Inside 2009 Usta League Year-End Ratings Usta Pacific Northwest
Volume XVIII / Number 4 WINTER 2009/10
TENNIS IN SCHOOLS TRANSCENDS BOUNDARIES ON COURT
INSIDE 2009 USTA LEAGUE YEAR-END RATINGS USTA PACIFIC NORTHWEST
Published four times/year by the United States Tennis Association Pacifi c Northwest 4840 SW Western Ave, Suite 300, Beaverton OR 97005-3430 Ph: 503/520-1877 Fax: 503/520-0133 email: [email protected] Web site: http://www.pnw.usta.com
Editor-in-Chief: Blair Th ompson Managing Editor: Hillary Moore Area Reporters: Alaska/Mona Yarnall; British Columbia/Lenka Moravcova; NW Wash/Lori Brillhart; SW Wash/Barbara Wyatt; E. Wash/Frank Cruz-Aedo; N. Oregon/ Glenn Good; S. Oregon/Gail Patton. Commu- nity Tennis Development: Ruth Turner, Valerie Wright, Mark Toppe, Becky Tallent, Gail Benzler, Adam Rogers, Terry Valdez. USTA Leagues: Sheila Banks. Junior Development: Jim Markin, Valerie Weaks. Fitness Files: Carl Petersen. Hot Shots: Lilly Higgins.
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Please notify the USTA at 1-800-990-8782 of change of address. Tennis Times cannot be forwarded. Deadline for 2010 issue No. 2: January 31, 2010. CALL (503) 520-1877 TO SUBSCRIBE TO TENNIS TIMES $10 per year (four issues); Send check/money order in U.S. Funds to Sectional Offi ce.
2 TENNIS TIMES WINTER 2009/10 www.pnw.usta.com FROM THE BASELINE By Bill Leong Executive Director features Volume XVIII Number 4 Winter 2009/10 Strategic plan in Tennis in schools transcends place to achieve boundaries on court our mission In this day and age, it is crucial to create a learning environment s we close out a successful year for tennis both where children feel safe, supported and encouraged to grow. nationally and regionally, it is important to look For the four individuals featured in this issue of Tennis Times, A forward to 2010 and review the principles that 16 tennis is a part of that formula. Tennis is the ideal sport to help guide the USTA Pacifi c Northwest (USTA/PNW) staff achieve the health and wellness goals of school programming, and volunteers. Th e USTA/PNW Board of Directors have diligently worked on updating the strategic plan and to help kids learn not only a skill but self-confi dence, in 2009 to provide long-term focused direction to sportsmanship and the habits of an energetic, healthy lifestyle. achieve our mission which is “to foster the growth of Please turn to page 16 to read more. tennis in the Pacifi c Northwest.” In addition to our Mission Statement, the USTA Pacifi c Northwest has established a set of Core Values departments U.S. tennis participation tops that serve as a compass for our organization and Stra- 4 From the Prez 4 tegic Priorities that provide a guide for both fi nancial by Gwen Ramras 30 million and human resource allocation. We have also set goals 4 Net Notes The Tennis Industry Association (TIA) and USTA have announced that tennis that are aligned with our Core Values and Strategic Pri- 5 Area Reports participation in the United States topped 30 million players for the first time in more orities. Details for all three categories are listed below. 8 Community Tennis than two decades. With 30.1 million people hitting the courts, tennis participation Core Values Development has grown 12 percent since 2008 and climbed 25 percent since 2003. For more on Leadership 10 Junior Development this good news, please turn to page 4. Integrity by Valerie Weaks Inclusiveness 10 Hot Shots Excellence by Lilly Higgins Teamwork 11 Pro Update - PNW 2009 USTA League Accountability Players on Tour 18 11 College Courts Year-end Ratings Strategic Priorities 12 Health+Fitness Files The numbers are in! Alphabetical listings of Resource Development (Funding and Delivery by Carl Petersen the men’s and women’s 2009 USTA League Infrastructure) 13 From the Chair Adult and Youth Play Opportunities Year-end Ratings have been published and by Ira Moss Community Development they begin on page 19. While you’re reviewing 18 Let’s Talk Leagues Diversity and Inclusion by Sheila Banks your rating, be sure to check out page 18 to Membership Growth see how our section’s teams fared at the 2009 31 Tournament Schedule Advocacy USTA League National Championships. Goals Promote QuickStart Tennis format for youth to increase participation and maximize court space. FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Advocate and provide seed grants for tennis communities to renovate and build tennis courts. Develop and implement programs and activi- ties with focus on youth and team-based play Let’s work hard at play thisFROM season THE EDITOR through QuickStart format. ometimes I think we forget that the operative running through them, we slipped, splashed and Explore new funding sources to generate rev- word in our sport is “play”. I see the lack of “play” laughed our way through our swamp of a court. Th e enues to carry out the USTA/PNW mission. on the courts all around me and oft en on the few minutes had quickly turned into over an hour Promote the benefi ts of tennis and communicate S court I’m on. Even sometimes when just hitting with and into one of my most unique and enjoyable