10-Jul-2024
Stan Smith Still Loves Helping Young Players Develop
Stan Smith still loves being on a tennis court every day. But instead of playing for himself, the former world No. 1 and multiple Grand Slam champion enjoys developing younger players at Smith Stearns Tennis Academy in South Carolina.
20-Jun-2024
Seven Former College Players Named to Olympic Team
Seven former college players on Thursday were named to the US Olympic Tennis Team that will compete in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. The tennis competition will be held July 27-August 4 at Roland Garros.
22-May-2024
Virtual Conference for Junior Players, Parents
The Junior Tennis Player and Parent Virtual Conference is an online event that will provide valuable tips and strategies on how to successfully navigate the junior tennis landscape. The event is being held on June 9th and features many guest speakers and industry experts.
15-May-2024
US Juniors Capture BNP Paribas World Cup Team Title
The U.S. juniors snapped a seven-year drought by capturing the BNP Paribas World Team Cup wheelchair title last weekend in Turkey. The sixth-seeded American squad beat Australia 2-0 in the final at the Megasaray Club Belek in Antalya, Turkey.
26-Apr-2024
USTA National Coach Caballero Guides Junior Development
Jose Caballero is a USTA National Coach guiding junior development. He recently sat down with Colette Lewis to discuss his coaching career, the daily responsibilities of a USTA National coach, his favorite and least favorite parts of the job and the impact of the recent budget cuts at Player Development.
19-Jan-2024
Eight Intriguing Questions for 2024
Colette Lewis provides her annual look at issues in college and junior tennis with eight intriguing questions for 2024. This year's issues include CEOs, NIL, ITF and UTR. They ponder budget cuts, television deals and coaching rules.
17-Jan-2024
Pytko Eager to Bring National Success Back to UC Santa Cruz
Ross Pytko was hired in August as the sixth men’s head coach in UC Santa Cruz program history. He has also been serving as the interim head coach for the women’s program. In a Q&A, he discusses his goals for the programs and how his own playing background helps his coaching.
15-Jan-2024
Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Tennis: What Makes a Tennis Champion
Tennis Recruiting.Net is pleased to bring you an in-depth profile of a promising young player, Iva Jovic. Authored by longstanding tennis writer and historian Joel Drucker, this piece explores a wider range of topics than a great many profiles.
17-Nov-2023
Kessler Credits Gators with Honing Competitive Edge on Tour
McCartney Kessler is back on the court and having success at the professional level. The former University of Florida star recenty sat down the Colette Lewis at the WTA 125 Dow Tennis Classic in Midland, Michigan to discuss her rapid rise in the WTA rankings, the most significant lesson she learned from college tennis and many other topics.
27-Oct-2023
Tennis' On-Court Coaching Trend Expands to Juniors
Top American juniors and their coaches have to navigate three distinct varieties of in-match coaching. The USTA permits coaching before a third set; the four junior slams are part of a trial that allows coaching based on the ATP and WTA Tours' model; and no coaching of any kind is permissible on the ITF Junior Circuit.
25-Sep-2023
Germany-Born Bosnjak Grateful for College Tennis Experience
Madeline Bosnjak thought her competitive tennis career was over once injuries forced her from the pro tour. But the German found a lifeline in the United States with college tennis. Bosnjak is grateful for everything she gained from the experience.
6-Sep-2023
Tomas Majetic Has a Bright Future in Wheelchair Tennis
Although he's only been playing wheelchair tennis for a short time, Tomas Majetic has already captured the attention of many in the sport. The 16-year-old Colorado native will be making his debut at the US Open Junior Wheelchair Championships this week in Flushing Meadows, New York.
9-Aug-2023
McEnroe Brothers Prepare to Make History in Africa
Hall of Famer John McEnroe and his brother Patrick McEnroe, both former Stanford stars and renowned broadcasters, are preparing to make history by playing in the first-ever tennis match in the Serengeti in Africa as part of a safari expedition from Dec. 1-8.
26-May-2023
Ten Questions with USC's Learner Tien
Freshman Lerner Tien had to wait until mid-April before he was eligible to play his first match for the University of Southern California. He recently spoke with Colette Lewis about his long wait to compete, why he decided to play in college and his plans for the next season.
4-Apr-2023
Hello World: 16-Year-Old Filer Leaves Lasting Impact
Albert "David" Filer V died last month at the age of 16 following a short battle with brain cancer. The blue chip from Indiana leaves behind a lasting legacy of kindness, ambition and a passion to live every day to its fullest, which he did until his passing.
27-Feb-2023
2Mynds Brings Mental Fitness Training to Tennis
2Mynds, Inc., is a mental fitness training company that targets mental health through mental fitness methodology that has roots in exercise physiology. The company is working with five college programs this season.
24-Feb-2023
A Conversation with New USTA National Coach Tom Gutteridge
Tom Gutteridge was recently hired as a new UTSA Women's National Coach, responsible for girls born in 2007 and 2008. Gutteridge came to the US from England after starting his coaching career following an injury at a young age.
8-Feb-2023
Williams Overcomes Tragedy to Achieve Her College Dream
Carolina Williams endured an unimaginable tragedy when her grandfather and birth mother both died in the span of an hour in different locations in the same city. Her tennis suffered in the aftermath and she wondered if her dream of playing in college was gone. It wasn't. She has signed with UT Tyler.
20-Jan-2023
Eight Intriguing Questions for 2023
Colette Lewis provides her annual look at developments in junior and college tennis. The 2023 Eight Intriguing Questions highlights important issues that could change the landscape of the sport in ways big and small in the coming year.
14-Nov-2022
Q&A: Stearns Steers Toward Pro Success
Former NCAA champion Peyton Stearns has had a successful start to her professional career. Before a recent match on tour, she sat down with Colette Lewis for a Q&A about her post-Texas tennis life and future ambitions.
13-May-2022
Former Illini Anderson Reflects on His College, Pro Career
Former Illinois All-American Kevin Anderson announced his retirement from the ATP Tour last week. One of the top former collegians to compete on the ATP tour this century, Anderson reflected on his career milestones, how college helped him and his future plans.
20-Feb-2022
Fight With Filer
TRN has covered David Filer a number of times over the years. Unfortunately, the Blue Chip freshman is in the news today for tougher reasons. Last week while at a USTA Level 2 in Scottsdale, Arizona, Filer fell ill and was diagnosed with Glioblastoma Multiforme.
28-Jan-2022
Eight Intriguing Questions For 2022
Colette Lewis returns with her annual look at eight intriguing questions that everyone in the tennis community will be waiting to have answered in 2022. Job replacements, tournament logistics and players moving up the rankings are just a few of the topics covered.
14-Jan-2022
Samir Banerjee Serves as Hitting Partner to ATP Stars
Samir Banerjee got the thrill of a lifetime in November when he served as a hitting partner for the ATP's biggest stars at its year-ending Finals competition in Turin, Italy. Banerjee hit with stars like Novak Djokovic, Stefanos Tsitsipas, Daniil Medvedev, Casper Ruud and Andrey Rublev.
29-Sep-2021
No Question: Juniors at US Open Endorse Electronic Line Calls
The computer-based Live Electronic Line Calling system was implemented this year at the US Open Junior Championships. Line umpires are no longer used and the chair umpire doesn't rule on line calls. The players largely expressed approval with the changes.
13-Sep-2021
Ivy Wilson Doesn't Let Diabetes Hold Her Back
Ivy Wilson, a 16-year-old diabetic, was recently honored with the Novo Nordisk Donnelly Scholarship. Along with $10,000, the Oklahoma native traveled to the U.S. Open in New York to meet Billie Jean King and receive her award.
28-Jun-2021
Eubanks Packs When Opportunity Knocks
Fresh off winning his first Challenger in three years, former Georgia Tech All-American Chris Eubanks is keeping his travel schedule open to take advantage of opportunities to climb the rankings. He recently competed in the qualifying draw at Wimbledon.
12-Mar-2021
Barnes Tennis Center Ready For More Hosting Opportunities
Despite some restrictive measures in place throughout the state, Barnes Tennis Center in San Diego has been able to safely host several events. The facilty has even more coming, including the Easter Bowl and Pac-12 team championships.
24-Feb-2021
USTA Eastern Section: Vander Schaaf's Given Courage Award
Gavin Vander Schaaf was recently named the inaugural recipient of USTA Eastern’s Junior Courage Award. He's undergone multiple brain surgeries and tennis has helped him get through some hard moments in life. In this month's USTA Section Spotlight, we learn more about Vander Schaaf.
19-Feb-2021
Eight Intriguing Questions for 2021
In an annual tradition, Colette Lewis provides her list of eight intriguing questions for junior, pro and college tennis in 2021. They come with the caveat that the Covid-19 disruptions could make some of them irrelevant or less impactful.
28-Aug-2020
Catching Up With Former Ohio State Star JJ Wolf
Former Ohio State star JJ Wolf turned pro after his junior year in college. The Cincinnati native has received a main draw wildcard for the upcoming U.S. Open in New York. Colette Lewis recently caught up with Wolf after his appearance in the Western & Southern Open.
