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Tóm tắt nội dung (trích từ tài liệu gốc): Congratulation to all 2018 TIMagazine winners January 2019 January, 2019 PHOTO PENDING Happy THIS IS PLACHOLDER New Year! TEXT. USPTA FROM THE CEO WHAT'S NEXT? participation by bringing lapsed players since records have been kept. If it is back into the game and attracting new John R. Embree any consolation, we are far better off players to our sport. If we develop USPTA CEO than many traditional team sports more players, everyone wins. It was that are seeing dramatic declines in refreshing to see that people took off It is common knowledge that our participation of late. their "brand" hats an
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Congratulation to all 2018 TIMagazine winners
January 2019
January, 2019
PHOTO
PENDING
Happy THIS IS PLACHOLDER
New Year! TEXT.
USPTA FROM THE CEO
WHAT'S NEXT? participation by bringing lapsed players
since records have been kept. If it is back into the game and attracting new
John R. Embree any consolation, we are far better off players to our sport. If we develop
USPTA CEO than many traditional team sports more players, everyone wins. It was
that are seeing dramatic declines in refreshing to see that people took off
It is common knowledge that our participation of late. their "brand" hats and contributed to
beloved industry is not near as the conversation with ideas that would
healthy as it should be. We have It is against this backdrop that benefit the industry as a whole.
the best game on the planet, yet the Katrina Adams, president of the USTA,
metrics for both casual and core gathered leaders from the different I do not have the time or the space
players over the past few years are manufacturers, USTA sections, USTA in this article to dissect all the notions
flat to declining. Even worse, the board members, Sr. USTA executives, that were vetted over the day and a
manufacturers experienced the most the TIA, USPTA and multi-club half. But, without question, there were
challenging year for selling their operators for an Industry Summit, two or three themes that no one in
products into the trade last year which was held in the training room of the room could dispute. In order to
your USPTA Headquarters. It was an truly grow the game, there must be
honor to host this event with some of a significant influx in the quantity of
the brightest people in our sport who tennis deliverers of the game at the
came together to talk about how to grass roots level. Coupled with that
jump start the industry. premise, these deliverers must be of
higher quality, be more educated and
As one would expect, there were lots trained on the latest teaching/coaching
of divergent interests in the room. The trends and be more committed
mantra going in was that everyone to growing tennis participation.
should put the specific needs of their Repeatedly, no matter what programs
respective organizations aside and focus were discussed, the tennis delivery
on the common goal of growing tennis system (mostly USPTA professionals)
must be better at what we do, and we
have to offer a better experience for the
customers with whom we work.
USTA hosted Industry Summit at the USPTA world headquarters in November.
50 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine -- January 2019
USPTA
USTA hosted Industry Summit at the USPTA world headquarters in November.
With the aging of our population of week program and then stop: it is initiatives to grow the game in their
tennis teaching professionals, the focus another to retain them, keep them respective communities. In turn, they
on developing strong Professional engaged and bring them into the fold would receive a variety of benefits
Tennis Management (PTM) programs as frequent players. That requires from various industry partners and the
is paramount if we are to be successful. extensive training that the industry USTA in recognition of their efforts to
Students that graduate from a quality is prepared to embrace, with pilot grow tennis participation. Much must
be done in 2019 to vet this premise so
" In order to truly grow the game, there that it is attractive and viable for those
must be a significant influx in the tennis facilities who wish to be a part
quantity of tennis deliverers of the game of this endeavor.
at the grass roots level." Nothing is gained from a meeting of
such stature unless there is consistent
PTM program are more prepared and programs beginning in 2019 at the follow-up and quantifiable action steps
more knowledgeable about running USTA National Campus in Lake Nona, are defined. I have been to too many
high-quality tennis programs than Florida. industry meetings over the years where
many of those who have been working lots of good ideas are discussed but
in clubs for years. A third concept that evolved out nothing gets done. This cannot be the
of the summit was the concept of outcome of this summit! We are at a
Secondly, we also have an aging establishing premier tennis facilities critical tipping point when an industry-
player base. So, we need more across the country. These would wide effort must be put forth that every
providers to deliver entry-level be targeted public, private and segment of our sport can endorse and
programs for beginner adults and commercial facilities that would offer activate. I, for one, will be pushing to
kids. It is one thing to give a six- and embrace a variety of new player make sure this gets done.*
January 2019 -- USPTA ADDvantage Magazine - 51
USPTA
52 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine -- January 2019
USPTA
January 2019 -- USPTA ADDvantage Magazine - 53
USPTA VICE PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
UP YOUR GAME WITH is designed to get participants thinking student doesn't seem to be doing what
CONTINUING EDUCATION as a leader off-court. Sara Morse, a you have explained over and over? It is
presenter and executive director of the possible that they can't physically do it,
Cari Buck So Cal Division said, "Anyone who is whether because of an injury or other
USPTA Vice President interested in moving into a leadership physical limitations.
role should absolutely participate
Continuing education in any field in the Leadership Academy. It is a I recently attended RacquetFit's
is paramount to success. Every necessary and fantastic first step in "Level 1: The Body-Serve Connection,"
industry evolves and changes, so why building the resume that management and at the end of day one all I could
should tennis be any different? In is looking for." think was "mind blown." It honestly
order to stand out, pros need to evolve opened a whole new world to me, a new
and grow with the industry. It is too The interactive sessions utilize case way to assess players and really help
easy to stick with what we know and studies, self-assessments and best them within their potential physical
"how we've always done it." Continuing practices all geared towards building boundaries. It is important for us as
education can help get you to that next strong leadership skills. Additional coaches to keep adding new tools to
level, both on and off-court, and 2018 areas of focus include team building, our "tool kits" and RacquetFit does
has seen two outstanding new programs communication skills, customer exactly that.
