Give Back: Apply To Be A Northern Division Officer

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David Rodgers
5 years ago
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* National Indoors - 7 As my term as president comes to an end, I m very encouraged about the future of tennis and the strength of the USPTA at the National and Divisional levels.

1 Fall 2011 A Message From Our President... In This Issue... * President s Message - 1 * Looking for Officers - 1 * Northern Convention - 2 * USPTA Testing Dates - 2 * USTA Symposium - 3 * On Court With USPTA - 4 * Steve Wilkinson - 6 * National Awards - 7 * National Indoors - 7 As my term as president comes to an end, I m very encouraged about the future of tennis and the strength of the USPTA at the National and Divisional levels. I see a great period of growth for tennis with the 10 and Under program leading the way, adding additional players and excitement to our great game. At the National level, the USPTA has shown it is committed to representing its entire membership base in making our trade association not only the largest in the industry, but the one that will enable our tennis professionals to be regarded with the highest status in our tennis communities. USPTA Northern Division President Brian McCoy Our division is in good hands with John Schollmeier taking over the duties of Division President at the start of the new year. John brings youthful energy and a tremendous amount of talent to the post. Thank you for your support of tennis and the USPTA in our division the past two years. My hope is that all of our members will continue their quest for knowledge and involve themselves in events and programs that aid in the growth of tennis within their tennis communities. Give Back: Apply To Be A Northern Division Officer The USPTA Northern Division is now accepting applications for its division Board of Officers. The Northern Division Board consists of the division President, Regional Vice President, two Vice Presidents, and a Secretary/Treasurer. Anyone interested in serving on the Northern Division board must summit their information by November 22, To be considered, applicants must be a USPTA professional in good standing and reside in the USPTA Northern Division. This is a two-year commitment, but a long-term vision is preferred and desired from anyone interested in serving on the Northern Division Board. Candidates must submit their resume and a one page position paper describing their interests, commitment and goals in serving the USPTA Northern Division and its members as an officer of the USPTA Northern Division board. Questions should be directed to the Nominations Committee chair Dilcia Pederson at (612) or by at dilcia.pederson@innercitytennis.org.

Fall 2011 Page 2 USPTA Northern Division Convention January 27-28 The USPTA Northern Division Convention is January 27-28, 2012, at Life Time Fitness- Fridley in Fridley, Minn.

2 Fall 2011 Page 2 USPTA Northern Division Convention January The USPTA Northern Division Convention is January 27-28, 2012, at Life Time Fitness- Fridley in Fridley, Minn. Friday s session will run from 5-10 p.m., while Saturday is 12-8 p.m. For more information, or to register, contact Christin Thurston at schum10s@aol.com. Registration prior to January 15 is free for USPTA members! After January 15, cost is $25 or a daily rate of $15/day. To Register please your full name and dates you are attending to: Christin Thurston at schum10s@aol.com. You may send payment to: Christin Thurston (checks made out to USPTA Northern Division, 2755 Ewing Ave. N., Robbinsdale, Minn Three USPTA Testing Dates Remain in 2011 The USPTA will hold three more Certification Exams during 2011 with two being at Life Time Fitness - White Bear Lake (Professional Level - Nov. 13 and Dec. 11) and one at the Reed Sweatt Family Tennis Center (Dec. 2) in Minneapolis. The Professional Level exam are for those who only need to do the stroke testing, while the Dec. 2 comprehensive exam includes all on-court portions. The exam also includes the written and grip exam. The written exam covers teaching, playing and business management skills, rules, club activity programming and other topics. Contact USPTA at or membership@uspta.org to register for an upcoming exam, or for further details. Advanced registration is required. The application fee of $175 pays for the full exam and the PTCAI, plus prorated USPTA membership dues.

