FACILITY CONSTRUCTION CUSTOMER SERVICE PLAYER ACCESSORIES Borrow from Lake Be sure to give senior New sunglasses Nona and boost your players what they protect the eyes and facility’s appeal need to succeed off er stylish looks

June 2017 / Volume 45 / Number 6 / $5.00

Also Inside: Rallying Back NJTL Stars Your Serve Seeing A unique event helps Dedicated individuals Felled by a grave illness, the All Iowa Lawn are bringing tennis and tennis on shorter Tennis Club bounce back education to youngsters courts helped save this is Believing from tragedy 16 nationwide 24 avid player’s life 40 Head’s MXG frames are changing the game with visible technology

06_TI_COVER_CR.indd 1 6/1/17 5:38 PM BAGS AND ACCESSORIES OF THE CHAMPIONSHIPS, WIMBLEDON BABOLAT - OFFICIAL TENNIS RACKETS, SHOES*, PERFORMANCE APPAREL,

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*Except in Japan TEAM BABOLAT PRO PLAYERS MAY PLAY WITH A CUSTOMIZED OR DIFFERENT MODEL THAN THE EQUIPMENT DEPICTED. ads.indd 1 4/29/16 12:43 PM www.tennisindustrymag.com TennisIndustry Contents June 2017

DEPARTMENTS p. 34 p. 24 4 Our Serve 6 Industry News 12 TIA News 14 Racquet Tech 16 Passionate Players 18 Facility Construction 22 Customer Service 38 Ask the Experts 39 USRSA World Conference 40 Your Serve, by Ali Goldman

INDUSTRY NEWS

6 UVA’s Boland named USTA FEATURES head of Men’s Tennis 6 USTA League, Head Penn 24 NJTL Stars renew 30-year partnership These dedicated 7 Dalton Enterprises launches 1-800-TENNISCOURT individuals and 7 USTA Enlists Aramark to organizations are manage US Open retail bringing tennis and 7 People Watch education to our 7 TitanTrax Shield repairs city courts in Wisconsin nation’s youngsters. 7 Player Development names annual coaching awards 8 Bryan Brothers to endorse 32 Dark Matter Solinco strings The newest sunglasses 8 Mast, Andrew win HoF ON-COURT off er both protection Educational Merit Awards 9 Short Sets 30 Private Enterprise for the eyes and 9 Sports Interiors, ITA sign These award-winning residential courts stylish looks. 3-year partnership provide a unique sanctuary. 9 Memphis Open moves to N.Y. after 41-year run 10 Topspin Sports introduces 34 Now You See It! 2-sided digital scoreboard Head’s new MXG racquets feature something 11 USPTA publishes book celebrating 90 years not seen in years—visible technology.

2 TennisIndustry June 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

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EDITORIAL DIRECTOR EDITOR'S NOTE PETER FRANCESCONI MANAGING EDITOR A Focus on the Benefi ts SCOTT GRAMLING CREATIVE DIRECTOR Is our industry fi nally taking a IAN KNOWLES SENIOR EDITOR closer look at the health and fi tness ED M GROGAN

ART DIRECTOR reasons for playing this sport? CRHISTIAN RODRIGUEZ

PRODUCTION EDITOR SAM CHASE

SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR BOB PATTERSON

ecently, I’ve been getting now has a national Tennis Health & CONTRIBUTING EDITORS ROBIN BATEMAN, CYNTHIA CANTRELL, PEG more excited about how Wellness Task Force, headed by Dr. CONNOR, KENT OSWALD, CYNTHIA SHERMAN, our industry fi nally seems Jack Groppel and involving top doctors MARY HELEN SPRECHER to be addressing the and sports medicine experts. The task CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS health, fi tness and well- force is designed to help reach and BOB KENAS, DAVID KENAS ness opportunities that tennis o ers. engage Americans with messaging on R WEBMASTER I’ve always been an advocate for the wellness benefi ts of tennis. GREG RAVEN using simple, clear health and fi tness As Dr. Groppel said at the TOM Con- messages to sell this sport and get more ference, “Tennis su ers from its inabil- ASSOCIATE EDITOR people playing. The health aspects of ity as an industry to voice its incredible TIM M ARTHUR

tennis are benefi ts all Americans can health benefi ts and link to other health EDITORIAL DIRECTION relate to. Yet our e orts to promote this and wellness activities. Tennis needs 10TEN MEDIA sport haven’t tended to focus on these to sell itself as one of the top sports for basic factors, such as how tennis can lifelong health and fi tness.” TENNIS INDUSTRY help prevent many of the ailments that Another speaker at the TOM was 250 Park Avenue, Suite 825, NY NY 10017 a ict our sedentary population. club health & fi tness consultant Casey 646-402-5031 Conrad, whose presentations are [email protected] always dynamic and informative. One ADVERTISING DIRECTOR The opportunities for a of her key messages to tennis club own- JOHN HANNA ers and managers was to better utilize 770-650-1102, x125 health-conscious sport like the health, fi tness and wellness aspects [email protected] tennis are endless. of tennis. With nearly 150 million Americans who are overweight, and APPAREL ADVERTISING CYNTHIA SHERMAN Even with current initiatives to grow millions with related conditions, Con- 203-558-5911 tennis, we still do not have a unifi ed, rad says the possibilities for a health- [email protected] clear strategy on health and fi tness that conscious sport like tennis are endless. shows mainstream consumers, in ways Our current initiatives to grow this they can easily understand, why they sport are incredibly important, but we Tennis Industry is published 10 times per year: monthly, January through August with combined should be playing this sport. need to hammer home to consumers issues in September/October and November/ But now—and at the risk of speak- some of these simple, basic and very December, by Tennis Media Company, 250 Park Avenue, Suite 825, New York NY 10017. Periodical ing too soon—it seems this industry real messages about why they should be postage paid in Duluth, GA and at additional mailing may fi nally be taking a hard look at playing tennis. Let’s not get so caught offi ces (USPS #004-354). June 2017, Volume 45, Number 6 © 2017 by Tennis Media Company. All rights the benefi ts tennis has to o er when it up in the “process” that we forget the reserved. Tennis Industry, TI and logo are trademarks comes to getting and keeping Ameri- true benefi ts of our sport. of Tennis Media Company. Printed in the U.S.A. Phone advertising: 770-650-1102 x 125. Phone circulation cans healthy. and editorial: 646-402-5031. Yearly subscriptions This hit me during the recent Tennis $25 in the U.S., $40+ elsewhere. POSTMASTER: Send Owners & Managers Conference. Many address changes to Tennis Industry, 250 Park Avenue, Suite 825, New York NY 10017. Tennis Industry is the presenters and attendees talked about Peter Francesconi offi cial magazine of the USRSA, TIA and ASBA. the importance of health and fi tness Editorial Director Looking for back issues of Tennis Industry/Racquet when it comes to selling this sport and [email protected] Sports Industry? Visit the archives at our website getting people onto their courts to not at TennisIndustryMag.com for free digital versions. only play tennis, but to play more tennis. Tied into all this is that our industry

4 TennisIndustry June 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

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USTA League, Head Penn Industry News Renew 30-Year Partnership The USTA and Head Penn Racquet Information to help you run your business Sports have announced a five-year renewal of their 30-year partnership for the USTA League program. As part of the agreement, Head Penn will provide per- formance Penn tennis balls for all USTA League sectional and national champion- ship events. Since 1987, Penn has donated more than two million balls during its sponsor- ship of the USTA League program, in addi- tion to providing gifts for league captains and door prizes at sectional and national championships. Established in 1980, the USTA League program has grown from 13,000 par- ticipants in a few parts of the country in its first year to more than 325,000 players across the nation today. Players compete in an average of three leagues each, which brings annual; total player registration to more than 900,000, making USTA League the world’s largest Boland won three recreational tennis league. national titles as “Our partnership with Head Penn is coach at UVA. one of the longest and most successful relationships in the industry,” says Jeff PLAYER DEVELOPMENT Waters, the USTA's managing director of Adult Tennis & Association Services. UVA’s Brian Boland Named “We look forward to working together to continue increasing participation in the USTA League program.” USTA Head of Men’s Tennis “Supporting players of all levels as they reach for their goal to be the best niversity of Virginia men’s “Brian brings a unique skill set, is exactly what Penn stands for,” adds head coach Brian Boland has a combination of management and Greg Mason, president of Head Penn been named the next Head of coaching expertise, which enabled him Racquet Sports. U Men’s Tennis for USTA Player Devel- to build a championship culture at the opment. Boland will report directly to University of Virginia,” said Blackman. Sportsmen’s Tennis Holds USTA Player Development General “He’s long been an innovative leader in ‘Big Sister, Little Sister’ Event Manager Martin Blackman out of the the world of college athletics.” USTA National Campus in Orlando, Fla. Boland has been the head men’s As Head of Men’s Tennis, Boland tennis coach at Virginia since 2002 and will oversee all training and coaching has guided the Cavaliers to a 419–57 of male juniors, collegians and pros record and three NCAA team champi- by USTA Player Development, and onships, in 2013, 2015 and 2016. He has will manage all men’s USTA National been named the Intercollegiate Tennis Coaches, in the Team USA–Pro, Association’s Coach of the Year twice, in Collegiate and Junior brands. 2008 and 2016. Big and Little Sister participants Boland replaces Jay Berger, who Boland’s Virginia teams have reached chose to step down after nine years in the NCAA title match five out of the last In late March, Sportsmen’s Tennis & the position. Berger will remain in the six years. From April 2006 to Febru- Enrichment Center in Dorchester, Mass., role through June to assist with the ary 2016, Boland’s Cavaliers won 140 welcomed 28 women and 28 excited girls, transition, as Boland finishes the col- straight matches against ACC oppo- prospective Big and Little Sisters, for an legiate season with the reigning NCAA nents, the longest winning streak by any evening of tennis as they got to know each

champion Virginia Cavaliers. team in any sport in ACC history. • other a little better. TENNIS & ENRICHMENT CENTER SPORTSMEN'S PHOTOS USTA,