17-Jul-2020
Touring Pros Add Sales Skills Through Har-Tru Initiative
Former collegiate All-Americans Jamie Loeb and Alex Rybakov are representing tennis court company, Har-Tru, while they compete on the Pro Circuit. Loeb and Rybakov are hoping to gain business experience they can use in the future as part of the Har-Tru players' sales team.
21-Jun-2020
Father's Day Commitment: Sons Choose To Play For Dad
Ben Shelton, Gavin Young, Frank Thompson and Ashe Ray gave their dads a long-lasting Father's Day gift by committing to play for them in college. As sons of coaches, the four grew up around their dad's programs and see the benefit of joining their teams.
17-May-2020
Alabama's Alison Baumgardner Broke SEC Gender Barriers
Roberta Alison Baumgardner became the first woman in Southeastern Conference history to play a varsity sport when she joined the Alabama’s men’s tennis team in 1963. She didn't seek to become a gender trailblazer, though. She just wanted to face good competition.
10-Apr-2020
ITA's Tennis For America Aims to Establish Year of Service
The ITA is introducing a new nationwide pilot program, Tennis for America. Based on a Year of Service model, it provides 12 months of paid, full-time community work for young Americans transitioning from college to professional careers.
18-Mar-2020
Basavareddy Deals With Abrupt End to ITF Caribbean Event
Nishesh Basavareddy and three other U.S. boys experienced an abrupt ending to a USTA-led trip to Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic for Junior ITF events because of the COVID-19 virus pandemic. They all made it home safely.
13-Mar-2020
Blue Chip Montgomery Hits Jackpot in Las Vegas
The odds were against an unranked teenager capturing a $25,000 tournament in just her fourth professional-level event. But 15-year-old blue chip Robin Montgomery rolled the dice and came up a winner last week at the Oracle Pro Series event in Las Vegas.
21-Feb-2020
Texas Tech Opportunity Opens Doors for Talaba
Gabriela Talaba was unsure about her future while playing pro events at age 18. A conversation about college tennis led the Romanian to an opportunity at Texas Tech. It's a decision that gave Talaba a brighter outlook on and off the court.
7-Feb-2020
From Division III to Pro Tennis: Talking with Eudice Chong
Few Division III graduates pursue careers in professional tennis, but Eudice Chong was an outlier from the very beginning of her career at Wesleyan. The 23-year-old Hong Kong native discusses the improvements she's made, her future goals and Wesleyan's sustaining success.
24-Jan-2020
Nakashima Makes Next Step From Virginia to Pro Tour
After experiencing success in professional events and gaining confidence he could contend at that level, Brandon Nakashima decided to leave the University of Virginia after his freshman season. The San Diego native believes he gained a lot of positives from his one season in college tennis.
17-Jan-2020
Eight Intriguing Questions for 2020
Each year Colette Lewis looks ahead to an assortment of issues facing college and junior tennis, with two of the questions for the 2020 edition focusing on where two crown jewel events will be held. Find out the answers to this year's Eight Intriguing Questions.
10-Jan-2020
Captain Kathy: Talking with USTA's Head of Women's Tennis
Kathy Rinaldi is the head of women's tennis at the USTA and the United States Fed Cup captain. She recently sat down with Colette Lewis to discuss her roles, her thoughts on U.S. tennis and her best piece of advice for parents.
4-Dec-2019
FGCU Players Run Their Own Free Clinics to Give Back
The Florida Gulf Coast University women's team hosts at least five free clinics each fall as a way to give back to kids in the local community. The players plan and run every clinic while their coach watches from the sidelines.
12-Sep-2019
From Three-Star to All-American, Touliatos Thrives in College
Preston Touliatos was a three-star recruit with hardly any offers out of high school. After playing one year at Eastern Illinois, he transferred to Tennessee as a walk-on and developed into a doubles All-American for the Vols. Touliatos is now pursuing a pro career before entering med school.
19-Aug-2019
Gorzny on the Road to Recovery Following Major Health Scare
Sebastian Gorzny suffered a serious health scare during the USTA Boys 16s National Championships in Kalamazoo. The 15-year-old was hospitalized for seven days after his father found him unconcious and having seizures in his hotel room bed at 2 a.m.
9-Aug-2019
Spizzirri Brothers Reach International Heights in Tennis, Squash
Twins Eliot and Nicholas Spizzirri are both experiencing international success with racquets, only in different sports. Eliot is one of the top rising senior tennis players in the world while Nicholas is charting his own path in squash.
10-May-2019
Happy Mother's Day: Sweet 16 Players Honor Mom with Tributes
They spent years driving them to practice and tournaments. They paid for entry fees, food and travel. They sacrified personal time to watch matches at all hours. They are tennis moms, and we are honoring them this weekend with tributes from players still remaining in the NCAA Division I Sweet 16. Happy Mother's Day!
12-Mar-2019
Oracle's Hurd Places a High Value On College Tennis
Mark Hurd is a passionate advocate of college tennis, having benefitted from his own playing experience at Baylor. The Oracle CEO is now helping lead the charge for his company's investment in the sport through sponsorships and grants.
15-Feb-2019
Stepping Up: Di Lorenzo Returns After Foot Injury
Francesca Di Lorenzo has returned to the court after being sidelined with plantar fasciitis. The former Ohio State star sat down with Colette Lewis to talk about her comeback, her collegiate experience, her first year as a pro and much more.
8-Feb-2019
Leaving Juniors Behind, Gauff Eyes Pro Progress
Cori "Coco" Gauff is putting nearly all junior tournaments in the past, and focusing on her professional prospects. Gauff, who turns 15 next month, spoke with Colette Lewis about what is next in her tennis career and team she has behind her.
6-Feb-2019
MIT-Bound Fernandez Is Engineered for Academic Excellence
Sara Fernandez skipped her quinceanera to watch a Division III college tournament. The future valedictorian knew she wanted to attend a strong academic school, and found the right match at MIT. Read more about Fernandez in this month's Making the Grade feature.
25-Jan-2019
Bolton Sisters Inspire Each Other to Achieve Athletic Dreams
UCLA freshman Elysia Bolton credits her younger sister for inspiring her to become a better tennis player. Sarah Bolton has been in a wheelchair her entire life, but hasn't let it slow her down. She has represented the United States in track and wants to compete in the Paralympics.
21-Jan-2019
Jenkins Sees Growth Potential in New USTA Coaching Role
Jermaine Jenkins was recently named as a national coach for women's tennis by USTA Player Development. The former hitting partner of Venus Williams grew up in a family that took in foster children, and learned the importance of helping others from an early age.
18-Jan-2019
Eight Intriguing Questions for 2019
What are the most compelling issues heading into the 2019 tennis year? Will heat rule junior tournaments? Will the Wold Tennis Tour be good or bad for juniors and college players? Colette Lewis provides some potential answers in her annual Intriguing Questions column.
4-Jan-2019
USTA Debuts New Wild Card Linkage System for Americans
In response to the new ITF World Tennis Tour, the USTA has created an expanded wild card linkage system to help provide American players with opportunities to participate in professional events. Juniors and college players can earn merit-based wild cards at several major events in 2019.
28-Dec-2018
Q&A with USTA's New Head of Men's Tennis Kent Kinnear
Kent Kinnear, the USTA's new Head of Men's Tennis, sat down with Colette Lewis at the Orange Bowl to discuss his new role, his future goals for player development and his thoughts on the new ITF World Tennis Tour.
17-Dec-2018
Going the Distance to be Seen by College Coaches
Jasmine Caballero traveled from Phoenix, Arizona to Naples, Florida to participate in the Tennis Recruiting Network Showcase held in conjunction with the ITA Coaches Convention. The three-star junior stayed for only a day, but got exposure and experience.
26-Nov-2018
Volynets Targets Continued Pro Circuit Success
Katie Volynets, 16, is making the transition from junior to pro tennis at the same time the ITF is radically changing its pathway for young players seeking a professional career. Volynets discusses her recent sucess, her best tennis memories and her love for music in a Q&A with Colette Lewis.
21-Sep-2018
New ITF Heat Rule Scorches US Open Juniors
The ITF Junior Circuit's new extreme heat rule became a storyline at the recent U.S. Open Junior Championships. Several matches were delayed or suspended as temperatures soared in New York. Find out more about the rule and how it may impact tournaments in the future.
18-Jul-2018
Tiebreak Shootout Offers Chance to Play in Necker Cup
Premier Live is hosting the Tiebreak Shootout in the Atlanta area on July 26, with a chance for any high-level player to earn a free trip to the Necker Cup to compete with the top pros. It's one of two events the company is organizing along with the One World Players' Party and ping pong tournament in New York City.
11-Jul-2018
Korda Measures Next Step of His Career
Coming off his third junior Grand Slam appearance of the year, Sebastian Korda discusses his Australian Open boys title, his father’s advice as he pursues a pro career, his summer schedule and what World Cup team he is supporting in a Q&A with Colette Lewis.
10-Jul-2018
College Tennis Finds a Home at USTA National Campus
Tim Cass has been involved in college tennis as a player, head coach, administrator and now as the general manager for the USTA National Campus in Lake Nona, Florida. Cass has helped bring several college events to the 18-month-old facility with plans for even more in the future.
