CONSTRUCTION CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGEMENT EQUIPMENT

Hard-court problems? Give players what they Accurate event pricing USRSA’s String
Identify causes and need with USRSA’s will affect the long-term Selector charts the
potential remedies Racquet Customizer health of your club newest strings, specs

PLAYING THE
March 2021 / Volume 49 / Number 3 / $5.00

LONG GAME
How pros and coaches in the ‘third set’
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2021

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Contents March 2021

DEPARTMENTS HEALTH & FITNESS

5 Industry News Playing the Long Game

12 Racquet Tech
14 Letters A longtime teaching pro and tennis director gathers advice
16 Customer Service on how to keep an on-court career in shape. P. 30
18 Court Construction
24 Indoor Facilities
26 String Selector Guide 2021
30 Teaching Pros/Coaches
34 Facility Management
38 Tips & Techniques
40 Your Serve, by Kirk Anderson

INDUSTRY NEWS
5 USPTA partners with ATA
for educational opportunities
5 Joyce, Worswick join USTA
Player Development
5 ITF looks to improve Davis
Cup scheduling, experience
6 Dunlop debuts Cx Series
of "control" racquets
7 Artist Britto, PHIT America
launch Play Campaign
7 PPTR hosts inaugural
platform tennis certification
8 Short Sets

C OV E R P H O T O C O U RT E S Y M I C H A E L M O R A N ; T H I S PA G E C O U RT E S Y M I C H A E L M O R A N, S H U T T E R S T O C K
8 Tennis loses Levin, Brett,
Tharrett, Perrotta
9 Dennis & Pat Van der Meer
scholarships established
CUSTOMER SERVICE CONSTRUCTION STRING SELECTOR MANAGEMENT
10 People Watch Fault Know
Using All Fine Tune
10 Oncourt Offcourt launches Finding Your Price
yoga, wellness equipment
Your Tools Your Inventory
11 Lininger promoted to The USRSA’s Asphalt and concrete The USRSA adds Accurate event
Dunlop sales director Racquet courts will eventually the newest product pricing, including
11 ITA, USTA partner for Customizer tool need work. Make sure and specs to its costs that often go
coach mentorship program takes the work out you and your court database of more unnoticed, can affect
11 New Wilson Eco Overcap of customizing your builder know all of the than 1,000 currently the long-term health
ball cans reduce plastic use players’ frames. available options. available strings. of any club or facility.
P. 16 P. 18 P. 26 P. 34

PLUS

p.41 43 From the CEO

47 Vice President's Message

49 Master Pro Corner

43 49 51 55
'The Big W' How to Angel Lopez: Charitable 51 Member Feature
Drives Fine-Tune Still Hungry Campaign: 55 Charitable Campaign
Technology a Player's After All These Hustle, Hit,
56 USPTA NetWork
Radar Years Never Quit
58 Member Feature

Read more articles online at www.ADDvantageUSPTA.com 60 Career Development

2 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY March 2021 www.tennisindustrymag.com

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 IndustryNews

IndustryNews Information to help you run your business

ASSOCIATIONS
Michael Joyce, Jenna Worswick
USPTA, ATA Partner to Provide Join USTA Player Development
Women’s coach Michael Joyce and strength

Educational Opportunities and conditioning coach Jenna Worswick

have joined USTA Player Development. Joyce
was hired as a national coach for women’s
tennis and Worswick as strength and con-
ditioning coach. Both coaches will be head-
quartered at the USTA National Campus in
Orlando, Fla.
Joyce will coach players on and transition-
ing onto the pro tour, reporting to Head of
Women’s Tennis Kathy Rinaldi. Joyce has
coached a number of players at the top of the
women's game over the last two decades,
including Maria Sharapova (from 2004 to
2011), Victoria Azarenka, Timea Babos,
Johanna Konta, Eugenie Bouchard and
Americans Shelby Rogers, Jessica Pegula
and Samantha Crawford.
Worswick joins USTA Player Develop-
ment full-time after first working with the
USTA under Player Development's fellow-
Improving tennis
facilities at HBCUs ship program in 2018. She has an M.A. in
can help attract more kinesiology from George Mason University,

T
coaches of color. holds the National Strength and Condition-
ing Association's Certified Strength and
Conditioning Specialist certification and is
he USPTA is partnering Founded in 1916, with its mission to a Certified Personal Trainer. She will work
with the American Tennis elevate black tennis, the ATA is the old- under Head Strength & Conditioning Coach
Association (ATA) to pro- est and longest-running African-Ameri- Satoshi Ochi.
vide educational oppor- can sports organization in the U.S.
tunities to ATA coaches. The USPTA seeks to make both capital ITF Looks to Improve Davis Cup
As part of the agreement, in which the improvements to tennis facilities and Scheduling, Fan Experience
USPTA will be the exclusive tennis establish Professional Tennis Manage-
teaching organization of the ATA, the ment programs at HBCUs, to help at-
USPTA will grant free access to USPTA tract coaches of color to the industry.
division conferences and the USPTA “I’m excited about partnering with the
World Conference to a select number ATA,” says USPTA CEO John Embree.
of ATA and HBCU (Historically Black “Inviting ATA members to become certi-
Colleges and Universities) coaches. In fied professionals or certified instructors
C O U RT E S Y ATA ; S H U T T E R S T O C K

addition, ATA coaches will have access of the USPTA will be mutually beneficial
to the USPTA's education website, as we usher in the next great group of
TennisResources.com. tennis-teaching professionals.”
The USPTA will also support the ATA “The exposure granted to ATA mem-
National Championships with seminars bers and HBCU coaches through USPTA The ITF is considering a series of propos-
for coaches and education for players programming and training offers incred- als by event partner Kosmos Tennis to
and parents. The ATA championships is ible opportunities to improve how tennis enhance the Davis Cup by Rakuten Finals,
slated for Aug. 3-8 at the USTA National is delivered to our community,” adds following a review of the inaugural
Campus in Orlando, Fla. ATA President Roxanne Aaron. event in 2019. The ITF Board has already

www.tennisindustrymag.com March 2021 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 5

IndustryNews

COURT EQUIPMENT
Dunlop's Cx Series of
seven frames follows
the SX Series, for
spin, and Fx series, for
Dunlop Debuts
more force/power.
Cx Series
of ‘Control’
Racquets
D
unlop has launched its new Cx
Series of “control” racquets.
Dunlop says the range has been
reengineered to provide players with
total control of their spin, power and ac-
curacy, with every style of shot.
This is the first series to offer Dunlop’s
new Flex Booster technology, which fea-
tures high-elasticity, vibration-damping
layers in the racquet’s shaft to filter out
vibrations, according to the company.
The frames also feature Sonic Core and
Power Grid String Tech.
The reengineered Cx Series features
seven frames. Visit Dunlopsports.com.

A New quality of court lighting

C O U RT E S Y D U N L O P S P O RT S

Built & Serviced out of AlphArettA, GA

678-867-9200
[email protected]
hilumzusa.com
LED SportS Lighting Manufacturing

6 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY March 2021 www.tennisindustrymag.com

 IndustryNews

approved the Finals becoming an health of children through physical activ- and mental health. This campaign will
11-day event, with the 2021 edition ity, is teaming with partners including the look very different from any other.”
slated for Nov. 25 to Dec. 5. Julia Love Pritt Private Foundation, Wil- For more, visit PLAY.PHITAmerica.org
The ITF Board also approved a son, Life Fitness, USTA, Speedo, Athletic or contact [email protected].
transition from 18 to 16 teams for DNA, and many others to promote the
2022, and will now enter a period of play campaign. In the coloring contest, PPTR Hosts Inaugural
consultation over the introduction of a kids can submit their own designs and are Platform Tennis Certification
multi-city format for the 2021 edition eligible for hundreds of prizes that will be
onward. both randomly awarded and presented
The proposals are aimed at im- for best designs.
proving the schedule for players, “Ever since I learned about PHIT
enhancing the experience for fans and America, I saw the need to dedicate
bringing the competition to a wider myself to getting kids healthier and hap-
audience. The multi-city format would pier through increased physical activity,”
see two European cities join Madrid as Britto says. “So we’re promoting the ‘Let’s
hosts in 2021. Under this approach, Get Kids to Play Campaign for Happy,
the two new cities would each host Healthy Kids’ artwork through my net-
two group stages and one quarterfi- work. The Coloring Contest will engage Professional Platform Tennis Registry
nal, with Madrid hosting two group kids while we promote the importance of (PPTR), the newly formed subsidiary of PTR,
stages and two quarterfinals, as well physical activity and sports for improved hosted its inaugural Platform Tennis Certi-
as both the semifinals and the final. health.” fication Course for coaches at the Ox Ridge
Adds PHIT America founder Jim Baugh: Riding & Racquet Club in Darien, Conn.
Artist Britto, PHIT America “We have to grab people’s attention and The PPTR curriculum was developed by
Launch Play Campaign let them know how important it is to be lead clinician Patricio Misitrano, a tennis and
physically active for improved physical platform tennis professional, with assistance

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www.tennisindustrymag.com March 2021 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 7

IndustryNews

from several platform tennis champions.

Short PPTR is the Official Education and Certifica-
tion Partner of the American Platform Tennis
Sets Association.
The six-hour certification course consists
of online pre-course work, as well as a face-
The Southern Tennis Foundation (STF),
to-face component.
the charitable arm of USTA Southern,
For more information, visit www.
has established the JL Stacks Memorial
PPTRplatformtennis.org.
Scholarships. A $60,000 endowment will
fund two $1,000 college scholarships Tennis Loses Levin,
for incoming college freshmen, which Brett, Tharrett, Perrotta
are renewable for three additional years. pros around the world. Allcorn, a former December and January were particularly
These scholarships were established by litigation expert, also pulls from his over sad times for tennis, as the industry lost
JL's wife, Jean Stacks Harrold, to com- 1,200 hours of lessons with more than a number of people who have had major
memorate her late husband, who passed 100 different teaching pros. The book is impacts on the sport.
away in 2013. published by BookBay and available on Leo Levin, whose pioneering work in
Amazon. the realm of tennis data analysis helped
Lifelong doubles enthusiast Bob to shape the way the sport is interpreted,
Allcorn, a USTA certified umpire, has pub- Tennis Channel has chosen Alida’s died suddenly on Dec. 19. In 1982, he
lished the book Doubles Domination: The Sparq digital insights platform to coined the term “unforced error,” to
Best of the Best, which collects doubles uncover customer insights and real-time define one of three outcomes for any
tips, tactics, strategies, formations, set feedback to help TC build a better point, along with “winner” and “forced
plays and tricks learned from the best viewing experience. error.” His groundbreaking work in match
analysis continues to be in use.

8 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY March 2021 www.tennisindustrymag.com

 IndustryNews

Stephen Tharrett, the co-founder of develop the growth of tennis. USRSA Names Master Racquet
ClubIntel, president of Club Industry “The PTR Foundation is thrilled to be Techs, Certified Stringer
Consulting, author and past president able to provide these scholarships to so Master Racquet Technicians
of IHRSA, passed away unexpectedly many deserving young men and women • Martina Frantova, Bonita Springs, Fla.
on Dec. 22. A longtime consultant in whose lives have been positively impacted • Ekaterina Heggie, Kill Devil Hills, N.C.
the sports and fitness industry, Thar- by the sport of tennis,” says PTR Founda- • Ewan Malenfant, Pittsburgh, Pa.
rett had presented at tennis industry tion President Scott Tharp. “We believe Certified Stringer
and TIA conferences. this is a most fitting way to honor the • Samuel Darrell Corbin, Rome, Ga.
Bob Brett, an Australian tennis legacy of Dennis Van der Meer for many (For information on USRSA membership
coach who worked extensively with years to come.” and certification, visit RacquetTech.com.)
champion Boris Becker, died Jan. 5. A
former mail carrier in Australia, Brett
later coached pros including Andres
Gomez, Johan Kriek, Fritz Buehning,
Tim Wilkison, Jose Luis Clerc, Tim
Mayotte, Mats Wilander, Guy Forget
and Henrik Sundstrom.
Tom Perrotta, the longtime tennis
writer for the Wall Street Journal and
TENNIS Magazine, died at age 44 on
Jan. 6. Diagnosed with a brain tumor
in 2016, Perrotta continued to work
for much of the following four years,
traveling the world to report from the
Grand Slams and other tour events.

Dennis & Pat Van der Meer

Scholarships Established

The Southern Tennis Foundation (STF)

and the Professional Tennis Registry
Foundation (PTRF) have established the
Dennis & Pat Van der Meer Higher Educa-
tion Scholarships for incoming freshmen.
The PTRF will be funding four $4,000
scholarships that will be awarded by the
STF in 2021. The PTRF will fund an ad-
ditional $4,000 scholarship in 2022 and
$4,000 scholarships in each succeeding
year through 2025.
The STF, the charitable arm of USTA
Southern, awards ten $1,000 scholar-
ships for incoming college freshmen.
The scholarships are renewable for three
additional years pending the recipients'
C O U RT E S Y P T R

progress in college. The foundation

also offers financial assistance to worthy
individuals and organizations that work
to fulfill the mission to promote and

www.tennisindustrymag.com March 2021 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 9

IndustryNews

HEALTH & WELLNESS

People
Watch OnCourt Offcourt Launches
Yoga, Wellness Equipment

O
Miomir Kecmanovic and Alejandro
Tabilo are the newest Team Dunlop
players. Kecmanovic, a Top 50 ATP nCourt OffCourt has
player, signed a three-year deal and launched its new yoga,
will play with the SX 300 frame with wellness and recovery line
with off-court equipment, tools and
Explosive Spin strings. Tabilo, ranked
training for athletes, including the
just outside the Top 150, will play with
multi-purpose Foldable Yoga Mat and
the FX 500 Tour with Explosive Spin.
non-slip Get-A-Grip mat. Both mats
are eco-friendly, durable and afford-
Karolina Lagerquist is the new able, says the company.
member services manager for the OnCourt OffCourt also launched
Professional Pickleball Registry (PPR) its Neuromuscular Balancing Train-
and the Professional Platform Tennis ing Video Download for Performance,
Registry (PPTR). Pain Relief and Wellness, as well as
kits combining training with its mats
US Open champion Naomi Osaka and other products.
was named Female Athlete of the Year For more, go to OnCourtOffCourt.
by the Associated Press. com/wellness, or email kalindi@
oncourtoffcourt.com.

C O U RT E S Y O N C O U RT O F FC O U RT

10 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY March 2021 www.tennisindustrymag.com

Lininger Promoted to
Dunlop Sales Director
Dunlop has promoted Jeff Lininger to
director of sales. Responsible for sales
management of all customers and sales
channels in the U.S., Lininger was Dun-
lop’s national sales manager, and led the
COURT EQUIPMENT
company’s pro and specialty sales busi-
ness to growth each of the last two years,
with record-level bookings for 2021. New Wilson Ball Cans
ITA, USTA Partner For Reduce Plastic Use
W
Coach Mentorship Program
The Intercollegiate Tennis Association ilson has introduced a out. While tennis balls naturally lose
and USTA have created a 10-month new Eco Overcap for its bounce and consistency over time, the
coach mentorship and development tennis ball cans, which it is new overcap does not accelerate that
program. The pilot program will con- rolling out as old inventory runs out. process, and doesn’t affect the ball per-
sist of 12 mentorship pairs—a veteran The new can does away with the full formance in any way, says the company.
college coach will be paired with an snap-on plastic cap used after the ball Also in the sustainability depart-
up-and-coming coach. The mentorship can is opened. ment, Wilson has removed labels from
pairs span the divisions and include When storing and reusing balls after its practice ball cans and created the
assistant coaches as well as head opening the metal pressure lid, simply first fully recycleable performance
coaches. The initial program received push the balls back into the can. The tennis ball packaging with the launch
more than 60 applications. overcap prevents balls from spilling of Triniti.
THERE IS ALWAYS TIME TO PLAY.

