MERCHANDISING YOUTH TENNIS RACQUET TECH Display your racquets How to make junior Consistency by power level to set events fun for both is key for grip your store apart kids and parents installation

February 2017 / Volume 45 / Number 2 / $5.00

Racquets Shoes Strings Apparel How franchises and For the fastest tennis The most important word Manufacturers are Your built-in customization can footwear, technology of 2017 isn't polyester, but merging fashion with help your bottom line never slows downt rather education t function this season Complete 24 26 28 32 Player An inside look at the latest trends in racquets, shoes, strings and apparel

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DEPARTMENTS p. 28 p. 34 4 Our Serve 7 Industry News 14 TIA News 16 Junior Tournaments 18 Grassroots Tennis 20 Retailing Tip 22 Racquet Tech 38 Tips & Techniques 40 Your Serve, by Virgil Christian

INDUSTRY NEWS OUTLOOK 2017 FEATURES 7 Tennis and sports experts to 24 Racquets: Frames in Mind 34 Two of a Kind present at TOM Conference 7 TOM to feature “Tennis Franchises and built-in frame customization Tennis Industry and Industry Innovation may help retailers move more racquets through the ASBA present the Challenge” their stores. best in tennis court 7 K-Swiss names Mike Miringoff global tennis director construction and 8 Peoplewatch 26 Shoes: Stepping Forward design. 8 Kathy Rinaldi tapped for U.S. Whether sales will be up or down this year, Fed Cup captain 8 Gordy Pierce honored with technology and styling in footwear continues 36 Merchandise ASBA’s Industry Merit Award to move ahead. With a Purpose! 9 Study: Racquet sports may Displaying your protect against early death 9 Har-Tru acquires Treadblaster 28 Strings: Educational Initiative racquets by power shoe cleaner Getting players to restring more frequently— level makes it easier 9 Davis Cup to return to Birmingham Feb. 3-5 with the right strings—is a matter of making for your customers to 9 Industry loses pioneer sure they know the facts. buy the right frame. Wade Herren 10 GoFundMe campaign aids California facility 32 Apparel: Mixed Company 10 Pickleball Championships Tenniswear continues its fashion appeal as slated for April in Florida more bright colors and trendy designs mix with 10 USPTA partners with U.S. Padel Association function on the court. 11 Short Sets p. 36

PLUS p.41 42 CEO’s Message 44 Vice President’s Message 42 49 52 56 46 USPTA News Update on Playing Tennis Five Key Principles 49 Beyond the Court Lake Nona Linked to Foundation of Operating 52 Inside Coaching Longer Life Blocks of a Profi table 56 Master Pro Corner Coaching Tennis Program 58 Career Development 60 Member News Read more articles online at www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com

2 TennisIndustry February 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

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EDITORIAL DIRECTOR EDITOR'S NOTE PETER FRANCESCONI MANAGING EDITOR Take Full Advantage SCOTT GRAMLING CREATIVE DIRECTOR It’s worth seeking out industry meetings IAN KNOWLES SENIOR EDITOR and conferences, which provide ED McGROGAN opportunites to learn and enlighten. ART DIRECTOR CRHISTIAN RODRIGUEZ

PRODUCTION EDITOR SAM CHASE

SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR BOB PATTERSON ne of the best things In early December, I had the honor about this industry is of presenting awards at the American CONTRIBUTING EDITORS ROBIN BATEMAN, CYNTHIA CANTRELL, PEG being able to interact Sports Builders Association’s annual CONNOR, KENT OSWALD, CYNTHIA SHERMAN, with tennis providers Technical Meeting in Amelia Island, MARY HELEN SPRECHER at various meetings and Fla. The meeting, with its informative CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS O conferences. For me, these educational and timely educational sessions, had BOB KENAS, DAVID KENAS events are not only sources of ideas, but the most attendees ever, more than also sources of inspiration. 600—double what it was a decade ago. WEBMASTER GREG RAVEN We all have a lot on our minds and on What’s great to see is how, over the our plates, but taking the time to attend last 15 years, court contractors have ASSOCIATE EDITOR these events helps me appreciate this increasingly been recognized as a key TIM McARTHUR

sport and the great people involved in component to helping this game grow. EDITORIAL DIRECTION it, and to focus on what’s most impor- The knowledge, experience and passion 10TEN MEDIA tant—growing tennis at all levels. Two for doing the best job possible to serve such events I recently attended really this sport were clearly on display at this TENNIS INDUSTRY drove these points home. year’s ASBA meeting. 48 W 21st St., New York, NY 10010 The inaugural New England Ten- Continuing to learn, network and 646-783-1450 nis Weekend was held in November in be inspired at these gatherings are [email protected] Newport, R.I., and attracted more than important for this industry, and for ADVERTISING DIRECTOR 200 tennis providers. This workshop your careers. Check out what’s being JOHN HANNA included sessions led by USTA National of ered through your section, teaching 770-650-1102, x125 and New England staf , along with pro group, TIA, USTA and other organi- [email protected] other industry experts. zations. Then, sign up! The sessions I attended were ter- APPAREL ADVERTISING CYNTHIA SHERMAN rifi c. Featured speaker David Benzel of 203-558-5911 Growing Champions for Life Inc. dis- [email protected] cussed dealing with parents, customer service and using tennis to “win” at life. He pointed to a study which showed Tennis Industry is published 10 times per year: monthly, January through August with combined that 74 percent of kids have witnessed issues in September/October and November/ out-of-control adults at their competi- December, by Tennis Media Company, 48 W 21st St., New York, NY 10010. Periodical postage paid in tions. “Coaches need to get more skilled Duluth, GA and at additional mailing offi ces (USPS and comfortable dealing with parents,” We were thrilled to honor our Person of #004-354). Feb 2017, Volume 45, Number 2 © 2017 by Tennis Media Company. All rights reserved. Tennis Benzel said. “Parents are the most the Year, Don Tisdel, in our January Industry, TI and logo are trademarks of Tennis Media under-coached group in sports.” issue. We sincerely regret the mispelling Company. Printed in the U.S.A. Phone advertising: 770-650-1102 x 125. Phone circulation and editorial: In addition, the workshop included of his name in the story. I apologize for 646-783-1450. Yearly subscriptions $25 in the U.S., sessions on how to activate parents as the error and to Mr. Tisdel. $40+ elsewhere. POSTMASTER: Send address changes tennis program organizers, how to to Tennis Industry, 48 W 21st St., New York, NY 10010. Tennis Industry is the offi cial magazine of the USRSA, engage adults with innovative play- Peter Francesconi TIA and ASBA. ing formats, how to expand tennis to Editorial Director Looking for back issues of Tennis Industry/Racquet younger players and local marketing. [email protected] Sports Industry? Visit the archives at our website And just as important, coaches, teach- at TennisIndustryMag.com for free digital versions. ing pros and community leaders had a chance to network and share ideas.

4 TennisIndustry February 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

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The Tennis Industry judges—and in front Innovation of an audience of ten- Challenge nis industry leaders and top tennis facility owners/managers— at the 2017 TOM Conference on March 27. Carlos Salum, president of the leader- ship, performance and strategy firm Salum International Resources, will emcee the Innovation Challenge at the INDUSTRY EVENT TOM Conference and chair the judging panel, which will include Jeff Williams, the managing partner of the Tennis Media Co. Tennis and Sports Experts To (and publisher of Tennis Industry magazine), along with other industry Present at TOM Conference executives and C-suite attendees. The finalists will receive media expo- he fourth annual Tennis Own- former longtime chief medical ofcer sure through the TIA in the lead-up to ers & Managers (TOM) Confer- for the US Open, and Dr. Paul Roetert, the TOM Conference, along with special ence will be held from March CEO of SHAPE America (Society of recognition at the event itself. The winner T27-29 at the Rosen Shingle Creek resort Health and Physical Educators) and of the Tennis Industry Innovation Chal- in Orlando, Fla. Presented by the TIA, former managing director of USTA lenge will receive a $1,000, a one-year the TOM Conference brings together Player Development. membership in the TIA at the “Supporting leading experts in facility management, Tennis facility owners and manag- Member” level, a national press release, development, programming and staf- ers also will hear from a top Disney coverage in Tennis Industry magazine, ing to provide vital information that will Institute executive on customer service. additional exposure through TIA market- address the needs of all types of tennis Sports facility expert Casey Conrad ing and social media channels, and a facilities—public, commercial, private, will present a session on creating new commemorative plaque. country clubs and resorts. revenue for clubs and facilities through The conference will include a Future innovative programming, and other Miringoff Named of Tennis Forum, along with the sessions will dive into how to “re-think” K-Swiss' “Tennis Industry Innovation Chal- various segments of the business. Global Tennis lenge,” a “Shark Tank”-like competi- The conference also will showcase a Director tion for new products (see right). The roundtable on the topic, “Is Your Facil- K-Swiss has TOM also will include a site visit to the ity as Tech Savvy as Your Members?” appointed Mike 100-court USTA National Campus, Other presentations will include critical Miringoff as its global which ofcially opens in January. legal issues facing facilities, how to Mike Miringoff director of tennis, Among the speakers will be Dr. Jack attract millennials and families, and responsible for all aspects of the perfor- Groppel, the Health & Wellness Advisor more. There also will be an exhibitor mance tennis business in North America, for the tennis industry, who will lead a area with networking breaks. ! including sales, marketing and product. He Health, Wellness & Tennis Panel that joins K-Swiss from Wilson, where he spent will include Dr. Brian Hainline, chief Visit TheTomConference.com for the last five years in Shanghai, China, as Asia medical ofcer for the NCAA and details and to register. Pacific region commercial manager. PHOTOS TIA; K-SWISS

www.tennisindustrymag.com February 2017 TennisIndustry 7

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“Mike has a deep and comprehensive Association awarded its highest honor, Dr. Deborah Antoine has been knowledge of the tennis world and will the Industry Merit Award, to Gordy appointed CEO of the Women’s Sports breathe new energy into our long-term Pierce, owner and president of Cape and Foundation by the organization’s board tennis strategy and direction,” says K-Swiss Island Tennis & Track of Pocasset, Mass., of trustees, succeeding Deborah Slaner brand President Barney Waters. for his contributions to the industry. Larkin, who is stepping down. The WSF Previously, Miringoff was Wilson’s Pierce has been active in volunteering was founded by Billie Jean King, who is western regional sales manager, and was a with the ASBA and USTA for many years, the honorary board chair. Antoine most key account manager for Nike in the west including as chairman of the USTA’s recently was president and CEO of New region. He also served as director of player Technical Committee. He has contributed York Junior Tennis & Learning. She is also development for the USTA Southern Califor- his expertise on everything from court an avid tennis player with a national nia section and played Division I tennis at the surface testing to the creation of the key Top-10 ranking in her age group, and in University of Kentucky. “Tennis Courts: Construction & Mainte- 2013 was named the USTA Eastern nance Manual.” Section’s “Woman of the Year.” Pierce Receives ASBA’s Pierce was honored at an awards din- Industry Merit Award ner Dec. 5 at the ASBA’s annual Technical The American Sports Builders Meeting in Amelia Island, Fla. Sheila McInerney, Arizona State University’s women’s tennis coach, is the recipient of the 2016 ITA Meritorious Service Award.

