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Tóm tắt nội dung (trích từ tài liệu gốc): Inside this issue USPTA Returns to Orlando for 2017 World Conference � 48 The Challenges of Senior Tennis � 52 The "Four Awareness" Points When Playing Tennis� 54 Departments: 52 Inside Coaching 42 CEO's Message 54 Master Pro Corner 44 First Vice President's Message 56 USPTA's 90th Anniversary 46 USPTA News 58 Career Development 48 USPTA World Conference 60 Member News Read more articles online at www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com On the cover: 2017 marks a year of major change for USPTA � a new World Headquarters and brand new national staff. Meet the new staff on Page 46. CEO's Message April Executive
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Nội Dung Gốc (Tiếng Anh)¶
Inside this issue
USPTA Returns to Orlando for
2017 World Conference � 48
The Challenges of Senior Tennis � 52
The "Four Awareness" Points
When Playing Tennis� 54
Departments: 52 Inside Coaching
42 CEO's Message 54 Master Pro Corner
44 First Vice President's Message 56 USPTA's 90th Anniversary
46 USPTA News 58 Career Development
48 USPTA World Conference 60 Member News
Read more articles online at www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
On the cover: 2017 marks a year of major change for USPTA � a new World
Headquarters and brand new national staff. Meet the new staff on Page 46.
CEO's Message
April Executive Committee
Meeting KPMG which, when completed in the By John Embree
fall of 2019, will host 1,000 people from
April is always an important time all over the world each week of training. Saturday morning was spent review-
of year for the USPTA as our Starting this fall, Tavistock will begin ing the important work being done by
Executive Committee gathers construction of an upscale, performance all USPTA Committees. After President
for the first of its two semi- hotel adjacent to the USTA National Chuck Gill adjourned the meeting at
annual meetings (the other during our Campus including a Crystal Lagoon, while noon, the Nominating and Awards
World Conference). As most everyone also commencing Phase 2 of the buildout Committees spent the better part of
knows, our Executive Committee is the of the Town Center, which will add almost the next day and a half conducting their
governing body of our association. Thus, a million square feet of entertainment respective businesses. Interviews were
it is vital that members of this leader- venues, food and dining outlets, residen- conducted with the Nominating repre-
ship group be updated on all of the tial living and retail. Orlando City Soccer sentatives so that the new slate of offi-
activities that have transpired since we will complete its complex by year end cers can be presented to the association
gathered in Indian Wells last September right behind our space and Drive Shack (a by mid-June. Meanwhile, the Awards
as well as understand what lies before high end version of Top Golf ) has already Committee plowed through more than
us for the remainder of 2017. cleared land for the construction of its 100 applications for various USPTA
new facility right down the street from us, awards that will be given out during the
For 25+ years, this meeting has been scheduled for completion in Q1 of 2018. upcoming World Conference in Octo-
held in our offices in Houston. Think- ber. A hearty thanks goes to both groups
ing that our new building in Lake Nona After conducting the usual business for their due diligence and thorough
would be completed by now, the decision in the morning, Craig Morris, General effort to complete the tasks at hand.
was made back in September to hold it in Manager of Community Tennis for the
Orlando. Because of the permitting issues USTA, updated everyone on the new Worth noting is the nomination by
that we had with the city last fall, con- youth initiative, NET Generation, recent- the Executive Committee of Rick Macci
struction did not start until December, ly launched by the USTA to attract kids and Harry Hopman (posthumously) into
which meant that our building would not and parents. Craig went on to preach how the USPTA Hall of Fame, which will also
be finished by the time everyone trav- critical it will be for our members to pro- take place during the awards luncheon
eled to Orlando. Thus, we had to hold the mote the program and get background at the World Conference. In the case of
actual meeting at a hotel by the Orlando screened in order to be a confirmed Harry Hopman, this recognition is long
airport the last weekend in April. provider. More details of the overarch- overdue for the indelible mark he left on
ing endeavor will come out this summer the tennis world as the foremost coach
Like all Executive Committee week- while the consumer promotion will take of some of the greatest players ever from
ends, the agenda for this year was chock place during the US Open. Australia (Rod Laver for example). Rick
full of side meetings surrounding the Macci is certainly deserving because
main event. It began Thursday morning Later that afternoon, I surprised of his impact on developing Jennifer
with a three-hour session with our divi- everyone in the audience (including Capriati and the Williams sisters early
sion Executive Directors and Administra- the new staff ) by introducing them to on in their careers while also dedicat-
tors going over division activities. This our Executive Committee. I wanted to ing so much of his time to a multitude of
meeting also included a valuable training use this opportunity to give our leader- USPTA division and World Conferences.
