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November - December 2023

COCO GAUFF’S DELRAY BEACH ROOTS

USTA FLORIDA FEATURES PREVIEWING INTERNATIONAL JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS TENNIS PERSPECTIVES FROM EVERT, MACCI, AND SANCHEZ

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NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023 VOLUME 32, NUMBER 5 FOUNDER, EDITOR Jim Martz

Nominations/Applications now being accepted for the following: 1. John Van Ryn Awards 2. Kelley Awards 3. Special Projects 4. Jack Blair Awards Please visit our website for details: YTF-FL.ORG The Youth Tennis Foundation of Florida, Inc. Serving Florida Tennis since 1962 A 501(c)(3) organization

PUBLISHER, EXECUTIVE EDITOR Matt Pressman CREATIVE DIRECTOR Kevin Connaughton CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dr. Richard Cohen, Deborah Hobbs, Dave Kozlowski, Cameron Mofid, Todd Pechter, Adam Ross, Phil Secada CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Fred & Susan Mullane (CameraworksUSA), Pat Parsons, Christine Pechter, Art Seitz OFFICE Florida Racquet Sports LLC 4800 N. Federal Highway, Suite B200 Boca Raton, FL 33431 PHONE 954-431-4069 ADVERTISING info@floridatennis.com SUBSCRIPTIONS 1 Year $17, 2 Years $30 in the U.S. Elsewhere: $40; per year. WEBSITE floridatennis.com FACEBOOK facebook.com/floridatennismagazine INSTAGRAM instagram.com/fltennis COVER PHOTO New Balance The Voice of Tennis in Florida since 1992 Winner of the USTA National Media Excellence Award

Florida Tennis is published bi-monthly by Florida Racquet Sports, LLC. Florida Tennis is proudly printed in Florida. All images, text, and other content appearing in this magazine are protected under U.S. copyright law and may not be reproduced in any way without prior written consent from Florida Racquet Sports LLC. While every care was taken during the production of this magazine, Florida Racquet Sports LLC cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of the information and/or any consequences arising from it. Florida Racquet Sports LLC accepts no responsibility for the return of unsolicited manuscripts and/or photographs and reserves the right to edit, rewrite, or refuse material and is not responsible for products. Florida Racquet Sports LLC gives no warranties, guarantees, or assurances and makes no representations regarding any products or services advertised in this issue.

Macci: Venus Should Retire When She Wants To

Photo: @‌A rtSeitz

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By Jim Martz For many fans and veteran tennis writers, it was painful to watch Venus Williams lose at a packed Arthur Ashe Stadium in the first round of the U.S. Open to a qualifier. Some columnists and fans said on social media that it was time for her to end her 30-year career on the WTA Tour. Williams, 43, had lost to Greet Minner 6-1, 6-1, and appeared to be hampered by a leg injury. Unlike her younger sister Serena a year ago, Venus Williams has not announced she’s retiring. And Rick Macci, who coached the sisters during their formative years, emphatically says Venus should retire when she wants to. “I love Venus and Serena, they were both like my daughters,” Macci said in an interview with Florida Tennis at his academy in Boca Raton. “ We’ve got to back the truck up to 1991. The best decision I ever made was going to Compton, California, and seeing what I saw. As they say, the rest is history. “But here we are all these years later, what an amazing career. Seven Grand Slam titles, five Wimbledons, a role model to so many people around the world. She really, in my opinion, changed the game, as I said she would. She transformed the game and brought a different athlete. Big, tall, strong, and fast. “Usually in the early 90s if you were big and strong, you weren’t nimble. Then the Compton Comet was going to bring a whole different athlete into women’s tennis.” Macci added, “But here we are and she’s still playing. And people ask me, even Good Morning America when we did the little thing on Ashe Stadium at the U.S. Open, what do I think? I don’t think she should retire. I think she should keep playing, and here’s why. “If she wants to play, and that’s up to V.W., she should play. She has nothing to prove, she loves to play. “Listen, it’s hard for any athlete to let go. You can’t worry what other people think. You can’t worry so much how you’re playing. You can’t look at it like that. V.W. wants to play. She should play.” Williams was ranked 410 in the world as she entered the U.S. Open, a tournament she has won twice. Her loss to Minner dropped her match record at the tournament to 79-21. “Now, what’s crazy at the U.S. Open her footwork was a little shaky,” Macci said. “That’s what I noticed. And let’s face it, if you’re not in position, you’re going to have to be a magician. “So the footwork was a little shaky, it was magnified because it was at the

U.S. Open, and she played someone who wasn’t that good. And she should have won on paper, obviously, so people make it more than what it is. “But if we back that truck up, two weeks prior (at Birmingham, England) she beat number 14 in the world (Camilla Giorgi). But that was on grass. And grass is where Venus made her living at Wimbledon. She’s more aggressive, the points aren’t as long, you get more value out of your serve. “So, the grass is where she can do more damage. And she had a good run at Wimbledon, she was competitive. “I just think longer rallies and then the injuries. As you get older it takes longer to recover. But all that being said, I don’t think she should retire. I think V.W. feels she still can compete. “At the end of the day I don’t think it’s anybody’s place to tell an athlete in any sport when they should stop. I mean, it’s their life. It’s their career.” Macci continued, “You’ve got to remember, as I said, she did beat 14 in the world even though she had a bad loss. People have bad losses. As long as she enjoys it, and she feels she wants to do it, V.W. will let us know when it’s game, set, match.” After Williams lost at the U.S. Open, ESPN analyst Chrissie Evert said, “She needs to soul search and think about her future . . . She loves it so much, how can you ask her not to play?” Evert added, “I know she can move better. She’s got to be healthy.” On social media after the U.S. Open loss, Williams wrote: “Each year, it’s so much fun to compete with the best out there, and I’m always pushed to do my best. On and off the court, I give it my all. My injuries are still bothering me, and I thought I could do something different this year. Many thanks to all of my fans, friends, and families!” And they will get to see her again in 2024. In late October the WTA Tour quoted her as saying on social media: “I am targeting March, that’s when the Tour goes back to the States, so my goal is to be up and running when the tournaments come back to the States.” That likely means she’ll play in the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, California, March 6-17 and the Miami Open at Hard Rock Stadium March 20-31. Or maybe she’ll begin at a new tournament in Austin, Texas February 26-March 3.

Ref lections on the

US Open

Florida Tennis Publisher Matt Pressman stands next to a plaque of Johnny Mac at the US Open.

Florida Tennis Founder and Editor Jim Martz in front of the famous Unisphere structure outside the entrance of the US Open.

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By Matt Pressman The US Open will always hold a sense of nostalgia. Beginning at age 7, my Dad and I made our first US Open pilgrimage from Connecticut. After that, we went every year until I was shipped off to the University of Connecticut. Post-college, I took the 7 train to the US Open while living in Manhattan. But this year was different. Very different. As a Floridian, I took a JetBlue flight on behalf of Florida Tennis magazine and got access to the inner sanctum of the tournament as a member of the media. I was impressed by the diligence, industriousness, and professionalism of the USTA. It’s amazing what goes on behind the scenes to put on an event of this magnitude. And this year’s US Open was spectacular. During my trip, I shadowed Florida Tennis Founder and Editor, Jim Martz, all over the US Open grounds to learn the ropes. We were fortunate to bring along copies of the July-August issue of Florida Tennis featuring Ben Shelton on the cover. The former Florida Gator made it all the way to the US Open men’s semifinals. The few issues we had on hand were quickly snapped up by newfound fans. There were other highlights. I was so thrilled to watch “Stan the Man” at the US Open along with Florida Tennis contributor and photog-

rapher, Todd Pechter, that we featured a special story, Anatomy of a Backhand, to dissect the stunning stroke from the 38-year old Swiss maestro. The biggest news: Delray Beach’s Coco Gauff became US Open champion. Martz recaps all the players who went deep at this year’s American major including a cover story on the roots of Coco Gauff. He also profiles of an up-and-coming Florida junior, Akasha Urhobo, who played her maiden US Open junior tournament this year in Flushing Meadows. Sure, a few months have passed since the US Open took place. But this issue should spark some US Open memories as it reveals a special year for Florida players. As the we look towards the future, these players are poised for big things in 2024. We look forward to covering their stories at the Delray Beach Open and Miami Open in the coming months.

Anatomy Anatomy of of aa Backhand Backhand

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Photos and words by Todd Pechter

Ladies and Gentlemen, Messieurs est Madames, for your perusal and enjoyment, Florida Tennis would like to present to you a demonstration of the shot that was once the rage of the courts, but has seen the number of players utilizing this classic stroke dwindle over the years so much that it is now on the verge of extinction! We present to you now “Anatomy of a Backhand; a pictorial illustration of the one-hander as performed by Stan Wawrinka at this year’s US Open”. Behold and be amazed by the majesty, the brute power, and the sheer elegance of this stroke, and pray that there will be those who ensure it’s survival.

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Looking ahead to the 2024 tennis schedule and the first Grand Slam tournament, the Australian Open, here’s a key question to consider: Will the success of Florida-based players at this year’s final Grand Slam event, the U.S. Open, carry over to the new year? While watching Coco Gauff and Ben Shelton win their opening day matches at Arthur Ashe Stadium and Court 10, respectively, it was easy to envision Gauff advancing deep into the U.S. Open women’s singles draw. But unseeded Shelton? Maybe two rounds, but all the way to the semifinals? It turned out to be a banner year for Florida-based players, especially Gauff and Shelton. Gauff, 19, who grew up in Delray Beach, won her first Grand Slam title by defeating the new No. 1-ranked player, Miami resident Aryna Sabalenka, in the final 2-6, 6-3, 6-2. That produced a $3 million payday and sent fans at Arthur Ashe Stadium into a frenzy. Ashe surely would have been pleased that Gauff became the first African-American to win a U.S. Open singles title since Florida native Sloane Stephens in 2017. Shelton, who helped the Florida Gators win the NCAA team championship in 2021 and won the NCAA singles title in 2022, at age 20 became the youngest American quarterfinalist at Flushing Meadows since Andy Roddick in 2002. He ousted 14th seed Tommy Paul and 10th seed Frances Tiafoe, both in four sets, en route to the semifinals. Then Novak Djokovic halted the streak with a three-sets victory and followed that by defeating Daniil Medvedev in three sets in the final to win his fourth US Open championship and 24th Grand Slam title. For awhile it looked as if there could be an all-Florida women’s final. Madison Keys of Orlando, a 2017 U.S. Open finalist, ousted third seed Jessica Pegula of Boca Raton in the fourth round, then defeated ninth seed Marketa Vondrousova. But Sabalenkka halted her run in the semifinals by winning two tiebreakers after losing the first set 6-0. Sofia Kenin of Pembroke Pines beat Ana Bogdan, who was ranked 40 spots ahead of her, but lost to 13th seed Daria Kasatkina. Danielle Collins of Sarasota also reached the second round, losing to Elise Mertens. Stephens lost in the first round to Beatriz Haddad Maia in three sets. And Sachia Vickery of Miramar, ranked No. 204, became one of the surprise players of the

Ben Shelton gets the crowd going. Photo: Todd Pechter

Coco Gauff celebrates. Photo: Todd Pechter

tournament as she won three qualifying rounds and knocked off No. 21 Donna Vekic before losing in the second round. Paul, of Boca Raton, showed grit and poise in beating Roman Safiullan in five sets after dropping the first two in the second round. Michael Mmoh, a Bradenton resident, jolted 11th seed Karen Kachonov in four sets in the first round. Then in a five-set match that lasted nearly four hours, he defeated veteran John Isner, who trains frequently at Saddlebrook Resort north of Tampa but lives in Texas. It was the final match of a 17-year pro career for Isner, who announced before the U.S. Open this would be his last tournament. Sebastian Korda of Bradenton lost in five sets in the first round to Marton Fucsovics. Gauff earned another milestone in women’s doubles when she and Pegula became coNo. 1 in the rankings. It’s the first time since 2019 there have been co-No. 1 players, and it hasn’t happened among U.S. players since Linzel Huber and Florida’s Lisa Raymond in 2012. Gauff and Pegula, the third seeds, advanced to the semifinals and lost to Hsiah Su-Wei and Wang Xinyu. In men’s doubles, second seeds Austin Krajicek of Tampa and Croatia’s Ivan Dodig reached the semifinals and lost to eventual champions Rajiv Ralm and Joe Salisburg. Krajicek is the top-ranked men’s doubles player. And in mixed doubles, Krajicek teamed with Pegula and defeated Shelton and Taylor Townsend in the semifinals but dropped the final to Anna Danilino and Havri Heliovaara. It will be interesting to see if the momentum built by Gauff, Shelton and other Floridabased players continues not only into the Australian Open but the ATP Tour’s Delray Beach Open in February and the combined WTA/ATP field at the Miami Open in March.

