Racquet Sports Industry

August 2006
Volume 34 Number 8 $5.00
STRING IT UP!
Our Guide Will Help You Find
The Right Stringing Machine
Software to Keep Your

Facility Humming
Apparel: Tennis
Fashions That “Fit”
Contents R S I A U G U S T
INDUSTRY NEWS
2 0 0 6
7 Volkl introduces DNX1 with

“Power Arm”
7 Dunlop forms “D-Squad”
for top juniors
8 Babolat launches ergonomic
racquet grip
8 PTR, Special Olympics release
coaching guide
9 Head offers new cars in
Airflow promotion
10 Wilson announces stringing
partnership
2006 GUIDE TO STRINGING MACHINES
10 Prince O3 technology wins
23 First-String Players design award
Our tips and exclusive guide will help you generate more revenue from your
stringing business. 10 Balle de Match is official
apparel brand for WTT
27 Stringing Machine Selection Guide
Use our comprehensive chart to help you choose the right stringing machine for
you and your customers.
11 Jorge Andrew honored by
USPTA Southern
11 Quickie donates tennis
FEATURES wheelchair to PTR
20 Tennis Fashions That “Fit” 12 USPTA World Conference

Apparel manufacturers continue to stretch the boundaries between court time and in September
off-court/fitness/cardio activities.
12 Lee Tennis to host Indoor
35 Connect With Your Customers Clay Conference
For a facility in Georgia, TennisConnect software is helping out all aspects of their
business. 16 Stringing machine accessory
eliminates crushing
Cover photo: Stephen Whalen Photography
DEPARTMENTS 43 String Playtest: Pacific X-Force 18

4 Our Serve 46 Tips & Techniques
40 French Open Equipment Log 48 Your Serve, by Bob Heller
August 2006 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 3

Our Serve
(Incorporating Racquet Tech and Tennis Industry)
Carrying On Publishers
David Bone Jeff Williams
A fter more than 20 years in the tennis spotlight, Andre

Agassi, now the U.S.’s grand ambassador for the sport,
has announced that he will retire after this year’s US Open.
Editor-in-Chief
Crawford Lindsey
Editorial Director
Peter Francesconi
The New York stage is a fitting place for Agassi to take his
Associate Editor
final professional bow; the Open is America’s—and the Greg Raven
world’s—biggest tournament, and Agassi was twice a winner Design/Art Director
Kristine Thom
on the hard courts at Flushing Meadows.
But it’s about more than just winning. Agassi has come to define grace, Contributing Editors
hard work, class, and the spirit of giving back. (Since 1994, his Andre Cynthia Cantrell
Rod Cross
Agassi Charitable Foundation has raised more than $60 million to provide Kristen Daley
recreational and educational opportunities for at-risk children.) Joe Dinoffer
Sure, in his early years, as a big-haired teenager, Agassi cared little for Liza Horan
Andrew Lavallee
convention or for the sport’s governing structures. But we all watched him
James Martin
grow, and not only transform himself, but also the game as a whole. And Chris Nicholson
while it’s hard to quantify how the presence of big-name pros influence Bob Patterson
the recreational game, we somehow know that Agassi’s giant impact has
RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY
helped make more people aware of the sport, and brought more players
Corporate Offices
to the courts. 330 Main St., Vista, CA 92084
This past May, I was fortunate to meet Agassi at a Head/Penn event in Phone: 760-536-1177 Fax: 760-536-1171
Las Vegas, where he and his wife, Steffi Graf, introduced the new Metallix Email: RSI@racquetTECH.com
Website: www.racquetTECH.com
and Airflow racquets. I asked him if, after he retires from the pro game,
Office Hours: Mon.-Fri.,8 a.m.-5 p.m. Pacific Time
he will somehow stay involved in the sport, whether through any of the
tennis organizations or other means. His response: “I certainly hope to. Advertising Director
This game has given me so many opportunities.” John Hanna
770-650-1102, x.125
It was encouraging to hear. There are plenty of great people involved
hanna@knowatlanta.com
in this sport, but there’s always room for more. And who could be better
at promoting tennis, spreading its benefits, and getting more people to Apparel Advertising
play, than someone of Agassi’s stature. And it’s all for the right reasons, Cynthia Sherman
203-263-5243
too.
cstennisindustry@earthlink.net
Racquet Sports Industry (USPS 347-8300. ISSN 0191-
5851) is published 10 times per year: monthly January
through August and combined issues in Septem-
ber/October and November/December by Tennis
Peter Francesconi Industry and USRSA, 330 Main St., Vista, CA 92084.
Editorial Director Periodicals postage paid at Hurley, NY 12443 and addi-
tional mailing offices. August 2006, Volume 34, Num-
ber 8 © 2006 by USRSA and Tennis Industry. All rights
P.S.: RSI has done it again! For the third year in a row, reserved. Racquet Sports Industry, RSI and logo are
we’ve won an Apex Award for Publication Excel- trademarks of USRSA. Printed in the U.S.A. Phone
advertising: 770-650-1102 x 125. Phone circulation and
lence, in the category “Magazines & Journals— editorial: 760-536-1177. Yearly subscriptions $25 in the
Printed Four-Color.” Thanks especially to the U.S., $40 elsewhere. POSTMASTER: Send address
changes to Racquet Sports Industry, 330 Main St.,
staff and contributors listed on our masthead
Vista, CA 92084.
(right), and to all those who help and support
this publication.
RSI is the “official magazine” of the USRSA, TIA, and ASBA
4 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2006

R S I A U G U S T 2 0 0 6
INDUSTRY NEWS
INFORMATION TO HELP YOU RUN YOUR BUSINESS
Dunlop Announces “D-

Squad” For Top Juniors
Volkl Introduces New DNX1 With “Power Arm”
nlike a car or a computer, a tennis racquet is a comparatively simple device. So it’s hard to pic-
Dunlop Tennis is launching a
new program for the U.S.’s top
junior players. The “D-Squad”
U ture where the next radical design change will come. But now Volkl has come out with its
newest frame, the DNX1, featuring a rad-looking “Power Arm” that sprouts from the handle
and supports the stringbed. Volkl says the Power Arm creates a “pocket” for the ball on impact, then
initiative will provide Dunlop helps to “catapult” it back over the net.
tennis equipment and program The racquet design actually has been in the works for a number of years, says Sarah Maynard,
support to leading junior play- Volkl’s director of marketing and promotions. “The problem was there was no material strong
ers (ages 10 to 18) who
enough to make it work,” she says. That prob-
demonstrate excellence in every
lem, though, has been solved with the
element of their game, says the
company. introduction of the new DNX material,
she adds.
“Players selected for the Dun- “DNX is a new form of carbon,”
lop Tennis D-Squad represent Maynard says. “Carbon fibers nor-
the best of the best in their per- mally are planar, but DNX mole-
formance on and off the court,” cules are tubular, which makes
says Fallon Koon, Dunlop’s Jun- them stiffer and stronger in all DNX10 Mid
Head size: 93 sq. in.
ior Tennis program manager. directions, not just in one direc- Weight (unstrung): 11.6 oz.
Juniors who want to apply for tion.” Length: 27 in.
String Pattern: 16 x 19
Dunlop’s D-Squad should email Three new racquets use DNX Suggested Retail: $190
Teamdunlop@dunlopsports.com. Recommended for: 4.5 players and higher
technology: the DNX1 with Power
Arm, and the more normal-look-
The program will reward juniors
ranked in the top 50 nationally, ing DNX9 and DNX10 Mid. May-
based on quarterly rankings set nard says the material is at the 3
and 9 o’clock positions for better DNX9
by the USTA. Qualifying juniors, Head size: 98 sq. in.
who must be USTA members, stability and on the throat right Weight (unstrung): 10.9 oz.
Length: 27 in.
must play a minimum of five above the grip, to help provide String Pattern: 16 x 19
sanctioned national tourna- power. “On impact, the area Suggested Retail: $180
Recommended for: 4.5 players and higher
ments throughout the contract above the grip normally tends to
year. bend,” she says. “But DNX
won’t allow it to give as much.
For top-tier juniors, Dunlop says
On the DNX1, the Power Arm
it will provide racquets, travel
extends out and is, essentially, the
bags, tennis accessories, and DNX1 with Power Arm
more. Specific product packages throat of the racquet, in line with
Head size: 115 sq. in.
will be tailored to individual the string bed. When a ball impacts Weight (unstrung): 8.8 oz.
the strings, the Power Arm goes back Length: 27.8 in.
players’ needs and levels of String Pattern: 16 x 17
competitive performance. In with the stringbed, creating a “pocket Suggested Retail: $290
Recommended for: 2.0 players and higher
addition, D-Squad members will effect,” says Maynard, and causing less impact
be featured in national media on the arm and more “grab” on the ball. “You get a lot of spin and a lot of control,” she says.
activities and at key events. That’s the “backward phase.” In the “power phase,” the Power Arm acts as a catapult to help
launch the ball, says Maynard. The Power Arm itself is made mostly of DNX, and that, combined
“These players are the stars,” with the fact that it is aligned with the stringbed, won’t allow the stringbed to bend or warp, she
Koon says. “And we want to adds, so that shots stay true.
help them reach their full
What’s been the reaction so far? “Dealers who have tried the frame love it,” Maynard says. “As
potential.”
of early July, when we released the DNX1, we sold out of the frame, and we’ve stepped up pro-
duction for more.” Visit www.volkl.com or call 800-264-4579.

INDUSTRYNEWS A U G U S T 2 0 0 6
PTR, Special Olympics Babolat Launches Ergonomic Grip

Release Specialized Tennis
B
abolat has launched the Smart Grip, which the company says is the
first racquet handle shaped to fit the player’s hand. The ergonomic
Coaching Guide handle places the entire
T
he PTR and Special Olympics Inc. have col- hand in contact with the grip,
laborated on the new Special Olympics Tennis which Babolat says will provide
Coaching Guide. The 40-page spiral-bound more power, more control, and
book, which includes a CD, is a step-by-step more comfort.
guide for beginner and volunteer Special “Every part of the tennis rac-
Olympics coaches to grasp the basics of teaching quet has evolved over time—the
tennis to the Special Olympics athlete. materials, the shape and size of
“We hope this guide the racquet head, and even the
will encourage more PTR length of the handle—except the
teaching professionals to shape of the handle,” says Max
become involved in Spe- Brownlee, general manager of
cial Olympics tennis in Babolat USA. “This is surprising
their communities,” says because all players, regardless of
Geoff Norton, PTR direc- their skill level, consider the rac-
tor of development. “And quet as a natural extension of
it will serve as a great their arm, yet nothing had been
resource for those who done to improve the handle
already are.” until now.”
The guide is available Babolat introduced the Smart
free through PTR Head- Grip on two racquets in June:
quarters. It can be ordered online at www. the 112-square-inch Aero Blast
ptrtennis.org or by calling 800-421-6289 or 843- and the 110-square-inch Drive Z
785-7244. PTR is the Official Tennis Training OS. Both also feature Babolat’s Cortex System for vibration dampening.
Partner for Special Olympics. For more information, visit www.babolat.com or call 877-316-9435.
Midtown Tennis
Club Hosts World’s
Largest Cardio
Tennis Class
On June 9, 186 players ranging
in skill levels from NTRP 1.5 to
3.5 raised their racquets and
their heart rates in the world’s
largest Cardio Tennis class at
Midtown Tennis Club in Chica-
go. The class was part of Mid-
town’s patented Tennis in No
Time program, offered annually
by the club. Twenty-three Mid-
town professionals hosted the
event, led by Butch Staples and
Michael Mahoney, Midtown’s
head professional and general
manager. The club reports that
following the class, the players
replaced the calories they
burned with a buffet dinner and
social served by the club.

