TEXAS SECTION

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

17 League Restructure 23 Krueger Reaches Jr. Wimbledon Semis Sr. Mixed Results Hagar Honored League Area Championships Back-To-Back: Texas Jr. Team All Texas Final at Zone Team Championships 18 USTA Texas News and Notes Texas Third at Intersectional 16s

20 Texas US Open Sectional Roundup 24 & Adaptive Lubbock Host Camp 21 Player Profile: Meet Bayo Philips Texas 10 Essay & Art Winners Tennis at Dwarf Games 22 NJTL Ashe Contest Winner USTA Serves Scholarships Winners 25 Competitive Corner: Volleying JTT Spring Sectionals 26 Kenny Mc’s Corner: Bow Shots

26 Presidents Message: Transition Time USTA Texas Staff Directory INSIDE TENNIS • SEPT/OCT 2012 17 Team match format for 55 & match format Team Mixed Doubles Leagues information about For more Results from the 2012 USTA Results from and 9.0. is three Over League Type are doubles matches. Sections or 70 & encouraged to add a 65 Texas Over league so now USTA an Adults 65 & Over will offer league. for men and women 18 & are Over and 40 & Over with championship layers culminating in a National match Championship. Team doubles format is three 2.5, matches. NTRP levels are 6.0, 7.0, 8.0, 9.0 and 10.0. a Mixed will offer Texas USTA 55 & Over league sectional. Leagues go to Texas USTA www.texas.usta.com/adult_ tennis/usta_leagues/homenews/ Texas Senior Mixed Doubles Senior Texas Sectionals in Corpus Christi June 8-10 for the 7.0, 8.0 from and 9.0 levels include winners and Dallas, who Fort Worth from an invite to represent received at the National Invitational Texas in the spring of 2013. Fort Worth defeated Abilene 2-1 to win 7.0, defeated Austin 2-1 Fort Worth to win 8.0 and Dallas defeated Midland and Houston to take the 9.0 division at the USTA Senior Mixed Doubles Texas Sectionals. Dallas, Fort Worth Senior Take Teams Mixed Doubles SEPT/OCT 2012 Gone are the terms Gone are “This is less confusing for Adult Leagues are Over and 40 & Over. The Over and 40 & Over. an section will offer Texas Adults 65 & Over league and Mixed 55 & Over league. Senior and Super Senior and now ages are & classified as Adults 18 40 & Over and Adults over, The Adults 55 & Over. will take restructuring in January 2013. effect terminology now that it is defined as Adult divisions with the age parameters,” Smith, USTA said Tosha - Coordi Leagues Texas “It will also allow for nator. additional play opportu- competitive nities, more matches and better of teams.” groupings men and women 18 years with of age or older, NTRP levels for 18 & Over NTRP Levels for 40 & Over match format is two Team NTRP Levels for 55 & Over championship layers, culminating in a National Championship. Open, 2.5, 3.0, are League Type 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, and 5.0+. 3.0, 3.5, 4.0 are League Type and 4.5+. singles matches and three doubles matches. Open, 2.5 and 5.0 NTRP levels play one singles match and two doubles matches. 6.0, 7.0, 8.0 are League Type Texas League Sectionals with League Texas victories at the 2012 Adult / Area Qualifying Tournament Championships held July 6-8 in at the Rose Park Abilene, Texas This was the Center. Tennis qualifying tournament for teams cities who do not have a from league for advancement to cities with a sectionals or from Adult League partici- total USTA pation of less than 250 players.

USTA Texas, staying in staying Texas, USTA for The primary reason Nationally the USTA The 3.5 ladies team from Ladies 4.0 – Abilene 4.0 Ladies Ladies 3.5 – Laredo 3.5 Ladies

sync the new guidelines set nationally by the United Association States Tennis for Leagues age divisions, and has restructured its age streamlined that divisions for Leagues for the 2013 effective are National Championships. the initiative is to allow for of additional frequency meaningful play with more age distributions along with the age confusion of division titles. the previous will have just two league divisions – Adult and Mixed. The Adult Division down into 18 & is broken 40 & Over and 55 & Over, Over while the Mixed Doubles Division will consist of 18 & currently Leagues Streamlines Restructure Age Divisions for 2013 Laredo and the 4.0 team from Laredo Abilene advanced to the USTA Abilene, Laredo Win USTA Texas Leagues Texas Abilene, Laredo Win USTA Qualifying Area Championships 18 INSIDE TENNIS • SEPT/OCT 2012 Lindsey you haveanyquestionspleaseemailRhonda This noticewillbemailedinearlyDecember. If the committeemembershavebeenappointed. applicants willreceive notificationbymailonce to serveonthe2013–2014committees.All with anAdvisoryGroup inassigningvolunteers incoming President DanBarta Texas President Dr. Alfredo Trevino Volunteers thenVolunteer Application.USTA www.texas.usta.com. Thenclick:AboutUs, 2012. Applicationscanbecompletedat available onourwebsitefrom Aug.1-Sept.17, must completeouronlineVolunteer Application Committee duringthe2013–2014term,you If youare interested inservingonaUSTA Texas Applications Committee USTA Texas Accepting The fourlargest CommunityTennis Associ- WorthFort CTAs GFWTC toForm Join and clickontheWorkshop logo. For more informationgotowww.texas.usta.com Tournament andtheAdvocacySpecialtyCourse. Halloween CostumeBall,theCTA Shootout CTA’s andyourfacilities.We will alsohavethe sessions thatwillhelpyougrow yourprograms, personality LukeJensen workshop isfeaturingGrandSlamandTV