tennis to the public information regarding the USTA’s and USTA/PNW’s programs, events and activi- a friend for fun, I frequently forget that I should be experiences in recent memory. ties. By Blair “playing”, not “working” or “stressing” tennis. It reminded me of why I started playing tennis as And while the fi rst step in solving a problem is a young teenage kid. Th e main reason was because it Promote team-based USTA programs and qual- Thompson ity tournaments to provide competitive play op- admitting you have one, it took a cross-country trip was fun (it also helped that my best friend played – portunities to increase and retain membership. last month for a USTA training in “sunny” Florida the fact that he knew a couple of cute girls we could Build and improve delivery infrastructure to help me remember just how much fun it is to play play mixed with didn’t hurt either – he was a smooth through evaluation, recruitment and training. tennis for fun. operator even back then). Make Diversity and Inclusion an embedded part On a warm, humid night aft er a long day of meet- But most importantly, we were kids playing a of the USTA/PNW culture. ings, a co-worker convinced me to venture outdoors game in those days. Something we adults need to to a rain-soaked clay court that was actually a mix of remember, more than ever nowadays. Having grown- Provide the tennis community educational, technical and other tennis resource information. clay, mud and clay/mud puddles. As we looked at our up responsibilities doesn’t mean that we can’t have court, we wondered if it was even playable but decided childlike joys. Manage the assets of the USTA/PNW by estab- lishing funding, budget, investment and fi nance we should at least give it a try for a few minutes since Especially when we’re “playing” the game of tennis. strategies. we had made the eff ort to get our gear and trek to the Better “players” will make it more fun for all of us. So Help the USTA/PNW players reach their tennis facility. And as we walked on to our court, I work on those “playing” skills as hard as that back- maximum playing potential through training had no idea of what an enjoyable and enlightening hand volley and topspin lob. Because in these diffi cult programs and competitive play opportunities. experience I was about to have. times we live in, we could all use a little more enjoy- Partner and collaborate with community orga- Aft er tiptoeing through some early rallies, we ment and amusement on the court (and off ). Keep nizations to impact signifi cant and sustainable began playing what I dubbed the “Mud Tennis Open” that in mind along with my sincere wishes for peace, tennis participation. (exclusively broadcast on ESPN 8 – Th e Ocho). With health, laughter and lots of love (hopefully 40-love) Elevate the visibility of tennis through technol- balls skidding through puddles and the two of us as you and yours celebrate this holiday season! ogy, events, public and media relations.
www.pnw.usta.com WINTER 2009/10 TENNIS TIMES 3 FROM THE PREZ By Gwen Ramras
Thanks for being a USTA member and giving the gift of tennis
is the season to give thanks and we would like to say THANK I would also like to say thanks to our staff at the USTA Pacific Northwest YOU to each and every one of you for your membership in the (USTA/PNW). When you pose questions or have a need, they are there. We ‘T USTA! have a terrific group of talented people who love the game and you can see Not only do you enjoy benefits such as TENNIS magazine or SMASH many of their happy faces next to their columns in Tennis Times. They are magazine for juniors and have the opportunity to participate in the many led by our Executive Director, Bill Leong. Bill works diligently to maximize tennis programs we offer such as USTA League and Jr. Team Tennis but our resources and provide the leadership for our USTA/PNW crew. you support the sport in communities throughout Oregon, Washington, On behalf of your Board of Directors from all across our section, Ernie Idaho, British Columbia and Alaska. A portion of every single USTA Hartzog (Portland), Ron Tan (Spokane, Wash.), Tony Menke (Yakima, membership comes back to our Pacific Northwest Section to help us build Wash.), Richard Snyder (Gig Harbor, Wash.), Mike Temple (Portland), and offer more tennis in our area. Mike Naumes (Medford, Ore.), Karen Dunlop (Seattle), Peter Jackson Did you know there are one, three and five year USTA memberships (Vancouver, British Columbia) and Allen Clendaniel (Anchorage, Alaska), available? The longer the membership period, the more money you save. we send warm wishes for Happy Holidays to you and yours. If you join for five years, the fifth year is free! It’s easy to see all the special And if you are lucky enough to receive the gift of a new racquet for the USTA membership offers by going to www.pnw.usta.com and clicking on holidays, please consider donating your old one to your local Community Membership. Give the gift of membership and help introduce tennis to Tennis Association or neighborhood program. It will truly be a gift that your friends and family. keeps on giving.