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www.tennisindustrymag.com March 2021 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 11

 Racquet Tech

CUSTOMER SERVICE
listening, you can conquer it, too—you

Listen and Learn need to be able to discern what your

client really needs and then apply

What are your clients really saying? your knowledge to servicing his or
her racquet. It may seem easy; you
Careful listening is the key to helping ask a few questions, then you have the
information you need. But asking the
them choose the best string set-up. right questions is most important. In
fact, knowing what questions to ask a
customer is even part of our USRSA
By Bob Patterson Certification exams.
Executive Director, USRSA
Deeper Dives
Some questions are straightforward,
such as, “How often do you play?” But
experience has taught me we often have

A
to go much deeper than your clients’
simple answers.
s racquet technicians, it’s tion about racquets and strings. For example, both Jane and Joan say
our job to provide players First, you have to know how frames they play three times a week. But when
not only the best work- and string work, and most importantly, you dig a bit, you find that Jane plays
manship, but also the how they work together. Knowing all doubles with neighbors on Mondays,
best advice. It’s fairly easy about swing weight, torsional stabil- Wednesdays and Fridays, but the most
to be an installer of strings, but being ity, string-bed deflection, elongation, important part of each two-hour ses-
a racquet technician takes a lot more etc., can be a tall order, but it is fairly sion is who is providing the snacks; they
SHUTTERSTOCK

work. Sure, there are a lot of details in straightforward—if you put in the time actually spend an hour or less on court
perfecting knot tying, weaving strings to learn and understand it. hitting balls. On the other hand, Joan’s
and other aspects of service, but the real Second—and this can be a bit more three weekly sessions consist of four-
work comes in providing good informa- daunting, but with practice and careful hour clinics drilling with local college

12 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY March 2021 www.tennisindustrymag.com

 Before putting in the work on said he wanted more power, I dropped
a customer's frame, make sure
you ask the right questions. the string tension, because generally,
when we think of power, we think more
depth and pace on the ball. But that had
the opposite effect than what he was
expecting. What he really wanted, he
players and top juniors at her club. later said, was to be able to swing harder
Knowing these details will help you and keep the ball in play. We just failed
provide the best racquet set-ups for to communicate. I then increased the
both Jane and Joan, based on their play- tension, and that gave him just what he
ing habits and styles of play. was looking for.
In this case, better questions might
Proper Phrasing have been, is the depth of your shots
Often a simple question can be inter- satisfactory? Do you find a lot of balls
preted differently, so how you ask a falling short or more going long? Be
question is important. For instance, careful how you phrase your questions.
one of the most common questions is, Gathering information may take
do you need more power? I can tell you, some time, but it is worth it in the long spend a little time to make sure. Is the
everybody needs—or thinks they need— run, especially for new clients. Once current set-up still working? Are you
more power. you’ve worked with a client, you’ll have playing more or less than before? Have
But what exactly is power? Early in most of the information you need, but you changed anything with your stroke?
my career, I found that this could be don’t fall into the rut of, “same as last A few quick questions can ensure that
confusing even to professional play- time?” While that will likely be true your client is still getting the best set-up
ers. When a pro player I worked with most of the time, things do change, so for their game. 

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March 2021 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 13

 Letters to the Editor
PUBLISHER
JEFF WILLIAMS

PPP Loan Correction this magazine for many years and I'm
EDITOR
PETER FRANCESCONI
always impressed with the work your
The article “Surviving an Audit” in the team puts into it, especially the Cham- MANAGING EDITOR
SCOTT GRAMLING
January issue, concerning the Paycheck pions of Tennis section.
Protection Program, had an incorrect The current winners, like every year, CREATIVE DIRECTOR
statement. The article stated that for are so deserving, but the layout and IAN KNOWLES

PPP loans, 75 percent must be spent presentation in this year’s magazine is SENIOR EDITOR
on payroll and 25 percent on rent, exceptional. In a year when COVID-19 ED McGROGAN
mortgage interest and utilities. That crippled the world, you still put to-
ART DIRECTOR
was the original intent by Congress, but gether an issue highlighting those who CRHISTIAN RODRIGUEZ
that has been modified to 60 percent on found a way to dedicate themselves to
payroll and 40 percent on rent, mort- serving a community of people need- PRODUCTION EDITOR
ANDREA WOO
gage interest and utilities. ing to play tennis—a sport, as we've
Tom Jaklitsch learned, that we can play safely during SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR
Long Island Health and Racquet this pandemic. BOB PATTERSON

Congratulations on a great issue and CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

thank you for your continued hard
Champions of Tennis work in recognizing those who provide
CYNTHIA CANTRELL, PEG CONNOR,
DAVID LASOTA, JUDY LEAND, KENT OSWALD,
CYNTHIA SHERMAN, MARY HELEN SPRECHER
the sport of tennis to all. Well done!
I wanted to take a moment to acknowl- J. Scott Laakso CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
edge what a fantastic issue the Janu- Athletic Coordinator, Hembree Park BOB KENAS, DAVID KENAS

ary 2021 Champions of Tennis issue City of Roswell, Ga. ASSOCIATE EDITOR
was this year. I have been receiving Chair-USTA Public Parks Committee TIM McARTHUR

EDITORIAL DIRECTION
10TEN MEDIA

RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY

250 Park Avenue, Ste 825, NY NY 10017
646-381-8735
[email protected]

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
JOHN HANNA
770-650-1102, x125
[email protected]

APPAREL ADVERTISING
CYNTHIA SHERMAN
203-558-5911
[email protected]

Racquet Sports Industry is published 10 times per

year: monthly, January through August with combined
issues in September/October and November/
December, by Tennis Channel, Inc., 250 Park Avenue,
Suite 825, New York NY 10017. Periodical postage paid
in Duluth, GA and at additional mailing offices (USPS
#004-354). March 2021, Volume 49, Number 3
© 2021 by Tennis Channel, Inc. All rights reserved.
Racquet Sports Industry, RSI and logo are trademarks
of Tennis Channel, Inc. Printed in the U.S.A. Phone
advertising: 770-650-1102 x 125. Phone circulation
and editorial: 646-381-8735. Yearly subscriptions
$25 in the U.S., $40+ elsewhere. POSTMASTER: Send
address changes to Racquet Sports Industry, 250
Park Avenue, Suite 825, New York NY 10017. Racquet
Sports Industry is the official magazine of the USRSA,
TIA and ASBA.

Looking for back issues of Tennis Industry/Racquet

Sports Industry? Visit the archives at our website
at TennisIndustryMag.com for free digital versions.

14 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY March 2021 www.tennisindustrymag.com

 SCIENTIFICALLY CRAFTED SPIN

DENIS
SHAPOVALOV (CAN)

ANGELIQUE
KERBER (GER)

Yonex professionals may play with a customized racquet with different specifications to the model displayed.
 USRSA Racquet Customizer
CUSTOMER SERVICE Professional Study Guide at
RacquetTech.com.
Using All Your Tools Let the Tool Do the Work
The USRSA’s Customizer tool takes the If you’re relatively new to the business
and just getting started with racquet
work out of racquet customization. customization, it can be eye-opening
as to how little it takes to make a big
By Bob Patterson difference in a player’s frame. Just a
couple of grams or a few millimeters
Executive Director, USRSA can alter the balance and swing weight
tremendously.

I
Of course, where you place this
extra weight is important to achieving
your goal. Basically, the farther away
f racquet customization is When I first started offering racquet from the handle the weight is placed,
part of your business, the customization, I encountered all sorts the more dramatic the effect. When
USRSA Racquet Customizer of customers. I had clients who had I first started customizing, matching
tool can make the work of altered their own racquets by slap- racquets was the first thing I added to
adjusting weight, balance ping on lead tape here and there, with my menu. In the old days, we simply
and swing weight much no real rhyme or reason to it. Many matched the weight and balance, even
easier. If you are not currently offer- customers, though, had no idea what for the top pro players. There was no
ing racquet customizations, perhaps customization really entailed. tool available to measure swing weight
understanding what the Racquet Cus- Racquet customization can include until the early 1990s.
tomizer tool can do will help to remove a vast number of things, but most When we finally had a tool to mea-
any hesitation or angst you may feel in commonly it involves adjusting weight, sure swing weight, we were amazed
offering this service. balance and swing weight. By simply at how much our “matched” racquets
The Racquet Customizer tool is adding or removing a bit of weight at actually varied on the scale. Soon,
available for USRSA members. (Visit different points along the length of the swing weight became the most critical
RacquetTech.com for more informa- racquet, you can change all three of and important characteristic players
tion.) Investing in tools such as this these characteristics. cared about, even if they didn’t know
can pay big dividends and broaden the For now, we’re going to concentrate what to ask for.
appeal of your business from simply on how to do this. To learn more about That is true today for most amateur
stringing and gripping to offering a why racquet customization can benefit players, as well. Swing weight is how
full-service menu for your players. players, refer to the USRSA Racquet the racquet feels to the player as it is
being swung, so even if the player is
not aware of swing weight by name,
they will certainly be able to feel the
difference it can make.
So why is the USRSA Racquet
Customizer tool so important to your
business? It takes all the guesswork
and most of the trial and error out of
matching racquets. If you are working
with a client to find their optimum
specs, it is still very useful, but it re-
ally shines when simply matching to
known specs.
S H U T T E R S T O C K/ U S R S A

The USRSA Racquet

Customizer takes
the guesswork out of
matching racquets.

16 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY March 2021 www.tennisindustrymag.com

 Investing in tools such as the USRSA Racquet Customizer can
pay big dividends and broaden the appeal of your business from simply stringing
and gripping to offering a full-service menu for your players.

Using the Customizer Tool choose the heaviest specs as your target, the butt end of the racquet.
When you open the tool on Rac- which will ensure that after customiza- With the hundreds of results from
quetTech.com and choose “tools” from tion, each racquet in their bag will feel your search, you’ll have to scan them
the main menu bar, you’ll see “Racquet the same. Once you have all the fields and choose what best suits your needs
Customizer” on the drop-down menu. entered, simply click the “Click to Cus- and taste. For racquet matching, I
On that page, there is a brief introduc- tomize” button. usually opt for something simple,
tion and instructions. Remember, you so in most cases I look for solutions
will need to have the tools available to Finding the Right Recipe that have only one or two locations.
measure the needed specs to plug into The results can provide hundreds or More complex situations, especially
the online customizer tool. thousands of options, what the tool when you are adding a lot of weight or
First, enter the specs of the racquet refers to as “Solutions,” although I trying to achieve something specific,
as you measured it in the column prefer to call them “recipes,” since that may require three locations—but for
below the heading “Current Racquet is really what they are—you choose a most situations, two will work best.
Measurements—Length, Weight, Bal- recipe and follow the instruction of how If you scan down the list, you will
ance and Swing Weight.” You can also much weight to add, and exactly where see that some solution numbers will
choose either “standard” or “metric” to add it. You will see the solutions are have a dot (bullet) preceding the
measurements. As I started custom- numbered in the first column under number. For one recent request, I
izing, I embraced the metric system the heading “Solution #,” followed by received 9,774 results. Solutions #292
because it was much easier to do the “Location 1,” “Weight 1,” “Location 2,” to #429 were flagged with this bullet
math, but this tool does most of the “Weight 2,” “Location 3,” “Weight 3.” point. These indicate that the location
math for you. Depending on the solution, you may of adding weight in the head of the
If you know your target specs, place weight at three different loca- racquet will approximate the 3 o’clock
enter them in the column under the tions on the frame, two locations or and 9 o’clock locations to maximize
heading “Desired Measurements.” If only one to achieve your target goal. torsional stability.
you just want to match racquets for a Each “Weight” will show you how much Of course, any weight you add above
client who doesn’t know their specs, weight to add and the “Location” will the handle will need to be divided—
simply spec each of their racquets and provide the location as measured from you’ll need to put half on one side of
the frame and half on the other. In
reality, weight in the head will need to
be split again to maintain symmetry
and stability.
For example, if the solution indi-
cates adding 12 grams at 55 cm, then
you would you add 6 grams at 3 o’clock
and 6 grams at 9 o’clock. Each location
would be split into 3 grams on each
side of the strings. So, you would have
two pieces of lead tape placed at 3 and
9 o’clock.
Since lead and tungsten tape come
in various widths and thicknesses, you
will need to weigh your tape in order
to calculate how long of a piece equals
the amount you need.
Check out all the tools available for
USRSA members on RacquetTech.
com, and start servicing all your play-
ers’ needs—even those they may have
never known to ask about. •

www.tennisindustrymag.com March 2021 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 17

 COURT Find an ASBA Certified
Tennis Court Builder
CONSTRUCTION in your area at
2021 & MAINTENANCE sportsbuilders.org.

problems. Improper drainage makes

surface damage more likely and more
severe, especially in areas of freeze-
thaw activity. Poor surface drainage also
may cause dirt or silt to accumulate on
the surface or cause damage to color-
coating systems.
In general, there are three levels of
repair for asphalt and concrete courts:

1. Repair and Recoating—A court with

a proper slope, planarity and drainage,
showing some wear, stains, low or high
areas, or cracking can be restored with
repair and recoating. This involves
washing the surface; coatings that may
be delaminating or bubbling will need
to be removed down to the base. Cracks
HARD COURTS or low areas should be repaired with

Fault
patching compound; high areas should
be leveled. Then an acrylic resurfacer
should be applied in the repaired areas.
Finally, the court should be recoated.

Finding
Asphalt and concrete courts will
2. Overlays with Membranes or
Stone Screenings—If a court is badly
cracked, consider installing a geotex-
tile membrane or a layer of loose stone
screenings to separate the old and new
surfaces. Then, an overlay of asphalt or
eventually need work. Make sure you and concrete should be installed in lifts, and
the court should be recoated.
your court builder know the options. 3. Reconstruction—If a court has
severe problems, it’s time to consider
reconstruction, which involves pulver-
izing and removing the old surface, then
regrading the subgrade.
Hard courts—with either asphalt or Association (ASBA) and the USTA, With repair/recoating or overlays,
concrete foundations—make up the which covers all aspects of construc- it is important to realize that cracks
vast majority of courts in the United tion and maintenance for all types of will eventually reappear, or new cracks
States. But all hard courts will eventu- tennis courts. will form. Therefore, if you expect a
ally develop cracks or other issues that If your courts need work, or if you’re long-term solution, the court should be
must be addressed. not sure if there is an issue you need reconstructed. If funds are not avail-
If your courts are in need of repair, to address, always contact a qualified able, all methods of repair will provide
the chart on the following pages can tennis court builder; don’t try to tackle some additional life for the court, and
help you identify specific problems, repairs yourself. some methods of repair will extend the
their possible causes and potential Before undertaking any major life of the court by many years.
remedies. The chart is taken, with repairs, your court construction A design professional or an experi-
C O U RT E S Y A S B A

permission, from the ninth edition professional should take a look at the enced tennis court builder can help an
of Tennis Courts: Construction & current drainage system and make owner determine the level of restora-
Maintenance Manual, a joint publica- necessary corrections, otherwise your tion required, appropriate methods and
tion of the American Sports Builders courts will continue having the same realistic expectations.