INDUSTRY NEWS
L E T T E R S Head Offers New Cars

To the Editor:
I enjoyed the “Our Serve” editorial (“Grab Every
To the Editor:
I read “The Soft Sell” in the May issue
In Airflow Promotion
O
ne lucky consumer and one plucky
Opportunity You Can”) in the July issue of RSI. I about transition tennis balls, and the com-
retailer will each drive home with a
couldn't agree with you more on the importance of ments throughout the article were great.
new Chrysler Crossfire sports
education for teaching professionals and coaches. Tennis, like many things in life, has a difficult
coupe, thanks to a promotion from
The USPTA has 17 divisions that offer educational time accepting or adopting change.
Head for its new Airflow racquets.
activities and trade shows that are open to not only In USTA Northern California, we believe
Until Oct. 15, consumers who demo
our members, but also nonmembers or anyone in in the transition balls so much we developed
an Airflow racquet will receive a ticket
the tennis industry, no matter what their affiliation. an all-volunteer-based Junior Team Tennis
from the retailer that enters them into
As examples, the USPTA Midwest Division does Leagues. The leagues would not be possible
the Airflow Demo Program Sweep-
a fantastic job of co-hosting a divisional conference without the equipment. We call the pro-
stakes, making them eligible to win the
with the high school coaches associations in the gram 6-TENNIS and it is being well received.
Crossfire. But Head has two vehicles to
Midwest. Their events feature great seminars and We have 15 spring leagues (over 500 play-
give away, and the second one will go
speakers. And the USPTA Texas Division holds the ers) in progress or just completed and plan
to the retailer who has the most con-
Southwest Tennis Buying Show in February and on many more in operation this fall.
sumers demoing the racquets.
August every year, in conjunction with the USPTA Adopting scaled-down versions of tennis
In related promotions, Head is also
Texas Division annual conference and Mid-Year and using the games-based approach to
running demo days in 15 markets
Meeting. This show, along with the educational teaching is allowing the kids to be success-
throughout the summer. The three Air-
offerings, was a great success this past February as ful, be part of a team, play the game almost
flow frames, designed for women play-
there was record attendance at both the confer- immediately and create more interest in our
ers, were introduced in May. For more
ence and Southwest Tennis Buying Show. sport.
information, visit www.head.com/
This is a great indicator that tennis is growing Thanks again for spreading the word
usademoprogram.
and with the entire tennis industry working togeth- about transition balls.
er, hopefully we can continue our growth. Jim Coyne
Ron Woods Director of Junior Tennis
President, USPTA USTA Northern California
We welcome your letters and comments. Please email them to rsi@racquetTECH.com or fax them to 760-536-1171.

Wilson Announces Former ASBA Chairman Kevin Smith Dies

Stringing Partnership
K
evin F. Smith, a former chairman of the U.S. Tennis Court and Track Builders
Association (now the American Sports Builders Association) passed away in
with RPNY Tennis April. He was 80.
Smith was a principal in The CourtSmiths of Toledo, Ohio, and active in the
W
ilson Racquet Sports has part-
tennis and track business. A Certified Tennis Court Builder, he also served as
nered with RPNY Tennis to pro-
USTC&TBA Tennis division president and ethics chairman. In 2002, he was
vide stringing services for select
awarded the association’s Industry Merit Award. He is survived by his wife of 55
ATP and WTA tournaments throughout
years, Patricia, seven children, and 22 grandchildren.
2006. The partnership, which began in
March as the exclusive stringer at The
Tennis Channel Open, continued
through the 2006 Wimbledon Champi-
onships as the official stringer for all Wil-
Prince O3 Tech Wins Design Award
P
son and Luxilon players at the rince O3 Engineered Technology has won a Bronze Industrial Design Excel-
tournament. lence Award (IDEA) in the Consumer Products category, recogniz-
Wilson will also be the official stringer ing it as an outstanding consumer product design for
for the 2006 US Open. RPNY will assist 2006.
Wilson in providing stringing services for “The IDEA Award is given to products that show
all US Open players, which equates to exceptional design and engineering, and it is a
approximately 3,000 racquets strung privilege for our company to have been hon-
during the three weeks of the event. ored with this outstanding award,” says
RPNY Tennis, based in New York, George Napier, chairman and CEO of Prince.
specializes in stringing and customizing “At Prince, we live an ongoing commitment
for both professional and recreational to give consumers an exceptional tennis expe-
players. rience through advanced technology and engi-
neering.”
Decisions for the 2006 IDEA Awards were based
upon design innovation, benefit to the user, benefit to the
business, ecological responsibility, and aesthetics and appeal. The
IDEA competition, sponsored by BusinessWeek and the Industrial
Designers Society of America, awarded a total of 499 entries this year. A
complete list and analysis of each recipient ran in the June 30 edition of
BusinessWeek.
The technology on Prince O3 racquets enlarges the string holes into giant
“O-Ports,” which Prince says expands the sweetspot up to 54 percent, allow-
ing for more consistent shots. Top pros Maria Sharapova, Nikolay Davydenko,
and Guillermo Coria play with O3 racquets, and the O3 Silver and O3 Hybrid Hor-
net were named Editor’s Choice winners by Tennis magazine.
For more information, visit www.princetennis.com.
Bälle de Mätch Is Official Apparel Brand for WTT
B
älle de Mätch has become the official apparel for World TeamTennis. The multi-
year agreement includes WTT recreational and junior leagues, and beginning in
2007, the 12-city WTT Professional League. The company will supply uniforms
for tournament staffing, ball kids, league directors, and WTT staff.
“[WTT co-founder] Billie Jean King is one of the most dynamic leaders and true
innovator for the sport,” says John Embree, Bälle de Mätch co-owner and partner.
“I am so inspired by what she has done for tennis and what World TeamTennis
has meant to the industry.”
“Bälle de Mätch is always on the leading edge of tennis apparel design and their
edgy, non-traditional look fits in well with WTT’s unique brand of tennis,” says
WTT CEO/Commissioner Ilana Kloss.
For more information on Bälle de Mätch, call 949-574-7300 or 800-356-1021.

INDUSTRY NEWS
Colorado Club Installs Quickie Donates Tennis Wheelchair to PTR

Two Red Clay Courts
S
unrise Medical has donated a new Quickie Match Point tennis
wheelchair to the PTR, which will use the wheelchair to help able-
C
olumbine Country Club near Denver has installed
bodied tennis teaching professionals learn the nuances of the
Colorado’s first two American Fast Dry red clay
wheelchair game.
courts. The new clay courts are the final phase of
“It is imperative that able-bodied participants in our wheelchair
a renovation program involving five other post-tension
instructing workshops experience the chair firsthand,” says PTR
hard surface courts. L.E. Renner Sports Surfaces of
Director of Development Geoff Norton. “Understanding chair mobili-
Denver was the general contractor for the project. The
ty, as well as stroke production from a wheelchair player’s perspec-
clay courts feature a sub-surface irrigation system, says
tive, is just not the same without familiarity with the equipment. With
CCC’s head tennis pro, Terry Boyle.
this generous donation, PTR can now assure that a sport chair will be
available no matter where we
conduct these clinics.”
Kathryn McDougal, the
Quickie ambassador program
manager, and Scott Cross-
white, regional sales director
for Quickie, helped organize
the donation. Crosswhite and
his Quickie team support the
annual PTR/ROHO Wheel-
chair Tennis Championships
by supplying a repair tent for
the players’ athletic chairs.
Andrew Honored by
USPTA Southern Division
J
orge Andrew,
the director of
operations at
the Lexington Coun-
ty Tennis Complex
in Lexington, S.C.,
was named USPTA
Southern Division
“Alan Henry Tennis Professional of
the Year” during the division’s con-
vention at Tunica National Tennis
Center and Grand Casino Veranda
Hotel in Tunica, Miss., recently.
Andrew is a USPTA Master Pro-
fessional, President of the USPTA
South Carolina Chapter, and Vice
President of USTA South Carolina.
He also serves on two USTA
National Committees and one
USTA Southern Section Commit-
tee, is the chairman of the Nation-
al Cardio Tennis Speakers Team,
and is a member of the
HEAD/Penn National Speakers
Bureau Team and National Adviso-
ry Staff.

Follow the Open at Home 12 Named to USTA Summer Collegiate Team

C T
an’t make it to Flushing Meadows welve of the U.S.’s top college men and women players were named recently to
this year for the US Open? You can the 2006 USTA Summer Collegiate Team, which is administered by the USTA and
still get with the program—the the Intercollegiate Tennis Association.
2006 US Open souvenir program, that is. The team—an elite training program for the top American collegiate tennis play-
The official tournament magazine con- ers that began in 1996 and is funded by the USTA—is designed to expose players to
tains 256 pages filled with action photos, the USTA Pro Circuit in a team-oriented environment during the summer. The team
player bios, inside stories, and more. To participated in events in July, coached by Bryan Shelton, women’s head coach at
order your copy, visit USOpenShop.org. Georgia Tech, and Kent Kinnear, assistant men’s coach at Illinois.
This year’s team includes: Matt Bruch, Stanford; Travis Helgeson, University of
Texas; John Isner, University of Georgia; Bryan Koniecko, Ohio State University;
USPTA World Conference Sheeva Parbhu, Notre Dame; Todd Paul, Wake Forest; Audra Cohen, University of
Hits Vegas Sept. 18-23 Miami; Amanda Fink, University of Southern California; Amber Liu, Stanford; Kristi
T
he 2006 USPTA World Conference on Miller, Georgia Tech; Lindsey Nelson, University of Southern California; and Anne
Tennis will be Sept. 18 to 23 at the Yelsey, Stanford.
Flamingo Las Vegas. The event also will
include a Tennis Buying Show on Sept. 21.
Nearly 1,500 tennis pros, industry lead-
ers, manufacturers, and others are expect-
Lee Tennis to Host Indoor Clay Conference
L
ee Tennis, the manufacturer of Har-Tru, will host its Third Annual Conference
ed to attend. The conference also will offer
on Indoor Clay Courts Aug. 28-29, at the Congressional Country Club in
more than 35 seminars and courses, along
Bethesda, Md. The conference is designed to bring together leading experts to
with nighttime parties, a silent auction and
discuss construction and maintenance issues regarding indoor clay courts.
the USPTA International Tennis Champi-
Topics will include the latest research on surface compaction, maintenance
onships.
tools and techniques, irrigation, and structures. The conference will consist of
The agenda, speakers list, and registra-
classroom presentations, panel discussions, and on-court demonstrations. Addi-
tion information is available at www.
tionally, attendees will tour several indoor facilities and participate in Q&A sessions
uspta.org or by calling 800-877-8248.
with the facility managers and maintenance personnel.
The event is designed for anyone managing, maintaining or considering
installing indoor clay courts. For more information, contact Pat Hanssen at 1-877-
4HARTRU or phanssen@luckstone.com.
New DVD Series From Annacone, Tennis Mag

H
osted by Paul Annacone, coach of pro Tim Henman and former coach of Pete
Sampras, Tennis Magazine’s Tactical Tennis DVD package focuses on identify-
ing and maximizing key tactical situations on court. In each of the four DVDs—
Know Your Own Game, Beat the Baseliner, Neutralize the Net-Rusher, and Attack the
All-Court Player—Annacone explains tactics and counters for every situation. Also
included are 43 drills
and practice games for
improving match-specif-
ic strategy. Individual
DVDs are $22.92, or the
four-DVD set is $86.95.
Visit

