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FEATURES INDUSTRY NEWS

24 Tennis’ New ‘Rallying Point’ 7 NYC Council OK’s PlayTennis.com, recently re-launched plan for NTC by the TIA, not only connects players and fans to the game, it connects the 7 USTA, PTR, USPTA industry, too. collaborate on kid’s tennis 26 The Art of ‘More’ 8 USPTA to change Q4 isn’t usually a time for introduc - tions, but there will be some new membership categories product and promotions as the year winds down. 8 PTR hosts Southwest 29 History Lessons tournament, conference Unique in the business of sports, the 9 Spinfire adds two TIA is the product of decades of indus - try leaders who continue to come new ball machines together to grow tennis. 9 New Sport Court spurs 32 Tennis Industry Hall of Fame youth tennis participation For 2013, the industry honors three longtime leaders: Howard R. Gill Jr., 10 Peoplewatch Walter Montenegro and Sheldon Westervelt. 10 Hingis, Drysdale among COURT CONSTRUCTION 5 inducted into HoF AND MAINTENANCE 11 Obama greets WTT’s Washington Kastles 35 Re-Ordering the Court What can you do during your facility’s 11 PTR elevates shutdown to have it ready for your Master Professionals next open house? 38 A Moveable Feast 12 Short Sets Temporary and portable courts—using modular tiles or rolled products—are 12 Ashaway offers two helping to grow tennis participation Zyex Monogut strings with children and adults. 14 ITA announces Division 1 awards

DEPARTMENTS 4 Our Serve 20 Pioneers: Seena Hamilton 7 Industry News 22 Tennis Media 15 Letters 40 Ask the Experts 16 TIA News 42 String Playtest: Isospeed Black Fire 18 Retailing Tip 44 Your Serve, by Tim Mayotte 2 2 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTR Y September/October 2013 www.racquetsportsindustry.com

Our Serve (Incorporating Racquet Tech and Tennis Industry ) Facing the Challenges, Together Publishers David Bone Jeff Williams et me get this out of the way: All is not rosy in the tennis indus - try. We have challenges to address and to overcome. But before Editorial Director you think this is all gloom-and-doom (and really, have I ever Peter Francesconi [email protected] been a gloom-and-doom person?), let me say that these challenges are, in many ways, being addressed. What’s important, too, is how they’re Associate Editor L Greg Raven being addressed—we’re addressing it as an industry, unified in working to grow the game for everyone who has a stake in it. Design/Art Director Kristine Thom And that’s one of the unique things about the tennis industry. Tom Cove, the executive director of the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (formerly the Special Projects Manager Bob Patterson Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association), has for many years praised the tennis industry for how it comes together to grow the game for the good of everyone, Contributing Editors and how that sort of unity is simply not seen in other sports industries. Robin Bateman Cynthia Cantrell This collaboration, led by the Tennis Industry Association, is something we Kent Oswald need to celebrate and take greater advantage of, because when one segment in Cynthia Sherman tennis comes up against a challenge, it will affect other areas of the sport. And Mary Helen Sprecher what are some of the challenges this industry is facing? Tim Strawn

For one, racquet sales are down at specialty stores. The tough economy in Contributing Photographers recent years has also taken its toll on the number of tennis specialty retailers in Bob Kenas the U.S., and we don’t want to lose more of them. David Kenas

Another concern: USTA membership has been declining. In fairness, many RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY membership-based organizations are also experiencing declines, but still, this is Corporate Offices something we all should be concerned about. USTA members are core players PO Box 3392, Duluth, GA 30096 and fans—losing them is not a good thing. (On the positive side, both overall ten - Phone: 760-536-1177 Fax: 760-536-1171 nis participation and frequent tennis player participation have increased.) Email: [email protected] Website: www.racquetTECH.com We’ve also lost pro tournaments in this country, and that’s a bad sign for the Offic e Hours: Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Pacific Time visibility of this sport. And, while it’s terrific that ESPN stepped up with an 11- year, $825 million deal to televise the US Open, America’s Grand Slam will now Advertising Director only be on cable, not a broadcast network. What will that mean for mainstream John Hanna viewers? How will it impact tennis’ visibility? (A writer from Business Insider said 770-650-1102, x.125 [email protected] by moving away from CBS, “It has become clear that tennis is no longer big

enough for network television.” Ouch.) Apparel Advertising Also, in some corners, 10 and Under Tennis is still running up against resis - Cynthia Sherman tance, which is odd because it seems pretty clear—at least to most people con - 203-263-5243 cerned with growing the sport and the business—that getting more kids playing [email protected] tennis the right way, at an earlier age, will right off the bat grow the base of play - Racquet Sports Industry is published 10 times per ers, increase participation, help sell more equipment, court time and lessons, and year: monthly January through August and combined basically help every segment of the industry. issues in September/October and November/ Of course, there are other challenges, too, but I’m convinced we will get December by Tennis Industry and USRSA, PO Box 3392, through these, and we’ll do it as a unified industry built on collaboration. 10 and Duluth, GA 30096. Periodcal postage paid at Under Tennis has that industry-wide collaboration—the USTA, PTR and USPTA Duluth, GA and at additional mailing offices (USPS are together in developing a youth tennis coaching curriculum. PlayTennis.com #004-354). Sep/Oct 2013, Volume 41, Number 9 © 2013 by USRSA and Tennis Industry. All rights also has that industry-wide collaboration, and this unique website promises to reserved. Racquet Sports Industry, RSI and logo are bring people into the sport. trademarks of USRSA. Printed in the U.S.A. Phone Working together, supporting each other, is the pathway to growing tennis. advertising: 770-650-1102 x 125. Phone circulation and editorial: 760-536-1177. Yearly subscriptions $25 in the U.S., $40 elsewhere. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Racquet Sports Industry, PO Box Peter Francesconi, Editorial Director 3392, Duluth, GA 30096. [email protected]

RSI is the official magazine of the USRSA, TIA,and ASBA 4 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTR Y September/October 2013 www.racquetsportsindustry.com 0

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INFORMATION TO HELP YOU RUN YOUR BUSINESS ITF to Permit NYC Council Approves $500 Million Plan for NTC Use of ‘Smart’ he New York City Council on July 24 voted overwhelmingly in favor of the USTA’s plan to improve Equipment the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center (NTC) in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. The $500 Tmillion plan will ensure the NTC remains a top public recreational facility and world-class spec - The International Tennis Fed - tator venue and also continues to be an econom - eration has amended the ic catalyst for Queens and the City of New York. Rules of Tennis to permit data By a 47-1 margin, the City Council approved collection by “player analysis the legislation, which will enable the USTA to technology” during play. The replace and renovate aging, out-of-date infra - new rule was approved at an structure and facilities that have reached the end ITF meeting in Paris on July 12 and will be included in the of their useful lives. The City Council vote was 2014 edition of the Rules of the culmination of a public review process that Tennis as Rule No. 31. Player also included the local community boards, analysis technology includes Queens Borough President, City Planning, and any equipment that collects, the State Legislature. stores, transmits, analyses or “We are very pleased that the City Council communicates information on passed the legislation,” said David A. Haggerty, player performance, and may Chairman of the Board, CEO and President of the USTA. “The updates and improvements to the NTC be a stand-alone device or will enhance the usage of the tennis center for local residents, visitors and professional and recreational incorporated within existing equipment. tennis players while also preserving the US Open Tennis Championships as a world renowned event.” In exchange for the 0.68 acres of parkland it will add as part of its improvement plan for the NTC, However, during a match, the the USTA will return to the city a portion—1.56 acres—of its currently leased NTC land. The USTA will data collected by the technol - also launch an increased community outreach program and has made a long-term commitment to ogy constitutes “coaching” fund capital improvements in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, and to help establish the FMCP Alliance, under the Rules of Tennis, therefore the use of such which will be dedicated to improving all aspects of the park. technology during play is restricted in accordance with USTA, PTR, USPTA Collaborate on Youth Coaching Curriculum the existing Coaching rule. In other words, while the data he USTA, PTR and USTA are working together to develop an educational curriculum, con - can be “collected” during a sisting of a series of courses and workshops, that focuses on the development of young match, a player can’t “use” Tplayers. The collaborative curriculum will serve as part of the pathway to PTR and USPTA the information during that certification. same match. The ITF will A statement by the USTA says the three associations will use their partnership to “raise the level approve all player analysis of coaching in the U.S. and enhance the teaching process and long-term development of technology that may be used children in the sport.” The program, which is set to launch in January, will consist of two during play. stages of course work and will include interactive and engaging online courses and tests. “When the Rules of Tennis In addition, the program includes a 10 and Under Tennis workshop that will provide prop - relating to equipment were er fundamentals and skill development progression for teaching professionals. written, no one foresaw the “This important partnership and commitment among our organizations will positively advent of Player Analysis impact how we develop and grow the sport among our nation’s youth,” said Kurt Kamperman, Technology,” says ITF Execu -

s USTA chief executive of Community Tennis.

a tive Director of Science and n e Technical Stuart Miller. “This “This cooperation should result in more tennis teaching professionals becoming edu - K

b new rule is necessary to cated and certified to coach 10 and Under Tennis so we can continue to grow the game,” o B ensure that all types of Player

y said PTR CEO Dan Santorum. b

o Analysis Technology are

t "Continuing education will only strengthen the industry, especially at the grassroots level,” o h covered.” said Tom Daglis, USPTA national president. P

www.racquetsportsindustry.com September/October 2013 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 7 SEP/OCT 2013

Chase, City Parks, USTA Refurbish USPTA to Change Membership S

W Hurricane-Ravaged Courts Categories in January E

N n mid-July, representatives from Chase, tarting in January, the USPTA will Y ICity Parks Foundation and the USTA cut the Schange its membership categories. In an R

T ribbon on the refurbished Wolfe's Pond Park email to members, the USPTA said that in S Tennis Courts in the New York City borough of the new year, “We will no longer have the U

D Staten Island and opened them back up to the Professional 3, Professional 2 or Professional 1 cate -

N public. Chase dedicated funds to ensure that the gories, as the Executive Committee and Board of Direc - I courts were refurbished and opened after they were severely tors voted in April to streamline the categories of impacted by Hurricane Sandy. The Wolfe’s Pond Park courts membership to make them easier to understand and pro - have hosted “CityParks Tennis presented by Chase” for over a mote to the public.” decade, teaching hundreds of children to play the sport each USPTA membership categories will change to: Recre - summer for free. ational Coach,Professional, andElite Professional. More than 20 aspiring young tennis players, ages 8 to 15, USPTA pros can complete the exams and tests to upgrade who have participated in free intermediate tennis lessons in their ratings before the changes take effect. Contact the Wolfe's Pond Park in previous years, enjoyed the newly opened USPTA membership department for more information. courts with a free clinic led by three-time Grand Slam singles champion Virginia Wade, who is a City Parks Foundation board Patterson Named RSI member and a longtime youth tennis advocate. The players were also greeted by Patrick McEnroe, the general manager of Special Projects Manager USTA Player Development. ob Patterson of Birmingham, Ala., a The project received technical and financial support from BUSRSA Master Racquet Technician, the USTA’s Disaster Relief Fund and Facility Assistance Pro - is the new Special Projects Manager for gram, and the New York City Department of Parks & Recre - Racquet Sports Industry and the ation. "We are committed to the people and parks of Staten USRSA. Patterson, the founder of Rac - Island and are so pleased to be hosting our first ever reopening quetMaxx, which provides racquet of tennis courts here in this borough," said Alison Tocci, Presi - service to tennis players at all levels of dent of City Parks Foundation. "Over the years, City Parks the game, has been a racquet technician since 1975 and Foundation and Chase have introduced over half a million was RSI’s “Stringer of the Year” in 2005. youths to this ‘sport for life’ and produced hundreds of college A tester for USRSA Certified Stringer and MRT programs tennis scholarship recipients, including several who have com - since 2000, Patterson also has been a contributing editor peted in the US Open.” for RSI, writing and editing articles on racquet service. In his new role, he’ll not only continue to provide editorial content for the magazine and website, but he will also PTR Hosts Inaugural Southwest manage many of the projects involving strings, racquets, Tournament & Conference in Arizona and court and service equipment. He can be reached at [email protected] or 760-536-1177 x25. TR will host its inaugural Southwest Tournament & Confer - Pence Sept. 26-29 at the Mesa Country Club in Mesa, Ariz. The event is open to members and non-members. Participants are encouraged to play two divisions in the prize money (up to $5,000) tournament, and take advantage of the educational opportunities provided. Speakers include Paul Allam, Josh Bates, Eric Burke, Ken DeHart, Jeff Greenwald, Jason Jamison and Steve Keller. Registration is $110 for both the tournament and conference, but interested parties may reg - ister for only the tournament or conference. A PTR 11 to 17 Certification Workshop will be held immediately following the event for those who wish to get certified to teach this age group. For information about the Southwest Tournament & Confer - ence, accommodations, or to register, visit Events at www.ptrtennis.org or call 843-785-7244.