roll out: the USPTA Leadership service, time management, budgets and
Academy and RacquetFit, continuing HR issues. If you are looking to move The presentation itself was so well
education both on and off-court. up the ladder, the USPTA Leadership done, with a panel of experts including
Academy led by USPTA members Dr. Greg Rose, Dr. Sean Drake, Jeff
The Leadership Academy is a Feisal Hassan, Ajay Pant, Sara Morse Salzenstein and Dr. Mark Kovacs,
comprehensive and dynamic intensive and Jose Pastrello is a great way to get experts in their fields and an amazing
course that focuses on building started. Take a closer look at https://bit. team. It is also very interactive with
leadership skills. It is also the USPTA's ly/2zmxFLT. attendees from several industries
first ever course like this. The program including tennis, fitness and medical
RacquetFit, on the other hand, so we are all learning from each other's
focuses more on-court with your different perspectives and we all had
players. Their philosophy is on how the something to share. After two full
body functions in relation to tennis and days, I was so excited to get started. My
believes that there is more than one colleagues are getting tired of being
way to hit a tennis ball based on what a "screened," my serve is better than ever
player can physically do. It also breaks (thanks to some video analysis and a
down the philosophy of the body and few quick adjustments from the team)
how it should move in relation to and I've got a new tool in my
tennis-specific movements. "tool kit."
Ever find yourself wondering why a "By being able to assess a
player's physical abilities, and then
From left to right: Dr. Greg Rose, Dr. Mark Kovacs, Cari Buck, Jeff Salzenstein, and understanding how those attributes
Dr. Sean Drake at the California RacquetFit certification . relate to their tennis-specific skills, is
what separates an average coach from
a great coach. This allows the coach to
communicate with medical and fitness
to get the results we want to see on and
off the court," said Dr. Sean Drake, vice
president of RacquetFit. To learn more
about RacquetFit, visit RacquetFit.com.
Like the Leadership Academy,
RacquetFit is a commitment
to your growth as an industry
professional. Take the challenge, up
your game and remember there is
#alwaysmoretolearn. *
54 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine -- January 2019
Then & Now Our Story
CEO Pat Shields and
Founder Jim Fromuth A passionate company with unique history
Led by founder Jim Fromuth and CEO Pat Shields, we are
a tennis wholesale distributor based in West Lawn, PA.
We first opened our doors nearly 50 years ago. The Fromuth Family
liked and played the game of tennis, so they bought a stringing
machine and had a few tennis frames to sell in the shop. In the late
1970s, tennis began to be televised and business took a different
direction. Fromuth Tennis was born. As the tennis industry grew, so did
our selection of racquets, strings and apparel. We began helping small
pro shops get the product they needed to boost their own business.
Today, we have a 25,000 sq. ft. warehouse. On a busy day in
August, UPS trucks are lined up outside waiting to load more
than 800 packages. Although bigger, we are still a family-owned
operation with more than 70 employees who share a passionate
drive for tennis and helping our customers.
USTA Since 2006
National
Campus Fromuth is the Official Distributor of Nike Footwear
Pro Shop and Apparel to the USPTA
We lead all operations including staffing, merchandising For more then 10 years we have provided Nike
and stringing services at the USTA National Campus Pro product to USPTA members. We are proud of our
Shop. This 2,800 sq. ft. store in the Welcome Center of USTA relationship with an exclusive community of
National Campus features the newest product releases from tennis-teaching professionals and coaches
top tennis brands such as Nike, adidas, Babolat, HEAD and promoting excellence in the tennis industry. USPTA
Wilson, as well as unique National Campus memorabilia. members receive a 30 percent discount off retail
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The Official Distributor of Nike Footwear & Apparel to the USPTA.
uspta.fromuthtennis.com
High School Cross MASTERPROCORNER
Sport Athletes
Alan Cutler Today's high school athletes are that batting in baseball is very similar
USPTA Master Professional encouraged to specialize in one to hitting a tennis ball and first-step
specific sport, but, as we know, to be a explosive speed is directly related to
Alan Cutler is one of the only well-rounded athlete it is important to running a pass pattern can aid coaches
dual master professionals that play multiple sports. Skills gained from in identifying the most beneficial skills
also holds two specialist degrees different sports enhance an athlete's to their previously specialized athletes.
