Newsletter - United States Professional Tennis Association

A Newsletter for USPTA Florida Division Tennis Professionals
Nov. - Dec. , 2011
USPTA FLORIDA DIVISION
FAST DRY COURTS
AND 10-S TENNIS SUPPLY
GRAND PRIX MASTERS EVENT
Men’s Open Champion - Adrians Zguns
Men’s Open Finalist - Julien Link
Florida Division
Convention returns to Club Med
Sandpiper Bay in Port St. Lucie
May 28 - June 3, 2012
More information on convention schedule, registration
and resort reservations will be in the next issue of
Baselines and sent by e-mail. Watch for the details and
important deadlines.

USPTA FLORIDA DIVISION
BOARD OF OFFICERS
JEFF COHEN
President
561-995-5213
jcohen@woodfield.org
RICHARD CENTERBAR
Regional Vice President
561-487-7070
rcand10s@yahoo.com
BRAD LEU
First Vice President
772-231-3102
sotennis@bellsouth.net
TRISH FAULKNER
Vice President
561-775-4777
triosports@aol.com
MIKE BALDWIN
Vice President
561-789-7221
mbaldwin@westonhillsgolf.com
JASON GILBERT
Vice President
305 778-4574
Jg10s@aol.com
PATRICK SHEAHAN
Vice President
561 482-9828
Patrick.Sheahan@oaksclub.net
GLEN HOWE
Head Tester
850 891-3920
Glen.Howe@talgov.com
PAT ANDERSON
Executive Director
800-997-2766 407-696-0515
usptafl@aol.com
DISTRICT PRESIDENTS
DISTRICT 1 – PANHANDLE
JOE D’ALEO
850 267-9195
jdaleo@resortquest.com
DISTRICT 2 – TALLAHASSEE
STEVE LEROY
850 891-3920
steve.leroy@talgov.com
DISTRICT 3 – JACKSONVILLE
RANDY JENKS
386 864-1224
randyjenks@me.com
DISTRICT 4 – CENTRAL FL
HENNER LENHARDT
407 671-0074
Hennerl3@aol.com
DISTRICT 5 – LAKELAND
ROBERT HOLLIS
863 860-4254
volleyft@gmail.com
DISTRICT 6 – DAYTONA BCH.
RICH WALKER
386 445-0747
rwalker@hammockdunesclub.com
DISTRICT 7A – TAMPA
DAVE FREIMAN
813 855-9617
Dave@TeamTennisJuniorLeague.com
DISTRICT 7B – ST. PETE
PAGE BUCK
727 796-1136
Page.buck@ourclub.com
DISTRICT 8 – SARASOTA
JACK STEYN
941 545-5173
catandjack@hotmail.com
DISTRICT 9 – VERO BEACH
CHRISTOPHE DELAVAUT
772 778-9100
christophe@tennisoxygen.com
DISTRICT 10 – WEST PALM
RICARDO MENDIVIL
561 625-5707
mendi100@aol.com
DISTRICT 11 – BOCA RATON
C.W. LEWIS
561 994-3593
cwtennishockey@bellsouth.net
DISTRICT 12 - NAPLES
DOUG WELSH
239 597 9725
QcccTennis@Quailcreekcc.com
DISTRICT 13-MIAMI
ROBERT GOMEZ
305 460 5360
RGomez@coralgables.com
DISTRICT 14 – LEE COUNTY
ALEX HERMETO
239 561 1422 (w)
ahermeto@gmail.com
DISTRICT 15 - MELBOURNE
STAN OLEY
800 352-6878
Stan_Oley@msn.com
DISTRICT 16
N.DADE/S.BROWARD
CHRIS KADER
954 449 4410
Ckader21@yahoo.com
DISTRICT 17 - GAINESVILLE
KEN OUELLETTE
knockouttennis@aol.com
DISTRICT 18 – BONITA SPRINGS
FRED HINDLE
239 898-7770
Fred_hindle@hotmail.com
DISTRICT 19 - KEYS
JIM MORTON
305 367-6583
jmorton@oceanreef.com
COMMITTEE CHAIRS
MEMBERSHIP GRAND PRIX AWARDS
GLEN HOWE MIKE BALDWIN PATRICK SHEAHAN
850 891-3920 561 789-7221 561 482-9828
Glen.Howe@talgov.com mbaldwin@westonhillsgolf.com Patrick.sheahan@oaksclub.net
DIVERSITY
NOMINATING
TRISH FAULKNER
KEVIN MCCARTHY
561 775-4777 954 344-1840
triosports@aol.com
kmccarthy@coralsprings.org
12-10-11
Thank you to all contributors in this issue:
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Mike Baldwin, Ivan Baron, Richard Centerbar, Jeff Cohen, Joe D’Aleo, Trish Faulkner, Bob Heller, Glen Howe, Chris Kader,
Henner Lenhardt, Brad Leu, C.W. Lewis, Keith Lipp, Ricardo Mendivil, Jim Morton, Ira Peskowitz, Ben Rakusin, and Rich
Vach. Member contributions are encouraged. The deadline for the next issue is January 10. 2012. For advertising rates, or to
submit articles, ideas or suggestions, contact the division office at usptafl@aol.com or 800 997-2766.
Pat Anderson, editor

President’s Message
Happy New Year!
It’s hard to believe that 2011 is already in the rear view mirror. I hope 2011 was everything that
you wanted it to be and if not, good riddance 2011 and HELLO 2012!
I just returned from the USTA Florida Annual Meeting & Tennis Celebration weekend in
Orlando, Fla. I can’t thank the USTA Florida Staff and Board of Directors enough for inviting
me and the USPTA Florida Division Board to attend a great weekend full of workshops,
meetings, parties, food, and awards. It was a celebration of the people who go above and
beyond, that make a difference and continue to grow the game of tennis in Florida. Both
the USTA and USPTA Florida Boards met and worked on finalizing an agreement that will allow us to work more
closely together and strengthen our partnership in growing the game of tennis in Florida and beyond.
2012 is here, have you thought of any New Year’s resolutions?
Here are some ideas to help get you started; learn a language, start a family, pay off debt, learn to fly, snowboard,
climb Kilimanjaro, sail the Caribbean, play in a tennis tournament, get fit & or lose weight, stop smoking or
drinking, save money or spend more time with your family; whatever you decide, the following tips will help see
that your resolution actually makes a difference.
1. Be realistic
The surest way to fall short of your goal is to make your goal unattainable.
2. Create a Plan
Setting a goal without a plan is merely wishful thinking. In order for your resolution to have resolve, it must
translate into clear steps that can be put into action. Create your plan immediately.
3. Write Down Your Resolution and Plan.
Write down your goals. When you put your resolutions into writing, you make them real. Put your goals where you
can see them, in written form, so you won’t forget what you’re setting out to achieve this year.
4. Think “Year Round,” Not Just New Year’s
Nothing big gets accomplished in one day. Resolutions are set in one day, but accomplished throughout the year.
New Year’s resolutions should be nothing more than a starting point.
And finally...
5. Be Flexible
Not everything is going to work out exactly the way you planned, so remain flexible in the goals that you set.
Expect that your plan can and will change. Life has a funny way of throwing unexpected things at us, and
flexibility is required to complete anything but the simplest goal. Just as a resolution isn’t accomplished the day
it’s started, neither is it accomplished the day you reach your goal. Rather, it’s accomplished in many baby steps
along the way. Just like any goal setting process, the key is to be realistic about your goals and the challenges
you may face in trying to achieve them. The more realistic and flexible you are, the more likely you’ll be to achieve
your goals.
I hope that you make one of your resolutions to get more involved within our tennis industry, volunteering,
attending a district meeting, hosting a workshop, playing in a tennis tournament, attending the USPTA Florida
Division Conference, etc. Believe it or not, the more involved you are, the further it will lead to more open doors
and opportunities!
I look forward to seeing many of you throughout the year and wish you and yours a Happy and Healthy 2012!
Jeff F. Cohen
USPTA Florida Division President
3