NET NOTES
mid 90s and this is the result of a consistent and sustained eff ort that is now paying dividends,” said TIA President Jon Muir. “Our ongoing challenge is to continue to build our frequent player base, the economic lifeline for the sport.” Th e TIA/USTA survey results include: Total participation broke the 30 million mark in 2009 (a 12 percent increase to 30.1 million as compared to 26.9 million in 2008). New players reached 7.1 million (up 19.5 percent from 5.9 million in 2008). Regular players, those playing 4 to 20 times per year, increased 26 percent to 14.8 million players in 2009. Participation in 2009 is up in every major ethnic group but especially among African Ameri- cans (+19 percent) and Hispanics (+32 percent). Age groups comprising the greatest percentage of players are: 12-17 years at 20.5 percent of the total (more than 6 million players). 18-24 years at 18.4 percent of the total (more than 5.5 million players). 6-11 years at 16.25 percent of the total (4.9 million players). U.S. tennis participation tops 30 million for Tennis is doing a better job at retention with continuing players up 6.3 percent to 16 million. fi rst time in two decades Former players rejoining the game is up for the third year in a row with nearly 7 he Tennis Industry Association (TIA) and USTA have announced that tennis participa- million coming back to tennis. T tion in the United States topped 30 million players for the fi rst time in more than two Th e TIA/USTA results compare favorably to other recent research released from decades. Th e annual phone survey of 6000 Americans showed that tennis participation grew industry organizations over the past 12 months. In the 2009 Sports and Fitness Partici- in all age groups under the age of 50 and within all ethnicities. With 30.1 million people hit- pation Report conducted by the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association (SGMA), ting the courts, tennis participation has grown 12 percent over 2008 and climbed 25 percent results showed tennis was the only traditional sport to enjoy growth in grassroots since 2003. Th e survey is conducted annually by the Taylor Research Group on behalf of the participation. TIA and USTA. New players comprised 7.1 million of the total and the majority of tennis players consider Section honors 2009 Hall of Fame themselves “regular players” (14.8 million). Th ough 15 of the 17 USTA sections were aff ected by record rainfall in the spring, total play occasions surpassed 560 million for only the second inductees and award winners time in more than 20 years. Th e greatest percentage growth in participation was in players Th e USTA Pacifi c Northwest (USTA/PNW) recognized its 2009 Hall of Fame in- ages 12-17 which grew from 15.7 percent of the total participants in 2008 to 20.5 percent of ductees and award winners during a luncheon held in their honor at the Bellevue Club the participants in 2009. in Bellevue, Wash., on December 5. “Th e USTA continues to work closely with the entire tennis industry to grow our game Th is year’s USTA/PNW Hall of Fame inductees include Trish Bostrom of Seattle, and we are extremely gratifi ed that our collective eff orts have generated such strong growth,” Frank Inn of Medford, Ore., and the late Wayne Sabin. Th e award winners include said Lucy S. Garvin, USTA President and Chairman of the Board. “We continue to strive to the following: make tennis easier to learn and more fun to play, and this commitment has led to millions Outstanding Jr Event: 2009 ARBY’s NCW Jr. Champs & Challengers, Wenatchee RAC of more Americans playing the game. I am proud of our network of sections, states/districts Outstanding Sr Event: 2009 Salem Summer Classic, Salem Tennis & Swim Club and community programs who have worked so hard to increase participation.” Tournament Director of the Year: Jim Rankin, Tualatin Hills Tennis Center “Over the past several years, we’ve strived to make the game more accessible, particu- Media Excellence: Corey Voegele, Wenatchee World larly at parks and schools across the country,” said Kurt Kamperman, Chief Executive, Senior Women’s Service Award: Judy Aw, Bellevue Community Tennis, USTA. “Combine this with the health benefits of tennis and you get Senior Men’s Service Award: Jerry Crimins, Milwaukie, Ore. surging interest in the sport.” USTA League Captain of the Year: Don Craig, Olympia, Wash. “Th e TIA (industry) and the USTA have been focused on growing participation since the [ Continued on page 11 ]
4 TENNIS TIMES WINTER 2009/10 www.pnw.usta.com AREA REPORTS
