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Tóm tắt nội dung (trích từ tài liệu gốc): RACQUET TECH COMMUNITY RELATIONS TENNIS INDUSTRY HALL OF FAME Service your players' Stay engaged locally, The tennis industry grommet strips and your business honors Vic Braden and bumper guards will reap rewards and Jim Fromuth September/October 2018 / Volume 46 / Number 9 / $5.00 Racquets Also Inside: Ask the Experts New sticks and Too stiff or too flexible? Parks and technology for the Apparel Recreation US Open and fall season Socks that will comfort What a frame's flex numbers really mean Tennis is thriving in our 18 your customers and public spaces thanks to leaders, boost their performa
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RACQUET TECH COMMUNITY RELATIONS TENNIS INDUSTRY HALL OF FAME
Service your players' Stay engaged locally, The tennis industry
grommet strips and your business honors Vic Braden
and bumper guards will reap rewards and Jim Fromuth
September/October 2018 / Volume 46 / Number 9 / $5.00 Racquets Also Inside: Ask the Experts
New sticks and Too stiff or too flexible?
Parks and technology for the Apparel
Recreation US Open and fall season Socks that will comfort What a frame's flex
numbers really mean
Tennis is thriving in our 18 your customers and
public spaces thanks to leaders, boost their performance 38
innovators and players 36
Incorporating USPTA pg. 41
TEAM BABOLAT PRO PLAYERS MAY PLAY WITH A CUSTOMIZED OR DIFFERENT MODEL THAN THE EQUIPMENT DEPICTED.
TennisIndustry www.tennisindustrymag.com
Contents Sept./Oct. 2018
DEPARTMENTS FEATURES
4 Our Serve 26 Public Access
7 Industry News Half of all tennis played in the U.S. takes place in public parks. These
14 Letters to the Editor venues and individuals are helping to lead the charge.
16 Racquet Tech
18 New Racquets
20 Community Relations
22 Tennis Industry Hall of Fame
24 TIA News
32 Court Construction
38 Ask the Experts
40 Your Serve, by Joshua Jacobs
INDUSTRY NEWS 36 Secure Footing 18 Frames
The right socks can keep your players' feet for Fall
7 Troon acquires Cliff comfortable, and also help their performance. Racquet
Drysdale Management companies
are intro-
7 Summer pro tour events ducing new
to include time clocks product
for the US
7 USTA Foundation, Chase Open and
award 10 NJTL chapters fall season.
8 ITF critical of new ATP
team event
8 PGA Tour Superstore
plans major expansion
10 Pickleball Central distributes
new SwiftNet
10 Four earn USTA Player
Development fellowships
10 People Watch
10 ITA, Oracle announce
partnership extension
12 Chris Renner named new
CEO for World TeamTennis
12 USPTA For All Campaign
honored by Telly Awards
12 Amazon seeks global
broadcast rights to Laver Cup
13 Short Sets
14 Asian Tennis Federation
partners with PTR
p.41 PLUS
43 From the CEO
43 46 48 51 46 President's Message
USPTA Hall Meet Your Team A New Direction Ways to Keep 48 Master Pro Corner
of Fame: of Leaders and for Racquet Tennis Short, 51 Inside Coaching
Recognizing Their Committee Head Speed Cheap and Easy 54 Leadership Academy
Our Very Best Initiatives 57 Har-Tru
57 Tennis Thanks the Troops
Read more articles online at www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com 58 Member News
60 USPTA Career Development
2 TennisIndustry September/October 2018 www.tennisindustrymag.com
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EDITOR'S NOTE PUBLISHER
JEFF WILLIAMS
Critical Thinking
EDITOR
Let's foster an open culture where PETER FRANCESCONI
ideas are taken in the constructive
spirit in which they're intended. MANAGING EDITOR
SCOTT GRAMLING
I n the July issue, I asked readers years, and particularly some of the
to share their ideas and thoughts confidential notes and calls I've received CREATIVE DIRECTOR
about what we need to do to recently, point out a need in this industry IAN KNOWLES
grow tennis participation and to better foster a culture where sugges-
to grow this industry. I received tions, ideas and--yes--criticism, can get SENIOR EDITOR
responses from a broad spectrum of out on the table and are taken in the con- ED M GROGAN
industry people. structive spirit in which they're intended.
ART DIRECTOR
Many comments came from tennis One of the good things about the USTA CRHISTIAN RODRIGUEZ
providers, and they often involved spe- is that it is made up of volunteers at all
cific things they are doing locally to grow levels. They bring all types of experience PRODUCTION EDITOR
tennis in their own communities, which to this massive organization--not just in SAM CHASE
is terrific. Others sent in their thoughts, tennis, but experience in virtually every
comments and suggestions about what field or business you can think of. SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR
industry groups, especially the USTA, are BOB PATTERSON
doing, are not doing and should be doing We're in a critical time in this industry.
to help grow this sport. While not taking anything away from the CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
USTA sta at the national, sectional and CYNTHIA CANTRELL, PEG CONNOR,
A number of these phone calls and district levels, we must use all the tools DAVID LASOTA, KENT OSWALD, NATE PAGEL,
emails came to me in confidence, and I we have available to grow this sport. With CYNTHIA SHERMAN, MARY HELEN SPRECHER
get that. Often, many of us in this indus- their wealth of ideas and experience, the
try are reluctant to buck the direction volunteers in this organization and the CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
things are taking or to suggest alterna- boots-on-the-ground tennis providers BOB KENAS, DAVID KENAS
tives. I've been in this industry a long are incredibly important.
time, and there clearly is a sense that ASSOCIATE EDITOR
criticism and suggestions often are not As I've said before, we can have the TIM M ARTHUR
welcomed or well-received, or that not best national programs possible to grow
much will happen or change--so why tennis--and we do have great programs-- EDITORIAL DIRECTION
bother putting yourself out there? but it all amounts to nothing if we can't 10TEN MEDIA
deliver at the local level. To do that, we
We need to continue to hear need to continue to hear your ideas, TENNIS INDUSTRY
your ideas, suggestions and suggestions and comments--even if they 250 Park Avenue, Ste 825, NY NY 10017
comments--even if they may di er from conventional programs
may differ from conventional and thinking. And we need those making 646-381-8735
decisions to be open to these ideas and to info@tennisindustrymag.com
programs and thinking. the inevitable criticism.
