April 2008

Volume 36 Number 4 $5.00

Contents SPECIAL SECTION: RACQUETS
R S I

INDUSTRY NEWS
A P R I L 2 0 0 8

22 Building Expectations 7 Prince set to acquire

As players get smarter about their frames, Viking Athletics
they continue to expect more from racquet
companies. 7 Wilson, ITA develop intern program

24 2008 Racquet Selection Map 7 Two named PTR

Our exclusive annual guide to racquets will
Master Professionals
help you quickly and easily choose the right
frames for your customers.
8 GrowingTennis, TennisConnect
offer “Open Houses”

FEATURES 9 USTA launches new No-Cut

Coach website
32 Taking One for the Team 9 Babolat creates new
Team apparel can be big business for
retailers, as manufacturers offer outfits “Armani” racquet
to suit all types of groups.
10 Gamma introduces Asterisk
Tour string
36 Overcome Obstacles to Play
Don’t just teach your beginners how to
hit the ball. Teach them how to play a
10 USPTA launches online
match. Certification Review Course
10 Head renews deal with Beach
38 Quality Construction Tennis USA
The outdoor hard-court Distinguished
Facility-of-the-Year Award winners
demonstrate excellence on a grand scale.
11 Bälle de Mätch to distribute Kaelin
11 LBH Group debuts new look
for summer
14 Dunlop adds 3 new Aerogel frames
15 ASBA, USTA release new “Tennis
Courts” manual

DEPARTMENTS
4 Our Serve 42 String Playtest: Luxilon Alu Power Fluoro 123
7 Industry News 44 Ask the Experts
18 TIA News & Updates 46 Tips and Techniques
20 Business Trends 48 Your Serve, by Scott Hanover

2 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008

Our Serve
(Incorporating Racquet Tech and Tennis Industry)

A Gathering of Champions Publishers

David Bone Jeff Williams

O
nce again, I felt fortunate to attend one of this indus- Editorial Director
try’s best workshops for those actually delivering ten- Peter Francesconi

nis at the grassroots level. I’m talking about the USTA’s Associate Editor
Greg Raven
Community Tennis Development Workshop, a yearly event
Design/Art Director
that brings together those who are in the trenches, making Kristine Thom
tennis happen in communities throughout the U.S. Contributing Editors
The 2008 CTDW was held Feb. 22 to 24 at the Flamingo Las Vegas. Robin Bateman
Nearly 600 community tennis leaders from around the country attend- Cynthia Cantrell
ed, from volunteers, to teaching pros, to district and section staff, and Rod Cross
Kristen Daley
many more. The key thing, though, is that all of these attendees are pas- Joe Dinoffer
sionate about tennis. Liza Horan
You’ve all heard talk about tennis participation on the rise. Well, it’s James Martin
Greg Moran
these folks—and the thousands like them who could not make it to
Chris Nicholson
Vegas for this CTDW—who should get the credit for actually making Bob Patterson
that growth happen. They are the true champions of this sport, and they Cynthia Sherman
are the people that all of us in this industry depend on. Mary Helen Sprecher

As I’ve said for a number of years, the USTA’s CTDW is probably the
RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY
best thing the USTA does to help tennis at the grassroots level. At the Corporate Offices
CTDW, the biggest problem I hear about is attendees unable to attend 330 Main St., Vista, CA 92084
all the sessions they want to because there is just so much happening at Phone: 760-536-1177 Fax: 760-536-1171
Email: RSI@racquetTECH.com
one time. Website: www.racquetTECH.com
This year, presentations covered a broad range: starting a CTA, spon- Office Hours: Mon.-Fri.,8 a.m.-5 p.m. Pacific Time
sorship and marketing, advocacy, building partnerships, raising funds,
Advertising Director
dealing with volunteers, instruction in public parks, public relations,
John Hanna
QuickStart Tennis, and much, much more. The sessions are led by USTA 770-650-1102, x.125
staff, volunteers, section folks, and other experts in their fields. hanna@knowatlanta.com
But beyond the presentations, simply spending time with other atten-
Apparel Advertising
dees is inspiring. In fact, to aid in networking, the USTA this year used
Cynthia Sherman
new “nTAG” technology, which is an electronic nametag that can easily 203-263-5243
swap your contact info with those you meet. After the weekend, atten- cstennisindustry@earthlink.net
dees received an email that showed the contacts they made at the Racquet Sports Industry (USPS 347-8300. ISSN 0191-
event. (The nTAG also can do many other things, including instant 5851) is published 10 times per year: monthly Janu-
ary through August and combined issues in
polling.)
September/October and November/December by
If you’ve never been to a CTDW, or haven’t been to one in the last Tennis Industry and USRSA, 330 Main St., Vista, CA
few years, you need to go. The February 2009 event will be on Hilton 92084. Periodicals postage paid at Hurley, NY 12443
and additional mailing offices. April 2008, Volume
Head Island, right after the PTR Symposium. Start making your plans.
36, Number 4 © 2008 by USRSA and Tennis Industry.
All rights reserved. Racquet Sports Industry, RSI and
logo are trademarks of USRSA. Printed in the U.S.A.
Phone advertising: 770-650-1102 x 125. Phone circu-
lation and editorial: 760-536-1177. Yearly subscrip-
tions $25 in the U.S., $40 elsewhere. POSTMASTER:
Peter Francesconi Send address changes to Racquet Sports Industry,
Editorial Director 330 Main St., Vista, CA 92084.

RSI is the official magazine of the USRSA, TIA,and ASBA

4 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008


INDUSTRY NEWS
INFORMATION TO HELP YOU
Wilson, ITA Develop
Intern Program
Wilson and the Intercollegiate Tennis
Association (ITA) are expanding their
partnership to help support those with
a passion for tennis and an interest in
developing a career in the racquet
sports industry.
Through a new Wilson/ITA Intern Pro-
gram, both Wilson and the ITA will rec-
ognize outstanding varsity tennis team
student-athletes and team managers,
of which a select few will be awarded
a Wilson internship at the company’s
Chicago headquarters. The intern pro-
gram will recognize individuals who
promote the sport at the college ten-
nis level by devoting consistent time
and effort to promotional activities to
support and bring awareness to either
their school program or tennis overall.
Two categories of collegiate promoters
have been established, Varsity Team
Managers and Varsity Student-Ath-
letes. Three individuals will be nomi-
nated by the ITA from each category
and receive a certificate of recognition
from the ITA and a special award from
Wilson. One individual from each cate-
gory will then be selected to receive a
paid summer internship at Wilson’s
global headquarters.
“We are very pleased that Wilson is
expanding its leadership role as a
major industry partner of the ITA and
such a great supporter of college ten-
nis,” says David Benjamin, executive
director of the ITA. “The Wilson/ITA
Intern Program presents a wonderful
opportunity for student-athletes to be
recognized for their promotional efforts
for their school programs and for ten-
nis in general, and also provides them
a unique opportunity to work (through
the intern program) at the leading
company in the tennis industry.”
R S I A P R I L 2 0 0 8
RUN YOUR BUSINESS
Prince Set to Acquire Viking Athletics
rince Sports Inc. announced in February that it is set to acquire the platform tennis
P brand Viking Athletics. The partnership would add paddle sports to Prince’s portfolio
of racquet sports, which includes tennis,
squash and racquetball. As of early March, details of
the deal had yet to be finalized.
Viking Athletics was founded in 1984 in Linden-
hurst, N.Y., by David Kjeldsen, an avid platform play-
er who is widely accepted as the “guru” of the sport
and who will be inducted into the ATPA Hall of Fame
in March. “Prince is a complete racquet and court sports
company and as specialists we want, and need, to be
involved in every aspect of the industry,” says Prince CEO
George Napier. “Viking is the clear leader in platform tennis so it makes perfect sense to part-
ner with David.”
Viking Athletics will retain its name and will continue to conduct business in the same
fashion. The Viking brand will be managed by Scott Winters, vice president of Small Court
Sports at Prince who is responsible for both the Prince Squash and Ektelon brands. Kjeldsen
will join the Prince team. Charlie Osborn, vice president of National Sales for Prince, will
manage the sales initiatives for the new brand.
Two Named PTR Master Professionals
ernando Velasco of Austin, Texas, and Shinichi Suzuki of Chiba, Japan, were named PTR
F
Master Professionals at the annual PTR International Tennis Symposium, which took
place Feb. 16-21 at the Van der Meer Shipyard Racquet Club on Hilton Head Island, S.C.
The Master Professional level of certification recognizes those individuals who have made
significant contributions to the game of tennis throughout their careers. The designation is
an important distinction in which PTR members must demonstrate their broad involvement
in tennis over many years, showing growth in their knowledge of the game, a strong involve-
ment in introducing tennis to their community, expertise in teaching and coaching, and a
commitment to developing professionally.
Velasco (below, left, with Master Pro
Committee Chairman Pete Collins) is the
manager and director of tennis at Circle
C Tennis Club in Austin. He has been a
guest speaker at PTR symposia for 15
years, with presentations on manage-
ment and on-court teaching in both
Spanish and English. In 1999, Velasco
was named PTR Professional of the Year.
In 1976, Suzuki became one of the
first PTR members in Japan. He mentors
other coaches in Japan, is a PTR Nation-
al Tester, and has conducted numerous
PTR clinics over the years.
April 2008 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 7
 A P R I L 2 0 0 8
INDUSTRYNEWS

Wayne Bryan Named PTR Pro of the Year GrowingTennis,

W
ayne Bryan of Camarillo, Calif., was named PTR Professional of the Year dur-
ing the 2008 PTR International Tennis Symposium, held Feb. 16-21 on Hilton TennisConnect Offer
Head Island, S.C. ‘Open Houses’
The Symposium, which included 60-plus on-court and classroom presentations,

a tennis trade show and $25,000 Championships, was held at the Van der Meer
Shipyard Racquet Club. The PTR has more than 13,000 members in 122 countries.
Other annual PTR award recipients
include:
Q Wheelchair Pro of the Year: Geoff Norton, Kansas
City, Kan.
Q Clinician of the Year: Adam Gard’ner, Shanghai,
China
Q Tester of the Year: John Carrigan, London, Eng-
land
Q Humanitarian Award: Linda McCollum, Jasper, Ga.
Q Volunteer of the Year: Jack Barker, Greer, S.C.
Q Coach Verdieck Touring Pro Coach of the Year:
Richard Williams, Palm Beach, Fla.
Q Coach Verdieck College Coach of the Year: Chuck
Kriese, Seneca, Ga.
Q Coach Verdieck High School Coach of the Year:
Dan Vonk, Kingsland, Ga.
Q PTR Male Player of the Year: Zbynek Mlynarik,
Chatsworth, Calif.
Q Public Facility of the Year: Mobile Tennis Center,
Mobile, Ala.
Q Private Facility of the Year: Midtown Athletic Club,
Weston, Fla.
Q Media Excellence Award: Bob Larson, Edina,
Minn.
Q PTR/USTA Community Service Award: Sal Castillo,
San Antonio, Texas
Q PTR/TIA Commitment to the Industry: Frank
Adams, Aurora, Colo.
Spring Scholarship Seminars Offered
In addition, PTR recognized
several State Members of the
Year for their contributions to the
organization in their respective
states.
Q Daniel Leal, Pike Road, Ala.
Q Don Henson, Bonita, Calif.
Q John Danise Jr., Sebastian, Fla.
Q Donald Young Sr., Atlanta, Ga.
Q Kelly Anchors, Old Town, Maine
Q Orlando Corona, Uxbridge, Mass.
Q Jorge Capestany, Hudsonville, Mich.
Q Larry Haugness, Springfield, Mo.
Q Geoffrey Jagdfeld, Lincoln, Neb.
Q Jerry Johnson, Las Vegas, Nev.
Q Carol MacLennan, Haddonfield, N.J.
Q D’Wayne Begay, Albuquerque, N.M.
Q Steve Keller, Rochester, N.Y.
Q Larry Karageanes, Durham, N.C.
Q Luke Taylor, Akron, Ohio
Q Thomas Vicario, Easton, Pa.
Q Robert Brown, Bluffton, S.C.
Q Bill Riddle, Nolensville, Tenn.
Q Bert Cole, Arlington, Texas
Q Brad Pearce, Provo, Utah
Q Ron Manilla, Greenwood, Va.
Q Kwan Law, Bellevue, Wash.
Q Mary Tuchscherer, Wis.
E
xpand your tennis business and
increase your profits through a
series of free, public, online “Open
Houses” that make it easy to understand
two key systems—GrowingTennis and
TennisConnect.
The GrowingTennis System allows
you to post your tennis program infor-
mation for free on key consumer web-
sites (such as USTA.com, Tennis.com,
TennisWeek.com, TennisChannel.com,
TennisWelcomeCenter.com and Cardio-
Tennis.com) so players can easily find
you and your facility. Every month,
there are more than 1 million consumer
queries on the GrowingTennis System.
Online sign-up and payment features
are also available.
The half-hour Open House will take
you through the steps to getting the
most out of the GrowingTennis System.
The online training gives you the chance
to ask the experts, as technology profes-
sionals guide you through the informa-
tional tutorial. You will need a computer
with high-speed internet access and a
separate phone line to call in.
The GrowingTennis Open House is
offered three times a week: Mondays,
Wednesdays and Thursdays, 1-1:30 p.m
(Eastern time). Immediately following
each of the GrowingTennis Open Hous-

P
arents, coaches and high school students in the Southern California area es will be a half-hour, free Open House
interested in finding out more about college scholarships for tennis players on TennisConnect (M, W, Th, 1:30-2
should try to attend a free College and University Scholarship Seminar. The p.m.), allowing users to evaluate this
seminars, put on by longtime tennis industry expert and coach Mark Winters, online communications and marketing
offer useful tips about searching for a scholarship, among other things. tool for tennis facilities.
No reservations are needed for these free seminars. For more information The TennisConnect Open House will
about the College & University Scholarship Program, call Winters at 310-208- introduce you to features such as the
3838, Ext. 231. For directions to a facility, contact the individuals listed at each website builder, eCalendar, contact
location. manager, court reservations, group
Q April 2: LA84 Foundation in Los Angeles, 5:30 p.m. (Pilar Diaz, email and more. The Open House is
pdiaz@la84foundation.org) ideal managers, decision makers and
Q April 3: Valencia High School in Valencia/Santa Clarita, Calif., 7 p.m. (Annie Kellogg, others looking for a “quick tour” of the
ACK@hartdistrict.org) software and for those who will be
Q April 9: Barnes Tennis Center in San Diego, 6:30 p.m. (Kerry Blum, 619-221-9000) deeply involved in the use of Tennis-
Q April 10: Pasadena Enterprise Center, 1015 N. Lake Ave., Suite 102 in Pasadena, 6:30
Connect.
p.m. (Hank Castillo, hank@hanksterinc.com)
Q April 16: Santa Barbara Tennis Club in Santa Barbara, 6:30 p.m. (Cathy Ann Simon,
To find out more visit
www.GrowingTennis.com and www.
805-680-3870)
Q April 23: Temescal Canyon High School in Lake Elsinore, 6:30 p.m. (Alison Roell, 951- TennisConnect.org, or call 843-686-
901-9110, roell@scta.usta.com) 3036.

