2024 Yearbook & Spring Serve

Digital Publications

The 2024 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

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 listed to the left, or log into your member account at USTA.com.

2024 Yearbook Staff Contributors

Mary Buschmann

Mark Collins

Manon Eilts

Victoria Moore

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.

Mission Statement

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 24,000 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

Tennis is Booming!

In 2024 we will continue to listen, educate, train and service 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 rankings platform, continued education on World Tennis Number (WTN) and enhanced, improved coaching modules and player applications that we look forward to bringing to your community.

We are dedicated to growing tennis to inspire healthier people and communities everywhere! Embracing innovation is the key. Tennis is good for you! We believe in the life-changing benefits of tennis! Research shows that people who play tennis live nine years longer. Tennis is fun! We believe in the power of tennis to create human connection. 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 believe in growing a sport that is open to 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. As we contin ue to foster a vibrant tennis community, our dedicated staff and volunteers are pushing our purpose-driven mission forward and creating more opportunities for players, coaches and tennis fans alike.

Together, we are excited to amplify the power of tennis through our community engagement and our inclusivity to inspire healthy lifestyles and make the next several years a smashing success!

Please join us as we inspire healthier people and communities everywhere! Growing together,

2023-24 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Tracey Johnson, President USTA

Brenton

Cary Morris, President USTA Kansas

Mallory Weber, President USTA Missouri webermalloryl@gmail.com

Eric

John Kelly, President

USTA MISSOURI VALLEY STAFF

Astrid Araya

JTT District Coordinator - Iowa 832-541-2239

araya@movalley.usta.com

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

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 Coordinator, Community & Competition/Office Manager 913-322-4852

laura.jager@movalley.usta.com

Tonya Kaup Finance Director 913-322-4823

kaup@movalley.usta.com

Abigayle Lunsford

Digital Content Producer & Web Administrator 913-322-4827

abigayle.lunsford@movalley.usta.com

Caitee Margenthaler Junior Play Coordinator 913-340-3469

caitee.margenthaler@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

Josh Sellmeyer

Digital Content Producer josh.sellmeyer@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

Kseniya Zonova JTT District Coordinator - Missouri 573-388-6680

ksuzonova@gmail.com

USTA Missouri Valley Staff (Back row L-R): Victoria Moore, Jaren Glaser, Alyssa Stelmach, Laura Jager, Scott Howes, Kara Heim, Laura Puryear, Tonya Kaup, Alywn Mushonga, Tara Williams, John Terpkosh, Mark Collins. (Front row L-R): Marissa Moment Brown, Mary Buschmann, Becky Riggs, Manon Eilts, Lindsay Hall and Beth Azan. Not pictured: Astrid Araya, Abigayle Lunsford, Caitee Margenthaler, Josh Sellmeyer and Kseniya Zonova.

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

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

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

SERVE TENNIS 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 marketinggenerator.usta.com

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 right with your phone’s camera.

AT YOUR SERVICE

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.

Video: Courtesy of USTA

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

INTRODUCTION TO TENNIS Tennis in Schools/PE Tennis 101

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

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.

AT YOUR SERVICE

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

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 wheelchair-specific events, to NTRP Adult Tournaments and USTA League play, there are more opportunities to play tennis than ever before!

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!

Scan the QR code for more info about adult tournaments.

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

Video: Courtesy of USTA

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.

therefore can be utilized in different ways.

To be clear, the USTA NTRP is NOT planned to go away. There are a number of offerings where USTA NTRP remains the key rating, including USTA League, where a static rating would be more useful for a season-long competition.

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

WTN: World Tennis Number

The ITF World Tennis Number, conversely, allows for you to track your progress in real time week after week, and therefore can be utilized in different ways.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Know the Difference

ITF World Tennis Number USTA NTRP

Know the Difference

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.

ITF World Tennis Number

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

USTA NTRP

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

Description

Rating increments

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.

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

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

Updates Updated weekly

Global?

Rating increments

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

Yes – International System adopted by over 135 nations

Updates Updated weekly

2024 grants.

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

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

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

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

Updated yearly

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

Updated yearly

• SECTION LEVEL GRANT CATEGORIES

For more information, visit USTA.com/worldtennisnumber

• Serving Up Tennis Grants (Not-for-Profit Organizations)

For questions, contact customercare@usta.com ©

• Grow the Game Tennis Grants (For-Profit Organizations)

• Pro-Circuit Assistance Grant

For more information, visit USTA.com/worldtennisnumber

For questions, contact customercare@usta.com

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

2024 Grant Deadlines:

- Friday, February 16

- Friday, April 12 - Friday, July 12

- Friday, August 23 - Friday, October 18

Scan the QR code or visit usta.com/grants to apply and learn more about the guidelines.

• Adaptive Programming Assistance Grant

• Wheelchair Programming Assistance Grant

• Facility Assistance Grant

©

• National Tennis Month Program Assistance (May 2024)

-Deadline: March 30, 2024

• DISTRICT LEVEL GRANT CATEGORIES

• Deadlines are specified within each district grant guideline if chosen.

If you have questions please contact Tara Williams:

USTA Missouri Valley Community Tennis Manager 913-302-5901

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

• williams@movalley.usta.com

HEART OF AMERICA HEART OF AMERICA

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Rebecca Falkner Axelrod 913-660-5199 ustaheartofamerica@gmail.com

TENNIS SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

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

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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