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Let's continue to open up the dialogue JOHN HANNA
and collaborate on how to grow tennis.
770-650-1102, x125
But if we're going to grow this industry Peter Francesconi hanna@knowatlanta.com
the way it deserves to grow, and if we're Editor
truly serious about spreading the gospel Peter@TennisIndustryMag.com APPAREL ADVERTISING
of tennis to all corners, it's time we push CYNTHIA SHERMAN
past these attitudes. 203-558-5911
The conversations I've had over the cstennisindustry@gmail.com
Tennis Industry is published 10 times per year:
monthly, January through August with combined
issues in September/October and November/
December, by Tennis Media Company, 250 Park
Avenue, Suite 825, New York NY 10017. Periodical
postage paid in Duluth, GA and at additional mailing
offices (USPS #004-354). Sept./Oct. 2018, Volume 46,
Number 9 � 2018 by Tennis Media Company. All rights
reserved. Tennis Industry, TI and logo are trademarks
of Tennis Media Company. Printed in the U.S.A. Phone
advertising: 770-650-1102 x 125. Phone circulation
and editorial: 646-381-8735. Yearly subscriptions
$25 in the U.S., $40+ elsewhere. POSTMASTER: Send
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Suite 825, New York NY 10017. Tennis Industry is the
official magazine of the USRSA, TIA and ASBA.
Looking for back issues of Tennis Industry/Racquet
Sports Industry? Visit the archives at our website
at TennisIndustryMag.com for free digital versions.
4 TennisIndustry September/October 2018 www.tennisindustrymag.com
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IndustryNews
Information to help you run your business
FACILITY MANAGEMENT Summer Pro Events
To Include Time Clocks
Troon Acquires Cliff
Drysdale Management The USTA, ATP and WTA announced
a series of in-game innovations which
were implemented at a number of
tournaments in the U.S. and Canada this
summer and will include the 2018 US
Open. Officials say the collaborative rule
changes are aimed at increasing the pace
of play and ensuring a consistent set of
enforcement standards.
In addition to the US Open, tourna-
ments incorporating the innovations
are in Washington, D.C.; San Jose, Calif.;
Montreal; Toronto; Cincinnati; New
Haven, Conn.; and Winston-Salem, N.C.
The innovations include:
� Warm-Up Clock: A one-minute clock
will begin when the second player/team
arrives at their chair(s). A five-minute
time clock will begin following the coin
toss and begin the warm-up period.
Delays will result in post-match fines.
� Serve Clock: The server will be given
up to 25 seconds to serve after the chair
umpire announces the score or after balls
are in place after even-numbered games,
or a time violation results. The umpire will
have the ability and discretion to pause
the clock. (A clock will be placed in a vis-
ible position for players and fans.)
C O URTE SY C LI FF DRY SDA LE MA NA GE ME N T/T R OON T roon, a leader in club golf for decades. It is a perfect fit. I am USTA Foundation, Chase
management, develop- inspired to work hard to make this new Award 10 NJTL Chapters
ment and marketing, has beginning a major success for our com-
acquired Cliff Drysdale pany and the tennis industry." The USTA Foundation announced that for
Management (CDM). the fifth consecutive year, it has partnered
CDM joins Troon's portfolio of CDM's Don Henderson has made a with longtime US Open sponsor Chase to
companies that includes Troon Golf, long-term commitment to continue his award 10 National Junior Tennis and Learn-
Honours Golf, Troon Priv�, CaddieMas- role with the company and will remain ing (NJTL) chapters with a funding grant.
ter and Troon International. CDM will CDM's president and CEO. Drysdale This year, Chase has increased the grant
continue to operate under the Cliff will also maintain interest in the busi- amounts to $15,000 for each chapter.
Drysdale brand and be governed by the ness, continuing to develop its strategic
same culture and leadership that has vision, partnership relations and con- The funding supports year-round ten-
existed since its founding in 2001. ducting event appearances. nis and education programming through
the A.C.E. curriculum (Academic Creative
"The Troon organization totally Based in New Braunfels, Texas, with Engagement). In total, Chase has awarded
understands our business," says Cliff 30 locations in nine states and two more than $550,000 to select NJTL chapters
Drysdale (inset, above). "We are to ten- countries, CDM has more than 200 ten- within the five-year partnership.
nis and health what Troon has been to nis and club management professionals,
and 40 directors and executive staff. NJTL chapters receiving $15,000 grants are:
�A's & Aces, New Orleans
�Dallas Tennis Association
�First Break Academy, Los Angeles
www.tennisindustrymag.com September/October 2018 TennisIndustry 7
IndustryNews
RETAILERS
PGA Tour
Superstore
Plans Major
Expansion
P GA Tour Superstore says it PGA Tour Superstore
has plans to add five to seven officials say business
new stores a year over the has been healthy across
next three years, increasing all tennis categories.
its current 33 locations to about 50
stores. In addition to golf equipment, they need under one roof," says Chief much more. The last time I checked, on-
PGA Tour Superstore locations carry a Marketing Officer Matt Corey. "We line marketplaces can't do those things."
large assortment of tennis racquets, don't just sell products, we provide a
accessories and footwear, and offer different level of service through our The company recently acquired two
stringing and customization services. people helping customers restring or leases of former Toys R Us properties in
re-grip racquets, find the right string for Indianapolis and Chicago. Officials say
"Our store associate expertise, wide their game, the right racquet size and PGA Tour Superstore will continue to
assortments and commitment to the explore other Toys R Us locations.
customer experience inspires all levels
of tennis players--from beginners to
seasoned players--to find everything
�MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation, COURTESY PGA TOUR SUPERSTORE
Jacksonville, Fla.
�Metropolitan Tennis and Education
Group, Upper Marlboro, Md.
�Houston Tennis Association
�New York Junior Tennis & Learning
�Portland Tennis & Education, Portland, Ore.
�San Francisco Recreation & Parks
�The ACE Project, Riverdale, Ill.
