Yearbook 2023 & Spring Serve

This yearbook is dedicated in loving memory of

STEVE HENRY

LATE USTA MISSOURI VALLEY PRESIDENT 2023, long-time volunteer, tournament director, player and advocate of the game.

We must as a society exercise our minds and exercise our bodies. And tennis is a perfect example of the game of a lifetime. This all adds years to your life.

-Steve Henry

TABLE OF CONTENTS

USTA Missouri Valley 4121 W 83rd Street | Suite 108 Prairie Village, KS 66208 913-322-4800

888-368-8612 toll free 913-322-4801 fax

Office Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

USTA National Office

70 West Red Oak Lane White Plains, NY 10604 914-696-7000

USTA Home of American Tennis 10000 USTA Blvd. Orlando, FL 32827 844-872-8667

USTA Customer Care 800.990.USTA (8782) customercare.usta.com

Mission Statement

Digital Publications

The 2023 USTA Missouri Valley Yearbook was produced digitally with a limited print run. This publication, as well as previous yearbooks and every issue of Serve is available online in digital format free of charge.

Distribution of the Yearbook

The USTA Missouri Valley Yearbook printed copy is available upon request. A limited number are available at no cost. Please email info@movalley.usta.com to receive your copy.

Mailing Address Changes

To change your address, please contact USTA Customer Care at the phone number or email address listed to the left, or log into your member account at USTA.com.

Correspondence - AdvertisingReproduction

The USTA Missouri Valley Yearbook is a publication of the USTA Missouri Valley. All correspondence regarding the editorial material should be directed to the USTA Missouri Valley office (c/o Marketing Director). The USTA Missouri Valley may grant permission to reprint any and all articles published in the Yearbook unless copyrighted by a third-party, upon written request. No photographs and/or logos may be reproduced without the written approval of the USTA Missouri Valley.

2023 Yearbook Staff Contributors

Mary Buschmann

Mark Collins

Manon Eilts

Victoria Moore

The mission of the USTA Missouri Valley is to promote and develop the growth of tennis. United States Tennis Association Missouri Valley is a not-for-profit organization covering a five-state region of Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and Oklahoma, as well as parts of Illinois. USTA Missouri Valley has more than 21,000 members. USTA Missouri Valley offers recreational and competitive tennis for all ages and abilities.

Non-Discrimination Statement

In accordance with the Civil Rights Act of 1964, no person, on the grounds of race, color, or national origin, shall be excluded from, be denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity of the USTA Missouri Valley. Any person who believes he or she has been discriminated against should write to USTA Missouri Valley, c/o Executive Director Mary Buschmann.

ADA Statement

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the USTA Missouri Valley strives to provide quality recreational programs to individuals of all abilities. If you, or anyone you know has a disability and would like more information on the accessibility of our programs or any facilities in our section, call toll-free at 888-368-8612. We would like to work with you to continue to improve program and facility accessibility. Also, please contact us if you experience difficulty or have concerns about gaining access to any of our programs or facilities. If you have specific questions or concerns about programs, please contact the Executive Director, Mary Buschmann.

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

2023 will continue to be a year filled with listening, educating, training and servicing our communities. Whether you are a player or provider, our focus is on growing tennis in general, not just traditional USTA programming.

There will be many enhancements to the Serve Tennis platform for tournaments, continued updates to USTA.com, continued updates to the new rankings platform, introduction of the World Tennis Number (WTN) and enhanced, improved coaching modules and player applications that we look forward to bringing to your community. Embracing innovation is the key. As we look to grow the game, we are committed to supporting new ideas for play opportunities for both youth and adults.

Tennis is good for you! Research has shown that tennis is the ideal sport for longevity and wellness. Research shows that people who play tennis live nine years longer. We invite you to read about our campaign this year on the benefits of tennis beginning on page 42.

Tennis is fun! Let’s redefine how we play the game. Whether one day events, engaging match play, or social gatherings where we can meet new friends. Please remember, as we progress together through the pathway of your choice, we promise the USTA is committed to being your partner. And above all, we will create a safe and welcoming environment for all.

We couldn’t continue to grow and achieve these goals without strong, committed leadership and providers to guide us. A huge thanks to our passionate volunteers and providers for continuing to support our communities in growing the game!.

We have so many ways for everyone to get involved and help shape the future of tennis in USTA Missouri Valley. Please contact your local CTA, NJTL or your district and section office to get involved. If you are already serving, please be intentional about identifying future volunteers and providers in your community and help them get connected.

Let’s embrace trust in our team as we continually inspire each other to be passionate and respectful while listening, asking questions, and offering solutions; let’s share our successes and challenges as we envision the big picture to fulfill our mission. We will work together to attract, engage, and retain a new generation of diverse tennis participants of all levels. We will strive for excellence in our delivery system to provide an exceptional consumer experience. Join us as we look forward to an exciting and rewarding year of innovation, growth and engagement in 2023!

Working together,

CEO & Executive Director

Mary Buschmann

2023-24 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

USTA MISSOURI VALLEY PAST PRESIDENTS

President Steve Henry okctenniscenter@att.net

First

Vice

Vice

Deborah Fabrizius

Tracey Johnson, President USTA Heart of America

Brenton Kuchan, President USTA Iowa

Mike Willman, President USTA Nebraska mikewllmn@aol.com

Cary Morris, President

Mallory Weber, President USTA Missouri

Mary Jo Tasker, President USTA Oklahoma

John Kelly, President USTA St. Louis

In which district do I live?

Nebraska District - All of Nebraska, as well as Pottawattamie County in Iowa

Iowa District - All of Iowa (except Pottawattamie County), as well as Rock Island County in Illinois

Kansas District - All of Kansas except those counties in the Heart of America district

Oklahoma DistrictAll of Oklahoma

Adult Play

Stephen F. Collins - sfcomaha@gmail.com

Staff Liaisons: Scott Howes & Alyssa Stelmach

Adult League Regulations

Michelle Oquin - oquin@ustaoklahoma.com

Staff Liaison: Alyssa Stelmach

Adult Tournament Regulations

Megan Kovacs - director@ustastl.com

Staff Liaison: Scott Howes

Audit Commitee

Kate Foss - kfoss124@gmail.com

Staff Liaison: Tonya Kaup

Awards

Stuart Dusenberry - sddins62@yahoo.com

Staff Liaison: Manon Eilts

Coaches Commission

Chris Smith - csmithbluehillscc@gmail.com

Staff Liaison: Marissa Moment Brown

St. Louis District - 10 Missouri counties (Franklin, Jefferson, Lincoln, Perry, St. Charles, St. Francois, St. Genevieve, St. Louis, Warren and Washington; parts of Illinois within a 30-mile radius of St. Louis City Hall

Missouri District - All of Missouri, except those counties in either the Heart of America or St. Louis districts

Heart of America District - Seven Kansas counties (Atchison, Doniphan, Douglas, Jefferson, Johnson, Leavenworth and Wyandotte); and 10 Missouri counties (Andrew, Atchison, Buchanan, Cass, Clay, Holt, Jackson, Nodaway, Platte and Ray)

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

Community Play

Kate Foss - kfoss124@gmail.com

Staff Liaison: Lindsay Hall

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Outreach

Nick Taylor - nickryantaylor@yahoo.com

Staff Liaison: Jaren Glaser

Grievance

John Kinsella - john.kinsella241@gmail.com

Staff Liaison: Mary Buschmann

Hall of Fame

Judy Dippold - dipper20@gmail.com

Staff Liaison: Manon Eilts

Junior Competition Regulations

Simon Norman - simon@genesishealthclubs.com

Staff Liaison: Beth Azan

Junior Play

Larry Newton - larry_new@msn.com

Staff Liaisons: Beth Azan & Tara Williams

Officials

Verne Weber - vaweber10s@aol.com

Staff Liaison: Mary Buschmann

Personnel

Jason Mathes - jdm3105@gmail.com

Staff Liaison: Mary Buschmann

Nominating

Jason Mathes - jdm3105@gmail.com

Staff Liaison: Mary Buschmann

Sanctions & Scheduling

Ann Vogel - anniekvogel@gmail.com

Staff Liaison: Marissa Moment Brown

SECTION STAFF

Beth Azan Manager - Junior Competition 913-322-4832 bazan@movalley.usta.com

Marissa Moment Brown Director of Community Tennis 913-322-4822 brown@movalley.usta.com

Mary Buschmann CEO & Executive Director 913-322-4824 mbuschmann@movalley.usta.com

Mark Collins

Digital Content Producer 913-322-4827 mark.collins@movalley.usta.com

Manon Eilts

Marketing, Communications & Membership Director 913-322-4826 eilts@movalley.usta.com

Jaren Glaser TSR - USTA Heart of America & USTA Kansas 913-967-9929 glaser@movalley.usta.com

Lindsay Hall Community Play Manager 913-216-5143 hall@movalley.usta.com

Kara Heim TSR - USTA Nebraska 913-967-9452 heim@movalley.usta.com

Scott Howes Manager - Adult Play 913-322-4821 howes@movalley.usta.com

Laura Jager Office Manager, Coordinator, Community & Competition 913-322-4852 laura.jager@movalley.usta.com

Tonya Kaup Finance Director 913-322-4823 kaup@movalley.usta.com

Victoria Moore Digital Content Producer & Graphic Designer 913-322-4838

victoria.moore@movalley.usta.com

Alywn Mushonga TSR - USTA Missouri & USTA St. Louis 913-967-9833 mushonga@movalley.usta.com

Laura Puryear TSR - USTA Oklahoma 913-967-9147 puryear@movalley.usta.com

Becky Riggs Schools Tennis Organizer - Oklahoma 918-999-5502 riggs@movalley.usta.com

Alyssa Stelmach Manager - Adult Leagues 913-322-4829

astelmach@movalley.usta.com

John Terpkosh TSR - USTA Iowa 913-967-9926

jterpkosh@movalley.usta.com

Tara Williams Community Tennis Manager 913-302-5901

williams@movalley.usta.com

USTA Missouri Valley Staff (Back row L-R): Mark Collins, John Terpkosh, Alyssa Stelmach, Scott Howes and Alywn Mushonga. (Second row L-R): Lindsay Hall, Jaren Glaser, Laura Puryear, Tonya Kaup and Tara Williams. (Third row L-R): Kara Heim, Becky Riggs, Beth Azan and Victoria Moore (Sitting L-R): Laura Jager, Manon Eilts, Mary Buschmann and Marissa Moment Brown.

WE ARE... ...AT YOUR SERVICE

Whether you’re a parent, provider or player, learn more about how we are Provider Resources

MARKETING GENERATOR

Providers who are Safe Play approved can access the Marketing Generator Page. Create your own professional marketing materials, such as banners, flyers, postcards and more.

Find the Marketing Generator on https://marketinggenerator.usta.com

Scan the QR code for step-by-step help getting started.

COACHING

You’ve already got the love for the game. We’ll give you the ideas, activities and tools you need to help your students improve their games and you advance your programs. Players and aspiring players turn to coaches to learn the basics of tennis, refine their swings, fine-tune their serves and advance their skills as they continue their development and personal pursuit of our lifetime sport.

SERVE TENNIS

Scan the QR code for resources, training and professional associations.

Our number one priority is to help you make your tennis programs or business more successful. Access live demos and consulting sessions, or reach out to our new customer care team by scanning the QR code to the left with your phone’s camera.

a member-based organization that is service driven to grow and develop the game of tennis.

Junior Tennis Resources

WHAT IS THE USTA NET GENERATION JUNIOR PATHWAY?

It is your child’s journey until they are 18 years old through our youth tennis products under the American Development Model. The USTA’s ADM offers a comprehensive framework for providers, coaches, athletes, and parents. By growing friendships, improving skills, and maximizing the potential of players at all levels, this framework will keep more participants playing our sport for a lifetime.

Within the Net Generation Pathway, players ages 11 and over can move freely within the products that fit their age, ball color and skillset. Players ages 10 and under move through the pathway using the Net Generation PlayTracker.

Courtesy of USTA

WHAT PRODUCTS ARE OFFERED UNDER THE USTA NET GENERATION JUNIOR PATHWAY?

TENNIS IN SCHOOLS

Whether you’re teaching tennis in a P.E. class for the first time or looking to continue your coaching passion with middle and high school teams, the USTA has the resources you need to be successful on and off the court. Scan the QR code for Schools Tennis resources.