8 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008

 INDUSTRY NEWS

Bryans Use Custom Inserts for Prince Frame Babolat Creates New
Top doubles players Bob and Mike Bryan are customizing their Prince ‘Armani’ Racquet
O3 Speedport Black frames with colored inserts. Prince says that with

B
abolat has entered the world of sport
the colored inserts for the O3 Speedport Black, which are available fashion with the launch of the EA7
now, players can customize their frames with more than 2,400 combi- Emporio Armani tennis
nations. For racquet. Babolat developed
more informa- the exclusive racquet for
tion, visit Emporio Armani 7, the
www.prince- sports technology brand
tennis.com. of Giorgio Armani.
Babolat says high-
tech materials and key
technologies make the
EA7 a high performance,
USTA Launches New No-Cut Coach Website lightweight, aerodynamic

T
he USTA has launched a new website designed to serve as a resource for its near- racquet that is maneuver-
ly 1,800 high school coaches who have adopted a no-cut philosophy for their ten- able and appropriate for com-
nis teams. The website, www.usta.com/no-cut, provides access to an interactive petitive players as well as club
community where all high school coaches registered in the USTA’s No-Cut program players. The cosmetic, by Empo-
can share tips, success stories and challenges as they offer all high school kids the rio Armani, is a white, silver and
opportunity to play tennis. black color combination.
The No-Cut program was launched in 2006 by the USTA as a way to encourage The 9.7-ounce, 100-square-
and recognize high school coaches who make a commitment to their students by not inch racquet is now available
cutting any student who tries out for the team. Since its inception, the USTA’s No-Cut exclusively at Emporio Armani
program has nearly doubled each year. Thousands of students who may have other- shops.
wise dropped the sport are now part of a team and competing for their school. High
school coaches can register as a no-cut coach through www.usta.com/no-cut.
Registered coaches receive updates and tips from the No-Cut Coaches Advisory Imperial Introduces
Team. Comprised of seasoned and successful no-cut coaches, the Advisory Team
offers guidance and resources to coaches who are challenged by the obstacles of ‘Green’ Headwear
working with such large teams. Imperial Headwear has intro-
The website also allows coaches to connect easily with their peers, both locally duced
and nationally. Through an interactive forum, coaches can share tips and strategies, its new
as well as connect with other no-cut coaches in their area to schedule matches. “Green”
“We are very excited to launch of our new website and offer no-cut coaches the head-
opportunity to share their knowledge and experiences,” says Kurt Kamperman, USTA
wear
chief executive of Community Tennis. “Our goal is to provide all kids, regardless of
collec-
ability, the opportunity and resources to play tennis, and our first step is to build a
tion,
strong base with the no-cut coaches.”
Every registered no-cut coach is recognized for their efforts with a certificate from
made
the USTA. In addition, the USTA sends a letter to the coach’s principal and athletic
with 65
director acknowledging the coach’s dedication to their students. Each year, two percent
coaches are selected to receive the National No-Cut Starfish Award at the USTA Ten- organic
nis Teachers Conference held during the US Open in New York. cotton and
35 percent
bamboo charcoal.
Hall of Fame Calls for Nominations Imperial says the

T
he International Tennis Hall of Fame has announced an open call for nomina- headwear is hypoallergenic,
tions for the induction class of 2009. Nominations must be received by April breathable and dries quickly, and
1. The International Tennis Hall of Fame recognizes and honors both athletes is odor absorbent, machine-
and contributors connected to the sport of tennis. washable, thermal regulating
Nominations can be submitted online at www.tennisfame.com. Printable nom- and environmentally friendly. For
ination forms are also available online, while nomination forms may also be
more information, visit
obtained by contacting the International Tennis Hall of Fame, 194 Bellevue Ave.,
www.ImperialHeadwear.com or
Newport, R.I. 02840; phone 401-849-3990; fax 401-849-8780; email: new-
call 800-950-1916.
port@tennisfame.com.

April 2008 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 9

INDUSTRYNEWS A P R I L 2 0 0 8

Gamma Introduces Asterisk Tour String

G
amma Sports has introduced Asterisk Tour, a new high performance synthetic
string that contains polyester microfilament, creating a crisp, powerful string
that offers precise control, says the company. The polyester fibers also
increase durability, says Gamma.
“Asterisk Tour perfectly combines polyester material with multifilament design
to create a superb string,” says Chuck Vietmeier, Gamma string product manag-
er. “Its unique design will give players of all levels the benefits of a multifilament
without surrendering control.”
Asterisk Tour is available in 40-foot sets and 360-foot reels in 16 and 17
gauge. For more information contact Gamma at 800-333-0337 or visit
www.gammasports.com.

USPTA Launches Online Head Renews Deal

Certification Review Course With Beach Tennis

H
ead/Penn Racquet Sports and Beach

T
he USPTA is providing its Certification Review Course
Tennis USA have renewed their part-
online, making it easier for tennis pros to earn USPTA
nership for 2008, so all matches at
certification, the organization says. In addition, appli-
all events will use Head/Penn equipment.
cants will be able to take the written and grip portions of the exam online as well. Head will serve as the official racquet
The USPTA says this will be a boost for busy teaching pros who may not have and Penn the official ball for all events on
the time to attend a six-hour review course at a particular testing location. The the Beach Tennis USA 2008 National Tour.
online review course can be done at home, reviewing all the critical material for Beach tennis is played on a 30- by 60-foot
the certification exam. Also, online videos will give applicants a taste of what to beach volleyball court using Pro Penn
expect during the on-court part of the exam. The online review will combine low-compression tennis balls.
audio, visual and text formats, as well as short quizzes at the end of each section. “Head/Penn is proud to continue as
The 100-question written exam and grip exam will be accessible once appli- the official sponsor of Beach Tennis USA,
cants have completed the on-court portion and the stroke-analysis exam. Appli- bringing tennis to a new audience in a
cants will be tested against a time limit. unique and fun way,” says Amy Wishin-
The online CRC will completely replace the six-hour classroom review session grad, Head’s national promotions manag-
after May 18, except for exams held at the Regional Testing Centers, USPTA World er.
Conference and divisional conventions. Previously, the classroom review went Beach Tennis USA events will be tele-
over the material presented in the 522-page “The Complete Guide to USPTA Mem- vised on Tennis Channel, Comcast Sport-
bership” the day prior to the exam at each testing location. For more information sNet and SportsNet New York (SNY). For
visit uspta.com or call 800-USPTA-4U. more information, visit www.beachten-
nisusa.com.

Tennis Racquet Top-Selling Racquets Top-Selling Top-Selling

Performance at Specialty Stores Tennis Shoes at Tennis Strings
Specialty Stores, By year-to-date dollars, January-September 2007
(average selling price)
Specialty Stores at Specialty
January-September, 2007 vs. 2006 By year-to-date dollars,
Best-Sellers January-September 2007
Stores
1. Babolat Pure Drive Cortex (MP) $172 (average selling price) By year-to-date dollars,
Units 2007 634,317
2. Prince O3 White (MP) $185 1. Adidas January-September 2007
2006 613,684
3. Wilson K Six One 95 (16 x 18) (MS) $175 Barricade IV $100 1. Prince
% Change vs. ’06 3%
4. Wilson K Six One Tour 90 (MS) $184 2. Nike Synthetic Gut Duraflex
5. Wilson K Six One Team 95 (MS) $176 Air Breathe Free 2 $95 2. Wilson
Dollars 2007 $87,842,000
“Hot New Racquets” 3. Adidas NXT
2006 $80,948,000
(Introduced in the past 12 months) Barricade II $83 3. Wilson
% Change vs. ’06 9%
1. Wilson K Six One 95 (16 x 18) (MS) $175 4. Prince Sensation
2. Wilson K Six One Tour 90 (MS) $184 MV4 $94 4. Prince
Price 2007 $138
3. Wilson K Six One Team 95 (MS) $176 5. Prince Lightning XX
2006 $132
4. Prince O3 Speedport Red (OS) $227 T10 $77 5. Luxilon
% Change vs. ’06 5%
5. Prince O3 Speedport Blue (OS) $244 Alu Power

(Source: TIA/Sports Marketing Surveys)

10 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008
 INDUSTRY NEWS

Bälle de Mätch to Distribute Kaelin

B
älle de Mätch will distribute Kaelin apparel starting July 1. Kaelin, which was
founded in 1982 by former Head Sportswear executives as a women’s fash-
ion brand, was previously distributed by Diadora.
“The classic style is a nice addition to our youthful look and allows us to reach
a broader range of players,” says Bälle de Mätch founder and designer Chris Dev-
erian.
“Kaelin was struggling with customer service and delivery, which is our forte,”
says Bälle de Mätch co-owner and partner John Embree. “But Kaelin is strong in
sourcing and we believe we can tap into their sourcing expertise.”
Kaelin will continue to be led by industry veteran Stu Keiller, who will keep his
design team in New York City and work from his office in Baltimore.

LBH Group Debuts New Look for Summer

T
he LBH Group Ltd. has launched its summer ’08 collections for its two tennis
lines: LBH and Wimbledon. Under the new direction of Vice President and Cre-
ative Director James Sowins, the company says it has revitalized the look of LBH
and Wimbledon and re-branded The LBH Group’s golf line, Lily’s of Bev-
erly Hills, to bring a new perspective to the 35-year-old company.
"We feel we have struck the right balance between athletic excel-
lence and the needs of contemporary women,” says Sowins, who joined
LBH Group in February 2007. “We are trying to deliver this with a range
of looks and fabrics that strike a balance between style and perform-
ance.”
The newly re-branded LBH collection includes a new logo and
apparel that “features luxurious yet athletic performance fabrics for
a perfect synthesis of sport and fashion,” says the company. The
summer Wimbledon collection has been re-designed and expanded
by 40 percent to feature athletic performance fabrics in expressive
colors and vivid prints. The LBH Group has held the license to
design, manufacturer and sell women’s and men’s tennis apparel
under the Wimbledon name in the U.S., Canada and Caribbean
since 1996.
The LBH and Wimbledon summer ’08 collections will be
available in April and deliver through August. For more informa-
tion, visit www.lbhgroup.com.

2008 Cardio Tennis Workshops

I
n 2008 there will be four National
Cardio Tennis workshops, sched-
uled for Atlanta, Houston, Los
Angeles and the Mid-Atlantic section.
These two-day workshops cover all
topics regarding Cardio Tennis, includ-
ing the standard curriculum, music, heart rate monitors, games, marketing and
special segments such as kids, seniors and starter players.
The workshops, which have been updated this year, are suitable for pros at all
facilities, whether at an experienced Cardio Tennis site or new to the program. For
more information or to register, visit www.growingtennis.com and click on train-
ing/workshops.
Q April 13-14, Atlanta, Midtown Athletic Club at Windy Hill
Q May 3-4, Houston, Houston Racquet Club
Q May 17-18, Bowie, Md., Sport Fit Bowie
Q June 8-9, Los Angeles, Home Depot Center

April 2008 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 11

 INDUSTRYNEWS A P R I L 2 0 0 8
O P L E W AT C
E H
P • Dunlop
has named Hunter
Hines the Eastern Region-
al Manager for its Rac-
quet Sports Division.
With his appointment,
Dunlop has now
revamped its service and
coverage to the Pro and
Specialty channels on both coasts; Dunlop
just recently named his counterpart for the
Western Region, Steve Schultz. As a territory
manager for Head/Penn, Hines was named
RSI’s Sales Rep of the Year in 2007.
• Geoff Norton of Kansas City is the direc-
tor of Junior High Performance at TCA’s
Midtown Tennis Club in Overland Park, Kan.
Formerly, he was the PTR’s director of devel-
opment and the USTA’s national manager of
adult/senior competition and technical pro-
grams. He recently was named PTR wheel-
chair tennis professional of the year.
• RSI Contributing Editor Robin Bateman of
Macon, Ga., recently won the
USTA Southern Section’s
Mark Kaplan Media Excel-
lence Award. The honor
was presented to her at
the annual awards ban-
quet in January in Atlanta.
• Head players Aimee Ruiz and Jack Huczek
separately captured national titles recently at
the 2008 USA Racquetball National Doubles
Championships at the Arizona State Uni-
versity Recreation Center. Both Ruiz and
Huczek are members of Head’s Pro Staff
and with their respective wins have
earned one-year appointments to
the USA Racquetball National
Adult Team. That team will
represent the U.S. in the
2008 International
Rac-
USRSA MEMBER CL ASSIFIEDS
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: Prince Sports is looking for an experienced
product manager for their strings, grips, machines and accessories division.
Full job description is available on http://www.racquetsportsindustry.com
/news/2008/03/prince_sports_inc_looking_for.html. Candidates can email
their resume directly to Prince Human Resources at HR@princesports.com.
12 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008
quetball Fed-
eration’s (IRF) World
Championships in Ireland
this August. In addition, Huczek
won the International Racquetball
Tour’s Seattle Open in February.
• Justine Henin, playing with a new [K]
Tour racquet, won a tournament in Bel-
gium.
• ATP pro Kei Nishikori, age 17, of Japan,
has signed with Wilson and will play with
the [K] Tour 95 racquet. The deal also
includes tennis bags, strings, grips and other
Wilson accessories. Nishikori won his first
ATP title in February in Delray, Fla.
• Mississippi senior Erling Tveit received the
Intercollegiate Tennis Association Sports-
manship Award in February at the ITA
National Men's Team Indoor Championships
at the Nordstrom Tennis Center in Seattle.
Tveit, a native of Oslo, Norway, was chosen
for this annual award by the 16 participat-
ing coaches for displaying outstanding
sportsmanship and exemplifying the spirit of
college tennis during the course of the tour-
nament and throughout his career.
• Longtime USTA volunteer Carlton Ander-
son, an expert on tennis balls and ball test-
ing, died Feb. 8 of cancer. Anderson, of
Weston, Conn., was a founding member of
the USTA Ball Testing and Equipment Com-
mittee (now a part of the USTA Technical
Committee).
• Todd Martin will join the field of Out-
back Champions Series players at the
inaugural The Residences at The Ritz
Carlton, Grand Cayman Legends
Championships April 16-20
and the Champions Cup
Boston, April 30-
May 4.
 INDUSTRY NEWS

SHORT SETS
>renewed
Wilson and World Team Tennis have
their longstanding partnership for
will outfit staff of the Family Circle Cup
and nearly 500 volunteers.
2008 and beyond. Co-founded by Billie Jean
King, World Team Tennis (WTT) is a profes-
>ly that
Roger Federer told ESPN.com recent-
he planned to play competitive
sional and recreational tennis league featur-
tennis for years to come. "My goal is to
ing thousands of players in communities
play for as long as possible, possibly until
throughout the U.S. The professional WTT
I am 35," the 26-year-old Swiss told
league features the biggest names in tennis
reporters after winning the Laureus
playing in a co-ed team format and has been
Sportsman of the Year award for a
continually recognized for its innovative
record fourth year in a row. Justine
approach to both the fan experience and the
Henin, who won 10 WTA titles in 2007,
on-court format for the players.
took home the women's edition of the
>andPrince is the official racquet, tennis ball
string of the Nike Junior Tour, a world-
Laureus award.

wide series of singles tournaments for boys’

> Lejay’s 2008 collection is online at
www.lejay.com. Retailers can view and
and girls’ in the Under 12 and 14 age groups.
order online by logging onto the web-
Currently there are more than 60,000 players
site, following the link for “retailers,”
from 24 countries participating in the pro-
and entering their five-digit account
gram, which includes tournaments, training
number with password “LEJAY.” To
clinics, exhibitions and speaking engage-
request a catalog, email info@lejay.com.
ments at the grassroots level. As part of the
For inquiries about upcoming trade
agreement, Prince will be onsite at every NJT
shows in your area, contact 800-932-
sponsored tournament and affiliated event.
7535 or info@lejay.com.
>tractLuxilon has extended its multi-year con-
as the official racquet stringing service
>20 inTheCharleston,
Family Circle Cup, held April 12-
S.C., is again offering a
and string of the Sony Ericsson Open, an
Team Getaway Package designed for
agreement it has had since 2004. The Luxilon
league players. Call the box office at
stringing team, consisting of 10 world-class
843-856-7900, ext. 1.
stringers from five countries, will be on-site
for the March 26-April 6 event in Key Bis- >da, Recreational tennis teams from Flori-
Georgia, Missouri, New Jersey and
cayne, Fla.
South Carolina won regional champi-
>andPrince was the official racquet, tennis ball
string of the three-year-old Tennis Chan-
onship titles in February at the World
TeamTennis Rec League National Qualifi-
nel Open, which took place March 3-9 in Las
er at IMG Bollettieri Academy in Braden-
Vegas. And in related news, the SAP Open in
ton, Fla. The winning teams in each
San Jose, Calif., has announced a new three-
division advance to the WTT National
year partnership with Prince as the official
Finals, Oct. 31-Nov. 2, in Indian Wells,
ball, racquet, footwear and apparel supplier.
Calif.
The event took place in February.