ITF Critical of New
ATP Team Event
In July, the ATP announced that a
revamped World Team Cup, a men's event
offering $15 million in prize money along
with ranking points, would start in early
2020 in Australia. The World Team Cup
will be a 24-team event.
The news was met with disappoint-
ment by the International Tennis Federa-
tion, which organizes the Davis Cup. The
ITF is going ahead with its own plans to
transform the Davis Cup into an 18-team
"world-class finale" at the end of the
season, starting in 2019.
"We do feel that this was an opportu-
nity missed by the ATP to work together
with the ITF in a beneficial and positive
way for the whole of tennis," the ITF said
in a statement.
8 TennisIndustry September/October 2018 www.tennisindustrymag.com
IndustryNews
PADDLE SPORTS ATP President Chris Kermode, in
announcing the World Team Cup, said,
Pickleball "This event will enable us to kick off
Central our season with a major team event,
Distributes with minimal impact on existing play-
New SwiftNet ers' schedules at the start of the year."
The SwiftNet is a new, portable pick- Angeles, Wash., for its development. ITA, Oracle Announce
leball net made of ultra-light carbon Pickleball Central says the net is Partnership Extension
fiber that is lighter, stronger and faster
to set up than other nets, says Pickleball about half the weight of similar prod- The Intercollegiate Tennis Association
Central, which is distributing the prod- ucts and can be set up by one person in and Oracle have announced a multi-year
uct and partnered with the Composite under three minutes. extension to their partnership. The alli-
Recycling Technology Center of Port ance includes Oracle's ongoing sponsor-
Suggested retail price is $349. Visit ship of the Oracle ITA Collegiate Tennis
pickleballcentral.com for more info. Rankings, the Oracle ITA Masters and
Oracle ITA National Fall Championships,
People while adding title sponsorships to the
Watch ITA Summer Circuit (now branded as the
Oracle ITA Summer Circuit Powered by
Roger Federer is no longer wearing Earlier this year, Fila reignited the com- UTR) and the Division I and Division III
Nike apparel. At Wimbledon this year, pany's partnership with Bjorn Borg, a National Team Indoor Championships.
he was sporting apparel by Uniqlo, in a relationship that dates back to 1975. Leo,
deal with the company that's reportedly who recently turned 15 years old, was "Our partnership with ITA has been a
worth $300 million over 10 years. ranked No. 1 in the under-14 age group great success to date, and we're eager to
in Sweden and captured the U14 Swed- keep expanding the game," says Oracle
Former USTA Northern Marketing and ish Masters title last November. CEO Mark Hurd. "We want to ensure that
Communications Director Lisa Mushett young players understand that collegiate
will be the new capital campaign manag- Longtime tennis industry leader tennis offers terrific opportunities to
er for the Fred Wells Tennis & Education Stuart Smith, who has served in an improve their games and play in great
Center of St. Paul, Minn. administrative role both in Britain and venues in a team environment, all while
within the global tennis community, getting an education that will serve them
Fila has signed a sponsorship agree- received the Golden Achievement Award well for the rest of their lives."
ment with Leo Borg, son of tennis legend by the International Tennis Hall of Fame
and Fila brand ambassador Bjorn Borg. and the ITF in July. "Both parties are committed to posi-
tively shaping the future of college ten-
Add length to racquets and paddles with the new nis," adds ITA CEO Timothy Russell. COURTESY PICKLEBALL CENTRAL
XTP�Xtended Tennis Product! Four Earn Player
Development Fellowships
Patented XTP butt cap installs
quickly, easily and securely. Four recent or soon-to-be college
graduates are taking part in the USTA
www.xtptennisbuttcap.com Player Development summer fellow-
ship program, which runs through the
USRSA Tested � Dealers Wanted 2018 US Open.
10 TennisIndustry September/October 2018 Professional Coaching Fellows are
Zackery Kennedy, a 23-year-old out
of Atlanta who was an All-Sun Belt Con-
ference player at Georgia State; Darne-
sha Moore, a 21-year-old Chicago
native and former All-SWAC player at
Southern University; and Jordan Belga,
a 22-year-old Floridian and former
SEC Academic Honor Roll player at the
University of Florida. The Performance
Analytics Fellow is Allison Kothari, a
21-year-old senior lacrosse player at
the University of Michigan.
The fellowship program provides
experiential training and opportunity
for independent research in the field
www.tennisindustrymag.com
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IndustryNews
of professional tennis coaching. The 39th Annual Telly Awards for its USPTA For Led by the USPTA Multimedia Team
program is based out of the USTA National All Campaign. The Telly Awards honors consisting of Video Production Manager
Campus in Orlando, Fla., and includes excellence in video and television across all John Gerard and Videographer/Video
traveling with a coaching mentor. mediums, and it is judged by leaders from Editor Rico Edwards, the USPTA For All
video platforms, television and streaming Campaign touches on the benefits of
USPTA For All Campaign networks, agencies and production compa- becoming USPTA-certified, highlights
Honored by Telly Awards nies including Vice, Vimeo, Hearst Digital the USPTA U30 Initiative and documents
Media and BuzzFeed. USPTA professionals of various ethnic
The USPTA received three trophies at the backgrounds.
Amazon Seeks Global
Broadcast Rights to Laver Cup
In early summer, Amazon was COURTESY LAVER CUP
reportedly set to agree to a two-year
12 TennisIndustry September/October 2018 deal for exclusive global broadcast
rights to the Laver Cup, the news outlet
Australian Financial Review reported.
The Laver Cup, which launched
last year in Prague and will be held
in Chicago in Sept. 21-23, pits "Team
World" against "Team Europe" over
three days. Plans are for Amazon to
broadcast the Laver Cup to its Prime
subscribers.
The latest deal comes as Amazon
continues to expand its tennis broad-
cast rights. Last year, it acquired the
U.K. rights to broadcast both the ATP
Finals and the US Open.
Chris Renner Named
World TeamTennis CEO
World TeamTennis has named Chris
Renner its new CEO. He succeeds long-
time WTT CEO Ilana Kloss, who will retain
the role of WTT commissioner at least
through the end of the 2018 season.
