Documente Academic
Documente Profesional
Documente Cultură
The Year
2018 Outlook
Strings Shoes Apparel
In a diversifying The latest models Tenniswear pushes
in Gear
market, poly-based will have customers boundaries with bold
strings remain looking and playing textures, colors and
on top. 26 their best. 28 patterns. 30
1
.4
TA pg
USP
ating
or
corp
In
MEN WOMEN JUNIOR
www.tennisindustrymag.com
TennisIndustry
INDUSTRY NEWS 24
7 USTA develops coaching
accreditation program
7 ITA, PlaySight extend
collegiate tennis partnership 28
7 ATA signs lease to build
20-court facility in Florida
8 Bollettieri, Murray to present
at PTR Symposium
8 49-year-old Ashaway player
makes World Championships
9 K-Swiss, PHIT America focus
on youth activity 2018 OUTLOOK
9 Bank of the West Classic
leaves Stanford
24 Racquets: 26 Strings: 28 Shoes: 30 Apparel:
9 Asheville to host Fed Cup
12 PTR signs deal with Hungarian
Complete Market Force Function vs. Spring Ahead!
Tennis Association Coverage Consumer Fashion Pastels, bold
12 Miami Open to move Manufacturers demand for New shoe colors and
to Dolphins Stadium
12 Halep, Cahill, Tiafoe
continue polyester-based models aim to denim are in
headline benefit event to improve strings still have customers this spring, as
technology and appears to be playing, looking tenniswear
FEATURES
design for all driving and feeling seeks to push the
32 Outstanding Tennis
Facility Awards types of players. this market. their best. boundaries.
34 League Tennis Success Stories
PLUS
p.41 42 CEO’s Message
44 From the Board
46 Master Pro Corner
42 46 51 55
We Have Built Timing the Timing and the Personality 51 Inside Coaching
It and They Are Serve of World’s Contact Zone Traits of a 55 Inside Coaching
Coming Best ATP Great Director 57 Padel News
Players of Tennis 58 Member News
60 Career Development
Read more articles online at www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
id e in st al le rs .
ts , w it h ex pe ri en ce d na ti on w
& re pa ir pr od uc
m en t- qu al it y sp or t su rf ac in g
To ur na
sportmaster.net
TennisIndustry
OurServe PUBLISHER
JEFF WILLIAMS
EDITOR
PETER FRANCESCONI
EDITOR'S NOTE
ART DIRECTOR
CRHISTIAN RODRIGUEZ
PRODUCTION EDITOR
SAM CHASE
A
SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR
BOB PATTERSON
s the editor of this in this industry, feel we’ve benefited CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
magazine, one of the from our affiliation with the TIA over CYNTHIA CANTRELL, PEG CONNOR,
KENT OSWALD, CYNTHIA SHERMAN,
important things I do the years, and we know there are many MARY HELEN SPRECHER
is work with the Tennis companies, organizations and individu-
Industry Association to als out there who feel the same way and CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
BOB KENAS, DAVID KENAS
help promote the tennis business. I’m are very supportive of the TIA.
not alone—much of our team helps to But there also are a number of com- ASSOCIATE EDITOR
promote this sport through partnering panies and organizations—including TIM McARTHUR
with the TIA. (Full disclosure: Tennis some that continue to make plenty of EDITORIAL DIRECTION
Industry's publisher, Jeff Williams, is money off our industry—that aren’t yet 10TEN MEDIA
the president of the TIA.) a part of the Tennis Industry Associa-
TENNIS INDUSTRY
It makes sense to do this because TI tion. They aren’t yet supporting the one 250 Park Avenue, Ste 825, NY NY 10017
magazine and the TIA both have similar group in tennis that has been all about 646-381-8735
missions—to promote the growth of this supporting them and growing this busi- info@tennisindustrymag.com
industry and to help tennis businesses ness for all.
make money. At the end of the day, both The TIA does a tremendous amount ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
TI and the TIA are in business to help to support and grow this sport for
JOHN HANNA
770-650-1102, x125
make your business grow. everyone, with very few resources and hanna@knowatlanta.com
The thinking is that we all win when a very limited budget. The last thing we
this sport does better—when more want in this business is for companies APPAREL ADVERTISING
people are playing tennis, buying equip- and facilities to disappear. We need CYNTHIA SHERMAN
ment and joining leagues. Whether you healthy, profitable companies that work 203-558-5911
cstennisindustry@gmail.com
say “a rising tide lifts all boats” or “grow with the TIA to promote the sport.
the whole pie, not just your slice,” the Keep in mind that the TIA isn’t just
TIA is and has been the vehicle to help helping companies in this business—
make that happen. individuals also can support the TIA
with a very low-cost membership that Tennis Industry is published 10 times per year:
returns benefits almost immediately. monthly, January through August with combined
issues in September/October and November/
It’s easy to join the “Tennis Network” by December, by Tennis Media Company, 250 Park
With very few resources, visiting TennisIndustry.org. Avenue, Suite 825, New York NY 10017. Periodical
postage paid in Duluth, GA and at additional mailing
the TIA does a tremendous The bottom line is this industry needs offices (USPS #004-354). Feb. 2018, Volume 46,
the support of all the businesses and Number 2 © 2018 by Tennis Media Company. All rights
amount to support and grow individuals who take something out of
reserved. Tennis Industry, TI and logo are trademarks
of Tennis Media Company. Printed in the U.S.A. Phone
this sport for everyone. it. You need to be a part of this tennis advertising: 770-650-1102 x 125. Phone circulation
business community. And to do so, you and editorial: 646-381-8735. Yearly subscriptions
$25 in the U.S., $40+ elsewhere. POSTMASTER: Send
need to join the Tennis Network. address changes to Tennis Industry, 250 Park Avenue,
In fact, the tennis industry has been Suite 825, New York NY 10017. Tennis Industry is the
official magazine of the USRSA, TIA and ASBA.
held up by the Sports & Fitness Peter Francesconi
Industry Association as how to do Editor
Looking for back issues of Tennis Industry/Racquet
Sports Industry? Visit the archives at our website
things right—where competitors put Peter@TennisIndustryMag.com at TennisIndustryMag.com for free digital versions.
aside their differences and come togeth-
er for the common good of the sport.
We, as a magazine and as a business
Benefits include:
Free listing in Net Generation’s searchable directory of local providers
REGISTER TODAY AT NETGENERATION.COM © 2017. United States Tennis Association. All rights reserved.
TEACHING PROFESSIONALS
T
[college] teams all over the country,” says
Yuval Bar Yosef, the GM of PlaySight's U.S.
operations. “We're particularly excited
he USTA has created a associations willing to uphold the stan- about driving change in the sport with
tennis coaching accredita- dards, we will work together to ensure our PlayFair video replay."
tion program for organi- a consistently high level of coaching.
zations and institutions The result will be a more engaged and ATA Signs Lease to Build
that certify U.S. tennis enthused base of players of all ages.” 20-Court Facility and HQ
professionals. The goal of the program, The USTA says it conducted a world- The American Tennis Association (ATA)
which begins this year, is to set manda- wide review of standards for tennis
P H O T O S S H U T T E R S T O C K ; C O U RT E S Y P L AY S I G H T
A
INDUSTRY EVENTS cclaimed coaches Nick Bol- tounaments. The group held its first
PTR Tennis
expected to hold national and regional
Bollettieri is an author, philanthro- events. The American Tennis & Education
pist, motivational speaker, commenta-
Symposium
Foundation, a part of the ATA, will run the
tor, mentor, advisor and clinician—and Hall of Fame.
at 86 is still coaching daily. He is a “We are prepared to make the facility
member of 10 halls of fame, including available as a benefit to [Miramar] resi-
the International Tennis Hall of Fame dents, to the young people to participate
and the Tennis Industry Hall of Fame. in tennis programs, and to parents and
Murray, coach of former No. 1 Andy older folks,” ATA representative Barron
Murray, is a former Scottish tennis Channer told Miramar commissioners,
player with 64 national titles. She be- who approved the lease in late Novem-
came Scottish National Coach in 1995. ber. The ATA will manage its facility and
In 2011, she was appointed captain offer free programs for the city’s youth to
of the British Fed Cup team. She has introduce them to the sport.
developed several tennis initiatives,
including Miss-Hits, a starter program 49-Year-Old Ashaway Player
for girls ages 5 to 8, that she will present Reaches World Championship
at the PTR Symposium.
Asheville to Host
Fed Cup First Round
Asheville, N.C.’s U.S. Cellular Center
will host the 2018 Fed Cup World
Group first-round tie between the
United States and the Netherlands
on Feb. 10-11. It is the first time
Asheville will host Fed Cup action.