Monica Puig received the Association of National Olympic Committees Award for Best Female Athlete at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. Puig won the gold medal in women’s singles, becoming the first athlete—male or female—to win a gold medal for Puerto Rico, and the first Puerto Rican female to medal at the Summer Games since the nation's first appearance in 1948.

Ashley Maitland is the new USTA New England Tennis Service Rep for Western Rinaldi (left) with members Massachusetts and Vermont. of the 2015 U.S. World Junior Finals team, Hurricane Tyra Black, Caty McNally and Longtime USPTA and PTR pro Marcy Amanda Anisimova. Cohen of Shelton, Conn., the managing partner of Marcy’s Tennis Academy, has FED CUP been selected to represent the United States in tennis at the 20th World Former Pro Kathy Rinaldi Maccabiah Games, which will take place Named U.S. Fed Cup Captain July 4-17 in Israel. French Fed Cup standout Nathalie he USTA announced in Decem- Rinaldi was ranked as high as No. 7 Tauziat received the 2016 Fed Cup ber that Kathy Rinaldi will be in the world in singles (May 1986) and Award of Excellence in November at the the new U.S. Fed Cup captain, No. 13 in doubles (February 1993). Fed Cup Final. The award is presented by Treplacing Mary Joe Fernandez, who had She reached the singles semifinals of the International Tennis Hall of Fame held the job for the last eight years. Wimbledon in 1985 and the quarterfi- and the International Tennis Federation. The USTA has also redefined and nals of the French Open in 1981 and ’87. expanded the Fed Cup captain’s role. She reached the doubles semis at the ’85 Former University of New Mexico Rinaldi, 49, will work more closely with US Open, ’87 French Open, and ’91 and coach and tennis great Paul Butt and Team USA players throughout the WTA ’93 Australian Open. Rinaldi currently longtime Northern Arizona volunteer tour year, as well as support players in serves as Lead National Coach, Team and teaching pro Larry Lineberry are the the ofseason. Rinaldi will also work USA–Pro Women for USTA Player 2017 inductees into the USTA Southwest with all departments of the USTA, Development, focused on helping U.S. Hall of Fame. including Player Development. pros achieve Top-100 rankings. ! PHOTO USTA

8 TennisIndustry February 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

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Har-Tru Acquires Treadblaster Shoe Cleaner Har-Tru of Charlottesville, Va., has acquired Treadblaster, a shoe cleaner with a design that shoots pressurized jets of water into soles of shoes to clean out clay, dirt, and debris, all without allowing any over-splash. “Our Har-Tru surface is immensely forgiv- ing and superb for keeping tennis players healthy, but the material can wander off on the soles of tennis shoes,” says Tracy Lynch, director of sales for Har-Tru, which acquired Treadblaster from Medora Corp. “Tread- blaster may be the best product we have for solving that problem.” Treadblaster was developed by Joel Bleth, co-founder, president and CEO of Medora Corp. Har-Tru first brought the product to FITNESS the tennis world in 2008. New Study Says Racquet Davis Cup Returns To Birmingham in February Sports May Protect Tickets are on sale now for the 2017 Davis Cup World Group First Round tie Against Early Death between the U.S. and Switzerland, which will be held Feb. 3-5 at the Legacy Arena study released in early no impact at all on early death. at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention December suggests that Scientists have speculated that one of Complex (BJCC) in Birmingham, Ala. regularly playing racquet sports the reasons racquet sports such as ten- Davis Cup returns to Birmingham for the first time since 2009, when the city such A as tennis can help stave of death, nis may help prevent early death is the while sports such as soccer and running social aspect that goes with playing it, also hosted Switzerland in a World Group may not help people live longer. which often leads to organized activities First Round match at the BJCC. In that Oxford University researchers and beyond the court. Tennis participants, tie, the U.S. team of Andy Roddick, James scientists in Finland and Australia fol- the study suggests, generally have Blake and Bob and Mike Bryan defeated lowed more than 80,000 people for an larger social networks and keep up Switzerland, 4-1. average of nine years to find out if cer- activities later in life—both of which tain sports helped protect them against tend to be good for health. People who Industry Loses Pioneer early death. People who played racquet play team sports when younger often Wade Herren of Alabama sports regularly were least likely to die do not move on to a new sport once they Wade Herren of Birmingham, Ala., passed over the study period, the report found, stop playing. away on Dec. 7 at age 89. Herren, who won reducing their individual risk by 47 “We think racquet sports not only over 200 tennis titles, including an SEC percent compared to people who did ofer the usual physiological benefts, championship, founded the Highland Racket not exercise. but also ofer additional mental health Club in 1959 and Southern Tennis Magazine, Swimmers reduced their chance of and social benefits, perhaps unique to also in 1959. He then turned to building death by 28 percent, aerobics partici- these sports,” Dr. Charlie Foster, associ- award-winning courts and facilities through- pants by 27 percent and cyclists by 15 ate professor of Physical Activity and out the South with the Herren percent, according to the study. Run- Population Health at Oxford, told the Division of Welch Tennis. ning, soccer and rugby appeared to have British newspaper The Telegraph. ! In 1997, Herren was named one of the PHOTOS AP; HAR-TRU

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top 100 influential people in the sport by Ten- impact shock.” For more information, (DecoTurf), Gamma as the official grip, Pad- nis Industry magazine. He had been inducted visit ashawayusa.com. dletek as the paddle, and Dura as the ball. into the Southern Tennis Association Hall of For more information, visit Fame, the Alabama Tennis Association Hall usopenpickleballchampionships.com. of Fame, Alabama Sports Hall of Fame, and the Birmingham Southern Hall of Fame. GoFundMe Campaign Aids California Facility New Squash String A GoFundMe.com campaign, organized From Ashaway by community members in Costa Mesa, Ashaway has introduced SuperNick Calif., exceeded its $10,000 goal to help ZX Micro, a new 18-gauge (1.15 mm) the Costa Mesa Tennis Center recover squash string with a multifilament nylon from damage and loss from three break- core wrapped in a special wear layer of ins that occurred over two weeks in 2016. Zyex® filaments. Designed to provide Pickleball Championships The CMTC has been run by industry precise touch while maintaining excellent Slated for April 23-30 veterans Hank and Maureen Lloyd since tension control, SuperNick ZX Micro is The Minto US Open Pickleball Champion- 1999, and they had been hoping to pur- intended for players who require ships will be held from April 23-30 at East chase a new ice machine for the facility, superior durability, better control and Naples Community Park in Naples, Fla. As but the repairs and loss from the break- increased power. of December, more than 1,200 players had ins set back their plans. The community “What makes Zyex so good for racquet registered for the international event. The rallied to help buy the new ice machine strings is its low dynamic stiffness,” says event will receive two hours of coverage on and replace stolen items, install security Ashaway's Steve Crandall. “This allows the CBS Sports Network. bars on windows and doors, and install a the strings to stretch and recover more Official equipment of the Minto US Open security system. completely than other synthetic materi- Pickleball Championships include Califor- als, thus generating more power with less nia Sports Surfaces as the court surface USPTA Partners With U.S. Padel Association The USPTA will partner with the U.S. Padel Association (USPA) to provide additional certification opportunities for both USPTA- certified professionals and padel pros. The USPA will work with the USPTA to assist qualified USPTA members who are seeking to become certified as USPA pro- fessionals while giving USPA professionals affiliation under the USPTA umbrella. As part of this relationship, USPA members will have access to USPTA member benefits. Both juniors and adults compete every two years in the Padel World Championships. The USPA was created in 1993.