6 TennisIndustry June 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

06_TI_FOB_IndustryNewsPFED.indd 7 5/2/17 9:22 AM IndustryNews

People Watch Rocky Carson, currently the No. 2- had served as USTA Georgia ranking and Magazine, which sponsors and presents ranked racquetball player in the world, rating coordinator since 2013. A native the awards, said of the Serb, “She com- won the International Racquetball Tour of Guam who grew up in Tacoma, Wash., bines natural beauty with athleticism event near Dayton, Ohio, for his 25th Edrosa earned a degree in sociology and elegance.” career professional tournament victory. from the University of Washington and masters in Education from Antioch Award-winning tennis writer Joel University Seattle. Drucker recently published his second book, Don’t Bet On It, about life, love and Frank Giampaolo will be the keynote tennis, which is available on Amazon. educator speaking at the PTR GB Confer- Drucker’s first book, Jimmy Connors Saved ence, an annual one-day event held on My Life, was published in 2004. the middle Sunday of Wimbledon (July 9) at London’s Olympic Park. Other Ivanovic at the Gala Spa Awards USTA New England will enshrine Lisa speakers at the conference include Andy Albano-Fu, Chris Holmes, Paul Shaw and Dowsett and Phil Vivian. For information, Octagon is now managing the tennis Jerry Albrikes into the section’s Hall of visit www.PTRGB.org. affairs of the recently retired Ana Fame on June 10 at the International Ivanovic, a former world No. 1. Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, R.I. Ana Ivanovic was named the “Beauty Idol” of the year recently at the 21st Former Zaino Tennis Courts office man- Marita Edrosa has been named USTA Annual Gala Spa Awards, which took ager Patricia May Hanson passed away Southern manager of Adult Tennis. She place in Baden-Baden, Germany. Gala on March 5. •

“Opening our doors to organizations easier was a no-brainer,” says Dalton En- of distinctive, official tournament apparel, such as the Big Sister Association of Greater terprises President John Dalton. “We’ve souvenirs and keepsakes. Boston enables us to expand on our mission had a fantastic reception and have en- of building leaders on the court, in the class- rolled many area codes to date.” TitanTrax Shield Repairs room and in the greater community,” says Dalton says contractors can brand their City Courts in Wisconsin Sportsmen’s Executive Director Toni Wiley. trucks and equipment with 1-800- NGI Sports’ TitanTrax Shield crack “Our combined efforts made for a fun TENNISCOURT. For more information, repair system has been the system of night, and we hope it leads to a few new visit www.800tenniscourt.com or email choice to renovate courts at locations relationships,” added Gayna Sealy, Sports- [email protected]. throughout the city of Watertown, Wis. men’s program coordinator. The renovation projects started in Founded in 1961, Sportsmen’s is the first USTA Enlists Aramark 2014, when the city’s Park & Rec Depart- indoor, non-profit tennis club in the United To Manage US Open Retail ment hired Certified Tennis Court Builder States built by and for the African-American In a multi-year agreement with the USTA, Fred Kolkmann to evaluate the 10 courts community. Today, Sportsmen’s develops Aramark will manage all aspects of US Open in Brandt Quirk Park, adjacent to the the academic and tennis skills for more than retail sales and merchandising operations Watertown High School. After the evalua- 5,000 children and young adults annually. throughout the grounds of the USTA Billie tion, the city chose TitanTrax Shield to fix Visit www.sportsmenstennis.org for more. Jean King National Tennis Center. Aramark five of the courts. The next year, they did serves millions of guests at live events every the remaining five using TitanTrax. Dalton Enterprises Launches year around the world. In 2016, the city renovated four courts 1-800-TENNISCOURT As part of their effort to elevate and grow at Clark Park with the TitanTrax system, Dalton Enterprises Inc. of Cheshire, the US Open retail program, the USTA and and another bank of courts in Watertown Conn., is launching the 1-800-TENNIS- Aramark will work together to renovate is scheduled to receive the treatment this COURT network. Contractors in the U.S. existing stores, design more vibrant and year. Contact [email protected] or visit and Canada can lease their local area accessible shopping destinations, integrate www.ngisports.com for more info. code so that when a customer from that leading-edge technology and introduce area code calls the 800 number, the call greater customization and personalization. USTA Player Development goes to that contractor’s office. Aramark will also collaborate with the Names Annual Coaching Awards “Contractors are extremely busy, and USTA's licensed merchandise partners to Mike Gennette, coach of top juniors Claire

PHOTO JOEL GALA SPA AWARDS PHOTO JOEL GALA SPA helping them make their marketing market and carry an extensive assortment Liu and Austen Huang, and Henner Nehles,

www.tennisindustrymag.com June 2017 TennisIndustry 7

06_TI_FOB_IndustryNewsPFED.indd 8 5/2/17 9:22 AM IndustryNews

coach of 17-year old rising star Kayla Day, were named the 2016 Team USA Developmental Coaches of the Year as part of USTA Player Development’s annual Team USA Coaching Awards. Smith Tennis in Indianapolis was recognized as the 2016 Team USA Developmental Program of the Year, while USTA Northern California was named the 2016 Team USA Player Development Section of the Year. Tennis icon Billie Jean King, renowned coach Rick Macci and University of Georgia legend Dan Magill also were honored with Team USA Legendary Coaching Awards. All honorees were recognized at an awards reception on March 26 at the Easter Bowl junior tournament in Indian Wells, Calif. Bob and Mike Bryan have won 16 major titles. Mast, Andrew Win HoF Educational Merit Awards PARTNERSHIPS Bryan Brothers Sign Deal To Endorse Solinco Strings

ixteen-time Grand Slam doubles champions Bob and Mike Bryan have signed with Solinco Sports and will endorse the company’s strings. Jorge Andrew Delaine Mast “We are thrilled to have the most successful doubles team of all time, as well as two of theS most well-respected and liked players on the ATP Tour, join the Solinco family,” says Solinco The International Tennis Hall of Director KT Kim. “They are true ambassadors of the sport, and we’re extremely excited to have them Fame presented its prestigious continue playing with our strings and now officially represent our brand.” Tennis Educational Merit Awards “We’ve been using Solinco for the past two years and we love the feel and performance of the to Delaine Mast of Lancaster, Pa., strings,” says Mike Bryan. “Players are very sensitive about their strings and we believe [Solinco and Jorge Andrew of Lexington, has] the best product out there.” S.C. The presentation took place The Bryans will have Solinco’s “O” on their strings to represent the brand. • at the end of March at the USTA Annual Meeting and Conference in Orlando, Fla. The award is for “notable con- tributions in the tennis education field at the national level.” Re- cipients will have demonstrated leadership and creative skills in such areas as instruction, writ- ing, organization and promotion of the game. Mast is a longtime coach and works for World TeamTennis, overseeing recreational tennis programs throughout the U.S. She received the USTA Eve F. Kraft Community Service Award in

2016. Andrew is the longtime USA FRED MULLANE/CAMERAWORK PHOTOS SOLINCO,

8 TennisIndustry June 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

06_TI_FOB_IndustryNewsPFED.indd 9 5/2/17 9:23 AM IndustryNews

PRO TOURNAMENT director of tennis for the Lexington County (S.C.) Recreation & Aging Commission and a former president of Memphis the PTR. He also is both a PTR and USPTA Open Moves Master Professional. Sports Interiors, ITA To N.Y. After Sign 3-Year Partnership In a three-year partnership agreement, 41-Year Run Sports Interiors is now the official LED light- ing solution for the Intercollegiate Tennis he ATP's Memphis Open is Association. In addition to the endorsement, moving to Long Island, N.Y., the ITA will offer its member programs in 2018, after 41 years in Ten- special pricing for Sports Interiors products nessee.T The Memphis Open was one of Nikolaz Basilashvili (left) and Ryan Harrison and services. the longest-running tournaments in the “We strive to work alongside companies United States and was the country's only that share a vision for the betterment of indoor ATP event. our sport,” says ITA CEO Timothy Russell. “I GF Sports, which bought the tourna- believe the products and services offered by ment in 2015, announced in April that Sports Interiors will have a positive effect on the men's tournament will be played at indoor tennis facilities.” Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Sports Interiors has been in the tennis New York. The company has partnered lighting and ceiling system business for with Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment. more than 23 years and has installed The tournament started in 1976 and systems in hundreds of tennis clubs. its champions include Bjorn Borg, Jimmy Connors, Andre Agassi, Ivan Lendl, Pete USTA Honors Recipients Sampras and Kei Nishikori. In 2018, it of Annual Awards will be played at the renovated Nassau The USTA honored the winners of its Coliseum on Feb. 10-18. • Kei Nishikori Annual Awards recently at the USTA

Short Sets

The U.S. Fed Cup team defeated the organizers plan to build a temporary, of the Latex-Ite brand of recreational Czech Republic, 3-2, in the World Group 3,000-seat stadium to host matches. coatings and recently launched the semifinals in April at Saddlebrook Resort 1-800-TENNISCOURT network in the in Florida. The U.S. squad will now face String manufacturer Ashaway has U.S. and Canada. Belarus in the Fed Cup final, to be held added four new players to its 2017 in Belarus Nov. 11-12. Belarus defeated Professional Sponsorship Team for Snodgrass Partners Inc., an executive Switzerland, 3-2, in the semis. racquetball: Felipe Camacho, Alejandro search, sports recruiting and manage- Herrera, Daniel Rojas, and Gabriela Mar- ment consulting firm, has added four Australia defeated the United States, tinez. The Ashaway Sponsorship Team is new allied partners: Alliance of Women 3-2, in the Davis Cup World Group Quar- designed to support rising professional Coaches, Forward Progress Athletics terfinal in April, ending the U.S. cam- racquetball players. Ashaway has also Consulting, Moore Leadership and True paign for 2017. In September, Australia been the Official String of USA Racquet- North Sports. Visit www.SnodgrassPart- will face Belgium in one semifinal, while ball for over 15 years and supports more ners.com for more information. France will meet Serbia in the other. than 100 top amateur players across the country with string sponsorships. Visit A three-alarm fire on March 1 caused Grand Slam Tennis Tours will host a pro ashawayusa.com for more info. about $2 million in damage and exhibition event in Stowe, Vt., Aug. 22- destroyed about a quarter of the Cedar- 24, featuring top ATP Players. The event, Dalton Enterprises of Cheshire, Conn., dale Health and Fitness Center in Haver- to be held the week before the US Open is the newest Supporting Member of the hill, Mass. The blaze started at 2 a.m., begins, will be at the Stowe Mountain Tennis Industry Association. The family- and no one was injured. The club remains Lodge, at the base of Stowe Resort. The owned business is the manufacturer closed for repairs. • PHOTOS AP