The U.S. team is the defending Fed
Cup champion, having beaten Be-
larus in the November final. Sloane
Stephens and Coco Vandeweghe,
who were members of the title-win-
ning team, are expected to compete
in Asheville. The winner will move on
to the semifinals in April.
Visit usta.com/fedcup for more.
Letters
Readers Rally Back
Player.” All the styles displayed were for and of age and the future of the industry.
modeled by young, thin women. Tennis is The largest issue I see are college players
a lifelong sport, and those short skirts are who don't see teaching as a viable profes-
typically unattractive on older women. sion—they use tennis as a means to get into
I’ve long advocated companies design another profession. Tennis shouldn’t be a
slightly longer skirts for older female play- fall back, but a true career. This is something
ers, along with dresses that include panties we need to address as a community.
and pockets for balls. A company can earn We also need talent to teach talent and
great profits if marketing fun, attractive keep the industry progressing. Youth does
attire to all female players, young and older. this, and I like the idea of helping the next
Sheila Simpson generation of coaches find their hidden
Gaylord, Mich talents. I really appreciates this article and
would like to hear more on this topic from
DEVELOPING A ‘VIABLE’ PROFESSION the industry.
CLOTHES FOR ALL PLAYERS I enjoyed "Be Certifiable" by Denny Schack- William David Taylor
I read with disappointment the November/ ter (Your Serve, Nov./Dec.), but I think the Director of Tennis
December cover story “Clothes Make the article should have added more to the idea Columbia Basin Racquet Club
iGENIE
People
Watch
The American Sports Builders Associa- In November, tennis lost two Hall of Kramer Club in Rolling Hills Estates,
tion recently named two new Certified Famers: former Wimbledon champion Calif., replacing the retiring Dennis Rizza.
Tennis Court Builders (CTCB): Greg Jana Novotna, who passed away at 49
Nichols of Premier Surface Solutions Inc., from cancer; and famed coach and player In November, Mike Goldammer
Tallahassee, Fla., and Michael Robinson Pancho Segura, who died at 96 from com- resigned as USTA Northern section ED.
of Talbot Tennis, Marietta, Ga. plications from Parkinson’s disease.
Head Penn’s Paola Longoria, the
Swiss chocolatier Lindt has extended Tyson McGuffin captured his first-ever No. 1-ranked female racquetball player in
its global partnership with Roger Federer major pickleball championship, winning the world, wrapped up 2017 with her fifth
as an ambassador for the brand. the Men’s Singles Open Division of the win in singles on the Ladies Professional
2017 USA Pickleball Association National Racquetball Tour, at the Christmas Clas-
USTA Southern Tennis Hall of Famer Championships in Casa Grande, Ariz. The sic near Washington, D.C., in December.
John Peddycord passed away on Nov. 25 victory propelled him to the No. 1 men’s
at age 85. A noted volunteer, Peddycord singles ranking in the world for pickle- PTR- and USPTA-certified pro Marcy
was a former president of the North Caro- ball. McGuffin is part of Team Selkirk. Cohen of Shelton, Conn., will serve as
lina Tennis Association and NC Tennis head tennis coach for the Ramah Sports
Foundation, and chaired numerous USTA Former pro-tour player Jeff Tarango Academy this summer, at Fairfield Uni-
Southern and national committees. is the new director of tennis at the Jack versity, in Fairfield, Conn.
PHOTO SHUTTERSTOCK
T
nament owed the county from the
past three years. The agreed-on terms
he PTR has signed a world,” says PTR CEO Dan Santorum. capped the expense at $1.8 million.
multi-year partnership “Hungary has a strong tennis tradition, The Miami Open’s future has been
with the Hungarian Tennis an excellent association staff, and a in question since a 2015 appeals court
Association in which PTR talented group of coaches. We are con- decision prevented upgrades to the
will be an Official Continuing Education fident our collaboration will contribute Key Biscayne complex. The tourna-
partner of HTA. PTR and HTA will col- to the growth of tennis in Hungary." ment has been held on Key Biscayne
laborate on an annual Symposium to be “PTR provides world-class and since 1987. Hard Rock Stadium is
held in Budapest. accredited tennis education that will be about 18 miles north of Key Biscayne.
“PTR is excited to be working with very beneficial to coaches in Hungary,”
one of the top tennis associations in the adds Attila Richter, CEO of the HTA. Halep, Cahill, Tiafoe Headline
‘Tennis With The Stars’
World No. 1 Simona Halep will
headline Cliff Drysdale Management's
fourth annual 'Tennis With The Stars' on
March 6 at the Omni Rancho Las Palmas
Resort & Spa in Rancho Mirage, Calif.
The charity event will once again benefit
ACEing Autism, a national non-profit that
connects children on the autistic spec-
P H O T O C O U RT E S Y P T R ; A P
Short
Sets
Nike will name a new building that John Gruberg about the golden years of King, were nominated for Best Perfor-
covers 1 million square feet after Serena the sport as seen through two California mance (Musical or Comedy).
Williams, and a new fitness center after pros who make their living off the beaten
Duke basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski. path as they negotiate the joys and sor- Facing Sampras: Symposium of a
The new buildings are part of Nike’s HQ rows of teaching the game. In addition Champion is a new book by sports jour-
expansion in Beaverton, Ore. The build- to Gruberg’s insights, the book includes nalist Mark “Scoop” Malinowski, in which
ing named for the 23-time Grand Slam unique instruction tips. It is now available competitors and rivals of Pete Sampras
champion, a Nike athlete since 2003, at Amazon.com. discuss in detail their memories and
will be the biggest on the campus and is experiences of playing tennis against the
slated to be finished in 2019. Peter Burwash International will direct seven-time Wimbledon champion, who
the tennis program at The Abaco Club on reigned for six years as the ATP World
USTA President Katrina Adams will Winding Bay in the Bahamas. No. 1-ranked tennis player. It is
chair the ITF's new Women in Sport Malinowski’s ninth tennis book and is
Committee, which was created to pro- The leading stars of the movie Battle of now available at Amazon.com.
mote equal opportunities for women. the Sexes, which premiered in September,
were nominated for Golden Globe awards. Asics America Corp. opened its first
Tennis Hobo: A Derailed Memoir is a Steve Carell, who played Bobby Riggs, U.S. flagship store in December, at 579
semi-autobiographical novel by author and Emma Stone, who played Billie Jean Fifth Avenue in New York City.
SNEELW
LIN
PGR OFDR U
A CMTESS
TIA
Top RATED
UNT
ACCO S
NEWPECIAL
S
RacquetTech
CUSTOMER SERVICE
F
or as long as tennis has
been around, we have
heard, “string looser for
more power and tighter
for more control.”
The thinking is that a looser string
bed deforms more and acts like a tram-
poline to catapult the ball, thus creating
a shot traveling faster and deeper into
the court. While all of that is true, to
some extent, it isn’t quite that simple.
In their book Technical Tennis, co-
authors Rod Cross and Crawford Lind-
sey explain that while the ball does exit
the strings a bit faster when a racquet
is strung looser, it is not to the extent
most people think. According to the
book, a 10-pound drop in tension will
result in a gain in ball velocity of less
than 2 percent. For a 60 m.p.h. shot,
that’s only about an extra 1.2 m.p.h.
So while it’s true that lowering the
tension will create a small amount of
extra power, it’s more accurate to say
that lowering the tension will create
more depth on your shot. This happens
for three reasons.
First, since the ball leaves the string It’s more accurate to say that
bed slightly faster, it will travel a bit
farther into the opponent’s court. Sec-
lowering the tension will create
ond, the ball embeds in the string bed more depth on your shot.
longer at impact, staying on the strings
a bit longer (otherwise known as dwell
time). Because of this, the player will racquet. We don’t have the space here the tongue the same way, but the con-
swing through a larger vertical arc to explain it all, but if you’re interested, cept can help you choose the correct
during the dwell time and the ball will you should find a copy of Technical tension for your client, depending on
C O U RT E S Y S H U T T E R S T O C K
leave the racquet at a higher angle, Tennis to read all about it. how deep—rather than how hard—they
thereby travelling farther. So, while “string looser for more are hitting the ball. •
The third reason gets a bit more com- power and tighter for more control”
plicated, but essentially, it deals with may have some merit, a more accurate Technical Tennis, by Rod Cross and
the actions of the string movement dur- statement would be, “string looser for Crawford Lindsey, is published by Racquet
ing impact with the ball, and the result- more depth on shots and tighter for less Tech Publishing and is available on the
ing launch angle of the ball leaving the depth.” I know that doesn’t quite roll off USRSA website, www.RacquetTech.com.
in Coach Education
4
Externally Accredited Pathways to Certification
3
Specialist Programs
3
Master of Tennis Programs
PTR Certification and Education Workshops are the most successful training courses for tennis teachers and coaches.