session with our recent endorsee, Setteo, ship their first glimpse as to who will be
on the registration process through a coming on board. It was also beneficial Preparations for these meetings re-
social media platform. For the rest of that for members of the new team to meet quires a complete team approach. There
afternoon, the Board of Directors met to each other for the first time. We then is a lot that goes on behind the scenes
discuss key initiatives, where we stand headed out to our new office to see our to make these sessions go smoothly. My
on professional development, what the construction progress, take a tour of compliments go out to all who helped
financial picture looks like for the year, the USTA National Campus and then make this particular meeting a genuine
and to hear the latest news regarding the participate in a fun, round-robin tennis success. And, I would be remiss if I did
construction of our building. competition pitting the divisions against not thank the entire Executive Com-
one another while enjoying drinks and mittee for their leadership and for the
Friday was quite the opening day for dinner on a balcony overlooking the contribution that they make at both a
the Executive Committee meeting. It courts. To have the recent hires join in a national as well as divisional level. The
began with an insightful presentation relaxed social setting also helped create USPTA is marching together down a
given by Andy Odenbach of Tavistock as the first team-building exercise for all. positive path: the Executive Committee
to all that is happening here in Lake Nona. deserves much of the credit for getting
It was incredibly exciting to hear about us to this point in our rich history. h
the new buildout of a 50-acre campus for
42 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
First Vice President's Message
Take Advantage of Membership
Documents
By Gary Trost insurance coverage is required at some ing this makes recording
positions, but it is an added benefit to your education during the
These are personalized you and your club, and your superiors convention easier, and
for you! On the USPTA should know about it. the card is proof of your
website you can log on to current membership.
a great benefit that every There are two certificates that you They are easy to print
member should take advantage of must download and display � your and cut, and with a little
by downloading, displaying and membership certificate and your years magic lamination plastic
sharing. Your dues statement, of service certificate. For a few dollars it will keep nicely in your
membership card, membership at a local retailer, you can purchase two wallet. Also provided and
certificate, insurance certificate, picture frames and display them on the ready to download is a
education report card and many wall in your office. Your clients, mem- digital logo that is per-
more are all waiting for you to use bers of your club and other employees sonalized with your name
them. should see that you are a current mem- and waiting for you to use
ber in good standing with the USPTA. as a signature for emails
Be proud of crushing the edu- Educating the general public of your � this adds to your professional look
cation requirements for the last certification and reminding them of online.
three years and send a copy of your your dedication will make you more a You can also download your dues
report card to your department head or desirable professional than one with- statement for easy payment, your con-
general manager. The CMAA endorses out certification. The years of service tinuing education requirements and
education and your general manager certificate is a proud reminder of the our endorsee product information. If
should know about your self-improve- years that you have invested in your you require more liability insurance
ment for possible future pay raises profession and the USPTA � display it and/or sex abuse and molestation in-
and/or subsidizing you at future con- proudly. surance � there are forms to purchase
ferences. While you are sending your extra insurance for both of these.
manager this, download and add a copy Before heading to your conven- Probably one of the most impor-
of your insurance verification letter, tion, download your membership tant benefits in this area is the most
showing that the value of your certifi- card, which has a QR code on it. Us- underused! The USPTA Retirement
cation also benefits your employer. The Gold+ program has our endorsees
making contributions to your retire-
ment plan when you order their prod-
uct � it is so easy! There are profes-
sionals ready to help you sign up and
get started for you future; I wish this
was there for me when I first started
in the USPTA.
Everyone, this part of the U SPTA
website is for made especially for you
� it's easy, it's personalized � get started
here: documents.uspta.com. Log in and
look more professional immediately! h
44 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
USPTA News
Meet the New USPTA Staff
2017 marks a year of major change for USPTA � a new World Headquarters John Cornell �
and brand new national staff. Below is a brief introduction to each of the
new staff members who began their immersion into all things USPTA on Director of Communications
May 15 with the new office going "live" on May 30:
John Cornell is a
communications
professional with
vast experience. Most
recently the Direc-
tor of Marketing and
Public Relations for
the College of Coastal
Georgia in Brunswick,
Ga., he has also worked for the State of
Maryland Department of Natural Re-
sources, Princeton University, the U.S.
Naval Academy Athletic Association and
the Baltimore Ravens. He has a BBA in
marketing from James Madison Uni-
versity in Harrisburg, Va., and a master's
degree in Sports Administration from
St. Thomas University in Miami. He ex-
cels in media relations, writing, editing,
event management, photography and
graphic design, to name a few.