The FTA would like to thank its loyal members, AAlaskalaska ffriends and local businesses. Thanks also to FUN- R Steve Keller (back, Raiser emcee Ken Vehemeier, event planning JUNEAU REPORT ccommittee members Rose-Anne Sample, Maryann far right) led a HHoffman, Jean Husband, Linda English, Ashley By Mona Yarnall PTR Workshop in MMunro and Gwen Ramras, the wonderful cadre Anchorage. oof dedicated volunteers, and of course to all who Another great tennis bbought tickets, attended the event and purchased season for JDHS oor donated auction items. Lead by head coach Amy Skillbred, assistant Kurt Dzinich and volunteer coach Mike McClel- Founding FTA Member lan, the high school tennis season fi nished with retiresr from Board another successful campaign for Juneau-Douglas High School (JDHS). By Allen Clendaniel With over 40 players on the team, their season PTR certifi cation, test- featured intersquad matches, organized match ing was administered Gwen Ramras (right) retired play against local adult players and the fi rst on the second day of ffrom the FTA Board and was ever Alaska State Activities Association (ASAA) the workshop. Keller is PTR Director pplaced on the FTA Emeritus Region V Tennis Tournament. The intergenera- of Development as well as an accom- BBoard. Her attention to detail tional matches proved to be a great success as plished PTR clinician, tester and player. aand high standards for perfor- the format was well received by participants and He announced PTR’s commitment to mmance has made FTA a premier provided a great opportunity to build bridges make these workshops an annual event UUSTA Community Tennis As- between Juneau’s junior and adult players. in Alaska to help improve the skill level ssociation (CTA) in the country. The JDHS Crimson Bears squad fi nished the of players and instruction in the state. Ramras served as FTA Vice season with one Alaska State Mixed Doubles title PPresident for ten years and Presi- captured by Brian Vandor and Laurel Messer- Tennis at the Mall ddent for an additional two years. She was integral schmidt, and a fi nalist in boys’ doubles thanks to tto incorporating the FTA as a 501 C (3) non-profi t JRC – Alaska Club recently par- the efforts of Aaron Cohen and Nathan Graves. oorganization and fostering a strong relationship with ticipated in a community health fair at tthe USTA and USTA Pacifi c Northwest (USTA/PNW). the Nugget Mall in Juneau. The Alaska During her time served as USTA/PNW Vice Presi- JDHS and JTA host Club booth included a tennis court ddent of Alaska, Ramras helped formulate the fi rst utilizing QuickStart Tennis equipment fundraiser tournament ooffi cial Alaska State High School Tennis Champion- and allowed participants to get a little The Juneau Tennis Association (JTA) and JDHS sship which boasted participation from four regions taste of some tennis action. The JRC hosted a tennis booth during a Tennis team hosted an action-packed tourna- within the ASAA. Ramras was also front and center health and fi tness fair held at the Nugget ment that drew players from Juneau and their on the development of all FTA summer programs Canadian counterparts in Whitehorse, Yukon. FAIRBANKS REPORT Mall in Juneau. including the recruitment of visiting tennis profes- The tournament helped raise over $1200 and By Diane Kardash sionals Sean Frost, Todd Nelson, Tom Fey, Marcin featured junior and adult doubles divisions that Rozpedski and Cathy Thomas. totaled over 80 participants. “FUN-Raiser” The USTA recognized Ramras’ contributions to In addition to all the tennis action, JDHS play- Middle and high school the sport by presenting her with the prestigious Eve ers and their families hosted a Mexican lunch tennis news The FTA held their second annual “FUN-Raiser” Kraft Community Service Award. She now serves as prepared by Gerry Donohoe. Many thanks to this fall at Pikes Waterfront Lodge in Fairbanks. The middle and high school tennis seasons the USTA/PNW President of the Board of Directors. tournament organizers and volunteers Vicki This fun-fi lled evening included a Texas Hold’em enjoyed a great fi nish in the Interior of Alaska. While Ramras’ involvement in that position is more Wilcox, Margie Vandor, Mona Yarnall, Coach tournament with a “Learn to Play” table and a The Fairbanks Tennis Association (FTA) enrolled 26 regional in scope, she maintains her enthusiasm for Skilbred, Assistant Coach Dzinich, and junior Ping Pong tournament. Numerous door prizes middle school students in the seven-week tennis tennis in Alaska. tournament directors and JDHS tennis players were distributed, bringing much interest and program under the able coaching of Brian Smith Rachel Donohoe, Cohen, Graves, Vandor, and excitement. The $1000 cash grand prize was won and Chris Poole. A fi nal celebration was held in 2009 Alaska State HS Tennis Messerschmidt. by Paula Ruckhaus. The auction included a vari- the Mary Siah Recreation Center with pizza, prizes ety of items such as a Holland America Cruise to Championship and participant certifi cates for each player. the Caribbean or Mexico, Pacifi c Life Open Box The third annual Alaska State High School Tennis PTR Workshop in Six high school tennis teams competed in the Seat tickets, authentic Alaskan artwork, dinner at Tournament was a rousing success. On October 9-10, ASAA Region IV tournament including Ben Eiel- Anchorage local restaurants, tennis racquets