August 2005 Volume 33 Number 8 $5.00 2005 GUIDE TO STRINGING MACHINES Q Exclusive selection chart Q Generate more revenue Q Get your string certification “Brand” your facility with logoed windscreens Capitalize on your shop’s “moments of truth” Vending machines can keep players happy French Open Player Equipment Log

Q Profiling Your Members Q Orthotics for Your Players Q String Playtest Q Ask the Experts Q Tips and Techniques

ContentsContents RSI A U G U S T 2 0 0 5

INDUSTRY NEWS

7 Tennis teaching pros to meet at TTC in NYC 7 USTA commits $1.5 million to “Tennis in the Parks” 8 Prince offers its first tennis ball 8 Wilson debuts Crossfire Two shoe 8 MassMutual gives $525,000 for college scholarships EXCLUSIVE! 9 Agenda set for USPTA World Conference GUIDE TO STRINGING 10 Prince introduces new O3 MACHINES Blue racquet 10 ATP picks Gerflor Taraflex surface 29 String of Successes Our exclusive guide will help you generate more 11 Penn introduces Pro Penn revenue from your stringing business. Encore ball 32 Passing the Test 11 Mary Pierce wins with Lejay apparel Display your expertise, and help your business, by becoming a Certified Stringer or MRT. 12 Gamma Sports teams 34 Stringing Machine Selection Guide 2005 with Slinghopper Use our chart to help you choose the right 12 Diadora acquires Kaelin stringing machine. apparel license 12 Prince launches new Quiktrac GT shoe 13 Wilson debuts new line of Tour bags DEPARTMENTS 4 Our Serve 26 Retailing Success 16 Focus on Footwear 40 French Open Equipment Log 18 Marketing Success 42 String Playtest: Head FXP 16 20 Customer Relations 44 Ask the Experts 22 Construction Trends 46 Tips and Techniques 24 Facility Management 48 Your Serve, by Marcia Frost

August 2005 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 3 Our Serve

(Incorporating Racquet Tech and Tennis Industry) You Gotta Have Heart! Publishers David Bone Jeff Williams

t was vintage Jim Baugh—laser pointer in his right hand, Editor-in-Chief I slide projector clicker in his left, explaining the latest devel- Crawford Lindsey opment in tennis. All of Baugh’s excitement about the sport Editorial Director Peter Francesconi was there, as always, and he was thoroughly prepared, as Associate Editor usual. Greg Raven But rather than addressing the usual group of industry bigwigs, Baugh was talk- Design/Art Director ing to a group of tennis teaching professionals about something dear to his heart: Kristine Thom

fitness and tennis. This was a free workshop for teaching pros about Cardio Ten- Assistant to the Publisher nis, a program that Baugh conceived and is bringing to fruition, together with the Cari Feliciano Tennis Industry Association (of which Baugh is president) and with support from Contributing Editors the USTA. Cynthia Cantrell I took part in this four-hour workshop, which was held at the USTA National Rod Cross Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, N.Y., in June and, even though I’ve known the Kristen Daley Joe Dinoffer details of the program for many months, I was impressed and amazed. This was Liza Horan one of 21 workshops being held across the country from May to September to give Andrew Lavallee teaching pros an in-depth look at the program and to help them deliver Cardio Ten- James Martin nis to their players. If you haven’t been to one of these free workshops, you need Mark Mason Chris Nicholson to go. (There’s still time to sign up for workshops at Stanford, Los Angeles, Orlan- Mitch Rustad do, Atlanta, Seattle, Houston, and Hilton Head. Visit Drew Sunderlin www.Partners.CardioTennis.com or call 866-686-3036.) Jonathan Whitbourne The workshops begin with a lively and informative hour and a half presentation, RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY then participants actually run through Cardio Tennis on court, wearing heart mon- Corporate Offices itors. Then it’s back in the classroom for a quick wrap-up. The excitement from the 330 Main St., Vista, CA 92084 nearly 40 people in the workshop was great to see. They clearly understood the Phone: 760-536-1177 Fax: 760-536-1171 benefits for players, for their own businesses, and for the future of the sport. Email: [email protected] Website: www.racquetTECH.com The goal of Cardio Tennis is to get players moving, getting the heart rate into Office Hours: Mon.-Fri.,8 a.m.-5 p.m. Pacific Time the “Cardio Tennis Zone.” I was constantly on the move, and got an amazing work- out, burning, according to my heart monitor, more than 1,240 calories in just over Advertising Director an hour. And it was fun; I had a blast. Cardio Tennis lives up to the hype. John Hanna 770-650-1102, x.125 Key, of course, is the teaching pro, who needs to be able to keep the group mov- [email protected] ing and not stop to correct strokes or technique. Facilitating on court at my work- shop were Michele Krause, the TIA’s national Cardio Tennis business manager; Bill Apparel Advertising Mountford, the director of tennis at the NTC; Dr. Sophie Woorons, the director of Cynthia Sherman 203-263-5243 tennis at Performance Tennis at Brookstone Meadows in Anderson, S.C.; and for- [email protected] mer touring pro Katrina Adams. All were fantastic, keeping things moving while Racquet Sports Industry (USPS 347-8300. ISSN 0191- still taking time to explain various aspects of the program to the pros. 5851) is published 10 times per year: monthly January The program will roll out to consumers during the US Open, with fitness expert through August and combined issues in Septem- ber/October and November/December by Tennis and Cardio Tennis advocate Denise Austin taking part. And every week, more facil- Industry and USRSA, 330 Main St., Vista, CA 92084. ities are signing on to become Cardio sites. Periodicals postage paid at Hurley, NY 12443 and addi- If you haven’t looked into offering Cardio Tennis to your players, you need to. tional mailing offices. August 2005, Volume 33, Num- ber 8 © 2005 by USRSA and Tennis Industry. All rights It’sIt s goodgood forfor youryour players,players, andand that’lltha keep your business alive. reserved. Racquet Sports Industry, RSI and logo are trademarks of USRSA. Printed in the U.S.A. Phone advertising: 770-650-1102 x.125. Phone circulation and editorial: 760-536-1177. Yearly subscriptions $25 in the Peter Francesconi U.S., $40 elsewhere. POSTMASTER: Send address Editorial Director changes to Racquet Sports Industry, 330 Main St., Vista, CA 92084.

4 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005

RSI A U G U S T 2 0 0 5 INDUSTRYNEWSINDUSTRYNEWS INFORMATIONTOHELPYOURUNYOURBUSINESS USTA Commits Teaching Pros to Gather in NYC for 2005 TTC $1.5 Million to New ormer pro and perennial US Open favorite Todd Martin (below) will be the keynote “Tennis in the Parks” speaker at the 35th annual USA Tennis Teachers Conference, to be held Aug. 27 to F 30 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in New York City, just as the US Open gets under way. The USTA will invest $1.5 million in new The theme of this year’s TTC is “Can we play now?” and it’s designed funding to support public parks tennis to help teaching pros and coaches instruct people to play tennis, admin- facility improvements, renovations, and ister programs, and manage their businesses and careers. While technical new construction projects to provide instruction is an important part of learning tennis, simply "playing" the more and enhanced tennis venues for game is key, and that’s the focus of many of the presentations and semi- increased playing opportunities. The fund- nars at this year’s event. Seminars and on-court demonstrations will be presented by experi-

ing of the “Tennis in the Parks” initiative Courtesy USA Tennis Florida follows the USTA's recent announcement enced teachers and coaches such as Eliot Teltscher, Greg Patton, Rodney of a $10 million “Grow the Game” fund Harmon, Wayne Bryan, Steve Bellamy, Donna Yuritic, Craig Tiley, and others. Some ses- created to develop new programs to sions, including a session on Cardio Tennis, will be held at the USTA National Tennis Cen- increase player participation and raise ter, site of the U SOpen, in nearby Flushing Meadows, N.Y. Free transportation between the profile of tennis in the U.S. the Grand Hyatt and the NTC is included. Register for the full three days by Aug. 9 for $200; after that date, it’s $255. Single-day The new initiative includes a local com- registration is also available, as are group rates. Also, attendees are eligible for discount- munity advocacy component, in which ed rates at the Grand Hyatt ($168 per night, not including taxes), access to US Open tick- USTA-provided grants will be matched on ets, welcome receptions sponsored by the USTA and PTR, and daily continental breakfast. the local level, with the total investment The re also is a trade show during the conference. in the sport totaling $7.5 million in work- The TTC draws more than 700 tennis teachers and coaches from across the country ing dollars. This 20-fold increase in finan- and around the world. For more information, email [email protected] or call 914-696-7004. cial support from last year will impact To register online, visit www.usta.com/TTC. more than 1,000 outdoor and indoor public facilities and thousands of courts. ATP to Implement Changes in Pro Doubles More than 70 percent of recreational ten- tarting in September, ATP tournaments will feature changes to doubles that the ATP nis in the U.S. is played on public courts. says are designed to appeal to fans and better showcase the doubles game. ATP These grants can be applied toward new S doubles matches at many fall tournaments will feature no-ad games and sets construction, reconstruction, or facility played to five games rather than six, with a tie-break at 4-4. Possible set scores will be 5- improvements, contingent upon ongoing 0, 5-1, 5-2, 5-3 and 5-4. programming, coaching and maintenance The ATP says that scheduling policies will be changed to ensure that more doubles will commitments at the local facilities. be prominently featured on show courts fo r spectators and TV viewers alike. The ATP and tournaments also are developing a variety of promotional initiatives to showcase doubles “The revitalization of tennis in our public and increase its appeal to fans and sponsors. parks, where the majority of the sport is Many of the changes, approved by the ATP Board at Wimbledon, were initially recom- played at the grassroots level, is critical mended by a Research & Development Doubles Project Team chaired by Horst to the growth strategy for tennis,” says Klosterkemper, ATP president Europe and player relations. It included player representa- Franklin R. Johnson, USTA chairman of tives, tournament directors, and ATP staff an d evaluated data from surveys from four the board and president. “I have made groups: fans, players, media, and tournaments. this the key focus of my presidency.” “All groups clearly acknowledged that doubles is an important part of tennis, but For more information on USTA Public believe some enhancements were necessary,” Klosterkemper says. “Singles players said Facility Funding, email facilityfund- they would consider playing doubles on a more consistent basis if changes were made, [email protected]. These public tennis facili- citing the length of matches, which average more than 90 minutes, and scheduling diffi- ty funds will be awarded in three grant culties as reasons for the lack of participa tion. The project team not only found remedies cycles during 2005. for these challenges, but also identified some format changes that will broaden the appeal of the game for fans.”

August 2005 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 7 A U G U S T 2 0 0 5 Prince Offers Its

NEWS USTA, Amex Sign New US Open Agreement First Tennis Ball he USTA and American Express rince Sports has introduced a new tennis INDUSTRY announced a new sponsorship and mar- Pball—the Prince Tour. The company says T the Prince Tour ball, which is Prince’s first keting agreement extending American Express’s designation as the “Official Card” foray into the tennis ball category, is a premi- and “Official Travelers Cheque” of the US um grade, consistent, long-lasting ball. Open. In the new agreement, American The Prince Tour, which is USTA- Express also becomes an “Official Sponsor of approved, incorporates a hi-vis the US Open Series,” the six-week summer woven felt for optimal visibility tennis season that links all major North and a longer-lasting, dynamic American tournaments to the US Open. core for extended play, says the The first program under the extended company, and the balls are hand- relationship was the option for Amex card covered for consistent quality. The holders to buy tickets to the US Open in early Tour ball is offered in Extra Duty felt for June, before sale to the general public. Also, hard-court use, Regular Duty felt for soft Amex offered a buy-one ticket, get-one-free courts, and a High Altitude Extra Duty felt for areas deal for the first three evening sessions in above 3,500 feet. certain seating areas. For more information, contact 800-283-6647 or www.princetennis.com. “The US Open is a premier sporting event, and we are pleased to extend our long-stand- ing commitment to the USTA,” says Nancy MassMutual, Through USTA T&EF, Commits Smith, Amex’s vice president of Global Media $525,000 for College Scholarships and Sponsorship Marketing. “Bringing spe- cial access and experiences to cardmembers he MassMutual Foundation for Hartford Inc. and the USTA Tennis & Edu- at the US Open is one of the many ways we Tcation Foundation have awarded $5,000 college scholarships to 35 high recognize and reward our cardmembers.” school seniors across the U.S. The honorees were selected by the USTA In recent years, the USTA and American T&EF on the basis of their commitment to academic success, their local com- Express have developed extensive marketing munity, and the game of tennis. initiatives designed to elevate the profile of The MassMutual Foundation is supporting the USTA T&EF with 35 col- the sport and enhance the experience of the lege scholarshi ps annually for the next three years, for a total contribution US Open, including US Open-themed adver- of $525,000. Each year, at least one scholarship will be awarded in each tising and significant cardmember benefits. of the USTA’s 17 sections throughout the country. The program builds upon American Express again will sponsor Arthur MassMutual’s current association with the USTA as a USTA Corporate Ashe Kids’ Day presented by Hess on Satur- Champion sponsor of the US Open. day, Aug. 27, a full-day tennis and music fes- Through all organization-wide educational initiatives, MassMutual and tival for children and families. the MassMutual Foundation are providing nearly $900,000 in scholarship funding to students in 2005.

Wilson Offers Crossfire Two Shoe Wilson’s latest tennis shoe for men, the Crossfire Two, includes Wilson’s DST 3X technology, which the company says offers three times the cushioning com- fort in the core and forefoot for maxi- mum shock absorption and to aid quick-moving players on the court. The Crossfire Two is designed for all-around tournament players. It retails for $199.99 in a white/black/silver color combination. Visit www.wilson.com.

8 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005 INDUSTRYNEWS WTT to Use Hawk-Eye Agenda Set for USPTA Instant Replay World Conference awk-Eye will provide instant replay ick Bollettieri, Mary Carillo, Allen Htechnology for the World TeamTennis NFox, Jack Groppel, Tom Gullikson, Coaches Challenge for selected regular Rodney Harmon, Rick Macci, and season WTT Pro League matches as well as Brenda Schultz-McCarthy are among the featured speakers at the WTT Finals. WTT officials selected Hawk- the 2005 USPTA World Conference on Tennis. Also featured Eye as the official instant replay technology of the World TeamTen- are Jim Baugh, Jill Fonte, Brett Hobden, and Luis Mediero. nis Pro League following several months of research and testing. The conference will be held Sept. 17 to 24 at the Marco The WTT Coaches Challenge allows teams to challenge calls Island Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa in Marco Island, Fla. during a match utilizing the Hawk-Eye system. Establishedn i Most major events—including night-time parties, national 2001, Hawk-Eye uses a refined image processing technique that awards presentation, buying show and silent auction—are converts the tennis action, recorded by on-court cameras, into a Wednesday through Saturday, Sept. 21-24. The $30,000 highly detailed computer-imaging model. Unique to the comput- International Championships begin Sept. 17. In addition, er-generated model of Hawk-Eye is the ability to analyze a shot more than 50 seminars and specialty courses will be pre- from various angles and varying speeds. sented. Although instant replay has been tested in tennis and used in “We have been able to strengthen our agenda the past exhibitions, the WTT Pro League presented by Advanta will be the few years by holding more general sessions, with the help of first time a challenge can be issued from th e court in pro tennis outstanding speakers focused on modern tennis and competition. because of feedback from members,” says USPTA CEO Tim In other WTT news, the Houston Wranglers have named John Heckler. Lucas as their new head coach. Lucas, a former player and coach USPTA members and nonmembers are welcome. Regis- in the NBA, played WTT with the Golden Gaters from 1976 to ’77 tration fees before Sept. 1 are $285 and $325, respectively. and with the Sun Belt Nets in 1978. The Hartford FoxForce have Special rates are offered for spouses and children. Registra- named Aleco Preovolos as its 2005 head coach. Preovolos was a tion includes seminars and general sessions, dinner parties, four-year All-American and Hall of Fame inductee at the Univer- the awards breakfast and buying show entry. For more infor- sity of California-Davis. mation, visit www.uspta.com or call 800-877-8248. USTA Creates New Community Tennis Development Position irgil Christian has been named director of Com- Vmunity Tennis Development for the USTA. In this newly created position, he will be respon- sible for strategic planning of community tennis development at schools, parks, colleges, Communi- ty Tennis Associations and the nationwide network of 2,800 Tennis Welcome Centers. In addition, Christian will further develop part- nerships with national organizations as well as the USTA’s 17 sections. He will report to Scott Schultz, the managing director of recreational tennis. “Virgil is highly regarded for his proven ability to develop and grow tennis in communities by establishing partnerships with local agencies and constituencies,” says Schultz. “His expertise in community development will help support all 17 USTA sections in their efforts to create effective and self-sustaining Community Tennis Associations.” Most recentl y, Christian served as director of tennis for the Cary Tennis Center in Cary, N.C., where he was responsible for tennis programming and teaching at over 50 courts citywide. He also directed several major events including the USTA Pro Circuit $50,000 Women’s Challenger. Prior to joining the Cary Tennis Center, Christian served as executive director of the Development Authority in Peachtree City, Ga., and director of tennis for the Peachtree City Tennis Center.