More than 300 PTR Workshops are conducted on five continents each year. All are led by specially trained PTR Clinicians.
©Maxisport/Shutterstock
D I S T I N G U I SRHAECDQ U
F AE CT I CL U
I TSY-
TOOM
F -ITZHAET -Y
I OENA R A W A R D S
W
ith more
than 10,000
different
Match Play
strings cur-
rently on
the market,
one would
have to believe there is a perfect string
Help your customers pair the
for every player.
Players can certainly come close to
perfect strings in a hybrid setup.
finding their perfect string if they take
a methodical approach and have the By Bob Patterson
guidance of a trained professional tech-
nician. But sometimes, a player may
need to combine two different strings to
make a perfect pairing that will help his
or her game and prevent arm injury.
In the January 2016 issue, in an
article titled “Finding the Perfect Pair,”
I compared choosing string to pairing
wine with food. We can use that same
analogy when it comes to finding the
perfect hybrid pairing.
Hybrid stringing combines two
strings—one for the mains and another
for the crosses—and utilizes the unique
characteristics of each one so that, when
combined, they meet the player’s needs.
On the professional tours, hybrid string-
ing has become the norm. According to
Babolat, 70 percent of ATP players and
80 percent of WTA players use a hybrid
setup. Yet many club or recreational play-
ers seem to be unaware of this option.
Even though there have never been
so many string choices before, to be
fair, of the 10,000-plus strings on the
market, there no doubt is some duplica-
tion, and many may be very similar in
their characteristics and performance.
However, there still is a huge diversity
of string materials and manufactur-
ing techniques. When you consider
the sheer number of strings, then take
into account the ability to combine two
strings in a hybrid setup, the choices for
your players explode exponentially.
So, why should your customer
consider a hybrid string setup? It allows
you to tailor the string bed to suit your
customer’s specific needs, whatever they
may be. Sure, you may be able to accom-
plish this with one string, but hybrids not just a poly-synthetic mix. to fit the needs to control the ball, but if
give you even more selection and flexibil- While performance is the main reason that player has a history of arm injuries,
ity in being able to fine-tune the setup. for using a hybrid, there are other con- it may not be a good choice after all.
When discussing the topic of hybrid siderations, such as budget. My earliest
stringing with experienced racquet use of a hybrid was combining natural
technicians or tennis retailers, I’m gut mains with a soft nylon cross. This Where to Place Strings
constantly surprised that in gen- reduced the overall cost of a full set of The racquet’s “engine” is comprised of
eral, their assumption is the hybrid gut and allowed players to have the feel mains strings and cross strings. Gener-
is always a polyester monofilament and power of gut. While it wasn’t quite ally, the main strings do most of the
main string with a nylon synthetic as good as a full set of gut, it was close— work, with the cross strings playing a
cross string. While this is a popular and it was within their budgets. supporting, although important, role.
combination, if this is your only view Simply reversing the placement of
of a hybrid, then you are missing out, strings in a hybrid makes a huge differ-
and so are your customers. You need Understanding the String Bed ence in the string bed and the perfor-
to think about your entire inventory, To understand hybrid stringing, you mance of the racquet.
first have to understand the string bed We took a racquet and installed a
and its function. At the USRSA World hybrid of a monofilament polyester
Conference this past October, Master string in the mains and a multifilament
Racquet Technician Tom Parry, the nylon in the crosses, and then took the
global brand manager for Pacific, pre- same racquet and string and reversed it,
sented a seminar on racquets, or as he with the multifilament in the mains and
referred to them, “string holders.” Parry the poly in the crosses. Both times we
used that term to emphasize the im- strung the racquet at 50 pounds.
portant role strings play in the racquet. For the poly mains/multifilament
“You have a frame and you have string, crosses setup, we measured a string-
and when the two are combined, you bed stiffness of 59 on the Babolat RDC
have a racquet,” he said. “But the strings machine and 36 on the Beers ERT de-
are the most important.” vice. For the mutifilament mains/poly
So how does a player find the perfect crosses setup, the string-bed stiffness
string for them? It all starts with an was 54 RDC and 33 ERT. That is a dif-
honest evaluation of the player and his ference of 9 percent just in the lab tests.
or her game. You have to consider their We also know from experience and
particular needs, wants and expectations. playtesting that on-court differences
If a player is looking for more power are just as dramatic.
or depth on their shots, but their swing The mains dictate the feel and perfor-
is compact and/or slow, then they are mance, but the crosses contribute to the
going to need a powerful engine to pro- overall string-bed stiffness and elastic-
pel the ball on impact. Conversely, if the ity, and therefore the performance.
player has a fast, long stroke through While most players at the professional
the ball, they need the string bed to level use a hybrid of polyester and natu-
absorb some energy from the ball so the ral gut, there is no standard of which
shot can be more controlled. string is used for the mains.
As with most things, there are Utilizing your entire string inventory
tradeoffs, and pros and cons. A string for hybrids is easy. All you need is some
bed that is powerful may be harder to small zip ties and small plastic bags,
control. One that is very firm may offer such as sandwich bags. When you use a
control or less depth, but it also creates half set of string for a hybrid, recoil the
more shock at impact. Because of these remaining half, secure with a zip tie,
conflicts, a technician must consider place it in a plastic bag and put it back
the “big picture” when recommending into inventory, so it will be ready to use
a string setup. For an advanced player for the next hybrid that may require
with big strokes, a stiff poly may seem that string. •
PioneersInTennis
Holabird's Willi Hirshfeld—
with his wife, Loretta, at the
1995 US Open—was an early
influencer in mail-order
sports equipment.
B
cards, they could get shoes or racquets.”
Holabird became an early influencer
ig-box stores are plenti- always first,” says David Hirshfeld, who in mail-order shopping for tennis,
ful—much to the dismay is Holabird’s president and owner. then in the online business—and then
of brick-and-mortar Willi’s reach into the tennis business for a much larger array of sports,
establishments. Sports was actually far more hands-on than including racquetball, squash, pickle-
superstores, however, are a simply being a store owner; in 1975 he ball, running, walking and CrossFit.
different breed, and when the Hirsh- created the Greenspring Racquet Club The Greenspring Racquet Club no
feld family opened one in Baltimore in Lutherville, Md., then in 1979 built longer operates, but Holabird Sports is
County, it was a rare species indeed. the Holabird Racquet Club in Balti- still family-owned; David and his son,
P H O T O C O U RT E S Y H I R S H F E L D FA M I LY
In 1981, the family, led by patriarch more. Holabird Sports began as a mail- Brian, now operate it together. And
Willi Hirshfeld, founded Holabird order business operating out of HRC. they have always remembered Willi’s
Sports. Now staring down its fourth Willi’s customer-service philosophy thoughts on the essential role played
decade, the store has changed and carried through the clubs’ doors, mean- by the athletes who shop in the store or
evolved, but it has never lost touch with ing everyone from a casual player to visit it online, much the same way Willi
its customers. And even with Willi, at a hardcore athlete received the same did when they entered the club.
age 94, enjoying retirement, the family warm welcome. “My dad always treated players as
carries on that tradition. “He thought everyone who came his marketers,” says David. “That was
“My father knew the customer was in the door should be coming into an important to him.” •
Call 877-4-HAR-TRU Limited-time offer. Program details and rules are as follows:
The HydroCourt® Package consists up to of forty (40) tons of Har-Tru® HydroBlend®™ surfacing
or check with your material, one (1) set line tapes with nails, and the standard, single-court, HydroCourt® kit including
authorized court pipes, valves, control boxes and liner. No other costs or expenses are included.
installer to learn more All three courts must be under written contract between the owner and the authorized HydroCourt®
installer, entered into after December 1, 2016 and prior to April 1, 2018. The HydroCourt® Package
(defined above) must be ordered from Har-Tru on or before April 1, 2018 and all materials must be
shipped prior to October 1, 2018 to qualify.
The promotion is available for the installation of new courts, conversion of existing above-ground-
watered clay courts, and/or conversion of hard and synthetic courts. Use of the HydroCourt®
underground watering system as marketed by Har-Tru® is required. The promotion is only available
on courts purchased through authorized HydroCourt® installers. All three HydroCourts® must be
purchased from the same installer and the installer must pay Har-Tru, LLC in full for all materials,
accessories and supplies associated with the installation. Requests for the free HydroCourt® Package
must be submitted on behalf of the owner by the authorized HydroCourt® installer performing the
installation. It will be paid by Har-Tru® in the form of a rebate to the installer. Installer is responsible
for freight, sales taxes and import or export duties. Participation in the program will entitle the
owner to receive a one-time, 10% discount on qualifying court equipment and accessories ordered
hartru.com with and for use on the three courts. Equipment and accessories must be purchased through the
authorized HydroCourt® installer performing the installation and ship with the HydroCourt® Package.
