November/December 2010 Volume 38 Number 10 $5.00 www.racquetsportsindustry.com

STATE OF THE INDUSTRY UnderUnder Construction Construction HitHit hard hard by by the the economy, economy, courtcourt builders builders remain remain wary wary

BillieBillie Jean Jean King King JoinsJoins TI TI Hall Hall of of Fame Fame RacquetsRacquets for for JuniorJunior Players Players

Contents Contents RSI NOV/DEC 2010 INDUSTRY NEWS SPECIAL REPORT: 7 Dunlop introduces STATE OF THE ‘Biomimetic’ frames INDUSTRY 7 Jon Muir confirmed for 2nd term as TIA prez 25 Under Construction 7 Jim Baugh joins Sporting Court builders are unsure of Goods Hall of Fame whether the rollercoaster ride is still heading down- 9 Wilson debuts 2011 ward, or will start the slow climb out of the hole. apparel and footwear 9 Brooklyn courts FEATURES get re-‘freshed’

18 Igniting the Tennis Boom 9 New rules for 10-and-under In many ways, Billie Jean King competition was the spark that 9 Charleston wins 2010 created ‘Best Tennis Town’ the tennis industry as 9 H.S. tennis players, school we know it. programs increase 20 Junior Class Frames for younger players 10 Short Sets are bringing in technology from adult racquets, and 10 TIA Forum outlines key hope to promote brand platforms for growth loyalty early on. 23 ‘Padel’ Tennis 11 Peoplewatch Immensely popular in 12 Ron Woods named Argentina, the sport of ‘padel,’ played on a smaller USPTA pro of year outdoor court with walls, jumps to the U.S. 12 Four earn USPTA Master Pro status 14 TennisConnect goes mobile

DEPARTMENTS 4 Our Serve 29 Tips and Techniques 7 Industry News 30 String Playtest: Genesis Typhoon 16L 16 TIA News 32 Your Serve, by Allison Halbert

2 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY November/December 2010 www.racquetsportsindustry.com

Our Serve Saving a True Tennis ‘Landmark’ (Incorporating Racquet Tech and Tennis Industry) ore than 70,000 people call the Forest Hills area of Queens, N.Y., their home. But mention the words “For- Publishers est Hills” to many, many millions around the world, and David Bone Jeff Williams

they still think of it as the storied home for tennis in the U.S. Editorial Director MThe private West Side Tennis Club in Forest Hills was founded in 1892 and was Peter Francesconi the home to the U.S. Championships (later renamed the US Open) from 1915 to Associate Editor 1977, when it moved 4 miles away to Flushing Meadows. In 1923, as the event’s Greg Raven popularity grew, a 14,000-seat tennis stadium was built at the club. It was the first Design/Art Director concrete stadium of its type in the country, unique for its time and representing a Kristine Thom new era in stadium design. Nearly every great tennis player of the last century played on stadium court at Contributing Editors Robin Bateman Forest Hills. It was the place where racial barriers in tennis first started to come Cynthia Cantrell down. It helped lay the groundwork for what tennis is today, the fastest growing Joe Dinoffer traditional sport in America. But the s tadium was more than just tennis. There were Liza Horan concerts there, too: the Beatles, the Who, Jimi Hendrix, Bob Dylan, Frank Sinatra, Greg Moran Barbra Streisand and many more. Bob Patterson Cynthia Sherman A lot of tennis and cultural history passed through the gates at the Forest Hills Mary Helen Sprecher tennis stadium. Yet the stadium that has been a landmark for our sport is, in fact, not a “landmark”—it does not have “landmark” status, so if members of the West RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY Side Tennis Club ever decide to sell the property, they can. Corporate Offices This past summer th at became an issue, when a developer wanted the site, now 330 Main St., Vista, CA 92084 neglected and in disrepair, to build luxury condos, and the West Side Tennis Club Phone: 760-536-1177 Fax: 760-536-1171 Email: [email protected] hoped selling the property for $9 million would shore up their shaky financial situ- Website: www.racquetTECH.com ation. Thankfully, in early October, the 300 voting club members shot down the Office Hours: Mon.-Fri.,8 a.m.-5 p.m. Pacific Time sale by a narrow margin. It was a hot topic, both inside and outside of that exclu- sive club, and some are hoping to continue to push to sell the property. Advertising Director To prevent this, we need to make the Forest Hills stadium an official landmark. John Hanna 770-650-1102, x.125 Some involved in the preservation process want to possibly revitalize the stadium [email protected] as a concert venue and community center—and a place in which tennis again can be played. Apparel Advertising But the preservation effort needs our help and support. We need to write to the Cynthia Sherman New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission urging that this irreplaceable 203-263-5243 piece of tennis history and cultural history be given landmark status. [email protected] Yes, there are details that would need to be worked out—such as how much it Racquet Sports Industry is published 10 times per would cost to maintain the old stadium and where that money would come from. year: monthly January through August and com- bined issues in September/October and Novem- But let’s not let a small group of private club members ever again determine what ber/December by Tennis Industry and USRSA, 330 is important and worth saving in the tennis world, and let’s never again risk the Main St., Vista, CA 92084. Application to Mail at possible destruction of something that means so much to all of us in this business. Periodicals Postage Prices is Pending at Vista, CA and The Forest Hills Tennis Stadium is a landmark, and we need to make sure it has additional mailing offices. November/December that official status. 2010, Volume 38, Number 10 © 2010 by USRSA and Tennis Industry. All rights reserved. Racquet Sports To find out more, and to find email addresses of members of the NYC Land- Industry, RSI and logo are trademarks of USRSA. marks Preservation Commission, visit http://regoforestpreservation.blogspot.com/ Printed in the U.S.A. Phone advertising: 770-650- 2010/07/save-forest-hills-tennis-stadium.html. 1102 x 125. Phone circulation and editorial: 760-536- The ball is in our court now to safeguard this home of U.S. tennis. 1177. Yearly subscriptions $25 in the U.S., $40 elsewhere. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Racquet Sports Industry, 330 Main St., Vista, CA 92084.

Peter Francesconi Editorial Director RSI is the official magazine of the USRSA, TIA,and ASBA

4 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY November/December 2010 www.racquetsportsindustry.com

RSI NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2010 INDUSTRYNEWSINDUSTRYNEWS INFORMATIONTOHELPYOURUNYOURBUSINESS Jon Muir Confirmed for Dunlop Introduces ‘Biomimetic’ Frames 2nd Term as TIA President unlop Racket Sports debuted five new “Biomimetic” racquets at a launch party in Jon Muir will New York City just before the US Open that included John McEnroe, Nikolay Davy- remain on as presi- Ddenko, Fernando Verdasco and other top Dun- dent of the Tennis lop pros. Biomimetic means to “imitate life,” and Industry Association Dunlop says the new frames draw their key for a second term, design features from some of nature’s most following recom- evolved creatures. mendations from The three technologies of the Biomimetic the TIA board of frames are: directors and its executive committee, to Q Aeroskin: Like the skin of a shark, Aeroskin fea- help see through platforms and projects tures tiny “riblets” that reduce aerodynamic drag under way that help support growth for ten- by up to 25 percent for increased racquet-head nis and industry businesses. speed and power, says the company. “I’m happy to continue our collective, Q HM6 Carbon: A newly designed carbon compound ongoing efforts supporting the three plat- that mimics the hexagonal structure of a bee’s hon- forms we have been developing: increasing eycomb, one of nature’s strongest and most efficient the number of frequent players, measuring structures. The substance, says Dunlop, reduces vibra tion by up to 10 percent. and impacting more clearly the economic Biomimetic 200 Plus Q Gecko-Tac: The name given to Dunlop’s new grip sur- growth of the collective tennis industry, and Biomimetic 300 face treatment, which provides up to 50 percent more grip and tack developing our communication channels to Biomimetic 300 Tour distribute clear, consistent messaging about than previous grips, according to the company. Biomimetic 600 Lite our industry and most importantly about “The Biomimetic range gives Dunlop some tremendous momentum Biomimetic 600 tennis and the reasons to play,” Muir said. heading into 2011,” says Kai Nitsche, vice president and general manag- Muir’s decision to remain as president er of Dunlop. “Each racquet combines a tangible technological benefit with a sharp took place during the TIA board of directors cosmetic. Our entire Tour Team is excited to switch to them for the 2011 season.” meeting held in New York City during the The racquets that will feature the new technology are the Biomimetic 200 Plus, the 2010 US Open and signifies a strong com- Biomimetic 300, the Biomimetic 300 Tour, the Biomimetic 600 and the Biomimetic mitment by industry partner organizations 600 Lite. For more information, visit www.dunlopsports.com or call 800-768-4727. to TIA goals and initiatives, according to Jolyn de Boer, the TIA executive director. Sporting Goods Industry Honors Baugh Muir’s second term will continue through im Baugh will be inducted into the Sporting Goods Industry Hall Dec. 31, 2012. of Fame on May 3, 2011, at Loews Ventana Canyon in Tucson, TIA also welcomed three new members Ariz. Baugh, the former general manager and president of Wilson to its board during the recent meeting in J Sporting Goods, also was a former president of the Tennis Industry NYC: Association. Q Gordon Boggis is the CEO of Prince Sports Baugh has been devoted to improving the health and fitness of Inc., based in Bordentown, N.J. American children, creating the PE4Life initiative. He also helped Q Greg Mason is the Vice President of Sales raise nearly $500 million in federal grants for schools through the and Marketing for Head Penn Racquet Carol M. White Physical Education Program, known in the industry as the PEP Pro- Sports, based in Phoenix, Ariz. gram. Baugh worked at Converse and Prince before joining Wilson in 1987. While at Wil- Q Meredith Poppler is the vice president of industry growth for IHRSA–International son, Baugh joined the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association board of directors, a Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Associa- position he still holds. It was through SGMA that PE4Life was founded, dedicated to tion, based in Boston. rebuilding quality physical education programs in schools. After leaving Wilson, Baugh served as president of the TIA and as a board member of the USTA. www.racquetsportsindustry.com November/December 2010 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 7

INDUSTRYNEWS Wilson Debuts 2011 Apparel, Footwear ilson debuted its 2011 spring/summer apparel and footwear collections during the WUS Open. The new performance apparel lines use “nano-fiber” technology to aid in sun protection, moisture management and anti-microbial odor protection. Wilson’s knit apparel also uses bamboo fabrications, which are sustainable, manage moisture well, and have a soft feel. “Body mapping” offers “no-sew,” seamless technology. In addition to spri ng and summer collections for men and women, Wilson also offers “core” performance collections, along with boys’ and girls’ collections. New Wilson tennis shoes for 2011 feature RG Technology, for “Reactive Gel”— which are inserts in the midsole for cushioning, energy return, stability and dynamic movement support, says the company. The men’s and women’s lines include the Tour Vision, Tour Spin II, Tour Fantom, Pro Staff Trigor, Pro Staff Victress and Pro Staff Court, in addition to junior models. In related news, world No. 32 Philipp Kohlschreiber will be wearing Wilson’s new apparel and footwear starting in January. For more information, visit www.wilson.com.