3-Jul-2018
Diversity on Display at the USTA All-American College Combine
They came from different racial and personal backgrounds, but tennis brought them together at the USTA All-American College Combine. Sophia Edwards, Amber Fuller and Paula Cerda formed a friendship while taking part in the event at the National Campus, showcasing the power of sports as a unifier.
18-May-2018
From USTA to UTR: Amritraj’s Focus Broadens
Stephen Amritraj recently left his position as the USTA’s Director of Collegiate Tennis to become the Chief Tennis Officer for the Universal Tennis Rating system. The Duke graduate is convinced UTR can have a big impact on the global tennis community. He discussed his new role in a Q&A with Colette Lewis.
10-May-2018
Yonex Raises U.S. Tennis Profile
Yonex has made a push to identify and sponsor promising young Americans to get more represenation in the United States tennis market. North American representative Jacek Dabrowski is the man helping put Yonex rackets in the hands of players at prestigious junior tournaments across the country.
27-Apr-2018
Lets Go: ITF Junior Circuit Adopts No Lets on Serves
The ITF has moved to allow service lets to be played during events on the Junior Circuit. During the major Southern California junior tournaments this month, Colette Lewis spoke with competitors, officials and a college coach about the change and its impact.
19-Apr-2018
College Tennis Programs Make a Positive IMPACT With Sick Kids
College tennis programs across the nation have been matched with children with life-threatening illnesses through Team IMPACT. The teams provide a support network for the kids and give them a reason to smile. The players hold signing day ceremonies for them, give them lockers and even invite them to their wedding.
23-Feb-2018
USTA’s Stephen Amritraj Talks Collegiate Tennis
In a Q&A with Colette Lewis, USTA Director of Collegiate Tennis, Stephen Amritraj, discusses college dual matches on the Tennis Channel, the recent success of former collegians on the pro tours, this summer’s second annual All-American College Combine and more.
9-Feb-2018
Jamie Loeb Is Trusting The Process On The Pro Tour
After leaving the University of North Carolina, early Jamie Loeb is in her third full season on the WTA Tour. Colette Lewis recently caught up with Loeb to discuss her goals for 2018, the financial struggles of being outside the Top 100 and how she plans to stay connected to tennis after her career is finished.
26-Jan-2018
Talking Player ID and Development With USTA's Kent Kinnear
As the USTA’s Director of Player ID and Development, Kent Kinnear serves as the liaison between the organization and all competitive 14-and-under tennis players in the country. That’s a daunting and wide-ranging responsibility, but Kinnear has prepared for it with decades of experience on all levels of tennis. He recently sat down with Colette Lewis for an expansive Q&A about the player development programs.
28-Dec-2017
Nonprofit Brings Tennis to Elementary Schools
Claremont-Mudd-Scripps men's tennis coach Paul Settles runs a nonprofit that teaches tennis to local elementary schools. The 12-week program reaches more than 200 students and culminates with a big tournament at the CMS facility each year.
13-Dec-2017
Beating The Odds To Play College Tennis
Teon Manzie was raised in a rough neighborhood in Cleveland. He was introduced to tennis through a nonprofit organization and dreamed about playing in college. Despite not playing many tournaments and never being ranked, Manzie received a scholarship to play at Union College.
25-Nov-2017
Considering Change: ATP's Next Gen Experiments (Part 2)
The ATP experimented with no fewer than nine proposals to streamline the game at the Next Gen Finals in Milan. Part 2 of a two-part series explores playing lets on serve, a reduction in medical timeouts and loosening the restrictions on coaching and fan movement during games
24-Nov-2017
Considering Change: ATP's Next Gen Experiments
The ATP experimented with no fewer than nine proposals to streamline the game at the Next Gen Finals in Milan. In Part 1 of a two-part series, Colette Lewis discussed the changes with players, coaches and tournament personnel last week at the ATP Challenger in Champaign, Illinois.
23-Nov-2017
Auburn Women Rocked By Terminal Cancer Diagnosis
Marliss Gruver, the director of operations for the Auburn women's tennis team, has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. The program is trying to raise money to provide college scholarships for her 12-year-old twin daughters, Jillian and Sloan.
15-Nov-2017
It's Not All Relative For Cacciatores, But It's Really Confusing
They have the same last name, play the same sport and live in the same state. But they are not all related. Meet Henry Patrick, Harry and Grey Cacciatore - the players who have caused confusion for tournament directors, hotel guest bookers and equipment reps.
30-Oct-2017
Countdown: McInerney's Unlikely Recruiting Tale
Recruiting has changed since Arizona State women's coach Sheila McInerney was pursued by USC in 1976. The coach had never seen her play before she arrived, and she never saw the campus until her first day of school.
29-Sep-2017
Q&A: New USTA Head of Men’s Tennis Brian Boland
After 16 years as head coach of the University of Virginia men’s program, Brian Boland left Charlottesville in March to become the USTA’s head of men’s tennis. Boland sat down with Colette Lewis of Zoo Tennis during the U.S. Open to discuss the changes he’s introduced at the USTA, his goals for American men’s tennis, the viability of the college tennis pathway and much more.
27-Sep-2017
Former USC Star Doubles As Emma Stone
Former NCAA doubles champion Kaitlyn Christian is the body double for Emma Stone in the movie "Battle of the Sexes," which depicts the true story of the 1973 tennis match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs. Stone plays King in the movie, and Christian spent many hours with the award-winning actress during filming.
26-Sep-2017
Melanie Oudin Reflects on Career, Early Retirement
Melanie Oudin announced her retirement from professional tennis last month before the start of the U.S. Open, the tournament where she reached her first Grand Slam quarterfinal in 2009. The Atlanta native reflects on a career filled with unforgettable moments and frustrating injuries, and discusses what's next in her life.
8-Sep-2017
A Hard Road From Alaska To College Tennis
After losing their mother to suicide, tennis means even more to Joseph and Christine Hemry. But being from Alaska requires overcoming numerous hurdles to stay competitive and get recruited by colleges. Their grandmother has done everything in her power to help them keep their dreams alive.
1-Sep-2017
College Tennis Community Rallies Behind Houston
In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, college tennis teams from around the country have been sending shirts, shoes and other gear to the tennis programs at the University of Houston and Rice. The donations will be distributed to needy citizens in the Houston area.
25-Aug-2017
USTA Junior Tennis Looks Ahead
As a busy month of August came to a close, Bill Mountford, USTA Director of Junior Tournaments, sat down for a Q&A with Colette Lewis to discuss new iniatives in junior competition, tournament locations, ranking systems and much more.
24-Aug-2017
Salazar Jumps From the NFL to USTA
After more than a decade working in the NFL, Brent Salazar is returning to his tennis roots as the USTA's Director of Performance. Salazar, who played college tennis at the University of New Mexico, will oversee the Player Development Strength and Conditioning team at the USTA National Campus in Lake Nona, Fla.
22-Aug-2017
Tennis Mentors Aims To Give Back
Trent Bryde, Patrick Kypson, Gianni Ross and Sam Riffice are trying to give back to the next generation of players through their newly-created company Tennis Mentors. They are offering advice, hitting sessions and analysis through their website.
24-May-2017
Hall of Famer Tracy Austin's Two Roles: Tennis Mom and Tennis Commentator
Tracy Austin was the definition of a tennis prodigy, with the former
WTA No. 1 still holding records as both the youngest US Open women’s
champion (16) and youngest inductee into the International Tennis Hall
of Fame. Today, Austin stays involved with tennis professionally as a
commentator - and also as the parent of three boys who have all played
tennis. Colette Lewis had the chance to talk with Austin at the Ojai
in April on a wide range of topics.
13-May-2017
Tennis Community Mourns Loss of Steve Johnson, Sr.
Steve Johnson, Sr., a beloved figure in the tennis community and father
of professional Steve Johnson Jr., died Thursday morning in his sleep
at age 58. Johnson's death elicited an outpouring of sympathy from
friends, students and colleagues across the country.
24-Apr-2017
Talking About the USTA All-American Combine
Today with chat with Scott Treibly of the USTA about the upcoming
USTA All-American Combine that will take place at the USTA's Lake Nona
facility in June.
24-Mar-2017
Countdown: Fitting In Doubles Proves Challenging
Doubles is fun, helps players to improve their games, key in college
tennis, and a scheduling nightmare. For these reasons, settling on one
scoring format for the four-person version of the game has proven
impossible.
27-Feb-2017
In Search of Tennis Gadgets at CES 2017
Each January, 185,000 people descend on Las Vegas for the annual
Consumer Electronics Show. While the masses aren't there to look for
the latest tennis training aid or wearable device, potential gadgets
for tennis players and fans are found in just about every corner of
the city.
24-Feb-2017
USTA's Blackman Settles in at Player Development
Martin Blackman completed his first full calendar year as USTA General
Manager of Player Development in December, undoubtedly relieved that
his department's transition to the USTA's National Campus was in its
final stages. Colette Lewis visited the recently-opened Lake Nona
facility earlier this month and got the chance to catch up with
Blackman regarding a wide array of topics.
27-Jan-2017
Key Changes in Junior Tennis for 2017
A new year always brings new rules and regulations in the junior
tennis world. Earlier this week I spoke with USTA Director of National
Tournaments Lew Brewer about changes the International Tennis
Federation and USTA have implemented for 2017.
