennials don’t want to be in Orlando at the Next mentored by old fuddy- duddys Generation: A Tennis like me (who would be eager Innovation Workshop last USPTA Elite Professional Jason Gilbert speaking with U30 Pros. October, “diversity is just to guide and provide direction to their students or even not ticking off the boxes. It is assistants). No, they would rather listen to someone of their about diversity of thought.” That is a dimension that U30’s can own vintage who has some experience in the industry to offer bring to our committee work. insight and advice as to how to navigate the incredible maze In addition, our multimedia department has just produced that is our tennis marketplace. I don’t blame them. a dynamic 30 second TV spot that will be aired on the Tennis While this is not the only reason why our U30 program is Channel that focuses on our U30 professionals. Finally, we so vital to our long-term health, it is clearly one of them. The will be working hand in hand with the USTA on all of the PTM U30’s (who are already actively engaged with the USPTA) will programs that are hatching across the country. The latest play a critical role in representing our industry to those who count of PTM programs is 8-10 that are now underway. The are now on the outside looking in. Building a strong base of students who come out of those programs will have extensive U30’s cannot only help restock our association with quality knowledge about the tennis industry, will have been mentored like-minded professionals, but they will serve as our leaders of by USPTA professionals at some of the finest club facilities in the future. the country, and will have learned first-hand what it is like to People often ask me, “what keeps you up at night?” Without work as tennis-teaching professionals. Not only that, each will giving it much thought, this is it. I worry terribly about our be USPTA certified before they graduate from college. industry and the current participation trends (which you know I implore every USPTA professional to reach out and are not good), but I am very nervous about the lack of a youth identify one promising young tennis enthusiast and help them movement within the USPTA. For that reason, our efforts to understand the benefits of working in our industry and why increase the visibility of our U30’s have to be a priority, both they should aspire to join our wonderful industry. nationally and at the division/local levels. U30’s are the lifeblood of the USPTA going forward. They are Thanks to Jason Gilbert, the new president of USPTA the future. We cannot wait to take the right steps to bring new Florida who is credited with starting the U30 program in 2013, people in. It is now or never...*

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Vice President Message

#Givingback Cari Buck, USPTA Vice President

o here I am, fresh off the national board meeting of 2018. It US Promotions Director for Wilson is going to be a big year for the USPTA and as members, you Racquet Sports, Tim Buwick once told can be assured that this team will be working hard for you and me, we are all so lucky, “we work in working to make the USPTA the best organization it can be. the toy department of life.” For me as When I was asked to write this article, I thought what should I I’m sure for many of you, tennis has write about? After thinking about it a few days, it became clear. given me so much. I have met so many Write about something I’m passionate about; you can’t go wrong amazing people, I’ve had fantastic that way, right? experiences, I’ve been places I never Many of you who know me know I am passionate about thought I would go, I’ve learned so much and I’ve had so much wheelchair tennis. As I think back throughout my career, as fun…all because of tennis. And now it is my passion to do my best well as my childhood…it is not just about wheelchair tennis; it is to give those experiences to others. It is interesting to look back actually about giving back. My parents were very big on giving and realize that so many of these great memories are directly back, my father especially. When I was only about 14, he already related to my work with wheelchair athletes. Being able to bring had me out on the courts working with the little kids. It wasn’t tennis to a population that never thought they could play a sport, just me; it was all the kids in the program. As soon as our lessons let alone excel at it, is incredibly rewarding. were done, the older kids went out and helped teach the younger Sit back and think for a minute about all tennis has given you. ones. Giving back, paying it forward…call it what you want, but it Wouldn’t it be great if you could help someone else have those was a way of life in the Buck household. same experiences? As coaches, we give back to our students When I first started every day, but having been there working with wheelchair myself, I know the daily grind can players, I was just a year become monotonous at times out of college; teaching at and we can lose perspective. So the Royal Lahaina Tennis step out of your comfort zone Ranch in Maui. While I and try something new, take on had years of experience a new challenge and mix things teaching at our family club; up. There are so many great when it came to wheelchair organizations to get involved tennis I did not have a clue with…Special Olympics, ACEing and I had no idea what to Autism, Wounded Warriors, not expect. Talk about being to mention an abundance of local out of your comfort zone. organizations. If you get the I was totally intimidated opportunity to spend time working as the players came rolling Cari Buck with Thomas Bourassa (left ) and Chris Herman (right). with one of these organizations, out on the court. What jump at it…you won’t be sorry. was I going to do with a bunch of guys in wheelchairs, how The USPTA Foundation is another way to give back. Our were they going to play tennis? I was in for a surprise…these Foundation has awarded over 70 grants to qualified programs guys could play, these guy were athletes! I learned so much across the country, as well as giving back to pros that needed about wheelchair tennis from them… they helped me learn to help recovering from natural disasters. We also recently linked play in a chair, which really helped me understand the game up with AmazonSmile …when you shop on Amazon use the so much better and they taught me how to best coach them. I link https://smile.amazon.com/ and choose United States soon realized that while they were learning topsin and strategy Professional Tennis Association Foundation as your charity. from me I was learning way more from them…I learned about You can also make a tax deductible donation via paypal at uspta. appreciating what I had, staying positive and focusing on what I com. So whether you give back on court or off, you can and will could do and not what I couldn’t do. Those Saturday afternoon make a difference. “Think big and always give back to the game, sessions soon became my favorite part of the week, and to this in every way you can” - Jim Buck. My dad, my coach and my day I still appreciate the amazing impact it had on me. favorite mixed doubles partner on the planet.*