8 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTR Y September/October 2013 www.racquetsportsindustry.com INDUSTRY NEWS Wheelchair Competition Returns to US Open Spinfire Adds Two he US Open Wheelchair Competition is returning the the USTA Billie Jean King National New Ball Machines TTennis Center this year, to be held Sept. 5-8 during the US Open. The wheelchair event, in its sixth year, is returning after a year’s hiatus due to the 2012 Paralympic Games, which pinfire has two new ball were scheduled during last year’s US Open. Smachines, the Spinfire Pro 1 This year’s US Open Wheelchair Competition field will feature 20 of the top wheelchair and Pro 2, both of which offer tennis athletes from around the world. They’ll compete in six events: men’s singles, men’s features that include a 200-ball doubles, women’s singles, women’s doubles, quad singles and quad doubles. Wheelchair capacity, feeding intervals from tennis follows the same rules as able-bodied tennis, except that the ball can bounce twice. 2 to 15 seconds, and ball speeds This is the first time each of the divisions will feature the world’s Top 8-ranked men’s and from 20 to 80 mph. The Pro 1 is women’s wheelchair players (according to the July 22 ITF rankings). The Top 4 quad players $1,599, while the Pro 2 sells for in the world also will be competing. The total purse for the event will be $150,000, a $30,000 $1,899 (the Pro 1 can be increase in prize money from 2011. upgraded to the Pro 2 for $499). The U.S. will be represented in quad singles and doubles by three-time Paralympic Quad Other features the two doubles gold medalists David Wagner (Chula Vista, Calif.) and Nick Taylor (Wichita, Kan.). machines share include: a two- Wagner is the defending US Open quad singles champion. In doubles, Wagner and Taylor year warranty, propulsion via have won four US Open doubles titles. spinning wheels, electronic ele - The USTA became the national governing body for the Paralympic sport of wheelchair vation control with ability to tennis in June 2002—the first Olympic NGB to earn this recognition. feed lobs, and battery operation (22 amp/hour, with indicator New 10U Sport Court Spurs Youth Tennis Participation light). The 26 x 20 x 20-inch unit weighs 48 pounds and comes Three years ago, in the midst of an economic recession, Marc Stulz had a wild idea: Why with a smart charger. Options not build a year-round, private tennis club in Overland Park, Kan., that in part would include a light cover (additional be dedicated to developing all levels of junior tennis players? $40), carry cover ($80) and fast Today, Stulz’s vision is a reality with the Elite Squad Tennis Club, which now is a thriv - charger ($120). ing tennis business in the southern suburb of Kansas City. Stulz is president of Elite Squad, The Spinfire Pro 2 also which hosts a nationally recognized junior program headed by Mike Wolf, Tony Tsym - includes a nine-button, multi- balov, Diego Mayorga and Nick Hegarty. Over the years, this program has produced functional wireless remote con - numerous local, section - trol, oscillation-random vertical al and national champi - oscillation, and two-line-drill ons. capability (which can be set for Courtney Vialle, the wide, medium or narrow) for club’s youth tennis direc - alternating shots to each side of tor, credits Stulz and the the court. club’s owners for equip - RSI received the Spinfire ping the club with the information too late to include tools needed to make in our 2013 Ball Machine Guide tennis approachable and in the July issue, however we exciting for all players. have included it in our compre - “Kids want a place to call hensive chart on www.racquet - their own, and our new tech.com, in the USRSA 36-foot Sport Court ten - members-only section. nis court gives them that For more information on space,” Vialle says. “For Spinfire ball machines, visit kids under 8, a full-size mambatennis.com or www. tennis court can seem spinfiresport.com or call 888- way too big. That’s why we committed to building a stand-alone 36-foot court for our 4- 976-6532. to 8-year-olds to practice and play on.” The court was installed by local Sport Court dealer and builder Marc Loe. Working with the club’s existing layout, Loe was able to convert an underutilized patio area into the cen - terpiece of Elite’s youth programming. “Our court is so inviting for the kids and for their parents,” Vialle adds. “It’s an amazing feeling to see the excitement that our kids have toward ‘their’ court. And, without a doubt, it’s been a catalyst for the surge in youth tennis at the club.” The club’s long-term vision includes adding more 10U courts to ensure young players can properly learn and enjoy tennis.

www.racquetsportsindustry.com September/October2013 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 9 SEP/OCT 2013

S PEOPLEWATCH

W • The Southern California Tennis Association (USTA South - National College Players of the Year, awarded to the singles players who E ern California Section) named Bruce A. Hunt as its new have had the most outstanding year in college tennis. Additionally, USC's N

Y executive director, replacing Henry Talbert, who retired Sabrina Santamaria and Kaitlyn Christian were named the ITA National

R after 16 years. Hunt, a former ED of the USTA Northern Women's Doubles Team of the Year, while Henrique Cunha and Raphael T

S California Section, was most recently the ED of the Hemmeler of Duke were honored on the men's side.

U Rotary Club of San Diego for the last five years. D • NCAA Champion Magazine recently featured Haverford College N

I • Alan Schwartz, co-founder of Chicago-based Midtown Athletic Clubs women’s tennis coach Ann Koger. Koger, a touring pro in the 1970s, has and a former USTA president, has been inducted into the Intercollegiate been at the helm of the Pennsylvania college’s women’s program for 32 Tennis Association Tennis Hall of Fame. In 2012, the USTA National Indoor years, since its inception. Center at the NTC in Flushing, N.Y., was dedicated in Schwartz’s honor. He was inducted into the Club Industry Hall of Fame in 1987 and the Tennis • Andy Roddick has joined golf apparel brand TravisMathew as an Industry Hall of Fame in 2009. investor and brand ambassador.

• Andy Murray claimed the 2013 Wimbledon title over • Daniel Kerznerman, 17 of Brooklyn, N.Y., and Chloe Ouellet-Pizer, 15, of fellow Head player Novak Djokovic to become the Chapel Hill, N.C., captured the USTA Boys’ and Girls’ 18s National Clay first British man in 77 years to win the All-England Court Championships singles titles July 22, with each receiving a wild Championship. Murray plays with a Head YouTek IG card entry into the 2013 US Open Junior Championships. In the 16s, CiCi Radical and Djokovic hits a YouTek Graphene Speed. Bellis, 14, of Atherton, Calif., won the girls’ title while Tommy Paul, 16, of Coconut Creek, Fla., won the boys’ crown. Winners in 14s were Noah • Former world No. 1 Martina Hingis of the Washington Kastles and top Makarome, 14, of Wesley Chapel, Fla., and Claire Liu, 13, of Thousand 20 doubles specialist Jean-Julien Rojer of the Springfield Lasers were Oaks, Calif. In the 12s, Steven Sun of Glen Cove, N.Y., and Carson Branstine named as the Mylan World TeamTennis MVPs. Steve Johnson of the of Orange, Calif., took the titles. Orange County Breakers and Alisa Kleybanova of the Springfield Lasers were named as Rookies of the Year, while Murphy Jensen of the Kastles • Hop-a-Razzi has named Gary Thomas as national sales manager and was named WTT Coach of the Year for the third consecutive season. Liza Horan as head of brand strategy & engagement as part of expansion efforts at the start-up manufacturing company, which makes a line of ten - • Florida's Lauren Embree and Virginia's Jarmere Jenkins are the 2013 ITA nis ball baskets with built-in wheels.

Pacific, Official Stringer at Stuttgart, Offers Stats Hingis, Drysdale Among 5 acific was again the official tournament partner and stringing service for the ATP Inducted Into Hall of Fame PMercedes Cup in Stuttgart, Germany, held in July and won by Fabio Fognini. The ormer world No. 1 Martina Hingis, company reports that it strung a total of 390 frames at the event, on its three FAustralian tennis great Thelma machines: two Pacific DX8’s and one DX6. Coyne Long, and three tennis industry Three stringers worked full-time at the clay-court event, plus a full-time desk per - leaders—Cliff Drysdale, Charlie son. The Pacific booth also doubled as a retail selling booth, giving fans a close-up Pasarell, and Ion Tiriac—were induct - view of the racquet technicians at work and the players’ interaction with them. ed into the International Tennis Hall of Some of Pacific’s stats from the event include: Fame & Museum in a ceremony in w Players with the most string-jobs: Philipp Kohlschreiber, 22; Fognini, 14; Ernests Newport, R.I., on July 13. Enshrine - Gulbis, 14; Tommy Haas, 13. ment in the Hall of Fame is the highest w Highest tension requested: Dustin Brown (66/73 lbs.) honor in tennis. w Lowest tension requested: Thomaz Belucci (42/42 lbs.) In addition to the new honorees, other Hall of Famers taking part in the ceremony included International Ten - nis Hall of Fame President Stan Smith and Australian tennis legend Rod Laver, who accepted the honors on behalf of the 94-year-old Long, who was unable to attend. Also present were Hall of Famers Russ Adams, Butch Buchholz, Rosie Casals, Bud Collins, Owen Davidson, Donald Dell, Peachy Kellmeyer, Dick Savitt, Vic Seixas, and Pam Shriver.

10 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTR Y September/October 2013 www.racquetsportsindustry.com INDUSTRY NEWS

President Obama Greets WTT Champs MEMBER CLASSIFIEDS t the start of the 2013 Mylan World TeamTennis season, the 2012 champion team AWashington Kastles visited with President Obama in the Oval Office—the first FOR SALE: Pro-Owned time in the 38-year history of Mylan WTT that the championship team has been invit - Gamma ELS 8800 for Sale. ed to the White House. The visit must have spurred them on, as the Kastles went on to win its third straight WTT championship, defeating the Springfield Lasers on July Please contact Brandon 28. Representing the 2012 championship squad were Venus Williams, Bobby Luu if interested Bran - Reynolds, Leander Paes, Anastasia Rodionova, coach Murphy Jensen and Kastles owner Mark Ein. Mylan WTT co-founder Billie Jean King and CEO/Commissioner [email protected] Ilana Kloss also accompanied the Kastles. 778-892-0672 a z u o S e t e P y b o t o h P e s u o H e t i h W l a i c i f f O PTR Elevates Master Professionals PTR’s Board of Directors voted to ele - Congratulations To the Following vate current PTR Master Profession - For Achieving MRT and CS Status als to International Master Professionals. Going forward, PTR has New MRT eliminated the “Master Professional” Jose Luis Pulido Lomeli designation and will use “International Palm Desert, CA Master Professional” as one of the orga - nization’s highest designations. The New CSs PTR has 42 International Master Profes - Philip Tobar Berwyn, PA sionals, including Dennis Van der Meer, Dr. Jack Groppel, Dr. Jim Loehr and Bil - lie Jean King. The PTR Selection Committee con - tinually reviews applications for this designation. The application deadline for the awards presentation in February is Sept. 1. Candidates must meet cer - tain criteria, including service to PTR or international federation, coaching experience, professional development, publications and presentation, tourna - ment administration and community service to facilitate the growth of the game.

www.racquetsportsindustry.com September/October 2013 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 11 SEP/OCT 2013

S SHORT SETS W > The Washington Kastles won its third > The second edition of “Let's Play Tennis!”, > The Samuell Grand Slammers tennis team of E straight Mylan World TeamTennis championship, written for young athletes, is now available. The Dallas is hosting a Western Swing Dance N

Y defeating the Springfield Lasers 25-12 on July book, endorsed by former pro Todd Martin, has fundraiser in Dallas Nov. 23 to benefit the

R 28. It was the Kastles fourth King Trophy. Bobby eight additional pages Michael J. Fox Foundation in its fight to find a T

S Reynolds was named MVP for the finals, after with basic match strat - cure for Parkinson’s. For more information or to

U winning 10 games from the 13 he played in his egy for beginners, donate, email Pam Wood at D two sets. nutrition informa - [email protected]. N

I tion, diagrams of > The USPTA Florida Division and Club Med simple drills for > PHIT America—the non-profit education and announce a new partnership that makes Club parents and kids, advocacy organization designed to combat the Med Sandpiper Bay the official home of the and more. It’s obesity and sedentary activity crisis—has select - USPTA Florida Division through June 2014. The available on Amazon, or ed Buffalo Communications as its public rela - partnership will provide USPTA Florida Division retailers, clubs and organizations may tions agency. Buffalo will create and implement members with preferred benefits at Club Med purchase six or more at wholesale directly from a publicity and media-relations program target - resorts. In addition, Club Med will extend Pre - the author, Patricia Egart, at 763-438-8466 or ing print, digital and broadcast outlets with focus ferred Partner rates for meetings, incentives, [email protected]. on consumer health and wellness, sports, busi - conferences and events for the Association as ness, parenting and related editorial niches. well as USPTA divisions outside of Florida. > Wisconsin Cheeseheads, a youth tennis team Since its January 2013 launch, more than 130 representing the USTA Midwest Section, won its leading companies and associations from the > Esurance has extended and expanded its first World TeamTennis Junior Nationals Champi - sports, fitness, retail and media industries have sponsorship of the US Open through 2015. The onship, defeating Youth Tennis San Diego's contributed funds and services to support PHIT new agreement includes a growing relationship Barnes Bashers 40-33 in San Diego. America. with USTA digital platforms. This year, Esurance will be one of three sponsors of the “US Open > Har-Tru Sports is investing $500,000 toward > Head Penn juniors won seven gold medals, Social Wall,” a new fan enhancement to the a clay-court training facility in the San Francisco three silver medals and two bronze medals at 2013 US Open. The Social Wall, a 50-foot wide Bay area. The company is working with the USTA the 2013 USA Racquetball Junior Olympic by 8-foot high video wall located on the US Northern California Section and former tour play - National Championships held in Des Moines, Open grounds, will display the most compelling er Brad Gilbert. Iowa, in July. US Open-related social content. > Fila has renewed its multi-year sponsorship > The Indiana Racquets won the 2013 National > The U.S. Fed Cup Team will open its 2014 as the Official Apparel and Footwear Supplier of Badminton League. Racquets’ player Petr Koukal campaign at home against Italy in the first the International Tennis Hall of Fame & Museum. was named the league’s Male MVP and Laura round, Feb. 8-9, 2014, at a venue to be deter - The deal includes having Fila’s tennis line avail - Choinet the Female MVP and Female Rookie of mined by the USTA. The U.S. also faced Italy in able for sale in the Hall of Fame Tennis Club Pro the Year. Ruud Bosch of the Los Angeles Strings this year’s first round, losing 3-2 in Rimini, Italy. Shop and retail stores year-round. earned Male Rookie of the Year honors.