Zalinski to Retire After 50 Years in Industry Steve Zalinski, the USTA Southern tennis service representative for South Carolina, will retire after nine years with the section, bringing to a close a 50-year career in the tennis industry. Zalinski, RECREATION of Daniel Island, S.C., has been a corner- stone in expanding tennis participation in his home state, particularly in promoting Landing the Big One youth tennis. ike Burke of NGI Sports and Jon Wright of Court One hold a 30-inch black drum “Steve is a people person who makes that Burke landed on a fishing trip out of Fernandina (Fla.) Harbor City Marina everyone feel comfortable,” says Bill Oza- prior to the start of the American Sports Builders Association annual Technical ki, USTA Southern director of programs MMeeting in Amelia Island in early December. NGI Sports of Chattanooga, Tenn., sponsored the and player development. “Thanks to his trip, which included clients from Court One in Raleigh, N.C., and General Acrylics of Phoenix. work, we’ve had great improvement in The group caught more than 50 fish. ! programs in South Carolina.” PHOTOS ASHAWAY; NGI SPORTS PHOTOS ASHAWAY;

10 TennisIndustry February 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

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A native of Chi- Budge Patty to claim the Wimbledon men’s where nearly 82 million Americans, cago, Zalinski was a doubles. He was inducted into the Interna- including many children, are physically top junior player and tional Tennis Hall of Fame in 1972. inactive, according to PHIT America played for DePaul As a senior player, Mulloy won titles well and the Physical Activity Council. PHIT University. Prior to into his 80s. Today, the ITF’s Super Senior America offers “Go! Grants” for PE pro- joining USTA South- World Team Championship’s Gardnar Mulloy grams, which could also include tennis ern, he was the vice Cup is for players 80-and-over. programs and equipment. In 2015, PHIT Steve Zalinski president of sales for “A feisty and fiery competitor and one of America distributed 156 Go! Grants to Dunlop/Slazenger in the Pro Shop/Spe- our sport’s most passionate proponents, U.S. schools. Visit PHITAmerica.org. cialty area for 18 years. Gardnar truly left an indelible mark on the sport that he so loved,” said USTA President Clawson Re-elected Tennis Champion Gardnar Katrina Adams. CEO of SFIA Mulloy Passes Away at 102 Chris Clawson was re-elected as the Tennis legend and Hall of Famer Gardnar U.S. Kids Rank 47 Out of 50 Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) Mulloy passed away on Nov. 14. He was 102 in Overall Physical Fitness chairman of the board in early December. years old. According to a recent report, U.S. Clawson is the president of Life Fitness. A three-time NCAA champion at the Uni- children rank 47th in the world in overall New additions to the board this year versity of Miami, Mulloy was ranked in the physical fitness, based on a series of include: Dan Arment (Riddell), Rawleigh U.S. Top 10 every year from 1939 through 20-meter shuttle runs conducted with Grove (PING Golf), Jason LaRose (Under 1954, save for the two years he served in the more than 1.1 million children from 50 Armour), Gene McCarthy (Asics America), Navy during World War II. He reached No. 1 countries. The five countries with the Scott McDonald (Body Solid Inc.), and Marco in 1952. Mulloy won five Grand Slam men’s fittest children are Tanzania, Iceland, Zambianchi (Technogym). doubles crowns and was a singles finalist at Estonia, Norway and Japan. The following board members have been Forest Hills in 1952. He won his last major This new information confirms the real- re-elected: Melissa Dawson (Molten USA title in 1957 at age 43, partnering with ity of the current “Inactivity Pandemic,” Inc.) and Neil Morton (Everlast Worldwide).

Short Sets

Moore. His territory includes West Port- Vt., as Family of the Year; the Connecticut land, and the communities of Beaverton, Alliance for Tennis and Education in New Tigard and Hillsboro. Canaan, as Organization of the Year; and Care “Bunnie” Lahey of Lee Mass., as the To streamline its governance, the USTA winner of the Gardner Ward Chase Florida Section recently eliminated its Memorial Award. executive committee and streamlined its board of directors to form one sole The USTA Florida Section Foundation governing body to set the policies and recently awarded $29,000 in grants to direction of the association. police athletic leagues, schools, junior programs, after-school programs, tennis Ashaway Racket Strings has retired two The Grand Harbor Golf & Beach Club in centers and tennis associations. of its popular nylon badminton strings— Vero Beach, Fla., will return as the host the Rally 21 and Rally 21 Micro—and venue for the 2017 Mardy Fish Children’s USTA Southern annual awards: CORTA introduced a new alternative, Beta Poly- Foundation Tennis Championships, to be TennisWorks in the Parks of Columbus, mer-based Rally 21 Fire. The company held April 21-30. The event is a $15,000 Ga., as NJTL Chapter of the Year; Columbus says the new, 0.70 mm Rally 21 Fire string Futures tournament. (Ga.) Regional Tennis Association as CTA of provides a 25-percent improvement in the Year; Bayou Bluff Tennis Club of Gulf- dynamic stiffness and elasticity over its USTA New England has announced its port, Miss., as Member Organization of the predecessors, as well as a 25 percent annual awards. Among the winners are Year; Billie Fitzsimons of Wilmington, N.C., improvement in knot and sheer strength. the Lakes Region Community Tennis as winner of the Marilyn Sherman Spirit Visit ashawayusa.com. Association of Gilmanton, N.H., as CTA Award; Cindy Dreikosen of Cary, N.C., as of the Year; Norwalk (Conn.) Grassroots winner of the Marc Kaplan Media Excel- TGA Premier Youth Tennis has a new Tennis & Education as NJTL Chapter of lence Award; and Nan Smith of Columbia, franchise in Oregon, run by Kendall the Year; the Wool family of Burlington, S.C., as the Gerrie Rothwell Award winner. PHOTOS USTA SOUTHERN; ASHAWAY PHOTOS USTA

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Newly elected and re-elected directors INDUSTRY EVENT will join existing SFIA board members Robert Puccini (Mizuno, USA), Jennifer Bendall Miley, Van Faayenhoven (Nike), Michael Savage (Empower Fitness), Brian Anderson (2XU), Jim Baugh (Jim To Present at PTR Symposium Baugh Consulting), Brian Jennings (NHL), Sal LaRocca (NBA), Nathan Pyles (Johnson nternationally acclaimed coaches Development Program. In 1992, he Health Tech North America), Jonathan Dave Miley and Frank van Fraay- started the ITF Coaching and Sports Ram (New Balance), Kurt Tandan (Adidas enhoven will present at the PTR Science Review and remained its editor America), Jeff Padovan (Bite Tech Inc.), Jim IInternational Tennis Symposium, from until 2015, and was instrumental in Weber (Brooks Running Company) and Mike Feb. 15-18 on Hilton Head Island, S.C. creating ITF’s online platform iCoach. Zlaket (Rawlings Sporting Goods). Miley has played a key role in the He was also Irish Men’s Doubles Cham- global development of tennis. The pion, and is a former captain of the Irish former International Tennis Federation National Men’s Team. USTA Announces New executive director of tennis develop- Van Fraayenhoven worked in coach MRTs and CSs ment was responsible for overseeing education for the Royal Dutch Lawn Master Racquet Technicians juniors, veterans and wheelchair play- Tennis Association as a tutor and Jordan Boecker, Houston ers, as well as the ITF/Grand Slam manager until October of this year. He Juan Bozo, Houston has been involved in the education of Adam Friel, Roslyn, N.Y. coaches for 37 years, and has worked Lenno Lasn, Wheaton, Ill. Dave Neagle, Cincinnati with coaches and players in more than Alex Tran, Houston 75 countries, including as a national Sang Tran, Houston coach for the Netherlands. A member Certified Stringer of the ITF Coaches Commission for Weidong Cai, China more than 15 years, he received the ITF Dave Miley Frank van Fraayenhoven Award for Service to the Game. PHOTOS PTR

12 TennisIndustry February 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

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12315 CT Resource Site Promotional One-Pager.indd 1 9/20/16 12:04 PM TIA Meetings in March to Bring Together Leading Tennis and Sports Experts

Tennis facility and club management experts, along with sports and fitness industry executives, will share their knowledge, experience and expertise at the 2017 Tennis Owners & Managers (TOM) Conference, which will be March 27-29 at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort in Orlando, Fla. Presented by the TIA, the fourth annual TOM Conference brings together leading experts in facility management, development, programming, staffing and other key areas to provide vital information that will address the needs of all types of tennis facilities— public, commercial, private, country clubs, resorts. The conference will include the “Future of Tennis Forum” on the first day, focusing on current research and future resources and trends. There will also be a “Tennis Industry Carlos Salum, president of Innovation Challenge”—a “Shark Tank”-like competition showcasing the leadership, performance new and cutting-edge products. In addition, the TOM Conference will and strategy firm Salum include a visit to the 100-court USTA National Campus (below). International Resources, Topics and speakers will include a Tennis Health & Wellness Panel will head the judging for that will focus on how the tennis industry and its businesses should the Tennis Industry Innovation Challenge and will use health & wellness messaging to attract more people to the game participate in panels and roundtables throughout and encourage active, healthy lifestyles through sports. The panel the TOM Conference. Tennis facility owners and will be led by Dr. Jack Groppel, co-founder of the Johnson & Johnson managers also will hear from Disney Institute Human Performance Institute and the Health & Wellness Advisor for executive Brent Centlivre on customer service. the tennis industry, and will include Dr. Brian Hainline, chief medical Other topics cover creating new revenue for officer for the NCAA and former longtime chief medical officer for the tennis clubs/facilities and effective management. Dr. Jack Groppel US Open; Dr. Paul Roetert, CEO of SHAPE America (Society of Health Former pro player Tommy Ho, a business leader and Physical Educators) and former managing director of USTA Player and member of the USTA Board of Directors, will Development; and Tom Richards, the director of corporate engagement present on the “Secrets of Hiring & Leadership.” for the American Council on Exercise (ACE). Sports facility expert Casey Conrad will talk about “How to Re-Think Tennis Programming,”

and other presentations will include “How to Re- Carlos Salum Think Retail” and “How to Re-Think Fitness.” The TOM Conference also will have tennis technology companies and their executives, and will showcase a roundtable session on “Is Your Facility as Tech Savvy as Your Members?” In addition, presentations will include critical legal issues facing tennis facilities today, how to Casey Conrad attract Millennials and families to tennis, an “ask the experts” roundtable, and more. There also will be an exhibitor area with networking breaks. Visit TheTomConference.com for more details and to register for the conference, and to apply for the Tennis Industry Innovation Challenge, or call the TIA at 843-686-3036 for more information. Brent Centlivre