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USPTA - U30

Preparing for the Future DeVonte’ Martin, USPTA Public Relations Coordinator

ive years ago, a group of tennis-teaching professionals walked into the 2013 USPTA World Conference at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in Orlando, Florida wearing orange shirts. Vibrant and young, the group made their presence known and many began to take notice of the USPTA U30. To shed a light on young professionals, members were brought together to film the “USPTA U30” commercial. The U30 is a team of tennis-teaching professionals under the age of 30 working to create opportunities for young professionals. Their primary goal is to develop a voice for their generation that will magnify the impact they can have in their careers, community and culture of tennis. The U30 Initiative is led by Director of Competitive Tennis at USTA Florida and USPTA Florida Division President, Jason Gilbert. He saw the USPTA’s aging demographic and knew he needed to find a group of young professionals that would help the USPTA. Since its inception, 15 out of the 17 USPTA divisions have implemented the U30 initiative and it continues to increase in members.

USPTA Pro Jason Gilbert with U30 Pros Adelaide Wood (left) & Brittany Hill (right).

“It’s so exciting to see U30 professionals get together, network, and get mentors with experienced tennis-teaching professionals within our organization,” Gilbert said. “It has been an amazing initiative that we are very excited to continue to grow.” The initial process for applicants under 30 to join the U30 Initiative is becoming a USPTA member. After passing the on-court certification exam, young tennis-teaching professionals are invited to join the USPTA U30 Initiative by members like Kyle LaCroix. LaCroix, a Florida Tester and U30 member, was brought into the initiative after speaking with Gilbert and has been dedicated to growing the next wave of young tennis-teaching professionals ever since. “My role in the USPTA U30 as the Florida Tester, is that I get all the U30’s coming into the USPTA during the application process and I educate them about the U30 Initiative,” LaCroix said. “From there, I make sure the applicants know they will receive a call from either Jason or Gregory Heartt who oversees recruitment.” Heartt, a USPTA Elite Professional, and U30 Recruitment Chair said one of the strategies he utilizes to get young tennis-teaching professionals into the U30 Initiative is sending an email congratulating them on joining the association and inviting them to be a part of the U30 meeting. “I remember the first conference I attended, I felt lost because I was younger and in a world where everyone knows everyone in the tennis industry,” Heartt said. “You’re a fly on the wall and one of the great things about the U30 Initiative is that when you’re at a conference, immediately you’re recognized by U30 members and we all attend the sessions and then hang out afterward. It’s a great feeling to be a part of the U30 family.”*