Amy Buchanan � Brittany Cabral � Dana Dasch �
Director of Membership & Certification Education Clerk Human Resources Manager
Amy Buchanan is a Brittany Cabral Dana Dasch has
dedicated, bright and comes to USPTA more than six years
savvy leader offering from the U.S. Army of comprehensive
solid experience in all where she served human resources
aspects of organiza- as a 92Y-Unit Sup- experience with a
tional training facili- ply Specialist from primary focus on re-
tation/development 2011 until now. She cruitment and reten-
and needs analysis. was responsible tion, benefits admin-
She most recently for supervising and istration, compli-
served as senior training coordinator for performing tasks involving the general ance, employee relations, orientation,
Diamond Resorts International where upkeep and maintenance of all Army training and development. She has
she developed training content, as well supplies and equipment. She received proven experience collaborating with
as planned and implemented training the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, senior management to ensure selection
programs, policies and procedures. She Campaign Star, Global War on Terror- of the best candidates for the team, and
has also worked for TravelClick as a ism Medal, NATO Medal, and Army she is skilled in developing strategic
QA, Training and Workflow Manager; Commendation Medal. Prior to her processes for maintaining compliance
Lumea Inc., as Staffing Assistant and stint in the Army, she worked for Em- in all employment and HR practices.
Office Manager; and Town of Winder- pire Scientific doing data entry and re- Previous employers include Central
mere as Assistant to the Town Manager/ ceptionist work. She attended Valencia Florida Press and Hilton Worldwide.
Grant Administrator. She is currently College, where she earned an associ- She has a degree in hospitality, re-
studying for a degree in management ate's degree, and Monroe College. She tail and sport management from the
and organizational leadership from St. is attending night school for a degree University of South Carolina, and she
Petersburg College, St. Petersburg, Fla. in diagnostic medical stenography. earned her PHR certification in 2014
and SHRM certification in 2015.
46 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com 47
Risa Epstein � Host II, where she managed sales con- Health and Rotech Healthcare, all in
Membership Services Coordinator sultants' deposits, tracked payments, Orlando.
updated MLS, proofed marketing
Risa Epstein has documents, trained new hosts, up- Teresa Thompson �
worked for Meet- dated records and completed general Publications & Communications
ing Expectations in office and computer work. Sarah has Coordinator
Atlanta since 2011, also been and continues to this day
most recently as As- as a performer at Walt Disney World Teresa Thompson
sociation Manager. Resort, has been singing the national is an avid tennis
In that position, she anthem around Orlando since she was player who regu-
managed on-board- sixteen years old, has been a wedding larly competes on
ing, recruitment, re- coordinator, and a Marriott "At Your local interclub and
tention and engagement processes for Service Agent." USTA league teams.
2,000 members; provided member- She produces Ten-
ship data and metric reports; managed John Gerard � nis View Magazine,
a certification review course for mem- Video Production Manager which in 2008 was
bers; and served as liaison between named "One of the Hottest Magazine
organization and student chapters at John Gerard most Launches of the Year" by Media Indus-
local colleges. She has a bachelor's de- recently worked try News. She performed or managed
gree in Hospitality Management from as a videographer, all phases of production, including edi-
the University of Central Florida, producer and editor torial, circulation, photography, copy
Rosen College of Hospitality Manage- for the Florida Pan- writing, design, printing, advertising,
ment in Orlando, Fla. thers (NHL Hockey fulfillment, website design and social
Club) in Sunrise, media. Teresa has a bachelor's in Com-
Kelli Ferry � Fla., where he shot, munications from the University of
Front Desk Coordinator wrote, produced and Oregon.
edited commercial and promotional
Kelli Ferry brings to materials across multiple platforms. Michael Tomassini �
the table adminis- He previously worked for The ATL! Director of Finance
trative and service (WALT-TV) in Atlanta; Tennis Chan-
experience along nel's Monte Carlo Rolex Masters Live Michael Tomassini
with organizational Studio Wrap-up Show in Culver City, has an extensive
and interpersonal Calif.; WTA in St. Petersburg, Fla.; track record of suc-
skills � a perfect fit BB&T Atlanta Open; WXIA-TV (NBC) cessfully handling
for the first person a in Atlanta; WTVH (CBS) in Syracuse, diverse situations
visitor to the World N.Y.; and CityTv � "Breakfast Televi- and developing solu-
Headquarters will meet. She previ- sion" in Vancouver, British Columbia. tions that achieve
ously was the lead concierge at the beneficial and prof-
Lake Nona Golf and Country Club for Patsy-Ann Thomas � itable results. He
two years and prior to that, was the Membership and Computer Services previously was Chief Financial Officer
Executive Administrative Assistant Coordinator for L&J Accessories, LLC, in Mait-
for Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale, a land, Fla. As a member of the execu-
megachurch in Florida, with an aver- Patsy-Ann Thomas tive management team, he provided
age of more than 30,000 worshipers has been a part insightful views into the company's
attending regularly. She worked with of the corporate operations and financial performance
church board, staff and leadership, industry in both and provided guidance with business
coordinated meetings and events, and operations and decisions. He has an MBA in Account-
assisted with accounting. compliance depart- ing from Keller Graduate School
ments by providing of Management in Orlando and a
Sarah Fisher � insight for growing bachelor's in technical management
Membership Services Coordinator organizations by account from Devry University in
recognizing where process improve- Orlando.