Doug Conant, Stephen Tharrett Among
Top Speaker Lineup at TOM Conference
Business and sports industry leaders Douglas Conant and Stephen Other featured TOM speakers
Tharrett will be among the keynote presenters and moderators at include legendary coach Nick
the 2018 Tennis Owners & Managers (TOM) Conference, which will Bollettieri, sports club marketing
be April 8-11 at Wild Dunes Resort in Charleston, S.C. Presented by expert Casey Conrad, Tennis
the TIA, the TOM Conference targets tennis owners, managers and Industry Health & Wellness
industry decision-makers with a focus on innovation, growth, business Advisor Dr. Jack Groppel, the
Doug Conant
leadership and development. co-founder of Johnson & Johnson’s
Conant, the founder and CEO of ConantLeadership, will discuss Human Performance Institute,
leadership skills and development. The former CEO of Campbell Soup and Craig Morris, the USTA’s
Co. and chairman of Avon Products, Conant also is the chairman of general manager of Community and
the Kellogg Executive Leadership Institute at Northwestern University Youth Tennis.
and chairman of CECP—the CEO Force for Good. The TOM Conference will have
Tharrett is the co-founder of ClubIntel, owner/president of Club educational sessions (CEU credits
Industry Consulting and former president of IHRSA. He’ll talk about are available from both the PTR
key issues facing the tennis industry today and how to turn those and USPTA), a Resource Center,
challenges into opportunities, including how fitness and wellness can an “Innovation Challenge,” best
and should play into the sport’s future. practices roundtables, leadership
and facility management sessions, Stephen Tharrett
The Tennis Owners & Managers Conference presentations on equipment and
recently was honored in the January issue of technology, networking sessions, future of tennis and technology
Tennis Industry magazine as its “Innovative Tennis applications, digital and social media discussions, and more. The TOM
Event of the Year.” The magazine will honor its also will feature on-court equipment/retail demos and demonstrations
17th annual “Champions of Tennis” winners at this
year’s TOM Conference.
for short-court sports such as POP Tennis, paddle, pickleball and padel.
Visit TheTOMConference.com.
CHALLENGE
software or service that can help grow the Charleston, South Carolina
April 2018
April, 2018
sport or business of tennis? Submit your
pitch now for the “Tennis Industry Innovation Challenge—2018.”
Through Feb. 15, companies and individuals can complete a short
application at TheTOMConference.com describing their new, innovative
product or service. There is no charge to apply.
Finalists from the online application process will have the opportunity to
present their new product or service to a panel of judges at the TOM—and
in front of an audience of tennis industry leaders—in a “Shark Tank”-like
competition. The winner will receive $1,000, a national press release,
coverage in Tennis Industry magazine, a one-year TIA membership, and
additional exposure through industry marketing and social media channels.
22 TennisIndustry February 2018 Join the TIA . . . Increase Your Profits . . . Grow the Game . . . TennisIndustry.org
Williams Reappointed As
TIA President in Expanded Role
The Tennis Industry president. DiBiase is the General Manager for Babolat USA.
Association Board In addition, Dr. Timothy Russell, the CEO of the Intercollegiate
of Directors voted Tennis Association, is the newest member of the TIA Board of
in early December to reappoint Jeff Williams as the ongoing Directors. Joining the Board last spring was Gavin Forbes, the
TIA president in a new and expanded capacity. Williams will managing director and senior vice president of IMG Tennis.
become the first president as a staff position since Jim Baugh Two new TIA Board Representatives, which are non-voting
held that position 10 years ago. This newly created role will positions, were also named. Adam Burbary, owner of Game-
allow Williams to further focus on the industry’s specific Set-Match Inc. of Denver, is the Retailer Representative, and
challenges and opportunities by working closely with TIA staff Ajay Pant, the national tennis director for Life Time, based in
and industry partners. Chanhassen, Minn., is the Facility Representative.
Williams has a range of experiences to make him a natural The TIA Board will next meet on April 8 at Wild Dunes Resort
for this role, including publisher of Tennis Magazine and Tennis in Charleston, S.C., in conjunction with the Tennis Owners &
Industry magazine. Currently, he is publisher with Tennis Managers Conference/Tennis Innovation Challenge. The Board
Magazine/Tennis Media Co./Tennis Channel. also is scheduled to meet in New York City Aug. 27 during the US
The board also voted to appoint Susan DiBiase as TIA vice Open. For more information, visit TennisIndustry.org.
The full TIA board is: • International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Assn.: • Tennis Magazine/Tennis Media Co./Tennis Channel:
• adidas: Dave Malinowski Meredith Poppler *Jeff Williams
• American Sports Builders Association: Fred Stringfellow • International Management Group: Gavin Forbes • U.S. Professional Tennis Assn.: John Embree
• ATP World Tour: Linda Clark • International Tennis Federation: Dr. Stuart Miller/ • U.S. Racquet Stringers Assn.: Bob Patterson
• Babolat: *Eric Babolat/Susan DiBiase *David Haggerty • U.S. Tennis Association: Kurt Kamperman
• Dunlop Sports Group: Kai Nitsche • International Tennis Hall of Fame: Todd Martin • Wilson Sporting Goods: *Hans-Martin Reh/Mickey Maule
• ESPN: John Suchenski • Professional Tennis Registry: Dan Santorum • Women’s Tennis Association: Steve Simon
• HEAD/Penn Racquet Sports: Greg Mason *Ottmar Barbian • Sports & Fitness Industry Assn.: Tom Cove • World TeamTennis: Ilana Kloss
• Intercollegiate Tennis Association: Dr. Timothy Russell • Tennis Channel: David Egdes (*TIA Global Council)
For more information and to register for the CHARLESTON, SC | 2018 Register
TOM Conference, visit TheTOMConference.com or
contact 843-686-3036 or info@tennisindustry.org.
Today!
Join the TIA . . . Increase Your Profits . . . Grow the Game . . . TennisIndustry.org February 2018 TennisIndustry 23
TennisIndustry
S E LRL A
I NC G
Q UF E
R TASM E S
2 0 1 7 ORUATCLQOUOEKT 2S0E1L8E C T O R
Complete
Coverage
Manufacturers
continue to improve
technology and
design so players
can find their
perfect frame.
By Bob Patterson
A
s we launch into the new
year, new racquets and frame
technologies continue to come
our way. It’s hard to point to
any “earth-shattering” developments in
2018—but more importantly, companies
are continuing to tweak and improve their
techology and design in their efforts to
provide the best possible racquet for every
player type.
As you are probably aware, the industry
and the U.S. Racquet Stringers Association
continue to emphasize how important it
is that retailers and stringers “fit” rac-
quets to their players. The key to a satis-
fied customer is making sure the racquet
they invest in is one that is suited to their
particular swing and style of play—thereby
providing the best performance possible,
with little to no risk of injury. A properly
fitted customer will be a repeat customer,
both in terms of regular stringing and
customizing needs, and when it’s time to
purchase a new frame.
Manufacturers are making this process
easier with a wide variety of frames, so that Wilson / wilson.com /773-714-6400
you can fit your client with a racquet with Wilson introduces new frames in the Pro Staff and Ultra families.
the best head size, weight, swingweight and The Pro Staff 97 and 97L feature Countervail technology, as does the
string pattern to meet their needs and help Ultra 100 and 105S. Also new is the Ultra Tour and Ultra 110 (Version 2.0),
them perform their best on court. XP-1, Triad XP 3 and Triad XP 5.
S E L LSI TNRGI N
FGRA
SMES
2 0 1 7 ORUATCLQOUOEKT 2S0E1L8E C T O R
Market Force
Polyester-based strings aren’t for
everyone, but consumer demand for them
continues to drive the market.
By Bob Patterson
Despite what seems to be a consensus in this industry that polyester-based strings are
suited for only a small percentage of the playing population, manufacturers continue
to introduce new poly models. While there are several non-poly strings in the works, it
seems that the consumer demand for poly continues to drive the market.
The good news is that poly strings seem to be getting softer. We also hope to see
more introductions of multifilament strings and other innovations that will help club
players continue to enjoy playing without the potential for injury.
P H O T O S C O U RT E S Y G O L D E N S ET, G O S E N, S O L I N C O, U N I Q U E S P O RT S
I N -H O U S E F I N A N C I N G I S B A C K - As low as 4.99%.