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

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

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

PRESIDENT

Tracey Johnson

913-515-0991 tdjlaw@hotmail.com

OFFICERS

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

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

FIRST VICE PRESIDENT TBD

VICE PRESIDENT - ADULTS

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

VICE PRESIDENT - JUNIORS

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

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

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

ADULT COMPETITION

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

AWARDS

Jamie Galloway awardshoa@gmail.com

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TBA

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

816-656-5540 ptcguy@yahoo.com

JUNIOR CIRCUIT COORDINATOR

Alexis Czapinski 785-840-6258 alexis.czapinski@gmail.com

JUNIOR COMPETITION COORDINATOR

Stacie Turtledove 214-629-5748 turtledovetennis@gmail.com

JUNIOR TEAM TENNIS COORDINATOR

Rod Zerni 913-269-6607

rzerni@homesteadcc.com

Stacie Turtledove 214-629-5748 turtledovetennis@gmail.com

TREASURER

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

SECRETARY

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

OFFICIALS

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

TENNISLINK ADMINISTRATOR

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

VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR

TBA

LEAGUE COORDINATORS

ADULT LEAGUE COORDINATOR, 18 & OVER, 40 & OVER

Blerina Boci 913-660-5627 hoaleagues@gmail.com

ADULTS 18-39 COORDINATOR

Scott Hanover kcimpactteamtennis@gmail.com

ADULTS 55 & OVER

Kathy Hawley

913-706-6209 kstone1219@gmail.com

2023 AWARD WINNERS

Adult Player of the Year 4.0 & Above - Male

Jeff Ganaden

Lees Summit, Missouri

Adult Player of the Year 4.0 & Above - Female

Michelle Clark

Overland Park, Kansas

Adult Player – 3.5 & Below - Male

John Craig

Olathe, Kansas

Adult Player – 3.5 & Below - Female

Alysen Abel

Overland Park, Kansas

Community Service Excellence

Anthony Ly

Kansas City, Missouri

Distinguished Service

Terry Miller

Overland Park, Kansas

Events of the Year

2023 Big 12 Tennis Championships

Lawrence, Kansas

Stonewall Sports Tennis Clinic

Kansas City, Missouri

Facility of the Year

Elite Tennis & Wellness

Overland Park, Kansas

High School Coach of the Year

Alec Bergeron

Kansas City, Missouri

Junior Emerging Player of the Year - Male

Christopher Bright

Overland Park, Kansas

Junior Emerging Player of the Year - Female

Yara Alchekakie

Overland Park, Kansas

Junior High Performance Player of the YearMale

Cooper Woestendick

Olathe, Kansas

ADULTS 65 & OVER

Barbara Meigs

913-269-2003 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

Junior High Performance Player of the YearFemale

Audrey Spencer

Olathe, Kansas

Member Organization of the Year

Genesis Health Clubs – Overland Park

Overland Park, Kansas

Outstanding Adult/Senior Tournament

L1 USTA Men’s 40s Indoor

Scott Hanover – TD

Overland Park, Kansas

Outstanding Community Tennis Association

Stephanie Waterman Foundation

Kansas City, Missouri

Outstanding Contributor to USTA Tennis Youth Programs

Chris Smith

Leawood, Kansas

Outstanding Contributor to USTA League Tennis

Kelly Schwabauer

Leawood, Kansas

Outstanding Contributor to Youth High Performance Program

Eric Rand

Olathe, Kansas

Outstanding Diversity Achievement

Robert Harrison

Kansas City, Missouri

Outstanding Junior Tournament

HOA December Level 5Scott Hanover – TD

Overland Park, Kansas

Outstanding Official

Dale Wooderson

Kansas City, Missouri

Scott Hanover Award

Susan Nealy

Shawnee Mission, Kansas

55 & OVER MIXED

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

TRI-LEVEL

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

Shawna Froeschl Adult SportsmanshipMale

Tom Shino

Overland Park, Kansas

Shawna Froeschl Adult SportsmanshipFemale

Phyllis Norman

Kansas City, Missouri

Stephanie Waterman Junior SportsmanshipMale

Aiden Bush

Leawood, Kansas

Stephanie Waterman Junior SportsmanshipFemale

Diya Gupta

Overland Park, Kansas

Tennis Family of the Year

The Elliott McDermed Family

Prairie Village, Kansas

Volunteer of the Year

The Terry Miller Reception Committee

Chair - Susan Nealy – Shawnee Mission, Kansas

Helen Elliott, Olathe, Kansas

Claudia Lagerstrom, Olathe, Kansas

Kathy Loepp, Kansas City, Missouri

Marcia Robertson, Overland Park, Kansas

Junior Sportsmanship Winners

Girls 10 - Nelly Pineda

Girls 12 - Clare McNearney

Girls 14 - Ava Rosenbohm

Girls 16 - Macy Garwood

Girls 18 - Atra Biria

Boys 10 - Jayden Fu

Boys 12 - Samuel Ospino

Boys 14 - Rishi Goli

Boys 16 - Arjun Reiland

Boys 18 - Spencer Weishaar

HEART OF AMERICA

2025 NATIONAL SENIOR GAMES

The National Senior Games are coming to USTA Missouri Valley in 2025! More than 700 tennis players competed in the National Senior Games last year in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With the games being in our own section, let’s surpass that number!

(EXPERIENCED 2 YEARS)

The National Senior Games are for players 50 years and older. To compete in the National Senior Games, you must first compete and qualify in your State Senior Games in 2024.

2024 STATE SENIOR GAMES:

*If the information on the links is for 2023, save the link to see updated information for 2024.

IOWA

June 5-9, 2024

West Des Moines, Iowa

KANSAS MISSOURI

September 13-24, 2024

Topeka, Kansas

June 6-9, 2024

Columbia, Missouri

NEBRASKA OKLAHOMA

August 1-4, 2024

Kearney, Nebraska

N

October 9-11, 2024

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

IOWA IOWA

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Sanction (Tournaments)

Mark Blume

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

SUPPORT STAFF

ACCOUNTANT

Tonya Kaup

913-322-4823 kaup@movalley.usta.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

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

Armando Espinosa 515-450-4829 armandoe@amesfitness.com

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Brock Wilson 702-379-6353 brock10s2u@outlook.com

2023 AWARD WINNERS

Adult Player of the Year

Michael Rogers - Ankeny

Emerging Junior Female Player of the Year

Grace Frye - Clive

Emerging Junior Male Player of the Year

Oliver Fuller - Clinton

Facilities of the Year

North Dodge Athletic Club - Iowa City

Junior High Performance Male Player of the Year

Nicholas Patrick - Coal Valley

Oustanding Diversity Achievement

Dominic Lazum - Waterloo

PRESIDENT

Brenton Kuchera

319-296-5933

kucherab@waterlooschools.org

OFFICERS

PAST PRESIDENT

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

FIRST VICE PRESIDENT

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

VICE PRESIDENT

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

VICE PRESIDENT

DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

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

GRIEVANCE

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

HALL OF FAME

Fred Pedersen 319-530-6422 fred-pedersen@uiowa.edu

JUNIOR COMPETITION

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

NOMINATING/PERSONNEL

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

Outstanding Junior Tennis Tournament

GRTA Muscatine T. Beckley Jr. Tennis OpenMuscatine

Junior Sportsmanship

Boys 10U: Wyatt Fuller - Clinton

Girls 12U: Leighton Chen - Wes Des Moines

Girls 14U: Pearly Ciss - Moline

Boys 14U: Cole Travis - Muscatine

Girls 16U: Maya Simpson - Muscatine

Boys 16U: Billy Flynn - West Des Moines

Tennis Family of the Year

The Frye Family (Tiffany) - Clive

Nate Williams 319-378-6996 tlnnlt56@gmail.com

SECRETARY

Brandon Willett

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

TREASURER

Lynda Bolin 563-726-9201 lbolin@pillaradvising.com

RECREATION

Michael Shires 205-434-8660

a1tennisperform@hotmail.com

UMPIRES (OFFICIALS)