August 2005 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 9 A U G U S T 2 0 0 5 SHORT SETS NEWS of the West Classic (Penn Championship Ball) in Stanford, Calif.; > Wilson’s nCode line of racquets claimed two titles at the French the Acura Classic (Penn Championship Ball) in San Diego; and the Open this year. Justine Henin-Hardenne won the women’s singles Western & Southern Financial Group Masters (Penn ATP Ball—men, title playing with the nTour. Meanwhile in an all-nCode men’s dou- Penn Championship Ball—women). In addition, the new Pro Penn INDUSTRY bles final, Jonas Bjorkman and Max Mirnyi, both playing with the Encore is the official ball of USPTA Divisional Conventions. nSix-One 95, beat Bob and Mike Bryan, both playing with the nPro Southern California-based apparel manufacturer Bälle de Mätch Surge. Other Wilson athletes who fared well at the French included > is the official apparel supplier of the Orange County Community Roger Federer (nSix-One Tour) and Lindsay Davenport (nTour), who Tennis Association in California. In related news, the company both reached the semifinals. For more info, visit www.wilson.com. added Amanda McTavish as its new sales rep in Utah and Colorado. > Babolat had the winning racquet in the men’s final at the French For more information on Bälle de Mätch, contact 949-574-7300. Open. Both champion Rafael Nadal and runner-up Mariano Puerta The USA Tennis Florida Section will spend $350,000 to help build play with the Babolat AeroProDrive, which won the “Editor’s > and improve public tennis facilities in the state. The USTA started Choice” designation by Tennis magazine in April. For more informa- funding public facility upgrades in 1999 with the Adopt-a-Court tion, contact 877-316-9435 or visit www.babolat.com. program. Since that time, nine Florida facilities and 75 courts have > The new Prince O3 Tour had a strong showing at this year’s French received more than $40,000 in funding. “Our board realizes the Open. Playing with the frame, Paola Suarez won the women’s dou- importance of increasing and improving our public tennis facilities bles title, Liezel Huber reached the women’s doubles final, and Niko- in Florida," says USA Tennis Florida President Don Cleveland. lay Davydenko reached the men’s singles semifinals. For more World TeamTennis CEO/Commissioner Ilana Kloss announced a information, visit www.princetennis.com. > deal with ESPN2 for the cable network to televise eight hours of > The 2005 US Open will be held Aug. 29 through Sept. 11 at the WTT programming, including three regular-season marquee match- USTA National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, N.Y. Arthur Ashe es in July and the WTT Finals in September. Kids’ Day presented by Hess, a full-day tennis and music festival for The city of Leuven, Belgium, will be the site for the USA vs. Bel- children and families, will take place Saturday, Aug. 27. Tickets for > gium Davis Cup World Group Play-off Round Sept. 23-25. The the 2005 US Open and Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day can be purchased at series will be played on an indoor clay court at the 3,500-seat Sport- usopen.org; by calling Ticketmaster at 1-866-OPEN-TIX; at all Tick- plaza Leuven. The winner remains in the 16-team World Group and etmaster outlets; and at the USTA National Tennis Center box office. is eligible to win the 2006 Davis Cup; the loser will be relegated to > Penn will serve as the official ball in July and August for the Bank zonal competition for 2006. Prince Introduces New O3 Blue ATP Picks Gerflor rince Sports’ O3 Blue is the fourth addition to the Prince O3 family of racquets. Taraflex Surface The new frame is 110 square inches and, says the company, offers “the ulti- P he ATP announced a three-year partner- mate combination of more power and enhanced maneuverability and com- ship with Gerflor, manufacturer of indoor fort for players looking for a soft, velvety feel.” T sports surfaces. Under the agreement, Like the entire O3 line of racquets, O3 Blue utilizes Prince’s proprietary O-Port Gerflor’s Taraflex will become the “Official technology. Prince re-engineered traditional small string holes into giant O-Ports, ATP Court Surface.” The ATP also has select- providing a livelier response across the entire string bed, says the company, and ed Taraflex as the court surface for the Tennis expanding the sweetspot up to 54 percent. O-Ports also act as “wind tunnels,” Masters Cup Shanghai from 2005 to 2007. says Prince, to reduce aerodynamic drag, crea ting a quick and maneuverable Gerflor has supplied indoor surfaces for frame that produces a faster swing speed for more aggressive play. the Olympic Games and many indoor World "The addition of O3 Blue will allow players of all levels and skills to find the Championships. Taraflex, an indoor synthet- perfect racquet to enhance their game,” says Howard Lay, vice president of prod- ic surface, has been the official surface used uct development at Prince. “Feel is the best part about O3 Blue. The curved shaft at the BNP Paribas Masters for the past 15 of this racquet provides just enough flex to soften any off-center hit.” years, the Grand Prix de Tennis de Lyon for For more information, contact 800-283-6647 or www.princetennis.com. 18 years, the Kremlin Cup in Moscow since 2001, and, since last year, the St. Petersburg Open. The ATP, in a statement, says its selec- tion of Taraflex was “motivated by the tech- nology used to manufacture the Taraflex surface. The technology provides an ideal compromise between comfort, shock absorption and high performance, allowing players to perform at a world-class level while preserving their physical condition.”

10 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005 INDUSTRYNEWS

Penn Introduces New Pro Penn Encore Osborn Named Regional enn introduces its new Pro Penn tennis ball, featuring Encore Tech- V.P. at Prince Sports Pnology, which the company says makes it last 33 percent longer, and Smart Optik felt, for greater visibility. harles Osborn is the Encore Technology is Pro Penn’s new core com- Cnew regional vice pound that maximizes longer-lasting playing proper- president for the ties, says Penn. By using a proprietary blend of Northeast Division of natural and man-made polymers, ball softening is Prince Sports, responsible limited and the core stays fresher longer, the compa- for leading the region’s ny says. sales team. Osborn joins Pe nn says its tests show that after 30 minutes of Prince after nearly 20 play, new Pro Penn shows significantly less ball soft- years at Wilson Sporting ening than original Pro Penn, and after five weeks of Goods, where he was the being out of the can, new Pro Penn Encore is just as director of national sales lively as the original Pro Penn was after just 30 min- for the racquet division. utes of play. In addition, new Pro Penn Encore fea- “Charlie’s energy, commitment and follow- tures Smart Optik felt, which Penn says measures 19 through make him an exceptional addition to percent brighter than a standard tennis ball for our team,” says Doug Fonte, president of Prince greater visibility, enhanced accuracy, and set-up time. Sports, USA. “ We look forward to using his “Tennis balls that play like new longer and are expertise to strengthen the Prince brand and easier to see will make tennis more fun and success- continue the company’s successes.” ful for players of all levels,” says Jennifer Parker, busi- Early in his career, Osborn served as a teach- ness manager for Penn Tennis Balls. “Our clear goal ing professional at various clubs throughout New remains offering tennis players a ball that will help England. He has also been a top-ranked singles them play their best tennis.” and doubles player in both the USTA New Eng- For more information, visit www.pennracquet.com. land Section as well as at the national level.

Mary Pierce Wins With Lejay Wearing a two-piece out- fit from Lejay, Mary Pierce powered her way to the French Open final in June. She also wore Lejay outfits at this year’s Wimbledon Championships. For more information on Lejay and its apparel products, contact 800-932-7535.

August 2005 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 11 A U G U S T 2 0 0 5 Prince Launches New Quiktrac GT Shoe

NEWS US Open Men’s Winner to Receive New Lexus rince Sports debuts its new performance footwear, the Quiktrac GT, which the Pcompany says is designed to compliment its O3 engi- he USTA and Lexus signed a multi- neered racquets. INDUSTRY year worldwide marketing partner- “Just as the O3 racquets are top of the line, T the GT shoe offers the best in performance ship that designates Lexus the “Presenting Sponsor of the US Open and stability—with a stylish design to per- Men’s Singles Championship” and the fectly coordinate with the O3 racquets,” “Official Vehicle of the US Open.” says Gary Wakley, senior director of The new three-year agreement footwear and apparel at Prince. includes a significant on-site presence The Quiktrac GT has the stylistic at the US Open, national TV media features of Prince’s O3 racquets, commitments, an extensive presence displaying the unique visual cue of on USOpen.org, and all transportation the racquets, the O-ports, in the services for the more than 250 ath- upper of the shoe and color-coordi- letes participating in the US Open. nating with the racquets. The shoes Lexus is the USTA’s sixth Corporate provide extreme comfort and sup- Champion. port, the company says. Lexus will award an all-new 2006 The new shoe is part of the QT Lexus GS 430 to the men’s singles Series, and Prince says it’s ideal for players champion of the US Open—-a US who demand lightweight comfort. The shoe is built on Open first. The same vehicle won by Goodyear Max outsoles, with DSS (Dynamic Suspension Sys- the champion will be on display dur- tem) that the company says provides exc eptional support, trac- ing the two-week tournament with tion, and durability for all players. other Lexus vehicles on the grounds The GT comes in a low- and midcut for both men and women and is available in of the USTA National Tennis Center. white with silver or blue accents for women and white with red, navy or black accents for men. For more information, visit www.princetennis.com.

Penn Racquet Gamma Sports Teams With Diadora Acquires Sports Named Tops Slinghopper Kaelin License iadora America Inc., in Arizona amma Sports will be based in Kent, Wash., the exclusive distrib- enn Racquet Sports has been D G recently acquired the utor for SlingHopper named No. 1 in the eighth Kaelin license from Ermine P Drill Bags. “We have a annual edition of Ranking Investments of California. long history of supporting Arizona: The Best of Arizona Busi- Under the licensing agree- tennis professionals and ness. More than 5,000 Arizona ment, Diadora now has the players with innovative businesses, in more than 200 worldwide license (excluding teaching and training business and leisure categories, Japan) for the Kaelin brand. aids,” says Gamma Presi- are included in The Best of Arizona Diadora President Bill Nut- dent Matt Ferrari. “Sling- Business, which is the largest busi- tall says that Diadora can now Hopper is another extension of that support.” ness opinion poll taken in the produce product under the “We believe that Gamma is the right company to get state. Kaelin name while consolidat- SlingHopper Drill Bags on the court,” says Slinghopper The results were determined ing its already established President Paul Tobin. by Arizona residents who cast sourcing, customer service, The products include the Sling Hopper Pro Drill Bag, their votes online at account-base and other oper- which holds 40 balls and is designed for conducting www.azbusinessmagazine.com. ational functions. “Kaelin has active drills, and the SlingHopper Rally Ball Bag, which Penn shared the category of a great reputation in the ten- holds 20 balls and is designed to allow the pro more “Manufacturing: Non-Electronic” nis business,” he says. “And mobility. Both bags are available in right-hand and left- with companies such as Ping, it’s a reputation we will live hand models. Shamrock Foods, Watson Phar- up to by adhering to the qual- For more information, contact Gamma at 800-333- maceuticals, and Holsum Bakery ity and performance stan- 0337 or visit www.gammasports.com or Inc. Last year, Penn, which is dards Kaelin customers www.slinghopper.com. based in Phoenix, was ranked expect.” fifth in the poll.

12 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005 INDUSTRYNEWS P E O P L E W A T C H • Baylor's Benedikt Dorsch and Miami's (Fla.) Megan Bradley have been named the 2005 Intercollegiate Tennis Association National Players of the Year. Georgia's John Isner and Antonio Ruiz and Stanford's Alice Barnes and Erin Burdette are the ITA National Doubles Teams of the Year. This year's award win- ners will be will be honored at the ITA All-Star Outing and Awards Luncheon, presented by the Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy, on Aug. 26 at New York City's Central Park.

• Zuzana Zemenova, a Baylor University freshman, has been voted the nation’s most outstanding college tennis player, according to results of national balloting among 1,000 NCAA member schools as part of the Collegiate Women Sports Awards program, now in its 29th year. Zemenova, a native of Slovakia, completed the 2004–2005 season, earning the title of Big 12 Player-of-the-Year and Big 12 Singles Champion with a 9-0 mark. The other nominees in the tennis category were: Audra Cohen from Northwestern, Jen- nifer Magley from the University of Florida, and Riza Zalameda from UCLA.

• The USTA has named Jean Desdunes, David Roditi, and Robin White new USA Tennis High Performance coaches. Des- dunes will work out of the USA Tennis High Performance Headquarters in Key Biscayne, Fla., while Roditi and White will work out of the USA Tennis High Performance Training Center in Carson, Calif.

• Steve Henderson and Annabel Rimmer joined the USTA Southwest Section staff. Henderson will direct marketing, spon- sorship procurement and fund raising, while Rimmer will oversee office operations and communications.

• USTA Chairman of the Board and President Franklin R. Johnson and immediate past president Alan G. Schwartz (both at right) were elected to the board of directors of the International Tennis Federation for two-year terms ending in 2007.

• David Zeutas-Broer, USA Tennis New England's High Performance Coordinator, was recently named New England Profes- sional of the Year at the 2005 USPTA annual New England Spring Convention. Also at the convention, Paul Gagliardi of Branford, Conn., the USA Tennis Community Coordinator for the Connecticut division of USA Tennis New England, was named Western New England Professional of the Year.

• Harry Gilbert has been selected by Ginn Clubs & Resorts to assist with the development of the tennis facilities at Hammock Beach and Reunion Resort & Club of Orlando, Fla. Gilbert is the USPTA’s first vice-president.

• USA Tennis New England inducted six into its section hall of fame recently: Dick Ernst of Cranston, R.I.; Elizabeth Freeman Young of Newton, Mass.; Phil Kadesch of North Easton, Mass.; Sally B. Utiger of Weston, Mass.; John T. Moter of Winchester, Mass.; and the late Dorothy Bruno Hills, formerly of Cambridge, Mass.

• R. Gary Pina of Falmouth, Mass., received the USA Tennis New England’s Gardner Ward Chase Memorial Award for outstanding contribution to tennis in New England. It is one of the section’s highest honors. Pina has been working at promoting youth and adult tennis at the grassroots level for over 20 years. More than 12,000 people have participated in Pina's programs, lessons, and camps.

