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Why I Sent a Player to Nationals Knowing He Might Not Compete

A strategic analysis of calculated risk in junior tennis development

By Jack Newman, CEO, Austin Tennis Academy

Most coaches avoid the hard conversations about expensive tournament investments. That’s not just a disservice—it’s developmental malpractice.

Here’s a conversation that makes most coaches uncomfortable: How do you justify spending thousands of dollars for a kid who might not play a single point?

Last week, I sent Declan Johnstone to the USTA Boys’ 16s National Championships in Kalamazoo as an alternate. His parents invested between $2,000-$2,500 for airfare, hotel, meals, and coaching expenses. Declan didn’t compete in a single match.

It was exactly the right decision. Here’s why.

The ROI Most Coaches Won’t Calculate

When I presented the alternate opportunity to Declan’s parents, I wasn’t selling them on vague concepts like “character building.” I was offering a calculated investment with specific, trackable outcomes that most coaches never measure.

Declan’s father told me: “We discussed there was a good chance he wouldn’t be chosen as an alternate to compete in singles or doubles, and that his role would be to practice with the team and warm players up before matches. Having the opportunity to experience the tournament, and get the rhythm of the practice and competition schedule, along with getting to see the level of competition, was invaluable.”

Notice what’s missing from that response? No false hope. No promises about “maybe getting in.” Just honest expectation-setting about value that extends beyond match results.

The Identity Shift: The Most Undervalued ROI

Here’s what other coaches get wrong about alternate opportunities: They focus on tennis skills when the real value is psychological repositioning. Making the jump from regional player to national-level competitor is more about how you see yourself than any specific technical improvement.

Declan’s response after watching matches validates this perfectly: “I see myself as one of those players. As I was watching, a lot of these players didn’t seem to be ‘the best’, they were just solid. But they were very good at being solid… I learned that I’m not that far away.”

That mental shift—from “maybe someday” to “I belong here”—typically takes players years to achieve through traditional tournament progression. We accomplished it in 10 days.

The Data Other Coaches Ignore

I’ve never tracked formal metrics on alternate trips, but the pattern is clear: Every player we’ve taken as an alternate has qualified for nationals the following year. That’s anecdotal, but it’s also consistent—and it points to something most coaches miss about development timelines.

Why don’t other coaches encourage these opportunities? Because they can’t handle the parent conversation when the investment doesn’t produce immediate, visible results. They’re afraid of the “why did we pay for him to sit on the sidelines?” discussion.

Declan’s parents would “absolutely” make the same decision again. Their reasoning shows they get it: “The love of the game was reinvigorated. Declan seemed very upbeat and ready to increase his training load and intensity, so that next summer, he would be playing at the tournament. That goal seems more realistic and tangible since traveling to the tournament.”

Red Flags: When to Say No

I don’t recommend alternate opportunities for every player. Here are the red flags that tell me a family isn’t ready:

Player isn’t close to the level – If you need more than 12 months to bridge the gap, the experience becomes demotivating rather than inspiring

Player isn’t “super excited about tennis” – Lukewarm commitment means they won’t absorb the lessons available

Family can’t handle uncertain ROI – If parents need guaranteed match play to justify investment, they’re not ready for elite development thinking

The College Recruiting Reality

College coaches attend nationals to identify talent. Being present as an alternate still gets you conversations with coaches like Mike Fried from Brown and Andrew Rueb from Harvard—interactions that regional tournaments can’t provide.

These aren’t just handshakes. Coaches remember players who show up, contribute to team culture, and demonstrate commitment beyond personal results. Declan’s role as reliable practice partner and teammate supporter communicated character traits that match results alone never reveal.

Why Kalamazoo is Different

Kalamazoo isn’t “just another expensive tournament.” The 80-year history, chair umpires on every court, and elite field create an atmosphere that regional events can’t replicate.

Declan picked up on the technical nuances immediately: “They were very good at the little things that made them like a brick wall, forcing their opponents to do something special to try to win the point.”

That understanding of high-level consistency patterns typically takes years of match experience to develop. He absorbed it in one week of focused observation.

What Most Coaches Won’t Tell You

Many coaches won’t encourage alternate opportunities because they struggle to articulate the ROI beyond generic “experience” language. They’re uncomfortable with investments that don’t produce immediate, measurable results.