13-Jan-2017
Eight Intriguing Questions for 2017
Covering junior tennis tournaments and reporting on individual matches
is the bread and butter of what I do at ZooTennis.com. But every
January, the Tennis Recruiting Network encourages me to step back and
contemplate some of the structural and procedural changes that
surround the always evolving sport of tennis. Here are the eight
questions that I look forward to seeing answered in 2017 ...
10-Jan-2017
Welcome to the USTA National Campus
While in Florida last month for the big junior tennis tournaments,
I took a few hours to tour the USTA's vast new 64-acre National
Campus in Lake Nona. The scale of the project is difficult to grasp
even when visiting in person, but here are 18 photos to provide a
glimpse into what is available at the public facility.
14-Dec-2016
2017 USTA National Junior Competitive Structure
Significant revisions have been approved by the USTA Junior
Competition Committee to the national junior competitive structure
that will become effective on January 1, 2017. Take a look at how
they will affect you ...
7-Dec-2016
Don't Pass on Playing in a Pro Am
While it may not possess the prestige of a national tournament or high
school state tournament, it is possible that one of the most important
matches you might play, even as a junior, could be in a pro am. While
it might seem trivial, it can be a unique chance to make a lasting
friendship - or a chance to catch the eye of a college tennis coach.
7-Oct-2016
ImRecruitable College Showcase Events Nov 30 to Dec 1
ImRecruitable will host its 5th Annual College Tennis Showcase
November 30th and December 1st 2016 at Patch Reef Park Tennis Center
in Boca Raton, FL. This unique, one-of-a-kind event combines both
on-court training with college coaches as well as showcase match play
in front of observing coaches. This event allows players the
opportunity to gain maximum exposure and networking with college
coaches.
30-Sep-2016
What an Agent Does: Interview with Topnotch Management's Sam Duvall
Sam Duvall played high-level tennis as a junior outside of Louisville,
Ky., and he played college tennis at Bates College. As a senior,
Duvall had an internship at Octagon, a sports management firm. After
several years at SFX, Duvall started his own firm,
Topnotch Management. Colette Lewis of ZooTennis.com spoke with Duvall
about many issues around sports management - and what advice he would
give top juniors and their families.
28-Sep-2016
Rome Tennis Center Blends Economics and Education with Tennis
In Field of Dreams, a voice told Kevin Costner's character, "If you
build it, he will come." Cities and municipalities have been doing
this for sports like baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse. Add
tennis into the conversation, as word has reached the "powers that be"
that a large, modern and sprawling tennis center can drive money into
the local economy, bring awareness to all that a city offers, and
offer unprecedented educational and recreational opportunities for
residents.
7-Jun-2016
USTA Midwest Section to Hold College Showcase in Indianapolis
On Friday, June 24, the USTA Midwest Section will host its 2016
College Showcase, giving students from the region a chance to learn
about the wide range of opportunities in college tennis. The showcase
will be held at the Barbara S. Wynne Tennis Center, North Central High
School in Indianapolis, Indiana, and will include both information and
on-court sessions for high school players.
4-May-2016
ASU Reinstates Men's Tennis
After an eight-year hiatus, Sun Devil Athletics announced the
reinstatement of the men's tennis program at Arizona State. Through a
lead gift of $1M by Buffie and Ray Anderson, Vice President for
University Athletics, ASU will now field a total of 26 NCAA varsity
sports.
22-Apr-2016
ITA Summer Circuit Schedule
The ITA Summer Circuit provides college, junior, and alumni tennis
players the opportunity to compete in organized events virtually year
round. Although the primary focus of the circuit is to provide
incoming freshmen and collegiate players the chance to play in the
summer months, these events are "open", so anyone is eligible to
compete.
6-Apr-2016
College Tennis Weekly Features USTA, ITA
Earlier this year, the Fox College Sports Network premiered a new
television series - College Tennis Weekly. The TV show, hosted by
former LSU coach Tony Minnis and produced by Harry Cicma Productions,
is a welcome addition to the cable airwaves. This week, a new episode
that highlights USTA and ITA involvement in college tennis makes its
debut, and anyone with an interest in college tennis should check it
out ...
31-Mar-2016
ITA Forms Alliance with Arizona State
Arizona State University and the Intercollegiate Tennis Association,
the governing body for college tennis, announced a strategic alliance
that will leverage the resources of a research-based University to
grow the sport of tennis locally, nationally and globally.
1-Mar-2016
Reviewing His First Months Leading USTA Player Development with Martin Blackman
Since last April, when the USTA announced his hiring as the new
General Manager of Player Development, Martin Blackman has been a busy
man. We recently discussed the reorganization of USTA Player
Development, changes to junior competition, a new player council, his
social media presence, and many other player development
topics.
29-Jan-2016
Andy Brandi on Junior Tennis
When Andy Brandi joined the United States Tennis Association's Player
Development staff as a National Coach five years ago, he brought with
him nearly every conceivable tennis experience: college tennis player,
college coach, WTA touring coach, and tennis academy coach. Colette
Lewis of ZooTennis.com got the chance to talk with him last month at
the Junior Orange Bowl in Coral Gables, Fla.
15-Jan-2016
Eight Intriguing Questions for 2016
Another year... and another edition of "Intriguing Questions" from
columnist Colette Lewis. Today, Colette poses eight queries about
junior and college tennis for 2016.
11-Jan-2016
Learning from Lendl
During his Hall of Fame career, eight-time slam champion Ivan Lendl
was known for his lethal forehand, his fitness, his preparation, and
his single-minded pursuit of tennis excellence. With a stern and often
forbidding presence on the court, Lendl, now 55, has made a markedly
different impression on the seven junior boys he is working with as a
USTA coaching consultant.
25-Nov-2015
Laaksonen the Winner at 20th Champaign Challenger
Singles winner Henri Laaksonen and doubles champions David O'Hare
and Joe Salisbury had plenty to celebrate on Saturday as they took the
top prizes at the USTA JSM Champaign pro circuit event, but they
weren't the only ones cheering. The Challenger celebrated its 20th
year, making it one of the longest running tournaments of its kind in
the country.
31-Oct-2015
ImRecruitable College Training Day and Showcase
ImRecruitable will once again host its largest recruiting event of the
year. The College Training Day and Showcase will be held at Sunrise
Tennis Club in Sunrise, Fla., on Dec 2 and 3, 2015. These events allow
players the opportunity to gain maximum exposure and networking with
college coaches that can lead directly to scholarship opportunities.
7-Oct-2015
USTA Adds Brad Stine to National Collegiate Coaching Staff
Brad Stine has coached tennis for 30 years, and he was recently
appointed as the newest member of the USTA Player
Development's collegiate division. Colette Lewis of ZooTennis.com
recently talked with Stine about many topics - including the reasons
he decided to pursue coaching, the five requirements for success as a
pro, the value of the college pathway and the ITF's push for more
prize money at the lower levels.
23-Sep-2015
Billie Jean King on American Junior and College Tennis
Tennis legend Billie Jean King has never been shy about voicing her
opinions on American tennis. Any complaints she registers usually come
with suggested solutions. Contributor Marcia Frost sat down with King
to discuss the future of tennis - with a focus on American junior and
college tennis - during the celebration of the 40th anniversary of
Mylan World TeamTennis in August.
8-Sep-2015
World TeamTennis at 40: Supporting Junior and College Players
It's been 40 years since Billie Jean and Larry King launched World
TeamTennis - an unusual team tennis concept that would bring together
men and women in a fun, yet competitive, atmosphere. WTT, which has
been sponsored by Mylan since 2012, has been an especially popular
launching pad for top juniors and players just out of college who are
looking to make their way into the pros.
3-Sep-2015
USTA's New Initiative Aims to Reach Hispanics
The USTA's new leader, Katrina Adams, is reaching out to the
Hispanic community, telling them tennis is a lifetime sport - and
that college scholarships should be a goal for junior players. Adams
may have only started serving her two-year term as USTA Chairman of
the Board, CEO and President on Jan. 1, 2015, but her first major
initiative has the potential to change the face of tennis forever.
8-Jul-2015
Larry Ellison Puts Plans in Motion to Build a Tennis Academy on Lana'i
Lana'i City, Hawaii is 4,700 miles due west of Orlando, Fla.
While the USTA is constructing a $60 million facility with 100 courts
in the Lake Nona area of Orlando to be the "New Home for American
Tennis", Oracle co-founder and chairman, Larry Ellison, has plans
of his own to make a Hawaiian island best known for pineapples the
next big thing for American tennis.
28-Jun-2015
Mid-Atlantic College Showcase in Boyds, Maryland
On Saturday, July 11, the Montgomery TennisPlex will host its 2015
College Tennis Showcase, giving USTA Mid-Atlantic high school players
a chance to learn about college tennis and interact with coaches. The
showcase will be held at the Montgomery TennisPlex in Boyds, Maryland,
and will include both information and on-court sessions.
26-Jun-2015
An Interview with Martin Blackman, General Manager USTA Player Development
If there are hats Martin Blackman hasn't worn in his decades
associated with the sport of tennis, they'd be difficult to spot.
Named General Manager of USTA Player Development in April, Blackman
has a resume that includes experience as player, coach and
administrator. Colette Lewis of ZooTennis.com talks with Blackman
about a host of topics related to junior and college tennis.