Steve England 515-447-0126

iowatennisofficials@gmail.com

KANSAS

KANSAS

INTERIM EXECUTIVE

DIRECTOR

Amy Mathew

660-553-0111

USTAKansasED@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

2023 AWARD WINNERS

Adult Player of the Year

Ali Wilson, Topeka

Jody Vinson, Wichita

Distinguished Service

Ron Thompson, Wichita

Event of the Year

Tennis Under the Stars, McPherson

Facility of the Year

Genesis Health Clubs, Manhattan

High School Coach of the Year

Tyler Brown, McPherson

Junior Emerging Players of the Year

Isabelle Haggard, Topeka

Jaxon Post, Wichita

PRESIDENT

Cary Morris 316-641-3606

Carymorris@icloud.com

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

ADULT LEAGUES

Amy Mathew 630-272-8022

USTAKansasDLC@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 COMPETITION

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

Junior High Performance Player of the Year

Brynn Steven, Wichita

Junior Sportsmanship Awards

Girls 14 -

Reese Wilborn, Andover

Girls 16 -

Maggie Harrison, Maize

Girls 18 -

Lyric Cornejo, Wellington

Boys 14-

Will Schaefer, Andover

Boys 16 -

Isaac Pieper, Arkansas City

Boys 18 -

Hayden Carrillo, Derby

Noah Doom, Wichita

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

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

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

Outstanding Adult/Senior Tournament Air Capital Classic

Outstanding Community Tennis Association

Wichita Community Tennis

Outstanding Contributor to Youth High Performance Programs

Kaey-Den Tan, Wichita

Outstanding Contributor to USTA League Tennis

Zach Loomis, Wichita

Outstanding Diversity Achievement McAdams NJTL of Wichita

OFFICERS

PAST PRESIDENT

Kate Foss 316-993-4013

USTAKate@gmail.com

FIRST VICE PRESIDENT/ ADULT COMPETITION

Dan Eccles

620-364-9270 bluestem5@yahoo.com

SECOND VICE PRESIDENT/ JUNIOR COMPETITION

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

SECRETARY

Brenda Munds 620.694.0283 bmunds87@gmail.com

TREASURER

TBD

Outstanding Junior Tournament Crestview Country Club L6 February 25 & 26, 2023

Outstanding Member Organization McAdams NJTL of Wichita

Outstanding Official

Simon Norman, Wichita

USTA Junior Team Tennis Organizer

Janet Glaser, Wichita

MISSOURI MISSOURI

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 ustamissouridlc@gmail.com

FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Lori Hunt lhmotennis@gmail.com

COLUMBIA LEAGUE COORDINATOR

Stephanie Farid sewfarid@gmail.com

SPRINGFIELD LEAGUE

COORDINATOR

Stephanie Wachob stephanie.wachob@gmail.com

2023 AWARD WINNERS

Adult Player of the Year

4.0 & Above - Carol Mailes

3.5 & Below - Greg Love

Adult Sportsmanship Awards

Dennis Mailes & Jane Gardner

Community Service Excellence Award

Marianella Padron

Event of the Year

Alcancia

Emerging Adult Player of the Year

Emmi Murphy

Facility of the Year

Cooper Tennis Complex

High School Coaches of the Year

Kim Darrah & Sharon Bennett

High School Recreational Player

Joseph Coder & Anne Beatty

Junior High Performance Players of the Year

Joshua Kim & Agata Golubchenko

Junior Emerging Players of the Year

Yul Daniel KO & Isla Merrifield

PRESIDENT

Mallory Weber

417-874-2904 webermalloryl@gmail.com

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

ADULT & LEAGUE COMPETITION

Leslie Echols ustamissouridirector@gmail.com

JUNIOR COMPETITION

Larry Holmes larry.holmes@springfieldmo.gov

OFFICIALS

Steve Webb swebb@springfieldmo.gov

Junior Recreational Players of the Year

Jeremiah Small & Antiya Jones

Junior Sportsmanship Awards

Callan Foltz

Tyler Tang

Jack Merrifield

Ben Merrifield

Chloe Stenger

Olivia McGruder

League Captain Mentor of the Year

Houng Doan

Member Organization of the Year

City of Rolla (Floyd Jernigan)

New League Captain of the Year

Sarah Bohl

Outstanding Adult/Senior Tournament

Phil Barber, Alex Wiley, Huong Doan

Outstanding Contributor to Youth Tennis

John Marquart

Outstanding Contributor to Youth High Performance

Richard Perry

Outstanding Contributor to USTA League Tennis Program

Stephanie Wommack Farid

OFFICERS

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

Glenn Pelecky gpelecky@gmail.com

FIRST VICE PRESIDENT

Steve Webb swebb@springfieldmo.gov

SECRETARY

Larry Huitt lhuitt1957@gmail.com

TREASURER - TBD

AT-LARGE

Ben Loeb bloeb1214@gmail.com

Kyle Wartick kylewartick@yahoo.com

Sean Kembell seankembell@gmail.com

Floyd Jernigan Fjernigan@rollacity.org

USTA MISSOURI LEAGUE LOCATIONS

Branson

Columbia

Jefferson City

Joplin

Springfield Contact Leslie Echols or Amy Mathew.

Outstanding Diversity Achievement Award

Mallory Weber

Outstanding Junior Tournament

Josh Bartram

Outstanding Lifetime Achievement Award

Jack Harrison

Outstanding Official

Steve Webb

Outstanding Teaching Professional

Nick Mathis

Senior Captain of the Year

Ann Vogel

Teammate of the Year

Marsha Marsh

Tennis Family of the Year

The Kembell Family

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NEBRASKA

NEBRASKA

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Lisa Thomas

408-290-5931

lisathomasusta@icloud.com

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

ADULT PLAY & COMPETITION

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

AWARDS

Verne Weber

402-682-5862 vaweber10s@aol.com

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Matt Morrow

940-867-1266 mmorrow@kearneygov.org

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

Kay Merkel 402-669-5808 kaymerkel@ymail.com

2023 AWARD WINNERS

Adult Player of the Year (4.5 & Above)

Andrea Mueller

Adult Players of the Year (4.0 & Below)

Stephan Andersen

Adult/Senior Tournament of the Year

Cornhusker State Games

Distinguished Service

Tammy Tegler

Facility of the Year

Genesis Westroads

High School Coach of the Year

David Dyson

Junior High Performance Female Player of the Year

Alex Liu

Junior Male Emerging Player of the Year

Marty Si & Xi Lin

Junior Tournament of the Year

L5 Woods Tennis Center

PRESIDENT

John Rademacher 308-440-1112

johnprademacher@gmail.com

NOMINATING

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

OFFICIALS

Michael Martin 904-315-8575 mikestock_992004@yahoo.com

TOURNAMENT

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

OFFICERS

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

Mike Willman 402-547-9613 mikewllmn@gmail.com

FIRST VICE PRESIDENT

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

SECOND VICE PRESIDENT

Stephen Collins sfcomaha@gmail.com

SECRETARY

Brittni Redding brittni.redding@cox.net

TREASURER

Ryan Johnson angst_ink@yahoo.com

Media Excellence

Andrea Gallagher

Member Organization of the Year

Genesis Westroads

Outstanding Community Tennis Association

Lincoln Tennis Association

Outstanding Contributor USTA League Tennis

Roger Penland

Outstanding Contributor to Youth Tennis Programs

Kevin Heim

Outstanding Diversity Achievement

Haley Waggoner

Outstanding Officials

Chris Freeman

Tennis Family of the Year

The Powell-Mandigo Family

Junior Sportsmanship Awards

10 and under -

Evie Holtz & Corbin Pieters

12 and under -

Emily Jaio, Kolby Tran & Marty Si

14 and under -

Clio Baird, Lylah Lewis, Max Kline & Chase Nieman

16 and under -

Meruni Are, Jackson Figard & Brody Armbrust

18 and under -

Jessica Lu, Adeline Fornander, Jed Sunde & Michael Kang

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OKLAHOMA

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

David Minihan 405-312-5252 minihan@ustaoklahoma.com

TENNIS SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

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

COMMUNITY TENNIS MANAGER

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

SCHOOLS TENNIS ORGANIZER

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

PRESIDENT

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

QUADRANT REPRESENTATIVES

NORTHWEST QUADRANT

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

SOUTHEAST QUADRANT

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

NORTHEAST QUADRANT

Lisa Charvat 918-645-4355 lisacharvat@cox.net

SOUTHEAST QUADRANT

Dawna Johnston 610-308-0435 dawna_johnston@hotmail.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