INDUSTRY NEWS
EWA
PL T
O • Charles C. Mulcahy,
PE
CH
the founder of the Milwaukee
Tennis & Education Foundation, has
stepped down after 31 years as presi-
dent of the award-winning organization.
The new president will be MTEF board
member David Pelisek.
• Six people were inducted recently into

the USTA New England Section Tennis
Hall of Fame: Russ Adams of Reading,
Mass., Alan Chandronnait of Bow, N.H.,
Andrea Voikos Door of Scituate, R.I., Dr.
Robert Leach of Weston, Mass., Kay Ruel
of Portsmouth, N.H., and the late Ann
Rogan of Needham, Mass. In addition,
Art Goldblatt of Norwalk, Conn., received
the Gardner Ward Chase Memorial
Award for outstanding contributions to
tennis in New England.
• Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal were

honored recently with 2006 Laureus
World Sports Awards. Federer collected
Sportsman of the Year honors for the sec-
ond year in a row, while Nadal claimed
the Newcomer of the Year award.
• Martina Navratilova and Don Budge will

be inducted into the “Court of Champi-
ons” at the 2006 US Open. The Court of
Champions celebrates the legacies of the
greatest singles champions in the history
of the US Open and US Championships.
• Jacco Eltingh, a former No. 1 doubles

player, has been re-elected to the ATP
Board for a three-year term. In addition,
the ATP has appointed a new player
council, with members Ivan Ljubicic,
James Blake, Olivier Rochus, Thomas
Johansson, Paul Goldstein, Davide San-
guinetti, Bob Bryan, Kevin Ullyett, Younes
El Aynaoui, Martin Garcia, David Adams
and Ricardo Piatti.
• James R. Cochrane of Great Britain is

the 2006 recipient of the International
Tennis Hall of Fame’s Golden Achieve-
ment Award, presented annually on a
worldwide basis to individuals who have
made important contributions to tennis
in the fields of administration, promo-
tion, or education and have devoted
long and outstanding service to
the sport.

INDUSTRYNEWS
SHORT SETS
>ationTheTechnical
American Sports Builders Associ-
Meeting will be Dec. 1-4
at the Plaza Hotel and Spa in Daytona
Beach, Fla. For more information, visit
www.sportsbuilders.org, call 866-501-
ASBA, or email info@sportsbuilders.org.
>Dixville
The Balsams Grand Resort Hotel in
Notch, N.H., has joined the list of
resorts offering exclusive benefits for
USTA members. Contact the resort
directly at 800-255-0600 or visit
www.thebalsams.com. For more infor-
mation about the USTA Resort & Camp
program, login at
www.usta.com/membership.
>company
Hawk-Eye Innovations Limited, the
behind the line-calling tech-
nology that will be used in this year’s US
Open and US Open Series tournaments,
has been acquired by the British cricket
publisher Wisden.
>Tennis
Tennis legend Stan Smith and 2006
Hall of Fame inductee Patrick
Rafter will take part in a doubles exhibi-
tion on July 16 at the International Ten-
nis Hall of Fame in Newport, R.I., in
conjunction with the Campbell’s Hall of
Fame Tennis Championships and Induc-
tion Weekend. Visit www.tennis
fame.com for more information.
>andTheupgraded
Tennis Channel has re-launched
its website with a new
look and enhanced features, including
tennis travel, broadband video and
expanded advertising space. The new
www.TennisChannel.com introduces
lifestyle content that complements simi-
lar programming found on TTC, says the
network. Visitors can find local hitting
partners, select instructors, and search
for tennis courts, among other choices.
>of theATPtennis.com, the official website

men’s pro tour, has launched a
new “Doubles Revolution.” The
redesigned web section is dedicated to
ATP doubles.
>www.klipstrings.com.
Klip has revamped its website,
The site includes
the latest news from Team Klip, the lat-
est products, and a chance to enter
monthly Web contests.
> The Eastside Racquet Club in Man-

INDUSTRY NEWS
lius, N.Y., won an Excellence Award at

the Eighth Annual Small Business
Excellence Awards, held in late June in
Syracuse, N.Y. The family-owned club
was nominated by Adirondack Bank
and used SBA financing in 2005 to
renovate both the facility and the ten-
nis program.
> The PTR’s TennisPro magazine

recently won two national APEX Excel-
lence Awards. Editor and PTR Director
of Communications Peggy Edwards
received the Magazine & Journal Writ-
ing APEX Award for the Septem-
ber/October 2005 issue, and Art
Director Angie van Zuylen earned a
Design & Layout award for the
November/December 2005 issue.
> Head/Penn has won Mattel’s

“Rookie of the Year” award as the top
new licensee for the Barbie brand.
Mattel, which has more than 100
licensees, lauded Head for its Barbie
co-branded racquet. “We’ve had so
much fun with this Barbie brand,”
says Greg Mason of Head/Penn. “It’s
one of those things that girls identify
with.”
>Captain
The U.S. Davis Cup team, led by
Patrick McEnroe, will take on
Russia on red clay Sept. 22-24 at the
Olympic Stadium in Moscow.
>merchandise,
Proceeds from the sale of J-Block
developed by James
Blake and Nike, during the US Open
Series and the US Open will go to the
USTA Tennis & Education Foundation.
Merchandise will be available at the
events as well as in tennis specialty
shops, and on TennisWarehouse.com
and JamesBlakeTennis.com.
> The USTA Tennis & Education Foun-

dation will hold its fourth annual Pro-
Am fundraiser Sept. 8, during the US
Open. Eight amateur participants will
be paired with eight tennis champions
for the tennis experience of a lifetime.
Fee to participate is $7,500, and all
proceeds go to support the USTA
T&EF. For information or to register,
contact the Foundation at 914-696-
7223 or foundation @usta.com.

A U G U S T 2 0 0 6
Gentle Jaws Stringing Machine

INDUSTRYNEWS
USRSA MEMBER CLASSIFIEDS

TENNIS PROFESSIONALS NEEDED to take a
Accessory Eliminates String Crushing Caribbean Vacation! You work 3 hours per day
G
entle Jaws is a nosecone or "diablo" accessory that mounts easily on any
and receive 5-star all inclusive accommoda-
stringing machine to minimize damage to strings caused by slippage
through the tension jaws. As described in the Machine Selector Guide on tions for yourself and 1 guest. Contact Denise
page 26, a nosecone functions as follows: "The string is wrapped around the Cox 678-778-4673; www.fitbodiesinc.com
nosecone before it is put in the tension head, allowing the tension head to
FOR SALE: Czech Sports CT750 floor model
grip the string more gently and ensuring the string enters the tension jaws at
the the same angle each time." According to Gentle Jaws developer John Zed- racquet stringing machine. This machine has
nick, the accessory "will speed up your stringing and improve the quality of been modified with a Wise electronic 2086 lin-
your work. This will lead to more satisfied customers and increased profits." ear string puller which never has to be cali-
For more information, contact John Zednick, 919-859-6788. brated as it’s self calibrating. The CT750 has a
six point mounting system for most racquets.
It includes a foot pedal for the Wise 2086.
Tools not included. The original price for the
CT750 was $750, Wise electronic linear 2086
string puller was $700 and foot pedal $50.
$700 + shipping. Please contact Tom Albert
@ 410-757-4728.
FOR SALE: Babolat Star 3: Completely Recon-
ditioned by Tennis Machines Inc. $2500 +
Shipping. Please Contact Russ Sheh @ 760-
641-3983.

I N D U S T RY N E W S
USTA to House Top Jun-

iors, Relocate
Player Development
T
he USTA has joined with the Evert Ten-
nis Academy in Boca Raton, Fla., to
provide year-round housing for top jun-
ior players for the first time, launching a
new era in the program's mission to devel-
op the next generation of American tennis
champions.
Working with the USTA, the Evert Acad-
emy will construct a new on-site facility
that will serve as the national headquarters
for USTA Player Development. The USTA is
expected to move Player Developement
from Key Biscayne, Fla., to the Evert Tennis
Academy by September 2007.
As part of the new arrangement, the
USTA will for the first time offer player
housing for promising young players aged
14 to 18. The Evert Tennis Academy is run
by Chris Evert and John Evert, and
features 23 tennis courts, including
14 clay courts and nine hard
courts, with 14 courts lighted
for night play.

TENNIS
APPAREL
FASHIONS
F
or the coming seasons,
apparel manufacturers
will continue to stretch
the boundaries between
THAT “FIT”
court time and off-
court/fitness/cardio activi-
ties with pieces that have
crossover appeal while
using technical fabrics to
help athletes perform bet-
ter. The newest pieces
reflect the growing trend
in both fitness and fashion,
combining the latest mois-
ture- wicking performance
fabrics and high-fashion
patterns and colors.
TAIL —Cynthia Sherman
Tennis and fitness play nicely together in
Tail’s newest multi-use apparel. Bright sparks LE COQ SPORTIF
of color—“just short of neon,” says Tail’s Le Coq Sportif is back in the game with
Brad Singer—are coming through, and new innovative, functional fashion-plus designs.
lines feature such colors as copper and pink, Hot sellers for fall and winter are the men's
midnight blue, and “hot lava” (pink, black, Polo in electric blue, black and “glow” cou-
and white). Tail, which is producing Cardio pled with black shorts in an absorbent pique
Tennis-specific clothing, has also introduced 100 percent Poly QuickDry fabric. For the
a cardio skort for women, le Coq plays up the active theme
the “hard-body in pink-lavender and “Dusk” (blue) shades
girl.” For clothes with a color-block tank paired with a
that move easily Dusk skirt in a moisture-wicking poly-
between on- and lycra blend. Available through Polo at
off-court wear, 877-229-6341.
the company also
has “power
capris” and a DIADORA
novelty “i” jacket Diadora employs Meryl microfiber DiaDry in
with a place to its "EVS" (engineered venting system) fab-
hold an iPod. rics, which is mesh located where the body
www.tailinc.com; produces the most heat. Colorways include pair-
800-678-8245 ing up yellows, blacks, oranges and grays, as
well as updating traditional navy, red, and white
hues. www.diadoraamerica.com; 800-252-5415.
POLO
For fall, Polo brings out its RLX line
featuring more technical poly-hybrid
moisture-management fabrics and the Her-
itage line sporting the trademark polo pony.
The fabrications are a rich, mercerized mois-
ture-wicking cotton of navy, deep greens,
white, and charcoal on the men's side.
877-229-6341.

LBH, LILY’S,
AND WIMBLEDON
For LBH, Lily’s, and Wimble-
don, spring is all about color
and texture balanced with tradi-
tional whites. The LBH line
plays up dynamic strong, high-
contrast colors. The Lily's line is
more playful and feminine,
emphasizing prints. And crisp,
classic looks embody the Wim-
bledon collection. For men’s
apparel, Wimbledon introduces
an expanded line featuring knit
polos, tees, woven shorts, and
jackets in “G-Cool” performance
fabrics, which LBH says puts
the performance “at the fiber
level.” www.lbhgroup.com;
800-421-4474
BOLLE
Bolle, whose apparel
generally features a
more “traditional” fit,
introduces bright, active
colors in more prints
than ever before. Made
of a poly/spandex, these
outfits are moisture-
wicking and feature
fashion details such as
mesh, unique trims,
embroidery, and hard-
ware. www.bolle.com; LEJAY
800-222-6553 Lejay’s new Cardio Ten-
nis Heartbeat line for fit-
ness/tennis features
high-performance nylon lycra
fabrics that are lightweight,
quick-drying and designed
KAELIN to conform (without con-
Kaelin does chic with its new Bijou and stricting) and move with
Stargazer collections, offering dazzling the body. Available in
hues of blues and yellows and unique Pink Synergy and
color blocking patterns. The garments are Blue Synergy color
made from Meryl microfiber nylon, offer- combinations,
ing performance and moisture manage- pieces feature
ment. www.diadoraamerica.com; mesh and metal-
800-252-5415. lic details for the
tank and Ace
Border skirt with
built-in shorts.
www.lejay.com;
800-932-7535

FIRST-STRING
GUIDE TO STRINGING MACHINES
PLAYERS
Our tips and exclusive guide will help
you generate more revenue from your
stringing business. BY BOB PATTERSON, MRT
y father used to tell me, “You only get one chance to and other equipment is in good shape and has a ‘wow’ fac-
M make a first impression. Make sure it is a good one.”