The truth is, alternate trips require development thinking from both coaches and families. You’re investing in identity formation, cultural immersion, and strategic positioning that won’t show up in rankings for 12 months.

The Bottom Line

When Declan returns to Kalamazoo next summer—and he will return, as a qualifier—the foundation for that success was built during his 2025 alternate experience. You can’t replicate that mental framework, realistic goal-setting, and cultural immersion through conventional tournament progression.

His parents captured it perfectly: “Each night we spoke to him, we knew we made the right decision.” That kind of confidence—from player, parents, and coach—around an investment with no guaranteed playing time? That’s what separates elite development thinking from the status quo.

Don’t ask whether you can justify over $2,000 for a non-competing experience. Ask whether you can afford to pass up development opportunities while waiting for other coaches to get comfortable with uncertainty.

Jack Newman is CEO of Austin Tennis Academy and has guided multiple players to national championships and Division I college tennis. ATA’s strategic development approach focuses on calculated risk-taking and honest parent education that most academies avoid.

ATA’s Coach Ryan Rowe Returns to Illinois for NCAA Coaching Stint

“It felt like home.”

This spring, ATA Coach Ryan Rowe returned to his alma mater, the University of Illinois, not as a player, but as a coach. In a short-term role during the NCAA tournament season, Rowe served as an assistant coach under long-time Illinois Head Coach Brad Dancer, stepping back into the world of collegiate tennis with energy, gratitude, and perspective.

“I honestly thought he was just calling to catch up with alumni,” Rowe laughs, remembering the initial call from Dancer. “But then I realized he was asking me to come coach during the postseason. He had already spoken to Coach Newman here at ATA to make sure it was okay to pull me away for a few weeks. I was touched and excited, but I had to think fast. I had a flight out the next morning.”

Coming Home

For Rowe, who won a national championship and multiple Big Ten titles during his time at Illinois, the return stirred deep emotions. “It’s crazy how everything stays the same and somehow changes,” he said. “Walking into my old locker room, I put my stuff right by my old spot out of habit. It was like I’d never left – except Coach Tim had taken my locker.”

The experience brought back not just memories, but a sense of belonging. “We hit some of the old restaurants I used to go to as a player. I got to see family nearby, and even a couple cousins currently at Illinois. Being back just felt right, like home.”

He found that while the program had evolved, the culture of connection and support remained strong. “The Illinois family has only grown. I saw many familiar faces from 20 years ago, as well as many amazing new people. Everyone was so welcoming.”

His presence didn’t go unnoticed. Illinois Head Coach Brad Dancer praised Rowe’s immediate impact on the team:

“It was awesome to have Ryan back with the Fighting Illini this spring. Ryan’s the type of guy that can make an immediate connection to the student-athletes. Ryan’s heart is always in the right place and as an athlete you can feel that he’s in your corner. Then of course Ryan is full of stories and he can captivate you with legendary tales of teams past or ridiculous things that Coach Brad used to do—just a great overall presence for our team. Providing leadership, mentorship and brevity to the squad. We appreciate Ryan making the effort.”

Daily Life with the Team

Rowe’s days with the team were long and immersive. At home or on the road, he was all-in. “We’d be at the tennis center around 6:30 a.m. for team practices and individual sessions,” he said. “On match days, it was breakfast, morning hits, team meals, warm-ups, matches, and debriefs. But the best part was that everything was done together. That’s what makes college tennis so powerful: it’s shared purpose.”

Getting to know the players quickly was one of the biggest initial challenges. “When I was playing, most of the team was from the Chicago area. Now, I had to get to know their game styles, personalities, and how to coach them under pressure – and earn their trust fast.” He adds with a grin, “One of the seniors missed the introduction meeting and just thought I was hanging out for the first couple days.”

Still, the players embraced Rowe quickly, intrigued by his deep ties to the program and fresh perspective. “Good players love the sport. They knew about alumni like me. They loved Illinois. It helped that Coach Dancer had me meet with them often – in the van, around campus, just talking tennis and life. We got close pretty fast.”

As the season wound down, those bonds and the memories they stirred only deepened. The moment that stayed with him most, though, came at the very end. “The last match of the year hit me hard. Even though I was only there for a short time, it reminded me of when my college playing days ended. It’s one of the greatest times of your life – and then it’s over. There’s nothing else like being part of a college team.”

New Energy, New Ideas

Now back in Austin, Rowe brings home more than memories.