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

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

GRANTS

Laura Puryear

913-967-9147

puryear@movalley.usta.com

HALL OF FAME

Richard Perry

580-242-5848

richard.m.perry@sbcglobal.net

OFFICERS

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

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

VICE PRESIDENT - ADULTS

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

VICE PRESIDENT - JUNIORS

Ellie Bailey 918-633-4444 eroc76@icloud.com

TREASURER

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

SECRETARY

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

JUNIOR COMPETITION

Ellie Bailey 918-633-4444 eroc76@icloud.com

NOMINATING

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

OFFICIALS

Dean Richardville 918-671-7208 drichardville@cox.net

SANCTIONS & SCHEDULING

Bill Riggan 405-650-6076 wmriggan@att.net

2023 AWARD WINNERS

Adult Player of the Year (3.5 & Below)

Renee Lucas Pascale

Adult Player of the Year (4.0 & Above)

James C Billingsley

Distinguished Service

Lisa Minihan

Facility of the Year

Oklahoma City Tennis Center

High School Coach of the Year

Mary Jo Tasker

Male Emerging Junior Player of the Year

Levi Solomon

Female Emerging Junior Player of the Year

Scarlett Milner

Male Junior High Performance Player of the Year

Taytum Rayne Jones

Female Junior High Performance Player of the Year

Ava Goodell

Member Organization of the Year

Edmond Center Court

Outstanding Adult/Senior Tournament

Norman Open

Outstanding Community Tennis Association

Tulsa Area Tennis Association - Frank Ward

Outstanding Contributor to USTA League

Joan Dinneen

Outstanding Contributor to Youth High Performance

Celeste Frey

Outstanding Contributor to Youth Tennis Programs

VWTA Tulsa Tennis Director Cristian Pensavalle

Outstanding Diversity Achievement

Lydia Dowdell

Outstanding Junior Tournament

Level 7 June USTA OK Oak Tree BG 12-18

Outstanding Junior Team Tennis Organizer

Brad Lund

Outstanding Official

Becky Riggs

Tennis Family of the Year

Terri & David Ogle

Junior Sportsmanship

Boys 10 - Landon Sen

Boys 12 - Jackson Nelson

Boys 14 - JohnPaul Huston

Boys 16 - Max Beard

Boys 18 - Zander Nelson

Girls 10 - Livi Driver

Girls 12 - Luci Tavangar

Girls 14 - Millie Geubelle

Girls 16 - Lauren Krise

Girls 18 - Jasel Bailey

Hall of Fame Inductees

Bob Holland

Beverly Barger

President’s Award

Mary Jo Tasker

Tennis is always open for everyone.

All ages. All grunts. All zip codes. Anyone can play. So what are you waiting for?

ST. LOUIS

ST. LOUIS

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Megan Kovacs

314-585-9552 cell director@ustastl.com

DISTRICT STAFF

PHONE: 314-432-3900

ADMINISTRATIVE

Karolyn Stanley officeadmin@ustastl.com

ADULT PROGRAM MANAGER

Sherry Taylor leagues@ustastl.com

ADULT PLAYER LIAISON

Lori Divin playtennis@ustastl.com

TENNIS SERVICE

REPRESENTATIVE

Alywn Mushonga

913-967-9833

mushonga@movalley.usta.com

PRESIDENT

John Kelly

314-956-7660 kellyjohnf15@gmail.com

OFFICERS

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT

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

VICE PRESIDENT - JUNIORS

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

VICE PRESIDENT - ADULTS

40+/55+ LEAGUE COORDINATOR

Lisa Lamb 40plus@ustastl.com

DISTRICT SUPPORT

AWARDS

Karolyn Stanley officeadmin@ustastl.com

2023 AWARD WINNERS

Adult Players of the Year (2.5-3.5)

Ulises Arteaga & Kimberly Hammond

Adult Players of the Year (4.0 & Above)

Jeff Harris & Florence Streeter

Distinguished Service - Dick McWard

Facility of the Year

Chesterfield Athletic Club

Family of the Year

Davis / Lopez / Merchant / Rule

Judy Dippold Junior Players of the Year

Danny Radke & Ariel Madatali

Junior Emerging Players of the Year

Kiran Sundaramoorthi & Mary Catherine Huewe

MIXED LEAGUE COORDINATOR

Liz Lahm mixed@ustastl.com

DWIGHT DAVIS TENNIS CENTER

Carobeth Kelly, General Manager 314-362-0177 dwight@ustastl.com

JUNIOR COMPETITION

Megan Kovacs juniors@ustastl.com

JUNIOR CIRCUIT & JUNIOR TEAM TENNIS

Toni McDonald 314-249-9986 JTT@ustastl.com

FINANCIAL MANAGER

Nancy Varner financial@ustastl.com

Mary Vassar Adult Sportsmanship

Charlene Barlow

Member Organization of the Year

Dwight Davis Memorial Tennis Center

Outstanding Adult/Senior Tournament

Edwardsville Open

Outstanding Community Tennis Association Breakpoint Tennis & Life Skills Academy

Outstanding Contributors to USTA Leagues

Guillaume Huchet & Sarah Wedick

LEGAL ADVISOR

Andy Glaser

314-446-4259

aglaser@sandbergphoenix.com

Outstanding Junior Team Tennis Organizer - Beth Jameson

Outstanding Contributor Youth High Performance - Troy Bray

Outstanding Contributor to Youth Programs - Santiago Munoz

Outstanding Diversity Achievement

Ben Gildehaus & Paul Paige

Outstanding Event of the Year

National Public Parks Tennis Championships

Outstanding High School CoachMatt Bier

Paul Petruska 618-772-0086 ppetruska@greensfelder.com

VICE PRESIDENTCOMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Hiroo Motwani (618) 363-4300

hiroo@motwanifoindation.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 kellyjohnf15@gmail.com

Outstanding Junior Tournament Level 5: BG 12s-18s

Outstanding Official - Brett Helbig

President’s Award - Roger Follmer

Junior Sportsmanship Awards

Boys 10 – Jaxson Reeves

Boys 12 – Adam He

Boys 14 – Kayden Xue

Boys 16 – Arnab Chakraborty

Boys 18 – Aiden Qian

Girls 10 – Shakthisree Sikkal Kumar

Girls 12 – Jasmine Zhao

Girls 14 – Ashley Hayes

Girls 16 – Tammy Jackson

Girls 18 – Aryn Walker

2023 ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2023 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

The 2023 USTA Missouri Valley Annual Conference, held November 30 - December 2, 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 looked a little different this year, with the return of programming and sessions beginning on Thursday, November 30. Another new aspect was that certified teaching professionals were able to earn Continuing Education (CE) credits for both the United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) and Professional Tennis Registry (PTR). Thursday was all about celebrating the continued surge in tennis participation under the theme of “Tennis is Booming.” Sessions throughout the day included a panel discussion on how to successfully keep up with tennis demand, rotating sessions covering advocating for tennis in your community, fundraising and technology and a kickoff rally led by president Alex Lee and Executive Director Mary Buschmann. Thursday’s festivities culminated with a “Red Ball for All” event at Overland Park Racquet Club where the courts were set up for attendees to play short court red ball matches.