While my dad was sharing this pearl of wisdom about
life in general, the old adage is very applicable to your racquet
tor,” he says. “I have a Babolat Sensor in my store, front and
center. It is big, modern-looking, and quite attractive. I have
a regular customer who calls it the ‘Starship Enterprise’!”
service business.
Whether you are a home stringer with only a few clients, Make an Investment
a large retail store with thousands of customers, or something If your machine doesn’t have the “wow” factor or looks a bit
in between, you have to make a good impression to attract worn and dated, you may want to consider investing in a new
and retain customers. one. I use the word “investment” simply because that is what
Competition in today’s marketplace is abundant and a machine purchase is—it should pay you dividends for many
diverse, regardless of the size or scope of your operation. So years to come.
how do you compete? What can you do to separate yourself Regardless of the size of your racquet service operation,
from your competitors? How do you make that good first your stringing machine is vital to the success of the business.
impression? The answer to all three questions can be Like any investment, you should analyze your needs and do
summed up with one word: “professionalism.” as much research as possible and then make your decision
If everything you do exudes professionalism, your cus- based on what makes good business sense for you.
tomers will take notice and you will reap the rewards of a There are about as many options in stringing machines as
loyal customer base that will not only continue to do business there are stringers in the world, and choosing the right one
with you, but also will sing your praises to everyone they can be a daunting task. Once you look at your particular
know. needs, then you can utilize the information in this issue as
well as the machine reviews and comparison charts available
The First Impression from the USRSA website, www.racquettech.com. You can
When a potential customer walks into your business, what is evaluate and compare the various functions, designs, and
their first impression of your racquet service operation? Is workability of many of the machines available in today’s mar-
there even any evidence of its existence? ket and decide what would best serve your business.
Often, racquet service is tucked into a back room or a des-
olate corner away from the traffic flow. The stringing Return on Investment
machine and other tools of the trade should be proudly dis- Another reason for making the investment in a new machine
played front and center so that there is no doubt that profes- is simply the return on that investment. If you do your home-
sional racquet service is available. The stringing machine work and invest in the right machine for your operation,
itself should command attention. you’ll reap the rewards with increased business for years to
David Pavlich, owner of North Shore Tennis in Mandeville, come.
La., believes that the stringing operation should be very visi- With the proper set-up and attention, racquet stringing
ble in your store or pro shop. “Make sure that your machine and racquet service should be the most profitable aspect of

your retail operation. Most pro shops and retailers make 70 Finishing Touches
percent to 80 percent gross profit on racquet service. With a first-class presentation, top-notch personnel, and pre-
Wouldn’t you love to get those margins on racquet, appar- miere customer service, the only thing left is adding amenities.
el, or shoe sales? With such profit-generating potential, Paying attention to the details will keep your customers coming
why wouldn’t you place a major emphasis on your racquet back and telling their friends about the great service they
service operation? And, why wouldn’t you invest in good received in your establishment.
equipment? “We put our finished racquets in a poly bag with our store
You may not be able to afford the most expensive logo on it,” says Grant Morgan of String n’ Swing in Memphis.
machine on the market, but you should select the machine “It costs us a few cents for each one, but the customers really
that best meets your needs. Then, make it the centerpiece like it. They see the pros pulling fresh racquets out of the poly
of your business. Whether a new machine is in your bud- bags on court and it makes them feel just as important.”
get or not, at least make sure your Pavlich is also a proponent of the poly
machine and the surrounding bags. “It gives a professional impression
work area are neat and clean in What Your and it actually protects the racquet to
appearance.
As with any busy workspace, it
Customers Should Know some extent,” he says. “And because
each bag has our logo on it, we get an
A little knowledge can go a long way, and for your
is easy to allow clutter to accumu- on-court advertisement every time a cus-
customers, providing them with some basic informa-
late. Tools and other items should tomer pulls out a fresh racquet.”
tion about strings and stringing may help generate
be stored in an orderly manner. Offering faster turn-around than your
more interest in your stringing and customization
Finished racquets and racquets competitors is another way to make
business.
awaiting service should be separat- your customers choose your business.
ed and neatly stored. Your work When it comes to restringing, the basic rule of thumb Knowing that they can depend on get-
area should always project a pro- still applies: A player should restring as many times ting their racquet serviced and be back
fessional image. each year as he or she plays each week. But better on the court is important to a busy play-
yet, check the string tension regularly and suggest er. Offering an express service, even if
Expert Staffing they restring each time their racquet loses 20 to 30 you charge an extra fee, will certainly set
Another important aspect of pro- percent of its freshly strung value. your service apart.
fessional racquet service is the “I guarantee 24-hour turnaround,”
A few other general guidelines that you should make
expertise of your staff. Your equip- says Pavlich. “I also offer Express Ser-
sure your customers are aware of include:
ment is only as good as the per- vice: $5 for four-hour service and $10 for
sonnel who use it and provide Q Lower string tensions generate more power. one-hour service. Our customers know
service to your customers. The Q Higher string tensions produce more ball control. that we will go out of our way to accom-
most impressive racquet service Q Fewer strings will generally produce more power. modate their needs.”
area in the world will not be uti- Q Thinner string generally produces more power. Keeping accurate service records is
lized if it is manned by an inexpe- Q A longer string will generally produce more power. another plus for your customers, accord-
rienced employee with little or no Q Thinner strings generally produce more spin. ing to Tim Strawn of Baseline Racquet
training. Q A more open stringbed tends to generate more spin. Sports in Roanoke, Va. “I label each rac-
The personnel in your racquet Q Pre-stretching string before installation will generally quet with the date of service, string, and
service area should be experienced reduce the amount of tension lost after stringing. tension,” says Strawn. “I also keep
and well-trained in all aspects of records of every string job. My cus-
racquet service. Ideally, each tomers appreciate the fact that I can tell
should be certified through the USRSA as Certified them what string and tension they were using over the last sev-
Stringers, if not Master Racquet Technicians. eral years.”
At North Shore Tennis, Pavlich is a staff of one, but he Putting forth the extra effort to make your racquet service as
proudly touts his MRT status and has built a loyal following professional as possible will pay big dividends to your bottom
from players in the New Orleans area. “I run ads on the line. “Know your product, both racquets and strings,” says
local cable channel highlighting my experience. I am the Pavlich. “Also learn as much as possible about the technology
only MRT in the area and that fact is mentioned in the so that you can better assist your customers. Being able to tell
commercial,” says Pavlich. a customer why one string does what it does in a specific frame
As true professionals, it is essential that your racquet goes a long way in instilling confidence and comfort in a
technicians be able to answer questions and guide cus- prospective customer.”
tomers in string selection, tension and racquet customiza- Investing in a professional racquet service operation, and all
tion. If your operation sells racquets, they should also that it entails, will pay big dividends for your business.Q
know about and be able to assist customers with racquet
selection. Being certified as an MRT will ensure that the Master Racquet Technician Bob Patterson of Birming-
staff keeps up to date on the latest racquet technologies ham, Ala., owns Players Choice Tennis and the racquet
and are able to provide customers with the best possible customization company Racquetmaxx. In 2005, he was
service. named RSI’s Stringer of the Year.

GUIDE TO STRINGING MACHINES
B
uying a stringing machine is one of the most 360o Rotation Turntable. Allows you to turn the racquet all
important purchases you can make for your busi- the way around during stringing.
ness. It is also one of the most difficult. With the
plethora of machines, technologies, and features 3-D Rotation Turntable. Allows the turntable to tilt so that
available, selecting a machine is a daunting task. each string gets pulled straight through the grommet. This
Our Stringing Machine Selection Guide will guide you is designed to reduce the friction of
through the minefields and help you choose the best the string against the grommet
machine for your business. Below we explain the essential when tension is being pulled.
machine features, and the chart on pages 28-31 displays the
features of almost every professional machine on the
market. TENSIONING SYSTEMS
There are two main types of tensioning sys-
tems available today—lockout and constant
MOUNTING SYSTEMS pull. Lockout means that the machine pulls
The chart lists machines with 2-, 4-, 5-, or 6-point mounting the string to the desired tension and then
systems. This refers to how many places they support the locks the length of the string until you clamp Alpha
frame. There are many subtle differences in mounting sys- it and release the tension head. So, as soon as Equinox
tems. The three most common types of mounting systems you lock the length of the string, it starts equalizing
are the 2-point, 4-point and 6-point, though each of them is and losing tension. Constant-pull machines pull the string
safe. to the desired tension, but when the string starts
to equalize and lose tension, it pulls a little
6-Point Mounting. Fans of 6-point systems will tell you that more to stay at reference tension. Constant-
more points of contact must be better. Six-point systems do pull machines generally achieve slightly high-
support the frame in more places, which means it is a little er stringbed stiffness (we find the difference
easier to lock the racquet in place so it does not slide back to be about 5 percent to 10 percent).
and forth during stringing. It also allows a better view of the
grommets at the head and throat of a racquet. Six-point sys- Drop Weight. These machines use a lever
tems can require fewer adapters for frames of different (with a weight attached to it) to pull tension
shapes. Finally, some of these systems have side arms that on each string. Moving the weight on the bar
can be adjusted simultaneously, making it easier to center a determines how much tension it pulls. These ATS
racquet. machines qualify as constant pull because the weight Traveler
continues to pull the string as the string stretches.
2-Point & 4-Point Mounting. Fans of two-point and four-
point systems suggest that it is quicker to mount a racquet Hand Crank. Tension is pulled by hand
on a these machines because there are fewer mounting crank. These machines lockout when the
points to be adjusted. They will also say that these systems desired tension has been reached.
offer more support at 6 o'clock and 12 o'clock, (the two
most important points to support), because the amount of Electric. These machines require electrici-
surface contact with the frame is greater at these locations. ty to pull tension. Most of these machines are
constant pull, but a few allow you to choose
Babolat
Turntable Lock. This allows you to stop the turntable in one between constant-pull and lockout modes. Star 5
position. Helpful for calibrating, tying knots, and stringing Some offer multiple pull speeds and a pre-
O3 and Rollers frames. stretch mode.