www.tennisindustrymag.com June 2017 TennisIndustry 9

06_TI_FOB_IndustryNewsPFED.indd 10 5/2/17 9:23 AM IndustryNews

Annual Meeting and Conference, held at the JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes Resort in Orlando, Fla, March 24-27. The honorees were recognized for their dedica- tion to growing the game. • Gene Orlando of Lansing, Mich., received the Brad Parks Award, established in 2002 to honor an individual or organization that has been instrumental in the develop- ment of wheelchair tennis. • Barbara Wynne of Indianapolis received the USTA NJTL Founders’ Service Award, which recognizes an individual NJTL chapter founder committed to positive youth development through tennis and education and provides free or low-cost tennis, education and life-skills programming to thou- sands of underserved children each year. • San Antonio Tennis Association of Texas was named the USTA Member Organization of the Year, which recognizes the outstand- Topspin's new TopScore ing services of a USTA member scoreboard. organization through its commit- ment to the tennis community, the COURT ACCESSORIES organization’s members and the game of tennis. • The Charles Norman family of Topspin Sports Introduces Aurora, Ohio, is the recipient of the Ralph W. Westcott USTA Family of 2-Sided Digital Scoreboard the Year Award, created in 1965 to emphasize the theme that “tennis opspin Sports LLC has introduced is a family game.” The award is TopScore, a digital, two-sided, given annually to the family that net-post-mounted tennis score- has done the most to promote board.T TopScore features “tennis intelli- amateur tennis, primarily on a gence,” with intuitive buttons that change volunteer basis. the game and set numbers, switch num- • Steve Solomon of Palm Springs, bers from black to white, swap numbers Calif., received the Seniors’ Ser- on changeovers and reset the numbers vice Award, established in 1958 after a set or match. and given annually to the person “We developed TopScore because most deserving of the respect and players weren’t satisfied with the current honor of all senior players. on-court scorekeepers being used in tour- nament and recreational play,” says Paul Two Student-Athletes Win Kincaid, the president and co-founder of outdoor-grade polycarbonate, while the Wilson/ITA Internships Topspin Sports. outer shell is aluminum powder-coated, to Kelli Woodman of Seattle Univer- After six years in development, the resist fading or rusting. sity and Milton “Neto” Cacace of patented TopScore is designed for indoor TopScore, which has a one-year war- Harding University will receive paid and outdoor courts and uses highly read- ranty, comes in two colors: white panels internships to work at Wilson’s glob- able E-paper technology, controlled by with dark green text and outer trim, or al headquarters in Chicago in the Topspin Sports’ proprietary circuitry. It dark green panels with white text and dark Grassroots Marketing department is powered by two AA-batteries that can green outer trim. Suggested retail is $999. this summer. last six months to two years, depending on Visit www.topspinsportsllc.com for more

Both Woodman and Cacace are daily usage. The panels are an anti-glare information, or call 949-510-4819. • LLC PHOTOS TOPSPIN SPORTS

10 TennisIndustry June 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

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USPTA Publishes Book Celebrating 90 Years

The USPTA has created a coffee- table book to celebrate its 90th anniversary and commemorate the tennis association’s rich and diverse history. United States Professional Tennis Association—Our History, Our Members and Our Contribution to the Sport features hundreds of biographical portraits and mem- ber photos, and includes a roster of all USPTA members. Julie Myers, the USPTA’s director of communi- cations, coordinated the project. The books were pre-sold to the membership, although the publisher, Acclaim Press, did print extra copies that they plan to sell.

USRSA Announces New MRTs Master Racquet Technicians • Kenneth Long, Clover, S.C. • Timothy Ou, Tucson, Ariz. • Stan Pope, Clinton, Miss. • Jonathan Fried, Toronto, Canada •

www.tennisindustrymag.com June 2017 TennisIndustry 11

06_TI_FOB_IndustryNewsPFED.indd 12 5/2/17 9:24 AM ORLANDO 2017 TAKEAWAYS The fourth annual Tennis Owners & Managers (TOM) Conference, held in Orlando, Fla., March 27-29, attracted more than 250 tennis facility owners, managers and others in the industry. In addition to interactive sessions and roundtables, the TOM had dozens of speakers and presenters. Here are some of the key takeaways from the 2017 TOM Conference:

Facilities that have incorporated fitness, wellness Make sure you know Fair Labor Standards Act and How can you enhance the value of your tennis and other non-tennis programming have a greater state law basics, and comply with minimum wage facility? Capital expenditures and improvements, chance of being successful with today’s changing and overtime laws. Private sector employers implement an online system, add programming consumer. —Dr. Jack Groppel, Co-Founder, cannot give comp time to nonexempt employees or upgrade existing programming, sales and Johnson & Johnson Human Performance instead of paying time-and-a-half overtime based marketing, invest in human capital. Institute on an employee’s regular rate of pay. —Jim Bates, Partner, Sports Club Advisors —Jordan Schwartz, Labor Law Attorney Take care of your front-line staff, give them When building tennis programs, consider that decision-making power, acknowledge their A successful leader creates stars out of their people need to connect, belong and build accomplishments—and they will take care of staff. Leadership is about “them,” not “us.” — relationships. In today’s world, customers need your guests and customers. —Brent Centlivre, Greg Lappin, Club Consultant real-time feedback. —Mike Barrell, Founder/ Disney Institute CEO, evolve9 Today, fitness programming is not just about Offer lower-level players the most convenient court-specific drills and games. It needs to involve Adult tennis programming requires a consistent schedules; emphasize “drop-in” format technology advancements, “gamification,” approach, year-round in-house coaching, and a opportunities for convenience; get the whole different fitness offerings, functional trainings, “menu of choice” that is specific to individual family involved; offer consistently high quality of and accommodating the attention span of the clubs because each facility is different. Using a service; and solicit student feedback regularly. users. —Simon Pearson, National Racquets rating system helps to create standards. —Michael Mahoney, Senior V.P./General Programmes Manager, Virgin Active UK —Gary Stewart, Racquet Sports Manager, Midtown Athletic Club, Chicago Programming Consultant At Midtown Athletic Club, the signature There is only one thing that really gets traffic and beginner tennis programs achieve a number Infuse fitness into the DNA of your tennis more members: Buzz! Members want results, of goals: increase the tennis market, sell club programs for juniors and adults. This could mean and they want something new and “remarkable.” memberships, offer nonmembers a tennis and additional 30-minute sessions, which add to The solution is Program Marketing: When a club club experience, and allow beginners to play with revenue. —Michael Harper, Co-Founder, offers a short-term, measureable program that their peers. —Michael Mahoney, Senior V.P./ Courtplay Athletics provides a high level of personal attention and General Manager, Midtown Athletic Club, accountability and appeals to a specific health Chicago Stop selling and start using social media to desire or medical condition. —Casey Conrad, provide value and build community. To create Communications Consultants “Rally In 10” is a successful adult beginner value, you need to create a sense of belonging. program at the Junior Tennis Champions Center Consider offering instructional tips, viral videos, The “ultimate client experience” creates an that starts a four-step pathway to playing humor. —Scott Baxter, CEO & Founder, immersive environment, is one where the social and competitive tennis, and guarantees PlayYourCourt employees are the experts, helps to educate adults will be rallying in the first 10 minutes of customers, uses technology to enhance the instruction. —Ajay Pant, National Tennis People play tennis for the benefits of tennis. We experience, and reinvents a market. Director, Life Time Fitness are in the lifestyle change business and in the —Carlos Salum, Founder, Salum habit creation business. —Greg Lappin, International Resources Club Consultant TIA Continues Webinar Series The TIA’s Spring/Summer Webinar Learning Series will include The series continues WEBINAR LEARNING SERIES educational webinars that touch on many segments of the tennis into September. Among the industry. Many topics have been adapted from presentations at the webinars will be a four-part series from top club consultant Greg recent TOM Conference in Orlando. Lappin on “Clarifying Your Values for Increased Profitability,” and Last year’s Webinar Learning Series generated nearly 1,500 four retail webinars from Sean Barkulis from ShopKeep, a cloud- registrations in the first three months. The PTR and USPTA offer based technology solution for businesses. The TIA continues to add continuing education credits for those who attend the webinars. webinars, so visit TennisIndustry.org/webinars for the latest.

12 TennisIndustry June 2017 Join the TIA . . . Increase Your Profits . . . Grow the Game . . . TennisIndustry.org Save the Date: Aug. 28th TIA Tennis Forum in NYC

The 10th Annual TIA Tennis Forum will take place in New York City on Monday morning, Aug. 28, the first day of play at the 2017 US Open. The Forum will be at a new location—the Intercontinental New York Barclay, the official hotel of the ATP Tour, at Lexington Avenue and 49th Street in New York City. At the Forum, industry executives will messaging of health, fitness and the reasons involving new startup companies and present the latest news about the state of to play tennis. products helping to grow the tennis industry. the tennis industry, including participation The Forum also will honor the 2017 Companies interested in applying for the research, equipment sales data, and updates inductee(s) into the Tennis Industry Hall of NYC-2017 Innovation Challenge should email from the TIA and the USTA, including the Fame (to nominate for the TI Hall of Fame, [email protected] for more status of a new youth tennis initiative. visit TennisIndustry.org/HoF). Attendees also information. The Forum also will outline ways to better will receive a summary report on the 2017 While the 10th Annual TIA Tennis define and boost the economic growth and State of the Tennis Industry. Forum is free to attend, space is impact of the tennis industry, and effective New this year will be an “NYC-2017 limited, so registration is required. Visit ways to distribute clear, consistent Tennis Industry Innovation Challenge,” TennisIndustry.org to register.