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Delray Beach Open Fritz, Paul and Party, Party, Party Great tennis and a good time are what fans have come to expect at the Delray Beach Open, and there will be even more at the 32nd installment of the award winning tournament next Feb. 9-18, 2024. The ATP 250 tournament will feature the top two Americans who are also ranked among the world’s Top 15 pro players. The ATP Champions Tour will showcase fan-favorite legends, and attendees will find an elevated experience with an additional 21,000 square feet of hospitality space that allows for more seating in off-court areas, more VIP events and more food options. There will be no shortage of partying at the DBO. Along with the always-popular Ladies’ Day Luncheons, Tacos, Tequila & Tennis and the Ultimate Pairing event - Game, Set, Pour, next year’s tournament is adding Burgers, Bourbon & Brew, and Championship Weekend Brunches to the list of on-site special events. On the court, reigning Delray Beach Open champion and world Top 10 player Taylor Fritz will return to defend his 2023 title. South Florida resident Tommy Paul, ranked among the world’s Top 15, will be there to challenge him. After becoming the first player ranked in the world’s Top 10 to win the Delray Beach Open, Fritz moved up to No. 5 in the world. He has since won another title, reached five semifinals and made the US Open quarterfinals. This year, Paul reached the Australian Open semifinals, two finals and notched a win over No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz. More announcements are coming soon, and the full field will be announced in mid-January. The 10-day combined event will begin with an ATP Champions Tour event opening weekend Feb. 9-11 featuring Bob and Mike Bryan, the most successful doubles team in the history of the sport. Joining them will be 2006 Delray Beach Open champion Tommy Haas, who reached the No. 2 world ranking. Singles and doubles main draw action for the ATP 250 event starts Monday, Feb. 12 and concludes with the finals on Sunday, Feb. 18. While Veranda series tickets have already sold out, a variety of other series packages are still available including on-court “Best Seats in the House” (limited quantity), courtside box seats and reserved seats. Week-long series packages start at $750 and include parking and exclusive amenities, making them one of the best deals around. Finals Weekender tickets for the last five sessions start at $350, and tickets can be shared with clients and family throughout the week. Single session tickets are on sale, as well. The tournament boasts something for everyone, like USTA Florida Kids Day, Pride Night, Senior Day specials and group discounts, to name a few. Visit the new-look website at DelrayBeachOpen.com or call 561-330-6000 for information on tickets, parties, special events and group rates.

Top: Taylor Fritz Bottom: Tommy Paul Photos: Andrew Patron / Delray Beach Open

Autograph Corner: Carlos Alcaraz

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By Adam Ross Billie Jean King famously preaches that pressure is a privilege. Carlos “Carlitos” Alacaraz has been anointed the future of men’s tennis. Many players would buckle under that moniker. Alcaraz has embraced the mantle gracefully thanks to a tremendous work ethic, immense talent, loads of confidence and a great supporting team including his coach and former Hall of Fame player Juan Carlos Ferrero. Alacaraz, a 20-year-old phenom, was born and raised in Spain, where he trained. In his short pro career, he has already been able to amass Hall of Fame credentials. He became the youngest male to achieve the number one ranking in the Open era at 19 years, 4 months and 6 days old. He has won 12 ATP titles including two major titles at the 2022 US Open and a stunning victory over Novak Djokovic at the 2023 Wimbledon. He has won 4 Masters 1000 events: the 2022 Miami Open: the 2022 Madrid Open: the 2023 Indian Wells Open and the 2023 Madrid Open. At the 2022 Madrid Open, Alcaraz became the only teenager to beat Rafa Nadal on red clay. Florida Tennis caught up with Alacaraz at Media Day at the 2023 Miami Open. He was fresh off his victory at Indian Wells and expressed excitement about returning to Miami. “I have great supporters here,” he said. “A lot of people supporting me. I remember last year was an unbelievable feeling with the crowd. Here there are a lot of people that speak Spanish as well. I feel like I’m playing at home.” Off the court, Alcaraz likes to relax from the rigors of the pro tour. “I love playing golf,” he said. “I play golf with my team in every place I’m in.” Alcaraz fans would be well served to keep in mind that they can find him enjoying golf courses in their favorite city if they can’t catch up with him on the tennis court. Rafa Nadal is also an avid golfer. Let’s hope they get to play tennis on red clay again and that they hit the golf course together! Adam Ross is a contributing writer for Florida Tennis and a volunteer for the USTA Florida. He is also the Vice-President of the Tennis Collectors of America/TCA. He welcomes your comments at robinadam@comcast.net. Autograph courtesy of Adam Ross. Photo: Yannick JAMOT (CC BY-SA 4.0)

2023

USTA FLORIDA SECTION NEWS

NOVEMBER-DECEMBER ISSUE

BOARD OF DIREC TORS MESSAGE THE CALL FOR COACHES

e need more tennis coaches in public tennis parks. FULL STOP. Nothing – and we mean nothing – we do as a USTA section or industry will have a greater impact on the growth of tennis than solving the puzzle of coaching in the public park space. It will take all of us to change the way we think about coaching, who we recruit and how we train our coaches, to secure the future of this sport for the long term. For more than a decade, the tennis industry has discussed the need to raise the level of coaching in America. There have been countless working groups and forums dedicated to how we elevate the standards for coach education. The results of those discussions brought us a new accreditation process and some common standards for training. So why didn’t that work? The answer: STRATEGY The idea that only increasing certification requirements for existing coaches (and leaving those who don’t adhere to the new standards behind) would elevate an entire industry and grow tennis is fundamentally flawed. You can’t raise the standard if you don’t have enough coaches to begin with. And you can’t grow the game with fewer coaches than you have now. That’s a flawed strategy. If you want better talent and acumen in any profession, you need to bring in more people. When you have competition in the profession, you have choice in whom you hire. Only then can you raise standards. When you barely have enough people to do any job, the best individuals will take the highest-paying jobs, leading to vacancies at the entry and mid-level roles. When you don’t have anywhere near enough people to do any job, you must hire everyone, regardless of their skill or desire. This is precisely the state of tennis coaching today. There are nowhere near enough coaches to fill a fraction of the jobs. Private clubs can hire coaches because they can afford to pay more. Public parks, which serve the most players and rely on tax dollars, are bearing the brunt of staff vacancies – leaving public courts vacant and at risk. USTA Florida directly manages four public tennis centers in the state of Florida. The majority of our board members also directly manage or coach at other public tennis centers in the state. We know the challenges because we feel them ourselves. Every public facility we hear from tells us the same story: they just can’t find tennis coaches. So, what’s the solution?

During the last several years, USTA Florida has spent a significant amount of time working through the problems in the current coaching structure. We’ve USTA Florida Board of Directors done more than talk this issue to death. We’ve put money and human resources behind trying new ideas and looking at where there continue to be gaps in the coaching space. Here is what we found: FIRST, we need to cast a wider net and recruit coaches from everywhere. Anyone can coach tennis at some level. We can’t afford to only recruit college tennis players and 4.5-rated recreational players. Parents, teachers, volunteers – we need them all to become community coaches to serve the current boom. In the fall of 2021, USTA Florida launched a new Community Coach Program to help anyone teach tennis. This program is designed to offer short sessions (2-3 hours) of training focused on six different areas of community programs. Keeping the sessions short and easy to digest/apply means coaches of all levels can learn together and from each other. Hosting the trainings at public parks also provides a service to cities that need to develop and train coaches. To date we have held 52 training sessions and welcomed nearly 300 participants in every region of Florida. We know that other USTA sections are doing similar work. These community coaching programs need to be expanded throughout the country and delivered on the broadest scale possible. Without enough coaches, none of our other efforts scan will be successful. here SECOND, we need a formal to program that can place developing read coaches in meaningful jobs in the more public tennis parks immediately.

If you have any questions about the content from USTA Florida in this magazine, please contact the Marketing Director, Amy Barnhart (barnhart@ustaflorida.com). To view the rest of the USTA Florida staff and find out who to reach out to regarding any programming questions, visit, ustaflorida.com/staff.

USTA FLORIDA MAKING MASSIVE IMPACT:

CHANGING LIVES OF WOUNDED WARRIORS & VETERANS

STA Florida promotes tennis for all and one of the organizations latest partnerships has been with the Veteran communities. “Here to Serve” is a powerful message that the organization lives out every day. Whether serving updates on the podcast or being out in the community, USTA Florida is lending a helping hand. Tennis is a lifelong sport and USTA Florida is committed to giving back to the community. What better way than to help those who have served this country enjoy the game of tennis. So far, the organization has collaborated with local veterans’ programs, rehabilitation centers, and community groups to organize tennis clinics. These events not only teach veterans the fundamentals of tennis but also encourage them to stay active and engage in a positive and social activity. On September 13, USTA Florida partnered with Sanlando Park in Seminole County to run a Wounded Warriors event. This saw five veterans in attendance for an hour and a half of tennis fun. To start off, USTA Florida community tennis representative, Deborah Ballerino, led a 45-minute Love to Learn session. For those that may not know, Love to Learn is a beginner tennis class that utilizes the red ball and teaches the basics of tennis, from the types of strokes

to volleying back and forth. Once the veterans were ready to go, there were 45 more minutes of red ball play, where they participated in red ball match play. With the assistance of USTA Florida staff, these Wounded Warriors were playing real tennis and the smile on their faces was priceless. “Excitement poured over Sanlando Park as the veterans were grasping the fundamentals of tennis” Ballerino said. “The Warriors got hooked on tennis and are interested in continuing in a 6-week program.” USTA Florida also hosted an event in Tampa, in partnership with Veteran Affairs and James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital. Six veterans were out on the tennis court for a fun-filled day. From Red ball instruction to match play against one another, only joy and laughter filled the air. “The goal was to teach them, firsthand, how easy and fun tennis can be, and we definitely accomplished that,” Bill Hannigan said, who is disabled Veteran and now Tennis Service Representative for USTA Florida. “Looking at the bigger picture, these veterans are away from their families and communities for a long time. What better way to integrate them back into their community than through tennis. This gives them a chance to play with one another but more importantly to play with their loved ones.” This is just the beginning of USTA Florida’s involvement with veterans. The plan is to grow this program across the state and implement classes are various locations. Making this accessible for all veterans in Florida is a top priority and the organization is excited to expand these opportunities for veterans. USTA Florida has already hosted a handful of events across the state and is looking for more opportunities in 2024. For more information on future events or the organization’s efforts with the veteran community, please contact Bill Hannigan (Hannigan@ustaflorida.com).

USTA FLORIDA’S WOMEN IN TENNIS INITIATIVE:

SERVING AS A GAME CHANGER

STA Florida’s Women in Tennis initiative is proving to be a game changer when it comes to opening doors for women and girls to participate in tennis and be leaders. After launching the initiative in 2021, USTA Florida expanded its commitment in 2023 to include multiple new opportunities for women and girls to engage in tennis. Following a successful series of kick-off events at the Billie Jean King Cup in Delray Beach this past April, the organization recently hosted an all-women’s wheelchair coach training, another all-girls tennis camp at University of North Florida, and the firstever women in tennis speaker training in Orlando. Feedback from participants in all events has been overwhelmingly positive. “We have learned a lot from our efforts

this year, and I believe USTA Florida is positioned well to impact both the opportunities and experiences women have in all areas of tennis,” said Dana Andrews, USTA Florida Past President. Andrews was recently named a “Champion of Equality” at the US Open in New York for her work in expanding opportunities for women in the Florida Section. She has been the driving force behind the organization’s work to advocate for girls and women to advance and engage at all levels of tennis. Later in September, USTA Florida again will partner with the Professional Tennis Registry to deliver an all-girls tennis camp at IMG Academy in Bradenton as a leadin to the PTRw Summit. It was at the same event in 2022 that Andrews and USTA

Florida realized more research was needed to provide more clear direction on how the tennis industry could address inequities facing women and girls in the sport. The organization this year has partnered with Clarity Writing and Research to conduct a comprehensive study on women in tennis – including a deep review of existing efforts and research – to identify issues and assert how we can make meaningful change. “While there have been numerous studies devoted to women in coaching and other areas of sport, there is a lack of clarity when it comes to what this information says and how we can apply these learnings in actionable ways,” said Laura Bowen, USTA Florida Executive Director. The research, which is scheduled to be released at the end of 2023 has already

coalesced on some key findings – most of which are not unique:

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Having more women in coaching and leadership roles is critical to the success of every organization and team. Gender inequity is a result of gender stereotypes and not having enough women in decision-making roles. Women-only opportunities foster greater engagement and are highly valued.

According to the research, addressing existing challenges in the landscape will require a sustained commitment and sufficient resources in key areas like training, technical assistance, peer learning, tools, progress measures and incentives. When the report is complete, USTA Florida will use the findings to develop a plan to work with all partners in the industry to develop and execute a longterm plan of action. “We are committed to being a leading advocate for women in sports and creating opportunities for all women to participate in Florida tennis. We know our work here in Florida will impact tennis across the country. We need everyone to get involved and make equality a focus for the future,” said Andrews. For more information, visit ustaflorida. com/women-in-tennis and learn how you can get involved today!