>TennisTheManagement
Ferris State University Professional
>Peter,No.Minn.,
3 seed Gustavus Adolphus of St.
upset defending champi-
(PTM) program in Big
ons and No. 1 seed UC-Santa Cruz 5-4
Rapids, Mich., has formed a partnership with
in the final at the Intercollegiate Tennis
Dartfish Video Software Solutions. Dartfish
Association Division III National Men's
will provide training and support for the PTM
Team Indoor Championship. It was Gus-
degree program and Ferris will incorporate
tavus Adolphus’ fourth Team Indoor title.
additional teaching modules into its curricu-
In Division I, top-seeded Virginia beat
lum that use Dartfish.
No.3 Ohio State 4-1 in February to win
>theForapparel
the third straight year, Lacoste will be
sponsor of the Family Circle Cup,
the Intercollegiate Tennis Association
National Men's Team Indoor Champi-
held April 12-20 in Charleston, S.C. Lacoste onship.

April 2008 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 13

INDUSTRYNEWS A P R I L 2 0 0 8

Available in April is a new book by

award-winning tennis journalist and
Dunlop Adds
author Paul Fein, Tennis Confidential II: 3 Aerogel
More of Today’s Greatest Players, Match- Frames
es, and Controversies. With a foreword

D
unlop has
by Mary Carillo, Fein covers some of the added to its
greatest storylines in tennis, and includes Aerogel line of
racquets with the
interview with former champions.
new (from top to bot-
Price is $27.50, available at tom) 6Hundred, 8Hun-
www.potomacbooksinc.com. dred and 1Thousand
frames. The company says
the technologies in these three
2008 GSS Symposium frames are suited to help play-
ers maximize the power of
Beginner, Veteran Stringers to Benefit from Seminars their ground strokes while
hether you’re an experienced stringer or just starting out, you’ll find useful

W
maintaining comfort and
and practical information to help your business at the 2008 Grand Slam touch at the net.
Stringers Symposium, which will be Oct. 11-14 in Orlando, Fla. Dunlop says Aero-
For the beginner to intermediate technician, U.S. Racquet Stringers Associa- gel is the world’s
tion Executive Director Dave Bone (who is also a co-publisher of RSI magazine) lightest solid, made
and 2006 RSI Stringer of the Year and MRT Grant Morgan will lead the Basics of up of 99 percent
Stringing seminar. Topics will include machine preparation, racquet air. The material is
preparation, racquet mounting, string & tension selection, basic used throughout
stringing patterns and techniques (including one- and two-piece each frame, adding
stringing), using the starting clamp, and various knots used to com- power and strength
plete the job. to the racquets, says
Beginning stringers won’t want to miss this opportunity to learn the company. Also, all
the fundamentals from industry veterans, and experienced stringers three frames have Dun-
will find many things that can elevate their business to the next lop’s Aerobridge technolo-
level. gy, a dampening system that
For those ready to become Certified Stringers or Master Racquet Technicians, cancels string vibration by
there are a limited number of spots available for testing at the Symposium, so using an injection-molded
sign up now. If you want to make sure you are ready for the test, sign up for the polymer sleeve to enclose the
Advanced Stringing and Service Review seminar presented by 2005 RSI Stringer throat of the racquet.
of the Year and MRT Bob Patterson. He’ll review important topics and the The Aerogel 8Hun-
“hands on” portion of the test with demonstrations including knot tying and dred also has Vibro-
stringing techniques. Patterson also will demonstrate handle build-up and grom- core, an additional
met/bumper installation. Whether you’re planning to take the test at the Sym- layer of protection
posium or at some time in the future, this will be a useful seminar for you. against frame vibra-
To register for the 2008 GSS Symposium, visit www.grand-slam- tion and shock,
stringers.com. made up of a ther-
mal-plastic resin
FREE ADMISSION with a silicone core
TO THE 2008 GSS STRINGERS SYMPOSIUM
inserted into the
GSS is waiving the $495 symposium fee for one lucky winner.
Just cut out this coupon and mail it to: throat.
“Game improvers
Baselines Racquet Sports LLC across America will appreci-
4710 Norwood St SW, Roanoke, Va 24018
One entry per month, per person please. Drawing will be held July 15th, 2008. ate the benefits these rac-
Offer good for symposium admission only. Travel, lodging, and food not included. quets deliver to their games,”
Name _____________________________________________________________ says Kai Nitsche, Dunlop’s gen-
Address ____________________________________________________________ eral manager of Racquet Sports.
Phone _____________________________________________________________ For more information, call 800-
Email ______________________________________________________________ 768-4727.
winner will be notified by phone and email - please write legibly!

14 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008

 INDUSTRY NEWS

Electronic Stringing Unit Offers USRSA Discount USPTA Offers

U
SRSA members can receive a 10 percent discount on the 2086 Professional
Tension Head, which quickly and easily converts a lockout stringing machine National Tourneys
to an electronic constant-pull machine.

I
n 2008 the USPTA will again
“The Tension Head is accurate, consistent and does all the things that more present the USPTA National Sur-
expensive machines do,” says Herb Wise, president of Wise USA and the develop- face Championship Series and
er of the electronic unit. “And it’s simple to install, in three minutes.” offer members the chance to earn
The compact, 12-pound unit uses a linear gripper and is factory-calibrated, prize money and ranking points.
although it can be recalibrated easily without opening the machine. It sets up in USPTA members can begin
minutes, says Wise, and has easy to read digital read-outs. There are three pulling competing and test their playing
speeds, multiple memory settings, and an optional foot pedal to simplify operation. skills starting with the USPTA
Also, pre-stretch is built into the machine and can be set to different percentages, Indoor Championships set for April
says Wise. 25-27 in Minneapolis. Total prize
The unit fits most stringing machine models. For more information, and to see money for this tournament is
a short video on setting up and using the 2086 Professional Tension Head, visit $5,000. The tournament will fea-
www.tennishead.com, or call 888-836-7466. ture events in the following cate-
gories: men’s and women’s open

WTT Adds New Pro League Team and 45s singles and doubles com-
petition, and mixed competition in

T
he World TeamTennis Professional league has added a franchise in Washing- open and 45s.
ton, D.C., called the Washington Kastles. The new team is owned by a group The tournaments are open to
led by venture capitalist and entrepreneur Mark Ein. This is the first D.C.- Professional-level USPTA members
based team in the WTT’s 33-year history. in good standing. For information,
“Area fans have supported tennis for many years and we think they will really contact 800-USPTA-4U. USPTA Pro-
embrace our unique brand of tennis,” says WTT CEO/Commissioner Ilana Kloss. fessionals may log in to the “mem-
“We’ve looked at this market for several years as a great location for expansion.” bers only” section of
There are now 11 WTT Pro League teams. The Kastles team is currently look- www.uspta.com for more informa-
ing at several potential locations to build a temporary stadium for the WTT regu- tion and an application.
lar season, which runs from July 3 to 23. The 2008 schedule is:
In other WTT news, the Pro League recently finalized its 2008 schedule and Q USPTA Indoor Championships,
announced the addition of pro Anna Kournikova to the League’s lineup of players. April 25-27, Baseline Tennis Cen-
Other marquee players include Lindsay Davenport, Serena Williams, Venus ter, Minneapolis. (Contact Brian
Williams, Andy Roddick, Martina Navratilova, and Bob and Mike Bryan. For infor- McCoy, 763-656-1590)
mation and schedules, visit www.WTT.com. Q USPTA Clay Court Championship,
May 9-12, Ibis Golf and Country

ASBA, USTA Release 5th Edition ‘Tennis Courts’ Club, West Palm Beach, Fla.
(Contact Chuck Gill, 561-624-

T
he American Sports Builders Association and the USTA recently published the
fifth edition of Tennis Courts: A Construction & Maintenance Manual. The 228-
page book includes updated information on all facets of tennis courts—plan-
ning and design (including design for different playing populations), construction
guidelines, surfacing systems, and accessories and amenities. The book contains
more than 50 diagrams and charts, many which have
been revised, and many color photos. The new edition
also includes an expanded section on the maintenance
of tennis courts, as well as court accessories, fencing,
landscaping, etc.
The manual is the ultimate resource for those in the
design and/or construction field, such as architects,
engineers, contractors and specifiers, as well as for
owners and end-users, such as tennis professionals,
club owners and managers, coaches, and park and rec
directors.
It’s available through either the ASBA or USTA for
$44.95, plus shipping and handling. To order online
at www.sportsbuilders.org, click on “publications”
on the left side of the home page.
8900)
Q USPTA Grass Court Champi-
onships, Aug. 22-24, Philadelphia
Cricket Club, Philadelphia. (Con-
tact Ian Crookenden, 215-247-
6290)
Q USPTA International Champi-
onships, Sept. 15-18, La Quinta
Resort and Spa, La Quinta, Calif.
(Contact Frank Kelly, 512-453-
7249)
Q USPTA Hard Court Champi-
onships, Oct. 24-26, Hollytree
County Club and Tyler Tennis &
Swim Club, Tyler, Texas. (Con-
tacts Jim Sciarro, 903-581-7788;
Guillaume Gauthier, 903-561-
3014; Frank Kelly, 512-453-7249)

April 2008 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 15

INDUSTRYNEWS A P R I L 2 0 0 8
New Business & Tech Workshops
L
ooking to improve customer service through the use of
online tennis technology? Then attend a Tennis Welcome
Center Business & Technology Workshop—“How to Fast
Track Your Business with Technology”—offered at five loca-
tions.
These interactive, full-day workshops are for service
providers, marketing staff, directors, managers and owners.
They’re led by facilitators with expert training and background
in technology and online business, marketing and customer
service solutions.
16 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008
Attendees receive training on the Growing Tennis System;
become familiar with the Tennis Welcome Center, Cardio Ten-
nis and No-Cut Coach programs and QuickStart Tennis; learn
about online enrollment; find out how to use TennisConnect to
increase profits; and much more.
The workshops run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will be: April
8 in Tampa, Fla.; April 28 in Atlanta; May 5 in Philadelphia;
May 19 in Los Angeles; and June 16 in Chicago. Cost is $50
and includes lunch. Registration is limited to 20. Registration
and payment is online at www.GrowingTennis-Training.com.
USTA Honors People,
Organizations
T
he USTA presented honors to vari-
ous tennis organizations and peo-
ple from around the nation at the
annual Community Tennis Develop-
ment Workshop, which was held at the
Flamingo Las Vegas Feb. 22-24.
The CTDW is one of the premier
gatherings in the U.S. for community
tennis leaders. This year’s workshop
offered a variety of seminars and pre-
sentations, from helping to establish
and manage a CTA or NJTL, to running
programs and events, to securing spon-
sors and raising funds. The CTDW also
offered several sessions about the new
QuickStart Tennis format.
Leadership trainer Paul Wesselmann
led opening and closing sessions, the
awards banquet was emceed by tennis-
pro-turned-broadcaster Justin Gimel-
stob, and Christy Haubegger, the
founder of Latina Magazine, was the
closing keynote speaker.
The following awards were present-
ed at the CTDW:
Q NJTL of the Year (presented at three differ-
ent budget levels): Rising Stars of Kentucky
Tennis, Louisville, Ky.; NJTL of Trenton Inc.,
Trenton, N.J.; and Dallas Tennis Associa-
tion, Dallas, Texas.
Q Janet Louer USTA Jr. Team Tennis Organiz-
er of the Year: Rita Gladstone, Daytona
Beach, Fla.
Q Adaptive Tennis National Community Serv-
ice Award: Orthotic & Prosthetic Assistance
Fund of Langhorne, Pa.
Q Community Tennis Association of the Year:
Florence Tennis Association, Florence, S.C.
Q Eve Kraft Community Service Awards: Sue
Jollensten, Albuquerque, N.M.; Nancy
Horowitz, Pembroke Pines, Fla.; Jaime
Kaplan, Macon, Ga.; Bob Phelps, Carson
City, Nev.
 A P R I L 2 0 0 8
TIA NEWS
News You Can Use!
I recently was
invited to the
Tennis Forum
at the conven-
tion of the
Jolyn de Boer International
Health, Rac-
quet and Sportsclub Associa-
tion (IHRSA) in San Diego. It
was interesting to note the
continued growth of the fit-
ness industry to a degree that
even challenges IHRSA’s own
commercial tennis facilities,
not to mention tennis facili-
ties everywhere. The fact is—
fitness is not going away, and
for those facilities that have
embraced it with Cardio Ten-
nis and now the QuickStart
Tennis format, the proof is in
the numbers.
For instance, in 2007, Mid-
town Tennis Club in Chicago
made $100,000 with Cardio
Tennis, and it has set a goal
of $150,000 for 2008. Mid-
town also had a 90-minute
class with 187 participants.
The Longfellow Club in Mas-
sachusetts, an IHRSA mem-
ber, recognized the value of
QuickStart Tennis by installing
smaller courts to accommo-
date the format, then wit-
nessing great success. Since
then, they’ve added a parent
viewing area and they’ve
already seen the return on
their investment.
Get involved with these ini-
tiatives at GrowingTennis.com
and watch your business
grow!
18 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008
T I A N E W S A P R I L 2 0 0 8
NEWS & UPDATES
Industry Trends Highest Since the ’80s
T
he 2007/2008 Tennis
Health Index, com-
posed of seven key
components that detail vari-
ous aspects of the health of
the sport in the U.S., is sched-
uled to be released in early
April. The THI includes data
from the 2007 TIA/USTA Ten-
nis Participation Survey (left),
ball shipments, online and
mail participation studies, the
Court Activity Monitor, and
facility and player surveys.
As of mid-March, five of
the seven indexes have been
received and all are reporting
positive numbers, which is
good news for all in the tennis
industry.
Tennis Participation Fast Facts
Frequent Participation Up 15.1% since 2003
 Total participation… is up for 2007 (3.8%) to 25.1 million players, from 24.2 in 2006.
 Total play occasions… are also up (3.1%) from 2006—to 533 million from 517 million.
 Frequent players… are up (1.2%) to 5.25 million, from 5.19 in 2006.
 New players… are down 5% (to 5.7 million from 6.0 million).
 Continuing players… are up 5.6% (to 13.92 million from 13.18 million).
 Rejoiners… are up 10.2% (to 5.48 million from 4.97 million).

Lapsed players… are down 3.3% (to 22.88 million from 23.65 million—which is good,
because fewer people are giving up the game).
Racquet shipments (in units) have increased over the last five years by 42.1% in dollars. Racquet shipments (in
wholesale dollars) have increased for the last five years by 36%. One racquet category that has seen exceptional
growth in that time is the sale of Youth Racquets, which are up by 80%. Ball shipments since 2003 have
increased by 15%.
Join the TIA . . . Increase Your Profits . . . Grow the Game . . . www.TennisIndustry.org
 TIA NEWS

Economic Watch
How Does the Economy Affect Your Business?

W
e’ve analyzed two leading economic measures (the
Dow Jones Industrial Average and the Consumer
Confidence Index) against tennis player participa-
tion numbers and equipment shipments over the last six years
and, while more analysis is needed to reach solid conclusions,
what we’ve found so far is very interesting.
Player totals tend to be independent of economic consumer
confidence. The number of frequent players tends to increase
during times of increased consumer confidence. Racquet and
ball shipments tend to increase in line with industrial trends.
With the threat of a recession becoming more likely, this
may provide some confidence that overall player levels will
hold steady during difficult economic times. We’ll keep moni-
toring the tennis industry indicators and let you know how
things stack up as more data becomes available.