18 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY March 2021

2020 www.tennisindustrymag.com

0321_TI_CourtIntro-PF.indd 7 1/22/21 1:18 PM

 COMMON TENNIS
Common Tennis Court Problems
COMMON TENNIS COURT PROBLE
PROBL
COMMON TENNIS COURT
COMMON COURT
COMMONTENNIS
TENNISCOURT
COURTPROBLEM
PROBLE
Common
PROBLEM COMMON
Tennis Court Problems
COMMON TENNISPOTENTIAL
COURT
POSSIBLE TENNIS
DESCRIPTION PROBLEMS
COURT PROBLE
POSSIBLE
PROBLEM
PROBLEMDESCRIPTION
PROBLEM
PROBLEM
PROBLEM COMMON
COMMON
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION TENNIS
TENNIS COURT
COURT PROBLEM
PROBLEMS
POSSIBLEC
POSSIBLE
SURFACE PROBLEMS:
PROBLEM
SURFACE
PROBLEM
SURFACE
COMMON
DESCRIPTION
PROBLEMS:
CAUSES
DESCRIPTION
PROBLEMS:
TENNISPOTENTIAL
COURT POSSIBLE
PROBLEMS
REMEDIES POSSIBLE C
CAUS
SURFACE
SURFACE PROBLEMS:
PROBLEMS: POSSIBLE
SURFACE
PROBLEM
PROBLEM
PROBLEM
PROBLEM
DESCRIPTION
SURFACE PROBLEMS:
SURFACE COMMON
PROBLEMS:
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION
PROBLEMS: CAUSESTENNIS COURT PROBLEMS
POSSIBLE
POSSIBLE
REMEDIES CAUS
POSSIBLE C
SURFACE PROBLEMS:
PROBLEM
SURFACE PROBLEMS: DESCRIPTION POSSIBLE CAUS
SURFACE PROBLEMS:
Surface colordue is faded, washed Oxidation of surface
Surface color is Oxidation of surface Acrylic resurfacing.
SURFACE
PROBLEMSURFACE PROBLEMS:
PROBLEMS: DESCRIPTION POSSIBLE CAUS
Surface
Surface
faded, washed out,
Surface
Surface color
color
color
color isis
is
isfaded,faded,
faded,
to sun
faded, washed
exposure,
faded, washed
washed
washed Oxidation
Oxidation
Oxidation of surface
surface
of surface dud
du
Fading Surface
SURFACE out,isor
PROBLEMS:
or slightly chalky
Surface slightly
color is
or
chalky
defective
looking.Acrylic
surface
ofwashed Oxidationor defective
of surfacesurface
due to
Fading
Fading faded, washed
Fading
Fading out,
out,
out,
looking. or
out,or
color
or slightly
orslightly
slightly
slightly
materialchalky
Oxidation
duechalkychalky
chalky
(very looking.
looking.
surface
looking.
rare).
looking. or defective
ordefective
defective
resurfacing.
or surface
surface
surface mmd
Fading Surface
out,
Surfaceor
Surface
or slightly
out,
chalky color
slightly
color
colorisoris is
chalky
to
faded, faded,
faded,
defectivelooking.
washed washed
sun exposure,
washed
surface or Oxidation
defective
Oxidation
Oxidation of
of surface
of surface
surface materi
due du
surface to
Fading
Fading
Fading
Fading
Surface
out,
out,
out, or
oror
looking. color
slightly ismaterial
slightly
slightly
faded,
chalky chalky
chalky looking. Oxidation
washed
looking.
(very rare).
looking. or defective
or
of surface
ordefective
defective
surface due to
surface
materi
surface m
Fading out, or slightly
Surface color ischalky
faded,looking.
washed or defective
Oxidation surface due
of surface materi
to
Fading
Fading out, or slightly chalky looking. or defective surface materi

Surface color is worn Due to use and Acrylic resurfacing.

away. One may see natural weathering.
Normal
Normal
Surface color Surface color is worn away. One
iswornworn away. One Due Due to use and n
Normal
previous surface
Normal
Surface
NormalSurface
Normal
Surface
Surface color
color
color
color
Surface isisisDue
is natural
finish color worn
is worn worn
worn away.
away.
away.
toaway.
use and One One
One AcrylicDue DueDue
to
resurfacing. usetotouse useand
and andandnatu
natural naw
natu
Surface
may
Surface
may see
see away. previous
beneath
previous
cases One
in
may see surface
surface
weathering. finish
finish Due to use and natural w
Surface
Surface
may
may
Surface
may
Surface
may
Normal
Surface
Normal see see
see
see previous
previous
previous
previous
color
of excessive
is cases
worn surface surface
surface
surface
away. finish
One finish
finish
Wear
Normal
Normal
Normal beneath
Surface
Surface
Surface
Wear beneath color
color
color in
previous surface
wear.
is isis
worn worn
worn of excessive
away.
away.
away. One One DueDue
One Due
to totouse
use useand
and and
naturalnatunaw
ininincases
cases ofexcessive
excessive
Surface
Wear
Wear
Wear
Wear beneath
beneath
beneath
beneath
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may inincases
see previous cases
cases
finish beneath in
of of
surface of
of excessive
excessive
excessive finish
Wear
may
Surface
may
Surface
Normal
may see see
see previous
previous
cases of excessive
wear. surface surface finish finish Due to use and natural w
Surface inprevious
color is worn wear. of surface
away. Onefinish
Normal
Wear
beneath
Surface caseswear.
wear. wear.
wear.
wear. excessive
Wear
Surface
may
Wear
Wear beneath
beneath see previous
beneath inwear.
inincases cases
cases of of
surface ofexcessive
excessive
excessive finish
Wear
beneath in cases wear. wear.
wear. of excessive
wear.
Soft Soft
Soft humps or blisters
Soft humps
Soft humps
humps
humps or or or
or blisters
Excessive moisture
blisters blisters
blisters in in
court
in in court
court
court
Correction of
drainage Excessive Excessive
Excessive
Excessive moisture mois
moist
moistur be
in court Soft humps
Soft humps pavement,
surface or blisters
or blisters
below court in
in court problems Excessive
Excessive moist
moistur
varyingsurface
in size fromvarying
surface
Soft
surface
surface
surface varying
or humps varying
feet varying
varying or in in in
size
blisters insize
in size
from
infrom
size
size from
¼” ¼”
court
from
standing
from to¼”
¼”tototoareas,
to
outside
pavement,
of pavement,
Excessive
pavement,
court
pavement, standing
moisturestandin
wate
standin
standing
standin be
Soft
¼” tohumps
surface
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several blisters
humps varying
in
or blisters
water in
Excessive
size
over
in from
moisture
court
court ¼” Correction
pavement,
of
Excessive
leveling standing
moisture be
Bubbles
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Bubbles varying
Bubbles
Bubbles
in court
diameter. several
several
Soft
surfaceSoft
several
several
surface
several feet
humps
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varying
feetfeet
in in
feet
feet in
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or
in
in or diameter.
blisters
blisters
size
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below
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surface,
diameter. from
poor Isolated
court
¼”
surface Isolated
inIsolated
in court
court
to outside
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drainage surface,
pavement,
or regrading surface,
surface,
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of poor
Excessive
Excessive
standing
poor
poor
poor
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poor
poormoistursurf
moist or
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surfa
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Bubbles several
surface
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humps feet inin diameter.
size from Isolated
¼”belowto to areas, pavement, surface,
Excessive standing
moisture watebe
inordiameter.
blisters inIsolated
court
in size from pavement, standing court
hollowhollow sounding
sounding areas areasbelow or drainage drainage outside court
outside area
cou
hollow sounding or subsurface pavement, patch
Bubbles ¼”areas
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surface
surfacehollow
hollow feet
varying
varying
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sounding in in size
size
areas
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from
below ¼”¼” to
below surface,
pavement,
pavement,
drainage
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standing
outside
outside standin or
cou
court
hollow sounding areas cou
several feet in water over court leveling
Bubbles diameter. several
surface hollow
below court
feet
varying sounding
in
drainage
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indiameter.
size areas
outside
from Isolated below
¼” to
remove
drainage
bubbled
surface,
pavement, outside
poor outside
surface
standing court or
wate
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several
Isolated
several
surface. court
sounding
feet
feet court surface.
surface,
inin
court
court areas
diameter.
poor
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areas.
surface. below
surface
Isolated
Build-up
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or
areas, excessive
drainage acrylicoutside
regrading
excessive
of
surface,
surface,
excessive acrylic
poor court
poor surfac
area
acrylic
surfac
surfa
acrylic
Bubbles
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sounding
several feet court
court
court
soundingin ofsurface.
diameter. surface.
surface.
areas
or subsurface
excessive below
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acrylic drainage
surface,
surfacing. excessive
excessive
patch
outside
poor acrylic
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orsu
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hollow
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areas below court court
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bubbled acrylic
outside
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acrylicoutside acryliccourtsurfac
area
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excessive acrylic su
court surface. acrylicacrylic
excessive acrylic surfacing.
court surface.
surfacing layers. excessive surfac
Fine hairline
Fine hairline cracks
cracks of variable
variableoverlaySometimes
ofvariable Sometimes natural agin
natur
Fine hairline cracks Sometimes natural Surface or pavement
of variableFineFine
Fine
Fine
lengths
lengths hairline
hairline
hairline
hairline
oftencracks crackscracks
cracks
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occurring
aging orof of variable
ofsurface
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over
of
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natural
natural
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lengths
lengths
occurring
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lengths
cracks often
lengths often
often
incompatible
cracks
often occurring
of
occurring
occurringvariable overoverSurface
over
new
incompatible
incompatible
acrylic
Sometimes
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orincompatible natural surface
surface
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surface
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over entire
lengths
hairline
entire court
lengths
court often surface.
often occurring
Sometimes
materials Usually
occurringor over
natural
solvent- of
of over overlay
type coatings,
incompatible
incompatiblepavement
surfacing. improper
surface surface
mater pa
Hairline
Hairline
Hairline
of variable Fine
entire
Fine
entire
lengths
Fine
entire hairline
lengths
hairline court
hairline
court
often cracks
crackssurface.
cracks
surface.
occurring
aging
of
orof
of
use variable
Usually
variable
over
variable of incompatible Sometimes
type
treatments,
Sometimes
type coatings,
Sometimes
coatings,
surface
coatings, naturalnatural
impr
natura
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mater
agin
improp
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court surface.
surface. Usually
Usually of ofof of and orcoatings,
type coatings, improp
impro
surface. Usually of type coatings,
Cracks
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entire
occurring courtcourtdepth
surface. in the
surface.
incompatible court
Usually Usually
surface coating,
type
new coatings,
type
acrylic improper
coatings,improper paveme
impro pa
Hairline
Cracks lengths
depth in the
often occurring
improper pavement
over incompatible or surface
improper m
shallow depth in pppp
Hairline
Cracks over entire
lengths court
lengths
shallow often surface.
often depth
occurringoccurringorthe
Usually over court
of
over type coatings,
incompatible
coating,
incompatible
(These cracks
or improper
surface
improper
surface mater pa
Cracks
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Cracks
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surface shallow
shallow
court
shallow
surface and
and
shallow depthdepth
depth
materials
uppermost
depth in
seal in
typeintheinthethe
court
coating,
the court
solvent-
layer or
court
courtof coating,
coating,
have thecoating,
surfacing.
coating,or
potential or or
improper
or improper
improper
improper
improperpaveme pa
pav
Hairline
Cracks
Hairline
Hairline shallow entire
surface. Usually
surface
shallow
entire
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entire court
of
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depth
and surface.
surface. uppermost
inmixthe
uppermost
surface. Usually
coatings,
court
Usually Usually layer
of of of coating, type
typecracks coatings,
or improper
coatings,
type coatings,improperimprop
paveme
impro pa
of ofof
uppermost layer of improper pavement
Hairline surface
surface
surface
depth
surface
in
and
the and
pavement.
and uppermost
uppermostuppermost
improper
layer
pavement layer
layer of
to develop into
and and uppermost orlayer of
pavement. design. (Thesecracks
Cracks
Cracks
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Cracks surface
court surface shallow
shallow and
shallow depthdepth
uppermost sealin
pavement.
pavement.
depth
pavement.
of pavement.
in the the layer
court
coating,
in pavement
the court
courtof have
structural
coating,
coating, coating, or
over
or improper improper
or improper paveme pav p
Common Tennis Court Problemspavement. longerthe periods
potential
uppermost
surface
layer
surface and and pavement.
pavement.
improper
uppermost
uppermost layer layer of of to develop
of time.) into
surface and uppermost layer of
pavement. mix design. structural cracks over

AlligatorAlligator
skin- skin-like
pavement.
pavement.
pavement. pattern of
Contamination of Contamination
longer periods
Surface of court sur
of or pavement
time.)
like
Alligator
interconnected
Alligator
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pattern of
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skin-like
skin-like court
skin-like pattern
usually
pattern
pattern
surfacing
pattern of of inofof andinstallation,
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Contamination
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new Contamination
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during installation,
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usually of of
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materials
installation,These use
of court
of solvent-type
ofuse of
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cracks interconnected
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interconnected
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usually in use cracks
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usually
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usually insurfacing. installation,
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use use
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ofofof
of
inco
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Cracking
Alligator interconnected
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depth.
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surfacing
Often
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accompanied
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pattern
pattern
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materials usually
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ofof
byin of in cracks installation,
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improper
materials
have the useof
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incomp
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of
of solvent-type of sur
cour
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Alligator varying
Alligator
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court
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court surfacing
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and varying
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toContamination
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Alligator
Alligator
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court
in
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interconnected
loose
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particles
Often and
solvent-type
cracks and
cracks
accompanied of varyingvarying
coatings,
usually
surface usually byinin in materials materials
develop
installation,
installation,
improper
improper of
use solvent-type
of
use
pavement
pavement of solve
incomp
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depth.
depth.
depth.
interconnected
accompanied
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Often
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of Often
Often
improper
accompanied
accompanied
accompanied
cracks
accompanied
accompanied
pavement
usually
orby
by by
by in
into structural
improper
improper
improper
improper
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improper pavement
paveme
paveme
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pavement
use
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seal
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Alligator surfacecourt court
depth.
particles
loose surfacing
Often
surfacing
material.
particles and
accompanied
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and
of varying
varying
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inby time and improper improper
materials
periods of of solvent-type
ofpavemen
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Alligator
Cracking court
loose
depth. loose
loose
loose
loose
material.
surfacing particles
particles
particles
particles
particles
Often
improper
accompanied of andof of
of
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entire
asphalt or
surface.
often below
occurring
over
occurring
orcourt
in belowof
drainage,
cases
over
subgrade more
orthe
Usually
occurring the
tree
or the
over
roots,
solvent- ofsurface.
over
than
locations
over
locations
court, 1/4:” incompatible
type
orincompatible
that entire
in more Due
coatings,
incompatible
Due
court.
surfacing.
allows drainage,
organic
severe
the new toorganic
to the
surface
the surface
subsurface
improper tree
matte
moveme
surface
mater
moveme
matter
m
pa
ins
Depressions
Depressions
Reflection
Heaves
Hairline & court
Cracks
entire court pavement
above
court pavement
directly or
surface. over
below moremore
the
Usually thethanthan
locations 1/4:”
surface.
of 1/4:” type Due
organic subsurface
to subsurface
the
drainage,
coatings, movem
matter
improp tre s
in
Heaves
poor compaction of
organic matter
the
surface. surface. or
Usually of
overlays. decomposition
type coatings, of cases,
materialreconstruction
above to
&
Cracks
Cracks
Hairline
Hairline
Cracks ofabove
entire
entire
of the
shallow court
the depth
court orsurface.
previous
surface.
previous below ones
in the the
court
orUsually
ones ininsurface.
Usually
in the
of old
the old orcoating,
ofmove type ofdrainage,
or
coatings,
type improper
coatings,improper
compaction tree
compact bene
pavem
impro
bene ro
pa
&
Hairline
above or below orthe surface. court.drainage, tree ro
shallow depth in the base
organic
improper subbase.
matter
pavement relocation
independently the
Cracks
Cracks
Cracks
Heaves
Cracks
Cracks &
Heaves of
surface the
shallow
asphalt
shallow aboveprevious
anddepth depth or
uppermost
indepth
court surface and
shallow cases below
subgrade
seal in ones
the
of
in compaction
the
coating,
inof the
the
layer in
court
overlays.
court
court,
or
court
surface.
the
of have old of
(These
coating,
entire
that
cracks
coating,
coating,
beneath drainage,
or
ororganic
it. organic
compaction
improper
or compactio
improper improper
tree
matte
paveminp
matter be
pa
Heaves asphalt in cases overlays. the potential
organic
Heaves surface asphalt in cases of overlays. compactin
matter
poor of
organic matter
uppermost layer of improper pavement In
to severe
developcases,
surface
surface and
and and
pavement. uppermost
pavement.
uppermost
uppermost
base mix or subbase.
design. layer
layerlayer of ofof into
structural cracks over compaction
reconstruction is
pavement. required. compaction
compactio
Orangy-brown, rustpavement.
longer periods
Rust Spots pavement.
Poor maintenance Overlayment of court
surfacing or repaving Poor main
of time.)