August 2005 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 13 A U G U S T 2 0 0 5 Wilson Debuts New Line of Tour Bags

NEWS Dunlop Launches New I.C.E. Squash Frame ilson Racquet Sports debuted a new line of Tour bags at unlop’s new I.C.E. Elite Jonathon Power Signature squash Wimbledon, which features an updated look and new W racquet debuts in August. It’s the same racquet that Cana- technology to better protect players’ equipment, says D dian Jonathon Power used in stringing together a winning INDUSTRYthe company. streak that returned him to world squash prominence. The new Tour line features the classic Wilson red with Power, who finished the season No. 4 in the Dunlop PSA additional touches of black and white incorporated into the World Squash Rankings, has not lost since he started playing design. The new Tour bag is used by Justine Henin- with the I.C.E. Elite Jonathon Power Signature racquet prior to Hardenne, Roger Federer, Lindsay Davenport, Venus capturing the Bermuda Master s title. He went on to win the Williams and others. All ATP and WTA Wilson touring pro- Canadian Nationals and defeated No. 1-ranked Thierry Lincou fessionals will be upgraded to the new version. of France at the Brit Insurance Super Series Finals in London. The Tour bag features Wilson’s patented Thermoguard, “The I.C.E. Elite Jonathon Power Signature racquet features which insulates the bag to protect racquets from extreme a forgiving 500-square-centimeter head that allows great con- heat, and Moisture Guard, which trol while providing added power at the same time,” says keeps equipment safe from Stephen Hall, director of Racquet Sport Sales for Focus Golf Sys- moisture. Bags feature tems Inc., the exclusive licensee for Dunlop golf and racquet no-slip shoulder straps, sports in North America. padded carry handles Power’s strong finish highlighted a season that also saw and a variety of com- Dunlop competitor Alana Miller take the No. 2 spot in the partments, including women’s Canadian Squash Championships and junior players a shoe and wet pocket Keith Pritchard and Stephanie Edmison claim the No. 1 ranking compartment. in Canada’s men’s and women’s under-19 championships, The Tour line is available respectively. in several different models In addition to Power, Lee Beachill of England, who plays the including t he Pro ($79.99), Super Six ($74.99), Six Pack Dunlop I.C.E. Tour racquet, is at No. 2, according to recent Dun- ($59.99), Court ($49.99), Triple ($39.99) and Backpack lop PSA World Squash Rankings. ($39.99).

14 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005 k

FOCUSON footwear Orthotics Can Help Keep Your Players Playing BYDAVIDSHARNOFF

ennis teaching pros and facility able and can be replaced with other managers have a common goal—to types of insoles or orthotics. When play- T get as many people as possible to ers are considering orthotics, they need play tennis. It’s simple: The more they to be aware of the two types: over-the- play, the more they pay—for racquets, counter or custom. shoes, apparel, court time, etc. Over-the-counter orthotics are fab- Since keeping people on court is so ricated as gender specific, with sizes important to your business, you need to ranging from small, medium, and large, do everything you can to keep your play- and with activity-specific designs. The ers healthy. One area that you need to OTC product will elevate the arch of the be aware of, and need to be able to foot and attempt to restore the foot to communicate to your players about, is normal foot function and alignment. foot care. OTC orthotics are a good starting point If a player’s feet, arches, ankles, or that may improve a player’s comfort and lower back hurt, rather than have them relieve pain. stop playing, suggest that they look into Custom-fitted orthotics, on the getting orthotics for their tennis shoes. other hand, are fitted to a player’s feet Like with any health-related issue, how- and particular foot pathology. When the ever, have your players or members con- orthotic device is worn during tennis or sult a podiatrist or other doctor for other activity, the foot functions closer to specific care. normal and more efficiently. But once Orthotics, which are shaped like the the device is removed, the foot returns to bottom of the foot, are placed in the its normal pathologic position or pre- shoe and affect a player’s gait, yielding existing state. Custom-fitted orthotics are lates into better better function and per- designed and intended to alter the performance formance. Orthotics can mechanics of the foot significantly, so with less foot be prescribed by podia- the foot and lower extremities func- and leg fatigue trists, orthopedists, tion closer to normal. This trans- and pain. trainers, physical thera- Today, many people spend a lot of pists, and chiropractors money on over-the-counter products like for a number of reasons, insoles, and you may want to consider including: stocking them in your shop. Often, Q To reduce fatigue and these products will provide some help lessen leg cramps. for your players, but if pain persists, Q To better align the foot and have them seek professional help. lower extremities. The last thing you want to do is lose a Q To beat a wide variety of player to pain or an ailment that is easily foot problems, including flat treatable. feet, high arches, plantar fasci- Q itis/heel spur syndrome, bunions, neuromas, joint pain and instability, David Sharnoff, a podiatrist in Shelton, and calluses. Conn., is a longtime advisor to the WTA Q To improve shoe comfort and support. Tour and a member of Tennis magazine’s Q To rejuvenate an old, tired pair of Technical Advisory Panel. Dr. Sharnoff also shoes. is a longtime contributor to professional Many consumers don’t realize that journals in the field of podiatric medicine. the insoles in an athletic shoe are remov-

16 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005

& marketing SUCCESS A Recipe for Junior Success That Goes Beyond Tennis BYJOEDINOFFER

ut yourself in a brainstorming ses- P sion with other industry leaders. Your group’s assignment is to come up with a recipe to help create more dynamic and successful junior development programs and tennis academies. The recipe must include all Academy Tennis Austin Courtesy the components needed to attract and retain both kids and their parents. What would be your recipe for success? Here’s what we came up with as a starting point.

INGREDIENT #1 CREATE A "KIDS FIRST" CULTURE The first step in establishing a “kids first” culture is to find out what moti- vates the children. The first critical com- ponent of this ingredient is to develop dren. The lesson learned is that the One of the first things he did was to an atmosphere of mentorship. Regularly greatest long-term support for the call a meeting with players and parents rotate the children so even the juniors will always come from their own and establish that spots on the team youngest players get to spend time with families. Happy children will result in would be awarded based on attitude the older ones. happy tennis players. and effort first and playing ability sec- If you run more of an “after school” ond. Burwash knew that with the right program rather than a full-blown tennis INGREDIENT #2 attitude and work ethic, the whole academy, this can become a reality by ESTABLISH AND MAINTAIN group would flourish, rather than sim- scheduling the most advanced players STANDARDS ply be a springboard for a few elite first and then have them stay an extra This ingredient consists of many smaller players with varying degrees of imma- 30 minutes to help the next oldest parts, but each one is as important as ture attitudes. group. Then the second group stays an the other. Besides the practical aspects The result of his drawing this line in extra 30 minutes to be with the third of facility management, scheduling, and the sand was that he lost some of his oldest group, and so forth. You’ll be promoting your programs, you need to top players. However, in the long run, amazed at the difference this small set standards with the people part of he developed a team that made a dif- scheduling adjustment can make. The the equation—your staff, the juniors, ference in the lives of the team mem- younger kids will be more motivated and their parents. bers, and many more who they came in than ever and, by helping one another, The bottom line is that we are in the contact with. And, yes, most ended up will each quickly evolve into more car- people business and, while each of your being awarded college tennis scholar- ing individuals. juniors may not turn into world champi- ships anyway. Another feature of this ingredient is ons, it is realistic to expect that they can to make decisions based on what is grow to experience the benefits of play- INGREDIENT #3 best for each individual child's develop- ing college tennis. Even more important GET THE PARENTS ON THE ment. Don’t sacrifice anything based on is that they can become better human SAME PAGE winning and losing. An example is that beings through playing our lifetime Any coach, teaching pro, or program many of the tennis academies that have sport. director knows that tennis parents can tried creating their own mini-boarding I always remember how in the mid- either be your best friends or give you schools are now switching back to non- 1970s, veteran tennis teacher and entre- nightmares. Of course, they may not all boarding school programs. The result is preneur Peter Burwash was in charge of become your best friends, but you can a more stable environment for the chil- the Hawaiian Junior Davis Cup Team. be proactive. At the very least, get

18 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005 everyone—kids and parents alike—on be someone in one area of your life and The inspiration for this article came the same page. someone else in other areas. For exam- from a visit to the Austin Tennis Acade- The key is to set your standards and ple, you cannot be a slacker in academics my (ATA) in Austin, Texas communicate them to the parents. Put and expect to be a focused, hardworking (www.Austintennisacademy.com). them in writing. Be clear about what athlete in tennis.” Coach Jack Newman, the you expect from the kids in your pro- owner/director, is one of the best team- gram and stress life skills and character INGREDIENT #5 builders and junior tennis mentors in development. With this emphasis, you THERE IS NO "I" IN TEAM the U.S. His project is only a few years will establish a solid footing in your rela- The final ingredient in our basic recipe for old and growing by leaps and bounds. tionships and quickly gain the respect success is team building. Tennis can be a Many people run academies; few do of the majority of the parents. Remem- lonely sport. For most individuals, it is a it with solid character-building at the ber that you can be both nice and firm lot more fun and satisfying to play tennis heart of their programs. Along with at the same time. Communication and as part of a team rather than only as an building solid citizens, the ATA also has consistency are essential touches to this individual. Shared losses are easier to a growing group of national champi- ingredient in our recipe for success. swallow and shared victories are sweet ons. Q and enduring. Therefore, it is critical to INGREDIENT #4 develop a team and family atmosphere Joe Dinoffer is a Master Professional ATTITUDE OVER APTITUDE that permeates your programs. for both the PTR and USPTA. He In addition to life-skill training and char- If a group goes to tournaments, make speaks frequently at national and international tennis teacher work- acter-building, you owe it to yourself sure all the juniors support the others. shops as a member of both the and the children to emphasize attitude This means that even if one junior loses in Head/Penn and Reebok National Speaker’s over aptitude. According to USPTA the first round, he or she stays at the Bureaus. He is president of Oncourt Offcourt Inc. Master Professional Jack Newman, “All tournament site and supports the others and has written 16 books and produced more things in life are connected, you cannot in the group. than 30 instructional videos.

August 2005 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 19 3 customer RELATIONS Capitalizing on “Moments of Truth” BYJILLFONTE he paper towel dispenser is empty, THE PARKING LOT the paint, lights, fixtures, and carpet? T the front door sticks, paper cups are First and foremost, is your parking lot We’ve all walked into restaurants where blowing around the parking lot, clean? Trash and cigarette butts aren’t the carpet is dirty, there’s food on the there’s a light out, the apparel fixtures are very welcoming. If your parking lot is floor and the hostess stand is cluttered. dusty. No big deal, right? Wrong. These paved and striped, are the painted stripes Subconsciously, we might say, “Yikes. If conditions, known as “moments of kept fresh? If it’s gravel, is it free of this is how the front looks, what must truth,” all contribute to your cus- weeds? If your shop is in a strip mall and their kitchen be like?” This is true in every tomers’ perception and you’re not happy with the condition of retail environment. If the store is neat, satisfaction with your the parking lot, is it time to have a talk clean and in good repair, we may infer business. They’re with your property manager? If you’re on that the business is just as buttoned up. brief—“moments” main street and have no parking lot, do Conversely, if the store is messy, dusty, or being the operative you keep the sidewalk in front of your dirty, we may question whether our word. They’re often store swept in the summer and free of requests and transactions will be handled unspoken. Their ice and snow in the winter? properly. impact is often sub- conscious. They’re THE WALKWAY THE FRONT DESK always hugely powerful. Is it clean, neat, and in good repair? If it’s Stand aside and really notice what goes Moments of truth form our opinions lighted, are all the lights working proper- on at your front desk. How are people about an organization. They can deter- ly? If they’re the little walkway lights, are greeted? How is the phone answered? mine whether we feel confident or they all straight? Are the fixtures clean? How are requests handled? The momen- uncomfortable with the service we’re Are the pavers, mulch, or gravel kept free tary interactions at your front desk shape about to receive. They can either encour- of overgrowth from grass or other vege- your customers’ opinions of your facility age us or deter us from purchasing. They tation? Ask every employee to notice the and your service. can indicate whether our business is parking lot and walkways every day and appreciated or taken for granted. They to pick up trash when they see it. RESTROOMS AND can make us feel safe or at risk. If you DRESSING ROOMS and your employees have been there THE FRONT DOOR Your customers are alone when using for a while, it’s easy to stop noticing Like the sign, the parking lot and the these facilities. Your concern for their them. It’s also risky. Though fleeting, walkway, you see your front door dozens comfort is clearly on display here. Empty moments of truth shout volumes to your of times each week. Do you really see it toilet-paper holders and pins on the customers! as your customers do? If so, does it put dressing-room floor don’t convey much To illustrate, let’s look at some of the your best foot forward? If it’s painted, is concern. We expect overflowing trash more common scenarios in a tennis envi- the paint clean and in good repair? Is the baskets, empty paper-towel holders, and ronment which impact your customers’ door knob clean and tight? Does the messy sink areas in public restrooms, but impressions of your business. Take a fresh door stick at all when it’s opened or when we encounter them in private busi- look to determine whether you’re creat- closed? If it has glass, is the glass kept nesses, we form harsh judgments. Make ing positive or negative moments of clean? sure the private areas in your business truth. send a message of caring and concern for WINDOW DISPLAYS your customers. THE SIGN All of us have wandered into stores sim- Do you still notice the sign in front of ply because the window displays are THE SHOWERS your club or shop? If not, go take a look. inviting. The windows are clean, the mer- Check the drains periodically throughout Is that sign hanging straight? Is the paint chandise is not dusty or faded, the man- the day to make sure they’re not covered crisp and fresh? If it’s lighted, are the nequins are in good repair. The displays with hair. Remove used razors and wet lights in good repair? To your customers, say, “Come on in. We have great mer- towels. Make sure every club member your sign says “Here’s how we want to chandise and we display it with pride.” walks into that shower as you would present ourselves to you.” Does the sign What do your window displays convey? want to if you were the member. at your facility convey that your club is in disrepair and that you aren’t paying THE AMBIENCE THE COURTS attention to detail, or does it show peo- Once inside the shop or club, what do As a player yourself, what do you want ple that you’re on top of your game? your customers see from the condition of to see when you walk onto a court? If

20 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005 you see cups blowing around, dirty or empty water coolers, empty cup dis- pensers, trash on the benches, or used balls littering the back fences, you don’t get a positive impression of the club. As a facility owner or man- ager, make sure these moments of truth are tended to throughout the day so that each player’s impressions are positive. While the moments of truth sur- rounding the court setting are impor- tant, your customers have already formed dozens of opinions about your facility before they even get to the courts. Try to see your business through the eyes of someone who has just moved to your area and is looking for a place to buy equipment and/or play. You’re continually send- ing subtle messages about how that person’s experience with you will unfold. By taking a fresh look, you can check to see whether you’re really putting your best foot forward and making the impression you want to make. Moments of truth are a very big deal. By knowing when they occur and by paying attention to detail, you can capitalize on them to benefit your customers and your business. Q

Jill Fonte is a speaker and trainer specializing in manage- ment and customer service. She is a frequent presenter at tennis conven- tions and workshops throughout the U.S. An avid, frequent tennis player, she is the current chair of the USTA's National Tennis Innovation Commit- tee. She has also recently joined Dr. Jack Groppel and Dr. Jim Loehr as a performance coach and keynote speaker at the Human Performance Institute in Orlando, Fla.

