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Tóm tắt nội dung (trích từ tài liệu gốc): MARCH 2018 USPTA Elite Professional Jason Gilbert with U30 Pros Brittany Hill ( left) and Adelaide Wood (right). 41 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine 42 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine FROM THE CEO Why are U30's so important? John R. Embree, USPTA Chief Executive Officer It is no secret that the tennis industry is getting older. almost every division has launched From manufacturer's reps to USTA Adult League players, a U30 Committee. If you are reading to members of our association, the numbers continue to be this article and are a millennial that deeply concerning. The average age of a USPTA member is
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Nội Dung Gốc (Tiếng Anh)¶
MARCH 2018
USPTA Elite Professional Jason Gilbert
with U30 Pros Brittany Hill ( left) and
Adelaide Wood (right).
41 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine
42 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine
FROM THE CEO
Why are U30's so important?
John R. Embree, USPTA Chief Executive Officer
It is no secret that the tennis industry is getting older. almost every division has launched
From manufacturer's reps to USTA Adult League players, a U30 Committee. If you are reading
to members of our association, the numbers continue to be this article and are a millennial that
deeply concerning. The average age of a USPTA member is has resisted getting involved with
bordering on 50 and the trend continues to head north. What is the USPTA locally, do yourself a
going to happen over the next 5-10 years as we age out? Who is favor. Reach out to your fellow U30
going to fill the roles of the jobs that are going to come open? colleagues and make yourself available
Young people today do not aspire to be tennis-teaching for any number of U30 activities that
professionals even if they have a passion for our sport. For are going on throughout the country.
some reason, a career in the tennis industry or specifically in Every one of our new committee chairs has been encouraged
teaching tennis does not seem to invite a U30 member to
to engender much enthusiasm volunteer for their newly
amongst high school players or appointed respective national
collegians. I cannot figure out committee. We need the
why that is... perspective that only a
Therefore, it is incumbent on millennial can bring to those
all of us to recruit, encourage, committee discussions.
and lead those young players As General Dunwoody so
into our profession. The eloquently stated during
problem, however, is that the her general session here
millennials don't want to be in Orlando at the Next
mentored by old fuddy- duddys Generation: A Tennis
like me (who would be eager Innovation Workshop last
to guide and provide direction USPTA Elite Professional Jason Gilbert speaking with U30 Pros. October, "diversity is just
to their students or even not ticking off the boxes. It is
assistants). No, they would rather listen to someone of their about diversity of thought." That is a dimension that U30's can
own vintage who has some experience in the industry to offer bring to our committee work.
insight and advice as to how to navigate the incredible maze In addition, our multimedia department has just produced
that is our tennis marketplace. I don't blame them. a dynamic 30 second TV spot that will be aired on the Tennis
While this is not the only reason why our U30 program is Channel that focuses on our U30 professionals. Finally, we
so vital to our long-term health, it is clearly one of them. The will be working hand in hand with the USTA on all of the PTM
U30's (who are already actively engaged with the USPTA) will programs that are hatching across the country. The latest
play a critical role in representing our industry to those who count of PTM programs is 8-10 that are now underway. The
are now on the outside looking in. Building a strong base of students who come out of those programs will have extensive
U30's cannot only help restock our association with quality knowledge about the tennis industry, will have been mentored
like-minded professionals, but they will serve as our leaders of by USPTA professionals at some of the finest club facilities in
the future. the country, and will have learned first-hand what it is like to
People often ask me, "what keeps you up at night?" Without work as tennis-teaching professionals. Not only that, each will
giving it much thought, this is it. I worry terribly about our be USPTA certified before they graduate from college.
industry and the current participation trends (which you know I implore every USPTA professional to reach out and
are not good), but I am very nervous about the lack of a youth identify one promising young tennis enthusiast and help them
movement within the USPTA. For that reason, our efforts to understand the benefits of working in our industry and why
increase the visibility of our U30's have to be a priority, both they should aspire to join our wonderful industry.
nationally and at the division/local levels. U30's are the lifeblood of the USPTA going forward. They are
Thanks to Jason Gilbert, the new president of USPTA the future. We cannot wait to take the right steps to bring new
Florida who is credited with starting the U30 program in 2013, people in. It is now or never...*
43 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine
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Vice President Message
#Givingback
Cari Buck, USPTA Vice President
So here I am, fresh off the national board meeting of 2018. It US Promotions Director for Wilson
is going to be a big year for the USPTA and as members, you Racquet Sports, Tim Buwick once told
can be assured that this team will be working hard for you and me, we are all so lucky, "we work in
working to make the USPTA the best organization it can be. the toy department of life." For me as
When I was asked to write this article, I thought what should I I'm sure for many of you, tennis has
write about? After thinking about it a few days, it became clear. given me so much. I have met so many
Write about something I'm passionate about; you can't go wrong amazing people, I've had fantastic
that way, right? experiences, I've been places I never
Many of you who know me know I am passionate about thought I would go, I've learned so much and I've had so much
wheelchair tennis. As I think back throughout my career, as fun...all because of tennis. And now it is my passion to do my best
well as my childhood...it is not just about wheelchair tennis; it is to give those experiences to others. It is interesting to look back
actually about giving back. My parents were very big on giving and realize that so many of these great memories are directly
back, my father especially. When I was only about 14, he already related to my work with wheelchair athletes. Being able to bring
had me out on the courts working with the little kids. It wasn't tennis to a population that never thought they could play a sport,
just me; it was all the kids in the program. As soon as our lessons let alone excel at it, is incredibly rewarding.