Youth Tennis, Cardio Tennis Tennis Marketplace Shine In Recent Tennis Continues Struggle Participation Study 2016 was particularly challenging for tennis equipment sales, as wholesale shipments Among the bright spots in the most recent tennis for racquets, balls, and strings all declined participation data is an increase in the number of youth from the previous year—continuing a slide in players and an increase in the number of Cardio Tennis equipment retail. players, according to the latest study from the Physical Racquets declined in both units, down Activity Council (PAC). 9.1 percent, and dollars, down 14.4 percent. More than 4.53 million youngsters between ages Unit sales of youth racquets declined 8.3 6 and 17 took to the courts in 2016, which is a 7.2 percent, balls declined 9.2 percent and percent increase from 2015. The increase was driven low-compression (red, orange, green) balls by the youngest players, ages 6 to 12, up 11.7 declined 13.4 percent. Championship balls percent, while ages 13 to 17 increased 2.7 percent. were only down 5%, which matches the “Core” youth players, those who play at least 10 times a year, also decline in play occasions. increased, by 3.8 percent to 2.68 million. And importantly, new youth players rose 17.8 Strings provided a bright spot in the percent in 2016—up 21 percent in the 6 to 12 age category and 11 percent in the 13 to 17 fourth quarter, up 8.5 percent in those three age group. months, but that wasn’t enough to pull it out Cardio Tennis in 2016 was ranked No. 1 in year-over-year growth of the 118 sports and of negative territory for the year, down 1.2 activities measured in the PAC report, with an increase of 17 percent to more than 2.12 million percent YTD. participants. Cardio Tennis has seen a 156 percent increase since first being measured in 2008. Early reports on 1st quarter wholesale Total tennis participation for year-end 2016, though, is best described as “stable.” PAC data shipments show disruptive trends continuing. shows total U.S. participation grew 0.6 percent from 2015 to 2016, to 18.08 million players. The retail data, along with Overall “core” tennis participants declined 1 percent in the past year, to 9.86 million. Core participation data and other players account for 94 percent of all tennis “play occasions,” so it’s no surprise that overall research collected from the tennis play occasions also declined year over year, falling 4.8 percent to 425 million. (Non- nearly 70 TIA surveys and TENNIS INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION core tennis players increased 2.6 percent.) studies, will be published STATE OF THE PAC data shows that opportunity continues to be found in the “latent demand” for tennis. in the seventh edition of INDUSTRY Aside from the 18.08 million players currently, the study shows there are another 12.7 million the TIA’s annual State 2017 EDITION consumers, who consider themselves tennis players but may not have played in the past year, of the Industry report, and 15 million non-players who are interested in taking up the game. scheduled to be released The 2017 Physical Activity Council Participation Report surveyed 118 sports and activities. later this spring. For more The annual report is produced by a partnership of eight of the major governing bodies and information on how to obtain a copy trade associations in the U.S. sports and leisure industry (NGF, SIA, OIA & OF, TIA & USTA, of the report, contact the TIA at 866-686-3036 IHRSA, USA Football and SFIA). or [email protected].

Join the TIA . . . Increase Your Profits . . . Grow the Game . . . TennisIndustry.org June 2017 TennisIndustry 13 TennisIndustry RacquetTech

Practice on your own frames or demos, but make sure you are using ‘best practice’ methods on your clients’ frames.

desired result. For example, I’ve lost count of the number of ways I’ve seen a string job started. From my point of view, as long as the frame or string is not harmed and each string is ten- sioned individually and fully, then there are multiple ways you can start a job. Choosing the method that is right for you is simply about finding your “best practice.” Once you choose a tech- nique that you feel is best, use it for all stringing and customization jobs. That CUSTOMER SERVICE is not to say you won’t discover a new technique you might consider using. Reliable Results Experiment, as you should always look to improve your “best practice.” When it comes to consistent racquet The key to continual improvement in this industry is to never stop learning. service for your players, make sure you’re Interacting with and discussing things with your peers is always educational. using your “best practice” techniques. Seek out new methods, learn why that person uses them and think about any By Bob Patterson advantage or disadvantage it provides over your current method. Often, there is a give and take: The new method may be better in some ways, but it may create problems in other ways. You’ll need to evaluate these pros and cons to see if it’s worth implementing into your routine. f you’ve been stringing frames of stringing on the pro tour with many Consistency is always the founda- for as long as I have, you’ve seen great people, and have seen a variety tion of good racquet service. If you are a lot of innovations in racquets, of new techniques, some of which I constantly experimenting with various strings and the equipment we incorporated into my craft. But even ways of doing things, you cannot expect use to service them. Decades after all this time, I’m still learning— consistent results. Practice on your Iago, I started stringing on a Tremont and that’s the way it should be. The own frames or demos, but make sure Research stringing machine—which is older I get and the more experience I you are using “best practice” methods light-years away from the computer- have, the harder it is to see something on your clients’ frames. And never stop ized, electronic machine I use today. that hasn’t crossed my path before, but observing and learning. • But despite all of the technological it still happens. changes, the actual act of stringing a When it comes to stringing and Bob Patterson is the Executive Director racquet has not changed all that much. servicing racquets, there often is more of the United States Racquet Stringers

For many years, I had the privilege than one correct way to achieve the Association. BOB PATTERSON/USRSA PHOTO COURTESY

14 TennisIndustry June 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

06_TI_FOB_RacquetTechPFED.indd 7 5/2/17 9:30 AM LET’S SHAPE THE FUTURE OF TENNIS

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I will probably have the youngsters help with dressing the court. I learned from the best at the All England Lawn Tennis Club and would like to share the information.

BUILDING VALUES situation, the 34-year-old took his life. Dealing with grief is personal, Rallying for the Cause and Mark and Denise went about it privately. “Since Alex died, no one has The All Iowa Lawn Tennis Club played on the court,” Mark says. “I had cancelled all the reservations. I just comes back from tragedy with a couldn’t host anyone.” Then they had an idea: The Alex J. unique event for junior players. Kuhn Memorial Challenge Event. “Fair play and sportsmanship will be By Mark Winters the themes,” says Mark. “I will probably have the youngsters help with dress- ing the court. I learned from the best at the All England Lawn Tennis Club and would like to share the information uly 2016 was both memorable inspired Mark to write a memoir, with them.” and poignantly painful for Wimbledon 2015: Dreams Fulfilled & On June 24 and 25, the popular Mark Kuhn. Missions Accomplished. court—which has been renovated, with Mark and his wife, Last year, Mark went back to rye grass and a repaired irrigation Denise, own an 850-acre Wimbledon, returning home on July system—will be re-opened for the farm inJ Charles City, Iowa. In 2003, 11. Buoyed by the new information he event, which consists of a 12 & Under Mark founded the All Iowa Lawn had collected about the complexities team competition between the top Tennis Club, building a grass court on of grass-court maintenance, Mark was boys’ and girls’ teams from Iowa and a portion of the property where there anxious to utilize his knowledge to Minnesota. Both the USTA Missouri had been a cattle-feed lot. The purpose improve his own turf. Valley and USTA Northern sections of this labor of love was to give local Sadly, tragedy soon struck. Alex, who support the new tournament. USTA tennis aficionados an opportunity to had been a member of the Mason City Missouri Valley also provided a grant to enjoy the “Wimbledon experience” in (Iowa) City Council since 2011, was in purchase individual trophies, as well as his backyard. the middle of a political fight over the a traveling perpetual trophy. Anxious to learn more about the construction of a $240 million pork- “The court will be renamed in Alex’s nuances of maintaining a grass tennis processing plant. He vehemenly honor,” says Mark. “The event will be a court, Mark and his son, Alex, who opposed the project, and after making way to instill important values in kids, devoted time to the court’s upkeep, his decision known, he was castigated and hopefully remind anyone in need attended Wimbledon in 2015. Their by supporters of the plant construction. of help to seek professional assistance journey to the All England Club On July 15, overwhelmed by the in dealing with depression.” • COURTESY ALL IOWA LAWN TENNIS CLUB/MARK KUHN TENNIS CLUB/MARK LAWN ALL IOWA COURTESY

16 TennisIndustry June 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

06_TI_FOB_IowaPFED.indd 7 5/2/17 9:31 AM DESIGNED LIKE NO OTHER PLAYS LIKE NO OTHER

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1/ Viewscape When tennis players aren’t competing, they enjoy watching the game. At the USTA National Campus, we planned a Tournament Administration building in the center of a sea of 68 courts of all sizes. The second floor of the building has a viewing deck that looks out over all of the courts, providing a sense of tennis immersion. Facilities can review their site to determine if there are areas that can be improved to take advantage of views looking over the courts. These social spaces provide memorable experiences that remain with visitors long after they leave the facility.

PLAYER EXPERIENCE s a facility designer who has worked with the USTA for many years, I Copy That! was involved in helping The new USTA to develop the USTA NationalA Campus in Lake Nona, Fla., National Campus which opened earlier this year. The 100-court facility is amazing to experi- in Lake Nona ence with the excitement and energy that exists, as the sport is celebrated is groundbreaking daily by players of all ages and abilities. While the National Campus is vast, in many ways. we developed various smaller “neigh- borhoods” of tennis. For instance, 2/ 36/60-Foot Tennis Here are some the Team USA area has 20 cushioned The Nemours Family Zone at the acrylic courts; the Har-Tru (green clay) National Campus consists of eight features you should area has 32 courts; there’s a six-court 36-foot and eight 60-foot tennis courts, European red-clay area; the collegiate providing a tailored tennis experience consider for your area has 12 Plexicushion courts; and for those who may find 78-foot tennis a the family zone has stand-alone 36-foot little intimidating, are just learning the own facility. and 60-foot courts. sport or want to have fun playing tennis But besides the actual courts, there on a smaller scale. By David LaSota are certain design components found Interest in short-court tennis throughout the National Campus increases when there are standalone that many tennis facilities around the 36- and 60-foot courts, in an area sepa- country can incorporate to improve rate from 78-foot courts. I recommend the experience for their own players, finding underutilized courts or space

spectators and visitors. and converting it to short-court use. RICHMOND GIBBS PHOTOGRAPHY PLAYSIGHT, USTA, PHOTOS COURTESY

18 TennisIndustry June 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

06_TI_FOB_CampusPFED.indd 7 5/2/17 11:10 AM TennisIndustry

3/ Shade 4/ Live Streaming 5/ Water Stations and Shade is increasingly important when At the National Campus, tennis Electric Recharge Stations planning tennis facilities, particularly matches can be shared live online Water fountains and bottle-fi lling in the South. For the safety of play- around the world. Cameras fi xed to the stations have been installed throughout ers and spectators, facilities need to courts and streaming services, such as the National Campus so players can provide refuge from the sun’s rays. As a PlaySight, are available for relatively hydrate easily and frequently. Many bonus, these areas also off er cover from low cost. If your facility hosts frequent players bring their own water bottles the rain. They tend to become places to tournaments, consider live-streaming to the court, so the fi lling stations keep socialize and rest after playing. matches so players’ families and friends them topped off while reducing the Try to incorporate shaded areas, with can get in on the action. waste of disposable plastic bottles. seating, between and near the courts. The National Campus is working The National Campus also has The more comfortable you make your to coordinate live scoring with its live cell-phone charging stations, another players, the more they’ll want to be streaming, too, which will give a real- amenity that helps make players and playing on your courts. match feel to the live-stream broadcast. visitors comfortable. 