August 2005 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 21
construction TRENDS Establish Your Identity Placing logos on court windscreen helps schools, clubs, and parks

“brand” their facilities. BYLAURIEBLACKGROSS

ention logos, windscreen, and ten- logos are becoming part of image-build- M nis facilities, and the word “brand- ing and awareness. “An attractive logo ing” keeps popping up. That word gives the player a feeling that he is at a simply means utilizing various marketing high-quality facility.” methods to link an identity with a specific Although costs have declined, Dou- message in order to set oneself apart Douglas Sports glas admits that the logo is usually more from the competition. Branding is, per- expensive than the material. A large, haps, the reason behind the growing complex logo on a 9-foot windscreen practice of printing club names and mas- panel can be as much as $10,000. Anyone cots on tennis-court windscreen. But talk making that sort of investment, he says, long enough about the subject and, should be committed to proper screen sooner or later, everyone gets around to maintenance—keeping the windscreen the money issue. properly attached to the fence or even tak- Larry Ball, president and CEO at BP screen. “Attractive logos will set a club ing it down in extremely bad weather. For International Inc. (formerly Ball Products) in apart, and spark recognition among mem- that reason, he encourages his clients to Deland, Fla., equates his company’s quick- bers and guests. It can go so far as to be a put their logos on a separate, smaller piece ly growing logo business with an tool for increasing membership,” Futty says. of windscreen that can be removed if nec- increased savvy and sophistication among Part of the reason logoing has grow in essary. his club and sports facility customers. popularity has to do with technology. Costs And at Advantage Tennis Supply in “The concept of printing on wind- are down, and design complexity is greatly Richmond, Va., manager Amy Ward esti- screen is more widely understood than it expanded. Not very many years ago, the mates that her logo business is up about used to be,” Ball says. “We’re seeing a lot standard logo was a one-color, blocky-look- 40 percent since last year. "We've had 25 of increased activity in our logo depart- ing item. Now, competent screen printers quotes for logos in the last three weeks, ment from tennis clubs, high schools, and can generate a multi-color, elaborate design and that’s a lot for us, because it’s not our colleges. They recognize that a standard- that will bond with the windscreen material main thing,” says Ward. “We offer logoing sized logo on windscreen is much more for a long-lasting, highly visual effect. on our website and in our catalog for cus- economical than, say, a fancy sign.” John Douglas, national sales manager at tomer convenience, but we subcontract all Ball points out that windscreen can be Douglas Sport Nets & Equipment in of our screen printing to a graphics compa- used for sponsorship opportunities, or Eldridge, Iowa, estimates that he’s doubled ny because they do a quality job." even as an advertising medium. He sug- his quotes for logos in the last year. “Tennis “As far as the future,” Larry Ball says, “I gests that, although many higher end clubs are using logos for branding—to dif- can’t see any way but up for this part of country clubs will maintain a more tradi- ferentiate their club.” He explains that our business.” He points out that the trend tional use of logos on their courtside right now in Europe is for all clubs, even windscreen, other types of facilities are high-end clubs, to carry advertisements looking for ways to replace the cost of and/or sponsorships on their windscreen. their sports equipment. “They like the idea “We are usually a few years behind of windscreen as an income producer.” Europe but, when the fashion catches “Windscreen on a tennis court is like a on over here, it’s always much bigger great big billboard,” says Randy Futty, than anywhere else,” he says. “In the director of sales at Lee Tennis in Char- not-too-distant future, in this country, I BPI lottesville, Va. “For a public facility, it’s a expect all public facilities, and some of great way to generate income.” the more forward-thinking private ones, With competition for membership and will begin utilizing printing on their court- patronage at an all-time high, even the side windscreen as a way to produce addi- more exclusive clubs want to distinguish tional income.” Q themselves. They logo their restaurant napkins, their pro shop apparel, and now Magazine and newspaper writer Laurie Black they are putting their logos on wind- Gross has recently completed her third book.

22 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005

facility
MANAGEMENT Are You Machine-Ready? Frequently overlooked, a vending machine may be essential to keeping

your members happy. BYMITCHRUSTAD

tennis club's general manager (at screen,” says Laurie Wilson, the gener- machines, the decision to lease or A least a successful one) intimately al manager of the West Branch Tennis buy—even before what products to knows every inch of his or her facil- Club in Pennsylvania, a six-court facili- stock—is the first step to consider. ity's real estate: the locker rooms, ty with one vending machine fully How hands-on you are is completely courts, front desk, café, lobby area, maintained by an outside vendor. up to you, however; if you prefer, nursery, etc. These vital areas are con- “[The outside vendor] takes care of vending companies will handle virtually stantly maintained and regularly everything, so it's something I don't everything from initial delivery to upgraded under the watchful eye of the even h ave to deal with.” repairs to refills. GM, with the intended result of keep- Kim Mendonsa, who has dealt with ing even the most finicky members BUY OR LEASE? a variety of vending scenarios in her happy. Though many club managers will sim- role as the food and beverage director But there's one highly popular—but ply inherit a facility’s vending at Mid-Town Tennis Club in Chicago, ironically, virtually invisible—staple of likes to implement both options as she nearly every tennis club or public facili- Vending 101 juggles her own list of daily responsi- ty that's so commonplace, even the bilities vs. the needs of her members. most conscientious manager can tend Does your club need a new vending “Traditionally, if you get a vending to overlook it—the vending machine. machine? For vending newbies, here are a machine that’s an exclusive product In 2003, these ultra handy snack few “getting started” tips from Kim Men- machine [like Coca Cola], you can and beverage dispensers brought in a donsa, the food and beverage director at either purchase it outright or contract whopping $42 billion in revenues in Mid-Town Tennis Club in Chicago. with the vendor on the premises, then the U.S., according to Vending Times. 1. Network! Before looking in the yellow you can stock it yourself or contract Though a cross-section of tennis man- pages or typing “vending” into Google, with the vendor and they will stock it agers interviewed for this story may try networking with local business own- for you,” she says. “Ultimately, I see not view them as a crucial revenue ers who already utilize on-site vending. vending machines as another club source, most agreed that they're ulti- “Ask them which companies are good, amenity.” mately as essential to a tennis club as and make sure to choose a company From there, keeping tabs on ven- the net posts and cash register. that’s regionally based,” says Mendon- dors is essential, whether you lease or “No matter how you slice it, you sa, “because you'll need them to be ser- buy; you can’t just assume the have to have them,” says Ajay Pant, viced regularly.” machines will be maintained and/or regional manager at Indian Creek Rac- stocked on time, says Hanover. quet Club in Overland Park, Kan. 2. Contact Local Distributors: Local food “We’re outsourcing our machines “When members are in a hurry or and beverage distributors are also a now, but when it was my responsibili- don't want to wait in line in the café good place to start; in fact, they often ty, I was always worrying whether the or want a certain kind of soda, it's will throw in a vending machine with vendor would show up and fill them,” there to serve a purpose. I'd hate to your order, if it’s substantial enough. says Hanover, “because sometimes have a member go away frust rated. To Restaurant supply stores also have vend- they didn't show up on the day they not have at least one would be a dis- ing machines for lease. were supposed to, and then you're service to the members.” 3. Lease or Buy? This decision is easy once going to hear it from the players.” “I see them as a tool of conve- you consider these two factors—time However, it’s also essential to moni- nience,” says Scott Hanover, general and space: “Can you commit time out of tor each machine to decide if the manager at the Plaza Tennis Center in your schedule for restocking?” says machine is even worth maintaining. Kansas City, Mo. “Especially during Mendonsa. “And if you can spare two “I’ll monitor usage and assess things off-hours when the café isn't open, hours a week for that, does your facility from there,” says Mendonsa. “If you they provide a necessary service.” have enough storage space? If not, see the products are going stale before But that doesn't mean all club man- you're better off leasing. Purchasing is they’re being sold, it’s time to take agers are racking their brains deciding better in the long run, if your facility is that machine out. I think most of this on what kinds of chips and snack bars set up to handle it.” is just plain common sense, like trying to stock. “It's kind of off my radar to find a round hole for a round peg.”

24 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005 WHAT TO STOCK? ful club's most essential elements—cre- The presence of at least one vending ating an environment that encourages machine may be a given, but that does- members to hang around before and n't mean it has to add to a manager’s after matches. daily headaches. But Pant says that tak- “It's not like you can hang around ing a moment to review the contents of the vending machine with your friends your clubs' vending machines can be after a match,” says Pant. “We’re try- well worth the few minutes of effort. ing to connect with our members. Our “Moms and dads want healthy big picture goal is right after someone stuff and kids want junk,” says Pant, is done playing, to give them a reason “so when juniors come in, we stock to stay in the club, to socialize and the healthy bars. We're very careful connect.” not to stock it with complete junk.” For larger clubs like Pant's, the Pant's practical approach goes well obvious solution is having a café, beyond caring for his members' nutri- which can serve as a gathering point tional needs, however. “There are cer- for members before and after play. tain kinds of candy that can be so But even if your c lub is too small to warrant a A Different Kind café, you can improvise and of Ball Machine give your members a Everyone’s familiar with beverage and snack feel-good vending machines, but there also are vending social setting. machines for tennis ball cans. The Court Pal can “Get a be equipped with coin/ATM/debit/credit card fridge behind readers, so your members will always be able to the front desk, access fresh tennis balls. Club or school logos and stock can be placed on the front and side panels. For items which more information, call 269-806-8936, email people like,” [email protected], or visit www.courtpal.com. says Pant, “and when people come messy and even ruin the carpets, so off the court, make up a lounge area the last thing I want to do is stock that with three chairs and a table, and you kind of stuff,” says Pant. “We will can hand people the refreshments. often avoid chewing gum, because This way they will sit down, and stay you can have a real mess on your awhile.” hands. You have to take all that into consideration.” A CLUB STAPLE Stocking your vending machines is But in lieu of a café (makeshift or oth- also an ideal way to engage members, erwise), club managers like Mike says Mendosa. “Get out and talk to Woody, the managing director of Mid- people, and ask members what they land Community Tennis Center in Mid- wan t,” she says. “If you don't have a land, Mich., have come to rely on restaurant, offer samples and taste vending machines to keep their players tests. For example, a lot of beverage happy. companies will come out and offer “They’re important to our mem- samples, and it helps members feel bers,” says Woody, who oversees the they’re participating in the decision- 32-court facility’s five on-site vending making process.” machines (four beverage, one snack). “If they forget breakfast or lunch, at JUST HANGING OUT? least they [can] have something to eat. For Pant, however, vending machines They’re not really a revenue source for are merely a necessary evil, because us, but people would be pretty they can detract from one of a success- bummed if we took them out.” Q

August 2005 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 25 G

retailing SUCCESS Fit the Profile Anticipate what your customers will need—and want—by keeping

records on them. BYCYNTHIACANTRELL

I t isn’t necessarily a coincidence, our expertise is worth the trip to our nor the result of spousal extrasen- store.” sory perception, that causes an item Paul Kepler, owner of the longingly handled by shoppers at the Seascape Sports Club in Aptos, Calif., Family Circle Tennis Center’s pro shop agrees that good record-keeping is in Charleston, S.C. to transform into “absolutely essential” in generating their next birthday, anniversary or hol- maximum revenue. “It’s easy to carry iday gift. In fact, sometimes Santa has a wide variety, figuring customers will a helper—merchandise manager find something they like, and there’s Peggy Caulder. some validity to doing that. But it’s “The key is to tune right in to your worth taking the extra step,” he says. customers whenever they’re in your “If you do, it can make a big differ- shop,” says Caulder, who freely ence.” admits to eavesdropping for the According to Kepler, the stringers greater good of providing exactly at Seascape Sports Club use their files what her Family Circle member and to proactively alert players when their non-member clientele want and need. string jobs are several months old and “I learn who likes shorts, A-line in need of attention. Stringers also dresses and black and red combina- advise players on how a particular tions, and I file that away so when I racquet will play at different tensions, get a shipment I can call or email based on an individual’s playing style. them,” says Caulder, who hosts open Because shoes are generally a con- houses and fashion shows to get to help the customer decide if they just venience purchase for his clientele, know customers more personally. She want the same as last time, or if they Kepler says he tends to stick with one also records the names and contact need help with more power, more con- manufacturer to limit his exposure. information of customers’ spouses so trol, tennis elbow or string breakage The club’s apparel buyer has a good she can alert them when their partner problems,” Cashman says. “I do think sense of what will sell, he says, but has lingered over an item without this is a valuable tool, and our cus- she also invites customers to browse purchasing it. “Ninety percent of the tomers love our professionalism.” catalogs before she places an order. time, they’re so grateful they say wrap When placing orders, Cashman is “The husbands don’t always it up without even seeing it.” also mindful of the store’s largest appreciate it, but the wives do,” Caulder is one of a growing num- demographic, the 3.5 to 4.5 recreation- Kepler says. ber of retailers who depend on al doubles player. As a result, she Steve Vorhaus, owner of Rocky record-keeping when ordering mer- stocks a minimum of frames designed Mountain Racquet Specialists in Boul- chandise, in addition to past sales his- for advanced players. Her policy of con- der, Colo., also tracks customers’ rac- tory and memory. And the trend stantly seeking customer feedback has quet and stringing habits. He doesn’t seems to be even stronger in racquet also led, for example, to offering cus- make note of customers’ apparel sales. tom hybrid stringing. preferences, however, because styles Kim Cashman, co-owner of “Our customers get exactly what change too frequently and clothing Advantage Yours Tennis in Clearwa- they want, and feel like they are get- lines from the same manufacturer ter, Fla., says her staff enters all rac- ting special service, too,” Cashman may fit differently from year to year. quet and stringing information into a says. “We try to make it a fun and To compensate, he accepts special database which also contains a play- informative experience. We like to get orders—for which he is now consider- er’s grip size, shoe preference and to know our customers and let them ing requiring a deposit. “The worst is shoe size. know that we are here to help make when a customer doesn’t show up, or “When we restring, we can see them better players. We know our does come in and says she doesn’t every previous stringing statistic and stuff, and we want them to realize that want it after all,” says Vorhaus, who

26 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005 marks down slow-moving merchandise cent of sales with only 10 percent of nostic equipment, plus a proprietary or donates pieces to charity in order to the wall space,” says Patterson, who software system which he plans to gain a tax write-off and good public also uses his customer database to market to the public later this year. relations in the process. “This is a cus- send quarterly newsletters featuring “As busy as we are, we take the tomer service-oriented business, but it is trends in apparel, shoes, racquets, time to keep a ton of records a business.” and a tip from a local teaching pro. because we need to know this kind Bob Patterson, owner of Player’s “You have to adapt, because if you of information in order to provide the Choice Tennis in Birmingham, Ala., uses don’t, then you’ll miss a lot of sales.” best customer service we can,” Gugel inventory control software to capture John Gugel, who owns e-tennis says. Additionally, e-tennis records sales history and log racquet specs. He inc. with former ATP touring pro every purchase along with customers’ can then generate reports indicating Tobias Svantesson in Winter Park, contact information (with the excep- how many of a certain Nike dress, for Fla., has specialized in racquet cus- tion of a quick cash sale from an out- example, are currently in inventory and tomization since opening the store in of-town visitor). That information is when the last one sold. He can also February 1999. In fact, former ATP used to create email blasts designed track how many sold this season as touring pro Mikael Pernfors and cur- for specific customers based on a opposed to last season, indicating when rent ATP pro Robert Kendrick are specific brand or interest, or even the popularity of one style is giving way among the 3,500 customers whose when apparel in a hard-to-find size to another. personal preferences in grip size, rac- such as extra small arrives at the Additionally, he can run brand-spe- quet weight, balance and stiffness store. Customers are also emailed cific reports. “If [one brand of] racquets are painstakingly duplicated with individually when a newly strung rac- have 25 percent of the wall space but each stringing job. In all, Gugel says quet is ready to be picked up. only 10 percent of sales, then maybe it’s he collects about 50 pieces of data “People are grateful we do it,” time to give more attention to [another about each customer’s racquet using Gugel says. “It keeps them coming brand], which could be doing 25 per- industry standard and custom diag- back.” Q

August 2005 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 27

GUIDETOSTRINGINGMACHINES

STRINGSTRING OF OF SUCCESSESSUCCESSES Our exclusive guide will help you generate more

revenue from your stringing business. BYMITCHRUSTAD

hether you’re sitting at the top of the pro rankings keting help, your stringing operation can create repeat busi- W or languishing at the bottom of your club’s singles ness at your cash register. ladder, you won’t win a single point without them. And even “You have to wait it out, because it’s hard work,” says the most high-tech racquets are merely well-honed sticks of Randy Stephenson of Frisco, Texas, who’s been stringing graphite without this essential product. full-time for 11 years and was named RSI’s Stringer of the Be it natural gut or good old-fashioned nylon, tennis Year in 2004. “There is no easy way to do it but to put your strings are one of a retailer’s best sources of regular income, time and effort into it.” if they treat them as a category on par with racquets, shoes, But how exactly can you turn your stringing business into and apparel, and if retailers can afford to have a little patience a cash cow? RSI caught up with some of the best stringers in while building their clientele. With some savvy sales and mar- the tennis business to find out.