Sarah Fisher has a ments can be implemented, work-
bachelor's degree in flow developed and streamlined, As of this writing, there are still
event management departments organized, and team three positions yet to be filled: a
from the University members developed through training Graphic Services Specialist, a PR Coor-
of Central Florida, and time management with emphasis dinator and an Accounting Clerk. We
Rosen College of on clear communications and quality welcome the new team to the USPTA
Hospitality Man- customer service. Patsy-Ann previ- and hope that they have a long and en-
agement. Her most ously worked for Orange County Tax joyable career with our association. h
recent experience Collector, Connextions, Orlando
includes working for Pulte Homes as a
www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com 47
USPTA World Conference
USPTA Returns to Orlando for 2017
World Conference
Not only is Orlando the site Need a car? Save on your rental
of the new USPTA World
Headquarters, it is also the Save up to 30% at
location of this year's World participating loca-
Conference, Oct. 11-15, at the Renais- tions and lower
sance Orlando at SeaWorld. This year your travel costs for both business and
we are joining forces with the USTA to pleasure. Go to bit.ly/AvisUSPTA and
bring you a fantastic event! enter Avis Worldwide Discount (AWD)
No. U353920 or call 800-831-8000.
The schedule is starting to shape up �
look for it in the August issue. Save up to
5% at par-
2017 USPTA World Conference ticipating locations. Go to bit.ly/Enter-
registration rates priseUSPTA and enter account number
XZ06853 and Password USP.
l Full registration
$339 by Sept. 8/ $389 after Sept. 8 Save up to 10%
at participating
Hotel Reservations Stay Connected locations. Go to
https://www.nationalcar.com and enter
l Hotel #USPTAWC17 account number XZ06853 and password
The link to register for the confer- facebook.com/USPTA.Official USP.
ence hotel will be available after you
have registered for the conference. twitter.com/USPTA_Tennis Certification, Upgrading
l Room rates instagram.com/uspta/ Need to take the Certification Exam or
$165 per night + taxes & fees upgrade your rating? The PTCA I and
(approximately $192 total) youtube.com/user/TheUSPTA Certification Exam will be offered at the
World Conference. Contact the Mem-
Need a roommate? bership Department at membership@
uspta.org or 800-877-8248 for more
Contact USPTA (uspta@uspta.org, 800- information or to sign up. h
877-8248) to be put on a room-share list.
We will send regular updates.
Things to do in Orlando
The Orlando entertainment options are too many to
mention. The one item that must be included, although
that is not in Orlando but only about a 45-minute drive
from the hotel, is the Kennedy Space Center. It is an
outstanding educational site that is truly out of this
world. www.kennedyspacecenter.com.
l The host hotel is located across the street from Photo credit: Visit Orlando
SeaWorld and the SeaWorld Water Park.
l On I-Drive there are helicopter rides, Fun Spot
(which is like a board walk amusement park), indoor
race cars, an ICE BAR, an indoor parachute facility,
and even Mango's ( just like in South Beach Miami).
l Disney World (buy discounted tickets at
www.mydisneygroup.com/uspta2017) and Universal.
l Let's not forget that you can take an airboat tour
and look for live gators in their natural home.
l Night life � Universal Citiwalk, Disney Springs
and Pointe Orlando have tons of restaurants.
48 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com 47
presented by
Oct. 11-15
Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld�
Highlights
Wednesday, Oct. 11
Opening Reception
Thursday, Oct. 12
Day at the USTA National Campus
USPTA Buying Show
Friday, Oct. 13
Awards Luncheon
Saturday, Oct. 14
Division Parties
Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld�
USTA National Campus, Orlando, FL
GAME, SET,
NEVER MATCHED!
Official Court Supplier of the
10-S.com � 800-247-3907
Inside Coaching
The Challenges of Senior Tennis
By Rod Heckelman, USPTA
It's a fact, the general population to decline in their early 30s. What offensive shots is impaired. There is
of this country is becoming older you can't see well, you can't react also the impact of covering a wider
than ever, and the tennis popula- to; it's that simple. margin at net and reaching up high-
tion is no exception. It is antici- er for overheads.
pated that between 2007 and 2017, The Solution: Senior players need
the population of 45- to 64-year-olds to develop the ability to adjust. This The Solution: Help your students
will have grown by 39 percent to an will require learning strokes that develop perfect starting move-
estimated 118 million strong ... it's a can be executed even when hitting ments to be as efficient as possible
good bet that this percentage is even a ball late or off balance, such as go- in their footwork. In correlation,
higher with the aging tennis popula- ing to a backhand or forehand slice. also develop the best possible re-
tion. If that's the case, we in the tennis They may need to slow down some covery movements that will help
instruction industry need to adjust shots to help create a slower paced them prepare for the next shot.