Growing Tennis Updates

Grassroots Initiatives: GrowingTennis.com TIA and the ASBA
Expand Partnership
W
ant a surefire way to increase your business, at absolutely NO COST
to you? As a facility or retailer, you can list your information and pro-

T
he TIA is helping to bring
grams on key consumer websites FOR FREE so that players and cus-
expanded benefits, services and
tomers can easily find you.
research to the court construc-
In January, more than 1.9 million consumer queries were made to the infor-
tion segment of the industry.
mational “postcards” found on USTA.com, TennisWelcomeCenter.com, Car-
Current members of the American
dioTennis.com, Tennis.com, TennisChannel.com and other websites as
Sports Builders Association can receive
consumers searched for a match, facility, instructional program, pro shop, etc.
a complimentary TIA Individual Mem-
All facilities and retailers can go on GrowingTennis.com to input and update
bership with their membership in the
their information for free. That information is then accessible through the var-
ASBA. In addition, they can upgrade to
ious consumer websites.
the Associate Member level – through a
Also, you can register for QuickStart Tennis and the No-Cut High School
half-price offer - $195. At the Associate
Coach initiative through GrowingTennis.com, plus receive free marketing and
Member level, court contractors and
promotional material. Online enrollment options for your tennis programs also
facility designers will enjoy expanded
are available, and a soon-to-be-released racquet demo tracking system will be
research offerings that include the Ten-
offered for free to all Tennis Welcome Centers.
nis Marketplace Report twice a year,
the Tennis Health Index, Hot Leads
Expand Your Knowledge Report, Exclusive Cost of Doing Busi-

 Online Open Houses that make it fast and easy to understand the Grow-
ness Report for Court Contractors (pro-
posed research for 2008), and the
ingTennis and TennisConnect systems are available three times a week (every Court Construction/Renovation Moni-
M, W, Th. 1-1:30 p.m. EST).
 TWC Business and Technology Workshops will help you improve customer
tor (proposed for 2008).
Upgrading to the Associate Member
service online skills through interactive, hands-on training. Register for these level—through our half-price offer—
full-day workshops today. Individual computer workstations provided.
 Cardio Tennis Training and Workshops are also scheduled for 2008, offering
may make sense for your growing busi-
ness. All members receive discounts
something for all levels of Cardio Tennis experience within the two days of through TIA Merchant Card Services;
training. For more information, visit GrowingTennisTraining.com or call toll- shipping, travel, insurance and publica-
free 866-686-3036 or email info@growingtennis.com. tion discounts; public relations and
media service; and newsletters, along
TIA Member Support with a searchable listing on TIA web-
sites (with an ASBA membership flag).

S
ince January the TIA welcomed 37 new members at a variety of mem-
bership levels. Go to TennisIndustry.org to see the new members listing, To choose either membership level,
and also to search for retailers, facilities, manufacturers, media and court visit TennisIndustry.org/onlinepayments
contractors in your area. and use the access code ASBA.

Join the TIA . . . Increase Your Profits . . . Grow the Game . . . www.TennisIndustry.org April 2008 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 19
· business TRENDS
Working Effectively
Multi-tasking can be a great tool for your business.
But if you’re not careful, it can also drag you down.
BY JOE DINOFFER
here are a number of trends in the
T
business world that, when used
properly, can put you in the win-
ner’s circle. Conversely, if followed blind-
ly, these same trends can run you into a
brick wall and be harmful to your busi-
ness.
“Multi-tasking” is just such a notion.
At the right time and in the right situa-
tion, multi-tasking in your tennis business
can propel it toward success. However,
multi-tasking at the wrong time and
under the wrong circumstances can
become a reputation-killer.
Some 20 years ago, the concept of
multi-tasking was the theme of many
leading management books. Nowadays
this buzzword is used so commonly that
concern for how to properly multi-task
has almost become lost.
In your tennis business, here are some
examples of positive multi-tasking:
Q Stringing racquets in a high-visibili-
ty area. There are two extremes for
stringing racquets in pro shops. Some
shops outsource stringing to someone
who picks up the frames then returns
them restrung. Other shops create a
slightly raised and attractive platform in
the middle of their specialty store just
for the stringer. And they hire someone
full of personality who will educate and
entertain customers while they wait
(and hopefully shop, as well).
Q Events and activities for kids and
parents together. In most clubs, a
“kids’ event” is just for kids and an
“adult event” is just for adults. If an
activity is geared for children, the par-
ents either drop them off or hang
around and passively watch. Another
approach involves positive multi-task-
ing, and it can help you grow your par-
ticipation numbers (and income)
significantly. Sometimes it may be an
20 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008
event where the parents and children
both play together. Or, while the par-
ents play, offer a sports and skill-build-
ing mini-camp for the kids. And, if the
kids are on-court, how about a sit-
down session on tennis-parenting or
mental toughness with a guest speaker
for the parents?
Q Create onlooker interest when
teaching. This opportunity for multi-
tasking is too seldom considered. Many
facilities put their teaching pros on the
back courts, out of the way. Consider
this: Teaching experiences can and
should be seen as education and enter-
tainment, and not just for the student
on the court, but for the onlooker as
well. Lessons and drill sessions should
be focused, generally high-energy, and
visually interesting. Use ball machines,
visual teaching aids, and create an envi-
ronment where positive feedback and call, have someone take an informal
reinforcement of success is the bench- and confidential survey of a dozen peo-
mark of the lesson experience. What ple at your facility to see what they
better way to create more interest in think. You may be surprised.
your lesson program? Q Court cleaning and lawn mowing
during high-activity times. Somehow
BACKFIRING ON or other, especially at golf and tennis
YOUR BUSINESS clubs, the tennis facility often is the
Unfortunately, many of us who are in the neglected stepchild. On the golf side of
habit of doing more than one thing at a things, management would never think
time may think that all multi-tasking is a of scheduling lawn maintenance during
good thing. But, in many cases, this the- peak hours. Don’t let it happen at your
ory can backfire and hurt business. Here tennis facility.
are some examples of negative multi- Q Desk staff talking on the phone to
tasking: friends. It sounds silly, but the truth is
Q Answering your cell phone while it happens all the time. Pro shops can
teaching. While this may seem obvi- be slow during various times of the
ous, it happens way too often these day. A brief phone call to a friend is
days. People are paying for the teach- certainly understandable (perhaps a few
ing pro’s time. Receiving phone calls minutes at a time and a few times a
while teaching gives them less than day at the most). However, when a cus-
what they feel they are paying for. If tomer walks in and needs help, make
you think this seems extreme and that sure they don’t have to wait even 10
it’s harmless to speak on your cell once seconds. Be proactive. Give your desk
or twice for a minute or less on each staff projects to work on during slower
 times. Examples would be receiving
merchandise, cleaning tasks, phone
calls to welcome new members, phone
calls to offer birthday greetings, string-
ing racquets, etc.

Multi-tasking can be a good thing at

the right time in the right situation.
Focusing on the single task of the
moment, or being “on-task,” can chal-
lenge the compulsive multi-tasker, but
it’s worth the effort. Your customers will
remember you by how much you pay
attention to them, not by how many
things you can pay attention to at the
same time. Q

Joe Dinoffer is a Master Professional

for both the PTR and USPTA. He
speaks frequently at national and inter-
national tennis teacher workshops as a
member of both the Head/Penn and
Reebok National Speaker’s Bureaus. He is president
of Oncourt Offcourt Inc. and has written 16 books
and produced more than 30 instructional videos.

April 2008 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 21

 RACQUETS
To help you choose the right rac-
quet for your customers from all
the models available (as of
March 2008), see our exclusive
Racquet Selection Map, which
starts on page 24.
22 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008
BY KENT OSWALD
t’s a self-fulfilling prophecy,” says Steve
“I Vorhaus, owner of Rocky Mountain Racquet
Specialists in Boulder, Colo. "The more rac-
quet models that are offered, the more the consumer
comes to expect."
And the more consumers expect, the more they
seem to buy.
TIA research conducted by Sports Marketing Sur-
veys shows that 2007 saw continued growth in the
$220 million racquet business. Frame shipments
topped $121 million, with the high end of the mar-
ket—pro and specialty shops where racquets cost an
average of about $138 each versus the chain sporting
goods and mass merchants at $53 and $24, respec-
tively—up 4 percent in units sold and 8 percent in
dollar sales.
The 14 racquet manufacturers currently tracked
by TIA research bring a total of about 140 different
racquet models to the American market, on average,
and Head, Prince and Wilson combine to offer more
than half of those selections. The average peak selling
season for a racquet is about 18 months, according to
Sports Marketing Surveys.
As players get
smarter about
their frames, they
continue to expect
more from
racquet
companies.
But are there too many racquet models out there,
making it confusing for consumers and aggravating
for retailers?
"Every manufacturer wants to blanket the market
so they won't miss anyone," says Vorhaus, whose
store is one of the country's top specialty retailers,
selling more than 1,000 adult frames a year. "And
there is an increase in interest from techies in know-
ing all the parameters [of racquets], even if they can't
tell you how that translates to their game. Manufac-
turers are, in essence, responding to this. To be com-
petitive, I have to carry everything, but I could do this
same job with 30 percent fewer racquets than are on
the market.”
Linda Glassel, Prince’s vice president of market-
ing, says she remembers years ago when “tennis was
booming and there wasn’t enough product.” She
agrees with Vorhaus that “consumers are smarter;
technology is better.”
Prince, Glassel adds, “is in the business of helping
everybody with their game," making racquets that,
based on consumer research, are designed to help
the games of recreational players and pros alike.
 Like other retailers, Vorhaus builds racquet sales around
the demo program. He and his staff keep trying to learn
more and more from the player with each demo. (And he
makes sure that everyone coming in for a stringing job
is encouraged to demo a racquet.) Also, each frame
Vorhaus sells is strung with a better synthetic string at
no extra cost as a loss leader for the next purchase,
whether a frame or string job. "If the racquet isn't
properly strung," he says, "it doesn't play for beans."
Recommendations from specialty retailers and
teaching pros go a long way with consumers and do
help to make the choice manageable. For Barbara
Windham’s family of four in Northern California, the
past year saw four new racquets—from three different
manufacturers. Her teenage son recently became more
serious about his tennis and bought a certain brand because
his coach played with that brand. Her teenage daughter's coach
plays with a different brand, so she took
up that company’s racquet. And her hus-
Wilson General Manager
Jon Muir says his company
For retailers, it band just bought a new model—the third
brand for the family—thanks to the rec-
also is looking to cover the recre-
ational market completely. "We've got boils down to ommendation of the club pro.
Windham’s experiences also validate
a pretty broad base of consumers we are a key notion that Vorhaus mentioned—
trying to satisfy," he says, adding that the
clearest trend is "more serious players, more
knowing what’s the importance of the string job. After
playing for a long time with a particular
serious racquets."
Likewise, Head says it is trying to address out there and frame, Windham had it restrung by some-
one other than her usual stringer. The
the desire of players who feel technology has string job, she says, was not good, and
given them enough pop and who now seek to
balance that with more control. And, according
taking the time to she was unhappy with how the rac-
quet hit, so she tried her daugh-
to a company spokesperson, another significant
trend that came to light in recent years was become familiar ter’s new frame and “never
played so well”—and she
women wanting something that fit them better. bought herself the same
So Head added a series of racquets designed for
women that address physiological differences—
with all that you racquet.
“There is never
the racquets feature a balance and grip devel-
oped by a marketing and research team and offer for sale. just one racquet
for a customer,”
including Steffi Graf. says Rye, N.Y.,
But again, are there too many frames out teaching pro
there? Well, maybe yes, maybe no. Lloyd Emanuel, who says he’ll sell
"I look on the [specialty retailer] wall and there are 30 to 50 fewer than 100 racquets this year but
racquets," says Wilson’s Muir. From his perspective, the number of nonetheless extols the virtues of
racquets and all the information that is available on them is "over- choice when it comes to finding the
whelming for the consumer—confusing and intimidating." Wilson right frame.
plans to simplify its marketing presentation to address those con- "I love to have customers
cerns. come and ask what is the latest,"
But Prince’s Glassel sees it differently. "Consumers are not con- he says. "Then I know I've made
fused with what's there," she says. "They understand the nuances a sale." Q
and differences between products." As for too many racquets on Former Tennis Week Editor Kent
the wall, she believes the choices are good for players, and cus- Oswald is a writer and marketing
tomers can rely on the expertise of specialty retailers and teaching consultant. He recently won sec-
pros to help them find exactly the right frame for them. ond place in the “Hard
For retailers, it boils down to knowing what’s out there and tak- News/Enterprise” category of
ing the time to become familiar with all that you offer for sale. For the U.S. Tennis Writers’
instance, Vorhaus, even though he says he can do the same job Association 2006 Writing
Contest for a story in Ten-
with fewer racquets, makes it a point to keep himself and his staff
nis Week.
current on all the models and their benefits.

April 2008 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 23

 RACQUETS

O
ur exclusive Racquet Selection Map enables
you to help your customer choose a racquet
with “at-a-glance” ease. The entire perform-
ance racquet universe is presented on one easily nav-
igable grid that instantly locates each racquet com-
pared to every other in terms of power, control, and
maneuverability.
Simply locate the specs of your customer’s current rac-
quet on the map. From this starting point, move outward in
large or small increments in the direction of the customer’s
primary preference—relatively more or less power, control
or maneuverability. Once you have zoomed into an approxi-
mate location on the grid, you can narrow down the rac-
quet’s feel attributes by choosing from length, size, and flex
specs coded into the racquet number. Look up the racquet(s)
by number in the accompanying table and send your cus-
tomer out the door with a handful of “choice customized”
demos. This procedure eliminates player’s doubt and sec-
ond-guessing, minimizes buyer’s remorse, creates a satisfied
customer, and leads to more profits. But the Racquet Selector
won’t work for you unless you let it. Post it on the wall as a
tool for the whole world to see and use. And then, look out!

RACQUET SELECTION MAP KEY

1. Power/Control (columns). (formula = length
index x headsize x flex x swingweight) ÷ 1000.
Length index calculation: 27" = 1.0, 27.5" =
1.05; 28" = 1.1, etc.
2. Maneuverability (rows). RDC (Babolat
Racquet Diagnostic Center) swingweight units.
3. Racquet ID. The number in the grid corre-
lates to the accompanying racquet list.
4. Headsize. Midsize and midplus (≤104 sq.
in.) have no indicator.
Oversize (105 -117 sq. in.) = •. Superoversize
(≥ 118 sq. in.) = :.
5. Length. x = extended length. Standard
length (27") racquets have no indicator.
6. Flex (RDC). a = < 60; b = 60-64; c = 65-69;
d = 70-74; e = > 74. The higher the number,
the stiffer the racquet.
7. Company. Coded by number and color. See
accompanying racquet list on the following
pages.
8. Racquet Quadrants and the Center of the
Racquet Universe. The center of the racquet
universe is located at the intersection of the
two red lines. Approximately half the racquets
lie to the right and left, and half above and
below these lines. The lines divide the racquet
universe into four color-coded quadrants –
clockwise from top left: (1) quick power, (2)
quick control, (3) stable control, (4) stable
power. These characterizations provide a gen-
eral vocabulary for comparing racquets.
9. Racquet Finder List. The racquet list
accompanying the map identifies each rac-
quet and gives additional information. The
map provides specific (very narrow ranges,
anyway) swingweight, flex and power statis-
tics, and general size and length characteris-
tics. The racquet list specifies the length and
size and further specifies weight, balance,
and price.
How To Use It
1. Ask questions. What are you looking for
that your current racquet does not provide?
What do you like most and least about your
current racquet? What are the strengths and
weaknesses of your game?
2. Locate current racquet on map. If the rac-
quet is not in the list, take measurements.
3. Locating potential racquets. Depending
on the answers to the above questions,
draw an imaginary arrow (a wide or skinny
one) from your present racquet in the
desired direction for power and maneuver-
ability.
4. Narrowing the field. Shrink the choices
using the length, headsize, and flex codes to
match customer preferences.
5. Selecting racquet demos. Once the choic-
es are narrowed, locate the racquets by
number in the racquet list.