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USTA FLORIDA ADULT LEAGUES:

NEARLY 40 TEAMS GEAR UP FOR NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

eams have been competing in USTA Florida Adult Leagues throughout the year. From Local competition all the way to Sectionals, Florida tennis has been as competitive as ever. Now that the sectional championships have been held, it’s time for the USTA Adult League National Championships, and per usual, Florida is well represented. This year, there will be 38 teams from Florida competing against other sections of the USTA to be crowned National Champions. You can view all the teams that will be taking the courts. Last year, USTA Florida had three National Champions, with Orange (Adult 55 & Over Women’s 9.0), Miami-Dade (Adult 40 & Over Men’s 4.5), and Hillsborough (Mixed 40 & Over 9.0) taking home those honors. This year, Miami-Dade’s team from Biltmore Tennis Center and Hillsborough County are back in the National Championship and looking to defend their titles. The other 36 teams are just as eager to win and will showcase what Florida tennis is all about. The National Championship series begins on September 29 and runs through November 12. Competition takes place around the country, with some matches being held at the USTA National Campus in Lake Nona, Florida. Arizona and California are the other two host states for play. Location is dependent on the division teams are competing in. Make sure to follow USTA Florida on Instagram and Facebook, to stay update on every team’s tournament run. If you missed out on competing in the 2023 Adult League season, don’t worry, the 2024 season is right around the corner and you can sign up. Learn more by finding your Local Adult Play Coordinator in your area.

USTA FLORIDA TEAMS AT NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP DIVISION

DIVISION

SECTIONAL CHAMPION

DIVISION

SECTIONAL CHAMPION

Adult 18 & Over 3.0 W Miami-Dade County

SECTIONAL CHAMPION

Adult 18 & Over 4.0M

Miami-Dade County

Adult 40 & Over 4.0 M

Miami-Dade County

Adult 18 & Over 3.0M

Broward County

Adult 18 & Over 3.5W

Alachua County

Adult 40 & Over 4.0 W

Palm County

Adult 18 & Over 4.5W

Duval County

Adult 18 & Over 3.5M

Broward County

Adult 40 & Over 3.5 M

Hillsborough County

Adult 18 & Over 4.5M

Hillsborough County

Adult 18 & Over 5.0W

Duval County

Adult 40 & Over 3.5 W

Duval County

Adult 18 & Over 2.5W

Miami-Dade County

Adult 18 & Over 5.0M

Hillsborough County

Adult 40 & Over 4.5 M

Miami-Dade County

Adult 18 & Over 2.5M

Escambia County

Adult 40 & Over 3.0 M

Broward County

Adult 40 & Over 4.5 W

Escambia County

Adult 18 & Over 4.0W

Broward County

Adult 40 & Over 3.0 W

Alachua County

Adult 40 & Over 2.5W (A18)

Duval County

Mixed 40 & Over 6.0

Duval County

Adult 55 & Over 7.0 W

Duval County

Mixed 18 & Over 8.0

Hillsborough County

Mixed 40 & Over 7.0

OWB County

Adult 55 & Over 6.0 W

Duval County

Mixed 18 & Over 9.0

Broward County

Mixed 40 & Over 8.0

Hillsborough County

Adult 55 & Over 6.0 M

Marion County

Mixed 18 & Over 10.0

Brevard County

Mixed 40 & Over 9.0

Hillsborough County

Adult 55 & Over 8.0 M

Duval County

Adult 55 & Over 9.0 W Hillsborough County

Adult 55 & Over 8.0 W

Hillsborough County

Adult 55 & Over 7.0 M

Broward County

Mixed 18 & Over 6.0

Alachua County

Adult 55 & Over 9.0 M

Hillsborough County

Mixed 18 & Over 7.0

Broward County

*The Sectional Champion per division is represented by the name immediately to the right of the division.

WESTON RACQUET CLUB RECEIVES

2023 USTA OUTSTANDING FACILIT Y AWARD

he USTA today announced that the Weston Racquet Club in Weston, Fla., is one of 29 winners in the USTA’s annual Outstanding Facility Awards program, which recognizes excellence in the construction and/or renovation of tennis facilities throughout the country. Weston Racquet Club is a spacious, 16-court facility that includes 15 hydro-clay courts, one championship hard court, as well as 4 pickleball and 2 padel courts. The club’s staff delivers a wide array of programming, customized to suit the needs of their players. Adult and junior programs, lessons, summer camps, events and leagues round out the tennis programming the facility offers. “Great tennis facilities like the Weston Racquet Club help us to grow the game at the grassroots level, and we are proud to recognize them for their ongoing impact on the sport of tennis,” said Craig Morris, Chief Executive, Community Tennis, USTA. “Weston Racquet Club has embraced many of our tennis initiatives and kept

the sport at the forefront of its community each year.” Facilities were judged on the following criteria: overall layout and adaptation to site; excellence of court surface and lights; ease of maintenance; accommodations for players, spectators and press/officials; aesthetics; graphics (including the use of signs and landscaping); amenities such as casual seating for spectators, food services and social areas; and the facilities’ participation in grassroots tennis programs. Nominated facilities were voted on in the following categories: Public Courts that are either small tennis centers with 2-11 courts or large tennis centers with 12 or more courts; Private Facilities that offer both USTA and public programming designed to help grow tennis (small: 2-11 courts; large: 12 or more courts); and Educational Institutions such as colleges, universities, public and private grade schools, middle schools, or high schools. All 2023 award winners will receive a wall plaque and an all-weather sign, which can be mounted at the facility.

2023 US TA OUT S TA NDING FACILIT Y AWA RD W INNERS PUBLIC COURTS: SMALL TENNIS CENTERS (2 TO 11 COURTS) Doc Hosbach Tennis Complex (Henderson, Ky.) Garber Courts (Saginaw, Mich.) Lorenzi Park (Las Vegas)

PUBLIC COURTS: LARGE TENNIS CENTERS (12 OR MORE COURTS)

Life Time Des Moines (Urbandale, Iowa) Life Time Galleria Tennis and Athletic (Houston) Rancho Santa Fe Tennis Club (Rancho Santa Fe, Calif.) Red Ledges Club (Heber City, Utah) Templeton Tennis Ranch (Templeton, Calif.)

LARGE PRIVATE FACILITIES (12 OR MORE COURTS)

Calhoun Tennis Center (Calhoun, Ga.) El Conquistador Tennis (Oro Valley, Ariz.) GreatLIFE Cares Foundation Tennis Complex (Sioux Falls, S.D.) Lisa and Douglas Goldman Tennis Center* (San Francisco) Phoenix Tennis Center (Phoenix) Spencer Love Tennis Center (Greensboro, N.C.) Warren County Tennis and Sports Facility (Bowling Green, Ky.) *Named USTA Featured Facility of the Year

Athletic Club Alabama (Huntsville, Ala.) Guilford Racquet & Swim Club (Guilford, Conn.) Life Time Athletic and Tennis Peachtree Corners (Peachtree Corners, Ga.) Life Time Tennis Plano (Plano, Texas) North Hills Club (Raleigh, N.C.) Stone Creek Club and Spa (Covington, La.) The Club at Harper’s Point (Cincinnati) Weston Racquet Club (Weston, Fla.)

SMALL PRIVATE FACILITIES (2-11 COURTS)

EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

Beavercreek Clay Courts Tennis Club (Dayton, Ohio) Corpus Christi Country Club (Corpus Christi, Texas) Laurel Springs Racquet Club (Suwanee, Ga.)

Byron Center Schools West Athletic Complex (Byron Center, Mich.) Coach Jim Verdieck Tennis Center (Redlands, Calif.) Conrad Weiser Tennis Facility (Robesonia, Pa.)

Coco Gauff’s Roots in Delray Beach

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By Jim Martz

Photo: New Balance

Above: Bill Murray at Pompey Park Photo: Jim Martz Below: Coco Gauff with her father Corey Gauff Photo: Maureen Connolly Brinker Tennis Foundation (mcbtennis.org)

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Corey Gauff speaks emphatically when he says “if not for Bill Murray, there would be no Coco Gauff.” Her father is not referring to the actor and comedian. This Bill Murray is a tennis coach who has been running programs and teaching on the two hard courts at Pompey Park in Delray Beach since 1972. “These are hallowed grounds,” Murray said when I arrived at the park just east of I-95 and north of Atlantic Avenue on a Friday afternoon this fall. “Back during segregation these courts were built primarily for the neighborhood.” Richard Williams would take Venus and Serena there to train when the girls were around 12 and 13 years old. The late tennis icon Arthur Ashe started a Schools Program there in the 1980s. And Corey Gauff, who grew up a few blocks away in the neighborhood that’s known as Poinciana Heights, played several traditional team sports at Pompey Park and was encouraged by Murray to give tennis a try. “Growing up here in Delray Beach all the kids would come here for recreation,” Murray said. “Corey was an allaround athlete, played basketball, baseball, football. He was a quarterback. And he had run track, but we didn’t have a track field here. He would have been a great track star if he got into it, but his wife, Candi (who grew up in Delray Beach), was an All-American in track at Florida State.” Pompey Park is a city-owned, 175-acre park named after long-time Delray Beach resident C. Spencer Pompey. It’s 10 blocks west of the famed Delray Beach Tennis Center, which has 20 courts and is home of the ATP Tour’s Delray Beach Open and international pickleball events, and has been host to Davis Cup and the Billie Jean King Cup competition. “Tennis was a non-traditional sport, it wasn’t on the city’s list to design a program,” Murray noted in regard to Pompey Park. “Eddie Odom, the baseball coach, and I took it upon ourselves to make baseball, tennis and swimming as a part of the programs I wanted kids to get into sports other than the traditional sports. “Corey came here at age 9 or 10 and played tennis tournaments. Every year he would get better and better, and he would play sanctioned tournaments all over Florida. His mom would take him.” Murray noted that before there was a rule that a player can’t go to the other side of the net to dispute a call or they’re disqualified. “Corey would go on the other side when a ball that was called out clearly hit in and the kid knew it hit in. Corey was bigger than most of the kids and was tall. He’d ball his fist up and say that’s not the mark, show me the mark And the kid would say it was good, and Corey would go back to the other side.” One time Murray was at an area recreation meeting “and they said there’s a guy named Corey down in Delray , he is intimidating the hell out of these kids. Someone said Bill Murray knows him, and I said I don’t think I know him.” Another time Murray was with Corey and other Pompey Park kids in a tournament at the posh Boca Raton Hotel and Club “and he was winning. He had a big serve and big volley. He’d come to the net and hit a big volley, and he had a big swag when he walked back to the baseline. And the girls were crazy about him. “One time he served and volleyed and the other guy got mad and threw his racquet into the net and it somehow caught Corey right in the back. And Corey looked back and the only thing the kid knew was to run, and Corey caught

He added, “Coco would practice here on a regular basis with her dad. I hit a couple of balls with her. I told Corey to be the coach. He said he hadn’t been around tennis in a long time. I said it doesn’t matter, Mr. Williams is not that good , you don’t need to be a genius to raise a champion.. The genius is maybe 10 percent and the rest is the kid. Some coaches try to say do this and do as I say. The kid has to develop his own individuality.” Murray said when Coco was 7 he got her into the ATA tournament and she won. Then she went on to win the 14s and 16s and the “Little Mo”. This summer at age 19 she won the U.S. Open, and she’s ranked No. 1 in doubles with Jessica Pegula. Murray recalled that Richard Williams “had a mobile home from Rick Macci, and he got them a place at Laver’s Resort. Someone told Richard about me and he came here in his golf cart. They came here every day for awhile when they were at Macci’s, early in the morning with a basket of 600 balls.” In the book “Serena Williams” by Merlisa Lawrence Corbett there’s a section called “Rooted in South Florida”. It notes that in Delray Beach, the girls split time between Macci’s academy and Pompey Park. Although not occupied by gangs like in Compton, California, where Venus and Serena lived their early years, the Pompey Park courts had cracks and potholes. Macci said Richard had the girls play there to keep them grounded and remind them of their roots in Compton. As Murray says, it’s hallowed grounds.