Renner joins WTT after more than a
decade of directing Helios Partners, a
leading international sports marketing
consulting company. As director of the
marketing programs for sports as diverse
as the Olympics, Asian Games and the
ATP Tennis Masters Series, Renner has
worked on projects in Europe, Asia and
the U.S. He will be based in Southern
California.
www.tennisindustrymag.com
IndustryNews
Short
Sets
This year's World TeamTennis pro site, was designed to help increase par- suite of tools and technology, including
season in July made use of the Hawk-Eye ticipation of the Hispanic population in its tournament and event management
Live line-calling system for its matches. coaching tennis. system, to organize and run competitive,
Hawk-Eye Live made the on-court calls, level-based tennis events.
supported by only two officials: the chair Fila North America has more than
umpire and a review official in the Hawk- doubled the company's distribution cen- Prince launched a limited-edition White-
Eye booth to monitor foot faults. ter space. The company signed a 10-year out Collection for Wimbledon, including
lease, acquiring a space that sits adjacent an all-white Tour 100P frame (with black
Peter Burwash International will direct to its current facility in Baltimore. strings) and coordinating bag.
the tennis program for Callaway Resort &
Gardens, a 2,500-acre resort complex in The Intercollegiate Tennis Association Beginning with this year's US Open,
Pine Mountain, Ga., with eight clay and is a supporting partner of the second ballpersons will no longer throw the ball
two hard courts. annual Women's Tennis Coaching Asso- between positions, but will instead roll
ciation Conference, Aug. 30-31 in NYC. the ball. Rolling between positions has
On July 24, PTR hosted its inaugural traditionally been utilized at the other
Hispanic Coaches Conference, presented The International Tennis Hall of Fame Grand Slam events. "We are putting less
with USTA Southern during the BB&T in Newport, R.I., is adopting Universal emphasis on a single skill-set, in this case
Atlanta Open. The conference, presented Tennis (UTR) as its official player rating throwing," said Tina Taps, director of US
in English with Spanish translators on system. The Hall of Fame will use UTR's Open ballpersons.
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www.tennisindustrymag.com September/October 2018 TennisIndustry 13
IndustryNews
Letters We have to be more proactive to our news apply for the tennis coach position at our
media. When we have local tournaments, local high school. The idea scared me. Did
LET PEOPLE KNOW ABOUT TENNIS nothing is sent to the newspapers or televi- I really want tennis back in my life? Was I
I agree with your "Our Serve" column in sion stations. Our children are in tourna- ready to confront those memories?
the July issue about the state of tennis. As ments all over the South and nobody
the "sport for a lifetime," we have so much knows about it. I am so glad I did! These high school
more to offer than any other sport. kids are bursting with positive energy,
We have to start letting people know excitement and enthusiasm. Many had
We have to make people aware of the what is going on in a sport that has a future never picked up a racquet before, but their
benefits of tennis and the reasons to play for them. We need to spread the word: eagerness to learn and grow their game
(as you list on page 36 of the July issue). Tennis is great! has been inspiring. They gave me reasons
to smile again on a tennis court, seeing the
Arnold Bradshaw fun tennis can bring.
Montgomery, Ala.
These student-athletes will carry tennis
TENNIS NEEDS TO BE ABOUT FUN! with them long after they graduate. I can't
I had lost tennis for a long time in my life. I thank them enough for giving me back my
was a competitive junior player who was love for the game!
abused by a coach. I survived, but tennis
had a sour connection to him, so I packed Sandra McLaughlin, USPTA
away my racquets, along with some bitter Meadowdale High School
memories, and this great sport slipped Lynnwood, Wash.
away from me.
We welcome your letters, comments and
Decades later, a friend told me I should opinions. Please email them to info@ten-
nisindustrymag.com.
LOVE LOVE Asian Tennis Federation
Partners with PTR
Club members and students will LOVE facing
off against the phenom. You will LOVE Anil Khanna with PTR CEO Dan Santorum
offering the added advantage.
The Asian Tennis Federation and PTR
� announced a three-year partnership
in which the PTR becomes an "Official
follow lobstersports on play more. win more�. Continuous Learning Provider" of the
ATF, which has 44 member nations.
For more information, please call 888.380.9460 or visit www.lobstersports.com The agreement also provides PTR with
opportunities to promote coach edu-
cation activities throughout Asia. COURTESY PTR
14 TennisIndustry September/October 2018 "The ATF and PTR share the view
that competent, motivated and enthu-
siastic coaches are the best ambassa-
dors for our sport, helping us increase
participation and develop high per-
formance players," says ATF President
Anil Khanna. "We are delighted to have
the opportunity to work with PTR."
www.tennisindustrymag.com
TennisIndustry
Racquet Tech
When installing the side
grommet strips, start
at the bottom with the
longest barrels, and work
your way up the frame.
CUSTOMER SERVICE original purpose remains the same: to
protect both the string and the frame as
Protect and Serve those two components work together.
Your players will appreciate the Players often don't even think about
extra service of replacing grommet their racquet's grommet strips. Espe-
strips and bumper guards. cially today, when players are holding
onto their racquets for three, four,
By Bob Patterson five years or longer, it's important that
they understand grommet strips and
Executive Director, USRSA bumper guards wear out and need to be
replaced, so they can continue to do the
W hile the two main endless scrapes on the court. jobs they were designed to do. COURTESY USRSA
components of a Through the years, there have been
tennis racquet-- For a novice stringer, replacing the
the frame and the many advancements and innovations grommet set may seem a bit intimidat-
strings--tend to with the grommet strip, making its job ing, but it just takes a little planning and
get all of the attention, there are other an even more vital component of the practice to get the job done right.
parts of a frame that play vital roles racquet. We've seen advanced materials
when it comes to performance. added to the grommet strip to cushion Double-Check Your Parts
and dampen shock. We've also seen
As racquet technicians, we can't manufacturers vary the angles of the Before you yank out the old, worn
forget the importance of the grommets drill holes for more stress-free move- grommet strips, make sure you have
and bumper guard. The grommets pro- ment of the strings during both string- the correct replacement parts. Most
tect the strings as they run through the ing and ball impact. manufacturers offer replacements for
holes drilled into the frame, while the a year or two after a frame has been
bumper guard protects the frame from But even with these and other discontinued. If you have trouble find-
improvements, the grommet strip's ing a replacement for older frames,
you may be able to locate them from
another stringer. USRSA members can
utilize the "Grommet Network" to find
exactly what they need.