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www.tennisindustrymag.com June 2017 TennisIndustry 19

06_TI_FOB_CampusPFED.indd 8 5/2/17 11:11 AM 20170428_TennisIndustry_DPS_print-P01.pdf 1 2017-05-01 1:45 PM

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Racquets and String Although some aspects of racquets and strings SENIOR PLAYERS may be more applicable to certain age groups, Bob Patterson, Changing Times executive director of the U.S. Racquet Stringers Association, advises ten- As your players and customers age, nis clubs and retailers to not label or categorize based on age alone. Rather, make sure you’re still serving them they should focus on each individual’s playing ability, swing type, injury his- in ways that keep them on the courts. tory, and playing frequency—and then match their customers’ frames and By Chris Lewis string set-ups accordingly. Just as beginners’ racquet needs change as they become more proficient, older players’ needs also fluctuate, as they may eventually lose some strength and experience eyesight and reflex issues. Players should constantly evalu- ate their equipment and alter it when necessary to ensure they can achieve maximum performance. In particular, senior players may benefit from softer string set-ups, including lower tension, softer string itself or a combination. Softer string beds are more forgiving on off-center hits, propel balls deeper and transmit less shock on impact. Older players benefit from having frame characteris- tics that match their unique needs. “Regardless of age, players can optimize their on-court performance by having frames with correct weights, swing weights, head-size flexes and lengths,” Patterson says. Once players have correct racquets, based on their health, skill level and level of endurance, they should have their racquets re-evaluated every two to three years, preferably by a certified Master Racquet Technician or Profes- sional Racquet Advisor. “These individuals have passed an exhaustive examination process to prove their knowledge and skills,” ge is just a number.” should not be ignored, neither by the Patterson adds. “As experts on the You’ve most likely heard players themselves nor the facilities industry’s latest technologies, they can this many times, and it and retailers that serve them. successfully fit players with proper seems to apply to the To improve customer service for racquets on a consistent basis.” sport of tennis now more older clientele, clubs and retailers thanA ever, as players of all skill levels should keep the following points in Lightweight, Comfortable Shoes play, compete and enjoy the game into mind, particularly in regards to fitting their 70s, 80s and even 90s. racquets properly, offering the correct In addition to properly Nonetheless, certain aspects of the weights and widths of tennis shoes, fitted racquets, lightweight aging process—loss of strength along and ensuring that their facilities have tennis shoes are a necessity for older

with diminished eyesight and reflexes— proper lighting. players. Dr. David Sharnoff, a podiatrist PHOTO SHUTTERSTOCK

22 TennisIndustry June 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

06_TI_FOB_PlayersPFED.indd 7 5/2/17 9:50 AM TennisIndustry

in Shelton, Conn., recommends that negative foot issues in mind, they will older players may need. men’s size 9 shoes weigh 14 ounces, have more agility and comfort longer “Most LED lighting systems typi- while women’s size 7 shoes weigh in at than they may anticipate,” Dr. Sharnoff cally cannot simply be swapped out 12 ounces. adds. “And, consequently, they will fixture for fixture with metal halide and “Although some brands of shoes notice a difference in their on-court perform to the standards required for don’t provide different widths, older performance.” older players,” LaSota says. players must keep the width of their The publication Tennis Courts: A shoes in mind and account for foot Higher Illumination Levels Construction and Maintenance Manual, ‘pathology’”—any deviation from nor- Clubs and retailers must published by the American Sports mal conditions, stresses Dr. Sharnoff. also ensure their Builders Association and the U.S. Ten- “After all, without the correct width facilities are designed and nis Association, recommends facilities of shoes, bunions, hammer toes, heel constructed to meet the needs of the that cater to recreational tennis com- spurs, metatarsalgia and plantar fasci- aging tennis population. David LaSota, petition maintain average horizontal itis, among other issues, may result.” founder of The Tennis Design Studio, illumination levels within the Primary To ensure that players purchase shoes believes adequate tennis court lighting Playing Area at 50 foot-candles, along with correct weights and widths, Dr. is extremely important to older players. with a maximum uniformity rate of 2.0. Sharnoff advises that prior to purchase, In recent years, many tennis facilities LaSota often recommends even higher players try on shoes at the end of the day, have been converting their court light- average horizontal illumination levels as feet will typically swell 5 to 10 percent ing from metal halide to LED lighting of 75 foot-candles for facilities with by that point in time. Furthermore, feet to reduce energy costs. However, one older players. are not status quo, so players should primary issue has arisen as a result: have their feet measured every year. LED lighting, if not properly designed By paying attention to what older “If older players purchase shoes that and installed, may not provide the player want and need, you can keep are lightweight, have properly fitted average maintained horizontal illumi- them playing, upgrading their equip- widths, and are designed with potential nation levels and uniformity rates that ment and enjoying the game longer. • PHOTO SHUTTERSTOCK

www.tennisindustrymag.com June 2017 TennisIndustry 23

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Mike Levy Sr.'s contributions to the Milwaukee-area tennis scene include helping launch the Milwakee Tennis Club.

COMMUNITY TENNIS COURT CONSTRUCTION TENNIS & EDUCATION

NJTL Stars These dedicated individuals and organizations are among the more than 500 National Junior Tennis and Learning chapters bringing tennis and education to this country’s youngsters.

MIDWEST Growing Tennis… One Program at a Time

Mike Levy Sr. has been working to grow tennis in the Mil- waukee, Wis., area for over 40 years. He was a successful high school coach and helped launch the Milwaukee Ten- nis Club, which focused on giving adults in urban areas the opportunity to play in summer leagues. In 2008, Levy began planning a new CTA to serve the Racine area. Now, the Racine Community Tennis Associa- tion is an NJTL chapter, leveraging its strong relationship with local schools to reach youngsters of all ages. Levy is tennis director of the Milwaukee Tennis and Education Foundation, also a local NJTL chapter. The foundation offers a program called TEAM (Tennis, Educa- tion and Mentoring) that focuses on tennis and life skills. Levy says serving others has always been a goal for his life, and he enjoys using tennis to reach young people. “I want to believe tennis can teach so much as it relates to hard work, perseverance, accountability, teamwork and sportsmanship,” he says. “Our urban youth win on all fronts when the game of tennis is the teacher.” —Tracy Maymon USTA SOUTHWEST/USTA INTERMOUNTAIN/USTA SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA INTERMOUNTAIN/USTA SOUTHWEST/USTA USTA USTA MIDWEST USTA

24 TennisIndustry June 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

06_TI_FEAT_StarsED.indd 7 5/2/17 11:07 AM TennisIndustry

SOUTHWEST INTERMOUNTAIN Flagstaff’s Shining Star Tennis Dynamo and NJTL Leader

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Flagstaff-area tennis volun- Fifteen years ago, Trent teer Jana Perpich has been Alenik was a member of the Huge Hearts the backbone of the sport first class of the Marty Make a Huge Difference in Northern Arizona for Hennessy Inspiring Chil- over a decade. In that time, dren Foundation, an NJTL she’s helped develop high in Las Vegas. He was a Cheryl Olivas–Dieli and Lois Sczepaniak are a school tennis programs in a beginning tennis player, but dyanmic duo that have helped hundreds of San city where none previously eventually became a Diego kids learn the game of tennis for over 25 existed, worked to get youth nationally ranked state years. This coaching team is committed to help- tennis programs started champion and earned a ing low-income youth through NJTL and classes and thriving, and helped tennis scholarship to at the East County Community Tennis Associa- sanction or run adult tennis Villanova University. tion (ECCTA). tournaments. After college, Alenik had The two are also tennis coaching partners out But her most impressive the opportunity to work on of Helix High School, and teach in the South and and impactful achievement Wall Street. Instead, he East counties of San Diego, which are areas in is as director of the Family chose to volunteer back at dire need of good training for kids and adults. In and Community Teaming the NJTL chapter. After a addition, Olivas-Dieli, a USPTA-certified instruc- for Students (FACTS) tennis year, he became manager, tor, is the only San Diego coach who has made program in Flagstaff, a life- helping the organization inroads at the Indian reservations in her area. skills program and NJTL navigate a large demand She offers year-round NJTL tennis and is the first chapter that provides after- with limited resources. to help out at every San Diego community event. school and summer tennis Now executive director, Sczepaniak, one of the original founders of the experiences for more than Alenik’s leadership has ECCTA, has been helping the Hispanic popula- 700 children each year. resulted in unique partner- tion in her area. The award-winning ships with Richard Bran- With their huge hearts, and giving freely of FACTS program has helped son’s Necker Cup, the their time, both women are certainly making a seed many of the city’s year- National Tennis Foundation difference to many kids in the San Diego area. round tennis programs and and the NJTL capacity- —Cari Buck high schools with enthusias- building program. tic young players for nearly But his biggest impact has 10 years. Without Perpich’s always been on the children skills in managing, fundrais- he mentors daily. Under his ing and communicating, the leadership, 92 youngsters FACTS program might just have followed in his foot- be a theory, as would much steps to gain admission and of Flagstaff tennis. scholarships to top colleges. USTA SOUTHWEST/USTA INTERMOUNTAIN/USTA SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA INTERMOUNTAIN/USTA SOUTHWEST/USTA USTA USTA MIDWEST USTA —Jeff Sikes —Ryan Wolfington

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COMMUNITY TENNIS

NORTHERN Investing in Mind and Body

Kevin Tran recognizes the huge impact tennis has had on his life in such a short time. The senior at Harding High School in St. Paul, Minn., only started playing tennis as a freshman, but immedi- ately fell in love with the sport. That summer after his freshman year, he joined the Saint Paul Urban Tennis (SPUT) program, CARIBBEAN NEW ENGLAND and soon after, the SPUT Winter Warriors Leadership Academy. Tran has served as a player A Star of Hard Unique Style That and instructor for SPUT, and last year was Work and Inspires Kids selected to attend the Leadership Enterprise for a Diverse America at Princeton University. Perseverance Graduating as class valedictorian, Tran will be For the past three years, first person in his family to go to college. He will Stamford Youth Tennis attend Stanford University and is considering In 2003, Erasmo Almonte Academy (SYTA) has studying aerospace or mechanical engineering, left his native Dominican provided underserved economics or public policy. Of course, he’ll also Republic with only $200 youngsters in Southern play club tennis. in his pocket in search of Connecticut education “I love the family I have made through tennis a new beginning. He came through tennis program- and Saint Paul Urban Tennis,” Tran says. “Tennis to Puerto Rico, where he ming. With free tennis has allowed me to invest in my mind and body. enrolled in college and lessons and clinics com- Saint Paul Urban has given me the platform to obtained a degree in physi- bined with its ACE Curricu- make many friends, meet inspiring coaches, cal education. lum, SYTA is a coveted maintain a healthy lifestyle and give back to my Almonte visited the USTA resource for locals. community.” Caribbean office, interested The newest member of —Lisa Mushett in becoming a tennis coach. the SYTA team is 22-year- He completed a recreational old Marcus Hooks, whose tennis workshop, then gregarious style of teaching continued his education to tennis gains fans every- make his dream a reality. where he goes. “As soon as Now, more than 10 years we met Marcus, we hired later, Almonte is known for him on the spot,” says SYTA his teaching skills, but also Executive Director Linda for his excellent personal Cremin. “He has a great values and qualities. presence, and you can tell As a host for USTA initia- he’s great with kids the way tives such as NJTL, After he engages them.” School Programs, Tennis “Marcus is inspiring and Kids Clubs and Junior Team makes me want to come Tennis, Almonte impacts back every week,” says hundreds of children each Stamford seventh-grader year. In fact, he even signed Amare Leak. an agreement with the local “As long as I’m the best I government to provide free can be at what I do, I’ll be tennis lessons to low- happy,” Hooks says. “I want income kids and adults, to let these kids know they sharing with them the hope can be successful in both that tennis has given him. school and tennis.”