FLORIDA SUCCESS AT SADDLEBROOK
Florida Division sweeps Southern for 2011 International Team Championship at Saddlebrook!
Team Florida
(in alphabetical order): Captain, Mike Baldwin, Aldo
Burga, Jonathan Call, Dave Cordrey, Emile De Cuba,
Nate Griffin, Anthony Hatori, Abdul Idi, Robin Keener,
John Koahou, Carolyn Lawver, Ben Rakusin, Patrick
Segfeldt, Jack Steyn, and Milos Vasovic
Facility Manager (Large)
Derrick Barnett, BallenIsles Country Club
pictured with Trish Faulkner, Director of Tennis
and Dave Moseley of Welch Tennis Courts
Georger Bacso Tester
Ben Rakusin
Women’s 35s Player
Robin Keener
Diversity Award
Ira Peskowitz
4

60 Years of USPTA Service
Ted Withall with grandson, J J McDonough
Men’s 55s Player
Gewan Maharaj
Men’s 35s Player
Kamil Kuchta
The Florida Division was proudly represented by over
150 attendees at the World Conference at Saddlebrook!
Thanks to all attending for taking advantage of this
exceptional educational and networking opportunity.
During the Awards Breakfast, Florida was recogized in
second place for Division Growth – Greatest number of
new members.
Individual honors went to:
Derrick Barnett, General Manager of BallenIsles
Country Club - Facility Manager (Large); Ben Rakusin -
George Bacso Tester; Ira Peskowitz - Diversity; Robin
Keener - Women’s 35 Player; Kam Kuchta - Men’s 35
Player and Gewan Maharaj - Men’s 55 player. The room
erupted in applause in appreciation for Ted Withall’s 60
years of service. The division has been fortunate to
benefit from his long-term leadership and expertise.
The division also excelled on court by sweeping
the Southern division to be crowned victors of the
International Team Championships. Congratulations
to Samantha Ardenfriend for winning the National
Feeding Shootout competition and finalists Jeff Diggs,
Mike Lawver and Mark Palus.
Special thank you to Welch Tennis Courts for hosting
our Division Party. The stormy weather could not
dampen Florida Division spirit! George and Karen
Todd and Dave Moseley kept the good food,
conversation and camaraderie flowing. The division
party is always a highlight of the World Conference
thoroughly enjoyed by our members!
5

What exactly is a Social Network?
Ben Rakusin, USPTA
In the midst of some real challenges, the 2011 World
Conference at Saddlebrook was a robust buffet of tennis
information and a vivid glimpse into the future. First of
all, let me just say that, although there has been some
political unrest and polarizing events in our organization,
we are on the right track in moving past this period and
striving toward common goals. It was clear that any controversies
were placed in the out box and the conference
moved front and center.
So back to that social network question; as someone
who writes articles and therefore observes the world, my
verdict is still out on Twitter, Facebook and other such
avenues of communication. But coming from that conference,
one thing became crystal clear to me. Making
contact with people, in this case, tennis pros, in their
comfort zone is the key to the success of any and all new
programs and products. Let’s point out a few examples
of this from the World Conference.
David Benzel is the founder of Growing Champions for
Life. This is one of the best sources of strategies for producing
successful, well-adjusted juniors that I’ve ever
seen. Needless to say, there is a growingchampionsforlife.com
site, making this resource available to great
numbers of conscientious pros.
Craig Jones is the face of 10 and Under Tennis. All you
have to do is go to the USTA site and look for anything
referring to Quick Start or 10 and Under Tennis. You can
experience a sense of Craig’s enthusiasm with just a few
clicks.
Even my old Buckeye friend, Dave Kozlowski has expanded
the reach of his long-time TV show by streaming
most of his broadcasts. As a former national pro of the
year, Dave understands that reaching an audience has
become much more sophisticated than simply coming
on after Jeopardy.
Noted Midwest pro, Jorge Capestany, has started his
tennisdrill.tv site which is another outstanding source for
creative drills. If you are a teaching pro and are unaware
of the amount of drills out there on youtube and the like,
you might as well be playing with that old Davis Imperial
racket.
This brings me to a further who’s who of tennis teaching
minds, heavily on display at Saddlebrook. Rick Macci,
Ken DeHart, Feisal Hassan, Luis Mediero, Lorenzo Beltrame,
Martin Blackman and others; what do they have
in common? Just go to old reliable USPTA.com and see
how often you see such pros sharing their best advice.
Unlike our TV show, “On Court with USPTA,”which is
great, you can check out the site 24/7. Do you feel connected
yet?
Lastly, we in the Boca Raton district had the pleasure to
meet Nancy Biggs at our most recent district meeting.
Nancy, who also appeared at Saddlebrook, co-founded
CourtsideUSA. Without going into too much detail, this
site will allow someone, anyone, in Florida to find out
what is going on in tennis anytime, anywhere; regardless
of whether they are a teaching pro, a junior, a 3.0 league
player or a brand new beginner. This is huge. I can only
hope that this site, along with all the other resources out
there will be a shot in the arm to Florida tennis participation.
This takes us full circle to that political controversy mentioned
at the top of this article. The disturbing statistics in
all this are that a tiny percentage of our members voted
in or were even aware of the recent election of our new
national officers. In the same pattern, a tiny percentage
of our membership still attends conventions. I can only
hope that all of these wonderful attempts to make us
connected as pros, pay off with greater interest and participation
on all levels. So this networking is much more
than social; it’s critical.
USPTA 2011 Years of Service Awards
Florida Division Members
60 Years
Ted Withall
45 Years
Ed Foster
John Roundtree
40 Years
Sydney Brass
Dan Cox
Bob Ecuyer
Jay Gilliford
Don Usher
35 Years
Paul Adler
David Buerkle
Patti Burns
Joe Csandli
Mike Dickens
Carlos Goffi
Dennis Grainger
Fernando Guarachi
35 Years (cont’d)
Michael Hoctor
Nancy Kirsten-Barnes
George Kosloff
Tom Krukiel
Thomas Morlock
Carl Poske
Fred Stolle
Leo Vorwerk
30 Years
Frank Carleton
Curly Davis
Christine Eddy
Bill Foreman
Bill Gerdts
Robert Gomez
John Heiss
C W Lewis
Pete Minarich
Dan Smithyman
Andrew Stanfield
Paul Susz
Bob Watson
6