were done, the older kids went out and helped teach the younger Sit back and think for a minute about all tennis has given you.
ones. Giving back, paying it forward...call it what you want, but it Wouldn't it be great if you could help someone else have those
was a way of life in the Buck household. same experiences? As coaches, we give back to our students
When I first started every day, but having been there
working with wheelchair myself, I know the daily grind can
players, I was just a year become monotonous at times
out of college; teaching at and we can lose perspective. So
the Royal Lahaina Tennis step out of your comfort zone
Ranch in Maui. While I and try something new, take on
had years of experience a new challenge and mix things
teaching at our family club; up. There are so many great
when it came to wheelchair organizations to get involved
tennis I did not have a clue with...Special Olympics, ACEing
and I had no idea what to Autism, Wounded Warriors, not
expect. Talk about being to mention an abundance of local
out of your comfort zone. organizations. If you get the
I was totally intimidated opportunity to spend time working
as the players came rolling Cari Buck with Thomas Bourassa (left ) and Chris Herman (right). with one of these organizations,
out on the court. What jump at it...you won't be sorry.
was I going to do with a bunch of guys in wheelchairs, how The USPTA Foundation is another way to give back. Our
were they going to play tennis? I was in for a surprise...these Foundation has awarded over 70 grants to qualified programs
guys could play, these guy were athletes! I learned so much across the country, as well as giving back to pros that needed
about wheelchair tennis from them... they helped me learn to help recovering from natural disasters. We also recently linked
play in a chair, which really helped me understand the game up with AmazonSmile ...when you shop on Amazon use the
so much better and they taught me how to best coach them. I link https://smile.amazon.com/ and choose United States
soon realized that while they were learning topsin and strategy Professional Tennis Association Foundation as your charity.
from me I was learning way more from them...I learned about You can also make a tax deductible donation via paypal at uspta.
appreciating what I had, staying positive and focusing on what I com. So whether you give back on court or off, you can and will
could do and not what I couldn't do. Those Saturday afternoon make a difference. "Think big and always give back to the game,
sessions soon became my favorite part of the week, and to this in every way you can" - Jim Buck. My dad, my coach and my
day I still appreciate the amazing impact it had on me. favorite mixed doubles partner on the planet.*
45 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine
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USPTA - U30
Preparing for the Future
DeVonte' Martin, USPTA Public Relations Coordinator
Five years ago, a group of tennis-teaching professionals "It's so exciting to see U30 professionals get together,
walked into the 2013 USPTA World Conference at network, and get mentors with experienced tennis-teaching
the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in Orlando, Florida professionals within our organization," Gilbert said. "It
wearing orange shirts. Vibrant and young, the group made has been an amazing initiative that we are very excited to
their presence known and many began to take notice of continue to grow."
the USPTA U30. To shed a light on young professionals,
members were brought together to film the "USPTA U30" The initial process for applicants under 30 to join the
commercial. U30 Initiative is becoming a USPTA member. After passing
the on-court certification exam, young tennis-teaching
The U30 is a team of tennis-teaching professionals under professionals are invited to join the USPTA U30 Initiative
the age of 30 working to create opportunities for young by members like Kyle LaCroix. LaCroix, a Florida Tester
professionals. Their primary goal is to develop a voice for and U30 member, was brought into the initiative after
their generation that will magnify the impact they can have speaking with Gilbert and has been dedicated to growing
in their careers, community and culture of tennis. the next wave of young tennis-teaching professionals ever
since.
The U30 Initiative is led by Director of Competitive
Tennis at USTA Florida and USPTA Florida Division "My role in the USPTA U30 as the Florida Tester, is
President, Jason Gilbert. He saw the USPTA's aging that I get all the U30's coming into the USPTA during the
demographic and knew he needed to find a group of application process and I educate them about the U30
young professionals that would help the USPTA. Since Initiative," LaCroix said. "From there, I make sure the
its inception, 15 out of the 17 USPTA divisions have applicants know they will receive a call from either Jason or
implemented the U30 initiative and it continues to increase Gregory Heartt who oversees recruitment."
in members.
Heartt, a USPTA Elite Professional, and U30 Recruitment
USPTA Pro Jason Gilbert with U30 Pros Adelaide Wood ( left) & Chair said one of the strategies he utilizes to get young
Brittany Hill (right). tennis-teaching professionals into the U30 Initiative
is sending an email congratulating them on joining the
association and inviting them to be a part of the U30
meeting.