9-Jun-2015
USTA Gives Position on Use of Periscope and Meerkat Live Streaming Apps
Less than three months after the release of live streaming video apps
in Periscope and Meerkat, sports organizations and networks around the
world are giving their positions and setting policy on how these
convenient but controversial apps can be used by fans and others in
attendance at their events. Rick Limpert discusses their use in the
tennis world.
30-Apr-2015
ImRecruitable College Exposure Series
The ImRecruitable College Exposure Series is designed to provide
players with a unique opportunity to train like a college tennis
player on court with top U.S. college coaches and play in competitive
matches. Check out the event schedule for the year - starting with the
College Tennis Exposure Camp on campus at Penn June 19-21.
21-Mar-2015
Former College Stars, Juniors Take BNP Paribas Open Challenge
It's one of the longest of longshots in tennis. Winning six or seven
straight matches to reach just the qualifying stage of an ATP or WTA
tennis event is considered a longshot. Thousands now try it each
summer with the USTA's U.S. Open National Playoffs, and a couple
hundred more try it each year in Indian Wells, Calif., as the people
behind the BNP Paribas Open host the BNP Paribas Open Challenge.
Several junior and college stars are among them.
9-Mar-2015
College Coaches Forum
Some junior tennis tournaments include college forums
where junior tennis players and their parents can learn about the
college recruiting process. One such forum took place at the USTA
Southern Sectionals in Rome, Ga., earlier this year. Get some of the
tips from that forum - and find out what they are all about...
28-Feb-2015
Talking with Michael Joyce - Part 2
Colette Lewis of ZooTennis.com got the chance to talk with former
tennis player and now coach Michael Joyce earlier this month in
Midland, Michigan at the $100,000 Dow Corning Tennis Classic. This
is Part 2 of their conversation.
27-Feb-2015
Talking with Michael Joyce - Part 1
Michael Joyce is best known to tennis fans now as the former coach of
five-time slam champion Maria Sharapova. Prior to his coaching stint
with Sharapova however, the 42-year-old Southern Californian had his
own distinguished career, winning the USTA Boys 18s Nationals in 1991
and reaching an ATP career-high ranking of 64 five years later.
Colette Lewis of ZooTennis.com got the chance to talk with Joyce about
about his years with Sharapova, his coaching philosophy, his current
work at a tennis academy, and much more...
4-Feb-2015
Inside College Tennis with Tony Minnis Returns
This weekend, Inside College Tennis with Tony Minnis returns with the
first of three all-new episodes on The Tennis Channel. The television
program, which highlights college tennis programs around the country
of all shapes and sizes, should appeal to the entire
TennisRecruiting.net community. We caught up with host Tony Minnis to
learn what is coming...
20-Jan-2015
Racquet Customization a Growing Trend in Junior and College Tennis
As if tennis parents, junior and college tennis players didn't have
enough expense in buying frames, strings, shoes and high tech apparel,
many are choosing to shell out even more cash to have their racquets
customized to preferred specifications.
16-Jan-2015
Eight Intriguing Questions for 2015
It's January... so it must be time for another edition of
"Intriguing Questions" from columnist Colette Lewis.
Today, in the tenth article in as many years, Colette poses eight
questions about junior and college tennis that should be answered
over the coming months.
9-Jan-2015
An interview with Nick Saviano
Nick Saviano began his storied coaching career at age 28 after winning
two NCAA titles at Stanford and playing the ATP circuit for several
years. After 15 years with the USTA, Saviano started his own tennis
academy, where he can still be found feeding balls to eight-year-olds
with grand slam dreams. Colette Lewis got the chance to talk with
Saviano about many topics around tennis coaching and the game in
general.
22-Dec-2014
Halbauer Makes the Most of Opportunity in Macon
17-year old Ellie Halbauer discovered something about her game at the
USTA Pro Circuit's 50K, Tennis Classic of Macon event in October,
and it is something that all young tennis players would do well to
remember - sometimes it's easier to play when you are down.
10-Dec-2014
Minor Leagues of Tennis a Proving Ground for Officials as Well as Players
Known mainly for his booming voice over a Stadium Court microphone and
his laid back demeanor, chair umpire Jake Garner is the face of
tennis officiating here in the United States. But in October, Garner
took a break from his regular duties to head to Macon, Ga., to observe
and scout officials at a 50K women's pro event - which is good news
for tennis players of all levels...
7-Dec-2014
Helping Bill Kallenberg
Bill Kallenberg has been a long-time friend of Tennis Recruiting.
His photos have appeared in Tennis Recruiting articles for years,
and we recently began working with him more formally - Bill took
photos for TennisRecruiting.net at Kalamazoo this summer as well
as at the U.S. Open. Many of you have seen him at junior tournaments
over the years - and those of you in college have probably met him
as well. Today, Bill is in need...
26-Nov-2014
Breakdowns Before Breakthroughs
Andre Agassi survived. So did Novak and Serena. And it brought Andy
Murray to tears on center court at Wimbledon It is considered one of
tennis' greatest challenges. The phenomenon called breakdowns before
breakthroughs.
8-Oct-2014
Interview with USTA National Collegiate Coach Stephen Amritraj
Stephen Amritraj joined the USTA as a National Coach in January of
this year and was recently named its National Collegiate coach.
Amritraj played at Duke from 2002-2006, and after a brief stint on the
tour, began coaching ATP professionals in Southern California, where
he grew up. Colette Lewis of ZooTennis.com talked with Amritraj about
the USTA Collegiate Team program which assists American college
players as they transition to professional careers.
23-Aug-2014
Premiere of Inside College Tennis with Tony Minnis at Wichita State
The Bill Rodman Production Shoppe has completed production of the 4th
episode of Inside College Tennis and premieres on Tennis Channel
featuring Wichita State University. The show premieres tonight,
Saturday, August 23rd at 10pm ET, on The Tennis Channel. Meet Colin
Foster, Head Women's Coach and Brad Louderback, Head Men's Coach is
this episode and come to understand why each coach says: "Our team is
a like family."
27-Jun-2014
The Value of Front Court Skills in College Tennis
I've had several recruits ask for training suggestions as they make
the transition to college. A common theme between the three programs
I've been part of the past few years has been the amount of work put
into developing doubles skills, especially with freshmen. Recruiting
players who can make immediate contributions to the doubles lineup has
become harder to do, so my suggestion to young players in general is
to develop the ability to play the net.
7-May-2014
A Conversation with Steve Johnson
For college tennis fans, Steve Johnson needs no introduction. At USC,
Johnson won an unprecedented four NCAA team titles and two NCAA
singles titles, ending his collegiate career on a 72-match winning
streak. With just one full year behind him on the ATP tour, he now
stands as the third-ranked American at No. 69. Colette Lewis caught
up with Johnson to talk about all things tennis...
25-Apr-2014
Talking with USTA's Tom Gullikson
If you've been to a major junior tournament in the United States this
year, you've probably seen USTA Lead National Coach Tom Gullikson
there - watching matches and talking with players, parents and coaches,
both formally and one-on-one. Colette Lewis spoke with Gullikson
during the USTA Spring Team Championships, where he gave his insights
on a number of tennis issues.
24-Jan-2014
Eight Intriguing Questions for 2014
Tennis Recruiting enters its ninth year in 2014, and this January we
feature the ninth straight edition of "Intriguing Questions" from
columnist Colette Lewis. Lewis asks eight questions about junior
and college tennis that should reveal their answers over the next
twelve months.
20-Jan-2014
College Format Changes - The Vote of 21-19
The scoring system in tennis is one of its most sacred heirlooms. When
the ITA (Intercollegiate Tennis Association) had its annual convention
and coaches meeting in December, the hottest and the most pressing
topic was the scoring system. Legendary tennis coach Chuck Kriese
reviews highlights of the discussion - with his usual commentary.
13-Jan-2014
Previewing Inside College Tennis with Tony Minnis - Part II
A new television series - Inside College Tennis with Tony Minnis -
premieres this week, Tuesday, January 14 at 9pm EST / 6pm PST on
the Tennis Channel. And the entire tennis community should be very
excited about the new program. We got the chance to talk with host and
former LSU coach Tony Minnis about what we should expect to see...
11-Jan-2014
Premiere of Inside College Tennis With Tony Minnis Coming Tuesday
The Emmy award winning Bill Rodman Production Shoppe is partnering with
Legendary Coach Tony Minnis and The Tennis Channel to bring you Inside
College Tennis With Tony Minnis - a half-hour program dedicated to
promoting collegiate tennis.
8-Jan-2014
Previewing Inside College Tennis with Tony Minnis
"College tennis is one of the best-kept secrets in college sports."
So says Tony Minnis, who knows a thing or two about the sport.
Minnis, who competed at a high level collegiately as both a player and
coach, is about to pilot a new show on the Tennis Channel - Inside
College Tennis with Tony Minnis. Check out what this program has in
store...