Memorable Moments from Saddlebrook
More photos on Florida Division Facebook
7

The Only Combined ‘ATP CHAMPIONS TOUR’ & ‘ATP WORLD TOUR’ Event in the World
Showcasing Tennis Legends & Today’s ATP Tour Stars… Feb. 24 – Mar. 4, 2012
As a fellow USPTA member, it’s a privilege to host the 4th Annual USPTA FLORIDA FAST DRY & 10S
SUPPLY GRAND PRIX CIRCUIT at the 2012 Delray Beach International Tennis Championships (ITC), the
world’s only combined 10-day ‘ ATP Champions Tour’ event (Feb. 24 – 28) featuring Ivan Lendl, Michael
Chang, Mats Wilander, Pat Cash, and Aaron Krickstein & ‘ ATP World Tour’ event (Feb. 27 – Mar. 4)
featuring American stars Andy Roddick and John Isner. The exciting USPTA schedule for the week includes:
DOUBLES 3.5 & 4.0 CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS. Mon., Feb. 27 & Tues., Feb. 28. 4pm. Call 561.330.6000
to register your members‟ (men & women) doubles teams, limited to 12 per division… Sold out in 2011!
CLUB NIGHTS. Mon., Feb. 27 & Tues., Feb. 28. Call 561.330.6000 to reserve your discount group tickets.
USPTA GRAND PRIX. Wed., Feb. 29 - Fri., Mar. 2. Call Mike Baldwin (561-789-7221) for details.
USPTA ‘UNDER THE STARS’ PRO-AM. Thurs., Mar. 1. Tennis Directors/Pros play with an Amateur
throughout the round-robin. Call 561.330.6000 to register your doubles teams… New in 2012!
USPTA ADULT CLINIC. Fri., Mar. 2. 9 – 10:30am. CW Lewis (Call 561-994-3593 to sign-up your
members. Participants must have a ticket to enter the event grounds).
For additional information on the USPTA schedule of events, please call Jeff Cohen, USPTA Florida
Division President, @ 561-995-5213. We appreciate all of the support you have shown the Delray Beach ITC
over the years and welcome your friends and members to cheer you on at the USPTA Grand Prix. If you would
like to be involved with the Delray Beach ITC’s Elite Team Member Group Discount Program, and/or would
like to receive information on our Senior Day discounts or Ladies Day Luncheons, call 561-330-6000 or log onto
YellowTennisBall.com.
With 60,000+ screaming fans rocking the house, millions more watching on TV, 15-plus parties and
thrilling events, nightly pulsating concerts, glorious daytime and scintillating evening sessions in an ATP "Award
of Excellence" winning arena, we look forward to hosting you at “The Beach.”
Best,
Ivan S. Baron, Tournament Chairman
8
(561) 330-6000 • 30 NW 1st Avenue, Delray Beach, FL 33444 • YellowTennisBall.com

Florida Grants Available for 10 and Under Tennis Clay Court Lines, Temporary and Permanent
Rick Vach | Communications Coordinator USTA Florida – ustaflorida.com
Adding temporary or permanent USTA 10 and Under
Tennis lines to claycourts has never been easier, as
USTA Florida and the USTA national office are partnering
to offer grant funding to dramatically reduce costs.
The face of junior tennis is changing in the U.S. for young
children, and installing 36-foot or 60-foot lines on clay or
hardcourts is the next step in creating permanency and
attracting new junior players to facilities.
The USTA national office and USTA Florida are teaming
to reimburse 75 percent of the costs for the permanent
or temporary lining of Florida claycourts as well as
hardcourts for 10 and Under Tennis, up to $4,000 if
approved.
The USTA can also assist with advocacy, personalized
concept plans, 36-foot and 60-foot court
recommendations, construction and maintenance
manuals, document and bid review, access to USTA
partners within the industry, and programming
assistance for maximum court utilization. Florida tennis
facilities can fill out a USTA Facility Assistance Form
online to be considered for grant assistance.
game, easier for teaching pros, and most importantly
more fun, which keeps kids and parents coming back
for more.”
USTA 10 and Under Tennis featuring the QuickStart play
format is designed for children featuring smaller court
sizes, racquet sizes, foam and low-compression balls, a
simple scoring system, and net heights adjusted to ease
kids into the sport. Similar mini-tennis formats have long
been popular in Europe, where current stars such as
Roger Federer and Kim Clijsters first learned the game
with age-adjusted racquets, balls and court sizes. To
see a video of 10 and Under Tennis in action or for more
information, go to: http://10andundertennis.usta.com.
To access the form online go to
http://ct.usta.com/pfa/
or for questions e-mail Linda Curtis at
curtisL@florida.usta.com.
“In 2012 all USTA Florida tournaments for children age
10 and under are required to use the 10 and Under
Tennis court sizes and equipment, so now is the time for
facilities to put this in place with USTA assistance,” says
USTA Florida Director of Community Tennis Linda Curtis.
“The new format makes it easier for kids to pick up the
9

USPTA/Florida Survey
Your USPTA/Florida Board is sending out this survey to better serve our membership. We value your
opinion and want to offer you this opportunity to give us your input to better our organization. Although
we would prefer you to respond to all the questions, some input is better than no input. The questions
have been phrased in such a way to allow for you to elaborate on your answer if you prefer. Thank you
in advance for your input as the board is committed to adding value to your membership. Please mark
an “X” on the line for Yes/No answers and Rank 1- 2-3 for your first, second and third choice when applicable.
Information:
USPTA number_______
Position________________________
Do you have pro(s) who work under you? ___Yes
___No
If yes, how many____
How many are USPTA certified? ___
How many years have you been a USPTA member? _____How many of those in Florida?____
Are you seasonal? ___Yes ___No
What district/area are you in? ____________
1. Convention
A. Have you attended a USPTA/FL Convention in the past three years? ___Yes ___No
B. If yes,
Rank the three most important reasons for attending: (1 for most important, 2 for second, etc.)
a. Education ___
b. Trade show ___
c. Grand Prix ___
d. Parties ___
e. Networking ___
f. Vacation ___
g. Other:
C. If no,
Rank the factors that prevented you from attending: (1 for most important, 2 for second, etc.)
a. Time of year ___
b. Cost ___
c. Quality ___
d. Geographic Location ___
e. Site ___
f. Convention schedule ___
g. Other:
D. Comments:
10

2. Testing
A. Are you a P-1 or higher? ___Yes ___No
B. If you are a P-2 or lower, what would help you initiate your upgrade? Rank 1 for most important, 2
for second, etc.
1. Mentoring ___
2. more convenient upgrade times/opportunity ___
3. lower cost ___
4. know the advantages of being P-1 ___
5. other:
C. Comments:
3. Education
A. Have you attended an educational seminar in the past 3 years? ___Yes ___No
B. If yes, rank 1 for most important, 2 for second, etc.
1. The 3 most important reasons for attending:
a. Convenience ___
b. The speaker ___
c. Job requirement ___
d. Master Pro requirement ___
e. Other:
C. If no, rank 1 for most important, 2 for second, etc.
1. The 3 main factors that prevented you from attending:
a. Distance ___
b. Affordability ___
c. Quality ___
d. Didn’t know ___
e. No continuing education requirement ___
f. Scheduling ___
g. Other:
2. What educational topics would you like to see? Rank 1 for most important, 2 for second, etc.
a. Under 10 initiative ___
b. High performance ___
c. Doubles strategy ___
d. Mental game ___
e. Expanding your business ___
f. Round table discussions ___
g. Social networking ___
h. Other:
3. Comments:
11

4. Grand Prix
A. Are you familiar with the grand prix schedule? ___Yes ___No
B. I have played in a grand prix: ___Yes ___No
C. If no, why? Rank 1 for most important, 2 for second, etc.
1. No desire ___
2. Distance ___
3. Cost ___
4. Time frame/format ___
5. The pro/am ___
6. Fear of injury ___
7. Other:
D. Comments:
5. Florida Board and District Presidents
A. I know who my District President is: ___Yes ___No
B. I have been to a district meeting: ___Yes ___No
C. Are district meetings being held? ___Yes ___No
D. Do you feel the Florida Board is effective in their duties? ___Yes ___No
E. Comments on any of the above:
F. What would you like to see the Florida Board/District Presidents improve on?
12
Thank you for your time and valuable input. Return by January 31, 2012 to be eligible for Prize Drawing.
Winner will receive one case of Pro Penn tennis balls.
Respond to: USPTA Florida Division
E-mail: usptafl@aol.com
Fax: 407 696-5376
Mail: USPTA Florida Division, 1123 Arbor Glen Circle, Winter Springs, FL 32708