NET GENERATION PLAYTRACKER AT YOUR SERVICE

The Net Generation PlayTracker is for players aged 5-10 and their parents to track progress at USTA competitive events, all in one place. Using the American Development Model (ADM) framework, players and parents will learn more about the recommended development pathway and earn digital incentives along the way.

10U players and their parents can access their PlayTracker points within their usta.com account profile, underneath the Family tab. Here, you will see a player’s current competition ball color, coach assigned skill level (if applicable) and total points at each competitive level. Players will collect points on an engaging PlayTracker after playing in USTA Team Challenges, USTA Junior Team Tennis, and USTA Junior Circuits.

TOURNAMENT REGISTRATION TOOL

Tournament and program registration for both adults and juniors is now available at playtennis.usta.com/tournaments

Search by location, date or play level and get on court today!

Find your next tournament by scanning the QR code to the left.

Video: Courtesy of USTA

JUNIOR TOURNAMENT STRUCTURE

A simplified USTA Junior Tournaments structure took effect in January 2021! The structure utilizes seven levels of events, ranging from Level 7 (Intermediate) to Level 1 (National Championships) and a universal ranking system that distributes points consistently across the country.

USTA JUNIOR RANKINGS

Video: Courtesy of USTA

Video: Courtesy of USTA

Adult Tennis Resources

USTA LEAGUE

Adult competitive tennis league for players of all skill levels that is organized into three age groups - 18 & over, 40 & over and 55 & over. It’s a great way to stay active, improve your game, and meet other players in your area.

Scan the QR code for more info about these adult tennis opportunities.

SOCIAL TENNIS

Video: Courtesy of USTA

Adult social tennis provides casual play opportunities for players of all skill levels. Whether you are looking for a multi-week program, a half-day event, or just an hour of fun, there is an Adult Social Tennis program that fits your schedule.

WHEELCHAIR

The USTA is dedicated to providing top-flight programming and developmental opportunities to wheelchair athletes of all ages and backgrounds. From wheelchairspecific events, to NTRP Adult Tournaments and USTA League play, there are more opportunities to play tennis than ever before!

Video: Courtesy of USTA

Scan the QR code for more info about adult tournaments.

ADAPTIVE Tennis can be adapted so that everyone can participate in the sport. People of any age, environment, social, intellectual or physical ability are invited to enjoy the game.

ADULT TOURNAMENTS

USTA Missouri Valley holds adult tournaments throughout our five state area for every age and skill level, on clay, hard, and grass court surfaces. Play a section tournament for your chance to qualify for National Championships!

AT YOUR SERVICE Community Tennis Resources

TENNIS IN THE PARKS

Recognizing the importance of public parks (nearly 70% of all tennis is played on public courts) in the long-term health and growth of the sport, this initiative provides resources designed to help establish, grow and sustain tennis programming in public parks across the nation. The USTA also offers a competitive grant to facilities that meet additional requirements. Funding eligibility is based on many criteria including the successful completion of the technical review, the number of tennis courts at the site, and the programming offered at the facility.

COMMUNITY TENNIS ASSOCIATIONS (CTAS)

are not-for-profit, volunteer-based organizations supporting programs that grow the game of tennis. Find out how to start one in your local community, what they can accomplish, and resources to help you grow your CTA!

THE NATIONAL JUNIOR TENNIS & LEARNING (NJTL) is a network of nonprofit youth development organizations that offer free or low-cost tennis and education programming to under-resourced youth within the section.

GRANTS

Tennis opportunities at the grassroots level are critical to keeping the sport vibrant and growing. USTA and USTA Missouri Valley offer grants to assist organizations to initiate or expand their tennis programming activities.

Scan the QR code to learn more about available section, district and national grants.

Scan the QR code above for more info about community programming.

Video: Courtesy of USTA

How Will the ITF World Tennis Number Be Used in Play?

WTN: World Tennis Number

The ITF World Tennis Number is your new global rating that is determined by a wide range of recorded play, including tournaments, leagues, and other competitive play within our system.

WHAT’S YOUR NUMBER?

As you play more programs, USTA and non-USTA, it will provide even more detail and give you new tools to evaluate your progress, explore your match data, and find players at your skill level no matter where you are.

We are excited that soon your league matches will count towards your ITF World Tennis Number. Check out the ITF World Tennis Number and USTA NTRP comparison chart below for more information.

ITF World Tennis Number made its debut in 2022. It’s benefits and features are vast and include: a personalized online tool called GameZone that helps you identify players of similar skill level, an online searchable community that lets you find players wherever you are, access to statistics to track and improve your game (including head-to-head comparisons with other players and their win/loss ratio), a tool for college coaches to use to evaluate perspective student-athletes worldwide and a tool that could be used for seeding and selection for college tennis.

Know the Difference

Number

Description

ITF World Tennis Number is an ITF product that is supported by the USTA and over 135 member nations providing results from their national associations.

Scale 40-1 scale, one decimal place (40=beginner, 1=elite professional)

Rating increments 400 potential rating increments (40 point scale X 10 decimal points)

The USTA NTRP rating system is a product used to support USTA League and some USTA Adult Tournaments.

1.5-7.0 scale, on a half points scale (1.5=beginner, 7.0=Elite Pro)

Generally adult players fall into one of 8 levels between 2.5 - 6.0

Updates Updated weekly Updated yearly

Global? Yes – International System adopted by over 135 nations No – Primarily for USTA League use

Cost

For more information, visit USTA.com/worldtennisnumber

For questions, contact customercare@usta.com

2023 grants.

USTA Missouri Valley offers grants to assist organizations to initiate or expand their tennis programming activities.

2023 Grant Deadlines:

- Friday, February 17

- Friday, April 14

- Friday, July 14

- Friday, August 25

- Friday, October 20

- Serving Up Tennis Grants

-(Not-for-Profit Organizations)

- Grow the Game Tennis Grants

-(For-Profit Organizations)

- Pro-Circuit Assistance Grant

- Innovative Project Assistance Grant

- Facility Assistance Grant

- National Tennis Month Local Events (May 2023)

-Deadline: March 30, 2023

• DISTRICT LEVEL GRANT CATEGORY

- USTA District Grants

-Deadlines are specified within each grant

Scan the QR code to apply and learn more about the guidelines.

If

have questions please contact:

*Share your location to view your district’s grants. Click

For a complete list of available grants, visit www.usta.com/grants

HEART OF AMERICA HEART OF AMERICA

OFFICERS

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

Deborah Fabrizius 913-424-9299 littlesade@hotmail.com

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Sheila Goins

913-660-5199 ustaheartofamerica@gmail.com

MEMBERS AT LARGE

Elizabeth Barnes 816-509-7061 eibarnes826@icloud.com

Jackie Gehrke 816-868-4719 jackieg@kc.rr.com

Kirk Lambright 913-486-8326 sklambright@gmail.com

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

ADULT PLAY

Jody Holsinger 913-269-3962

jody@aspenwealth.com

AWARDS

Jamie Galloway awardshoa@gmail.com

COMMUNITY PLAY

TBA 913-660-5199

ustaheartofamerica@gmail.com

TENNIS SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

Jaren Glaser 913-967-9929 glaser@movalley.usta.com

PRESIDENT

Tracey Johnson 913-515-0991 tdjlaw@hotmail.com

FIRST VICE PRESIDENT TBD

VICE PRESIDENT - ADULTS Jody Holsinger 913-269-3962 jody@aspenwealth.com

Cassidy Mears 913-488-8669 cassidymears@gmail.com

Terry Miller 913-341-8209 ttm10s@aol.com

Efren Mojica 913-706-2854 usna93@gmail.com

W. Clark Richardson 913-522-8474 wcrichardson4@gmail.com

Lorie Verdi 816-210-8225 tlzv@sbcglobal.net

JUNIOR COORDINATORS

JUNIOR COORDINATOR

Stacie Turtledove 214-629-5748

turtledovetennis@gmail.com

DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

Paige Salveter 314-494-8229 psalveter@gmail.com

GRANTS

W. Clark Richardson 913-522-8474 wcrichardson4@gmail.com

HALL OF FAME Scott Hanover ptcguy@yahoo.com

VICE PRESIDENT - JUNIORS Stacie Turtledove 214-629-5748 turtledovetennis@gmail.com

TREASURER

Mary Eichenberg 303-946-2960 maryeichenberg@gmail.com

SECRETARY

Michelle Gifford 479-280-0052 mmgiff@hotmail.com

JUNIOR PLAY

Stacie Turtledove 214-629-5748

turtledovetennis@gmail.com

OFFICIALS

Cheryl Lady 816-363-4553 ctlady929@gmail.com

VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR

TBA 913-660-5199

ustaheartofamerica@gmail.com

JUNIOR TEAM TENNIS COORDINATOR

Rod Zerni 913-269-6607 rodney.zerni@genesishealthclubs.com

JUNIOR CIRCUIT COORDINATORS

Jared Ward - 10 & under 479-659-2493

jward@jayhawktennis.com

Alexis Czapinski -12s-18s 785-840-6258

aczapinski@jayhawktennis.com

ADULT LEAGUE COORDINATORS

DISTRICT LEAGUE COORDINATOR

Blelina Boci hoaleagues@gmail.com

ADULTS 18 - 39

Marcia Jacelone 913-710-8934 mjacelone333@gmail.com

ADULTS 55 & OVER

Kathy Hawley 913-706-6209 kstone1219@gmail.com

ADULTS 65 & OVER

Barbara Meigs 913-681-3887 bgmeigs@yahoo.com

18 & OVER MIXED

Jackie Gehrke 816-868-4719 jackieg@kc.rr.com

40 & OVER MIXED

Deborah Fabrizius 913-424-9299 littlesade@hotmail.com

2022 AWARD WINNERS

Adult Player of the Year - Male

Grant Huddin

Leavenworth, Kansas

Adult Player of the Year - Female

Denise Chiao

Kansas City, Missouri

Adult Player - 4.0 & Below - Male

Duane Strader

Saint Joseph, Missouri

Adult Player - 4.0 & Below - Female

Jill Burgdorfer

Kansas City, Missouri

Community Service Excellence

Katie Bolton

Kansas City, Missouri

Distinguished Service

Deborah Fabrizius

Lenexa, Kansas

Diversity Achievement

Dr. Melissa Burns

Kansas City, Missouri

Event of the Year

Lob & Learn Pro-Am Event

Overland Park, Kansas

Facility of the Year

Overland Park Racquet Club

Overland Park, Kansas

High School Coach

Scott Hanover

Gladstone, Missouri

Junior Player of the Year - Male

Cooper Woestendick

Olathe, Kansas

Junior Player of the Year - Female

Audrey Spencer

Olathe, Kansas

Emerging Jr Player of the Year - Male

Rishi Goli

Overland Park, Kansas

Emerging Jr Player of the Year - Female

Ella Wang

Overland Park, Kansas

Member Organization

Kansas City Area Genesis Clubs

Greater Kansas City Area

Outstanding Adult/Senior Tournament

Level 2 Husband & Wife

Overland Park, Kansas

Outstanding Community Tennis Association

Stephanie Waterman Foundation

Kansas City, Missouri

Outstanding Contributor to USTA Tennis Youth Programs

Christopher Claypool

Overland Park, Kansas

Outstanding Contributor to USTA League Tennis

Connie Bennett

Overland Park, Kansas

Outstanding Contributor to Junior Team Tennis

Kyle Aaron

Roeland Park, Kansas

Outstanding Contributor to Youth High Performance Program

Jared Ward

Lawrence, Kansas

Outstanding Junior Tournament

Level 5 Jayhawk

Lawrence, Kansas

Outstanding Official Marvin Stringfellow

Kansas City, Kansas

55 & OVER MIXED

Eric Santon 816-589-6342 hoa55mixed@gmail.com

TRI-LEVEL

Jody Holsinger 913-269-3962 jody@aspenwealth.com

Kathy Loepp 816-718-2419 kateloepp@gmail.com

TENNISLINK ADMINISTRATOR

Pat Sibenaller 816-916-5889 pat.usta@gmail.com

Shawna Froeschl Adult SportsmanshipMale

Charles Wohlers

Shawnee, Kansas

Shawna Froeschl Adult SportsmanshipFemale

Maria Andrew

Overland Park, Kansas

Stephanie Waterman Junior SportsmanshipFemale

Bryson Langford

Leawood, Kansas

Tennis Family of the Year

Tyson Marrs Family

Overland Park, Kansas

Volunteer of the Year

Chinmoy Dev

Lawrence, Kansas

Junior Sportsmanship Winners

Girls 10 - Remi Jennings

Girls 12 - Kynsey Smith

Girls 14 - Neema Kimaku

Girls 16 - Shelby Smith

Girls 18 - Lera Alexin

Boys 12 - Wyatt Markham

Boys 14 - Micah Ward

Boys 16 - Arjun Reiland

Boys 18 - Christopher Smith, Jr.