Friday morning started with presentations from a variety of guest speakers, including representatives from USTA National and ClubSpark. Topics included technology updates for tennis providers, World Tennis Number updates and high school platform updates. The afternoon was full of committee meetings that covered everything from adult play to diversity, equity & inclusion. Friday’s festivities concluded with a Welcome Reception, allowing guests to socialize over food and drinks. Raffle prizes were also handed out to some lucky winners.

Saturday morning kicked off with a sitdown conversation between Mary Buschmann and USTA National Vice President Brian Vahaly to talk about the current state of tennis. Then came multiple committee meetings, including the officials committee and the junior play committee. The conference continued at 11:30 a.m., with the Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Celebration emceed by Scott Hanover.

Shelley George of Bradenton, Florida (formerly Iowa City, Iowa) and Alex Lee of Wichita, Kansas were proudly inducted into the USTA Missouri Valley Hall of Fame for their contributions to growing the game. Congratulations to these two for this incredible tennis accomplishment! A highlight of the event was when the USTA Missouri Valley 2023 Award Winners were recognized during the program. Excellence was recognized for players, providers, facilities, organizations, diversity and sportsmanship. There were also a few surprise awards announced throughout the afternoon. Dwight Davis Tennis Center was announced as Racquet Sports Industry’s 2023 Public Tennis Facility of the Year and we were also thrilled to announce that USTA Missouri Valley was the 2023 USTA Section of the Year! The final surprise of the afternoon came with the announcement of the 2023 President’s Award winner. Lee got the opportunity to give the award to his close friend and mentor Connie Robertson for her work as a community tennis organizer especially with Native American tribes in Kansas.

USTA Missouri Valley is grateful for all of those who’ve supported the section through the year and looks forward to what 2024 has in store.

Click the names to watch the 2023 Hall of Fame videos.

Shelley George was a staple of Iowa tennis for decades. She also had a highly successful playing career before moving into coaching and volunteering roles. She grew up in Iowa City where she starred at City High School before going on to play at St. Ambrose University. Her collegiate playing accolades include being named Freshman of the Year, Player of the Year and an All-Conference selection at St. Ambrose. She was named team captain of her team at St. Ambrose. George transferred to the University of Iowa after her sophomore year, graduating in 1983. She was also previously inducted into the USTA Iowa Hall of Fame and the City High School Hall of Fame for her outstanding career. After playing the game of tennis, George focused her attention on growing the game and volunteering. She stayed at home and started working as the Director of Tennis for the City of Iowa City, starting an award winning NJTL chapter with Donna Farley. She moved on to Co-Director of the University of Iowa Recreational Services Tennis program. A few years later, she settled at the North Dodge Athletic Club as the Director of Tennis. During this time she served as the Head Girls Tennis Coach at City High School. She was named Iowa Coach of the Year on three occasions and coached multiple state championship teams and individuals. Her coaching and teaching success lead to her taking a job as the Associate Head Women’s Tennis Coach at Syracuse University from 2007-2019. On top of her coaching and teaching responsibilities, George was a devoted volunteer for the USTA. She was the president of USTA Iowa from 1998-2002 before moving on to the USTA Missouri Valley Executive Committee. She served in multiple roles from 2002-2014, including one term as the USTA Missouri Valley president from 2009-2010. She also served on the USTA National Collegiate Committee from 2004-2008, including one term as the chair of the committee from 2006-2008.

Alex Lee has had an illustrious tennis career as a player, a coach and a volunteer. He currently serves as USTA Missouri Valley President after spending nearly 20 years in various roles on the Executive Committee. He earned his PTR Professional certification in 2001 and his USPTA Elite Professional certification in 2019. Lee currently serves as the head men’s tennis coach at Friends University in Wichita where he has coached since 2015. As a player, Lee is a life member of the American Tennis Association (ATA). He won National ATA Doubles Championships in 2011 and 2016 with his playing partner Doug Fleming. In 2016 he won the ATA National 60 Singles title. He also got his USTA Missouri Valley ranking as high as 5th in the 35 & Over division in the 1990s. Arguably his proudest achievements, though, come from his volunteer and charitable work. He founded two nonprofit tennis organizations in 2009: the McAdams Community Tennis Foundation in Wichita and the Lee Sports Foundation in Pine Bluff, Ark. He is currently the executive director at McAdams. He runs the Lee Foundation with his family, occasionally traveling to Arkansas to help run workshops in the summer months. Both organizations work to introduce tennis to disadvantaged youth in their areas.

Shelley George Alex Lee

USTA MISSOURI VALLEY HALL OF FAME MEMBERS

2023

Shelley George Bradenton, Fl.

Alex Lee Wichita, Kan.

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.* 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.

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

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.

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

2023 AWARD WINNERS

Junior High Performance Player of the Year (Female)

HOA December L5 (Accepted by Elliott McDermed) Overland Park, Kansas

Outstanding Community Tennis Association

The McDermed Family Prairie Village, Kansas

Outstanding Contributor Youth High Performance

The Stephanie Waterman Foundation (Accepted by Malachy Connor) Kansas City, Missouri

High School Coach of the Year

Outstanding Official

Outstanding Contributor USTA League Tennis Program

Kevin Heim Lincoln, Nebraska

Scarlett Milner Tulsa, Oklahoma

Edwardsville Open (Accepted by Kim Hughes-Gill) Edwardsville, Illinois

Joan Dinneen (Accepted by Michelle O’Quinn) Tulsa, Oklahoma

Junior Emerging Player of the Year (Female)

Cooper Woestendick (Accepted by Jared Ward) Olathe, Kansas

Junior Emerging Player of the Year (Male)

Audrey Spencer (Accepted by her father) Olathe, Kansas

Outstanding Adult/Senior Tournament

Christopher Bright Overland Park, Kansas

Oklahoma City Tennis Center Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Mary Jo Tasker Tulsa, Oklahoma

Outstanding Junior Tournament

Becky Riggs Tulsa, Oklahoma

Adult Player of the Year, 3.5 & Below

Ulises Arteaga Hazelwood, Missouri

Adult Player of the Year, 4.0 & Above

Jeff Harris Fairview Heights, Illinois

Tennis Family of the Year

Junior High Performance Player of the Year (Male)