"I remember the first conference I attended, I felt lost
because I was younger and in a world where everyone
knows everyone in the tennis industry," Heartt said. "You're
a fly on the wall and one of the great things about the U30
Initiative is that when you're at a conference, immediately
you're recognized by U30 members and we all attend the
sessions and then hang out afterward. It's a great feeling to
be a part of the U30 family."*
47 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine
MASTER PRO corner
Why there are no key points in tennis
by Ron Woods, Ph.D. USPTA Master Professional
Some tennis coaches and players believe that winning certain key points in a match are the
difference between winning and losing. Conventional wisdom has typically held that if you win
certain points during a match, your odds of a victory are greatly enhanced. Some coaches insist the first
point of a game, the 15-30 point or the ad- in or ad-out points are critical. Similarly, the first game of a
set, the 7th game and winning your own serve consistently are judged to be crucial. Of course, playing
a tiebreak magnifies the importance of each point especially when used to decide a match instead of
playing a third set.
The fact is each point
in tennis counts as one
point won or lost. 99
percent of matches
are won by the player
who wins the most total
points no matter when
they occur. Adding more
value or importance
to any one point over
another is simply a trick
of your mind that often
leads to failure. If you
believe certain points
are critical to the match
outcome, that just
amplifies the pressure
and tension that you
feel which often leads
to poor execution. The
result is self-induced
tension, nervousness,
and anxiety rather
than self-confidence
and self-esteem.
Notable psychologist
Dr. Albert Ellis who was a founder
of cognitive behavior therapy has
labeled the behavior described above
as "musterbation." He describes it as
an irrational belief that certain "musts"
formed in your mind are self-defeating.
If you can learn to change your thoughts, you can
change your behavior to result in more positive outcomes.
You may recall the 2010 Wimbledon match between American
John Isner and Nicolas Mahut of France that was dubbed the
"longest match in history" in which Isner prevailed by scores of
6-4, 3-6, 6-7, 7-6, 70-68! The complete match was played over three
days and lasted a total of 11 hours and five minutes. Of the 980
48 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine
total points played, which points do you think were the most Inexperienced players often tend to rush during and between
important, other than the last point? points seemingly just to end their misery sooner.
When you come right down to it, people only play pressure The good news is that we can help all players develop a
points, games or matches because they think they do. The strategy and the psychological skill to deal with choking no
difference between a friendly game, a practice match or "the matter their age, experience, or level of play. The first step
MATCH" is in the mind. Nothing changes in the game except is to shift emphasis to the process and performance rather
in the mind and emotions of the players and their exaggerated than worrying about the match outcome. Teach them to focus
belief in the importance of the outcome. Don't let players fall exclusively on the current point rather than points from the
into the trap of focusing on the "outcome" of a point rather past or coming up in the future. Encourage them to expend
than the "process" of executing to the best of their ability. energy instead into playing each point with intensity and
Here's the bad news about magnifying the importance of any effort. Be sure to have them employ the best strategy or tactic
that they can execute with confidence.
Resist the allure of high risk shots
and rely instead on shot and pattern
sequences with lower risk that they
virtually own. Suggest that they play
their way into every point by allowing
a safe margin for error on serves and
returns to begin the point.
Help players learn to keep their
emotional level steady throughout
a match and use time-tested
psychological skills to adjust
negative emotions if they threaten to
interfere. Use breathing regulation
and progressive relaxation skills to
relax along with positive self-talk to
boost confidence. Focus full attention
on the present point and block out
distracting thoughts or events. Ignore
When players choke during a match, they may become passive or defensive and afraid to the elements like the sun or wind,
make a mistake . lucky shots from the opponent, bad
bounces, and bad line calls.
one point. Your emotional arousal level will likely skyrocket Although it may seem counterintuitive, learning to play
to a level that is too high and thereby increase your anxiety with pressure begins in practice. Embrace situations in
level and feeling of nervousness. The consequences will be drills and modified games that heighten the pressure by
both physical (tight muscles, freezing in place, and shallow varying opponents, using handicap situations, and agreeing
breathing) and mental (loss of focus, confusion, and poor shot to consequences for success or failure. Invite significant
selection.) Virtually all tennis players have experienced this spectators to watch and critique play to add pressure. Practice
perplexing and frightening feeling that we typically describe the psychological skills suggested elsewhere in this article.
as "choking." When players choke during a match, they may When match day rolls around, you and your players don't
become passive or defensive and afraid to make a mistake need to worry about the key points, they really don't even exist.
while others choose high risk shots and become impatient. The real challenge is simply in the mind. *
Ronald B. Woods, Ph.D. has been a USPTA member for over 40 years which includes serving as president of
USPTA Middle States division, member of the national executive committee, and frequent speaker at both
national and division conventions. He was honored as national USPTA Coach of the Year in 1982 and as a
Master Professional in 1984. Ron is the husband of Kathy Woods, former national president of USPTA, who
is now the director of tennis at the USTA National Campus in Lake Nona, Florida. He is currently an adjunct
professor at the University of Tampa in exercise science and human performance and lives with Kathy in
nearby St. Petersburg, Florida.
49 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine
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inside coaching
Unveiling the Secrets of Great Preparation
by Rod Heckelman, USPTA Elite Professional
Aserver pulls the returner off the court with a wide The action takes place
serve and then knifes a perfect crosscourt volley... and they respond with
points over right? Wrong, the player returning that serve instincts that yield
is already there covering that would-be winner and firing a positive response.
a down-the-line passing shot. How did he prepare and This is more than
cover that shot so quickly? As it turns out, it's more than anticipation, this is
just anticipation and speed of foot, it is the culmination of rehearsed and learned
several factors that have contributed to this player's ability expectations. Classic
to excel in coverage and preparation. case of, been there,
done that.