HEART OF AMERICA

Go to Camp WIN

Experience a fun, safe and encouraging environment where girls are introduced to a variety of spor ts and fitness activities over a week all while learning key lessons from WIN for KC’s Live Active curriculum.

Become a Captain

Girls ages 13-18 can apply and serve as Team Captains. Captains serve as role models and help girls learn a variety of new activities and develop leadership skills. Captains can also recieve over 36 hours of community service within one session. Apply for one or multiple sessions. Applications due May 5.

Select from 3 different session dates and locations!

June 5-8 at Notre Dame de Sion High School

June 12-15 at St. Teresa’s Academy

Camp WIN Details:

June 19-22 at Lincoln College Prep Middle School Register

Camp Cost $280 – Lunch, snacks and all camp materials provided. Camp Runs 9AM–4PM daily, Monday–Thursday op off at 7:30AM provided for an additional $25/camper

IOWA IOWA

OFFICERS

PAST PRESIDENT Jack Wardell 712-792-1000 jwardell639@gmail.com

FIRST VICE PRESIDENT

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Mark Blume 319-400-8857 usta.iowa@gmail.com

SUPPORT STAFF

ACCOUNTANT

role filled by Kelly Drake through March 2023 319-354-6295 kdrake.tennis@gmail.com

ADULT LEAGUE COORDINATOR

Jennifer Smith 515-988-3135 ustaiowaleagues@gmail.com

ADULTS/MIXED/SENIORS

Dana McBratney 636-222-0705 iowa55mixed@gmail.com

TENNIS SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

John Terpkosh 913-967-9926 jterpkosh@movalley.usta.com

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

10 & UNDER TENNIS/ JUNIOR COMPETITION

Tom Jennings 515-201-7474 tomtennis101@gmail.com

ADULT COMPETITION

Ann Simons-Burnett 515-451-1374 andrean-simons@uiowa.edu

ADULT LEAGUES

Jennifer Smith 515-988-3135 ustaiowaleagues@gmail.com

AWARDS

Mike Conlon 515-360-9196 conlonm@wdmcs.org

COLLEGIATE

Nick Petaros 563-321-0451 nick.petaros@gmail.com

2022 AWARD WINNERS

Adult Player of the Year

Willis Hong

Distinguished Service

Craig Ihnen

Facilities of the Year

Smithfield Tennis & Pickleball Center

Genesis Health Club of Clive, IA

High School Coach of the Year

Sara Loetscher

Junior Emerging Players of the Year

Allexis Moen & Henry Waddell

Junior High Performance Players of the Year

Micah Flaherty & Katelynn Kock

PRESIDENT

Brenton Kuchera 319-296-5933 kucherab@waterlooschools.org

Nicole Berger 515-499-0372 paradisetennisflkeys@gmail.com

VICE PRESIDENT

Cindy Klebe 563-506-5901 cindyrtklebe@msn.com

VICE PRESIDENT

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Cindy Rasche 563-249-3132 crasche333@gmail.com

DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

Sue Nelson 309-738-8774 sanelson614@gmail.com

GRIEVANCE

Tom Wolle 319-721-8314 twolle@simmonsperrine.com

HALL OF FAME

Kevin Nebergall 319-329-3748 nebergall@live.com

NOMINATING/PERSONNEL

Jack Wardell 712-790-1904 jwardell639@gmail.com

Membership Organization of the Year Quad City Tennis Club

Outstanding Adult/Senior Tournament MVO Adult Tournament

Outstanding Community Tennis Association Great River Tennis Association

Outstanding Contributor to Youth High Performance Program

Genesis Health Club - Thrive Tennis Academy

Outstanding Contributor to Youth Tennis Programs

Spencer Eells

Outstanding Contributor to USTA League Tennis Program

Jan Koder

John Pletchette 515-468-1176 johnpletchette@gmail.com

SECRETARY Brandon Willett 515-778-1502 willett.Brandon@gmail.com

TREASURER role filled by Mary Greer through March 2023 319-400-0045 maryelizabethgreer@gmail.com

RECREATION

Michael Shires 205-434-8660 a1tennisperform@hotmail.com

UMPIRES (OFFICIALS)

Steve England iowatennisofficials@gmail.com

VICE CHAIR

Scott Van Back

Oustanding Diversity Achievement RespectAbilities, Inc.

Outstanding Junior Tournament MVO Junior Tournament

Junior Sportsmanship

Girls 10 - Brooklyn Rypma

Girls 12 - Tenly Cewe

Girls 14 - Emma Stahlberg

Girls 16 - Harper Cope

Girls 18 - Claire Gu

Boys 10 - Sujal Kunchanapalli

Boys 14 - Lucas Sun

Boys 18 - Jacob Fee

Tennis Family of the Year

The Sagers Family

S c a n h e r e t o l e a r n m o r e a b o u t l o c a l a n d c h a m p i o n s h i p J u n i o r T e a m T e n n i s i n

M i i V l l d t i t h t f f !

M a r c h 1 , 2 0 2 3

J u n e 1 4 - 1 5 , 2 0 2 3 - Q u a l i f i e r # 1

J u n e 2 4 - 2 5 , 2 0 2 3 - Q u a l i f i e r # 2

J u n e 2 8 - 2 9 , 2 0 2 3 - Q u a l i f i e r # 3

R e g i s t r a t i o n f o r A L L Q u a l i f i e r s O P E N S L a f o r t u n e P a r k T e n n i s C e n t e r - T u l s a , O K D w i g h t D a v i s T e n n i s C e n t e r - S t . L o u i s , M O T h e P l a z a T e n n i s C e n t e r - K a n s a s C i t y , M O

J u l y 1 8 - 1 9 , 2 0 2 3 - E d m o n d C e n t e r C o u r t , E d m o n d , O K

A g e D i v i s i o n s : 1 4 U C h a m p i o n s h i p a n d 1 8 U C h a m p i o n s h i p

T e a m C o m p o s i t i o n : T e a m s m u s t c o n s i s t s o f a m i n i m u m o f 4 b o y s a n d 4 g i r l s

M a t c h F o r m a t : 1 b o y s s i n g l e s , 1 b o y s d o u b l e s , 1 g i r l s s i n g l e s , 1 g i r l s d o u b l e s , 1 m i x e d d o u b l e s

S c o r i n g F o r m a t : N o - A d S c o r i n g ; B e s t 2 o u t o f 3 s e t s t o 6 g a m e s , 7 p t T B a t 5 - 5 a l l , 1 0 p t T B f o r t h i r d s e t

Q u a l i f i c a t i o n s :

A l l p l a y e r s m u s t b e a g e e l l i g i b l e t h r o u g h A u g u s t 3 1 o f t h e M V J T T C h a m p i o n s h i p Y e a r

T e a m s a n d p l a y e r s m u s t c o m p e t e i n a t l e a s t 1 U S T A M i s s o u r i V a l l e y J u n i o r T e a m T e n n i s S e c t i o n Q u a l i f i e r t o b e e l l i g i b l e t o a d v a n c e t o S e c t i o n C h a m p i o n s h i p s

T h e W o r l d T e n n i s N u m b e r ( W T N ) w i l l b e u s e d i n t h e U S T A ’ s D i g i t a l P l a t f o r m t o d e t e r m i n e t h e p l a y l e v e l s o f c o m p e t i t i o n

P l a y e r s m u s t b e a U S T A m e m b e r i n g o o d s t a n d i n g

A d v a n c e m e n t :

T h e t o p 2 t e a m s f r o m e a c h q u a l i f i e r , i n e a c h d i v i s i o n w i l l a d v a n c e t o U S T A M i s s o u r i V a l l e y J u n i o r T e a m

T e n n i s S e c t i o n C h a m p i o n s h i p s

T o r e g i s t e r y o u r t e a m f o r a

U S T A M i s s o u r i V a l l e y J u n i o r

T e a m T e n n i s S e c t i o n

Q u a l i f i e r t o d a y ! !

KANSAS

KANSAS

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Becky Samaniego

316-706-5808 ustakansasdirector@gmail.com

DISTRICT SUPPORT STAFF

TENNIS SERVICE

REPRESENTATIVE

Jaren Glaser 913-967-9929 glaser@movalley.usta.com

DISTRICT LEAGUE COORDINATOR

Amy Mathew 630-272-8022 USTAKansasDLC@gmail.com

JUNIOR TEAM TENNIS COORDINATOR

Janet Glaser 316-733-0610 janetglaser70@gmail.com

JUNIOR COMPETITION COORDINATOR

Simon Norman 316-634-6111 simon@genesishealthclubs.com

YOUTH PATHWAY COORDINATOR

Whitney Richardson 913-574-7431 whitwilson89@gmail.com

2022 AWARD WINNERS

Adult Player of the Year

Brittany Osborne, Topeka

Distinguished Service

Connie Robertson, Lecompton

Event of the Year

Wichita Tennis Open, Wichita

Facility of the Year

Ralph Wulz Riverside Tennis Center

High School Coach of the Year

Simon Norman, Wichita

Junior Emerging Players of the Year

Rylee Frye, Wichita

Dawson O’Donnell, Wichita

Oakley O’Donnell, Wichita

OFFICERS

PAST PRESIDENT

Kate Foss 316-993-4013 USTAKate@gmail.com

PRESIDENT

Cary Morris 316-641-3606 Carymorris@icloud.com

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

ADULT LEAGUES

Amy Mathew 630-272-8022 USTAKansasDLC@gmail.com

AWARDS

Nick Schulte 316-648-6393 schultenick@gmail.com

DIVERSITY & INCLUSION CO-CHAIRS

Ron Thompson 316-681-1273 RonT702@yahoo.com

Grady Landrum Grady.Landrum@gmail.com

GRANTS

Kate Foss 316-993-4013 USTAKate@gmail.com

Junior High Performance Players of the Year

Hitha Ganganala, Wichita

Amir Khicha, Wichita

Junior Sportsmanship Awards

Girls 14 -

Emme Strickland, Andover

Girls 16 -

Francie Foster, Wichita Girls 18 -

Annabelle Tantemsomboon, Wichita

Boys 14Maddox Drumright, Wichita

Boys 16 -

Carter Drumright, Wichita

Boys 18 -

Jax Cornejo, Wellington

JUNIOR COMPETITION

Simon Norman 316-634-6111 simon@genesishealthclubs.com

OFFICIALS CO-CHAIRS

John Seal 620-778-2289 netjts0@gmail.com

J.K. Patel 785-228-2529 Jipatel@wcnoc.com

DIRECTORS

Terry Neal 785-488-7460 t.neal1230.tn@gmail.com

Nick Schulte 316-648-6393 schultenick@gmail.com

Outstanding Adult/Senior Tournament

The Jayhawk Open, Topeka Tennis Association

Outstanding Community Tennis Association

Maureen Connolly Brinker Tennis Foundation

Outstanding Contributor to Youth Tennis Programs

Sara Rasmussen, Wichita

Outstanding Contributor to USTA League

Dylan Jones, Newton

Outstanding Diversity Achievement

Nick Taylor, Wichita

FIRST VICE PRESIDENT/ ADULT COMPETITION

Don Eccles 620-364-9270 bluestem5@yahoo.com

SECOND VICE PRESIDENT/ JUNIOR COMPETITION

Simon Norman 316-634-6111 simon@genesishealthclubs.com

SECRETARY Srinivas Yendru 316-210-4335 yendru@gmail.com

TREASURER

Archie Macias

316-651-7933 archie@maciastaxservice.com

Gary Shipp 785-230-6012 gshipp@kvc.org

Gabriel Yankey 316-461-2844 gab.yankey@gmail.com

Outstanding Junior Tournament McPherson June L6, Janie Bremyer

Outstanding Member Organization Sheldon Coleman Tennis Complex

Outstanding Official

Laura Norman, Wichita

Tenmis Family of the Year

The O’Donnell Family, Arkansas City

USTA Junior Team Tennis Organizer Janet Glaser, Wichita

MISSOURI MISSOURI

OFFICERS

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Glenn Pelecky gpelecky@gmail.com