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him. They suspended the other guy.” Murray said Corey “was a great player. When he was about 17, colleges were looking at him for tennis. He beat Vince Spadea in the 12s, Vince wasn’t that good then, kind of heavy set, but his parents had some money and they put him in tournaments.” Spadea, who lived a few miles away in Boca Raton, went on to become one of the top junior players in the world and was ranked as high as 18th in 2005 on the ATP Tour. “Vince and Corey were friends and Vince would go to the hood and say I’m with Corey,” Murray said. Corey Gauff went on to play basketball at Georgia State and began a career as a health care executive. He married Candi in 2001. Cori Dionne (Coco) was born March 13, 2004, in Delray Beach and they have two sons, Cody, now 16, and Cameron, 10, who grew up playing baseball at Pompey Park. This past July, Corey Gauff was inducted into the American Tennis Association’s Hall of Fame during the ATA annual meeting in Orlando. Murray attended the event, and as we were leaving Corey said to me and a few others, “If not for Bill Murray, there would be no Coco Gauff.” During my visit to Pompey Park, Murray said, “What he means by that, I would get him and everybody into tennis. And years later I told him you be the coach of Coco just like Mr. Williams was. I told him what to look for and how to go about it.”

Photo: New Balance

Evert Loves Teaching, Mentoring at Academy

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When Chris Evert received the Tim Heckler USPTA Hall of Fame Award this fall in Orlando, she also participated in a question and answer session with veteran tennis journalist Steve Flink. Topics included the beginning of her playing career under the coaching of her father, Jimmy, to her first Grand Slam title in 1974, to her unprecedented rivalry with Martina Navratilova, to co-founding with her brother John the Evert Tennis Academy. They started the academy in Boca Raton in 1996, and she continues to teach there to this day. During the school year, the academy coaches 90 juniors full-time, with up to 160 students involved in camps over the summer months. “While most everyone knows about her illustrious playing career and her recent exploits as a famed commentator on ESPN, few know of the impact that the Evert Academy has had on junior players, collegiate athletes and touring professionals,” said USPTA CEO John Embree. “It is because of the work that she has done with players at all levels that she joins her father as the most recent inductee into the USPTA Tim Heckler Hall of Fame.” Flink, who along with Chris Evert is an inductee into the International Tennis Hall of Fame, interviewed her during the USPTA’s annual meeting. “So we’ve got to talk about the academy and what your vision was, because it’s been kind of a gift to you,” Flink said. “I remember we were on the phone earlier this year and you said, I’m just so grateful that I’ve got that academy. That’s why I get out of bed every morning. And you compared it to me with my writing, and you have to consider yourself fortunate to have a passion like that. So you were able to transition to that so quickly as you did with the TV commentary after your playing days ended in 1989. What was your original vision with the academy along with your brother John, and how has it all evolved?” “I had no vision of an academy,” Evert replied. “My brother John was director of tennis. Well, first of all, he was an IMG agent, and then he was the director of tennis at Saddlebrook. And he kind of knew the ropes for having an academy and how to how to have a program. and had that experience and he came to me. We live in Boca Raton, Florida, and he’s like, let’s do an academy. And I’m like, no. And my dad’s like, no. And so for two years he bugged me, you know? “(He said) Chrissie, there’s so many players down here, there’s not any great academies. Let’s do an academy, I’ll manage it. You come out, we’ll get the coaches, we’ll just have a good business. And finally I relented after like two

Top Left: Chris Evert with Steve Flink. Photo: USPTA Other Photos: Chris Evert and her students. Photos: Evert Tennis Academy

years of him bugging me. And it was like the best decision we ever made. And I love having a tennis academy.” Addressing the USPTA coaches attending the annual meeting, Evert noted that “it’s not only about coaching, it’s about the mentoring as well. You know, it’s not only about hitting a tennis ball. I think in the olden days when I was starting out, I think coaching was different. I think it was cookie cutter, get your racquet back. And the fundamentals were the same for everyone. “Now I think there’s a lot more to being a teaching pro. It’s about knowing the kid, knowing the person. It’s more individual. You don’t train Susie Smith the same as you train Carrie Mathison. They might have two different styles. “They might have two different personalities. So it’s more like being a psychologist too, and it’s more like just really being a role model for them and being there for them. And it’s also teaching them the mental side of the game as well. I don’t really remember 50 years ago anybody teaching the mental side. There weren’t sports psychologist back then.” Evert noted that she has learned a lot from their academy coaches, saying, I’ve learned a lot about the fundamentals, about techniques, about grips, about big targets and, clearance over the net. And I learned a lot from observing the developmental coaches. They don’t get enough credit. You know, it’s the current coaches. And I’m like this player has only had that coach for a year and they’re getting all this attention on TV. “What about the developmental coaches? Well, who is their developmental coach for 10 years who gave her those great qualities and gave her the discipline and the hope that she could be, you know, number one in the world?” Evert also noted that “because we’re in Boca we have a lot of the the pros come and train at our academy, especially before the U.S. Open or (Miami Open). “Tommy Paul’s there all the time. Tiafoe is there. Coco comes around once in a while. Jessica Pegula, Ajla Tomjanovich, you know, Azarenka lives in Boca now. I mean, I can just give you 15 professional players that are there. So I kind of am looking and seeing how they’re training as well. So but it’s been great.” Flink closed by saying, “Many of you may remember when Chrissy retired in 89, there were these projections from people (as to) who is going to be the next Chris Evert? There never was a next Chris Evert. And as far as I’m concerned, there never will be.”

Emilio Sanchez Academy Celebrates 25 Years of Shaping Tennis Stars and Academic Success In the world of tennis and education, few institutions have made a profound impact quite like Emilio Sanchez Academy (ESA). This November marks the 25th anniversary of ESA, a monumental milestone for a company that has been instrumental in shaping the careers of tennis pros, sending hundreds of high school students to prestigious U.S. colleges, and inspiring countless success stories. ESA’s mission has always been clear: to create opportunities in tennis and education, and over the years they have lived up to this commitment. A Legacy of Tennis Excellence Emilio Sanchez Academy has been a cradle for tennis champions and a nurturing ground for future stars. A testament to their unwavering dedication to the sport, ESA has trained and molded the skills of some of the biggest names in tennis, including Andy Murray, Grigor Dimitrov, Gilles Muller, Juan Monaco, Svetlana Kuznetsova, Arantxa Sanchez, Ana Ivanovic, Johanna Konta, Maria Sakkari, Andrea Petkovic, Daniela Hantuchova, and the legendary Martina Navratilova. These tennis icons not only achieved greatness in their careers but also attribute a part of their success to the world-class coaching and support they received at ESA. The academy’s commitment to creating opportunities for young talents has been integral to the rise of these remarkable athletes. Empowering the Next Generation

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While the academy’s contributions to professional tennis are extraordinary, ESA’s impact doesn’t end there. Over the past 25 years, they have opened doors to higher education for countless high school students. Graduates of ESA have been welcomed with open arms by prestigious institutions such as Columbia, Harvard, Clemson, UCLA, USC, Pepperdine, NYU, Tufts, Babson, Princeton, the University of Tampa, the University of South Carolina, Wake Forest, the University of Florida, and the University of Miami, among others. Through their rigorous training programs, ESA not only instills a strong work ethic but also emphasizes the importance of academics. This unique blend of tennis and education has prepared their students to excel on and off the court, turning them into well-rounded individuals poised for success.

Top Right: Aerial view of the Emilio Sanchez Academy, Barcelona Bottom Left: Alice Ferlito training at the ES Academy Bottom Right: Andy Murray training at the ES Academy in November 2004 Photos: ES academy

Success Stories: Alice Ferlito A shining example of ESA’s impact is the remarkable journey of Alice Ferlito. She began her tennis journey at the academy when she was just three years old, and under ESA’s tutelage she flourished into a formidable player. Her dedication and hard work eventually earned her a spot on Princeton University’s tennis team this year. Alice’s success story is a testament to ESA’s unwavering commitment to creating opportunities for aspiring talents. As Emilio Sanchez Academy celebrates its 25th anniversary, it’s clear that they have fulfilled their mission of creating opportunities in tennis and education. From nurturing tennis champions to helping high schoolers achieve their dreams of attending top U.S. colleges, ESA has left an indelible mark on the world of sports and education. Their legacy continues to inspire and shape the next generation of tennis stars and academic achievers, ensuring that their impact will be felt for many years to come. Congratulations to Emilio Sanchez Academy and everyone in it on 25 years of excellence!

What You May See is Different Than RICK MACCI This is the fourth consecutive issue in which legendary coach Rick Macci has analyzed the games of four leading players through in depth interviews with Florida Tennis editor Jim Martz. Macci continues in this issue with Sofia Kenin, Naomi Osaka, Jessica Pegula, and Coco Gauff.

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Sofia Kenin When I coached her she was a little peanut at age 5 and I coached her until she was 12. Scariest little creature I ever taught. I took her to a convention in Marco Island and we did many videos with USPTA. I predicted she’d win a Grand Slam, which she did. So now you fast forward the story, she wins the Australian Open. Now people want to know what happened? (Ranked No. 4 in 2020, she started this year at 280 and jumped to 30 in October). First off, whenever that happens you’ve got to have your head on straight, you’ve got to keep your eye on the ball, stay focused, got to stay injury free. All those things came into her mindset. But she has the game. She has such an extreme amazing knowledge of the game of tennis: where to hit it, why to hit it there. She has a very good understanding of how to exploit weaknesses. She doesn’t hit the ball super hard like Venus or Serena, but her court savvy is amazing. When she was a kid, a bomb could go off on the court next to her and she wouldn’t even look over there. I think mentally she has it. Her mind was her greatest strength. And now it has kind of worked against her, but she’s on the way back. Don’t count her out. She’s going to win some Grand Slams. She’s going back into the top 10. I think just handling all the fame and her life changing, and injuries, it takes a long time. Confidence you can’t buy at Walgreens, you can’t buy at Publix, you can’t buy this over the internet. Confidence is a fleeting thing. You can get it in the blink of an eye. Not just tennis but football, baseball, basketball. It’s crazy, like a golfer. He makes one putt, he’s probably going to make more. A basketball player, he shoots that jumper and makes it from 30 feet, he thinks the next one is going in. Like a quarterback, he throws an interception and he thinks, I hope I don’t throw an interception! Confidence is a scary, scary thing. So, I think that’s the wild card with Sofia. But I believe in this young lady. I think she can come all the way back. She’ll win Grand Slams. How far is up to her, but she has the game. But more importantly she has the heart and she has the mind.

Rick Macci Analysis

Photo: @ArtSeitz

Naomi Osaka I love her game. Even though she has a pretty big swing, she’s a great athlete, doesn’t get enough credit. Great movement, a lot of racquet speed on both sides. When you can move like that and have courage to hit the ball, you’re definitely a threat. And she can pop the serve 120. She’s a great athlete, has a lively arm. So, she has covered all the bases. Mentally she’s strong, she’s a great athlete, firepower off both wings. Listen, she’s won multiple Grand Slams already, and that was when there were still a few contenders in there. Serena was still hanging in there in the 2018 U.S. Open final, and a few others. Fame and fortune. She goes from Who is this? to being the richest female athlete in the world. Her life has changed. Now she’s a mother. That’s why she had to take time off. (She announced on September 1 she will return to the tour in 2024). I’m going on the record: I think this young lady will come all the way back. I think she’ll be number 1 in the world. I think she’s going to win a handful of Grand Slams ... if she wants to. If she’s all about the competition, meaning I want to knock you out. I love to win. I’m not afraid to lose.

It’s not about anything else, your brand, the platform, the money. I’m just going to die to win every point, and it’s all about the competition. If she’s all about the competition, anybody, anytime, anywhere, I think Osaka can be number 1, I think she will be number 1, but this is all in her head because just like the great Jennifer Capriati, she disappeared. All the way off the face of the earth. Jennifer came all the way back. Not to 50, not to 20, not to number 10. All the way back when everybody said she was out of there. There were only three people who believed in JenniferL Stefano Capriati, Denise Capriati and Rick Macci, even though I wasn’t her coach then. She came all the way back because you don’t lose the talent, you don’t lose the firepower. You lose the fitness and you lose the confidence. Jennifer came all the way back, number 1 in the world, won three Grand Slams, an Olympic gold medal, and that huge contract from Fila. You don’t lose that stuff. Osaka will do the same. I think she’ll come all the way back and be number 1. Photo: Carine06 from UK, CC BY-SA 2.0

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Jessica Pegula I’m glad to talk about her. This is a perfect example for any junior parent or player. It’s not where you start, it’s where you finish. I don’t know for sure, but she didn’t win any nationals. She wasn’t the flavor of the month. She wasn’t the best junior. This has been a slow process, a slow moving train on a mission. The thing I like, her strokes are compact, they’re clean, they’re hard, they’re kind of flat. That’s the recipe in women’s tennis. You don’t want to go zone free with heavy spin. That’s all situational. So maybe that consistency in the juniors wasn’t there as much, but she hit the ball very clean and she hit it kind of flat. But the wild card in this: She loves to play. She plays singles and doubles, she’s a great volleyer. And the mental part, this is what I love about her. She broke the mold. You talk about entitlement. Every parent wants their kid rough and tough and competitive, but then they go to the mall and buy them a Gucci bag!