Join the TIA . . . Increase Your Profits . . . Grow the Game . . . www.TennisIndustry.org 14 TennisIndustry February 2017 Tennis Industry Register Today! innovation 2017 Tennis Owners & Managers (TOM) Conference CHALLENGE March 27-29, 2017, Orlando, Florida. The 4th annual TOM Conference will be at the award-winning Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando, Sign up for the a 230-acre resort complete with world-class amenities. “Tennis Industry The TOM will also include: s Future of Tennis Forum Innovation Challenge” s Tennis Industry Innovation Challenge Competition at 2017 s Interactive Sessions & Roundtables s World-Renowned Speakers & Experts TOM Conference s Disney Institute Session A “Tennis Industry Innovation Challenge” s Site Tour of the New USTA National Campus will take place at the 2017 TOM Conference, Conference includes a site tour and outing to the USTA National Campus showcasing new and innovative products designed to help grow tennis businesses. From Orlando now until Feb. 15, companies and individuals USTA New Home of American Tennis can submit their pitch for their products, facility management tennisand development software, services, etc. Finalists from the PROGRAMMING TOM courtconstruction application process will have the opportunity to TENNIS OWNERS & 2017 CORE present their innovative product or service to a ADULT PLAY MANAGERS Innovation Challenge panel of judges—and in front of an audience thetomconference.com tennis of tennis industry leaders and top tennis State of the Industry Forumbusiness INCREASING sports facility management facility owners/managers—at the 2017 TOM REVENUE RESOURCE INNOVATION& & ProfitCENTER TECHNOLOGY Conference in Orlando. staffing FUTURE OF TENNIS FORUM The finalists will receive media exposure USTA National Tennis Campus through the TIA in the lead-up to the con- IDEA FAIR ference, along with special recognition at the event itself. The winner of the Tennis Industry Innovation Challenge will receive $1,000, along with a one-year membership in the TIA at the March 27-29 / Orlando “Supporting Member” level, a national press release, coverage in Tennis Industry magazine, additional exposure through TIA marketing and social media channels, and a plaque. For more information visit TheTOMConference.com “We are thrilled to be able to highlight the [email protected] / 866-686-3036 latest innovations that are helping the tennis industry to grow, and that are helping tennis businesses thrive,” says TIA Executive Director Jolyn de Boer. “We hope, through exposure to top tennis industry partners, facility Save owners/managers, potential investors and other industry executives, we can help these the Date! innovators develop tangible and productive business relationships.” Carlos Salum of the strategy firm Salum International Resources, will lead the panel of TIA Tennis Forum judges, which also will include TIA President August 28 / NYC Jeff Williams, the managing partner of the Tennis Media Co., and other industry executives. To apply for the 2017 Tennis Industry Innovation Challenge, visit TheTOMConference.com.

February 2017 TennisIndustry 15 TennisIndustry JuniorTournaments

at Mount Lebanon Tennis Center in Pittsburgh and tournament director for more than 120 events (from children through the pros) says he uses no-ad scoring with a 10-point tie-breaker for the third set (up to the semifinals) to keep things on schedule. Court monitors are also important to all three groups. Hughes uses three court monitors, who help with scoring, line calls, rulings and tie-breakers. The monitors are very helpful with young players, who are still learning the rules and don’t want to be intimidated by more experienced players—and they’re also helpful when parents need to be educated on tournament etiquette.

In addition, Hughes offered these tips for running a smooth, enjoyable tournament: YOUTH TENNIS •Warmly welcome each player as they Playing for Time check in. For new players, a sincere welcome can decrease their anxiety. To serve up successful junior •Explain the scoring and rules to each player before they go on court. tournaments, you need to make them •Post the draw with estimated start times for future rounds so players and fun for players, parents and officials. parents can plan ahead. •Have a backboard area and practice By Holly Chomyn court so players can hit before playing. •Have a TV monitor that lists players, their court number, running time of the match and the next match to be called. (This also helps keep the tournament information desk clear for check-ins s we all work to get more Among the findings: Young players and score reporting.) young players involved want matches to start on time, want •Have scoring cards or devices on each in tennis, we need to court monitors to ensure fair play, want court, plainly viewable to spectators. consider what happens practice and warm-up courts, want to •Sweep clay courts after every match. when children transition play others at their same level and want •Have playof matches for third and toA playing entry-level tournaments or to play consolation matches. fourth places. district ranking events. We will Parents also want matches to start on •Award trophies, including a Sports- undoubtedly lose some players because time, frequent communication about manship Award. they want to play for fun, and not for start times and schedule changes, a competition. But too often, juniors quit tournament director who enforces the By making entry-level and district because of bad experiences playing rules for fair play, court monitors and tournaments more enjoyable and tournaments. To keep juniors compet- consolation matches. meaningful, we’ll keep more players in ing, we need to make tournaments Tournament directors, as well, want competition events, while making sure enjoyable for them, their parents and matches to start on time, court moni- running one is pleasant and profitable. tournament directors. tors, an adequate number of courts and I recently conducted an informal to minimize parental interference. Holly Chomyn is a USPTA Master Pro survey and asked junior players, par- All three groups listed matches and a High Performance Coach with ents and tournament directors what starting on time as an important fac- the USTA. She is currently teaching in they felt was important at an event. tor. Hank Hughes, director of tennis southwest Florida. COURTESY SHUTTERSTOCK COURTESY

16 TennisIndustry February 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

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TI MAG AD pg.indd 2 5/26/16 2:27 PM FINAL_02_TI_FOB_Grassroots_SC.indd 7 18 growing oursportincommunities.growing itcomestoare on the front lineswhen CTAs, publicparks,schoolsandNJTLs Play ItForward! BUILDING COMMUNITY Tennis PACIFIC NORTHWEST PACIFIC I Creating OpportunitiesinNew Communities adults, too,” says oneadultparticipant. it’s turning out to be really fun for the and I mostly did it for the kids, but past the opposing team. teammates whenever they get the ball their partner, and the adults cheer their whenever they hit the foam ball back to nis skills. The kids jump up and down active gamesthathelpthemwithten courts, by age group, where they play nis”—family members are on separate It’s asessionof“Family Friendly Ten

Family Friendly Tennis is one of five “I haven’t played since high school

Tennis children, teenagers and adults. courts are filled with dozens of Seattle’s Solstice Park, and the t’s a warm summer evening at Industry Industry

February 2017 Grassroots

- - and local schools to provide afordable, with parks and recreation departments partners section The Northwest. Pacific “RecTennis” programs ofered by USTA Matthew Warren. says USTA PNW Executive Director munities across the Pacific Northwest,” see RecTennis positively impactcom to children and families, it is exciting to providing health and wellness activities of kids and families to the court. programs are drawing a new generation Pendleton, Ore., the section’s accessible in Seattle to agricultural hubs like munities. From urban neighborhoods introductory programstonewcom “From creatingnewtennisjobs to —Erika Harmon Tennis

-

- Serves upHugs ‘Tennis forFun’ FLORIDA D it’s abigsocialevent.” when they come to tennis every week, friends every day,” Moore says. “So they lose the connection of seeing their Fla. toasfarMaineandMinnesota. grown, and expanded from Brandon, athletes. Since then, the program has Olympics instructors. Special certified are who volunteers by for those with special needs. It is run program: Ithadtobefreeandset up set specific parameters for his new tennis.” for anything wasn’t for basketball and soccer, but there tion,” Moore says. “They had programs in highschool.“Itaughtspecialeduca fulfill community-service requirements Nathan, started the program in 2000 to the special-needs community. Her son, Fun, a program that teaches tennis to leaves,” says Moore. body comes, and hugs when everybody greet oneanother. “Hugswhenevery popular Florida program’s athletes Instead, expectahug.That’s how the “When the athletes leave high school, In thefirst year, Nathanhadabout 15 A tennis player himsef, Nathan Moore is the director of Tennis for “Tennis for Fun” clinics. you attend one of Judy Moore’s o n’t expect a handshake when www.tennisindustrymag.com —Rick Vach - - 12/31/16 1:20PM

PHOTO COURTESY USTA PACIFIC NORTHWEST (LEFT); USTA FLORIDA

TennisIndustry RetailingTip

color or every single SKU.” Expect more small and medium-size specialty retailers to follow a similar path. They’ll win over customers not because they have the widest selection, but because they have the best and most relevant assortments for their target market, and they’re able to deliver those products to each individual customer.

Consumers want to buy an experience. In a recent survey, 32 percent of consumers say they are interested in attending classes or lessons at retail stores.