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Leslie Echols 417-501-6234 ustamissouridirector@gmail.com

TENNIS SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

Alywn Mushonga 913-967-9833 mushonga@movalley.usta.com

DISTRICT SUPPORT STAFF

ADULT LEAGUE COORDINATOR

Amy Mathew amymichael12@icloud.com

FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Lori Hunt lhmotennis@gmail.com

COLUMBIA LEAGUE COORDINATOR

Stephanie Farid sewfarid@gmail.com

SPRINGFIELD LEAGUE COORDINATOR

Leslie Echols ustamissouridirector@gmail.com

2022 AWARD WINNERS

Adult Captain of the Year

Hee-Sun Kim

Adult Player of the Year

Debbie Pell

Adult Sportsmanship Awards

Gabe Goldstein

Kathy Drew

Marsha Marsh

Steve Seo

Captain Mentor Award

Donna Hoffman

Community Service Excellence Award

Marianella Padron

Event of the Year

Adaptive Tennis

Facility of the Year Cooper Tennis Complex

High School Coaches of the Year

Sean Kembell & Karen Fielding

Junior High Performance Players of the Year

Akhash Baskar & Kaylee Doran

Junior Recreational Players of the Year

Orion Hilles & Chloe Stenger

PRESIDENT

Mallory Weber 417-874-2904 webermalloryl@gmail.com

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

ADULT & LEAGUE COMPETITION

Leslie Echols ustamissouridirector@gmail.com

AWARDS

Ann Vogel annievogel@gmail.com

JUNIOR COMPETITION

TBD

OFFICIALS

Steve Webb swebb@springfieldmo.gov

Junior Sportsmanship Awards

Micka Hahn

Isla Merrifield

Will Beall

Adley Carpener

Brett Crockett

Elana Hadi

Ian Rogers

Brynley Brotherton

Member Organization of the Year

Marshall Junior Tennis

New Captain of the Year

Carol Rollins

New Player of the Year

Carolee Jones

Outstanding Adult Tournament

Cooper Adult Spring Doubles and Singles Open

Outstanding Community Tennis Associations

Springfield Wild & SWMO Tennis Network

Outstanding Contributor to the Youth High Performance Program

Kyle Wartick

FIRST VICE PRESIDENT/ SECRETARY

Larry Huitt lhuitt1957@gmail.com

TREASURER

Bill Lingenfelser WBL@Makeenenergy.com

AT-LARGE Ben Loeb bloeb1214@gmail.com

Kyle Wartick kylewartick@yahoo.com

USTA MISSOURI LEAGUE LOCATIONS

Branson

Columbia

Jefferson City

Joplin

Springfield

Contact Leslie Echols or Amy Mathew

Outstanding Contributor to USTA League Tennis Program

Huong Doan

Outstanding Diversity Achievement Award

Anelisse Garner

Outstanding Junior Tournament

Branson L7

Outstanding Official

John Xu

Outstanding USTA Junior Team Tennis Organizer

Mallory Weber

Senior Captain of the Year

Ann Vogel

Tennis Family of the Year

The Merrifield Family

NEBRASKA

NEBRASKA

OFFICERS

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

Heather Blumel 402-699-3393 hblumelusta@gmail.com

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Lisa Thomas 408-290-5931

lisathomasusta@icloud.com

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

ADULT PLAY & COMPETITION

Stephen Collins 402-968-4972 sfcomaha@gmail.com

AWARDS

Chaz Kuper 402-981-3839 chaz@lkwfirm.com

COMMUNITY

DEVELOPMENT

Jason McFarley jmcfarley@hotmail.com

TENNIS SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

Kara Heim 913-967-9452 heim@movalley.usta.com

DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

Tammy Hill tamtennis18@aol.com

HALL OF FAME

Verne Weber 402-682-5862 vaweber10s@aol.com

JUNIOR COMPETITION

Justin Bigsby 402-721-8069 mrjbigs@gmail.com

LEAGUE COORDINATOR

Jason Rodenberger jason.rodenberger@gmail.com

2022 AWARD WINNERS

Adult Player of the Year (4.5 & Above)

Robert Weber

Adult Players of the Year (4.0 & Below)

Rachel Southard

Adult/Senior Tournament of the Year

Cornhusker State Games

Distinguished Service

Carvie Erwin

Facility of the Year

Ernest Grundy Tennis Center, Kearney, Nebraska

High School Coaches of the Year

Lance Kush & Chris Stock

Junior High Performance Female Player of the Year

Lily Lautenschlager & Sophia Jones

Junior High Performance Male Player of the Year

Hunter Nelson

Junior Male Emerging Player of the Year

Jackson Mehuron

PRESIDENT

Mike Willman 402-547-9613 day 402-727-9048 night mikewllmn@aol.com

NOMINATING

Justin Bigsby 402-721-8069 mrjbigs@gmail.com

OFFICIALS

Noelle Wegiel noelle.wegiel@yahoo.com

TOURNAMENT

Larry Newton 402-326-3484 larrynewton@cox.net

Junior Tournament of the Year

L5 Boys & Girls 12-18s in Fremont

Media Excellence

Andrea Gallagher

Member Organization of the Year

Miracle Hills Tennis Center

Outstanding Community Tennis Association

Kearney Tennis Association

Outstanding Contributor USTA League Tennis

John Leffler, Jr.

Outstanding Contributor to Youth High Performance Program

Taylor Wain

Outstanding Contributor to Youth Tennis Programs

Mike Saniuk

Outstanding Diversity Achievement

Phil Wolfe - Nelson Mandela School and Miracle Hills Tennis Center

FIRST VICE PRESIDENT

John Rademacher 308-440-1112 johnprademacher@gmail.com

SECOND VICE PRESIDENT

Matt Lunning 515-371-1931 mlunning@unmc.edu

SECRETARY

Kevin Heim 402-441-7095 wtcheim@gmail.com

TREASURER

Ryan Johnson angst_ink@yahoo.com

Outstanding Officials

Aaron Ogden & Noelle Wegiel

Tennis Family of the Year

The Stempson Family

Junior Sportsmanship Awards

10 and under -

Summer Christensen & Dex Saniuk

12 and under -

Alyssa Formanes, Jackson Skiko & Circe Tallman

14 and under -

Owen Brown, Corinne Barber, Aubrey Phonephakdy & Ryan Thomas

16 and under -

Kailee Bailey & Sheamus Sinnot

18 and under -

Gibby Chapman, Camryn Jacobsmeir, Andrew Nelson & Joshua Stock

USTA Junior Team Tennis Organizer

Darren Emerick

OKLAHOMA

OKLAHOMA

OFFICERS

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

David Minihan 405-312-5252

minihan@ustaoklahoma.com

COMMUNITY TENNIS MANAGER

Casey McKenzie 918-688-4408 mckenzie@ustaoklahoma.com

PRESIDENT

Mary Jo Tasker 918-694-5445 maryjotasker@gmail.com

QUADRANT REPRESENTATIVES

NORTHWEST QUADRANT

Carmen Bond 405-850-5458 cbond@oktennis.org

SOUTHEAST QUADRANT

Lee Crowley 918-527-1782 wxcrawler@hotmail.com

Bill Towler 405-590-5260 btowler1959@gmail.com

VICE PRESIDENT - ADULTS

Peter McCorkle 918-830-0698 peter.mccorkle@gmail.com

VICE PRESIDENT - JUNIORS

Eric Wedemeyer 405-627-0792 ewedemeyer1@cox.net

TREASURER

Jeff Bowser 405-627-3987 jeff@heritagecpas.com

TENNIS SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

Laura Puryear 913-967-9147 puryear@movalley.usta.com

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

ADULT COMPETITION

Peter McCorkle 918-830-0698

peter.mccorkle@gmail.com

AWARDS

Tamara Cromwell 405-820-2057 lukersmom@gmail.com

BUDGET & FINANCE

Jeff Bowser 405-627-3987

jeff@heritagecpas.com

SCHOOLS TENNIS ORGANIZER

Becky Riggs 918-999-5502 riggs@movalley.usta.com

NORTHEAST QUADRANT

Matias Marin 941-807-2380 marinmati@gmail.com

SOUTHEAST QUADRANT

Dawna Johnston 610-308-0435 dawna_johnston@hotmail.com

OKC LEAGUE COORDINATOR

Katie Allen 405-824-3451

okcleagues@ustaoklahoma.com

DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

Caitlyn Sagraves 405-609-7963 caitlynmetseff@gmail.com

GENERAL COUNSEL/GRIEVANCE

Charles Laster 405-273-2910 charlielaster@sbcglobal.net

SECRETARY

Emily Pomeroy 405-317-2611 emily@okmta.com

COLLEGIATE/LEAGUE COORDINATOR

Marc Claude 405-640-9638 cell marcaclaude@gmail.com

DISTRICT LEAGUE COORDINATOR

Tulsa League Coordinator

Michelle Oquin 918-381-6690

oquin@ustaoklahoma.com

GRANTS

Laura Puryear 913-967-9147

puryear@movalley.usta.com

HALL OF FAME

Richard Perry 580-242-5848

richard.m.perry@sbcglobal.net

JUNIOR COMPETITION

Eric Wedemeyer 405-627-0792

ewedemeyer1@cox.net

NOMINATING

Bill Towler 405-590-5260

btowler1959@gmail.com

OFFICIALS

Dean Richardville 918-671-7208

drichardville@cox.net

SANCTIONS & SCHEDULING

Bill Riggan 405-650-6076

wmriggan@att.net

2022 AWARD WINNERS

Adult Player of the Year (4.5 & Above)

Bart Ramsey

Adult Player of the Year (4.0 & Below)

Eric Tabor

Distinguished Service

Bill Riggan

Facility of the Year

Union Tennis Center

Female Junior High Performance Player of the Year

Gracie Epps

Female Emerging Junior Player of the Year

Ellison Clark

Male Junior High Performance Player of the Year

Ian Bracks

Male Emerging Junior Player of the Year

Noah Gou

Member Organization of the Year

Racquet and Health 91

Outstanding Adult/Senior Tournament

Norman Open

Outstanding Community Tennis Association

Tulsa Area Tennis Association - Frank Ward

Outstanding Contributor to USTA League

Russell Warner

Outstanding Contributor to Youth High Performance

Camilo Sabogal

Outstanding Contributor to Youth Tennis Programs

Celeste Frey

Outstanding Diversity Achievement League of Exceptional Players of First Serve Tulsa

Outstanding High School Coach

Darren Cobble

Outstanding Junior Tournament

MV Summer Closed Level 3 - Peter McCorkle

Outstanding Junior Team

Tennis Organizer

Caitlyn Sagraves

Outstanding Official

Charlie Smith

Play Tennis Your Way

Tennis Family of the Year

The Prather Family

Junior Sportsmanship

Boys 10 - Jackson Nelson

Boys 12 - Dylan Hwang

Boys 14 - Max Beard

Boys 16 - Lawson Prather

Boys 18 - Creed Skinner

Girls 10 - Parker Hays

Girls 12 - Kennedy Orr

Girls 14 - Sophia Gillett

Girls 16 - Jasel Bailey

Girls 18 - Carrington Hessen

Hall of Fame Inductees

Bill Nelson

The Headington Family

ST. LOUIS

ST. LOUIS

OFFICERS

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

Beth Causey 314-322-8911 brcausey@gmail.com

VICE PRESIDENT - JUNIORS

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Megan Kovacs 314-432-3990 314-585-9552 cell director@ustastl.com