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MASTER PRO corner

Why there are no key points in tennis by Ron Woods, Ph.D. USPTA Master Professional

ome tennis coaches and players believe that winning certain key points in a match are the difference between winning and losing. Conventional wisdom has typically held that if you win certain points during a match, your odds of a victory are greatly enhanced. Some coaches insist the first point of a game, the 15-30 point or the ad- in or ad-out points are critical. Similarly, the first game of a set, the 7th game and winning your own serve consistently are judged to be crucial. Of course, playing a tiebreak magnifies the importance of each point especially when used to decide a match instead of playing a third set. The fact is each point in tennis counts as one point won or lost. 99 percent of matches are won by the player who wins the most total points no matter when they occur. Adding more value or importance to any one point over another is simply a trick of your mind that often leads to failure. If you believe certain points are critical to the match outcome, that just amplifies the pressure and tension that you feel which often leads to poor execution. The result is self-induced tension, nervousness, and anxiety rather than self-confidence and self-esteem. Notable psychologist Dr. Albert Ellis who was a founder of cognitive behavior therapy has labeled the behavior described above as “musterbation.” He describes it as an irrational belief that certain “musts” formed in your mind are self-defeating. If you can learn to change your thoughts, you can change your behavior to result in more positive outcomes. You may recall the 2010 Wimbledon match between American John Isner and Nicolas Mahut of France that was dubbed the “longest match in history” in which Isner prevailed by scores of 6-4, 3-6, 6-7, 7-6, 70-68! The complete match was played over three days and lasted a total of 11 hours and five minutes. Of the 980

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total points played, which points do you think were the most important, other than the last point? When you come right down to it, people only play pressure points, games or matches because they think they do. The difference between a friendly game, a practice match or “the MATCH” is in the mind. Nothing changes in the game except in the mind and emotions of the players and their exaggerated belief in the importance of the outcome. Don’t let players fall into the trap of focusing on the “outcome” of a point rather than the “process” of executing to the best of their ability. Here’s the bad news about magnifying the importance of any

Inexperienced players often tend to rush during and between points seemingly just to end their misery sooner. The good news is that we can help all players develop a strategy and the psychological skill to deal with choking no matter their age, experience, or level of play. The first step is to shift emphasis to the process and performance rather than worrying about the match outcome. Teach them to focus exclusively on the current point rather than points from the past or coming up in the future. Encourage them to expend energy instead into playing each point with intensity and effort. Be sure to have them employ the best strategy or tactic that they can execute with confidence. Resist the allure of high risk shots and rely instead on shot and pattern sequences with lower risk that they virtually own. Suggest that they play their way into every point by allowing a safe margin for error on serves and returns to begin the point. Help players learn to keep their emotional level steady throughout a match and use time-tested psychological skills to adjust negative emotions if they threaten to interfere. Use breathing regulation and progressive relaxation skills to relax along with positive self-talk to boost confidence. Focus full attention on the present point and block out distracting thoughts or events. Ignore When players choke during a match, they may become passive or defensive and afraid to the elements like the sun or wind, make a mistake . lucky shots from the opponent, bad bounces, and bad line calls. one point. Your emotional arousal level will likely skyrocket Although it may seem counterintuitive, learning to play to a level that is too high and thereby increase your anxiety with pressure begins in practice. Embrace situations in level and feeling of nervousness. The consequences will be drills and modified games that heighten the pressure by both physical (tight muscles, freezing in place, and shallow varying opponents, using handicap situations, and agreeing breathing) and mental (loss of focus, confusion, and poor shot to consequences for success or failure. Invite significant selection.) Virtually all tennis players have experienced this spectators to watch and critique play to add pressure. Practice perplexing and frightening feeling that we typically describe the psychological skills suggested elsewhere in this article. as “choking.” When players choke during a match, they may When match day rolls around, you and your players don’t become passive or defensive and afraid to make a mistake need to worry about the key points, they really don’t even exist. while others choose high risk shots and become impatient. The real challenge is simply in the mind. *

Ronald B. Woods, Ph.D. has been a USPTA member for over 40 years which includes serving as president of USPTA Middle States division, member of the national executive committee, and frequent speaker at both national and division conventions. He was honored as national USPTA Coach of the Year in 1982 and as a Master Professional in 1984. Ron is the husband of Kathy Woods, former national president of USPTA, who is now the director of tennis at the USTA National Campus in Lake Nona, Florida. He is currently an adjunct professor at the University of Tampa in exercise science and human performance and lives with Kathy in nearby St. Petersburg, Florida.