of court, and new Poor mainten

colored stains or of court surface,

Rust Alligator
streaking in random
Spots skin-like
Orangy-brown, pattern
contamination
of colored
rust Contamination Poor
Poor ofmainten
court
in contaminatio mainte sur
Rust
Rust
RustSpots
Spots Orangy-brown,
Spotscolored Orangy-brown,
patterns over court
interconnected
Alligator
rust
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Alligator skin-like
of court
Poor
cracks
skin-like
rust
surface
maintenance
rust
usually
pattern
pattern
colored
colored
of in in
of
acrylic surfacing,
Overlayment
installation,
Contamination
Contamination
contamination
of court
contamination
use Poorof
ofmainten
court
of main
incomp
coursuroo
Rust Spots Cracks
surface.
stains
streaking Cracks
or
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or
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generated
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surface,
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random
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from
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surfacing
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cases
Asphalt
or removal
repaving
Asphalt
Contamination tends
Poor
during
contamination
tends
Poor to
to ofshrin
install
shrin
co
ChapterAlligator
stains
stains oror streaking
streaking inin random
random during
during Poor ofmainten
installatio
mainte
installatio
installation, presence of spots, patching and
court surfacing and varying in materials of solvent-typ
contamination and new
Rust
18:Radial
Rust Spots
Spots
interconnected
interconnected
Cracks Orangy-brown,
stains
the that
cornersor cracks
cracks
are of usually
generated
streaking concrete rust
orusually
in inrandom
colored
in acrylic
from installation,
installation,
Asphalt andin use
contaminatio
duringit
contamination use
tends
will incomp
of
to
installa
crack inco
sh
Orangy-brown,
patterns over rust court coloredsurface. iron depos oo
196 Repair, Reconstruction and Renovation
Radial the corners ofvarying
concrete and it solvent-typ
will crack
of pyrites iron resurfacing.
interconnected cracks usually in installation, use of in
patterns over court of court surface surfacing,
Rust
Cracking Spots
Alligator
Rust
Alligator
RadialSpots depth.
court
court
surface. Orangy-brown,
patterns
Often
surfacing
Orangy-brown,
patterns
surfacing
stains
the corners over
accompanied
and
over
or and
deposits
material court
ofcourt
streaking rustrust
varying
concrete
in court
during colored
surface.
by
in colored
surface.
in inrandom
minor cases improper
materials contamination
materials
removal iron
pavement
of
during
and deposits
contamination
iron deposits
itof sea
solvent
willinstall
crac
Cracks
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Alligator foundation
stains
foundation
court patterns
surfacing or
or other
ororaccompaniedover
streaking
otherand
pavement irregularities
court
mix. surface.
ininbyrandom
irregularities
varying inof spots, resistance.
and iron deposit
during
resistance.
materials Irregula
installatio
Irregula
of solve
stains streaking random during installatio
installation, presence patching
Cracking
Cracking
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depth.
depth.
foundation particles
Often
stains
Often oror of
streaking
accompanied
other surface in
irregularitiesbyrandom improper
improperimproper
resistance. pavement
pavement
during pavement seal
installa
Irregu m
Cracking depth. in patterns
patterns
in the
the
Often court
over
court over
pavement.
of pyrites
court
pavement.
accompanied court
or iron
surface.surface.
by
resurfacing.
improper iron iron
thickness
thickness depos
deposits
paveme are
are
loose patterns
loose material.
inparticles
particles
the courtover of of
deposits
court
surface mix. surface.
in court
surface
pavement. improperimproper iron deposits
pavementpavemen
thickness m
a
loosepatternsparticles
material. over
pavement
of court
surface surface. improperiron deposit
pavem
material.
material.
194
22 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY MarchChapter
2021 18: Repair, Reconstruction and Renovation Too hot and too dry during i
www.tennisindustrymag.com
Shrinkage Random pattern of Tooofhot
incompatible
and too drysurface
Too hot and too during
dry duri
or Stress
Shrinkage interconnected
Randomcracks
patternwith
of sharp solvent-type coatings,
of incompatible impro
surface
 Cracks whichpavement
penetrate
constructed into the
penetrate into the
pavement often joints
overlay treatments,
or reconstruction
Structural pavement oftenthermal
occurring
occurring in long shock, in long Improperly constr
of court pavement

Cracks COMMON
straight or irregular lines. TENNIS
Most COURT PRO
thermalPROB
shock,
straight or irregular
heaving of base and new acrylic
Structural
Common
Cracks Tennis Court
COMMON
COMMON
lines. Most long
Problems
or subbase or TENNISsurfacing,COURT
designed.TENNIS COURT
complete
PROB
long cracksCOMMON
in concrete end
cracks in concrete
improperly
TENNIS
up COURT
reconstruction of
PROB
subbase or im
COMMON
end up being
being structural. TENNIS COURT
court for more severe
PROBLE
COMMON
structural.
POSSIBLE
TENNISPOTENTIAL
COURT
cases.
PROBLEM
PROBLEM
PROBLEM
COMMON
PROBLEM DESCRIPTIONDESCRIPTION
PROBLEM
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION
CAUSES TENNISREMEDIES
COURT PROBLEM POSSIB
POSSIBLE
POSS
PROBLEM
PROBLEM
SURFACE PROBLEMS:
PROBLEM DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION POSSIB
POSSIB
POSSIBLE CA
SURFACE
ASPHALT
ASPHALT PROBLEMS:
PAVEMENT
PAVEMENT PROBLEMS:
PROBLEMS:
ASPHALT
SURFACE
PROBLEMSURFACE
ASPHALT PAVEMENT
PROBLEMS:
PROBLEMS:
PAVEMENT PROBLEMS:
DESCRIPTION
PROBLEMS: POSSIBLE CA
SURFACE Surface
* Prepared by Alex LevitskyRaveling PROBLEMS:
(GlobalTennisDesign.com)
color is
Pock-marked 2011
Oxidation of surface
Often due to Acrylic resurfacing.
Acrylic patching
Pock-marked
Pock-marked pavement,
pavement,
Pock-marked
Surface colororisis pavement,
faded, Oxidationofofsurface
surfac
inwashed
faded, washed
pavement, out,or
spalling, duesegregation
to sun exposure,
of for small areas is

Raveling Surface
or slightly
crumbling surfacecolor
spauling,
spauling,
ofchalky
Surface color or
oris faded,
crumbling
crumbling
defective
aggregates
faded, washed
of
washedof surface
surface
surface Oxidation
Often
Often due
due toto seg
segre
possible. For larger
Oxidation of surface due
Raveling
Fading and spauling,
looking.
pavement. or crumbling
out,ororslightly
slightly the of surface
chalkylooking.
material (very
asphalt looking.
rare).
mix, Often due to surfac
ordefective
defective segre
problems, overlay
Fading out, chalky or theasphalt
ofasphaltsurface
mix,
Fading and
and
out, or slightly
Surface color pavement.
pavement.
ischalky
faded, looking.
portion washed
the
or defective
Oxidation mix,
surface
surface wew
we
mat
due
weakening that treatments and new
and pavement. of the the asphalt mix,
acrylic surfacing
Fading
Fading out, or slightly chalky looking.
pavement. or defective surfacethe thepp
mat
the
may be called for. For
more severe cases,
reconstruction of
court pavement and
new acrylic surfacing.

Heat Surface color is of

A sequence worn DueDue to use and of
to compaction Acrylic resurfacing.
Can be patched and
Checking away.
angledOne may see
cracks at natural
the weathering.
asphalt that is too covered with acrylic

Normal
previousintervals
regular surface thin and rolling at the resurfacing, but
Heat
Normal
Normal
Heat Surface
Surface
finish
and
A color
AA sequence
sequence
Surface color
color
sequence
beneaththe
following in isofworn
of
is is
worn
of worn
angled
away.
angled
angled away.
cracks
away.One One
One
cracks
cracks
wrong temperature
at Due
Due
atat DueDue
Due
to
Dueuse
to tocompactio
toto useand
use
and
cracks may reappear and
compactio na
natura
compact
Checking
Surface
Surface
Normal
Checking
Normal
Checking may
may
cases ofof
direction
may see
Surface see
regular
see
regular
regular
wear. previous
intervals
previous
excessive
the roller.
previous
color is worn
intervals
intervals surface
and
surface
range.
surface
away. finishfinish Due to too
following
finish
One
andfollowing
and following too
use and
toothin and
in 3-5 years. Overlays
thin ro
natura
thinand
or reconstruction andro
Surface
Wear
Surface
Wear
Wear beneath
beneath
may the
see incases
theprevious
beneath
the cases
indirection
incases
direction
direction ofof ofthe
surface
of excessive
excessive
ofof the
the roller.
finish
excessive
roller.
roller. tempera
tempe
may be required on
tempera
severe cases.
Wear beneath in caseswear.wear.
wear. of excessive
wear.

Structural Soft Cracks

humps which
or blisters Excessive moisture
Improperly Correction
Surface of
or pavement
Soft humps
Cracks
Soft
Soft humps
Crackshumps orconstructed
which
which orblisters
penetrate
blisters
orjoints
blisters
penetrate in courtinto
inincourt
court
into the
the Excessive
Improperly
Excessive moisture
Excessive
Improperly constr
mois
mo
constr
Cracks which penetratestandinginto the Improperly cons
Cracks in court surface
penetrate into the below courtpavement drainage
overlay problems
treatments,

Structural surface
Soft
varying
varying
humps
pavement
in size
pavement
surface or
often
from
often
varying in size
blisters
pavement,
from
in
occurring
thermal
ininoccurring
size from ¼”
court to
in
¼” long
to
or
pavement,
outside
Excessive
thermal
of court
reconstruction
pavement, standing
moisture
shock, wa
shri
standin
Structural
Structural ¼” pavement
surface
pavement
to several
occurring infeet often
varying
longin
often water
shock, size
occurring
over from
court
shrinkage ininlong
¼” long court thermal
toofand
areas,
thermal
leveling
pavement shock,
pavement, shri
stand
shock, sh
Bubbles several
surface feet in
varying diameter. Isolated surface,
pavement, poor surface
standing wa
Cracks straight linesinininor
or size from ¼”
irregular to
patterns to oxidation, heavi
diameter. Isolated
straight lines or surface,
of poor
pavement surface
due or regrading
new of
acrylic
Bubbles
Cracks
Bubbles
Cracks several
straight
several
straightfeet
lines
feet
lines diameter.oxidation,Isolated
toirregular
diameter.
or irregular patterns
Isolated
patterns tosurface,
tosurface, poor
oxidation,
oxidation,poorsurf
heavi
su
hea
hollow sounding areas below drainage outside court ar
hollow sounding
irregular patterns or subsurface pavement,
surfacing, patch
complete
Bubbles
Bubbles several feet
emanating in diameter.
from aareas Isolated
clear point in surface,
inorreconstruction treepoor surface
of roots, imp
areas
hollow sounding
emanating
hollow
belowfrom
emanating court
emanating
a
from
sounding drainage
heaving
from areas
aa clear
ofoutside
below
base or
clear point
below
point in drainage
remove bubbled
tree
drainage outside
treeroots,
outside
roots, cou
impc
im
hollow
clearsurface.
the court surface.
sounding
point in the
pavement,
court areas
subbase, areas.
such
treebelow
Build-up
roots,
as net or
court areas,
for excessive
drainage acrylic
more severe acrylic
outside courtsurf
constructe ar
the court
the pavement,
court
pavement, surface.
such
surface.
such asas net or excessive
excessive acrylic
constructe
acry
construct
postnet or
pavement, such as net of excessive
improperly acrylic
designed surfacing.
cases.
court surface.
fence posts. excessive acrylic surf
or fence posts.
fence footings.
posts.
orsurfacing
constructed
fence
layers.
fenceposts.
posts.
Reflection Fine hairline cracks
Fine hairline
Cracks cracks
directly over Sometimes
Due of movement
to the variable
natural Surface
Overlay Sometimes
orshould
pavementbe natural ag
Cracks Fine
Fine
lengths
of variable
the
Fine hairline
hairline
lengths
locations of the
hairline cracks
oftencrackscracks
occurring
aging
of orof
usevariable
ofsurface
the pavement
variable layer
over
of variable
of
incompatible
overlay
separated Sometimes
Sometimes
treatments,
with a
Sometimes surface natur
natural nat
mat
ag
often occurring
previous ones in the incompatible
beneath. and new
of acrylic
material
Reflection
Hairline
Reflection oldover lengths
Cracks
entire
lengths
Cracks
entire
asphalt court
lengths often
directly
surface.
often
often
directly
in court
cases of occurring
over
occurring
over
materials orthe
Usually
occurring
the over
locations
over of
over
locations
solvent- incompatible
incompatible
that surfacing.
allows Due to
typeincompatible
coatings,
Due
the new
the surface
tosurface
the movem
improper
surfac
mat
movem
Reflection
Hairline
Cracks
Cracks
Hairline Cracks
entire
surface.
of the
the
shallow
entire directly
court
Usually of
overlays.
surface.
previous
courtdepth
surface.
typeover
ones
in the the
Usually
coatings,
in the
court
Usually locations
the of
old
of old coating,
type type
material above Dueto to
coatings,
or improper
coatings, the mov
impro
improperbe
pave
Hairline
Cracks
Hairline entire
of court
previous
shallow depth in the surface.
improper ones Usually
in
pavement ofmove type
independently coatings, imp
be
Cracks
Cracks
Cracks of
surface the
shallow
shallow previous
depth
anddepth
asphalt sealin
uppermost
indepth
cases
in theones
the
oflayer in
court the old
of have
overlays.
court
(These
coating,
cracks
coating, or improper
or improper pavepb
Cracks
Cracks
coating, or imprope
court surface and coating, or of that beneath it.
shallow
asphalt in cases inofthe court
overlays. the potential
asphalt inuppermost
cases oflayer
overlays.
uppermost layer of improper pavement In severe cases,
surface
surface
surface
pavement. and
pavement.
and uppermost
and uppermost
mix design. layer of ofof
layer
to develop
reconstruction
structural
into
is
cracks over
pavement.
pavement.
pavement.
required.
longer periods
of time.)

Alligator skin-like pattern of Contamination of court s

interconnected
Alligator
Cracks cracks
skin-like
Alligatorthat usually
are pattern
skin-like pattern
generated in installation,
of offrom Contamination use
Contamination
Asphalt tends ofofcourt
incom
cos
of sh
to
Alligator Cracks
courtAlligator that
surfacing
interconnected
are
and
cracks
generated
skin-like pattern
varying
usually inin
from
of Asphalt
materials
installation,
tends
Contamination
of
use
to
solvent-t
of
sh
of
incom
196 Chapter 18:Radial interconnected
Cracks
Repair, Reconstruction theand that
corners cracks
are usually from
ofgenerated
Renovation concrete in installation,
Asphalt usecrac
and itittends
will of
tooins
Radial
Cracking
Alligator depth.
court the
interconnected
Oftencorners
surfacing of
cracks
accompanied
and concrete
usually
varying by
in and
installation,
in improper
materials will
pavement
of crac
use
solvent-ty se
Alligator
Radial
Cracks court surfacing
the
foundation corners and
or otherof varying
other concrete in
irregularities materials
and itofwill
resistance. solve
cra
Irregu
Cracks
Alligator
Cracking foundation
court
looseOften
depth. or
surfacing
particles and
accompanied irregularities
varying
of surface by by in resistance.
materials
improper
improper pavement
pavement Irregu
of sol
se
Cracking
Cracks depth. in Often
foundation oraccompanied
other irregularities improper
resistance.paveme
thickness Irre
Cracking depth.
loose in the
the
Oftencourt
court
particles
pavement.
pavement.
accompanied
material.of of
surface by improper thickness
improperpavementpavem aa
loose particles
in the court surface
pavement. improper pavem
thickness
loose
From "Tennis Courts: Construction & Maintenance Manual," ninth edition, particles
material.of surface
material.
available at www.sportsbuilders.org. improper pave
material.
194
www.tennisindustrymag.com Chapter 18: Repair, Reconstruction and Renovation Too hot and too dry
March 2021 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 23
durin
Shrinkage Random pattern of of incompatible surfac
Too hot and too dry durin
Too hot and too dry d
or Stress
Shrinkage interconnected
Randomcracks
patternwith
of sharp solvent-type coatings,
of incompatible im
surfac
 COURT
CONSTRUCTION
2021 & MAINTENANCE

INDOOR FACILITIES

Cover
environment and savings on utilities.
The versatile nature of fabric structures
molds to the exact needs of the facility,
ensuring each business has the right
structure for its operation.

the Bases
For tennis and pickleball, fabric
Play in Any Weather
Gone are the days when matches had to
be cancelled due to inclement weather.
Additionally, games can now be played
in the dead of winter or at the height of
summer, while players stay comfortable
inside the structure. This allows players
structures can cover courts and offer to enjoy their sports year-round, while
saving businesses revenue they would
benefits to players and facilities. have lost if matches, leagues or lessons
had to be cancelled.
By Janine Coppola Geoffrey Ching, the director of sales
at ClearSpan Structures, says one of
the advantages of fabric structures is
the ability to optimize a facility for all-
Tennis and pickleball are experi- Fabric structures allow sports weather use, allowing play year-round
encing wild popularity, which means facilities to cover tennis and pickleball while boosting revenue for the facility
demand for courts is on the rise—so courts at an affordable cost and pro- in the process.
facilities are under pressure to have vide a wealth of advantages that will “Clubs that have multiple indoor and
court space open year-round, re- benefit both the players and the facil- outdoor courts offer ideal flexibility to
gardless of weather. Racquet sports ity. With a fabric structure, play can their members,” he says. “Indoor tennis
facilities are looking for innovative so- take place during every season and any and pickleball courts allow facilities to
lutions to provide consistently reliable type of weather. Some structures also provide guaranteed court time
court space, and many are considering feature energy-efficient designs that to players, which offers more
fabric structures. It’s easy to see why. provide a more comfortable playing flexibility in planning clinics,

24 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY March 2021 www.tennisindustrymag.com

 Natural lighting is an important feature for a racquet facility,
creating a bright, well-lit environment for improved play.

lessons, events and camps, which

serve as an excellent revenue stream
for these businesses.
“The unique design of fabric struc-
tures protects athletes from rain, snow
and extreme temperatures, while
providing an environment that feels like
you are playing outside,” Ching adds.
“In our experience, tennis and pickle-
ball players want to be able to choose
the more desirable environment, de-
pending on weather and seasonality.”