DISTRICT STAFF

ADMINISTRATION

Karolyn Stanley

ADULT LEAGUES

Severine Huchet 314-432-3990 leagues@ustastl.com

ADULT 40+/55+ LEAGUES

Lisa Lamb 314-432-3990 40plus@ustastl.com

ADULT MIXED LEAGUES

Liz Lahm 314-432-3990 mixed@ustastl.com

AWARDS

Megan Kovacs 314-432-3990 director@ustastl.com

TENNIS SERVICE

REPRESENTATIVE

Alywn Mushonga 913-967-9833 mushonga@movalley.usta.com

PRESIDENT

John Kelly 314-956-7660 kellyjohnf15@gmail.com

Ken Hayden 618-398-6500 kjhay12@yahoo.com

VICE PRESIDENT - ADULTS

Paul Petruska 618-772-0086

DWIGHT DAVIS TENNIS CENTER Carobeth Kelly, General Manager 314-361-0177 dwight@ustastl.com

JUNIOR COMPETITION

Megan Kovacs 314-432-3990 314-585-9552 cell juniors@ustastl.com

JUNIOR TEAM TENNIS & JC/L7 COORDINATOR

Toni McDonald 314-585-9468 JTT@ustastl.com

FINANCIAL MANAGER

Nancy Varner 314-432-3990 financial@ustastl.com

2022 AWARD WINNERS

Adult Players of the Year

Michael Lesko & Kelly Johnston

Adult Recreational Players of the Year

Sanjeev Kamat & Barb Criner

Distinguished Service

Mary Vassar

Facility of the Year

Dwight Davis Tennis Center

Family of the Year

The Gross/Stauffer Family

Judy Dippold Junior Players of the Year

Preston Achter & Amber Yin

Junior Emerging Players of the Year

Johnny Curran & Grace Leitner

Junior Team Tennis Organizer

Emily Cimarolli

Member Organization of the Year

Forst Lake Tennis Club

LEGAL ADVISOR

Andy Glaser 314-446-4259 aglaser@sandbergphoenix.com

ppetruska@greensfelder.com

VICE PRESIDENTCOMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Hiroo Motwani 618-363-4300

hiroo@motwanifoundation.org

SECRETARY

Louann Boyd 314-922-8004

louannboyd@yahoo.com

TREASURER

Madison Meersman 314-484-1046

meersman.madison@gmail.com

ST. LOUIS ASSOCIATION OF TENNIS OFFICIALS (SLATO)

John Kelly - President 314-956-7660

kellyjohnf15@gmail.com

Outstanding Adult/Senior Tournament

Sam Graf Adult Open

Outstanding Community Tennis Association

Franklin County CTA

Outstanding Contributors to USTA Leagues

Sam Shouldis & Anne Ross

Outstanding Contributor Youth High Performance

Melisa Lemus

Outstanding Contributor to Youth Programs

Edwardsville Tennis Academy

Outstanding Diversity Achievement

Mark Zolman & Brian Kirk

Outstanding High School Coach

Dave Lipe

Outstanding Junior Tournament Alton Jr. 6-Hour

Outstanding Official Michael Reichman

President’s Award

Noel Quevreaux

Junior Sportsmanship Awards

Boys 10 - Eshan Rahman

Boys 12 - Pranav Madamanchi

Boys 14 - Shaan Patel

Boys 16 - Jasper Schmidt

Boys 18 - Danny Radke

Girls 10 - Kharis Bedenbaugh

Girls 12 - Dia Kannan

Girls 14 - Adelyn Gross

Girls 16 - Angela Chen

Girls 18 - Rachel Li

2022 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

The 2022 USTA Missouri Valley Annual Conference, held December 2-3, wrapped up yet another successful year in our section. The Olathe Conference Center hosted the event and provided a memorable experience for all attendees.

The conference began on Friday, December 2 with the Meeting of the Association and Open Board Meeting. The USTA Missouri Valley committees and districts shared their 2022 highlights and key initiatives for 2023, and President Jason Mathes and Executive Director Mary Buschmann gave their official reports. The meeting wrapped up with the official introduction of the new slate of Board of Directors for the 2023-2024 term. Steve Henry will step into the president’s role, with Alex Lee serving as the First Vice President. They will be joined by Kim Hughes-Gill, Terry Jackson, Deb Fabrizius and Beth Causey.

Saturday morning kicked off with a General Session: State of the Union Address, highlighted by a presentation by USTA Managing Director, Competition Operations Sean Cary. Multiple committee meetings followed, including a WTN/Innovative Formats presentation by Michael Hughes from the USTA.

The conference was capped with the Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Celebration emceed by Scott Hanover. Mary Greef Harris, Jean Larrick and Larry Newton were proudly inducted into the USTA Missouri Valley Hall of Fame. Congratulations to these three for this incredible tennis accomplishment!

A highlight of the event was when the 30 USTA Missouri Valley 2022 award winners were recognized during the program. The final surprise of the afternoon came with the announcement of the 2022 President’s Award winner. Mathes got the opportunity to give the award to his close friend and mentor John Kelly, who was recently re-elected as USTA St. Louis president.

USTA Missouri Valley is grateful for all of those who’ve supported the section through the year and looks forward to what 2023 has in store.

HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2022

Deadline to submit USTA Missouri Valley Hall of Fame nominations is July 31. Nominations are kept on file for five years and can be updated at any time. Visit usta.com for nomination criteria and form or contact Judy Dippold at dipper20@gmail.com.

2022 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES

During the Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Celebration on Saturday, December 3, we had the honor of inducting three new members to the USTA Missouri Valley Hall of Fame: Mary Greef Harris formerly of Kansas City, Mo., Jean Larrick of Springfield, Mo. and Larry Newton of Omaha, Ne.

Mary Greef Harris was a true pioneer of women’s tennis. She grew up in Kansas City, Mo. in the early 1900s. Tennis was really only a summer sport during her youth because there were no indoor tennis courts at the time. After high school, Greef Harris earned a scholarship to play tennis at the University of Southern California. She won the 1931 singles and doubles championships in the National Intercollegiate Women Championships - now the NCAA Championships. She was a three-time quarterfinalist at the US National (now US Open) in 1929, 1930 and 1932. She also was a member of the 1930 Wightman Cup Team, alongside Helen Willis Moody, Helen Jacobs, Sarah Palfrey and Edith Cross. In 1981, she was inducted into the Kansas City Sports Hall of Champions. She was then posthumously inducted into the USTA Heart of America Hall of Fame in 2018. Greef Harris passed away in 2002 at the age of 91.

Jean Larrick grew up in Decatur, Ill. and has been playing tennis for more than 65 years. While she didn’t have the opportunity to play high school tennis because there were no girls sports teams in the late 1960s, she did play college tennis at Millikin University for one year and Missouri State University for three years. Her 1977 team at MSU won the MIAA Conference Championship and AIAW Regional Championship and competed in the AIAW Women’s Championships, finishing in the top 20. Over the course of her extensive playing career, Larrick has won more than 200 titles in singles, doubles and mixed competitions. Among her career highlights are representing USTA Western on the Junior Wightman Cup team, finishing in fourth place at the USTA National 35 Women’s Doubles Clay Court Championships and winning multiple National Public Parks Tennis Championships. Outside of playing, Larrick has been an International Certified Teaching Professional with Professional Tennis Registry for more than 30 years. She has also served on multiple USTA Missouri Valley and USTA National committees.

Larry Newton is a true legend in the junior tennis world. He is currently using his vast knowledge and expertise to serve the USTA National Local Play and Competition Committee as its Vice Chair. He also received national recognition in 2021 for his contributions to junior tennis when he was named Racquet Sports Industry’s Junior Tennis Champion of the Year. Newton has spent the past 36 years volunteering his time to help grow the game of tennis through various avenues: as a tournament director, official or serving on district, section and national boards. He started playing tennis as a 14-yearold and took a job as a clay court attendant at Southern Hills Country Club in Tulsa when he was 15. That eventually evolved into a teaching position and a successful playing career, including two years on Oklahoma State University’s varsity tennis team. One of his greatest contributions to USTA Nebraska is his creation of “Farm Team Competitions,” which fed high-level junior players into the Nebraska Competition Training Center, while also providing second-tier players nonelimination competitions each week. He also started the Nebraska Junior High School State Tournament.

USTA Missouri Valley Hall of Fame Class of 2022, from left to right: Linda Fix (daughter of Mary Greef Harris), Jean Larrick and Larry Newton.

USTA MISSOURI VALLEY HALL OF FAME MEMBERS

2022

Mary Greef Harris* Kansas City, Mo.

Jean Larrick Springfield, Mo.

Larry Newton Omaha, Neb.

2021

R. Scott Hanover Kansas City, Mo.

Alvin Penelton* East St. Louis, Ill.

Tara Snyder .......................................... Truckee, Calif.

2020

Daniel Apted ......................................... St. Louis, Mo.

Jane Zukaitis Hines Omaha, Neb.

Kevin Nebergall Cedar Rapids, Iowa

2019

Kilmeny Waterman Connor Overland Park, Kan.

Craig Sandvig University City, Mo.

Pamela Sloan Stockton, Calif.

2018

Ken D. Brown Independence, Kan.

Fred Johnson* ...................................Kansas City, Mo.

Mark Platt Clayton, Mo.

Pat Purcell St. Louis, Mo.

Kim Reser Springfield, Mo.

2017

Buff Farrow Wichita, Kan.

Francis P. Lemery Overland Park, Kan.

Richard M. Perry ....................................... Enid, Okla.

2016

Bob Bates ..................................... Prairie Village, Kan.

Mark Johnson Henryetta, Okla.

Wilbur Jones Shawnee, Kan.

2015

Richard Hudlin* St. Louis, Mo.

Cornelia Salmon-Robertson Lecompton, Kan.

Mark Rosewell Maryville, Mo.

Verne Weber ..........................................Bellevue, Neb.

2014

Steve Gerdes ........................................... Omaha, Neb.

Jim Klousia Springfield, Mo.

Ken Veney Sydney, Australia

2013

Ron Cobb

St. Louis, Mo.

Kevin Hedberg Topeka, Kan.

Joe McGuire Kansas City, Mo.

Doug Smith .......................................... St. Louis, Mo.

Bruce Vosburg* Omaha, Neb.

2012

Judy Dippold

St. Louis, Mo.

Micki Schillig Feldmann Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Edmund Serrano* St. Louis, Mo.

Meredith Geiger Walton Humble, Kan.

2011

Rex Coad

Wichita, Kan.

James “Buddy” Fields* ........................... Wichita, Kan.

Janet Thomas Griffith Tulsa, Okla.

Jane Pratt* St. Louis, Mo.

Kim Steinmetz ..................................... Florissant, Mo.

2010

Charles Doughty, Jr.*

2008

Gayle David Bradshaw Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla.

Patricia Graham* Kansas City, Mo.

Steve Prosser DeSoto, Kan.

Leigh Strassner* St. Louis, Mo.

2007

Barbara Fackel* Rock Island, Ill.

Ken Flach* ............................................. St Louis, Mo.

Bob McKinley College Station, Texas

2006

Dave Freeborn Tulsa, Okla.

Jay Louderback South Bend, Ind.

Terry Miller Overland Park, Kan.

Dave Riley Tulsa, Okla.

Russell Warner Tulsa, Okla.

2005

John Allen Been .................................. Houston, Texas

Dr. Harry Clifton Burrus* Winter Haven, Fla.

Jacque Croft Overland Park, Kan.

Richard Mechem ........................ Fredericksburg, Texas

Frank A. Thompson Jr.* St. Louis, Mo.

2004

John Bregin Merriam, Kan.

Don Dippold St. Louis, Mo.

Don Gardner* Wichita, Kan.

Ken Lidie* Bellevue, Neb.

Su Oertel .............................................. Decorah, Iowa

2003

Bill Brown ................................. Arroyo Grande, Calif.

Cliff Buchholz Fort Collins, Colo.

Bob Green Atlantic Beach, Fla.

Nancy Pearce-Jeffett* Dallas, Texas

Phil Landauer Hillard, Ohio

2002

Patsy Rippy-Bond Sandy, Utah

William Davis .................................... Seminole, Okla.

Ralph Hart, Jr. St. Louis, Mo.

Bill Rompf Newport, R.I.

Mary Norwood-Rompf ......................... Newport, R.I.

2001

Junior Coen Kansas City, Mo.

Dick Gilkey Edmond, Okla.

Gene Land Oklahoma City, Okla.

Gerry Perry Springfield, Mo.

Don McNeil Chickasha, Okla.

2000

Marilyn Mueller* St. Louis, Mo.

Louis Gerdes* ......................................... Omaha, Neb.

Ollie Gresham Tulsa, Okla.