“I left feeling inspired to keep growing,” he said. “These players at Illinois were crystal clear on their goals. They knew what they were working on and wanted every second with their coaches. That’s what I want to bring back to ATA – helping our students be more intentional, more clear, and more accountable in their development.”

One immediate change: a renewed focus on video analysis. “College players watch almost every match they play – it’s critical to growth. That gets lost in juniors sometimes. I want our kids to have that edge.”

ATA CEO Jack Newman noted the value Rowe’s temporary return to the college game brings to the entire academy:

“Coach Ryan Rowe’s six-week sabbatical coaching at the D1 level for his alma mater, the University of Illinois, was a game-changer. Immersing himself in the high-level collegiate environment sharpened his coaching techniques and brought fresh insights to our program and his students at the Austin Tennis Academy. His renewed perspective enhances our ability to prepare young athletes for college tennis and beyond.”

For Rowe, it’s not just about coaching technique, it’s about culture. “At Illinois, the players wanted to be better. They knew why they were there. That mindset is contagious. I want our juniors to tap into that same level of clarity and hunger.”

Looking Ahead

The experience has opened up new possibilities for Rowe, who has spent the last decade developing junior players at ATA.

“I wouldn’t say I’m out there looking for the next college job,” he says, “but if the right opportunity came along, I’d definitely consider it. Coaching players who are 100% invested was just so much fun.”

When asked what he wishes he’d known back when he was a college player, Rowe doesn’t hesitate: “The serve was my weapon, but I didn’t understand return strategy at all. Coaching has taught me how to read serving habits and bait players into patterns. That’s something I try to teach now – it’s all about managing the pressure points.”

Full Circle

Perhaps the greatest takeaway? The relationships.

“I’m just thankful,” Rowe said. “For the people still there after 20 years who’ve supported me. For the new players I met. For the family I got to see while I was back. It felt like home. And I left more motivated than ever.”

20 ATA Players Earn Their Place at USTA L1 National Clay Court Championships

The Austin Tennis Academy is proud to announce 20 of our junior players qualified for the prestigious USTA L1 National Clay Court Championships, representing the pinnacle of junior tennis competition in the United States. This remarkable achievement spans across eight divisions, showcasing the depth and excellence of ATAs program.

National Qualifiers

Boys 12: Kush Purohit
Girls 12: Tabitha Wasserman
Boys 14: Andy Fan, Joey Wang, Quinn Deshazo
Girls 14: Stella Chambers, Penn Bailey
Boys 16: Gavin Golod, Finn Ashley
Girls 16: Lila Fuller, Annika Wriedt, Maddie Wasserman
Boys 18: William McEwan, Hayden Williams, Jonathan Seder, Alexander Wriedt, Martin Fernandez, Jaren Scarborough
Girls 18: Aya Manning, Ashley Petrauskas

The Journey to Excellence

Qualifying for a USTA L1 National Championship is no small feat. These 20 athletes have demonstrated exceptional dedication, countless hours of training, and remarkable resilience in the face of both victories and setbacks. Each player has embraced the grind of daily practice, the pressure of tournament competition, and the mental fortitude required to compete at the highest levels of junior tennis.

Their journey to nationals represents more than just tennis success; it embodies the character development, work ethic, and competitive spirit that defines what it means to be part of the ATA Pack. Through grueling training sessions, challenging matches, and moments of both triumph and adversity, these players have learned to do what Coach Newman always tells them: “embrace the suck.” They’ve proven they belong on the national stage not just through their victories, but through their willingness to face adversity head-on and grow stronger from every challenge.

A Special Thank You to ATA’s Tennis Parents

Behind every successful junior athlete stands a family that has made extraordinary sacrifices. To the parents of our national qualifiers, your unwavering support has been the foundation of this achievement. The early morning drives to tournaments, the countless hours spent courtside, the emotional support during tough losses, and the celebration of victories – none of this would be possible without your dedication.

You’ve invested not just financially, but emotionally and physically in your children’s tennis dreams. You’ve rearranged schedules, planned family life around tournament calendars, and provided the stability that allows young athletes to pursue excellence. Your commitment to your child’s development extends far beyond tennis, and we see the values you’ve instilled reflected in how they compete and carry themselves both on and off the court.

The sacrifices you’ve made – from family vacations that become tennis tournaments to supporting your child’s passion even when the path gets difficult – have created the foundation for this national-level success, is a testament to your belief in their potential and your willingness to support their journey.