8-Dec-2013
The Invaluable Experience - New Kindle Book by Lao and Limpert
Reflecting on her successful college tennis career, Danielle Lao, a
two-time All-American at USC thought she might have some valuable
information to share with others either enrolled at colleges and
universities around the country, thinking about playing college
sports, or even sports fans wondering what the college experience is
like for a elite athlete. With the help of Rick Limpert, Lao has
24-Nov-2013
WAM Sports College Showcase to be held December 5-6
The WAM Sports College Tennis Camp and Showcase is
a great way to get exposed to and recruited by 40+ U.S. college tennis
coaches. College coaches from all divisions across country will be in
attendance to educate you about the college tennis recruiting process
and spend time with you on court.
22-Nov-2013
College Tennis Camps and Showcases - A Must for College-Bound Prospects
What are College Tennis Camps and Showcases? Who are they for? What can they
do for me? Junior tennis players, parents and coaches alike often do
not know much about either type of event. Therefore, they are hesitant
and unsure of the benefits. But the chance to talk to a college coach,
to be scouted and educated by them, to even be recruited by college
coaches is always a valuable experience for any student athlete,
regardless of who you are.
3-Nov-2013
Newks College Showcase to be held November 23-24
Newks College Showcase gives coaches the perfect opportunity to meet
and watch potential recruits compete. Exposure between college coaches
and players can be challenging, and this is the time of year most high
school juniors begin looking into colleges tennis programs.
27-Oct-2013
Eastern College Showcase Day to be held November 10
Join presenters Eric Butorac and Dr. James Gladstone at the USTA Eastern
Section's College Showcase Day on November 10 in Mt. Kisco, N.Y. The
event is designed to help players learn more about the college tennis
process and connect better with college coaches. College coaches
have the opportunity to recruit and get exposure for their tennis
programs.
30-Sep-2013
Media Tips for Young Tennis Players
Many junior tennis players pattern their games and on-court attitudes
after professional players, but juniors rarely see their favorite
players interact with the media. Although it may not have the same
importance as developing a reliable kick serve or a slice backhand,
learning to handle media requests and inquiries is part of the
education of a developing player. The USTA recognizes that, annually
conducting media training sessions.
25-Sep-2013
My Take on College Tennis
I want to start this piece by making one thing very clear so that
there is no doubt about where I stand: I love college tennis. I have
had a great experience as a player, coach, and now as a fan. That
said, I think we need to be open to a change in the format in order to
preserve the future of the sport in the changing landscape of college
athletics.
5-Jun-2013
In the SPC, It's Books Over Backhands
As teenage athletes across the country turn away from the traditional
brick-and-mortar education to tack on more training hours, the
Southwest Preparatory Conference (SPC), the nation's largest
geographical private school athletic conference with schools in Texas
and Oklahoma, embraces its old-school ethic: academics before
athletics.
13-May-2013
Don Johnson Brings Experience to Vstrator
Donald Johnson turned a successful college tennis career at North
Carolina into a professional stint that brought him to the No. 1
doubles ranking in the world. Today, Johnson works at Vstrator, a
company he helped found that provides video analysis tools for
athletes and has great application to tennis.
9-May-2013
Ramp It Up - New Academy Opens in Southern California
The Home Depot Center in Carson, California, site of the USTA Training
Center-West, has a new source of activity this spring with the
opening of the RAMP Tennis Academy.
6-Feb-2013
Teah Flynn Organizes Groundbreaking Tennis Relay
For a 15 year old, Teah Flynn has done more community service than
most adults, logging hundreds of volunteer hours raising funds for
charities, walking dogs owned by disabled people, and producing PSAs.
On February 9, Flynn, a two-star sophomore from Farmington, Arkansas,
will host her most ambitious volunteer project so far - a Tennis Relay
to raise money for genomic cancer research.
17-Jan-2013
Eight Intriguing Questions for 2013
Another year... and another edition of "Intriguing Questions" from
columnist Colette Lewis. Today, Colette poses eight questions about
junior and college tennis.
21-Dec-2012
Magnus Norman Seeks to Boost Swedish Tennis at Good to Great Academy
When Magnus Norman retired from the ATP tour in 2004, he didn't pick
up a tennis racquet for three years. When he began to miss tennis,
Norman began coaching Sweden's Robin Soderling, who went from 37 to 5
in the ATP rankings while working with Norman. With his girl friend
expecting twins, Norman wanted to travel less, so he decided to
concentrate on developing a private high performance academy.
11-Dec-2012
National Showcase Tournament Series
The Tennis Recruiting Network is proud to present
the National Showcase Series - a series of USTA-sanctioned
junior tournaments open to players from all sections. These
tournaments are designed to give players a chance to compete outside
of their districts and sections - and these tournaments will count
towards Tennis Recruiting rankings.
9-Dec-2012
USTA Hints at Compromise When it Comes to Junior Tennis Changes
Tennis Recruiting contributor Rick Limpert was granted unique access
over the past few days to talk with Jon Vegosen, Chairman of the Board
and President of the USTA and Kurt Kampermann, USTA Chief Executive of
Community Tennis, who have been front and center when it comes to the
USTA's proposed changes in competitive junior tennis.
27-Nov-2012
Schedule of USTA Town Hall Meetings for Junior Competition Changes
Last month, the USTA announced that it would conduct a series of town
hall meetings to discuss proposed changes to USTA Junior Competition.
This "listening tour" is supposed to give players, parents, and
concerned parties a chance to discuss these changes. A number of
these meetings have now been scheduled - find one in your area.
22-Oct-2012
USTA to Pause 2013 Junior Competition Changes
After a series of weekend meetings with a tennis industry group, the
USTA has decided to take the following steps with respect to junior
competition: (1) leave the 2013 changes alone and continue the same
schedule as 2012, (2) conduct a series of Town Hall Listening Meetings
between now and mid-March, and (3) use the information gleaned from
that Listening Tour to help determine refinements for 2014 and beyond.
20-Sep-2012
Reconsideration of USTA Junior Competition Changes
Earlier this week, a group of people concerned with junior competition
met with USTA leadership about proposed changes to USTA Junior Competition
in 2013 and 2014. Read about the meetings - and the plans for the USTA
to respond in the upcoming weeks.
24-Aug-2012
The Case for a Junior Davis Cup Team
Tennis has undergone many changes in the years since Michael Chang,
Andre Agassi, Jim Courier and Pete Sampras were playing junior tennis
in the mid-80s. Few will shed a nostalgic tear for the short shorts
and mullets in fashion back then, but one institution of that era is
still spoken of in revered tones - the USTA Junior Davis Cup team.
10-Aug-2012
Not So Super: The Third-Set Tie-Breaker
At junior tournaments throughout the country, it has become common to
use so-called 'Super Tie-Breakers' instead of playing out third sets.
These tie-breakers are being used in spite of disapproval from
players, coaches and parents. They rob our players of valuable skills
in managing the pressures of a tight match, and they marginalize the
value of winning - or losing - close matches.
24-May-2012
Talking with MaliVai Washington
MaliVai Washington is well-known in the tennis world. After a stellar
junior career where he competed against the likes of Sampras, Agassi,
Courier, and Martin, Washington attended the University of Michigan,
where he was the top-ranked player before turning pro after his
sophomore year. He is best known for reaching the finals at Wimbledon
in 1996. Harry Cicma of NBC Sports caught up with Washington.
8-May-2012
A Grand New Era for Women's Tennis
In previous decades, tennis experts mercilessly harpooned women's
tennis for its predictability. Evert, Navratilova, Seles, Graf,
Hingis, and Williams (x2) dominated the stage for decades. Then the
buck stopped in 2010. Recent tournaments have featured many first-time
champions - some of them in their late twenties. Women's tennis is
becoming a more interesting sport with a deeper field.
7-Mar-2012
"Little Mo" Sites Announced For Sectionals, Regionals and Nationals
The Maureen Connolly Brinker Tennis Foundation has selected tournament
sites for its "Little Mo" tournaments for kids under 12 from the USA.
Take a look at the schedule.
12-Jan-2012
Eight Intriguing Questions for 2012
Every January, columnist Colette Lewis of Zootennis takes time to
reflect on the state of junior and college tennis. She distills some
of her thoughts into a column that we are fortunate enough to run here
at TennisRecruiting.net.
28-Nov-2011
80 and Still Jumping
For many years I have been close with the folks at West Point and the
Military. I have not only spoken to the cadets, but I have also
developed a very strong relationship with their tennis teams and
coaches. At the 2010 US Open, I opened up my mouth and sort of
suggested that I would be interested in skydiving with the Golden
Knights for my 80th birthday (July 31, 2011). I didn't think much of
it afterwards, but Coach Peck set the wheels in motion.
1-Jul-2011
Twelve Tips for a Better Tournament Experience
Colette Lewis has attended quite a few tennis tournaments over the
years. During that time, she has seen the good, the bad, and the
ugly. Here is a list of twelve tips that players and parents should
keep in mind to foster the best-possible tournament experience for
everyone.
11-May-2011
Wilander's Words of Wisdom
Mats Wilander, a seven-time Grand Slam singles champion, has devoted
his life to tennis, and at age 46, says he still views himself as a
professional tennis player. He now runs a Winnebago-based traveling
clinic he conducts with former Naval Academy standout Cameron Lickle.
At last month's Easter Bowl, Wilander headlined the tournament's
annual seminar for coaches, parents and players. Here are some of his
comments.