#1The dilemma
of evaluation Top players achieve
that skill from prac-
The Problem tice, but more than
that, they get there
Without realizing it, possibly from that instilled trait of as a result of success- Solution #1
looking before we leap, we lose valuable time evaluating what ful practice. They
is taking place. We don't want to make an error, so we try to rehearse playing point after point in order to achieve that
collect as much information as we can before making any successful reaction. The key here is that they practice play-
commitment. For example, examine how many people type ing points, not just rallying. Players at all levels tend not to
on their keyboards. Anytime they have to hit a number or an practice outside their comfort zone. To overcome evaluating,
exclamation mark or any uncommon key, they stop and look you need to experiment with new ways to approach situations
at the keyboard, then commit. Without realizing it, they have under realistic conditions.
trained themselves to hesitate and look. Because this action
is not automatic, they still have a fear of making a mistake. #2Balanced movement
Hitting certain shots on the court is no different, we hesitate, that is committed
then evaluate before we commit. We want to feel secure that
we have all the information possible in hopes that we can The Problem
avoid failure. All of this results in an unnecessary waste of
time trying to evaluate the situation. Yes, footwork is all important but it goes beyond just being fast
on your feet. Many players learn to first run fast, instead of
We also have developed a ready position that is better first learning how to run efficiently. This is especially true in
suited for collecting information than a reaction to the ball. regards to their starts and recovery. That first step towards the
This is especially true when the situation is new or different. ball is all important. Too often players scoot to the side, or need
Take for instance the player that is uncomfortable coming to take a preparation step to create a running position. Tennis
to the net. The position they assume for readiness for a is a game that is directed forwards but most often needs to be
challenging volley is more suited for gathering information performed sideways. The fact that we are facing the opponent
than it is for reacting quickly. They take on a "Prairie Dog" in our ready position, is only for the option of being able to
like ready position with their head popping up, trying to find go in any direction. If we knew every ball was going to be a
out if they are about to become the prey or the hunter. We forehand or backhand, we would start sideways, like a baseball
come from a long history of being either one or the other and batter or golfer. Because of this conflict, the first step is all too
sometimes we just aren't sure which character we are about often a step that begins the process of running or finding the
to be during these unfamiliar competitive moments. balance and weight transfer needed to create a strong start
towards the ball. The end result is a slow inefficient start.
The Solution
The Solution
Top pro players with great preparation and movement have
no fear. They have been down that road many times before, First, players need to practice hitting forehands and back-
over and over. No need to evaluate and no need to hesitate. hands in a full sideways, racquet prepared position. Providing
51 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine
inside coaching
this opportunity positioned close enough to the ball. The end result is that
they compensate by altering their stroke in order to make
to experience the contact with the ball. This forces the mechanics of the
stroke to constantly change, instead of what really should
sensation of what be taking place, which is improving the positioning so that
the stroke mechanics can be maintained.
it is like to be fully
prepared, will give
them an opportunity
to experience the The Solution
successful feeling of The reason that most
being prepared. This top movers seem to
type of practice will always be positioned
also give them an op- and balanced, is
portunity to improve because they first
Solution #2 their judgement of mastered their
the flight of the ball
stroke production.
from this sideways position and not from the old familiar face
They have learned
forward position. This will also help them achieve a proper
exactly where to
balance that is required for an optimum start. For most, this
be positioned in
has their feet positioned much like that of a sprinter posi-
order to maintain
tioned in their starting blocks. The upper body is slightly
and execute their
leaning in the direction they are about to run.
well-defined strokes.
Second, good players with good movement not only
So in a sense, their
start properly, but they also have a built-in expectation that
stroke mechanics Solution #3
they can cover the court for any shot. Top movers combine
are disciplining their
expectations and anticipation that help develop quick and
positioning for the ball. Because of that, what they have
decisive actions towards running down any ball. We see this
developed is the ability to judge the oncoming ball with
on let-cord shots, the lesser experienced might think that the
both their eyes and their stroke production, not just their
ball is going into the net, so they never get going, not the case
eyes.
with the top movers. They start their movement right off the
It is important that a player working on great
opposing player's stroke so even if the ball were to hit the top
positioning have a good understanding of the difference
of the net, they are already on their way.
between compensating and adapting when altering their
Another observation about movement can be seen if you
stroke. Compensation means you could have performed
watch two children playing tag in a defined space. Notice that
well, but for poor movement and poor judgement, did
the pursuer is more forward and proactive. The one trying
not. Adaptation is the option that is unavoidable and
to avoid being tagged is more upright and defensive. We as
demonstrates great survival instincts.
tennis players need to be the hunter as much as possible. As
Hopefully over time a player learns to master the
the hunter we are always physically ready to move. This is
space of a tennis court. To see if your students have
also what will help us recover for the next shot...we expect a
that skill, have a little fun and take this test. Start at the
return, not wait to see if there is a return.
baseline, have them close their eyes and walk forward.