Once the old grommet strip is
16 TennisIndustry September/October 2018 www.tennisindustrymag.com
TennisIndustry
1 2
removed, it cannot be reinstalled, so parallel, so the new strip should slip 1. Use a zip tie to temporarily
always double-check the fit of the new in easily. hold one end of stubborn
grommet strip before you remove the bumper guards in place.
old strip. Hold the new strip along the Next, start the side strips at the
edge of the old one in the frame to make bottom with the longest barrels. 2. Barrels need to go through
sure that all the holes and grommet Most frames are hollow, so the barrels two walls, which often don't
barrels line up. need to pass through two walls--and line up perfectly. Use an awl
since most holes are not drilled at a and carefully guide the barrel.
Another reason to perform a physical 90-degree angle, they won't line up
check is that most companies use the perfectly. Once the barrel is through start in the top center and work your
same model names for their frames the outer wall, you should be able to see way out on each side; for others, it's
over many years, so there may be many it through the inner hole. Use an awl to easier to start at one end and work your
slightly different frames bearing the gently guide the barrel to line up with way across.
same or similar names. the inner hole as you apply pressure
with your fingers. (As you go along, you Don't force things! If you try to force
Once you ensure that the part will fit may find you have to install three or the barrels into place, the plastic will
properly, carefully remove the old strip. four barrels at a time.) deform and mushroom out, and it will
To make the job easier and less stress- never fit. When this happens, you'll
ful on the frame, use cutters to snip off Once the sides are in place, it is time most likely have to throw the piece
the ends of any flared or bent grommet for the bumper guard, which is often away and start over with a new one.
barrels. Once this is done, the grommet the hardest part to install because it
strip will slip out easily. is much bulkier and thicker, making it Some bumper guards will not stay
difficult to bend the flat plastic into the seated during installation--when you
With the old strip removed, wipe curved shape of the frame. fit one end in, the other end pops out of
down the frame and clean off any place. An easy fix for this is to use a zip
residue. It is also a good idea to take a There are many different designs of tie to hold the guard in place until you
closer look at the frame to make sure bumper guards. Some sets have bum- have it completely installed.
there are no hidden cracks or damage. pers that are molded with the grommet
barrels as part of it, while others have When your clients bring in their
Installing New Grommets holes where the grommet barrels pass racquets to be restrung, always check
through. You'll need to experiment to the grommets and bumper guards, and
Replace the small grommet strip in the see which installation method works make sure they are aware of the impor-
throat piece first. The grommet barrels best. With some designs, it's easier to tant roles these components play. Your
for this strip are usually straight and players will appreciate the service, and
you'll appreciate the added revenue. �
www.tennisindustrymag.com September/October 2018 TennisIndustry 17
TennisIndustry
New Racquets
EQUIPMENT
Frames for Fall
Racquet companies are introducing new product
for the US Open and fall season.
By Nate Pagel
T he US Open often C O U RT E S Y D U N L O P, S N A U WA E RT, T E C N I F I B R E , YO N E X
has been a time for
racquet manufactur-
ers to introduce new
product, as their
sponsored pros take to the court
on the tennis world's grandest
stage. At press time in mid-July,
a handful of companies had new
frames they were able to divulge
to us. Expect other companies
to introduce new models as the
Open plays out and we head into
the fall and holiday seasons.
DUNLOP
CS 8.0 and CS 10.0
> dunloptennis.us
New this fall from Dunlop are the
CS 8.0 and CS 10.0. Both, says the
company, offer "power and comfort
to spare," thanks to Dunlop's Srixon
engineering, which features Sonic
Core technology.
Dunlop's CS 10.0 also features
the Dual Bridge System and
Dynamic Hole technologies,
designed to increase dampening
while also enhancing the sweetspot.
The CS 8.0 features Synchro Charge
and Straight String System tech-
nologies to mitigate the stiff feel of
off-center hits and increase string
movement for greater power and
spin, says Dunlop.
18 TennisIndustry September/October 2018 www.tennisindustrymag.com
TennisIndustry
SNAUWAERT TECNIFIBRE YONEX
Vitas 110 and Vitas 115 T-Fight XTC Line Vcore Frames
> snauwaert.com > tecnifibre.com > yonexusa.com
Snauwaert has added two frames to its Tecnifibre celebrates the 10th Yonex's new line of VCore racquets
Vitas line: the 110 and 115. Named after anniversary of its flagship T-Fight line features its signature Isometric head
the late tennis great Vitas Gerulaitis, with the new T-Fight XTC range, con- shape for greater control without los-
these racquets are designed with an sisting of three new frames: the T-Fight ing power. There are six new racquets:
oversize head featuring a "power penta- XTC 295, 305 and 315. Doubling-down VCore 95, VCore 98, VCore 100 and
gon" shape, resulting in an enlarged on the T-Fight's historical feel and VCore Game, along with two junior
stringbed area in the upper half and at control, frames with XTC--which racquets, VCore 25 and VCore 26. The
3 and 9 o'clock. The company says the stands for Xtreme Touch Construc- frames take advantage of Yonex's new
"Bionic x-section" adds stability on tion--involve a sharper yoke shape with technologies, which the manufacturer
volleys and "Snauwaertech Squared a new "elipti-square" shaft geometry, says produces a faster swing, greater
Grommets" at 6 and 12 o'clock add shot which Tecnifibre says provides better maneuverability, increased ball pocket-
speed, serve efficiency and comfort. feel, stability and touch. ing and "ball-crushing" spin.
www.tennisindustrymag.com September/October 2018 TennisIndustry 19
TennisIndustry
Building Relationships
LOCAL SUPPORT Like any othe public tennis
facility, the USTA Billie Jean King
Community Chest National Tennis Center benefits
from positive relationships
Stay engaged with your community within its community.
and local organizations, and your
business will reap rewards. some of the lessons we learned in engag-
ing with our community, which might
By Daniel Zausner also be applicable to yours.