USPTA Competitive Player
Development Conference to take
place in Florida
The United States Professional Tennis Association
Competitive Player Development Conference
will take place at Club Med Sandpiper Bay, Fla.,
from January 20-22, 2012. The conference will
allow attendees to learn the Spanish method for
developing players.
Featured speakers for the conference include
Emilio Sanchez Vicario, Luis Mediero and Gabe
Jaramillo. Sanchez Vicario, who is a USPTA Master
Professional, is the former captain of the 2008
championship Davis Cup team for Spain and a
former tour player ranked No. 7 in singles and No. 1
in doubles. He was also captain of Spain’s Olympic
gold medal team in 2008. The Sanchez family is
also well known for Emilio’s sister, Arantxa Sanchez
Vicario, who won four Grand Slam singles titles, six
Grand Slam women’s doubles titles, and four Grand
Slam mixed doubles titles.
Luis Mediero is a USPTA Master Professional and
the founder of Registro Profesional de Tenis (RPT)
in Madrid, Spain. Mediero, who is also the president
of the International Coaches Institute, has a lifetime
of coaching experience that he has shared through
courses, clinics and conferences in 80 countries,
and he will provide invaluable insights to attendees.
Gabe Jaramillo is a renowned international tennis
coach who developed some of the most well-known
talents in the history of tennis. He was the director
of the Bollettieri junior tennis program for 26 years.
He trained such tennis greats as Andre Agassi and
Monica Seles. Jaramillo, who is a USPTA-certified
P-1 member and an RPT International Master Pro,
is now the tennis director for Club Med Academies.
Early registration for the conference is $300 for
USPTA members and includes all materials. The
deadline for early registration is December 31.
The conference will be presented in English. More
information about the conference, including a
detailed agenda, is available online at www.uspta.
com, by e-mailing florida@sanchez-casal.com or by
calling 239-641-0010.
For hotel accommodations email brooke.martin@
clubmed.com or call 772-342-4217.
Why USPTA
Glen Howe, USPTA Master Professional
Having tested over thirty applicants during the past
couple weeks in Florida, I had the chance to talk to the
next wave of fresh talent. During the initial interview of
the test, about forty percent of the applicants voiced
that their tennis director, manager or owner expected a
USPTA certification. This reminded me why I’m a USPTA
member. We are known for having the highest standard
of excellence in the tennis industry. Beyond the insurance,
the tennis information and personal networking is
unlimited. USPTA Florida has an initiative for the District
President of each of the districts in Florida to call all new
applicants and invite to their meeting or activity. This
will further connect the new pro into our organization.
In addition, we have done more upgrades in the past
five years. It needs to be understood that if you are
looking at a job that is advertising for a P-1, the employer
will not be considering a P-2 or P-3. Don’t wait till the
possibility of a new job is within reach before upgrading.
The next question is “how do I upgrade?” I would recommend
getting a mentor to assist in the practice of an
upgrade. Our Florida testers mentor over ten applicants
per year and would be happy to assist in the upgrade
process.
And lastly, if you are not attending our Florida Convention,
shame on you! It is considered a mini World Conference
and will be the best four days you have spent on
your career. Not only are you going to stay at a worldclass
resort, there is plenty of education and fun to be
had. Take advantage of why you joined the USPTA in
the first place. Our organization will help you in your
pursuit of excellence.
Happy Hunting,
Glen Howe
USPTA Head Tester Florida
USPTA Master Professional
Testing and Upgrade Schedule
Register at www.uspta.com or phone 800 877-8248
December 10-11
January 21-22
February 4- 5
February 11-12
February 19
March 17-18
April 14-15
May 5
May 8-9
June 2- 3
Oaks at Boca Raton
Oaks at Boca Raton
Midtown Athletic Club, Weston
Tops’l Racquet Club, Destin
Bonita Bay Club, Bonita Springs
Oaks at Boca Raton
Lake Nona CC, Orlando
The Villages, Ocala
Oaks at Boca Raton
Club Med Sandpiper Bay, Port St. Lucie
13

Educational Event in Central Florida
Allen Fox, USPTA
Tennis: Winning the Mental Match
Isleworth Golf and Country Club
Saturday, February 18, 2012
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
$40 discounted registration rate for USPTA
professionals includes book, seminar and lunch
Registration information will be sent via e-mail blast.
For additional details, contact Henner Lenhardt
hennerl3@aol.com
Save the Date Plan Now to Attend
2012 USPTA
Florida Division Convention
Club Med Sandpiper Bay
Port St. Lucie, Fla.
May 28 - June 3
Resort reservation and convention registration
forms will be sent by e-mail blast to the division
membership in mid-January
Watch for the next issue of Baselines for more convention
details and important deadlines.
14

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
DO YOU WANT THE LATEST NEWS
AND UPDATES FROM USPTA FLORIDA?
MAKE SURE YOUR CORRECT E-MAIL ADDRESS IS ON FILE
WITH THE USPTA NATIONAL OFFICE.
E-NEWS FOR SPECIFIC DISTRICT AND UPCOMING
DIVISIONAL EVENTS IS SENT PERIODICALLY.
August 28 at The Oaks in Boca Raton.
New members include: Hisham Abaza, Jay Berman,
Luca Bonomi, Sean Harmon, Alex Herwig,
Julie Howard, Taylor Kalister, David McNair,
Danielle Nickerson, Rudy Nunez, Mathieu Soto,
Mary O’Neill, Igor Pavlin, Sergio Rebolledo, Paul
Segodo, Ben Wirth, and Christina Zgera. Testers
were Kyle LaCroix, Robin Keener, Jason Gilbert
and Ben Rakusin.
DON’T MISS THE BLAST !!!
KEEP YOUR E-MAIL ADDRESS UPDATED.
CONTACT: kathy.buchanan@uspta.org
Welcome to our Future Professionals
November 12 at The Oaks in Boca Raton
Welcome and congratulations to new members
and upgrading professionals: Michael Arrigo,
Marc Baudouin, Daniel Capote, Andrew Dunleavy,
Vernon Gettone, Ronald Gould, Connie
Henley, Tanja Janssen, Robert Kowalczyk,
Shane Lamely, Fred McCracken, Natalie Nagli,
Clifford Rizzi, Gary Roche, Christian Rojas,
Armand Segodo, Victoria St. John, Joshua
Sturgis, Kevin Zimmaro
Tuscawilla Country Club - November 6
Chris and Heidi Kader announce the arrival
of Olivia Claire on Nov. 17, 2011.
New members and upgrading professionals: Verna
Alduino, Sheen Cesare, Brian Demontfort, Stephen
Drosdick, Denver Green, Darren Holt, Jill Mignogna,
John Moss, Robert Pierce, Johann Saurbier,
Oleg Sorokin, Erik Turnquist, Chelsea Underwood,
Dimirar Vancov and George Wheeler Testers: Glen
Howe, Robin Keener and Kelvin Rivera
Congratulations to Mike
and Maggie Baldwin and
big sister, Ava on the
arrival of Chloe Eizabeth.
15

USPTA District Pros Raise Money for a Great Cause!
District News
C. W. Lewis, Director of Tennis at Seasons Swim and Racquet
Club, and Lawrence Sagel, Director of Tennis at Delaire
Country Club, organized a fundraiser and round robin for the
pros in Districts 10 (West Palm Beach), 11 (Boca Raton) and
16 ( N.Dade/S.Broward) to raise money for Jeff Wernick’s wife,
Joy, who has been battling cancer. Her medical expenses
have been overwhelming for their family. Through the generosity
of the area tennis pros and members of the Seasons Tennis
Community, over $4000 was raised for Jeff and Joy from
donations and entry fees. The event was held at Boca Pointe
Country Club by host professional, Angel Rodriguez on Friday,
June 17 and there was a tremendous show of family spirit by
all who attended the round robin.
We had a great USPTA Pro Meeting Nov. 3rd at Country
Club of Orlando. A special thanks to Jim Oescher for hosting
at his beautiful facility. Conrad Cowan, Director of Tennis
at Interlachen Country Club, gave an entertaining and informative
talk on “Raising the Bar” in the Tennis Profession.The
meeting was attended by Tobias Svantesson, Rich Schmidt,
Len Simard, Marcelo Gouts and many other distinguished
professionals in Central Florida. The Central Florida USPTA
members need to “Save the date” of Sat. Feb. 18th, at Isleworth
Country Club, for a special educational opportunity
with Dr. Allen Fox, author of “Tennis:Winning the Mental
Match”.
Also, be on the lookout for announcements of golf outings at
some of the incredible courses in Central Florida. – Henner
Lenhardt, District 4 President
A note from Jeff Wernick
“My fellow colleagues and friends – I am humbled and touched
by your outpouring support and generosity during this difficult
time for my family. I spend most of my days running to doctor
appointments and caring for my wife. However, I would like to
take the time to thank each and every one of you for caring so
much and reaching out to my family. It is an honor to be part
of the USPTA and to see how lucky I am to be a part of an organization
with such great members. Joy and I thank you from
the bottom of our hearts.”
I would like to thank everyone who attended the round robin
and helped out with the donations for the Wernick family.
Since writing this article, sadly, Joy has passed away after a
courageous fight. The Florida division extends sincere condolences
to Jeff and his family.
C. W. Lewis,
District 11 President
District 10 - Ricardo Mendivil
USPTA District 10, West Palm Beach, hosted a special presentation
at BallenIsles Country Club on Nov. 4. Featured
speaker was Daniel Spatz on the topic “Taking a talented
junior to the highest level.” The discussion centered on the
secrets of success by the Argentineans in developing young
talent with the right technique in the early stages.
16