Photo: Delray Beach Open Rick Macci Analysis

Now here you’ve got someone like Pegula, whose dad owns the Buffalo Bills. You talk about entitlement. She’s not an M, she’s a B, as in billionaire. She doesn’t have to play tennis, she could be at the beach with a pina colada. But she’s playing because she loves to compete. And that’s what people have to understand. So, she broke the mold where you have the means and you’re still out there digging, scraping and having that burning desire. And she comes back in a lot of matches where it would be easy to pack it in. That’s why I love this story, because it doesn’t matter what background. We can’t say these kids are spoiled. If she can do it, anybody can do it. But look at her game, it’s clean, she takes the ball early, she controls the baseline. She’ll chip it. She’s not afraid to come to the net. She plays doubles, she plays all the tournaments. I love this kid. She’s not going anywhere.

Photo: Credit One Charleston Open

Coco Gauff

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Amazing performance by Coco Gauff all summer, not just New York. But it just goes to show you, even in the first match she played at the U.S. Open, it was a rough day at the office. She played a 35-year-old who was chipping and chopping, slicing and dicing. She found a way to win. Then a lot of negativity from that, But every match takes on a life of its own. I just feel her mental strength - besides being an Olympic sprinter with a racquet in her hand - and a rock-solid backhand, she found a way to win that first match. It was the first match on Ashe Stadium, 7 o’clock, celebrating everything the great Billie Jean King has done, packed house. You couldn’t put someone more into the limelight. For her to come out with a “W” , she’ll have that learning experience in her back pocket forever. And the icing on the cake is she found a way to win that match, even if it wasn’t her best performance. So, fast forward, she did have a few more Houdini escapes through the tournament, but she’s U.S. Open champion at age 19. And I think it just goes to show you how foot speed and movement are a premium. Even before the U.S. Open she was 1 in the world in doubles and 6 in singles. And now she’s 3 in singles and number 1 is right around the corner. Are there holes in her game? Sure, like everybody. No one’s like the perfect specimen. But at the end of the day she has one of the best serves on the tour, she can hit spots. I feel her slice serve on the deuce court, and I’ve never said this before, is trending like the GOAT Serena. She can hit the Delray can opener on a dime. Most of the girls return better with their backhand. So her cut serve on the deuce court, and up the T on the ad court, in my opinion is the best in the world in women’s tennis. And it gets you out of a jam. That’s just one more piece of the puzzle that she can get out of things because she has a great serve. The second serve - a little bit of a speed bump. I think biomechanically there can be a tweak there. Her backhand is rock solid, she can take it up the line or cross court. The one thing I like about the forehand, and I said this a month

Photo: Porsche AG

Rick Macci Analysis

before, if she stays authoritative and decisive, and goes to the ball and plays the ball, the body becomes more the car and the racquet the passenger. You see, it’s very hard to change muscle memory of something you’ve done for 12 years. She’s always done the forehand where the arm has led the body. And the leg drive should initiate the racquet. And what I saw really all summer long and at the U.S. Open, she was playing the ball more. So she got things for free on the forehand. And she wasn’t as tough on herself. I felt mentally she was much calmer and not trying to be a perfectionist. And the way she was handling failure or mistakes or losing games, I saw a little more maturity. So all these little things. As you know, in life the little things make the biggest difference That’s why she’s U.S. Open champion. Now all that being said, her forehand - if she would take the time off and learn the ATP forehand, which is heavy topspin, I think her forehand could be one of the best in the world, because you’re putting it on a world-class athlete. In my opinion the best athlete on the tour, which I said even before the U.S. Open. And she has a lot of loose wires and she’s elastic, so if you can put optimal stroke mechanics on that type of athlete, good things are baking in the oven. So, we’ll see where that all goes. In the past I’ve had discussions with Corey (Coco’s father). If she ever has time off, I’d give it a shot. But all that being said, there was a mechanical adjustment that I saw in the summer and the U.S. Open. Her non-dominant hand, her left hand, she was in certain situations, holding onto the racquet longer. Now what that did, that kept the left side of her body in the shot longer. She didn’t open up too soon, she wasn’t disconnected, the racquet wasn’t lagging as much. Anybody who thinks this is a grip issue, you’re wrong. You can play with that grip. There’s not a wrong way or a right way, there’s a better way. At the end of the day she’s a champion. The whole family is full of champions, and the main thing is once you get one you want two. So I think the best days are in the future, and I think it’s the first of many Grand Slams for Coco.

YTF Hosts Three Collegiate Tournaments UCF, Stetson, Florida Gulf Coast, UNF and FAMU participated in the tournament. Miami, FSU, Bethune-Cookman and USF were unable to attend due to scheduling conflicts this year, but they have all hosted and/or played in most of the events in years past. At the women’s event, every D-I school participated, except Miami and Bethune-Cookman. Oyubuini Quadre of FIU defeated Annabelle Davis of UNF in the final. Noel Saidenova and Anique Kattenburg of UCF defeated Amy Kaplan and Isabel Oliveira of UNF in the doubles finals. In Lakeland, over 90 players competed in the tournament, down from 120 last year, and teams from the University of Tampa, Flagler College, St. Leo’s, Warner, Florida National and Southeastern participated. Julie Ball of the University of Tampa defeated her teammate, Kristina Miletic, in the women’s final. In doubles, Tampa’s team of Nicole Ciernak and Kristina Miletic defeated Laura Linescu and Antonia Pfeiffer of Flagler in the final. On the men’s side, Brunoe Pessoa of Southeastern won the men’s title, defeating Victor Johannson of St. Leo. Nicolas Bacella and Ghali Mensour won the doubles over SEU’s team of Bruno Pessoa and Piero Fernandez. There were three levels of play at each event, and every player had the opportunity to play several matches as there were consolation events in both singles and doubles at all three tournaments. At a time when too many colleges have, unfortunately, dropped their tennis programs, the YTF decided that support for the collegiate game was warranted, which is why the tournaments were created. The coaches and the players very much appreciate the financial support provided to them and they look forward to playing against teams they don’t normally play. So, tennis fans, get out and support your local teams! Remember, two years ago Ben Shelton was playing for the Gators and winning the NCAA championship in 2021 before turning pro. Look at him now. You just might see the next emerging star of the tennis world!

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The Youth Tennis Foundation ( YTF) sponsored three tournaments for collegiate players during the month of September. The first was the Men’s Bedford Cup event, which was held at the USTA National Campus in Orlando from September 22-24. Andy Gladstone, of UCF, was the tournament director. This event began in 2011 and has been held continuously at various campuses around the state, except for the COVID year. All D-I teams are invited and most attend every year. The second event was the Women’s Bedford Cup, which was held at the campus of USF from September 29-October 1. Christina Moros, the USF women’s coach, was the tournament director. This event began in 2012 and has been held continuously at various campuses, except for the COVID year. Again, all D-I teams are invited and nearly all attended this year. The Bedford Cup events are funded by the Bedford Foundation. The concept, initiated by the YTF, has proven to be so well-liked that similar events have sprung up across the country ever since. Ron Fick, who played tennis at the University of Florida from 1963-1967, is to be given much credit for making this happen. Since most of the schools are in different conferences, they rarely play each other and this event provides them with an opportunity to do so. Only Florida schools can participate. The third event was a tournament created by and funded by the YTF. It involves players from D-II, NAIA and JUCO teams from across the state. Here, too, the concept allows for schools from different conferences to play each other. It, too, has been extremely popular and has been in existence since 2017. It is held at the Dave Beerman Family Tennis Center in Lakeland, and Andrew Dickens, coach of the Southeastern men’s and women’s teams, is the tournament director. He is ably assisted by his wife, Kelsey. Alexander Orikowski, from UF, won the men’s Bedford Cup title, defeating his teammate, Jan Magnus Johnson, in the finals. Johnson won the Sportsmanship Award, which is named in honor of Doug Barr, a tennis player who died far too young. He was the son of Don Barr, the long-time coach at USF.

Top: Players who competed at Lakeland. Bottom Left: Finalist Jan Magnus Johnson and winner Alexander Orikoowski. Middle: Women players who competed in Bedford Cup at USF. Bottom Right: UF coach Adam Steinbeeg, assistant coach Matt Cloer, Sportsmanshiip Award winner Jan Magnus Johnson, and Pierce Kelley of YTF.

From Adversity to Victory: The Inspiring Journey of Alana Sherman In the world of tennis, success stories often stem from passion, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. One remarkable journey is that of Alana Sherman, a young talent who faced adversity head-on, only to emerge victorious on her path to college tennis stardom. Alana’s story is a testament to the resilience and unwavering spirit that define true champions. Hailing from the vibrant tennis scene in Florida, Alana’s journey took an unexpected turn when she endured a severe injury in a car accident, forcing her to step away from the sport for several years. When she registered for the USP College Tennis Showcase a few years ago, there were no records to gauge her current level - no UTR, no USTA ranking, nothing. Yet, what awaited was nothing short of extraordinary. Alana’s performance during the two days of the Showcase was nothing less than awe-inspiring. Her skills on the court left a lasting impression on all who witnessed her play, including the college coaches in attendance. What set her apart, aside from her impressive tennis skills, was her remarkable personality and highly professional attitude. The outcome of Alana’s Showcase appearance was nothing short of life-changing. Alana received a full scholarship offer from Lousiana Tech University, who attended that year’s event. Alana’s journey from adversity to collegiate success exemplifies the true essence of the USP College Tennis Showcase. What is the USP College Tennis Showcase? The USP College Tennis Showcase is a premier event that offers aspiring student-athletes a unique opportunity to shine on and off the tennis court in front of college tennis coaches from across the USA. It’s not just a tournament; it’s a platform where dreams take shape and where you can chart your path to a successful college tennis career. Why Attend the USP College Tennis Showcase? 1. International Talents: The Showcase brings together young tennis prospects from around the world, providing them with a platform to showcase their skills on the court. 2. Interaction with College Coaches: Attendees have the opportunity to meet and interact with close to 100 college coaches in attendance, building connections that can lead to exciting opportunities. 3. World-Class Experience: The event takes place at the Emilio Sanchez Academy in Naples, Florida, featuring state-of-the-art tennis facilities and personalized attention for players and college coaches. 4. Personalized Analysis: Matches are recorded in video and analyzed by Tennis Analytics, offering players valuable feedback to elevate their game. 5. LIVE & Virtual College Expo: Experience two college expos with live and virtual interactions with over 100 college coaches, ensuring that your talent gets the recognition it deserves.

Save the Date: November 29-30, 2023 Emilio Sanchez Academy. Naples, FL.

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The USP College Tennis Showcase awaits you with two days of electrifying matchplay, face-to-face coach interaction, video analysis, and a virtual college expo. It’s your chance to make your mark in the world of college tennis. Join us at this extraordinary event and discover the future of your tennis career. To reserve your spot and access these incredible benefits, visit the showcase registration site: showcase. universitysports.com Alana Sherman’s journey from adversity to victory serves as an inspiration for all aspiring college tennis players. Let your journey begin at the USP College Tennis Showcase, where dreams become reality.

If you have any questions or need any help, feel free to reach out to the USP team. We’re here to support you on your path to college tennis success.

World’s Leading Juniors Heading to Florida More than 2,000 players from throughout the world, including several destined for excellence on the pro circuit, will travel to Florida in November and December for four prestigious tournaments. Here’s a preview of each event in the order they will be played. EDDIE HER INTERNATIONAL The IMG Academy in Bradenton will be host to more than 2,000 players from 90 countries from November 21 to December 3 in the 12s through 18s age divisions.. The tournament is named in honor of the late Eddie Herr, who founded the Orange Bowl International at Flamingo Park on Miami Beach, along with the Sunshine Cup for boys and Continental Players Cup for girls, both patterned after the Davis Cup for men and Fed Cup (now Billie Jean King Cup) for women. Past winners of the Eddie Herr include Maria Sharapova, Andy Roddick, Jelena Jankovic, Michael Mmoh and Xavier Malisse.

JUNIOR ORANGE BOWL The 62nd Junior Orange Bowl for boys and girls in the 14’s and 12’s is scheduled for December 12 to 21 at three sites in Miami-Dade County: Crandon Park on Key Biscayne, and in Coral Gables at the Kerdyk Biltmore Tennis Center and Salvadore Park. More than 800 players from 70 countries will compete. Past participants include Andre Agassi, Jimmy Connors, Mary Joe Fernandez (who won all the age groups in the Junior Orange Bowl and Orange Bowl International), Chris Evert, Steffi Graf, Justine Henin, Andy Roddick, Juan Martin Del Potro and Caroline Wozniacki.