S E L L ISNHGOFERSA M E S
2 0 1 7 ORUATCLQOUOEKT 2S0E1L8E C T O R
G
lamour sells a shoe, but In terms of overall strength of sales, any of the other classics, each is being
technology is what gives it and not just attracting attention from launched in that spirit.
buzz—at least at first. The the sport’s most frequent players, “We Hopes for achieving short- and
epitome of reaching full are in a cycle where non-performance long-term sales goals are founded on
potential is Adidas’ Stan Smith series, shoes are winning,” says Matt Powell, player recognition that performance
launched 45 years ago with an inno- vice president and footwear industry tweaks over previous models will take
vative leather upper creating a new analyst at The NPD Group Inc. “I the purchaser’s game closer to the level
standard for tennis-shoe support and expect the retro and casual athletic of the touring pros who wear the same
comfort. In 2017, the iconic kick’s ever- trend to continue for some time.” shoes—as well as the belief that they
green success earned the former World While odds are against any of this are not just playing well, but looking
No. 1 player Footwear News’ Manolo year’s new tennis footwear becoming their best from the ground up.
Blahnik Lifetime Achievement Award. the next Stan Smith, Jack Purcell or (Prices are suggested retail.)
P H O T O S C O U RT E S Y A D I DA S, B A B O L AT, F I L A , H E A D, K- S W I S S, N I K E , P R I N C E , W I L S O N, YO N E X
2 0 1 7 ORUATCLQOUOEKT 2S0E1L8E C T O R
Spring Ahead!
Pastels, bold colors and denim are
fair game this spring, as tenniswear seeks
to push the boundaries.
By Cynthia Sherman
Spring is always a hopeful time for apparel manufacturers, as players who may not play
as much during the winter get the itch to hit outdoors in fresh new outfits. These pieces
reflect the variety of textures, comfort, colors and patterns that players seek when
looking to make their outdoor tennis debut.
DOI S
U TT ISNTG
AUN IDSIHNEGD FFAACCI ILLI ITTY-
Y-OOFF- T- THHEE-Y
-YEEAARR AAWWAARRDDSS
COURT CONSTRUCTION
Double Feature
Tennis Industry and the ASBA
bring you the best in tennis court
construction and design.
I
n 2017, there were 15 ten- Distinguished Tennis Facility Honors • Miami University Women’s
nis project winners in the In addition to the Trump National Tennis Courts
Tennis Industry/American Doral Miami and the Lower Merion Oxford, Ohio
Sports Builders Association residential court, these 13 locations (Sportworks Field Design)
(ASBA) Facility-of-the-Year were chosen by the panel of judges as
Awards program. Thirteen of excellent examples of court construc- • City of Palm Beach Gardens T.C.
those winning projects were tion, receiving Distinguished Facility- Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.
multi-court outdoor facilities, nine of of-the-Year Awards. The ASBA also (Fast-Dry Courts Inc.)
which were at schools or colleges. Two awarded Silver and Bronze honors in
award-winning projects were residen- various categories. You’ll read more • Pinecrest Residence
tial tennis courts. about these winners in upcoming Pinecrest, Fla.
Each year, based on entries submit- issues. (Nominating company is in (Fast-Dry Courts Inc.)
ted by an ASBA member who designed parentheses.) Silver Award, Residential Court
or built the facility or court, the
association selects outstanding tennis • Coopersville High School • Southern Wesleyan University
facilities that meet the standard of Coopersville, Mich. Central, S.C.
excellence in design and construction (GMB Architecture + Engineering) (Baseline Sports Construction LLC)
determined by the judging committee.
While its panel of judges deemed 15 • Daly Field Tennis Facility • West Ottawa Middle School
courts or facilities to be worthy of spe- Brighton, Mass. Holland, Mich.
A S B A / FA S T- D RY C O U RT S I N C ; A S B A / P R O - S P O RT C O N S T R U C T I O N I N C.
cial recognition, two of those winners (Activitas Inc.) (GMB Architecture + Engineering)
were chosen for “Outstanding” honors:
• Hudsonville High School • The Wheeler School Tennis Facility
• Trump National Doral Miami Hudsonville, Mich. Seekonk, Mass.
in Doral, Fla. (GMB Architecture + Engineering) (Cape and Island Tennis & Track)
• Lower Merion Residence Silver Award, Outdoor Facility
in Gladwyne, Pa. • Winding Cypress
• Kearney High School Naples, Fla.
Award plaques to the two Outstand- Kearney, Mo. (Welch Tennis Courts Inc.)
ing winners and recognition for the (McConnell & Associates Corp.)
Distinguished winners were presented Bronze Award, Outdoor Facility The deadline for the 2018 Outstanding
at the ASBA Technical Meeting held in Facility-of-the-Year Awards is June 1,
early December in New Orleans. • Laguna Beach High School and awards will be presented at the
For more information, visit www. Laguna Beach, Calif. 2018 ASBA Technical Meeting, to be
sportsbuilders.org. —Peter Francesconi (Zaino Tennis Courts Inc.) held in Scottsdale, Ariz., Nov. 30-Dec. 4.
For details, contact the ASBA at
• Loomis Chaffee School 866-501-ASBA or info@sportsbuilders.
Windsor, Conn. org, or visit www.sportsbuilders.org.
(Milone & MacBroom Inc.)
To make room for the four new clay courts at Trump Nominated By: Fast-Dry Courts Inc.
National Doral Miami, the entire spa area, including a pool, Architect/Engineer/Contractor: Fast-Dry Courts Inc.
had to be removed. Due to the close proximity of utilities to Surface: Har-Tru Sports HydroBlend
some of the light pole locations, a vacuum truck was used to Suppliers: Fast-Dry Courts Inc., 10-S Tennis Supply, Aer-Flo
excavate so as not to damage conduit and water lines. The Fencing: Fast-Dry Courts Inc.
new courts have both conventional and subsurface irriga- Courts: 4
tion, along with LED lighting and shade structures. Completed: December 2015
The subsurface-irrigated red-clay court took a long time to Nominated By: Pro-Sport Construction Inc.
complete due to the limited access to the site. No vehicles General Contractor: Pro-Sport Construction Inc.
were able to reach the court, so all materials, including the Surface: Har-Tru Sports
aggregate, Har-Tru, retaining wall blocks, piping for the Suppliers: LSI Lighting, Har-Tru Sports
storm-water management system and landscaping plants, Completed: May 2017
had to be stockpiled at the front of the house, then trans-
ported by skid-steer machines down a steep access road.
LEAGUE TENNIS
COURT CONSTRUCTION
T E A M P L AY
P H O T O S C O U RT E S Y C O O P E R C R E E K T E N N I S C E N T E R / C O RTA , U S TA I N T E R M O U N TA I N/ I DA H O TA , U S TA S O U T H E R N C A L I F O R N I A , U S TA C A R I B B E A N
U S TA S O U T H E R N
U S TA C A R I B B E A N
LEAGUE TENNIS
U S TA N O R T H E R N
P H O T O S C O U RT E S Y U S TA N O RT H E R N, U S TA M I D - AT L A N T I C
levels, especially for beginners.
In both Maryland and the District of Columbia, leagues
have flourished. In 2017, Mixed leagues grew by more than
152 players and Tri-Level grew by more than 200 players.
Offering innovative formats has proven especially
impactful for invigorating small communities. There were
no adult leagues in the Western Tidewater area of Virginia,
but the section’s Adult League staff created a women’s Tri-
Level league (the format consistsof three doubles positions,
each at a different NTRP level). Tennis quickly caught on,
and soon beginner-level Singles, Combo and Combo Mixed
leagues were added, drawing new players to the courts.
Western Tidewater teams even advanced to the Tri-Level
Section Championship the last two years.
—Lauren Hoffmann
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
TennisIndustry
YourServe
GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
L
ike everyone, my times, I’ve just plain screwed up, mak- relatively late in my youth. I attended
life has been a series ing decisions I deeply regret. Person- Northwestern University on a tennis
of ups and downs. ally, I’ve dealt with difficult family scholarship, then stayed at Northwest-
C O U RT E S Y D O U G C O N A N T/ C O N A N T L E A D E R S H I P
Fortunately, the ups situations and serious medical issues ern to get my MBA. I was also an assis-
have outweighed the both for myself and my loved ones. tant tennis coach and taught the sport
downs, but at times, I’m blessed with an amazing wife in and around Chicago. Through it all,
the downs have been and family, wonderful friends and I practiced the game for thousands of
devastating. colleagues, and I’ve been buoyed by a hours, played hundreds of matches and
From a career perspective, I’ve steadfast faith that has helped me get have had the opportunity to teach ten-
had poor performance reviews, been through rough patches. Now, I find nis to countless people.
fired abruptly and in many instances myself reflecting on lessons from my Throughout this time, I learned a lot
endured mediocre-at-best corporate youth that have helped guide me. about what it takes to be a competitive
management and leadership. As a Interestingly, my experience with player, an impactful coach and an effec-
leader, I’ve made quite a few unpopular tennis has had a remarkable impact on tive teacher. But I also learned pivotal
decisions that were, in my opinion, my broader life journey. lessons that became profoundly helpful
for the good of the enterprise. And at I started earnestly playing the game to my life journey.