Klipper
440-CS
Linear Pull & Rotational Fixed Clamps that Swivel. These
Tensioners. Machines that pull clamps are attached to the machine
tension in a straight line away and can be turned in any direction,
from the machine are said to be lin- especially helpful when stringing
Gamma
ear pull. The alternative is a rotational fan patterns. They also allow you
8800 Els
tensioner, which wraps the string to switch from main strings to
around a spool, then rotates the cross strings without having to
spool to pull tension on the string. remove and replace glide bars. There are
two kinds: dual swivel, dual action fixed
Diablo/Nosecone. The string is clamps that require you to lock two levers to
wrapped around the diablo or clamp a string; and dual swivel,
nosecone before it is put in the ten- single-action fixed clamps that
sion head, allowing the tension head require you to lock one lever.
to grip the string more gently and 360º glide bar clamps are
SAM ensuring the string enters the tension clamps that rotate 360 degrees,
ProMaster jaws at the same angle each time. but they are mounted on glide
Mutual Power
bars. Single swivel fixed refers to Hercules 650
Foot Tension. Foot-activated tension machines with only one clamp
head. attached to the machine. Machines
with this type of clamp will gener-
Manual Calibration. Allows you to adjust ally require a starting clamp or fly-
(correct) the pulling force manually, as ing clamp for part of each string
Pacific opposed to a few machines that are job.
Digital X8
designed to calibrate themselves automati-
cally. Fixed Clamps that Don't Swivel. These are
clamps that are attached to the
Diamond Coated machine by glide bars, but can
Tension Head. Grips only be turned in two directions
the string with less (90 degrees and 0 degrees).
pressure. These require removing and reposi-
Prince
tioning glide bars to switch from main 3000
Tension Sets. Three types: dial tension set, strings to cross strings.
+/- key tension set, and numeric keypad.
Diamond Dust. Holds a string with less
Knot Tensioning. The machine can pressure, avoiding string crushing but can
be instructed to pull the last string scar surface of string if they are adjusted too
before a knot tighter than the refer- loosely and allow the string to slip
ence tension to allow for the tension through them.
that is lost between the clamp and
Silent Partner
the knot.
Opus
WEIGHT
Categories indicate whether the
CLAMPING SYSTEMS machine weighs less than 50
The clamping system is meant to pounds, between 50 and 75 pounds, Tecnifibre
TF-8000
hold strings in the racquet under ten- or over 75 pounds. Heavier machines
sion. If clamps slip, or allow strings to slip can be more stable and solid, but they
through them, a string job can be ruined. can be less convenient when moving or
There are many different clamps, but we traveling.
will only discuss three here.
Flying Clamps. These clamps are not TOOLS INCLUDED

attached to the machine. They use This final category indicates
one string to hold tension on another which supplies and tools are
Yonex
ES5 Pro
string. They generally do not hold tension as included with the machine.
consistently as the other two types of For descriptions of each
clamps. The low price tag makes them tool, see pages 9-10 of the
attractive to new stringers testing the USRSA Racquet Service
waters. Techniques book. Q Wise
2086 Professional ETH

Sports Height Mounting Tensioning
3-D Turntablen Turntable

Rotation
Hand Cranktem-Drop
Table Top O ndard
Constant Pu ed Pull
Height Adjustptional
able
6-Point Mou nting

4-Point Mou ting
5-Point Mou ting
Turntable Lonting
Rachet Sys rop

Table Top Stable
360º Rotatiock
ed
k
n
n
2-Sided Cran
ll
Full Clutch-D
2-Point Mou
Drop Weight
Multiple Spe
Stand Availa
Stand Includ
Racquetball
Badminton
Linear Pull
Prestretch
Lockout
Squash
Electric
Tennis
Price Warranty
Brand Model (MSRP) (years)
AG 601F $219 5 x x x x x x x x x x
www.gutermanintl.com 602F $269 5 x x x x x x x x
800-343-6096 602S $379 5 x x x x x x x x x x
603GB $549 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x
604S $569 5 x x x x x x x x x x x
603S $699 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x
607 $799 5 x x x x x x x x x x x
Alpha String Pal $129 5 x x x x x x x x x X

www.alphatennis.com Pioneer DC Plus $399 5 x x x x x x x x x x x X
800-922-9024 Revo 4000 $549 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x
Axis Pro $749 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Apex II $995 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Eclipse $1,149 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Equinox $2,495 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
ATS
www.atssports.com Super Stringer II $135 Life x x x x x x x x x x
800-866-7071 Traveler $189 Life x x x x x x x x x x
Babolat Sensor $5,200 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

www.babolat.com Sensor Expert $8,500 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x
877-316-9435 Star 5 $3,000 3 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Gamma X-2 $139 Life x x x x x x x x x x x

Progression 602 $299 5 x x x x x x x x x x x
www.gammasports.com
X-6 $329 5 x x x x x x x x x x x
800-333-0337
Progression 602 FC $469 5 x x x x x x x x x x x
X-6 FC $499 5 x x x x x x x x x x x
Progression ST II $629 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x
X-ST $659 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x
5003 w/6pt $799 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x
5003 w/2pt SC System$999 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x
Progression Es II+ $899 5 x x x x x x x x x x
X-Es $949 5 x x x x x x x x x x
6004 w/6pt $1,199 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x
6004 w/2pt $1,199 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x
6500 Els w/6pt $1,699 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x
6500 Els w/2pt $1,699 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x
5800 Els w/6pt $1,999 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
8500 Els $2,999 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Klipper USA Klippermate $145 Life x x x x x x x x x x x

www.klipperusa.com Klippermate Bad’ton $155 Life x x x x x x x x
800-522-5547 280-CS $245 10 x x x x x x x x x x x
440-CS $445 10 x x x x x x x x x x x

Self-Elevatin
x x
Automated g Linear Pull
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Diablo/NoseTension Release
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Rotational Tcone
e
x x
x x
x x
x
x
x x
x
x
x
Foot Pedal T nsioner
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Pounds & K ension Activator
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Manual Calibilos Tension
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Self-Calibra ration Adjustable
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Diamond Coting
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Tensioning
Knob/Dial T at Tension Head Grip

en
x
x
x
x
x
x
Plus/Minus sion Setting
T
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x x x
x x x
x x x
Full Keypad ouch Pad Tension Set
LED/LCD Te Tension Setting
x
x
x
x
Knot Tensio nsion Display
x
x
x
x x x
x x x
x x x
x x x x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Removable ning
Electric Ten
sioner Unit
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Flying Clam
x ps
Fixed Clamp
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Dual Swivel s on Glide Bars
Dual Swivel Double Action Fixed
360 Degree Single Action Fixed
x
Single Swiv Clamps on Glide Bars
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Diamond Duel Fixed Clamp
x x
Clamping
Automated st Clamps
B
Magnetic Au ase Release Clamps
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
No Tool Nee to Clamp Base Relea
ded to Adju se
st Clamps
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Tool Tray
x
x
x x
x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Cover Includ
x
x
x
x
x
x
String Measued
x
x
x
x
Built-in Rule rer
x x x x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Reel Rack r
Racquet S
x
Cabinet wittahnd
x
x
x
xx x
x
x
x
xx x
x
xx x
x
xx x
x
xx x
x
x
x
x
x
x
xx x
x
x
xx x
xx x
xx x
Extra Features
Leveling Pa Drawers
ds on Base
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Under 50 lb
s
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
50-75 lbs
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Over 75 lbs
Weight
Calibrator
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Starting Cla
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Diagonal Cump
tt
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Needlenose ers
x x
x
x x
x x
x x
x
x x
x
x x
x
x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x x
x x
x x
x x
x x
x x
x
x x
x x
x x
Awl Pliers
x
x
x
x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Flying Clam
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Assembly Inp
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x x
x x
x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x x
x x x x
x x x x
x x x x
x
x
x
Owners Ma structions/Video
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x x x x x x
x x x x x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
August 2006 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY

Guiding Awnual/Video
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Tools Included
Bent Nose Pl
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
31
Assembly T liers
x
x
x
x
Flying Clamools
p Starting P
ins
Sports Height Mounting Tensioning
n Turntable
Rotation
Hand Cranktem-Drop
Table Top O ndard
Constant Pueed Pull

Height Adjustptional
able
6-Point Mou ing

4-Point Mou ting
5-Point Mountting
Turntable Lonting
Rachet Sys rop

Table Top Stable
360º Rotatiock
Stand Availaed
k
3-D Turntable
n
n
2-Sided Cran
ll
Full Clutch-D
Drop Weight
2-Point Mou
Stand Includ
Racquetball
Multiple Sp
Badminton
Linear Pull
Prestretch
Lockout
Squash
Electric
Tennis
Price Warranty
Brand Model (MSRP) (years)
Master Sports SAM G-Force R1 $395 5 x x x x x x x x x x
www.mastersports.com SAM G-Force R2 $495 5 x x x x x x x x x x
800-837-1002 SAM XLR8 $795 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x
SAM XLR8+ $995 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x
SAM NRG $1795 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x
SAM NRG+ $1995 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
SAM ProMaster $2495 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Mutual Power Hercules 610 $319 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

www.mutualpower.com Alpine 2000 $399 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x
832-327-0256 Alpine 2500 $499 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x
Alpine 2600 $499 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Alpine 6500 $569 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x
Hercules 630 $529 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Hercules 650 $629 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x
Titan 7600 $649 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x
e-Bravo 550 $509 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x
e-Bravo 760 $599 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Atlas 8600 $899 5 x x x x x x x x x x x
Atlas 9600 $999 5 x x x x x x x x x x x
Pacific USA Digital X8 $2,999 2 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
wwwpacific.com
805-857-9400
Prince Neos 1000 $1,099 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x

www.princetennis.com 3000 $2,995 3 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
800-283-6647
Silent Partner Swing $199 5 x x x x x x x x x x x

e.Stringer $249 5 x x x x x x x x x
www.sptennis.com
e.Stringer 6 point $299 5 x x x x x x x x x
800-662-1809
e.Stringer CL $469 5 x x x x x x x x x
Jazz $599 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x
e.Stringer FL $699 5 x x x x x x x x x x
Maestro $799 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x
e.Stringer DG $999 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Aria $1,599 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Opus $2,799 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Tecnifibre TF-6000 $4,700 1 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

www.tecnifibre.com TF-7000 $6,000 3 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
877-332-0825 TF-7000 with Cabinet$7,000 3 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
TF-8000 $7,500 3 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x
Wise USA 2086 Professional Electronic
www.tennishead.com Tension Head $495 2 x x x x x x x x x
888-836-7466
Yonex ES5 Pro $6,499 3 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

www.yonex.com
800-449-6639

x
x
Self-Elevatin
Automated g Linear Pull
x
x
x
x
Diablo/NoseTension Release
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Rotational T cone
e
Foot Pedal T nsioner
x
x x
x
x
x
x
x
x x x
x
x
x
x x
x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Pounds & K ension Activator
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x x
x x x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x x
x x
Manual Calibilos Tension
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Self-Calibra ration Adjustable
x
x
x
x x
x x
x x
x
x
Diamond Coting
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x x
x x
Tensioning
Knob/Dial T at Tension Head Grip
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Plus/Minus ension Setting
x
x
x
x
Full Keypad Touch Pad Tension Set
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
LED/LCD Te Tension Setting
x
x
x
x
x x x x
x x
Knot Tensio nsion Display
n
x x x
x
x x x
x
x
x
x
x x x
x x x
x x x
x x x x no
Removable ing
Electric Ten
sioner Unit
x
x
x
x
Flying Clam
ps
x
x
x
x
x
x
Fixed Clamp
x .
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Dual Swivel s on Glide Bars
x
Dual Swivel Double Action Fixed
x
x x
360 Degree Single Action Fixed
Single Swiv Clamps on Glide Bars
e
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Diamond Du l Fixed Clamp

Clamping
Automated st Clamps
Magnetic AuBase Release Clamps
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
No Tool Nee to Clamp Base Release

ded to Adju
st Clamps
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Tool Tray
x x
x
x
x
x x
x x
x x
x x
x x
x x
x x
Cover Includ
x x
x x x
x
x
x
String Measued
x
x
x
x
Built-in Rule rer
r
x x
x x
x
x x
x
x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Reel Rack
x x
Racquet Sta
x
x
Cabinet withnd
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Extra Features
Leveling Pa Drawers
ds on Base
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Under 50 lb
s
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
50-75 lbs
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Over 75 lbs
Weight
Calibrator
Starting Cla
m
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Diagonal Cu p
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Needlenose tters
Pliers
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Awl
Flying Clam
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Assembly Inp
x x
x
x
x
x
x
x x
x x
x x
x x
x x
x x
x x
x x x x
x x x x
x x x x
x
x
x x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x x
x x
x x
x x
x x
x x
x x x x
Owners Ma structions/Video
August 2006 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY

Guiding Awnual/Video
Tools Included
Bent Nose Pl
33
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x x
x x
x x
x
x
x
x
Assembly T liers
Flying Clamools
p Starting P
ins
CONNECT
FACILITY MANAGEMENT
WITH YOUR
CUSTOMERS
For a facility in Georgia, TennisConnect software
is helping out all aspects of their business.
BY ROBIN BATEMAN
aise your racquet if you want to grow and manage ten- programs, or reserving a tennis court?
R nis in your community and at your facility more effi-

ciently. Want to extend your marketing reach?
Increase staff productivity? Provide better customer ser-
Think you’re asking too much? Guess again. I’ve got a
tool for you: TennisConnect, from the Tennis Industry Asso-
ciation.
vice for your tennis players? Make more money? What? A website builder can do all that? Yes. This web-
And hey, what about giving your customers a site software can—and does.
tool that lets them take control—at their con- As a parks and recreation tennis facility manager in
venience—of things like acquiring event Macon, Ga., I assist in the creation of promotional materials,
information, registering for one of your coordinate numerous programs and leagues, direct USTA

tournaments, supervise employees, and carry out many
other managerial tasks associated with the everyday running
of a 12-court tennis center. I work under our department’s
tennis manager/head pro, and in conjunction with another
24-court facility. Together, a team of employees promotes,
instructs, and manages tennis in our community. After try-
ing out several other websites, we chose TennisConnect.
TennisConnect (TC) may be the new kid on the web
(2004), but don’t let that scare you. TC’s developers have
been creating web-based applications for more than 13
years, and business software applications for nearly 25
years. Working with large companies like Intel, AOL, IBM,
and Peoplesoft, TC’s team has helped empower software
applications for business productivity and customer service.
The site emerged after its lead designer, Charlie Ruddy,
experienced difficulty obtaining tournament information
from his own tennis club. A longtime web designer, Ruddy
put his talents toward building a website specifically for the
tennis industry.
As a recreational tennis player, Ruddy knows what play-
ers, and spectators of the game, are looking for. As a tech
designer, he knows what businesses are looking for, too.
And he delivers. For tennis managers and professionals,
TC delivers a site rich in features like group email, online reg-
istration, interactive event calendars, and the ability to
update programs and event information any time of day or
night. For tennis players, TC delivers a site with options like
online court reservations, player match-making, and find a
program.
TennisConnect answers the needs of the manager, pro-
gram coordinator, teaching pro, and the player, connecting
courts, programs, and events with players, facilities, and
sponsors. TennisConnect.org has stepped up its approach to
what normal websites have to offer, allowing the entire ten-
nis community to benefit from its package.
Connect Your Business Before, we had to wait for our IT vendor, knowing extra fees
For me, the strong attraction begins with the very founda- would be tacked onto the bill.
tion of TC. Since it’s built for tennis facilities, TC naturally Q Connect With Growth, Marketing Reach, and
makes it easy to create simple things like online forms. For Promotion: Another key aspect, separating TC from other
example, when creating online enrollment forms, I don’t websites, is its connectivity. When you become a TC sub-
have to instruct IT to include drop-down menus for scriber, you aren’t just getting one stand-alone website. You’re
“leagues,” “lessons,” “tournaments,” etc. Tennis lingo is getting a family of sites, maximizing your world-wide-web
already included. exposure. Once you create your site, add your programs,
Q Connect With Control: Another underlying fea- events, leagues—these become publicly listed.
ture is control. With this special software, we are in com- Because TennisConnect is part of the Tennis Industry Asso-
plete control of the look, feel, and layout of our ciation’s growing tennis efforts, your programs, your informa-
site—everything from color scheme, to the web pages, to tion, your events are now searchable from over 100
graphics and messages. tennis-related “open-to-the-public” websites including Ten-
Also incorporated is the ability for me, and the others on nisWelcomeCenter.com and CardioTennis.com when your
my team, to do our own updates, which provides us with facility is involved as a site. Talk about increased visibility and
cost-savings and convenience elements not typically found also doing your part to increase tennis participation!
in most other websites. An event may undergo changes in The TIA has also encouraged major industry partners such
date, cost, location—we simply log on and make updates. as Tennis magazine and The Tennis Channel to include a Find

A Facility, Find a Player, Find a Program functions on their free phone call away. Working in a public facility, our phone
websites. These searches are powered by TIA’s TennisCon- service doesn't provide long-distance calls. TC's toll-free
nect and have offered consumers an added way to get number (888-620-6696) means I can talk to an IT member
involved with tennis in their community. when I need to.
“When we looked at consumer research, we saw more Q Connect Your Players: Players like TC for many
and more people using the internet and turning to technology of the same reasons you will: convenience, 24/7 access to
to save them time,” says TIA information, event calendars,
Executive Director, Jolyn de online enrollment, and commu-
Boer. “Players wanted 24/7 nication through email when
online services for finding infor- they want it.
mation and online registration. Brian Branch, a captain for a
The research also made it clear men’s 3.5 team, says, “The
that if we don’t ‘connect’ with website is great. I like the con-
our players and keep them venience of reserving courts
active in tennis, other influences online—not having to think
could pull them away. The TIA about calling in during normal
then researched the market to business hours. I can immedi-
find an exceptional and afford- ately see which courts are open
able online product. As a result, on what days. And with the
TennisConnect was created to advanced notice, my team can
give facility operators and pros make arrangements to be
the tools to help their business there.”
and tennis grow.” In addition, www.MyTennisCenter.com is a public mag-
Let’s not forget about the promotional benefits, either. net, connecting players to the find a player, find a facility,
Sarah Witherspoon, a programs coordinator on our team, and find a pro function, giving them information for pro-
loves the group email feature. “I can send email reminders grams in their town, neighboring towns, and even to towns
about upcoming programs. I can direct players to the site they may travel to in the future.
where they can register for programs when they feel like it, Online tennis games, interactive polls, and a court-cam
not just when our office is open,” she says. are just some of the optional functions players will enjoy
Q Connect with Efficiency and Increased Staff should you decide to incorporate them into your website.
Productivity: Now that we have a centralized place to post According to the TIA, more than 350,000 online court
our information, not only can we direct our players and par- reservations were made at TennisConnect facilities in the
ticipants to the website, but we can also send all our employ- first three months of this year. And in the first six months,
ees there as well. In doing so, our staff is always kept up to facilities using the software collectively generated more than
speed with the latest news, events, and programs. Further- 4 million page views.
more, when participants are signing up online to enroll in pro- For us, the impact TennisConnect has had on our pro-
grams, staff has more time to devote to other tasks. grams and participation is undeniable. The ease with which
Q Connect With Your Sponsors: Obtaining sponsors we are able to grow, manage, promote, and instruct tennis
for our tournaments is a vital part of our success. “The Ten- can be attributed to the software TC has to offer. The abili-
nisConnect software is not only used to generate interest and ty to develop and maintain customer-service relationships
business from tennis players, but also to cultivate relation- with our players and participants only underscores the
ships with potential tournament sponsors,” says Carl Hodge, advantage of being a TennisConnect subscriber.
the tennis manager/head pro for the city of Macon. “Our facil- What are you waiting for? Go get connected!
ities host large events, from 300 to 1,200 people at a time. On
our website visitors can find links to the local sponsor hotels, Robin Bateman is the site coordinator for the
making the site a one-stop spot to plan their tournament expe- Tattnall Tennis Center in Macon, Ga., where she
rience—a benefit for all involved.” When approaching compa- coordinates tennis programs and leagues, is a
nies about possible sponsorship, we view our website’s tournament director, serves as a team captain
visibility as a significant component to their coming on board. and assists junior teams competing at district,
Q Connect to Your IT Team: TennisConnect’s IT regional, and section events.
TennisConnect is available through the TIA as part of the FacilityPlus

team is always there for us. They offered assistance while we
membership, which includes additional marketing tools, services, and

set up our site and have continued to provide prompt, reliable
support when we have questions. Subscribers are also given benefits to help your business grow. Annual dues at the FacilityPlus level
are $545 (or $149 quarterly). For more information, visit
www.TennisConnect.org or www.TennisIndustry.org, or call the TIA at
access to forums addressing a wide variety of technical issues.
Getting in touch with TennisConnect’s IT team is just a toll-

PLAYER EQUIPMENT LOG
Justine Henin-Ha
ROLAND GARROS look at the equipm
red clay at Roland
players, too.
MEN
Round Racquet Racquet String
1 F Roger Federer SUI Wilson nSix-One Tour 90 Wilson/Luxilon

Rank Reached Player Name Country Brand Racquet Model Headsize Brand
2 W Rafael Nadal ESP Babolat AeroPro Drive 100 Babolat

3 SF David Nalbandian ARG Yonex RDS-001 MP 98 Luxilon
4 SF Ivan Ljubicic CRO Babolat Pure Drive Team + 100 Babolat
5 1 Andy Roddick USA Babolat Pure Drive Roddick + 100 Babolat
6 Q Nikolay Davydenko RUS Prince O3 Tour 100 Luxilon and Polystar
7 3 James Blake USA Prince Experimental 95 Luxilon
8 4 Tommy Robredo ESP Dunlop M-Fil 300 98 Luxilon
9 Q Mario Ancic CRO Yonex Ultimum RD Ti-80 98 Babolat/Luxilon
10 4 Gaston Gaudio ARG Wilson nSix-One 95 95 Kirschbaum
11 2 Fernando Gonzalez CHI Babolat Pure Storm Plus 98 Luxilon
12 3 Radek Stepanek CZE Volkl DNX 9 98 Pacific
13 4 Lleyton Hewitt AUS Yonex RDS-001 90 Babolat/Luxilon
14 3 Nicolas Kiefer GER Wilson nSix-One 95 95 Babolat
15 4 Tomas Berdych CZE Dunlop M-Fil 200 Plus 95 Luxilon
16 1 Robby Ginepri USA Babolat Pure Storm 98 Babolat
17 2 Marcos Baghdatis CYP Fischer M-Speed Pro No. One 95 Luxilon
18 1 Jarkko Nieminen FIN Wilsom nSix-One 95 95 Luxilon
19 1 Thomas Johansson SWE Dunlop M-Fil 200 95 Babolat
20 3 David Ferrer ESP Prince Shark DB MP 100 Luxilon
WOMEN
Round Racquet Racquet String
1 4 Amelie Mauresmo FRA Dunlop M-Fil 300 98 Babolat

Rank Reached Player Name Country Brand Racquet Model Headsize Brand
2 SF Kim Clijsters BEL Babolat Pure Drive Team 100 Babolat