#3Mastering and owning the
space of a tennis court Have them mark the spot when they think they are at the
service line and then again when they reach the net. The
experienced player has that down, but the learning player
The Problem will be off by a few feet in most cases. Have that new
Players get too close or too far away from the ball for a simple player take that test again about six months later and
reason... they either overrun the ball or they don't get
watch the improvement.*
Rod Heckelman's career started in 1966 when he began his five-year role as a teacher at John Gardiner's Tennis
Ranch in Carmel Valley, California. Later he opened as the resident pro for Gardiner's Tennis Ranch on Camelback
in Scottsdale, Arizona. In 1976, he took over as general manager/tennis director at the Mt. Tam Racquet Club in
Larkspur, California. He produced both the "Facility Manager's Manual" and the "Business Handbook for Tennis
Pros," that is published with the T.I.A. He recently came out with two more instructional books, a book for senior
players called, "Playing Into the Sunset," and a new book for practicing called, "250 Ways to Play Tennis."
52 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine
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Beyond the court
leaving our footprint
Making an impact in our tennis careers
by Kyle LaCroix, USPTA Elite Professional
In this day and age, when we hear the even thousands. Like it or not, we have where it has hurt and professionally
word "footprint," it's usually preceded influence on fans both young and endangered many because of an
by the word "carbon." This carbon old, multiplied by the offensive tweet, a tasteless picture on
footprint is about our environmental huge factor of our
or ecological impact on Earth and its racquet skills, Facebook, or an ill-timed rant on their
natural resources. And although our on-court blog.
carbon footprint is important, I would presence, and But what if there is
argue that for a tennis professional, it our extroverted information on
may not be our most important footprint demeanor on the social media
that we will leave on this planet. What job. we project
the word "footprint" means is the that may not
impressions and images left behind If you've been in this
by people. Simply put, in our career industry for a while, you be malicious, criminal, or has harmful
as tennis professionals it is inevitable have had a profound and life- intent? It's important to remember that
that we will have an impact on others changing impact on somebody. although many of us may be involved in
and ourselves both personally and Maybe it was a sensitive membership this pastime to stay in touch with family
professionally. issue which you resolved, or a club crisis and friends, some in our industry use it
and management sought your advice. for hiring, recruitment and networking.
Role Model Footprint Remember that adult that was looking You never know who may be tracking
to get in better shape and you made that your progress. Fair or unfair, perception
A role model is someone who serves happen with lessons? You are more than can be everything in this industry. Just
as an example and whose behavior is a role model, you are a superhero sans a minimal social media presence still
emulated by others and provides a great the cape. The Barna Group, a research showcases to the outside world how
source of personal motivation. Chances group specializing in faith and culture, you promote and market yourself as
are your membership and your students conducted a nationwide study, sampling a person. An article by Sam Fiorella
admire you. Sure, maybe not all of them, teenagers ages 13-17. More than 11 sources a recent Jobvite.com social
but I bet you have more fans than you percent stated their biggest role models recruiting survey that reported that 89
think. were teachers or coaches. percent of U.S. companies plan to use
social media in their employee searches.
Our careers and the actions we take Students believe that their teacher/ Companies are using social networking
daily leave an impact on a personal, coach is a fountain-head of all sites like Facebook, MySpace, Twitter
professional and psychological level. knowledge. This belief of the student and LinkedIn to screen job candidates. It
We are leaving our footprint on our must be kept alive by us, which is also found that 50 percent of employers
staff, membership, students, and possible, only if we continue to learn, decided not to offer a job to a candidate
community. Like it or not, we are at educate and push ourselves. based on the content uncovered on a
least one person's role model or idol. I social networking site.
often joke with my fellow professionals Be aware of your impact on your staff,
that our jobs are like that of rock stars... membership and your students. It's up Employers are increasingly finding
without the perks. Off the court, whether to you to determine if it's positive or reasons to terminate employees because
you are at the supermarket picking up negative. of their social media interactions. Social
lunch or at a restaurant with friends, Media entrepreneur Adam Ostrow
members always recognize you. Our Social Media Footprint points to a study assessed by Proofpoint,
visibility within our clubs, amongst our found that 8 percent of American
staff, and our membership obliges us Did you know that the USPTA has a
to behave with at least awareness that Social Media Policy? Anyone can view
we are being watched by hundreds and this policy by visiting the association's
website at uspta.com.
We've seen far too many instances
55 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine
Beyond the court
companies had hello to him and ask if he leaders always seem to be
terminated a could use an extra hand or at USPTA meetings and
worker due to even a bottle of water. He conferences, and it almost
a social media always declined but I always seems to me like they have
verbal post offered and exchanged the very important Santa
or picture, pleasantries. Towards the Claus trait. They know if
and 17 percent end of my stay as an intern, you've been bad or good so
I noticed a large increase be good for goodness sakes.
of companies in my lessons. I found out
report disciplining my students happened to Working with charities
employees for violating hear from a particular golf may sound intimidating to
social networking cart attendant that I gave some tennis professionals,
policies. an amazing tennis lesson but it is one of the best
and it would be in their best ways to promote yourself,
Community interest to immediately the sport of tennis, and
Footprint get a lesson. I learned the gain numerous advocates
significance of my role throughout the community.