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inside coaching

Unveiling the Secrets of Great Preparation by Rod Heckelman, USPTA Elite Professional

server pulls the returner off the court with a wide serve and then knifes a perfect crosscourt volley… points over right? Wrong, the player returning that serve is already there covering that would-be winner and firing a down-the-line passing shot. How did he prepare and cover that shot so quickly? As it turns out, it’s more than just anticipation and speed of foot, it is the culmination of several factors that have contributed to this player’s ability to excel in coverage and preparation.

dilemma #1The of evaluation The Problem

Without realizing it, possibly from that instilled trait of looking before we leap, we lose valuable time evaluating what is taking place. We don’t want to make an error, so we try to collect as much information as we can before making any commitment. For example, examine how many people type on their keyboards. Anytime they have to hit a number or an exclamation mark or any uncommon key, they stop and look at the keyboard, then commit. Without realizing it, they have trained themselves to hesitate and look. Because this action is not automatic, they still have a fear of making a mistake. Hitting certain shots on the court is no different, we hesitate, then evaluate before we commit. We want to feel secure that we have all the information possible in hopes that we can avoid failure. All of this results in an unnecessary waste of time trying to evaluate the situation. We also have developed a ready position that is better suited for collecting information than a reaction to the ball. This is especially true when the situation is new or different. Take for instance the player that is uncomfortable coming to the net. The position they assume for readiness for a challenging volley is more suited for gathering information than it is for reacting quickly. They take on a “Prairie Dog” like ready position with their head popping up, trying to find out if they are about to become the prey or the hunter. We come from a long history of being either one or the other and sometimes we just aren’t sure which character we are about to be during these unfamiliar competitive moments.

The Solution

Top pro players with great preparation and movement have no fear. They have been down that road many times before, over and over. No need to evaluate and no need to hesitate.

The action takes place and they respond with instincts that yield a positive response. This is more than anticipation, this is rehearsed and learned expectations. Classic case of, been there, done that. Top players achieve that skill from practice, but more than that, they get there Solution #1 as a result of successful practice. They rehearse playing point after point in order to achieve that successful reaction. The key here is that they practice playing points, not just rallying. Players at all levels tend not to practice outside their comfort zone. To overcome evaluating, you need to experiment with new ways to approach situations under realistic conditions.

Balanced movement that is committed

The Problem

Yes, footwork is all important but it goes beyond just being fast on your feet. Many players learn to first run fast, instead of first learning how to run efficiently. This is especially true in regards to their starts and recovery. That first step towards the ball is all important. Too often players scoot to the side, or need to take a preparation step to create a running position. Tennis is a game that is directed forwards but most often needs to be performed sideways. The fact that we are facing the opponent in our ready position, is only for the option of being able to go in any direction. If we knew every ball was going to be a forehand or backhand, we would start sideways, like a baseball batter or golfer. Because of this conflict, the first step is all too often a step that begins the process of running or finding the balance and weight transfer needed to create a strong start towards the ball. The end result is a slow inefficient start.

The Solution

First, players need to practice hitting forehands and backhands in a full sideways, racquet prepared position. Providing

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inside coaching this opportunity to experience the sensation of what it is like to be fully prepared, will give them an opportunity to experience the successful feeling of being prepared. This type of practice will also give them an opportunity to improve their judgement of Solution #2 the flight of the ball from this sideways position and not from the old familiar face forward position. This will also help them achieve a proper balance that is required for an optimum start. For most, this has their feet positioned much like that of a sprinter positioned in their starting blocks. The upper body is slightly leaning in the direction they are about to run. Second, good players with good movement not only start properly, but they also have a built-in expectation that they can cover the court for any shot. Top movers combine expectations and anticipation that help develop quick and decisive actions towards running down any ball. We see this on let-cord shots, the lesser experienced might think that the ball is going into the net, so they never get going, not the case with the top movers. They start their movement right off the opposing player’s stroke so even if the ball were to hit the top of the net, they are already on their way. Another observation about movement can be seen if you watch two children playing tag in a defined space. Notice that the pursuer is more forward and proactive. The one trying to avoid being tagged is more upright and defensive. We as tennis players need to be the hunter as much as possible. As the hunter we are always physically ready to move. This is also what will help us recover for the next shot…we expect a return, not wait to see if there is a return.

and owning the #3Mastering space of a tennis court The Problem

Players get too close or too far away from the ball for a simple reason... they either overrun the ball or they don’t get

positioned close enough to the ball. The end result is that they compensate by altering their stroke in order to make contact with the ball. This forces the mechanics of the stroke to constantly change, instead of what really should be taking place, which is improving the positioning so that the stroke mechanics can be maintained.