Ashaway Offers Two Zyex Monogut Strings shaway Racket Strings is now offering two versions of its popular Zyex-based MonoGut tennis strings, 16-gauge (127 mm) AMonoGut ZX and 17-gauge (1.22 mm) MonoGut ZX Pro. Ashaway says MonoGut ZX Pro is a thinner, lighter string, designed to provide better elongation, snap-back and playability for players who do not require the added durability of a 16-gauge string. Both strings offer 100 percent Zyex monofilament con - struction, which provides dynamic stiffness and gut-like playability, says the company. The total lack of polyester increases elongation and decreases stiffness for comfortable soft power. "Like natural gut, MonoGut ZX series strings provide exceptional energy return, better than any other synthetic material," says Steve Crandall, vice president of Ashaway. “This means more power. Also like gut, MonoGut ZX series strings remain soft at higher tensions, reducing impact shock. This results in more comfortable performance—what we call 'soft power.’” For more information, visit www.ash - awayusa.com or call 800-556-7260.

12 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTR Y September/October 2013 www.racquetsportsindustry.com INDUSTRY NEWS

Tennis Racquet Performance Specialty Stores January-June, 2013 vs. 2012 Units 2013 304,526 2012 336,728 % change vs. ’12 -10% Dollars 2013 $44,175,000 2012 $47,055,000 % change vs. ’12 -6% Price 2013 $145.06 2012 $139.74 % change vs. ’12 4%

Top-Selling Racquets at Specialty Stores By year-to-date dollars, Jan.-June 2013 Best Sellers 1. Babolat Aero Pro Drive 2013 (MP) 2. Babolat Pure Drive GT 2012 (MP) 3. Wilson BLX Juice (MP) 4. Wilson Steam 99S (MP) 5. Wilson Steam 105S (OS)

“Hot New Racquets” (introduced in the past 12 months) 1. Babolat Aero Pro Drive 2013 (MP) 2. Wilson Steam 99S (MP) 3. Wilson Steam 105S (OS) 4. Head Graphene Speed Pro (MP) 5. Babolat Aero Pro Team 2013 (MP)

Top-Selling Tennis Shoes at Specialty Stores By year-to-date dollars, Jan.-June 2013 1. Prince T22 2. Nike Zoom Vapor 9 Tour 3. Adidas AdiPower Barricade 7 4. Nike Air Max Cage 2013 5. Asics Gel Resolution 5

Top-Selling Tennis Strings at Specialty Stores By year-to-date units, Jan.-June 2013 1. Prince Synthetic Gut Duraflex 2. Babolat RPM Blast 3. Wilson NXT 4. Wilson Sensation 5. Luxilon Alu Power

(Source: TIA/Sports Marketing Surveys) www.racquetsportsindustry.com September/October 2013 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 13 SEP/OCT 2013 Top Wheelchair Player and Coach Offer Video Tutorial S

W ydney 2000 Paralympic Gold Medalist and six-time World Champion David

E SHall has joined with his longtime coach, Rich Berman, to produce the video N

Y tutorial “Let’s Roll—Learning Wheelchair Tennis With the Pros.” The tutorial cov -

R ers all areas of the wheelchair game, including basic strokes and mobility, T

S advanced strokes and mobility, mental toughness, wheelchair selection and

U injury prevention. D “Rich is the master at teaching the wheelchair game. It’s a real honor for me N

I to be involved in this project with him,” says Hall of his coach. “I remember when I first started playing wheelchair tennis. To have had something like this [tutorial] available would have been so helpful. But also, with tennis you never stop learn - ing, and ‘Let’s Roll’ covers all areas.” Hall was inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 2010. Berman, who runs Rich’s Tennis School near Boulder, Colo., has almost 20 years of experience teaching tennis to wheelchair players. “Over the years we both have had many players, parents and organizations ask us for guidance about coaching wheelchair tennis,” Berman says. “Our hope is that all current and future wheelchair players and coaches worldwide will use ‘Let’s Roll’ as the foun - dation for learning and teaching this wonderful sport. That is the reason we have two primary sections—one for the novice and one for the advanced player.” Over his 15-year career, Hall has won more than 80 tournaments worldwide, including nine Australian Opens, eight US Opens, seven British Opens and six Paralympic medals. Berman has been by his side throughout the years, providing knowledge and guidance. For more information, visit letsrollwheelchairtennis.com or contact 303-494- 5196 or [email protected]. ITA Announces 2013 NCAA Div. I National Awards he Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) announced the national award win - Tners for NCAA Division I tennis. 2013 Men's Award Winners Wilson/ITA National Coach of the Year—Sam Winterbotham, Tennessee Assistant Coach of the Year—Chris Woodruff, Tennessee Farnsworth National Senior Player of the Year—Jarmere Jenkins, Virginia Rookie of the Year—Romain Bogaerts, Mississippi State Player to Watch—Mikelis Libietis, Tennessee ITA/Arthur Ashe Jr. Award for Leadership and Sportsmanship—Henrique Cunha, Duke ITA/Rafael Osuna Sportsmanship Award—Sebastian Fanselow, Pepperdine 2013 Women's Award Winners Wilson/ITA National Coach of the Year—Jenny Mainz, Alabama Assistant Coach of the Year—Alex Santos, Miami (FL) Senior Player of the Year—Lauren Embree, Florida Rookie of the Year—Julia Elbaba, Virginia Player to Watch—Ema Burgic, Baylor ITA/Arthur Ashe Jr. Award for Leadership and Sportsmanship—Hannah Dake, US Air Force Academy ITA/Cissie Leary Award for Sportsmanship—Mary Weatherholt, Nebraska Marketplace Fairness Act Passes Senate his spring, the U.S. Senate passed the Marketplace Fairness Act of 2013, with Tover 70 percent of senators supporting the legislation. The bill now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration. The main statute of the Marketplace Fairness Act gives states the authorization to require remote sellers (i.e., online retailers) to collect and pay state sales and use taxes on products sold.

14 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTR Y September/October 2013 www.racquetsportsindustry.com Letters Tennis Role Models Thank you for the article “Pros and Coaches as Role Models” by Bruce Knittle in the August issue (Your Serve). In a sport that is bound by etiquette, tennis needs to maintain this type of philosophy, not just for the game, but for life. Brett A. Manoloff Coach, Amesbury Girls Tennis Amesbury, Mass.

Cable TV Limits US Open Reach After reading “ESPN to Air US Open, USOS Starting in 2015: CBS Out" in Industry News in the July issue, I was very disappointed in the USTA. It appears it's all about the almighty dollar, and not about pro - moting and developing the growth of tennis in places like Buffalo, N.Y., where as the third poorest city in the nation we have half our children living in impoverished households that do not have access to cable television or the internet. CBS has carried the US Open since 1968, and I can recall sitting around the TV with my siblings in the 1970s watching the American tennis champions of that decade. That's when I became interested in tennis. Kids in cities like Buffalo, Cleveland and Detroit will not become interested in tennis. They will not watch Serena win a Slam and say I want to do that. They will not tell their parents they want to play tennis. They will not be the tennis champions of tomorrow. The article quotes USTA Executive Director Gordon Smith as say - ing, “The new broadcast agreement will deliver tennis to more fans in the formats that today's consumers demand." What planet is he liv - ing on? Families in the ghetto are not technology consumers. They can't afford to purchase cable television's premium tier where ESPN is offered or the internet or sexy electronic devices like iPhones and iPads. Television rights to the US Open should not be awarded on the basis of high bid alone. The USTA should be considerate of the televi - sion viewing needs of all communities throughout our nation as it does in funding tennis programming for underserved neighborhoods, for which I am grateful to receive in the city of Buffalo. One of the challenges I face in organizing tennis in neighborhoods with high poverty census tracks is recruitment, and that challenge will become more difficult if our kids cannot watch tennis on TV. Marsha Huard President RiverRock Tennis and Education Association Buffalo, N.Y.

www.racquetsportsindustry.com September/October 2013 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 15 TIA Focuses on Technology Solutions for Tenn1s Growth The TIA is creating new opportunities for technology developme_nt companies that offer "software as a service" (SaaS) to help tenn1s 'State of the Industry' providers manage and grow their businesses. . . "The software as a service industry has been growmg at a rap1d Meeting Set for Aug. 26 pace," says TIA Executive Director Jolyn de Boer. "Now~ ther~ are . many companies that offer business management solut1~:>ns, mclud1ng at the Grand Hyatt, NYC software designed for tennis facilities, retailers and prov1ders. Our goal The TIA's "State of the Tennis and opportunity is to help identify these companies and off~r a grou~ of Industry" meeting will be Monday, TIA-researched solutions, which will eliminate some of the t1me providers Aug. 26, at the Grand Hyatt New spend trying to select one or more ofthese services." . York, beginning at 8 a.m. The Approved TIA SaaS Business Partners will become part of the fam1ly meeting is free and open to all in the of TIA Recommended Software and Business Solutions. They'll also industry, however space is limited. receive membership benefits and services to help the facilities, retailers Those interested in attending should and providers using their specific technology product. "Conn~cting visit Tennislndustry.org/Meeting for facilities, retailers, and tennis businesses to our TIA SaaS Busmess more information and to register. partners will help move the industry forward an~ ultimately h~lp grow "The State of the Tennis Industry the tennis economy- by making provider operations more eff1c1ent and is an opportunity for us to share what accessible for consumers," de Boer adds. we're collectively doing throughout "SaaS partners also will be contributing to the growth of the industry to grow the tennis ~ PlayTennis.com, the industry-supported site to con~ect economy, get more people playing Saa.SPartner consumers to all things 'tennis,"' says TIA lnformat1on tennis, and pave a path for future - ··••••w•-· Technology Manager Matt Allen. A key component of the sustainability for the game," says TIA partnership will be the utilization of an API (appl_ic~tion pro_gramming President Greg Mason. interface) that allows SaaS clients to select tenms mformat1on (such The meeting will cover research as business info, programs and events, etc.) that can be automatically trends and important performance published on the PlayTennis.com website. . indicators on tennis industry growth, " This is an instant added value to our SaaS partners and the1r in addition to updates from key end-users. Tennis providers can publish their business and program industry stakeholders. Industry information in one place and have it appear on PlayTennis.com searches, executives from the tennis media, instantly expanding their potential consumer reach," says de Boer. professional tours, USTA and For more information, contact TIA IT Manager Matt Allen at SFIA will be on hand to deliver an (843) 473-4500 or matt@ten nisindustry.org. overview of the current state of tennis as it applies to their respective segments and the industry overall. "As an update on the state of the game and the economy of tennis, the State of the Industry meeting is one of the TIA's overall efforts to grow the sport," says TIA Executive Director Jolyn de Boer. "It will also serve as a preview to a larger 'Vision 2020' conference planned for March 2014 in California. Rallying our industry at these types of events continues to spur valuable ideas and insight that elevates tennis and the ~: n: ;~:~;~F ~ TENNIS INDUSTRY ,I ~

16 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY September/October 2013 Join the TIA .. . Increase Your Pro fits .. . Grow the Game . .. www.Tennislndustry.org A new player-matching tool for the PlayTennis.com website is being beta-tested now with a group of recreational players and should start to roll out later this summer. The new feature will help to overcome one of the biggest barriers that TIA research shows has been an entry to playing tennis: finding someone to play with. "Our upgraded player-match system on PlayTennis.com will make it much easier for players to find a compatible match," says TIA Executive Director Jolyn de Boer. "It will allow players to sign up on the -..,.,,~ site, then connect directly with other players, including $ •• through text messaging." Other PlayTennis.com ~ features include creating a personal "dashboard" that 0 ...... ~ :,-... will al low consumers to manage their tennis-playing - ~r lifestyle, such as their favorite facilities, retailers, "'' ...... ---- ...- II... previous matches and more. To encourage player sign-ups on PlayTennis.com, - • 11· "ll~ a consumers can register to win hundreds of prizes from ~ ... TIA members and partners, including autographed -- products, US Open seats, USTA memberships, ...... II Tennis magazine subscriptions and more. . ... "PiayTennis.com will continue to evolve as we .... monitor how consumers are interacting and .... engaging with the site, so we can serve the best interest of growing tennis overall, and in return, ...... the economy of our industry," adds de Boer...... ~""".... playtennis.com ...... :: ._ ...... :: ~...... ~ :: ...... ,.. :: .._...... ;:...... :: ...... ~

TIA, ITF Create Global Research Partnership

The TIA and the International Tennis Federation (ITF) have joined to create a Global Tennis Research Partnership designed to create a plan that establishes participation and market trends on a global basis. It's the first time that a sport has established an international evaluation and measurement program managed and controlled by the stakeholders in the sport. The tennis participation component will: evaluate the health of the game; track participation, play frequency, playing habits and motivations; examine reasons players leave the sport; gauge interest in tennis among non-players. Tennis marketplace information includes monitoring racquet, ba ll and string shipments in each market, including for youth tennis. Stay tuned for further updates.