Facility of the Year

Member Organization of the Year Outstanding Diversity Achievement

Distinguished Service

Player of the Year (Female)

President’s Award:

Connie Robertson Lecompton, Kansas

Aiden Qian St. Louis, Missouri

Arnab Chakraborty Ellisville, Missouri

Shakthisree Sikkal Kumar Chesterfield, Missouri Kayden Xue Olivette, Missouri Boys 14s Boys 16s Boys 18s Boys 12s Boys 10s Girls 14s Girls 16s Girls 18s Girls 12s Girls 10s

Adam He Chesterfield, Missouri

Jaxson Reeves Florissant, Missouri

Clare McNearney Leawood, Kansas

Ava Rosenbohm Lee’s Summit, Missouri

Tammy Jackson St. Louis, Missouri

Olivia McGruder Lebanon, Missouri

Lisa Minihan Edmond, Oklahoma

Triple A Breakpoint Tennis and Life Skills Academy: Ben Gildehaus, Paul Paige and Jacqueline Buck Horton St. Louis, Missouri

Dwight Davis Memorial Tennis Center (Accepted by Megan Kovacs) St. Louis, Missouri

Junior High Performance

2023 LEAGUE SECTION CHAMPIONS

40+

40+

40+

40+

40+

40+

3.5 Men: Nebraska Captain: Green/Dean

3.5 Women: Missouri Captain: Pell

40+ 4.0 Men: Heart of America Captain: Strode

4.0 Women: Nebraska Captain: Holbrook

4.5 Men: Oklahoma Captain: Towler/Billingsley

3.0 Women: Oklahoma Captain: McGinty/Dickason

40+ 3.0 Men: Oklahoma Captain: Paxton

4.5 Women: Heart of America Captain: Gifford

IN OUR RED ERA

65+ 6.0 Women: St. Louis Captain: Albrecht

65+ 6.0 Men: Oklahoma Captain: Dotson

55+ 9.0 Women: St. Louis Captain: Brookover

55+ 9.0 Men: Oklahoma Captain: Arstein/Novatny

55+ 8.0 Men: Nebraska Captain: Thomas

55+ 8.0 Women: Heart of America Captain: Holsinger

65+ 7.0 Women: Missouri Captain: Vogel

65+ 7.0 Men: Oklahoma Captain: Bryant

65+ 8.0 Women: Heart of America Captain: Crampton

65+ 8.0 Men: Heart of America Captain: Cox

2024 EVENTS AND MEETINGS

Tennis for

ADULT SECTION TOURNAMENTS

55+ NTRP & Open Section Tournament

May 3-5

Kansas City, MO

Tournament ID: 24-12269

Adult 5’s, O’s & Open Section Tournament

May 10-12

O’Fallon, IL

Tournament ID: 24-90526

55+ NTRP & Open Section Tournament

May 31-June 2

Des Moines, IA

Tournament ID: 24-31401

18+ NTRP & Open Section Tournament

June 7-9

Tulsa, OK

Tournament ID: 24-62322

Family Championship Section Tournament

June 14-16

Omaha, NE

Tournament ID: 24-34635

18+ NTRP & Open Section Tournament

June 28-30

Springfield, MO

Tournament ID: 24-39223

40+ NTRP & Open Section Tournament

July 19-21

Des Moines, IA

Tournament ID: 24-12667

Adult 5’s, O’s & Open Section Tournament

August 2-4

Moline, IL

Tournament ID: 24-00780

40+ NTRP & Open Section Tournament

August 16-18

St. Louis, MO

Tournament ID: 24-19885

18+ NTRP & Open Section Tournament

August 30 - September 1

Overland Park, KS

Tournament ID: 24-12520

55+ NTRP & Open Section Tournament

September 13-15

Kansas City, MO

Tournament ID: 24-51095

Scan the QR code or visit playtennis.usta.com/tournaments to find one near you!

JUNIOR SECTION TOURNAMENTS

L5 Open USTA Missouri Valley

BG12-18 #1

April 19-21

B12-18 Lawrence, KS

Tournament ID: 24-22849

G12-18 Springfield, MO

Tournament ID: 24-14288

L5 Open USTA Missouri Valley

BG12-18 #2

May 24-26

BG12-14 Wichita, KS

Tournament ID: 24-39519

G12-18 Topeka, KS

Tournament ID: 24-74054

L4 Open USTA Missouri Valley

BG12-18 #3

June 1-3

Oklahoma City, OK

Tournament ID: 24-37385

Rally in the Valley:

L3 Closed USTA Missouri Valley #1

June 13-16

Edmond, OK

Tournament ID: 24-22255

L2 Closed Team IntersectionalBattle of the Mississippi

July 26-28

BG12-14 Midland, MI

BG16 Minneapolis, MN

B18 St. Louis, MO

Tournament ID: 24-71523

L4 Open USTA Missouri Valley #4

July 20-22

BG12-14 Springfield, MO

Tournament ID: 24-72399

BG16-18 St. Louis, MO

Tournament ID: 24-38356

L4 Open USTA Missouri Valley #5

August 31 - September 2

BG12-14 Lawrence, KS

Tournament ID: 24-80126

BG16-18 Tulsa, OK

Tournament ID: 24-14059

L3 Closed USTA Missouri Valley #2

October 26-28

B12 Urbandale, IA

Tournament ID: 24-70908

G12 Lawrence, KS

Tournament ID: 24-74278

B14 Moline, IL

Tournament ID: 24-87111

G14 Kansas City, MO

Tournament ID: 24-80145

B16 Tulsa, OK

Tournament ID: 24-59982

B18 Omaha, NE

Tournament ID: 24-17430

November 16-18

G16 Kearney, NE

Tournament ID: 24-45287

G18 Overland Park, KS

Tournament ID: 24-83819

L4 Closed USTA Missouri Valley Team

November 2-3

B12 Springfield, MO

Tournament ID: 24-62963

G12 Urbandale, IA

Tournament ID: 24-90154

B14 Springfield, MO

Tournament ID: 24-62963

G14 Urbandale, IA

Tournament ID: 24-90154

B16 Moline, IL

Tournament ID: 24-97315

G16 Edmond, OK

Tournament ID: 24-55124

B18 Kansas City, MO

Tournament ID: 24-38610

G18 Lincoln, NE

Tournament ID: 24-49528

J u n e 1 4 - 1 5 - Q u a l i f i e r 1 - W a t e r l o o , I A - B y r n e s T e n n i s C e n t e r

J u n e 1 8 - 1 9 - Q u a l i f i e r 2 - T u l s a , O K - C a s e T e n n i s C e n t e r @ L a f o r t u n e P a r k

J u n e 1 9 - 2 0 - Q u a l i f i e r 3 - K e a r n e y , N E - H a r m o n P a r k a n d C e n t e n n i a l

J u n e 2 4 - 2 5 - Q u a l i f i e r 4 - S t . L o u i s , M O - D w i g h t D a v i s T e n n i s C e n t e r