4-May-2011
Honoring The Memory of Karie Schlukebir
In 1999, life seemed good for Karie Schlukebir. After a stellar
junior career, Indiana University Coach Lin Loring had recruited her
to play at the Big Ten School. She was in her freshman year and only
18 years old when she was told she had melanoma, but Schlukebir was
not about to let the cancer end her life without a fight.
2-May-2011
Northwestern Women Come From Behind Against Michigan to Claim 13th Big Ten Tournament Title
In the damp and gloom, behind 3-0 to a Michigan team that had beaten
her squad 6-1 last week for the Big Ten regular season title on the
same Ann Arbor courts, Northwestern women's head coach Claire Pollard
had ample reason to expect her team's Big Ten tournament title winning
streak would end at 12. But somehow she and the four remaining
Wildcats on the courts kept the faith, ran the table, and emerged with
a 4-3 win and their 13th consecutive Big Ten tournament title.
14-Feb-2011
Dow Corning Tennis Classic's Outreach Programs Touch Thousands of Midland-area Students Each Year
Thousands of youngsters benefit each year from the Dow Corning Tennis
Classic's outreach programs. The Dow Corning has the obligatory Kids
Day early in the tournament, but the Pros To Schools, Schools To
Matches, and Think Smart, Dream Big programs make youth outreach a
weeklong commitment.
21-Jan-2011
USTA National Junior Team Edges Alabama Men
When the USTA National Junior Team's match with the University of
Alabama men came down to the last court Thursday, the competitive
fires were fully ignited. As the 14 other players surrounded the match
between 15-year-old Nikko Madregallejo and Alabama sophomore Ian
Chadwell, it suddenly became strikingly similar to every other
collegiate match that will be played over the next four months.
14-Jan-2011
Eight Intriguing Questions for 2011
Another year... and another edition of "Intriguing Questions" from
columnist Colette Lewis. Today, Colette poses eight questions about
junior and college tennis.
30-Dec-2010
Welcome to New Prince. 2011.
Team Prince comes forward to talk about their Prince racquets. Prince
Tennis is excited about 2011.
8-Sep-2010
Flashback: Colette Lewis on the Grips Program
It was recently announced that Colette Lewis of ZooTennis.com won
second place in the annual US Tennis Writers writing contest for her
look at the Grips Program. That story - published in Racquet Sports
Industry Magazine in February 2009 - also ran right here at
TennisRecruiting.net. Today we republish that story in its entirety...
8-Jun-2010
Tennis has the Power to Help!
I traveled to Ethiopia in December with one thing in mind: bring my
adopted son back to America, be a father to him, and give him a better
life. My eyes were opened to a world that I'd never seen before. I
didn't realize how large of an impact it would have on me. I encountered
a culture where people are extremely gracious, wonderfully spiritual and
tremendously resilient - all characteristics that I strive to embody
in my life.
12-May-2010
USTA Eastern Section's Camp A.C.E. to be held in July
Former Australian Open semifinalist Chanda Rubin and former US
Olympic coach Rodney Harmon will be teaching this summer at Camp
A.C.E., the annual overnight camp run by the United States Tennis
Association's Eastern Section. Camp A.C.E., for players age 14-17,
will be held July 25-31 at Ramapo College of New Jersey.
11-May-2010
Tennis Manga Graphic Novel to Benefit Agassi Foundation
Tennis Manga is the first in a series of graphic novels that follow a
junior tennis player through her career. Created by Catherine Chen, a
sixteen-year old USTA junior competitor from Southern California, all
proceeds benefit the Andre Agassi Foundation for Education.
26-Apr-2010
NCAA Rules Update - Enrolling After Graduation
This winter, the NCAA passed bylaws specifying how long high school
graduates can wait before enrolling in college. As originally
written, those bylaws would effect all graduating classes - starting
with this year's class of 2010. There is some recent news on this -
the possibility of a 6-month grace period that would protect the Class
of 2010.
22-Feb-2010
A European Tennis Adventure
I got to travel to England and France in January - thanks to the
USTA - to play in a couple of tennis tournaments. It was my first trip
to Europe and was a great experience. I wrote about in my diary, parts
of which are published here.
11-Feb-2010
Colette Lewis on Junior and College Tennis
Junior and college tennis is a passion for many people, but perhaps
none more so than Colette Lewis. Lewis, who blogs about amateur
tennis at ZooTennis.com and is a weekly contributor at
TennisRecruiting.net, has carved out a niche as a freelance junior and
college tennis journalist. She writes for TENNIS, SMASH, the USTA,
and the New York Times, and she contributes to the Tennis Channel. We
moved Lewis to the other side of the microphone - getting her take on
all things tennis.
28-Jan-2010
Talking About Your Tennis: Media Training for Juniors
Andy Roddick, Serena Williams and Melanie Oudin aren't professors, but
junior players at the USTA Training Center Headquarters learned
important lessons from the three American stars last fall at a media
relations session in Boca Raton, Fla.
14-Jan-2010
Nine Intriguing Questions for 2010
2010 marks the fifth new year for TennisRecruiting.net - and the fifth
edition of "Intriguing Questions" from columnist Colette Lewis. Lewis
asks nine questions that may bear answers in the first year of the new
decade.
31-Oct-2009
USTA/Mid-Atlantic Section to Hold College Showcase at Old Dominion
On Nov. 14, the United States Tennis Association/Mid-Atlantic Section
will host its 1st Annual College Showcase Day, giving students from
the region a chance to learn about the wide range of opportunities in
college tennis. The showcase will be held at Old Dominion University
in Norfolk, Virginia and include a Round Robin tournament for high
school players.
29-Oct-2009
Capra and Gibbs Join U.S. Fed Cup Team's Title Quest
An invitation to join the United States Fed Cup team as hitting
partners is exciting enough, but Beatrice Capra and Nicole Gibbs have
additional reasons to savor the experience: it's the finals, it's in
Italy, and they are going together.
17-Oct-2009
USTA Eastern Section to Hold 23rd Annual College Showcase Day
On Nov. 8, the United States Tennis Association Eastern Section will
host its 23rd Annual College Showcase Day, giving students from across
New York, New Jersey and Connecticut a chance to learn about the wide
range of opportunities in college tennis. The showcase will be held at
USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens and include a
Round Robin tournament for high school seniors.
23-Jul-2009
The Man Behind the Texas College Tennis Blog
Last spring, tennis bloggers welcomed a new website and a new voice in
college tennis world. During its first year of existence, the Texas
College Tennis blog had neither a name nor face attached to it. But at
the NCAAs in College Station, I met its creator, and he agreed to
answer the many questions I had about his connection with college
tennis in Texas and his decision to start a blog dedicated to it.
16-Jul-2009
Athletic DNA Launches Clothing Line with Juniors in Mind
When facing global sports apparel and shoe giants like Nike and
Adidas, how does a small startup hope to have an impact? For Athletic
DNA, a new Seattle-based company, the answer is simple: focus on
tennis, and start where the sport starts - in the juniors.
24-Apr-2009
USTA National Campus Championship - A Firsthand Experience
Jason Franks and the Western Washington Vikings traveled to Surprise,
Arizona this past weekend for the USTA National Campus Championships.
Franks jotted down a diary during his stay, and he shares those thoughts
with us today.
22-Apr-2009
Duke University Captures Title At 2009 USTA National Campus Championship
Duke University beat the University of Wisconsin - Madison 26-21 in
Saturday's championship match at the 2009 USTA National Campus
Championship at the Surprise Tennis and Racquet Complex. This was the
first championship match for either squad and Duke University's first
national title.
13-Apr-2009
An Inside Look at Tennis On Campus: Western Washington
Western Washington University, located in Bellingham, Wash., just
twenty minutes from the Canadian border, is home to one of the oldest
and most talented Tennis On Campus club teams in the nation. The
Vikings are the only team to have attended all nine of the USTA Tennis
On Campus National Championship tournaments. Jason Franks, former
president of the team, reflects on his experience.
11-Apr-2009
USTA Tennis On Campus Names UC Davis Club Of The Year
The USTA announced that the University of California, Davis has been
awarded the inaugural Club of the Year Award for the 2008-2009 Tennis
On Campus season. The USTA Tennis On Campus program will present the
University of California, Davis the Club of the Year award during the
2009 USTA National Campus Championship on April 16-18.
9-Mar-2009
Monica Seles - Two Handed Wonder
Monica Seles holds a special spot in this coach's heart. Her
competitive spirit was second-to-none, she is genuinely kind, and her
professional accomplishments are numerous and impressive. She will be
inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2009.
Bollettieri reflects on Seles' game - and her contributions to the
sport.
16-Feb-2009
Introducing Tennis On Campus
The USTA's Tennis On Campus program is designed to provide college
students with opportunities for team camaraderie, social networking,
and rivaled competition through tennis without the rigors of a varsity
program. Perfect for athletes who have chosen not to make the jump
from high school to college varsity, Tennis On Campus offers co-ed
team-based play, regional and national championship competition, and
helps students maintain active and healthy lifestyles through their
college years.
8-Jan-2009
Eight Intriguing Questions for 2009
Another year, another "Intriguing Questions" article from Colette Lewis.
Lewis takes a moment to ask eight questions for the coming year.