Homer Robinson* Tulsa, Okla.

Dr. Bryce Young Hilton Head, S.C.

Judy Levering Hilton Head, S.C.

1999

David Bryant Oklahoma City, Okla.

Dr. George Milton ............................... Emporia, Kan.

Cliff Price Tulsa, Okla.

J. Hal Surface Jr. Kansas City, Mo.

Dr. Steve Wilkinson* ........................... St. Peter, Minn.

1998

1997

Lucien Barbour* Winfield, Kan.

Frank Ward Tulsa, Okla.

Anna Guerrant Gilbert, Ariz.

Dick Johnson* Ballwin, Mo.

Nora Prosser Merriam, Kan.

1996

Harold "Buck" Balzer .............................. Buhler, Kan.

Justina Bricka St. Louis, Mo.

Kate Cushing* Tulsa, Okla.

Ted Drewes* .......................................... St. Louis, Mo.

Phillip L. Edwards St. Louis, Mo.

1995

Jodie H. Adams Springfield, Mo.

Carol Hanks Aucamp St. Louis, Mo.

Mary Ann Eisel Beattie St. Louis, Mo.

1994

Wray Brown St. Louis, Mo.

Earl "Butch" Buchholz Jr. St. Louis, Mo.

Beverly K. Buckley .......................... Des Moines, Iowa

Joy Rodenberg Lincoln, Neb.

Mervyn Webster* Wichita, Kan.

1993

C.J. Hixon Tulsa, Okla.

Wally Smith Ponca City, Okla.

Dave Snyder Kingwood, Texas

1992

Jack Buss* Des Moines, Iowa

Lucile Davidson ............................ Independence, Mo.

Ed Doane Tustin, Calif.

1991

Clarence Dyer Durant, Okla.

Ward Parker Family St. Louis, Mo.

Tom McSpadden Muskogee, Okla.

1990

Francis Baxter* Edmond, Okla.

Earl H. Buchholz Sr.* Sedalia, Mo.

Charles D. Cunningham .......................... Tulsa, Okla.

Bill Price St. Louis, Mo.

Len Prosser Merriam, Kan.

1989

Gerald Perry* Springfield, Mo.

1988

D. Keedy Campbell ...........................Kansas City, Mo.

Harris Coggeshall Des Moines, Iowa

Marvin P. Richmond* Leawood, Kan.

T.H. "Curly" Vaughan* ........................ Winfield, Kan.

1986

Dwight F. Davis* St. Louis, Mo.

Charles McKinley St. Louis, Mo.

*Deceased

Please help us keep our list current. If you know of a member who has passed away, please email

eilts@movalley.usta.com

Wichita, Kan.

Tommy English Oklahoma City, Okla.

Paul Lockwood

Norman, Okla.

James Wadley Stillwater, Okla.

2009

Nick Taylor

Wichita, Kan.

Skip Walther Columbia, Mo.

Sheldon Weiner* ............................... Rock Island, Ill.

W.E. Steve Broadie Wichita, Kan.

Dr. Donald Klotz* Iowa City, Iowa

J.C. Louderback Arkansas City, Kan.

Jim Reed Winfield, Kan.

S.L. Shofner Prescott, Ariz.

2022 AWARD WINNERS

Junior High Performance Player of the Year (Female)

MV Summer Closed L3 Accepted by Peter McCorkle Tulsa, Oklahoma

The Gross/Stauffer Family Des Peres, Missouri

Outstanding Contributor Youth High Performance Outstanding Contributor Youth Tennis

Emily Cimarolli Maryville, Illinois

High School Coach of the Year

USTA Junior Team Tennis Organizer

Outstanding Official

Outstanding Contributor USTA League Tennis Program

Kyle Wartick Springfield, Missouri

Allexis Moen West Des Moines, Iowa

Fred Johnson All-Star Event Accepted by Omaha Tennis Buddies Omaha, Nebraska

Connie Bennett Overland Park, Kansas

Junior Emerging Player of the Year (Female)

Cooper Woestendick Accepted by his mother Olathe, Kansas

Junior Emerging Player of the Year (Male)

Lily Lautenschlager Lincoln, Nebraska

Outstanding Adult/Senior Tournament

Noah Gou (Accepted by Tim Shanahan) Edmond, Oklahoma

Dave Lipe Edwardsville, Illinois

Spencer Eells Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Outstanding Junior Tournament

Michael Reichman St. Louis, Missouri

Adult Player of the Year, 4.0 & Below

Eric Tabor Tulsa, Oklahoma

Adult Player of the Year, 4.5 & Above

Robert Weber Omaha, Nebraska

Tennis Family of the Year

Junior High Performance Player of the Year (Male)

2022 AWARD WINNERS

JUNIOR SPORTSMANSHIP

For full awards history, click here!

Danny Radke St. Charles, Missouri

Jasper Schmidt Accepted by his mother St. Louis, Missouri

Kharis Bedenbaugh Kirkwood, Missouri

Shaan Patel St. Louis, Missouri

Boys 14s Boys 16s Boys 18s Boys 12s Boys 10s Girls 14s Girls 16s Girls 18s Girls 12s Girls 10s

Pranav Madamanchi Chesterfield, Missouri

Ben Lowes Omaha, Nebraska

Kennedy Orr Tulsa, Oklahoma

Adelyn Gross Accepted by her grandmother St. Louis, Missouri

Kailee Bailey Omaha, Nebraska

Rachel Li St. Louis, Missouri

Outstanding Community Tennis Association

Miracle Hills Tennis Center Omaha, Nebraska

Dwight Davis Tennis Center St. Louis, Missouri

Kearney Tennis Association Kearney, Nebraska

Junior High Performance Player of the Year (Female)

Anelisse Garner Springfield, Missouri

Distinguished Service President’s Award

Mary Vassar St. Louis, Missouri

John Kelly St. Louis, Missouri

Facility of the Year Member Organization of the Year

Outstanding Diversity Achievement

2022 LEAGUE SECTION CHAMPIONS

18 & Over 2.5 Women: St. Louis Captain: Ward

18 Over 3.0 Men: Oklahoma Captain: Daniels

18 & Over 3.0 Women: Oklahoma Captain: Vawter

18 & Over 3.5 Men: Oklahoma Captain: Tabor

18 & Over 3.5 Women: Oklahoma Captain: Allen

18 & Over 4.0 Men: Nebraska Captain: Leahy

18 & Over 4.0 Women: Heart of America Captain: Norman

18 & Over 4.5 Men: St. Louis Captain: Hartig, Rigby

USTA NATioNAl ChAmpioNS

2022 LEAGUE SECTION CHAMPIONS

18 & Over 4.5 Women: Oklahoma Captain: Sandvig

18 & Over 7.0 Mixed: Nebraska Captain: Studts, Erwin

18 & Over 8.0 Mixed: Kansas Captain: Jones

18 & Over 9.0 Mixed: Oklahoma Captain: Walker

18 & Over 5.0 Men: Nebraska Captain: Barlow

18 & Over 6.0 Mixed: Oklahoma Captain: Schmidt

40 & Over 3.0 Women: Nebraska Captain: Ernst

USTA NATioNAl FiNAliST

Not pictured: 18 & Over 5.0 Women: Heart of America Captain: Chiao

18 & Over 10.0 Mixed: Nebraska Captain: Blatt, Vietzer

2022 LEAGUE SECTION CHAMPIONS

40 & Over 4.0 Men: Iowa Captain: Heil

40 & Over 4.0 Women: Heart of America Captain: Valdez

40 & Over 4.5 Men: Heart of America Captain: Allen

40 & Over 4.5 Women: Iowa Captain: Henry

40 & Over 6.0 Mixed: Oklahoma Captain: Schmidt

40 & Over 3.5 Women: Heart of America Captain: Vitha

40 & Over 3.5 Men: Oklahoma Captain: Kinney, Davis

40 & Over 3.0 Men: Oklahoma Captain: Dickason

2022 LEAGUE SECTION CHAMPIONS

55 & Over 7.0 Men: Kansas Captain: Wanless

55 & Over 7.0 Women: Oklahoma Captain: Johnston, Casey

55 & Over 8.0 Men: Oklahoma Captain: Lane

40 & Over 7.0 Mixed: Missouri Captain: Kim

40 & Over 8.0 Mixed: Nebraska Captain: Erwin, Redding

40 & Over 9.0 Mixed: Iowa Captain: Fleming

55 & Over 6.0 Women: Oklahoma Captain: Sacra

USTA NATioNAl FiNAliST

55 & Over 6.0 Men: Oklahoma Captain: Langwell

2022 LEAGUE SECTION CHAMPIONS

65 & Over 6.0 Women: Oklahoma Captain: Sacra

65 & Over 7.0 Men: Oklahoma Captain: Langwell

65 & Over 7.0 Women: Heart of America Captain: Bennett

55 & Over 9.0 Women: Heart of America Captain: Karnowski

USTA NATioNAl ChAmpioNS

65 & Over 8.0 Men: St. Louis Captain: Constance, Bealke

65 & Over 6.0 Men: Oklahoma Captain: Dotson

55 & Over 9.0 Men: Oklahoma Captain: Billingsley

55 & Over 8.0 Women: Heart of America Captain: Jacelone

65 & Over 8.0 Women: Oklahoma Captain: Tipton

65 & Over 9.0 Men: Heart of America Captain: Jackson 65 & Over 9.0 Women: Heart of America Captain: McDougal

Great sports make sports great.

We need your help nominating someone who displayed great sportsmanship in a USTA match during your local play.

INSIDE: BLACK HISTORY MONTH

THE BENEFITS OF TENNIS

OFFICIALS TAKE THE SPOTLIGHT

SPRING 2023

The USTA Missouri Valley publishes Serve three times per year, focusing specifically on the members and events in the section. All material copyright USTA Missouri Valley, unless otherwise noted.

Your feedback is welcomed.

Mark Collins

Assistant

Sydney Hamilton

Assistant

Victoria Moore

Content Producer -

Designer

Josh Sellmeyer

For questions about your USTA membership, please contact USTA Customer Care at 1-800-990-USTA or customercare.usta.com