our teaching to their needs. First, let's game that can accommodate the Teach shots that they can use to
understand that most of the tennis slower vision. They also must learn adjust when not in position; this
tips we see in magazines or on televi- to focus more on the contact point usually means learning to slice
sion are examples or demonstrations and less on the evaluation of the to- on many ground strokes and also
provided by top tennis players. Or in tal flight of the ball. learning more touch volleys at net
other words, a "how to do" if you are and soft spin overheads to help
a top player with exceptional physi- 2. Declining mobility reach and retrieve lobs. Just re-
cal skills. Second, many younger pros The Problem: At all levels and in member, there is a big difference
have yet to experience any challenges various degrees, a player's mobility between adjusting and compensat-
brought on by aging, so teaching or declines. The ability to cover the ing; adjusting is what we creatively
coaching this transition can be dif- court and retrieve balls for defen- do to survive the moment ... com-
ficult and unfamiliar turf. Today's sive reasons diminishes, and the pensating means we could have
coaches need to know the issues and ability to position and hit strong executed better but failed.
challenges that senior players face,
and adjust their teaching to each play-
er's personal characteristics. Always
remember, this is not learning how to
coach someone with limitations, this
is about optimizing how they can play
with their current physical skills. Here
is a quick list of the issues that will
likely impact a senior player and some
possible solutions.
1. The loss of vision
The Problem: Although not very
noticeable, the eyes just don't
work as fast as they do in a younger
player. The inability to pick up the
flight of the ball will naturally cause
a delay in reaction. The senior
player will need to take a little more
time to evaluate and calculate the
oncoming ball. The result of this
hesitation means later contact, less
opportunity to load up to hit the
ball, and less coverage of the court.
This is actually one of the primary
reasons that top tour players begin
52 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com 47
3. Lack of flexibility body. Shoulders get stiff, the ability 7. Migrating into the doubles game
The Problem: Low balls, wide balls to use racquet speed and spin di- The Problem: Once again, players
or just in general, balls that are just minishes, and players can no longer who primarily play singles tend not
out of your natural reach become just overpower opponents. to accept this transition. But mov-
a challenge. Young players have ing into more doubles play is also
enough physical support to muster The Solution: Simply put in base- the reality of many tennis programs,
up enough power to handle any shot ball terms, become a pitcher and such as league play and the result of
that challenges their loss of lever- not a thrower. Teach new spin having less court time available.
age. They have the strength and serves, better placement and
muscle to use just a flick of the rac- change of pace. Realize that de- The Solution: Make learning how
quet and be successful in getting the veloping a serve that can create a to play doubles an art. Appreciate
ball back in play and maybe even predictable response that can be the many nuances that doubles
pull off some remarkable shots. just as effective as overpowering the play can provide. Teach how to lob
This fades, and other survival shots opponent. better, control volley angles, and
need to be learned.
Today's coaches need to know the issues and challenges that senior
The Solution: Help your senior players face, and adjust their teaching to each player's personal
players develop a softer touch. characteristics. Always remember, this is not learning how to coach
Teach them to hold the racquet someone with limitations, this is about optimizing how they can play
in such a way that they can cre- with their current physical skills.
ate some alternatives. This could
mean new grips or new strokes. The 6. Diminishing power and spin develop a precise cross court return
continental grip for instance, is a of serve. Help your player become
valuable asset for serve returns, ap- The Problem: It's not just a loss of a good teammate and maybe most
proach shots and, of course, volleys. strength but a loss of timing as a important, enjoy the new social at-
It also can be used to help reach out result of some that was mentioned mosphere doubles can develop.
and capture wide ground strokes above, but mostly from the fact that
with the addition of a little slice. we end up naturally playing less 8. The lack of examples
tennis. Many weekend warriors and role models
4. Challenging ability to focus spend the first hour of each time The Problem: As mentioned ear-
The Problem: As lives become more they get on the court just trying to lier, seldom do we see displayed
complex and challenging from the find their timing. examples of successful senior ten-
natural course of work, family and nis. It's not in magazines, videos or
the increase in many responsibili- The Solution: First, your seniors television. We are bombarded with
ties, there is a challenge of staying need to accept the new schedule of examples of top players and how
focused. Older players may also not life. No longer can they participate they perform with their remarkable
have the support system as is often on a daily basis. Take on the chal- physical skills. Although entertain-
the case when younger, reminding lenge of developing a strategy that ing, it's not easy to emulate and
them of the need to stay engaged, capitalizes on this new character- learn from in most cases.
so that task falls solely on their istic. Engineer a game that will
shoulders. provide an opportunity for your The Solution: Encourage your play-
student's opponent to lose to them ers to take the time to watch the top
The Solution: Senior players need � a big transition from putting senior players in their age group.