First ‘Fresh Courts’ Refurbished H.S. Tennis Players, ix full-size courts were refurbished and two 36- Sfoot courts were added at McCarren Park in School Programs Increase Brooklyn, N.Y., as part of the “Fresh Courts” reno- here’s good news on tennis participation vation program by the USTA and American Tfrom the National Federation of State Express. The 2010 program targeted 17 tennis High School Associations. According to the courts in New York, Los Angeles and Washington, NFHS 2009-2010 High School Athletics Par- D.C. ticipation Summary, the number of boys Hinding Tennis of West Haven, Conn., did the and girls playing tennis in high schools work on the McCarren Park courts. Another fresh rose more than 3 percent, from 334,758 courts project is at the Jackie Tatum/Harvard Ten- students to 345,150. nis Center in L.A., where work was done by Zaino The total number of boys participating Tennis Courts of Orange, Calif. in tennis rose from 157,165 to 162,755, while girls playing tennis rose from 177,5 93 to 182,395. Importantly, the num- New Rules for Kids’ Competition ber of schools offering tennis also he USTA approved a rule change in September requiring all 10-and-under tour- increased. The 2008-2009 study showed Tnaments to be played with slower-moving and lower-bouncing balls, on short- 9,499 schools offering tennis for boys, er courts and using shorter, lighter racquets. The change will take affect in January while the most recent study has that num- 2012 and apply to all USTA-sanctioned events for children 10-and-under. ber up to 9,916. For girls, the number of “Scaling tennis down to the size of children will promote greater participation schools rose from 9,693 to 10,166. and ensure that young kids will be able to play much more quickly,” said Kurt Kamperman, the USTA’s chief execu- ‘Biggest Loser’ TV Show tive of Community Tennis. “This rule change is critical to the long-term Features Cardio Tennis growth of our s port, and ultimately will nna Kournikova surprised the 15 contest- help us develop new generations of tal- Aants on the hit TV show “The Biggest Loser,” ented players.” then put them through a rigorous Cardio Ten- For more information on the rule nis workout as a key part of the show’s weight- change, visit usta.com/rulechange. loss and fitness program. The episode aired on NBC on Oct. 5. “Cardio Tennis is about getting a great Charleston is ‘Best Tennis Town’ workout, about burning tons of calories— harleston, S.C., recently was voted America’s about high, high energy,” said Kournikova, C“Best Tennis Town” and received $100,000 for community tennis program- who had suggested Cardio to the show’s pro- ming. The announcement was made during the US Open. Charleston beat out ducers. The episode was filmed at the Edmund 81 other cities for the title. The first runner-up Atlanta will receive $50,000 and D. Edelman Tennis Center in Calabasas, Calif. second runner-up Richmond, Va., will receive $25,000. In the inaugural com- Working with Kournikova were CT National petition in 2009, Midland, Mich., took home top honors. Program Manager Michele Krause and Chris Ojakian and David Schwartz. www.racquetsportsindustry.com November/December 2010 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 9 NOV/DEC 2010 SHORTSETS Showdown at Madison Square Garden on The U.S. will host Italy in the 2010 Fed Cup TIA Forum Outlines > Feb. 28. final Nov. 6-7 in San Diego. The U.S. team will NEWS Key Platforms for consist of Serena Williams, Melanie Oudin, > NetKnacks Tennis Awards has signed Bethanie Mattek-Sands and Liezel Huber. In on as a PTR Corporate Member. Industry Growth related news, Fed Cup Captain Mary Joe Fer- > Available from Evolve9 and developed he fourth annual TIA Tennis nandez has signed on for another two years. by Mike Barrell is a new manual and CD- TForum was held during the 2010 Nominated for the USTA Board of Directors Rom with formats for running formal and US Open in New York City, detailing INDUSTRY > for 2011-2012 are: Jon Vegosen for USTA pres- informal QuickStart Tennis competitions. the latest news about the state of the ident; David Haggerty, first vice president; Kat- The CD also contains editable forms, off- tennis industry, including player rina Adams and Carol Welder, vice presidents; court activity sheets and certificates. Visit data, equipment sales data, and and Don Tisdel, secretary-treasurer; at-large www.evolve9.com for more. grassroots initiatives. The Forum also highlighted the revamped and repo- directors Seth Abraham, Dale Caldwell, William Looking to build or rehab a tennis court > sitioned TennisIndustry.org website Kellogg, John Korff, Delaine Mast and Andrew or facility? Check out the new website of and featured Billie Jean King’s induc- Valdez; elite athletes Patrick Galbraith, Chanda the American Sports Builders Association tion into the Tennis Industry Hall of Rubin and Jeff Tarango; and immediate past at www.sportsbuilders.org, which can Fame. (To see a video of the Forum, president Lucy Garvin. help you choose a Certified Tennis Court go to www.youtube.com/tennis- Seven tennis facilities won 2010 Outstand- Builder. > industry.) ing Facility Award Honors recently: Libbey Park Tennis Canada announced a three-year TIA Preside nt Jon Muir outlined Tennis Complex, Ojai, Calif.; Palm Coast Tennis > partnership between the Tennis Profes- three key industry “platforms”— Center, Palm Coast, Fla.; Arthur Ashe Youth sionals Association (TPA) and the PTR that increasing the number of frequent Tennis and Education, Philadelphia; Lakes Ten- will take effect in January. TPA was estab- players in the U.S., ways to better nis Academy, Frisco, Texas; Courtside Club, Los lished for Canadian certified instructors, define and boost the economic Gatos, Calif.; Gable Tennis Complex, Culver, coaches and club professionals in 2004 growth and impact of the tennis Ind.; and Biszantz Family Tennis Center, Clare- and has grown to more than 2,300 mem- industry, and effective ways to distrib- mont, Calif. bers. ute clear, consistent messaging about > This year's Babolat sales award winners are: > The Golden State Warriors along with tennis and the reasons to play it. Retailer of the Year—Michael Lynne's Tennis The Good Tidings Foundation unveiled a Tennis ball shipments year to date Shop; Sales Rep of the Year—Rick Walsh; “Ten- newly surfaced Novacrylic basketball court through the second quarter of 2010 nis Runs in Our Blood” award—Tennis Ware- at San Francisco’s Visitacion Valley Middle were up 1.6% in units and 2.7% in house. School, part of NBC’s “Lend A Hand” pro- dollars from the same period last > Wilson Tennis has hit 100,000 likes/fans on gram, which in addition to the new court, year, according to TIA research. Facebook at www.facebook.com/wilsontennis. raised over $1.2 million in donated goods Racquet shi pments year to date “Facebook is the center of all social media. Our for kids. For more info, contact through the second quarter of 2010 goal for Wilson’s page is to keep an open line [email protected]. were down slightly in units, but there was a 7.4% increase in wholesale of communication with the tennis community BNP Paribas has agreed to continue its > racquet dollars. In terms of sell- and have some fun in the process,” said Wilson sponsorship of Davis Cup and Fed Cup for through, racquet sales at pro/special- Global Marketing Director Linda Glassel. an additional five-years, from 2012 ty stores were strong through May, More than 50 Spanish women players, through 2016. > but dropped back in June and July. including former champions Arantxa Sanchez The Family Circle Cup announced a Overall year to date through July, rac- Vicario and Conchita Martinez, are supporting > partnership with the City of Charleston quet sales were up 3.1% in units and a boycott of Spain’s Fed Cup team. The player Department of Recreation’s Courting Kids 5.1% in dollars. say the national federation doesn’t support inner-city youth tennis program, commit- But, Muir cautioned, “When we women’s players. The boycott is scheduled to ting over $50,000 in financial, material, try to summarize the broader state of being in Spain’s World Group series against and promotional support. Dunlop Sports the economy, one word keeps com- Estonia in February. and Vapor Apparel, year-round sponsors ing up, ‘uncertainty.’ We’ve had a big > The U.S. Davis Cup squad will travel to Chile of the Family Circle Cup, have contributed downsizing in the early part of 2010, March 4-6 for the first round of play. a significant amount of tennis equipment it kicked up again, now it’s a bit back and clothing to the program. > Pete Sampras will serve as the first down again, and is trying to find the spokesman for “Tennis Night In America,” a > Bud Collins has released a second edi- ‘new normal.’” joint promotional effort between the USTA and tion of his tennis encyclopedia and record In terms of participation, “taking StarGames Inc. The annual event includes book, “The Bud Collins History of Tennis.” advantage of the momentum [from youth registration events at facilities around the The 816-page book is $35.95 from New last year’s participation increase] is country and concludes with the BNP Paribas Chapter Press. hugely important,” said Muir.

10 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY November/December 2010 www.racquetsportsindustry.com INDUSTRYNEWS

PEOPLEWATCH Congratulations To the Following For Achieving MRT & CS Status • Andre Agassi has been nominated for president of the Americas for Prince Sports, induction into the International Tennis Hall leaving that company in June. New MRTs of Fame in the Recent Player Cat- Patrick Thompson Reston, Virginia egory. Joining Agassi on the • The International Tennis Hall of Fame & Chabil Dassoruth Victoria BC Candada ballot in the Master Player Museum has elected 11 new members to James Gober Birmingham, Alabama Dimitar Yazadzhiev Santa Baraba, California Category are Thelma Coyne the board of directors: John P. Arnhold, Long and Christine Truman Mark D. Ein, Renae A.R. Evangelista, James New CSs Janes. Nominated in the Con- L. Farley, Philip H. Geier Jr., Madam Sun Jin- Edward Visaya Honolulu HI tributor Category are Mike fang, Katherine Burton Jones, Geoff Pol- Alfonso Lafont Pedraza Santander Columbia Davies and Fern Lee "Peachy" Kellmeyer. lard, Will Prest, Michelle Sicard, and Ken Eric Dillon Westlake, Ohio Solomon. Brenton James Peachtree, Georgia • South Carolina high school student Tony Ly, age 17, will play in a doubles match with Andre Agassi and Stefanie Graf after winning Head’s Star Series competition. The match will take place in Las Vegas in November, with Tony bring- ing along his brother Brian, age 18, to play on his team. Ly won the competition, which highlights Head’s YouTek Star Series.