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MAUREEN CONNOLLY BRINKER “LITTLE MO” iNTERNATIONALS More than 650 players from 60-plus countries and territories will participate in the tournament for ages 8 to 16 in singles, doubles and mixed doubles. Matches will be played at eight locations in Palm Beach County. The opening ceremonies, including an Olympic-style parade of nations, will be held at 4 p.m. on December 1 at the Palm Beach Gardens Tennis Center. The tournament is the third leg of the “Little Mo Grand Slam” that included events at Colorado Springs, Colorado, and West Orange, New Jersey. Last year Kareena Cross became the 9th player to win the Slam and took home the tallest trophy (6 feet) in junior tennis. The tournament is looking for volunteers to help with the event. Contact: carol@mcbtennis.org

ORANGE BOWL INTERNATIONAL The 77th Orange Bowl International, for boys and girls in the 18s and 16s divisions, will be held December 1 to 10 at the Veltri Tennis Center at Central Park in Plantation, west of Fort Lauderdale.. Qualiying for the 16s will be December 1-2 and for the 18s will be on the 2nd and 3rd. The main draw begins on December 3 for the 16s and December 4 for the 18s. Last year for the first time the finals were dominated by Asian players. Japan’s Mayu Crossley, who trains at the Evert Tennis Academy in Boca Raton, won the girls’ 18’s, and South Korea’s Gerard Campana Lee won the boys’ 18’s. Naoya Honda of Japan won the boys’ 16’s and American Alexis Nguyen won the girls’ 16’s.

Former Little Mo champion Akasha Urhobo. Photo: Maureen Connolly Brinker Tennis Foundation (mcbtennis.org).

Former Junior Orange Bowl champion Coco Gauff. Photo: Junior Orange Bowl.

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Please join us to celebrate 62 years of hosting the top junior players from around the world.

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12 & under and 14 & under Girls and Boys December 12-21, 2023 The Junior Orange Bowl International Tennis Championships returns for its 62nd year, showcasing the most talented 12U and 14-and-under tennis players worldwide. This globally-recognized event brings together close to 800 of the top-ranked junior players representing 76 countries.

Free to the Public to Watch Match Locations: • Salvadore Park (G14) • Kerdyk Biltmore Tennis Center (B14) • Crandon Park Tennis Center (B12 & G12) FINALS • B14, B12, G12—December 21 @ Kerdyk Biltmore Tennis Center • G14—December 19 @ Salvadore Park Tennis Center

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SPORTS

The Junior Orange Bowl is a non-profit 501c3 organization

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Website: Juniororangebowl.org/tennis

Photo: Todd Pechter

Rising Star Akasha Urhobo Serving Up a Storm

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By Jim Martz Though Akasha Urhobo trains on the courts where Chris Evert developed a steely baseline game that vaulted her to the top of women’s tennis, her style of play is the antithesis. It’s in-your-face serve and volley. If you’re a long-time tennis fan/player, think of Patrick Rafter, the Australian who won the U.S. Open in 1997 and 1998 and spent his career charging to the net. Akasha’s father, T.J. Urhobo, is a veteran teaching pro at the Jimmy Evert Tennis Center at Fort Lauderdale’s Holiday Park, and he patterns her game after Rafter. “That was one of the goals I had,” he said in an interview with Florida Tennis. “I really enjoyed the game of Patrick Rafter, I liked the way he came in. He wasn’t always perfect but he won a majority of the points. I tried to implement that into her game.” And it’s reaping dividends. At age 16 Akasha has a Women’s Tennis Association ranking of 737. She has the top ITF ranking in Florida and nationally in the 16-and-under girls’ division. She has won two UTR pro tournaments and a whopping 17 Battle of Boca women’s open titles at Rick Macci’s academy at South County Regional Park in Boca Raton. “She has lots of potential, she’s a great competitor and high-level athlete and has lots of variety,” said Macci, who coached Venus and Serena Williams, Jennifer Capriati, Andy Roddick and Maria Sharapova in their formative years. Akasha has victories over WTA players ranked in the 400s and 500s. “Right now she’s playing at WTA Tour level,” said T.J. ”I’m very excited about what she’s doing.” So is Akasha. “I’ve changed my game and I’ve felt very comfortable with it,” she said. Go to any junior girls tournament or women’s pro event and you will seldom see players smacking a serve and immediately coming to the net. Akasha Urhobo does so on most first serves and sometimes on her second serve. “That’s her style now, and she’s in control most of the time when she does it” T.J. said.” She’s the only one doing it, so it will probably change the game a little bit.” Akasha is a native of Florida who won her first tournament, a USTA 10 and under, at age 5. In 2014 she was No. 1 in the state in the 12’s. She was the first player to win the “Little Mo” Grand Slam in consecutive years in her age group, which enabled her to take home the world’s tallest trophy in junior tennis, 6-feet

tall. In 2016 she became the youngest to win the USTA National18’s Clay Court Championships. She also won the American Tennis Association National 12’s at age 9, the National 18’s at 13 and the National Women’s at 14. And last year she earned her first WTA Tour point by winning a main draw match in an ITF Women’s $60,000 tournament. T.J. implemented the serve-and-volley part to Akasha’s game when she turned 14. “She already had developed a strong game from the baseline,” he said. “I wanted her to get a little edge, so we worked on that. After we made that transition, she’s pretty dominant now.” Asked what aspect of her game she’s working on to improve, Akasha said, “Getting more secure in my game and more confident.” Her father added, “Just working on shot selection. It’s a matter of making the right decisions on the court.” After “a little soccer and karate on the side” Akasha decided to focus totally on tennis at age 5. She is home schooled, taking online private school classes. Asked if she has ever hit with Coco Gauff, the 19-year-old from Delray Beach who won the U.S. Open women’s singles title and is ranked No. 1 in the world in doubles with Jessica Pegula, Akasha replied, “No. I haven’t looked into it, I’d say I’m not up to it yet.” Does she pattern her game after anyone on the WTA Tour? “I like to have my own unique style,” she said. And that has been the family mantra for years. When Florida Tennis ran an article about this prodigy in 2019, it was noted that players at the Jimmy Evert Tennis Center were saying Akasha would be the next Chrissie Evert. T.J. would reply, “No, she’s Akasha.” She will play in the 18’s division in late November at the Eddie Herr International in Bradenton and in the Orange Bowl International in Plantation. That might close out her junior tournament play. “I doubt she will play juniors next year,” T.J. said. “She’s playing a lot of Challengers and will focus on getting her ranking up.” High enough to earn a wild card into Miami Open qualifications? “ That’s our hope, our goal,” he said. Another goal in this international sport that requires considerable travel and expenses: “Right now we’re really looking hard for sponsors so she can get her ranking up. That’s the only way she can get to a higher level.”

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The United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) has honored four Florida-based coaches with national awards: Don Emery of Naples was named 2023 USPTA Large Facility Manager of the Year; Dominique Lemperle of Naples the 2023 USPTA George Bacso Coach Developer of the Year; Chad Berryhill of San Antonio, Fla., the 2023 USPTA Steve Wilkinson College Coach of the Year; and Marcos del Pilar Rivero of Orlando was named a USPTA Master Professional. Hospitality industry leader Emery became general manager of Grey Oaks Country Club in 2021. Lemperle is the pickleball head coach developer for the USPTA Florida Division. In 2022, she held 15 pickleball events throughout the Sunshine State and certified 65 USPTA members in pickleball. Berryhill is the Saint Leo University men’s and women’s tennis head coach. He earned the 2023 Sunshine State Conference Coach of the Year (Men), the 2022 ITA National Coach of the Year ( Women) and also took home his 400th career victory as a head coach. Del Pilar Rivero, who writes articles on padel for Florida Tennis, is a former tennis and padel pro player and pro coach. Becoming a USPTA Master Professional is the highest rating achievable by a tennis professional.

Photo: Lina Kivaka / Pexels

USPTA Honors Four Florida Coaches

Magnetic Attraction

Unveiling the Benefits of Magnetherapy for Athletes Tennis players are always in search of innovative methods to enhance their performance, speed up recovery, and reduce the risk of injuries. In recent years, magnetherapy, or the use of magnets for therapeutic purposes, has gained popularity among athletes for its potential benefits. While the scientific evidence is still evolving, many athletes swear by the advantages of magnetherapy. Magnetherapy, also known as magnetic therapy, is based on the idea that magnets can influence the body’s electromagnetic fields and promote healing. At Boca Cryo, in Boca Raton, Florida, a device called the “Magnesphere” is comprised of two sizable magnets powerful enough to treat the entire body with low-level magnetic resonance. At Boca Cryo, the Magnesphere can be programmed for a myriad of conditions. From common injuries like ligament sprains, muscle strains and contusions to conditions such as arthritis or sleep disorders, this device can help relax the body so that it may come into balance and heal itself. Tennis players use this device seeking recovery from injury, recovery between matches, and to help bring the body back into balance or homeostasis. Here’s how it works. The body’s Autonomic Nervous System is comprised of two branches. The Sympathetic Nervous System (fight of flight) and the Parasympathetic Nervous System (rest and digest). The Magnesphere stimulates the vagus nerve. In turn, this activates the parasympathetic system providing key benefits outlined below. Benefits of Magnetherapy 1. Pain Relief: One of the most prominent benefits of magnetherapy for athletes is its potential for pain relief. Athletes often deal with muscle soreness, joint pain, and injuries due to intense training and competition. Magnets are believed to increase blood flow to the affected area, helping to reduce pain and inflammation. 2. Enhanced Recovery: Faster recovery is crucial for athletes to maintain their peak performance. Magnetherapy may help in this regard by accelerating the body’s natural healing processes. By improving circulation, this therapy can assist in removing metabolic waste products, which can speed up recovery from strenuous workouts and injuries.

Boca Cryo co-owner Ian Pyka with pro tennis player Marie Bouzkova who holds a careerhigh WTA singles ranking of No. 24 and Florida Tennis Publisher Matt Pressman

3. Reduced Inflammation: Inflammation can be a major roadblock for athletes. Prolonged inflammation can lead to chronic injuries and pain. Magnetherapy may help reduce inflammation by enhancing the body’s natural healing response. This, in turn, can contribute to faster recovery and decreased risk of injuries.

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4. Improved Sleep: Quality sleep is paramount for athletes to recover and perform at their best. Magnetherapy has been suggested to have a calming effect, potentially improving sleep quality. Athletes who experience better sleep can expect enhanced recovery and improved performance. One of the key advantages of Magnetherapy is that it is non-invasive and carries minimal risk of side effects. This makes it an attractive option for athletes who want to explore alternative methods for enhancing their performance and recovery without resorting to more invasive treatments. While magnetherapy is not a mainstream medical treatment and scientific evidence supporting its efficacy is still evolving, it remains a popular choice among athletes for its potential benefits. Athletes are known for their willingness to explore various methods to enhance their performance, and magnetherapy is just one of many options to consider. It’s important for athletes to consult with healthcare professionals and consider the available scientific evidence before incorporating magnetherapy into their training and recovery routines. Every individual is unique, and what works for one athlete may not work for another. Nevertheless, the benefits of magnetherapy are enticing, and as research in this field continues, we may uncover more about its potential for optimizing athletic performance and well-being.

Marie Bouzkova utlizing the Magnesphere at Boca Cryo

Boca Cryo co-owner Natasha Pyka takes a selfie with Marie Bouzkova

Ian Pyka was a two-sport collegiate athlete and three-time All-American who made the Olympic team. Pyka went on to become the strength and conditioning coach at the Florida Panthers and New England Patriots. Pyka currently teaches at FAU’s Exercise Science Department and owns Boca Cryo (located at 1200 Yamato Rd. in Boca Raton) which recently added EWOT training to their portfolio of services. Visit bocacryo.com to learn more.

Boca Cryo is a wellness company which offers healing and recovery through state of the art technologies, all non-invasive and drug-free. We offer 7 different therapies in our center. Our flagship service is WHOLE BODY CRYOTHERAPY, which treats inflammation, pain, stiffness, sleep disorders and helps performance improvement. Three minutes of sub-zero temperatures (-160 F) using safe, cold air in a “true” whole body chamber, leaves you with a rush of endorphins and other pain modulators. This short stay in the cold also boosts your metabolism while strengthening your immune system! Our specialized chamber is equipped with speakers which play your favorite tunes while moving freely about. Unlike our competitors, we DO NOT use liquid nitrogen. We also offer LOCALIZED CRYOTHERAPY for those specific areas of pain and inflammation. This can be administered a La Carte or in conjunction with WBC.

WHOLE BODY CRYOTHERAPY

BOCA CRYO FACIAL is another popular therapy. If you are looking for less wrinkles and puffiness, and want tight skin and a younger look, this is for you! This 10 minute therapy, in conjunction with WBC, is shown to increase collagen production. As one of the most abundant proteins in the body, collagen helps make the skin look younger and fuller without injections and expensive creams. MAGNETHERAPY is yet another treatment offered, using a state-of-the-art device called the Magnesphere. This is a low level magnetic resonance device which helps relax the body by balancing your Heart Rate Variability or HRV. Our Autonomic Nervous System is divided into Sympathetic (fight or flight) and Parasympathetic (rest and digest) systems. By bringing these two systems into balance, the body begins to heal itself! All of our clients, who have used this device, relax so much that they fall asleep during the session.