(computer and competitive player overall ability and talent. No single
development). He taught tennis in high school sport can fully train for the What we must do better, as
municipalities, leased facilities, mental and physical demands placed on tennis professionals, is help other
resorts, HOA's and has held many these athletes. coaches realize the direct benefit
levels of positions from teaching of encouraging their athletes to
professional to president. He has High school administrators and participate in tennis in the offseason.
a bachelor's and master's degree athletic directors should encourage This may be hard to sell to coaches
in computer science. coaches to promote multi-sport and athletic directors who may believe
participation, thereby reducing any in the more traditional specialized
Mark Faber appearance of sports specialization. athlete, so it is important to have the
USPTA Elite Professional Historically, many Division I college right information and approach. We
coaches prefer recruiting athletes that need to make sure they understand
Mark Faber is the director of played multiple sports in high school. If we are not trying to steal their
tennis at Twos Athletic Club and you look back at the past few NFL, NBA athletes, but rather, enhance their
has been a USPTA member since and MLB top draft picks (first round), overall athletic experience. We need
1993. Mark has been a no-cut most were multiple-sport athletes. to show coaches that we also have
high school coach for 24 years, the best interest of their player and
spoken at USTA, USPTA and high We need to understand that the more program in mind and want to be their
school divisional and national athletic dexterities a player have, the partner rather than their competition.
education events and is involved more likely they are to be successful in If you cannot establish this trust,
locally, sectionally, divisionally competition. Also, by allowing them to many coaches will not feel secure
and nationally on committees and take a break from their primary sport or understand the benefit of cross-
boards. and preventing "burn out," athletes sport training, and this is not going to
may become more mentally motivated happen. To really help an athlete grow,
when they compete. a coach must put aside their personal
fears or selfish motives and look at
Not all skills developed in the various developing the athlete as a whole.
sports work in conjunction with each
other, but by taking a careful look, Tennis is truly a sport that develops
you may find skills that are extremely multiple athletic moves all at once,
similar or complementary. Specific versus some cross-training sports
attention should be given to specific that only develop one at a time. The
player positions as, in football for following are some ideas of what
example, an offensive lineman will tennis brings to other sports. This is
have to be treated differently than a not meant to be a complete list but,
defensive back or wide receiver. With rather, ideas of how to help you sell this
that said, identifying similar sports concept to athletic directors, as well
skills is critical to the multi-sport other sport coaches.
development of any player. Knowing
56 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine -- January 2019
MASTER PRO CORNER
Baseball Golf is the most important part of our
message to coaches. We want to be
1. First-step explosive speed: Tennis 1. Core rotation while hitting (power viewed as trusted partners in the
players need to get moving very stance and coil/uncoil): Like success of their players, rather than
quickly to be able to get to the ball. tennis, the kinetic chain is from the the coach that is trying to steal away
This skill directly relates to stealing ground up a good player.
base in baseball.
2. Controlled club head Once we have explained the
2. Hitting the ball, and maybe being acceleration: learning the benefits of multi-sport athletes to
able to control location of hits: difference between generating the coaches, it is important that
The sweet spot on a bat and tennis power from the legs and using the we provide them with enough
racquet are not that different. hands to control hitting location information to encourage their
Understanding that the target is the and spin. players to consider the benefits. A
contact point of a hitting tool (bat proper periodization schedule would
or racquet) is basically the same. 3. Angle of club face to manipulate include an active rest period, which
ball hitting direction is very similar is the perfect time for participation
3. Picking up the spin of a pitch to club head. in another sport. We must break
faster: This is about learning to down barriers and perceived threats
watch the ball as early as possible. Volleyball of taking good athletes away from
one sport to another and make sure
4. Core rotation while hitting (power 1. Service motions are very similar everyone, including the player,
stance and coil/uncoil): Like for developing the ability to hit understands the benefits of working
tennis, the kinetic chain is from the different spins on the serve. together to develop better athletes.
ground up.
2. Tracking skills and understanding Athletic directors and physical
5. Angle in arm when serving or angle of attack to intercept the education administrators need to
throwing: This is also a very similar balls location. get involved at a higher level as well
skill. to make sure coaches are introduced
3. First-step explosive speed to get and trained to understand the
Basketball the ball earlier. benefits of cross-sport participation.
However, at the end of the day, it
1. Side to side movement: This is 4. Reading and anticipating of is still likely that tennis coaches
about first-step explosive speed as opponent's movement . will need to sell this to the other
well as agility and balance. coaches. We must foster a sense
5. Recovery between points and of trust and cooperation between
2. Athletic position: Ready position refocusing on tasks. coaches.
with legs loaded. This helps with
movement as well as jumping. Football At the end of high school,
most athletes will not have the
3. Reading and anticipating of 1. Wide receivers/defensive backs skills or talent to compete at the
opponent's movement. and linebackers. college level. Even though these
athletes may not have the ability
4. Focus on big point: Learning to 2. Tracking skills and understanding to continue, it should not stop
controls the athlete's emotions, angle of attack to intercept the them from participating in sports
calming themselves down to allow ball's location. as adults. Coaches need to meet
for more success. the needs of all their athletes, not
3. First-step explosive speed to get just the ones that will make it to
5. Recovery between points and the ball earlier. the next level. The introduction
refocusing on tasks. and encouragement to participate
4. Multiple directional changes: in sports like tennis allow these
Soccer Agility with speed and control. athletes to continue to find
recreational exercise for the rest of
1. Quick explosive movement/short 5. Recovery between points and their lives. *
sprint as it relates to footwork and refocusing on tasks (like between
balance. plays).
2. Reading and anticipating of 6. Reading and anticipating of
opponent's movement. opponent's movement.