5-Jan-2009
Courier: "The Grinder"
Jim Courier's career can be summed up in just a few words: hard work,
guts, and passion! He has had to work for everything that has come to
him in life, but the fruits of his labor have produced four Grand Slam
titles, a #1 ranking in the world, and membership on the victorious
1992 Davis Cup Team.
24-Nov-2008
Jelena's Climb to the Top
Even though it happened and lasted for just one week, Jelena
Jankovic's journey to reach the top of the tennis world was achieved!
As anyone who has ever successfully climbed a mountain unattainable by
the vast majority of their peers, her sense of triumph and euphoria
was both deserved and hard-earned. Jelena made it to the top through
sheer hard work and determination.
9-Oct-2008
A Look at the Grips Program
Southern California junior development coaches Craig Cignarelli and
Aaron Fox recognized a need for more structure and objectivity in
their teaching methods, which led them to create the Grips Program.
Colette Lewis explains the reasons for the program's popularity with
players, parents and coaches.
23-Sep-2008
USTA Announces Campus Showdowns
The USTA is teaming with the ITA to promote Campus Showdowns on
college campuses throughout the United States. Campus Showdowns are
one-day, short-format tournaments open to juniors, college players,
professionals, and adults.
30-May-2008
Will the Serve and Volley Ever Bounce Back?
On court, the power game is linked to the economy of energy - points
end after fewer strokes and in less time. On the other hand, a game
built around strategy, like the Serve and Volley game, is linked more
to patience. I believe the gradual disappearance of the Serve and
Volley in modern tennis can be traced back to several factors; the
difficulty and time commitment required for its development, equipment
advancements, improvements in the players' physical fitness, and the
fans thirst for the more "glamorous" game.
8-May-2008
A Conversation with Documentary Filmmaker Tom Pura
Tom Pura is a tennis parent, a Harvard grad and a Wall Street retiree.
He is not, as he would be the first to tell you, a movie producer. But
several years ago, Pura decided that if he wanted to chronicle the
tennis life of his 13-year-old son TJ, it was up to him to become one.
Colette Lewis talks with Pura about his resulting documentary, entitled
50,000 Balls.
28-Apr-2008
The Coaching Carousel
The coaching carousel spins again, this time with the break up of one
of the highest profile teams on the ATP Tour, Andy Roddick and his
coach, Jimmy Connors. The first question people usually ask is "What
happened?". As in many cases, knee-jerk reactions, speculations, and
rumors inevitably begin to pile up and ultimately bury the truth.
3-Mar-2008
The Return of Davenport
Davenport's back! That's good news for women's tennis, and with her
commitment to play in the Fed Cup and her eyes set on the 2008 Beijing
Olympics, better news for American women's tennis.
17-Jan-2008
Nine Intriguing Questions for 2008
For the third year in a row, Colette Lewis publishes her annual
"Intriguing Questions" article right here at TennisRecruiting.net.
Take a look at nine questions she is eager to have answered in 2008.
26-Nov-2007
Minneapolis Junior Has Plenty To Be Thankful For
Angela Wong spends much of her days driving her two children to
various tennis activities in the Twin Cities. Whether it is a
tournament, private lessons or a drill, Wong chauffeurs her two tennis
prodigies from court to court as they continue to develop their games.
Unfortunately, their tennis travels put them on the I-35W bridge at the
wrong time.
5-Oct-2007
American Coaching in London
British Tennis is getting a dose of American coaching; will it change
the prognosis for juniors there? The LTA recently selected Bill
Mountford, USTA director of tennis at the Billie Jean King National
Tennis Center for six years, to oversee the LTA's Coach Relations and
Competition program. Colette Lewis talks with Mountford about junior
tennis in the UK.
12-Sep-2007
Welcome to the Evolution
On today's tennis courts, you can find a wide variety in the styles of
play and the personalities on the court. Every match seems to
showcase something different to amaze and delight fans. The power is
there, but there is a mix of speed, agility and all-court play. The
game has evolved into a much more physical sport than ever before.
But you need more than physical strength and stamina to be successful
in today's game. Just take a look at the number one players in the
world on both sides.
23-Aug-2007
Unstrung: Courier Documentary Attempts to Transcend Tennis
Jim Courier didn't want his documentary "Unstrung" to be a tennis
movie. What he hoped for, after following a group of male junior
players for ten months, was a film that would appeal to a wider
audience, one that would focus less on the sport and more on the
dynamics and drama when family and competition intertwine. Each of
the film's subjects provides a glimpse of the many paths parents
and children can take.
30-Jul-2007
Mark Riley Takes the Reins at Kalamazoo
Kalamazoo College alumnus Mark Riley ('82), head men's tennis coach at
the University of Pennsylvania for the past seven seasons, was
recently named men's tennis coach at his alma mater and assistant
director of the 2007 USTA Boys 18s and 16s National Championships.
Just a few days after his arrival on campus at Kalamazoo College,
Colette Lewis sat down to talk with Riley about the new chapter in his
career in tennis.
12-Jul-2007
Twelve Tips for a Better Tournament Experience
Colette Lewis has attended quite a few tennis tournaments over the
years. During that time, she has seen the good, the bad, and the
ugly. Here is a list of twelve tips that players and parents should
keep in mind to foster the best-possible tournament experience for
everyone.
8-May-2007
USTA Boys' 18 and 16 Clays in Delray Beach
The USTA Boys' 18 and 16 Clay Court National Championships moves
this year to Delray Beach, Fla. Learn about the tournament in this
press release from tournament officials.
16-Apr-2007
You Cannot Be Serious!
"I've gone from a poor tennis coach who does comedy, to a poor
comedian who plays tennis." That's Michael Kosta's tongue-in-cheek
description of the past year, when he resigned as assistant men's tennis
coach at the University of Michigan to tell jokes for a living.
Although at first glance that's an improbable change in occupations,
Kosta believes his twenty years in tennis prepared him well.
2-Apr-2007
Federer Crashes to Earth
Who would've guessed that Roger Federer would make an opening round
exit from the Pacific Life Open at Indian Wells? I certainly wouldn't
have predicted it, especially for a guy that had won 41 consecutive
matches overall and three consecutive titles at Indian Wells. If you
did pick this upset, you could have retired after a short trip to Las
Vegas! But is this really that big of an upset?
29-Mar-2007
USTA Florida's Bobby Curtis Toasted and Roasted at Sony Ericsson Open Dinner
The Greater Miami Tennis and Education Foundation held its annual
fundraising dinner in Key Biscayne on Sunday, and the honoree was
Bobby Curtis, USTA Florida's coordinator of junior tennis. Colette
Lewis of ZooTennis.com was onhand to listen to the stories - humorous
and heartfelt.
16-Mar-2007
Corwin Leaving Kalamazoo, Taking USTA Position
Timon Corwin, Tournament Director of the USTA Boys 18 and 16 National
Championships in Kalamazoo and men's tennis coach at Kalamazoo College
since 1994, announced last weekend that he would be leaving those
positions to join the USTA Player Development staff as Senior Director
for Junior and Collegiate Competition in May.
18-Jan-2007
Eight Intriguing Questions for 2007
Last week, Colette Lewis reviewed the 2006 year in tennis. Today,
she presents a set of eight questions that she is eager to have
answered in 2007.
11-Jan-2007
A Look Back at 2006
For the past two years, I've written an Intriguing Questions piece in
January. Part speculation, part prediction, part plain old curiosity,
the 2007 version will surface soon, but before I embark on that, I
thought it might be fun to look back at how the 2006 questions were
answered.
9-Jan-2007
2007 Australian Open Preview
As we look ahead to the start of the upcoming 2007 tennis season there
is plenty to be excited about. At the top of everyone's list is the
first Grand Slam of the year, the Australian Open. Last year's Aussie
Open saw Amelie Mauresmo win her first Grand Slam. Roger Federer won
his second Australian Open, and his third Grand Slam tournament in a
row. This year's Open should be nothing short of spectacular!
2-Nov-2006
USTA/ITA Campus Kids' Days Schedule
The USTA is working with college coaches to find ways to expose
college varsity tennis to more junior players. The USTA has announced
a new program called Campus Kids' Days.
1-Nov-2006
USTA/ITA Campus Showdown Schedule
The USTA is teaming with the ITA to promote Campus Showdowns on
college campuses throughout the United States. Find a Showdown
in your area - or at a college of interest.
31-Oct-2006
Tennis Against Breast Cancer
The 14th Annual Tennis Against Breast Cancer Tennis Challenge took
place on Sunday, October 29th at Roosevelt Island Racquet Club in New
York City. Davis Cup Captain Patrick McEnroe was on hand to kick off
a fun day of tennis with participants and local top junior players
Lindsay Clark and Laken & Carlissa King.
12-Jan-2006
Eight Intriguing Questions for 2006
For most people, this is the time of year for resolutions, but for
tennis fans and pundits, it's the time to peer into the fresh new year
with anticipation and predictions. Here are eight of the questions I'm
eager to have answered in 2006.
28-Nov-2005
Recipe for Excitement? Seven Points and No-Ad
Certainly one of the greatest things ever to happen in
tennis was the invention of the tie-breaker and no-ad scoring
systems that prevent sets from lasting almost forever.
Two true tennis "blue-bloods" were responsible for
these improvements: the late James Van Alen (Newport, RI) and
Frank Van Rensselaer (King of Prussia, PA).