Horseshoe Bay, Texas from Oct.26-28.The Workshop, in Development Community 2012 USTA Texas available forthe information isnow Registration Set forOct.26-28 Workshop Development Community Chair NominatingCommittee. Trevino, USTA Delegate;andRobertRubel, Treasurer; SallyBrown , Secretary; Dr. Alfredo Vice-President Competitive;Tom Hunt , Vice-President Administration;RonWoods, President Recreational Tennis; FrankKelly, Dan Barta,President; KathleenWu, Vice- elected foratwo-yearterm.Officers include will takepositiononJan.1,2013andare Annual MeetinginLaredo, Texas. TheOfficers Committee, onJune24atthe2012Semi- Committee andelectedbytheExecutive Officers, asnominatedbytheNominating USTA Texas isproud toannouncethe2013-14 USTA Texas Officers Announce2013-14 TEXAS SECTION USTA TEXAS NEWS &NOTES at [email protected]. along witheducational will beworking and Pacific Northwest. and teams competedagainstFlorida,Northern third, fourthandfifthplaceasthefourTexas Waco, July25-29. OtherTexas teamscollected at theWaco Regional Tennis &FitnessCenterin Boys’ andGirls’16ZoneTeam Championships eventually losttoFlorida10-8atthe2012USTA In thefinals,Team Texas wasup5-1but Team at16sZone Lead Championships Texas AfterTaking toFlorida Falls 5-1 and Southwest. teams from Florida,Caribbean,MissouriValley from Texas tookthird placeandfifthagainst Texas. Alongwithasecondplacefinish,teams Arlington, July25-29.Fourteamsrepresented Championships attheArlingtonTennis Centerin the 2012USTA Boys&Girls’14ZoneTeam Championship matchtoclaimsecondplaceat Team Texas wasdefeatedbyFloridainthe Arlington in Zonal’s Texas Teams at14s takeSecond,Third Midlothian Tennis Association(MTA). County Tennis Association(PCTA) and Keller AllianceTennis Charter(KATCH), Parker (NETT). ThisnewlynamedCTA alsoserves North EastTarrant Tennis Association Worth Tennis Association(FWTA) andthe Professional Tennis Association(FWPTA), Fort Arlington Tennis Association(ATA), FortWorth board oftheGFWTCumbrella includethe counties. Thefour CTAs thatmakeupthe Denton, Hood,Johnson,ParkerandTarrant leagues, youth,adultseniorandmixedfor bodyfor (GFWTC) toserveasitsgoverning Greater FortWorth Tennis Coalition Texas area havenamedtheirorganization the ations representing theexpandedFortWorth athletes are expectedtoparticipate. Novigard from Sept. 10-15,2012.Upto1,000 Croatia atsitesinthecitiesofUmagand Championships willbeheldin from over30countries.The will competeagainstteams players inagegroups 60 to 80 top menandwomentennis Championships. Thenation’s Super SeniorsWorld Team United Statesatthe32ndITF Texas willrepresent the Kathy Langer The USTA announcedthat World Team Championships Senior in toCompete Langer from Rockwell, Kathy Langer tennis information. individuals thatstoppedattheboothtoreceive exhibit floor. Tennis wasplayedbyalmost350 booth, an10andUndercourtwassetuponthe Texas from July7–10.Alongwithaninformation People (NAACP)ConventionheldinHouston, Association fortheAdvancementofColored industry promoter andinnovatorMikeDavies. Open championManuelOrantes,andtennis Jennifer Capriati,Spanishtennisgreat andUS medalist andthree-time GrandSlamchampion Kuerten, formerworldNo.1,Olympicgold French OpenchampionGustavo“Guga” alongside formerworldNo.1andthree-time Randy’s memory. Snowwasinducted accepted theenshrinementcertificatein father, Tom, whogavetheinductionspeech and first offiveinducteesandwasinductedbyhis 2012 class.TheTerrell, Texas nativewasthe Tennis HallofFameonJuly14aspartthe inducted posthumouslyintotheInternational Paralympics medalistRandySnow Wheelchair Tennis great andthree-time Tennis ofFame Hall InductedIntoInternational Snow attendees atthe103 a health&wellnessoptiontoparticipantsand USTA Texas promoted tennisasalifestyleand The HoustonTennis Association Tennis atNAACPConvention Promoted survived byhiswifeMolly, of53years. Chief OperatingOfficer since2003.Heis Tennis Association’s ExecutiveDirector and 1999-2000 andhadservedastheUnited States “Lee,” hewaspresident ofUSTA Texas from on June16.Knowntofriendsandfamily as passed awayduetocomplicationsfrom cancer section president DavidLeeHamilton , who longtime supporterandformer Texas acknowledgesthelossof It iswithdeepregret thatUSTA Passes Hamilton Lee Texas President USTAFormer http://bit.ly/NMAPuh. more from a“Tribute toaFallenTeammate” in masscommunicationandgeography. Read graduate ofTexas StateUniversitywithdegrees employee atUSTA Texas, andwasa2010 1, inAustin.Whittington,25wasapart-time auto accidentonSunday, July Ryan Whittington a familymemberwhenJarrett Texas acknowledgesthelossof It iswithgreat sorrow thatUSTA Ryan Whittington USTA Texas of Loss Morns died inan rd Annual National (HTA) with Lee Hamilton Lee Ryan Whittington was at INSIDE TENNIS • SEPT/OCT 2012 19 SEPT/OCT 2012 20 INSIDE TENNIS • SEPT/OCT 2012 Center. June 23attheArlingtonTennis Tournament heldonSaturday, US OpenSectionalQualifying mixed doublestitleattheTexas this honorbywinningthe held Aug.22-25.Theyearned Mixed DoublesChampionships the USOpenNationalPlayoffs Adams year, Samantha DefendsTexas Family Adams Titles USOpenMixed the otherUSTA sectionwinners Yale. Hewillcompeteagainst with theNewHavenOpenat which isplayedinconjunction Haven, Conn.,from Aug.17-20, Singles NationalPlayoffs inNew the 2012USOpenMen’s represent theTexas Sectionat 6, 6-1,7-6(2).Wiegandwill champion ArtemBaradach,2- he defeateddefending at theArlingtonTennis Center, the finalsonSaturday, June23 out tobepromising becausein his wayintotheUSOpen. to seeifhecouldeventuallyplay Sectional QualifyingTournament the Men’s 2012USOpen basis. To dothisheeyeballed competitive tennisonaregular to getbackplaying television coloranalyst,wanted current Network Longhorn University ofTexas playerand Texas Wins Wiegand USOpenSectional Men’s TEXAS SECTION For thesecondconsecutive His returnandgoalsturned Jon Wiegand,theformer will represent Texas at and Harrison Texas. Tournament. 