and bags, and 16 teams from Anchorage, Juneau, Kodiak and the Colin Gillam and the Alaska Club hosted son, Hutchison, Lathrop, Monroe, North Pole and delicious desserts. Interior battled for team and individual honors on Steve Keller and the Professional Tennis Registry West Valley, totaling 101 tennis players. Lathrop In total, the FUN-Raiser netted $7000. Ten the indoor courts of the Alaska Club North and East. (PTR) Certifi cation workshop. The workshop, captured the regular season title. percent of the proceeds will be designated toward South Anchorage High School won its fi rst state attended by 17 enthusiastic people from An- The Interior welcomed new high school coaches the FTA Endowment Fund. The money raised will championship beating two-time champions West chorage, Fairbanks and Juneau, was designed to Jerry Jacobs, Amber Harger, Carol Woodard and also be used to support the many programs FTA Anchorage in dramatic fashion. The team title came provide teaching fundamentals including proper Patti Boertje and was happy to welcome back makes available to its community. These programs down to the last match of the tournament. With biomechanics of strokes, error detection and cor- returning coaches Milo Griffi n, Debbie Miller include summer tennis programs for children and hundreds of people watching and the team title on rective techniques. and Bobby Trujillo. adults, elementary after-school tennis, and the For those who were interested in obtaining middle and high school tennis programs. [ Continued on page 6 ]
TITLE SPONSORS The GREATER PORTLAND TENNIS COUNCIL thanks the sponsors of THE 111th GPTC NIKE TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS OF OREGON
PRESENTING SPONSORS BRONZE SPONSORS Evans Metal Fabricators, Inc. Homestead Studio Suites AKESO Massage Arts Allen Trust Company SUPPORTING SPONSORS Atlas Track and Tennis Cold Stone Creamery Lake Oswego Tennis Center/Anni Miller Lindsay Littlejohn Prudential California Products Maletis Distributing Rossman Nichols PC Tennis Week Argyle Winery Clif Bars Oregon Physical Therapy GREATER ASSOCIATE SPONSORS TOURNAMENT SPONSORS PORTLAND HEAD/PENN Racquet Sports Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District West Hills Racquet & Fitness Club Mountain Park Racquet Club TENNIS Player’s Racquet Shop of Beaverton LOCAL SPONSORS COUNCIL My Victory Cookies by Design Franz Family Bakery Oregon Foot & Ankle Specialists Starbucks Costco Garlic Jim’s Famous Gourmet Pizza Pho Hung Restaurant Sushi Town Support those who support Crown Trophy Gripmaster Rally Champion Backboards Sweet Tomatoes Donuts Plus Haggen RASGroup/Pauly Rogers www.greaterportlandtenniscouncil.com the tennis community Fast Signs of Beaverton Kitchen Kaboodle Reser’s
www.pnw.usta.com WINTER 2009/10 TENNIS TIMES 5 AREA REPORTS [ Continued from page 5 ]
become graduated community champions with the goal of continuing their involvement with NWNW WWashingtonashington tennis in their community. A big part of TRY, LEARN-PLAY and PLAY- By Lori Brillhart COMPETE programming is focused on progressive tennis which uses a systematic progression of The (frugal) tennis player’s court sizes, balls and racquets to make tennis more guide to gifts accessible and easier for beginners to learn. A mini If you’re feeling a bit light in the wallet this season net can be set up literally anywhere – school gym- (and really, who isn’t?), then here are some ideas nasiums, playgrounds, parks, etc. – allowing the to get you in the holiday gift-giving spirit without game to be introduced to hundreds of children. breaking your budget. Starting from $3.99, here are A prime example of BTC’s success in utilizing some favorites: progressive tennis is Tennis BC’s School Program. During the 2008-09 school year, over 30,000 kids participated. The Tennis BC School Program is de- livered by certifi ed tennis instructors and consists 2009 Alaska State High School of four 45-minutes lessons conducted during the Sportsmanship Award winners students’ regular PE classes. Nash Vuletic from were honored this fall. TTennis XL is the leader of delivering Tennis BC School Programs in the Lower Mainland. Kudos tto all community champions for growing and advocating tennis as the sport of a lifetime! From left, Rendell Burghart and Emma Lewis each compiled a 14-0 season record, bringing Progressive Tennis home the Region IV and Alaska ADVANCEDA Circuit in BC UNDER $10 State Singles Championship. This year, Tennis BC introduced the fi rst Pro- Stocking stuffers from TennisExpress.com: ggressive Tennis ADVANCED Circuit for players “Tennis Forever, Work Whenever” cocktail nap- under the age of nine. The circuit is a provincially kins are a lot of fun and a steal at just $3.99. sanctioned series of events for boys and girls com- Tennis ball and racquet stationery starts at $5.99. the line, senior Emma Lewis defeated West bined. The events are held at clubs recognized as A variety of unique tennis memorabilia is avail- Anchorage