COMPRESSION THERAPY

Our COMPRESSION THERAPY focuses on the lower body. This pneumatic system, developed by a physician for circulation-challenged patients, inflates sleeves covering your legs. Systematically, the compression helps eliminate the by-products of exercise and aids in venous return to the heart. Athletes and weekend warriors, as well as people with circulatory insufficiencies, can benefit from this therapy. Our SALT THERAPY is a form of therapy which entails relaxing in a room infused with medical-grade salt crystals that are inhaled and help with respiratory issues ranging from asthma, COPD and sinusitis, to mention a few. Salt therapy is a tremendous therapy and healer for skin disorders such as acne and psoriasis.

EMSCULPT

Our newest technology from Prague, Czech Republic, is called EMSCULPT. It is the first FDA approved device to increase muscle by 16% and decrease fat by 19% on average. In the world of aesthetics, this is rapidly becoming very popular in our center.

Ian Pyka received his Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiological Sciences at the University of Maryland and completed his Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology at the University of Tennessee. His first job was at the University of Massachusetts, as their first Head Strength and Conditioning Coach. Four years later, he accepted the same position at Tulane University. He later accepted the position of Head Strength and Conditioning Coach for the New England Patriots. In 1994, he managed a preventive medicine center in Scottsdale, Arizona, working with a retired population, establishing diet and exercise regimes to improve quality of life and longevity. Then in 1998, he was hired by the Florida Panthers to be their Head Strength and Conditioning Coach. In 2002, he started Power Play Fitness, a company which focuses on the sports specific and comprehensive training of athletes as well as any motivated individuals interested in improving their overall fitness and health. He presently teaches Kinesiology, Biomechanics and Advanced Strength and Conditioning Methods, in the Exercise Science Department at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. He is certified as a strength and conditioning specialist with the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Ian was also a three time All-American (Track &Field) while at Maryland and earned an alternate spot on the 1980 US Olympic Track and Field Team.

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1200 Yamato Road, Suite B3, Boca Raton, Florida 33431 www.bocacryo.com ~ 561-717-4402 ~ Email: ian@bocacryo.com

Sunshine State

“Athletes Without Limits” Shine at US Open By Dave “Koz” Kozslowski Fred Viancos, Trish Faulker, Chuck Gill, Jason Gilbert and Lisa Pugliese LaCroix/ Love Serving Autism. They were all encouraging and supportive. Our journey to Ryan’s professional career started with assisting in kids clinics with Paul Lederman at the Lakewood Ranch Country Club and at Lakewood National with Nate Griffin for a few seasons. Our next opportunity to work together was at The Lake Club as Ryan became the Assistant Professional. After five years of working together it has been a joy to see Ryan develop into a young, accomplished teaching professional. His on-court skill, public relations, clay court maintenance, racquet stringing and gripping service have reached an industry valued level. It was a delight to interview Ryan at the 2019 USPTA Florida Convention when he was honored with the diversity award. That night he realized that he had earned the respect of his fellow professionals. It has been impressive to see Ryan working with the Buddy Up Program and the Special Olympics organization to give back to the game. Barry Holman, Athletes Without Limits co-founder and president of the board, was on court with the athletes and shared his feelings. This was a great experience to allow them to show that they are true tennis players to a wider audience. “It means so much to be in Armstrong Stadium showing the athletes’ ability, their tennis skill, the passion for this court, maybe breaking down preconceived notions people have about who are tennis players and who are not,” Holman said. Andrea Snead, USTA Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, added, “The athletes and family members were beyond excited to be here at the grandest of all slams. On the court, these players shined and showed exactly what it looks like when access meets opportunity.” Koz: Brittany and Ryan, what was it like playing at the US Open in Louis Armstrong Stadium? Brittany: It was like a dream come true. When I knew that this year that I was in the US Open as a player, it was totally amazing. I love being part of the tennis world and this was remarkable. There was a motive to practice and train harder. I wanted my best shot, my forehand, even better for the Open. It was a very exciting and a close match with only a 2-point difference in the Tie-Break. It couldn’t have been any better. Ryan: As soon as we got the invitation to play at the US Open, I knew that I had to be there! It was cool to be there and be interviewed before the match. I did receive a text telling me to just Keep Smiling if I win a great shot or hit a not so great shot. Then I saw your name Koz at the end of the text. Why didn’t you tell me that 6 years ago? I felt like I was a role model to all the intellectually impaired kids who wanted to get into a sport. It was a terrific feeling. It was unbelievable to play at Armstrong Stadium after knowing how many legend players had played there before. It was a great match to the final point. Everything was exciting. I wanted to win for all the support that I had from family, Special Olympics and the members who I work for at The Lake Club.

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It was day 11, one of the premiere days of the world’s biggest sports event with over 700,000 fans attending the fortnight’s sporting extravaganza. It was the day that the US Open traditionally welcomes the public free admission during this special day session. The US Open also welcomed an opportunity to observe some of the strongest competitive spirits and grit in the sporting sphere. Deployed between the two men’s doubles semifinals and the two men’s wheelchair matches, 14,000-seat Louis Armstrong Stadium was featuring an Intellectual Impairments mixed doubles exhibition in partnership with Athletes Without Limits. Four world-class impaired tennis players - Kevin Meade of Milton, Mass., Rachel Sweatt of Hot Springs, Ark., and Floridians: Brittany Tagliareni of Sanford and Ryan Smith of Bradenton - all with intellectual disabilities took the Mixed Doubles spotlight stage. The Sunshine State team claimed the bragging rights 9-7 in an abbreviated match on one of the biggest arenas in tennis. These players had global level competitive experience. Sweatt, the current No. 4 woman in Special Olympics tennis and former No. 1, has qualified for many USTA NTRP ( National Tennis Rating Program) abled-bodied tournaments. Meade competed intercollegiately at the Division III level at Curry College. He also received the first USTA Player Development Player Grant for the 2023 Virtus Global Games. Tagliareni won gold and silver in women’s singles and doubles at the INAS Tennis World Championships and INAS Global Games. She has also held the No. 1 ranking in the country and 3 in the world singles ranking. She has been recognized with the ESPY Honorary Award and has been featured on Tennis Channel, ESPN, CNN, and ABC for her achievements. Brittany had gotten a taste of the US Open excitement when she was invited by the USTA/US Open and sat right behind the women’s singles final last year. Smith has won his share of has held a No. 1 singles rank in the country and No. 3 in the world. Smith and Tagliareni have won medals in gender and mixed doubles. This group is no stranger to putting it on the line with global play competing in Australia, France, Greece, and Ecuador. It has been a treasure to see the advancement of Brittany with her tennis and media experience. It has been a delight to see Ryan developing into a young skilled and respected tennis professional and coach. The first time that I met Brittany and Ryan was in 2016, I interviewed them at a memorial fundraiser tournament for 19-year Manatee High School coach Brian McAlister. I did not know that they were impaired. When I discovered that they were both autistic and told my wife, Carolyn, she said to me that “you owe them more than a stand-up talking head interview”. Immediately I contacted Ryan’s mother. We arranged for a sit-down interview with Brittany and Ryan. Quickly in our 30-minute session I discovered the passion and commitment that they both had for the game. Ryan shared that he would like to give back to the game and become a coach. With his likeable demeanor and nearby location, I wanted to mentor him. I approached the USPTA (United States Professional Tennis Association) about his desire to be a teaching professional. We worked with John Embree,

Left: Dave Kozlowski interviews Ryan Smith and Brittany Tagliareni. Photos Courtesy USTA. Right: Kevin Meade, Rachel Sweatt, Brittany Tagliareni and Ryan Smith.

William “Bill” Christensen Inspirational and Motivational at Age 77 By Deborah Hobbs by his side, traveling to tournaments, providing encouragement and support. He credits her confidence and steadfastness in making his tennis endeavors so successful and enjoyable. Christensen continues to compete in senior age-group tournaments all over the country, playing mostly singles. He is much sought after as a doubles partner, which rounds out the tournament experience. A knee replacement surgery paused his tennis play a few years ago, so he devoted most of 2018-2019 recovering and doing extensive rehab work. With his usual determination and measured persistence, he was back on the court drilling and hitting balls shortly thereafter. Christensen has a consistent, cross-training routine for maintaining optimum physical conditioning. To stay strong, fit, mobile and injuryfree on the tennis court, he swims, cycles and utilizes weight training. His weekly, four-day tennis schedule consists of: drilling/practicing once, singles once and doubles twice. This combination works well and is an example for others to follow. A balanced diet and “all things in moderation” rounds out a healthy lifestyle. He definitely appears to be 10-15 years younger than his actual age, on the court and off. Christensen is a credit to tennis and to athletes of all ages. His lifestyle, fitness level and zest for this sport is truly remarkable and should be a great motivator for everyone. He comments that the sport “has been a true passion in life, bringing lifelong friends and rich experiences along the way”. He will continue playing the sport he loves with practice, preparation and tournament play well into the future. He truly treasures each day on the tennis court. Tennis is keeping Bill Christensen young and vibrant!

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The Henry L. McMullen Tennis Complex in Clearwater, Florida, is known, on Florida’s west coast as a haven for tennis players of all ages and levels. One distinct observation is that there is a substantial number, level and quality of players in the 65-plus age bracket that claim McMullen Complex their playing home. William “Bill” Christensen, age 77, represents and exemplifies this age bracket in an inspiring and gentlemanly manner. Christensen’s superb physical condition, playing style, commitment to practice and love of the game of tennis is evident to all observers. His quiet, humble manner, superb sportsmanship and ready smile complete the package of a senior singles player, still playing competitively and enjoying the adventure, well into his 70s. Christensen hails from Chicago, Illinois, and, with his athleticism, played baseball, football and hockey during his school years. Relocating to Florida in 1973, and finally settling in Clearwater, he met his wife, Joan, shortly thereafter, and they have recently celebrated their 46th wedding anniversary. A devoted family man, he is a father and grandfather to a daughter and two grandchildren. With a construction background and a strong work ethic, he established a local moving company that has serviced the Clearwater area for many decades. Even though Christensen now considers himself retired from the business, he still offers his services to many charities needing moving assistance. He attributes a hands-on, physical working approach to maintaining conditioning at his age. After his move to Florida, Christensen’s tennis play started at age 35. Tennis has been a significant part of his life ever since. With an avid interest in the game and the motivation to practice and improve, he advanced rapidly and commenced playing competitive tournaments and league competitions. As a member of multiple USTA teams advancing to Nationals, and success in age-group tournaments, he generated high state rankings and became a well-known player in the Tampa Bay area and the state. His wife, Joan, has always been

Bill Christensen stays fit through singles, doubles, workouts and practice. Bill Christensen and his wife, Joan.

Paula Blatcher Assists Mental Game of Tennis and Life We all know that you can become a better tennis player by putting in the hours on the court. But can you improve your game by investing your time wisely off the court? The answer is emphatically: yes. Paula Blatcher, an avid tennis player, holistic life coach and practitioner of Rapid Transformational Therapy, has developed a program to assist in the mental game of tennis, and life for that matter, to make tennis and life a more fun and joyful experience. My journey with Paula began when I met her on the court and she told me about her program. I enjoyed speaking with her off the court and telling her my goals. Then I completed a comprehensive questionnaire. Next, I recorded my voice for Paula to analyze. She created a strategy for me which included a meditation/hypnosis recording, which I listen to as I drift off to sleep. This program has improved my life on and off the court. We all know that tennis is great for our physical and mental health. This program helps me to get the best of both worlds and to enjoy tennis and life even more! Paula emphasized that there are certain things that hold everyone back, such as fear of failure, and that one can learn more from failure than success. She noted that there is no great success without failure. It is the journey and the process that is the key to our own success, whether that be in tennis or in life. For each person, the definition of success is different. My personal journey may be different than yours, but I would say that we could all learn from Paula’s program. I take tennis lessons from my tennis coach, and now I take life lessons from Paula. I wholeheartedly recommend both!

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Adam Ross is a contributing writer for Florida Tennis. For more information on Paula’s program, email: renewwithpaula@gmail.com or visit www.renewwithpaula.com, or call 954-203-8992.