2012 Texas US Open Sectional Qualifying Jon Wiegand, Men’s Singles Champion – Peggy Porter Wiegand. the LoneStarbanner,” said excited togoupthere andcarry through-and-through andIam in myblood,butIamaTexan card intothe2012USOpen. to advanceandplayforawild the USOpenmaindraw. Championship godirectly into Playoffs MixedDoubles winner oftheUSOpenNational women’s tennisteam.The member oftheTexas Tech New Braunfels.Sheiscurrent sister Samantha,20,are from 1-0(5). Harrison,18,andhis Josh Hagar They defeatedtheteamof orange “I havealotofburnt Photo by D. Hackett / USTA / Hackett D. by Photo of Austin,4-6,6-2, from Dallasand Sectional Qualifying Tournament. Samantha andHarrison Adams, Mixed Doubles Champions –2012 Texas US Open US OpenWomen’s Tournament Texas PeggyPorterWins old 16-year do anything.” invincible. Likeyoucan When youfinish,feel battle. Alongmatch. Kordolaimi. “Itwasa 3-6to tournament her firstsetofthe said Porteraboutlosing rough, butIgotitgoing,” New Haven,Conn. onships heldAug.17-20in Playoffs Women’s Champi- the USOpenNational Section representative at Porter willbetheTexas Arlington Tennis Center. Tournament, heldatthe Open SectionalQualifying at thewomen’s 2012US Kordolaimi defeated Elena year oldDallasnative Peggy Porter,a16- “The beginningwas 3-6, 6-0,6-2 Photo by D. Hackett / USTA Texas. USTA / Hackett D. by Photo Photo by D. Hackett / USTA Texas. USTA / Hackett D. by Photo Texas US Open Sectional Qualifying Tournament. Peggy Porter, Women’s Singles Champion –2012 INSIDE TENNIS • SEPT/OCT 2012 21 and Luther Bayo also said that he Federer,” said Bayo. “He is Federer,” a one-hander (backhand) like me.” James is a fan of Lebron (NBA), Lionel Messi (soccer) and Rory Mcllroy (). His other interests include listening to music and watching movies. Some of his favorite musical artist includes Aaliyah, Beyonce, D’Angelo, Etta James, Justin Jay Z, Tank, Timberlake . He loves all of Vandross the Batman movies but one of his favorite is Sanaa actresses Lathan. He estimates that that he has seen Love and His favorite professional “His smoothness, demeanor His mother Bea said that “I just want him to Bayo is winning matches be that old person that plays be that old person that will tennis all the time and closer continue to pray and get to God.” . tennis athlete is when and calmness, especially what I like about he is losing are about 13 times. and impressionist Bayo is a great that once you get to know him, He can he is such a character. mock and imitate anyone, though she especially her, asking doesn't recommend him to sing, saying that he loves “at all.” to sing but can’t experience life,” said Bea. “I am to watch him and how so proud he interacts with people. He loves tennis! I want him to do the best with all that God has given him and to be successful playing the game he loves.” while treating and playing hard everyone the way he wants to with joy and with the be treated, utmost respect. SEPT/OCT 2012 of Austin to claim the One of Bayo’s academic One of Bayo’s “I like to win. It makes me at the USTA Boys’ 18 and 16 at the USTA National Clay Court Champi- onships in Delray Beach, Fla. Bayo has a younger brother, , who plays Super Quashi (Ayo) Champs as well. goals is to go to college and He said that study broadcasting. he loves history and language arts. He has a long term plan to eventually write a book and start his own foundation to fight cancer and honor his it. grandmother who died from gives feel good inside. Tennis me a confidence and a joy from work success and knowing hard said Bayo. “I would pays off.” like to play beyond college or on but if that Circuit, the Pro work out then I will just doesn’t tournament in late May. He won tournament late May. in 18 thriller in the Boys a three-set with A Singles final and teamed Mac Roy Boys 18 A Doubles champi- month onship. Earlier that same the doubles finals Bayo reached National Open. He of the USTA of 32 also finished in the round (No. 3) (No. Photo by D. Hackett / USTA Texas (No. 29) of of Mansfield. (No. 28) of Dallas; (No. 54) of New of Round Rock and Currently, as of July 24, Currently, Recently Bayo had an 2003. He quickly rose through 2003. He quickly rose the ranks to Super Champ level. Bayo is ranked No. 1 in the section Super Champs Texas just a head of Miguel Boys 18’s, Alda Korinek Andrew As of July 26, Bayo is ranked No. 59 nationally in Boys 18 (Combined) behind other Texas natives Mitchell Krueger of Aledo; Charles Boyce 16) of Cedar Hill; Grant Solomon Nicholas Naumann he was not playing tennis. His he was not playing tennis. old mother said when he was is a enough to, his dad, who placed a tennis instructor, the racquet in his hands, and She said that he is history. rest ease picked up the sport with the and started playing through at the age of nine, in USTA and Hunter The Woodlands; Johnson Braunfels. exceptional showing at the 2012 Houston Open Super HTA Champ Junior Major Zone Bayo Philips, 17 from Houston, Texas. Texas. Houston, from 17 Philips, Bayo