3. Tracking skills: Learning how to As mentioned previously, football
improve interception of the ball. and some other sports will be based
on position. Being knowledgeable
4. Multiple directional changes: in the synergies between different
Agility with speed and control. sports, no matter what they are,
January 2019 -- USPTA ADDvantage Magazine - 57
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KEEP IT SIMPLE MASTER PRO CORNER
Michael O'Connell Thumb on the thigh, thumb in the � BELIEVE, AND YOU WILL ACHIEVE
USPTA Master Professional sky: Often times the student needs � DON'T RUSH-BRUSH
a checkpoint or a reference point as � WHEN LOW, GO
Keep it Simple. How often have we all it relates to the starting point and � SOLVE THE RIDDLE, GO DOWN THE
heard this statement when teaching finishes.
our students new techniques or even if Perform before you bow: MIDDLE
we are working with a beginner for the This thought helps the student to keep � DIP AND RIP
first time? I have been teaching for more their head up and to extend up and out � GRIP IT, RIP IT
than 40 years and have been exposed to on their serve. � SLICE IS NICE, FLAT NOT WHERE IT IS
many different styles and approaches in Track it to the racquet:
communicating, educating and delivering This phrase is to get your students to AT, SPIN YOU WIN (MY FAVORITE)
instructions. I have been fortunate to think about watching the ball to the � SERVE FOR SHOW, VOLLEY FOR
be able to teach hundreds of individuals strings.
seeking to get into the tennis industry If you want to celebrate, then you DOUGH
and become tennis professionals through must accelerate: � IF YOU WANT YOUR SERVE TO RATE,
the program we offered at the Indiana This statement is to get your student
University Recreational Sports Tennis to think about finishing the stroke and THEN PRONATE
Center, "tennis training for career illicit spin. � IF YOU POP IT UP THEN YOU WILL
professionals." Meet it, don't beat it:
Most of your students take too much COUGH IT UP
Some of the most powerful and backswing when volleying and this � RENOUNCE THE BOUNCE
meaningful words spoken to your phrase will help your student prevent � FIND, FEEL, FINISH
students are the simplest and most too much backswing. � SPLIT THEM OR HIT THEM
effective provided you have a good If you want to score, use your core: � THE FOUR R'S: READY, READ, REACT,
understanding of all the proper As teaching professionals, we all know
mechanics and stroke production. Often the importance of utilizing the core to RECOVER
these words, rhymes and isms that I will perform the desired stroke production. � THE FOUR P'S: PRESENTS, POSTURE,
share are reminders to the students on Cock it, lock it, knock it:
what they should focus on. This statement is to get the student POSITION, PRESSURE
to lay the wrist back, align the racquet � IF YOU CAN'T READ IT, YOU CAN'T BEAT IT
These are a few of the "mike-isms" that face and to stabilize. � BACK UP THEN YOU WILL PACK UP
I have incorporated in my sessions and If you want to compete, then move � STOP THE CHOP
adopted that my students respond to. your feet or suffer defeat: � LOAD AND EXPLODE
This phrase recognizes the importance � PLAY LARGE AND IN CHARGE
SIT BEFORE YOU HIT: of footwork. � NO DISGRACE TO CHANGE THE PACE
The goal here is to get your students to � IF YOU WANT TO WIN THE RACE,
bend their knees and stay down as they As you can see, there are so many
are striking the ball. short words, phrases and isms that CHANGE THE PACE
EXTEND BEFORE YOU BEND: can be incorporated into your � IT IS RISKY TO BE WRISTY
This phrase refers to the student teaching vocabulary. Here are a � DON'T BE CUTE, JUST EXECUTE
extending out through the contact point number of other rhymes and isms � RECOVER TO DISCOVER
before bending the arm too soon and that I utilize: � WORK FOR A CAUSE, NOT THE
going across the body.
APPLAUSE
The next time you are teaching
your students and you want them to
remember correct form, use keywords
and phrases. These simple words will
make learning tennis enjoyable and
long-lasting. *
O'Connell was the head professional at the Indiana University Recreational
Sports Tennis Center from 1992-2015. He was a five-time Indiana USPTA
Professional of the Year, Midwest USPTA Professional of the Year in 2009
and was inducted into the USPTA Midwest Hall of Fame in 1998
January 2019 -- USPTA ADDvantage Magazine - 59
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I N S I D E C O A C H I N G USPTA
Mind your P's for
perfecting play
by Tony D. Adams, USPTA Professional
While I've been teaching tennis against opponents with contrasting my more competitive students gain
for seven years and have been and varying styles. For example, when a advantage during tougher points. I also
certified for three years, I've been player is late to the ball, by using more believe more patient players will serve at
playing and coaching tennis for 27 years. poise he or she can hit a high and deep a higher percentage and more effectively
As a USPTA certified professional, I've shot instead of a weak rally ball when win their service games through smarter,
been working within the youth tennis forced back or out of position and gain more efficient serving.
program for the USTA Mid-Atlantic more recovery time to be in position to
Section in Woodbridge, Virginia and hit the next set of shots. Having poise 3. Position
its' affiliate, TGA. I have also been can help players remain in the shot-
coaching area high school teams, making moment, just player and ball, so Achieving the best position starts with a
including 100-plus roster players, and that the player can finish successfully good ready position and split step
also independently coaching players through the ball without interruption of I expect my students to use positive
from more than 400 families. I played thought or emotion. energy and get in a better position so
for 10 years overseas while serving in they can hit cleaner, less risky shots and
the military and competed stateside on 2. Patience experience fewer errors in any given
USTA teams in league championships match. Good footwork and finding
and area district tournaments. Power up their legs for a shot dynamic balance before and during a
My experience in tennis helped me Patience is just what it sounds like, and player's shots are essential ingredients.
to develop a successful playing and can be integrated into practice before Achieving the best position starts with
coaching philosophy. My teaching and during a point, game, set or match. a good ready position and split step,
system includes components that I continually want my students to take especially with more advanced players,
key on specific terms which helps me more time to power up their legs for the so that higher-level players can quickly
to communicate various skills to my shot and set the racquet, and then hit a anticipate shots and get in position to
students. I would like to introduce my cleaner, stronger shot using what I call "hit the right shot at the right time";
strategies that focus on six key words the "power step" with trampoline effect another phrase I often use in teaching.
starting with the letter "P" and share falling into the shot. I find myself telling One point of interest for any coach
them with other teaching professionals. them, "bounce, bounce, pause, explode should be helping students learn how
The below terms include poise, patience, and smack through the ball." This helps to transition to the mid-court, get into
position, pace, placement and power in a nice unit turn. This is a good time for
the order of importance. Together, these
skills help players build on a successful
game plan.