Retailers that seem to be winning are the ones that curate assortments. LOOKING AHEAD According to Rieva Lesonsky, a Futures Market columnist for the website Small Busi- ness Trends, “U.S. shoppers recently As we head into the new year, tennis said they are most interested in health or fitness classes (29 percent) … and retailers should consider these learning from experts (20 percent). In addition, 17 percent are interested in guidelines and trends. clubs that meet at retail stores.” There may be opportunities here for By Jay Townley tennis retailers to attract more shop- pers and store trafc. Can you or your employees teach a class or present to consumers an aspect of the sport or equipment? Can you work with a hat will the future according to a trends and predictions local teaching pro to help bring shop- hold for tennis pro article from the retail trade site Vend. pers to the store? shop and specialty “Shoppers these days are already retailers? There is overwhelmed with too many choices, so Omni-channel will be integrated into a lot of uncertainty widening your range can sometimes do every aspect of retail. Wchurning in the marketplace, and about more harm than good.” Moving forward, all the sources that a third of American consumers say they This could be one reason why “we’ve predict retail trends are saying a key have concerns about the future. But seen a rise in subscription services that focus for U.S. retailers in 2017—no mat- despite this, we’ve still seen economic curate products for customers,” the ter what industry they are in or how growth and overall increases in con- Vend piece says. “Such services make simple or complicated their operations sumer spending at retail. it easier for customers to discover and are—will be omni-channel. Bringing For specialty retailers, though, there select products, thus saving them time online and brick-and-mortar together are some simple guidelines you’ll want and preventing decision fatigue.” is important in every facet of retail to consider as we enter the new year: Chris Peterson of Integrated Market- because that is what the consumer has ing Solutions adds, “Retailers that seem made it clear they want. Is your retail Stocking up on more merchandise may to be winning are the ones that curate operation ready? not work anymore. assortments … carefully selecting the “An increasing number of retailers are top styles, showing the top models, or Jay Townley is a partner in the retail learning that having more products ofering a showcase of ‘good, better, consulting firm Gluskin Townley Group won’t necessarily win over customers,” best’ instead of trying to stock every (www.gluskintownleygroup.com). PHOTO SHUTTERSTOCK

20 TennisIndustry February 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

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CUSTOMER SERVICE Proper Grip Installation Consistency is key when it comes to customizing the player’s point of contact with the racquet. By Bob Patterson

hile grips can be customized to each player’s liking— such as more or less overlap, or extend- Wed up the shaft for two-handers—most recreational players expect a “factory wrap,” like the frame comes from the manufacturer, with a consistent and even overlap that produces a nice, fl at surface. While factory grips come wrapped for right-handers, we recom- mend you ask the player his or her preference. You may be surprised that many lefties prefer the right-hand wrap because that is what they are used to.

To provide a consistent grip job every time, follow these rules:

1. Start with a clean surface. Remove all old material and residue before install- ing the new grip. 2. Start the grip in the same spot every time. While it doesn’t matter which of the eight bevels you choose, being consistent means that all your grip jobs will feel the same. If you feel a staple Being consistent is necessary to secure the end, use a means that all of your grip jobs narrow-crown staple and make sure it will feel the same. is seated well and can’t be felt once the grip is wrapped over it. 3. As you wrap the grip around the butt cap, keep it taut, but don’t stretch it too 5. When you reach the top you will concealed with fi nishing tape. much. As you come around the butt need to trim the excess grip for a neat 6. For good adhesion, make sure the cap, go one or two bevels past the start- fi nish. Unless you have a great eye and fi nishing tape is half on the grip and ing end before moving down the grip years of experience, the best method is half on the frame, with no wrinkles and with the wrap. This will ensure good to mark the grip with a pen or pencil so no excessive overlaps. Twice around coverage, and the grip will stay put. that your cut will produce an even taper should do the trick. 4. As you wrap the rest of the grip— on the top edge. Many beginners make again—keep it taut but not stretched. the mistake of cutting the bottom edge, Bob Patterson is the Executive Director Overlap about 1/16 of an inch to achieve which is then exposed and unsightly. of the United States Racquet Stringers a consistent, fl at feel. With the cut at the top, it can be fully Association.

22 TennisIndustry February 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

FINAL2_02_TI_FOB_Rac_Tech_SC.indd 7 12/31/16 1:30 PM ads.indd 21 4/29/16 1:47 PM TennisIndustry

aybe the best way to charac- terize the state OUTLOOK 2017: of the tennis racquet market RACQUETS right now is that it appears to be in a period of Mtransition. One trend we all want to see in 2017 is increased retail sales, as rac- quet purchases at pro and specialty stores going into the fourth quarter are lagging behind the previous year, according to TIA data. Frames in Mind As we begin 2017, it’s hard to put a fi nger on any emerging racquet Racquet franchises and built-in trends in the traditional sense, such as changes in weights, balances, frame customization may help retailers string density or colors. But we have observed some interesting develop- move more product this year. ments pertaining to what racquet By Bob Patterson companies are of ering:

Growth in Franchises No, we’re not talking about a fran- chise like a fast-food restaurant. A “racquet franchise” is a fairly new term for our industry, which several manufacturers are using to describe their product line-ups.

Manufacturers have taken their most popular models and expanded on their success. In the past, every frame had a unique name—for instance, the XYZ racquet. If a frame came in more than one head size, they were called the XYZ 95 and XYZ 110. Now, we’re recognizing an XYZ “franchise,” with frames such as the XYZ Tour, XYZ Lite or XYZ Team. With this concept, manufactur- ers have taken their most popular models and expanded on their suc- cess. Substantial marketing dollars go into developing a model name and building a following, so rather than having a racquet line-up with 30 dif erent and unique models to cover all the various needs of all dif erent types of players, a company will have 30 racquets that fi t neatly into four franchises, to capitalize on existing marketing and franchise reputation. It is a smart business strategy and one we expect to continue. Usually, the variances within a

24 TennisIndustry February 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

FINAL_02_TI_FEAT_OUT_RACQ_SC.indd 7 12/31/16 1:44 PM FINAL_02_TI_FEAT_OUT_RACQ_SC.indd 8 COURTESY DUNLOP tern). This spring, Head is launching StringPatframe withASP(Adaptable variable string patterns in the same frame in 2014. Then Head introduced tion concept totenniswithitsiDapt Built-In Customization within thefranchise. make eachmodelclearlyidentifiable but keeping anunderlyingthemethat distinguish modelsfromeachother, vary, butonlyslightly—enough to most popular. Cosmetics willalso swing weightorheadsizebeingthe franchise aresubtle—length, weight, the golf industry. it appears to have been successful in hope to see more of in this industry, for compels thecustomer toactuponit. their gameandstyle ofplay. Thenit what modificationswouldbest benefit or advisor to help the customer choose expertise of an experienced technician tion is a great trend, as it calls for the the needsofplayers. length, weight and swing weight to fit Adaptive racquets that can also change This is an emerging trend that we This isanemergingtrendthatwe customiza built-in industry, this For Dunlop introducedthecustomiza - - - reversing this decline is for retailers to participation and play. The first step in years in spite of slight increases in trending downward over the last few Tennis racquet sales have been Decline Retail the Reversing tennis racquet.” great reviews and sounds like a good it,” or, “I read about it online and it got or, “My friend bought one and loves response such as, “A lot of pros use it,” a get will you are chances But sale. a greatanswer andyoustill make the frame for you?” how you determined that was the best is, “Yes, we have that model. May I ask down theprocess. Whatyoushouldsay and making the sale, you need to slow “Yes, we have that model in stock,” dize that sale. But rather than saying, afraid tosay anything thatmay jeopar set on a specific frame, most shops are purchasing whattheyactuallyneed. consumer down andmake suretheyare it is up to tennis retailers to slow the selling racquets. stop “taking orders” and start actually Your customer may respond with When a player has his or her mind In this day of quick-click buying,

- They may refer friends to your shop shop your to friends refer may They game. the in enjoyment their and hance theirperformanceonthecourt will endupwithaframethaten demos andrelyonyourguidance,they the try they if But lost. is nothing so, if and for, in came they frame the buy their particularneeds. get them a racquet that is going to fit demo. Show them that your goal is to a couple of other frames for them to mation you glean from them, suggest and style ofplay. Basedontheinfor interviewing them about their game of the frame they asked for, but begin ensure future sales. Ofer them a demo a sale, buttocapture acustomer and will betrendingupward. sales, racquet and base, customer your soon experience—and the of because stop “taking orders” and start and orders” “taking stop this decline is for retailers to retailers for is decline this The customer may still just want to to want just still may customer The This is a chance to not only make The first step in reversing reversing in step first The actually selling racquets. - 12/31/16 1:44PM - TennisIndustry

OUTLOOK 2017: SHOES

Stepping Forward Whether sales will be up or down this year, shoe technology and styling continues to move ahead. By Kent Oswald

s 2017 gets underway, Compared to other tennis spending, other parts of the economy, there are the tennis shoe business which has been turbulent over the last reasons supporting those who believe seems to be stepping few years, the tennis shoe market has this will be a year of breakouts and gingerly. For the past fi ve been a particularly positive area. those who fear 12 months of shakeouts. years there have been Still, shoe sales through the third In either case, as 2017 begins, the Asmall, steady increases to the current quarter of 2016 showed a 4 to 5 percent future of sales is unclear, but we are $175 million-plus tennis shoe market, year-over-year decline in both units certain to see shelves featuring foot- according to Sports and Fitness Indus- and dollars sold. (Year-end fi gures were wear that continues to improve both in try Association (SFIA) estimates. not available at press time.) As with terms of technology and styling.

Asics Babolat asicsamerica.com 800-678-9435 babolat.com 877-316-9435 While adding colorways throughout all its lines—including Team Babolat ambassador Benoit Paire is the face of the the Gel Speed Solution 3, named Editor’s Choice for “Best company’s re-introduction of its men’s and women’s Lightweight Shoe” in Tennis Magazine last year—Asics is Propulse Fury (suggested retail $130). The shoe is designed emphasizing three particular lines in 2017. The lightweight, to provide exceptional support for all-court players needing comfortable Gel-Court FF for men and women (suggested the security of footing as they quickly change direction. The retail $170) of ers improved stability, airfl ow and durabil- company has also further slimmed down the shoe that ity. The Gel-Resolution ($140) features improved comfort, Tennis Magazine’s editors named Best New Line in 2016, the maximum stability and superior durability, and also of ers men’s and women’s Jet ($150), and added new colorways. a clay-court sole option. And the Gel-Challenger ($100) is a popular-priced choice that blends comfort and stability for recreational players. COURTESY ASICS; BABOLAT COURTESY

26 TennisIndustry February 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

FINAL_02_TI_FEAT_OUT_SHOES_SC.indd 7 12/31/16 2:08 PM Fila K-Swiss Nike Wilson fi l a . c o m 800-845-FILA kswiss.com 800-938-8000 nike.com 800-344-6453 wilson.com 773-714-6400 Continuing its tradition of The Hypercourt 2.0 for The shoe heavyweight be- Extending adaptations of the balancing performance with men and women (suggested gins the year by adding two vibration-reducing technol- style, Fila hatweaked the retail $120) of ers improved lightweight models to its ex- ogy recently introduced into Cage Delirium for men and fi t and stability, while the pansive and aggressively up- its racquets, Wilson debuts women (suggested men’s and women’s Hyper- dated tennis footwear line. Amplifeel shoes for men and retail $100), the same shoe court Express ($105) is for The Nike Court Air Zoom women (suggested retail Karolina Pliskova strutted players across the spectrum. Ultra React (suggested retail $159). The footwear line will during her run to last year’s The men’s Knitshot ($140) $160) of ers control and be an integral element of a US Open fi nal. In addition to has abrasion resistance on responsiveness while also 360-degree marketing new colorways this year, the the outsole as well midsole being one of the company’s campaign with digital and company has added features technology for fl exibility lightest shoes ever designed. social media outreach as well for additional support and and stability. The new men’s The Nike Court Zoom Vapor as in-performance promo- interior comfort. and women’s Bigshot Light 9.5Flyknit for men ($180) tional activities, all built 3 ($85) and Bigshot Light is a lightweight, cushioned, around a focus on technol- Varsity for juniors ($55) are breathable shoe that wraps ogy to help players train lightweight, aggressively around the foot for harder and play longer. priced and available in maximum stability. three colorways.