met, as under - met, as under hen describing the personality and mannerisms of 17-

Umpires, his mother Umpires, His name, pronounced “Now my mom is the Bayo said that he can’t Meet Bayo Philips: Joy & Respect Joy Philips: Bayo Meet

BY D. HACKETT / W Bayo year old Houston native of a 2012 Philips, a recipient Diversity and Texas USTA Inclusion Grant, the that is word reoccurring used is “respectful.” and other players have described the 6-foot-4 highly ranked with a powerful player, and serve, as a forehand the gentleman on and off court. He still recognizes everyone older than himself with “yes sir” or “yes ma’am”. Bayo describes himself as a laid back, non- trash talker who lets his play speak for itself. He mentioned that he only gets upset at himself and sees his no need to throw racquet in disgust. and “bye-you,” is Yoruba means “Joy is Found.” His Abraham Philips, from father, Lagos, Nigeria, and his mother, Bea Philips biggest trash talker that I know,” “She is the said Bayo laughingly. biggest part of all that I do and what I am. If I make it, she will be the first person that I take of with a house or care something.” a time in his life when remember USTA TExAS USTA graduates at Grambling State Bea (Washington) University. was a member of the Tigers basketball team from women’s 1985-87 and Abraham, who was played for his country, continuing his education in the states on a tennis scholarship. 22 INSIDE TENNIS • SEPT/OCT 2012 scholarship isawarded overfour Textbook Scholarship. The$8,000 Scholarship ora$1,000College $8,000 CollegeEducational students were awarded eitheran that three Texas highschool (TAPE) GoldAward forherwork. Association ofPartnersinEducation shereceived theTexas2012, school studentsasmentors.In recruits, trainsandutilizes high community centers.Theprogram risk elementarystudentsinHouston that promotes literacyamong at- 501 (c)(3)non-profit organization creating ReadingAces,a city-wide outstanding leadershipqualitiesby classroom. Shehasshown excelled inandoutofthe rounded scholar-athlete whohas Scholarship. $10,000 RosalindWalter been namedarecipient ofa Machiorlette Lamar HighSchoolseniorBrette announced thatMirabeauB. United StatesTennis Association, Charitable Foundationofthe winning essaysfrom over1,100 sub-committee selectedthe would givehimhope?”AUSTA alive today, whatdoyouthink question –“IfArthurAshewere accomplishments. Thisyear’s Ashe andhisgreat a specificquestionaround Arthur create anartpiece,responding to essay of350words orless, children were askedtowritean August 24-26. travel packagefrom receive aNewYork City year. Eachwinnerwill submissions earlierthis selected from 1,810 old andyounger, were recipients, ages18years native ofHouston.The Brazda, a14yearold Contest, whichincludesHalle NJTL ArthurAsheEssay&Art national winnersofthe14thannual Association announcedthe14 Three Texans Awarded USTA ServesScholarships AsheContest NJTL Wins Brazda Halle Houston Native TEXAS SECTION USTA Servesalsoannounce Machiorelette isawell- USTA Serves,theNational The UnitedStatesTennis To enterthecontest, of Houston,has Halle Brazda Halle citizens. school andbecomingresponsible highest dreams bysucceedingin youth topursuetheirgoalsand Serves istoencourageAmerica’s tennis. AnobjectiveofUSTA and totheirparticipationin success, totheirlocalcommunity commitment toacademic country onthebasisoftheir from applicantsthroughout the Sharyland HighSchool. of Mission,Texas. Andres attends was awarded toAndres Tajonar purchasing textbooksorsupplies $1,000 toassiststudentsin provides aone-timeaward of Textbook Scholarshipwhich Michael E.DeBakeyHighSchool Samantha Martinez,Houston– Argyle HighSchool Texas – Lacy Blake,Argyle, from across thenation: among thescholarshipwinners The followingTexas studentsare or four-year collegeoruniversity. years tostudentsenteringatwo- included over700submissions, The winningartpieces,which message clarity, andwritingstyle. knowledge ofArthurAshe, submitted basedontheir USTA/National JuniorTennis & and SheridanSnyder,the Ashe, alongwithCharliePasarell NJTL program. donated racquetsthrough theHTA “Halle’s Hits”thathelpcollect her owncharitableorganization she useshopeandinspirationin journey, notadestination,”andhow used inheryearbook“Successisa The honorees were selected A USTA ServesCollege Founded in1969byArthur Arthur Ashequotethatshe essay thatfocusedonan Chapter, submittedan Tennis AssociationNJTL School, from theHouston ninth graderatTheKinkaid creativity. Arthur Asheand on theirknowledgeof were alsoselectedbased Brazda, a14-yearold won the14&UnderAdvancedand18titles. and 18UAdvancedDivisions.TheAustinTennis Academy Dream Teams were heldinSanAntonio,Texas from June15-17forthe14UAdvanced Sectionals Advanced atJTTSpring TennisAustin Teams Dream 14U&18U Sweep low costtennis,educationandlife organizations thatprovide free or 660 non-profit youth-development nation-wide group ofmore than (NJTL)networkisa Learning AUSTIN –14U Advanced Champions The 2012Texas Jr. Team Tennis SpringSectionalsChampionships largest community-basedofferings. this year, NJTLisoneoftheUSTA’s Celebrating its43rd anniversary 250,000 children eachyear. skills programming tomore than AUSTIN –18U Advanced Champions INSIDE TENNIS • SEPT/OCT 