The Solution

The reason that most top movers seem to always be positioned and balanced, is because they first mastered their stroke production. They have learned exactly where to be positioned in order to maintain and execute their well-defined strokes. So in a sense, their stroke mechanics Solution #3 are disciplining their positioning for the ball. Because of that, what they have developed is the ability to judge the oncoming ball with both their eyes and their stroke production, not just their eyes. It is important that a player working on great positioning have a good understanding of the difference between compensating and adapting when altering their stroke. Compensation means you could have performed well, but for poor movement and poor judgement, did not. Adaptation is the option that is unavoidable and demonstrates great survival instincts. Hopefully over time a player learns to master the space of a tennis court. To see if your students have that skill, have a little fun and take this test. Start at the baseline, have them close their eyes and walk forward. Have them mark the spot when they think they are at the service line and then again when they reach the net. The experienced player has that down, but the learning player will be off by a few feet in most cases. Have that new player take that test again about six months later and watch the improvement.*

Rod Heckelman’s career started in 1966 when he began his five-year role as a teacher at John Gardiner’s Tennis Ranch in Carmel Valley, California. Later he opened as the resident pro for Gardiner’s Tennis Ranch on Camelback in Scottsdale, Arizona. In 1976, he took over as general manager/tennis director at the Mt. Tam Racquet Club in Larkspur, California. He produced both the “Facility Manager’s Manual” and the “Business Handbook for Tennis Pros,” that is published with the T.I.A. He recently came out with two more instructional books, a book for senior players called, “Playing Into the Sunset,” and a new book for practicing called, “250 Ways to Play Tennis.”

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Beyond the court

leaving our footprint Making an impact in our tennis careers by Kyle LaCroix, USPTA Elite Professional

n this day and age, when we hear the word “footprint,” it’s usually preceded by the word “carbon.” This carbon footprint is about our environmental or ecological impact on Earth and its natural resources. And although our carbon footprint is important, I would argue that for a tennis professional, it may not be our most important footprint that we will leave on this planet. What the word “footprint” means is the impressions and images left behind by people. Simply put, in our career as tennis professionals it is inevitable that we will have an impact on others and ourselves both personally and professionally.

Role Model Footprint

A role model is someone who serves as an example and whose behavior is emulated by others and provides a great source of personal motivation. Chances are your membership and your students admire you. Sure, maybe not all of them, but I bet you have more fans than you think. Our careers and the actions we take daily leave an impact on a personal, professional and psychological level. We are leaving our footprint on our staff, membership, students, and community. Like it or not, we are at least one person’s role model or idol. I often joke with my fellow professionals that our jobs are like that of rock stars… without the perks. Off the court, whether you are at the supermarket picking up lunch or at a restaurant with friends, members always recognize you. Our visibility within our clubs, amongst our staff, and our membership obliges us to behave with at least awareness that we are being watched by hundreds and

even thousands. Like it or not, we have influence on fans both young and old, multiplied by the huge factor of our racquet skills, on-court presence, and our extroverted demeanor on the job. If you’ve been in this industry for a while, you have had a profound and lifechanging impact on somebody. Maybe it was a sensitive membership issue which you resolved, or a club crisis and management sought your advice. Remember that adult that was looking to get in better shape and you made that happen with lessons? You are more than a role model, you are a superhero sans the cape. The Barna Group, a research group specializing in faith and culture, conducted a nationwide study, sampling teenagers ages 13-17. More than 11 percent stated their biggest role models were teachers or coaches. Students believe that their teacher/ coach is a fountain-head of all knowledge. This belief of the student must be kept alive by us, which is possible, only if we continue to learn, educate and push ourselves. Be aware of your impact on your staff, membership and your students. It’s up to you to determine if it’s positive or negative.