to find a more relaxed way of fo- together a game that is designed Have them note their skills and see
cusing, one that creates easy access to beat the opponent. Also realize how there might be something they
to the state of mind needed to be that your players can improve by could emulate. Demand more from
focused. The answer � tennis can expanding their game with greater the tennis media and the powers
provide an escape from the day- variety. Simply put, develop more that be in the tennis world to pro-
to-day grind. Help your players tools for their tennis toolbox and vide this information. Most impor-
realize that focusing is a task of expand more horizontally instead tant, encourage them to read books
simplification and not the result of always trying to improve verti- that pertain to their style of play
of trying harder. This exercise can cally with more power and more and skill/physical level. h
be used in many other aspects of spin.
one's life to enhance one's total life
experience. Rod Heckelman's career started in 1966 as a teacher at John Gardiner's Tennis
Ranch in Carmel Valley, Calif. Later he opened as the resident pro for Gar-
5. Serving alterations diner's Tennis Ranch on Camelback in Scottsdale, Ariz. In 1976 he took over as
and throwing action head pro/tennis director at the Mt. Tam Racquet Club in Larkspur, Calif., and
The Problem: The throwing motion added the title and responsibilities of general manager in 1982. In 2010 he was
is not a natural motion for primates, awarded "Manager of the Year" for the USPTA NorCal Division and the "Man-
so that action can take a toll on the ager of the Year" at the USPTA World Conference. He has also written several books.
www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com 53
Master Pro Corner
The "Four Awareness" Points
When Playing Tennis
By Fernando Velasco, USPTA Master Professional
In every match, you will find critical court or directly at his opponent's feet; should serve the first serve with some
points that can determine whether open spaces or shoe laces. power, but with more placement.
a player wins or loses. At these
critical points, I suggest reviewing Fourth Awareness: Score Over time, these four awareness
what I call the "four awareness" points: When the player decides on her shot points will become both automatic and
and its placement, and is aware of the reactionary as players become more
First Awareness: Self court challenges, a good player should experienced in playing and compet-
Every player possesses certain shots also remember the score in hand. Play- ing. After the shot has been properly
that he feels more comfortable hit- ers will be aggressive when the score is executed, they will sometimes give
ting on a critical point. For example, it in their favor, and be more conservative themselves a pat on the back for doing
could be a forehand topspin, or a slice. when tied or behind. For example, when the right thing at the right time, and
When choosing which shot to hit on a a player is serving at 40-15, the serve remind themselves that they followed
critical point, the player should deci- should be powerful and assertive. In the "four awareness" points. h
sively utilize the shot that comes more contrast, if the score is 15-40, the player
naturally without changing his mind.
That is when mistakes are made.
Second Awareness: Opponent
When a player decides on a shot at a
critical point, she needs to consider her
opponent's strengths and weaknesses.
During the match, she should notice
the shots the opponent has less success
with than others. On a critical point,
the player should use the shot she feels
more comfortable with but also, she will
aim toward her opponent's weaknesses.
Third Awareness: Court Over time, these four awareness points will become both automatic and reactionary
as players become more experienced in playing and competing.
Once a player decides on his most
consistent shot and considers the op-
ponent's weakness, he also needs to
consider the court conditions. Factors
such as the sun, wind and surface will
make a difference on the shot executed.
When in doubt, he should either
choose a shot toward an opening on the
Fernando Velasco is Director of Special Events for The Polo Tennis and Fitness Club in Austin, Texas. Velasco is
originally from Bolivia, South America. As a U SPTA and PTR Master Tennis Professional with 40-plus years of
experience in the tennis management business, he has served as general manager and director of tennis at top-
notch clubs in Chicago, Phoenix, Dallas, Savannah, Ga., and Boca Raton, Fla., and lately, at the Grey Rock Tennis
Club in Austin. He is considered one of the top teaching professionals and managers in the country, having been
selected as USPTA Professional of the Year and PTR International Pro of the Year. He is a sought after speaker
at national and international tennis professionals conventions, and is a ranked player in Texas, and nationally
ranked by the USPTA, PTR and USTA.
54 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
USPTA's 90th Anniversary
USPTA Past Presidents (1997-2015)
Will Hoag (1997-99) has been the director of ten- the Corpus Christi Country Club from 1970 to 2001, and then
nis at Coral Ridge Country Club, owned by the went on to serve as the executive director for the USPTA Texas
Robert Trent Jones family, in Fort Lauderdale, Division until 2008.