1. Poise
Poise is related to a player's thought
processes/decision making during
a point, set or match and is directly
associated with problem-solving during
competition. Poise is concerned with
learning to play within one's capacity
for a given shot and change shots
January 2019 -- USPTA ADDvantage Magazine - 61
USPTA INSIDE COACHING
skipping to a player's open-stance for the coach and player to find this strategy when he or she is being beat at
power position and hitting around mutual understanding of what pace his or her typical game.
and up on the ball (turning the arm is correct for the given player's shots
over). This is what I refer to as a cut- to effectively work the point without 6. Power
shot similar to how Rafael Nadal hits sacrificing silly errors. Hitting with the
his forehand, which helps to strike right pace and working the point with The sixth and final "P" is power, which
through the ball and keeping it well rally balls instead of simply playing becomes evident in a player's game as
within the court without sacrificing up to his or her limits too early in the they compete at increasingly higher
good racquet head speed. Further, rally or at the wrong time in a rally levels. Power has its biggest place in
I realize that patience is even more can be vital in winning close matches. tennis when players utilize "first-strike"
important for younger, less-confident Considering the above, it's important style tennis. If players are equal or
players who are working to learn to help players speed up and try to challenged in the baseline game, it's a
better backhands. This happens when increase their pace with all shots to good time to implement more "strike-
students reach for the ball instead of allow them to play first-strike tennis first" style tennis early in rallies. While
moving to and attacking the ball. For when necessary. power is not necessarily for everyone
best results, early forward momentum given a player's style, today's tennis tour
should take place prior to the bounce 5. Placement players seem to hit the ball faster in most
on the backhand. matches, but sacrifice errors. Basically,
Without understanding a player's pace, when the opponent's ball is sitting just
4. Pace placing the ball is often too challenging. above the net, I encourage my students
Learning to place the ball is not often to hit high-style attack shots with great
Ideal pace, for both forehands and practiced enough, especially at a power.
backhands player's ideal pace. While most young
The fourth "P" is one of the most players really enjoy hitting hard, hitting Implementing the six "Ps" of poise,
important attributes of successful high angles and deep balls at slower speeds patience, position, pace, placement and
school players. Since emotions play can be tremendously effective in luring power creates a great foundation for a
a vital role in a high school player's players out of position. When working well-rounded game. The key is to find
results, how players manage energy angles including outside-in and inside- the right blend between the "Ps" for
and emotions is central to controlling out style shots, down-the-line practice, your player(s). *
the racquet and managing the pace high-and-deep balls and various slices,
in his or her game. Thereby, nearly the coach should help players figure
all of my practices with my high out his or her ideal patterns of play and
school students incorporate hitting pace so they can regularly play to his
for rhythm at each player's ideal pace or her strengths. At the same time, I
for both forehands and backhands. try to help students learn to anticipate
For example, one of my students obvious angles of their opponents'
might have 80 percent pace on his shots by following learned patterns or
forehand, but only 65 to 70 percent generally playing cross-court angles.
pace on his backhand. It's important The coach and player must ultimately
be flexible enough and have alternative
patterns that target noted weaknesses
of a given player. Players have to be
brave in changing his or her game
Tony Adams lives in Springfield, Virginia, and works as an independent
USPTA tennis professional and teaching pro for the USTA Mid-Atlantic
Region. He started playing tennis after high school and competed while a
soldier in Germany for the US Army. At his current position at Fort Belvoir, he
has won the Intramural Tennis Championships the last four out of six years.
62 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine -- January 2019
RACQUETFIT USPTA
No Coil Characteristic and Screen by RacquetFit Team
How many coaches have experienced this? A issue is technical or physical. Let me show you
player arrives for a lesson and announces one of the ways we teach coaches, trainers and
their intention of learning to swing and serve medical professionals to screen for rotational
like their favorite player. The coach goes to work, capabilities in our RacquetFit seminars.
offering analysis and technical cues in hopes of
bridging the gap between their student and the The multi-segmental rotation assessment
generational athlete they hope to emulate. After tests for normal rotational mobility of the
an hour of work, progress is limited. The student trunk, pelvis, hips, knees and feet. To perform
still isn't doing what their favorite player is doing. the screen, stand with your back to a mirror
(or behind your student). Stand tall, holding a
Does this mean that the student is a poor racquet behind your head. Turn as far as you can
athlete or that the coach is ineffective at to the right. If you can see your left shoulder in
communicating a desired technical change? the mirror, there's a good chance you have the
No. Allow me to present a third option: requisite physical capabilities to coil properly
the student does not have the movement in the serve (there are two additional rotational
capabilities required to reproduce what their tests in the RacquetFit screen we use to confirm).
favorite player does.