3 W Justine Henin-Hardenne BEL Wilson nTour Two 95 Maillot Savarez
4 4 Maria Sharapova RUS Prince O3 White 100 Babolat
5 1 Nadia Petrova RUS Babolat Pure Storm Team MP 103 Top Serve
6 F Svetlana Kuznetsova RUS Head Flexpoint Instinct 100 Luxilon
7 Lindsay Davenport USA Did not play
8 3 Elena Dementieva RUS Yonex RDS-001 MP 98 Luxilon
9 Mary Pierce FRA Did not play
10 4 Patty Schnyder SUI Head Liquidmetal Prestige MP 98 Kirschbaum
11 4 Anastasia Myskina RUS Head Flexpoint Instinct 100 Luxilon
12 Q Venus Williams USA Wilson W5 Divine Iris 110 Wilson
13 SF Nicole Vaidisova CZE Yonex RDS-003 MP 100 Luxilon
14 4 Francesca Schiavone ITA Babolat AeroPro Drive 100 Luxilon
15 Q Martina Hingis SUI Yonex NSRQ 7 100 Top Serve
16 Q Anna-Lena Groenefeld GER Fischer Magnetic Pro Number One 98 Babolat
17 Q Dinara Safina RUS Babolat Pure Storm Team 98 Luxilon
18 4 Daniel Hantuchova SVK Yonex NSRQ 7 100 Luxilon/Babolat
19 3 Flavia Pennetta ITA Wilson nBlade 98 Wilson
20 3 Maria Kirilenko RUS Yonex RDX 300 103 Yonex
*Rankings as of 12 June 2006

ardenne and Rafael Nadal both repeated their French Open wins this year in Paris. Here’s a
ment that the top 20 men and women used as they slid their way along the draws on the
d Garros. Post these pages in your shop, so your customers can check out their favorite
String String Footwear Clothing
Wilson Natural/Alu Power Rough 16L - Nike VAPOR S2 Nike

String Model Gauge Tension Brand Footwear Model Brand
Pro Hurricane Tour 15L 24.5 Nike Air Max Breathe 3 Nike
Original 16 - Yonex SHT-305 Yonex
Pro Hurricane/VS Team 16L 27 Diadora Speedzone Plus DA Diadora
Pro Hurricane/VS Team 16 27 Babolat Team All Court Roddick Lacoste
Original and Engergy 16 - Prince Freak -
Alu Power 16L 29.1 Nike Air Zoom Vapor 3 Nike
Original 16 24/23 Sergio Tacchini Sergio Tacchini
VS Team/Alu Power 16L 27/26 Nike Air Zoom Vapor 3 Nike
Super Smash 16 27 Diadora Speedzone Plus DA Diadora
Alu Power Rough 16L 24.1 Adidas Barricade IV Adidas
PrimeGut 16L 27/25 Nike Breathe 3 -
VS Team/Alu Power 16L 31/30 Yonex SHT-305 Yonex
VS Team 17 31/30 Diadora Attax DA 2 Diadora
Alu Power 16L 25 Nike Air Max Breathe Free II Nike
Ballistic Polymono/VS Touch 16/16 25/25 Nike Air Max Breathe Free II Under Armour
Alu Power 16L 25/27 Adidas Barricade IV Adidas
Alu Power 16L 25 Asics Asics
VS Team 16 26 Adidas Barricade IV Dunlop
Original 16 23 Diadora Speedzone Plus DA Diadora
String String Footwear Clothing
VS Touch 16 26 Reebok Reebok

String Model Gauge Tension Brand Footwear Model Brand
VS Touch 16 29 Fila X-Point Fila

HT Tonic First Gold 15L 27 Adidas Barricade III W -
Pro Hurricane/VS Team 16L - Nike VAPOR S2 Nike
Racquet Fuel 16L 30.5 Adidas Barricade IV W Adidas
Alu Touch 16L 24.5/23.5 Fila X-Point Fila
Alu Power 16L - Yonex SHT-304 Yonex
Touch Turbo 17 26/25 Adidas Barricade IV W Adidas

TIMO 18 26/24 Nike - Nike
Wilson Natural 16 27.3 Reebok VESW DMX Reebok
Ace 18 - Reebok Upset DMX Reebok
Alu Power 16L 24/23 Diadora Speedzone Plus DA Diadora
Racquet Fuel 16L - Adidas ClimaCool Feather II Adidas
Xcel Premium/Pro Hurricane 16/17 - Adidas Barricade IV W Adidas
Alu Power 17 29 Adidas Barricade IV W Adidas
Alu Power/VS Touch 16 23/24 Nike Air Zoom Vapor Speed Nike
Wilson Natural 17 28 Nike Sergio Tacchini
Tour Super 850 / Natural Gut 16L 27 Adidas Barricade 3 Adidas

string PLAYTEST
Pacific X-Force 18
Pacific X-Force is a “poly-like” monofila- cent tension loss. X-Force added 15
ment string offering increased power grams to the weight of our unstrung
and dampened feel. According to Pacific, frame.
The string was tested for five
although the materials of this string are
weeks by 32 USRSA playtesters, with
“in the polyester family,” X-Force is not NTRP ratings from 3.5 to 5.5. These
necessarily a polyester string. X-Force is are blind tests, with playtesters
manufactured using a unique heating receiving unmarked strings in
unmarked packages. Average number of
process that creates elasticity and power hours of playing time on his
hours playtested was 24.
in the string. The material and process set of X-Force 18. One playtester broke
Pacific suggests stringing X-Force four
his sample, after 21 hours of play.
are proprietary and patent pending. to five pounds lower in tension than the
According to Pacific, X-Force has the average polyester string, and we passed
durability typical of polyesters and is this recommendation along to our playtest
CONCLUSION
This is the first 18-gauge poly we’ve test-
extremely strong, which makes an 18- team.
ed, and only the third 18-gauge of any
gauge possible. X-Force combines the Installing X-Force is not as traumatic as
type ever. Gratifyingly, X-Force 18 was
playing characteristics of more lively nylon some polys, and we had no problems with
synthetics with the spin and durability of coil memory, although some of our EASE OF STRINGING
polyester. Pacific tells us that X-Force has playtest team did. The smooth surface of (compared to other strings)
an extremely fast “rebound speed,” which the string and the small diameter make for Number of testers who said it was:
may take some getting used to at first. fast stringing, and even tying knots seemed much easier 0
Pacific is aiming X-Force at competitive easier than typical polys, possibly again due somewhat easier 3
players looking for a string with more live- to the smoothness of the string and the about as easy 13
liness and elasticity than typical polyester thin gauge. not quite as easy 13
strings. No playtester broke his sample during not nearly as easy 3
X-Force is available in 16L (1.29 mm), stringing, 13 reported problems with coil OVERALL PLAYABILITY
17 (1.24 mm), and 18 (1.19 mm) in trans- memory, three reported problems tying (compared to string played most often)
parent orange only. It is priced from $9.99 knots, and two reported friction burn. Number of testers who said it was:
for sets of 40 feet, and $150 for reels of much better 1
220 meters. For more information or to ON THE COURT somewhat better 5
order, contact Pacific at 805-892-5901, via Pacific X-Force 18’s average score for all about as playable 8
email at mail@teampacificusa.com, or visit categories was well above average, making not quite as playable 15
www.pacific.com. Be sure to read the not nearly as playable 3
another strong showing for a “polyester-
conclusion for more information about type” string. If you get better spin with OVERALL DURABILITY
getting a free set to try for yourself. thinner gauge string, X-Force is for you, as (compared to other strings
our playtest team ranked it fifth-place over- of similar gauge)
IN THE LAB all for Spin Potential of the 103 strings Number of testers who said it was:
much better 2
We tested Pacific X-Force 18. The coil we’ve tested to date. Despite the fact that
somewhat better 20
measured 43 feet 1 inch. The diameter it is an 18-gauge string, our playtesters
about as durable 8
measured 1.16-1.18 mm prior to string- gave it a top-ten ranking in Durability. You not quite as durable 2
ing, and 1.11-1.13 mm after stringing. We have to wonder what kind of durability you not nearly as durable 0
recorded a stringbed stiffness of 72 RDC would get with the 16L version.
units immediately after stringing at 60 Our playtest team also gave X-Force 18 RATING AVERAGES
pounds in a Wilson Pro Staff 6.1 95 (16 x a top-ten ranking in the Control category, From 1 to 5 (best)
Playability 3.4
18 pattern) on a constant-pull machine. which is a nice complement to the “well
Durability 4.3
After 24 hours (no playing), stringbed above average” ranking it received in the
Power 3.3
stiffness measured 65 RDC units, repre- Power category. X-Force 18 also received Control 3.8
senting a 10 percent tension loss. Our “well above average” rankings in Playabili- Comfort 2.8
control string, Prince Synthetic Gut Origi- ty and Resistance to Movement, and it Touch/Feel 2.8
nal Gold 16, measured 78 RDC units even garnered an above-average ranking in Spin Potential 3.6
immediately after stringing and 71 RDC Tension Retention. Holding Tension 3.3
units after 24 hours, representing a 9 per- On average, each playtester put 24 Resistance to Movement 3.6

TESTERS TALK
“ This string is great! I like the feel and the pop. The strings respond well
to everything, but I like the pop the most. All my balls stayed deep, coaxing
“ I am quite surprised at how well this string plays. I expected the
usual dead poly arm-killing string, but this plays more like my regular
”
many short balls. I like it. Great string.
5.5 male all-court player using Head Flexpoint Radical Team strung at 58
string. I’d stock it.”
”
4.0 male baseline player with moderate spin using Babolat Drive Z
pounds CP (Luxilon Timo/Head Synthetic Gut PPS 18) Max strung at 51 pounds CP (Signum Pro Poly Plasma 17)
“ This is one of the best strings I’ve

“Excellent quality— “ This softer poly has better comfort than
ever tested.
”
5.5 male all-court player using Prince would play with it and recommend to all,
most polys I’ve tried. Fairly lively for a poly.
I don’t feel the ball nearly as much on the
O3 Hybrid Hornet strung at 60 pounds strings, though. However, I give it a
especially to 4.0 + players. Has a solid, thumbs up due to softer playability and
CP (Aramid hybrid 16)
clean feel immediately. Holds tension increased liveliness.
”
4.5 male all-court player using Völkl Quan-
“ String has very few imperfections:
good quality control. Some coil memo-
well.” 4.5 male all-court player using Head tum 1 Power Boost strung at 44/42 pounds
Prestige Mid strung at 55 pounds LO CP (Babolat Fiber Tour 16)
ry, but not as bad as other polys. Very
resistant to notching when pulling
(Gamma TNT 17)
crosses. Stencil ink does not apply easi-
“
“Lots of comments on the color, which
ly, but an adequate result can be
obtained. Some marking/crushing occurred during clamping. Very little
is good.
”
5.5 male all-court player using Head Flexpoint Radical MP strung at
string movement during play and wonderful control. No noticeable tension 55 pounds LO (Prince Synthetic Gut with Duraflex 16)
loss after several hours of play. Care must be taken on outer strings to
assure good tie-off tension. It is a good choice for players who like to use
spin and power, and it will be especially appreciated by those who require
“
One of the better polys.
”
5.5 male baseline player with heavy spin using Wilson nPS strung at
”
excellent control.
4.5 male serve-and-volley player using a Wilson Hyper Hammer 2.3 strung
55 pounds CP (Tenex Hy-Kevlar/nylon 16)
at 62 pounds LO (Wilson Sensation 17)