24 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008

RSI’s annual Racquet Selection Map was compiled by Jonathan Wolfe and designed by Kristine Thom.
April 2008 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 25
 RACQUETS AS OF MARCH 2008
Racquet Headsize Length Weight Weight Balance Balance Flex Swingweight Power Retail
(in2) (in.) (gm) (oz) (cm) (in.) (RDC) kg x cm2 Formula Price

AVERYAvery 800-758-9467 • www.averyracquets.com

1 M3 Control 95 27.00 346 12.20 31.00 12.20 62 307 1808 $179
2 M3 Power 95 27.00 355 12.52 32.25 12.70 68 331 2138 $180
3 M5 110 27.00 349 12.31 31.25 12.30 59 323 2096 $179
babolat
BABOLAT 877-316-9435 • www.babolat.com
4 Aero 112 (with cortex) 112 27.50 279 9.84 37.00 14.57 66 320 2484 $219
5 Aero Storm (320g with cortex) 98 27.00 316 11.15 32.60 12.83 67 304 1996 $185
6 Aero Storm Tour (with cortex) 98 27.00 348 12.28 32.50 12.80 68 331 2206 $185
7 AeroPro Drive + (with Cortex) 100 27.50 322 11.36 33.00 12.99 70 330 2426 $185
8 AeroPro Drive (with Cortex) 100 27.00 322 11.36 32.80 12.91 70 324 2268 $185
9 Drive Z 110 (with cortex) 110 27.50 270 9.52 36.90 14.53 65 305 2290 $199
10 Drive Z 118 (with cortex) 118 27.25 273 9.63 36.00 14.17 71 299 2568 $229
11 Drive Z Lite (with Cortex) 100 27.00 271 9.56 36.00 14.17 68 306 2081 $169
12 NS Drive OS 109 27.00 271 9.56 35.80 14.09 67 301 2198 $129
13 Pure Drive 107 (with Cortex) 107 27.00 313 11.04 33.00 12.99 71 319 2423 $185
14 Pure Drive 110 (with Cortex) 110 27.00 306 10.79 35.00 13.78 67 323 2381 $185
15 Pure Drive Roddick 100 27.00 332 11.71 32.75 12.89 73 328 2394 $189
16 Pure Drive Roddick + 100 27.50 333 11.75 32.75 12.89 72 336 2540 $189
17 Pure Drive (with Cortex) 100 27.00 318 11.22 33.00 12.99 72 318 2290 $185
18 Pure Drive + (with Cortex) 100 27.50 319 11.25 33.25 13.09 71 328 2445 $185
19 Pure Storm 98 27.00 308 10.86 33.75 13.29 65 319 2032 $179
20 Pure Storm LTD 95 27.00 329 11.61 31.45 12.38 58 296 1631 $179
21 Pure Storm Tour 98 27.00 334 11.78 32.30 12.72 65 328 2089 $179
22 Pure Storm Tour + 98 27.50 338 11.92 32.00 12.60 63 328 2126 $179
BANCROFT
bancroft 800-779-0807 • www.harrowsports.com
23 ACE Advantage 107 27.00 270 9.52 34.50 13.58 57 279 1702 $195
24 Ace Omni 107 27.25 272 9.59 36.75 14.47 79 308 2669 $169
25 Ace Rocket 116 27.50 274 9.67 38.00 14.96 78 330 3135 $199
26 ACE Tour 98 27.00 307 10.83 33.50 13.19 67 304 1996 $195
27 ACE Tour + 98 27.00 323 11.39 33.75 13.29 70 319 2188 $195
BLACKBURNE
blackburne 888-GUTSwin • www.blackburneds.com
28 Double Strung 107 107 27.00 292 10.30 36.75 14.47 68 341 2481 $199
BORIS boris
BECKERbecker 866-554-7872 • www.borisbecker.com
29 Becker 11 (325g) 98 27.00 343 12.10 32.50 12.80 63 335 2068 $179
30 Becker 11 Mid 93 27.00 347 12.24 32.00 12.60 61 327 1855 $220
31 Becker 11L 98 27.00 302 10.65 33.00 12.99 65 286 1822 $179
32 Becker Pro 100 27.00 311 10.97 33.00 12.99 69 311 2146 $200
33 Becker V1 MP 102 27.00 305 10.76 33.60 13.23 68 315 2185 $199
34 Becker V1 OS 110 27.60 309 10.90 34.40 13.54 67 331 2586 $199
dulop
DUNLOP 800-768-4727 • www.carltonsports.com
35 Aerogel 1 Thousand (1000) 118 27.50 258 9.10 36.90 14.53 70 301 2611 $189
36 Aerogel 2 Hundred (200) 95 27.00 340 11.99 32.55 12.81 64 326 1982 $189
37 Aerogel 3 Hundred (300) 98 27.00 324 11.43 33.75 13.29 63 324 2000 $199
38 Aerogel 5 Hundred (500) 100 27.00 291 10.26 34.15 13.44 70 299 2093 $199
39 Aerogel 5 Hundred (500) Tour 100 27.00 315 11.11 33.50 13.19 73 324 2365 $199
40 Aerogel 6 Hundred (600) 105 27.00 284 10.02 35.50 13.98 71 307 2289 $189
41 Aerogel 7 Hundred (700) 108 27.30 274 9.67 35.60 14.02 74 307 2527 $209
42 Aerogel 8 Hundred (800) 110 27.50 270 9.52 37.00 14.57 73 310 2614 $219
43 Aerogel 9 Hundred (900) 113 27.50 273 9.63 35.80 14.09 73 308 2668 $219
44 M Fil Lady G 108 27.50 277 9.77 35.00 13.78 69 291 2277 $149
45 Roland Garros Racing 100 27.00 286 10.09 33.75 13.29 72 288 2074 $129

26 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008

 Racquet Headsize Length Weight Weight Balance Balance Flex Swingweight Power Retail
(in2) (in.) (gm) (oz) (cm) (in.) (RDC) kg x cm2 Formula Price

FEATHER
feather 323-692-8256 • www.feathersports.com
46 Court Ti 2000 107 27.50 253 8.92 39.00 15.35 77 321 2777 $120
fischer
FISCHER 800-844-7810 • www.fischertennisusa.com
47 GDS Vision 102 $140
48 M 1210 118 27.50 245 8.64 37.95 14.94 64 298 2363 $250
49 M Comp 95 95 27.00 345 12.17 32.20 12.68 63 325 1945 $220
50 M Motion 112 27.75 273 9.63 37.00 14.57 69 323 2683 $230
51 M Pro No. One 105 (UL) 105 27.00 308 10.86 33.00 12.99 65 301 2054 $190
52 M Pro No. One 98 (SL) 98 27.00 337 11.89 32.25 12.70 56 312 1712 $210
53 M Pro No. One 98 (UL) 98 27.00 309 10.90 33.45 13.17 63 306 1889 $210
54 M Rally (Red or Yellow) 102 27.50 200 7.05 34.20 13.46 65 300 2088 $230
55 M Tour 100 (SL) 100 27.00 331 11.68 31.45 12.38 59 299 1764 $180
56 M Tour 100 (UL) 100 27.00 305 10.76 33.30 13.11 58 302 1752 $180
57 M Vision 102 27.40 250 8.82 33.45 13.17 67 299 2125 $180
58 Pro 1 X-Lite 98 27.00 273 9.63 35.00 13.78 57 292 1631 $170
GAMMA
gamma 800-333-0337 • www.gammasports.com
59 Big Bubba 28 137 28.00 273 9.63 38.30 15.08 66 349 3471 $190
60 C Four 100 27.25 315 11.11 35.50 13.98 75 360 2768 $140
61 C One 106 27.75 270 9.52 35.40 13.94 70 311 2481 $190
62 C Three 102 27.00 310 10.93 33.50 13.19 65 304 2016 $130
63 C Two 106 27.50 279 9.84 36.00 14.17 70 310 2415 $180
64 G250 110 27.75 275 9.70 35.95 14.15 72 319 2716 $180
65 G260 105 27.00 279 9.84 34.50 13.58 63 305 2018 $160
66 G290 103 27.50 305 10.76 33.50 13.19 73 324 2558 $160
67 G310 100 27.00 323 11.39 32.00 12.60 61 300 1830 $160
68 G325 95 27.00 341 12.03 31.15 12.26 61 297 1721 $160
69 IPEX 2.0 SOS 137 27.75 272 9.59 37.50 14.76 65 334 3197 $190
70 IPEX 3.0 OS 116 27.50 265 9.35 36.00 14.17 70 302 2575 $180
71 IPEX 5.0 MP 96 27.25 272 9.59 34.50 13.58 67 293 1932 $160
72 IPEX 7.0 MP 98 27.00 323 11.39 32.25 12.70 64 311 1951 $150
73 IPEX 7.0 OS 107 27.00 322 11.36 32.50 12.80 59 308 1944 $150
74 T Five 100 27.00 326 11.50 34.50 13.58 76 355 2698 $150
75 T Seven 100 27.00 324 11.43 31.75 12.50 58 296 1717 $170
76 T Six 98 27.00 302 10.65 33.95 13.37 65 307 1956 $160
HEAD head 800-289-7366 • www.head.com
77 Agassi Radical (Limited Edition) 107 27.00 340 11.99 32.90 12.95 62 330 2189 $99
78 Airflow 1 99 27.00 267 9.42 36.25 14.27 76 294 2212 $150
79 Airflow 3 102 27.00 262 9.24 35.85 14.11 75 284 2173 $180
80 Airflow 5 109 27.00 250 8.82 35.50 13.98 74 270 2178 $200
81 Airflow 7 115 27.00 255 8.99 35.00 13.78 73 265 2225 $225
82 Flexpoint 10 121 27.50 259 9.14 38.00 14.96 69 316 2770 $275
83 Flexpoint 4 107 27.33 281 9.91 35.50 13.98 67 309 2288 $225
84 Flexpoint Prestige Mid 93 27.00 345 12.17 32.00 12.60 67 312 1944 $225
85 Flexpoint Prestige MP 98 27.00 338 11.92 32.38 12.75 66 315 2037 $225
86 Flexpoint Prestige XL MP 98 27.38 342 12.06 33.13 13.04 67 333 2268 $225
87 FXP Instinct Team (Flexpoint) 105 27.00 281 9.91 35.00 13.78 68 298 2128 $170
88 FXP Prestige Team 102 27.00 310 10.93 34.00 13.39 56 319 1822 $210
89 FXP Radical Team (Flexpoint) 102 27.00 294 10.37 35.00 13.78 59 312 1878 $190
90 Metallix 10 124 27.33 270 9.52 36.00 14.17 69 289 2554 $275
91 Metallix 2 102 27.30 273 9.63 36.00 14.17 69 290 2102 $200
92 Metallix 4 107 27.25 269 9.49 37.00 14.57 67 306 2249 $200
93 Metallix 6 115 27.30 268 9.45 36.25 14.27 69 290 2370 $225
94 MicroGEL Extreme 100 27.25 312 11.01 32.45 12.78 68 308 2147 $180

April 2008 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 27

 Racquet Headsize Length Weight Weight Balance Balance Flex Swingweight Power Retail
(in2) (in.) (gm) (oz) (cm) (in.) (RDC) kg x cm2 Formula Price

head cont.cont.
HEAD 800-289-7366 • www.head.com
95 MicroGEL Extreme Pro 100 27.00 341 12.03 32.50 12.80 71 335 2379 $180
96 MicroGEL Extreme Team Oversize 107 27.00 285 10.05 33.50 13.19 58 287 1781 $150
97 MicroGEL Instinct Mid Plus 100 27.00 313 11.04 33.00 12.99 66 313 2066 $150
98 MicroGEL Mojo 100 27.00 301 10.62 34.00 13.39 63 302 1903 $150
99 MicroGEL Monster 102 27.00 289 10.19 34.50 13.58 70 297 2121 $160
100 MicroGEL Prestige Mid 93 27.00 345 12.17 32.00 12.60 65 329 1989 $200
101 MicroGEL Prestige Mid Plus 98 27.00 336 11.85 32.15 12.66 64 304 1907 $200
102 MicroGEL Prestige Pro 98 27.00 332 11.71 32.00 12.60 64 308 1932 $200
103 MicroGEL Radical MP 98 27.00 309 10.90 33.50 13.19 60 308 1811 $180
104 MicroGEL Radical OS 107 27.00 311 10.97 33.20 13.07 56 312 1870 $180
105 MicroGEL Radical Pro MP 100 27.00 330 11.64 33.50 13.19 68 316 2149 $180
106 MicroGEL Radical Team 102 27.00 286 10.09 34.00 13.39 62 299 1891 $170
107 MicroGEL Raptor Mid Plus 102 27.00 272 9.59 35.50 13.98 69 304 2140 $120
108 MicroGEL Raptor OS 110 27.00 268 9.45 32.00 12.60 308 64 2168 $120
109 Protector MP 102 27.38 282 9.95 36.75 14.47 66 320 2235 $300
110 Protector OS 115 27.63 283 9.98 38.00 14.96 64 340 2659 $300
POWERpowerangle
ANGLE 877-POWER-21 • www.powerangle.net
111 Power 102 (Light Blue) 102 27.38 274 9.67 36.50 14.37 72 314 2392 $199
112 Power 102 (Navy Blue) 102 27.38 272 9.59 37.00 14.57 73 315 2433 $199
113 Power 102 (Yellow) 102 27.38 274 9.67 36.50 14.37 72 314 2392 $199
114 Power 115 (Light Blue) 115 27.38 268 9.45 37.25 14.67 74 318 2808 $199
115 Power 115 (Red) 115 27.25 262 9.24 37.25 14.67 73 309 2659 $199
116 Power 115 (Yellow) 115 27.38 268 9.45 37.25 14.67 74 318 2808 $199
117 Power 98 98 27.00 322 11.36 30.50 12.01 63 289 1784 $199
118 Power 98/K 98 27.00 326 11.50 30.75 12.11 64 289 1813 $199
PRINCEprince 800-2TENNIS • www.princetennis.com
119 O3 Blue 110 27.50 281 9.91 34.25 13.48 65 295 2215 $280
120 O3 Hybrid Comp MP 102 27.00 307 10.83 33.80 13.31 65 319 2115 $159
121 O3 Hybrid Hornet MP 100 27.00 302 10.65 34.25 13.48 72 314 2261 $190
122 O3 Hybrid Hornet OS 110 27.00 283 9.98 35.00 13.78 71 305 2382 $190
123 O3 Hybrid Lite OS 110 27.00 271 9.56 35.90 14.13 69 303 2300 $159
124 O3 Hybrid Shark MP 100 27.00 314 11.08 33.75 13.29 66 322 2125 $200
125 O3 Hybrid Shark OS 110 27.50 295 10.41 35.00 13.78 67 323 2500 $200
126 O3 Hybrid Spectrum MP 100 27.00 302 10.65 34.00 13.39 73 313 2285 $149
127 O3 Hybrid Spectrum OS 110 27.00 281 9.91 34.50 13.58 69 293 2224 $149
128 O3 Hybrid Tour (16x18) 95 27.00 329 11.61 31.75 12.50 67 326 2075 $200
129 O3 Silver OS 118 27.75 270 9.52 37.50 14.76 78 320 3166 $300
130 O3 Speedport Black (with hole inserts) 100 27.00 327 11.53 33.00 12.99 72 336 2419 $199
131 O3 Speedport Black (with port inserts) 100 27.00 321 11.32 32.80 12.91 71 328 2329 $199
132 O3 Speedport Blue 110 27.50 290 10.23 35.15 13.84 67 325 2515 $269
133 O3 Speedport Gold OS (Conventional Throat Insert) 115 27.50 273 9.63 37.40 14.72 71 325 2786 $249
134 O3 Speedport Gold OS (Strung-Thru Throat Insert) 115 27.50 267 9.42 37.05 14.59 69 316 2633 $249
135 O3 Speedport Platinum OS (Conventional Throat Insert) 125 27.50 272 9.59 37.40 14.72 71 325 3029 $269
136 O3 Speedport Platinum OS (Strung-Thru Throat Insert) 125 27.50 270 9.52 37.50 14.76 71 325 3029 $269
137 O3 Speedport Pro White MP 100 27.00 329 11.61 33.15 13.05 69 335 2312 $199
138 O3 Speedport Red 105 27.25 297 10.48 34.50 13.58 67 324 2336 $249
139 O3 Speedport Silver 118 27.75 267 9.42 37.00 14.57 74 314 2947 $289
140 O3 Speedport Tour (with hole inserts) 97 27.00 341 12.03 32.20 12.68 68 340 2243 $199
141 O3 Speedport Tour (with port inserts) 97 27.00 335 11.82 31.95 12.58 66 330 2113 $199
142 O3 Speedport White MP 100 27.00 318 11.22 33.45 13.17 68 325 2210 $199
143 O3 Tour MP (100) 100 27.00 324 11.43 32.25 12.70 61 312 1903 $220
144 O3 Tour MS 95 27.00 338 11.92 31.75 12.50 65 315 1945 $220