If you don't pass the multi-segmental rotation
At RacquetFit, we're obsessed with screen, the good news is you can still play great
understanding how the human body moves tennis. You don't have to move like Federer to
in tennis. The sport of tennis presents unique serve well, you just have to move like Federer to
physical demands and we believe that coaches serve like Federer.
and athletes should consider how they move
when designing how they play. Our philosophy is that there are infinite
ways to serve, but there's one way to serve that
One problem with modeling your game after is most efficient for you and it's based on how
a professional player is that the strokes you see you can move.
on TV belong to athletes who not only have elite
technique, but elite movement capabilities. If Once we know your screen results, we give
you want your athlete to copy Roger Federer, you you two options: you can work with a trainer
better hope they can move like Federer. or medical professional to move your physical
capabilities or you can develop a style with your
This issue is extremely prevalent in the serve, coach that works around your physical limitation.
in part because of the mobility and stability
requirements. A common serve characteristic Instructing athletes to move in a way that they
that we see is a lack of rotation in the trophy are not capable of moving isn't just the recipe
pose. In order to create explosive power during for a frustrating lesson, it's the recipe for a bad
the serve, the athlete needs to be able to rotate or lesson. Don't guess how your athlete moves,
coil their body during the toss phase. In order to assess how your athlete moves.
assess whether or not you are coiling enough, the
front of their hip and the majority of their chest If you're interested in learning more about
should be visible from the back-camera view. If RacquetFit and how to physically screen and
you can't see the chest or hips, we refer to this as a evaluate your athletes, check out our website:
swing characteristic called No Coil. www.racquetfit.com. We look forward to seeing
you at one of our 2019 Locations:
Lack of coil isn't just the result of physical
limitations. Technical issues such as poor ball Phoenix - 2/07-08/2019
toss, inefficient stance or inadequate forward Lake Nona - USPTA 3/29-20/2019
weight shift can contribute to No Coil. More Newark - 5/24-25/2019
often than not, however, the issue is physical. Dallas - 7/18-19/2019
Las Vegas - Attached to the USPTA World
In our opinion, if you have an athlete who
wants to increase their coil, the most important Conference 9/28-29/2019
thing you can do is to determine whether the Atlanta - 11/15-16/2019*
January 2019 -- USPTA ADDvantage Magazine - 63
USPTA PLATFORM TENNIS
Why your racquet sports facility should consider
adding Platform Tennis!
by Andy Sorrentino, USPTA Elite Professional & PPTA Professional
Platform Tennis, with its played on an elevated aluminum deck squash, as players utilize classic tennis
multigenerational appeal, has been (thus the name "platform tennis"), strokes with the ability to play shots off
exploding across the country over the approximately 1/3 the size of a tennis of the wires. Almost exclusively played
past 10 years. Platform tennis, which is court, over a 34-inch net, with the court as doubles teams, the tight confines of
affectionately known as "paddle," by its surrounded by 12-foot-high screens. The a platform court make communication
enthusiastic followers, is a fun, exciting, ability to melt snow and ice with heating and teamwork imperative. Initially,
fast-paced game which is easy to learn units underneath the gritty aluminum players with proficient racquet skills
but uniquely challenging to those with surface makes platform tennis a true have an advantage, but unlike tennis,
advanced racquet skills. Originally all-weather sport. many players can compensate with
thought of as a cold weather alternative thoughtful strategy and a little bit of
to outdoor tennis, platform tennis At many clubs in the Northeast and hustle. The inability to hit winners and
courts have been popping up in some Midwest, platform tennis has taken over the reliance on strategy has led many to
interesting warm climate locations as the number one alternative during call platform tennis the "chess game"
such as Arizona, California, South cold weather months when racquets of racquet sports. Platform tennis
Carolina, Georgia and even in Florida. enthusiasts and golfers traditionally is unique in that players of varying
Summer platform has also been gaining go into hibernation. The mass appeal abilities can still enjoy a competitive
a following thanks to the development and party atmosphere make platform game, as the ability to use the screens
of a special warm-weather ball which tennis a fun, healthy outdoor activity becomes a great equalizer. So, as the
bounces lower in warmer conditions. that can be played socially or at a highly court space shrinks, the tactics and
competitive level. Platform is truly strategies increase which has become
Platform tennis was invented nearly a lifetime sport. The smaller court is the main feature in platform's lasting
one hundred years ago in Scarsdale, easier to cover than a tennis court and appeal and growth in popularity.
New York by James Gogswell and the relatively quick learning curve
Fessenden Blanchard, two avid tennis allows players of all ages and abilities Of course, there are financial benefits
players looking for a way to stay active to become proficient rather quickly. in developing a platform tennis program
and hone their tennis skills during the Many people describe platform as a as well. The teaching options are
long east coast winters. Platform is combination of tennis, racquetball and endless, from new players, to junior
programming, to players with elite
racquet skills desperate to learn the
intricacies of paddle strategy. Platform
tennis is easy to learn, easy to coach and
there are many opportunities to gain
teaching proficiency and certification
through the USPTA. Platform tennis
programs are a fantastic way to
increase pro shop sales at racquet
clubs during the winter months which
have traditionally been the slow retail
periods. The ability to deliver an
entirely new line of racquets, balls and
cold-weather sports apparel can create
completely new revenue streams. Clubs
can additionally benefit from the food
and beverage opportunities that are
associated with leagues, tournaments
and platform parties, which have
64 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine -- January 2019
USPTA
become a major part of the platform that addresses each of these challenges. to a warm weather destination.