2012 23 (Dallas), (Wichita (Houston), (Dallas) and Missouri Valley and Missouri Valley Northern. Team captured Texas first and second place. of the three Texas of the three teams that were sent to represent our state competed against teams from Intermountain, (Hurst), Peter Leung (Dallas), and Harrison (Keller), Grant The team consisted of Will Winning the three critical Winning the three Congratulations to Team The team defeated Florida 6- The Texas 18 & Under team, The Texas and coached by David Roditi (TCU). The third-place playoff was playoff The third-place and rained out, leaving Texas Southern California tied. Adkisson (Katy), Connor Curry Falls), Xavier Gonzalez (Houston), Camila Wesbrooks (McKinney), Ellie Zogg Turner Caroline Cassandra Vazquez . coached by Steve Denton was Shane matches for Texas Vinsant Solomon Adams (New Braunfels). The team included of the Texas rest Charles Boyce (Cedar Hill), Korinek (Mansfield), Andrew Nicholas Naumann (The and Bayo Philips Woodlands), (Houston). Texas! Oaks Tennis Club, in Shreveport, Club, Oaks Tennis July 7-12. La., from 3, Northern 6-3 and Southwest 6- falling to Midwest 5-1. 3 before Championship, in Champaign, Ill., Championship, in Champaign, July 31. on Tuesday, won its defending its 2011 crown, title 18’s second consecutive Boys The team was with the victory. Team Championships, July 25- Team 29 at the Koch Family Tennis Center in Omaha, Neb., as two SEPT/OCT 2012 Because of a rain out, the The USTA Texas Junior Davis Texas The USTA It was an all-Texas final in It was an all-Texas Texas Junior Davis Cup Team – 2012 USTA – 2012 Davis Cup Team Junior Texas Champions. National 18s Boys’ Team Texas - Intersectional 16’s Boys/Girls 16’s Intersectional - Texas Team D. of courtesy Photo Championships. Team Roditi. Texas Team Tied for Third at USTA Intersectional for Third at USTA Tied Team Texas Championships 16’s Boys/Girls Team ended tied for third Texas Team Intersectional place at the USTA Champi- Boys/Girls Team 16’s onships held at the Pierremont Cup team came from being down Cup team came from and won 3-1, to the Midwest team three-set consecutive three 4- matches for a come-from-behind National 3 victory for the Boys’ 18s Back-to-Back Titles For Texas Junior Davis Team Cup For Texas Back-to-Back Titles One of the three Texas 12s teams in Omaha, Neb., on Day 1, on Neb., in Omaha, teams 12s Texas three the of One Texas a USTA Whittington, Ryan of in honor ribbons black wore parents team The accident. in an auto died who employee team. the play for opening night before the ribbons 36 made All Texas Final at 12s Zone Team Championships Final at 12s Zone Team All Texas the championship match, at the Boys & Girls 12 Zone 2012 USTA from Texas. from ranked American boy at No. 7 in the ITF World Junior Rankings. he This year, the reached boys’ semifinals at Roland Garros and won the doubles title at the Easter Bowl with Alexios Halebian, 18, who was the Easter Bowl singles runner- up. Krueger, 18, is the highest- Krueger, Hagar has been an active Davies, and tennis wheelchair legend Randy Snow player and leader in the USTA many years. He section for Texas the Sportsmanship received National Open at the USTA Award in 2006, and has been recognized sectional sports- with numerous over the years, manship awards Mabry including the Clarence in 2008, Sportsmanship Award 2009, and 2010. Hagar recently the Austin Tennis graduated from he was very where Academy, involved in mentoring the younger students in the school and in the In addition to his tennis program. success and leadership on the tennis court, Hagar is very involved with various philanthropic works. He founded the Playing for Glimmer Campaign in 2008, which than $300,000 has raised more over four years to build 28 water wells, two schools, and four health facilities in rural Ethiopia. Hagar travelled to Ethiopia in 2009 to visit the people who were A impacted by these efforts. village Wuhdut school in Ethiopia’s in was named after Hagar, of his work. appreciation beyond the third round, was one round, beyond the third of the of nine boys and eight girls accepted that was the into the main draw and Junior qualifying draw at the 2012 at Championships at Wimbledon & The All England Lawn Tennis Club in London. Croquet of and a native of Photo courtesy of John Buckle / ATLTC Photo courtesy of the International The awards were presented were The awards Paying tribute to some of the Krueger, the only American Krueger, Mitchell Krueger Mitchell Krueger. Krueger. Mitchell Josh Hagar with Hall of Famer Stan Famer of Hall with Hagar Josh Smith. Tennis Hall of Fame. on Saturday, July 14 Donald Dell on Saturday, at the Chubb Hall of Fame Luncheon, just prior to the Class of 2012 Hall of Fame Induction which honored Ceremony, Jennifer Capriati, Gustavo Kuerten, Manuel Orantes, Mike Talbert Junior Sportsmanship Talbert of their in recognition Awards consistent display of outstanding sportsmanship. by Hall of Famers Stan Smith Hagar Honored with Sportsmanship Award legends of tennis during greatest the Hall of Fame Induction, the Hall of Fame International Tennis junior tennis USTA also honored players, that included Josh Hagar with the Bill of Austin, Texas, boys’ singles player to advance Aledo, Texas was defeated in the Aledo, Texas by semifinals 5-7, 7-6(3), 6-3 eventual champion Filip Peliwo at the 2012 Junior Championships at Wimbledon 30- July 8. June from Texas Native Reaches Junior Wimbledon Semifinals Texas TEXAS SECTION

