It was a great day of education, networking and friendly conversations at the USPTA San Diego Convention on March 5 at the La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club. The theme “Where the Serve Meets the Surf” was perfectly served at the beautiful site that enjoys sand, sun and great tennis.
A total of 102 participants attend the convention that was offered eight workshops, inspiring awards and a great luncheon. The day started with Jay Udwadia, who demonstrated drills often used by his Oklahoma State University men’s tennis team. Then Marc Lucero (coach of Shelby Rogers) showed special teaching techniques using a “step” as a prop.
Stanford Men’s Tennis Coach Paul Goldstein shared great insight on college tennis and how to work best under pressure. Coach Wayne Bryan, the father of the Bryan brothers, took the stage with a high energy presentation using volunteers, and also encouraged coaches to take students to watch college matches.
USPTA National Vice President Ken McAllister was the keynote speaker, and gave an update on the status of the new USPTA’s national headquarters in Lake Nona, Florida.
USPTA San Diego Division Award recipients who were honored at the lunch included:
Pro of the Year: Juan Garcia
Player of the Year: Franco Castejon
High School Coach of the Year: Keith Barksdale
Community Service Award: Steve Kappes
Facility of the Year: El Toyon Tennis Club
SCTA Director of Junior Tennis Trevor Kronemann provided an in depth look at the Universal Tennis Rating system (UTR) and how it is being used in SoCal Tennis and beyond. USPTA Pro Karen Ronney offered useful information on how to build a world class 10-and-under program on a shoestring budget. USPTA Pro Geoff Griffin from Balboa Tennis Club featured his Fun-Aerobic-Teaching-Enthusiasm (F.A.T.E.) on-court method of working with groups. USPTA Pro Sue Whiteside demonstrated doubles techniques with members from StoneRidge Country Club using in real-life situations, and Wilson representative Blake DeMond showcased all of his company’s latest products.
Special thanks to SCTA Executive Director Bruce Hunt for his support, and Bill Kellogg for making the event possible at the La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club. Also appreciation goes to the San Diego USPTA Board for putting together a great event, and gratitude to the workshop presenters for giving their time and expertise. Thank you to USPTA San Diego Division President Don Gomsi, who greatly contributed to this story. Photos provided by Karen Ronney and Emma Cioffi.