tennis culture. The increased social 3. Clubs looking to increase pro shop
appeal of platform lends itself to a more Who benefits from a platform tennis
festive post-match atmosphere usually program? sales
accompanied by a meal and an adult 4. The membership who will welcome
beverage. 1. Professionals/managers looking for
a fun, new, winter program for their an outdoor sport that they can play
As the decision makers at many clubs tennis players, golfers or a whole year-round with their friends and
are searching for additional revenue new group of members. family.
sources, increased programming for 5. The general manager who will be
its members and creative ways to 2. Racquet professionals who can grateful for the increases in food
compensate club professionals, platform continue to teach through the cold and beverage sales associated with
tennis provides a comprehensive option weather months with little loss of keeping members engaged at the
revenue, without having to relocate club through the winter season. *
USPTA PARTNERS WITH IPTPA TO BRING
PICKLEBALL CERTIFICATION TO THE ASSOCIATION
The United States Professional Tennis members should have education about The courses will be hosted at USPTA
Association (USPTA) has entered pickleball," said USPTA CEO John division conferences.
into a three-year partnership with Embree. "The IPTPA has proven to
the International Pickleball Teaching be a well-respected and outstanding "As highly trained teachers, USPTA
Professional Association (IPTPA.) organization providing opportunities professionals are great communicators,
Under the terms of the agreement, the to improve teaching skills through can break a skill down to its simplest
USPTA will work collaboratively with continuing education programs. components, understand the
the recognized world leader in pickleball However, it is not our intent to get into importance of a great lesson plan and
teacher certification to certify USPTA the pickleball certification business." are passionate about teaching," said
professionals in pickleball. IPTPA CEO Seymour Rifkind. "We
The pickleball certification course condensed our workshop into a format
Starting in 2019, the IPTPA will host will include classroom sessions, on- that will allow USPTA members to
specialty courses in pickleball across court teaching sessions, and an on-court recognize the distinct differences of
USPTA division conferences, where playing session. The cost for the five- pickleball while becoming familiar with
interested professionals will be able hour workshop is $240, which includes the IPTPA methodology which has
to earn their Level I certification in the pickleball certification testing, become the world standard in teaching
pickleball. access to the specialty course, and a pickleball. IPTPA is thrilled to be
one-year membership with the IPTPA. partnering with the USPTA."*
"We realize that our members
have been asked about pickleball and
many are being encouraged to start a
pickleball program at their facilities.
With that in mind, our board of
directors has recognized that USPTA
January 2019 -- USPTA ADDvantage Magazine - 65
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MEMBER NEWS USPTA
Lisa Dodson Henry Harris Eric Anderson Rex Cuajunco
Featured in the New York Henry Harris is set to be Anderson is Director of Cuajunco has been named
Tennis Magazine article At inducted into the Tennis tennis at Desert Highlands director of operations for the
the Net with Lisa Dodson. Foundation of Mississippi SMU men's tennis team. He
Dodson is a 40-year teaching Hall of Fame. Harris attended in Scottsdale, Arizona, recently was the director of
Copiah-Lincoln Community and was given the 2018 tennis at The Village Dallas
professional and is the College and then graduated Outstanding Tournament
developer and owner of from Alcorn State University. Enrichment Award from for over 20 years and is a
Servemaster along with He then returned to Natchez, the USTA Southwest USPTA Elite Professional and
being a WTCA and USPTA Mississippi to work as a Section along with the a Master Racquet Technician
Professional and a former policeman. 18 years later, he
WTA world-ranked player. was transferred to the Parks 2018 Sally Grabham with the United States
She has extensive experience and Recreation Department Tournament Enrichment Racquet Stringers Association.
in club management, program (now the City of Natchez An avid volunteer, Cuajunco
development, product Recreation Department). award from the USTA
development and professional In 1976, Harris started Phoenix Section. The has served in numerous
teaching for all levels of play. volunteering as the tennis awards were given for capacities such as president of
Lisa is also a national speaker, coach at North Natchez his performance as the the Dallas Professional Tennis
a serve specialist and has High School. During his time tournament director of
accumulated over 40 years leading the Rams, they won the Desert Highlands Association, Nominating
of experience in the tennis four division championships, USTA Southwest Grass Committee Chair at the
industry. Currently, she is the four state championships, Court Championships, USPTA Texas Division, D&I
seasonal director of tennis at and two Big 8 Conference held since 2012. Anderson Committee Chair at USTA
Shenorock Shore Club in also received the Industry Texas Section, and his
championships. Excellence Award during
Rye, New York. the 2018 USPTA Southwest current role as the
Division Convention. Leadership Development
Committee Chair for the
USTA Texas Section.
NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS ADDVANTAGE MAGAZINE ADDvantage is published monthly by the USPTA
The opinions expressed in ADDvantage are
President...................................................................... Gary Trost Editor.............................................................................John Cornell those of the authors and not necessarily those
First Vice President................................................. Feisal Hassan Managing Editor ................................................... DeVonte' Martin of ADDvantage or the United States Professional
Vice Presidents..........................................Cari Buck, Mark Faber, Layout/Design........................................................... Gustavo Reyes Tennis Association.