1/ Follow Your Passion improvement, knowing you can always mindset that delights in being “in the
In the spring of 1966, I was cut during do better. This has strongly influenced arena” and having the opportunity
tryouts from the freshman boys’ tennis my business philosophy, as well as the to do something special. In both my
team, which meant that 20 kids were leadership philosophy I advocate today. tennis and work life, I talk about rising
chosen ahead of me. It would have been to the challenge of the moment, and
easy to give up, but I spent hundreds of 6/ Play to Your Strengths finding a way to prevail with integrity.
hours practicing. The next year, I was In tennis, human nature often points Having the opportunity to perform
one of the better Midwest juniors. people in the direction of wanting under pressure is indeed a privilege.
Passionately pouring yourself into a to “fix” their weaknesses. But in my
cause can yield substantial returns. experience, your greatest success lies 11/ How Can I Help?
in getting maximum leverage of your This has probably been the most pro-
2/ Tolstoy Was Right strengths while smartly managing found lesson of my life journey. When
Happiness isn’t about outward things, weaknesses. In business, successful teaching tennis, I had a half hour to cre-
it’s about how one chooses to view companies typically understand their ate a special learning experience. Over
them. This comes from the novel Anna strengths and focus on leveraging them. thousands of lessons, I learned that if I
Karenina. I could have chosen to be so genuinely approached each lesson with
discouraged by the setback with the 7/ Critical Thinking is Critical a “how can I help?” mentality, every-
boys’ team that I walked away from the When playing a match or teaching a thing flowed in a natural and produc-
sport. Instead, I redoubled my efforts, lesson, I constantly needed to analyze tive way. Now, I endeavor to bring that
which led to a series of experiences that the situation and make adjustments. In mindset to every interaction.
have been life-shaping. Choose to make many ways, this is a lesson of vigilance:
the best of every situation. be hyper-alert to the world around you 12/ Seek First to Understand
in order to craft a winning point, a win- I encountered the wisdom of this les-
3/ If It Is to Be, It Is Up to Me ning lesson or a winning proposition. son teaching tennis. To be truly helpful,
I learned the lesson of these 10 two- I must first listen to others’ perspec-
letter words time and again. I needed to 8/ Civility Matters tives. If they feel fully heard, and I work
take responsibility and ownership over Tennis promotes civility and the devel- with them to achieve excellence in a
my performance. When competing, I opment of good character while also way that addresses their concerns, we
discovered there was nowhere else to demanding competitive excellence. As can move things forward in a meaning-
turn but inward. When teaching, the a teen, my temper could get away from ful way. The more I give, the more I get.
student was counting on me to provide me. However, the game challenged me
counsel. This became an incredibly to channel my energy into the next 13/ Have Fun
important lesson in my business career. shot, not to project it elsewhere. The people who have the most success
both on and off the court are those who
4/ Practice Makes Perfect 9/ Character Matters and derive genuine joy from their journey.
The level of success I achieved in com- Performance Counts You simply must find a way to enjoy the
petition was directly proportional to To excel in the sport over time, you ride; the demands are too great. If you
the intensity of my practice. It’s hard need to cultivate both your character can’t enjoy the ride, pick another path.
to imagine achieving any enduring and your competence to be able to Life is too short. •
success without intense practice and break through. Only then does your
hard work. Bring a fierce resolve and performance have the potential to be
Doug Conant is the founder
sense of purpose to your work, knowing meaningfully differentiating. The life of
and CEO of ConantLeadership
that every day is “game day.” Arthur Ashe is the incarnate example (conantleadership.com), chairman
of this. He worked tirelessly to cultivate of the Kellogg Executive Leadership
5/ Better is Best his character as well as his competence Institute at Northwestern University,
I view the art of playing and teaching in tennis, leading to exemplary perfor- and chairman of CECP—The CEO
tennis as a craft, and I learned to think mance on the court, and well beyond it. Force for Good. A former CEO of
of it in terms of working with a mastery Campbell Soup Co. and former
model. The key was to be mindful every 10/ Pressure Is a Privilege chairman of Avon Products, he
moment and to try to do a little better These words come from the title of a will be speaking at the TIA’s TOM
every day. In that sense, this is a life book by Billie Jean King. They speak Conference April 8-11 in Charleston,
S.C. (visit TheTOMConference.com).
lesson that searches for continuous to the need for competitors to have a
AskTheExperts
CM
MY
CY
CMY
Looking ahead
Feisal Hassan, USPTA First Vice President
P
to see how we were doing. While much of the feedback was the upgrade process. Based on these findings, the process was
positive, some felt that the USPTA was only interested in getting significantly streamlined. Applicants still must be 22-years-old
membership dues and have scored Elite Professional on all
and that we lacked the aspects of stroke production, private,
personal touch, or caring and group lessons. Next, they must take
of members after the and pass the online Elite stroke analysis
testing and certification exam. Third, the applicant must take
exam. and pass the online written Elite exam.
As a membership- Lastly, the certification requires taking
based trade association, three online courses and a webinar
this was concerning. It focusing on the business side of the
is imperative that we are profession. All courses are available
doing the best we can online.
to serve our members, To improve tennis-teaching
as they are the lifeblood professionals off-court development,
of the association. National Head Tester Sid Newcomb giving a lesson. the National Education Committee
The first thing we did developed the Leadership Academy. This
was instill a paradigm two-and-a-half-day event is tailored
shift from “testing and certifying” to “educating and for tennis-teaching professionals looking to transition from
evaluating.” We geared the Professional certification level to teaching on-court to off-court managerial roles like tennis
on-court education and evaluation, and structured the Elite directors or general managers within a club or organization.
Professional certification toward off-court training, growth, The Leadership Academy will provide in-depth training of
and development. We also developed three education modules new concepts and trends such as supervision, management,
for the Professional level. These education modules will help and leadership skills that will help tennis-teaching
applicants be better equipped to deliver high quality tennis professionals in their current and future positions. The
instruction in their professional setting. inaugural Leadership Academy will be at the USPTA National
Second, we sought to develop and maintain consistent Headquarters in Lake Nona in July 2018. Registration for
policies and procedures in both testing and training. This the Leadership Academy will be announced later along with
goal was developed and implemented to ensure equity in the application requirements.
educating and evaluating of members. The implementation As I stated earlier, we are here for our membership. And we
was led by National Head Tester, Sid Newcomb, with continue to strive to make the USPTA the premiere tennis-
significant input from our regional head testers. Sid travels teaching certification association. But to improve, we need to
the country and works closely with our head testers and the listen to our members. I thank every one of our members for
National Testing and Certification Committee to provide a their support and commitment to the USPTA. Here’s to having
certification training and testing process that is consistent a great 2018 on and off the court. *
POWERFUL
Unleash your power with the all-new Ultra. With a 15% larger
hottest part of the sweetspot created by Power Rib and Crush
Zone technologies, the Ultra shifts the balance of power
forever in your favor.
WILSON.COM
*Based on 2017 Wilson LABS study comparing 2017 Wilson Ultra 100 CV with Power Rib and Crush Zone versus same model without such features.
Pros often customize the rackets they use, including string patterns. Consumer racket specifications may vary from models customized by Pros for match-play.
© 2017 Wilson Sporting Goods Co. Trademarks advertised other than those of Wilson Sporting Goods Co. are properties of their respective owners. 17-0232
T he sciences of kinesiology and biomechanics have long lauded the benefits of the kinetic chain model
and Duane Knudson, PHD explains that, in 1955 the term “kinetic chain” was modified from what was,
originally, an engineering term - the “kinematic chain.” “Despite the original major problem classifying
human movement in engineering terms, the ‘kinetic chain model’ is currently, a commonplace tool in
the top professional, fitness, allied health, and sports coaching realms. In their literature, both the
International Tennis Federation (ITF) and the United States Tennis Association High Performance
Coaching Program (USTAHPCP) have adopted the kinetic chain concept as a
crucial teaching construct. Roger Federer
By coaching players to obey the principles of the kinetic chain, it is thought
that, players will create the most effective tennis shot, with the most efficient
use of energy and a low chance for
injury. This article examines a
recent study quantifying the
frequency of use of the
kinetic chain model
by ATP World Tour#1 ranked players, and
examines ways the USPTA pro can
easily detect and employ three newly identified
paired technique events used by these #1 players.