• The No. 1 player in Japan, Kei Nishikori, has signed a multi-year contract to con- tinue with his longtime racquet sponsor, Wilson Racquet Sports. Nishikori has been a member of the Wilson Team since he was 10 years old. Currently ranked No. 56, he plays with a Wilson Tour BLX racquet.

• Former New York City mayor and cur- rent USTA board member David Dinkins was honored during the US Open with the USTA’s 2010 President’s Award for extraordinary service to the sport. Dinkins has served six consecutive two-year terms as a USTA Director at Large and leaves the board after this year.

• Dan Santorum, CEO of the Professional Tennis Registry, received the International Tennis Federation’s Service to the Game Award at the ITF’s meet- ing in Washington, D.C., in August. Santorum was nominated by the USTA and received the recogni- tion for his outstanding con- tribution to tennis teaching, both nationally and internationally.

• John Embree is taking on the consult- ing role of director of the Intercollegiate Tennis Association’s Endowment Fund Campaign. Embree most recently was the www.racquetsportsindustry.com November/December 2010 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 11 NOV/DEC 2010 Ron Woods Named USPTA Pro of the Year Randy Snow Inducted on Woods of Corpus Christi, Texas, Into USPTA Hall of Fame

NEWS Rwho has been involved in tennis for uring the USPTA’s World Conference, more than 45 years and has been a DRandy Snow was posthumously induct- USPTA member for 44 years, received ed into the USPTA Hall of Fame. Snow, who the USPTA’s Alex Gordon Award for Pro- was from Terrell, Texas, was a USPTA Pro 1 for 17 years and fessional of the Year. Woods was recog- joins only 10 others as grand inductees in the Hall of Fame. nized during the USPTA’s annual World INDUSTRY Snow, who was paralyzed from the waist down after a Conference on Tennis, Sept. 27 to Oct. farming accident when he was 16, became the first Para- 2 at La Quinta Resort and Club in La lympic athlete inducted into the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame Quinta, Calif. in 2004. He was a silver medalist in the 1,500-meter wheel- The professional of the year is chair race held at the 1984 judged in seven areas, including: contri- Summer Olympics. He won butions to USPTA and USTA; as a teaching professional, player and gold medals in both singles coach; education, research and publications; organizational affili- and doubles with Brad Parks at ations; and contributions to the community. the 1992 Summer Paralympics Woods, who also was honored for achieving Master Profes- in Barcelona. He was the only sional status and received the individual award for Tennis Across athlete to win medals at the America, is a past president of the USPTA and serves on the Paralympic Games in three dif- USPTA Executive Committee. He is a past president of USPTA’s ferent sports—tennis, basket- Texas Division and has served as chairman of various USPTA com- ball, and track and field. He mittees. In addition, he has also been highly involved with the also won the U.S. Open Wheelchair singles titles 10 times USTA Texas section and has served as chair of both the adult and doubles six times. league and adult senior competition committees. At the USTA Snow also excelled in the corporate world, devoting 20 national level, he has served on the Davis Cup, adult league and years to a highly successful medical supp ly company and innovations committees. also worked as a recreational therapist. In 1999 he started his own company, called No XQs (No Excuses), and traveled Four Earn USPTA Master Pro Status extensively as a motivational speaker. He was considered a pioneer and an innovator in the our members of the USPTA were recognized for achieving wheelchair industry and helped improve the designs for ath- FMaster Professional status, the organization’s highest profes- letes and improve the lives of many disabled people. He sional rating: devoted his time to giving back and sharing the game of ten- Rosie Bareis of Tracy, Calif., director of tennis at The Club at Q nis. He died last fall in El Salvador, where he was volunteer- the Claremont Hotel, Club and Spa in Berkeley, Calif. ing at a wheelchair t ennis camp. Q Randy Mattingley of Kingwood, Texas, director of tennis at the Clubs of Kingwood Q Brett Schwartz of Mandeville, La., director of tennis at the USPTA Honors Leaders in Tennis New Orleans Lawn Tennis Club he USPTA recognized those who stand out in all aspects of Q Ron Woods of C orpus Christi, Texas, retired director of tennis Tthe tenn is industry during its annual national awards at the Corpus Christi Country Club breakfast in September. The four join an elite group as only about 1 percent of Q USTA/USPTA Community Service Award: Paul Garron of USPTA’s more than 15,000 members worldwide have achieved Auburn, Calif., director of tennis at Rollingwood Racquet the Master Professional designation. Members must hold Club in Fair Oaks, Calif. USPTA’s highest certification rating (Professional 1) for more Q USPTA Industry Excellence Award: Emily Schaefer of Hous- than 10 years before becoming eligible for Master Pro status. ton, director of tennis for Houston Parks and Recreation. Q Lessons for Life Individual Award: Ken Sumrow of Plano, Texas. Cutler Receives Top USPTA Ed Credits Q Facility Manager of the Year Award: Rod Heckelman of San lan Cutler from Whittier, Calif., was the top credit earner in Rafael, Calif., general manager at Mount Tam Racquet Club Athe USPTA’s 2009 Career Development Program, earning in Larkspur, Calif. 132 education credits. Cutler, a USPTA Master Professional, is a Q Touring Coach of the Year: Dave Licker, Frisco, Texas specialist in Competitive Player Development and Computer Q College Coach of the Year: Kendell Hale, Kansas City, Mo. Technology and has completed levels I and II of the USTA sport Q High School Coach of the Year: Vance VanPelt II, Hutchin- science certification. He is the founder of Playtennisforlife.info son, Kan. and has more than 25 years of teaching experience. Q George Bacso Tester of the Year: David T. Porter, Ed.D., Laie, Hawaii.

12 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY November/December 2010 www.racquetsportsindustry.com INDUSTRYNEWS New TennisIndustry.org to Serve As Central Portal for Industry he TIA has launched its newly Tredesigned website, TennisIndus- try.org, as a “one-stop portal” for all things relative to the tennis industry. The new website offers a fresh look that provides visitors with significant improvements to navigation and easier accessibility to additional tennis indus- try programs, marketplace news, research and initiatives. At www.TennisIndustry.org visitors can subscribe to the industry newsletter and newsfeed, access industry research reports, learn more about the tools and resources to help grow tennis business- es and attract more players and con- sumers, and learn how to get involved by staying up to date and engaged with key programs and services that benefit all sectors of the tennis industry. “Our goal for the new website is to provide a central hub for the industry to help everyone stay informed and engaged with what is happening in the industry,” says Jolyn de Boer, TIA execu- tive director. “It connects those in the industry to all facets of the tennis busi- ness and the game.” PBI Presents Awards eter Burwash International’s recent Pannual meeting at the Bio-Hotel Stan- glwirt in Tirol, Austria, brought 90 PBI pros together from around the world. Seminar and conference topics focused on person- al and professional development, ranging from coaching tour players and innovative teaching techniques to communication and program marketing. In addition, the following awards were presented: Q Professional of the Year: Kevin Connolly, tennis director, Rancho Las Palmas Resort, Rancho Mirage, Calif. Q Most Improved Professional: Fran Bon- mati, head pro, The American Club Hong Kong Q Rookie of the Year: Scott Teller, tennis director, Wyndham Rio Mar Beach Resort & Spa, Puerto Rico Q Site of the Year: Naples Grande Beach Resort, Naples, Fla.

www.racquetsportsindustry.com November/December 2010 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 13 NOV/DEC 2010

TennisConnect Goes Mobile Ashaway Introduces ow you can promote your tennis business and UltraKill 18 R-Ball String

NEWS Nservice your most tech-savvy customers by pub- Ashaway Racket Strings has introduced Ultra- lishing “mobile-specific” web pages that are simple to Kill 18, the latest in its new line of Zyex- create through TennisConnect and easy to view on smartphones. With TennisCon- based racquetball strings. Built on a new nect’s “MobileBuilder” component, tennis facilities and retailers can quickly gener- multifilament core, UltraKill 18 is designed to ate mobile web pages with key information about programs, news, directions, provide players at all levels with a thinner, calendar of events and more—information that is critical to your business—and all more playable string that provides both INDUSTRY scaled to be viewed on smaller mobile devices, such as an iPhone, Android or any power and control. other smartphone. Visit www.ashawayusa.com. MobileBuilder also can automatically create several “system-generated” pages, such as maps, weather, email and more. With the “contact us” feature, for instance, each function (email, phone) is automatically integrated with the smartphone. Uswers also can integrate social media sites into their mobile page. MobileBuilder, which is part of TennisConnect Components, is $8/month ($96/year) or $75/year with annual pre-payment. There is a one-time set up fee of $50 to establish your MobileBuilder database. Visit www.TennisCon-nect.com or contact Marty Mohar at 843-686-3036 ext. 227 or [email protected]. N.J. Club Offers ‘Teddy Tennis Academy’ ourtside Racquet Club in Lebanon, N.J., is the first “Teddy Tennis Academy” Cin the U.S. Teddy Tennis, developed in Britain, is for kids ages 3-1/2 to 5-1/2 and encourages them to play tennis by combining music, pictures and teddy bear stories. The program can be used as a “feeder system” to QuickStart Ten- nis. Visit www.teddytennis.com for more info.

14 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY November/December 2010 www.racquetsportsindustry.com

NOV/DEC 2010

TIA Advisory Panels Look At Facilities, Retailers, Technology

The TIA recently formed three advisory panels to help “For facilities and retailers, the first step is for the keep the TIA better informed with what tennis business- panels to identify issues, concerns and challenges they es and providers need to grow and prosper, while also are facing. Then panel members will work on ways to keeping industry businesses better in touch with the TIA help address these and current tools and resources offered. issues. The Tech Panel What issues are important “Each panel – facility, retailer and technology – is will identify ways that to you? Let us know at composed of individuals who have found success in their businesses can use [email protected]. field, and these three advisory groups will keep both the technology to stay com- TIA better in touch and tennis providers better informed, petitive in the marketplace.” The panels may add and which in turn will help make our industry stronger,” says rotate members as they develop and identify issues and TIA Executive Director Jolyn de Boer. projects.