—Arlin Hernández —James Maimonis NEW ENGLAND CARIBBEAN/USTA NORTHERN/USTA USTA NORTHWEST PACIFIC CALIFORNIA/USTA NORTHERN MIDDLE STATES/USTA USTA

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Only 16 years old, Miguel Diaz DeLeon is already an inspiration to younger scholar- athletes.

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA PACIFIC NORTHWEST Decades of Setting an Giving to the Example for the

MIDDLE STATES Community Next Generation Going Into the Schools Carl Mendoza has been Eight years ago, Portland active in the USTA com- Tennis & Education munity for the past 30 years, introduced Miguel Diaz The mission for City of Reading (COR) Tennis volunteering on countless DeLeon to tennis. Since includes making tennis available, affordable and National and NorCal boards enrolling in Portland Tennis fun for everyone. For several years, that’s been on and committees, including & Education’s year-round display through community events, clinics and serving as chairman for academy in 2009, DeLeon, tennis leagues. Most recently, though, it’s been the Diversity & Inclusion now 16 years old, has apparent in the schools. and Community Tennis developed into an excellent The award-winning COR Tennis recently began committees. scholar-athlete and become the “El” COR Elementary School Tennis League, Mendoza also spends a lot an inspiration to younger bringing together kids from five schools at Read- of his time giving back to the academy participants. ing, Pa.-area recreation centers. Matches are set community, teaching tennis Like many other scholar- up for multiple skill levels, and there are mascots to youth players and adults. athletes, DeLeon has grown and music to keep the atmosphere upbeat. He is certified by the PTR up in the program, working “These are great kids who may not have learned for Adults, 10 and Under, hard to improve himself in about tennis or experienced it without us finding and 11 to 17 ages, as well as the classroom and on the them in the schools,” says COR Director of Tennis by the USPTA. In addition, tennis court. Saturday Larry Zerbe. “We make it fun for them. The kids Mendoza helped found the mornings find him helping are learning what tennis can do for them and Northern California NJTL teach the “Ducks and what a great sport it is.” Junior Training Camp, Beavers” junior classes, and COR also offers homework help to every kid in which has been in existence throughout the week he the program. And parents also are learning the for 25 years. gives his time stringing game for the first time. Currently, Mendoza is racquets for St. John’s “The program has been a hit,” Zerbe adds. “It’s a volunteer for the Nor- Racquet Club members. inspired a lot of the middle-school principals to Cal NJTL, a member of the Last summer, DeLeon was add it to their schools, as well.” NorCal Tennis Foundation selected to be a ball person —Michael Gladysz grants committee and the in the U.S. Davis Cup lead instructor for Youth Quarterfinals and the US Tennis Advantage (YTA). He Open. His journey continues most recently was honored to inspire, setting an with USTA NorCal’s 2016 example for younger Outstanding Community scholar-athletes and paving Tennis Volunteer Award. the way for a bright future.

USTA NORTHERN/USTA CARIBBEAN/USTA NEW ENGLAND CARIBBEAN/USTA NORTHERN/USTA USTA NORTHWEST PACIFIC CALIFORNIA/USTA NORTHERN MIDDLE STATES/USTA USTA —Mylene Mukhar —Celene Robert

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COMMUNITY TENNIS

SOUTHERN Propelling Youth Tennis in Louisville

It’s all about organization. That’s what people in the know say about Dee Maynard and her skills in getting things done. The underserved youth of Louisville, Ky., are a lot better off because of Maynard’s hard-working and persistent attitude. Her volunteerism has FLORIDA EASTERN spearheaded a vibrant and successful local organization—the Louisville 10 & Under Tennis Past President Creating Association—which is an NJTL and a CTA. Serves Delray Opportunities for In 2012 there were only 270 Junior Team Tennis players in town. In 2016, JTT exploded to Beach Youngsters Inner-City Youth 1,475 participants. The NJTL supported about 200 kids five years ago. Based on receiving numerous USTA and other grants during the last Only two years after its Sam Chhoeun of Rochester, two years, at least 5,370 youngsters have played founding, the Delray Beach N.Y., provides youngsters tennis in its program. Youth Tennis Founda- with the opportunity to try “Dee will knock on any door at any time to grow tion has already touched tennis through Love-15, an tennis. She connects people in groups effortlessly hundreds of underserved NJTL that for the last 26 and has tremendous leadership skills,” says USTA students and boasts mul- years has offered free Kentucky Executive Director Jason Miller. tiple NJTL chapter awards. instruction and program- Even though Maynard keeps her hand in The after-school program ming to thousands of local consulting with small businesses, she is extremely extols leadership, academic kids ages 8 to 16. active in both tennis and non-tennis volunteer excellence and healthy Chhoeun, the director of efforts. “I like to volunteer 40 hours a week,” she habits through tennis. The Teens, Youth Sports and says. Louisville doesn’t mind that at all. foundation’s director of ten- Families at the Maplewood —Ron Cioffi nis is Don Cleveland, a past YMCA in Rochester, started president of USTA Florida. in Love-15 as one of its first “We could not be more participants. Today, he runs proud of Don and his the program with pride and efforts,” says USTA Florida passion, recruiting new Executive Director Doug participants through several Booth. “Many USTA Florida nearby organizations, past presidents have an conducting tennis clinics at impact in their local com- local schools and parks, and munities after they’ve hosting Love-15’s summer served the section, and Don tennis camp. has certainly done that in his “Our host sites are work in Delray Beach with strategically located to underserved children.” attract young people who The DBYTF has been rec- would not ordinarily have ognized as winners over the the opportunity or inclina- last two years of the USTA tion to play tennis,” Foundation NJTL Essay Chhoeun notes. “We give Contest, where students give participants an inclusive voice to the life skills they've environment to interact learned and applied through with peers, positive role NJTL programs. models and mentors.”

—Rick Vach —Kelsey Clark MUNDAY EASTERN/WALTER FLORIDA/USTA USTA MISSOURI VALLEY MID-ATLANTIC/USTA TEXAS/USTA USTA

28 TennisIndustry June 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

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For Corpus Christi's Tennis Success program, there are few roles that Maria Casares doesn’t fill.

TEXAS MID-ATLANTIC True Success in NJTL Mission Corpus Christi Accomplished

MISSOURI VALLEY Maria Casares, director of Parents Vanya Brown and education for Tennis Suc- Jennifer Toomy planned a Making a Year-Round cess in Corpus Christi, is full weekend event at Old Difference of energy. She not only Dominion University in tutors kids in the program, Norfolk, Va., for the week- but also helps with fundrais- end of March 31 that The First Serve NJTL program in Oklahoma City, ers, organizes annual events embodied the spirit and mis- Okla., is picking up momentum. Despite arson for kids and parents, will sion of NJTLs. The trip that destroyed much of the NJTL’s equipment as counsel and consult with incorporated the spirited the program was just beginning in 2014, the orga- parents, and works with competition of Junior Team nization, based at the award-winning Oklahoma high school students who Tennis match play, cultural City Tennis Center, has overcome that obstacle are planning on entering enlightenment and an inside and has a new six-court indoor facility to provide college, helping them with look at the experience of year-round opportunities to its players. their scholarship require- being a collegiate-level Last year, First Serve reached nearly 800 chil- ments and submissions. She tennis player. dren. This year, Executive Director Emmy Tigert also spearheads all the proj- Brown and Toomy hopes that number tops 1,000. ects involving the kids with volunteered their time to But it’s the new indoor courts that has Tigert NJTL contests that involve make the event an enriching most optimistic in terms of making a year-round essay writing and art work. yet affordable experience for difference for the children the program serves. Fair and firm, Casares the kids and parents in “To have them year-round is critical,” she says. is the glue that holds the attendance. In addition to “If they were to go out and play for their high Tennis Success program arranging transportation, school team, they’re likely to be facing kids get- together. She was instru- Brown and Toomy arranged ting private lessons year-round. The indoor facil- mental in Tennis Success for discounted hotel rates ity allows us to level the playing field for the kids.” receiving the 2014 USTA and donated indoor court With First Serve being a relatively newer NJTL, Foundation’s NJTL Chapter time to ensure the informa- Tigert knows there’s plenty of room for growth. of the Year award. tive and engaging weekend She sees the next big opportunity as developing Every child knows when was focused on the experi- its education program to continue to make a they come into Casares’ ence and not cost. difference in the lives of children. classroom, they will not The trip included a tour of —Andrew Robinson only get love, but help with the college, attending a homework assignments and Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity fair and equal treatment. For crossover event, bowling, Casares, every youngster in swimming, JTT match play the Tennis Success program and attending a women’s is a teacher’s pet. tennis match.

USTA FLORIDA/USTA EASTERN/WALTER MUNDAY EASTERN/WALTER FLORIDA/USTA USTA MISSOURI VALLEY MID-ATLANTIC/USTA TEXAS/USTA USTA —Ron Woods —Ronnie Goodall

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Construction of the court at the Pinecrest residence was facilitated by preemptive clearing and rough grading.

DISTINGUISHED FACILITY-OF-THE-YEAR AWARDS Pinecrest COURT CONSTRUCTION Residence Pinecrest, Fla.