28 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008

 Racquet Headsize Length Weight Weight Balance Balance Flex Swingweight Power Retail
(in2) (in.) (gm) (oz) (cm) (in.) (RDC) kg x cm2 Formula Price

145 O3 Tour OS 107 27.50 316 11.15 34.00 13.39 66 321 2380 $220
146 O3 White MP 100 27.00 315 11.11 33.25 13.09 67 317 2124 $220
147 OZone Four 110 27.50 292 10.30 34.80 13.70 70 324 2620 $170
148 OZone One 118 27.75 273 9.63 37.50 14.76 77 335 3272 $170
149 OZone Pro Tour MP 100 27.00 346 12.20 32.00 12.60 66 330 2178 $179
150 OZone Seven 105 27.25 299 10.55 34.95 13.76 74 318 2533 $170
151 OZone Tour MP 100 27.00 330 11.64 32.15 12.66 62 326 2021 $179
PRO SUPEX
pro supex 866-787-4644 • www.prosupexusa.com
152 Dynamic Energy 100 27.00 328 11.57 31.95 12.58 67 308 2064 $100
153 Nano Energy 95 27.00 346 12.20 33.50 13.19 65 347 2143 $100
154 Ti. S1 100 27.00 314 11.08 33.50 13.19 70 316 2212 $100
155 Uniflex MP3 100 27.00 325 11.46 33.15 13.05 64 326 2086 $100
SLAZENGER
slazenger 724-273-3342 • www.slazenger.com
156 Pro X1 95 27.00 336 11.85 32.00 12.60 67 305 1941 $180
157 Quad 255 (Flex) 108 27.50 271 9.56 35.40 13.94 65 300 2211 $159
158 Quad 270 (Flex) 100 27.00 282 9.95 34.00 13.39 73 295 2154 $139
159 Type 2 NX One 98 27.00 310 10.93 33.60 13.23 65 321 2045 $120
160 Type 2 NX Three 114 27.25 278 9.81 35.00 13.78 73 307 2619 $100
161 Type 2 NX Two 98 27.00 290 10.23 33.45 13.17 72 298 2103 $160
TECNIFIBRE
tecnifibre 877-332-0825 • www.tecnifibre.com
162 T Fight 320 (16x20) 97 27.00 329 11.61 31.50 12.40 67 299 1943 $170
163 T Fight 320 (18x20) 97 27.00 335 11.82 32.30 12.72 68 320 2111 $170
164 T Fight 320 XL (18x20) 97 27.50 337 11.89 32.30 12.72 64 338 2203 $190
165 T Fight 335 (16x20) 97 27.00 350 12.35 31.25 12.30 67 315 2047 $170
166 T Fight 335 (18x20) 97 27.00 351 12.38 31.50 12.40 66 319 2042 $170
167 T Flash 270 OS 110 27.50 283 9.98 33.75 13.29 68 308 2419 $180
168 T Flash 290 100 27.00 308 10.86 33.75 13.29 69 312 2153 $170
169 T Flash 310 (16x19) 100 27.00 329 11.61 32.85 12.93 71 320 2272 $170
170 T Flash 310 (18x20) 100 27.00 325 11.46 32.10 12.64 70 314 2198 $170
VANTAGE
vantage +44 (0)1753 621177 • www.vantagetennis.com
171 VT001 Black 90 27.00 338 11.92 32.50 12.80 63 321 1820 $221
172 VT001 White 90 27.00 338 11.92 32.50 12.80 63 321 1820 $221
173 VT002 Black 95 27.00 334 11.78 32.00 12.60 61 323 1872 $221
174 VT002 White 95 27.00 334 11.78 32.00 12.60 61 323 1872 $221
175 VT003 Black 100 27.25 306 10.79 34.75 13.68 61 324 2026 $221
176 VT003 White 100 27.25 306 10.79 34.75 13.68 61 324 2026 $221
VOLKL volkl 866-554-7872 • www.volkl-tennis.com
177 C10 Pro 98 27.00 348 12.28 31.50 12.40 56 321 1762 $200
178 DNX 1 w/Power Arm 115 27.80 267 9.42 35.85 14.11 71 306 2698 $290
179 DNX 2 Attiva 110 27.30 283 9.98 35.50 13.98 71 310 2494 $200
180 DNX 3 110 27.75 280 9.88 35.25 13.88 66 315 2458 $240
181 DNX 4 105 27.60 290 10.23 33.75 13.29 67 300 2237 $180
182 DNX 6 Attiva 100 27.00 285 10.05 34.00 13.39 67 300 2010 $150
183 DNX 7 100 27.00 290 10.23 33.65 13.25 67 299 2003 $150
184 DNX 8 100 27.00 312 11.01 33.50 13.19 70 317 2219 $170
185 DNX 9 98 27.00 320 11.29 32.50 12.80 68 312 2079 $180
186 Scorcher 5 102 27.00 294 10.37 32.80 12.91 65 282 1870 $150
187 V1 Classic (Silver Color) 102 27.00 316 11.15 34.00 13.39 67 316 2160 $179
WEED weed 800-WEED RKT • www.weedusa.com
188 EXT 135 Blue 135 28.25 280 9.88 37.00 14.57 64 338 3285 $250
189 EXT 135 Green 135 28.25 275 9.70 37.00 14.57 62 334 3145 $250
190 EXT 135 Pink 135 28.25 277 9.77 37.00 14.57 64 340 3305 $250
191 EXT 135 Tour 135 28.25 263 9.28 37.00 14.57 60 322 2934 $250

April 2008 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 29

 Racquet Headsize Length Weight Weight Balance Balance Flex Swingweight Power Retail
(in2) (in.) (gm) (oz) (cm) (in.) (RDC) kg x cm2 Formula Price

WEED
weed cont.cont. 800-WEED RKT • www.weedusa.com
192 X ONE25 (27 1/2) 125 27.50 269 9.49 36.25 14.27 69 311 2816 $209
193 X ONE25 (28 1/2) 125 28.50 269 9.49 38.25 15.06 69 360 3571 $209
194 X ONE25 Tour 125 28.50 $250
195 Z One 35 135 27.00 273 9.63 36.25 14.27 67 314 2840 $250
WILSONwilson 800-272-6060 • www.wilson.com
196 KBlade 98 98 27.00 317 11.18 33.75 13.29 67 331 2173 $210
197 KBlade Team 104 27.25 303 10.69 33.75 13.29 59 314 1975 $210
198 KBlade Tour 93 27.00 337 11.89 31.08 12.24 68 320 2024 $220
199 KFive 108 108 27.25 292 10.30 37.45 14.74 51 335 1891 $250
200 KFive 98 98 27.25 296 10.44 37.00 14.57 59 341 2021 $250
201 KFour 105 (K4) 105 27.25 281 9.91 35.00 13.78 75 311 2510 $230
202 KFour 112 (K4) 112 27.50 280 9.88 37.50 14.76 74 341 2968 $260
203 KOne 122 (K1) 122 27.50 264 9.31 38.20 15.04 73 316 2955 $350
204 KPro Open 100 27.00 311 10.97 32.80 12.91 70 302 2114 $200
205 KPro Tour 96 27.00 323 11.39 31.80 12.52 64 302 1855 $210
206 KSix One 95 (18x20) 95 27.00 349 12.31 31.20 12.28 68 324 2093 $210
207 KSix One 95 (68 Holes) 95 27.00 347 12.24 31.55 12.42 71 325 2192 $210
208 KSix One 95 X 95 27.50 347 12.24 33.00 12.99 69 359 2471 $210
209 KSix One Team 95 27.00 305 10.76 34.10 13.43 61 316 1831 $210
210 KSix One Tour 90 27.00 356 12.56 31.85 12.54 66 331 1966 $220
211 KSix Two 100 100 27.00 295 10.41 33.00 12.99 69 300 2070 $180
212 KSting 105 27.25 275 9.70 35.00 13.78 62 298 1988 $160
213 KSurge 100 27.00 292 10.30 33.95 13.37 71 303 2151 $200
214 KThree 115 (K3) 115 27.50 268 9.45 37.50 14.76 65 313 2457 $300
215 KTour 95 95 27.25 306 10.79 35.00 13.78 65 336 2127 $200
216 KZen (103) 103 27.25 318 11.22 33.10 13.03 73 328 2528 $190
217 KZen Team 103 27.25 285 10.05 34.50 13.58 73 305 2351 $190
218 KZero 118 27.50 258 9.10 36.25 14.27 73 291 2632 $250
219 n1 115 27.90 256 9.03 38.75 15.26 75 323 3037 $300
220 n5 Force 110 110 27.25 286 10.09 37.50 14.76 56 329 2077 $240
221 nFury Two (100 sq. in.) 100 27.00 278 9.81 34.00 13.39 54 290 1566 $120
222 nFury Two Oversize 110 27.00 271 9.56 35.60 14.02 69 296 2247 $120
YONEXyonex 800-44-YONEX • www.yonexusa.com
223 RDS 001 90 90 27.00 344 12.13 31.75 12.50 65 320 1872 $199
224 RDS 001 98 98 27.00 309 10.90 31.75 12.50 66 309 1999 $199
225 RDS 002 98 27.00 315 11.11 33.00 12.99 66 314 2031 $199
226 RDS 002 Tour 98 27.00 342 12.06 31.75 12.50 68 320 2132 $199
227 RDS 003 100 100 27.25 312 11.01 32.75 12.89 69 306 2164 $189
228 RQ Speed 30 102 27.50 269 9.49 35.00 13.78 71 293 2228 $119
229 RQIS 1 Tour 95 27.00 333 11.75 31.50 12.40 61 312 1808 $189
230 RQIS 2 Tour 100 27.50 303 10.69 33.25 13.09 68 313 2235 $199
231 RQS 11 100 27.50 292 10.30 34.25 13.48 67 311 2188 $229
232 RQS 22 102 27.50 285 10.05 34.80 13.70 65 309 2151 $249
233 RQS 33 107 27.50 279 9.84 36.00 14.17 70 321 2525 $239
234 RQS 55 112 27.50 265 9.35 37.15 14.63 70 314 2585 $259

30 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008

 TAKING
TENNIS APPAREL
ONE FOR
THE TEAM
Team apparel can be big business for retailers, as
tenniswear manufacturers offer outfits to suit all
W
types of groups.
hen you look at tennis apparel sales in the U.S., one
thing you notice is that tennis team wear can account
for big retail business. And in the future, it’s going to
get bigger. League tennis players—whether USTA Leagues,
WTT Rec Leagues or others—have been increasing in the last
few years, and initiatives such as School Tennis, USTA Tennis
on Campus, the No-Cut High School team programs and
more have been adding to the notion that tennis is a team
sport.
All of this means more and more people—both adults and
juniors—are playing tennis on teams, which makes sense,
because tennis not only is competitive, but it can be a very
social sport, too. And with the increased numbers of teams,
players are looking to coordinate their team outfits.
For some retailers, team wear accounts for a sizable
chunk of their apparel revenue. If you’re not yet in the team
game, or have only lightly dabbled in selling to teams, you
should consider the ways you can cash in on this revenue
stream in your area.
One way, of course is to make sure you meet school
coaches and league captains in your area. “Over the years,
we’ve formed some great relationships with high school
32 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008
BY CYNTHIA SHERMAN
coaches,” says Terry Hunter of Tennis Outlet in Lubbock,
Texas. “We know what fits into the school’s needs and bud-
get. The challenge is pleasing everyone.”
Hunter says when dealing with schools, retailers need to
consider a number of factors. “Kids are fashion conscious,
parents have their preferences, and the coach doesn’t want to
spend a lot of time thinking about uniforms,” Hunter says,
“So we try to make it easy and efficient for everyone con-
cerned.”
At the Indianapolis (Ind.) Racquet Club, Kevin Lindley, the
director of team sales, will sometimes loan clothing samples
to schools so they can see it in person for sizing, color and fit.
“Criteria for a lot of teams concern school colors first,” he
says, “and also a quality product at a good price, because
schools are on tight budgets. In some cases, brand loyalty
plays a factor.” Often, coaches defer to the kids, especially
the team captain, for team uniform decisions.
Lindley says he does whatever it takes to help
schools and teams with the ordering process. And the
Indianapolis Racquet Club offers discounts to teams, too.
Here are some of the manufacturers who offer team
apparel lines.
 Fila
Fila's Essenza men’s and women’s collection includes team stand-out bold
color blocking and mesh inserts paired with Fila's performance fabric, which
is a unique stretch fabric that provides superior moisture-wicking for maxi-
mum dryness and comfort. The Essenza collection includes items that are
available year round for at-once delivery. The color palette stays consistent
season to season with a few pop colors rotated into the collection. There is a
wide variety of styles available for all tastes and fits, from cami tanks and
polos to racer-back tops, crews and long-sleeve shirts, and skirts/skorts for
women, to sleeveless, polos, crews, and shorts for men.
www.fila.com, 800-845-3452

Diadora
Team wear comprises at least half of
Diadora’s business, the company says.
Diadora’s extensive team line is available
in many styles and colors for men and
women. Made of 100 percent moisture-
wicking DiaDry Poly, the women’s line has
two dress, four skirt and four tank styles.
The men’s line features crews, polos, and
two styles of shorts. With a 105,000-
square-foot warehouse, Diadora says it is
able to keep stock year round, with imme-
diate shipping capabilities, and volume dis-
counts are available.
www.diadoraamerica.com,
800-DIADORA

April 2008 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 33

 Lejay
With the growth of team sales, Lejay has expanded its
Team Collection to include more style choices to fit
every body. Team Essentials offer 11 solid colors in the
LeDry high performance fabric, which also features UV
protection. All styles can be custom-cut in any color
combination and can take team or club logo embroi-
dery. (Custom orders take two to three weeks.) Bold
color-blocking and trim stands out on skirts, skorts,
tanks, racer backs and a dress which has a built-in bra.
www.lejay.com, 800-932-7535

Athco/Wilson
Wilson apparel licensee Athco launched men’s and
women’s team tennis wear this year, featuring 100 percent
poly interlock Hypertek, the clothes boast moisture-wicking
and breathability. The women’s line also features Hypertek,
poly/lyrca with meryl stretch fabric in racer-back tops, ath-
letically fitting tanks, and classic cuts with tanks and cap-
sleeved polos. Skorts come in a variety of colors. Men’s
shirts come in three crew styles in all colors, white with
accent trim and solid color with accent trim, two polos, and
three different styles of shorts in three different lengths. The
company says it is fully stocked, with immediate shipping.
www.athco.com, 800-990-0000