TIA Facility Panel TIA Retailer Panel TIA Technology Panel The Facility Panel is composed of tennis facility Composed of tennis retail owners/managers, the The Tech Panel is the newest of the TIA owners or operators. Current members are panel’s current members are Brad Blume of Ten- advisory groups and currently consists of Rod Heckelman of Mount Tam Racquet Club, nis Express, Houston; Todd Goldman of Tennis Lance Andersen of the Longfellow Club, Larkspur, Calif.; Michael Mahoney of Midtown Life Pro Shop, Lutz, Fla.; Bruce Levine of Court- Wayland, Mass.; Robin Bateman of John Tennis Club, Chicago; and Mike Woody of side Racquet Club, Lebanon, N.J.; and David Drew Smith/Tattnall Tennis Centers, Midland Community Tennis Center, Midland, Schwartz of The Tennis & Golf Co., Royal Oak, Macon, Ga.; Billy Power of Texarkana Mich. Some of the initial issues and concerns Mich. Initial issues and concerns that the Retailer Country Club, Texarkana, Ark.; and Charlie the panel identified include: Panel mentioned include: Ruddy of TennisConnect, along with the Q The need to share information and commu- Q More and better education for retailers, con- TIA tech team of Matt Allen and Ryan nicate more, both among facility own- sumers, sales reps, etc. Melton. Initial goals for the panel include: ers/operators and with other industry Q Improving customer service that retailers and Q How to get current industry “players” to groups. retail shops provide. embrace new technology. Q Sharing “best practices” with all facilities. Q How to prevent tennis retail shops from closing, Q Effective means of distributing messag- Q More and better education for facility own- and the affect this has on grassroots tennis. ing regarding new technology and tools ers and their staffs. Q The changing nature of retail, and how and resources available for tennis Q An emphasis on customer service, to best to adapt to the changes, including internet providers. gain and retain members, customers and retailing. Q Determining the effectiveness and players. Q Concerns over manufacturer pricing and adver- usability of current technology tools and Q Whether programs and initiatives are as tising and how best they can support retailers. resources. effective as they can be for facilities, and Q A possible cooperative campaign geared Q Finding ways to bring the latest technol- whether they are being communicated toward consumers to support local tennis ogy to tennis providers at an affordable effectively. retailers. price so more players can be engaged.

FACILITY PANEL RETAILER PANEL TECHNOLOGY PANEL

Rod Michael Mike Brad Todd Bruce David Lance Robin Billy Charlie Heckel Mahoney Woody Blume Goldman Levine Schwartz Andersen Bateman Power Ruddy man

16 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY November/December 2010 Join the TIA . . . Increase Your Profits . . . Grow the Game . . . www.TennisIndustry.org

20102010 Tennis Tennis Industry Industry HallHall of of Fame Fame Igniting the Tennis Boom In many ways, Billie Jean King, the newest inductee into the Tennis Industry Hall of Fame, was the spark that created the tennis industry

as we know it. BYMARYHELENSPRECHER

he has won Grand Slams and racked up titles. She's Open and US Open. defied stereotypes, broken down barriers and through It wasn't enough just to play the game, though; King made Sthe formation of World TeamTennis, even reshaped the it better. She campaigned for equal prize money for men and way people enjoy the spectator aspect of the sport. Perhaps it women; her efforts helped make that goal a reality at the US shouldn't come as a surprise at all that Billie Jean King wants Open in 1973. She led efforts among players to support the to change the perception of even the learning experience in first women's professional tour, the Virginia Slims. (King was tennis. one of nine players who accepted $1 contracts from promot- “My mantra is to er Gladys Heldman, a move that led not only to the women's get rid of the word tour, but to the formation of the Women's Tennis Associa- ‘lesso n,’” King says. tion). “When a child signs Jeff Williams, group publisher of Tennis Magazine, who up for tennis, they introduced King at the TI Hall of Fame induction, character- should be put on a izes her as "the spark that caused a boom, a boom that gave team immediately. rise to the tennis industry as we know it today." The socialization One defining moment both for King and for women in process is so impor- sports came in 1973, when she beat Bobby Riggs in the tant. Children want to nationally televised Battle of the Sexes match. Her 6-4, 6-3, 6- be on a team with 3 win was a pivotal point for women's tennis. It was the same their friends. This is year she won her fifth Wimbledon singles title (as well as her how they learn lead- ninth doubles title and her third mixed-doubles title there)— ership roles.” but it was the match with Riggs that would cement her status Few players, male as an icon in the tennis world and in pop culture in general. It or female, have had was also the moment that would bring tennis into the public's the large-scale impact consciousness for good. of Billie Jean King, on Because of King, Williams adds, "We are all part of an or off the court, and industry that is bigger, an industry that is better, and an indus- none can claim to try that is stronger." have her continued influence. And as this year's inductee into She founded the Women's Tennis Association in 1973, the the Tennis Industry Hall of Fame, she was once again the Women's Sports Foundation and Women's Sports Magazine focus of the i ntense scrutiny and applause that has character- in 1974, and also in 1974, co-founded World TeamTennis, the ized her career. groundbreaking co-ed professional tennis league. She also King was honored at the Tennis Industry Association’s founded the World TeamTennis Recreational League, one of Tennis Forum, held in New York City Aug. 31 during the 2010 the most popular recreational tennis formats in the U.S. US Open. It was a time for the industry, the media and even King often mentions the social aspects of tennis, particu- King herself to reflect on her career and on her accomplish- larly the way it helps its youngest players learn to get along. It ments. mirrors her philosophy of life: “You hit one ball at a time and The world first became aware of Billie Jean King in the you learn the consequence of ‘hitting the ball’—how it makes 1960s when as a teenager, she began playing in Grand Slams. you adapt. Tennis teaches you to keep playing, keep going She won her first doubles title at Wimbledon at age 17, and and maintain optimism in life.” went o n to amass 39 Grand Slam singles, doubles and mixed It was that mentality that she brought to the formation of doubles titles, including a record 20 titles at Wimbledon (six WTT, notin g, "When we started World TeamTennis, it was times in singles, 14 times in doubles and mixed doubles). about the socialization.” Other Grand Slam wins included the French Open, Australian Her involvement with the sport continues today; she is a

18 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY November/December 2010 member of the board of directors of the Women's Sports King's significant contributions on the court, to the sport Foundation, and remains involved in the USTA, where she is itself, and to society were noted when in 2006, the USTA currently the honorary chairman of the Tennis in the Parks National Tennis Center, home of the US Open, was renamed Committee. the USTA Billie Her involvement with tennis on the Jean King National public level stems from her first experi- Tennis Center. The ence with the sport, which came about court on which when a friend in fifth grade asked her to generations of play. “If she hadn’t asked me, I wouldn’t players will set have started playing,” King says. She their own mile- continues to promote municipal tennis stones and break programs, saying, “Get out and play and their own barriers have fun.” now carries the Last year, King was awarded the name of one of the nation’s highest civilian honor, the Pres- first players to do idential Medal of Freedom, making her that. the first female athlete to be so honored. King is now the During the presen- fourth person to tation ceremony, be inducted into President Obama the Tennis Indus- said of King, "We try Hall of Fame, following Alan Schwartz in 2009 honor... what she and Dennis Van der Meer and Howard Head in did to broaden the 2008. Plaques of the inductees hang in the Inter- reach of the game, national Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, R.I. to change how She recently had double knee joint replace- women athletes ment, but has kept on playing tennis and has kept and women every- on enjoying the game. And she continues to advo- where view them- cate for youth programs, particularly at the begin- selves, and to give ner level. everyone—includ- “Anytime we can give the gift of tennis,” says ing my two daugh- King, “we give the gift of a lifetime to children.” ters—a chance to compete both on the court and in life." King continues to push barriers not just from the sidelines, but also outside of tennis. In 2007, she co-founded GreenSlam, an environmental initia- tive for the sports industry. She was named Global Mentor for Gender Equality by the United Nations Educational, Scientif- ic and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2008. She continues to be a leader in the fight for equality and recognition in the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered community, and has been honored by organizations includ- ing the Human Rights Campaign, GLAAD and the Lambda Legal Foundation. She currently serves on the board of the Elton John AIDS Foundation. Her honors and awards include the NCAA President's Ger- ald R. Ford Award (2009) and Major League Baseball's Bea- con of Change Award (2010). In 2010, she was appointed to the President's Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition.

November/December 2010 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 19 RACQUETS

JUNIORCLASSFramesJUNIORCLASS for young players are bringing in technology from adult racquets, and hope to promote brand loyalty early on. BYKENTOSWALD

hankfully, the days of a junior tennis racquet being an adult performance models that mirror the sticks of tennis heroes. stick with the handle sawed off are long gone. This isn’t to No doubt part of the pride is finding an answer for the desire of suggest that finding the right racquet for a younger player the serious tennis teen who is not ready to swing an adult racquet Ttoday is easy, but the search does come with the near-guarantee of but won't accept being part of child's play. Babolat USA Marketing finding a high-quality model. This is particularly true when talking Director Susan DiBiase describes the junior performance racquets about the performance racquet niche of the junior tennis market. of her company and others as, “[looking] like their favorite pro’s Technology allows for increasing nuance in how a racquet plays racquet, but more appropriate to their playing ability and strength.” and, increasingly, kids and their parents are demanding those There is certainly no shortage of appropriate, quality racquets choices—which they should. Hunter Hines, Dunlop’s eastern region to choose from for the serious teen. Or, as Parry puts it, “There is sales manager, recommends, “Parents and players should pick the no such thing as a 'bad' racquet/string combination, only a 'bad' most advanced racquet that the child is comfortable with. If a child choice for your own personal needs!” Probably the best advice any continues to play with a racquet that is not suited to their develop- shopper can receive is to not become overwhelmed by all the ment level, it can hamper their progress.” options. “Demo first, if at all possible,“ insists Pacific’s Global Player Ser- As Cory Springer, Wilson’s global business director for tennis vices Director Tom Parry, echoing Hines with the advice to “pur- racquets, says, “There is a high degree of expertise among floor chase what is best suited for the player’s actual ability, body, game, personnel. Those people are helping to match the player to the rac- style, etc.—as of today.” quet. The key thing [for juniors and their parents] is to find the rac- The current excitement is with reference to the sales potential quet that fits.” inherent in the USTA “QuickStart” and ITF “Play and Stay” initia- Recognizing the business imperative to maximize lifetime cus- tives—the change of rules for the under-10 players and need for tomer value, manufacturers are bringing increasing attention and new, color-coded equipment that promotes the game in a much focus on enticing players who will shortly be making adult deci- more child-friendly manner. However, when the discussion sions and spending their own money on tennis equipment. Since moves from that niche of the junior market, you can’t help but racquets are most often the most expensive part of the game, there hear the pride in the product as manufacturers discuss how they is serious competition among manufacturers to offer the best have introduced tour-level technologies in shorter, lighter junior choice for a market just about ready to bloom. Q