District 16 - Chris Kader
The October 7 th District 16 USPTA meeting, hosted
by Maury Bozman and the Midtown Athletic Club in
Weston, was quite a show. Over 25 pros from 3 different
districts were in attendance to see the Midtown
staff showcase their U10 programming and kids. Everyone
who was there left with very valuable information
to bring back to their clubs.
Maury gave a great explanation of the rules and mandate
that will be upon us in 2012. He then put several
of the pros through some U10 drills and games before
turning it over to his staff. Then the kids stole the show.
Their talents were on full display as they showed what
can be possible through U10 programming. After a
wrap-up Q&A it was time for the guys to play tennis.
Congratulations to the prize money winners: (first –
fourth place) Butch Martin, Tyler Shelly, Carlos Triana,
and Keith Soifer.
District Meeting and Round Robin
August 19 at Boca Grove Country Club
With deep regret
Brian Newcomer USPTA
from West Palm Beach
Florida died on November
26th in an automobile accident
while on his way to
work at the Ocean Reef Club
in Key Largo, Florida. Brian
was an outstanding Teaching
Pro having trained under
the likes of past Florida Division President, Richard
Centerbar and the past 3 summers for Past National
USPTA President Harry Gilbert at Waccabuc CC in N.Y.
Brian’s ever present smile, his endless energy
and enthusiasm will be remembered by his students
and co-workers as well as his friends and family. An
insightful teacher with a tremendous eye for seeing what
was technically wrong with his students’ swing, Brian’s
real gift was in his delivery of his message for change
through positive reinforcement. A terrific group instructor,
Brian excelled at teaching QuickStart Clinics along
with Cardio Tennis classes. Brian was 27 years old.
Messages of condolence may be sent to: Dr. and Mrs.
Jack Newcomer, 534 31st Street, West Palm Beach, FL
33407. Memorial donations may be made at
http://www.hydroassoc.org/how-to-donate-to-th e-hydrocephalus-association/
17

USPTA FL FAST DRY COURTS AND 10-S TENNIS SUPPLY GRAND PRIX
TOURNAMENT RESULTS
Oceanside Country Club - September
Men’s Open Singles:
Adrian Zguns def. Paulo Barros 6-0, 6-2
Men’s’ 40’s Singles:
Tim Davis def. Mike Baldwin 6-2, 7-6
Men’s 45’s Singles:
Jeff Cohen def. John Hudson 6-1, 6-1
Men’s 50’s Singles:
Greg Neuhart def. Carlos Triana 6-0, 6-2
Men’s 55’s Singles:
Gewan Maharaj def. Steve Shortridge 6-2, 6-2
Men’s Open Doubles:
Barros/Zguns def. Dorian Porada/Aaron Brown 6-0, 6-1
Men’s 40’s Doubles:
Baldwin/Cohen def. Simon Firth/John Hudson 7-6, 6-3
Men’s 50’s Doubles:
Neuhart/Triana def. Davis/Shortridge 6-1, 6-1
Addison Reserve - October 15-16, 2011
Men’s Open Singles:
Adrians Zguns def. Diego Brunicardi 6-2, 6-0
Men’s 40 Singles:
Dan Lepadatu def. Michael Baldwin 6-2, 6-2
Men’s 45 Singles:
Bruce Kurtz def. John Jerome 6-2, 6-1
Men’s 50 Singles:
Greg Neuhart def. Greg Wheaton 6-4, 2-6, 10-5
Men’s 55 Singles:
Gewan Maharaj def. Stephen Shortridge 6-3, 6-2
Men’s Open Doubles:
Sven Goth/Osvaldo Benitez def.
Jeff Bingo/Eleazar Magallan 4-6, 6-1, 10-6
Men’s 40 Doubles:
Jeff Bingo/Greg Wheaton def.
John Jerome/Brian Lutz 6-1, 6-3
Men’s 50 Doubles:
Greg Neuhart/Carlos Triana def.
Dave Cordrey/Gewan Maharaj 6-1, 6-3
Women’s 50 Singles:
Susie Brown def. Frances O’ Sullivan 3-6, 6-4, 10-7
Women’s 35 Doubles:
Susie Brown/Frances O’ Sullivan def.
Sandra Bell/Carolyn Franca 8-4
See more photos on
Florida Division Facebook
18
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Sales and Service, Inc.
Ball Machines, Nets, Windscreens,
Clay Court Equipment and Accessories
Call Stan Oley
800-352-6878
Masters - November 5-6, 2011
Men’s Open Singles:
Adrians Zguns def. Julien Link 6-1, 6-1
Men’s 35 Singles:
Diego Brunicardi def. Sven Goth 6-4, 6-1
Men’s 40 Singles:
Kam Kuchta def. Dan Lepadatu 6-0, 5-0 ret.
Men’s 45 Singles:
Horacio Rearte def. Jeff Cohen 6-4, 7-5
Men’s 50 Singles:
Greg Neuhart def. Greg Wheaton 5-7, 1-0 ret.
Men’s 55 Singles:
Frank Swope def. Stephen Shortridge 6-3, 6-2
Men’s 60 Singles:
Terry See def. Bob Grossman 7-5, 6-4
Men’s Open Doubles:
Adrians Zguns/Diego Brunicardi def.
Paulo Barros/John Bougon 6-2, 6-0
Men’s 40 Doubles:
Kam Kuchta/Horacio Rearte def.
Bruce Kurtz/Brett Kurtz 6-4, 6-1
Men’s 50 Doubles: Frank Swope/T.A. Niles def
Greg Neuhart/Carlos Triana 6-2, 7-5
Men’s 60 Doubles: Terry See/Bob Howell def.
Bob Grossman/Robert Green 6-2, 5-7, 10-6
Women’s Open Singles: Marine Spiegel def
Andrea Schutte 6-3, 6-1
Women’s 35 Singles:
Sandra Bell def. M.J. Pachl 6-2, 6-0
Women’s Open Doubles:
Marine Spiegel/Andrea Schutte def.
Jeanne Schwartz/Lindsey Schwartz 6-3, 6-0

Grand Prix at Addison Reserve
Jeff Bingo, Director of Tennis and Esplanade Operations, hosted the sixth stop of the Fast Dry Courts and 10-S
Supply USPTA Grand Prix Circuit on October 15th and 16th at the Addison Reserve Country Club in Delray Beach
for the third year. Jeff and his staff planned another great tournament at his beautiful facility and made sure that his
fellow USPTA Pros enjoyed the weekend as much as possible. For his members, Jeff offered a Complimentary Pro-
Am on Saturday that was a big hit! The Player’s Party on Saturday night featured a delicious “Mediterranean” buffet
at the beautiful Addison Reserve poolside Bistro Grill.
See more photos on
Florida Division Facebook
19