Special Olympics Highlights Adaptive Tennis Activities Lubbock Special Olympics Tennis Camp

BY C. BENZON / USTA TExAS Special Olympics. Everyone had This year had one of the a great time at the The last three months have largest number of registered Lubbock Special been busy for the USTA Texas athletes with 123 participants from Olympics Tennis Camp Adaptive Tennis programming. 19 different delegations and Competition as 21 The USTA Texas Community throughout the state participate in athletes had help from Development department along skills, singles, doubles and unified the Texas Tech with Adaptive committee doubles for two days. Friday University Red Raider members Henry Cox, Joyce started off with skills and singles women’s team and the Dreslin, Kim Richards, Cheryl and the event finished Saturday Tech Tennis on Rogers, Kevin Foster and an with skills, doubles and unified Campus Club Team. awesome group of umpires along doubles and an impromptu dance An amazing parent and with section President Dr. on the courts, in the stands and volunteer led the camp Alfredo Trevino worked the anywhere the music could be - Terri Marquez, did a State Summer Games of Texas heard. great job and has a heart for these athletes. Thank you all Texas Tech women’s tennis team member Samantha Adams USTA Texas Names 10 Section Winners for NJTL for your support. with a Special Olympic athlete in Lubbock, Texas Arthur Ashe Essay & Art Contest

The 10 USTA Texas sectional The 10 Texas winners represented winners for the NJTL Arthur Ashe the state entries in the national Essay & Art Contest were selected contest. from hundreds of entries by a USTA Texas is extremely USTA Texas sub-committee. The proud of our section and national winning essays and art pieces winner and offer our sincerest were judged on their knowledge congratulations to the section of Arthur Ashe, message clarity winners listed below by name, and writing style demonstrated. hometown, category and age.

Juan Amaya, Houston, Boys Essay, 17-18 Alex Nguyen, Houston, Boys Essay, 15-16 Klarence Remegio, Houston, Boys Essay, 13-14 USTA Texas Intro Tennis at National Dwarf Games Edwin Dang, Houston, Boys Essay, 11-12 BY C. BENZON / USTA TExAS on the 36-foot courts with foam Bryan Lopez, Houston, Boys Essay, 10 and Under and red balls and had 15-inch, Samantha Matinez, Houston, Girls Essay, 17-18 The National Dwarf Games 17-inch and 19-inch racquets. were held in Arlington, Texas this The older athletes tried out the Jessica Thompson, Houston, Girls Essay, 15-16 year with athletes competing in 60-foot courts with the orange Halle Brazda, Houston, Girls Essay, 13-14 , basketball, boccia, ball and the green dot ball on the Ruth Ling, Houston, Girls Essay, 11-12 , table tennis, 78-foot court with 23-inch, 25- Venessa Mak, Richmond, Texas, Girls Essay, 10 and Under badminton, and soccer. inch and 27-inch racquets. The Tennis may be added to the list as athletes ranged in ages from four For more information about NJTL, the Arthur Ashe Essay & Art USTA Texas was asked to to 35 and hit balls for two hours Contest contact USTA Texas’ Carlos Hernandez at introduce tennis to the athletes until we had to stop them so [email protected] or call (512) 443-1334 ext. 215. and their families as part of the they could go on to their next games for two hours on the first sporting event. What was great day of competition. about this event was that many USTA Texas Section staff, of the athletes that had never Cindy Benzon and Robyn played tennis were able to play Readicker along with volunteers points within 20 minutes of Henry Cox, Vicki Lebeau, Sandra practice. Lindström and daughter Hopefully the Dwarf Games introduced tennis to 12 partic- will now add tennis as one of the ipants. As a group we were not sports that they play during their sure what to expect and what the games. We hope that the tennis interest would be but our game participants will go back to their plan of using the modified cities and start talking to their INSIDE TENNIS • SEPT/OCT 2012 equipment and courts was a great areas about playing tennis with success. the modified equipment and

24 The younger athletes played courts. INSIDE TENNIS • SEPT/OCT 2012 25 SEPT/OCT 2012 Obviously, it would be tough to get your it would be tough to get Obviously, looking at a Next time you’re Give it a try. Photo by D. Hackett / USTA Texas especially on the lower ball – the one that will the lower ball – the one especially on and between the waist somewhere put contact height of their eyes head. They will adjust the to get the eyes to by using their legs – in order the level of the ball. so above or even more eyes down to knee level, but the simple act of the height of your head, to the height of trying to get your eyes CLOSER both the quality of contact, the ball will improve ball placement, speed, etc. and the resulting just “keep your chest high, don’t volley around the level eye on the ball,” but take your eyes TO that won’t the only player of the ball. I’m sure is your opponent. enjoy the result – and Roger Federer It’s pretty logical that striking a moving pretty It’s The message here is clear, the easiest the is clear, The message here volley to hit, and the most effective volley volley to hit, and