Join the TIA .. . Increase Your Profits ... Grow the Game ... www.Tennislndustry.org & Retailing 124 In Today’s Retail World, You Need to Be Consumer-Focused

hen it comes to your tennis diminish their impact on your specialty if you are not already conducting regu - retail business, is it about the tennis retail store, or eliminate them lar education sessions, and for online “product,” or is it about the completely, by making the change to customer-service assessments. “experience”? being a customer-focused retailer. One of the reasons 80 percent of WTennis products are important… companies believe they deliver superior right? Sure they are, and there is no It’s All About … Them! customer experience, yet only 8 percent question that a racquet well selected, So … you think you are already a con - of their customers agree, is because the with the right grip and strung properly, sumer-focused specialty retailer deliver - companies are putting employees who is an important part of any tennis play - ing satisfactory customer shopping are not hardwired to serve in front of er’s game. But the process of selecting experiences? According to Daryl Travis, the public, causing a huge amount of and purchasing the right racquet as part author of How Does It Make You Feel? : stress on the employees—and both lost of a tennis lifestyle shopping “experi - “Surveys reveal 80 percent of companies sales and dissatisfied shoppers for the ence” with your store brand, that is, as believe they deliver superior customer companies. The solution is a relatively the commercial says, “Priceless!” experience, yet only 8 percent of their low-cost online customer-service assess - What we are talking about here is the customers agree.” ment that lets you know if the employ - simple and cost-effective change in your Being customer-focused isn’t about ee is a customer-service natural who is specialty tennis retail store operations you at all…it is all about them. It’s all already educated, or can be educated— from being product-focused to being cus - about each and every shopper that or if he or she should not be attempting tomer-focused to deliver an extraordi - enters your specialty retail store and to serve your store’s shoppers and nary retail shopping experience every each and every customer that honors customers. time. you with their business. There is also a technical aspect to Confused about the difference If you are the only full-time employ - making the change to being consumer- between being product-focused and cus - ee, your path to changing to a consumer focused, and that is being able to mea - tomer-focused? When a shopper enters focus is a state of mind. You just need sure your success by the sales gain your store and you engage them, you the discipline to apply what you learn, at generated from individual customers. start by asking, “How can I help you?” no real cost, about: This can be accomplished through When they respond that they are looking w Promptly greeting every shopper, start - point-of-sale systems that are now for a new tennis racquet, do you point to ing with the three-letter word, “How…” affordable for all sizes of specialty ten - your display then start to tell them w Learning to really listen to what each nis retailers. everything you know about the products shopper is saying. Being product-focused isn’t working you stock, or what racquets are on sale? w Asking questions until you have an for specialty retailers today because it Or, do you take a more customer- understanding of individual wants and invites price comparisons, price match - focused approach and ask a series of fol - needs. ing and showrooming right through the low-up questions to find out what they w Making individual tennis lifestyle sug - front door. Rather than just complain want from a new racquet, and what gestions representing want and need and struggle, become consumer- improvement they expect a new frame solutions. focused. It’s a solution that will help you to make in their game? w Presenting lifestyle solutions as “bun - deliver consistently satisfying shopping Being product-focused got you by in dles” (including balls and lessons with a experiences and grow your specialty the past—but it doesn’t work today. In racquet). tennis retail business. w today’s consumer-driven marketplace, w Capturing shopper and customer “opt- where shoppers have instant access to in” contact information. For upcoming TIA retail webinars, all the knowledge they will ever want or and to view previous webinars, visit need about the name-brand products Educating Your Staff TennisIndustry.org/webinars. you stock, being product-focused invites If you employ staff you will have to price comparisons, requests to price translate your customer-focus state of This is part of a match and showrooming. If you are hav - mind to both educating and consistently series of retail tips ing problems with any of these, or simi - presented by the Ten - managing for satisfying shopping experi - nis Industry Associa - lar issues, they are the symptoms of ences every time. There is a nominal tion and written by the Gluskin Townley being product-focused and you can cost, primarily in regular staff education Group (www.gluskintownleygroup.com).

18 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTR Y September/October 2013 www.racquetsportsindustry.com

PSieoenneae Hrsa mIni lTtoenn:n is

Champion of Junior Tennis BY CINDY CANTRELL

eena Hamilton didn’t know 2007 when Hamilton’s health declined. how to read a draw sheet when “My mother was a forward-thinking her son, Bryan Fineberg, visionary who ran the Easter Bowl like a became a top-ranked junior in the 12- pro tournament,” says Fineberg, who Sand-under Eastern division in 1968. was director for six years. “She had no But that didn’t stop her from address - tolerance for injustice, and she’d lose her ing his lack of local playing opportuni - temper, but she did a lot for a lot of peo - ties by founding the Easter Bowl ple over the years.” Junior Tennis Championships that In fact, Robert Kenas credits Hamilton year at the Midtown Tennis Club in with his start in tennis photography. her native New York City. While on vacation, he was casually tak - While Hamilton’s outspoken ing photographs at Easter Bowl matches nature and passion for promotion has in 1984 when she encouraged him to made her a controversial figure over shoot junior players because they the years, her impact on junior tennis received such little coverage. For the is above reproach. In its inaugural next five years, Kenas became a leading year, the Easter Bowl drew 100 source of junior photos for World Tennis juniors, such as Jimmy Connors, and other publications. With Hamilton’s Harold Solomon and Dick Stockton, ber of players the motivation and opportu - coaching, he shot a portrait of her with from 20 states. Since that time, nearly nity to excel and appreciate tennis.” Arthur Ashe at an Easter Bowl press con - every top U.S. tennis player has compet - Now at dual sites in Palm Desert and ference (inset, above), which she said ed at the now designated USTA National Rancho Mirage, Calif., the Easter Bowl was her favorite photo ever taken. Spring Championship, including Pete remains the only national championship Kenas says Hamilton has never got - Sampras, Andre Agassi, Jim Courier, featuring three age divisions: boys’ and ten enough credit for her many and var - Andy Roddick, John McEnroe, Lindsay girls’ 18s, 16s and 14s. In all, 768 players ied contributions to the junior game, nor Davenport, Jennifer Capriati and Tracy from 40 states, plus their family members to so many of the people whose careers Austin. and coaches, congregate every April for she helped along the way. “Seena is a Mary Joe Fernandez, a former Top 5 what has been called the Super Bowl of very unique person—smart, creative, per - pro who now commentates for ESPN, junior tennis. ceptive and always candid, sometimes to says the tournament has always been Now 89 years old and suffering from her own detriment,” says Kenas. “She special to her. “Seena was Miss Easter Alzheimer’s disease, Hamilton remains paved the way for what junior tennis has Bowl, the face of the tournament for admired for her innovations and contribu - become.” me,” says Fernandez. “She had a lot of tions that put junior tennis on the map. Marylynn Baker, a USTA referee who passion for the game, and gave back a A former journalist and radio personali - ran the tournament desk at the Easter ton by promoting the sport as much as ty, she incorporated events like roundtable Bowl for 34 years, says she would never possible.” discussions to generate national press cov - have gone on to officiate at the US Open, Tennis Channel analyst Justin Gimel - erage, while negotiating hotel discounts Wimbledon and Olympic Games in stob won the Easter Bowl 14s and 16s, and high-profile sponsorships. She pio - Atlanta and Barcelona without Hamil - but fell just short in his bid for the 18s neered surveys and symposiums that ton’s hands-on training. “She was title in 1994. Even as a teenager, he says addressed injuries, fitness, nutrition, demanding of her staff, and not an easy he recognized that Hamilton’s “energy sports psychology, home schooling, col - woman to work with at times, but I saw and passion for kids in tennis were lege tennis and the pro tour. Hamilton how she mentored the young people, the unmatched.” was also determined to make the Easter hours she put in and how hard she s a

n “Seena is iconic in junior tennis,” he worked,” says Baker. e Bowl a lot of fun, selecting family-oriented K

b adds. “Her spirit, conviction, self-belief resorts and hosting a welcome reception, “I always said you’ll never meet a o B and sheer will created one of the greatest player dinner with DJ and free lunches. more passionate and caring person than y b

s and most prestigious traditions in junior Fineberg, a former tour player, took Seena,” she adds. “I owe so much to o t

o tennis. She gave an unimaginable num - Seena. Many of us do.” h over as director of the Easter Bowl in ◗ P "Pioneers in Tennis," an occasional column in RSI, draws attention to trailblazers in the sport. Have someone to suggest? E-mail [email protected]. 20 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTR Y September/October 2013 www.racquetsportsindustry.com

TMMeeenddniiaais PP Mllaaeyyederriass TThhee UUSS OOppeenn iiss aa bboooonn ttoo rreeccrreeaattiioonnaall tteennnniiss ggrroowwtthh,, tthhaannkkss ttoo eexxtteennssiivvee pprreessss ccoovveerraaggee,, ffaacciilliittaatteedd bbyy tthhee UUSSTTAA..

BY CINDY CANTRELL

ith more than 700,000 fans, learning the game is now easier than biggest fans. It doesn’t get much better the US Open is the highest ever using tennis equipment and courts than that.” attended annual sporting that are sized right for children. A special Joel Drucker, who has covered the US event in the world. In fact, the tourna - press event at last year’s Open highlight - Open for a variety of print and broadcast Wment regularly breaks its own atten - ed the many facilities and events nation - outlets since 1978, agrees that media dance, website traffic and television wide designed to get kids active and coverage generates fan interest. “It’s fas - viewership records from year to year. fight childhood obesity, generating sto - cinating also to see how recreational Yet while the number of newspaper, ries to help the game grow. In addition, players can get inspired to play more by magazine and online articles disseminat - the US Open provides a natural platform all the great stories that emerge from the ed worldwide are incalculable, their ori - to educate fans about ongoing efforts by US Open,” he says. gin is the same: the media center within USTA Player Development to improve Media and fans have the luxury of Arthur Ashe Stadium at the USTA Billie American tennis at the highest level. rarely suspecting the tireless preparation Jean King National Tennis Center, locat - “From player interviews, to press that has taken place long before the first ed within Flushing Meadows-Corona materials, to information packets to the key is struck on a journalist’s laptop. In Park in Queens, N.Y., just a short trip broadcasters, we can tell all these stories her role as manager of USTA Corporate from Manhattan. through the US Open,” Haggerty adds. Communications, Jeanmarie Daly over - According to USTA President David Cindy Shmerler, a writer and broad - sees the state-of-the-art media facilities Haggerty, the organization supports caster who will be covering her 35th and working conditions so members of about 1,500 credentialed members of consecutive US Open this year, calls the international press can perform their the media from 60 countries in produc - America’s Grand Slam the “cornerstone jobs at the highest level. ing around-the-clock coverage through - and most visible representation of tennis “A lot that goes on behind the scenes out the two weeks of the Open. in the U.S.” The result, she says, is a isn’t enviable,” says Daly, who will work “The US Open is one of the world’s financial boon for the sport and the New her 12th US Open from Aug. 26-Sept. 9, premiere sporting events, which pro - York City area. “but it’s still rewarding.” vides the USTA with an unparalleled “That can’t help but have a trickle- By March, Daly is already preparing platform to promote our most important down effect for the recreational game, for the late summer tournament. One of

s tennis initiatives in the United States as people who watch the Open on televi - her first tasks is updating the previous a n

e and around the globe,” he says. “Expo - sion are far more likely to want to go out media credential application, which was K

b sure extends beyond the tournament and play at their local club or park,” she made available this year on April 15. The o B itself, to include broader coverage of all says. “Parents see the health benefits, document assists her in tracking the d n a

we do to benefit communities across the not to mention the potential for keeping total number of print, online, radio and d i v

a country.” their kids occupied and out of trouble, broadcast journalists and photographers, D

y For example, youth tennis demon - college scholarships and even future pro along with their respective requirements b

s

o strations held during the tournament careers, and they will spend the money in terms of discounted hotel reserva - t o

h showcase to families and the media how for lessons and become their kids’ tions, parking, workstations, lockers, P