As the kinetic chain is a purported guidepost to efficient
play, tennis professionals considering its usefulness in developing
and correcting tennis serving technique, naturally expect the world’s
#1 players to exhibit the characteristics of the kinetic chain. In the typical
representation of the model, kinetic chain force is transferred sequentially
from ground to legs to hips to trunk and back to shoulders then, to elbow to
wrist (shown in Figure 1.)
Research in the study showed however, there is a quantifiable time span of
less than one second for the observation of the summation of the forces in
the kinetic chain to occur. The naked eye, of even the most experienced
observer cannot quantitatively assess the multitude of essential data,
i.e.; the positions, the joint displacements, the joint angular velocities,
and the angular velocities of the many body parts responsible in
less than one second. In its attempt to aid coaches, the ITF and
the USTAHPCP recommends the use of slow motion video so that
coaches, well versed in kinetic chain theory, may more accurately
speculate to a player’s efficiency. Beyond speculation, however,
accurate, objective assessment requires viewing the serve, in multiple
planes simultaneously, with quantifiable velocities, preferably from
unfettered live tournament play.
Therefore, for corroboration of the use of the kinetic chain in
developing and correcting tennis serving technique and reducing injury
with accurately measured kinematics, a quantitative analysis was
performed on some of the world’s #1 ranked ATP players in live match
play using advanced technology.
46--USPTA
46 USPTAADDvantage
ADDvantageMagazine
Magazine
RESULT #1
Djokovic, Federer, Murray, and Roddick break the
kinetic chain model. None of the 10 serves displayed
the perfect sequencing of segment rotations
Figure 1 demanded by the kinetic chain model.
Figure 2 displays the results of the average sequenc-
ing of serving events of Djokovic, Federer, Murray,
and Roddick.
RESULT #2
Surprisingly, the study also revealed three events
that occur simultaneously in the motion of all
the #1’s in the study, in all 10 serves. These three
identified events are easily seen by slow motion
video and might be used by tennis pros daily for
more easily assessing a players’ kinetic energy
transfer while serving. The serves of Djokovic,
Federer, Murray, and Roddick all sequence three
pairs of events which occur simultaneously:
2 Incorrect
PhD states that, timing the leg correctly will efficiently
Correct transfer momentum into a maximum stretch on the
internal rotators of the humerus at the shoulder joint.
Toe off
CONCLUSION
Toe off The analysis of the serving technique data of Djokovic,
Federer, Murray, and Roddick to con-
firm their use of the kinetic chain mod-
3 Incorrect Correct el revealed that, they do not perfectly
conform to the classic model in every
way. Additionally, three pairs of cues
Arm has were discovered in every serve studied
not dropped regardless of player, stance, toss height,
Maximum
wrist or backswing style. With the use of
Maximum extension a simple camera phone these paired
wrist
extension technique points can easily be detect-
ed in any student’s serve and used to
Arm drop
complete contribute to maximal summation of
forces.*
James R. Shaughnessy MSS, CSCS, is a USPTA Master Pro specializing in the application of sports
biomechanics to elite tennis players at the USTA Regional Training Center, at Tucker Tennis Academy in
Tulsa, Oklahoma. He is an award-winning professional with 28 years of experience as a speaker, researcher,
analyst and consultant in sports biomechanics, 3D motion analysis and computerized exercise prescriptions.
He is the founder of SCiO 3D Sports.
Fromuth
NikeCourt
Performance
Favorites.
RF Court Zonal Cooling Advantage Polo NikeCourt Pure Top L/S Half Zip RF Court Tee
R andom House defines timing as: “selecting the best time for doing
something in order to achieve the desired effect.” In tennis, the
desired effect is the ball going over the net and into the court. Nowhere
in the definition of timing does it say that this desired effect needs to be
achieved through the performance of biomechanically sound stroking
techniques. It just says that you have to select the best time for doing
something to achieve the desired effect. The one thing you have to
do for the ball to go over the net and into the court is create a contact
event between the ball and your racquet. Timing then, is all about
selecting the best time to create the event of contact. So, how do you
select the best time to create contact?
(Fig. 1) Snapshot of the contact zone.
Ball
OSITIVE)
3-Depth (P
Front Side EUTRAL)
2-Depth (N
Middle Contact Zone EGATIVE)
1-Depth (N
Back Side
it a three, a two, or a one? Immediate verbal feedback on your their contact zone, you know their timing is negative in that
depth of contact. quadrant. Perhaps their timing is variable in their lower
You will find that identifying your depth of contact on every left quadrant, meaning their timing varies in that quadrant;
ball is not as easy as it sounds. But with practice, you will soon they make contact at a 2-Depth one time, a 3-Depth the
be able to observe and identify your contact depth every time next, and a 1-Depth after that. Variable timing is a common
you hit the ball. You will also start to observe the areas of your problem with recreational players and is a root cause of many
contact zone in which your timing is positive and the areas in of their technical errors. Solving the problem is a matter of
which your timing is neutral or negative. changing their variable timing into constant timing, and for
If you watch professional tennis players from the consistency in timing they can use the front window of their
perspective of their contact zones, you will notice that the contact zone (3-depth) as their timing constant.
majority of their contact occurs in the positive half of their Here’s a drill that gives your students a firsthand experience
contact zone: at a 3-Depth or a 2-Depth. But when you watch of what constant positive timing feels like and what it can
recreational players from the same perspective, you will notice do for their overall performance on the court. It is a timing
that the majority of their contact occurs in the negative half exercise and it involves concentrating only on making contact
of their contact zone: at a 2-Depth or a 1-Depth. You can also at the 3-Depth.
take a look at your own game from the perspective of your own Think of it this way: if all they had to do with the oncoming
contact zone, and find out whether you are making contact in ball was contact it at the front window of their contact zone;
the positive or negative half of your contact zone. that would not be a difficult task to complete. So that’s their
task. And it is their only task. Instuct them to use their
Fixing Bad Timing strokes to make contact with the oncoming ball at their front
So how do you fix a student’s bad timing? If their timing imaginary window. Nothing more, nothing less. Say “yes” if
is negative, how do you make it positive? I have found that they are successful. Say “no” if they are not. Again, immediate
using their contact zone as a standard of measurement makes verbal feedback.
it not only possible to observe and objectively measure their As your students begin to make consistent contact at the front
depth of contact, but it is also possible to make measurable window of their contact zone not only will they be changing their
changes to improve their timing. For instance, if they are variable timing into constant positive timing, but they will also
making contact at a 1-Depth in the lower right quadrant of see what positive timing can do for their game.*
Author, clinician, and performance specialist, Scott Ford has been a USPTA Professional since 1977. He is
the author of Design B: How To Play Tennis In the Zone (1984), Welcome To The Zone: Peak Performance
Redefined (2014), and Integral Consciousness and Sport: Unifying Body, Mind, and Spirit through Flow
(2016). Scott teaches peak performance in tennis at Rocky Mountain Tennis Center in Boulder, Colorado.
10-S.com • 800-247-3907
Text to Chat 954-800-6790
Official Court Equipment Supplier of the
53 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine
AerFlo
Chroma-Bond® IMPRINTING SpotLight™ Digital Imprinting
Our exclusive, double-coating process for vivid New from Aer-Flo. Utilizing the latest state-of-the-art digital
lettering and logo imprints that are ultra-durable. technology, SpotLight Imprinting produces vivid images on
Chroma-Bond images literally BOND INTO the any of 23 Tuffy Windscreen colors. Our exclusive clear over-
Vipol vinyl surface, so they do not scratch off or coat provides added UV and abrasion resistance to the printed
prematurely fade from UV sunlight exposure. areas only … highlighting the images for added impact.
Choose our imprinting process that best fits the complexity of your images.
A s a director
of tennis, it is
important that you lead
let his staff settle with what they have.