BABOLAT DUNLOP Given that one of the key drivers of young Dunlop, whose marketing efforts are desire is hero worship, it is difficult to be expanding online with Dunlop- in a better place than Babolat, whose buzz.com and various mobile apps to team includes 2010 US Open champs “remind” everyone of the historic Rafael Nadal (playing with an AeroPro legacy they build their new products Drive) and Kim Clijsters (who hits with on, has introduced the HM6 carbon- an AeroPure Drive). Two new racquets framed Biomimetic 300 26” (95 sq. added to the performance line that has in., 26 in., 9.7 oz. strung) modeled on found such favor with young hitters in Fernando Verdasco‘s racquet as a the relatively few years since Babolat complement to its new adult line. entered the racquet market are the Aero- Adding to the racquet’s allure is a Pro Drive Junior (100 sq. in. head, 26 in., textured skin, a feature the Dunlop 8.6 oz. unstrung), featuring the same Pure Drive says is not just cosmetic, but Biomimetic technology as played with by Nadal Roddick reduces drag in a way that can 300 Junior and Caroline Wozniacki, and Pure be measured by the ear when Drive Roddick Junior (100 sq. in., listening to this racquet swing 26 in., 8.8 oz. unstrung). compared to other frames.

20 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY November/December 2010 www.racquetsportsindustry.com GAMMA HEAD The next big thing from Gamma regarding In Head’s line of racquets offering a choice racquets will be the development of its for all swing types and playing styles are line to use with 10-and-under tennis. two designed specifically for the junior Building the bridge between that line of performance crowd. The YouTek Speed junior racquets and its adult perfor- Jr. (102 sq. in., 26-1/5 in., 9.2 oz. strung) mance frames is the new 300X Tour is a shorter, lighter version of the rac- Junior (95 sq. in., 26 in., 8.8 oz. strung) quet Novak Djokovic uses with the with a “titanal” composite frame and patented d30 technology and Teflon the same technology as Gamma’s Tour grommets. Another option is the Micro- 300x and 340 Team frames. gel Prestige Junior 26+, with its micro- gel/graphite frame (102 sq. in., 26-1/4 in., 9.5 oz. strung). 300X Microgel Tour Junior Prestige Junior

PACIFIC PRINCE Pacific, which recently incorporated Rather than refer to a junior perfor- Tecnifibre racquet technology as a mance line, Prince highlights its complement to its string sales, is “reduced length performance mod- making a big push in the junior rac- els.” Among the racquets recom- quet market. Racquets designed for mended for top-flight juniors are the the junior on the brink of an adult Exo3 Graphite 26+ (100 sq. in., 26- tour model are the BasaltX frames 1/2 in., 8.8 oz. unstrung); the Exo3 and the X Force Team 1.45 (98 sq. Rebel 26 (95 sq. in., 26 in., 7.9 oz. in., 27 in., 8.7 oz. strung) and Finesse unstrung) modeled after the racquet Team 1.55 (102. sq. in., 26-1/2 in., 8 Gael Monfils plays with; and two oz. strung), which also is a featured new racquets, both using Prince’s player in some foreign markets for X Force O3 technology: the O3 Hybrid Shara- O3 Hybrid adult women looking for a racquet Team pova 26+ (100 sq. in., 26 in., 7.8 Sharapova that’s easier to maneuver. oz. unstrung) and the O3 Hybrid 26+ Ignite 26+ (100 sq. in., 26-1/4 in., 7.8 oz. unstrung).

VOLKL WILSON Volkl weighs in with its carbon/fiberglass Like the other manufacturers, Wilson has been framed Volkl Power Bridge 10 (98 sq. looking at the needs of younger players in., 26.8 in., 9 oz. unstrung) and Volkl more carefully and aligning their junior Power Bridge 9 (102 sq. in., 26 in., models with those played by popular tour- 8.6 oz. unstrung). Once again, the ing pros. Their current performance mod- technologies, dampening system and els, both using the tour BLX technology frame construction mirror the tour with basalt fibers enhancing the frames, versions, but the heads are a touch are the Pro 26 BLX (100 sq. in., 26 in., 8.8 lighter and the racquets a tad shorter oz. strung) and Six.One 26 BLX (100 sq. and more maneuverable. in., 26 in., 8.9 oz. strung), a lighter, Power shorter version of Roger Federer’s stick. Six.One Bridge 9 26 BLX

www.racquetsportsindustry.com November/December 2010 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 21 RACQUETSPORTS THEARGENTINETHEARGENTINE SPORTOF‘PADEL’SPORTOF‘PADEL’

JUMPSTOTHEU.S.BYROGERCOXJUMPSTOTHEU.S.

ntil a year ago, the popular Latin racquet sport called double-faulting. But most of all, because it’s doubles and you’re “padel” was virtually unknown in the U.S. outside private very close together, it’s easier to talk, so it’s very social.” clubs, the odd school and a few homes. In July 2009, how- A former tennis touring pro, May himself was introduced to Uever, two public facilities opened 3 miles apart in Miami, both start- padel in the early 1990s by his strength coach. “I saw some ed by former professional players from Argentina. videos and got the bug,” he says. A few months later he became “I knew the Argentine community in Miami was quite large and part of a U.S. team competing against Canada and Mexico at the would enjoy the game,” says Gustavo Roque, who launched Miami Tri-National Cup in Acapulco. Padel (www.miamipadel.com) after installing a padel court out- At the end of that tournament, what is now the USPA bought doors atop an existing tennis court at the Ives Estates Tennis Cen- that tournament court and had it shipped back to the U.S., setting ter. Coincidentally, only days earlier the husband and wife team of it up at the private Houstonian Club in Houston and putting on an Adrian Beltramino and Natalia De Biasi had opened the doors of exhibition to drum up interest. May has since became the club’s the AB Sport Club (www.absportclub.com), a 20,000-square-foot racquet sports director and has focused on introducing club indoor facility with two padel members and Houstonian Hotel courts, an indoor soccer field, snack guests to the sport, as well as on bar, pro shop and outdoor terrace. developing a U.S. team for inter- Within months, both clubs had national competition and advising developed such a large following entrepreneurs and clubs about that each needed to add an addi- padel. tional court to keep up with The sport is hugely popular in demand. Mexico, Spain and Argentina, all Padel originated in Mexico in of which have professional tours, the late 1960s. Combining ele- and is spreading through Europe ments of tennis, racquetball and and beyond. In Argentina, in fact, squash, it’s played on a 10-by-20- it’s second only to soccer in the meter rectangular court with a net For more information about number of participants. Yet here across the middle, 3-meter-high padel, see the USPA website in the U.S., it’s been slow to catch at www.usapadel.com. walls on all four sides (with a 1- on, with some 4,500 to 5,500 par- meter extension atop the back ticipants compared, to an estimat- walls), no ceiling and a surface that is often, though not universal- ed 4.5 million amateur players in Argentina. ly, artificial grass. The back wall and part of the side walls are solid “For padel to grow we need more facilities like AB Sport Club and frequently made of glass for better spectator viewing; the where people can afford to go without having to become a mem- remainder of the walls are wire-mesh panels. ber,” May says. The USPA is caught in a classic dilemma: How do Played only as doubles, it uses the same scoring system and you get people interested in a sport they’ve never heard of? To balls as tennis but requires a special 18-inch racquet with a solid, increase awareness, the association hopes to find a sponsor so slightly oblong head whose surface is smooth and has numerous the U.S. can host the 2012 World Padel Championships (May, holes. Players must serve underhand and that coupled with the Roque and Beltramino will be part of the U.S. team for the 2010 smaller footprint and option of playing balls off the sides or back championships in November in Cancun). walls leads to extended points and long rallies. Meanwhile, May is doing all he can at a grassroots level to “New players can pick up the sport quickly,” says U.S. Padel spur new padel court construction. “I get calls from people want- Association (USPA) President Mike May. “Using a short racquet ing to invest in padel facilities, so I give them my numbers, I give makes the ball easier to control and the ball doesn’t have the veloc- them my statistics, sources to buy a court. The model is you get ity of one coming off a tennis racquet’s strings. And with under- at least two courts and make it a social environment, you’ll have hand serves, the frustration level is cut in half because you’re not a winner.” Q

22 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY November/December 2010 www.racquetsportsindustry.com

SPECIALREPORT:STATEOFTHEINDUSTRY

UNDERCONSTRUCTIONUNDERCONSTRUCTIONCourt builders have been hit hard by the slump in the economy. Many remain cautious, unsure of whether the rollercoaster ride is still heading downward, or will soon start the slow climb