August 2005 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 29 successful in any size store, it just depends on what kind of Nobody Does It Better service you give the people,” he says. “But in some cases, One of the best arguments small retailers can make to grab smaller is even better, and that’s how I’ve built my business.” customers from the big-box outlets is having the clear edge in more personalized interactions, especially when it comes to Keep Learning stringing. “Don’t even try to compete with the big-box Of course, getting certified by reputable professional associa- stores,” says Vince Chiarelli, owner of String Along With tions like the USRSA (see page 32) is almost a prerequisite Vince, a retail shop in Largo, Fla., that relies heavily on its these days to being successful. M ark Campanile, owner of The stringing business. “They cannot provide the level of service Racquet Man in Northbrook, Ill., a racquet repair and cus- that you can provide, so you want to use that as your building tomization company that strings about 80 frames a week, block.” says, “Anytime you can become accredited in your profes- Offering each customer professional suggestions and mak- sion, it’s a feather in your cap.” ing them aware if they’ve received a less-than-stellar string Joining the USRSA will give you access to all the profes- job from another store, says Chiarelli, can build a loyal fol- sional resources that can help your stringing business, and lowing and plenty of you’ll get a certificate to repeat business. “I con- display that indicates to stantly get frames in your customers that you’re here that are strung keeping abreast of the lat- incorrectly,” he says. est developments in “Just putting strings in strings, racquets and cus- the holes doesn’t do the tomizing techniques. The job.” By finding out your next step with the USRSA customer’s style of play is the Certified Stringer and taking their age, level, then there’s the ulti- skill level and frame into mate designation, the account, you’ll be build- USRSA’s Master Racquet ing a solid customer Technician, who is base, says Chiarelli. schooled in all aspects of “I think you can be racquet customization.

Tips for Generating Stringing Revenue

Show It Off: Make your stringing machine a showpiece in your busi- pose, too—they can show off particular strings and tensions, in addition to ness; don’t hide it in the back room. If customers see you or a staff showing off your expertise in stringing and customizing racquets. Don’t let member stringing a racquet, they’ll want to know more—about the your demos get ratty; you want them to play their best at all times. Keep a machine itself, about different types of string, about the customizing file on your demo racquets that lists string and tension. and stringing process. And don’t ignore the effect that a well-known An Eye For Detail: “The little things can make a difference,” says stringing machine brand can have on your customers’ perception of Stephenson, whose eye for detail goes down to the finishing touch—the fin- your business. ishing knot. “I make sure the knot tail always faces the some direction, rather Know Your Customer: “Decide what your clients are like and go than going down or up. It always looks the same no matter that tension or from there,” says Stephenson. “Most of my clients are retired; they type of string, so the frame always looks clean after it leaves my machine.” want comfort from the strings, so I use multifilament string. It’s easier Keep Notes: Keep a file, either handwritten or on computer, on your cus- on the arm, and that in itself can make a big difference to people.” tomers and their stringing preferences, to make it easy to duplicate things Offer Deals and Specials: Build up your business with programs they like and change what they don’t like. Also, send your customers that offer incentives to have racquets strung. For instance, offer a spe- reminder notices when it’s time to restring their racquet, according to the last cial string deal if a player buys a new frame from you. Or offer so many restring date you have in your files. restrings, then the next one is free. Maybe offer a half-price string job String by Appointment: “The big-box stores take too long to string rac- on a player’s birthday, or offer teams a special restringing price. Be cre- quets,” says Stephenson. “I make sure no matter how busy I am to get the ative, and you can get more players hooked on regular string jobs. frame done as soon as possible. There isn’t a tennis player out there who isn’t Be Consistent: “This is a pure volume business, so one of the things anxious to get their frame back. I insist on same day delivery, absolutely, you can do is offer consistency,” says Campanile. “I make sure that six that’s a must. I also string by appointment, they can wait while I string.” months later your racquet will come out exactly the same as the one Get Certified: Join the U.S. Racquet Stringers Association, then look into you get from me today.” becoming a Certified Stringer and a Master Racquet Technician. It will show Don’t Forget Your Demos: Demo racquets can serve another pur- your players you really know what you’re doing.

30 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005 “I try to display my cer- But Li knows there’s no tifications and let players An Educated Consumer . . . second chances in this busi- know I know my stuff,” Strings don’t have to break to go bad. As they get older, they’ll lose tension ness; you have to be per- says Stephenson. “Surpris- and will feel different. That will affect the player’s shots, making them less fect—and innovative—right ingly, most tennis clubs and less effective as the player struggles to compensate for the racquet’s from the second a new cus- could care less whether change in feel. tomer walks in the door. they have a good stringer.” “After one string job, The rough rule of thumb is that a player should restring as many times each Another route to keep- we’ve got them hooked,” he year as he or she plays each week. But a better, more technical way is to ing your stringing business says. “Tennis is very hard. If measure the string-bed stiffness of the freshly strung racquet and get it fresh and competitive is to you don’t think of new ideas, restrung each time it loses 20 to 30 percent of its freshly strung value. (This is keep on top of the latest you have to close down the where good record-keeping comes in.) techniques. One of the shop. You need to keep best ways of doing that is You need to educate your players on the value of regular tension checks and being creative and know to apply to work at local restringing. When possible, offer to do a quick tension check and visual what you’re doing and keep pro tournaments or travel inspection of the strings. Check for notches or frays. If a player uses “string updating with the latest tech- with a manufacturer’s savers,” make sure they understand that while they’ll make the strings last nology. We’re always on the “team” to a Grand Slam longer, the strings will still lose tension and resiliency over time. lookout for new ideas.” Q event, where the best stringers in the world are customizing and stringing for the best pros. “It helps if you can get to travel on the pro tours,” says John Li, who with his brother Julian has owned Rackets Racquets, two shops in Burbank and Arcadia, Calif., since 1991, and who has previously worked for Team Babolat in France. “We’ve done it since 1993, and it’s a great way to get to know all the stringing techniques. “Year after year we’ve learned more and more,” says Li, who has traveled as far as Shanghai to string for the pros. “It’s also a great way to get started and exchange informa- tion with other stringers.” Education means potential income in the stringing busi- ness, but it’s not necessarily going to bloat your bankbook overnight, says Chiarelli. “Some people think they’re going to go to the Slams to make money, but often it won’t nec- essarily even pay for your trip,” says Chiarelli, who strung at this year’s French Open. “It depends on each sponsor. It’s just something I really enjoy doing, and i t doesn’t hurt business to say you string at pro events.” Customize, Customize, Customize! Providing a perfect string job is a must to keep customers happy, but knowing how to add those special touches to complement each string job—such as adjusting a frame’s weight, grip, etc. to the preferences or style of each play- er—can turn a successful business into a booming one. “Knowing how to customize each racquet can really get your income up,” says Li. “Try to learn from the best and then create new ideas—and even new products.” For example, Li worked with a chemist to create Glide Stick, a dry material that you apply to the steel track of a stringing machine, which then serves as a lubricant for the machine. Li says he’ll market the product to other stringers and retailers to supplement his business, but he remains focused on customization. “We make enough profit on the racquet, but we make the real profit on the strings and grips,” he says. “The rac- que t is less important, so we just want to sell the racquets out and then get repeat stringing customers.” Image of Mark Camponile courtesy of Albert Lee

August 2005 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 31 GUIDETOSTRINGINGMACHINES PASSINGPASSING THETHE TEST TEST Display your expertise, and help your business, by becoming a Certified Stringer or MRT.

ant a surefire way to add to your credibility as a participating manufacturers). In some cases, simply taking W stringer, and to help boost your stringing business? advantage of one of these companies’ discounts can more Then you need to check out the certification program offered than pay for earning and maintaining your certification. by the U.S. Racquet Stringers Association. If you string and The USRSA’s original stringer certification program was customize racquets and aren’t either a Certified Stringer (CS) initiated in 1986 to recognize individuals with a basic level of or a Master Racquet Technician (MRT), you’re doing yourself, stringing competence. Certification, either as a Certified your business, and your customers a disservice. Stringer or an MRT, involves a comprehensive written test Just like other professional certific ations, USRSA certifica- and a detailed practical test. Both measure your understand- tion adds to your credibility in the minds of your customers, ing and skills with respect to all facets of racquet service, peers, competition, vendors, and potential employers. This is such as installing grommets and string, regripping, handle- because they know you’ve passed a test demonstrating your sizing, and customizing weight and balance. Additionally, to ability to offer the highest level of professional service. And, attain MRT status, you’ll be required to demonstrate an if you choose to be an MRT, you also have demonstrated that understanding of current frame and string technologies and you continue to be up to date on the latest technology. how those technologies translate to player satisfaction. This means that customers will be quicker to accept your To receive an application for certification testing, go to advice and service. Your peers wil l have greater respect for www.racquettech.com, click on “Stringing,” then click on your opinion when you discuss issues with them. Your com- “Certification.” You’ll find links to the Certification Applica- petition will find it much harder to undermine your authority tion, along with a Study Guide and Test Locations. For cur- in the minds of customers. Your vendors and reps will feel rent USRSA members, the test fee is $95, for nonmembers more comfortable recommending your service to players it’s $180. The test fee for Certified Stringers looking to they meet. And, if you find yourself looking for a new job or upgrade to MRT status is $55 for USRSA members, $135 for just looking to add another shop or school to your list of nonmembers. (USRSA membership is $99 annually.) clients, it will be much easier to get your foot through the Certified Stringer status carries no expiration date, but door. MRT status is good for one year from the t est date. Main- A lot of shop managers know nothing about racquet ser- taining MRT status will require passing an annual written vice. The only way they will know if you are any good is if mini-test designed to demonstrate an understanding of the you’re certified. It is also common for shops to pay their year’s significant new technologies. The mini-test is open stringers more if they are certified, because they understand book, administered through the mail. that a qualified professional stringer can keep more cus- Every month, more and more people join the USRSA or tomers happy and bring in more new ones. become either Certified Stringers or Master Racquet Techni- Among the benefits that Certified Stringers and MRTs can cians, demonstrating to their customers and to the industry enjoy is a discount program offered by many of the major that they’re doing everything they can to keep their careers manufacturers (visit the USRSA’s website, moving for ward. Don’t miss out in setting a standard of www.racquettech.com, for more information and a list of excellence in racquet service. Q

32 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005

GUIDETOSTRINGINGMACHINES

uying a stringing machine is one of 6-point systems will tell you that more points of contact the most important purchases you must be better. Six-point sy stems do sup- port the frame in more places, which can make for your business. It is means it is a little easier to lock the rac- also one of the most difficult. With the quet in place so it does not slide back Klipper plethora of machines, technologies, and and forth during stringing. It also 440-CS B allows a better view of the grom- features available, selecting a machine is mets at the head and throat of a a daunting task. racquet. Six-point systems can require fewer adapters for Our Stringing Machine Selection Guide will guide you frames of different shapes. through the minefields and help you choose the best Finally, some of these systems machine for your business. Below we explain the essential have side arms that can be machine features, and the chart on pages 36-39 displays adjusted simultaneously, making it the features of almost every professional machine on the easier to center a market. racquet. 2-Point & 4-Point Mounting. MOUNTING SYSTEMS Fans of two-point and four- The chart lists machines with 2-, 4-, 5-, or 6- point systems suggest that point mounting systems. it is quicker to mount a This refers to how racquet on a 2-point many places they sup- machine because there are port the frame. There fewer mounting points to be are many subtle dif- adjusted. They will also say ferences in mounting that these systems offer more systems. The three support at 6 o'clock and 12 o'clock, Babolat most common types of mount- (the two most important points to sup- ing systems are the 2-point, 4- port), because the amount of surface Sensor Alpha point and 6-point, though contact with the frame is greater at Orbiter SE each of them is safe. these locations.

6-Point Mounting. Fans of Turntable Lock. This allows you to

34 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005 stop the turntable in one posi- wraps the string tion. Helpful for calibrating and around a spool, tying knots. then rot ates the spool to pull tension o 360 Rotation Turntable. Allows on the string. you to turn the racquet all the way Gamma around during stringing. Diablo/Nosecone. The string is 5800 Els wrapped around the diablo or 3-D Rotation Turntable. Allows the nosecone before it is put in Silent Partner turntable to tilt so that each string gets pulled the tension head, allowing Aria straight through the grommet. This is the tension head to grip the designed to reduce the friction of the string string more gently. against the grommet when tension is being pulled. Foot Tension. Foot-activated ten- sion head. TENSIONING SYSTEMS Manual Calibration. There are two main types of tensioning systems available Allows you to adjust (correct) the today—lockout and constant pull. Lockout pulling force manually, as means that the machine pulls the string to the opposed to a few machines desired tension and then locks the length of that are designed to calibrate the string until you clamp it and release the themselves automatically. tension head. So, as soon as you lock the Diamond Coated Tension length of the string, it starts equalizing and los- Head. ing tension. Constant-pull machines pull the string Grips the string with less Mutual Power pressure. to the desired tension, but when the string starts to ES5 Pro equalize and lose tension, it pulls a little more to Tension Sets. stay at reference tension. Constant-pull machines Three types: dial generall y achieve slightly higher stringbed stiffness tension set, +/- key tension set, and numeric (we find the difference to be about 5 percent to 10 keypad. percent). Knot Tensioning. The machine can be Drop Weight. These machines use a lever (with a instructed to pull the last string before a knot weight attached to it) to pull tension on each tighter than the reference tension to allow string. Moving the weight on the bar determines for the tension that is lost between the how much ten- clamp and the knot. sion it pulls. These machines quali- CLAMPING SYSTEMS fy as constant pull The clamping system is meant to hold strings in the rac- because the weight quet under tension. If clamps slip, or allow strings to slip continues to pull the through them, a string job can be ruined. There are many string as the string different clamps, but we will only discuss three here. stretches. Prince Flying Clamps. These 3000 Hand Crank. Tension is pulled clamps are not attached by hand crank. These machines to the machine. They lockout when the desired tension use one string to hold has been reached. tension on another string. They generally do Electric. These machines require not hold tension as consis- electricity to pull tension. Most of tently as the other two types of these machines are constant pull, clamps. The low price tag makes but a few allow you to choose them attractive to new between constant pull and lockout modes. Some offer multi- stringers testing the Tecnifibre ple pull speeds and a prestretch mode. waters. TF-8000

Linear Pull & Rotational Tensioners. Machines that pull ten- Fixed Clamps that Swivel. sion in a straight line away from the machine are said to be These clamps are attached to the linear pull. The alternative is a rotational tensioner, which (Text continued on page 38.)