3 Fall 2011 Page 3 USTA Northern Hosts Tennis Symposium Nov Come Learn, Share & Play at the 2011 USTA Northern Tennis Symposium November 18-19, 2011, at both the Fred Wells Tennis & Education Center in St. Paul, Minn., and Minnesota Valley Country Club in Bloomington, Minn. Friday s events will take place at the Fred Wells Tennis & Education Center beginning with the What s New in 2012 Community Tennis Rally Luncheon at 12:30 p.m. Join the USTA Northern staff for lunch and an informal session on the many tennis programs and services we have available for your organization. We ll focus on what s new for 2012 and address frequently asked questions with our most popular initatives. In addition, all attendees will receive a copy of our 2012 Community Tennis Guide. This is followed by Open Space Networking and Educational Opportunity at 2:15 p.m. Participants in the Open Space session will take part in breakout discussions with a central theme of How do we get more people playing more tennis? At Open Space, everyone participates in some manner: presenting, leading a discussion, showcasing best practices or sharing experiences. This is a self-organizing collaborative session that is designed to be a fun, rewarding and unique experience. Open Space is a great opportunity for participants to learn from, teach to and network with other professionals and volunteers involved in community tennis. Then the play portion of the weekend begins with Happy Hour and Tennis Games and Drills at 4:30 p.m. Saturday kicks off with the Minnesota Youth Sports University at the National Sports Center in Blaine. This event, cosponsored by the Minnesota Youth Athletic Services and the National Sports Center, is designed to educate the officers of youth sports associations (Presidents, Secretary/Treasurers, Travel Directors/Coaching Coordinators, Tournament/ Fundraising Directors and other officers) in the effective operation of their organization. This event happens only once every 10 years so take advantage of this exciting opportunity. The USTA Northern Annual Meeting is from 1:00-2:30 p.m. at Minnesota Valley Country Club in Bloomington, Minn., followed by the USTA Northern Annual Awards Dinner from 6:00-9:00 p.m., also at Minnesota Valley C.C. Cost for the 2011 Tennis Symposium is $40, while the Awards Banquet is also $40. To register, please visit www. 2011symposium.ezregister.com. For more information about the Symposium, please contact Becky Cantellano at cantellano@northern.usta.com. For more information about the Awards Banquet, please contact Lisa Mushett at mushett@northern.usta.com.

Fall 2011 Page 4 On Court With USPTA Airs On Tennis Channel Tune in to the best tennis instructional show on TV, On Court with USPTA, produced especially for the Tennis Channel by the USPTA.

The series covers all aspects of the game, including strategy and tactics, technique, drills, tips and more for both singles and doubles.

4 Fall 2011 Page 4 On Court With USPTA Airs On Tennis Channel Tune in to the best tennis instructional show on TV, On Court with USPTA, produced especially for the Tennis Channel by the USPTA. Each episode features some of the best teaching professionals in the business. The series covers all aspects of the game, including strategy and tactics, technique, drills, tips and more for both singles and doubles. You ll learn everything from how to hit the basic shots like the volley, forehand and backhand groundstrokes to advanced techniques that are used on the tour today. The series has something for everyone, from beginner to advanced players with drills that can be made scalable to fit every level of play. The series will get you on the court hitting better, winning more matches and improving your overall game. Each episode is available on DVD and includes bonus material such as extended lessons, tips, drills, interviews and more. To learn more, go to Macci s Top Five Movement Drills It s drill time! Count down through USPTA Master Professional Rick Macci s top five movement drills, including his famous two-on-two game. See drills that work on agility, change of direction, conditioning and movement. Learn about court safety and the art of coaching in this fast-paced, action- packed episode. You ll learn how to do each drill, different variations and how they fit every playing level. That s right, anyone can do these drills and there s no better way to practice than to use the same drills advanced players use. Rick is known for creating champions, so why not become one too. With this episode you will learn five of Rick Macci s favorite drills that emphasize movement so that you can become fitter and faster when you re on the court. Macci s Top Five Technical Drills Need more drills? Then this fun, action-packed show is for you. Tag along with USPTA Master Professional Rick Macci as he shares with you his top five technical drills. He ll show you how to do each one, give you technical tips and explain how each one can be modified to fit every playing level. See drills that work on racquet speed, volleys, transition shots, motor skills and get insight from Rick on how to create a drill and the art of scalability. You ll definitely want to get a friend, or get with your coach to try these drills. They re fun and challenging. This episode presents five entertaining and rewarding drills that focus on improving your technique, tips on how to create your own drill for yourself or your students and details on what scalability is and how you can adapt your drills for it. Footwork Solutions Part 3: Net Game Footwork is an extremely important part of tennis since your feet and legs are instrumental in getting you to the ball and allow you to recover for the next shot. Now, USPTA Master Professional Lorenzo Beltrame is back to complete the miniseries on footwork solutions with the Net Game. The show covers the transition from the baseline to the net, what to do with the feet when hitting volleys, footwork for two different kinds of overheads, and how to start the point by either serving and staying back or serving and volleying. This show is a mustsee for everyone. You will learn the ideal footwork for a variety of situations, such as getting from the baseline to the net during a point, hitting volleys and overheads, serving and volleying, and when serving and staying back to rally. Footwork Solutions Part 2: Moving Backward and Forward Footwork is an extremely important part of tennis since your feet and legs are instrumental in getting you to the ball and allow you to recover for the next shot. This episode continues the miniseries on footwork solutions with USPTA Master Professional Lorenzo Beltrame and focuses on moving backward and forward from the baseline. See demonstrations and explanations of different scenarios both in front and behind the baseline when hitting backhands and forehands, and watch as Lorenzo teaches player s how to get them into the right position for each shot. It s a must-see for any player. You will learn the most efficient way to move your feet in a variety of game situations, such as when attacking high balls or moving forward on a short ball, to defensive lobs that help you get back into the rally and recovering.