the most effective technique, involves adjusting the height of your head and eyes to the level of the ball. I usually follow with “put your eyes, the ball, and the sweet spot at the same height- racquet’s whenever possible.” object will be best facilitated by any technique to the ball. visual connection that improves volleyers – Stefan of great Look at pictures , Billie Jean King, , Patrick Rafter Edberg Martina Navratilova COMPETITIVE CORNER COMPETITIVE By Steve Cobb TExAS TENNIS - USTA DIRECTOR OF COMPETITIVE Like so many topics discussed in a lesson The player usually goes to the forehand or coaching session, I wish I had a nickel for every time I’ve asked this one. When working I usually on the technical aspects of the volley, I need to ask, find the player in a place where “Will you hold your racket at what is your in favorite position to hit a volley? Just freeze that position.” side or occasionally the backhand – but 99.9% of the time they hold the racquet so the sweet spot is at exactly the same height as their eyes. This is no coincidence. Volleying: Take Your Eyes to the Level of the Ball the of Level the to Eyes Your Take Volleying: 26 INSIDE TENNIS • SEPT/OCT 2012 TEXAS SECTION INSIDE TENNIS • SEPT/OCT 2012 27 All three changes were All three For years I have heard the For years I have heard SEPT/OCT 2012 My bow shot: The Parting Shot: made by USTA volunteers and staff who are volunteers and staff made by USTA themselves part of the activity they are educators, tennis profes- changing. They are league players, and profes- sionals, parents, If they do not get it right, they will sional staff. not ivory tower change it again. They are unless you think that like them, my bureaucrats 65 & 4.0 rating and No. 14 ranking in Men’s Over doubles happened behind a desk. keep up or make the teams. The USTA League keep up or make the teams. The USTA Oversight Committee, made up of league this for years has studied volunteers and staff, and put this plan together and chosen 55 as the of this change The controversy next age break. is that every community has the additional and adding many league of restructuring burden is concernteams. There over how to get more to courts captains and how to get more accommodate them. At the same time, the of unsure Senior and Super Senior teams are how they will fit into the changes. Some of this Please see the article later. will be addressed in this issue earlier “2013 League Structure” giving detailed explanations of this change. complaint that we do not consider ages enough in our league system. This is a major step in the we get to answer that. After right direction will become an adjustment period, this through part of our league play. a routine By restricting the players to By restricting My bow shot: junior competitive changes have The USTA My bow shot: It is easier to go play The addition of the 40 & Over and 55 & the stages insures that every player develops that every player the stages insures – and will not harm the prodigies surely especially at this young age. a lot of detail. The best synopsis of the overall emphasis is that the system will now keep section in order in their own players playing more hangs National events. It to qualify to go to USTA its hat on two items. The first is that historically, players develop close to home by playing other the St. Louis in them constantly. players around are 80’s and the 70’s in and New York 50’ to 70’s the old system prime examples of this. Secondly, had many uneven matches at national events into the events. players because of allowing more and is that it is too restrictive The controversy a being able to reach players from keeps more of getting to Nationals. dream strangers or older players than it is to play the nearby player that you know or have beaten by playing more game improves Your before. tough matches with your ego on the line. this will save many parents Economically, money by keeping players closer to home. For years the Over leagues begin next year. distance between playing Adult League and Senior Leagues left many over 40 struggling to kENNy Mc’S CORNER kENNy By Ken McAllister TExAS USTA ExECUTIVE DIRECTOR - PRESENTED BY When you think of the United States Quick: 1) the 10 & Under competitive rule change junior competitive changes 2) the USTA 3) the League additions of 40 and 55 & 10 and Under “competition” starts with the affecting national events, and affecting Over age divisions. ball on a 36’ court and progresses soft red balls and a 60’ court. orange and green through through defined and to progress The stages are them to the 78’ court and yellow balls, a player must either be 12 or play up to this age division. has been generally accepted as The process of tennis in the US. the right one for the future the is that this restricts The controversy moving quickly past exceptional player from these stages. Tennis Association, do you think of an organi- Association, Tennis zation that stays status quo or one that is doubt that is little constantly changing? There I is always changing. In this article, the USTA of those changes which are three will address have elements of All three happening now. a In each of these, I will provide controversy. bow shot without going into detail. The online than enough more discussions have provided purpose is to explain the detail. This article’s happen. The