Photo: Renith R / Unsplash

By Adam Ross

Accelerate Healing with Herbal Gel I am constantly being asked what product I would recommend for supporting healing after surgery or for dealing with an impact-bruise or for helping a fracture or sprain. The answer is the same... Rehab Remedy (aka RR). If you twisted an ankle during a tennis match and damaged some soft tissue... RR. If you just had surgery and want to heal faster... RR. If you jumped off a building and damaged Mr. Frank can be your heel...RR... and perhaps counseling. Are reached with questions at you sensing a common thread here? If you stevef@NaturesRiteRemedies.com damage something it will heal bet-ter with RR. His blog can be found on “Why is that?” you say. Well, it’s the Trinity of www.MyNaturesRite.com Healing Unity. There are three power ful heal-

ing herbs that work so well together that they form what I like to call, “The Trinity of Healing Unity” as they will unify separated bone or tendon and heal micro-tears in tissue better than anything else on the planet. These three herbs are Comfrey, Arnica and Rosemary. The Comfrey is known for its ability to increase the activ-ity of fibroblasts. These are the little collagen factories that build restorative tissue. You need to produce more collagen to repair skin, bone and tendon or ligament tissue. Pour on the Comfrey and turn-up the fibroblasts. The Arnica supports healing tissue and contains enzymes which digest the microclots that can block ac-cess to the region. Pour on the Arnica and “let the healing begin”.

Rosemary improves the flow of peripheral vasculature which allows the vital building blocks of new tissue to be delivered more easily to the construction site. Pour on the Rosemary and get the supplies to the site. Of course there are support herbs and vitamins that help immensely with the recovery such as vitamins A, C, and E to reduce scar tissue formation. Willow reduces the pain of the injury without reducing the all-important inflamation signal that maintains the healing process. Witch Hazel relaxes muscle fibers so that residual trauma doesn’t put excess strain on healing regions. And all of these herbs... They’re in Rehab Remedy. Indeed, RR is the BEST thing to use on any recovery from injury or surgery. It’s just that simple. Steve Frank is an Herbalist from the Front Range of Colorado with many years of experience in treating musculo-skeletal injuries with indigenous plants and herbs. He has studied the actions of these natural remedies in the clinic and the laboratory so that he can bring you the best that science and ancient wisdom have to offer. xz

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QUICK Mental Toughness Tip QUESTION I’m a 17-year-old tournament player who’s been told that I have good strokes, but I don’t feel as though I am getting the results that I should in matches. But Doc, can you please help me focus better? I’m thinking about other things such as school, tests, friends, girls, weekends. Please help me find a solution.

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ANSWER First, it’s very important to remind yourself before you play a match, recite this mantra to yourself: “This is the most important thing you’ll be doing for the next hour and a half or so. And I’m going to give it my best effort to be laser focused in this match.” It’s very important to understand that concentration is a skill that can be practiced and developed. You can practice techniques to develop exceptional concentration and become a horse with blinders and laser focus. An excellent technique is staying within “THE HERE” and “THE NOW.” “THE HERE” means to just stay focused on what is happening on your own court. Don’t pay attention to the noise, crowd, or the match on the court next to you. Focus only on what is going on, on your court. “THE NOW” means to stay in the present and the cur-

rent point. Do not think about the past such as an overhit you blew 2 points ago or how in the future you’re going to celebrate this win. I’ve seen players up 6-2, 5-2 and they start to think about how they will celebrate, instead of staying in “THE NOW” and then lose. The more you practice these techniques, staying in “THE HERE” and “THE NOW”, the better your concentration skills will become. As your skills develop (just like muscles develop) your concentration skills will become more automatic, and it will be easier for you when the time comes to stay in “THE HERE” and “THE NOW”. And you will become the horse with blinders. Furthermore, concentration skills are multifactorial and can be transferred to other areas in your life, such as school and later on your career. So it is important to utilize these techniques I’ve shown you, and work on your concentration. And in doing so, I’m sure you will do better in the matches to come. Good luck to you. Dr. Richard W. Cohen is a board certified psychiatrist who has won 16 USTA National Championships Gold Balls. If you have any questions or comments you would like addressed, please contact Dr. Richard Cohen at: Richardwcohenmd@gmail.com

“THE MOST UNDERUSED WEAPON IN TENNIS: THE UNDERHAND SERVE.” Gino Fava

WATCH MY YOUTUBE VIDEO FOR AN EXCLUSIVE LESSON ON HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR GAME

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900 N. Flamingo Rd., Pembroke Pines C.B. Smith Park, 10 courts

Organized preparation for Eddie Herr and Orange Bowl every day 8 to 11 a.m. All ages welcome. Coach Andre Kozlov will be in control of the program. Professional Stringing Services

OFF THE BACK W A L L TIPS FOR PADEL LOVERS

I have spent almost three decades coaching Tennis and Padel. From newcomers to professional players, I made sure that every single student or player had always my very best version on the court. That is the best way to engage customers as well as to build meaningful and long-term relationships while creating long-lasting revenue streams for our business.

In this and the next issue we are going to highlight the importance of our PROFESSIONALISM when coaching in racquet sports. Most of the items below might sound obvious but it is worth it to go over all of them regularly so we can check our performance in our way to excellence and become the best PADEL/TENNIS COACHES that we can be.

SOME KEYS TO SUCCESS FOR A TEACHING PROFESSIONAL (I) It’s crucial to exceed our students’ expectations every single day they visit our facility. As teaching professionals, we need to be aware of the impact that our service and performance is creating on our players. Have a look at the first half of points we must keep in mind to be high-quality professionals: • PROFESSIONAL IMAGE: Make sure that your clothes, shoes, racquet, balls, courts… are in perfect shape. Our personal brand is closely associated with all these parameters and is the first impression that our students have. • USE OF NAMES: Their own name is everyone's favorite word, and everyone likes to be always referred to by their own name. They will engage more and will pay more attention to you if you use them. • POSITIVE ATTITUDE always on and off the court. Be nice and courteous while providing positive insights. • EXCELLENT SERVICE AND GREAT ATMOSPHERE are a must in the racquet industry delivery. Try to go beyond the expected service and focus on creating a joy environment where all your students feel free to fail if needed. If we raise our standards on a safe environment, they will follow us and will try their very best. • SMILE, SMILE, SMILE: Smiling is a form of nonverbal communication that can communicate positive feelings and intentions toward others. When you smile at someone, you communicate that you like them, appreciate them and are happy to see them. They will be definitely more open to listen and to engage. • ZEST and ENTHUSIASM are ability to bring life and excitement to different situations. It often leads to a higher level of involvement and engagement both for individuals and for groups. Those who demonstrate zest and enthusiasm bring an energy and level of intensity to individual and group work. If we want to impact their lives, there is not better way than with our vibrant enthusiasm for what we do. • HIGH and POSITIVE ENERGY: A person's energy is a combination of their past, their mindset, their dominant thoughts, and their perception of the world. Sometimes that energy is easily felt, and other times it manifests subtly and subconsciously. Positive energized people, often make you feel safe, happy and relaxed around them. We can invigorate and rejuvenate our students in every single lesson if we are able to share our passion for what we do.

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• IMPACT KNOWLEDGE is the knowledge that has a direct effect or influence on a person, situation, or thing. Impacting knowledge means gaining new ideas, thoughts, and approaches about and in situations. This knowledge could be used for problem solving or a means to an end for a developing process. This approach will always keep us learning and will dramatically impact the learning level of our students. • CONTINUOUS EDUCATION: Continuing education keeps us up to date with the latest trends and knowledge of our sport. It also increases our chances of getting promoted because it expands our knowledge, adds to our skill set, prepares us to take on new responsibilities, and qualifies us for advanced work. Continuous learning isn’t just about you. Lifelong learning helps develop your leadership skills which then translates into fostering lifelong learning in other individuals, by encouraging them to pursue further education. So it is also an incredible asset to get our students inspired on keep learning, improving and being challenged every day. Don’t you think that all these above will improve your performance on the court?? I can’t wait to hear your comments.

Marcos del Pilar USPTA Master Professional USTA Padel Consultant Padel Expert & Pioneer

If you are interested in more, do not hesitate to contact Marcos del Pilar for additional info (marcos@tenismrp.com) and consultancy about the business model and some essential leverages to implement Padel programs successfully while improving your ROI in your facility. Also, to GET CERTIFIED IN PADEL and become part of the group of 400+ ambassadors that now lead the Padel wave in the USA. Marcos is running these programs in partnership with The USPTA, PADELMBA, and the USPA.

Why Tennis Players Also Love Spec Tennis As a lifelong tennis player myself, I get it. You’ve put countless hours of work into developing your game. You don’t want to detract from that or have to put in time learning a new sport. If you were to start playing pickleball, for example, you would have to learn new shots and strategies. With Spec Tennis though, it’s just one degree removed from tennis. The strokes and strategies are EXACTLY the same. Spec Tennis has also been proven to be a great cross-training tool for tennis, one that will actually IMPROVE your tennis game. (Many top tennis coaches are using Spec Tennis with their tennis students). With anything in life it’s important to mix things up or else it can get stale. Playing competitive tennis at a high level, I’ve witnessed many players burned out and quit the sport (I’ve almost reached that tipping point myself ). I’ve also seen so many players who started out playing tennis to have fun and get some exercise, but eventually the fun was gone for them. They started playing USTA leagues, taking their rating too seriously, and it became only about the result, not

about the enjoyment of the sport. This is one huge reason why I encourage you to play Spec Tennis. Sprinkle it in once in a while in between tennis days, and you’ll be shocked at the dopamine rush you get. It brings a social atmosphere’ that is often lacking in tennis. Players are always laughing and engaging in good-natured smack talking. Plus, since skill levels don’t have to match as closely for everyone to have fun. You can play with friends/family and people who you enjoy spending time with but don’t usually play tennis with. Had Spec Tennis been around when I was growing up, I’m confident I would have been a higher-level tennis player in the long run (I played Division 1 in college). Being able to mix it up and play Spec also and not have to grind it out every day on the tennis court would have prevented some of the negative feelings I felt towards tennis. I would have been fresher mentally to devote more passion and hard work on tennis, rather than sometimes just going through the motions out there. To start playing Spec Tennis head to SpecTennis.com or reach out to the founder of Spec Tennis, Nate Gross, at Nate@SpecTennis. com

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By Nate Gross

World Pickleball Series Launched in Florida

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Participation in pickleball continues to surge across the country with more than 48 million players, according to the Association of Pickleball Professionals, and Florida is a hotbed of activity for the sport. With 770 courts, the state ranks second behind only California as having the most pickleball courts in the country. South Florida in particular leads participation in the state with Miami ranked as the most pickleball obsessed city per capita, according to a survey of online Google searches about the sport. The demand has led to more local courts, tournaments and the creation of the World Pickleball Series. The Series will host four events this fall in South Florida that are expected to attract over 1,500 pro and amateur participants from across the country. Two events are USA Pickleball sanctioned tournaments, meaning results count toward player ratings and the events abide by USA Pickleball rules and requirements. The inaugural World Pickleball Classic presented by Hospital for Special Surgery, Oct. 12-15 at Palm Beach Gardens Tennis & Pickleball Center, for both pro and amateur competition. The complex features 20 newly resurfaced dedicated pickleball courts and the event was televised in a 30-minute highlight show on Amazon’s PickleTV. “HSS Florida is thrilled to sponsor the World Pickleball Classic and World Pickleball Open,” said CEO Tara McCoy. “As organizers of one of the largest pickleball tournaments in the county, World Pickleball Series understands the importance of the leading-edge orthopedic care that HSS Florida provides as a key factor in keeping athletes of all abilities and ages in the game.” The Martin County Senior Games, held Oct. 26-28 at Halpatiokee Park in Stuart, were for players age 50+ with several divisions in men’s and women’s singles, doubles and mixed doubles. The top four in each division qualify for the Florida State Senior Games.

The fourth annual World Pickleball Open presented by Hospital for Special Surgery and Kolter Homes returns to Palm Beach Gardens Nov. 16-19. Last year’s event attracted more than 600 pro and amateur participants from 20 states and eight countries. Twenty hours of the tournament will be streamed live on Amazon’s PickleTV. Prize money for the pro divisions will be up to $25,000. The event will feature a fun glow-in-the-dark pickleball social the night before competition starts to kick off the event. “Kolter Homes has long supported pickleball for its fitness and competitive benefits, as well as the sense of community and camaraderie the game builds,” said John Manrique, Senior Vice President Marketing Kolter Homes. “We are dedicated to the game with the pickleball facilities we offer at new home communities throughout the Southeast, and excited to once again sponsor the World Pickleball Series and all the ways these events create opportunities for more people to connect with the sport.” Closing the fall competition season is the new World Pickleball Challenge Dec. 15-17 in Port St. Lucie. This event is for amateurs only and will use a round robin format for men’s and women’s skills divisions ranging from age 19 to 60 and over. The host site at Whispering Pines Park has 24 new dedicated pickleball courts. Registration deadline is Nov. 30. The World Pickleball Series is managed by Players International Management, the sister company of the group that has run the Delray Beach Open ATP tennis tournament for more than 30 years (coming up Feb. 9-18, 2024) as well as the YellowTennisBall.com Series of over 25 state, national and international USTA and ITF amateur tennis events consisting of many of the highest-ranked players in the United States. Visit WorldPickleballSeries.com, call 561-330-6003 or email ibaron@YellowTennisBall.com for more ticket information.