2023 EVENTS AND MEETINGS

USTA Missouri Valley Tennis on Campus Section Championship

Date

USTA Missouri Valley Semiannual Board Meeting

Adult L4 USTA Missouri Valley 5’s, 0’s & Open Outdoor Championship

Section Adaptive Championship & ALL Stars Adaptive Event

Junior L4 USTA Missouri Valley #4

ITF 25K Men’s Pro Circuit

USTA Missouri Valley League Section Championship I

Adult L4 USTA Missouri Valley 40+ NTRP & Open Outdoor Championship

USTA Missouri Valley League Section Championship II

USTA Missouri Valley League Section Championship III

US Open Championships

Adult L4 USTA Missouri Valley 18+ NTRP & Open Indoor Championship

Junior L4 USTA Missouri Valley #5

USTA Missouri Valley League Mixed Section Championship I

National Public Parks 100th Anniversary Tournament

Adult L4 USTA Missouri Valley 55+ NTRP & Open Outdoor Championship

USTA Missouri Valley League Mixed Section Championship II

Adult L1 USTA National 30’s Hard Court Championship

ITF 15K Women’s Pro Circuit

USTA Missouri Valley Tennis on Campus Fall Invitational

ITF 15K Men’s Pro Circuit

USTA National Senior Women’s Hardcourt Championships

Junior L3 USTA Missouri Valley #2

Junior L4 USTA Missouri Valley #6

Tri-Level League Section Invitational

USTA Missouri Valley League Mixed Doubles 55 & Over Invitational

USTA Missouri Valley Annual Meeting and Award Celebration

Fall 2023 Location TBD

July 22-24

Week of July 24

August 4-6

August 18-20

August 18-20

August 25-27

Multiple Locations

Edwardsville, Illinois

St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis, Missouri

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Multiple Locations

August 28 - September 10 New York City

September 1-3

September 2-4

September 8-10

September 14-17

September 15-17

September 22-24

September 29 - October 1

Week of September 30

September 30 - October 1

Week of October 23

Week of October 23

October 28-30

November 4-5

November 3-5

November 10-12

December 1-2

Overland Park, Kansas

Multiple Locations

Topeka, Kansas

St. Louis, Missouri

Tulsa, Oklahoma

Omaha, Nebraska

Kansas City, Missouri

Norman, Oklahoma

Topeka, Kansas

Norman, Oklahoma

Mission Hills, Kansas

Multiple Locations

Multiple Locations

Omaha, Nebraska

Springfield, Missouri

Olathe, Kansas

Tennis is all

ADULT SECTION TOURNAMENTS

Adult 5’s, 0’s & Open Outdoor Tournament

April 28-30

Plaza Tennis Center - Kansas City, MO

Tournament ID: 23-75920

55+ NTRP & Open Outdoor Tournament

May 5-7

Dwight Davis Tennis Center - St. Louis, MO

Tournament ID: 23-05133

55+ NTRP & Open Outdoor Tournament

June 2-4

Plaza Tennis Center - Kansas City, MO

Tournament ID: 23-77242

18+ NTRP & Open Outdoor Tournament

June 9-11

LaFortune - Case Tennis Center - Tulsa, OK

Tournament ID: 23-99218

Family Championships Indoor

June 16-18

Overland Park Racquet Club - Overland Park, KS

Tournament ID: 23-06512

18+ NTRP & Open Outdoor Tournament

June 30 - July 2

Dwight Davis Tennis Center - St. Louis, MO

Tournament ID: 23-83715

40+ NTRP & Open Outdoor Tournament

July 21-23

Plaza Tennis Center - Kansas City, MO

Tournament ID: 23-24898

40+ NTRP & Open Outdoor Tournament

August 18-20

Dwight Davis Tennis Center - St. Louis, MO

Tournament ID: 23-83213

18+ NTRP & Open Indoor Tournament

September 1-3

Overland Park Racquet Club - Overland Park, KS

Tournament ID: TBD

55+ NTRP & Open Outdoor Tournament

September 15-17

LaFortune - Case Tennis Center - Tulsa, OK

Tournament ID: 23-25486

USTA National Men, Women & Mixed 30’s

Hard Court Championship

September 29 - October 1

Plaza Tennis Center - Kansas City, MO

Tournament ID: 23-81420

40+ NTRP & Open Outdoor Tournament

TBD

Topeka, KS

Tournament ID: TBD

JUNIOR SECTION TOURNAMENTS

L2 Closed Team IntersectionalBattle of the Mississippi

July 14-16

BG12-14 - Midland, MI

Tournament ID: 23-61837

BG16 - Minneapolis, MN

Tournament ID: 23-39501

BG18 - St. Louis, MO

Tournament ID: 23-29387

Deadline: June 22

L4 Open USTA Missouri Valley #4

July 22-24

BG12-14 - St. Louis, MO

Tournament ID: 23-84269

BG16-18 - Edmond, OK

Tournament ID: 23-75785

Deadline: July 12

L4 Open USTA Missouri Valley #5

September 2-4

BG12 - Omaha, NE

Tournament ID: 23-70425

BG14 - Oklahoma City, OK

Tournament ID: 23-09946

BG16 - St. Louis, MO

Tournament ID: 23-36861

BG18 - Springfield, MO

Tournament ID: 23-72712

Deadline: August 23

L3 Closed USTA Missouri Valley #2

October 28-30

B12 - Lawrence, KS

Tournament ID: 23-11800

G12 - Omaha, NE

Tournament ID: 23-01494

B14 - Kansas City, MO

Tournament ID: 23-93215

G14 - Wichita, KS

Tournament ID: 23-37445

B16 - Oklahoma City, OK

Tournament ID: 23-04020

G16 - TBA

Tournament ID: TBA

B18 - Tulsa, OK

Tournament ID: 23-49390

G18 - Overland Park, KS

Tournament ID: 23-95084

Deadline: October 18

L4 Closed USTA Missouri Valley Team

November 4-5

B12 - Kansas City, MO

Tournament ID: 23-96386

G12 - Merriam, KS

Tournament ID: 23-35277

B14 - Tulsa, OK

Tournament ID: 23-85905

G14 - Omaha, NE

Tournament ID: 23-83476

B16 - Overland Park, KS

Tournament ID: 23-88370

G16 - Lincoln, NE

Tournament ID: 23-47234

B18 - Edwardsville, IL

Tournament ID: 23-43952

G18 - St. Louis, MO

Tournament ID: 23-67328

Deadline: October 25

TENNIS IS GOOOOOD FOR YOU!

MISSION

By now, we’ve all heard how good tennis is for your health and wellness. Tennis leads to a longer life expectancy compared to other sports and, especially, a sedentary lifestyle.

Throughout 2023, we will highlight some of the core benefits associated with tennis, focusing specifically on the physical, mental, social and educational benefits that come from playing tennis. We all know tennis is good for you. Now let us show you exactly how tennis is good for you.

PHYSICAL MENTAL

4 C O R E T E N N I S B E N E F I T S

SOCIAL

EDUCATIONAL

Physical: Playing tennis can help improve multiple aspects of your physical health and well-being. It helps lead to a longer life, improve your heart health, lead to strong muscles and bones and increase overall physical fitness.

Mental: Playing tennis helps improve your capacity to deal with stress. Tennis players have also been known to exhibit higher self-esteem, as well as showing lower levels of tension, anger and depression.

Social: Playing tennis helps us build and maintain friendships and social relationships. This, in turn, leads to higher levels of happiness and well-being.

Educational: Studies have shown that children who play tennis generally earn higher grades in school. Playing tennis also leads to increased brain function, including problem-solving skills.

In January, Serve editorial staff had the opportunity to talk with the late president Steve Henry about his passionate stance on the health benefits of tennis. We present this article in loving memory of Steve.

The late USTA Missouri Valley President Steve Henry was passionate about the health benefits tennis can provide to all who play. As the Tennis Director of Oklahoma City Tennis Center, he saw firsthand how much tennis

“We know how good tennis is for you, but as an industry we don’t do a good enough job of tooting our own horns and publicizing that,” Henry said.

To that end, we sat down with Steve to discuss why he feels so strongly about the benefits of tennis and some of the most important benefits in his eyes. His main focus is on the physical and mental benefits that come with regular play.

Studies show that people who play tennis tend to live longer lives and remain mentally sharper for longer. Throughout the year, we will be releasing “Health Hits” to highlight individual stats and figures to go along with these benefits.

Click the play button to watch the kickoff video to Health Hits.

By: Mark Collins

Everyone knows the importance of officiating in sports, especially tennis. This year, USTA Missouri Valley is putting our money where our mouth is when it comes to making sure we have the best officials possible.

OFFICIALS!

As part of a joint initiative with USTA National, our section is participating in a pilot program to hire a new Officiating Growth Manager to oversee recruiting efforts in USTA Missouri Valley and USTA Northern. This position will be responsible for recruiting and retaining officials across the two sections.

Sean Cary, USTA Managing Director - Competition Operations, says this has been in the works since before the COVID-19 pandemic, but is now officially being rolled out with sections.

As Cary says, sections have mostly been relying on volunteers to recruit officials locally, which is too much to ask of a group of volunteers. While they’ve done an amazing job, especially in our section, the new growth manager will be able to devote their entire focus to building relationships and recruiting new officials.

“We still needed someone who would wake up every morning, get out of bed and say, ‘My number one role today is to look at ways in which we can recruit new officials and retain our most experienced ones,’” Cary said.

The new Growth Manager will work primarily in the field, meeting with people and developing relationships to strengthen the ties between officials and their local tennis communities. They will work closely with the existing volunteer base and amplify the great work already being done.

“We’re going to do it with one person, focusing their energy to assist and support the networks that are already established because there are some very passionate people in both Missouri Valley and Northern. They will want support and guidance, and this person is their resource to provide that support and guidance,” Cary said.

Tennis isn’t alone when it comes to finding willing officials. This is a problem sweeping across all sports in recent years, but we want to be at the forefront of the movement to attract officials and make them feel truly valued and appreciated as members of the tennis family.

Through initiatives like Officiating Appreciation Week and this new Officiating Growth Manager, we feel we’re taking the proper steps to bridge that gap and show officials how much we really appreciate everything they do for the game of tennis. We look forward to providing the resources and mentoring needed to provide officials and players with the best experiences possible throughout the section.

“A big part of what we want to do is to make sure that officials are brought into the tennis ecosystem and feel a part of the overall family,” Cary said.

*Micah Matthews began her role as Growth Manager on March 13.

Click here to watch some of our very own officials petition growth in officiating!

By: Josh Sellmeyer

The ongoing revitalization of The Armory — a historic St. Louis building where legends Arthur Ashe and Jimmy Connors crafted their games — is set to roll on with the development of the St. Louis Tennis Hall of Fame.

The Armory, a 250,000-square-foot property located at 3660 Market Street, opened to the public in mid-December 2022 after undergoing major renovations. The building was previously home to the St. Louis Tennis Club, national bowling tournaments, rock concerts, indoor sports leagues and more. Now, the facility’s features include six acres of space for gatherings, a 62-foot stage for live entertainment, six bars, 40+ interactive games, giant TV screens and a two-story slide.

And soon, The Armory will become the home of the St. Louis Tennis Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame was previously housed at the Triple A Youth Foundation. But when Triple A’s new operators needed that additional space, the Hall of Fame’s artifacts were moved to storage where they’ve been located ever since.

Rick Randall — a real estate developer who has been involved with the St. Louis Tennis Hall of Fame since its formation in the early 1990s — practiced at The Armory starting in the 1960s. He said he had the privilege of seeing several local standouts hone their games on the fast wooden courts there and was mesmerized by the building’s immaculate architecture.

As Randall brokered the transaction that led to the IKEA building just down the street from the long-dormant Armory, he struck up conversations with The Armory’s owner, Leo Mitchell, about rejuvenating it. Randall, along with Dan Apted of Creve Coeur Racquet Club, soon realized solely putting tennis courts back into The Armory would be too expensive of an undertaking.

“It really required a complete overhaul of all its systems, roof, windows and everything,” Randall said. “But it was still a grand building. The hard surfaces, the masonry and brick were just in fantastic shape.”

So Randall introduced a friend of his, Phil Hulse — owner of Green Street Real Estate Ventures — to Mitchell. One thing led to another and Hulse decided to purchase The Armory property about five years ago. Hulse and Jake Miller, president of Brick + Bev and Armory operator, had several ideas for the building’s use before landing on its current renovations. Randall all along told Hulse he’d love to move the Hall of Fame into the facility.

“I was always thinking, ‘Where could we physically put it?’ Well, there wouldn’t be any better place than The Armory, which was basically the centerpiece of St. Louis tennis history,” Randall said.

“Phil always agreed and wanted to do that. As he developed his plans and put the building back in service we really formalized it and worked with the Triple A Youth Foundation, which is the umbrella organization 501c3 of the Hall of Fame.”

Efforts of raising funds to construct the new St. Louis Tennis Hall of Fame and what elements to include within it have ramped up the past six months. Members of the Hall of Fame and other interested parties have assisted in that brainstorming process.

“We’re not going to just put in shelving with trophies on them in the Hall of Fame,” Randall said. “We’re going to put all kinds of interactive things. It’s going to be an expensive project. Hall of Fame members and the committee have been to The Armory. The general public hasn’t really been exposed to what we’re trying to do. This will be a chance for us to showcase exactly what we’re doing, how much money we’re going to need to raise and a plan for raising it.”

While the hope is the St. Louis Tennis Hall of Fame will be up and running in April 2024, there isn’t a hard date for the grand opening. In addition to loads of historical artifacts and life-sized photos of local greats, Randall said the main interactive feature of the Hall of Fame will be a hitting alley complete with similarly oiled wood floors to what players at The Armory competed on.

“They used to oil that floor for the military for their marches. That’s what made it faster than fast and created such good players,” Randall said. “People will be able to hit with Connors’s same racquet, the T2000, or Arthur’s Head racquet, or Butch Buchholz’s Wilson racquet or Kenny Flach’s Wimbledon racquet.

“People will be able to try and see if they can hit the ball with those older racquets off that floor. And my guess is they won’t be able to too well. They’ll be able to experience why these players developed such quick hands and why all the St. Louis players rushed the net. The last thing you could do is stay back.”

The Hall of Fame will also potentially contain a theater playing historical content such as documentary film “Citizen Ashe.” A digital board in which attendees can search for and watch video content telling the stories of the 72 current St. Louis Tennis Hall of Fame members is also on the docket, as storytelling is the preeminent objective of the Hall of Fame.