COO, USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center Communicate Before You Need Help
The most important lesson we learned
W hen we embarked The NTC is among the most presti- in our process with the NTC has COURTESY USTA
upon the $650 gious sports venues in the world and been about communication. We were
million reimagina- hosts the largest annually attended already active in the community, but
tion of the USTA sporting event: the US Open. But, for we had not done a very good job of
Billie Jean King the other 50 weeks each year, the NTC promoting our activities and creating
National Tennis Center in New York is a lot like your facility: a community advocates. As a result, when we needed
City, there was a lot to consider. tennis venue in a city park built on the community support for our project,
Determining priorities, securing fund- public land for the benefit of all its we were starting at zero. Had we been a
ing, gaining our board approval and residents. And, just like local tennis more active member of the community
selecting the architects were just a few facilities, the local Chamber of Com- before we needed their help, the pro-
of the decisions that would make our merce, the Economic Development cess would have been much smoother.
dreams a reality. But none of this would Council and other community groups
have been possible had we not engaged have a voice in our destiny. That's why Educate
local community groups in the process. we thought it might be helpful to share Although tennis is at the center of your
life, don't assume everyone will have
the same knowledge and appreciation
for the game. Take the time to educate
others on all that's good with tennis and
20 TennisIndustry September/October 2018 www.tennisindustrymag.com
TennisIndustry
Get off the court, get out of your office and dedicate time
every week to being an active member of your community.
You have a valuable asset at your fingertips.
how it benefits their community. program called "ACEs/PACEs." We active. By serving on boards of num-
Many of the same people who do invite every public school in Queens erous groups, including the Queens
to visit the NTC for a half-day tour. We Chamber of Commerce and Economic
not follow tennis may also have strong make it educational, with videos about Development Council, we have a pow-
opinions about the game. As you know, Arthur Ashe and Billie Jean King, then erful and influential new network of
tennis is among the most diverse sports students get on the courts for instruc- local business and civic leaders.
in the world and a high percentage of tion. All schools receive one free visit.
the tennis played in America is played If they come back, we charge a nominal No matter what your situation, I hope
on public courts. Information like this field trip fee. Schools are always looking that through sharing our experience of
can turn adversaries into advocates. for unique field trips. By creating an engaging with our community, it helps
active and educational event, you'll be you appreciate the importance of your
Share the Game serving your community and introduc- community. There is power in numbers
Offering tennis programs in our com- ing kids to tennis. and influence within your community.
munity has strengthened our bond and Get off the court, get out of your office
created a love and appreciation for the Stay Active in the Community and dedicate time every week to being
sport. Many surrounding communities The renovation of the NTC pushed us an active member of your community.
now host 10 & under tennis events. We to get more involved in the community. You have a valuable asset at your finger-
provide the pros and the shorter courts But now that the work is done, we've tips. If you share it, it will be returned
at local community events. found tremendous benefit in staying to you tenfold. �
Several years ago, we introduced a
www.tennisindustrymag.com September/October 2018 TennisIndustry 21
TennisIndustry
Tennis IndustryHall of Fame
Jim Fromuth (left) and
the late Vic Braden
have helped millions
enjoy the game.
2018 INDUCTEES president of Head USA Racquet Sports.
"He really has the pro shop in mind.
Honor Roll That's always his priority."
Jim Fromuth and the late Vic Braden Braden, who passed away in 2014 at
join the Tennis Industry Hall of Fame. age 85, was captain of the tennis team at
Kalamazoo College and became a tennis
By Peter Francesconi professional after graduating in 1951.
He obtained a master's in psychology
Tennis players and this ing, Pa., started as an art-supply shop. from Cal State, joined Jack Kramer's COURTESY ANNETTE VAIL/FROMUTH TENNIS; INTERNATIONAL TENNIS HALL OF FAME
industry can thank both Fromuth, who played high school and pro tour, then co-founded The Jack
Jim Fromuth and the late college tennis and taught the sport, Kramer Club and served as head pro.
Vic Braden for helping to brought tennis into the company, then
improve their games and took it to the next level by commit- In 1974, Braden opened a tennis acad-
grow this sport. ting to large inventories of product. emy at Coto de Caza, Calif., pioneering
The company has been dedicated to a scientific approach to the game that
Fromuth, the founder of the epony- national distribution to pro shops and involved studying film of top players to
mous equipment distribution company, independent retailers ever since. analyze physiology and biomechanics.
and Braden, whose tennis academies, He also studied the psychology of tennis.
books and videos brought tennis to "I like people, and that's what we're
the masses, have both had a hand in all about," says Fromuth, who is cur- Braden's best-known pupil was
millions of players enjoying this game. rently treasurer and operations man- Tracy Austin, but his bread and butter
Both will be inducted into the Ten- ager. "I think the secret to dealing with was teaching the techniques of elite
nis Industry Hall of Fame on Aug. 27, people is to put yourself in their shoes. athletes to recreational tennis play-
during the TIA Tennis Forum in New If I can understand what you need and ers. He wrote eight books, starred in
York City. (Visit TennisIndustry.org to what your challenges are, then it's my instructional videos and had his own
register for the Forum, which is free.) job to come up with solutions." PBS television series, called Tennis for
the Future. During the tennis boom in
The Fromuth company, co-founded "Jim is one of the truly good guys the 1970s, Braden helped lead charge,
by Jim and his father in 1972 in Read- in the business," says Greg Mason, with his motto: "Laugh and win."
"Vic was the greatest student our
sport has ever known," longtime sports
industry executive Ray Benton said at
Braden's 2017 induction into the Inter-
national Tennis Hall of Fame. "He truly
loved the game. More than anything,
Vic wanted everyone to learn, to
improve, to be happy and to laugh." �
22 TennisIndustry September/October 2018 www.tennisindustrymag.com
TIA Tennis Forum Monday, Aug. 27 in NYC
Don't miss the 11th annual Tennis Kurt Kamperman, chief executive of the USTA National
Campus, will give an update on innovation technology taking
TENNIS FORUM Industry Association Tennis Forum, place at the campus at Lake Nona. Craig Morris, the USTA's
chief executive of Community Tennis, will update Net Generation
which will be at the Grand Hyatt New York and the USTA's commitment to growing tennis participation.
on Monday, Aug. 27, the first day of play at the TIA President Jeff Williams will introduce the Tennis Industry
Hall of Fame. The two inductees for 2018 (see page 22) are Jim
US Open. The Forum will be from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Fromuth, founder of Fromuth Tennis, and the late Vic Braden, pro
Catch the latest news and research about the player, world-renown coach, author and sports scientist.