senior Taab Louhabanjong in TTennis Development Centers and are supported able from $7. three sets to win her second state singles title by Tennis Canada. A practical indulgence, give the gift of Lacoste and the team title for South. West Anchor- The Progressive Tennis ADVANCED Circuit tennis socks for $10. age fi nished second and Dimond (Anchor- offers two divisions including half-court for UNDER $20 age) fi nished third. children ages eight and under as well as a three- If you want to thrill a person who loves to read Sophomore Rendell Burghart of Di- quarter-court for children ages nine and under. The and play tennis, why not cater to multiple passions? mond overcame cramps to win his fi rst state singlesgles circuit kicked off with an event at People’s Courts Here are several excellent reads that can be found title defeating West’s David Cotton in the fi nal. Tennis Academy in Coquitlam on October 18 and on Amazon.com: The girls’ doubles title went to the Dimond duo of BritishBritish CColumbiaolumbia was a great success. The youngsters enjoyed the In Pursuit of Excellence by Terry Orlick, PhD. Esther Glasionov and Annie Ingaldson. competition and the goodies they received with While excellent for tennis players, this inspiring read Players from outside of Anchorage also made By Lenka Moravcova their registration. is applicable to every aspect of life. their presence felt in the tournament. Tyler Loud The series continues throughout the winter and Mistakes Worth Making: How to Turn Sports Errors and Drew Lanning from Lathrop (Fairbanks) won Building Tennis spring with events scheduled at Vancouver Lawn Into Athletic Excellence by Susan Halden-Brown. A the boys’ doubles title. Southeast Alaska was Tennis & Badminton Club, Hollyburn Country truly thought-provoking book. represented by Juneau’s Laurel Messerschmidt Communities strategy works Club and Grant Connell Tennis Center. It’s a great If you haven’t read the Inner Game of Tennis by and Brian Vandor who won the mixed doubles In 2001, Tennis Canada implemented an way to offer new playing opportunities to the W. Timothy Gallwey, purchase a copy for you and title. Also representing Juneau, Aaron Cohen and initiative called Building Tennis Communities youngest competitors. one for your favorite player. Recommended again Nathan Graves fi nished second in boys’ doubles. (BTC) to increase and sustain tennis participa- and again, this book is a timeless tennis classic that Eric Ringstad of Monroe Catholic (Fairbanks) tion in communities across the country. Since its Play more tennis with will assist you in learning to utilize the mind and took third in boys’ singles. Hutchison Tech’s (Fair- inception, BTC has introduced tennis activities to body connection on court. banks) Kelsey Peterson and West Valley’s Loni over 365,000 players and in 2009, BTC provided JUUMP.com Tennis-themed photo frames are great to help Ellsworth and Jenna Powers (Fairbanks) placed fi nancial assistance to 50 different communities Juump.com is a free map-based website that commemorate an individual or team’s latest tourna- fourth in girls’ singles and doubles, respectively. across the country. helps tennis players to meet other tennis players ment experience. Priceless memories can be show- Kodiak High School brought a full team to the Community champions play an essential role in to organize match play and hit groups. The site cased for as little as $12.99 at TennisExpress.com. Alaska State High School Tennis Championship the success of BTC’s strategy. Community cham- allows you to create your own profi le, arrange play NDER for the fi rst time. Kodiak has two outdoor courts pions are volunteers who are passionate about and communicate with other players, discover new U $50 Life is good! All you need is a “Love Tennis” T-shirt! and plays indoors in a converted gymnasium when tennis and the health of their community, and courts that are convenient for you and your tennis Purchase one for your favorite doubles partner, team the weather gets bad. Despite these challenges, are well connected to other community leaders in partners, meet players with compatible skill levels captain or coach. Only $25 from TennisExpress.com. Kodiak’s coaches Ken McCarty, Craig Johnson their areas. With the help of the provincial orga- and much more. If fashion and style are high on your tennis and Steve Johnston have 26 players on the team. nization, community champions organize “TRY, Juump.com launched last summer and al- player’s list, Nordstrom.com has a great selection To honor Kodiak’s efforts, the team was presented LEARN-PLAY and PLAY-COMPETE” programs to though it currently focuses on British Columbia, of performance apparel that may provide some with the tournament’s sportsmanship award. introduce and grow tennis in their communities. the founders plan to go global. “We created on-court inspiration. Brands featured include Zell, The 2009 state tournament exhibited both Other community champion