that caused each one to process changes are: three Bow Shots at Three Changes for USTA for Changes at Three Shots Bow 28 INSIDE TENNIS • SEPT/OCT 2012 Transition Time “Gracias,” forallyou dotokeepusgreat. to enjoythegiftofhealtheveryday oftheyear. President howgoodajobheisdoing.Lastly, don’t forget tohavefunand friendships –Countyoublessings Callyourmother–Mentionto even smallimprovements. made amistake”–Don’t be afraidtosay“Idon’t know”–Compliment your lifeasanexclamationnotexplanation–Neverbeafraidtosay “I Don’t expectlifetobefair –NeverunderestimatethepowerofloveLive blaming others–Take responsibility foreveryarea ofyourlife. flowers inthespring—-Alwaysacceptanoutstretched hand–Stop but don’t forget tocherishyouroldones–Keepsecrets –Plantnew terrific” –Lookpeopleintheeye—Befirsttosay“Hello.” – Sendvalentinecards and signthem“from someonewhothinksyouare improvement –-Carryjumper cablesinyourtrunk–Haveafirmhandshake polished shoes(orboots). Buy whateverkidsare sellingoncard tablesintheir front yard –Wear Say “thankyou”alot–“please”alsoAvoid negativepeople– Be forgiving ofyourselfandothers–Over tipthebreakfast waitresses – enthusiastic personyouknow thoughts butalwaysrelish smallpleasures –Become themostpositiveand everything alittlebetterthanyoufoundit–KeepsimpleThinkbig Never wasteanopportunitytotellsomeoneyoulovethem–Leave borrowed carswiththegastankfull–Complimentthree peopleeveryday– excellence notperfection. the downposition–Neverrefuse homemadebrownies –Strivefor treated –Watch asunriseatleastoncenextyear–Leavethetoiletseatin coming year. KeepupthegoodworkAND: speed. Ialsohavesoundadvicetoallsectionvolunteersandstaff forthe have startedtheprocess, gettingournewPresident, DanBarta,upto time tostartadvisingandmentoringourleadersforthenexttwoyears.I the UnitedStatesTennis Association,thankstoall ofyou.Thisisalsothe some inrecord territory. We continuetobethefastestgrowing Sectionin membership andparticipationhavebeencontinuetobeverypositive, tennis inourTexas sectionduringmypresidency. your support,patience,andguidanceforallyouhavedonetogrow members, theAustinbasedstaff, TSR’s andourExecutiveDirector forall Committee ChairsandVice Chairs,ManagementandExecutiveCommittee term tothenext,IwantthankallTexas SectionVolunteers, TEXAS SECTION Thanks toananonymouswisewriter formostoftheaboveandagain, Always keepyourpromises …nomatterwhat–Rekindleold Wave tothekidsonschoolbuses–Bethere whenpeopleneedyou– allthingsyouborrowUse thegoodsilver–Return Makenewfriends Remember otherpeople’s birthdays–Commityourselftoconstant it– Floss yourteeth–Askforaraisewhenyouthinkhaveearned Plant atreethree onyourbirthday–Learn cleanjokesReturn Sing intheshower–Treat everyoneyoumeetlikewanttobe Everybody’s efforts havebeenveryproductive asour“numbers”on As weare slowlyandpositivelytransitioningourleadershipfrom one www.texastennishotels.com PRESENTED BY PRESIDENT -USTA TExAS By Dr. Alfredo Trevino ADVANTAGE ThE PRESIDENT’S [email protected] Field Staff /10andUnder Amanda Shaw [email protected] (512) 443-1334ext211 Junior Coordinator Paige Schumacher [email protected] (512) 443-1334ext220 Junior Coordinator Melissa Chambers [email protected] (512) 443-1334ext209 Nick Arnold [email protected] (512) 443-1334ext232 NTRP /Assist.LeaguesCoordinator Todd Reed [email protected] (512) 443-1334ext231 Leagues Coordinator Tosha Smith [email protected] (512) 443-1334ext217 Adult /SeniorCoordinator Nancy Perkins [email protected] (512) 443-1334ext210 Director ofCompetitiveTennis Steve Cobb COMPETITIVE [email protected] (512) 443-1334ext216 Office Manager/Awards Coordinator Pam Jaeger [email protected] (512) 443-1334ext222 Controller Larry Eichenbaum [email protected] (512) 443-1334ext204 Director ofAdministration Rhonda Lindsey ADMINISTRATIVE [email protected] (512) 443-1334ext201 Executive Director Ken McAllister USTASTAFF TEXAS DIRECTORY JuniorCoordinator – 8105 ExchangeDrive, Austin, TX78754 (512) 443-1334•www.texas.usta.com USTA Texas [email protected] (512) 443-1334ext202 Derick Hackett [email protected] (512) 443-1334ext206 Stephanie Arena MEMBERSHIP AND MARKETING [email protected] Waco /AustinSanAntonio Carrie Hale / SouthRegion,[email protected] Katy Rogers [email protected] Representative /Dallas Northeast Region Robyn Readicker [email protected] Panhandle /West Texas Region tative Amanda Randle Tennis Coordinator, [email protected] tative Houston/SoutheastRegionAdaptive Cindy Benzon [email protected] / FortWorth /NorthCentralRegion Laura Gilbert [email protected] (512) 443-1334ext218 Special Events 10 andUnder/AdultRecreation / Megan Longbotham [email protected] (512) 443-1334ext215 Diversity &Inclusion/NJTL Carlos Hernandez [email protected] (512) 443-1334ext219 Grants /Advocacy Coordinator /WheelchairCoordinator / Taylor Helfeldt [email protected] (512) 443-1334ext212 Eric Clay [email protected] (512) 443-1334ext208 Development /CTAs /Tennis OnCampus Todd Carlson [email protected] (512) 443-1334ext207 Director ofCommunityDevelopment Mike Carter COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Jr. Team Tennis– Coordinator Tennis ServiceRepresentative / – Tennis ServiceRepresentative – Tennis ServiceRepresentative – Asst.Dir. ofCommunity – Tennis ServiceRepresen- – CDSupportStaff /Schools – CommunicationsManager – Tennis ServiceRepresen- – Director ofMarketing – Tennis Service – Program SupportStaff / – CDSupportStaff / –