22 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTR Y September/October 2013 www.racquetsportsindustry.com meal allowances, tickets and technical also dine at the US Open food vil - requirements. lage. During the tournament, complimen - Although Daly’s role is primarily tary wi-fi is available in both media behind-the-scenes, she can occasion - work rooms, and each of the 347 work - ally catch a few minutes of a match stations also is equipped with a high- on Arthur Ashe Stadium while check - speed ethernet connection and ing on the photographer pit. Aside television hookup to a sophisticated sur - from the actual tournament, which veillance system that monitors the she calls a “fantastic event to be part courts and interview rooms. Throughout of,” her best memories are getting to the Open, virtually from dawn to well know tennis legends such as Hall of into the night, USTA communications Fame photographer Russ Adams, staff continually updates the media both whom Billie Jean King has called a via email and by producing and distrib - “national treasure.” uting all types of press releases, inter - “My responsibilities have grown view transcripts and informational through the years, but I still really sheets. enjoy what I do and the people I Another challenging aspect is feeding work with,” says Daly, noting her the 700 to 1,100 media who pass appreciation for the contributions of through the grounds each day. The colleagues including Corporate Com - media dining room in the media center munications Managing Director Chris is open from 8:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., with Widmaier and Director Tim Curry. special emphasis placed on variety and “I like to think we’ve built a the eclectic tastes of an international world-class media center here,” she clientele. Members of the media can adds. “I take a lot of pride in that.” w www.racquetsportsindustry.com September/October 2013 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 23 layTennis.com 1S unique among sports websites. It's and other information. so consumers an unprecedented. collaborative effort from all the can search for and find them. Pmajor stakeholders in the tennis industry. all with one "Beginning later this summer we will stan rhe roll­ simple. common goal to get more people to play tennis. out of an all-new, upgraded player-marching rool ... says "We see PlayTennis.com as a rallying point for tennis TIA Executive Director jolyn de Boer. "In TIA participation .. and For th e industry." says Greg Mason. president of the surveys. we ftnd that one of the biggest barriers to playing Tennis Industry Association. "This is something all of us in tennis is finding someone to play with. Our new player­ this industry can agree on and support. We all can send the match tool on PlayTennis.com will make that much easier." message to consumers that PlayTennis.com is where they'll The player-matching tool will allow consumers to sign Fmd all they need to get jnro the game and play more up on the site. then directly connect with others to tennis. This will help grow the game fo r the benefit play with. including through text messaging. of everyone." Plus, PlayTennis.com will create a personal As a one-stop portal For all things tennis, the "dashboard" that will allow consumers newly re-launched PlayTennis.com site has the to manage their tennis-playing lifestyle, support of industry manufacturers. retailers. such as their favorite Facilities, retailers. facilities. the USTA. teaching pro organizations. previous matches and more. the pro tennis tours and many more companies The TIA will also be promoting and organizations. Directing consumers and contests on the site to encourage player fans ro rhe sire-including through messaging on sign-ups, including monthly drawings for tennis ball cans and racquet and product hang rags­ autographed racquets and other prizes supplied provides the opportunlly For a single, unified message by TIA members and partners. and a grand prize from all corners of the industry: "Play tennis!" rrip to rhe US Open. Managed by the TIA, PlayTennis.com is completely "PiayTennis.com will continue to evolve as we monitor free to use-for both consumers and rennis providers. The how consumers are interacting and engaging with the sire. so site is designed to provide a central source for consumer­ we can serve the best interest of growing tennis overall. and friendly and easy-to-use search functions focused on finding in return, the economy of our industry," adds de Boer. An information about tennis. Consumers can search for places to important aspect to the site is that it is "unbranded"- visitors play and programs. find coaches and retailers, see the latest won't find messages and marketing for particular companies. equipment, view instructi onal videos, and stay connected on The message PlayTennis.com seeks to convey is to simply get the community page. Providers list their programs, location more people playing tennis. and playing more often. ··playTennis.com will serve as a great tool to Tennis Providers: promote industry-wide efforts, such as Youth Tennis, Cardio Tennis and the new Tennis Tune-Up campaign," Don't Miss Out on Business! Mason says. "We're committed to this site becoming v\'1ch unprecedenced support commmed from all pans of THE source to connect people to the game of tennis, che mdustry to message PlayTenn1s.corn to consumers. and to each other and to the resources to get them more w1ch a potential consumer reach well imo che m1llions. ic 1s engaged with our sport. more unportant than ever for tenn1s providers to make sure "A key to growing the $5.57 billion tennis industry chey·re llsced 1n the search functions on the sire. starts with increasmg the size of the player base, and Getting listed IS s1mple and free. and can help reap that's what PlayTennis.com will do for all of us." he says. benefits for tenn1s busmesses. To get listed. facilities. 'Tve worked in other sports before tennis. and am in retailers. teach1ng pros. etc should visit PlayTennis.com touch with many of my colleagues in other sports, and and click on "Get Listed" and then "Providers ... Providers this son of collaboration and cooperation to grow the should also mal\e sure the1r consumer contacts are listed overall industry is truly unique. we often say a rising tide on the sne. too. lifts all boats. PlayTennis.com is a great example of the playl e, 1 1s.co unity we have to lift the entire industry." To learn m ore about PlayTennis.com and how it's being used to grow the game, visit the site or contact the TIA What They're Saying About at (888) 556- 1221 or [email protected]. PlayTennis.com Dave Haggerry, Chairman of the Board. President and CEO, U.S. Tennis Association: "As a single source for information about tennis. how to get in the game. and how 10 play more frequently. Join the 'Tennis PlayTennis.com is unique 1n this mdustry. It's a website that can be Tune-Up' supponed and promoted by all industry stakeholders and will help to grow miuatives and programs. mcludmg 10 and Under Tennis Campaign Now T up Y"'" eq pment...and your game and Youth Tennis. and will help to create more frequent players.·· Accompanying the recent re-launch of PlayTennis.com jon Muir. Worldwide General Manager, Wilson Racquet Sports. Former TIA President: "As an Industry. we wanr this robe a site ro was rhe imroducrion of a ''Tennis Tune-Up" campaign. which everyone rnvolvcd in tennis can pomt players. and porenrial which has support from retailers. manufacrurers. and rhe players. The name- PiayTenms.com-is easy 10 remember. and it USRSA. The goal of the campaign is rwo-fold: Firsr. to help says exactly what we wam people to do: Play tennis!" educare consumers on the need ro be properly fir for tennis David Egdes, Senior Vice President, Tennis Channel: "fans and equipmenr and ro resrring their racquets on a regular basis, players will appreciate the v1deos and instruction segments we and second. ro drive customers to rennis rerail outlers and supply ro PlayTennis.com. and we look forward to continuing 10 help promote the site ... Certified Stri ngers and MRTs for expert advice. "Consumers benefit from knowledgeable retailers and jeff Williams, Group Publisher, The Tennis Media Company racquet technicians to help them choose the frame and (fennis.com!Tennis Magazineffennis 15·30): "Having Tennis. com and rennis magazine product and gear reviews available for string thar besr suirs their game and style of play. and who visirors ro PlayTennls.com will he lp players and those lool~ing to can help rhem determine when their racquet needs to be get into ten nis lind what will worl~ best for them ... serviced." says TIA Executive Director jolyn de Boer. To help consumers find retailers who participate in Stacey Allaster, Chairman and CEO, WTA: "When visitors go to PlayTennis.com. they get turned on to the spon in so many ways­ rh e "Tennis TUne-Up" effort. rhe TIA has developed an as a fan. as a player. as a parent. as a tennis provider. we·re excited incegrared search function for USRSA Certified Srringers to be a pan of this industry·wide effort to help grow the sport at and Masrer Racquet Technicians on the PlayTennis.com every level." "Find·A·Rerailer" search. "This will help drive business to Dan Santorum, CEO. Professional Tennis Registry (PTR): "The rhe rhousands of USRSA Certified Stringers and Master 'find a Pro· search function on PlayTennis.com is easy ro use for Racquet Technicians in the U.S .. " says Dave Bone, executive players looking to improve their tennis. and we encourage ail PTR pros to make sure they go through the simple and free registration director of rhe U.S. Racquet Stringers Association. so they are hsted on the sne. .. The TIA also is working with the USRSA. industry manufacturers. and members of its TIA Retail Division to john Embree, CEO, U.S. Professional Tennis Association (USPTA): ''If you're looking to play tennis, or play more tennis, develop collateral material that tennis rerailers and Certified then PlayTennis.com is the right place to be. it's easy to lind USPTA Stringers and Master Racquer Technicians can use in the pros through the site's search function. Helping players lind quality promotion and delivery of the Tune-Up campaign. tennis instruction quickly and easily will help grow this sport." Rerailers who want to participate in the campaign and David Bone, Executive Director. U.S. Racquet Stringers be a pan of PlayTennis.com should make sure they're listed Association (USRSA): "One of the initiatives driven by PlayTennis. on the PlayTennis.com retail locator, or that their listing is up com is a Tenn1s Tune-up· campa1gn. which the USRSA is happy to be a parr of. Through the website, players can easily lind USRSA to date. To learn more about the Tennis Tune-Up campaign. Certified Stringers and Master Racquet Technicians.·· visit PlayTennis.com. NEW RACQUETS & STRINGS TThhee aarrTT OOff

‘‘Q4MM isn’t usuOOally a trrime foeer intr’’ oductions, but there will be some new product and promotions as the year winds down. BY KENT OSWALD

he key word for strings and racquets for the remainder of The story of improved technology is not always getting the year will be “more.” Each year discussions take place through. “The string market has continued to evolve tremendous - on court and in stores over the promise of more power ly in recent years and with the introduction of various shaped and behind shots, more spin to keep shots within the lines, and more differently constructed co-polyester strings, the biggest challenge cTontrol of the vibrations caused when ball hits strings. Beginning is developing a product that is both spin-friendly, easy to string, this summer the Tennis Industry Association will be promoting soft and durable simultaneously,” offers Genesis Managing Direc - the Tennis Tune-Up campaign (visit PlayTennis.com) and encour - tor Mitchell Lvovsky. However, all the evolution isn’t yet growing aging players to have more of those discussions with the people the string business fast enough. who really know strings and racquets. “The most daunting challenge,” says Tourna’s Kevin Niksich, Education is a key to improving everyone’s game, in addition “is getting noticed in an oversaturated string market. It’s tough to to growing business at the retail level. While individual brands are convince a retailer to add yet another string and it’s tough to get attempting to connect racquet purchases directly to their own consumers to notice there are many great choices out there.” string, there is hope throughout the industry that Tune-Up conver - Rather than have more slices being taken from the same rev - sations will inspire more string and racquet sales. enue pie, it is hoped that greater education will result in more Initially, the emphasis of the Tennis Tune-Up campaign will be string jobs, which will benefit players—allowing them to get more on strings and, hopefully, consumers will come to understand, as from their games—and the industry. Wilson Tennis Hardgoods Marketing Manager Tracy Almeda-Sin - New technology. New products. New messaging. And increas - gian explains, “Just like optimal tires and tire pressure allow a car ingly focused efforts to explain why certain types of strings make to perform its best—in terms of safety, handling, better fuel effi - better marriages with specific styles of racquets. They should all ciency, etc.—string performance and tension are vital to the per - be part of the Tune-Up conversations and should add up to more formance of a racquet. Older strings can become brittle, which opportunities for more players to improve their games, and for affects power, comfort, control, spin, and durability.” more stringers and retailers to increase sales. w

On Tap fOr Year-end While the calendar’s final quarter is not usually a time of introductions, in addition to the wide range of racquets and strings that already have established their territory, there will be new products and promotions to talk about. ashawaY Ashaway has arranged a heavy advertising flight for its MonoGut ZX polyketone monofilament strings. The roll out of these no-polyester high-end strings is scheduled to continue into 2014 with increasing marketing and promotional support along with the introduction of ZX hybrids. ashawayusa.com • 800-556-7260

prince Prince will begin a big push this fall, building momentum to be carried through 2014 when the company will have refreshed its racquet line and produced a line of strings

26 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTR Y September/October 3013 www.racquetsportsindustry.com designed and marketed to enhance the new sticks’ benefits and performance. The first of two racquet collections being unveiled are those featuring the ESP (extreme string pattern) technology, which was developed as a com - plement to the company’s EXO3 technology. To help retailers sell the Prince story, the ESPs are grouped in Premier (shorter, slower strokes), War - rior (moderate to full strokes) and Tour (longer, faster strokes) segments. Racquets making their debut include the Premier 115L ESP and 105 ESP, the Warrior 100 and 100L ESP, and Tour 98 ESP and 100T ESP. The second of the two collections, “The Clas - sics,” will provide players with comfortable hitting and something of a “retro” feel as the company leverages its history to bring forth The Classic Graphite 97, 100, 100 Longbody and 107. Addition - al models for both collections are scheduled for roll - out in the new year. The string line is receiving new packaging and is also being segmented in a way—by designation as a “Premier,” “Warrior” and “Tour” and further identi - fied as either a “touch,” “power,” or “control” string—that should further establish the link between Prince racquets and strings. princetennis.com • 800-283-6647