Fromuth will be introduced by Pat Shields, CEO of
state of the tennis industry, business insights, updates on Fromuth Tennis, and Braden will be honored by
USPTA CEO John Embree.
grow-the-game initiatives including the USTA's Net Generation, The TIA Tennis Forum, which will be in the
Ballroom at the Grand Hyatt, takes place
and recognition of the 2018 Tennis Industry Hall of during the USTA Tennis Teachers Conference/
USPTA World Conference. Forum attendees
Fame inductees. will receive a summary report on key industry
research. Visit TennisIndustry.org/forum to
Tom Cove, the president and CEO of the Sports & register for the Forum , which is free.
Fitness Industry Association, will present "Sports
Industry Research Insights," about the state of
sports participation in the U.S. and how tennis
fits into the overall picture. Then TIA Executive
Director Jolyn de Boer will share
"Tennis Research Insights,"
including data on participation,
equipment, retail sales and more.
Orlando Racquet, Paddle Sports, Apply for The fourth edition of
Facility Conference to be Jan. 23-25 Innovation the popular Tennis
Challenge Industry Innovation
Reserve now for the new industry conference that will be Jan. 23-25 in Orlando, Challenge will take
which will expand upon and include the TIA's popular Tennis Owners & Managers
(TOM) Conference. The new "racquet & paddle sports" conference will include place during the
an added focus on facilities, innovation and technology. It will also include a demo
day, with manufacturers and innovators displaying new product for attendees to racquet & paddle sports conference in
playtest on the courts at the USTA National Campus.
Orlando Jan. 23-25. Presented by the TIA, the
The conference format will include five educational tracks: Innovation &
Technology; Facility Operations (including design, planning, lighting, etc.); Human Innovation Challenge is a "Shark Tank"-like
& Professional Services (such as hiring and staffing); Event Management &
Hospitality; and Membership, Marketing & Promotions (including digital marketing competition to identify the most innovative
and social media). Continuing education credits are available.
and creative product or service in the
The conference is
targeted to all facets tennis industry.
of tennis, racquet
and paddle sports Between now and Nov. 1, companies and
businesses. The Orlando
event will also be taking individuals can complete a short application
place at the same time
as the PGA Show, which at TennisIndustry.org/Innovation describing
is held at the Orange
County Convention Center. For more information about the "racquet & paddle their new, innovative product, software or
sports" conference, email the TIA at info@tennisindustry.org or call 843-473-4504.
service. There is no charge to apply. Finalists
24 TennisIndustry September/October 2018
chosen from the application process will
present in person at the January conference
in front of a panel of judges and an industry
audience, including potential investors. The
winner will receive a cash prize from the TIA,
along with national exposure.
Tennis Industry
innovation ORLANDO
2019
CHALLENGE
Racquet & Paddle Sports Conference
Expanded TOM Conference
Demo Day at USTA National Campus
JAN. 23-25 | ORLANDO
To register and for more information,
visit TennisIndustry.org
Tennis Forum NYC TENNIS FORUM
August 27, 2018 | Grand Hyatt New York | Manhattan
TIA TENNIS FORUM & TENNIS INDUSTRY HALL OF FAME FORUM SPEAKERS
MONDAY, AUGUST 27
8 :00 - 9:30am TIA TENNIS FORUM
State of the Industry Presentations
Business Insights
Grow-the-Game Initiatives
Net Generation Update Katrina Tom Jolyn
Adams Cove de Boer
Special Presentation by Tom Cove, President &
CEO of the Sports & Fitness Industry Association
TENNIS INDUSTRY HALL OF FAME tor Founder Inventor ContInnovaributor
2018 Inductees: Jim Fromuth & Vic Braden Tennis Industry
HALL OF FAME
Fromuth CEO Pat Shields will present Jim Fromuth
USPTA CEO John Embree will honor Vic Braden
Kurt Craig Jeff
Kamperman Morris Williams
TIA Tennis Forum | Tennis Industry Hall of Fame
Business and Consumer Insights HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
REGISTER FOR FREE - Space is Limited
TIA FORUM � Open to Industry
August 24-27 Jim Vic
New York City Fromuth Braden
(posthumously)
For more information or to register, go to TennisIndustry.org or call the TIA at 866-686-3036
September 2018 TennisIndustry 21
TennisIndustry
PUBLIC PARK STARS
CGORUARSTS RCOOONTSST RTUECNTNIIOSN
Public Access
Half of all tennis played in the U.S. takes
place in public parks. These venues and individuals
are helping to lead the charge.
>MISSOURI VALLEY programs, LaFortune has Millennial Tennis Nights, COURTESY USTA MISS OURI VALLEY, USTA NORTHERN CALIFORNIA, USTA S OUTHWEST, USTA FLORIDA
seen an increase in both which feature beginner
Changing the Tennis league and general play of lessons, match play and a
Landscape in Tulsa over 20 percent in the last gateway into USTA pro-
several years. grams. Throughout July it
The LaFortune Park Tennis Center in Tulsa, Okla., opened also hosted Red Ball Team
in 1970 with six courts. Ever since, it's changed the tennis The facility's schedule is Challenges, which introduce
landscape across the Tulsa community. loaded with opportunities competition to players ages
for players of all abilities 5 to 18. LaFortune often
After a major renovation in 2015, the public park facility and experience, including hosts championships for
now has 24 courts, three of which are indoors. It's become Cardio Tennis, adult juniors and adults.
a destination for those in the Tulsa area who are looking beginner drills and junior
to get into the game. With USTA Leagues and other tennis lessons. This year, LaFor- Thanks to LaFortune,
tune started hosting tennis is booming in Tulsa.
26 TennisIndustry September/October 2018 www.tennisindustrymag.com
TennisIndustry
Art Richards, shown
here with some of
his junior program
students, has led the
way teaching tennis to
the blind in Florida.