Nominated By: Fast-Dry Courts Inc. Architect/Engineer/Contractor: ​​Private Enterprise Fast-Dry Courts Inc. Surface: Har-Tru Sports HydroBlend ​​These residential courts ​ Fencing: Fast-Dry Courts Inc. Windscreens: Aer-Flo provide an award-winning setting Court Accessories: Fast-Dry Courts Inc., 10-S Tennis Supply in the sanctuary of home. Certified Tennis Court Builder:John Sonner By Peter Francesconi

n the world of tennis, there natural swales in the landscape. are few sights more appeal- ​The court at the Hsu residence was ing than a well-constructed, designed by the owner, who is an archi- beautifully landscaped tect and highly ranked tennis player. Hsu private tennis court. And The surface is a green clay topped with the most recent residential natural European red clay. Due to Residence court winners of the Tennis frequent night play, the owner chose Birmingham, Ala. Industry/American Sports Builders to upgrade the lighting system from IAssociation’s Distinguished Facility- the recommended standard by adding of-the-Year Awards are no exceptions. additional fixtures. Like the Pinecrest Nominated By: Lower Bros. Co. Inc. ​In our February issue, we highlighted court, the contractor who prepared the General Contractor: Lower Bros. Co. Inc. the “Outstanding” residential winner— home site also did the initial grading for Surface: Har-Tru Sports a private court in Gladwyne, Pa. This the court. A poured concrete retaining Subsurface Irrigation: Har-Tru Sports time, we’re recognizing the two wall was installed on the upper end to Lighting: LSI Industries “Distinguished” award winners, a new divert surface water around the court, Windscreens: Putterman Athletics private court in Pinecrest, Fla., and the which also allowed the owner to posi- Nets, Posts: Har-Tru Sports new court at the Hsu residence in tion the court closer to the house. Certified Tennis Court Builder:Linn Lower Birmingham, Ala., both of which are ​Playing on these award-winning clay courts with subsurface irrigation. private courts will raise the level of ​The Pinecrest project encountered anyone’s game. no difficulties or challenges in con- struction, which may have been due to The deadline for the 2017 Outstanding the fact that the homeowner had the Facility-of-the-Year Awards is June 1, site cleared and rough graded prior to and awards will be presented at the The court at the Hsu residence the court contractor coming in to build. 2017 ASBA Technical Meeting, to be was designed by the owner, While the court uses subsurface irriga- held in New Orleans, La., Dec. 1-5. who is an architect and highly tion, there are also four conventional For details and additional information, ranked tennis player. above-ground sprinkler heads for contact the ASBA at 866-501-ASBA or supplemental watering. Drainage [email protected], or visit of storm water is achieved through www.sportsbuilders.org. PHOTOS COURTESY AMERICAN SPORTS BUILDERS ASSOCIATION SPORTS AMERICAN PHOTOS COURTESY

30 TennisIndustry June 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

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Pinecrest Residence

Tk of the eight facilities used post-tensioned concrete slabs, continuing a trend that is becoming more popular in sport facility construction. Tk Nes aut mo eos vitatur? Quiam nonem que etur sunt, voleniet quiduciat maios

1 2 Hsu Pinecrest Residence Residence Birmingham, Ala. Pinecrest, Fla.

Nominated By: Lower Bros. Co. Inc. Nominated By: Fast-Dry Courts Inc. General Contractor: Lower Bros. Co. Inc. Architect/Engineer/Contractor: Fast-Dry Courts Inc. Surface: Har-Tru Sports Surface: Har-Tru Sports HydroBlend Subsurface Irrigation: Har-Tru Sports Fencing: Fast-Dry Courts Inc. Lighting: LSI Industries Windscreens: Aer-Flo Windscreens: Putterman Athletics Court Accessories: Fast-Dry Courts Inc., 10-S Tennis Supply Nets, Posts: Har-Tru Sports Certified Tennis Court Builder:John Sonner Certified Tennis Court Builder:Linn Lower Hsu Residence PHOTOS COURTESY AMERICAN SPORTS BUILDERS ASSOCIATION SPORTS AMERICAN PHOTOS COURTESY

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SELLINGTENNIS VISIONFRAMES 2017PLAYER RACQUET ACCESSORIES SELECTOR

Dark Matter The newest sunglasses off er both protection for your eyes and stylish looks. By Chris Nicholson

unglasses are worn to the court and club for many Under Armour • UA Octane reasons, from enhancing vision during play to Under Armour brings an arsenal of patented technology to simply wanting to be stylish. No matter the its eyewear, including ArmourSight, which allows the player reason, most players who pick up a racquet will at to see distortion-free from one edge of the frame to the other, some point don a pair of shades. and strong ArmourFusion frames reinforced with injected SAdvances in sunglasses technology continue to forge polymide. Self-articulating temples and multiposition- ahead. This season’s models feature some of the lightest able nose pads on the Octane ($115) provide a comfortable sunglasses ever available, lenses that polarize light and block custom fi t. UV rays, and eye-boggling technology that renders the world as clear and vivid as a 4K TV. The sunglasses models here, from some of the top brands in the niche, refl ect all of these innovations and more, allowing your customers to be some of the best-seeing and best-looking tennis players—on court and o . (Prices are suggested retail.)

Chris Nicholson, the author of “Photographing Tennis,” is a freelance writer based in Connecticut and North Carolina.

32 TennisIndustry June 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

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Costa • Playa Bolle • Bolt S Costa’s 580 lens technology in the Playa frames ($169) will Looking electric, the Bolt S sunglasses ($170) are armed with fi x the colors of the world, reducing harmful wavelengths B-Clear technology, Bolle’s Trivex material that is lighter, and boosting good ones—both protecting the eyes and mak- more shatter resistant and has greater optical clarity than ing any court look better. The lenses are also polarized and polycarbonate lenses. Holding those together are the B-Thin scratch-resistant. frames, which allow Bolle to customize for prescriptions.

Oakley • EVZero Path Maui Jim • Ho'okipa The EVZero Path ($170) is Oakley’s lightest frame and its Strut the club in style with Maui Jim’s Ho’okipa ($189). The best for tennis, providing a rimless design of Plutonite lenses lenses’ PolarizedPlus2 technology will not only protect eyes with an unobstructed wraparound view. Moreover, the from glare and UV, but will also enhance details and color. house-technology earsocks and nose pads improve their grip The thin glass and minimalist frames combine to form one of when they encounter perspiration. the more lightweight sunglasses in the sportswear market.

Native Eyewear • Distiller Nike • Show X2 Native’s N3 technology in the Distiller ($109) works overtime Designed to be adjustable to di erent fi ts and comfort levels, to protect pupils, blocking four times more infrared light Nike’s Show sunglasses ($166) also o er other features than standard polarized lenses, while also selectively fi lter- attractive to tennis players: reduced fogging, cam-action ing blue and UV light to create a crisp image. The frames give hinges, adjustable temple wraps and interchangeable lenses full visual coverage and are impact resistant. to match di erent light conditions.

Rudy Project • Rydon with Tennis 100 lenses Smith • PivLock Arena Rydon ($249) utilizes a carbonium frame to create one of the The Arena frames ($189) are ergonomic to fi t the face for lightest pair of court-worthy sunglasses available. Moreover, stability during extreme activity—such as running around a the Tennis 100 lenses have a specially designed green tint hot rectangle for a few hours chasing and hitting a ball. Arena that makes it easier to visually track a yellow tennis ball. also features Smith’s ChromaPop lenses, which boost clarity.

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While marketing and sales departments are typically privy to the development of new products, Head engineered its new MXG with a nearly exclusive emphasis on performance.

NEW RACQUETS t seems that for the past few years, technological innovations for racquets Now You See It! have centered on informa- Head’s new MXG racquets feature tion-gathering—call them “smart racquets”—and we something not seen in years—visible continue to see develop- ments in that arena. However, it has technology. But for these frames, been I a long time since we have seen new racquets introduced to the market there’s more here than meets the eye. with what is often referred to as “visible” technology. By Bob Patterson Think back to the introduction of metal frames from traditional wood racquets, and then the debut of graph- ite composites. There also were the developments of oversize heads and wide-body frames, and most recently, O-Port frames. These are all examples of visible technology, which often is critical when it comes to convincing consumers to buy something new. While new frames are introduced every year, it’s been more than 10 years since we’ve seen anything physically diff erent in a frame. That changes this month, as Head is launching two new frames—the MXG 3 and MXG 5—both of which feature a new technology that is unquestionably visual. According to some of the dealers I spoke with who participated in a recent playtest held in Miami, Head’s newest technology goes well beyond the visual and enhances the performance of the racquet itself.

Investing in the Product “It is nice to see something new in a racquet, and not just a new version of a current racquet,” says Ken Arnold, manager of Swetka’s Tennis in Moun- tain View, Calif. “Head has promised ‘power under control,’ and I think these racquets deliver.” In March, Arnold was among a group of some of the top dealers in the U.S. who were the fi rst to see and hit with the MXG racquets. “Not only is this an exciting product,” he adds, “but it is great to see Head stepping up and proving to dealers they PHOTOS COURTESY HEAD PHOTOS COURTESY

34 TennisIndustry June 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

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We had players of all levels—from Andy Murray to retirees on Hilton Head Island—hitting with the racquets and providing feedback.

believe in this technology by investing ing the development—marketing, sales, ary design and engineering, with the in advertising to drive players into our research. But we knew this had to be precisely formed, injection-molded stores, providing demo events across developed on performance, so very few magnesium bridge providing stability the country, and having great visual people saw this until it was complete.” at a very low weight. The molding pro- displays available for our stores to cess, which is relatively new, has been showcase the products.” Magnesium Throat Bridge used in other industries with great suc- According to Head USA President Combining a metal and composite cess, but combining it with a composite Greg Mason, MXG technology has material in a tennis racquet is certainly material in a tennis frame was not easy. been in development for more than not new. Over the years we’ve seen “We chose magnesium because it four years. The “M” stands for magne- combinations of various metals, includ- accomplished what we wanted, which sium and the “G” represents Graphene ing tungsten, copper, boron, titanium was to greatly enhance the torsional Touch, the third generation of Gra- and even magnesium with traditional stability of the racquet without adding phene that was recently introduced in high-modulus graphite materials. weight,” Mason says. some Head models. Graphene Touch However, previous uses of metal in “However, incorporating it into the enhances the dampening effects of the composite racquets have been limited racquet was no easy task. The injec- super lightweight and strong mate- to fine fibers used sparingly in strategic tion-molding process has been used rial, with the addition of “Kraibon” for placements. With MXG, this is most in the automotive industry and other enhanced shock-absorption. certainly not the case. The magnesium products such as high-end camera “From concept to completion, this is a structural part of the frame and bodies, but incorporating it into a project did not follow the normal plainly visible—the entire throat bridge carbon-fiber tennis frame took many process,” Mason says. “Normally, a is made of it. prototypes and a lot of testing to get concept goes through a lot of looks dur- The MXG frames feature revolution- things just right.