TOurna Later in the fall, Tourna will roll out advertising and seeding sets for its Quasi Gut Armor, a more durable multifilament version of Quasi Gut. In addi - tion to working well on its own, the expectation is for the string to work with the new generation of shaped and sharp poly’s while still softening the stringbed. uniquesports.us • 800-554-3707

VOlkl Pushing the promote-ability envelope with a name to attract attention, Volkl is adding Psycho Hybrid string to its line, combining the multi-fiber Power Fiber II and its gut-like feel with the twisted co-poly - mer Cyclone and its 20 sides for bite on the ball. The company also be showcasing the new Organix VI racquet, with a 110-square-inch head and the Bio Sensor Handle system, all in service of creating a comfortable hitting experience. More coming attractions vb-tennis.com • 858-626-2720 Dunlop (dunlop.com, 800-768-4727 ) and Genesis wilsOn (genesis-tennis.com, 888-750-1011) will be announc - This fall, Wilson will be spinning a tale of spin. The ing the details of new products they’re rolling out theme is Spin Effect Technology. For the racquets, this includes a signature feature of fewer crosses for 2014 later in the fall. than mains. The newest entry in the line is the pow - Solinco (solincosports.com, 310-922-7775) reports erful Blade 98S, which is optimized with a lighter that it has a brand extension in the works for its line weight/balance and 18x16 string pattern to produce more spin and a heavier ball. Additionally, the com - of strings. pany will be highlighting its new monofilament, the Tecnifibre (tecnifibre.com, 877-332-0825), finishing co-poly RipSpin, which has an ultra low-friction sur - off the first year in its new five-year racquet, string, face designed to generate a high degree of spin, but in a durable and comfortable string. bag and accessories partnership with the ATP, has wilson.com • 773-714-6400 its sights set on a January 2014 introduction.

www.racquetsportsindustry.com September/October RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 27 or decades, tennis has been an important part of the Imporrantly, notes fo rmer tennis industry executive Doug U.S. sports industry landscape and a key segment of Fonte, in the m id- I 980s the ATI F primarily was supported by Fthe Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association, which coun equipment manufacturers. Buc as it became clear the was founded in 1906 in New York City by six sporting goods tennis boom had fizzled out, other fo rces were influencing the manufacturers. In Fact, it was ch e SGMA (now ca lled the industry and would become factors in the formation and path Sports & Fitness Industry Association) that officially created that eventually led to the current TIA. A key group at the time the forerunners of the Te nnis Industry Association. In 1931, was the USTA's Tennis Industry Council, for which Fonte, who the SGMA began developing sports specialty organizations. worked for Penn at that time, served as a chairman. and one of the earliest was the Tennis Racket Association, which later was called the Tennis Manufacturers Association. "Spirit of Sarasota" The current TIA can be traced directly ro the Tennis The USTA Tennis Industry Council was formed in 1986 and Foundation of North America, which was created by rhe included a cross-section of vested interests, including tennis SGMA in June 1974. The TFNA was formed "to effectively manufacturers, publications, rournament directors, TV coordinate efforts to promote the growth of recreational executives, player unions, agents, and other tennis officials. tennis," according to an SGMA repon ar the rime, and it The TIC's job, wrote Tennis Week publisher Eugene Scott at was headquartered with the SGMA in North Palm Beach . the time, was "to explore ways to breathe new life back into Fla. The TFNA later merged with the Ten nis Manufacturers a sport perceived by many to be functioning on one lung." Association, then changed irs name w the American Te nnis Led by Fonte. the TIC organized a two-day gathering Industry Federation (ATIF) , which established a formal in florida in early 1987. dubbed [he "Spirit of Sarasota" allegiance with the SGMA in 1982. In January 1993, the AT IF meeting. "That was a turning point for this industry," says changed its name to the Te nnis Industry Association. which tennis media veteran j eff Williams, group publisher of remains a member organization of the SFI A. Tennis.com and Te nnis magazine.

TIA Presidents and Chairmen Throughout the Years

28 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY September/October 2013 www.racquetsportsindustry.com At the SarasQ[a meeting. the many companies and needed all the influential people and groups involved." organizations in tennis, which normally went after each other Another challenge was trying to get money behind the for m ar l~et share, decided they needed w work together to effort. The SGMA helped greatly in this regard. When The save an industry that now was foundering. It's that same Super Show was created in 1986, there were actually eight spirit of cooperation among industry stakeholders that is so different show elements, including The Te nnis Show, within important in growing the sport today. and why the tennis the main event. Each of the different industri es received a cut industry is unique among other sports industries. of the overall net excess proceeds based on the size of their Meanwhile. the ATIF was making its own headway under part of The Super Show. That money went w the industry its president, Bob Montenegro, who was the president of groups, including the ATIF (later the TIA). Babolat at the time. (Montenegro's late father, Walter, played The Super Show also was pivotal for the tennis industry in an influential role in the development of the tennis industry another way- it served as the rallying point for the industry. from the 1930s into the 1990s.) At the first TIA Forum, held at The Super Show in Atlanta in "Every maj or company was involved in some way,'' February 1993, the leadership of the TIA began to ca mpaign Bob Montenegro says of the ATlF in the mid-1980s. "One of fo r a unified industry-wide effort to build tennis participation. the things we worked on back then, and that the TIA is still Of course, the USTA was (and still is) instrumental in reaping the benefits from, is getting companies to provide helping to fund the TIA's efforts. In the m id-1990s, the TI A, quarterly dara on what they were selling- racquets, strings. which moved from Florida to irs current Hilton Head Island, balls, shoes. It helped everyone S C., headquarters. also starred to know what their market share 'We're all about the economy of an "assessment" program was and what they needed to do." the game: says TIA President whereby tennis manufacturers Today, industry research remains a contributed to the TIA based on cornerstone for the TIA. Greg Mason. 'Overall, our a percentage of their sales, which While the 1987 Spirit of charge is to continue to offer was anQ[her unique aspect to Sarasota meeting laid the opportunities to grow revenue.' industry growth that wasn't seen groundwork fo r the overall industry in other sports at the time. cooperation that followed. over the "This was another key next few years the TIC ran up against its own challenges. moment in the industry," Williams says. "Once the assessment After developing a plan to grow the game, supported 50% by program started, we were able to work aggressively with the the USTA and 50% by TIC members. the USTA pulled out of USTA and other organizations tO grow the sport." the plan-an action that, in hindsight, helped push the "What I ca ll the 'formative years' of the TIA were around development of the present-day TIA. 1995 w '97," says Kurt Kamperman, the current chief "At that point, as the three-term chairman of the TIC, I executive of Com m unity Tennis fo r the USTA, who back then suggested we re-form as an industry association, in the was the tennis director at Sea Pines on Hilton Head Island. mode that the TIA operates in roday," Fonte says. That Kamperman was hired as a consultant to the TIA in 1995, helped accelerate the agenda of the AT IF (the TIA's and he and Jim Baugh helped get the assessment program direct forebear), and Fonte suggested that Matt Dingman of going and started working on ideas to get more people Penn becom e the first chairman of the newly christened playing tennis. Tennis Industry Association. "We had a handful of companies carrying a heavy load," says Kamperman, who became TIA president in 1997, Super Show Influence leaving in 2003 tO join the USTA "Wilson was the m ar l~et The key in the early 1990s. says Dingman, "was making leader, and jim, as president of Wilson and of the TIA, was sure the TIA was to tally represented across the board with really putting his money where his mouth was, investing big all aspects of the sport, nor just the manufacture rs. We dollars with the TIA."

www.racquetsportsindustry.com September/October 2013 RACQU ET SPORTS INDUSTRY 29 Fueling a Turnaround economy; increasing the TIA's role as the major source for "When Sports Tllustrated came our with rhe 'ls Tennis Dying?' tennis research; increasing awareness and advocacy for tennis story in May 1994, that really lit a ftre under all industry through communications and positioning; and unifying the leaders to rurn this around." says Baugh. who was TIA industry under one brand: TENNIS. Also on Muir's watch, and president from 1994 ro 1997. then again from 2003 ro 2006. working closely with Executive Direcmr Jolyn de Boer, the TIA rr was during his second slim as president char Baugh established long-term corporate governance, set up rhe TIA oversaw rhe forma cion of the Tennis Welcome Center initiative Retailer Division platform. developed the annual Stare of the and drove the creation of the highly successful Cardio Tennis Industry report and expanded and improved research efforts program. "There is no organization that is closer co the across the industry. And importantly. the TIA helped lay the grassroots than the TIA," Baugh notes. "lr goes right from foundation for PlayTennis.com. the TIA, to manufacturers, to America. The closer we ger to Current TIA President Greg Mason of HEAD Penn Racquet America and to the player, the better chis industry is." Sports continues w focus the strategic vision. including the Dave Haggerty. currently rhe USTA chairman of the all-important goal of increasing the frequent player segment. board and president, followed Baugh as TIA "We're all about rhe economy of the game," president, from 2007 ro 2008 "The TIA has ~ -. he says. "Overall, our charge is to continue always been a group char's wanted co make ...... w offer opportunities w grow revenue, and sure it was rhe conscience of tennis." Haggerty • ~ that means doing what we can w support

says. "I think what's viral is co make sure all rhe TENNIS INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION initiatives to get more people playing more key manufacturers and organizations are at the often and ro create frequent players, including table. Every company goes through a change ar a key focus on the PlayTennis.com platform. times. bur whar doesn't change is the need for the industry That will grow the tennis economy for everyone. I have major co be rogerher. co have one voice." goals fo r PlayTennis.com and how the entire industry and In rhe lase few years. rhe TIA has continued co focus on our spore can beneftt from this simple message to play more consumer growth, but with an increased focus on frequent tennis." consumers vs. general participation. ''I tried ro shift gears "TIA's mission to 'promote the growth of tennis and the co clarify our focus on the frequent player base, which is economic vitality of the industry' is deeply ingrained with all so important ro rhe growth and susrainabiliry of rhe tennis those who lead the TIA and all those who served on the board, economy." says jon Muir, rhe worldwide general manager past and present," says de Boer. who has been deeply involved for Wilson Racquet Spores. who served as TIA president from with the TIA since the mid-1990s, becoming executive director 2009 ro 2012. ''lr is imporrant ro have the TIA as an industry in 2003. "TIA is a remarkable collaboration of the stakeholders platform that can support growth of the various revenue in the industry who truly recognize the important role rhe TIA srreams and stakeholders rhar make up the industry. and co needs to play. where the only important brand is TENNIS. serve as a strong communications vehicle w drive our smry ro "This industry owes a lor to the leaders who helped shape an even broader consumer base." and evolve the current-day TIA," de Boer adds. "We're excited Under Muir. the TIA reftned irs long-rerm strategic about our future direction, the business of tennis, and the vision that includes four l~ey platforms: growth of the tennis opportunities that lie ahead for this sport.''

Prince Global Sports TIA Board of Directors Mike Ballardie adidas Professional Tennis Registry Dave Malinowski Dan Santorum American Sports Builders Assn. Sports &. Fitness Industry Assn. Fred Stringfellow Tom Cove ATP World Tour Tennis Channel Linda Cl a rl~ David Egdes Sabol at Tennis Magazine Eric Babolat jeff Williams Dunlop United States Professional Tennis Assn. Kai Nitsche john Embree HEAD/Penn United States Racquet Stringers Assn. Greg Mason (TIA President) Dave Bone Int'l. Health, Racquet&. Sportsclub Assn. United States Tennis Assn. Meredith Poppler Kurt Kamperman International Management Group Wilson Sporting Goods Kevin Callanan Jon Muir International Tennis Federation Women's Ten nis Assn. Dave Miley Stacey Allaster International Tennis Hall of Fame World TeamTennis Mar l~ Stenning Ilana Kloss

30 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY September/October 2013 www.racquetsportsindustry.com

2013 This year, three leaders will be added to the Tennis Industry Hall of Fame­ Sheldon Westervelt, Howard R. Gill Jr., and Walter Montenegro. They join Tennis Industry previous inductees Howard Head (2008), Dennis Van der Meer (2008), Alan Schwartz (2009), Billie jean King (2010) and Nick Bollettieri (2011). Plaques of Tennis Industry Hall of Fame inductees are on permanent display at the Hall of Fame International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, R.I.