out of the hole. BYMARYHELENSPRECHER Additional reporting by Peter Francesconi

here's been no doubt that the economy is playing a tough game Tennis Ltd. in Houston. "These were for projects that in the past, with all aspects of the tennis industry. A financially tenuous tennis-court builders would exclusively have been bidding on. environment is wreaking havoc on membership numbers, les- That's been a huge shift and it's certainly that way today. Even Tson enrollment and equipment and apparel sales. Retailers, man- multi-million-dollar general contractors are bidding on these ufacturers, teaching pros and facility owners have all sounded off tennis-court projects. Before, they never would have bothered on their worries, and also on the strategies they're using in order with them." to meet the next shot that comes over the net to challenge them. While normally, competition is the sign of a healthy market- The impact is huge for place, this economy has created conditions that are far from This is the seventh in a series of articles about tennis-court builders as well. normal. The problem with the increasing number of bidders at the tennis industry's changing landscape. That shouldn't come as any the table, say tennis-court contractors, is that few of those bid- Future topics will deal with participation, day- to-day conditions affecting teaching pros and surprise; home and commer- ders actually understand the sport of tennis, and fewer still more. We'd like to hear your comments and cial building and buying, and know how to build a court correctly. (See “Finding the Right concerns too. E-mail them to the market for those in the Builder” on page 26 for insights on how to pick a skilled court [email protected]. Please put “state of the business of remodeling, has builder/repair professional.) industry” in the subject line. been anemic at best. It only The wrong decision comes back to haunt the facility owner, stands to reason that the ten- says George Todd of Welch Tennis Courts Inc. in Sun City, Fla. nis-court construction and rehab industry would be affected by the "I’m seeing people make some fairly good-sized mistakes from same external factors. And while many tennis courts can be less the standpoint of design. It’s going to be hard for the owner to expensive to build, operate and insure than some other recre- come up with the budget twice: once to get the project built and ational facilities (such as swimming pools), they do represent a sig- once to get someone to fix nificant investment, something many buyers have put on hold for all the things that are wrong the time being. with it." ‘We suddenly started As the USTA’s Director of seeing so many more THESUDDENDROP Community Tennis Develop- Tennis-court construction professionals (those whose companies ment, Virgil Christian con- bidders on tennis- market themselves strictly as court and athletic facility specialists, stantly lobbies for the use of not those who are general contractors for many different types of tennis-court contractors to court projects than projects) have been hit hard. Most say the slide actually started at callers who ask for advice on ever before," says least two years ago. a construction or rehab pro- "With us, everything hit around mid-2008, and it was a very ject. The USTA's Facility Steve Wright. ‘Before, clearly defined line," says David Marsden of Boston Tennis Court Assistance program includes Construction Co. Inc. in Hanover, Mass. "At the beginning of '08, advocacy, technical support [some of these we had enough business to know we had a good year ahead of us. and financial assistance, and bidders] never would Then suddenly, in the second half, business just dropped off the the staff has been busy lately table. I told (my business partner, Bruce Mahler), ‘I think we'd bet- with calls and e-mails. have bothered.’ ter get ready for a crummy 2009.’” "At one point in the dia- "For us, it was like someone turned a switch off," notes Kevin logue, we always tell people Healion of Century Tennis in Deer Park, N.Y. "We just went dead." that they should get professional involvement," says Christian. Many company owners, who had become accustomed to a cer- "We try to tell them, 'You’re going to lose a lot more than you’re tain workflow and pace, scrambled to find jobs. Trouble was, they saving.' I must have this conversation four times a week. We weren't alone. also try to get them to get a local architect or engineer to guide "We suddenly started seeing so many more bidders on tennis- the process. We want to see a nice facility built, and our stan- court projects than ever before," says Steve Wright of Trans Texas dards are high. Tennis courts are not parking lots."

www.racquetsportsindustry.com November/December 2010 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 25 SPECIALREPORT:STATEOFTHEINDUSTRY increase, people don't want to spend yet. They're just hanging in THEQUICKFIX there, doing the basics. Folks with clay courts are doing just enough These days, many players will have their current racquet restrung to maintain them." rather than buying a new one. Owners and managers of tennis courts Brogan says contractors are finding that owners have scaled down are taking a similar route. Mark Brogan, who owns Pro-Sport Tennis their plans for tennis facilities; this too cuts into the builder's bottom in Devon, Pa., serves as Tennis Division President of the American line. "In the private sector, we're seeing that projects are moving, but Sports Builders Association (ASBA). From talking to others in the court people are cutting back to the bare minimum. They're not going with construction industry, he has lights, they're not going with the cushioned surfaces. They’re getting ‘In the private sector, noticed a distinct trend among rid of the fluff." consumers toward what Art Tucker of Andover, Massachusetts-based Plexipave Div. of Cal- we're seeing that becomes—literally and figurative- ifornia Products has noticed a lack of investment in the peripherals of ly—a patch job. the court. During a visit to a major university not long ago, Tucker projects are moving, "If people have a pretty major stopped by the tennis facility. "I looked at the courts, and they were but people are cutting reconstruction project coming, mostly in good shape, but the fencing around them looked like some- they want to know what they can thing out of ‘Shutter Island’—it was worn out, the galvanization was back to the bare do so that they can put it off for a gone and the whole thing was really dangerous. But if you asked few years," says Brogan. someone there, they'd probably just say they couldn't squeeze any- minimum,’ says Mark Like many surfacing manufac- thing else out right now." Brogan. ‘They’re turers, Jeff Gearheart of SportMas- ter Sport Surfaces in Sandusky, MARKETSPECIALIZATION getting rid of the Ohio, has noticed "positive move- Tennis-court builders tend to specialize in certain markets. They ment in court repair and resurfac- range from public or municipal facilities (including courts for school fluff.’ ing, so it seems the economy is systems), to private clubs, to colleges/universities/private schools, to beginning to strengthen. New con- the individual or residential court market. struction is still slower than usual, though." According to Rick Burke of NGI, many builders who work in the What contractor Herb Osburn of Aylett, Va.-based Tennis Courts public and municipal market still have an active caseload because Inc. calls “a Band-Aid job” doesn't come close to being profitable for their projects are the result of bond money that has been in place for a company that normally resurfaces a particular asphalt court every several years. But even that, he notes, may be drying up soon. Those five to eight years. contractors, he adds, "are worried about next year." Some companies, however, profit from the Colleges and universities, as well as private current “repair, don't replace” trend. NGI Sports schools, are unique in terms of tennis-facility in Chattanooga, Tenn., and Armor Crack Repair FINDING THE RIGHT BUILDER construction and rehab. Many new construction Planning any new court construction System in Farmingdale, N.J., both make repair projects in educational institutions are the result or rehab work? Don't fall prey to an systems for cracked tennis courts, and both of fund drives and alumni and corporate dona- inexperienced contractor. report strong sales. Armor's contracting division, tions; therefore, much depends on each which does the actual repair work using Armor's • Require references and check for school's success with fund raising and develop- products, has also been busy. "In fact," notes tennis court -specific experience; ment—but these are areas that are presently Armor’s David Clapp, "the last two years, our find out if the company's previous suffering. At the same time, however, schools schedule was booked full by June. This may indi- court projects are holding up. need to remain competitive in order to attract cate that repair work is abundant." new enrollment, and state-of-the-art student • Find out if the company has a Certi- “The repair business is phenomenal,” adds wellness centers and athletic facilities can be fied Tennis Court Builder (CTCB) on Tom Hinding of RiteWay Crack Repair of West key to those efforts. It is, says John Graham of staff. Haven, Conn. “Our business has grown tremen- DecoTurf in Andover, Mass., a conundrum. dously. People are doing the minimal possible to • Check for membership in the Ameri- "We are somewhat confused as to how get by, asking us to get them by for two to five can Sports Builders Association (go school systems can continue to lay off teachers more years before they have to resurface.” to www.sportsbuilders.org and use and still find money to build or resurface tennis the search feature); ASBA also has courts," he notes. “We're not complaining THENO-FRILLSCOURT helpful publications and informa- about the work, but we just don't understand The need to cut expenses in new construction or tional resources. how it's happening." rehab of tennis courts has resulted in a new no- The residential court market has just about • Find out about the USTA's Facility frills approach (see “Spending Less on Court flat-lined, according to Osburn. "Our private Assistance program (advice, grants, Improvements” on page 27). Even maintenance residences are way off," he says. "People are answer to FAQs and more) by going is affected by the downturn. waiting to fix things until the court is well to www.usta.com/facilities/. In clubs with soft courts, owners and man- beyond easy repair." agers are simply trying to hold the line on costs, Fred Manchester, who operates Manchester says Randy Futty of Lee Tennis Court Products in Charlottesville, Va. Courts LLC in Lexington, S.C., says he has had good luck lately with Futty, ASBA's Supplier Division President, notes that from what he his maintenance business for local private clubs with soft courts. sees of the country-club market, "Until membership starts to However, he adds, when the recession first hit, "People put projects

26 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY November/December 2010 www.racquetsportsindustry.com on hold. I had projects that were supposed to happen, and they did- format, including supplying grants to facilities to help cover costs. n't. Some things that I had been doing as repeat business, like clubs Graham notes that his company has been designing line paint for with clay courts, the clubs elected to do their QST courts in colors that will not distract courts in-house or not at all. There was also a adults from their game, but will allow chil- definite drop in inquiries about new construc- SPENDING LESS ON dren to understand the court boundaries. tion." For Manchester, inquiry calls are starting COURT IMPROVEMENTS Tom Hinding, who also owns Hinding to come in again, but he remains cautious, Tennis participation may have climbed Tennis Courts of West Haven, Conn., says waiting to see if they pan out. to its highest level in decades in 2009, he’s realized a huge increase in business in but spending on courts and facilities is building and lining shorter courts for Quick- MATERIALSANDLABOR on the downswing. According to a TIA Start Tennis. “We’re pushing it hard—we Another essential contributor to the bottom survey of over 420 facilities: know it’s the future. And clubs are now see- line for tennis-court builders is the cost of ing the potential of QuickStart courts; it’s materials and the price of the fuel that gets • 20% of facilities planned for capital generating a lot of money for them. Now, those materials to the jobsite. Two years ago, improvements in 2009. people are actually calling us and saying they the cost of asphalt, which is petroleum-based, • Less than 50% of those improve- need to get QST courts installed, and asking was wildly volatile (as were the costs of gaso- ments will be made to tennis courts. what they have to do,” says Hinding. “I think line and diesel fuel), and was wreaking havoc within five years, if a club can fit it, you’ll see on contractors' estimates. Concrete also went • The remaining percentages include permanent QST courts at every club.” up in cost, as did rubber. While those prices equipment, interior building, exteri- He also has noticed that more senior play- are a bit more predictable now, they can still or building and landscaping (in ers are enjoying tennis on the shorter courts, throw a wrench into an estimate, according to descending amount of funding allo- too. “I go over to East Shore Park in New Fred Volpacchio of Hudson Design Build Group cated). Haven, which has four permanent 36-foot LLC in Peekskill, N.Y. courts, and I see more seniors playing than "There’s still a lot of volatility in that sector, juniors,” Hinding notes. In fact, the Interna- and for steel and other products," says Volpacchio. "Mostly for me, tional Tennis Federation is looking into rolling out a program for it's steel, which affects a lot of the different trades for materials. I adults using the shorter courts. haven’t seen that settle down yet." While organizers and those in the industry have been living and While all tennis-court contractors reported difficulty in attract- breathing it every day, says the USTA’s Christian, the message of ing new work and bidding against unqualified companies, virtually the ever-growing comeback of tennis is finally filtering through the none reported trouble finding and keeping workers. Many use fore- municipal market. What resonates most, he adds, is the notion that men and other lead workers who have held their positions for children are finding it easier to take up the game, since "there’s not years, or decades. a park director out there who doesn’t want kids playing." "We get the same foremen back year after year," says Marsden. Builders have praised the USTA's facility grants and its facility "We also get the same laborers coming back because our foremen advocacy and information pro- lure those guys back. We pay a fair amount of money in a short grams as being important first ‘The USTA is doing a season. Having the same people saves us a lot of headaches in steps in helping a limping con- training and quality." struction industry regain its foot- fantastic job on According to Wright, the recession has taken any difficulty out ing. Some say they're already of getting laborers on board. "For common labor, projects like optimistic (albeit cautious as promoting the game,’ moving stuff around and helping out the skilled guys, we can well). says John Graham. always get college kids, people who are out of work, etc. The only "We get the sales reports," problem there is that you just don't know how long they're plan- says Rob Righter of Nova Sports ‘We as an industry ning to stay with you." USA in Milford, Mass., "and we Only one contractor (who asked not to be identified) had a labor see that ball sales and racquet are really lucky to problem: "Finding someone with a valid driver's license." sales and clothing sales are grow- have a governing ing and we know that looks good NEWPLAYERS:NEWCOURTS? for our industry." body that is doing New-player initiatives, such as the USTA's 10-and-under tennis "I don't have that many big using the QuickStart play format and its focus on community ten- worries about the industry," says that; it's something nis, including its grant program, have created optimism among Lee Tennis’s Futty. "When you not a lot of sports builders, says John Graham. look at us compared to other "I think the USTA is doing a fantastic job on promoting the sports, we're doing a hell of a job. can say.’ game," he notes. "We as an industry are really lucky to have a gov- I think we need to keep doing erning body that is doing that; it's something not a lot of sports can what we're doing: growing the game, positively branding the say." game, and working toward a unified goal of bringing more players QuickStart Tennis focuses on shorter courts, more appropriate into the game for life and keeping the ones we have from leaving. for kids. And the USTA has been pushing hard for two years to You want to get them to the dance and have them dance all night have courts built and/or lined specifically for the 10-and-under play versus leaving after one song."