August 2005 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 35 Sports Height Mounting Tensioning

Price Warranty Brand Model (MSRP) (years) Lockout Squash Stand Available Height Adjustable 2-Point Mounting 5-Point Mounting 360º Rotation Turntable Drop Weight 2-Sided Crank Tennis Racquetball Badminton Stand Included Table Top StandardTable Top Optional 4-Point Mounting 6-Point Mounting Turntable Lock 3-D Turntable Rotation Full Clutch-Drop Rachet System-DropHand Crank Electric Multiple SpeedConstant Pull Pull Prestretch Linear Pull AG 601F $219 5 xxxx x x xx x x x x x x www.gutermanintl.com 602F $269 5 xxxx x x x x x x x x 800-343-6096 602S $379 5 xxxx x xxx x x x x x x 603GB $549 5 xxxx x x xxx x x x xx x x x x 604S $569 5 xxxx x xxx x x x xx x x x x 603S $699 5 xxxx x x xxx x x x xx x x x x 607 $799 5 xxxx xx xxx x x x xx x x x x

Alpha String Pal $129 5 xxxx x x xxx x x x x x xxx xx x www.alphatennis.com Pioneer FL $269 5 xxxx x xxx x x x x x x x xxx xx x 800-922-9024 Pioneer DC $419 5 xxxx x xxx x x x x x x x x x x xxx xx x Revo 4000 $549 5 xxxx x xxx xx x x xx x x x x x x xxx xx x Shuttle Express $549 5 x x x xx xx x x xx x x x x xxx xx x Axis Pro $749 5 xxxx x x xxx xx x x xx x x x x x x x xxx xx x Blu-DC Plus $899 5 xxxx x x xxx xx x x xx x x x x x x x xxx xx x Apex $1,149 5 xxxx x x xxx xx x x xx x x x x x x x xxx xx x Orbitor $2,695 5 xxxx x xx xxx xxx xx x xx x xxx x x x xx x x x xxx x xx x Orbitor SE $2,995 5 xxxx x xx xxx xxx xx x xx x xxx x x x xx x x x xxx x xx x ATS www.atssports.com Super Stringer II $135 Life xxxx x x x x x x x x x x x x x xx x xxx x 800-866-7071 Traveler $189 Life xxxx x x x x x x x x x x x x x xx x xxx x Babolat Sensor $5,200 5 xxxx x x xxx xxx xx x x x xxx x xx x xx x x xx x www.babolat.com Sensor Expert $8,500 5 xxxx x xxx xxx xx xx x x x xxx x x xx xxxxx x x xx x 877-316-9435

Gamma X-2 $135 5 xxxx xx x x x x x x x x x x x x www.gammasports.com Progression 602 $299 5 xxxx xx x x x x x x x x x x x x x x xxx x 800-333-0337 X-6 $299 5 xxxx xx x x x x x x x x x x x x Progression 602 FC $469 5 xxxx xx x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x xxx x X-6 FC $469 5 xxxx xx x x x x x x x x x x x x x Progression ST II $629 5 xxxx xx xxx x x x x xx xx x x x x x x x xxx x X-ST $629 5 xxxx xx xxx x x x x xx xx x x x x x 5003 $799 5 xxxx x x xxx x x x x xx xx x x x x x x xx xxx x Progression Es II+ $899 5 xxxx xx x x x x xxxx xx x x x x x x x x x xxx x E-Es $899 5 xxxx xx x x x x xxxx xx x x x x x x x 6004 $1,199 5 xxxx x x xxx xx x x x xx xx x x x xx x x xxxx x xxxxx 5800 Els $1,199 5 xxxx x xx xxx xxx xx x xxxxx x xxx x x x xxx x x 6500 Els $1,699 5 xxxx x xx xxx xxx xxxx xx x x x x x xxx x x x xxxx x xxxxx 7500 Els $2,799 5 xxxx x xx xxx xxx x xxxxxx xxxxx x x x xxx x x x xxxx x xxxxx 8500 Els $3,499 5 xxxx x xx xxx xxx xx x xxxxx xxxxx x x x xxx x x x xxxx x xxxxx

Klipper USA Klippermate $145 Life xxxx xx x x x x x x x x x x x xx x xx x www.klipperusa.com Klippermate Bad’ton $155 Life x xx x x x x x x x x x x x xx x xx x 800-522-5547 280-CS $245 10 xxxx xx x x x x x x x x x x x xx x xx x 440-CS $445 10 xxxx xx x x x x x x x x x x x x xx xx x

Mutual Power Viking 200 $79 Life x x x xx x x x x x x x www.mutualpower.com Alpine 500 $179 5 xxxx x x x xxx x xx x x x x x xx x 832-868-0168 Hercules 610 $319 5 xxxx x x x xxxxx x x xx x x x x x x xx xx x Alpine 2000 $399 5 xxxx x x x xx xx x x x xx x x x x x xx xx x

36 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005 Tensioning Clamping Extra Features Weight Tools Included

Over 75 lbs Manual Calibration Adjustable Knob/Dial Tension Setting Full Keypad Tension Setting Automated Base Release ClampsNo Tool Needed to Adjust Clamps String Measurer Built-in Ruler Reel Rack Racquet Stand Cabinet with Drawers Under 50 lbs50-75 lbs Diagonal Cutters Awl Assembly Instructions/Video Assembly Tools Flying Clamp Starting Pins Self-Elevating LinearAutomated Pull TensionDiablo/Nosecone Release Rotational TensionerFoot Pedal TensionPounds &Activator Kilos Tension Self-Calibrating Diamond Coat Tension HeadPlus/Minus Grip Touch Pad TensionLED/LCD Set TensionKnot Display Tensioning Removable Electric Tensioner UnitFlying Clamps Fixed ClampsDual on Glide Swivel Bars DoubleDual Swivel Action360 Single Fixed Degree Action ClampsSingle Fixed Swivel on GlideDiamond Fixed Bars Clamp Dust Clamps Magnetic Auto Clamp Base Release Tool Tray Cover Included Leveling Pads on Base Calibrator Starting Clamp Needlenose Pliers Flying Clamp Owners Manual/VideoGuiding Awl Bent Nose Pliers 601F $219 5 xxxx x x xx x x x x x x 602F $269 5 xxxx x x x x x x x x 602S $379 5 xxxx x xxx x x x x x x 603GB $549 5 xxxx x x xxx x x x xx x x x x 604S $569 5 xxxx x xxx x x x xx x x x x 603S $699 5 xxxx x x xxx x x x xx x x x x 607 $799 5 xxxx xx xxx x x x xx x x x x

String Pal $129 5 xxxx x x xxx x x x x x xxx xx x Pioneer FL $269 5 xxxx x xxx x x x x x x x xxx xx x Pioneer DC $419 5 xxxx x xxx x x x x x x x x x x xxx xx x Revo 4000 $549 5 xxxx x xxx xx x x xx x x x x x x xxx xx x Shuttle Express $549 5 x x x xx xx x x xx x x x x xxx xx x Axis Pro $749 5 xxxx x x xxx xx x x xx x x x x x x x xxx xx x Blu-DC Plus $899 5 xxxx x x xxx xx x x xx x x x x x x x xxx xx x Apex $1,149 5 xxxx x x xxx xx x x xx x x x x x x x xxx xx x Orbitor $2,695 5 xxxx x xx xxx xxx xx x xx x xxx x x x xx x x x xxx x xx x Orbitor SE $2,995 5 xxxx x xx xxx xxx xx x xx x xxx x x x xx x x x xxx x xx x

Super Stringer II $135 Life xxxx x x x x x x x x x x x x x xx x xxx x Traveler $189 Life xxxx x x x x x x x x x x x x x xx x xxx x

Sensor $5,200 5 xxxx x x xxx xxx xx x x x xxx x xx x xx x x xx x Sensor Expert $8,500 5 xxxx x xxx xxx xx xx x x x xxx x x xx xxxxx x x xx x

X-2 $135 5 xxxx xx x x x x x x x x x x x xx x x xx xxx x Progression 602 $299 5 xxxx xx x x x x x x x x x x x x x x xxx x X-6 $299 5 xxxx xx x x x x x x x x x x x xx x x xx xxx x Progression 602 FC $469 5 xxxx xx x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x xxx x X-6 FC $469 5 xxxx xx x x x x x x x x x x x x xx x x xx xxx x Progress ion ST II $629 5 xxxx xx xxx x x x x xx xx x x x x x x x xxx x X-ST $629 5 xxxx xx xxx x x x x xx xx x x x x xx x x xx xxx x 5003 $799 5 xxxx x x xxx x x x x xx xx x x x x x x xx xxx x Progression Es II+ $899 5 xxxx xx x x x x xxxx xx x x x x x x x x x xxx x E-Es $899 5 xxxx xx x x x x xxxx xx x x x x x x xx x x xx xxx x 6004 $1,199 5 xxxx x x xxx xx x x x xx xx x x x xx x x xxxx x xxxxx 5800 Els $1,199 5 xxxx x xx xxx xxx xx x xxxxx x xxx x x x xxx x xx x x xxxx x xxxxx 6500 Els $1,699 5 xxxx x xx xxx xxx xxxx xx x x x x x xxx x x x xxxx x xxxxx 7500 Els $2,799 5 xxxx x xx xxx xxx x xxxxxx xxxxx x x x xxx x x x xxxx x xxxxx 8500 Els $3,499 5 xxxx x xx xxx xxx xx x xxxxx xxxxx x x x xxx x x x xxxx x xxxxx

Klippermate $145 Life xxxx xx x x x x x x x x x x x xx x xx x Klippermate Bad’ton $155 Life x xx x x x x x x x x x x x xx x xx x 280-CS $245 10 xxxx xx x x x x x x x x x x x xx x xx x 440-CS $445 10 xxxx xx x x x x x x x x x x x x xx xx x

Viking 200 $79 Life x x x xx x x x x x x x Alpine 500 $179 5 xxxx x x x xxx x xx x x x x x xx x Hercules 610 $319 5 xxxx x x x xxxxx x x xx x x x x x x xx xx x Alpine 2000 $399 5 xxxx x x x xx xx x x x xx x x x x x xx xx x

August 2005 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 37 Sports Height Mounting Tensioning

Price Warranty Brand Model (MSRP) (years) Height Adjustable Drop Weight Tennis Racquetball Squash Badminton Stand Included Stand Available Table Top StandardTable Top Optional 2-Point Mounting 4-Point Mounting 5-Point Mounting 6-Point MountingTurntable Lock 360º Rotation3-D Turntable Turntable Rotation Full Clutch-Drop Rachet System-DropHand Crank 2-Sided Crank Electric Multiple SpeedConstant Pull Pull Lockout Prestretch Linear Pull Mutual Power Alpine 2500 $499 5 xxxx x x x xx x x xx x x x x x x x xx xx x www.mutualpower.com Alpine 6000 $469 5 xxxx x x xxx xx x x x xx x x x x x xx xx x 832-327-0256 Alpine 6500 $569 5 xxxx x x xxx x x xx x x x x x x x xx xx x Hercules 630 $529 5 xxxx x x xxx xx x x x xx x x x x x x x xx xx x Hercules 650 $629 5 xxxx x x xxx x x xx x x x x x x x x x xx xx x e-Bravo 550 $509 5 xxxx xx xxx x x xx x x x x x x x x x x xx xx x e-Bravo 760 $599 5 xxxx x xx xxx x x xx x x x x x x x x x x xx xx x

Prince Neos 1000 $1,199 5 xxxx x x x x xx x x xx x x x xx x www.princetennis.com 3000 $2,995 3 xxxx x x x xx xxx xx x xx x x xxx x x xx xx x x xxx x 800-283-6647

Silent Partner Swing $199 5 xxxx x xxx xx x x x x x x x xx x xx x www.sptennis.com e.Stringer $249 5 xxx x x xx x x x x x x x x x xx x xx x 800-662-1809 e.Stringer 6 point $299 5 xxx x xxx x x x x x x x x x xx x xx x e.Stringer CL $469 5 xxx x xxx x x x x x x x x x x x xx xx x Jazz $599 5 xxxx x x xxx x x x xx x x x x x x x xx xx x e.Stringer FL $699 5 xxx x x xxx x x x x x x x x xx x x xx xx x Maestro $799 5 xxxx x x xxx x x x xx x x x x x x x x xx xx x e.Stringer DG $999 5 xxxx x xx xxx xxx x x xx x x xx x x x xx x x xx xx x e.Stringer Aria $1,599 5 xxxx x xx xxx xxx xx x xx xxxxx x x xx xx x x xx xx x

Tecnifibre Pro Cord $3,500 1 xxxx x xx xxx x x x x x xxxx x x xx x x x www.tecnifibre.com TF-5500 $4,500 1 xxxx x xx xxx xxx x x x xxxx x x xx x xx x 877-332-0825 TF-6000 $4,500 1 xxxx x xx xxx xxx x x x xxxx x xx x xx x TF-7000 $5,500 1 xxxx x x xxx xxx xx x x xxxx x x x xx x xx x TF-7000 w/ Cabinet $6,500 1 xxxx x x xxx xxx xx x x xxxx x x x xx x x xx x TF-8000 $7,500 1 xxxx x x xxx xxx xx x x x xxxx xx x xxx x x xx x

Wise USA 2086 Pro. ETH $495 2 xxx xx xxxx x x x x x x x x www.tennishead.com 888-836-7466

Yonex ES5 Pro $6499 1 xxxx x xx xxx xxx xx x x x x xxx x x xx x xx www.yonex.com 800-449-6639

machine and can be turned in any direc- dual swivel, single-action fixed tion, especially helpful clamps that require you to lock when stringing fan pat- one lever. 360º glide bar clamps terns. They also allow are clamps that rotate 360 ATS you to switch from degrees, but they are mount- main strings to cross ed on glide bars. Single swiv- Traveler strings without having el fixed refers to machines to remove and replace with only one clamp attached glide bars. There are to the machine. Machines with two kinds: dual swivel, this type of clamp will general- dual action fixed clamps ly require a starting clamp or Wise that require you to lock two flying clamp for part of each 2086 Professional ETH levers to clamp a string; and string job.

38 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005 Tensioning Clamping Extra Features Weight Tools Included

Self-Elevating LinearAutomated Pull TensionDiablo/Nosecone Release Rotational TensionerFoot Pedal TensionPounds Activator & KilosManual Tension CalibrationSelf-Calibrating Adjustable Diamond CoatKnob/Dial Tension Tension HeadPlus/Minus Grip Setting TouchFull Pad Keypad Tension TensionLED/LCD Set Setting TensionKnot Display Tensioning Removable Electric Tensioner UnitFlying Clamps Fixed ClampsDual on SwivelGlide BarsDual Double Swivel Action Single360 Fixed Degree ActionSingle Clamps Fixed Swivel on GlideDiamond Fixed Bars Clamp DustAutomated Clamps BaseMagnetic Release Auto ClampsNo Clamp Tool Base Needed Release to AdjustTool Clamps Tray Cover Included String Measurer Built-in Ruler Reel Rack Racquet Stand Cabinet withLeveling Drawers Pads on Base Under 50 lbs50-75 lbs Over 75 lbs Calibrator Starting Clamp Diagonal Cutters Needlenose PliersAwl Flying Clamp Assembly Instructions/VideoOwners Manual/VideoGuiding Awl Bent NoseAssembly Pliers Tools Flying Clamp Starting Pins Alpine 2500 $499 5 xxxx x x x xx x x xx x x x x x x x xx xx x Alpine 6000 $469 5 xxxx x x xxx xx x x x xx x x x x x xx xx x Alpine 6500 $569 5 xxxx x x xxx x x xx x x x x x x x xx xx x Hercules 630 $529 5 xxxx x x xxx xx x x x xx x x x x x x x xx xx x Hercules 650 $629 5 xxxx x x xxx x x xx x x x x x x x x x xx xx x e-Bravo 550 $509 5 xxxx xx xxx x x xx x x x x x x x x x x xx xx x e-Bravo 760 $599 5 xxxx x xx xxx x x xx x x x x x x x x x x xx xx x

Neos 1000 $1,199 5 xxxx x x x x xx x x xx x x x xx x 3000 $2,995 3 xxxx x x x xx xxx xx x xx x x xxx x x xx xx x x xxx x