Natural Lighting and Ventilation

Many fabric structures allow ample
natural light to filter into the facility,
which is beneficial for both the facil-
ity and the players. This natural light
eliminates the need for artificial light-
ing during the day, which can drastically
reduce utility costs.
Natural lighting is an important
feature for a racquet facility, as it cre- “If the objective is to maximize The fabric structure at the Cape
Henry Racquet Club in Virginia
ates a bright, well-lit environment for natural ventilation, we can design a Beach provides benefits to both
improved play. The light is diffused, so structure with open or retractable sides players and the facility.
it is less harsh than the blinding sun on and ends,” Ching says. “Alternatively, if
outdoor courts. This light also makes it complete climate control with an HVAC
easier to see and track the ball and elim- system is planned, we can create an
inates any shadows, so a soft, uniform insulated enclosure to facilitate such an durable and can easily withstand the
light illuminates the entire structure environment.” natural wear and tear a sports facility
evenly, and the players’ view of the ball will experience. For example, some
is never interrupted or obstructed by Build Anywhere for Any Use covers feature a rip-stop weave, so if a
dark shadows or bright spots. Facilities don’t need to build an entirely tear does occur in the fabric, it is con-
“Fabric structures offer multiple op- new court to reap the benefits of a fabric tained and doesn’t spread. Other covers
tions to improve climate and optimize building. Fabric structures can be built feature a layered construction for
indoor playing conditions,” Ching says. over existing courts, and often can be added strength and durability. Facilities
“When playing indoors is preferable, built to nearly any size. They are also should opt for a brand that offers war-
fabric structures offer a brighter, more easily relocatable and expandable, so ranties, for extra assurance that their
open and comfortable playing environ- they can grow and change along with structure will last for decades.
ment than conventional construction.” the needs of the facility. “The exceptional peak and clearance
P H O T O S C O U RT E S Y C L E A R S PA N S T R U C T U R E S

The design of some fabric structures Sports facilities should look for a heights combined with natural sunlight
also facilitates natural airflow, creat- company that offers fast construction that enters through the translucent fab-
ing a more comfortable environment and installation times. This way, their ric provide a superior indoor environ-
for players and staff, as well as reduc- structure will be up and running quick- ment,” Ching says. “Clubs and facilities
ing odors. Some fabric covers are also ly, reducing revenue lost from closing that have installed fabric structures to
climate sensitive, meaning they keep for construction and ensuring players enclose tennis and pickleball courts are
the interior of the structure cooler dur- can get back to the courts in no time. thriving.” •
ing the summer and warmer during the “Construction timelines vary
winter. Not only does this save on heat- based upon what equipment might be Writer Janine Coppola works for
ing and cooling costs, it also ensures a included,” Ching says. “A reasonable ClearSpan Structures (clearspan.com),
comfortable interior temperature no estimate is two to three weeks per court which for more than 40 years has been
matter the weather outside, which is to be covered.” providing the tennis industry with
beneficial for the health of the players. Many fabric structures are extremely innovative building solutions.

www.tennisindustrymag.com March 2021 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 25

 STRING
SELECTOR
2021 GUIDE

EQUIPMENT

Fine Tune
Your String
Inventory
The USRSA adds the newest product
what is new when it comes to new
strings. String selection for your cus-
tomers should be an evolving process,
since their needs are constantly chang-
ing. They are improving as a player, or
perhaps their needs change due to an
and specs to its database of more than injury, or the fact that they’re getting
older. Either way, their equipment
1,000 currently available strings. needs must be constantly evaluated to
provide them with the best set-up.
By Bob Patterson If your string inventory is ample and
diverse, you still need to give new intro-
Chart Compiled by David Bone ductions a good look to see if something
new fills a gap or meets a need. Perhaps
a new offering comes along that can
replace an old standard simply because
it is better priced, or is offered by a
vendor that you have a better discount
structure with. With the USRSA tools
available to members, it is easy to make
comparisons and evaluations to keep
As we approach 12 months of dealing new and what old standards are still your inventory as relevant as possible
with COVID-19 and its effects on our relevant. The USRSA String Selector for the market today.
businesses, it is no surprise that this Tool, available to USRSA members at The lab test numbers for each string
year’s chart of new strings added to the RacquetTech.com, makes it easy to in our String Selector will give you and
USRSA database is much shorter than sort and compare all the strings avail- your customer a good indication of
last year. able today, so you can provide the best what a new string may have to offer and
Like everyone else, manufactur- possible information to your custom- will help to eliminate having several
ers have cut back and slowed down ers. Not only is the String Selector strings in your inventory that may be
various operations dealing with the Tool easy to use, but it also provides too similar to each other. Whether you
limitations and restrictions that work- pertinent information with specs that carry 100 different strings or just 10,
ing in a worldwide pandemic brings. In have been measured in the USRSA lab, you want to be sure that your string
spite of it all, we do have several new so it’s a true “apples to apples” com- inventory has variety, so you can meet
introductions as companies continue parison of strings. the needs of a variety of players and
to innovate and evolve with new It’s easy to stick with tried-and-true playing styles.
materials, additives and construction inventory, especially with strings. And The chart on page 28 lists 52 strings
processes to meet the needs of today’s there’s a lot of merit in that philoso- that are either new to the market or new
SHUTTERSTOCK

players and the modern game. phy, especially since you probably to the USRSA database. The complete
With more than 1,000 strings invested a lot of time and energy in database of more than 1,000 strings
currently on the market, it is often a helping your customer find the perfect is available to USRSA members at
daunting task to keep up with what is string set-up. But don’t miss out on RacquetTech.com.

26 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY March 2021

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 String selection for your customers should be an evolving
process, since their needs are constantly changing.

2 0 2 1 S T R I N G S E L E C TO R — N E W E S T S T R I N G S I N T H E U S R S A DATA B A S E

Brand String Sport String Name/Gauge Material Nominal Diameter (mm) Stiffness (lbs.) Tension Loss (lbs.)

Alpha Tennis Gut 2000 16 (New) Nylon 1.33 232 12.40

Alpha Tennis Gut 2000 17 (New) Nylon 1.28 212 11.40
Alpha Tennis Gut 2000 18 (New) Nylon 1.20 193 11.86
Ashaway Squash PowerFusion 17 — 1.20 173 10.34
Babolat Tennis RPM Power 16 Polyester 1.30 296 12.82
Clarke Distributing Tennis Explosion 16 Nylon 1.30 214 11.77
Clarke Distributing Tennis Tour Micro 16 Nylon 1.30 204 14.26
Diadem Tennis Solstice Black 15L Polyester 1.35 280 22.84
Diadem Tennis Solstice Black 16 Polyester 1.30 277 22.53
Diadem Tennis Solstice Black 16L Polyester 1.25 262 21.10
Diadem Tennis Solstice Black 17 Polyester 1.20 253 20.99
Diadem Tennis Solstice Black 18 Polyester 1.15 242 20.57
Dunlop Squash Iconic Power 18 Nylon 1.10 197 14.44
Dunlop Squash Iconic X Life 17 Nylon 1.22 188 13.63
Dunlop Tennis Explosive Bite 16 Polyester 1.32 280 15.77
Dunlop Tennis Explosive Bite 17 Polyester 1.27 287 13.93
Dunlop Tennis Explosive Speed 16 Polyester 1.30 351 12.88
Dunlop Tennis Explosive Speed 17 Polyester 1.25 321 12.08
Dunlop Tennis Explosive Tour 16 Polyester 1.30 303 22.05
Dunlop Tennis Explosive Tour 17 Polyester 1.25 294 21.68
Head Tennis Hawk Touch 17 Polyester 1.25 287 14.97
Isospeed Tennis Cream 16L Polyester 1.28 243 17.53
Laserfibre Tennis Laser Extreme 16 Hybrid 1.30 233 17.37
Laserfibre Tennis Laser Rev 16 Co-Polyester 1.28 309 16.01
Laserfibre Tennis Laser Smooth 17 Co-Polyester 1.23 282 15.55
Laserfibre Tennis Native Tour 16 Co-Polyester 1.30 314 21.52
Solinco Tennis Confidential 16 Polyester 1.30 301 14.38
Solinco Tennis Confidential 16L Polyester 1.25 285 14.95
Solinco Tennis Confidential 17 Polyester 1.20 268 15.33
Solinco Tennis Confidential 18 Polyester 1.15 253 16.12
Solinco Tennis Hyper G 16 Polyester 1.30 309 14.33
Solinco Tennis Hyper G 16L Polyester 1.25 290 15.56
Solinco Tennis Hyper G 17 Polyester 1.20 266 14.71
Solinco Tennis Hyper G 18 Polyester 1.15 252 17.00
Solinco Tennis Hyper G 19 Polyester 1.10 246 17.93
Solinco Tennis Hyper G 20 Polyester 1.05 228 20.42
Solinco Tennis Hyper G Soft 16 Polyester 1.30 294 16.08
Solinco Tennis Hyper G Soft 16L Polyester 1.25 272 14.59
Solinco Tennis Hyper G Soft 17 Polyester 1.20 254 16.61
Solinco Tennis Hyper G Soft 18 Polyester 1.15 236 18.08
Tecnifibre Squash 305 17 Nylon & Polyurethane 1.25 179 13.50
Tecnifibre Squash DYNAMIX VP 17 Nylon & Polyurethane 1.20 172 13.54
Tecnifibre Squash DYNAMIX VP 18 Nylon & Polyurethane 1.15 164 16.12
Tecnifibre Squash X One Biphase 17 (Squash) Nylon & Polyurethane 1.24 186 11.69
Tecnifibre Tennis RPX 15L Multifilament Poly-Fusion 1.35 236 13.94
Tecnifibre Tennis RPX 16 Multifilament Poly-Fusion 1.30 230 13.93
Tecnifibre Tennis Triax 15L Multifilament Poly-Fusion 1.38 233 15.50
Tecnifibre Tennis Triax 16 Multifilament Poly-Fusion 1.33 222 14.27
Tecnifibre Tennis Triax 17 Multifilament Poly-Fusion 1.28 214 13.92
Yonex Tennis PolyTour Rev 120 17 Polyester 1.20 253 18.70
Yonex Tennis PolyTour Rev 125 16L Polyester 1.25 271 17.33
Yonex Tennis PolyTour Rev 130 16 Polyester 1.30 279 17.11

28 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY March 2021

Raleigh Racquet Club, North Carolina - Conversion over existing clay courts
 TEACHING
PROS/
2021 COACHES

HEALTH & FITNESS

Playing
the
Long
Game
A longtime teaching
pro and tennis
director gathers
advice on keeping
an on-court career
in shape.
By Greg Moran

I’ve fed over 90 million tennis balls. • I’ve had eight MRIs, parents who are convinced their child is
Yes, 90 million. • leading to five surgeries, the next Federer can be exhausting.
I arrived at this number as I sat in • with too many injections to count, These pros, if they’ve prepared
my doctor’s office recently, waiting for • and an ocean of water used for ice themselves properly, have options.
yet another pain-reducing fluid to be packs, They can likely transition off the court
P H O T O S C O U RT E S Y M I C H A E L M O R A N/ G R E G M O R A N

injected into yet another part of my • and let’s not even talk about the num- into director, head pro or other manage-
body. I’ve been teaching tennis for 45 ber of Advil I’ve swallowed. ment positions. Others become “online
years, averaging 40 hours a week on Now, at nearly 62 years of age, my pros,” where they can pass along their
the court. During this time, I’ve fed or body is pushing back hard. Something theories, reach more people and rarely,
hit roughly 1,000 balls per hour. I know always hurts! or never, hit a ball.
this because I actually counted one time However, there are many pros who
when a player came to my court saying, Transitioning Off the Court still love to be on the court, working
“Don’t talk, I only want to hit.” Many teaching pros, as they move into with players by setting an energetic
The ball has struck my racquet 90 the third set of their careers, look to atmosphere with the cadence of their
million times (give or take), and that’s get off the court. They’ve been teaching voice and rhythm of their feeds. I’m one
just teaching. I also love to play the for decades, their bodies ache, and of them.
game, so the total number of impacts they might also be a little burned out. A few years ago, I bought the club that
is significantly higher. Other pertinent Teaching juniors—many who don’t re- I’d worked at for many years. Soon after,
numbers in my career: ally want to be there—and dealing with I met with my pro staff and told them,

30 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY March 2021 www.tennisindustrymag.com

Many teaching pros,
as they move into
the third set of their
careers, are looking to
transition to positions
off the court.

mon areas, with shoulders and elbows

not far behind.”

2. What can the teaching pro do to

lessen the effects of long hours on
the court?
“The most important concept for a pro
to understand is that teaching tennis
is their ‘job’—it’s not really ‘exercise’ in
the sense of keeping their body healthy.
Understanding this makes caring for
themselves when they’re on and off the
court a necessity,” Dr. Overland notes.
Here are some specific suggestions
that Dr. Overland offered that have
helped me tremendously:

• Avoid teaching long blocks of hours

without a break. Years ago, I would
regularly teach 10 to 12 hours without
a break, grabbing a quick sandwich in
between lessons. Now, after four or five
hours in a row, my back and legs begin
to tighten, and my arm begins to bark.
As a result, I try not to schedule more
than four hours in a row. After a short
break (30 to 60 minutes), my body
relaxes and I’m good to go.

• Try not to stand in one place for too

long without shifting your weight. We
all have our “teaching stance.” Mine has
the ball cart by my left hip (I’m right-
handed) and my weight resting on my
“Even though I now own the club, I specific questions that I felt pertinent to back (right) leg. From that position, I
still consider myself first, foremost and all of us “older” pros. reach into the cart, grab the balls and
always, a teaching pro.” feed—thousands of times a day. Often,
Having other responsibilities, I’ve 1. What happens to a teaching pro’s the only parts of my body that are
cut back my on-court hours, but I’m body after years of being on the moving are my left arm (to grab the
still out there 20 to 30 hours each week. court? balls) and right elbow and wrist to feed.
Teaching tennis is my passion and, for “The long hours on the court, combined Adjusting my stance, posture and oc-
me, that passion is best fulfilled on the with the repetitive motion of feeding casionally taking a longer swing relieves
court. My goal is to be able to teach (on (and hitting) balls, puts a tremendous some of the pressure on my body.
court) until well into my 70s or beyond. amount of strain on the pro’s hips,
For that to happen, I need to keep my back, shoulder, elbow and wrist,” says • Use different racquets for different
arm, back, hips, knees etc. functioning. Dr. Overland. types of lessons. I always bring two
I know there are many others with “Many suffer what is called overuse racquets to the court. When I’m teach-
similar ambitions, so I consulted with or repetitive-use syndromes. These ing group lessons, where I’ll be doing a
Dr. Keith Overland of Norwalk, Conn., occur from repeating a particular action lot of ball feeding, I use a lighter racquet
one of the top sports medicine experts (i.e. feeding balls) so many times that with looser strings. With a private les-
in the country, to get his thoughts on it speeds up the natural wearing down son, I’ll be doing more “hitting,” so I use
how we can “keep the vehicle running” of one or more body parts. Pain in the a racquet with a more normal weight
for as long as possible. I posed three back, knees and feet are the most com- and string tension.

www.tennisindustrymag.com March 2021 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 31

 TEACHING
PROS/
2021 COACHES

• Use a brace or functional tape in areas

that are weak or would benefit from
support.

• Buy customized orthotics to help

balance your musculoskeletal system by
supporting the kinetic chain.