activities include ten- Juump.com to bring the tennis community to- Nike, Under Armour, Lacoste, and more. a very high level of play as well as tremendous nis fairs, team tennis and Tennis BC Rookie Tour gether,” says Scott Dunlop, one of the co-founders sportsmanship from all players. High school ten- events. Community champions receive fi nancial and a former President of Tennis BC. Go to Juump. UNDER $75 nis is growing in the Last Frontier and Alaskan assistance from Tennis Canada for a three-year com for more information and to create your A private tennis lesson (or two or three semi- tennis fans are already looking forward to the period. After three years, community champions profi le today. private lessons) for the player on your list might just 2010 tournament. make the perfect gift. Lessons are always a great gift Thank you to state tennis tournament title idea for those who are trying to take their games to sponsor Alyeska Pipeline Service Co. and the next level. Just be certain that you don’t give it corporate sponsors Mt. McKinley Bank and to someone you hope to beat at this time next year! SportsMedicine Fairbanks. SKY’S THE LIMIT If you wish to indulge your tennis-loving friend or relative, consider a trip to one of the Grand Slam events. Closer to home, another outstanding tourna- ment is the BNP Paribas Open (formerly the Pacifi c Life Open) held at the beautiful Indian Wells Tennis Garden in Indian Wells, Calif. A trip to a tennis camp The players and coaches might delight the tennis player on your list, as well. of Tennis BC’s fi rst annual While the holidays may be hectic, be sure to take Progressive Tennis ADVANCED time for yourself. Hit the courts to relieve stress and Circuit. boost your energy. May you also fi nd time to enjoy your tennis-playing friends and relatives (and to convert those friends and relatives who aren’t) and have a wonderful, happy and healthy holiday season.
6 TENNIS TIMES WINTER 2009/10 www.pnw.usta.com Olympia, Wash., defeated Bill Brooks and George Wayne Bryan visits Boeing Kraft of Seattle 6-3, 7-5. In 60s doubles, Ball The collapsed bubble Employees Tennis Club and Phelps posted a win over Hanson and Keith at Bainbridge Athletic Johnson of Olympia, Wash., via a default due to a Club. By Allan Overland family emergency. In the 65s singles, Hanson made This fall, the Boeing Employees Tennis Club in it to the fi nals, losing to Art Roper of Vancouver, Kent, Wash., was treated to a very special series of Wash., 4-6, 6-3, 6-3. The club includes 50,000 tennis clinics with world-renowned coach Wayne This year’s event was sponsored by USTA/PNW square feet of weight Bryan, a three-time World Team Tennis Coach of the with giveaways from Avanti Sports of Seattle, David training areas, studios, Year as well as father and coach of the No. 1 ranked Ranney, author of Tennis: Play the Mental Game, locker rooms with saunas doubles team in the world, Mike and Bob Bryan. The Ram Restaurant, and Carr’s Restaurant. and steam, social areas, and a juice bar. feature three indoor and two outdoor courts, a Over the course of three days, Bryan put his To play in the Grand Prix, a player must com- To enhance the tennis program, management separate instruction court and a pro shop. UP Ten- on-court magic to work for two junior groups that pete in USTA/PNW tournaments during the year. recently went to Tennessee to fi nd new BAC Tennis nis Academy will be housed in the former Fircrest featured several of the section’s top-ranked junior Players are awarded points based upon the round Director, Zach Laycock, a certifi ed United States Tennis Club (2818 69th Ave. W., University Place, players and two adult groups that ranged from the they reach within a tournament and the designated Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) coach Wash.) which closed its doors in 2006. 3.0 to the 5.0 NTRP level. All participants enjoyed level of the tournament. The USTA/PNW Standings (P1). He has coached a total of 24 Greater Knox- “We will be offering junior and adult pro- themselves and improved their games in the process. and Year-End Rankings represent a player’s best ville Tennis Association (GKTA) Interclub cham- grams, daytime ladies fl ights, men’s night doubles results in the four or fi ve tournaments that lead pion and fi nalist teams, and a total of 31 USTA and mixed doubles night,” says Pat Block, presi- SWSW WWashingtonashington up to the Grand Prix. More information on USTA/ League Local, District and Section Championship dent of the new UP Tennis Academy. “The Pierce PNW Open and Senior Ranking Rules are available teams. At Austin Peay State University, Laycock County CTA will operate out of the UP facility and By Barbara Wyatt at www.pnw.usta.com. played NCAA Division I tennis and competed in will run QuickStart Tennis, after-school tennis and amateur satellite events. Laycock graduated from USTA Jr. Team Tennis.” 