J u n e 2 6 - 2 7 - Q u a l i f i e r 5 - K a n s a s C i t y , M O - T B A

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 , n o m a x i m u m 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 , A 7 p o i n t t i e b r e a k w i l l b e p l a y e d a t 5 g a m e s a l l ( w i n b y a m a r g i n o f 2 ) , A 1 0 p o i n t t i e b r e a k p l a y e d f o r t h e 3 r d s e t ( w i n b y a m a r g i n o f 2 ) Q u a l i f i c a t i o n s : 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 l l p l a y e r s m u s t b e a g e e 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 C J T T C h a m p i o n s h i p Y e a r A l l p l a y e r s a n d t e a m s m u s t c o m p e t e i n a t l e a s t o n e m a t c h i n a n M V C J T T Q u a l i f i e r o r w i n a S u m m e r J u n i o r T e a m T e n n i s L o c a l L e a g u e t o b e c o m e e l i g i b l e f o r M V C J T T S e c t i o n C h a m p i o n s h i p s T h e L o c a l L e a g u e m u s t c o m p l y w i t h a l l U S T A M i s s o u r i V a l l e y 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 r e g u l a t i o n s I f a L o c a l L e a g u e i s o f f e r i n g a p l a y o f f / c h a m p i o n s h i p , t e a m s c a n a d v a n c e f r o m t h a t e v e n t 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 . 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 e a m W i n n e r o f a S u m m e r J u n i o r T e a m T e n n i s L o c a l L e a g u e i n 1 4 U o r 1 8 U C h a m p i o n s h i p D i v i s i o n t h a t f o l l o w s c h a m p i o n s h i p r e g u l a t i o n 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 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

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 ! ! 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 ! !

By: Mark Collins

UPCOMING DIVERSITY RECOGNITION MONTHS MARCH

Need the perfect gift for that special USTA League player, tennis teammate or captain in your life (or maybe yourself)? Hey we don’t judge!

Shop the USTA Missouri Valley Store powered by The Spoiled Office for great USTA personalized tennis apparel and gifts.

SCAN the QR code or visit

ustamissourivalleystore.thespoiledoffice.com

The USTA Pro Circuit provides players with an opportunity to gain the professional ranking points they need to compete on the major pro tours. The USTA Pro Circuit is the largest developmental tennis circuit in the world. There are five men’s and two women’s USTA Pro Circuit tournaments being held in the section this year. Get up close and personal with the up and coming pros, right in our own backyard!

MEN’S PRO CIRCUITS

Wichita Tennis Open Men’s $25K: 6/12-18 | Lisa Sutherland & Maureen Connolly Brinker Foundation

Tulsa Men’s $25K: 6/19-25 | Russell Warner & Philcrest

Edwardsville Futures Men’s $25K: 7/29-8/4 | Dave Lipe & EGHM Foundation

Norman Men’s $25K: 10/21-27 | Dawna Johnson & University of Oklahoma

WOMEN’S PRO CIRCUITS

Wichita Tennis Open Women’s $25K: 6/19-25 | Lisa Sutherland & Maureen Connolly Brinker Foundation

Edmond Women’s $75K: 10/7-14 | David Minihan & Edmond Center Court

Norman Women’s $25K: 10/28-11/2 | Dawna Johnson & University of Oklahoma

Spotlight on...

2023 Results

• $3,500 in grants

• 100 events/programs in the five state area

• Events ranged from diverse cultural events, adaptive and wheelchair events, events in parks, community involved events, junior and adult tournaments, Leagues, and very unique local tennis activities

• State and city proclamations recognizing May as Tennis Month

• 12 stories in the media - featured event North American Indian Tennis Association National Tournament in Tulsa

• Communication throughout the month on USTA.com, Facebook, Instagram, newsletters on publications

By: Manon Eilts

Preparations are already underway to put the spotlight on tennis during the month of May. May is National Tennis Month.

USTA Missouri Valley is providing support to local tennis organizers to promote tennis in your local community. The timing offers the opportunity to drive potential players/members to your organization for summer and fall programming. The goal is to make the events inclusive and welcoming to all audiences.

Organizations can apply for a one time grant to support their efforts for events held in May. The $250 grant should be used for marketing and communication support like banners, yard signs, flyers, posters, social media posts, giveaway items, community activation fees, and other related expenses.

The organizer will have access to free customizable USTA marketing materials to promote the event.

The grant deadline is March 30. Go to usta.com/grants for details.

May is National Tennis Month!

May is National Tennis Month!

Designating a month to promote tennis gives a platform to coaches, facilities, Parks & Recs, Community Tennis Associations, and NJTLs to drive awareness and help bring new players into local programs, inspire lapsed players to return to the sport and energize existing players to play more.

Designating a month to promote tennis gives a platform to coaches, facilities, Parks & Recs, Community Tennis Associations, and NJTLs to drive awareness and help bring new players into local programs, inspire lapsed players to return to the sport and energize existing players to play more.

Start Your Planning Today

Start Your Planning Today

USTA.com/NationalTennisMonth is a one stop shop for resources, assets and ideas to help providers with local promotions.

USTA.com/NationalTennisMonth is a one stop shop for resources, assets and ideas to help providers with local promotions.

AS A PROVIDER, ACCESS:

AS A PROVIDER, ACCESS:

Downloadable artwork to use for, t-shirts, banners, car magnets and yard signs

Downloadable artwork to use for, t-shirts, banners, car magnets and yard signs

Customizable marketing materials, including social media posts, flyers, posters and postcards

Customizable marketing materials, including social media posts, flyers, posters and postcards

A sample press release you can customize for your local community and tips to reach out to local media

A sample press release you can customize for your local community and tips to reach out to local media

Sample proclamations for City Councils and Mayors to proclaim May National Tennis Month

Sample proclamations for City Councils and Mayors to proclaim May

National Tennis Month

May is #NationalTennisMonth usta.com/nationaltennismonth

May is #NationalTennisMonth usta.com/nationaltennismonth

Programming and promotional ideas

Programming and promotional ideas

USTA OKLAHOMA TEAM WINS LEAGUE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Congratulations to the new USTA League National Champions from Tulsa, Oklahoma! The team, captained by Haven Willis and Co-Captain Corinne Johnson, won the Adult 55 & Over 6.0 Women’s Championship held at the National Campus in Orlando, Florida on October 22.

Haven Willis began playing in 2020 and played on

one 2.5 team. In 2023, she played on 17 teams, 5 of which won the Tulsa league, Districts, and went to Sectionals. Of those 5 teams, 3 won Sectionals and one National Championship! Their championship is the third for a LaFortune team since 2019, and only the fourth since 2009.

Willis and teammates (left to right) Susan Hargis, Michelle Cantrell, Karen Young, Vicki Sue Loehrs, Captain Haven Willis, CoCaptain Corinne Johnson, Shirley Miley, Jody Fitzgerald and Susie Anderson.