Social Media Footprint Did you know that the USPTA has a Social Media Policy? Anyone can view this policy by visiting the association’s website at uspta.com. We’ve seen far too many instances

where it has hurt and professionally endangered many because of an offensive tweet, a tasteless picture on Facebook, or an ill-timed rant on their blog. But what if there is information on social media we project that may not be malicious, criminal, or has harmful intent? It’s important to remember that although many of us may be involved in this pastime to stay in touch with family and friends, some in our industry use it for hiring, recruitment and networking. You never know who may be tracking your progress. Fair or unfair, perception can be everything in this industry. Just a minimal social media presence still showcases to the outside world how you promote and market yourself as a person. An article by Sam Fiorella sources a recent Jobvite.com social recruiting survey that reported that 89 percent of U.S. companies plan to use social media in their employee searches. Companies are using social networking sites like Facebook, MySpace, Twitter and LinkedIn to screen job candidates. It also found that 50 percent of employers decided not to offer a job to a candidate based on the content uncovered on a social networking site. Employers are increasingly finding reasons to terminate employees because of their social media interactions. Social Media entrepreneur Adam Ostrow points to a study assessed by Proofpoint, found that 8 percent of American

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Beyond the court companies had terminated a worker due to a social media verbal post or picture, and 17 percent of companies report disciplining employees for violating social networking policies.

Community Footprint

A successful tennis professional may only be as strong as his community’s support for him. Ask yourself, how are you viewed by your staff and other USPTA professionals in your city? When not devoting your time to tennis, how else are you impacting the community in a positive way? At 19, I was a tennis professional interning at a very prominent tennis resort in Florida. During my time there, I met a golf cart attendant who seemed to work at the resort just as many hours as I did., I made sure I said

hello to him and ask if he could use an extra hand or even a bottle of water. He always declined but I always offered and exchanged pleasantries. Towards the end of my stay as an intern, I noticed a large increase in my lessons. I found out my students happened to hear from a particular golf cart attendant that I gave an amazing tennis lesson and it would be in their best interest to immediately get a lesson. I learned the significance of my role and how a simple act can provide incredible dividends both professionally and personally. It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice. Working with your local USPTA professionals also gives you a chance to enhance and polish your footprint. Whether it’s during a division conference, district meeting or even a round robin, your presence makes other pros aware you are working hard and striving to improve. Although we may not always remember a name, we can always remember a face of a professional we often see at our meetings, conferences or special events. Our best professionals and industry

leaders always seem to be at USPTA meetings and conferences, and it almost seems to me like they have the very important Santa Claus trait. They know if you’ve been bad or good so be good for goodness sakes. Working with charities may sound intimidating to some tennis professionals, but it is one of the best ways to promote yourself, the sport of tennis, and gain numerous advocates throughout the community. Involving yourself with a charity can be done by hosting a fundraising event at your club, volunteering just an hour or two during your off days, or by simply promoting and marketing a cause that you are passionate about. Many people assume they need to give up their hard-earned money, but in reality, many charities deeply appreciate and won’t decline the power of word of mouth. Although we are all teachers, sometimes it’s not how much we know, it’s about how much we care. Our footprints can make an enormous impact both positive and negative. Let’s do our best to leave a footprint our students, staff, industry and community can be proud of. *

A member of the USPTA since 2004, Kyle is the assistant director of tennis at The Oaks At Boca Raton in Boca Raton, Florida. He is a proud graduate of the Ferris State University’s Professional Tennis Management (PTM) program and holds a degree in Marketing. Kyle is a member of the Ferris State University/PTM Advisory Committee. He has earned an MBA in Marketing from the University of Michigan. Kyle has been a USPTA Florida Division Tester for the past 10 years as well as a member of Florida’s U30 Initiative.

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USPTA Diversity and inclusion

USPTA For All DeVonte’ Martin, USPTA Public Relations Coordinator

SPTA brought together tennisteaching professionals of different backgrounds to produce the “USPTA For All” commercial, the first ever commercial aimed at USPTA’s Diversity and Inclusion program. “Take a look at the United States. Individuals from all kinds of racial and ethnic backgrounds are a part of our country and that is exactly what we should want from our association,” USPTA First Vice President Feisal Hassan said. “It is imperative that we reach out to minority tennis-teaching professionals and coaches to inform them of the opportunities that await them here at the USPTA. We want them to become a part of our family.” The commercial, shot by Videographer/Video Editor Rico Edwards and Video Production Manager John Gerard was filmed to