A successful tennis pro- and how a simple act can Involving yourself with
fessional may only be as provide incredible divi- a charity can be done by
strong as his community's dends both professionally hosting a fundraising event
support for him. Ask your- and personally. It's nice to at your club, volunteering
self, how are you viewed be important, but it's more just an hour or two during
important to be nice. your off days, or by simply
by your staff and other promoting and marketing
USPTA professionals Working with your local a cause that you are
in your city? When USPTA professionals passionate about. Many
not devoting your also gives you a chance people assume they need to
time to tennis, to enhance and polish give up their hard-earned
how else are your footprint. Whether money, but in reality, many
you impacting it's during a division charities deeply appreciate
the com- conference, district meeting and won't decline the power
munity in or even a round robin, of word of mouth.
a positive your presence makes
way? At 19, I other pros aware you are Although we are all
was a tennis working hard and striving teachers, sometimes it's
professional to improve. Although we not how much we know, it's
interning at may not always remember about how much we care.
a very prom- a name, we can always
inent tennis remember a face of a Our footprints can make
resort in Florida. professional we often see at an enormous impact both
During my time there, our meetings, conferences positive and negative.
or special events. Our best Let's do our best to leave a
I met a golf cart attendant professionals and industry footprint our students, staff,
who seemed to work at the industry and community
resort just as many hours can be proud of. *
as I did., I made sure I said
A member of the USPTA since 2004, Kyle is the assistant director of tennis at The Oaks At Boca Raton in Boca
Raton, Florida. He is a proud graduate of the Ferris State University's Professional Tennis Management
(PTM) program and holds a degree in Marketing. Kyle is a member of the Ferris State University/PTM
Advisory Committee. He has earned an MBA in Marketing from the University of Michigan. Kyle has been a
USPTA Florida Division Tester for the past 10 years as well as a member of Florida's U30 Initiative.
56 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine
USPTA Diversity and inclusion
USPTA For All
DeVonte' Martin, USPTA Public Relations Coordinator
USPTA brought together tennis- recognize the both brothers played
teaching professionals of
different backgrounds to produce the importance collegiate tennis at
"USPTA For All" commercial, the first
ever commercial aimed at USPTA's minority NCAA Division I
Diversity and Inclusion program.
tennis-teaching universities and now
"Take a look at the United States.
Individuals from all kinds of racial professionals operate two facilities
and ethnic backgrounds are a part of
our country and that is exactly what have on in Orlando, Florida
we should want from our association,"
USPTA First Vice President Feisal students, and are looking to
Hassan said. "It is imperative that we
reach out to minority tennis-teaching clubs, and the open a third.
professionals and coaches to inform
them of the opportunities that await tennis industry. John Gerard (left) and Rico Edwards (right). "A diverse
them here at the USPTA. We want
them to become a part of our family." "I think it's group of tennis-
The commercial, shot by important for all sports to diversify teaching professionals provide
Videographer/Video Editor Rico
Edwards and Video Production and with us being the gold standard a more creative and innovative
Manager John Gerard was filmed to
in professional tennis-teaching, we environment," John said. "We're
feel that more minorities would be not just tennis instructors, tennis
interested in the opportunities that teachers, or facility managers, we
the USPTA provides," Edwards said. are students ourselves. Assembling
Members such as John Richards a diverse group of professionals
III and his brother Albert Richards helps us to better understand one
Jr., both define what it means another, respect one another, and
to be successful tennis-teaching ultimately create initiatives that can
professionals of color. Originally help everyone. That's our main job;
from St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands, to grow the game of tennis.'' *
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57 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine
PLAY TENNIS MONTH
Play Tennis Month Rallies the Tennis Industry!
USPTA Aims to Burn 10 Million Calories Alongside Industry Partners
The USPTA and industry partners are working together to The lead-up to "Play Tennis Month" will include a
promote May as "Play Tennis Month" to help showcase massive Cardio Tennis session on April 20 at the USTA
the sport of tennis and it's associated health benefits. National Campus in Orlando, Florida, where the goal is
Thousands of tennis programs and events will be held for participants to burn a combined 1 million calories. The
around the country, with a goal of
helping to get people moving and USTA National Campus, which has
playing tennis, the No. 1 sport for a 100 tennis courts, is billed as the
long and healthy life. "Home of American Tennis."
At least 1,500 tennis facilities Also, "Play Tennis Month"
around the U.S. are expected provider webinars are scheduled
to participate in "Play Tennis for Feb. 21, March 21 and April
Month". We encourage all 24, in which attendees will hear
USPTA professionals to register important information and
their facility and take part in this updates on formats, programming,
industry wide event. The goal for promotions, follow-up and
the entire month of May is for more.
Americans to burn a combined
10 million calories on the tennis May 5 also will be National
court during "Play Tennis Cardio Tennis Day, with
Month" activities. "Play Tennis participating facilities offering
Month" also helps to support the Cardio Tennis challenges, sessions
USPTA Foundation and PHIT and programming.
America.