Sheldon Westervelt Westervelt still puts in time as a consultant with Global Spores & Tennis Design Group and remains a l~ey player in In 1964. professional engineer the industry, having overseen the design and construction of Sheldon Westervelt and a group of nearly 7.000 tennis projects around the world and winning colleagues decided there should numerous design awards. He has served on the faculty be a trade association with the of many athletic and sports conferences and has been a goal of improving the quality of USTA volunteer for more than 40 years. Westervelt has also tennis court construction. So they worked with the ITF and, in 1994. he was honored with a life started the U.S. Te nnis Court & membership in the American Society of Civil Engineers. In Track Builders Association, and 20 10, the AS BA honored its founders and charter members, Westervelt became the fi rst chairman. Nearly 50 years later, including Westervelt, with the Industry Merit Award. ASBA's the organization they created- now called the American highest honor. Sports Builders Association (ASBA)-encompasses a Long a driving force in the tennis industry- whether as wide range of professionals in the athletic facility design, a founding father of the ASBA. working to refi ne methods construction and supply industries and includes educational for building courts in the 1960s and '70s. or as a principal sessions. certification programs. construction manuals and in one of the world's foremost tennis design companies­ guidelines, and more. Westervelt has been a visionary leader.

Howard R. Gill Jr. Walter Montenegro Howard Gill, or "Howie" as he was Tennis and racquet sports industry known in the industry, was publisher innovator Wal ter Montenegro was of Tennis magazine from 1976 ro 100 years old when he died in 1985. and very active in helping to November 2009. A beloved figure move the tennis industry to new within the tennis industry for many heights. capitalizing on the "tennis years, Montenegro was born in I 909 boom" rhat was occurring at the in San Jose, Cos ta Rica. As a 20-year­ rime. In 1988, in recognition of all old, he began stringing racquets for he did ro help grow the spon and $ 1.75 a fra me. ''I became infatuated the industry, and in bringing tennis manufacturers and with the idea of stringing racquets." he once said. "Too l~ it organizations together, Gill was named an honorary lifetime up as a hobby and eventually went into the business." member of the TIA. Montenegro had earned an accounting degree from Bur Gill had a first love. and that was golf- he co­ the University of Buenos Aires and emigrated to the U.S. founded the popular magazine Golf Digest in 1950, with two in his early 20s. He started Walter's Tennis Service out friends who had all gone ro high school together in Chicago of his home in Brooklyn, N.Y., then in 1939 purchased then to Northwestern Universi ty. The three alternately took the struggling Cragin-Simplex Corp., eventually opening turns as editor, chief ad salesman and business manager for a 60,000-square-foot racquet factory in North Attleboro, the fledgling golf publicacion. but Gill was the entrepreneur Mass., and building the company by "giving value. service and face of the magazine; he could win over any advertiser and quality.·· Montenegro's company also imported and or stubborn golf pro. distributed Babolat strings and, among other endeavors, ~ Eventually, both Golf Digest and Tennis magazine developed a squash ball for summer play that changed the 3 cam e under the same corporate umbrella. and Gill became game to a year-round spon. ! actively involved in the tennis industry, where his s l~il l at In 1983, the TIA named him an honorary lifetime ~ finding consensus served tennis well. When he retired in member. Among his many honors are the 1985 induction § 1988, he not only continued to enj oy tennis, golf and skiing, into the Sporting Goods Industry Hall of Fame and coverage { but he took up polo, tap dancing and sculpture. "Howard of his achievements in a Sports Illustrated article by George <3 was a good writer, a good salesman, a good athlete, a good Plimpton. He j oined the USPTA in 1940, served as a vice 1:' ~ sport and a great friend," said a former colleague. He died president in the 1950s, and remained a member for the ~ in July 1996 at age 73. rest of his life.

32 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY September/October 2013 www.racquetsportsindustry.com

34 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTR Y April 2004 COURT CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE RRee--OORRddeeRRiinngg

ttWhat hhcan yoeeu do d urCCiing yoOOur facuiiulliity’s sRRhutdottwn to have iit ready for your next open house? BY MARY HELEN SPRECHER

Photo Courtesy Tennis Courts Inc., Aylett, Va.

ou’ve just looked at your calendar and realized you’re only nis Court Construction Co. Inc. in Hanover, Mass. “For a more dra - a few weeks away from the club’s yearly shutdown. Once matic improvement, a new color surfacing will add new life to a the facility is open for business again, it’ll be time for the facility. A change of surface colors is something that is even more annual open house when membership recruitment starts. And noticeable than maintaining the same color scheme.” lYooking at your courts, you have only one thought: Yikes!. If a new surfacing job isn’t in the cards, make sure the court is In today’s economy, there might not be much of a budget for clean. Power-washing (either done by the court contractor or in drastic improvements. That does not mean, however, that you accordance with that contractor’s directions) can make a surface can’t freshen up your courts and have them ready for a great look surprisingly clean and bright. show-and-tell performance. Art Tucker of California Products Corp. in Andover, Mass., notes that if a facility manager is addressing only isolated stains Small tOuCheS that add up on a court, there are a variety of brand-name products designed A facility that commands respect isn’t always the product of one specifically for tennis court use. In all cases, the court contractor’s sweeping change. Sometimes, say contractors, several relatively opinion should be sought in advance, since different stains may inexpensive changes can make courts look brighter and newer. require different treatments. Check with a contractor before using “Adding a new piece of windscreen—it can even have the club any soap, cleaner or method, no matter how mild, since a discol - logo on it—is a sure way to get the members’ attention, plus it’s ored or bleached surface can be difficult, if not impossible, to rem - great publicity for the club,” says Steve Wright of Trans Texas Ten - edy effectively. nis Ltd. in Houston. “On soft courts, a pre-season reconditioning, top dressing and Since the fence may be the first thing a prospective member new line tapes will make a noticeable difference,” adds Marsden. sees from the outside, take time to repair sagging rails or places where the windscreen droops. Touch up chipped paint on net paRt Of the fuRnituRe posts as well. Take the time to inspect courtside benches, tables and more. Make certain they sit firmly and do not rock (a small but annoying net ReSult thing players will notice). If tables or benches have umbrellas to Tennis nets will show wear—and can bring down the entire shade players before or after games, make sure the umbrellas are appearance of a court. If a net has holes, rips or tears, replace it. easy to raise and lower and are in good working order. A new net, with its bright, white headband, will do wonders for Often, equipment such as ball carts, hoppers and machines, as the court’s appearance. well as tennis drill equipment, winds up being pushed to the cor - Take some time to adjust the tension on the net. A variety of ners of the facility where pros and players can reach it as needed. net tensioning devices are on the market, and particularly when Store it in a convenient (but hidden) area instead. courts are in a bank, can keep them looking uniform and neat. amenitieS and aCCeSSORieS On the SuRfaCe If your facility (either indoor or outdoor) has lights on the courts, “There are a lot of quick, less expensive ‘spruce ups’ a facility make sure you replace any burned out lamps or lamps that have owner or manager can do,” notes David Marsden of Boston Ten - degraded to a point where the manufacturer recommends www.racquetsportsindustry.com www.racquetsportsindustry.com September/October 2013 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 35 Photo Courtesy Baseline Sports Construction, Knoxville, Tenn.

replacement. Tennis court lighting is sup - posed to adhere to specific standards, so take the time to do light meter readings in specified locations around the court. In an indoor facility, backdrop and divider curtains should be kept off the floor and attached to support cables at every grommet. In addition, clean and well-lit walkways behind the backdrop curtains are a must. Replace overhead and walkway lights as needed. Photo Courtesy Lower Bros. Co. Inc., Birmingham, Ala. If everyday court maintenance equip - ment (squeegees and rollers for hard courts, drag brooms and line sweepers for soft courts) is present, it should be hung neatly on the fence, not left leaning against it. Small changes add up, and not just to prospective members. “Players like to know that their membership fees are being spent on maintaining and improv - ing the facility they belong to,” says Marsden. w Photo Courtesy Stantec Sport, Boston

Note: The American Sports Builders Associ - ation (ASBA) is a non-profit association helping designers, builders, owners, opera - tors and users understand quality sports facility construction. The ASBA sponsors informative meetings and publishes newsletters, books and technical construc - tion guidelines for athletic facilities includ - ing tennis courts. Available at no charge is a listing of all publications offered by the Association, as well as the ASBA’s Member - ship Directory. Info: 866-501-ASBA (2722) Photo Courtesy Zaino Tennis Courts Inc., Orange, Calif. or www.sportsbuilders.org

36 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTR Y September/October 3013 www.racquetsportsindustry.com www.racquetsportsindustry.com SIGN-UP TO HOST EVENT • ANY DAY FAOM SEPTEMBER 1 - 30 TO KICK..OFF YOUR FALL PROG---··v· ·__;• PROMOTION AND YOU WILL RECEIVE: • EXPOSURE: The USTA, tennis equipment manufacturers and industry partners all endorse YouthTennis.com. In 2012, there were over 33 million media impressions

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Visit YouthTennls.com/Host or call 1-800-990-8782 to register- it's that easy! COURT CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE aa mmOOvveeaabbllee

ffTempeeoraryaa and pSSortabttle courts—using modular tiles or rolled products—are helping to grow tennis participation with children and adults. BY MARY HELEN SPRECHER he good news: Tennis participation is trending upward. But, it’s still a “try-and-buy” sport. In other words, to sell people—kids and adults—on the fun and benefits of tennis, it's necessary to get them onto the court and hitting balls. tThe industry-wide 10 and Under Tennis initiative has helped make the sport accessible, not only creating standalone 36- and 60-foot Youth Tennis courts, but also allowing lines for smaller courts to be painted on 78-foot courts, or painted or temporarily laid down on playgrounds, parking lots, gym floors and other sur - faces. But for times when it becomes necessary to actually bring in a court, many in the industry recommend using a portable surface. Portable surfaces are those that can be laid into place in time for a special event. They may take the form of modular interlock - ing tiles or rolled or textile products. The common denominator? Their ability to be used, and re-used. "We store a portable 8-and-under-sized court for the USTA Tennessee Section and have done several remote events both indoors and out," says Lee Murray of Competition Athletic Sur - Courtesy Hinding Tennis, West Haven, Conn., and Ace Surfaces Inc., Altamonte Springs, Fla. faces in Chattanooga, Tenn. "By setting up this safe, attractive ten - nis court and having qualified teaching pros on hand, we can get kids on a court and experience tennis for the first time in their lives. The pros’ goal is simply to give the kids a fun tennis experi - ence. While the parents are watching, a representative of the local community tennis association will talk to them about program - ming and lesson options." As clubs, parks and fitness facilities work to gain new mem - bers and players, representatives are starting to take the game to the streets, having booths at community festivals and health fairs. Other venues include senior expos, summer camp meet-and- greets, open houses and more. The fact that nets are collapsible and balls are lower pressure adds to the appeal of the set-up. An additional advantage of temporary courts, says Franz Fasold of Ace Surfaces North America in Altamonte Springs, Fla., is the fact that they take up significantly less storage space than might be expected. "Modular surfaces also combine the comfort and resiliency of a soft court with the durability and low maintenance of a hard court," notes Fred Jones of Mateflex in Utica, N.Y. He adds such

38 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTR Y September/October 3013 www.racquetsportsindustry.com www.racquetsportsindustry.com courts can provide a good playing experience in the presence of mance and ball bounce that 10 and Under Tennis players need.” minor flaws in the sub-base. "I would recommend using modular surface tiles for the sur - In addition, says Randy Futty, director of tennis for Connor face and a portable tennis system," says Chris Rickerl of Douglas Sport Court International based in Salt Lake City, Utah, a portable, Industries in Eldridge, Iowa. modular surface can “offer the safety that parents want, with While it's easy to praise the courts' ease and versatility, exceptional footing and shock absorption, along with the perfor - builders say the real proof is seeing them in action. w

Courtesy Mateflex Mele, Utica, N.Y. Courtesy Mateflex Mele, Utica, N.Y.

Courtesy Competition Athletic Surfaces, Chattanooga, Tenn. Courtesy Sport Court International, Salt Lake City, Utah

Courtesy Sport Court International, Salt Lake City, Utah Courtesy Sport Court International, Salt Lake City, Utah

www.racquetsportsindustry.com www.racquetsportsindustry.com September/October 2013 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 39 ? AYosku rt hEeq uEixppmeertns t Hotline

STRING MOVEMENT The two factors that determine after a few hours MY CLIENT SAYS HE HATES that whether or not a string gets stuck are fric - of play when grit his strings are moving. He’s using tion and string elasticity. If there is not gets into the a nylon string in a midplus rac - enough elasticity in the string to over - string intersec - quet that has a 16x19 stringbed, at 58 come the friction between the string and tions), while poly Qpounds reference tension. I’ve increased its cross strings (whether you are dealing strings usually the reference tension to the top of the with a main or a cross), the string will slide back into position. Of course, poly recommended tension range for this become stuck out of position after strings play completely differently than frame, but it hasn’t helped. Would string impact. Tension has little to do with it. nylon strings, and not everyone wants to savers do the trick? Is there another type Increasing the tension can provide mar - make the switch from nylon to poly. of string that moves less? ginal improvements in the string return - You can try to find a nylon string that ing to its original position, but it also doesn't have this problem as much, or per - THE FIRST THING YOU NEED TO increases the friction applied by the cross haps go with a hybrid string job with half know is that strings always move strings. You may have noticed that even nylon and half poly, to see if that helps. during play. On impact, they move out of when you are stringing a racquet, the Don’t be afraid to try the nylon in the Aposition, and then as the push of the ball crosses often need to be straightened mains and the poly in the crosses. against the strings diminishes, they can before giving the racquet to the customer String savers may help, but you have to move back to their starting position. If the because — even when fresh — the use the right ones. The ones you’re looking strings straighten themselves, most play - strings do not run straight from one for are more like pucks of slippery material ers think the strings aren’t moving, when grommet to the other. with shallow depressions to locate the in fact they are moving twice as much as This leaves the composition of the string saver at the intersection, as opposed strings that move during impact and then string itself. Nylon strings typically get to the string savers that have deep saddles get stuck. "stuck" in the moved position (especially that partially surround the string.