www.racquetsportsindustry.com November/December 2010 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 27 SPECIALREPORT:STATEOFTHEINDUSTRY Programs that increase the player base, say builders and suppli- Brogan notes that many contractors in the ASBA have started ers, can spell success for all segments of the industry. More lesson- thinking outside the box, or at least outside the tennis court, for other takers means more income for pros. More players means more income opportunities. "I’ve done that, and we’ve tried to educate our business for parks, clubs and other tennis facilities. More leagues members over the past few years on ways to diversify and on other means more court use, and it things they can do to expand their capabilities during the tough all adds up to a demand for times." Brogan says his own company has installed synthetic putting GOING GREEN Want to incorporate eco-friendly tech- more courts, more well- greens and tees for golf courses. Other ASBA members have built niques into your facility? Some tips appointed courts, and more playgrounds and facilities for basketball, bocce and shuffleboard, as from builders and manufacturers: courts that must be kept in well as dog parks with antimicrobial artificial turf. good shape. Most contractors were reluctant to discuss layoffs or downsizing • "Asphalt tennis courts are wonder- "A rising tide lifts all of their workforce, although some did say—off the record—they fully recyclable," says Art Tucker. boats," was the saying echoed either recently had made, or were currently being faced with, that "Hot mix is already using up to by no less than four builders. decision. 25% of recycled products." Green building and the use Like many tennis-court builders, Fred Kolkmann of Fred Kolk- • According to David Marsden, "Our of sustainable materials and mann Tennis and Sport Surfaces LLC in Grafton, Wis. admits to being company has taken the initiative on eco-friendly techniques are a worried about the lasting impact a few things, like using magnesium concern in most segments of of the recession on an industry in ‘It's going to take a chloride instead of calcium chloride the construction marketplace. which he has spent his life. "I on clay courts. Calcium chloride is a However, as tennis-court would say it's going to take a few few years to get back builders note, many initia- years to get back out," he notes. "I fairly corrosive salt; it'll corrode the out’ of the recession, net posts and damage plants." tives, such as the Leadership think it's going take some compa- in Energy & Environmental nies under, and it's going to hurt says Fred Kolkmann. • "We are always trying to recycle a Design (LEED) green building next year." lot of the playing lines on clay ten- certification system, apply to Some builders met the chal- ‘I think it's going take nis courts," says Kevin Healion. new construction, and those lenge head-on, creating their own projects have dropped off sig- strategies to deal with the some companies nificantly. But eco-friendly impending shortfalls. When Mars- under, and it's going construction remains a powerful marketing tool. den shared his gloomy forecast While many builders employ green techniques in varying degrees for 2009 with his business part- to hurt next year.’ (see “Going Green” above), others say the concept creates increased ner, he said, "Bruce came up with work when contractors are more pressed for time than ever before. a three-pronged attack. He said: They are hopeful that the process, essential as it is, can be stream- 'One, we're going to retain our key customers. Two, we're going to lined in years to come. pay our vendors on time. Three, we're going to try to get our employ- "More and more owners are having LEED documents, and we ees as close to the salaries of previous years as we can.' That was his have to fill those out to show we're complying with the sustainable plan, and that's what we did, and we succeeded and we survived. design items people are requesting," says Wright. "The paperwork Right now, I think that if we just plod along, this is going to be an OK involved is taking a great amount of time." year." After 35 years in the business of building tennis courts, says MEETINGTHECHALLENGE Osburn, there aren't very many surprises the economy has in store From the outset, the economic downturn caused builders to rethink for him any longer. "I say to people, 'Just ride the rollercoaster. Ride their strategies. Todd noted that Welch Tennis Courts has become it on down, get to the bottom and hopefully it has enough steam to fiercely competitive in its pricing. “But I would say the bigger change get back up.' I do remember setbacks in the late 1970s, early '80s, for us has been using a wider, broader area to find the jobs." but I don't remember whether they were as bad as this." At Century Tennis, says Healion, "Some of our men went on Opinions diverge as to whether that rollercoaster has hit bottom unemployment, but they do every year. They went on it a little early yet, whether it's still plummeting, or whether it's climbing back up. this year. We don't look for different work in the winter; we tried Nobody is a fan of thrill rides, though. snowplowing years ago, but we learned that it damages the equip- "It’s an exciting time, all right," says George Todd, "if you can ment that we're going to need in the spring." stand the excitement." Q

28 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY November/December 2010 www.racquetsportsindustry.com TipsReaders’ & Techniques Know-How in Action

STRING DESIGNATIONS a racquet, the articles speak to putting two your stringing travel String gauges have always frustrated me. pencils under a weight and then mounting kit (only 2 inches One manufacturer may call a 1.20 mm the racquet on those pencils ... and to then long), but the light is string “18 gauge” where another will use begin the pendulum swinging to determine brighter and whiter than the same designation for 1.10 mm, and it the amount of time required to swing that that of a traditional flashlight. The one I follows down the line to the thickest string. racquet 10 times. got is rechargeable, so I just plug it into There is no consistency in this measure- I did that a few times and decided to the cigarette lighter of my car to top off ment. For this reason, I never refer to string make something that would probably be the battery. I got mine at 12vspot- gauge in my database or on string labels, or more accurate and somewhat as a tool to light.com. in fact anywhere in the shop. I use only be used as needed. metric diameter. There can be no confusion 5 sets of Head FXP Power 17 to: using this measurement. Mathew Calendar, Greenacres, FL 5 sets of Babolat Revenge 16 to: Vince Chiarelli, MRT, Largo, FL

BOOMERANG SUBSTITUTE If you don’t have a boomerang tool and your machine doesn’t have a turntable lock, you can use a ½-inch dowel to maintain the 5 sets of Unique Big Hitter Blue 17 to: spacing of the cross strings when stringing Ralph Flohre, Virginia Beach, VA Prince O-Port, SpeedPort, and Exo3 frames. Simply position the dowel (or whatever BLACK STRING you have handy) against the inside of the BACKGROUND frame while pulling tension on the top half When stringing black strings it helps to of the crosses. put a piece of white paper in the tray of Editor’s note: This jig requires the use of an your machine as a background. This accurate scale, an accurate way of measur- makes it much easier to see what you’re ing from the butt cap of the racquet to the doing when weaving the crosses. “pivot string,” and a stopwatch. Use the 5 sets of Wilson K-Gut Pro 16 to: stopwatch to time how long it takes for the Gerry Bohn, Aspen, CO butt end of the racquet to complete one back-and-forth motion. You can then use your data to calculate the racquet’s swing- weight, although USRSA members can sim- ply plug the numbers into the on-line swingweight calculator in the Tools section of USRSA.com, which is much easier. Also, it is easier to be accurate timing the motion of the racquet if you can sight past the butt cap to a reference point on the floor. A full description of this method appears along Editor’s note: Now if we only had a tip to with the on-line swingweight calculator at make it easier to thread these black USRSA.com. strings into black grommets on dark-col- ored frames! 5 sets of Dunlop Comfort Synthetic 16 to: POCKET SPOTLIGHT —Greg Raven Q Gordie Lehman, Raleigh, NC Recently while stringing, I wanted to get a

better look at one of the grommet holes. Tips and Techniques submitted since 2000 by USRSA mem- Instead of using a “normal” flashlight, I bers, and appearing in this column, have all been gathered HOMEMADE into a single volume of the Stringer’s Digest—Racquet Ser- SWINGWEIGHT JIG used a new LED flashlight I had just vice Techniques which is a benefit of USRSA membership. In articles that reference making a setup to received. It was fabulous! Not only was it Submit tips to: Greg Raven, USRSA, 330 Main St., Vista, CA 92084; or email [email protected]. enable one to determine the swingweight of small enough to keep in the tool tray or in www.racquetsportsindustry.com November/December 2010 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 29 StringGenesis Playtest Typhoon 16L