Head New Balance Prince Yonex head.com 800-289-7366 newbalance.com princetennis.com yonex.com 424-201-4800 Behind a multi-platform 800-253-7463 800-2TENNIS Stan Wawrinka stars in a promotional campaign A key aspect of Milos Aggressively priced and print, video and social media featuring the slogan, “Tennis Raonic’s ensemble, the designed, the T22 Lite for campaign for the newly has a new rivalry: Speed vs. 996v3 for men and women men and women (suggested launched Eclipsion line for Power”, Head enters the (suggested retail $129.95) retail $99) remains at the men, women (suggested new year with additional launches with a synthetic, forefront of Prince’s foot- retail $140) and juniors colorways for its featured knit upper. New Balance is wear of erings. The com- ($70), featuring an all-court Revolt Pro 2.0 shoes for men also likely to receive positive pany says it plans to update and clay-court sole for and women (suggested retail attention for the shoe’s colors and styling for the men and all-court sole for $139.99) and Nitro Pro shoes technology that provides lightweight, durable shoe women. In addition, the for men, women ($139.99) extra support for quick throughout the year. company is adding new and juniors ($79.95). The transitions and multi- colorways and technical Revolt Pro 2.0 features directional movement. tweaks to the lightweight- technology highlighting themed Aerus Dash for men, power, stability, cushioning women and juniors ($140, and durability; the Nitro $70) and comfortable Fusion Pro is lightweight, stylishly Rev 2 shoes for men and low to the ground and of ers women ($130). greater breathability. COURTESY FILA; K-SWISS; NIKE; WILSON; FILA; K-SWISS; HEAD; NEW BALANCE; PRINCE; YONEX COURTESY

www.tennisindustrymag.com February 2017 TennisIndustry 27

FINAL_02_TI_FEAT_OUT_SHOES_SC.indd 8 12/31/16 2:09 PM TennisIndustry

t the U.S. Rac- quet Stringers Association, we OUTLOOK 2017: speak frequently with everyone STRINGS from players to racquet string- ers to techni- cians to manufacturers. And among all of them, one message is clear: We need toA do a better job at getting recreational players to use the best string set-up for their skill level, style of play, and particular needs. Educational Initiative The main problem, it seems, is that too many recreational players have Getting players to restring more embraced polyester strings—for all the wrong reasons. frequently—with the right strings for Tennis Industry’s 2015 Stringer of the Year, Julian Li, summed it up in our their games—is a matter “Wish List” story for the November/ December issue: “My wish is that the of making sure they know the facts. tennis industry and string manufactur- ers develop and promote more high- By Bob Patterson quality multifi lament strings. Polyester strings are not made for the general public. What you end up with is a string that creates tennis elbow and other muscle and joint damage.” This trend doesn’t help people play more tennis—it helps them get out of the game altogether. Many agree with Julian’s assessment. In fact, even many string manufactur- ers agree that while poly strings are benefi cial for top players, they are usu- ally not the best choice for recreational players. (See “The Evolution of Poly Strings” in the May 2015 issue of Tennis Industry for more.)

The main problem is that too many players have embraced polyester strings—for all the wrong reasons.

In general, recreational players do not generate enough racquet-head speed with their swings to get the most important benefi t of poly strings, which is its ability to create spin. Poly strings do this because of their stif ness and their ability to create “snap-back,” which refers to the string’s ability to bend and then snap back to its original shape. But most of us cannot swing the racquet fast enough—while still hitting our target—to get the strings to bend in the fi rst place. If they don’t bend, they can’t snap back.

28 TennisIndustry February 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

FINAL_02_TI_FEAT_OUT_STRINGS_SC.indd 7 12/31/16 2:10 PM Teaching Consumers the Facts In talking with technicians about So why are so many recreational play- what they hear from clients, we fi nd ers using poly strings and enamored by Poly strings are only durable that most like the fact that poly strings the concept? The answer is, primarily, if your defi nition of durable are so “durable” and “never move” in a lack of education—consumers don’t is that they don’t break. the string bed. This is another indica- know all the reasons that a poly string tion of a lack of education. Poly strings is keeping them from playing better. are only durable if your defi nition of And whose fault is that? We can all Add to this TV commentators, who durable is that they don’t break. Most share in the responsibility. often talk about how great poly strings recreational players do not break For manufacturers, it is easiest to are and how much they have changed strings before they are well beyond promote the strings that their pro play- the game. Yet they conveniently their useful life, if ever—they don’t ers are using and endorsing. leave out important facts about the swing hard enough, or have to face For retailers, stringers and techni- dif erences between how pros and shots powerful enough to snap a poly. cians, it is easier to just give customers recreational players play the game. (For what they are asking for than to spend instance, the pros change to a freshly Finding the Right Alternatives time explaining what string may be bet- strung racquet every nine games be- How can we educate recreational play-

COURTESY ASSOCIATED PRESS ASSOCIATED COURTESY ter for them. cause poly strings go dead so fast.) ers on the pros and cons of strings? It starts with each of us informing our customers and urging them to try alter- natives that would be better for their games and their health. By no means should we abandon poly strings, however. They remain a great product, but we have a responsibility to educate players on how they should be used to get the best benefi t, provided their games are suited to poly in the fi rst place. Parameters should include lowering the tension, combining the poly with a softer string in a hybrid set- up and restringing frequently. Manufacturers can also help by pro- moting their non-poly strings. At the USRSA, we are hoping to get manufac- turers behind a campaign to educate tennis providers and players about the importance of the racquet—the frame and the string—to their performance and enjoyment of the game. Together with the Tennis Industry Association, we hope to develop a campaign that urges recreational players to seek out qualifi ed technicians to get the best advice for all their equipment needs. Industry research shows that racquet and string sales have been sliding for the last few years. People are still play- ing tennis, but they are not buying new equipment as frequently as the should, nor are they restringing their racquets as often as they should. Educating retailers, providers and pros is a key to reversing this trend.

www.tennisindustrymag.com February 2017 TennisIndustry 29

FINAL_02_TI_FEAT_OUT_STRINGS_SC.indd 8 12/31/16 2:10 PM Thank You!

The USTA would like to thank the Orlando community, State of Florida, Orange County, City of Orlando, and our valued partners in helping to build the USTA National Campus. We are extremely proud to grow the game of tennis at our new Home of American Tennis.

Partners Tavistock Group University of Central Florida

Sponsors Suppliers

adidas Tennis Like Never Before. California Sports Surfaces American Express The USTA National Campus is NOW OPEN Har-Tru Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Penn

All are welcome to play, learn and Chase PlaySight Citizen Watch Company watch at our new game-changing Sport Court Emirates tennis campus in Lake Nona. Technogym Mercedes-Benz TranStar Nemours Children’s Health System Orlando Utilities Commission Wilson Pepsico Visit Orlando

ustanationalcampus.com (844) USA-TNNS © 2016 United States Tennis Association. All rights reserved.

13505 USTA National Campus HOAT Tennis Mag Thank You Ad.indd All Pages 12/15/16 1:10 PM Thank You!

The USTA would like to thank the Orlando community, State of Florida, Orange County, City of Orlando, and our valued partners in helping to build the USTA National Campus. We are extremely proud to grow the game of tennis at our new Home of American Tennis.

Partners Tavistock Group University of Central Florida

Sponsors Suppliers

adidas Tennis Like Never Before. California Sports Surfaces American Express The USTA National Campus is NOW OPEN Har-Tru Andrews Institute for Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Penn

All are welcome to play, learn and Chase PlaySight Citizen Watch Company watch at our new game-changing Sport Court Emirates tennis campus in Lake Nona. Technogym Mercedes-Benz TranStar Nemours Children’s Health System Orlando Utilities Commission Wilson Pepsico Visit Orlando

ustanationalcampus.com (844) USA-TNNS © 2016 United States Tennis Association. All rights reserved.

13505 USTA National Campus HOAT Tennis Mag Thank You Ad.indd All Pages 12/15/16 1:10 PM TennisIndustry

OUTLOOK 2017: APPAREL

ports apparel design- ers must love creat- ing tenniswear. It’s an opportunity to Mixed Company wrap fashion-forward designs and colors Tenniswear continues its around the functional aspect of a tennis out- fashion appeal as more bright colors fit, so players both look and feel their best on and of the court. and trendy designs mix SThe new year brings more bright colors to tennis in blues, greens, pinks with on-court functionality. and continued splashes of neons. Rufes and flounces are also evident in By Cynthia Sherman trendy designs, as are colorful stripes and fresh florals—all of which parallel catwalk trends.