Fast Dry / 10-S Supply USPTA Grand Prix Circuit finishes with a bang!
Michael Baldwin, USPTA Florida Vice President
First, we must thank our title sponsor, Fast Dry and
10-S Supply, and our other generous sponsors, Welch
Tennis Courts, USTA Florida Section, Stan Oley Tennis
Equipment, and tennis balls courtesy of Pro Penn.
Back in September, our Grand Prix Circuit resumed at
the always delightful Oceanside Country Club. If you
have not played this event, you are missing something
special. Host Director of Tennis, Mike Sanders, put on a
fantastic, event well-supported by his members and local
sponsors. Staying at the new official hotel, the Royal
Floridian, a beautiful resort hotel right on the beach,
truly made this a “Play-cation!”
Next stop on the Grand Prix Circuit was the always firstclass
Addison Reserve Country Club. Host Director,
Jeff Bingo, rolled out the VIP treatment with access to
his club’s top-notch amenities and a player dinner party
that was nothing short of spectacular.
And, then it was the grande finale, The Masters, at our
new home, Williams Island Country Club. Host Director,
Carlos Triana, hit it out of the park! Thanks to support
from the members and local sponsors, Wells Fargo
and Pines Ford Lincoln, pros were once again treated to
world-class facilities, fine-dining, and warm hospitality.
This year’s Masters enjoyed one of the strongest and
fullest fields, with 44 of Florida’s best pros competing
for ranking points and over a $6,000 purse!
I want to encourage all my fellow pros to participate in
the Grand Prix Circuit. It’s no coincidence that the pros
that participate, do so regularly.
You may have seen my recent “Top 10 Reasons to Play
the Grand Prix’s” but in case you missed it, here I go
again...
1. Prize Money - A minimum $4500 per event!
2. Pro Am Money - $90 for some fun customer tennis.
3. Earn a state ranking - show your clientele you can do
more than just teach the game.
4. Business networking and idea-sharing
5. A weekend with friends
6. A break from the usual grind of teaching
7. A family getaway
8. Exercise!
9. Support the clubs and fellow pros that support the
USPTA Grand Prix Circuit!
10. A shot at an invitation to the year-end Masters at
Williams Island!
Please contact me with any questions about or suggestions
for improving our Grand Prix Circuit or if you
interested in hosting a Grand Prix Event at your club.
mbaldwin@westonhillsgolf.com
Check out TA Niles’ blog about the Masters at http://
tastennisblog.bogspot.com/.
Check out more pictures from these events at the Official
USPTA Florida Division Facebook page.
20
See more photos on Florida Division Facebook

USPTA FLORIDA FAST DRY COURTS AND
10-S TENNIS SUPPLY FINAL GRAND PRIX STANDINGS - 2011
Men’s Open Singles Points
T1. Adrian Zguns 375
Paulo Barros 375
3. Julian Link 325
4. Franco Mata 225
5. Milos Vasovic 165
6. Christopher Fletcher 150
7. Mike Birzon 100
T8. Diego Brunicardi 75
Sven Goth 75
10. John Cook 65
T11. Osvaldo Benitez 50
James Daly 50
Marco Herrara 50
Eleazar Magallan 50
Kurt Pessa 50
Dorian Porada 50
Eric Turnquist 50
T18. James Grigo 25
Nathan Griffin 25
Eric Kent 25
Kam Kuchta 25
Tyler Owens 25
Tyler Shelly 25
T24. Frank Acierno 15
Reda Azagar 15
Aaron Brown 15
Jay Grollman 15
James Kucera 15
Bruce Kurtz 15
Peter Mainelli 15
Paul Ramsey 15
Men’s 35’s Singles Points
1. Diego Brunicardi 250
2. Sven Goth 100
3. Joe D’Aleo 125
4. Richard Oswald 50
5. Leandro Gutierrez 25
Men’s 45’s Singles Points
1. Jeff Cohen 450
2. Horacio Rearte 300
3. Stephen Bucar 200
4. Bruce Kurtz 150
5. Jack Steyn 125
6. Todd Collins 75
T7. Greg Dextraze 50
Jonathan Fisher 50
John Hudson 50
T10. Joe Biedenharn 25
Ted Korbut 25
Jeff Timmer 25
Men’s 40’s Singles Points
1. Kam Kuchta 400
2. Frank Vermeer 375
3. Dan Lepadatu 200
4. Tim Davis 175
5. Mike Baldwin 125
T6 Mike Edge 75
Patrick Eichhorn 50
William Macom 50
Ricardo Mendivil 50
Ira Peskowitz 50
T11. Adam Zastempowski 50
Page Buck 25
Christian Clark 25
Darryl Fornatora 25
Mark Palus 25
Men’s 50’s Singles Points
1. Greg Neuhart 775
2. Greg Wheaton 325
T3. Arup Dutta 175
Stephen Bucar 175
5. Carlos Triana 150
T6. Eric Ernstrom 75
TA Niles 75
8. David Freiman 50
T9 Greg Gadoua 25
Ronen Graziani 25
Glen Howe 25
Steve Shortridge 25
Keith Soanes 25
Men’s 55’s Singles Points
1. Steve Shortridge 400
2. Frank Swope 375
3. Gewan Maharaj 250
4. Jared Chase 75
5. Robert Davis 50
T6. William James 25
Butch Martin 25
Men’s 60’s Singles
Points
1. Gewan Maharaj 375
2. Terry See 300
3. Robert Green 100
4. Harry Bentley 50
5. Bob Howell 50
6. Bob Grossman 25
Men’s Open Doubles Points
1. Paulo Barros 525
2. Diego Brunicardi 375
3. Sven Goth 350
4. John Bougon 275
5. Adrian Zguns 250
6. Osvaldo Benitez 225
7. Eleazar Magallan 200
T8. Christopher Fletcher 150
Franco Mata 150
T10. Mike Birzon 125
Marco Herrera 125
Hamid Mirzadeh 125
Kurt Pessa 125
14. John Cook 100
T15. Nathan Griffin 75
Mark Harrison 75
Julien Link 75
Greg Neuhart 75
T19. James Daly 50
Bill Cook 50
Shawn Hedrick 50
James Kucera 50
Scott Pukys 50
T24. Aaron Brown 25
Hernan Garcia-Vivot 25
Jay Grollman 25
Keith Lipp 25
Dorian Porada 25
Alex Ringwald 25
Mike Rubner 25
Eric Turnquist 25
Men’s 40’s Doubles Points
1. Jeff Cohen 500
2. Bruce Kurtz 375
3. Greg Wheaton 300
4. Kam Kuchta 275
T5. Horacio Rearte 250
Frank Vermeer 250
7. Mike Baldwin 200
8. Jeff Bingo 175
9. Eric Godin 125
T10. Brett Kurtz 100
Greg Neuhart 100
T12. Joe Biedenharn 75
Tim Brueggeman 75
Richard Centerbar 75
Mark Harrison 75
John Jerome 75
Brian Lutz 75
Mark Palus 75
Cary Sochin 75
21