2009 USTA/PNW Senior the University of Tennessee in 2002 with a BS Her goals for the new academy include a Bainbridge Island: Collapsed in Sport Management/Business Administration. thorough cleaning of the existing building, Men’s 35+ Grand Prix bubble brings good fortune “We are looking to create a great tennis envi- replacement of missing net posts and repair of The 2009 USTA Pacifi c Northwest (USTA/PNW) Bubble domes dot Southwest Washington, ronment by adding experienced USPTA Certifi ed indoor and outdoor courts. The site also includes Senior Men’s Grand Prix was held in October at the converting outdoor courts into fully functional staff with cutting edge knowledge of the tennis two signifi cantly deteriorated clay courts that Lakewood Racquet Club in Tacoma. This invitation- indoor courts. Members of the Bainbridge Athletic industry,” Laycock explains as he outlines the new demand a complete overhaul and would be only event draws the top tournament players from Club (BAC) had enjoyed three indoor courts and tennis programs. His to-do list includes launching “an expensive proposition,” according to Block. Washington, Oregon, BC, Alaska, and Idaho. The two bubble-covered courts until this summer when Cardio Tennis, sanctioned tournaments, local Strategic improvements such as renovating the best of the best in the men’s 35 and over divisions the bubble collapsed. “The (weather) elements of tournaments, QuickStart Tennis, and more. With clay courts will depend on how the community battled on the tennis court stroke for stroke. the Pacifi c Northwest got the best of our bubble,” the new building and the hiring of additional embraces the club. Southwest Washington was well represented says Joanne Franklin, BAC Tennis Coordinator. USPTA certifi ed pros, Laycock promises a great In addition to her new duties at UP Tennis by Vern Ball (Lakewood), Larry Butterfi eld (Gig Now BAC management says, “No more bubbles. tennis future for Bainbridge Island. Academy, Block will stay on as Tennis Director Harbor), Hyn Jin Chong (Olympia), Ed Ford (Olym- It’s time to erect a new building!” As Franklin at Sprinker Tennis Center. Steve Kubota, will pia), Tom Geisness (Bainbridge), John Hanson explains, “Our members enjoyed playing on our New tennis facility to open teach at the new academy in addition to retain- (Olympia), James Irvine (Sequim), Keith Johnson outdoor courts over the summer and now we are ing his current role as Sprinker’s Head Tennis (Poulsbo), Darrel Leimback (Yelm), Rocky Phelps looking forward to a beautiful new permanent in University Place Professional. For more information about the (Lakewood), Mike Richer (Bainbridge), and Greg structure to cover our courts sometime in January.” Sweeping, dusting, repairs and more sweeping University Place Tennis Academy, please visit Stapp (Olympia) who played against other top- The construction process has begun with an are underway to open the new University Place www.uptennisacademy.com. ranked Pacifi c Northwest players. architect’s drawing of the new building that will Tennis Academy (UP Tennis Academy) in Univer- [ Continued on page 15 ] “The Grand Prix began over twenty years ago,” be placed over the two previously bubble-covered sity Place, Wash., this winter. The new facility will says Gary Case, Director of the Senior Men’s Grand courts. “We have a state-of-the-art tennis facility Prix, “and opened the opportunity for top-ranked and fi tness club and will now offer fi ve indoor players from other states to play one another in courts,” adds Franklin. head-to-head competition.” Prior to the Grand Prix’s Bainbridge’s Fairbank Construction Company founding, players from one state infrequently played will oversee the three weeks of demolition and against top players from other states. This event concrete foundation work followed by six weeks makes it possible to bring all of them together for to erect the exterior of the steel building. an annual grand fi nale. The original Bainbridge Island Racquet Club was “Matches are hard fought, often last hours and built by local residents in 1978. In 1991, this private result in very close scores,” Case explains. Proving his club was purchased by Ted and Kellan Eisenhardt. point at the 2009 event was the match between two Since then they increased fi tness memberships and great veterans, Ball and Geisness. These two seniors provided tennis programs for the community as the competed in a 70s singles match that lasted over facility morphed into the Bainbridge Athletic Club. two-and-half hours and resulted in Ball’s win at 6-3, 4-6, 7-6. The viewing area was fi lled with players, guests and club members remarking on the intensity of the match, and the speed and agility of the men on court. Southwest men played strong throughout the Grand Prix. In the 70s singles fi nal, Ball James beat John Curran of Seattle, Wash., 6-2, 6-1. Irvine In 40s doubles, David Baska of Mercer Island, Wash., teamed with Stapp to defeat Oregonians Jeffery Cook and Dwayne Tyner 6-1, 6-4. In 50s doubles, Leimback and Doug Ruffi n of