Continuous education is a must in the
tennis industry.
by example. With that in
mind, here are 13 traits I Adaptablity
believe will make a for a It’s important as a director to
great director of tennis understand how to deal with each staff
for any organization. member in a certain way. What might
work for one staff member might not
Positivity work for the other. So as a director be
It’s important to ready to adapt to each one of your staff
understand that members; it’s important to understand
employees at all levels there are many different ways of getting
make mistakes, it’s how the message across to each individual.
you as a director react A great example can be when giving a
to those mistakes will lesson, you might breakdown a forehand
determine the success to a client one way, but the next client
of your employee. By won’t understand it as well, so you have
reacting with a positive to find a different way to deliver your
outlook and showing message.
some other possible
solutions that could Open Mindedness
have taken place, you Even though directors run the program
as a director show that and oversee staff, it’s very important a
you care about your director stays open-minded. I would
employee and in return recommend having a meeting every 7-8
the employee would weeks with staff to discuss potential new
try and make sure programs and have each staff member
they don’t repeat the present an idea. You never know what
same mistake again. Creating positive shouldn’t be looked at as negative your staff will come up with. Being a
feedback will create a positive and feedback. The staff must understand close-minded director will limit your
hardworking environment; negative it’s a way for them to get better in their tennis programs.
feedback will have a complete different development and all types of feedback
result. should be encouraged. Passion
A director’s position requires a
Honesty passionate individual. As we know, a
Honesty is a very important trait to have As a director, make sure to encourage tennis professionals job isn’t the normal
and understand. It’s important a director your employees to keep growing their 9 to 5, we put in 70-hour work weeks
is honest with all his employees because personal brand. Motivate them to between lessons, admin work, facility
honesty will only provide growth for the continue obtaining certifications and management, stringing, events, and
employee’s professional development. professional development credits committee meetings. It’s very important
In a tennis situation, be honest as a through the USPTA Education Program. that we enjoy what we do because we
director about some of the things that By pushing them to better themselves, spend the majority of our life at the club.
you enjoyed about your staff’s lesson and you show that you care about your staff If you aren’t passionate about what you
some of the things you would like to see and that you want what’s best for them. I do in life you should seriously reconsider
improved in their lesson plans. Honesty personally think a director should never your career.
tendency to trust people more when term goals for the tennis program can
Communication they appear self-assured. Dealing with a help staff understand what is wanted and
In order to be an effective leader, one confident person helps assure us that the needed in the program. Often upcoming
must have clear communication skills person is also experienced. Of course, clubs would love to fill up their courts
with staff and members. Some tips in you could argue that someone could be anyway they can just to gain interest
effective communicating are: trusted, but not confident, or confident, of members; sometimes a way of doing
and not trusted. This could be the case that is by allowing non-members to
Prepare how you’ll communicate sometimes but it’s not typical. participate. Financially stable clubs
• Simplify the goal. might have other plans. They might like
• Anticipate the receiver’s viewpoint Consistency to leave the courts open so that members
and feelings. To be a great leader, it’s important to stay have better access to them at any time
• Plan wisely before sending out consistent in your programming. I often during the day. The need for revenue
messages or meeting in person. have seen situations where directors isn’t as important in that particular case.
implement a policy and don’t follow Commercial clubs rely on tennis revenue
Carry out the message through with it. An example could be whereas Country Clubs receive revenue
• Direct your meaning with having a tennis staff meeting every other through membership dues. So the vision
conviction. Friday. Often, we start the program with factor plays an important role on what is
• Relate the message to your great intentions just to have it fade as expected.
bigger goals. the months go by. Staying consistent in
• Identify the action to be taken. staff policies and procedures will help Care
• Confirm the other person you achieve your long-term tennis goals. A director must understand that life
understands. Some examples where tennis programs happens and sometimes it can’t be
tend to fade in the private club industry always about work. Great directors
Receive the message are women inter and intra club teams tend to always care about what’s going
• Keep an open mind. along with USTA teams. There is usually on in their staff’s lives. If there are any
• Identify key points in the message. a lot of excitement during practices and personal issues that staff members need
• Value constructive feedback and use as the season comes to an end, players to talk about, a director should always
it to grow. tend to drop off. Be creative! Create an have their door open. A director that
• Confirm your understanding. offseason tennis clinic to prep ladies for cares about their staff and not only about
the upcoming season. Stay consistent work, will connect with staff members in
Creativity throughout the whole year and a greater way than a director that cares
It’s very important to keep your remember to keep the momentum going about results and revenue.
tennis program creative. Members and build on it.
will get bored and tired of the same Responsibility
old programs every week. In order to Vision It’s important to understand we all make
run a successful program and keep the Every tennis program is different; some mistakes and we are just as human as
interest of members, we must continue clubs are super active, and some clubs everyone else. To gain respect from
to be creative. Adding new programs are low key. Every club has different employees, it’s important we own up to
every eight weeks will keep your tennis goals depending on what type of club our mistakes and take responsibility.
program fresh and can also potentially they are and what they are looking for Playing the blame game will only create a
gain the attention of new members. in their tennis program. As a director, distant and negative relationship among
it’s your responsibility to make sure employees, which could lead to negative
Confidence your staff understands the vision results at your club. The most positive and
Employees like to work with leaders of the tennis program that you and beneficial thing that comes from personal
who are confident. There is an expected management share. Long and short- mistakes is the learning experience. *
USPTA Elite Professional Boris Fetbroyt is the director of tennis at the Country Club of Fairfax and a USTA
High Performance Coach. He also serves on the USPTA Mid-Atlantic board of directors as the vice president
and is on the USPTA U30 National Committee.
Tyson McGuffin was featured in The Coeur David Minihan was named the director of
d’Alene Press sports article titled Happy tennis at the new Kickingbird Tennis Center
to Be in a Pickle. McGuffin was a 2x state in Edmond, Oklahoma. He recently was
high school champion in tennis for Lake the director of tennis at Westwood Tennis
Chelan High School and played two years of Center where he raised over $150,000 for
collegiate tennis at Scottsdale Community improvements to the tennis center and played
College and Spokane Falls Community a major role in getting a new pro shop built and
College. After college, he became a tennis the tennis center court expansion. Minihan
professional at Pine Forest Country Club in Houston, Texas is a Master Professional and earned his Bachelor’s of Business
for two years and then moved to Yakima, Washington to Administration in Management from Oklahoma.
become a head tennis professional. He is now the head tennis/
pickleball professional at Peak Health & Wellness Center in Claudette Laliberte
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. organized the inaugural
Happy Volleydays at Poco
Darrell Smith was inducted Diablo Resort in Sedona,
into the Illinois State Arizona. The event served as
University Hall of Fame. Smith a food drive for the Sedona
was a four-year letter winner Community Food Bank and
at No. 1 for singles/doubles saw 40 players play matches
competition and ranks in the of friendly mixed doubles tennis. Among the 40 tennis players at
top-five for career singles win the event was Master Professional Larry Lineberry. 150 pounds
at ISU. of food were donated from the event.
NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS ADDVANTAGE MAGAZINE ADDvantage is published monthly by the USPTA
Managing Editor ....................................................... John Cornell The opinions expressed in ADDvantage are
President.......................................................................Gary Trost Editor...................................................................DeVonte’ Martin those of the authors and not necessarily those
Layout/Design........................................................ Gustavo Reyes of ADDvantage or the United States Professional
First Vice President..................................................Feisal Hassan Editorial Assistance......................... Amy Buchanan, John Gerard
Vice Presidents...................Cari Buck, Mark Faber, Trish Faulkner Ramona Husaru, Ashley Walker Tennis Association.
Circulation............................................................. Trevor Trudelle
Bill Mountford, Richard Slivocka
Copyright© United States Professional Tennis
Immediate Past President..............................................Chuck Gill USPTA World Headquarters
11961 Performance Dr. Association, Inc. 2018. All rights reserved.
CEO........................................................................... John Embree
Orlando, FL 32827 Reproduction of any portion of the magazine is not
Legal Counsel.........................................................George Parnell Ph: 407-634-3050 • Email: magazine@uspta.org • www.uspta.org permitted without written permission from USPTA.
USPTA
Phoenix, AZ
requires all certified members to earn 6 credits of
continuing education in a three-year period. (International May 30-June 3................................ Florida
members, recreational coaches and those 65 or older are exempt.) The time period coincides Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress
with the date you completed the certification exam or reinstated your membership. Please Orlando, FL
login to My USPTA to check your Professional Development Program end date.
June 1-2..........................Pacific Northwest
If the requirement is not met, you will have your membership suspended. To help you Yakima Tennis Club
meet that goal, USPTA provides hundreds of hours of education every year in the form of Yakima, WA
conferences, workshops, webinars, DVDs and more. TennisResources.com is an excellent
resource for free education opportunities. In addition, the Coach Youth Tennis website offers August 22-23...... USPTA World Conference
Grand Hyatt
six free online courses that earn a 1/2 education credit each.
New York, NY
Upon completion of the sixth course, you will receive 3 bonus credits (one-time only),
bringing the total to 6 credits and completing the continuing education requirement. (you do November............................Middle States
not need to complete the online workshop unless you are completing your USPTA certification) TBD*
*Middle States is the last division to hold their
Go to coachyouthtennis.com for more information. conference every calendar year.