USPTA FLORIDA FAST DRY COURTS
AND 10-S TENNIS SUPPLY FINAL GRAND PRIX STANDINGS - 2011
Men’s 40 Doubles continued
T18. Page Buck 50
Steve Longley 50
Bill Macom 50
Ira Peskowitz 50
Mike Rubner 50
T23. Joe Bouquin 25
Christian Clark 25
David Cordrey 25
Joe D’Aleo 25
Arup Dutta 25
Mike Edge 25
Patrick Eichhorn 25
Simon Firth 25
Darryl Fornatora 25
John Hudson 25
Dan Lepadatu 25
Ricardo Mendivil 25
Stan Oley 25
Richard Oswald 25
Anup Rashtrawar 25
Jack Steyn 25
Carlos Triana 25
Steve Yankello 25
Adam Zastempowski 25
Men’s 60’s Doubles Points
T1. Bob Howell 125
Terry See 125
T2. Robert Green 25
Bob Grossman 25
Women’s Open Singles Points
1. Marine Spiegel 125
T2. Amy Pando 25
Andrea Schutte 25
Women’s 35’s Singles Points
1. Sandy Bell 150
T2. Julie Farina 125
Robin Keener 125
4. Carolyn Franca 75
5. MJ Pachl 50
Women’s 50’s Singles Points
1. Carolyn Franca 150
2. Susie Brown 125
3. Frances O’Sullivan 100
4. Judi Stiff 25
Women’s Open Doubles Points
T1. Andrea Schutte 125
Amy Pando 125
Marine Spiegel 125
T4. Jeanne Schwartz 50
Lindsey Schwartz 50
Women’s 35’s Doubles Points
T1. Sandy Bell 150
Carolyn Franca 150
Frances O’Sullivan 150
4. Susie Brown 125
Men’s 50’s Doubles
Points
1. Greg Neuhart 700
2. Carlos Triana 400
3. Frank Swope 350
4. Gewan Maharaj 275
T5. Greg Wheaton 250
T.A. Niles 250
7. Steve Shortridge 150
8. Arup Dutta 125
T9. Joe Bouquin 75
Tim Davis 75
Kendall Lyon 75
Jim Morton 75
Craig Wittus 75
T14. Butch Martin 50
Terry See 50
T16. David Cordrey 25
Emile DeCuba 25
Jonathon Fisher 25
Dave Frieman 25
Bob Heller 25
Jim Katterfield 25
Jeff Timmer 25
22

SPORTS SCIENCE FORUM
Applications of “Surveys” for the Tennis Teaching Professional
Dr. Robert Heller, USPTA Boca Raton, Fla.
Simple surveys can be used in a
number of ways for you and your facility
to maintain a “winning edge” with your
students and members. One type of
survey is a “customer satisfaction”
or evaluation survey. This survey can
be given or mailed following a lesson,
clinic or club event. It is a great way to
get feedback which can then be used as testimonials
to interest both new and existing members/students
and to use to promote future events. If the surveys are
completed anonymously you are more likely to also
pick up on criticism that you can use to improve future
lessons or events.
There are two main ways to structure the survey. In
the first instance you present a series of open ended
questions:
What did you think of the clinic today?
Are there any suggestions you can offer to improve upon
the clinic?
In the second instance, you provide a list of categories
that the responder evaluates according to a scale of
some kind. For example: On a scale of 1-5 please rate
your LEVEL OF SATISFACTION with 1 indicating LEAST
satisfied and 5, MOST satisfied.
The level of instruction was suited to my ability level.
The amount of material covered was adequate.
The instructor communicated information effectively.
A second kind of survey is the “interest type.” Here
you are looking to identify interests and needs of your
members to aid in planning future events and programs.
Again, you can use either the open ended format, “What
types of events would you like the club to offer in the
coming season that we currently don’t offer?” , or the
“select and rate” method: “On a 1-5 scale how much
interest would you have in attending a mental skills for
tennis clinic?, Cardio tennis program, etc.”
I have personally found that using survey’s of individual
clients I have worked with and also following clinics and
presentations has given me valuable information I would
not otherwise have received and helped me to continue
to grow and improve as a professional.
Dr. Robert Heller, is a psychologist, sports psychology
consultant and USPTA tennis professional based in Boca
Raton, Florida where he teaches peak performance strategies
to individuals and groups. He can be reached at www.
mentalskillstennis.com e-mail info@robertheller.net and by
phone, 561-451-2731.
23

Junior Tennis in the Panhandle
USPTA District President, Joe D’Aleo
On Saturday, Nov.12 Roger Scott Tennis Center,
Pensacola Fla., hosted a USTA QuickStart round robin
/ clinic in conjunction with the USTA $10,000 Futures
Professional tennis tournament held at their clay court
facility. This was a great event and fun was had by all
who attended. I can start to see how the under 10 junior
tennis program is growing throughout the Emerald Coast.
The format for the morning was an 8 and under and 10
and under compass draw round robin using the 36’ and
60’ courts with the finalists in each given the opportunity
to show off their skills in between the singles semifinals
of the professional tournament. We also had some fun
courts set up for any kids that had never played before. A
big hit was a surprise visit from the Chick Fil-A “Eat More
Chicken Cow” who was great with the kids and running
around with a tennis racquet in hand. You can guess that
lunch was awesome provided by Chick-Fil-A with plenty
of chicken nuggets and strips for everyone involved with
the event. Overall we had over 100 kids playing the
QuickStart format with approximately 30 volunteers to
help with the scoring and keeping everything organized.
After the round robin we had the kids hit for prizes donated
by USTA FL and I would like to thank them for giving
us the resources to make this a successful campaign
throughout Florida. For the next event for the day, we took
all the kids including parents and coaches, to watch the
semifinals of the professional tournament so they could
see some of our up and coming future stars on the tour.
Another highlight was that some of the 10 and under kids
were given the opportunity, after some quick training, to
be ball boys and ball girls for the matches. After the first
singles semifinal match was complete the 8 and under
finalists got to play a quick first to five points match with
the 10 and under finalists to follow with a first to seven
point match. The kids could not wait to play in front of
the crowd with me commentating and adding some color
to get everyone cheering for them. We used this as an
opportunity to show everyone that has not seen the 36
foot court and 60 foot court on how the game is changing
in 2012 and how much fun the kids are having with the
right size ball and racquet for their age group. I would
like to thank Michael Edge, Head Tennis Professional
at Roger Scott Tennis Center, for his phenomenal job in
organizing this event and getting all the volunteers from
the local high school tennis teams and Pensacola junior
college students. Also a big thanks for the professionals
who donated their time: Bruce Caton, Robert Fair, Erik
Stenberg, Cameron Jones, Brian Sakey, Rita Dotson and
Ingrid Hewette, Jessica D’Aleo, USTA JTT coordinators
for helping make this a truly great event.
24

USPTA Rocks the Panhandle
Joe D’Aleo, USPTA District President
On Saturday August 20, we had a great USPTA District 1
meeting and lunch at Roger Scott Tennis Center in Pensacola
with 17 professionals from the panhandle. We started the
meeting with introductions around the room with some newly
USPTA certified professionals present - Rita Dotson, Michael
Mickelson and Kevin Dunworth - it was great for them to meet
everyone. I congratulated Michael Edge on completing his
24 hours of teaching lessons that raised $2000.00 for breast
cancer that started at 8 a.m. on Friday and ended 8 a.m. on
Saturday before the meeting. I then talked about USPTA news
with the upcoming election, membership, upgrades and who
was attending the World Conference at Saddlebrook resort. I
also updated everyone on upcoming fall events and workshops
that will be in our area: the 10 and under tournament director
workshop on Oct 27 and a Cardio Tennis workshop on Nov.
19 both hosted by TOPS’L. The rest of the meeting which was
the highlight and great to see in our industry was a round table
discussion on events in our area, the 10 and under initiative, and
ways to grow the game in our district. The interaction with the
pros sharing ideas of what they are doing at their club or resort
and asking others how they run certain events and programs
was great to hear. The information shared by everyone in the
group was very informative and helpful especially with the 10
and under tennis and how it is growing the game for the kids in
our area and the parents getting involved. It was great to hear
the comments and feedback from Brian Sakey and Fernando
Guarachi, long time USPTA teaching professionals in our area
for over 30 years, and how they think the QuickStart.program
is the best thing to ever happen and how teaching children
has changed with this great new format. I want to thank Bruce
Caton, Director of Tennis at Roger Scott, and Michael Edge,
Head Professional at Roger Scott, for being the host site for
the meeting and helping me get everything organized.
Become a fan of USPTA Florida Division
www.facebook.com/USPTAFlorida
Group Photo- Back row – Bruce Caton, Fernando
Guarachi, Jeff Overton, Paul Einhart, Sean
Edwards, Michael Mickelson, Brian Sakey, George
Cobia, Kevin Dunworth, Erik Stenberg. Front
row – Michael Edge, Sam Vickroy, Joe D’Aleo,
Rita Dotson, Kelly Baker, Cameron Jones. Not
pictured Scott Harrison.
FLORIDA
QUICKSTART TENNIS HITS THESTREETS
OF DESTIN COMMONS
Destin Commons hosted a “Back to School Bash”
Saturday, September 17 from 5 to 7 pm. At least a
hundered children and their parents were introduced
to 10 & Under Tennis in the streets of the favorite
shopping center in Destin, Fl. Renee Broxson, Director
of Tennis at Hidden Dunes, coordinated the
QuickStart Tennis format with the help of Joe D’Aleo
USPTA Florida District 1 President & Director of Tennis
at TOPS’L Beach and Racquet Resort, and Jessica
D’Aleo, JTT LLC. For two hours kids came and
went through the street tennis setup using the foam
and red ball on the mini nets. With the extra help of
Jr Team Tennis players Jacob and Ethan D’Aleo kids
felt comfortable coming up grabbing a racquet and
ball and hitting around. Even parents couldn’t resist
getting into the action. It was a great night of Quick-
Start tennis and a great way to expose the area of
Destin to how children of all ages can be introduced
to tennis in a very simple setup.
25