>NORTHERN CALIFORNIA >SOUTHWEST >FLORIDA
Serving It Up Phoenix T.C. Teaching Tennis
in Rohnert Park Gets Even Better to the Blind
The public courts in the Every year, the 25-court Art Richards says he learned about blind tennis
City of Rohnert Park, Calif., Phoenix Tennis Center from a magazine article. Then, he says, "I did some
have been getting a workout (PTC) seems to host more research and thought, now there's something that will
this summer. Among the and more public play. In fit right in with my deaf and hard-of-hearing and
activity at the dozen tennis 2017, the city's flagship wheelchair programs."
courts, including eight public facility hosted more
lighted courts at Magnolia than 3,000 USTA League Richards, who also teaches able-bodied juniors and
Park, was the first-ever matches, was home to 151 adults, ran his first clinic for blind players in the
inter-club tournament and a USTA League teams and beach community of Rotonda West, north of Fort
10-week-long league. hosted numerous adult Myers, in October 2015. While blind tennis programs
tournaments--making it one have since spread to other locations, the Rotonda
In July, the USTA NorCal of the largest supporters of West clinic is the only blind tennis program in Florida
H.I.T.S. program for kids 10 adult tennis in the country. held on public courts.
and under joined the fun.
After a Junior Team Tennis That said, PTC is a home All of Richards' classes are free.
Regional Tournament, for all ages. It offers an array "To better serve all of the community, having
H.I.T.S. was added to the of public play options, dedicated courts, specific to players' needs, is a must,"
city's youth programming, including drop-in tennis, says Richards. For his blind players, he tapes down
thanks to the combined clinics and lessons. It tactile lines so they can feel the court space.
efforts of volunteers. This annually hosts state high Richards has watched the sport slowly grow. Last
fall, Rohnert Park is intro- school championships and year, as a coach, he attended the first International
ducing a follow-up program plays host to junior events Blind Tennis Tournament, held in Spain.
to H.I.T.S., Red Ball JTT. including 10 & under "Dreams, like these people dream, don't material-
tournaments, early develop- ize on their own," Richards says of his blind and
On top of the new pro- ment camps, and a recently wheelchair students, and why he volunteers in tennis.
grams, seven sponsored added a junior tennis "Tennis is the sport for a lifetime--let's make it that
USTA teams competed this academy for 10U training. way for all." --Rick Vach
year at the parks, as well as
the 30th annual Sunday All of this comes on the
drop-in event, which is open heels of a $4.5 million
to all players. renovation in 2014-2015
that revived and modern-
"We're proud of our ized the facility. PTC is now
history and promoting adding a new pro shop and
tennis in Sonoma County locker rooms to help it even
since 1975," says Rich better serve the tennis
Hutchinson, president of community. --Jeff Sikes
Rohnert Park Tennis Club.
www.tennisindustrymag.com September/October 2018 TennisIndustry 27
TennisIndustry
Thanks to the dedication
and hard work of many,
the Municipal Sports
Complex of Caguas
continues to bounce back
from Hurricane Maria's
devastation.
>CARIBBEAN >MID-ATLANTIC >INTERMOUNTAIN
A Successful Creating Players Growing Programs
Team Effort in Baltimore in Rural Utah
With six hard courts, two 36-foot courts and a Baltimore City Recreation & Five years ago, when John COURTESY USTA CARIBBEAN, USTA MID -ATLANTIC, USTA INTERMOUNTAIN, USTA NEW ENGLAND
Parks has turned into one of Bradley accepted the
practice wall, the Municipal Sports Complex of the USTA Mid-Atlantic's top director of recreation
spots for tennis involve- position for Nephi, Utah,
Caguas, nestled in the Caguas Valley, has been a ment, thanks to the help of there wasn't much tennis
youth program coordinator going on in this rural
major tennis center for Puerto Rico since it opened Tim Almaguer and teaching community of 5,000.
pro Derrick McMillian.
in 2013. Then, a year ago, Hurricane Maria devastated "We had some beautiful
"The kids here see a ton of courts, but they were never
the island. basketball and football, but used," Bradley says.
tennis works well because
But thanks to Caguas Mayor William Miranda kids and adults are so Bradley worked with
curious about the sport," USTA National for grants to
Torres, Plinio Alfaro--the sports complex's main McMillian says. "Their get outdoor programs
enthusiasm is high." running. It was so successful
coach--and a dedicated group of volunteers, the that Nephi Recreation
Several adult leagues began offering indoor tennis
facility opened for business just two months later, occupy the Rec & Park in its gym in the winter.
courts on weekends, and
although on an adjusted schedule due to the contin- during the week, Net "Nephi Recreation has
Generation camps introduce really embraced the youth
ued lack of electricity. kids to the game. tennis teaching methodol-
ogy and has a thriving junior
Alfaro and his team continue to get things back to "Providing opportunities program," says Utah Tennis
for kids to play each other in Association Executive
normal and will soon resume the free tennis clinics semi-competitive ways is a Director Laurie Lambert.
teachable moment," says "The number of juniors and
the complex was known for, and that have made a Almaguer. "Not only do we adults now playing tennis,
teach sportsmanship and including adaptive players,
huge difference in the lives of adults and children in the rules, but it's about has expanded every year."
having kids from different
the area. Early this summer, the Municipal Sports communities connect. All of Now when snow closes
our programs are free or low the Mount Nebo Scenic
Complex was serving 130 children and adults, and the cost because we want to Loop in late October,
bring tennis to the commu- residents head to Nephi's
numbers keep growing. The facility offers USTA nity for kids and families." Recreation Center and pick
up a racquet!
Adult Leagues, Junior Team Tennis and much more. --Harry Holtzclaw
--Wendy Anderson
"The revitalization of the Municipal Sports
Complex of Caguas is a great example of a successful
team effort," says USTA Caribbean Executive
Director Rosa Martinez, "which is crucial to develop
affordable quality tennis programs and increase
tennis participation at the local level."
--Blamilsa Corujo Rodr�guez
28 TennisIndustry September/October 2018 www.tennisindustrymag.com