“Our goal really is what happened at The Armory between the mid-‘50s and 1970 is a story that is really not known by most people in St. Louis, and certainly not known regionally or nationally,” Randall said. “We’re trying to craft that story. ‘How did a kid from East St. Louis win the most titles in the history of pro tennis? How did Arthur Ashe change his game at The Armory, which allowed him to win Wimbledon in 1975?’

“The story of those old wood courts in that dimly lit, cold place is a pretty amazing story. We’re trying to tell that.”

Architecture plans for the inside of the armory

This Women’s History Month, we are honoring the impact women have on the game of tennis in USTA Missouri Valley by spotlighting these difference makers. You can read the full stories on usta.com.

TENNIS FOR LIFE

On a path to becoming a medical surgeon, USTA Missouri Valley Hall of Famer Pat Purcell of St. Louis felt something was missing and traveled to Hawaii to try coaching tennis at the age of 22. Forty-six years later and still coaching and playing the sport she loves, Purcell knows she made the right life choice.

TENNIS TRAILBLAZER

Growing up in an era when women weren’t afforded the same sports opportunities as their male counterparts, USTA Missouri’s Donna Hoffmann vowed to create opportunities for girls by teaching PE and being a trailblazer herself.

TENNIS IN SCHOOLS

USTA Nebraska is profiling two influential women who have made their mark on Nebraska tennis. Kathy Hawkins is a pioneer, playing among the first group of women after Title IX was passed. Mariana is making her mark by coaching high school girls.

SHARING TENNIS

Liz Bothwell is the executive director of the Salina Tennis Alliance and has spent years trying to share tennis with others. Now, she has the opportunity to oversee 12 new courts to serve her community and grow tennis through Salina, Kansas.

In 2022, USTA Missouri Valley invested in local organizations, resulting in more programming opportunities for you and your communities.

$55,122 AWARDED

$52,287.50 from Serving Up Tennis $2,786.50 from Grow The Game

49 TOTAL ORGANIZATIONS

43 not-for-profit organizations

10 Schools, 5 Park & Rec, 28 CTAs, NJTLs, YMCAs and other organizations

6 for-profit organizations

128% INCREASE in funds awarded in 2021. $55,122 compared to $24,190

The 2023 grant process will look a little different than it has in years past. In an effort to simplify and streamline the application process, there will now be one application for all levels of grants (section, district, etc.). You will need to complete one application for each category, but the application form will look the same across all categories.

2023 APPLICATION DEADLINES:

February 17 - April 14 - July 14 - August 25 - October 20

District deadlines vary by district.

New Grant!

Also new this year is the addition of a National Tennis Month grant. USTA Missouri Valley will approve up to 20 grants for $250 each to help support National Tennis Month programming around the section. The goal of this grant is to raise awareness for National Tennis Month and support local organizations in their efforts to promote tennis in their communities. Apply by March 30.

NET NOTESNEWS NEAR YOU

TWO DISTRICTS WELCOME NEW PRESIDENTS TO THEIR BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Cary Morris steps into the president’s role for USTA Kansas. A self-proclaimed “small country town” girl growing up, Morris didn’t have tennis available to her as a child. She didn’t even start playing tennis until she was 50, but she joined her first League team and hasn’t looked back since! She looks forward to introducing more people to the sport so they can experience the same joy she does.

In USTA Heart of America, Tracey Johnson steps into the role previously held by Deb Fabrizius. She is on the other end of the tennis participation spectrum, getting her start with events in 1980. Johnson says she’ll focus on the “f-words” during her tenure as president: Fresh ideas, Finding time to volunteer, Foundation, Forever, Family and Fun. She wants to grow the USTA Heart of America tennis family and encourage more people to volunteer their time to make tennis as fun and accessible as possible around the district.

65 & OVER USTA LEAGUE NATIONAL CHAMPION

Congratulations to the new USTA League National Champions from Oklahoma! The team, captained by Jeannie Sacra, won the Adult 65 & Over 6.0 Women’s Championship held in Surprise, Arizona in February.

Read the full articles for these and other stories on usta.com.

Tracey Johnson

Cary Morris

MISSOURI VALEY CONGRATULATES THREE RSI CHAMPIONS OF TENNIS

Our section was once again well-represented in Racquet Sports Industry’s annual “Champions of Tennis” celebration. We saw winners from three different districts honored for their incredible achievements and continued contributions to tennis in their communities.

18 & Over

3.0 Men’s Singles..........................................Paul Jones

3.0 Women’s Singles..............................Shannon Lyon

3.0 Men’s Doubles.......................................Don Saxton

3.0 Women’s Doubles.............................Bouapha Walz

3.5 Men’s Singles......................................Grayson Irvin

3.5 Women’s Singles.................................Kalynn Kruse

3.5 Men’s Doubles.....................................Grayson Irvin

3.5 Women’s Doubles..............................Susan Murphy

4.0 Men’s Singles.......................................Craig Verdin

4.0 Women’s Singles.........................Kandice Thurman

4.0 Men’s Doubles..............................Jacob Sandweiss

4.0 Women’s Doubles............................Jusy Sindecuse

4.5 Men’s Singles................................Brent Henderson

4.5 Women’s Singles..............................Caroline Henry

4.5 Women’s Doubles.........................Rachel McCorkle

5.0 Men’s Singles...............................Anthony Forcucci

Wichita’s Nick Taylor added another accolade to his robust trophy case by being named the Wheelchair Tennis Champion of the Year. Tulsa’s Melissa McCorkle won the award for Adult Tennis Provider of the Year for her tireless work supporting and growing League tennis, especially at the 2.5 and 3.0 levels. Lastly, the Ernest Grundy Tennis Center in Kearney, Neb. capped off an incredible inaugural year by being named the College Facility of the Year. The center, operated by Kearney Parks & Recreation, is home to the University of Nebraska-Kearney Women’s Tennis team and recently hosted the Division II Women’s Team Indoor Championships.

FATHER-SON DUO PLACE 4TH AT ADAPTIVE DOUBLES NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Doubles ............................Denise Hoxsey

4.0 Men’s Singles.......................................Michael Peri

4.0 Women’s Singles................................Susan Palmer

4.0 Men’s Doubles.................................Jeffery Marcott

4.5 Women’s Doubles..........................Victoria Zielinski

55

& Over

3.0 Men’s Singles.............................................Ron Sills

3.5 Men’s Singles......................................Uma Madhira

3.5 Women’s Singles..................................Sheila Goins

3.5 Men’s Doubles...............................Monty Musgrove

3.5 Women’s Doubles...........................Donaa Hoffman

4.0 Men’s Singles...........................................Joel Sissel

4.0 Women’s Singles.....................Rebecca Snodgrass

4.0 Men’s Doubles...................................Dennis Mailes 4.0 Women’s Doubles...................................Lucy Stein

4.5 Men’s Singles.................................... Chris Leonard

4.5 Men’s Doubles................................Philip Kammann

Matt and Tim Hoffman of Omaha competed in the Adaptive Doubles National Championships November 4-6 at the USTA National Campus in Orlando. This was the first time the father-son duo has competed on a national level and they were able to place fourth in their division. Matt’s mom, Alisa, went to cheer on her young men as the family made the most of their trip. The weekend was full of friendly competition and some sight-seeing. It was the culmination of a very successful first year as doubles partners for the father-son duo, whose main focus was just to enjoy time on the court together and be good teammates to each other.

2023 NTRP MISSOURI VALLEY NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS QUALIFIERS

Left and below: NTRP tournaments were held throughout the section, giving players the chance to qualify for National Championships.

Take a look back on 2022 through our Year in Review video!

2022 : Year in Photos 2022 : Year in Photos

Right: A diversity day was held in Edwardsville, Illinois in July.

Left and below: Top junior players from the section played in the second year of Battle of the Mississippi against USTA Northern and USTA Midwest.

Left: Lily Lautenschlager (left) places second in the US Open junior wheelchair event

Below: USTA Adaptive Section Doubles champions and runners up celebrated in Omaha.

Left and below: The Fred Johnson All Stars event was back for the first time in two years.

Below: Players competed at Junior Team Tennis Section Championships in Edmond in July.

Left and below: One of the first adult tournaments of the spring was full of great competition and smiles.

Above and right: League players of all ages competed at USTA League Section Championships throughout the summer.

Left and below: The USTA Missouri Valley Tennis on Campus Section Championships took place in Springfield in early March, while the Fall Invitational was held in Topeka, Kansas in October.

District Inserts

Genesis Health Clubs Plaza Tennis Center

Genesis Health Clubs Plaza Tennis Center

Jayhawk Tennis Center

BG10&U, BG12-18

Jr. Circuit

Overland Park Racquet Club

BG10&U, BG12-18

Jr. Circuit

Stephanie Waterman Foundation @ Harmon Park

Genesis Health Clubs Clayview

Genesis Health Clubs Lawrence South

BG10&U

BG12-18

Jr. Circuit

Jr. Circuit

BG10&U, BG12-14, B18

Jr. Circuit

BG10&U, BG12-14, B18

Jr. Circuit

BG10&U, L7 tournaments are ONE-DAY tournaments. Please check playtennis.usta.com/tournaments for the exact day of the weekend. Dates/Sites are subject to change. Please see playtennis.usta.com/tournaments for most current information. ALEXIS CZAPINSKI , Junior Circuit Coordinator aczapinski@jayhawktennis.com 785-840-6258

2023 SCHEDULES STACIE TURTLEDOVE , USTA Heart of America, VP of Juniors/Competition Coordinator t urtledovetennis@gmail.com 214-629-5748 USTA JUNIOR PATHWAY

USTA Iowa Strategic Plan for Tennis Growth Using District & Partnerships

MISSION - Develop and promote the growth of tennis throughout the Iowa District

Vision: ~ The future of tennis growth for the district will come through strategic partnerships

~ These partnerships must be long term and financial rewarding to the partners

~ The strategic partner categories are: CTAs, Clubs and Park & Recs, Schools,

2023 USTA Kansas Junior Circuit Event Schedule

2023 Junior Tournaments in Missouri District

To find a tournament and register go to: 2023 USTA Missouri Junior Tournaments Search

Check back often for new postings!

Would you like to host a junior tournament in your area?

Find out how to become a tournament director! Contact Leslie

2023 Adult Leagues in Missouri District

Looking for a team to join? Want to be a captain? Let us know!

District League Coordinator

Amy Mathew ustamissouridlc@gmail.com 660-553-0111

Columbia League Coordinator Stephanie Farid sewfarid@gmail.com 573-424-3390

Springfield League Coordinator Leslie Echols

ustamissouridirector@gmail.com 417-501-6234

Register now for the 1st Annual Carl Alcancial Memorial Tournament

April 1-2, 2023

This is a family tournament with adult/youth divisions. All proceeds go to Big Brothers/Big Sisters. Registration closes Friday, 3/24, at 11:59 p.m.

Learn more about Carl Alcancia here.

Winter Season*

(in session thru March 18)

Indoor - Saturday/Sunday

Coed: 10U, 12U, 14U, 18U

*Winter Season 2024 (Jan 3 - Mar 10)

Spring Season

(March 26 - May 7*)

Outdoor - Sunday Girls High School 18U

Coed: 10U, 12U, 14U

* Rain date: May 21

Summer Season*

(June 5 - July 22)

Indoor & Outdoor

Monday/Wednesday/Saturday

Coed: 10U, 12U, 14U, 18U

* Location/Day varies by age group

Districts: Date/Location TBA

JTT SECTION QUALIFIER*

(June 24 & 25 at DDTC)

*To qualify for Section Championship your team must play in the JTT Section Qualifier

JTT MISSOURI VALLEY SECTION CHAMPIONSHIP*

(July 18 & 19 - Oklahoma City - Edmond Center Court)

*Note: No National Championships in 2023

Fall Season

(September 9 - October 29)

Indoor - Saturday Boys High School 18U -

Coed: 10U, 12U, 14U -

Outdoor - Sunday

JOIN JUNOR TEAM TENNIS FOR FUN MATCH EXPERIENCE WITH YOUR FRIENDS FORM YOUR OWN TEAM OR CONTACT TONI McDONALD TO FIND A TEAM AT JTT@USTASTL.COM

www.ustastlouis.com

e: jtt@uststl.com m: 314.585.9468

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