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06_TI_FEAT_HeadED.indd 8 OUTSTANDING RESIDENTIAL TENNIS FACILITY-OF-THE-YEAR AWARD 5/2/17 11:20 AM Newest Strings on the Market Gladwyne, Pa. TennisIndustry

Head's new hybrid Primal String is designed specifi cally for the new MXG frames.

“But, when we fi nally got it done, we knew that it would be a game-changer.”

Free-Moving Strings One of Head’s taglines for the new MXG frames is “power under control.” The power comes from the frame’s design, including the construction of the bridge that allows for longer, free-moving main strings. The longer mains provide a larger sweet spot and increased power compared to a traditional racquet of the same headsize. The free-moving strings add to that power while also providing comfort with less shock. The control comes from the frame’s solid magnesium bridge. The unique component keeps the hoop from deforming and twisting, increasing torsional stability of the racquet. Head says the MXG frames are “designed like no other” and “play like no other.” Many of the dealers who played with them seemed to agree. It is nice to see something new in a racquet, and “We knew it had to perform, so instead of taking the normal track, not just a new version of a current racquet. most of the people who saw this during the research and development process were players doing play tests,” Mason New Racquet, String and Grip designed to complement the newly says. “We had players of all levels—from The MXG 3 racquet features a introduced frames, featuring one string Andy Murray to retirees on Hilton 100-square-inch head size and an aver- comprised of eight micro-strands of Head Island—hitting with the racquets age unstrung weight of 10.4 ounces (295 polyester and a full polyamide multi- and providing feedback to our develop- grams). The slightly head-light balance fi lament string. Both coils are 20 feet ment team. of the 27-inch racquet is maneuverable in length and are 16 gauge (1.30-mm “When our top professionals were without feeling too light. The 16/18 diameter). For more power, install the excited about the racquets, we knew we string pattern off ers plenty of pop and strings with the multifi lament as the had accomplished our goal.” bite on the ball, with comfort as well. main and poly on the crosses; for more The dealers we spoke with all agreed The MXG 5 features a 105-square- control, switch them around. that the MXG racquets live up to Head’s inch head size and an average unstrung The new Ultimate replacement grip promise of not only looking diff erent, weight of 9.7 ounces (275 grams). The features a three-layer design with a but also performing like no other frame 27.2-inch-long frame has a balance that cushion layer topped with a polyure- on the market. is 0.4 inches head-light. It also features thane foam and a unique micro- To assist dealers in communicat- a 16/18 string pattern that with the textured surface that gives the grip a ing the MXG racquet release, Head is increased head size off ers even more soft suede-like feel, and provides com- launching “tease” ads and will follow power and spin potential. fort and a secure grip in all conditions. with additional print, digital and televi- Both models are off ered in grip sizes Unquestionably innovative, the new sion advertisements. The campaign 0-4. The suggested retail and MAP gear is only the beginning for Head. will be supplemented with demo events price for each frame is $239.95. “We look at this as step one of a throughout the country to help dealers Head didn’t stop with the new sustainable technology that we will get MXG racquets into the hands of frames—there is a new string and grip continue to build on,” says Mason. “We players. Dealers will also have access to available as well. The Primal String is are looking at all options for expanding custom-made store displays. a hybrid packaged string specifi cally this technology.” 

36 TennisIndustry June 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

06_TI_FEAT_HeadED.indd 9 5/2/17 11:20 AM ROUND THE CLOCK LIVE MAY 28 - JUNE 11

EXPANDED COVERAGE ONLY ON TENNIS CHANNEL PLUS BUYTCPLUS.COM

041317_TC_FullPage_RG17_8375x11125.indd 1 4/13/17 12:17 PM TennisIndustry AskTheExperts

another material, mostly an additive. It becomes a co-polymer due to its co- monomer content.” Where to Start?

Q: I became a USRSA Certified Stringer when I was 13, then played DII college tennis in the late 1990s. When I was a junior, I would send my racquets to have them all matched, but I didn’t understand the process. I’m getting back into tennis now because of my kids, and I want to start experimenting with customizing my own racquets. In your opinion, what is more important: The racquet layup or the specs? What would be a better start- ing platform for customization, a stock Head i.Prestige MP with an unstrung weight of 330 grams, or a stock Head Ti.Radical MP with an unstrung weight of 305 grams?

A: The racquet layup is more impor- tant, because you play the layup, not the lead tape and other modifications. For example, you need to find racquets that have the same flex first and fore- most, because no amount of modifica- Getting Started USRSA member to be certified. USRSA tion can change that. members also receive Tennis Industry, As for the better starting point, that With Stringing which will help keep you current with depends on where you want to end up. the latest racquets, strings and tools. You ideally want to start with a racquet Q: Where is the best place to buy a used that is as close to your final specs as Babolat Star 5, and how do I learn to Poly vs. Co-Poly possible, if for no other reason that string and become certified? you can run into situations where it is Q: Some people refer to polyester either impossible or inelegant to add A: You aren’t the only stringer looking strings as “co-polys.” What’s the differ- as much mass as needed to make the for used Babolat Star 5s. They seem to ence between a poly and a co-poly? specifications match. The lighter the be scarce, and when you do find them, racquet, the more possibilities there they are not discounted very much. If A: Any string that is not natural gut is are for the final product, but realisti- you do find one, make certain it is in composed of some sort of polymer— cally, it is better to start with a racquet good shape so you don’t have to invest which is nothing more than a chain of that needs only slight fine-tuning. a lot to get it into working order. Get in monomers, such as nylon or polyester. In any event, you might consider touch with the Babolat representative However, “poly” has come to be the starting with a frame that is currently in your area, who can help you find a term we use to refer to the (typically) available, as there is only so far you can good used machine or alternative. monofilament strings composed of go with discontinued frames, no matter As for learning to string and certifi- thermoplastics such as polyester. how good they once were. cation, you should become a member To answer your question more fully, of the USRSA. USRSA members have we reached out to Nico Van Malderen We welcome your questions. Please send access to online stringing tutorials and at Luxilon. “A polyester is one mate- them to Tennis Industry, 48 West 21st other materials that are great for begin- rial,” Van Malderen says. “A co-polyes- Street, New York, NY 10010, or email ning stringers, and you have to be a ter is a compound of a polyester with [email protected]. COURTESY BABOLAT COURTESY

38 TennisIndustry June 2017 www.tennisindustrymag.com

06_TI_BOB_ExpertsPFED.indd 7 5/2/17 11:25 AM TennisIndustry USRSAConference

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES Expert Advice The inaugural USRSA World Conference will be held in Orlando in October.

rlando, Fla., home to the welcome reception on the new USTA Friday evening, and then two National Campus, full days of seminars and work- will be the site of shops, with certification testing Othe first U.S. Racquet Stringers on Monday,” says Patterson. We Association World Conference will have a list of workshops, Oct. 6-9. Racquet technicians seminars and presenters within from around the world will the next few weeks, along with gather for workshops, seminars information on lodging, costs and networking. and other details.” “This is something that our The USRSA is planning to members have continually provide workshops to benefit asked for,” says USRSA Execu- all racquet technicians. Topics tive Director Bob Patterson. will include fitting players with “For the last 10 years we’ve the proper frame and string set- worked with and supported up, stringing and servicing for Tim Strawn and the Interna- indoor racquet sports, machine tional Association of Racquet and equipment maintenance, Technicians (IART) at its basic and advanced racquet annual symposium. Tim has customization, and tournament done an incredible job of put- stringing. There also will be ting together an informative plenty of networking opportu- and educational conference. nities with participants, pre- “But when IART decided not senters and industry leaders. to host a symposium this year, With a massive industry we explored offering a confer- presence in Florida this fall, the ence by the USRSA. We’ve been USRSA hopes to draw members working with the USTA and the from around the world. USPTA on various educational “Hosting the event at the initiatives over the last year, USTA National Campus and and so with their help, the new USPTA headquarters and USRSA World Conference just prior to the USTA and seemed like the perfect addi- USPTA conferences might tion to our work together.” make it easier for both U.S. and The USRSA World Confer- international members to make ence will be held immediately the trip,” Patterson says. “Being prior to the USTA Tennis in the Orlando area makes it a Development Workshop/ great draw for families, too.” USPTA World Conference. For more information, visit “We tentatively plan to have www.usrsa.com.

June 2017 TennisIndustry 39

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Serve It hascertainlysaved mine.• lifetime, it’s asportthat cansave lives. emotional recovery. has beenparamountinmy physical and tennis—especially short-courttennis— I still have many challengingdays, court usingstandard equipment.While their abilitytoplay tennisonafull-size disabilities orsetbacks thatmay hinder they canhelppeoplewithinjuries, hand thelife-affirmingbenefitsofhow kids andbeginners. ButIknow first- equipment andshortercourtsbenefit ball. and anorange and mobility, Imoved to a60-foot court into thesport.AsIgainedconfidence proved instrumental ingetting meback near recovered, buttheexperience basics. Iwas extremely weak,nowhere to hitmoreballsandeasebackintothe court, witharedball.Thisallowed me a tenniscourt,itwas ontoa36-foot was givingmebackmy life. life’s passionwas helpingmeheal.It of theballorsizecourt,my no matter thesizeofracquet, color progressing, guidedby thethoughtthat phy was aidinginmy recovery. Ikept the USTA, andherethatsame philoso- Promoting youthtenniswas my jobat matter whatittook. to bebackonthetenniscourtagain,no harder thanIever hadbefore.Ineeded knew Ihadtopickmyself upandwork looked forward tothesesessions. I I progressedtohitting alightballand they foundoutmy careerwas intennis. a pivotal moment. hit theballoonasbest asIcould.Itwas paddle andaballoon,asked meto comments [email protected] We welcomeyour opinions.Pleaseemail ​Tennis isnot onlythesport fora ​We know thatsmaller, modified ​When Iwas finallyableto step onto ​Then Irealized,thisiswhatdo. ​The therapists werethrilledwhen well aschildren under10years. has coachedhighschooltennis as tennis atBinghamtonUniversity and Tennis Program. Sheplayed varsity development oftheCoachYouth departments andwas integral inthe Officials, andCoachingEducation for nineyears intheMarketing, certified pro, worked withtheUSTA Ali Goldman,aPTRandUSPTA www.tennisindustrymag.com

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PHOTO COURTESY ALI GOLDMAN

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