40 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTR Y September/October 2013 www.racquetsportsindustry.com REELING IN NXT I HAVE CUSTOMERS USING the Wilson H1 Outer Edge racquets. The problem is that they like Wilson NXT, but it cQomes only in 40-foot sets, and not in reels. Is it possible to obtain this string in reels?

ACCORDING TO R yan Polito at Wilson: “NXT is not available in reels. TAhere are many reasons for this, but the main reason is due to the unique construction of the string and the pro - duction process. A great deal of han - dling and inspection go into each set of NXT string, so putting it onto reels

would prevent us from performing many of the steps in our rigorous quality control. “Additionally, some of fibers that give NXT its unique feel are fragile, so tightly winding the string on the reel would not be optimal for perfor - mance. “However, we are constantly test - ing new methods of possibly putting NXT on a reel one day in the future. An alternative string for these players would be NXT OS. It is packaged in 45-foot sets to accommodate larger racquets. The string is also pre- stretched and thermoset during pro - duction to improve tension maintenance, especially in super-over - size racquets such as the H1.” It bears repeating that the USRSA’s newest on-line tool, String Colors and Lengths (above), allows members to find extra-length sets of string. It is available online at http://goo.gl/38b11

www.racquetsportsindustry.com September/October 2013 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 41 String Playtest Isospeed Black Fire

sospeed Black Fire is a modified co- recommends reducing the reference ten - polyester monofilament that is made sion by 10 percent compared to a nylon using a triple-heating process to soft - string, and we so advised our playtest en the stiff modulus somewhat. Isospeed team members. The average number of tIells us the string is produced very stiff hours tested was 23.9. for control, but shrinking the string in the Black Fire feels thicker than its 17 last heating step reduces vibration on the gauge out of the package. The surface is arm. The result is a stiff string that still smooth and cylindrical, and it feels “soft” has power and comfort. during stringing. It is easy to weave and Isospeed has successfully tested Black pull the crosses through the mains, but Fire 17 with demanding professional tour the string is slightly springy, so you have players. It is designed to give hard-hitting to pay attention during lems tying knots, none reported friction college and pro players maximum con - knotting. burn, and one reported other problems. trol without sacrificing power. None of our testers broke the sample Black Fire is available in 17-gauge during stringing, three reported problems ON THE COURT (1.25mm) in black only. It is priced from with coil memory, one reported prob - Isospeed Black Fire’s smooth surface $7.50 per set of 12 meters. For more makes installation easy, and seems also information or to order, contact Isospeed EASE OF STRINGING to contribute to the characteristic of aid - at 800-883-6647, or visit (compared to other strings) ing its resistance to movement. Our isospeed.com/en/. Be sure to read the Number of testers who said it was: testers rated Black Fire the 15th best conclusion for more information about much easier 1 string in this category of the 174 strings getting a free set to try for yourself. somewhat easier 3 we’ve play tested for publication to date. about as easy 23 Isospeed promises control with Black not quite as easy 4 Fire, and our testers agreed, rating Black IN THE LAB not nearly as easy 0 The coil measured 40 feet. The diameter Fire excellent in the Control category. measured 1.26-1.28 mm prior to string - OVERALL PLAYABILITY Our testers also awarded Black Fire with ing, and 1.22-1.23 mm after stringing. (compared to string played most often) well-above-average ratings in six cate - We recorded a stringbed stiffness of 73 Number of testers who said it was: gories: Durability, Playability, Power, RDC units immediately after stringing at much better 0 Tension Retention, and Spin Potential. 60 pounds in a Wilson Pro Staff 6.1 95 somewhat better 5 As a result, overall Isospeed Black Fire (16 x 18 pattern) on a constant-pull about as playable 11 garnered an excellent rating from our not quite as playable 13 machine. test team. not nearly as playable 1 After 24 hours (no playing), stringbed None of our testers reported prema - stiffness measured 66 RDC units, repre - OVERALL DURABILITY ture fraying or peeling, one reported senting a 10 percent tension loss. Our (compared to other strings buzzing, and four reported notching. control string, Prince Synthetic Gut Origi - of similar gauge) None of the testers broke the sample Number of testers who said it was: nal Gold 16, measured 78 RDC units during the playtest period. much better 3 immediately after stringing and 71 RDC somewhat better 11 units after 24 hours, representing a 9 about as durable 16 CONCLUSION percent tension loss. In lab testing, not quite as durable 0 Considering that Isospeed designed Black Prince Synthetic Gut Original has a stiff - not nearly as durable 0 Fire 17 for players whose abilities are ness of 217 and a tension loss of 11.67 well above those of most of our test RATING AVERAGES pounds, while Isospeed Black Fire 17 has team’s, it speaks well of the Isospeed From 1 to 5 (best) a stiffness of 232 and a tension loss of process that even lesser players found a Playability 3.5 lot to like in Black Fire 17. No string 21.2 pounds. Black Fire 17 added 16 Durability 4.1 grams to the weight of our unstrung Power 3.5 receives great scores in seven categories frame. Control 3.7 (including one in the top 20) — and an The string was tested for five weeks Comfort 3.3 overall excellent rating — by accident. by 31 USRSA play-testers, with NTRP rat - Touch/Feel 2.9 If you think that Isospeed Black Fire ings from 3.5 to 6.0. These are blind Spin Potential 3.4 might be for you, fill out the coupon to tests, with testers receiving unmarked Holding Tension 3.5 get a free set to try. strings in unmarked packages. Isospeed Resistance to Movement (15th overall) 4.1 —Greg Raven ◗

42 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTR Y September/October 2013 www.racquetsportsindustry.com FREE PLAYTEST STRING PROGRAM TALK Isospeed will send a free set of Black Fire to USRSA members who cut out (or copy) TIE am SsurTpriseEd byR theS comfort of this this coupon and send it to: p“oly. Even strung in the low forties, the USRSA, Attn: Isospeed String Offer control, spin and overall playability are PO Box 3392, Duluth, GA 30096 exceptional. 4.0 male baseliner with or fax to 760-536-1171, or email the info below to [email protected] heavy spin u”sing Babolat Pure Drive + Cor - tex GT strung at 43 pounds CP (Head Sonic Offer expires 15 September 2013 • Offer only available to USRSA members in the US. Pro 17) Name: USRSA Member number: Phone: This is a spin-friendly co-poly but with Email: t“he comfort of a nylon multifilament. If you print your email clearly, we will notify you when your sample will be sent. 5.0 male all-court player using Babola”t Pure Drive Cortex strung at 60 pounds CP (Luxilon Alu Power 16L)

This string has better tension mainte - n“ance than similar feeling polys. It makes it easy for me to control points with spin. 6.0 male serve-and-volley player using” Yonex V Core Xi (300 Grams) strung at 67 pounds CP (Yonex Poly Tour Pro 16L)

This test string has average playability. I“t would be good in a hybrid with a multi - filament or natural gut cross. 4.0 male baseliner with moderate spin” using Babolat AeroPro Drive strung at 56 pounds CP (Babolat RPM Blast 17)

The feel goes down over time but the p“erformance remains high. Nice combina - tion of spin and power. 4.0 male all-court playe”r using Head Youtek Prestige MP strung at 54 pounds CP (Gamma Live Wire XP 17)

This is an average polyester with “decent power and spin. If it is priced less than ten dollars a set, I will recommend it. But it’s not for me. 5.0 male all-court player using Babola”t Pure Drive + Cortex strung at 43 pounds LO (Luxilon Alu Power 16)

The string pocketing is better than e“xpected. This is a great option for non polyester players who want to make the transition to polyester. 4.5 male all- court player using Wils”on BLX Blade strung at 56 pounds CP (Luxilon 4G 16L)

(Strings normally used by testers are indicated in paren - theses.) For the rest of the tester comments, visit www.racquetsportsindustry.com.

www.racquetsportsindustry.com September/October 2013 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 43 YAomuerr Sicear’vse Tennis ‘Trade’ Deficit A former top pro says U.S. coaching must teach young players how to

‘trade,’ ‘neutralize’ and ‘defend.’ BY TIM MAYOTTE

ver the last 10 years, two things This has been the source of a disturbing ments to be able to compete at the highest have stood out when it comes to and predictable pattern through many levels. And the earlier players learn these, many great men’s matches: daz - painful losses on the American tennis land - the better—“fixing” a problem is much zling groundstroke exchanges, and the scape. U.S. players, being forced to hit fore - tougher than teaching it correctly in the fOact that very few of the matches have hands from deep in the backhand corner, first place. included Americans. get worn down by their more balanced So what can we do differently? Our The world’s best players, along with a opponents, especially in best-of-five-set best juniors must learn these complicated handful of other top pros, showcase an matches. What’s particularly troubling is skills as they work through their develop - ability to build points that often unfolds that two of our most promising upstarts, ment. Sadly that is not happening on a using three important skills: “trading” Ryan Harrison and Jack Sock, are hampered large scale. It is also not happening on a powerful strokes, followed by one play - by this exact same issue. large scale in our colleges. Clearly we need er's attack then being either “neutralized” While players of my era could dominate our players to become better at neutraliz - or “defended” by his opponent. In these by being mainly aggressive, the best players ing, so that means our coaches need to great matches, the top players are able to today have to master great defense as well. become better at teaching them this tech - patiently work their opponents with their nique. As a former pro, I know these skills groundstrokes, then make them pay by 'Make no mistake: are very difficult to master as a player. As forcing errors or turning defense to Offense matters, but it a teacher, I have come to understand how offense. complicated they are to teach. The capacity to engage in this highly must be accompanied There are many very good and even disciplined, patient and technically great coaches in this country, but we need demanding defensive play is basically a by solid trading, more. To create more great players we requirement to enter the game's elite. It neutralizing and need more great coaches. Each teacher makes sense, then, when Roger Federer who betters one player pushes the level says he plays his best tennis when he defending skills.' higher for all. I believe there are many plays his best defense. juniors playing now who could be great if But I can't imagine our best American Attacking play has been the signature we show them the best way to the top. men saying the same thing. Chances are, style of U.S. players for decades. For years, I was pretty good, but I was desperate not one top American male of the 21st it worked beautifully (except on clay, of to become great. I would have relished the century would identify “defense” or “neu - course). chance to understand more fully how to tralizing” as central to their games like Many now suggest having players train improve. As coaches, trying to develop Federer does. Make no mistake: Offense and compete on clay will help, and it may great players, we have to feel and act on matters, but it must be accompanied by in the long run. But there are faster ways to that same desire. w solid trading, neutralizing and defending affect change: by understanding and teach - skills, which in many ways is more tech - ing the technique of trading, neutralizing Tim Mayotte is the director of nically demanding than playing offense. and defending. Telling our players to be the Mayotte-Hurst Tennis The U.S.’s two highest ranked men, more patient and disciplined is not enough. Academy at the Cunningham Sam Querrey and John Isner, would likely We have to show them how to do it. Sports Center in Fresh Mead - say their first serves and attacking fore - If we expect our players to be the best in ows, N.Y. After capturing the hands are key to their games, as would the world, as coaches we need to be the NCAA men’s singles title at Stanford in 1981, Mayotte won James Blake, Mardy Fish, Andy Roddick best in the world as well. If we want our 12 ATP Tour titles, an Olympic Silver Medal and and just about every other American players to work harder and be smarter, we reached the semifinals at Wimbledon and the male player of the last dozen years. have to work harder and smarter as well. Australian Open. Since ending his pro playing As a whole, U.S. male players have a A close look at the best American play - career, he has been one of the most respected major deficit because they never learned ers of the 21st century shows that many tennis teaching professionals. From 2009-11 he served as a USTA National Coach and opened to master the sophisticated skills needed have been held back by sub-par technique and ran the USTA’s High-Performance Center in to “trade,” “neutralize” and “defend.” It’s at some level. By technique, I mean the New York. He can be reached at 917-596-0746 most noticeable on the backhand sides, shape of swings, movement patterns, and or [email protected]. but for many, problems exist off both implementing advanced biomechanics. We welcome your opinions. Please email wings. U.S. players need to master all these ele - comments to [email protected].

44 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTR Y September/October 2013 www.racquetsportsindustry.com

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