34 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008

 Prince
Prince’s team wear shows off
classic silhouettes in a variety
of colors and designs in con-
temporary styles. For men,
100 percent poly with breath-
able mesh at the underarm
and back is featured in the
short sleeve and sleeveless
crews, polos, and long-sleeve
crews. Shorts, warm-up
pants, and jackets round out
the line. The women’s side
feature skirts, tops, shorts,
jackets and pants in blends of
poly and spandex with
breathable mesh inserts and
backs in a rainbow of colors.
www.princesports.com,
800-2-TENNIS

Bälle de Mätch
Team wear constitutes about 40 percent of Bälle de
Mätch’s business. The company says it always has inven-
tory in all colors, and that orders get shipped out the
same day they’re placed. Bälle de Mätch keeps the team
line consistent, introducing one new piece a year, so
coaches and players can count on continuity, stability
and clothing that will always be in season.
The men’s side features crews, polos and shorts in 100
percent poly in a variety of colors. The women’s line sports
racer-back tops, tanks, skorts and dresses in a playable
spandex/poly blend, again in a full range of colors.
www.balledematch.com, 800-356-1021

April 2008 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 35

 PROGRAMMING
Don’t just teach your beginners how to hit the ball. For
more complete participation in your programs and
leagues, teach them how to play a match.
lose your eyes. Remember back to your very first USTA
C league match. You step onto the court, sweaty palms grip-
ping your racquet. “Eye on the ball,” you mutter. Your
partner is a newbie, too, and barely knows how to keep score.
Together, you both will try to remember everything the coach
taught you in your beginner class.
Odds are, though, that your class focused more on stroke
execution than on match strategies, changing ends, foot-
work/movement during a point, communication with your part-
ner, player etiquette, rules, etc. These aspects of a match
probably received scant attention in your lessons.
During points, you probably tried to make mental notes to
ask your coach later: What’s a let? How much time do we get
on a changeover, and what should I do on a changeover? What
36 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008
BY ROBIN BATEMAN
the heck’s this tie-break thing all about?
The instruction pathway leads straight into leagues, but
you’re left to fend for yourself when it comes to the more
“social” aspects of the game, such as etiquette and rules.
Even a topic as essential as match strategy can be ignored
in lessons.
As a coach or programs coordinator, why not alleviate
many of these stresses and concerns novice players face
when they begin league play? You can do that by offering
instructional “league” classes.
Understanding the Basics
Sarah Witherspoon, the adult programs coordinator for
Macon Tennis Connect run out of John Drew Smith Tennis
Center in Macon, Ga., runs an instruc-
tional league class. Sessions run four
weeks, and the format mimics league Q Friend At Court, the USTA handbook of
play: Participants are placed on teams to
play real matches, using one set regular
scoring so they become familiar with
how deuce/ad works.
“The major difference between league
class matches and USTA league play
is…well…me,” says Witherspoon. “Play-
ers can stop play to ask me questions
Are you sure?
tennis rules and regulations, is a great
place to find official answers to all your
USTA match play questions. The book
can be purchased for $5 through USTA.
Or a full version of Friend At Court can
also be accessed online. Go to
www.usta.com, click on the “About Us”
tab, then click the “Rules” tab.
If you’re looking for ways to increase
league play and program participation,
why not start by offering a class that will
create strong, confident players who are
familiar with the intricacies of match
play and can’t wait to enroll in all of your
programs? Your players will thank you
through program participation in
leagues, tournaments and round-robins.
Your coaches will thank you for the
increased lessons generated.

Also, if I see obvious errors or plays that Q The Code, which is printed in the first
about anything they don’t understand. With league class participation at the
John Drew Smith Tennis Center averag-
can benefit from advice on movement or part of Friend At Court, provides rules ing close to 40 participants and retention
communication, I stop play myself.” and regulations for playing unofficial levels reaching 95 percent, who can
Witherspoon stands nearby, observ- matches. argue with success? In fact, Witherspoon
ing students, determining when to inter- Q USTA sections and districts often publish says that from the spring 2007 instruc-
ject. From her position on top of a hill, helpful information for players, parents tional league classes, five new USTA
she monitors all six courts the league and spectators. Remember to check out teams were formed that participated in
class uses. Sometimes, she waits until your local district’s website when league play last fall, three women’s 2.5
the point is played before giving instruc- searching for tennis do’s and don’ts. teams and two men’s teams, at 2.5 and

while other times, she walks right on Q Presented in an entertaining manner,

tion on what should have been done, 3.0.
If you help your beginning players to
court, especially when order of serve is Tennis for Dummies, written by Patrick feel more comfortable playing the game,
broken, or scoring issues arise. McEnroe and Peter Bodo, and The Com- they’ll continue to grow and develop a
“The ‘on-the-job training’ is the best plete Idiot’s Guide to Tennis, by Trish real love for tennis. Which can only be
way the beginner players can improve Faulkner, give lots of information about good for your business.Q
their game with the on-court assistance strokes, etiquette and mental tough-
from the coordinator,” Witherspoon ness, and offer personal tennis anec-
says. “It’s a great stepping-stone to tran- dotes throughout.
sition them into USTA leagues.”
Players like Clare McBride, a secretary
for Bibb County School District’s After School Program, love
the league classes. “They give me the opportunity to gain
match experience without the worries of real USTA competi-
tion,” McBride says. “I don’t want to be the weak link on the
team.” McBride enrolled in her first beginner’s class last May
as a way to relieve stress from the pressures of work and
school. She then signed up for her first league class in June.
She will continue registering for league classes until, she says,
she can “hold her own” on a team.

Reviewing the Rules

Each class begins with a quick review of rules: no cell phones
on court, no racquet abuse, wait until the point is played
before you walk behind your neighbor’s court, etc. Then
Witherspoon assigns everyone to his or her matches before
taking her monitoring post.
Witherspoon also addresses spectator rules. “Many begin-
ners think their fans can sit on the player benches on court.
Furthermore, novice players believe spectators are allowed to
settle line call disputes and scoring issues. We let them know
Contributing Editor Robin Bateman is the site coordina-
right away this is wrong.”
tor for the Tattnall Tennis Center in Macon, Ga., where
Another common mistake new players make is calling the
she coordinates tennis programs and leagues, is a tour-
ball “out” before it has landed. All of these and many more
nament director, serves as a team captain and assists
etiquette procedures along with USTA rules are reviewed
junior teams competing at district, regional, and section
throughout the league class, ensuring participants graduate
events.
with an all-around knowledge of the game.

April 2008 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 37

 QUALITY
DISTINGUISHED FACILITY-OF-THE-YEAR AWARDS
CONSTRUCTION
The outdoor hard-court winners demonstrate
excellence on a grand scale.
T
he six outdoor hard-court winners (not including resi-
dential projects) of the Racquet Sports Indus-
try/American Sports Builders Association 2007
Distinguished Facility-of-the-Year Awards represent a nice mix
of facilities that show the breadth of tennis in communities
throughout the country. The winners include a youth tennis
complex, middle school, high school, community college, uni-
versity and public complex.
Projects ranged from the renovated single rooftop court
above a parking garage at Rockefeller University in New York
City to the new 16-court indoor and outdoor Arthur Ashe
Youth Tennis & Education complex in Philadelphia. (AAYTE
also won the Court-of-the-Year Award for the facility; this Dis-
tinguished Facility-of-the-Year honor is for their outdoor
courts.)
The AAYTE project included two outdoor rebound wall mini
courts, an outdoor stadium court and two backboards. AAYTE
is one of the U.S.’s premier non-profit tennis facilities, which
serves thousands of youngsters in the Philly area. It’s been
honored for excellence in tennis and education by the USTA,
PTR and ITF, and it also won RSI’s Municipal Facility of the
Year Award last fall. The new facility was built on the grounds
of an old swimming pool complex and required the removal of
tons of rubble. In addition, a major gas line that serves
Philadelphia runs under portions of the courts, so excavation
had to be done with extreme care.
The 12-court Maize Middle School complex in Kansas is
also new construction and includes a concrete hitting wall. Sig-
nificantly, the large and well-received tennis facility will
receive double duty in the near future as the school district
Rockefeller University
New York, N.Y.
(Nominated by Classic Turf Co., Woodbury, Conn.)
Number of Courts: 1
Specialty Contractor: Classic Turf Co.
Surface: Classic Turf System
Fencing: Classic Turf System Custom Seamless
Lighting: LSI
Color Coating: Nova Sports
38 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008
plans to build a new high school to share in the use of this first-
class tennis complex.
While the facility at Oconomowoc High School in Wiscon-
sin is considered an upgrade, it required the demolition of
seven existing courts and the installation of a 10-court com-
plex. This is truly a community-based project. During the ini-
tial design phase, the project was submitted for funding
through the USTA. But funding was declined, so the commu-
nity rallied together with private donations and fund-raisers to
supplement the funds supplied by the school district and park
and recreation department.
The 10-court Goddard Eisenhower Tennis Complex in
Kansas was completed in just eight weeks. To meet the dead-
line, the contractor had to form and place the concrete within
two weeks, let it cure for 30 days, then surface all the courts
in a week. The result, though, offers players and spectators a
spectacular venue.
Mesa Community College in Arizona had eight new courts
installed under a tight deadline. The result includes a spectator
viewing area, and a complex that both students and the com-
munity can use and be proud of.
Rockefeller University in the heart of New York City want-
ed to convert the concrete deck on top of a parking garage, on
a 100-year-old structure, to a tennis court. The contractor
redesigned the drainage system to eliminate the ineffective
spot drains and installed a trench drain, in addition to sloping
the court surface, which previously had been flat. They also
installed custom fencing to surround the cushioned hard court.
Clearly, quality is king with this year’s hard-court winners.
—Peter Francesconi
 Arthur Ashe Youth Tennis & Education
Philadelphia
(Nominated by Sportsline Inc., Exton, Pa.)
Number of Courts: 16 (8 outdoor, 8 indoor)
Specialty Contractor: Sportsline Inc.
Surface: DecoTurf
Lighting: LSI
Windscreens: M. Putterman
Nets, Straps: J.A. Cissel
Net Posts: Collegiate Pacific
Backboards: Bakko

Maize Middle School Tennis Complex

Maize, Kan.
(Nominated by Mid-American Courtworks, Wichita, Kan.)
Number of Courts: 12
Architect/Engineer: Schaefer, Johnson, Cox & Frey
General & Specialty Contractor: Mid-American Courtworks
Color System: Vance Bros. Vantage Color
Nets, Posts: Douglas Industries

Oconomowoc High School

Oconomowoc, Wis.
(Nominated by Munson Inc., Glendale, Wis.)
Number of Courts: 10
Architect/General Contractor: Munson Inc.
Surface and Fencing: Munson Inc.
Nets: J.A. Cissel
Lighting: Lee Tennis
Color Surfacing Material: California Products

Goddard Eisenhower Tennis Complex

Goddard, Kan.
(Nominated by Mid-American Courtworks, Wichita, Kan.)
Number of Courts: 10
Architect/Engineer: Wilson & Co., Salina, Kan.
General Contractor: Coonrood & Assoc.
Specialty Contractor: Mid-American Courtworks
Color System: Vance Bros. Vantage Color
Nets, Posts, Windscreens: Douglas Industries
For details on the
2008 Distinguished
Facility-of-the-Year
Awards, contact
the ASBA at 866-
Mesa Community College 501-ASBA or
Mesa, Ariz. info@sportsbuilders
(Nominated by General Acrylics, Phoenix) .org.
Number of Courts: 8
Specialty Contractor: General Acrylics
Surface: General Acrylics
Lighting: LSI
Nets, Posts, Windscreens, Straps: Douglas Industries

April 2008 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 39

 string PLAYTEST
Luxilon
Alu Power Fluoro 123
Alu Power Fluoro is the latest monofila-
ment string from Luxilon. It is based on
the original Alu Power 125, which took
the pro tour by storm before becoming a
favorite with other competitive players.
It is created with a poly-ether-ether-
material augmented with fluorocarbon
and aluminum fibers. The fluorocarbon
migrates to the outer surface of the
string during the extrusion process, and
creates a softer feeling string.
Luxilon recommends Alu Power Fluoro
to any player seeking more comfort in a
softer feeling high performance monofila-
ment string, which includes those seeking
to include Luxilon’s famous characteristics
in hybrid string combinations.
Alu Power Fluoro 123 is available in
1.23 (17 gauge) in silver. It is priced from
$15 for 40 feet, 125-foot mini-reel for
$45, and 726-foot reels for $250. For
more information or to order, contact Wil-
son at 773-714-6400, or visit
www.wilson.com. Be sure to read the con-
clusion for more information about getting
a free set to try for yourself.
IN THE LAB
The coil measured 40 feet. The diameter
measured 1.22-1.25 mm prior to stringing,
and 1.18-1.21 mm after stringing. We
recorded a stringbed stiffness of 75 RDC
units immediately after stringing at 60
pounds in a Wilson Pro Staff 6.1 95 (16 x
18 pattern) on a constant-pull machine.
After 24 hours (no playing), stringbed
stiffness measured 66 RDC units, repre-
senting a 12 percent tension loss. Our con-
trol string, Prince Synthetic Gut Original
Gold 16, measured 78 RDC units immedi-
ately after stringing and 71 RDC units after
24 hours, representing a 9 percent tension
loss. Alu Power Fluoro 123 added 16
grams to the weight of our unstrung
frame.
The string was tested for five weeks by
42 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008
35 USRSA playtesters, with NTRP ratings
from 3.0 to 6.0. These are blind tests,
with playtesters receiving unmarked
strings in unmarked packages. Average
number of hours playtested was 23.7.
Luxilon recommends lowering the ref-
erence tension by at least 10 percent
feels much the same as Alu
when stringing any of its Big Banger
Power. The softness of the added fluoro-
strings. We instructed our playtesters to
carbon is felt during play, not during
lower the reference tension by 5 to 10
installation. Therefore, installing Alu
percent.
Power Fluoro is very similar to installing
Out of the package, Alu Power Fluoro
Alu Power, as expected. However, we
did not notice any burning of the main
EASE OF STRINGING
(compared to other strings) strings when installing the crosses, as can
Number of testers who said it was: sometimes happen with Alu Power.
much easier 0 Blocked holes were not a problem.
somewhat easier 2 No playtester broke his sample during
about as easy 20 stringing, 17 reported problems with coil
not quite as easy 13 memory, 6 reported problems tying
not nearly as easy 0 knots, and none reported friction burn.
OVERALL PLAYABILITY
(compared to string played most often) ON THE COURT
Number of testers who said it was: Our playtest team loved Alu Power Fluo-
much better 0 ro’s Resistance to Movement, Durability,
somewhat better 4 Tension Retention, and Control. Alu
about as playable 17 Power Fluoro’s scores for Resistance to
not quite as playable 13 Movement put it in a tie for first place of
not nearly as playable 1 the 119 strings we’ve playtested to date.
OVERALL DURABILITY In the Durability category, it scored a
(compared to other strings third-place finish of all the strings we’ve
of similar gauge) tested. In the category of Tension Reten-
Number of testers who said it was: tion, Alu Power Fluoro came in seventh
much better 6 overall, and in the category of Control, it
somewhat better 13
came in 14th overall. On top of this,
about as durable 16
each of these four top-20 scores puts
not quite as durable 0
not nearly as durable 0
Luxilon Alu Power Fluoro ahead of all
other Luxilon strings in these categories.
RATING AVERAGES In addition — and this will be no surprise
From 1 to 5 (best) if you’re familiar with Alu Power — Alu
Playability 3.4 Power Fluoro scored well above average
Durability (3rd overall) 4.5
in the category of Spin Potential. Alu
Power 3.3
Power Fluoro also received above aver-
Control (14th overall) 3.8
Comfort 2.9
age scores for Playability and Power.
Touch/Feel 2.8
Spin Potential 3.4 CONCLUSION
Holding Tension (7th overall) 3.7 Luxilon Alu Power Fluoro looks to be an
Resistance to Movement (1st overall) 4.2 excellent candidate to extend Luxilon’s
reach into the market. Recreational play-
TESTERS TALK
“ Finally, a comfortable polyester that
holds tension well. My serve is 5 mph faster.
The spin potential is out of this world. I am
now a fan of polyester. Sign me up. 4.5
”
male all-court player using Wilson nTour
Two strung at 60 pounds CP (Gamma Aster-
isk 16)
“ This is the perfect string for a baseline
power player interested in comfort and dura-
bility. It has a very solid feeling. This isn’t
just a niche string for string breakers. It has
a high degree of touch on volleys and short
”
angles. 5.0 male all-court player using
Wilson Hyper Pro Staff 5.1 Surge strung at
60 pounds LO (Klip Kicker 16)
FREE PLAYTEST STRING
and there is very little string movement. Touch
players are advised to hybrid this with a soft PROGRAM
Luxilon will send a free set of Alu
”
cross. 4.5 male baseliner with heavy spin
Power Fluoro 123 to USRSA mem-
using Wilson nSix-One 95 (68 Holes) strung at 45
pounds LO (Wilson NXT 17)
bers who cut out (or copy) this
coupon and mail it to:
USRSA,
“ This feels like a premium poly. It has very
good control. The overall playablity does not
Attn: Luxilon Alu Power
Fluoro String Offer,
”
quite separate it from the pack. 5.0 male
serve-and-volleyer using Prince O3 Hybrid Tour
330 Main Street, Vista, CA 92084
or fax to 760-536-1171,
(16x18) strung at 53 pounds CP (Poly- or email the info below to
ester/Natural Gut 17/16) stringsample@racquettech.com
Offer expires 15 April 2008
Offer only available to USRSA
“ Initially, though stiff, this string possesses
good control. After the tension loss, however,
members in the US.
the ball’s flight seems less predictable. As a mul- Name:
tifilament loyalist, I have never been able to