"Play Tennis Month" events
To support "Play Tennis will include many fundraisers to
Month", USPTA professionals benefit PHIT America GO! Grants,
should register their facility as a which provide funds for physical
participating site, so consumers education in schools, including
can find you and your programs. supporting Net Generation
To register your location and equipment and curriculum. PHIT
programs for free, show your America, which was founded by
support for the tennis industry former TIA President Jim Baugh,
and for a healthy America; visit is also looking to pass the PHIT
RallyTheIndustry.org. Act (visit phitamerica.org for more
information), which is designed to
"The website RallyTheIndustry.org also has suggested get more people active and moving,
program formats that emphasize not only the fitness including through tennis.
aspect of tennis, but also how fun and social it is," says TIA "Play Tennis Month" ties in with PHIT America Month,
Executive Director Jolyn de Boer. "Among suggested formats also slated for May, which reaches out to the entire
are Cardio Tennis sessions, Try Tennis Free, PlayTennisFast sports and fitness industry to encourage Americans to
programming, and POP Tennis on 60-foot courts. But get active. "The support has been wide and deep," Baugh
providers can offer any programs they'd like as part of "Play says. "Companies in the sports and fitness industry know
Tennis Month." we just can't sit back and wait for people to start a life
of physical activity. And, they know that we must work
"We're excited to participate in this industry-wide together." PHIT America Month has more than 30 sponsor
promotion of tennis and fitness," says USPTA CEO John companies and organizations, including the USTA, USPTA
Embree. "This is a rallying cry for our industry to fight the and TIA.
inactivity pandemic that is pervasive throughout the USA. Let's For more information on "Play Tennis Month," visit
get people off the couch and on the court!" RallyTheIndustry.org.*
58 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine
Member News
USPTA Member News
Adam Bottorff was named the tennis Ted Withall was featured in the Sun
instructor of Valley Athletic Club Sentinel feature story Boca man recalls
Tennis. He has over 30 years of coaching life of tennis and friendship with Bobby
and teaching experience. He has Riggs. After serving in the Army Air Corps
coached many USTA teams, and enjoys from 1942 to 1946, Withall moved to
both the team practice and private Beverly Hills where he taught tennis and
lesson settings. He has coached at the became friends with some of the sport's
sectional and national junior levels all-time great players, including Budge,
and was Michigan High School Regional Coach of Jack Kramer, Pancho Segura, Richard Gonzales and
the Year. Adam played at Kalamazoo College under Bobby Riggs. Withall was the president of the USPTA
NCAA Hall of Fame coach George Acker. in 1972.
Tom Kelly helped recruit 10 tennis- Umang Chadda was featured in the
teaching professionals to introduce Chicago Tribune news story titled Tennis
tennis to students across nine elementary prodigy eyes `return of racquet sports' to
schools in the Daytona Beach area. Kelly Southland. He is the racquet sports manager
is the tennis manager of the Florida at Homewood-Flossmoor Racquet & Fitness
Tennis Center in Daytona Beach. He Club overseeing a team of professionals
began teaching tennis while on a tennis with 10 indoor and 30 outdoor tennis
scholarship at Tulsa University in the courts. Chadda has been a certified Elite
mid-`70s, and he worked various part-time summer Professional since 2004 and is the vice president of USPTA
teaching jobs before becoming the director and Illinois. With his master's in sports management and
head tennis professional at City Island Tennis expertise in club business operations, Umang has been
Center in 1993. recognized nationally and has helped revitalize private and
public sports facilities across the world.
John Sanders was named the head tennis
professional at the Racquet Club of Cocoa Jill Bachochin was selected to serve on
Beach. Sanders brings with him more than the Junior Recreation Committee for the
10 years of professional tennis teaching United States Tennis Association's Midwest
experience and an eye for innovation. He Section. She previously worked for the
most recently served as director of 10 & USTA Missouri Valley Section overseeing
Under Tennis and a high-performance Youth Tennis and Junior Competition,
coach at Sanlando Park in Seminole County, along with being the staff liaison for the
and is a founding member of XGLOsive Blacklight Junior Recreation, Junior Competition,
Tennis, which has brought a unique format of play to Umpire, and Grievance Committees.
tennis facilities across the state.
NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS ADDVANTAGE MAGAZINE Ph: 407-634-3050 � Email: magazine@uspta.org �
www.uspta.org
President.....................................................................Gary Trost Managing Editor ...........................................................John Cornell
First Vice President................................................Feisal Hassan Editor......................................................................DeVonte' Martin ADDvantage is published monthly by the USPTA
Vice Presidents................Cari Buck, Mark Faber, Trish Faulkner Layout/Design........................................................... Gustavo Reyes The opinions expressed in ADDvantage are
those of the authors and not necessarily those
Bill Mountford, Richard Slivocka Editorial Assistance....Amy Buchanan, Risa Epstein, Sid Newcomb, of ADDvantage or the United States Professional
Immediate Past President...........................................Chuck Gill Trevor Trudelle, Ashley Walker, Ellen Weatherford Tennis Association.
CEO.........................................................................John Embree
Legal Counsel......................................................George Parnell Circulation................................................................ Trevor Trudelle Copyright� United States Professional Tennis
Association, Inc. 2018. All rights reserved.
USPTA World Headquarters Reproduction of any portion of the magazine is
11961 Performance Dr. not permitted without written permission from
Orlando, FL 32827 USPTA.