Genesis Typhoon is a five-sided monofila- stiffness of 217 and a tension loss of 11.67 though its ment poly. It is made from a proprietary pounds, while Genesis Typhoon 16L has a tendency composite formula of high-tech polyester stiffness of 237 and a tension loss of 20.64 is that it resin combined with new performance- pounds. Typhoon added 15 grams to the wants to be straight, rather than coiled. Typhoon glides enhancing chemical additives and alu- weight of our unstrung frame. The string was tested for five weeks by nicely for a twisted, polygonal string, minum fibers. Genesis tells us that after 37 USRSA playtesters, with NTRP ratings whether you’re pulling the crosses across extruding Typhoon, it applies several heat- from 3.5 to 6.0. These are blind tests, with the mains, feeding it through an angled ing and cooling stages. Typhoon is then playtesters receiving unmarked strings in grommet, or cinching up a knot. additionally twisted axially for maximum unmarked packages. Average number of No playtester broke his sample during bite. A coating of Teflon increases the live- hours playtested was 27.8. stringing, 10 reported problems with coil liness and offers a nice crisp stringbed. Genesis Typhoon feels thin for a 16L memory, one reported problems tying Genesis Typhoon is recommended to the string, and there is no question about it hav- knots, and three reported friction burn. competitive and professional players who ing a polygonal cross-section — or about it demand the absolute highest levels power, being twisted during the manufacturing ON THE COURT spin, feel, and control. Over 30 colleges are process — when you see it. Typhoon has Our playtesters forgave any issues with now playing with Genesis string including 2- what might be called “coil memory,” even stringing Typhoon once they hit the court, time defending NCAA national champion ranking it 10th overall of the 147 strings USC, University of San Diego, Texas A & M, EASE OF STRINGING we’ve playtested for publication for Spin Portland State University, George Washing- (compared to other strings) Potential, and well above average for Dura- Number of testers who said it was: ton University, and many more. Genesis bility, Resistance to Movement, Tension much easier 0 strings are now being distributed through Retention, and Power. As a result, Genesis somewhat easier 2 many countries including USA, Mexico, about as easy 21 Typhoon’s overall average score was also Brazil, Argentina, Spain, Japan, South Korea, not quite as easy 10 well above average. Because Genesis recom- and Australia. Genesis believes that not nearly as easy 4 mends Typhoon for competitive and profes- Typhoon’s price/performance ratio is sional players, it shouldn't come as a unmatched in today's market. OVERALL PLAYABILITY surprise that playtesters with NTRPs of 4.5 (compared to string played most often) Typhoon is available in 16L (1.26 mm) in and above and/or playtesters who normally Number of testers who said it was: Battleship Gray and Twilight Blue. It is priced use polyester strings gave Typhoon higher much better 1 from $9.90 for sets of 40 feet, and $118.90 somewhat better 31 marks than the rest of the playtest team. for reels of 660 feet. For more information about as playable 13 or to order, contact Genesis at 888-750- not quite as playable 15 CONCLUSION 1011, or visit genesis-tennis.com. Be sure to not nearly as playable 5 When playtesting a poly, you expect the read the conclusion for more information playtest team to comment favorably on the OVERALL DURABILITY about getting a free set to try for yourself. string’s spin, resistance to movement, and (compared to other strings of similar gauge) durability. You don’t expect raves about the IN THE LAB Number of testers who said it was: feel and touch, yet that’s exactly what sev- We tested the 16L gauge Typhoon. The coil much better 5 eral of our playtesters did. With the publici- measured 40 feet. The diameter measured somewhat better 18 ty about poly strings these days, tennis 1.25-1.29 mm before stringing, and 1.22- about as durable 12 players of every age, shape, and description 1.24 mm after stringing. We recorded a not quite as durable 1 are considering trying them. According to stringbed stiffness of 73 RDC units immedi- not nearly as durable 1 our playtest team, Genesis Typhoon is one ately after stringing at 60 pounds in a Wilson RATING AVERAGES you could recommend even in cases where Pro Staff 6.1 95 (16 x 18 pattern) on a con- From 1 to 5 (best) there could be issues with arm sensitivity. stant-pull machine. Playability 3.2 Another one of Genesis Typhoon’s After 24 hours (no playing), stringbed Durability 4.2 strengths is its tension maintenance. In our stiffness measured 67 RDC units, represent- Power 3.5 24-hour stringbed test, it lost less tension ing a 8 percent tension loss. Our control Control 3.5 than our benchmark nylon string, and string, Prince Synthetic Gut Original Gold 16, Comfort 3.0 several of our playtesters praised this Touch/Feel 3.0 measured 78 RDC units immediately after characteristic. Spin Potential (10th best) 3.6 stringing and 71 RDC units after 24 hours, If you think that Genesis Typhoon might Holding Tension 3.5 representing a 9 percent tension loss. In lab Resistance to Movement 3.8 be for you, fill out the coupon to get a free testing, Prince Synthetic Gut Original has a set to try. —Greg Raven Q

30 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY November/December 2010 www.racquetsportsindustry.com TALK TETheS feelT isE outstanding.RS 4.5 male all- “ ” Genesis will FsendRE aE free PL setA YofT TyphoonEST S toT RtheI NfirstG 500 PR USRSAOGR membersAM who cut court player using Wilson K Six One (68 out (or copy) this coupon and send it to: Holes) strung at 55 pounds LO (Wilson Hol- low Core Pro 17) USRSA, Attn: Genesis String Offer, 330 Main Street, Vista, CA 92084 or fax to 760-536-1171, or email the info below to [email protected] This is a responsive string with an excel- Offer expires 15 November 2010 “lent feel. 5.0 male all-court player using Offer only available to USRSA members in the US. Prince EXO3” Black (port inserts) strung at 58 Name: pounds CP (Prince Premier LT 16) USRSA Member number: Phone: Email: The texture enhances bite. This string If you print your email clearly, we will notify you when your sample will be sent. “has some serious spin potential. 4.0 female all-court player using Prince” O3 Tour MS strung at 58 pounds CP (Tecnifi- the pack. 4.5 male all-court player using Wilson I’m not a big fan of polyester, but I really bre NRG2 16) ” nPro strung at 55 pounds LO (Wilson NXT 16) “like the spin potential of this string. 4.0 male baseliner with heavy spin using” Dunlop This is a great option for hard hitters. This string packs a little extra bite. Durability is 200G (Muscle Weave) strung at 65 pounds CP “No shortage of bite. 3.5 male all- excellent.“ 4.5 male all-court player using Wilson K (Prince Synthetic Gut w/Duraflex 17) court player using Pro” Kennex Graphite Blade strung” at 56 pounds LO (Luxilon Adrenaline 17) Acclaim strung at 57 pounds CP (Wilson This string lacks the 'wow' factor. 4.5 Natural Gut 17) This is an average poly which plays better after the “male all-court player using Wilson BLX” Pro “initial tension loss. Big hitters will enjoy the control. Open strung at 62 pounds LO (Wilson Sensa- This is is one of the best polyesters 5.0 male serve-and-volley player using Volkl DNX V1” tion 16) “I’ve tried. The shape separates it from MP strung at 42 pounds LO (Gamma Zo Tour 17) For the rest of the tester comments, visit www.racquetsportsindustry.com.

www.racquetsportsindustry.com November/December 2010 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 31 Your Serve On-the-Job Training A young professional says the experiences she gained from her PTM internships have helped guide her career in the tennis industry.

BYALLISONHALBERT

hat makes a Professional Ten- For my second internship, I worked in ed more toward the assistant tennis profes- nis Management Program Phoenix in the marketing department of sional role, with my biggest responsibility as unique? In the program, stu- Head/Penn Racquet Sports. I noticed quick- the Men’s Team Coordinator at an exclusive dents receive a business degree and are ly that the corporate environment is night country club in Orlando. I was able to plan Wable to choose between a concentration in and day compared to working at a club. events and clinics and run two men’s marketing or resort management. Students Part of the country club culture is recre- leagues. When running a men’s program, are able to participate in professional work- ational and informal; the corporate environ- persistence and follow-up is a key to suc- shops, network with industry leaders and ment was more serious. But it was cess, as many members have hectic work gain “real world” experience through definitely fulfilling. I was able to be a part of schedules. internships. All of this helps students have projects ranging from Chrysler National I was able to utilize my corporate mar- a better grasp of the whole tennis industry, Promotional Sweepstakes, trade shows, keting experience by promoting the men’s not just a niche, providing them with a promotional and sponsorship events as well team and marketing the events. The country competitive edge. as market research, which I loved. club I worked for had a small membership, I graduated from the PTM program at so it was vital that I took a proactive and cre- Ferris State University in 2007, and we ‘Internships help to assess ative approach to keep members involved. were required to complete two intern- My past internships prepared me for this ships prior to graduation. For many, those what skills are needed in with tangible job knowledge. internships provide valuable experience the real world, such as But there are some things internships and increase a graduate’s value in the cannot fully prepare you for, such as a marketplace. Nothing can compare to the interpersonal skills, changing economy, changes within the experience you gain from being thrown company, member issues, managing into the fire and dealing with issues on the persistence and proactive finances, co-workers and team involvement. job. Internships help to assess what skills approaches to handling While I was able to get a glimpse of these are needed in the real world, such as inter- and other challenging issues in my intern- personal skills, persistence and proactive problems.’ ships, in real life they come at you with a dif- approaches to handling problems. ferent, higher level of intensity. I know the When I was looking for internships, I After graduation, I gained even more best thing that will help me is time—time to knew I wanted to work both at an exclu- on-court experience at Saddlebrook Resort, continue to experience life’s challenges. sive club and in a corporate environment. I expanding my knowledge in a business But I learned that when times are tough, felt it was important to have diverse expe- environment, in which I completed a Mar- there are resources I can draw on: a sup- riences in the tennis industry. keting and Communications Internship with portive family, caring mentors, and as much My first internship was with the the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour. All these oppor- experience as I can glean from my previous Philadelphia Cricket Club, one of the old- tunities gave me the chance to learn more jobs and internships. All will help me grow est, most prestigious clubs on the East about myself and what direction in tennis as a person and as a professional. Q Coast. I gained experience both on court would be best for my skills and interests. teaching and off court by running USTA These experiences also made me under- Allison Halbert graduated from Ferris State University’s Profes- and club tournaments. In addition, I was stand that each company and organization sional Tennis Management Pro- able to be a part of the ITF Junior Grass has its own personality. When I finished my gram in 2007 with a business Court Championships, which leads to play- internship with the WTA, I had to ask degree and marketing concentra- ers competing in the Junior Wimbledon myself what environment and company is tion. She worked at the Isleworth Country event. Working seven days a week during best for me? I analyzed all my resources Club in Orlando, Fla., as an assistant tennis pro. Currently, she is a USPTA Pro 1 in Orlan- my summer in Philly was common; it that I collected throughout my internships do, looking to continue her education in a taught me a great deal about what it takes and college networking. master’s program. to be dedicated to what you do. Also living The first full-time position I took was as in a new city on my own and meeting new a pro shop attendee and assistant tennis We welcome your opinions. Please email comments to [email protected] or fax people was a growing-up experience. professional. As time went on, my role shift- them to 760-536-1171.

32 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY November/December 2010 www.racquetsportsindustry.com