“ With a 5 percent reduction in tension,
this string is quite comfortable and surpris-
ingly powerful. More importantly, unlike
with other polyesters, it didn’t bother my
appreciate polyester. I simply prefer a softer feel. USRSA Member number:
This polyester did not change my mind. 5.0
”
male all-court player using Head i.S6 OS strung
at 59 pounds LO (Tecnifibre NRG2 16) Phone:

”
wrist. 4.0 male all-court player using Tec-
nifibre T Feel 290 XL strung at 56 pounds LO
(Klip Excellerator 17)
For the rest of the tester comments, visit Email:
If you print your email clearly, we will noti-
www.racquetsportsindustry.com.
fy you when your sample will be sent.

“ This is not your average polyester. It is

comfortable and has great feel. It can handle

”
touch shots with ease. 5.0 male all-court
player using Wilson n4 strung at 50 pounds
LO (Polyester 16)

“ This string has a comfortable feel and

good playability. The control on groundies
and volleys is striking. The ball comes off the
stringbed with a deep, solid thwap. 5.0
”
male all-court player using Head Liquidmetal
Radical OS strung at 60 pounds CP (Head
RIP Control 16)

“ This is a stiff string. It holds tension well

ers who like — or think they might like —

the benefits of Alu Power but want a
more comfortable string, should give Alu
Power Fluoro a try. Between the softer
feel and the fact that our playtesters felt
that it holds tension well, you have a pre-
mium monofilament that might suit a
wide variety of big hitters, both straight
up and in hybrid string sets.
If you think that Luxilon Alu Power Flu-
oro 123 might be for you, fill out the
coupon to get a free set to try.
—Greg Raven Q

April 2008 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 43

 ask the EXPERTS
Your Equipment Hotline
HYBRID THEORY
DO YOU THINK IT WOULD improve
Q playability of a hybrid-strung racquet
if the mains and crosses were strung
in such a way that the dynamic stiffness was
more equal? For example, if you have Lux-
ilon Alu Power in the mains, the dynamic
stiffness is 242 with a tension loss of 17.13.
On a Head Prestige Mid, the longest mains
are 12.375 inches long, and the longest
cross is 9.125 inches long, a ratio of roughly
.73.
It seems to me that if the crosses were
strung at the same tension as the mains
with (in this case) Prince Synthetic Gut 17,
which has a dynamic stiffness of 178 (242
times .73 equals about 177) and a tension
loss of 16.88, you might get the best of
both worlds without having to tinker with
the tension.
This seems as though it might be a better
approach than tinkering with the tension
because making tension adjustments to
44 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008
compensate for differences in dynamic
stiffness is kind of like cutting off your legs
to fit your pants ... it doesn't really accom-
plish everything you're trying to do.
A THIS APPROACH WOULD MAKE IT
much easier to market hybrid string
jobs, because when you explain your
approach to your customers, it would
sound impressive. There are two draw-
backs, though. First, it’s going to be a lot
of work finding pairs of strings with char-
acteristics in the ratio you seek. Second,
the bottom line is the final stiffness of the
stringbed, no matter how you achieve it.
That is, if you can achieve a certain stiff-
ness using either one-piece stringing or
two-piece stringing, the response of the
ball off the strings should be the same.
The joker in the deck is that some strings
do not have a linear response on impact
relative to the speed of the ball (everything
else being equal). The best way to get the
mains and crosses to have the same impact
“signature” is to use the same string for
both the mains and crosses. Given the
number of players using hybrid string sets
that are not matched as you propose, and
given that some players will prefer a hybrid
set with the stiffer string in the mains and
others use that same set with the stiffer
string in the crosses, the most reasonable
conclusion is that it comes down to per-
sonal preference, rather than calculations.
POWER PADS
I AM HAVING A HARD TIME finding
Q a tennis supplier that still carries
leather power pads (preferably the
round ones).
A TRY GRAND SLAM STRINGERS, on-
line at www.grandslamstringers
.com. GSS sells strips of leather, which you
can cut into whatever size and shape you
desire.
 Keep in mind that by adding tape to
the stringbed you are also changing the
sound of the ball impact, so your cus-
tomers may be feeling a little drag but,
because the sound of impact is muted,
be thinking that there’s more drag than
there actually is.
—Greg Raven Q

drag on the racquet. Therefore, even a
light racquet with a low swingweight
might be difficult to swing, depending on
the amount of drag you are creating with
your tape dampener.
We welcome your questions. Please send them
to Racquet Sports Industry, 330 Main St.,
Vista, CA, 92084; fax: 760-536-1171; email:
greg@racquettech.com.

INCREASING
SWINGWEIGHT?
I HAVE BEEN USING HEAD TAPE

Q at the throat of the racquet

instead of a dampener. The tape
is 1-1/2" wide, and I use one piece on
each side of the stringbed, pressed
together, covering the throat area. My
customers like it. One said it slowed
down his swing. By creating wind resis-
tance in the face of the frame; am I
increasing swing weight?

A THE MASS OF THE TAPE IS proba-

bly fairly small, and by placing it
low on the stringbed, you are getting
minimal additional swingweight. Howev-
er, by increasing the wind resistance, you
are making it more difficult to swing the
racquet, but in a slightly different way.
As Doctor Porsche taught us many years
ago, the more mass you have, the more
difficult it is to accelerate (and deceler-
ate) that mass. However, once you accel-
erate that mass, it doesn’t take much
more effort to keep it in motion than if
the mass were lower, unless you are
fighting gravity. A light racquet with low
swingweight is going to be easy to
swing.
Wind resistance (or drag, as it’s also
known), on the other hand, grows pro-
portionally with speed. It’s also affected
by the angle of the racquet relative to
the direction of swing. That is, if you
were to swing the racquet edge-on and
then suddenly turn it 90 degrees, you’d
notice a big difference in the amount of

April 2008 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 45

 tips and TECHNIQUES
Readers’ Know-How in Action
STRINGING BY EAR
I use a stethoscope to listen to frames while
pulling tension. This is especially useful in
diagnosing frames with integrity issues. If a
crack is suspected, I can usually pass or fail
the frame using the stethoscope. If I hear a
noise that sounds like radio static while
pulling tension, I can be pretty sure that
something is wrong and the frame is break-
ing down. If I just hear a “swoosh” sound,
the string sliding into place, I can be rela-
tively certain that no issues are present. I lis-
ten during several pulls, especially those
that are close to areas that I suspect. Some-
times a pull in the center of the frame will
just “swoosh” while an outer pull, closer to
a suspected crack, will provide a different
noise indeed. (Hint: When listening to a
frame with suspected issues, it is wise to
wear safety goggles as your face is close to
the possible weakened area.)
5 sets of Head FXP 16 to:
John Youngblood, Suwanee, GA
46 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008
Editor’s note: Some combinations of
string and grommets can create a
real cacophony when pulling the
center mains. Be careful not to mis-
take this for the sound of a broken
frame. Also, check to see that the
sound picked up by the stethoscope
is not so loud that it damages your
hearing.
FAVORITE CUTTERS
Seems like I keep reading about peo-
ple using diagonal cutters, or nippers
with their stringing. I’ve found that my
favorite stringing tool after my awl is a
pair of Fiskars Ultimate Craft Scissors
(#12-7927). These are phenomenal at
quickly cutting through string beds, tie-
off knots snip with ease, and coil ties
are easily dispatched. They’re super
comfortable in your hand, spring
loaded for easy use, and well con-
structed with a lifetime warranty.
5 sets of Gamma Synthetic Gut with
WearGuard 16 to:
Eric Jubin, Missouri City, TX
GREAT CART FOR TABLE-
TOP STRINGING MACHINES
After looking everywhere for a cart for
my Alpha Revo 4000, I found a great

buy at Sam’s Club (item #135623) for
only $49.87+ tax. The cart is the Seville
Heavy Duty Commercial Cart Model
99307 and is very sturdy. The cart is
chrome plated, has 3 adjustable shelves
with liners, lockable wheels, and is NSF
rated at 500 lbs. The cart is 33.75 in
long x 18 in wide x 32.25 in tall and is
very easy to assemble. It fits my stringer
perfectly and the shelves help to keep
my stringing supplies organized.
Because it is on wheels, I can easily roll it
around as needed. A great cart for a
great price!
5 sets of Prince Synthetic Gut Multi-
filament 16 to:
Marshall Knight, Summerville, SC
RESTRING BY …
Recently a regular customer asked me
when he would be due for another
string job if he had not broken one by
then. This gave me an idea for a great
advertising tool. I had some business
cards printed up with the date strung,
type of string, tension, and the recom-
mended date for the next restringing. 5 sets of Wilson Enduro Pro 18 to:
This gets my customers coming in before Scott Brashier, Newport Beach, CA
they break a string, and they are happier
—Greg Raven Q
because they keep playing at a higher
level.
5 sets of Ashaway Synthetic
Gut 16 to:
Steve Moore, Knoxville TN Tips and Techniques submitted since
2000 by USRSA members, and appear-
Editor’s note: You can also enter the
ing in this column, have all been gath-
“string by” date on the racquet label,
ered into a single volume of the
instead of the “strung” date, if you
don’t want to print up business cards. Stringer’s Digest—Racquet Service
Techniques which is a benefit of USRSA
NEVER TOO THIN membership. Submit tips to: Greg
When stinging with stiff polys, I thin out Raven, USRSA, 330 Main St., Vista, CA
the tip with emery cloth when stringing
92804; or email
the crosses. This makes the tip easier to
greg@racquettech.com.
grip onto and also gives it a bit more
flex.
April 2008 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 47
 Your Serve
League Leader
A longtime tennis director says WTT Rec
Leagues are not only fun for all, but they
also add to your bottom line.
BY SCOTT HANOVER
L
ast November, I had the tennis-playing thrill
of a lifetime, competing at the World
TeamTennis Recreational League National
Finals. Holding the national champions banner
and sharing the victory with my team is some-
thing I will never forget.
Being a part of this first-class national
event, with folks like WTT co-founder Billie
Jean King and WTT CEO/Commissioner
llana Kloss leading the way, made the
memories that much more incredible. But I
have had the thrill of participating in and
organizing World TeamTennis leagues for
years, and from my vantage point as a
player, team organizer and facility manag-
er, WTT may be just the right league for
your club, park or CTA.
For those of you not familiar with WTT,
it’s a coed recreational league with NTRP or
open skill levels. Players play five or six no-
ad sets of men’s and women’s singles,
doubles and mixed doubles, with every
game counting toward the winning score.
There are many reasons you may want
to consider starting a WTT league, both for
you and your players.
1. Format: Easily scheduled within a
two-hour time frame, a WTT match can be
played on two courts. It offers all of tennis’
events, plus the excitement of playing lets,
no-ad scoring, changing sides after four
games and substitutions. And with over-
time, losing teams who win the last set
have a chance to catch up. Players enjoy
the quick pace and trying something new!
2. Averaging Levels: As long as the
top two men and top two women on a
team average out to the league skill level
(4.0 for example), you can have a 4.5 man,
a 4.0 man, a 4.0 woman and a 3.5 woman
on your team. It allows friends of different
levels, and oftentimes spouses, to be on
the same team together.
3. Revenue: Generate new business at
your facility, encourage team practices and
48 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY April 2008
fill up court time. After paying your site
license fee to WTT (which allows you permis-
sion to host a WTT League and be eligible for
all the benefits), all the revenue produced is
yours! And you have the option of online
payments through PayPal for your league.
4. Opportunity to Advance: Like USTA
Leagues, teams winning local WTT Leagues
can qualify for one of six National Qualifiers
around the country.
5. Great Benefits: WTT has benefits for
directors and players (league rewards pro-
gram, toll-free assistance) plus many dis-
counts and incentives through Advanta,
Wilson, and Bälle de Mätch.
6. New Website and Web Tools: In the
past year, WTT has greatly enhanced its web-
site, WTT.com, with online registration,
online league scheduling, posting schedules
and scores, email notifications system and
more.
7. Other WTT Programs and Services:
A. X TeamTennis—An event for high
school-age players featuring singles and
mixed doubles. A day-long local-level tourna-
ment qualifies players for nationals. Schools
may send multiple local co-ed teams.
B. Corporate Leagues—These are taking
off around the country, and allow folks to
play with co-workers, raise company morale
and reduce health care costs at work. Offer-
ing many of the same benefits as WTT
Leagues, corporate local winners qualify for
their own national championship.
C. WTT is the format for USTA Tennis on
Campus, bringing non-varsity players togeth-
er on college club teams throughout the
country, again featuring Section and National
championships.
D. Pro Leagues—If you live near a pro
league franchise, you have the added benefit
of getting a free ticket for each of your rec
league players to attend a professional
match. Plus there is the cross-marketing
opportunities of the local and pro league
together.
8. Customer Service: The national
staff is always just a phone call away and
extremely helpful. Delaine Mast has been
WTT’s national director for the Rec
Leagues for more than 20 years and
knows all the ins and outs of WTT
Leagues. Jen Smith has coordinated the
National Qualifiers and Nationals for sev-
eral years and is a great problem-solver.
And returnee Elaine Wingfield has plenty
of experience as WTT League director,
and coordinates the collegiate competi-
tion.
I have hundreds of local league players
who are sold on WTT. “It’s competitive,
fun and social—all at the same time,”
says Kathryn Johnson of Kansas City, Mo.,
who plays on a 3.5 team. “We meet lots
of new players and earn the
opportunity to travel to
To find out more
other cities for the National
about WTT Leagues,
Qualifiers. And best of all,
call Delaine Mast at
we enjoy playing all
1-866-PLAY-WTT or
events—singles, doubles
visit www.WTT.com.
and mixed—in one night,
with our friends.”
WTT Rec Leagues are fun for you and
your players, and they generate revenue,
too. What more could you ask for? Q
Scott Hanover is the general
manager of the Plaza Tennis
Center, a 14-court outdoor facili-
ty in Kansas City, Mo. As a vol-
unteer, he serves as the national
chairperson of the USTA Commu-
nity Tennis Association Development committee.
We welcome your opinions. Please email
comments to rsi@racquetTECH.com or fax
them to 760-536-1171.