Fall 2011 Page 5 On Court With USPTA Airs On Tennis Channel Repairing Confidence and Technique USPTA Master Professional Rick Macci shares tips on repairing technique and building confidence for

5 Fall 2011 Page 5 On Court With USPTA Airs On Tennis Channel Repairing Confidence and Technique USPTA Master Professional Rick Macci shares tips on repairing technique and building confidence for struggling players. Macci provides viewers with input on how to correct and improve technique and gain confidence in their tennis skills. He stresses the importance of being honest and really assessing and isolating problems in one s game. He provides quick mental tips that can boost confidence and playing tips that can be game changers. Macci has the distinction of having trained and worked with five No. 1 players in the world: Andy Roddick, Venus Williams, Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova and Jennifer Capriati. Strengthening Your Serve Mark Kovacs, Ph.D., explains the three phases and the eight stages for the high performance serve. He teaches viewers exercises on how to work on each stage from the starting position all the way to the follow-through. With his background in strength and conditioning he explains and demonstrates how balance discs, resistance tubing, medicine balls and a plyometric box can help improve a player s serve. Kovacs currently manages the Sport Science and Strength and Conditioning areas for the USTA Player Development Program. Forehand Movement Patterns and Exercises This segment is also with Mark Kovacs, who demonstrates six major movement patterns for the forehand. He explains to viewers how movement for tennis is unique, and although improving athletic ability helps, working on movement patterns and exercises specific to tennis will have a greater impact on movement and will help generate better results. Kovacs demonstrates the six movement patterns, as well as exercises using the medicine ball and resistance tubing. Doubles with Liezel Huber Liezel Huber, the No. 1 ranked doubles player on the WTA tour, shares her top five doubles tips. She demonstrates some of the warm-up drills that she does before matches, including a baseline, volley, and serving drill, and a fun warm-up game that will help players get prepped for game day. She also shares some secrets to making it on the pro tour. Visit for more information.

Fall 2011 Page 6 Steve Wilkinson Wins Presidential Award Steve Wilkinson was honored with doubles championships and more than the United States Professional Tennis 35 conference titles.

22 at the World Conference on and effort to improving the tennis Tennis at the Saddlebrook Resort in performance of youth and adults. Wesley Chapel, Fla.

6 Fall 2011 Page 6 Steve Wilkinson Wins Presidential Award Steve Wilkinson was honored with doubles championships and more than the United States Professional Tennis 35 conference titles. He founded the Association s Presidential Award during Tennis and Life clinics/camps more than the USPTA annual awards breakfast 25 years ago and has dedicated his time Sept. 22 at the World Conference on and effort to improving the tennis Tennis at the Saddlebrook Resort in performance of youth and adults. Wesley Chapel, Fla. Wilkinson, who is His involvement with the USPTA from St. Peter, Minn., has been a includes serving as regional vice USPTA P-1 for nearly 40 years. president and division president and He played tennis for Iowa University serving on the tournament committee. before he began his teaching career. He Wilkinson has also served as a USTA has also been ranked No. 1 nationally clinician for high school coaches clinics, in men s 45s, 50s, 55s, and 60s. Tennis Festival of the North and Tennis Wilkinson s impact and influence as and Life clinics. a tennis teacher is tremendous. He has Wilkinson has done much to promote a clear commitment to building strong tennis and sportsmanship, and as a tennis players and stronger human result of all of his efforts and dedication, beings and in the process has touched he has been inducted into the hall of and changed the lives of thousands of fame of three different USTA sections and Steve Wilkinson people. As head coach of Gustavus the Intercollegiate Tennis Association Adolphus College, he has built a dynasty for 40 years with Hall of Fame, and was the recipient of the tennis hall of fame multiple national championships, numerous singles and education merit award.

Fall 2011 Page 7 Matt Boughton & Tony Larson Win National Awards Matthew Boughton is the 2011 winner of the USPTA Industry Excellence Award, recognizing business acumen and a charitable attitude.