“
Nice playing string. I might string the crosses one kilo higher. Real
“ Very stiff feeling and little power, but spin is easy to generate. The
nice bite on the kick serve. Decent feel for touch shots.
”
5.0 male serve-and-volley player using Wilson nTour strung at 56
strings don’t move and that is good. Feels like your basic poly.
”
4.0 male all-court player using Prince Graphite Classic OS strung at 58
pounds CP (Wilson NXT 16)
pounds CP (Luxilon Alu Power 16L) For the rest of the tester comments, USRSA members can visit RacquetTECH.com.
(Strings normally used by testers are indicated in parentheses.)
one of the few strings about which no playtester FREE PLAYTEST STRING PROGRAM
said he wanted in a thinner gauge. Pacific has generously offered to send a free set of X-Force 18
The high rankings for Spin Potential and Playa- to the first 500 USRSA members who request it. One lucky person will receive
bility are not surprising, as the common perception a free set of Pacific’s USRSA #1 rated natural gut, one set of Pacific’s poly/gut
is that thinner gauge strings are better in these cat- hybrid blend, one Pacific backpack, and one Pacific T-shirt.
egories. However, the top-ten ranking in Durability To get your free set and enter the drawing, just cut out (or copy) this coupon
is a shocker for an 18-gauge string. For that kind and mail it to:
of durability with a thin-gauge string, conventional USRSA, Attn: Pacific X-Force 18 String Offer, 330 Main Street, Vista, CA 92084
or fax to 760-536-1171
wisdom says that you have to use an Aramid
One set of free string per USRSA membership in the US
string. But Aramid strings are typically used only as
the main strings in hybrid sets, with a softer (and FREE! Pacific X-Force 18 • Offer expires Aug 15th 2006
often thicker) cross string to improve feel and
Name:
playability. With X-Force 18, our playtesters have
shown that you don’t need to hybrid it to get both USRSA Member number:
durability and playability. Phone:
If you think that Pacific X-Force might be for Email:
you, fill out the coupon to get a free set to try. If you print your email clearly, we will notify you when your sample will be sent.
—Greg Raven Q

tips and TECHNIQUES
Readers’ Know-How in Action

STENCIL APPLICATOR TIPS Slam Stringers, LaserFiber, and Powers jelly. This keeps the cap threads free of
I read with interest the tip from Mark Court, among other suppliers. ink, and the applicator tip stay is the
Campanile regarding stenciling. He ends Forten Tournament Bag to: bottle.
his tip by saying, "My next task is to fig- Alan Golombek, MRT, Baltimore, MD 5 sets of Wilson Stamina 17 to:
ure out how to make the ink applicator Glen Brewer, Marietta, GA
last as long as the ink in the bottle." This CAP-EASE
has been an ongoing problem for For me, one of the worst things about sten- SIMPLE SPOT CLEANING
stringers since stenciling began. The solu- cil ink bottles is getting the cap off without I realize that I probably get more carried
tion is to replace the applicator tip. This is pulling the away than most when it comes to clean-
the only way obtain a sharp stencil and applicator tip ing racquets before stringing, but I’m
get all of the ink out of the bottle. Usually out of the bot- always looking for ways to make clean-
the original and one replacement will tle. When the ing quicker and easier.
allow you to utilize all of the ink in a stan- bottle is fresh My latest discovery is that recycled
dard stencil ink bottle. Replacement appli- and new, it’s stencil ink bottles make really good con-
cator tips are available from Gosen, Grand no problem, tainers for cleaning solution. I take an
but after the empty ink bottle, clean it out with Goof
stencil ink gets Off, fill it with fresh Goof Off, and then
into the put on a new applicator tip. This gives
threads, it me a quick and easy way to clean up
glues the edge racquets, as the Goof Off is always
of the applicator tip to the inside of the handy in the stencil bottle, and the felt
cap. I’ve tried putting the cap on loosely, tip works great for light scrubbing.
but that leads to other problems. What I 5 sets of Prince Premier with Softflex
found really works for me is to coat the 16 to:
threads of the bottle lightly with petroleum Glen Brewer, Marietta, GA

Editor’s note: This does indeed sound GOOD PRACTICE the racquet with the butt-cap logo fac-
handy. Those who don’t have an old One small piece of advice I was given ing up puts the short side on the left,
bottle of stencil ink, or who don’t want when I first started stringing was to you may find it easier to mount the rac-
to clean out an old bottle, can buy new always string racquets in the same way. quet so that the short side is the way
bottles from Guterman International On “one-piece” jobs it is very apparent, you prefer it, rather than focusing on
(603 Pleasant Street, Paxton, MA, 01612. not so much on two piece! However, the butt-cap logo. Because consistency
Phone: 508-852-8206). Also, keep in whenever I string a racquet, I always is so important in stringing, however,
mind that the applicator tips can mount the racquet the same way, with once you find a way that works for you,
become dirty pretty quickly, so you’ll the logo on the butt cap upright. stick with it.
want to have plenty of replacement I feel this is a good practice in and of
applicator tips on hand. itself, but some manufacturers (such as TAKE THE TUBE
Yonex) stipulate that the logo on the butt I take a small piece of Teflon tubing and
CLEANER STENCILING cap be pointing up when the stencil is temporarily insert it into the hole that I
applied. know will become blocked. This allows me
5 sets of Tecnifibre X-One Biphase to slide the string through the tubing with-
1.30 to: out having to use an awl or other tech-
Andy Gudgeon, Portsmouth Hants, niques, which can potentially damage the
England string. Because you remove the tubing after
you get the string through, each short sec-
Editor’s note: Mounting racquets the tion of tubing can be used dozens of times
same way each time sounds like a before you have to replace it.
I do quite a bit of racquet stenciling and cur- good idea, but on some racquets, this 5 sets of Head FiberGEL Power 16 to:
rently I use my workbench to stencil. It can is going to mean that the logo on the Jonathan Bowers, MRT
be a messy job but I merely use my local butt cap is down. There are “direc- North Charleston, SC
newspaper unfolded to do my stencil work tional” racquets—racquets that have —Greg Raven Q
on. When I am done, one sheet of the a “short side” and a “long side”—
newspaper can be discarded or recycled, and where the markings for the short side Tips and Techniques submitted since 2000 by USRSA mem-
I have a clean surface to work on for the bers, and appearing in this column, have all been gathered
can more easily be seen if the racquet
into a single volume of the Stringer’s Digest—Racquet Ser-
next stencil job. is mounted a certain way. Also, if you vice Techniques which is a benefit of USRSA membership.
5 sets of Gamma Flex Core Control 16 to: are used to having your short side on Submit tips to: Greg Raven, USRSA, 330 Main St., Vista, CA
Dan Kerr, MRT, Wiarton, ONT 92804; or email greg@racquettech.com.
the right (for example), and mounting

Your Serve
How to Make Life Easier
for Rec Tournament Players
BY ROBERT HELLER
T
he tennis industry has made a great playing one or two singles matches a day.
effort to attract new players through With traditional scoring and an average
a number of innovative initiatives, match lasting two hours, a player could
such as free tennis lessons, Cardio Tennis find himself on the court for four hours or
and World TeamTennis. But the needs of a more, and that doesn’t include doubles.
significant number of existing players have Even if one had the time, physical
been somewhat ignored. health, and inclination to prepare for such
I’m talking about those players who a challenge, it would be difficult to do so.
would like to test their mettle by compet- Most facilities limit singles play to 1 to 1-
ing in sanctioned tournaments. I believe 1/2 hours of court time, which is proba-
many more players between the ages of 35 bly, about half of what is needed to safely
and 55 would compete if conditions were and effectively compete.
more favorable to their needs and life cir- Fortunately, there are alternatives
cumstances.
Over the past few months, I entered a "Using these options, the
number of tournaments only to find that
there weren’t enough entrants in my age
outcome of a match will risk of injuries,
category (55s) and other adult categories be more likely a battle of skin cancer, and
to hold the tournament, or that I was physical exhaus-
forced to play in lower age divisions to tennis skills rather than an tion, making tour-
compete. In some cases, participation was nament play more
so sparse that if you entered the tourna- ‘endurance contest’ attractive to many.
ment, you were already in the semifinals, By incorporating
and in one instance, the final! According
where only the fittest these and other modest
to tennis friends, colleagues, and officials survive." changes, more tennis players
I have spoken with, there is a growing would likely compete in sanctioned tourna-
trend toward fewer adult players between available. The USTA permits tournament ments in both singles and doubles cate-
ages 40 and 60 competing in sanctioned directors considerable flexibility in running gories, providing increased revenue to the
tournaments. tournaments. The bottom line is that play- host facilities and a steady renewal of USTA
I know many excellent players who ers could actually play “more” matches in memberships.
could compete in sanctioned tournaments a “shorter” time period than they current- I have no doubt that if the USTA and
but don’t for two main reasons: time and ly do. This could be done in a number of sponsoring facilities properly promote
physical demands. ways including: a third set being deter- “adult-friendly” tournaments, everyone will
Most mid-life-aged adults are still busy mined by a tie-break, matches with “no- end up a winner. Q
earning a living and tending to the needs ad” scoring, or matches determined by
of their family. Traditional tournaments eight or 10 games.
Dr.Robert Heller is a sports psychology consultant and
require far too great a sacrifice for most Thinking out of the box for a moment, author of “Mental Toughness, Mental Skills for Match
adults. Some tournaments may start on a club practices could be adopted for sanc- Play” and “Managing Your Stress.”
Thursday with the final ending on Sunday. tioned tournaments where the winner of He works with individuals and com-
Many working adults cannot juggle their a match is determined by the best two of panies on performance-enhance-
ment skills and can be reached at
schedule to play during the week. To fit in three sets, or whoever is ahead at the end
561-451-2731, e-mail
a tournament over a weekend using tradi- of 90 minutes. Another option is to play a robertheller@adelphia.net, and
tional scoring requires the sacrifice of the tournament across two or more week- www.thewinningedge. usp-
entire weekend if the player succeeds and ends. Using these options, the outcome tapro.com.
progresses toward the final. of a match will be more likely a battle of
The second impediment to greater par- tennis skills rather than an “endurance
We welcome your opinions. Please email
ticipation in tournaments is related to contest” where only the fittest survive. comments to rsi@racquetTECH.com or fax
excessive physical demands associated with Less time on the courts would reduce the them to 760-536-1171.

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August 2006

Volume 34 Number 8 $5.00

Software to Keep Your

7 Volkl introduces DNX1 with

20 Tennis Fashions That “Fit” 12 USPTA World Conference

DEPARTMENTS 43 String Playtest: Pacific X-Force 18

August 2006 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 3

A fter more than 20 years in the tennis spotlight, Andre

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

4 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2006

Dunlop Announces “D-

August 2006 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 7

PTR, Special Olympics Babolat Launches Ergonomic Grip

8 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2006

L E T T E R S Head Offers New Cars

August 2006 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 9

Wilson Announces Former ASBA Chairman Kevin Smith Dies

Bälle de Mätch Is Official Apparel Brand for WTT

10 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2006

Colorado Club Installs Quickie Donates Tennis Wheelchair to PTR

August 2006 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 11

Follow the Open at Home 12 Named to USTA Summer Collegiate Team

New DVD Series From Annacone, Tennis Mag

12 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2006

• Six people were inducted recently into

• Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal were

• Martina Navratilova and Don Budge will

• Jacco Eltingh, a former No. 1 doubles

• James R. Cochrane of Great Britain is

August 2006 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 13

>of theATPtennis.com, the official website

> The Eastside Racquet Club in Man-

lius, N.Y., won an Excellence Award at

> The PTR’s TennisPro magazine

> Head/Penn has won Mattel’s

> The USTA Tennis & Education Foun-

August 2006 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 15

Gentle Jaws Stringing Machine

USRSA MEMBER CLASSIFIEDS

16 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2006

USTA to House Top Jun-

August 2006 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 19

20 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2006

August 2006 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 21

M make a first impression. Make sure it is a good one.”

August 2006 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 23

24 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2006

August 2006 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY 27

Flying Clamps. These clamps are not TOOLS INCLUDED

28 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2006

3-D Turntablen Turntable

6-Point Mou nting

Rachet Sys rop

Alpha String Pal $129 5 x x x x x x x x x X

Babolat Sensor $5,200 5 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

Gamma X-2 $139 Life x x x x x x x x x x x

Klipper USA Klippermate $145 Life x x x x x x x x x x x

30 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY August 2006

Knob/Dial T at Tension Head Grip

August 2006 RACQUET SPORTS INDUSTRY

Constant Pueed Pull

6-Point Mou ing

Rachet Sys rop