recognize the both brothers played importance collegiate tennis at minority NCAA Division I tennis-teaching universities and now professionals operate two facilities have on in Orlando, Florida students, and are looking to clubs, and the open a third. tennis industry. John Gerard (left) and Rico Edwards (right). “A diverse “I think it’s group of tennisimportant for all sports to diversify teaching professionals provide and with us being the gold standard a more creative and innovative in professional tennis-teaching, we environment,” John said. “We’re feel that more minorities would be not just tennis instructors, tennis interested in the opportunities that teachers, or facility managers, we the USPTA provides,” Edwards said. are students ourselves. Assembling Members such as John Richards a diverse group of professionals III and his brother Albert Richards helps us to better understand one Jr., both define what it means another, respect one another, and to be successful tennis-teaching ultimately create initiatives that can professionals of color. Originally help everyone. That’s our main job; from St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands, to grow the game of tennis.’’ *

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PLAY TENNIS MONTH

Play Tennis Month Rallies the Tennis Industry! USPTA Aims to Burn 10 Million Calories Alongside Industry Partners

he USPTA and industry partners are working together to promote May as “Play Tennis Month” to help showcase the sport of tennis and it’s associated health benefits. Thousands of tennis programs and events will be held around the country, with a goal of helping to get people moving and playing tennis, the No. 1 sport for a long and healthy life. At least 1,500 tennis facilities around the U.S. are expected to participate in “Play Tennis Month”. We encourage all USPTA professionals to register their facility and take part in this industry wide event. The goal for the entire month of May is for Americans to burn a combined 10 million calories on the tennis court during “Play Tennis Month” activities. “Play Tennis Month” also helps to support the USPTA Foundation and PHIT America. To support “Play Tennis Month”, USPTA professionals should register their facility as a participating site, so consumers can find you and your programs. To register your location and programs for free, show your support for the tennis industry and for a healthy America; visit RallyTheIndustry.org. “The website RallyTheIndustry.org also has suggested program formats that emphasize not only the fitness aspect of tennis, but also how fun and social it is,” says TIA Executive Director Jolyn de Boer. “Among suggested formats are Cardio Tennis sessions, Try Tennis Free, PlayTennisFast programming, and POP Tennis on 60-foot courts. But providers can offer any programs they’d like as part of “Play Tennis Month.” “We’re excited to participate in this industry-wide promotion of tennis and fitness,” says USPTA CEO John Embree. “This is a rallying cry for our industry to fight the inactivity pandemic that is pervasive throughout the USA. Let’s get people off the couch and on the court!”

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The lead-up to “Play Tennis Month” will include a massive Cardio Tennis session on April 20 at the USTA National Campus in Orlando, Florida, where the goal is for participants to burn a combined 1 million calories. The USTA National Campus, which has 100 tennis courts, is billed as the “Home of American Tennis.” Also, “Play Tennis Month” provider webinars are scheduled for Feb. 21, March 21 and April 24, in which attendees will hear important information and updates on formats, programming, promotions, follow-up and more. May 5 also will be National Cardio Tennis Day, with participating facilities offering Cardio Tennis challenges, sessions and programming. “Play Tennis Month” events will include many fundraisers to benefit PHIT America GO! Grants, which provide funds for physical education in schools, including supporting Net Generation equipment and curriculum. PHIT America, which was founded by former TIA President Jim Baugh, is also looking to pass the PHIT Act (visit phitamerica.org for more information), which is designed to get more people active and moving, including through tennis. “Play Tennis Month” ties in with PHIT America Month, also slated for May, which reaches out to the entire sports and fitness industry to encourage Americans to get active. “The support has been wide and deep,” Baugh says. “Companies in the sports and fitness industry know we just can’t sit back and wait for people to start a life of physical activity. And, they know that we must work together.” PHIT America Month has more than 30 sponsor companies and organizations, including the USTA, USPTA and TIA. For more information on “Play Tennis Month,” visit RallyTheIndustry.org.*

Member News

USPTA Member News Adam Bottorff was named the tennis instructor of Valley Athletic Club Tennis. He has over 30 years of coaching and teaching experience. He has coached many USTA teams, and enjoys both the team practice and private lesson settings. He has coached at the sectional and national junior levels and was Michigan High School Regional Coach of the Year. Adam played at Kalamazoo College under NCAA Hall of Fame coach George Acker.