Sofibella Fila sofibellawear.com 877-696-0424 fila.com 410-773-3000 Sofibella’s call to spring features hues A true heritage brand, Fila harkens back to its roots with the re-introduction of its of sky blue with accents of white and archival Fila green—which mirrors Pantone’s ‘Greenery’ as the color of the year for green in its Triumph Collection. An 2017. This time the Heritage striped dress ($85) picks up the modern stripe trend, athletic cami with built-in bra ($70) with contrast color binding on the neckband and armhole and, of course, the paired over a matching Abaza skort embroidered F-box patch logo. ($80) adds pizzazz to the court. PHOTOS COURTESY SOFIBELLA; FILA PHOTOS COURTESY

32 TennisIndustry February 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

FINAL_02_TI_FEAT_OUT_APPAREL_SC.indd 7 12/31/16 3:06 PM Bolle bolletennis wear.com 301-362-0360 Pretty in rosy pink and white, Bolle’s Valentina group combines solids and graphic florals in cut-and-sew A-line and rufed skirts, as well as tanks. The poly-span- dex combina- tion and woven fabrications add function, com- fort and enhance performance.

Athletic DNA Antigua Lucky In Love athleticdna.com 470-236-2001 antigua.com 800-555-8706 luckyinlovekids.com 305-638-5484 Athletic DNA is all about integrating Antigua journeyed into the tennis “Into the Future” is Lucky In Love’s performance and style, and its Acid market about four years ago and is mantra for spring. Highly stylized Blur collection brings in a trendy blue gaining steam. Its comfortable clothes prints, its signature tiered skirts, metal- shade for spring. The Vista tank ($50) look great on their own or with club, lics and bright colors welcome a break sports an athletic fit and features anti- tournament or retail logos. The Streak from winter. Longer length skirts are chafe, anti-microbial and moisture- color-block polo ($85) is 100 percent also available in each collection. The management properties. It comes polyester Desert Dry (Antigua’s propri- Snake Charmer line (tank with bra, in adult and youth sizes. Paired with etary technology), a moisture-wicking $64, topping a lilac Rally Pleat tier the athletic-fit white poly-Spandex yarn engineered jersey with a pointelle skirt, $72) echoes snake-skin prints in Origami skort ($50), it makes a sharp contrast chest stripe. It comes in six shades of lilac and white that are very statement at net. colors and is shown here in Cypress. on-trend for the season. PHOTOS BOLLE; ATHLETIC DNA; ANTIGUA; LUCKY IN LOVE LUCKY DNA; ANTIGUA; PHOTOS BOLLE; ATHLETIC

www.tennisindustrymag.com February 2017 TennisIndustry 33

FINAL_02_TI_FEAT_OUT_APPAREL_SC.indd 8 12/31/16 3:06 PM TennisIndustry

OUTSTANDING OUTDOOR TENNIS FACILITY-OF-THE-YEAR AWARD OUTSTANDING FACILITY-OF-THE-YEAR AWARDS Army Navy Two of a Kind Country Club Tennis Industry and the ASBA bring Arlington, Va.

you the best in tennis The new tennis facility at the Army Navy Country Club includes 14 Har- court construction and design. Tru courts with subsurface irrigation By Peter Francesconi (10 with lights) and four new asphalt tennis courts, along with cabanas, fenc- ing and windscreens. The project was challenging due to wet weather during n 2016, there were 17 ten- excellence in design and construction construction and limited access space nis project winners in the determined by the judging committee. for construction materials, but the Tennis Industry/Ameri- While the panel of judges deemed 17 final product was never compromised. can Sports Builders Asso- courts or facilities to be worthy of spe- An existing wall next to one battery of ciation (ASBA) Facility-of- cial recognition, two of those winners courts failed, destroying the fence line, the-Year Awards program. were chosen for “Outstanding” honors: hydro-court cells, sleeves and light-pole Fourteen of those winning • Army Navy Country Club in foundations. The solution was to add projects were multi-court Arlington, Va. extra stone to help with compaction outdoor facilities, five of • Private Residential Court in and counteract the wet conditions. The which were at schools or colleges, and Gladwyne, Pa. wall was changed from poured concrete two in public parks. Three award- Award plaques to the two Outstand- to a stacked block wall, and the light- Iwinning projects were residential ing winners and recognition for the pole footers were redesigned. tennis courts. Distinguished winners were presented Each year, based on entries submit- at the ASBA Technical Meeting held in Nominated By: Tennis Courts Inc. ted by an ASBA member who designed early December in Amelia Island, Fla. Specialty Contractor: Tennis Courts Inc. or built the facility or court, the Suppliers:

Har-Tru Sports, LSI Industries, Edwards association selects outstanding tennis For more information, visit www.sports- Surface: 14 clay, 4 hard facilities that meet the standard of builders.org. Completed: September 2014 ASBA/TENNIS INC./PRO-SPORT COURTS CONSTRUCTION INC.

34 TennisIndustry February 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

FINAL_02_TI_FEAT_FACILITY.indd 7 12/31/16 3:15 PM TennisIndustry The Army Navy Country Club (left) features hard and soft courts in a pictureseque outdoor setting. Distinguished Tennis Facility Extensive planning and some shrewd engineering led to a Honors stunning residential court in Pennsylvania (below).

In addition to the Army Navy Country Club in Arlington, Va., and the residential court in Gladwyne, Pa., these 15 locations were chosen by the 2016 panel of judges for the ASBA as excellent examples of court construction, receiving Distinguished Facility-of-the-Year Awards. The ASBA also awarded Silver and Bronze awards in various categories. (The nominating com- pany is in parentheses.)

• Beach Club Tennis Facility Palm Beach, Fla. (Welch Tennis Courts Inc.) • Bonita National Bonita Springs, Fla. (WelchTennis Courts Inc.) • Briarwood Christian School Birmingham,Ala. (Holcombe Norton Partners Inc.) • College Boulevard Activity Center Tennis Complex Olathe, Kan. (McConnell & Associates Corp.) Bronze Award, Outdoor Facility • Dorado Beach Resort and Club Dorado, Puerto Rico (Fast-Dry Courts Inc.) • Dublin School Tennis Facility Dublin, N.H. (Cape and IslandTennis &Track) • Forest Hills Eastern High School Tennis Complex, Ada, Mich. (GMB Architecture + Engineering) • George S. Eccles Tennis Center Salt Lake City, Utah (Tennis and Track Co.) Silver Award, Outdoor Facility • HSU Residence Birmingham, Ala. (Lower Bros. Co. Inc.) Silver Award, Residential Court • Ibis Golf & Country Club Tennis Facility West Palm Beach, Fla. (Welch Tennis Courts Inc.) OUTSTANDING RESIDENTIAL TENNIS FACILITY-OF-THE-YEAR AWARD • Meadowwood Park Tennis Facility Aurora, Colo. (Renner Sports Surfaces) • Pinecrest Residence Gladwyne Residence Pinecrest, Fla. (Fast-Dry Courts Inc.) Gladwyne, Pa. Bronze Award, Residential Court • Sage Hill School Aquatic Center & Tennis Courts Newport Coast, Calif. (ZainoTennis Courts Inc.) Building this residential court with was built on-site. A pre-cast channel • SUNY Cortland LED lighting was a coordinated efort drain was installed on the court, while Cortland, N.Y. (E-Z Paving/Sealcoat LLC) that, in addition to a court contractor, yard drains were installed to catch • Talis Park Tennis Facility included masons, excavators, electri- perimeter water run-of. The entire Naples, Fla. (Welch Tennis Courts Inc.) cians and landscapers. Set among steep drainage system attaches to a storm- slopes, the site had limited access for water management system constructed The deadline for the 2017 construction vehicles and materials. under the court. Outstanding Facility-of-the-Year The concrete for the post-tensioned Awards is June 1, and awards will slab had to be pumped over 360 feet Nominated By: Pro-Sport Construction Inc. be presented at the 2017 ASBA up a steep hill, and the concrete for the General Contractor: Pro-Sport Construction Inc. Technical Meeting, to be held in New custom stone retaining walls had to Suppliers: California Sports Surfaces,Tech-Con, Orleans, La., Dec. 1-5. For details, be mixed on-site. The custom fenc- Aer-Flo, Har-Tru Sports, Techlight contact the ASBA at 866-501-ASBA ing of clear cedar posts and rails with Surface: Plexipave or [email protected], or visit mortise-and-tenon construction also Completed: August 2015 www.sportsbuilders.org.

www.tennisindustrymag.com February 2017 TennisIndustry 35

FINAL_02_TI_FEAT_FACILITY.indd 8 12/31/16 3:15 PM TennisIndustry

At Courtcraft Tennis, each frame receives a custom sign to help customers compare specs.

erchandising is an impor- tant part of SELLING RACQUETS every depart- ment in your shop. Gener- Merchandise with ally, though, a Purpose! when it comes to displays, presentation Mand promotion, racquets just don’t get Displaying your racquets by power the same level of attention that apparel and shoes do. That should change. level makes it easier for Racquets are easy to display and present in your shop. They can hang your customers to buy the right frame. from a peg or waterfall fixture on slatwall or pegboard and take up little By Bob Patterson floor space. Most of the time, retailers group racquets by brand, and then seg- ment them by price, headsize or other criteria. While this method allows cus- tomers to see your selection of frames, it does little to inform and educate players, which should always be a part of merchandising. Your display needs to draw the customer’s attention—and then once they are engaged, it should help them understand what they are seeing. Displaying racquets by brand show- cases the manufacturers you carry and the variety of the selection from each manufacturer, but that’s about it. In fact, if you display racquets by brand, and carry five brands, then racquets that have similar playing character- istics will end up being displayed far apart from each other.