59 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine
USPTA CAREER DEVELOPMENT
Exams, Upgrades & PTCA Wheelchair Certification 2018 USPTA Division
Conference Schedule
4 Credits for PTCA I Segment Exams, March 11................................... Rome, GA
Upgrades & PTCA USPTA Certification in conjunction with Division Conferences - 6 Credits
USTA "Train the Trainer" March 1-4...............................Mid-Atlantic
Mar. 2 � 3.......................................Boise, ID
Mar. 3 � 4 ....................................Rome, GA May 5-6................................New York, NY Army Navy Country Club, Arlington, VA
Mar. 5 ........................................La Jolla, CA USPTA Eastern/ New England Conference
Mar. 9 � 10 ...............................Camden, SC March 4..................................... San Diego
Mar. 10 ..............................Nichols Hills, OK June 28...................................... Salem, OR La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club, La Jolla, CA
Mar. 10 � 11 ........................... Portland, OR USPTA Certification in conjunction with
Mar. 10 � 11 .............Huntington Beach, CA USTA "Train the Trainer" May 5-6.......................Southern California
Mar. 10 � 11 ........................ Boca Raton, FL SeaCliff Country Club, Huntington Beach, CA
Mar. 15 ............................ Minneapolis, MN August 22.................................Lincoln, NE
Mar. 16 � 17 .......................... Charlotte, NC USPTA Certification in conjunction with May 5-6................... Eastern/New England
Mar. 18 ................................Columbus, OH USTA "Train the Trainer" National Tennis Center, Flushing, NY
Mar. 23 - 24 ............................Burbank, CA
Mar. 26 - 27 ....................San Francisco, CA October 20............................. Lakeland, FL May 17-19...................................Southern
Apr. 7 - 8 ..................................... Aurora, IL USPTA Certification in conjunction with Atlanta Athletic Club, Johns Creek, GA
Apr. 7 � 8 ....................................Azusa, CA USTA "Train the Trainer"
Apr. 9 - 10.................................. Orlando, FL May 18-20................................ Southwest
Apr. 14 � 15 .............................. Atlanta, GA November 7......................Indianapolis, IN La Camarilla Racquet, Swim & Fitness Club, Phoenix, AZ
Apr. 18 - 19..................................... Tyler, TX USPTA Certification in conjunction with
Apr. 20 .....................................Harrison, NY USTA "Train the Trainer" May 30-June 3................................ Florida
Apr. 22 .................................Midlothian, VA Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress , Orlando, FL
Apr. 27 - 28 ......................................Laie, HI Platform Tennis
Apr. 28 � 29 .......................... Columbus, GA June 1-2..........................Pacific Northwest
Mar. 19-20...................................... Golf, IL Yakima Tennis Club, Yakima, WA
Glenview Club
August 24-27...... USPTA World Conference
Online education Grand Hyatt, New York, NY
Exam reservations must be made at least 21 days Watch webinars, seminars, On Court with Spanish Tennis
prior to the dates listed. Each date includes an USPTA episodes, specialty courses and Teaching System
exam, upgrade. PTCA I is included in the two day much more on TennisResources.com to
exam. Exam cancellations must be received no lat- earn your education credits. At Academia Sanchez-Casal
er than 14 days before the exam, or a cancellation USPTA professionals can earn 10 Education
fee will be charged accordingly. Credits by participating in the Level 1
or Level 2 course of the Spanish Tennis
Applicant: late cancellation fee � $95; failure to Teaching System hosted by the International
cancel � application fee is forfeited. Certified Coaches Institute.
members: late cancellation fee � $25; failure to
cancel � $25 plus the upgrade fee is forfeited. May. 25 � 27.............................. Naples, FL
Registration for another exam will not be accepted Competitive Coaching Course - Level 1
until cancellation fees are paid.
May. 27 � 29.............................. Naples, FL
USPTArequires all certified members to earn 6 credits of Pro Coaching Course Level 2
continuing education in a three-year period. (International
members, recreational coaches and those 65 or older are exempt.) The time period coincides Oct. 24 � 26............................... Naples, FL
with the date you completed the certification exam or reinstated your membership. Please Competitive Coaching Course Level 1
login to My USPTA to check your Professional Development Program end date.
Oct. 26 � 28............................... Naples, FL
If the requirement is not met, you will have your membership suspended. To help you Pro Coaching Course Level 2
meet that goal, USPTA provides hundreds of hours of education every year in the form of
conferences, workshops, webinars, DVDs and more. TennisResources.com is an excellent Cardio Tennis
resource for free education opportunities. In addition, the Coach Youth Tennis website offers
six free online courses that earn a 1/2 education credit each. Apr. 5 ............Cardio Tennis Training Course
Level 1 - Burke, VA
Upon completion of the sixth course, you will receive 3 bonus credits (one-time only),
bringing the total to 6 credits and completing the continuing education requirement. (you Apr. 8 ............Cardio Tennis Training Course
do not need to complete the online workshop unless you are completing your USPTA Level 1 - Isle of Palms, SC
certification) Go to coachyouthtennis.com for more information.
Apr. 15 ..........Cardio Tennis Training Course
Level 1 - Marlborough, MA
Apr. 20 ...................... Cardio Tennis Session
Orlando, FL
60 - USPTA ADDvantage Magazine