7 Fall 2011 Page 7 Matt Boughton & Tony Larson Win National Awards Matthew Boughton is the 2011 winner of the USPTA Industry Excellence Award, recognizing business acumen and a charitable attitude. The award is sponsored by the Tennis Industry Association and supported by Tennis Tutor ball machines. Boughton, of Eau Claire, Wis., is the director of tennis and a tennis professional at the Eau Claire YMCA, and had a significant impact on the growth of the junior tennis program, membership and revenue. During his four years at the YMCA, Boughton has managed to help increase membership revenue by 20 percent and lesson revenue is up 39 percent. Tony Larson of Brooklyn Park, Minn., was named the 2011 USPTA Men s Open Player of the Year. Larson Wins Nat l Indoors At Life Time - Fridley Matt Boughton won the 2011 Industry Excellence Award. Tony Larson of Brooklyn Park, Minn., defended his men s open title at the $5,000 United States Professional Tennis Association Indoor Championships held April 15-17, at Life Time Fitness Fridley Club in Fridley, Minn., by defeating Abdul Idi of Lakeville, Minn., 6-0, 6-1. He later went on to win the men s open doubles title by teaming up with Roy Bryan of Minneapolis. The tournament also included events in the following categories: men s 35 singles and men s 45 singles and doubles. The national tournaments are open to Professional-level members in good standing USPTA National Indoor Champions Men s Open Singles Tony Larson (Alexandria, Minn.) def. Abdul Idi, (Lakeville, Minn.) 6-0, 6-1. Men s 35 Singles Joel Tennison (Verona, Wis.) def. Douglas Matuska (St. Paul, Minn.) 6-2, 6-1. Men s 45 Singles Bryan Biever (St. Paul, Minn.) def. Glenn Britzius (Maple Grove, Minn.) 6-7, 5-2 Ret (inj) Men s Open Doubles Roy Bryan (Minneapolis)/Tony Larson (Alexandria, Minn.) def. John Pratt (Woodbury, Minn.)/Reven Stephens (St. Louis Park, Minn.) 4-6, 6-2, 6-3. Men s 45 Doubles Rajan Keswani (Eden Prairie, Minn.)/Michael Olson (Ham Lake, Minn.) def. Glenn Britzius (Maple Grove, Minn.)/ Raman Jayapathy (Eden Prairie, Minn.) 4-6, 6-4, 6-4. World Conference Report From John Schollmeier The 2011 USPTA World Conference was held this year at Saddlebrook Resort September Although attendance was down on a national level, USPTA Northern had a strong showing. In attendance were Board members Christin Thurston, Brian McCoy and John Schollmeier. Members also in attendance included Brian Christensen, John Sanny, Roger Boyer, Willis and Christine Runk, and Mike Vidmar. Although no longer members of the Northern division, old friends Abdul Idi and Brody McCoy also made the trip to Saddlebrook. The USPTA World conference facilitates a great opportunity to receive continuing education credits by participating in presentations and specialty courses covering topics such as technique, tactics, drill progressions, and using social media to grow the game of tennis. Though there are too many presenters to name, a few worth noting were Emilio Sanchez Vicario, Jorge Capestany, Lorenzo Beltrame, Rick Macci, Craig Jones, Martin Blackman, Jose Higueras, and Patrick McEnroe. During the week the World Conference also hosts the executive committee meetings, as well as a buying show and the International Championships which is part of the USPTA Tournament Series. If you haven t had a chance to attend the World Conference, I strongly suggest the trip. The conference gives us a great opportunity to gather a wealth of knowledge on the tennis industry as a whole. The 2012 USPTA World Conference is set for Monterey, Calif.

Fall 2011 Page 8 USPTA Hosts 10 and Under Play Day The

Fitness Bloomington South in hosting a 10U Play Day back

Almost 50 kids participated in the event which had match

After the matches, the kids, who were from all around

8 Fall 2011 Page 8 USPTA Hosts 10 and Under Play Day The USPTA and PTR teamed with USTA Northern and Life Time Fitness Bloomington South in hosting a 10U Play Day back in May. Almost 50 kids participated in the event which had match play on both 36- and 60-foot courts. After the matches, the kids, who were from all around the Twin Cities including Fridley, St. Paul, Bloomington, Richfield, Woodbury, and Minneapolis received prizes and had a pizza party.

TENNIS SELF RATING GUIDE FOR TENNIS CLASSES. National Tennis Rating Program General Characteristics of Various Playing Levels

TENNIS SELF RATING GUIDE FOR TENNIS CLASSES. National Tennis Rating Program General Characteristics of Various Playing Levels SELF RATING GUIDE FOR TENNIS CLASSES National Tennis Rating Program General Characteristics of Various Playing Levels BEGINNING 1.0 TO 1.5 1.0 This player is just starting to play tennis. 1.5 This player