• Stay hydrated. Hydration impacts

fatigue significantly. By the time we feel
thirsty, we’re already beginning to be-
come dehydrated. Drink throughout the
day. At a minimum, when your student
takes a water break, you should take a
few sips as well.

I also wanted to know what I can do

when I’m off the court to help deal with
my current aches and pains as well as
lessen the chance of developing new
ones. Dr. Overland suggested:

• Developing dynamic warm-up and

cool-down programs for the beginning
and the end of the workday and, to a
lesser degree, before and after each
lesson.

• Using ice or a massage gun for any

areas of discomfort after work. There are many pros who still love to be on the court,
3. Should the pro exercise away from
working with players by setting an energetic atmosphere
work, or should they “save it for the with the cadence of their voice and rhythm of their feeds.
court”?
This has always been a tough one for
me, because I love to exercise. As I’ve to our court expecting to see a person • Address health issues before they
gotten older, I’ve found that the day (or who looks and acts like a professional begin to restrict your ability to teach
two) after a hard workout leaves me athlete. tennis on court.
extremely stiff and achy, and that can be So, the answer is: Yes, we should exer-
miserable when I’m on court teaching. cise away from the court. However, we If you’re like me, you went into
In response to this question, Dr. must be careful not to overdo it or we the tennis business because you
Overland says, “The ‘one-sided nature’ may pay the price the next day at work. love the game. Along the way, you
of tennis causes imbalances in the mus- I’m still working on finding the balance. discovered a passion for teaching.
cular and skeletal systems. Addressing Retire? Why retire from something we
these imbalances can be incredibly ben- Here are a few more of Dr. Overland’s love? The only thing that will stop us
eficial. A regular exercise program that suggestions to help us feel our best: is when the pain becomes greater than
includes cardio, mobility and strength- the passion.
ening the weaker, non-dominant areas • Commit to a healthy diet. But by taking care of—and listening
three to four times per week is key.” to—our bodies, we should be able to
It also makes sense from a business • Learn to maintain a positive mental hold that off for many years! •
standpoint. When you go to your doc- attitude—even when dealing with those
tor, it’s reassuring to see someone who annoying juniors and parents. Greg Moran is the owner/director of
appears fit and healthy. It’s the same tennis at Four Seasons Racquet Club in
thing for our customers. They come • Develop good sleep habits. Wilton, Conn.

32 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY March 2021

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 FACILITY
MANAGEMENT
2021

PROFIT AND LOSS

Know Your Price

Accurate event pricing can affect
the long-term health of any club or facility.
By Dale Petrie

For years, athletic clubs have longed A wise mentor once told me: “Set a well-publicized occurrence.
to make events free to their members. your first price carefully. Check your What clubs want to avoid is having
General managers, department heads margins and costs of marketing before to assess their members at any time.
and even members serving as club settling on a price.” Among other things, they want to avoid
governors have espoused the desire to “Why?” I asked. bad publicity, which might cost them
have events on the courts or the course “Because you can never raise a price,” new memberships.
remain free. This desire is well-inten- he said.
tioned, but in the long run, it is unfair to He was right. Have you ever seen a Realize Your Costs
most members and a disservice to the store advertise: “That’s right! We are Committee members are fast to spend
financial health of the club. raising the price $10! What a deal!” club dollars that aren’t their own. They
The next time you’re preparing Once in a blue moon we will hear, “Due are also not always privy to the costs of
SHUTTERSTOCK

forecasts and budget materials for to the scarcity of avocados, we have had an event.
department heads, general managers, to raise our price to our loyal custom- Take a tournament, for example, that
club treasurers and boards, take time to ers,” but this is done to heal the wound will utilize eight tennis courts. Most
reflect on costs that often go unnoticed. of a higher cost to the patron caused by committee members we’ve worked

34 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY March 2021 www.tennisindustrymag.com

Clubs have longed to make
events free to members. But
while well-intentioned, it's
a disservice to the financial
health of the club.

with will say: “Well, it’s just the cost of

the tennis balls. A draw of 32 means 31
matches. Basically, $100 for a case and a
half of balls.”
But think about it—it’s not just that
one cost. There’s the consolation or
back draw, so now we have another
group of matches. Then there’s also ball
replacements and third sets with new
balls. Well, that’s three cases of balls,
so we’re now in the region of $200, just
for tennis balls. But there are also other
costs, too.
Say, with a club of eight courts, you
hold a doubles tournament with a
draw of 16 teams. You have an 8 a.m.
kick-off on Saturday. This means there Committee members are fast to spend
are no teaching courts available. Two club dollars that aren’t their own. They are also not
courts for a clinic and four private always privy to the costs of staging an event.
lessons could easily have taken place
that morning—with revenue of maybe
about $1,000. If the club typically keeps
15 percent of all on-court teaching rained out days, or in this case, loss of fashion, that’s a line item loss of $12,000
revenues, well, now the club is down court access. Remember, too, momen- to the club, even if costs are maintained
$150 more in lost revenues from com- tum for next week’s lessons might be at bare minimums.
missions. It’s a hidden cost, but a cost lost as well.
nonetheless. Then there’s the Gatorade on court Understanding Long-Term Membership
Those weekend mornings are great and food served off court, even if it’s As the country club industry matures
sources of lesson revenue. But this just bananas and granola bars. For our into a third generation of American
Saturday tournament negates those example, let’s say we keep that to a families, there are some variables that
earnings to the club and may, in fact, minimum and dish out just $150. come into play as we look at overall
slow momentum in regard to lesson Were extra hands needed to sweep costs, club and facility budgets and long-
bookings for a couple of weeks after courts between matches and keep up lasting sentiments of members.
your event. with the burgeoning garbage cans from The idea of “legacy” is a costly one
Another example: Let’s say the head having 32 players on property all morn- to clubs. Too often, we see offspring
pro helps out the tennis director in run- ing? Let’s say that costs the club another of long-standing member families
ning this major club event and invoices $100 for just the morning. offered either a “free” membership
the club for his or her hourly teaching Well, what committee members without initiation or a sharply reduced
rate of $45 for six hours. (Most profes- initially thought would be just the cost initiation fee. This is injurious to the
sionals try to cover lost revenues in of a case of balls is now nearly $1,000. long-term financial health of the club—
this fashion.) That’s another $270 in That may not sound too bad for just especially if the club is not making ends
additional costs. one Saturday, but at a summer club, meet through event charges or adding
Even if not on a daily basis, a salary it can be every Saturday in June, July memberships under the full payment
or stipend is a cost and offered in order and August—and some Sundays, too! category.
to compensate for the lost revenues of If 12 weekend days are taken up in this It’s a wonderful sentiment to have

www.tennisindustrymag.com March 2021 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 35

 FACILITY
MANAGEMENT
2021

Create a profit-and-loss report

for each event, which allows club
management to better understand
costs, revenue streams and
long-term effects on the club.

the costs and profitability (or loss) for

each event. Some of the major events,
like a three-day member-guest golf
tournament, get the full profit-and-loss
treatment. But so should a parent-child
tournament on the paddle courts or a
junior barbeque and round-robin on the
tennis courts.
With so many events now transcend-
ing just one department and involving
two or three club departments, it’s im-
perative to maintain a proper record of
revenues and costs. In our business, we
create a profit-and-loss report for each
With so many events now transcending event at each club we manage, allowing
one department, it’s imperative to maintain the club’s governing bodies to better
a proper record of revenues and costs. understand the costs of each event, the
revenue streams and those long-term
effects that all activity might be having
on the club.
In sum, pricing individual tennis, golf
three generations of a family as mem- club and facilities. They should not be and fitness events might seem a banal
bers. This “legacy” creates the sense of held to cover costs for individual events, exercise. But in fact, pricing can affect
continuing membership, almost “guar- gatherings or tournaments. Dues the long-term health of any club or
anteeing” membership in the future. should be relied upon to cover the facility.
But it comes at a high cost to the club. general running costs of the club— Taken in connection with other
Disbanding initiation fees for more and again, not to subsidize events. costs, both in terms of lost revenues
more “legacy” children is like more and And finally, why should the 98 per- and hidden costs combined with
more kids dipping into the family trust cent of dues-paying members subsidize putting off new-member initiation
with each generation. Coupled with a tournament and its costs for only 2 increases and raising annual dues, a
losses from running events, a lack of percent of the club membership? It club’s balance sheet can quickly be
up-front funds can create financial financially and philosophically makes heading into the red.
issues quite quickly. absolutely no sense, especially if you Ensure that each event is a profitable
compare that sentiment to food and one to the club’s coffers and supports
Membership Comes With Costs beverage events. Should a member’s the club in a social and financial way. 
It’s been proven often through data wedding be free of charge? No. And nei-
and research that a club that is not ther should a tournament or any event UK-based marketer Dale Petrie has a
raising annual dues and initiation fees at a club. Membership is a privilege, but marketing degree from the Sorbonne
on a regular basis will, in the long-term, it comes with costs—and with dues in in Paris and works with clubs around
have difficulty meeting financial obliga- January and participation fees through- the world, along with clients ranging
tions. If, in addition, event hosting out the year. from the FMCG ( fast-moving consumer
SHUTTERSTOCK

is costing the club as well, it can be a goods) industry to sports marketers. He

recipe for disaster. Maintain Event Profit And Loss Reports is a member of the BeyondTheBaselines.
Club initiation fees should really be In our experience, we find it incredu- com team. This article appeared in the
used for capital improvements to the lous that more clubs don’t investigate December online issue.

36 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY March 2021

 ADVERTISEMENT

Ryan Harrison the stage for a tournament

plays in the 2020
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Match for the San cessful in WTT history.
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Har-Tru has a long history of lutely beautiful and it played
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clay-court tennis. feedback on the product. The ter places to play. We’re going the leader in clay-court sur-
Three years ago, the company goal was to produce a reli- to lead where we can, and go faces for the past 90 years,
quietly began making inroads able, consistent and playable where the game takes us.” this is a huge step for us be-
into the hard-court market. surface with the same high By the time World Team- coming the worldwide leader
In spring 2018, a group level of quality that Har-Tru Tennis announced it would for all tennis court surfaces.”
of contractors met with clay courts are known for. play its entire 2020 season It took 90 years for Har-Tru
Har-Tru officials to test a Fast forward to 2020, and at the Greenbrier in West Vir- to add an acrylic surface to
small-batch production of a Har-Tru Sports Coatings has ginia, Har-Tru Sports Coatings their product line, but it looks
new acrylic surface—Har-Tru become the official playing was the official court surface like it won’t be long before
Sports Coatings. The group surface of World TeamTennis. of the league. Custom dark we see their hard courts all
discussed yield, pigments, So why did a famous clay- gray and dark blue acrylics set around the country.
P H O T O BY RYA N L O C O

weather, labor, and the ins court company start making

and outs of building tennis hard courts? To begin with,
courts. As they talked shop, there are a lot more hard
their insights helped refine courts than clay in America—
and grow a new product line. nearly five times as many. For
Throughout that year, Har- a company with nine decades

www.tennisindustrymag.com March 2021 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 37

 Tips&Techniques

Keep Things Safe folded over the edge of the cling wrap you are, or how good your vision may
does the trick. be—so good lighting is essential. If the
for You, Easy for overhead lighting isn’t sufficient, then
Your Clients 5 sets of Gamma Ocho 16 to: a simple, well-placed floor lamp can il-
Sam Chan, MRT luminate your work and save your tired
Australia eyes. Also, like anything that involves
During the pandemic, when a concentration, such as working at a
customer drops off a racquet for ser- computer screen, make sure you take
vice, you need to make sure you and
your staff are protected at all times.
Necessities some breaks and focus your vision
elsewhere every now and then.
One of the first things you should do for a Productive
is wrap the handle with a protective Workspace 2. Anti-Fatigue Mat: Standing in one
plastic film before you or your staff place for hours on end takes a toll on
start working on the frame. Even if your feet, legs and back. Investing in
you’ll be applying a new grip or over- a quality floor mat can help keep you
grip to the frame, still wrap the handle pain-free as you work through a stack
as soon as you receive the frame from of frames.
the customer.
Then, with the handle wrapped, 3. Good Music: This may seem less
clean the frame by wiping it down important, but I find having a great
with alcohol to prepare it for the ser- playlist of tunes makes the work and
vice that your customer has requested. time pass much faster!
C O U RT E S Y S A M C H A N/ U S R S A ; S H U T T E R S T O C K

If your service includes a new grip or

overgrip, make sure to re-wrap the 10 3-packs of Tourna Tac XL to:
handle in plastic immediately after Peter Mroz
the grip is installed. Stringing racquets for extended Newton Square, Pa.
As for advice about something less periods of time can take a toll on
serious: As we all know, it’s difficult to your body and your mind. I’ve found,
find the end of plastic cling wrap when though, that it’s a lot easier to get Tips and Techniques submitted since
it’s time to take it off the handle. To through those large stacks of racquets 1992 by USRSA members and appearing
make things easier for my customers, if I have on hand a few key essentials: in this column have all been gathered
I put a small tag on the end or edge into a searchable database on
of the wrap, so customers just need 1. Good Lighting: Stringing racquets racquettech.com, the official website
to pull the tag to remove the wrap. for a long stretch at a time can be tir- of the USRSA. Submit tips to Bob
A simple piece of grip finishing tape ing on your eyes—no matter how old Patterson at [email protected].

38 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY March 2021 www.tennisindustrymag.com

 ,
IF YOU RE A TEACHING PRO,
,
YOU RE THE KEY TO IT ALL

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© 2020 USTA. All rights reserved.

 YourServe
TEACHING TENNIS they do the right thing at the right time

The Best Qualities

to get the best result. They set high stan-
dards for their players and even higher
standards for themselves. They take
As a coach, you’ll either be a positive all the knowledge and experience they
have and present it concisely so young
or negative influence. So, what does players can understand and learn. You
don’t have to be an elite player to be an
good coaching really mean? inspirational and effective coach.
Coaches need to be future-oriented.
By Kirk Anderson They need to recognize when athletes
reach their goals and they need to be
ready to introduce the new skills neces-
sary for the next performance level. At
the end of practice, can you answer, who
got better today because of me?

Building Confidence
Rather than being the coach who
constantly corrects errors, coaches at
the development level need to build
confidence. If players are encouraged
and believe in themselves, they will work
harder and stick with tasks longer.
One of the best ways you can improve
as a coach is to find a mentor for help, en-
couragement and advice. Find someone
who has accomplished what you wish to
become. When you have someone coach-
ing you to achieve your goals, you are
more likely to follow through on them.
The best standards I've seen for what
good coaching means comes from the

C
Australian Rugby League, which uses
this list to establish rapport with players:
• Be credible
oaching is one of the most inexperienced players will be excited • Be sensitive
important jobs in the and eager to try new activities. • Be consistent
world. The role a coach Coaches see things differently. They • Be empathetic
plays in a child’s life is have a vision of what could be and have a • Do not be sarcastic
never neutral. As a coach, plan to help every player along that jour- • Have a sense of humor
you will either be a positive or a negative ney. A coach inspires people to take on • Use positive non-verbal cues
influence. Young athletes will remember challenges that players can only achieve • Praise and criticize performance and
what you said and how you made them with guidance and encouragement. character
feel for the rest of their lives. • Be a desirable role model
For a coach, the goal of any interaction Would You Want You as a Coach? As the late, great coach John Wooden
should be to leave every player better Good coaches are concise with their said, a good coach can change a game; a
today than yesterday. Successful coaches explanations and precise in their dem- great coach can change a life. •
do everything possible to bring the best onstrations. What looks like resistance,
out of their players. Your goal must be to opposition and stubbornness with young Kirk Anderson has coached for 51 years and
is a PTR International Master Professional
make every day the best for each child. players often is a lack of clarity or under-
and a USPTA Master Pro. He has written or
Coaches are visionaries, teachers, standing. co-authored 17 coaching and tennis books.
demonstrators, role models, manag- The ultimate test of coaching is this:
SHUTTERSTOCK

This excerpt is from an upcoming coaching

ers, leaders, learners, entertainers What is life like under your guidance? book for youth tennis.
and planners. They are expected to be Would you like to be in your practices?
subject-matter experts with the ability Would you like to be coached by you? We welcome your opinions and comments.
to communicate information so new and Coaches inspire their athletes when Email [email protected].