Swing $199 5 xxxx x xxx xx x x x x x x x xx x xx x e.Stringer $249 5 xxx x x xx x x x x x x x x x xx x xx x e.Stringer 6 point $299 5 xxx x xxx x x x x x x x x x xx x xx x e.Stringer CL $469 5 xxx x xxx x x x x x x x x x x x xx xx x Jazz $599 5 xxxx x x xxx x x x xx x x x x x x x xx xx x e.Stringer FL $699 5 xxx x x xxx x x x x x x x x xx x x xx xx x Maestro $799 5 xxxx x x xxx x x x xx x x x x x x x x xx xx x e.Stringer DG $999 5 xxxx x xx xxx xxx x x xx x x xx x x x xx x x xx xx x e.Stringer Aria $1,599 5 xxxx x xx xxx xxx xx x xx xxxxx x x xx xx x x xx xx x

Pro Cord $3,500 1 xxxx x xx xxx x x x x x xxxx x x xx x x x TF-5500 $4,500 1 xxxx x xx xxx xxx x x x xxxx x x xx x xx x TF-6000 $4,500 1 xxxx x xx xxx xxx x x x xxxx x xx x xx x TF-7000 $5,500 1 xxxx x x xxx xxx xx x x xxxx x x x xx x xx x TF-7000 w/ Cabinet $6,500 1 xxxx x x xxx xxx xx x x xxxx x x x xx x x xx x TF-8000 $7,500 1 xxxx x x xxx xxx xx x x x xxxx xx x xxx x x xx x

2086 Pro. ETH $495 2 xxx xx xxxx x x x x x x x x

ES5 Pro $6499 1 xxxx x xx xxx xxx xx x x x x xxx x x xx x xx

Fixed Clamps that Don't WEIGHT Swivel. These are clamps Categories indicate whether the machine weighs that are attached to the less than 50 pounds, between 50 and 75 pounds, machine by glide bars, but or over 75 pounds. Heavier machines can be can only be turned in two more stable and solid, but they can be less conve- directions (90 degrees and 0 nient when moving or traveling. degrees). These require removing Yonex and repositioning glide bars to ES5 Pro TOOLS INCLUDED switch from main strings to cross strings. This final category indicates which supplies and tools are included with the machine. For descriptions of each tool, Diamond Dust. Holds a string with less see pages 9-10 of the USRSA Racquet Service Techniques pressure, avoiding string crushing. book. Q

August 2005 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 39 PLAYEREQUIPMENTLOG When Justine Hen culmination of a g ROLAND GARROS used in their bid f their favorite play

MEN Round Racquet Racquet String Rank Reached Player Name Country Brand Racquet Model Headsize Brand

1SRoger Federer SUI Wilson nSix-One Tour 90 Luxilon/Wilson 2 DNP Lleyton Hewitt AUS 3WRafael Nadal ESP Babolat AeroPro Drive 100 Babolat 42Andy Roddick USA Babolat Pure Drive Team+ 100 Babolat 54Marat Safin RUS Head Liquidmetal Prestige Mid 93 Luxilon 61Andre Agassi USA Head Flexpoint Radical OS 107 Luxilon 7SNikolay Davydendo RUS Prince O3 Tour 100 Polystar 8QGuillermo Canas ARG Wilson nPro Surge 100 Kirschbaum 92Tim Henman GBR Slazenger Pro X-1 95 Luxilon/Babolat 10 2 Joachim Johansson SWE Yonex RDX 500 90 Luxilon/Babolat 11 F Mariano Puerta ARG Babolat AeroPro Drive 100 Babolat 12 4 Gaston Gaudio ARG Wilson nSix-One 95 Kirschbaum 13 Q Tommy Robredo ESP Dunlop 300G 98 Luxilon 14 4 Guillermo Coria ARG Prince O3 Tour 100 Luxilon 15 Q David Ferrer ESP Prince Shark DB MP 100 Luxilon 16 3 Radek Stepanek CZE Volkl Tour 10 Mid V-Engine 93 Pacific 17 1 Ivan Ljubicic CRO Babolat Pure Drive Team + 100 Luxilon/Babolat 18 4 David Nalbandian ARG Yonex RDX-500 98 Luxilon 19 4 Carlos Moya ESP Babolat Pure Drive Team 100 Luxilon 20 2 Thomas Johansson SWE Dunlop M-Fil 200 95 Luxilon/Babolat WOMEN Round Racquet Racquet String Rank Reached Player Name Country Brand Racquet Model Headsize Brand

1QLindsay Davenport USA Wilson nTour 95 Wilson 2QMaria Sharapova RUS Prince Turbo Shark MP 100 Babolat 33Amelie Mauresmo FRA Dunlop 300G 98 Babolat 4 DNP Serena Williams USA 54Svetlana KuznetsovaRUS Head Flexpoint Instinct 100 Luxilon 64Elena Dementieva RUS Yonex RDX-500 MP 98 Luxilon 7WJ. Henin-Hardenne BEL Wilson nTour 95 Wilson 8SNadia Petrova RUS Babolat Pure Storm MP Team 103 Luxilon 9 DNP Alicia Molik AUS 10 1 Anastasia Myskina RUS Head Flexpoint Instinct 100 Luxilon 11 4 Patty Schnyder SUI Head Liquidmetal Prestige MP 98 Kirschbaum 12 3 Vera Zvonareva RUS Fischer Pro No One FT 98 Kirschbaum 13 F Mary Pierce FRA Yonex Ultimum RD Ti-80 98 Luxilon 14 4 Elena Bovina RUS Head Flexpoint Radical MP 100 Luxilon 15 S Elena Likhovtseva RUS Wilson nSix-One 95 Wilson 16 3 Venus Williams USA Wilson n4 111 Wilson 17 4 Kim Clijsters BEL Babolat Pure Drive Team 100 Babolat 18 3 Nathalie Dechy FRA Head Liquidmetal Prestige MP 98 Babolat 19 3 Tatiana Golovin FRA Volkl Catapult V1 Mid Plus 102 Tecnifibre 20 1 Jelena Jankovic SCG Yonex NSRQ-5 105 Kirschbaum

40 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005 nin-Hardenne and Rafael Nadal came off the French Open red clay as victors, it was the grueling two weeks in Paris. Here’s a look at the equipment that the top 20 men and women for Grand Slam glory. Post these pages in your shop, so your customers can check out yers, too.

String String Footwear Clothing String Model Gauge Tension Brand Footwear Model Brand

BB Alu Power Rough/ Wilson Natural 16L 55/50.5 Nike VAPOR S2 Nike

Duralast 16 53 Nike Air Max Breathe Free II Nike VS Team 16 73 Reebok - Lacoste Alu Power Rough 16L - Adidas ClimaCool Feather Adidas Big Banger Alu Power 16L 66 Nike MAX Breathe FREE Nike Energy 16 55/53 Diadora - Diadora Super Smash Honey 1.2 53 --KDY BB TIMO / VS Team 18 51.6 Adidas Barricade III - BB Alu Power/VS Team 17 - Yonex SHT-304 - Pro Hurricane 16 59.5 Babolat Team Clay Babolat Super Smash 16 59.5 Diadora Protech DA2 Diadora Big Banger Original 16 51 Sergio Tacchini - Sergio Tacchini Big Banger Original 16 52 Adidas ClimaCool Feather Adidas Big Banger Original 16 - Diadora Speedzone DA2 Diadora Tough Gut 17 61.5/57 - -- 1 BB TIMO / VS Team 17 57 Diadora Speedzone DA2 Diadora Big Banger Original 16 64 Yonex SHT-304 Yonex Big Banger Original 16 60 Nike MAX Breathe FREE Nike Alu Power/VS Touch 17/16 59.5 Adidas Barricade III Adidas

String String Footwear Clothing String Model Gauge Tension Brand Footwear Model Brand

Wilson Natural 15L 63/64 Nike Air Zoom Thrive Nike VS Team 17 64 Nike VAPOR S2 Nike VS Touch 16 57.2 Reebok - Reebok

Big Banger Alu Touch 16L 53/50.5 Fila X-Point Fila Big Banger Alu Power 16L 51/48.5 Yonex SHT-304 Yonex Wilson Natural 16 57.5 Adidas Barricade III W Adidas Monotec Supersense 16L 61.5 Adidas Barricade III W Adidas

Big Banger TIMO 18 56/52 Nike - Nike Touch Turbo 17 55/53 Adidas ClimaCool Feather W Adidas Super Smash 16L 55/53 Adidas ClimaCool Feather W Adidas Big Banger TIMO 18 - Nike Air Commit LeJay Big Banger TIMO 17 64/61.5 - -- 1 NXT 16 50.5/48.5 Wilson Crossfire SL Wilson Wilson Natural 16 65 Reebok VESW DMX Reebok VS Touch 16 66 Fila X-Point Fila VS Touch 16 - ASICS Gel Enqvist Lacoste X-tra Dynamic 16 66 Adidas ClimaCool Feather W Lacoste Super Smash - 61.5/55 - --

August 2005 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 41 string PLAYTEST Head FXP 16

FXP is a new multifilament designed to package. The average number of hours build on Head’s well-established playtested was 24.8. Our playtest team agrees that FXP FiberGEL technology. (See the playtest is easy to string. It has a nice feel, and report for Head FiberGel in the Septem- although fairly soft, blocked holes are ber 2002 issue of Racquet Tech maga- no problem. It has virtually no coil zine, and the playtest report for Head memory, and even seems to unkink itself during stringing. More than half of our customers FXP. This could well FiberGel Power in the January 2004 playtesters reported that FXP is easier to be the one string that “does it all” for the issue.) FXP starts off with a polyamide 6 install than other strings, with none majority of your clients. core with an integrated “tri-cluster” of reporting it was more difficult to install, Head is so confident about FXP, that a gel fibers for power. Around this core is making it one of the very easiest to install free set of FXP 17 is being sent to each of strings we have playtested in the last USRSA member in the United States in a wrap of polyamide 6 monofilaments, several years. This is not too surprising, this issue of RSI. each of which incorporates three poly- given that FXP uses FiberGel technology, —Greg Raven Q ester filaments for control. Finally, the and Head’s FiberGel Power also garnered string is coated with DuPont 66 for high marks for ease of installation. EASE OF STRINGING As you might expect from a string (compared to other strings) durability. rated this easy to install, none of our Number of testers who said it was: The result according to Head is an playtesters broke his sample during string- much easier 7 easy-to-install string that has a crisp feel ing, or reported any problems with coil somewhat easier 11 and maximum ball pocketing, for power about as easy 16 memory, tying knots, or friction burn. players who need superior control. not quite as easy 0 not nearly as easy 0 FXP is available in 16 and 17 gauges in ON THE COURT natural only. It is priced from $11 for coils Our playtest team found Head FXP to OVERALL PLAYABILITY of 40 feet. For more information or to exhibit above average performance almost (compared to string played most often) order, contact Head at 800-289-7366, or across the board. The team particularly Number of testers who said it was: visit www.head.com. liked the Playability, Power, Touch/Feel, much better 1 somewhat better 9 and Tension Holding of FXP, with strong about as playable 8 IN THE LAB scores for Durability, Control, Comfort, We tested the 16-gauge FXP. The coil not quite as playable 14 and Resistance to Movement. measured 40 feet 10 inches. The diameter not nearly as playable 1 What’s really telling are the over- measured 1.36 mm prior to stringing, and whelmingly positive comments we OVERALL DURABILITY 1.30 mm after stringing. We recorded a received from our playtest team. Many of (compared to other strings stringbed stiffness of 81 RDC units imme- of similar gauge) the comments echoed Head’s marketing diately after stringing at 60 pounds in a Number of testers who said it was: materials, indicating that FXP has hit its Wilson Pro Staff 6.1 95 (16 x 18 pattern) much better 1 design goals dead on. somewhat better 11 on a constant pull machine. about as durable 18 After 24 hours (no playing), stringbed CONCLUSION not quite as durable 3 stiffness measured 73 RDC units, repre- Head FXP is a solid performer in all the not nearly as durable 0 senting a 10 percent tension loss. Our important categories, and according to control string, Prince Synthetic Gut Origi- our playtesters, if its description makes it RATING AVERAGES nal Gold 16, measured 78 RDC units sound like something in which you would From 1 to 5 (best) Playability 3.5 immediately after stringing and 71 RDC be interested, you’re likely to be very Durability 3.5 units after 24 hours, representing a 9 per- happy once you try it. Power 3.4 cent tension loss. FXP added 15 grams to Judging by the response we received Control 3.5 the weight of our unstrung frame. from our playtesters, Head FXP could be a Comfort 3.4 The string was tested for five weeks great “go-to” product for stringers with Touch/Feel 3.3 by 34 USRSA playtesters, with NTRP rat- customers who don’t have a strong pref- Spin Potential 3.1 ings from 3.5 to 6.0. These are blind tests, erence for one string over another, but Holding Tension 3.6 with each playtester receiving an still want a quality product. And, as easy Resistance to Movement 3.4 unmarked set of strings in an unmarked as it is to install, you’ll love selling your

42 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005 TESTERS TALK This string played great, and remained crisp during the entire three I recently purchased two racquets. One came strung with an “weeks I used it. It holds tension better than any other string I used. This is “average synthetic. I put the test sample in the second racquet, and a real winner, and when I find out what it is, I intend to use it in each of the improvement over the other string was profound. This string is my racquets. very “gut-like,” imparting excellent feel and control. It maintained 4.5 male serve-and-volleyer” using Wilson Pro Staff 6.0 strung at 60 this quality over the entire test period, but it did begin to notch pounds CP (Wilson NXT 16) noticeably after about 10 hours of play, which indicated that it might break earlier than typical “durability” strings. Nonetheless, I give it Two firsts for this string: One, it’s the first string I haven’t cut out go od durability scores because it did maintain its resiliency over the “after the required 15-hour test period. Second, it’s the first string I’ve entire test period. I would probably not switch from my reference rated above average in every category. Really nice product. Played crisp, string, but I would have no problem recommending this string to comfortable, and fresh for over 20 hours. Strings didn’t move for the first better players who would really appreciate its overall playability.” 10 hours. Nice pocketing feel, and the control was excellent. Unless this 4.5 male all-court player using Pro Kennex Kinetic Pro 5G strung at string is priced outrageously, I’ve found my new favorite. 62 pounds LO (Gamma Live Wire XP 16) 4.0 male all-court player using Wilson Pro Staff Surge 5.1” strung at 60/58 pounds CP (Babolat Tonic 16) Easy to install. Nice soft string, “which gives a good amount of comfort “This is probably the and power. I would play with this string “ An excellent soft synthetic string. Very comfortable on the best test string I have again.” arm. The ball seems to hold on the 5.0 male all-court player using Prince strings a tad longer due to their ever used. I would definitely buy Shark MP strung at 54 pounds CP comfort. this string when available. It held tension bet- (Prince Lightning Power 17) 4.5 male” all-court player using ter than any other good-playing string I have Völkl Catapult 3 Gen 2 strung at “ This string plays very well. I used it 55/53 pounds CP (BDE Perfor- ever tested. It also did not move much during in my USTA league matches and was mance 17) very satisfied. my 24 hours of test play. I highly recommend 3.5 male serve-and-volleyer” using Wil- This string provides very good this string for players wanting a great-playing son Pro Staff 6.5 strung at 63 pounds “control while yielding above-aver- CP (Wilson Stamina 16) string.” age power. It holds tension well. I would like to know more about this 4.5 male all-court player using Head i.x6 strung at This string has a solid feel from the string, and will definitely use it. “first hit: it’s comfortable immediately. It 60 pounds CP (Gamma Live Wire Professional 17) 4.0 male all-court player using” displays above-average power and Head Classic MP strung at 61 durability, and holds its tension well. It pounds LO (Head Intellitour 17) didn’t quite have the playability of a 17 gauge, but the ball rebounds with vigor.” Nice soft string. 4.5 male all-court player using Head i.prestige strung at 57 pounds 6.0“ male all-court player” using Wilson nSix-One 95 strung at 53 pounds LO (Gamma TNT 17) LO (Poly/gut 16) “ This test sample was relatively straightforward to string. It is a Good power, especially on serve. Nice solid feel. The string has a good choice for players who like to use lots of spin and for those “good combination of control and power. who use control and feel. Volleying with this string is a joy, with 4.0 male all-court player using Wilson Pro” Staff Surge X 5.1 strung at both excellent control and power readily achievable. Because of the 58/56 pounds CP (Gamma TNT 18) rigidity of the string, it provides less comfort than my usual string, but I became a fan and would certainly consider using it as my regu- lar string. Easy to string. I thought this was a great synthetic. If the price is less 4.5 male serve-and-volleyer” using Wilson Hyper Hammer 2.3 strung “than $10, I would highly recommend it. Will perform well by itself or in a at 63 pounds LO (Wilson Sensation 16) hybrid set. Loved it. Best synthetic I’ve tried in awhile. 4.0 male all-court player using Wilson Hyper Pro Staff” 6.0 strung at 61 pounds LO (Wilson Natural 17) For the rest of the tester comments, USRSA members can visit RacquetTECH.com. (Strings normally used by testers are indicated in parentheses.)