Fla., since 1973. He became a member of USPTA in
1972, is a Master Professional, and he was named Harry Gilbert (2007-09) is the head professional
USPTA Professional of the Year in 2002. at Waccabuc Country Club in Westchester Coun-
ty, N.Y., during the summer and is director of ten-
Joe Thompson (1999-2003) is a USPTA Master nis at the Hammock Beach Resort in Palm Coast,
Professional and the 1998 USPTA Professional of Fla., during the winter. He has been a USPTA
the Year. He was the director of tennis for Rolling member since 1981. He served on the Florida Divi-
Hills Country Club in Golden, Colo., for 30 years, sion Board of Directors for eight years, including a three-year
and he has been a USPTA member since 1976. term as president. He was named Florida Division Professional
of the Year in 1992 and 1994.
David T. Porter, Ed.D., (2003-05) is the head Tom Daglis (2009-13) is a USPTA Master Profes-
tennis coach at Brigham Young University - Ha- sional. He was the 2003 George Basco Tester of
waii. He is a USPTA Master Professional and was the Year, and in 2006, he received the USPTA Pro-
named USPTA Professional of the Year in 2012. fessional of the Year Award. He was also inducted
He has been a Head Tester since 1988, served on into the USPTA Southern Hall of Fame.
the National Board from 1994-2007 and has been
a member since 1986. Tom McGraw (2013-15) is the tennis director at
the Port Royal Club in Naples, Fla. McGraw has
Ron Woods (2005-07) has been involved in ten- been teaching tennis since 1979 and a USPTA
nis for more than 50 years and has been a USPTA member since 1980. He earned his Master Pro-
member since 1967. He was on the USPTA national fessional status in 2008. He previously served as
Board of Directors for 13 years. As a player, he president of the USPTA Southern Division and
attended the University of Houston on a tennis USTA Kentucky Vice President concurrently. h
scholarship. Woods was the director of tennis at
Career Development
Exams, Upgrades Cardio Tennis Conferences/
Activities
& PTCA I
July 15 Level 1 Training Course
(4 credits for PTCA I segment) (Division Conferences � 6 credits)
Princeton Racquet Club; Princeton, N.J.
July 8 Indianapolis July 16 Level 2 Training Course Aug. 18 Midwest Division Convention
July 8-9 Boca Raton, Fla. Oct. 11 Mason, Ohio
July 9-10 Garden City, N.Y. Princeton Racquet Club; Princeton, N.J. Oct. 22
July 10 Nov. 9 2017 USPTA World Conference
July 15 Vienna, Va. Sept. 8 Level 2 Training Course Orlando, Fla.
July 21 Boston
July 23 Crooked Creek Country Club; Alpharetta, Ga. Hawaii Division Convention
July 28 Asheville, N.C. Honolulu
July 29 Clayton, Mo. Sept. 16 Level 1 Training Course
August 3 Middle States Convention
August 5 Wilmington, Del. Preakness Hills Country Club; Wayne, N.J. Philadelphia
August 5 Columbus, Ohio
August 5 Port Washington, N.Y. Oct. 22 Level 1 Training Course
August 6 Huntington Beach, Calif.
August 7 Tallahassee, Fla. Methodist University; Fayetteville, N.C.
August 12 Granbury, Texas
August 12 Hilton Head Island, S.C. Nov. 5 TRX Training Course
August 18
August 25 San Francisco Park Crossing Swim and Racquet;
August 26 Wilmington, N.C.
August 26 Charlotte, N.C.
August 26 Atlanta
Latham, N.Y. Nov. 12 Level 1 Training Course
Laie, Hawaii
Boca Raton, Fla. Ferris State University; Big Rapids, Mich.
Seattle Webinars
Eau Claire, Wis.
(.5 credits)
Exam reservations must be made at least 21 days
prior to the dates listed. Each date includes an exam, Watch all recorded webinars
upgrade and PTCA I unless noted. Exam cancellations at tennisresources.com.
must be received no later than 14 days before the
exam, or a cancellation fee will be charged accordingly. For more information visit uspta.com/Education.
Applicant: late cancellation fee � $95; failure to cancel Please visit www.cardiotennistraining.com to register.
� application fee is forfeited. Certified members: late
cancellation fee � $25; failure to cancel � $25 plus the
upgrade fee is forfeited. Registration for another exam
will not be accepted until cancellation fees are paid.
Accredited Education requirements
Professional Coach All USPTA-certified Professionals must earn 6 education credits in a three-year period
to remain current. Go to USPTA.com/Education for a partial list of eligible activi-
Register your Accredited Professional Coach (APC) ties. Please send verification (email, letter, certificate, receipt, etc.) that shows you
and specialty course credits earned with the USPTA attended the event/activity and submit it along with the date and agenda to educa-
SmartCode Education System. This uses your tion@uspta.org to receive your credit. (International members, Recreational Coaches
and those over the age of 65 are exempt.) Questions? Write to education@uspta.org
smartphone to instantly register or call 800-877-8248, ext. 147.
your attendance to all seminars
and specialty courses earning APC.