40 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY March 2021 www.tennisindustrymag.com

 March 2021

“The Big W”
Drives Tech
From the CEO

The US in
USPTA
Vice President’s Message

How to Fine-Tune
Player’s Radar
Master Professional Corner

Still Hungry After

All these Years
Member Feature

Hustle, Hit, Never Quit

Charitable Campaign
 From the CEO USPTA

“The Big W” Drives Technology

John R. Embree, USPTA CEO

F ollowing the French Open in 1991, I

received a call from Suzanne Maguire,
Director of Marketing for the USTA. At
share in the pro/specialty market.
Why am I telling you this story? Because
the US Open ball is now part of the matrix
to be pushing US Open and Triniti balls to
your customer base.
Until recently, there has been little
the time I was the Director of Racquet of endorsed products from Wilson. When innovation in the tennis ball space for
Sports Promotion for Wilson and the we signed our agreement the first time the past 50 years — the only significant
Business Director for Tennis Balls. She around a couple of years ago, the US Open changes being the felt color change from
had just returned from Paris, where she ball was not included as an endorsed white to yellow and the aluminum cans
noticed that the ball played at the event product. Jump to today, the Wilson USPTA to polyethylene terephthalate. Always
was logoed Roland Garros. Therefore, she ULTRA has been discontinued. There are a the leader in technology, and with a
wanted Wilson to consider manufacturing variety of reasons for this decision, which significant focus on sustainability, the
a new tennis ball with the US Open name are understandable. The biggest concern Triniti ball has challenged the status quo
on the ball to be sold at a premium price for USPTA members is that we will lose our of how tennis balls are made. Working with
with royalties generated for the USTA. name’s visibility on the label and the ball Dow Chemical Company to integrate a
I scratched my head and wondered how itself — consumer awareness of the USPTA low-density plastometer into the existing
I could possibly do this. Fast forward 30 brand would be sacrificed. rubber compound, the Triniti core features
years: Wilson is now the official ball of Under the revised agreement with a thicker wall (40 percent increase in wall
Roland Garros. Wilson, we will be promoting both the US thickness), contributing to a more lively
As background, the Wilson Open and Triniti balls from now on. For and consistent bounce. Coupled with a new
Championship Ball had been the “official those who never got behind the Ultra ball, “stretch felt,” Triniti maintains its fresh
ball” of the US Open since 1978 when the you can now feel comfortable and proud ball feel four times longer than a traditional
tournament moved from Forest Hills to

Photo courtesy of Wilson™

Flushing Meadows. And as everyone knows,
tennis balls had always been a commodity
product, often sold as a loss leader at retail
and never above $1.99. For decades, there
was no price elasticity, especially with
the mass merchants. So, the concept of
developing a higher-end tennis ball seemed
foolhardy. And, in the eyes of our salesforce
when we introduced the product during a
meeting almost one year later, they thought
we were nuts!
With the R&D team and our
manufacturing partners, we spent months
creating a new felt that would last longer
and feature unique packaging (black label
with gold lettering) that would command a
higher price. Thus, Wilson launched the US
Open ball in the spring of 1992. I am proud
to say that the ball has become a franchise The new Wilson Eco Overcap is a fully functional overcap that reduces plastic by 50 percent.
product today, boasting almost 50 percent Look for the Eco Overcap atop your favorite can of Wilson tennis balls.

March 2021 ADDvantage Magazine - 43

 From the CEO USPTA
pressurized ball. Finally, working with a
leading supplier of recyclable packaging
made from FCS-certified materials, the
Triniti balls are the first of their kind in the
high-performance tennis ball industry to
not be housed inside a pressurized can.
The Triniti ball is right for consumers
concerned about our environment and
who seek to use sustainable products. Not
to be outdone, the US Open ball now has a
sustainable story worth mentioning. This
premiere product comes with an innovative
ECO Overcap, which reduces the amount of
plastic by half and leaves a smaller footprint
on the environment after it has been used.

“The LABS team has a wealth

of knowledge and knows what
every consumer and pro alike
are looking for in a tennis ball:
a lively bounce and consistent
performance through the course
of the match. The mission was to
accomplish both of these balanced
with the right level of durability
in a ball that could live outside
of a pressurized can. In order to
achieve this, the team knew that
optimizing the core was critical.”
–Wilson.com

The USPTA is proud of our affiliation

with the leading brand in tennis globally.
The USPTA has been viewed as an
innovator over our 93-year history, with the
latest example being the new certification
pathway. The leading tennis-teaching
organization in the world must be aligned
with the brand that is driving technology in
all its products.
I have always had the “red W” stamped
on my forehead. That is the result of being
part of the company over 17 years. So, it
should be no surprise that the endorsement
relationship between Wilson and the
USPTA is as important to our membership
as it is to me personally. We owe it to Wilson
and all our endorsees, for that matter, to
get behind their products and encourage
your customers to purchase our endorsed
products frequently. *

March 2021 ADDvantage Magazine - 45

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 Vice President’s Message USPTA

Maybe the US in USPTA Should

Stand for All of Us
Gary Trost, USPTA Immediate Past President

E very one of us needs to be more

involved in the future of our sport.
The game of tennis has changed, and the
high school coach, retailer, or manager,
we all possess knowledge that demands
to be shared to improve this great sport.
am also amazed at the lack of teaching
professionals serving on other tennis
associations’ boards and committees.
USPTA has adapted to meet its members’ We hail from diverse ethnic backgrounds The USPTA is the delivery force of tennis,
needs. If you could have looked into the and cultures that have so much to offer. and we continue to make it better for our
future 10-15 years ago, when I started on the There is no doubt that we can learn from clients, members, and all those that are
USPTA Executive Committee and told me one another. And so, we need more young gainfully employed through the sport.
where we are now, it would have been hard volunteers with fresh perspectives and Even still, we need more USPTA members’
to believe. ideas to help usher in the future. knowledge to light a path for every other
The USPTA World Headquarters and So please step forward and volunteer, be tennis committee in the United States
staff in Lake Nona, FL across the street that person to make a positive difference and abroad. Undoubtedly, we are in the
from the USTA National Campus, are in tennis. I have always been amazed by trenches, we are diverse in employment
fantastic! In fact, we are about to provide the unique opinions, terrific ideas, and and background, and we have the most
the highest level of tennis education for passionate people I’ve crossed paths with to offer other associations trying to make
certification in the world! That includes during my tenure on the USPTA Executive tennis better.
pickleball, padel, and paddle tennis Committee. Most of my colleagues have I still get kidded by the Missouri Valley
certifications for all our members. The a plan and inspirational thoughts that Division members for a passionate rant
COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on motivate them to speak up and get involved. many years ago directed at great young
many businesses, yet, because our sport is The individuals that do take the initiative professionals to be more involved. But my
considered “distance exercising,” tennis suddenly find out that others around them enthusiasm was not lost because those pros
is flourishing. have the same passion — and that’s when did get engaged — and I am very proud of
However, our association needs all of change genuinely becomes a reality. the difference that the group has made.
us to be involved. The USPTA is a diverse The USPTA has unbelievable governance The US in USPTA calls on all to volunteer,
group in many ways; therefore, all of us of boards, committees, and mentors at apply for committees — at any level, even
need to participate. Whether you are a both the national and division levels that in other tennis organizations, and take our
tennis professional, director, college or are always looking for helpers. Sadly, I association to new heights. *
Photo credit: Gustavo Reyes/USPTA

March 2021 ADDvantage Magazine - 47

 Teach, Train, and
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 Master Professional Corner USPTA

How to Fine-Tune Player’s Radar

Kim Dillard, USPTA Master Professional

Photo courtesy of Sippakorn

eaching players how to anticipate an
opponent’s shot, what I call radar,
should be worked on in every lesson. I start
private lessons with myself and the student
inside the service line, slowly hitting with
a foam ball. We hit both topspin and slice.
I make sure the student focuses on my
grip changes for each shot and then my
racquet face. Warm-ups is a fantastic time
to watch an opponent’s radar to get as much
information as possible before using it
during a match.
Next, what is the ball’s position in
relation to the opponent? Is it low, medium,
or high? Is the ball moving fast or slow? I
like to catch the ball during a warm-up and
ask my student what they see in my position
on the court and the ball’s placement. If
they notice I might be in trouble and hitting using their radar. Whenever the opponent for the kill. A good doubles drill features all
a ball below my knees with the minimal contacts the ball (what I call “pop”), the four players at the service line. They start
backswing, they should move in before I player should make a small “hop” with both with a crosscourt bounce feed, then play the
strike the ball. feet — ready to spring and move towards point. Each players’ radar should recognize
When the ball bounces on the opponent’s the ball. This skill helps keep the radar the ball’s height for every “pop” and “hop”
side, the players’ radar should be focused actively prepared. at each contact point, using their radar to
on their racquet, especially the racquet I believe the net player should watch move in, freeze, or go back.
face. It is vital to see if the racquet is below their partner hit every shot except the Traditionally, I have doubles players
the ball for topspin, level for a flat shot, or serve in doubles. By watching their partner serve four times to the same person — so
above the ball for a slice. I have students hit, their radar reacts to the ball as soon as that the returner can tell their partner
call out top, slice, or flat — before I hit possible. If their partner hits a short lob, what type of shot they send back. The net
each groundstroke. Another part of the they can move quickly after the point of player can then gear up their radar for
radar includes taking notice of the racquet contact. When hitting volleys in doubles, the various choices of shots. Working on
position to the ball — full back for a hard the classic rule is “high you die, low you go.” anticipation, each lesson improves the
shot or out in front for soft. If the ball is hit high to the opponent, players’ radar — tuning their playing ability
A drill I like to do is to have my student move back — and if it’s struck low, move in to a higher frequency. *
call out hard or soft, watching my racquet
before hitting the ball. As soon as they say
soft, my student runs in to cover the drop Kim Dillard is a USPTA Master Professional and Director of Tennis at Colonial Country
shot. I display a western grip for a flat serve Club in Thomasville, NC. Dillard published his first book, “The Doubles Connection, How to
and a continental grip for a spin serve be a Better Doubles Partner,” in 1998. He has been a speaker at USPTA World Conferences
during warm-up serves. Again, my students and was on the Faculty of Speakers at the USTA Tennis Teachers Conference. Kim Dillard
call out flat or spin before I hit the serve is a USPTA Mid-Atlantic Hall of Fame member.

March 2021 ADDvantage Magazine - 49

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 Member Feature USPTA

Still Hungry After All these Years

Mike Calendrillo, USPTA Communications

I f you are fortunate enough to teach

tennis since 1979, then it means you’re
doing something right. In the case of Angel
day. “It gives me great joy in developing
the games of these players,” says Lopez.
“It’s like planting seeds and watching them
played badminton in China and told me
she was working hard but not getting any
better,” says Lopez. “I explained to him that
Lopez, he’s been on a roll for the past grow into full-size plants or trees. I work on I teach from the net first and then move the
40-plus years with no end in sight. During the student hardware while understanding player back. You need a solid foundation
that time, Lopez has mentored thousands their software, what makes them tick and based on consistency, accuracy, mobility,
of successful players, some of which have ticks them off. I often say I’m not the fun and then power. Elena’s personality and
appeared on the ATP/WTA Tours. guy; rather, I’m the fundamentals guy.” mine clicked. She is smart, focused, and
After playing collegiate tennis at San Working with Michael Chang at the age has a solid work ethic. I understood her,
Diego City College and then the University of 10 — and top juniors such as Kelly Jones, and she trusted what I told her because it
of Arizona, Lopez tried his hand on ATP who reached No. 1 in ATP doubles and No. worked.”
Challenger and Satellite tours. However, 86 in singles, convinced Lopez to join the Having a supportive family at home also
after realizing he wouldn’t make a living as USPTA in 1980. helped Elena continue her improvement
a competitor, Lopez was inspired to shift to In 1992, he earned the title of Master as a player. “Her dad stopped working
a career of teaching by his coaches, Pancho Professional and three years later was to fully focus on Elena — taking her to
Segura and Ben Press. named the USPTA Professional of the lessons, setting up matches, watching what
Initially hired to open the San Diego Year. Throughout much of the late ’80s and I did with her,” says Lopez. “Even though
Tennis and Racquet Club as Director of early ‘90s, Lopez could be found traveling her father doesn’t play, he bought a ball
Junior Development, Lopez focuses on Grand Slam tournaments, working with his machine and tossed her balls. He worked
young players’ overall development to this students; notably Zina Garrison, Angelica on her fitness.”
Gavaldon, Lupita Novelo, Whether he’s working as Director of
Photo courtesy of Angel Lopez

Alexandra Stevenson, and Tami Tennis/Head Tennis Professional at the

Whitlinger-Jones. San Diego Tennis and Racquet Club,
Despite having received a teaching through his academy, or serving
plethora of awards during his as President of the USPTA San Diego
illustrious career, including

Photo courtesy of Angel Lopez

induction into the San Diego
Tennis Hall of Fame in 2011,
Lopez is still on the court, seven
days a week, 10 hours per day —
training the next generation of
potential stars.
Lopez’s current talent roster
includes ATP pros Keegan Smith
and Brandon Nakashima — plus
13-year-old Elena Zhao. Zhao
came to Lopez in June 2018,
when she was ranked No. 150 in
Southern California Girls 12s.
Since then, the exciting young
prodigy has worked tirelessly
to enhance her all-court
game, earning a No. 1 status in
Southern California 12s and
14s singles, respectively — and
No. 3 in 16s. “Her [Elena] father

March 2021 ADDvantage Magazine - 51

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 Member Feature USPTA
Other Notable Accomplishments:
Division (1994-96), and Regional VP academy comes second. Since I was 24
(1997-98), Lopez has a mantra he follows years old, I’ve been coaching, now I’m 65, • Trained over 1000 players
each and every day. “My philosophy and I still love it! I don’t plan on retiring that have gone on to play
regarding club membership is to keep anytime soon. VAMOS!” * college tennis
the members active,” says Lopez. “My • 2015 U-T San Diego Latino
Champions Awards “Coach of
Lopez coached Zina Garrison to an Australian Open quarterfinals finish and No. 4 ranking the Year”
before she recruited him to coach her World TeamTennis (Newport Beach Dukes) in 1994.
• 2012 USPTA Diversity and
Photo courtesy of Angel Lopez

Inclusion Award
• 2012 “Remarkable Mexican”
accolade given by Consulate
General of Mexico in San
Diego, CA
• 2011 USPTA San Diego
Division Community Service
Award
• 1999 USOC/USTA
Development Coach of the
Year
• 1994 World TeamTennis Pro
Coach of the Year

March 2021 ADDvantage Magazine - 53

 “Theragun has
changed the
game for me.”
Amanda Anisimova
Professional Tennis Player
and Theragun Athlete

Massage Reinvented®
Designed to improve the movement that helps generate power in a tennis
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well as reduce soreness and relieve pain after and in between matches.
 Charitable Campaign USPTA