Fitting Racquets to Players Ideally, you should be “fitting” your customers with the right racquet for their particular needs and style of play. It’s easier to find the right frame for a player when you merchandise racquets by power level insread of brand, since similar racquets will be placed near each other on the display wall, even if they’re from diferent manufacturers. As you talk to your customers about their game, expectations and style of play, you can move to the appropri- ate section of your racquet wall. For instance, if through your racquet interview you determine your client COURTESY COURTCRAFT TENNIS/SHAWN ARNETTE TENNIS/SHAWN COURTCRAFT COURTESY

36 TennisIndustry February 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

FINAL_02_TI_FEAT_RACQ_MERCH.indd 7 12/31/16 3:29 PM TennisIndustry

Your display needs to draw the customer’s attention— Other and then once they are engaged, it should help them Considerations understand what they are seeing.

An intelligent display isn't the only thing to consider when merchan- dising your racquets:

Lighting: Good lighting makes every racquet look better. Track lights are generally inexpensive and can wash the racquet wall with brightness without being too harsh, focusing the light on the merchan- dise and not into customers’ eyes.

Signage: You may not be grouping your racquets by brand, but you still do want to draw attention to the brands you stock. You should prom- inently display manufacturer logos on your racquet wall. Use promo- tional materials from manufactur- ers, such as player posters, to add variety and draw further attention. You should also consider invest- ing in custom signage to draw attention to your wall arrange- ment. A graduating arrow running the length of your display with the word “Power” will help reinforce your message. You should also display the specs of each frame. is more likely a game-improvement is exactly what you are after. Even “We find that having all the specs frame candidate, you can take him or customers who are “just looking” will there on each model not only helps her to the area of the store where the take notice when you explain how the the customers compare,” says game-improvement frames are located. racquets are arranged. Your customers Arnette, “but it also helps our staf It then becomes easier to explain the will think, Maybe I should be fitted— provide accurate information with- diferent manufacturer technologies and will hopefully seek out your help in out having to look it up or trying to used to create the models that fit a doing so. But even if they choose to go memorize it.” particular playing style. it on their own, you’ve made choosing a USRSA members can use tools Once a customer chooses a racquet to racquet an easy and logical experience. on RacquetTech.com to get power demo, the display also makes it easier If you choose another method of level formula, weight, swingweight, for them to understand how that frame arranging your racquet wall, other than flex and other racquet specs. compares with nearby frames on your by power level, it should at least have wall. For instance, if more powerful some reasoning and order to it. Shawn Demo Program: Giving customers racquets are on the left side of your Arnette, a Master Racquet Technician the ability to test racquets is vital display, and less powerful racquets and the owner of Courtcraft Tennis in to selling them. Don’t assume your on the right, a customer can move the Atlanta area, groups his racquets customers will know that you ofer along the wall according to their demo by brand, then by model and line. The a demo program, so make sure it is experience. Once they’ve honed in on manufacturer’s header card is removed visible with signage on your display. their power level, you can explain more to make room for a custom sign that subtle diferences in the frames, to best Arnette creates for each model with With logical merchandising for fit their needs. all the specs and information listed your racquets, your customers will Displaying racquets by power level prominently. It’s a personal touch that not only find the right frames for rather than brand may require some will resonate with customers and set their games, but also know why that explanation to customers, but that your shop apart. racquet works for them.

www.tennisindustrymag.com February 2017 TennisIndustry 37

FINAL_02_TI_FEAT_RACQ_MERCH.indd 8 12/31/16 3:29 PM TennisIndustry Tips&Techniques

get racquets back to players as quickly as possible. The solution I’ve found is to attach a section of overgrip on both sides of the stencil, which prevents any movement while you are applying the ink. I also take the extra step of cutting indicators along the centerline of each stencil to serve as quick-alignment aids.

5 sets of Pacific Poly Force 18 to: Sam Chan, MRT Berwick, Victoria, Australia

Don’t drop the end of the string Non-slip stencils Once more with Prince stencils As most racquet technicians know, When stenciling logos onto a string I have a follow up for your tip “Profes- keeping track of the string end saves bed, sometimes the stencil can slip, sional Prince Stencils.” The stringers at time, because you don’t have to go especially on a poly string bed. This can the Prince Innovation Center at IMG chasing the end of the string the next be a significant problem during tourna- Academy in Bradenton, Fla., carefully time you need it. ments, when you are under pressure to use a razor blade to cut away two of the At first, I tried retaining control of the string end by sliding it underneath a rubber band I would wear around my wrist. This worked, but the string would often jab into my arm, which turned out to be pretty irritating. Now, what works great for me is to place a #64 rubber band around my watch. This makes it simple to slide the string end between the watch and the rubber band—and the string end doesn’t poke my arm any longer.

5 sets of Babolat Pro Hurricane to: Dr. James Elkovitch Auburn, N.Y.

38 TennisIndustry February 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

FINAL_02_TI_BOB_Tips&Tech_SC_NEW.indd 7 1/2/17 10:19 AM four support bars on the sten- cils (an upper bar on the left, and a lower bar on the right, for example). This still pro- vides enough stability for the centerpiece of the stencil, while making it both faster and easier to finish the job when filling in the non-inked portions.

5 sets of Head Sonic Pro Edge to: Mitch Case, MRT Torrington, Conn.

Awl storage for Babolat Star 5s Not all stringing machines have a convenient storage rack for awls. To solve this, we use a 3/8-inch-thick piece of twin- wall polycarbonate (available at your local hardware store) ad- hered to the back of our Babolat Star 5s. The sections are just right for holding all sizes of awls.

5 sets of Ytex Square X Black to: Al Klieber, MRT Victoria, BC, Canada

Tips and Techniques submitted since 1992 by USRSA members and appearing in this column have all been gathered into a searchable database on www. racquettech.com, the official member-only website of the USRSA. Submit tips to: Greg Raven, Tennis Industry, 48 West 21st St., New York, NY 10010, or email [email protected].

www.tennisindustrymag.com February 2017 TennisIndustry 39

FINAL_02_TI_BOB_Tips&Tech_SC_NEW.indd 8 1/2/17 12:17 PM FINAL_02_TI_BOB_YourServe_SC.indd 7 40 Many matches were played during as cold weather, led to smaller crowds. of varsity college match times, as well spans became shorter, the uncertainty viewing habits changed and attention could easilycross. tennis and the tours as something they pros, saw thegapbetween college athletes, aspiringtocontinueinthe dising were non-existent. Matches gatereceiptsplunged; andmerchan work hours on weekdays. Attendance I By Virgil Christian match, varsitytennisisbouncingback. says that after years of trying to stay in the The USTA’s director of collegiate tennis Rallying Back COLLEGE TENNIS Tennis Times have changed. As spectator

Tennis Industry hours, wereexciting. Student- which could last four or five teams proliferated. Matches, tennis was at its peak. Varsity n the1980s, interest incollege Industry

February 2017 - fit into established broadcast windows. other sports raced by and were easier to received no broadcast attention, as tives popped up, but their focus was on monumental error. cut out of the decision-making—a many schools, athletic directors were climate afecting their livelihoods. At coaches on campus—saw this depressed already some of the lowest-paid administrations. Tennis coaches— evant, both to fans and to many school tenniswas becomingirrel College such as tennis programs were dropped. non-revenue-generating varsity sports nated or tightened. Many traditionally On topofthat,schoolbudgetsstag Anumberofwell-intendedinitia Your

Serve

-

- - comments [email protected] We welcome your opinions. Please email five-minute break, six singles matches The first team to six games wins. After a simultaneously, with no-ad scoring. now three doubles matches, played at the NCAA Team Championships is the answers. product to “sell,” we needed to agree on match college tennis? How should a varsity What isourproduct?exactly sport. The USTA asked hard questions: with thechangingdemographicsof “college pathway” in coordination the USTA having designedanexpanded occurring, which started in 2015 with this industry needstolisten. place needs to provide the answers, and like other varsitysports, themarket tion. If college tennis is to be relevant changing marketplace oradministra coaches and players, not on the fans, play ahead. point, but there’s still a lot of exciting ference—and thisisonlythebeginning. hasmadeavery realdif format change potential for growth on campus. This ing event—one that may have the most ing withother sports, asitshould. Our sportisnow legitimatelycompet being broadcast digitally and on cable. we’re also engaging new fans. Tennis is to come back to college matches, and and fans alike, those fans are beginning manageable time format for players now average2hoursand38minutes. quickly; in Division I, those matches and no-ad scoring. Matches move along are played, with best two-of-three sets As of 2016, the format being used Thankfully, an evolution is now We may have just saved a match The varsitytennismatchisanexcit By speeding up play and ensuring a USTA NationalCampusinOrlando. the visionarybehind100-court Former headcoachatUPenn, heis look ? We knew that to have a Penn Statemen’s team. two-year captainofthe development, was a and market/facility of collegiatetennis USTA’s seniordirector Virgil Christian,the www.tennisindustrymag.com

is - -

- - 12/31/16 4:47PM -

PHOTO COURTESY USTA “INCREDIBLE TECHNOLOGY FOR ANY TENNIS PLAYER LOOKING FOR AN EDGE”

Tommy Haas ATP Tour Player since 1996 Former #2 Ranked Men’s Singles Tournament Director, BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells

CONNECTING THE NEXT GENERATION OF ATHLETES

PS Tennis Industry-HAAS-NOV2016.indd 1 2016-11-22 1:25 PM benoit paire (FRA) TEAM BABOLAT PRO PLAYERS MAY PLAY WITH A CUSTOMIZED OR DIFFERENT MODEL THAN THE EQUIPMENT DEPICTED. WITH A CUSTOMIZED PLAY MAY PRO PLAYERS TEAM BABOLAT *Except in Japan

BABOLAT - OFFICIAL TENNIS RACKETS, SHOES*, PERFORMANCE APPAREL, BAGS AND ACCESSORIES OF THE CHAMPIONSHIPS, WIMBLEDON