Ted Withall was featured in the Sun Sentinel feature story Boca man recalls life of tennis and friendship with Bobby Riggs. After serving in the Army Air Corps from 1942 to 1946, Withall moved to Beverly Hills where he taught tennis and became friends with some of the sport’s all-time great players, including Budge, Jack Kramer, Pancho Segura, Richard Gonzales and Bobby Riggs. Withall was the president of the USPTA in 1972.

Tom Kelly helped recruit 10 tennis-

Umang Chadda was featured in the

John Sanders was named the head tennis

Jill Bachochin was selected to serve on the Junior Recreation Committee for the United States Tennis Association’s Midwest Section. She previously worked for the USTA Missouri Valley Section overseeing Youth Tennis and Junior Competition, along with being the staff liaison for the Junior Recreation, Junior Competition, Umpire, and Grievance Committees.

teaching professionals to introduce tennis to students across nine elementary schools in the Daytona Beach area. Kelly is the tennis manager of the Florida Tennis Center in Daytona Beach. He began teaching tennis while on a tennis scholarship at Tulsa University in the mid-`70s, and he worked various part-time summer teaching jobs before becoming the director and head tennis professional at City Island Tennis Center in 1993.

professional at the Racquet Club of Cocoa Beach. Sanders brings with him more than 10 years of professional tennis teaching experience and an eye for innovation. He most recently served as director of 10 & Under Tennis and a high-performance coach at Sanlando Park in Seminole County, and is a founding member of XGLOsive Blacklight Tennis, which has brought a unique format of play to tennis facilities across the state.

NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS President.....................................................................Gary Trost First Vice President................................................Feisal Hassan Vice Presidents................Cari Buck, Mark Faber, Trish Faulkner Bill Mountford, Richard Slivocka Immediate Past President...........................................Chuck Gill CEO.........................................................................John Embree Legal Counsel......................................................George Parnell

Chicago Tribune news story titled Tennis prodigy eyes ‘return of racquet sports’ to Southland. He is the racquet sports manager at Homewood-Flossmoor Racquet & Fitness Club overseeing a team of professionals with 10 indoor and 30 outdoor tennis courts. Chadda has been a certified Elite Professional since 2004 and is the vice president of USPTA Illinois. With his master’s in sports management and expertise in club business operations, Umang has been recognized nationally and has helped revitalize private and public sports facilities across the world.

ADDVANTAGE MAGAZINE Managing Editor ...........................................................John Cornell Editor......................................................................DeVonte’ Martin Layout/Design........................................................... Gustavo Reyes Editorial Assistance....Amy Buchanan, Risa Epstein, Sid Newcomb, Trevor Trudelle, Ashley Walker, Ellen Weatherford Circulation................................................................ Trevor Trudelle USPTA World Headquarters 11961 Performance Dr. Orlando, FL 32827

Ph: 407-634-3050 • Email: magazine@uspta.org • www.uspta.org ADDvantage is published monthly by the USPTA The opinions expressed in ADDvantage are those of the authors and not necessarily those of ADDvantage or the United States Professional Tennis Association. Copyright© United States Professional Tennis Association, Inc. 2018. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any portion of the magazine is not permitted without written permission from USPTA.

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USPTA CAREER DEVELOPMENT

Exams, Upgrades & PTCA Wheelchair Certification 2018 USPTA Division Conference Schedule 4 Credits for PTCA I Segment Exams, Upgrades & PTCA

Mar. 2 – 3.......................................Boise, ID Mar. 3 – 4 ....................................Rome, GA Mar. 5 ........................................La Jolla, CA Mar. 9 – 10 ...............................Camden, SC Mar. 10 ..............................Nichols Hills, OK Mar. 10 – 11 ........................... Portland, OR Mar. 10 – 11 .............Huntington Beach, CA Mar. 10 – 11 ........................ Boca Raton, FL Mar. 15 ............................ Minneapolis, MN Mar. 16 – 17 .......................... Charlotte, NC Mar. 18 ................................Columbus, OH Mar. 23 - 24 ............................Burbank, CA Mar. 26 - 27 ....................San Francisco, CA Apr. 7 - 8 ..................................... Aurora, IL Apr. 7 – 8 ....................................Azusa, CA Apr. 9 - 10.................................. Orlando, FL Apr. 14 – 15 .............................. Atlanta, GA Apr. 18 - 19..................................... Tyler, TX

March 11................................... Rome, GA