August 2005 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 43 ask the EXPERTS Your Equipment Hotline RACQUET MATCHING have the same flex. Even then, you may modification, to ensure that your modifica- I CAN SORT OF UNDERSTAND not be able to match the weight, balance, tions are correct. matching two racquets, if one is and swingweight, but at least the possibili- Here is an example of three frames. Q lighter and has a lower swing- ty exists. When it’s not possible to match The first is standard length, while the weight, but I’m having trouble getting the weight, balance, and swingweight of other two are 1/16-inch shorter. The first is started on matching three racquets where two racquets, Racquet Customizer will tell the heaviest, while the other two weigh the measurements seem to be all over the you which characteristics can be matched. the same. The first and second have the place. Any tips? The third tip is that adding mass under same balance point, while the first and the grip at 10 cm up from the butt cap third have the same swingweight. THE FIRST TIP IS TO USE OUR on-line does not change the swingweight, even Frame 12 3 A tools so you don’t have to wade though it changes the weight and balance. Length 68.58 68.42125 68.42125 cm through mountains of calculations by The fourth tip is to use the Racquet Starting hand. For example, you could use the Rac- Customizer solution that works best in mass 336.00 332.00 332.00 grams Starting quet Optimizer for fast and easy modeling your situation. Racquet Customizer will cal- balance 30.20 30.20 30.40 cm culate a lot of different ways that two Starting of simple racquet modifications, but typi- 2 cally you would use the Racquet Cus- frames can be matched, but some of them swingweight 313.00 310.00 313.00 kg•cm tomizer. (Each of these is available to will call for adding a lot of lead tape in (Notice that we converted fractional inches to deci- USRSA members under the “Tools” head- inconvenient positions on the frame. As a mal centimeters for the Length measurement.) ing at www.racquettech.com.) rule of thumb, you want to keep sections These measurements allow us to calcu- The second tip is to realize that it is not of lead tape to 4 inches or shorter, so that late how differently the racquets will always possible to match two (or more) the actual result will better correspond respond in play: Center of racquets. For example, there is no way to with the calculated goal. Because there are Percussion (COP) 56.12 56.22 56.21 cm modify the flex of a racquet, so if you so many solutions, you can pick and Recoilweight 176 175 175 kg•cm2 hope to end up with matched racquets, choose based on what you want. Hitting- weight @ COP 147 145 147 kg•cm2 you must start with similar racquets that The fifth tip is to re-measure after every

44 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005 Now we can start matching. Applying Calculating the center of percussion, transporting a racquet in a jet aircraft: air tip three, we add four grams of lead tape recoilweight, and hittingweight (which pressure and temperature. As far as we 10 centimeters up from the butt cap of can be calculated under the “tools” head- know, air pressure has no effect on either frame 3. Measuring frame 3 after this ing at RacquetTECH.com) shows that racquets or strings, which leaves just tem- modification reveals that adding this these racquets are indeed very well perature. If you take your racquet with weight also moves the balance point to matched. you in the passenger compartment, the almost exactly where we want it. This Some racquets will be easier to match, temperature differential is minimal. How- gives us two racquets with the same and some more difficult, but using our ever, if you check your racquet as bag- weight, balance, and swingweight, and on-line tools eliminates a lot of the gage, the temperature extremes can and one racquet to which we can add weight drudgery, leaving you more time to con- will affect the stringbed. Therefore, you to increase the swingweight. sider how best to affect the modifications. should either carry on your racquets, or Use Racquet Customizer to calculate plan on having them restrung once you the amounts and positions where you will FEAR OF FLYING reach your destination. need to add mass to make the second Of course, temperature extremes are I HAVE OFTEN WONDERED ABOUT frame (in our example) match the first not found only in airplane cargo holds. the effects of flying on a strung frame. Racquet Customizer comes up with The temperature in the trunk of your car Q racquet. Does it matter to the 98 solutions. Among these 98 solutions, can also kill your strings, as we showed in strings if the racquet is carried on or if the you should find one that fits your needs. “The Effect of Temperature on String racquet is packed in a suitcase and put in For example, the first 21 solutions Tension,” published in March 1985. This the cargo hold? People have asked me require adding lead tape to the very tip of article is available to USRSA members on- this and I’ve read and heard conflicting the racquet. If you don’t want to do this, line at http://www.racquettech.com/ answers. you can eliminate all of these from consid- members/strings/198503temperature.html. eration. The next 21 solutions require —Greg Raven Q PEOPLE WHO FLY WITH STRUNG adding lead tape to the highly-curved sec- racquets at some time or another We welcome your questions. Please send them tion of the hoop, where precise placement A notice that the stringbed is different on to Racquet Sports Industry, 330 Main St., Vista, is difficult. You might also want to discard CA, 92084; fax: 760-536-1171; email: arrival than it was on departure. There are any solutions that require tiny pieces of [email protected]. two potential factors to consider when lead tape, or so much lead tape that there will be a huge lump at that location. In this case, we’ll go for solution 5, which does specify a short piece of lead tape at the tip of the racquet, but we can put it underneath the bumperguard to hide it from view. In the hoop, there will be four short sections of lead tape just over an inch long, and the remainder goes under the grip, just above where the play- er’s hand normally holds the racquet. Here are the masses and locations for adding weight to frame 2, so that it will match frame 1.

Added mass 0.13 grams Location 68.42 cm Added mass 1.09 grams Location 58.26 cm Added mass 2.78 grams Location 12.54 cm Here are the final measurements for our three matched frames:

Final mass 336.00 336.00 336.00 grams Final balance 30.20 30.16 30.16 cm Final swingweight 313 313 313 kg•cm2 Final COP 56.1 56.2 56.2 cm Final recoil weight 176 176 176 kg•cm2 Final hitting weight 147 147 147 kg•cm2 The weight and swingweight are iden- tical, and the balance is only .04 cm off.

August 2005 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 45 tips and TECHNIQUES Readers’ Know-How in Action END STRIP SEARCHES racquets before needing a grommet strip BECOME A Whenever a customer of mine buys a replacement, so you can make those grom- STRINGING DOCTOR new racquet from me or anywhere else, I mets available to others on the Grommets Sometimes when weaving the cross, I encourage them to buy extra grommet Network. If you are a USRSA member and find the strings either slip or they are too kits right away. I try to carry some kits, you’re not a member of the Grommets Net- hard to pull through the mains. The and there are others I can order, but in work, send an e-mail request to grom- answer is very simple: I purchased some time the availability inevitably becomes a [email protected], and you’ll be added surgical gloves that fit my hand perfectly. problem. I have people bring in racquets to the list. They allow me to grip the strings even if that are only 3 to 5 years old, and already they have a lubricated coating, and at the I cannot find replacement grommet kits. QUICKER CROSSES same time they offer some protection to 5 Sets of Gosen OG Sheep Micro Super The currently-available 40- to 44-foot string my hands. I still have great feel for the JC 16 and a Gosen T-shirt to: sets are much longer than they used to be, string, and perhaps best of all, I look like Jon Miller, Battle Creek, MI and they usually have much more string a "stringing doctor" when I’m finishing than is needed to complete the normal rac- up a racquet. Editor’s note: Finding grommet kits for quet. After I weave the first few cross 5 sets of Head FiberGEL Power 16 to: older racquets continues to be a problem, strings, I count the remaining cross string Lazar Lowinger, Newton, MA but one that has been greatly mitigated grommets, measure and pull that number of since the introduction of USRSA’s Grom- lengths across the middle of the frame, then HAND ME THAT STAT, STAT! mets Network: An e-mail newsletter that measure two more racquet widths for insur- I recently purchased a set of military sur- puts you in contact with thousands of ance, and cut off the excess. This speeds up plus medical hemostats from a discount other USRSA members with your grom- the job as there is less string to pull, and it store and found that they are very useful met kit needs. It might be a good idea to reduces wear and tear on the crosses. tools for stringing racquets. The large encourage your customers to turn over 5 sets of Silent Partner Headspin 15L to: ones are "beefy" enough to pull strings their grommet kits to you if they change Bob Tuttle, MRT, Freeport, NY that have a lot of friction on them and

46 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005 over time, leaving a gap between the two reattach windscreens, and to hold the long before the nets are replaced. I bring net to the net cord after the headband an awl, snips, and used tennis string to splits on top. You can even lubricate the reconnect the net to the headband. I punch hinges on the gates, and make minor two holes in the headband about a half- adjustments to hinges and latches with a inch apart horizontally, lift up the net and pair of wrenches. If you put out fliers to insert the tennis string through the two advertise your clean-up efforts before- the small ones are perfect for getting into holes catching a vertical net string, knot the hand and ask for volunteers, you should those hard-to-reach places between string on the other side, and snip off the be able to get a lot of help, and there frame and clamps. excess tails. It only takes a few minutes to will be less risk of angering those who 5 sets of Prince Premier with make several such ties and close the gap. show up to play, only to find the courts Softflex 16 to: Many people see me maintaining the out of service. It’s also good to let your Harold Smallacombe, Montrose, PA courts and come over and thank me for my local parks and recreation department efforts. I get to know them, they get to know what you’re doing, not only so MARKETING know me, and many of them give me a call they see there is an active tennis commu- GENERATING NEW BUSINESS when their racquets are in need of repair. nity, but also because you can oftentimes Helping maintain public tennis courts in 5 sets of Gamma Zo Power 16L & get them to provide extra trash recepta- your community is one way to increase Zo Hat & Zo T-Shirt to: cles, so you don’t have to haul away your customer base, gain exposure, and Michael Shaughnessy, Wakefield, RI bags and bags of trash and leaves after generate new business. Clean, well-main- all your other hard work. tained courts are an enticement to play Editor’s note: If you’re really ambitious, you —Greg Raven Q tennis. I stop by my local courts regularly, can set aside one day a year for a thorough Tips and Techniques submitted since 2000 by USRSA pick up any trash, report any major prob- clean-up. Use leaf-blowers and brooms to members, and appearing in this column, have all been clean the windscreens and court surface, lems to the recreation department, adjust gathered into a single volume of the Stringer’s Digest— net heights, and repair nets as they fall trim up any encroaching vegetation, and Racquet Service Techniques which is a benefit of USRSA into disrepair. then hose down the windscreens and membership. Submit tips to: Greg Raven, USRSA, 330 In my community, the threads that courts. Heavy-duty tie-wraps are good to Main St., Vista, CA 92804; or email [email protected]. hold the headband to the net disintegrate have on hand, too, as they can be used to

August 2005 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 47 Your Serve Open the Door to College Players A longtime college tennis advocate says it’s time the USTA and

US Open stop shutting out top amateurs. BYMARCIAFROST

s I finish my coverage of the 2005 Brendan Evans (who had already been a system. In prior years, draws were filled NCAA Championships for pro for two years) won two rounds, a with many of these players. In 2003, most Awww.CollegeAndJuniorTennis.com, I dozen others didn’t advance at all. of these players came from the spectacu- can’t help but wonder if I will see any of these One of the college players noticeably lar University of Illinois team that captured talented players at the US Open. Until three absent last year was the University of Ken- the singles, doubles, and team event at years ago, the winners of the NCAA Division I tucky’s Jesse Witten, a top-five collegian the NCAAs that year. Three players from Championships received wildcards into the who made the finals of the NCAAs, that team were given the opportunity to main draw. It was also likely that the finalists played the USTA Pro Circuit during his showcase their talent without having to and a handful of other top college players breaks from school, and had actually won give away their amateur status. would receive wildcards into at least the US two events. He was thought to be a shoo- Craig Tiley, former head coach of that Open Qualifying event. in for at least a wildcard into qualifying. winning team and former vice chair of the But all that changed with one memo But Witten had something against High Performance Committee for the four years ago, which seems to have USTA/ITA, says, “I agree with the USTA closed the door to great opportunity for Many of the most that the wildcards should be evaluated on talented college players. Just before the a year-to-year basis. I would like to see a 2001 NCAA Championships, the Intercolle- talented players are wildcard set aside for a U.S. college player giate Tennis Association received the fol- who has had success in the previous year, lowing: training on college not only in college, but also in Futures and “The USTA and the US Open have Challengers. Wildcards must be given to made several changes in our wildcard poli- campuses. players who are serious about pursuing a cies this year. …The US Open Wildcard career in tennis and have the skills to be Committee will seriously consider offering him: He was set on going back to school able to take advantage of the wildcard.” wildcards to singles and doubles winners in the fall and he did not want to turn pro It’s our Grand Slam event. US Open of the NCAA Men’s and Women’s Cham- yet. (He has since finished his degree and wildcards need to be given out based on pionship. That offer, however, will no joined the circuit.) “We really thought talent. The fact is that many of the most longer be automatic.” that he would get stronger consideration talented players in this country are training Though many college tennis advocates, than he got,” said a disappointed Dennis on college campuses. Let’s not punish including myself, were disappointed in this Emery, Witten’s coach at Kentucky. them for retaining their amateur status loss, we were still satisfied that in 2001 The college community has been vocal and getting an education. It’s time to re- there was an abundance of amateur play- in its disappointment over last year’s lack Open the door. Q ers given entrance into the Open. Unfortu- of wildcards, but there has thus far been nately, the number of those players no word from the USTA that things will decreased each year, and by last year, col- change this summer. The remaining set Marcia Frost is the editor of lege tennis had nearly no representation at wildcards for the US Open main draw are www.CollegeAndJunior-Ten- America’s Grand Slam. Two-time NCAA for the USTA National Hardcourt Boys’ nis.com, published by the non- champ Amber Liu was the only college and Girls’ 18s winners. Last year, for the profit Port Washington Tennis Academy. In her role as a college player given a wildcard in 2004. Even the first time, the USTA passed a call item tennis advocate, she is the edi- qualifying event did not have a single col- allowing professionals under age 18 to tor/manager of www.College-

lege tennis player. play the 18s National Hardcourts, and play Photo byTennisConnect.com, Cynthia Lum owned by So where did the American wildcards they did. The winners—Scoville Jenkins PWTA and Sports Marketplace, where she writes the Monthly Guide To College go? They were all given to the new crop of and Jessica Kirkland, both professionals— Planning. She is also a member of the USTA Eastern teen professionals and another handful of were put into spots previously reserved for Section College Tennis Committee. teens who were on the brink of turning our nation’s most talented amateurs. pro. These kids, a few as young as 14, While I do not wish to discourage the were talented indeed, but not able to play upcoming group of talented Americans in We welcome your opinions. Please email with the world’s greatest. Almost all fell in our professional ranks, we need to recog- comments to [email protected] or fax the first round. And while 17-year-old nize and reward players in our collegiate them to 760-536-1171.

48 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2005