Why “Three” is the Most Important Number in Doubles
Brad Leu, USPTA, Florida Division First Vice-president
Dirctor of Tennis at Sea Oaks Beach and Tennis Club
When most players think of doubles, they think of the
number two, you and your partner. When teaching
doubles, I believe “three” is the most important number.
Simplifying doubles requires that the pro break the
game into parts. This holds true for stroke production as
well as strategy. Players learn strokes through progressions,
piece by piece. Doubles is more about decisions,
tactics and execution. I personally deal mainly with an
older clientele. The principles in this article relate to all
doubles; ladies’, men’s, and mixed at all levels. Let’s
explore the POWER of three.
26
The first “three” deals with errors. After all, tennis is a
game of errors. Most players are crushed when I tell
them that they just made three errors on that one point.
The three errors are: 1. A position error such as being too
close to the net, too far over in the alley, in no man’s land,
etc. 2. A decision error such as hitting the overhead back
to the baseline player, taking the high volley back deep,
taking the low volley at the net person, etc. 3. An execution
error, such as missing the shot, whatever it was.
Classifying the error, and which error it was, is very helpful.
The worst error scenario occurs when the player is
in the wrong spot, makes the wrong choice and misses
the shot. The best error scenario is when the player is
in the right spot, makes the shot selection, but misses
the shot. The pro’s challenge is to get the players to
be in the right spot and to know what the right choice
is in each situation, so that they have the best chance
of executing the shot. I emphasize using the court for
your target and not the opponent’s position. I make the
targets small and specific so that the decision is made
quickly and that the proper execution to that target guarantees
success.
The second “three” deals with situations or basic doubles
formations. Most doubles points have three basic
formations that occur before and during a point. They
are: 1. One up and one back, versus one up and one
back. 2. One up and one back versus two at the net. 3.
All four at the net.
We all start drills in these different formations. I find
that players do one of two things when they play out the
point. Either they are in one formation and try to change
it for good or bad, or they are in a formation from which
they don’t know how to try to win the point. I emphasize
that they recognize the situation first. Most points start
one up and one back on both sides. The server serves;
the returner returns cross court and comes in, making
the formation one up and one back versus two at the
net. At this point the server panics, tries to hit the ball
three times harder than normal, and runs towards the
net, or, when panicked, throws the short lob and proceeds
to apologize. The server lacks two things: 1. An
acceptance of the situation that they are in, one up and
one back versus two at the net. 2. A plan for winning
from that situation.
It’s OK to be in that formation as long as you have a plan
for working the point from there, which includes using
your partner to win. Only change the situation if your
opponent’s shot changes it or the server successfully
lobs over the opponents. Each of the three situations
has different strategies for winning the point. My goal
is for the player to be aware of the situation and have a
clear idea of how to win from it.
The third “three” deals with shot recognition. There are
only three types of shots in doubles that are coming at
you when the player or team is at the net: 1. High ball
2. Low ball 3. A lob. The challenge for the pro is to have
the players recognize the type of ball and have a clear
answer for the shot. Decisions kill doubles players; the
more choices, the more errors. My favorite is when the
player dumps an easy high volley into the net and you
ask, what happened, (s)he proceeds with a detailed explanation
of how (s)he saw the opponent moving left and
the last time they played, the opponent moved out wide
and lob volleyed for a winner. (S)He further explains
that (s)he thought that if (s)he hit the opponent’s left
shoe (s)he would have difficulty and since the partner is
a good lobber (s)he didn’t want to go in that direction.
As well, the opponent has a brace on the left leg, and (s)
he doesn’t like backhand volleys anyway. I would like
to call that example an exaggeration, but I actually left
out a couple more excuses. The bottom line is that if the
ball is high, you hit the ball to “X”; “X” being a specific
spot on the court regardless of where your opponents
are. Unless your player is a lizard whose eyes work independently
of each other, (s)he is better off watching
the ball, hitting to a target, and following the shot rather
than trying to guess what the opponent is going to do.
In the case of a lob; it is either offensive or defensive. Either
way, you want the player to understand that a clear
target, a plan for handling the shot, and knowing what
to do post overhead is what is needed for successful
play. Players like to try to outguess their opponents; “I
thought (s)he would do this so I did that”. Instead, I work
to get players to concentrate on their execution because
most doubles points look the same as far as formations.
As a player, you need to recognize the situation, know
when the ball is coming to you and then hit it where you
are supposed to. You will win a lot of points.
Continued—

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continued from page 26
The last power of “three” deals with the player who gets
trapped on the baseline while the opponents are at the
net. This “three” deals with shot recognition also. There
are three types of balls that come to the baseline player:
1. A deep ball within a couple of feet of the baseline. 2.
A ball in the area between the service line and a couple
of feet before the baseline. 3. A short ball landing well
inside the service
box. The challenge here is twofold; one is making the
right shot selection and the second is incorporating your
partner in your plan. Assuming the other team is at the
net, the defensive team (one up, one back) has the challenge
of trying to win from this situation. Looking at the
three types of balls, the baseline player faces how (s)he
can best play from this position.
First, the deep ball landing within a couple feet of the
baseline requires the player to “BUAL” (back up and
lob). Many players try to volley this type of ball, often
playing an out ball or they try to make a heroic shot off
the half volley. Accept that the opponent hit a good shot
and lob. Your best chance for an effective lob is if you
move back.
The second type of ball is the one that lands in your
ZONE, generally between the service line area and in
front of the lob zone. This is a hittable ball, so Hit IT!
This is where your partner’s assistance is up to you. I like
having the partner hug the center line looking for an opportunity.
That opportunity will only occur if the baseline
player directs the shot down the middle or down the line.
If you’re not that fond of your partner, hit wide. A well
placed ball low in the middle or down the line can give
your partner opportunities to cross and kill. Go wide and
high, you die.
The last kind of ball is the short ball, a ball you HAVE TO
run up to get. The objective here is to get the point to
neutral. The situation now changes to having all four at
the net. Unless the ball is sitting way up and you would
like to give your opponent a free tattoo, the player’s job
is to hit a short low ball that is not too hard to allow the
point to get to neutral with all four players at the net.
Now all four are at the net looking to drive the first high
ball and close the net.
The job of a teacher is to explain things in a way that can
be understood and remembered. We all teach doubles
a little differently, using gimmicks and sayings, cones
and french fries. The bottom line is that players need to
know what the best choice is and can execute that choice
which in turn builds confidence. The game should come
down to one team’s execution versus the other team’s.
27

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