To use the system at a seminar,
general session or specialty course,
you must scan two QR codes. One
QR code is on your conference badge. The second
QR code will be in your conference notebook and
cannot be scanned until the end of the session or
the beginning of the next session. If you do not have
a smartphone, you may use someone else's. Forms
are available upon request.
58 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com
Member News
� The South Suburban Tennis Academy tennis class at Cardinal Joseph Bernardin School, under � The tennis community was thrown a curve
the direction of USPTA/PTR tennis professional Andy Ventress, posed for a group picture wear- ball last week, as news spread quickly that
ing their red noses in support of Red Nose Day, May 25, which raises funds to help change the Steve Johnson Sr., had passed away. Many of
lives of millions of children. us were left wondering how could this be, how
could this amazing man that touched so many
be gone? On behalf of the USPTA Southern
California Division, we have suffered a huge
loss. We lost a
coach, lost a mentor
and many of us lost a
great friend. Johnson
was so much more
than just a member
of our division, he
was active at division
events, a frequent
speaker at confer-
ences and a huge advocate for our sport. The
outpouring of stories and memories has been
� USPTA Master Professional Hugh Calhoun Waters III, died April 24 in Richmond, Va. With his pass- truly amazing; the touching and emotional
ing, the tennis community has lost a dedicated and passionate player, instructor and ambassador. tributes posted all over social media have
Water's motto in life and tennis was "to play is to win," and his presence in the game was immeasur- shown that Steve was truly beloved in tennis
able. In 1963 he became the Director of Tennis for the City of Orlando. Here he hosted a series of circles all over the country. No doubt we will
professional tournaments featuring Rod Laver, Pancho Gonzales, Ken Rosewall feel his absence for years to come, but let's
and friends. And, it was here that his love of helping juniors achieve lofty goals in not dwell on the loss, but rather rejoice in the
tennis blossomed and many of his junior players received college scholarships. memories. When I think about Steve now, I
In 1970, he was invited to come to the Westwood Racquet Club in Richmond as feel a sense of loss but also a sense of warmth
their Director of Tennis. With a desire to expand his teaching to more players, and peace, and despite the sadness, a smile
Water's co-founded the Richmond Tennis Academy where over 600 adult and sneaks across my face as I think of the gentle
juniors were taught each week. Volunteering was an integral part of Water's soul who wanted nothing more than to share
community involvement and he received many awards and honors including being inducted into his love of the game with everyone. You will be
the USTA Mid-Atlantic Tennis Hall of Fame, the USPTA Mid-Atlantic Tennis Hall of Fame, and the missed Steve, but you will never be forgotten,
Richmond Tennis Hall of Fame. The USTA honored his family with the USTA Family of the Year Award and your spirit will live on with every ball we
in 2000. He was past President of USPTA Mid-Atlantic Section, past President of Richmond Tennis hit. Our thoughts and prayers are with Steve's
Association and served on USPTA national and USTA Mid-Atlantic Section boards for many years. family...wife Michelle, and kids, Alison and
� USPTA Professional Susan Elaine Nidzgorski, 56, of Haymarket, Va., passed Stevie. Godspeed, my friend.
away on April 14, after valiantly battling ovarian cancer. She was a career ~ Cari Buck, USPTA Southern
middle school science teacher, tennis coach, and professional tennis instruc- California President
tor who added meaning and knowledge to every life she touched. At the age NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS
of 10 she learned the game of tennis from her older sister Bobbi and instantly
fell in love with the game that became the center point of her next dozen President Chuck Gill
years of high-level competition, and committed her to a lifetime of passion Gary Trost
for teaching the game to others. Her career of teaching began in 1982 at St. Helena's Catholic First Vice
President
School in Wilmington. A few years later, she transitioned to the Upper School of the Alfred I. du Vice Presidents Alan Cutler
Pont Institute and Children's Hospital (longterm rehabilitative hospital with an in-house academic Feisal Hassan
program) in Wilmington. There, she learned and respected the intricacies of providing traditional Ken McAllister
subject-based instruction to children with significant physical impairments. In the summer of Jack Michalko
1992, she moved north to northern Virginia where she made her home for the last 25 years. Sue Diane Selke
coached secondary school tennis teams at multiple high schools. Nidzgorski was named Coach
of the Year on multiple occasions by fellow conference coaches. She was awarded the USPTA Mid- TM Tom McGraw
Atlantic President's Award in 2017 and High School Coach of the Year in 1997-98. John Embree
Past President George Parnell
CEO
Legal Counsel
ADDvantage magazine editorial offices Managing editor Kimberly Forrester The opinions expressed in ADDvantage are those of the
Circulation Kathy Buchanan authors and not necessarily those of ADDvantage or the
USPTA World Headquarters USPTA.
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60 www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com