NET NOTESNEWS NEAR YOU

USTA MISSOURI VALLEY TOURNAMENT TRAILBLAZERS

In 2023, USTA Missouri Valley launched the Tournament Trailblazers promotion. This new initiative recognized and celebrated players who participated in multiple adult tournaments throughout the year. This gave players the opportunity to earn a variety of tennis-related items, based on their frequency of participation. These USTA Missouri Valley “Tournament Trailblazers” earned gifts for their efforts and were recognized on the USTA Missouri Valley website.

Leslie Echols

David Graybill

Jenine Harris

Amarnath Jambunathan

Dennis Mailes

Roberta Barron

Briana Bostick

Rafay Cheema

Anthony Forcucci

Jeffrey Gonzales

Chris Acker

Peter Anaradian

Justin Arnold

Tom Bostick

Ryne Breyer

Rick Brown

Kevin Buyse

David Clark

David Coleman

Nate Connell

Katie Cordery

Dana Metzger

Eleazar Morales

Tami Murphy

Joseph Odon

Debbie Pell

David Gonzalez

Jan-Michael Jansen

Paul Jones

Kalynn Kruse

Carol Mailes

Nicholas Damato

Kevin Deaton

Jeffrey Denton

Brad DiLeo

Jordan Faulkenberg

Chris Gustas

David Hash

Melissa Hass

Jeremy Heard

Jennifer Hebert

Jonathan Hernandez

Chelsea Ragland

Azher Sameer

Susan Schatz

David Snider

Justin Stachnik

Richard McQueen

Patricia Mercade Gonzalez

Krishna Mohan

Susan Murphy

Angela Reckelhoff

Langston Hoover

Ting-ya Hsu

Kevin Johnston

Ed Kirkwood

Angel Krishna

David Larner

Chris Miller

Randal Nadolny

Michael-Ray Pallares

Nicholas Petaros

Brooke Ravanelli

Scott Stinson

Matthew Suddarth

Paul Reiss

Thomas Ross

Clint VanValkenburgh

April Weisheit

Stacey Zoller

Nicolas Sanchez Calderon

Juan Suero Aixin Tan

Angela Walsh

Winston Wang

Sarah Wedick

Nathan Williams

Jeremie Wilson

Charis Yager

Clinton Young

Gavin Young

RSI CROWNS USTA MISSOURI VALLEY “CHAMPION”

Each year Racquet Sports Industry magazine honors their “Champions of Tennis” at the end of the year. USTA Missouri Valley earned one of RSI’s highest honors by being named the 2023 USTA Section of the Year. We’re so honored to receive this recognition and we know we couldn’t have done it without each and every one of our players, providers, coaches and facilities. Read the online edition of RSI’s Champions of Tennis issue online tennisindustrymag.com/

Dwight Davis Tennis Center in St. Louis earned recognition as the Public Tennis Facility of the Year. They hosted numerous events throughout 2023, including hosting the 100th iteration of the National Public Parks Tennis Championship.

USTA MISSOURI VALLEY WELCOMES NEW FACES TO EXECUTIVE ROLES

Two of our districts recently welcomed new presidents to their Executive Committees. USTA Nebraska approved John Rademacher in late 2023 to replace the outgoing Mike Willman. Rademacher is a lifelong tennis player and is heavily involved in the tennis community in Kearney. USTA Oklahoma also brought a fresh face on board, with Eric Wedemeyer stepping into the president’s role. Wedemeyer, a former collegiate tennis player, is currently the Director of Tennis at Oak Tree Country Club in Edmond. We’re also excited to welcome two new district executive directors into the fold. USTA Heart of America is excited to announce that Rebecca Falkner Axelrod will be coming home to take on the executive director responsibilities. Rebecca grew up playing junior tennis in USTA Heart of America and is moving home from Arizona to take the job. In USTA Kansas, Amy Mathew is stepping up to take on the executive director role on an interim basis. Amy has previously served as the District League Coordinator for both USTA Kansas and USTA Missouri.

LESLIE ECHOLS’ OUTSTANDING FINISH TO 2023

Leslie Echols recalled two defining moments during her 2023 tennis journey that ultimately concluded with her finishing the year ranked No. 1 in the country at the NTRP 18 & Over 3.5 level for women’s singles. Echols — who serves as USTA Missouri’s executive director — was in the midst of her opening match of a round-robin tournament taking place in Topeka in April. She noticed two high-level singles players duking it out on a nearby court. Echols hoped they were 4.0 players she wouldn’t have to go up against. As it turned out, the competitors were in fact 3.5-level players and the next two opponents in Echols’s draw.

Rebecca Falkner Axelrod Executive Director - Heart of America

Amy Mathew Interim Executive Director - Kansas

Eric Wedemeyer President - Oklahoma

John Rademacher President - Nebraska

Take a look back on 2023 through our Year in Review video!

Right: Dwight Davis Tennis Center hosted the 100th Anniversary of the National Public Parks Tennis Championships.

Left: Scott Hanover and Jason Mathes compete in the wood racquet tournament during the 100th Annviersary of the National Public Parks Tennis Championships.

Right: USTA Missouri Valley staff volunteered during Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day at the US Open.

Below: USTA Adaptive Section Doubles partcipants pose with Mary Buschmann.

Left and Below: Players embraced team spirit at Junior Team Tennis Section Championships in Edmond in July.

Below: An annual diversity day was held in Edwardsville, Illinois in July in conjunction with Edwardsville Futures Men’s $25K.

Right: USTA Missouri’s Mallory Weber poses with her dad.

Left, right and below: The North American Indian Tennis Association hosted a kids’ clinic and tournament in Oklahoma City in May.

Above: 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.

Left: All smiles at the L2 Indoor Wheelchair tournament in Chesterfield, MO.

Below: A father/son duo compete in the Family Championships.

EXCITING NEWS AND EVENTS AROUND USTA IOWA

March 3 USTA Iowa Spring Meeting - Ames

April 21-27 National Volunteer Week - everywhere in the district

June 5-8 Iowa Senior Games - Des Moines

June 8 USTA Iowa Adult District League Championships - TBD

June 15-16 Section Junior Team Tennis Qualifier - Waterloo

June 22 USTA Iowa Adult District League Championships - TBD

June 28 Section Adaptive Tennis National Qualifier - Iowa City

June 29-30 Section ALL Stars Tennis Tournament - Cedar Rapids

Please pick an event and support it as a volunteer, player participant or viewer participant.

Contact Mark Blume or John Terpkosh for more information: usta.iowa@gmail.com

jterpkosh@movalley.usta.com

Mission Statement: To promote and develop the growth of tennis throughout the Iowa district

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• Vetta Sunset

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• Forest Lake

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• O’Fallon Twp HS

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• St. Clair Tennis

• Creve Coeur

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Dec 14/15 • Creve Coeur

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Make sure your USTA member profile is updated.

• Do you have a new e-mail address?

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Chances are, your USTA member profile is outdated if you’re not receiving regular communication from USTA by mail or e-mail.

Keep your USTA membership information current to get the latest news and special member benefits. Go to customercare.USTA.com to update your profile. You may also contact USTA Customer Care for assistance by calling 800-990-USTA (8782).