Editorial Assistance.......................... Tommy Cardinal, Risa Epstein,
Trish Faulkner, Bill Mountford, Richard Slivocka Copyright� United States Professional Tennis
Immediate Past President.............................................Chuck Gill Ramona Husaru, Sid Newcomb, Fred Viancos, Ashley Walker Association, Inc. 2019. All rights reserved.
CEO...........................................................................John Embree Circulation................................................................ Trevor Trudelle Reproduction of any portion of the magazine is not
Legal Counsel........................................................George Parnell permitted without written permission from USPTA.
USPTA World Headquarters
11961 Performance Dr. Cover Photo by Hans Ro.. mer
Orlando, FL 32827
January 2019 -- USPTA ADDvantage Magazine - 67
USPTA CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Exams, Upgrades & PTCA Online education 2019 USPTA Division
Conference Schedule
4 Credits for PTCA I Segment Exams, Watch webinars, seminars, On Court with USPTA
Upgrades & PTCA episodes, specialty courses and much more on Division Conferences - 6 Credits
TennisResources.com to earn your education
Jan. 5 � 6 ...................................Aurora, IL credits. January 18-20......................... NorCal Division
Jan. 5 � 6 ..............Mountlake Terrace, WA Stanford University; Stanford, CA
Jan. 6.................................. Collierville, TN Platform Tennis
Jan. 11 ....................... Oklahoma City, OK February 16-17........... Intermountain Division
Jan. 12 - 13 ....................... Boca Raton, Fl Feb. 21 ....................... Certification Course Lifetime Fitness; Centennial, CO
Jan. 18.............................. Kansas City, MO Englewood, CO
Jan. 18................................... Stanford, CA February 21-23.......... Missouri Valley Division
Jan. 26 � 27 .......................... La Habra, CA Feb. 24 - 25 ................. Certification Course Crestview Country Club; Wichita, KS
Feb. 2 � 3 ................. Hilton Head Island, SC Garden City, NY
Feb. 9 � 10 ....................... Johns Creek, GA February 21-24..........................Texas Division
Feb. 11 � 12 ............................ Orlando, FL Mar. 19 � 20 ................ Certification Course Horseshoe Bay Resort; Horseshoe Bay, TX
Feb. 13..........................North Merrick, NY Golf, IL
Feb. 14 � 15 .......................Centennial, CO March 1-3............................Northern Division
Feb. 16 � 17 ............ Huntington Beach, CA Apr. 21 ........................ Certification Course Fred Wells Tennis and Learning Center; St. Paul, MN
Feb. 17 ...................................Boston, MA Stamford, CT
Feb. 21.................................... Wichita, KS March 2-3...........................San Diego Division
Feb. 22 ................................ Mt. Kisco, NY Mar. 29 - 30................. Certification Course La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club; La Jolla, CA
Feb. 23................................ Eau Claire, WI USPTA National Headquarters; Lake Nona, Fl
Feb. 23 � 24 ................. Horseshoe Bay, TX April 27-28..........Southern California Division
Cardio Tennis SeaCliff Country Club; Huntington Beach, CA
Exam reservations must be made at least 21 days
prior to the dates listed. Each date includes an Jan. 19 ...................Level 1 Training Course May 16-18...........................Southern Division
exam, upgrade. PTCA I is included in the two day Ferris State University; Big Rapids, MI North Hill Country Club; Raleigh, NC
exam. Exam cancellations must be received no
later than 14 days before the exam, or a cancella- May 17-19........................ Southwest Division
tion fee will be charged accordingly. Applicant: late Location TBD
cancellation fee � $95; failure to cancel � appli-
cation fee is forfeited. Certified members: late
cancellation fee � $25; failure to cancel � $25 plus
the upgrade fee is forfeited. Registration for an-
other exam will not be accepted until cancellation
fees are paid.
National Board Applications Available Soon May 30-June 2........................ Florida Division
PGA National; Palm Beach Gardens
The USPTA Nominating Committee will be A nominating slate will be presented to the
seeking candidates who are interested membership by June 1, and any challenges to May 31- June 1.......Pacific Northwest Division
in serving on the USPTA National Board of the slate must be submitted by Aug. 1. If an Central Park Tennis Club; Kirkland , WA
Directors for the 2020-2022 term. Information election is needed, it will be held in late August
and the application will be emailed to eligible so that results can be announced at the World August 15-16....................... Midwest Division
members this month. Conference in September. Western Southern Open; Cincinnati, Ohio
The application deadline is March 1. Phone Please note that only members in good
interviews will be conducted with qualified standing with a certification level of Elite Pro
nominees. The selected candidates will then or higher are eligible to apply. Any candidates
be offered a live interview during the Executive failing to meet these criteria will not be
Committee in April. considered.
mADMIRE is the referring member's responsibility to be sure
INVITE that the applicant includes his or her name on the
MENTOR application in the field labeled
"Please provide the name of the person who
� Admire the reputation of the recommended USPTA membership to you."
prospective member
New Member Referral Incentives & Eligibility:
� Invite them to join our respected � $50 discount on USPTA annual dues up
organization to $300. After that � a $50 credit for
the USPTA Pro Tennis Shop
� Mentoring for those interested in � Only certified members in good
professional guidance standing will be eligible and they
may only refer first-time potential
USPTA members are asked to recommend members.
admirable teaching professionals in their local area
or region who are currently instructing but not For more information, contact membership
USPTA certified. If the prospect decides to join, it at membership@uspta.org
68 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine -- January 2019