Hustle, Hit, Never Quit

James P. Burke, USPTA Director of Communications

I f 2020 taught us anything, it taught

us how precious life is. It instilled in
us the importance of family, friends, and
the impact of the NJTL — positively
influencing students’ lives in disadvantaged
populations.
• Hit: The impact phase. We will work
with the 17 Divisions to conduct
auctions and fundraisers to raise funds
community. And it forced us to adapt, As we look back on 2020 and look to award more grants and ultimately
invent, and persist. A challenging year for forward to ‘21 with a new perspective, make an even more significant impact
many, the experience provided a brutal the USPTA is reinvigorated and believes than we did in 2020.
reminder of what is truly special in life. together we can do more to help support • Never Quit: We will continue to look
Matters that are larger than ourselves USPTA Professionals aligned with 510(3) for ways to help others through the
became important again, enriching our lives (c) non-profits. Therefore, we introduce USPTA Grant Fund. The USPTA will
as we regained focus. We are not likely to “Hustle, Hit, Never Quit,” a comprehensive, work closely with the USTA Foundation
forget this perspective as we continue to ongoing charitable campaign to support to adapt when necessary to help meet
navigate these challenges one year later. the USPTA Grant Fund administered the needs of those less fortunate.
During 2020, your USPTA looked outside by the USTA Foundation. With regular
of itself and partnered with the USTA messaging on USPTA.com and USPTA So, how can you get involved? Be on the
Foundation to raise funds for grassroots social media channels, the campaign aims lookout for the “Hustle, Hit, Never Quit”
tennis and education programs benefitting to focus attention on the USPTA Grant campaign appearing throughout the year
under-resourced youth through the Fund by building a sense of community on the USPTA website and the USPTA
National Junior Tennis & Learning (NJTL) within our organization to help raise social media channels. Help promote the
network. In the fall, 13 organizations were monies for the USPTA Grant Fund through cause by spreading the word to your clubs
awarded grants because of your generosity. the USTA Foundation. and students. Work with your division to
These grants support USPTA professionals The campaign contains three distinct conduct fundraisers and auctions. Visit the
in the field who managed through the phases: USPTA Grant Fund page at
pandemic’s impact, championing these • Hustle: The information-gathering ustafoundation.com/usptafund and donate.
under-served communities and building phase. We will identify the needs of Just $10 from 1,000 of our members would
opportunities for students on and off the eligible 501(3)(c) businesses that raise $10,000. Let’s work together to make
court. For over 50 years, this has been employ USPTA professionals. 2021 a successful year for all! *

s
s

March 2021 ADDvantage Magazine - 55

 USPTA NetWork

Missing Ingredients: Customer

Experience & Customer Service
Christopher Tran, USPTA Elite Professional

I t is my belief that any coaches who are

great salesmen or excellent teaching pros
on the court are missing customer service
invaluable service and a good product that
they come to expect. A smart operation will
build pros around their program, not the
Here are some things to
consider if you believe you
might be failing to provide a
skills or fail to provide a good customer other way around. Instead, they focus on
memorable experience:
experience in our tennis industry. robust customer experience and service.
The customer experience (CX) is defined As such, if a pro were to leave a club, the • Are your pros standing
by your customer’s interactions and customers would not experience a change around talking to each other
experiences with your business throughout in philosophy.
while running a clinic?
the entire consumer journey, from the first The term customer service (CS) refers
contact to becoming a happy and loyal client. to the way a company interacts with its • Are your pros merely a
Customer experience is an integral part customers and handling of the progress of ball feeding machine – not
of a customer relationship. It is important the player, billing, complaints – any issue providing feedback to
because a customer who has a positive whatsoever. Whenever there is direct
students?
experience with your business is more likely contact with a client, we are talking about
to become a repeat supporter of your brand. customer service. So, what is the difference • Are your pros failing
According to Oracle, 74 percent of senior between the two? Customer experience is to enforce COVID-19
executives believe that customer experience how players feel about their session with guidelines?
impacts a customer’s willingness to be a loyal the pro during the lesson, or when they
advocate. If you want your customers to stay purchase a product. It could also include • You are coaching a
faithful, you must invest in their experience! how they view you as a pro or your program performance level player,
Why do we see customers following while attending a class. On the other hand, and ask, “what do you want
individual pros in our industry and not customer service is how communication to work on?”
staying with a specific academy or school? and issues are being handled beyond the
Mostly because the pros provide them an tennis court. • Your pros spend most of the
time checking their phones
Photo courtesy of Stratos Giannikos

during the lessons.

• Do your pros present
themselves professionally,
both in appearance and
demeanor?
• Do your pros arrive to the
court before their scheduled
time and are prepared for
their lesson?

56 - ADDvantage Magazine March 2021

 NetWork USPTA

Now for customer service.

Photo courtesy of Olena Yakobchuk

Answer these questions
truthfully!
• Do you provide a quality
status report about the
player?
• Do you listen and answer
players’ questions to their
satisfaction?
• Do you promptly return
emails and voicemails?
• Do you provide
recommendations?
• Will you move a child to the
next level when ready, or
will you wait for the parent
to ask? Many of the high-priced pros are just great Once you understand your customers
salesmen; even if they are not certified, they well enough, you can use that knowledge to
• Do you make still get big bucks for their lessons! personalize every interaction. Customers
recommendations about the Customer frustration will lead to churn. these days have more power and choices than
players’ equipment needs According to Esteban Kolsky, Head of in years past. Thus, you are responsible for
before being questioned? Customer Experience Strategy for SAP, 72 acknowledging their needs. If you make sure
percent of customers will share a positive their interaction with your club or academy
experience with six or more people. On the is smooth, pleasant, and continuously
Customer experience and customer other hand, if a customer is not happy, 13 improving, you will drive brand loyalty. If
service have fast become top priorities for percent will share their experience with 15 not, you will give your competitors the best
businesses, and 2021 will be no different. or more individuals. The challenge here lies gift you can – your clients.
Customers no longer base their loyalty on in the fact that, in most cases, customers do When asked about his company’s main
price or product alone. Remember, tennis not tell you if they are unhappy. In fact, only 1 competitive advantage, Amazon founder
can be a pricy sport, so your clients are in 26 unhappy customers complain. The rest Jeff Bezos was quick to define it as “creating
mostly mid to high-end consumers — cost simply say goodbye. a customer experience superior to anything
is not their primary concern. Instead, they With 9 out of 10 businesses, mainly my competitors can create.” Academies
stay loyal to the academy and club because competing based on levels of customer and clubs that successfully implement a
of the experience they receive. If you cannot experience, organizations take customer robust customer experience and customer
keep up with their increasing demands, experience seriously to stand out from the service strategy achieve higher customer
consumers will leave you. noise and win loyal customers. One thing is for satisfaction rates, reduced customer churn,
Providing a wonderful customer sure, to deliver a positive experience, you must and increased revenues. *
experience translates into customers know your customers better than ever before.
spending more money. In fact, 86 percent
of buyers are willing to pay more for a great Christopher Tran is a USPTA Certified Elite pro with 27 years of high-level coaching
customer experience, according to research experience. Tran is Elite-certified through Etcheberry High-Performance Strength and
from PWC. Often, the perception is that Conditioning program and a USTA HP-certified coach since 2007. He was recognized in 2019
the more expensive coach and clinic is of by the International Association of Tennis Psychology (IATP) as a tennis psychology expert. A
higher quality than the cheaper ones. In my former assistant coach at George Mason University and George Washington University since
experience, this is a distorted perception. 2004, he is also the Founder and Director of Strike/Zone Tennis based in Northern Virginia.

March 2021 ADDvantage Magazine - 57

 USPTA Member Feature

Tennis Improvements
John R. Williams, USPTA Elite Professional
Editors Note: Author John Williams training, the most robust way to improve a winning attitude and convince your
offers his unique insight and thought- is by practicing the shots that begin points subconscious mind that you are a winner
provoking perspective into the future of (serve and service return) and the shots and can close out matches even if you are
tennis. However, John’s opinions are not the that finish points with high margins (volleys playing poorly.
expressed opinion of the USPTA. and overheads). The experienced instructor The vision for a better tennis tomorrow
knows that young players can improve includes changes in rules, scoring, and line

O ur students want to improve their

tennis skills, and many depend on
their teaching professionals to guide
weekly, but the older, more experienced
players are likely to improve slowly.
A knowledgeable coach realizes that
calls. The idea of giving each player one
serve in Grand Slams and amateur tennis
is, on the surface, a radical change and is
them in the proper direction. The sport of practice matches are a crucial element in rarely discussed as of this writing. However,
tennis, although constantly evolving, has achieving tennis improvement. But what in this author’s opinion, a transformation
an obligation to both players and fans to kind of practice matches? Some players will happen — and accomplish the following
also improve. The desire to improve is the erroneously think that if they could play goals: shortened matches for professionals,
essence of the human condition and a rare against Roger Federer once a week, that speeding up play, more action, and more
constant in an ever-changing world. improvement would surely follow. Nothing spectacular shot-making. Spectators
For most, improvement is not easily could be further from the truth. Unless you want to see rallies, artistry, variety and
achieved and takes time and effort. For a are among the top 200 players in the world, athleticism, and this change will give
tennis player to progress, it will take lots you may improve your ball pick-up skills smaller players more opportunities for
of training and the right kind of practice. but nothing else. The only way you might success. For instance, two minutes could
So what is the right type of practice? Many develop is if Federer agrees to give you a be allowed for rest between odd games,
players and some teachers mistakenly weekly lesson. The best practice partners helping players recover from the longer
believe that spending hour upon hour are those that are consistent and do a great rallies and giving advertisers more air
rallying from the backcourt is the best and job of covering the court. Also, the majority time and fans added time to take their
fastest way to improve. Although some of your practice matches should be with seats. There will be no need for five-set
progress can be made with consistent rally players you can beat so that you develop matches. All matches will be best of three.
Service holds and breaks will become less
Photo courtesy of Iev Radin

predictable, and every point will have more

value. Also, there will be fewer points where
players give a poor effort. Hawk-eye or other
electronic devices will make all line calls,
and there will be no challenges. Scoring will
be automatic and will occur at all pro-level
tournaments, not just Grand Slams. At the
amateur level, low-cost, high-speed camera
technology will make automatic line-calling
feasible, eliminating cheating at the junior
and collegiate levels. Errant ball tosses will
count as faults, and all service lets will be
in play. From amateur to professional and
juniors to adults, coaching will also undergo
dramatic changes.

58 - ADDvantage Magazine March 2021

 Member Feature USPTA

Technology will transform how mph serves and dominate with power. The
professional and amateur players are days of a Grand Slam champion under 6
coached. Electronic devices will be allowed feet tall appear to be over. Currently, the
on court, and players will have access Argentine Diego Swartzman is the only
through an app that tracks all data. At player in the ATP top 20 under 6 feet. Most
both the professional and amateur levels, racquet sports allow only one serve; why is
software systems like PlaySight will track tennis different? During the 16th and 17th
all action on court. Winners, errors, ball centuries, when tennis was played primarily
placement, and receiving positions will be by the kings and queens of England and
collected and available for each player to France, two serves were allowed, and
view on the changeovers. Since activity will everyone served underhand. The net
be electronically monitored, match data was higher, and the court had different
will be accessed in real-time. In addition, dimensions. The serve was only
players can receive texts from their coach used to put the ball in play, not
or their team from anywhere in the world. as an offensive weapon. In 1877,
There will be no need for a human coach an English club decided to hold
on the court. Players will also have access a tennis championship on the
to Artificial Intelligence (AI) advice that lawns of what was known as the
will use this up-to-the-minute data to All England Croquet Club. The
recommend the best strategy for players to rules for that tournament were
follow. A smartwatch using AI will be worn established by Englishman Dr. Henry
by all players that recommend the best Jones. Dr. Jones set the dimensions of
serves and returns to hit on all points. This the court, the scoring, and the allowance
technique is similar to what good doubles of two serves. The reason for two serves
teams currently do after every point. was entirely one of tradition. It wasn’t until
The difference is that this advice will be 1880 that the net was lowered to three
coming from AI for singles players instead feet and that the overhead service was
of assistance coming from your doubles established as the norm for modern
partner. Tennis will become a game of tennis. That net height rule change
execution primarily. and the two-serve rule set by Dr.
Most tennis-teaching professionals Jones in 1880 have remained mostly
recognize that the sport of tennis is in need unchanged for 140 years.
of major improvements if we want to grow These improvements are discussed
the game and increase fan interest. The at length in my recently published
public is easily bored with five-hour pro book, “A Modern Guide for Tennis
tennis matches and 50 aces hit per match Improvement.” The book is currently
by 7-footers. Currently, tall players use available in paperback and can be
their considerable leverage to smack 140+ purchased on Amazon.com.

John Williams, Elite professional, has been a United States Professional Tennis
Association (USPTA) member since 1972. He has a bachelor’s degree in math
and physics from the University of Charleston, a master’s degree in astrophysics Standing 5’ 6”, Simona Halep
from Florida State University, and has completed three years of doctoral study of Romania is currenlty
ranked No. 2 in Women’s
in nuclear physics at Auburn University. John was a 3-time All-American and
Singles on the WTA tour.
was inducted into the University of Charleston Sports Hall of Fame in 2001. He
has coached and developed players of all ages and abilities. They include state,
sectional and national champions in multiple locales from Florida to Oklahoma.
Even though he is appreciative of his industry accolades, John says, “My wife and
children are my pride and joy.”

March 2021 ADDvantage Magazine - 59

USPTA Career Development

Career Development
USPTA Certification Testing Dates What’s the Dill?
March 1-2..............................................................The Sports Club of West Bloomfield
March Membership Dept. Update
West Bloomfield, MI
Dillon Chustz, USPTA Director of Membership
March 5-6........................................................................ The City Club at River Ranch

O
Lafayette, LA
March 6-7.......................................................................................Oaks at Boca Raton
ne of the best parts of my job here at the USPTA World
Boca Raton, FL Headquarters is hearing about our members’ recent
March 8........................................................................ La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club
accomplishments. I am always impressed by the resilience and
San Diego, CA
March 10................................................................ Reed Sweatt Family Tennis Center resourcefulness of those representing the USPTA. Whether you
Minneapolis, MN are starting a grassroots program, mentoring young pros, or
March 13............................................................................ Mingus Union High School
Cottonwood, AZ simply fortifying already existing programs, you all continue to
March 13-14............................................................................ Bayou Bluff Tennis Club make your mark on the industry in new and exciting ways!
Gulfport, MS
March 14.................................................................................Rush Copley Healthplex One such member is Kara Borromeo at Coral Reef Park in
Aurora, IL South Florida, who remains a constant force in her local tennis
March 14............................................................................ Longfellow Swim & Tennis
Wayland, MA
community. Aside from maintaining a packed junior program,
March 15-16............................................................................. USTA National Campus Kara has mentored and garnered the success of many young
Orlando, FL
teaching pros over the years. Recently, five of the pros under
March 17................................................................ Reed Sweatt Family Tennis Center
Minneapolis, MN Kara’s tutelage became USPTA Certified Professionals at one
March 19-20......................................................................... April Sound Country Club of our certification exams, a great example of how Kara is an
Montgomery, TX
March 20.................................................................................. Midtown Athletic Club ambassador for our organization. Since I first interacted with
Rochester, NY Kara, her goals as a teaching pro have always been very clear to
March 20-21....................................................................... Green Island Country Club
Columbus, GA me: to create a family atmosphere, to keep things in perspective
March 20-21.................................................................................Atlanta Athletic Club continually, and to always lead from the heart. I would provide
Johns Creek, GA
March 20-21........................................................ West Hills Racquet and Fitness Club
examples of this, but rather, it is more easily proven by the waitlist
Portland, OR for her private lessons and clinics, even amid a global pandemic!
March 21..................................................Williamson County Indoor Sports Complex
Hearing stories like this make me proud to work for an
Brentwood, TN
March 21............................................................................................... Dominion Club organization of professionals serving our industry in so many
Glen Allen, VA ways. Now that the new year is underway, I’m eager to hear more
March 21-22...................................................................................Oaks at Boca Raton
Boca Raton, FL about what you all are up to! *
March 21-22............................................................................. Burbank Tennis Center

In Memoriam
Burbank, CA
March 26...................................................................................... Saw Mill Tennis Club
Mt. Kisco, NY
March 27................................................................................................Wakonda Club
Des Moines, IA
Chris Bradley passed on January 16, 2021. A
March 27-28...................................................................... Mission Viejo Country Club 41-year member of the USPTA, Chris played
Mission Viejo, CA
for Dick Gould at Stanford University and was
March 28...............................................................................Westwood Tennis Center
Norman, OK the longtime Tennis Director at Alpine Hills.
March 29-30............................................................................. USTA National Campus Winner of the 2013 USPTA NorCal Lifetime
Orlando, FL
March 29-30............................................................................. Bay Club San Francisco Achievement Award, Chris touched the lives
San Francisco, CA of all those he coached and leaves behind a
March 30-31........................................................................................ Forestmeadows
Tallahassee, FL lasting legacy. *

NATIONAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS ADDVANTAGE MAGAZINE

President................................................................. Feisal Hassan Editor...................................................................................... Jim Burke ADDvantage is published monthly by the
Managing Editor......................................................... Mike Calendrillo United States Professional Tennis Association.
First Vice President.............................................Richard Slivocka
Layout/Design.............................................................Kevin Karczewski The opinions expressed in ADDvantage are
Vice Presidents...............Lane Evans, Mark Faber, Trish Faulkner, Editorial Assistance .............................Alegna Hollis, Ramona Husaru, those of the authors and not necessarily those
Jason Gilbert, Bill Mountford Sid Newcomb, Fred Viancos, Ellen Weatherford of ADDvantage or the United States
Professional Tennis Association.
Immediate Past President............................................ Gary Trost Circulation..................................................................... Trevor Trudelle
USPTA World Headquarters Copyright© United States Professional Tennis
CEO...........................................................................John Embree Association, Inc. 2021. All rights reserved.
11961 Performance Dr. Reproduction of any portion of the magazine
Legal Counsel........................................................George Parnell Orlando, FL 32827 is not permitted without written permission
407-634-3050 – www.uspta.com from the USPTA.

60 - ADDvantage Magazine March 2021