The ATA Pack Behind the Champions

Success at this level is never achieved in isolation. ATA’s coaching staff, led by an experienced team of professionals, has worked tirelessly to develop not just skilled tennis players, but complete athletes and strong individuals. Each of ATA’s national qualifiers has a Primary Coach who serves as the coordinator for their individual program, ensuring every aspect of their development is strategically planned and executed. Every technical adjustment, strategic discussion, and mental preparation session has been tailored to each player’s specific needs and goals in preparation for national competition.

Coach Dio Miranda has been instrumental in the gym and on the field, focusing on prehab and rehab with his holistic philosophy of “Coaching people who happen to play sports.” His approach goes beyond just physical conditioning – he develops the complete athlete while nurturing the person, ensuring players have both the physical foundation and mental resilience needed to compete at the highest levels.

In the pro shop, Andrew Rohlfs provided the invaluable expertise of a master racquet technician, customizing racquets to ensure they match perfectly in weight, balance, and grip size. His meticulous attention to detail means ATA players never have to worry about equipment inconsistencies; they know every racquet in their bag feels identical, giving them the confidence that comes from knowing their equipment is dialed in perfectly for peak performance.

Let’s not forget the role their teammates played in helping these 19 players qualify. The daily training environment at ATA, where players push each other to improve, support each other through challenges, and celebrate each other’s successes, has been instrumental in preparing ATA’s national qualifiers. The hitting partners who provided countless hours of practice, the training partners who elevated the level of every drill, and the teammates who created the competitive environment that breeds excellence – they all deserve recognition for their contribution to this success.

Looking Ahead

As these 20 players prepare to compete at the USTA L1 National Clay Court Championships, they carry with them not just their individual skills and preparation, but the support of the entire ATA Pack. They represent the values ATA holds dear: hard work, resilience, sportsmanship, and the pursuit of excellence.

We couldn’t be prouder of what they’ve accomplished to reach this point, and we’re excited to see them represent Austin Tennis Academy on the national stage. Regardless of results, they’ve already achieved something remarkable by earning their place among the nation’s best junior players.

Good luck to each of our national qualifiers – the entire ATA Pack is behind you!

The USTA L1 National Clay Court Championships represent the highest level of junior tournament competition in the United States. Players must earn their qualification through exceptional performance in regional and sectional tournaments throughout the year.

CATA Triples Event at ATA Raises $46,000 for Junior Scholarships

The following article was written by ATA College Prep student-athlete Harrison Chambers:

The third-annual CATA Triples event took place on April 12, 2025, with a mission to raise money for scholarships for outstanding students and tennis players in Austin, Texas. Organized by the Capital Area Tennis Association (CATA), the event successfully combined competitiveness, fun, and fundraising for the community.

Triples is a unique tennis format with three players per side, one at the net, and two at the baseline. This format made people excited to play tennis in a new way, with a slight challenge and funny mistakes that come along with the learning curve.

“The format of Triples allows for chaotic and unlikely points to happen, making playing even more fun. Sometimes, you have to smile and move on to the next point,” said Grant Chambers, the event organizer.

The event was hosted by Austin Tennis Academy, which donated its courts, drawing over 120 participants. Now in its third year, the event has grown in popularity and impact, raising $46,000. The funds will be awarded to sixteen students and athletes, recognizing their hard work, at the annual CATA Awards Banquet in May.

The atmosphere was light and vibrant on a sunny Saturday. People enjoyed the food, drinks, and team aspect. The tournament consisted of 32 teams, divided into four draws based on their level. Unsurprisingly, team ATA, consisting of tennis coaches and the ATA College Prep English teacher, captured first place in Flight A. They dominated the tournament, cruising through the early rounds and battling hard to clinch a long victory in the final.

“The event was really fun and lighthearted. It was amazing connecting with my teammates and creating new friends,” said Henry Goyer, a player from the event.

One of the most memorable moments of the day came when Goyer witnessed a nearly impossible shot – Team ATA winning the point off of a drop volley that bounced back over the net, untouched by the other team.

CATA organizers expressed excitement about the tournament’s growth and discussed plans to expand next year’s event. “We’re already planning for 2026,” Chambers added. “The goal is to keep raising the bar with more teams, scholarships, and fun.”

Organizers and players are already looking forward to Triples next year, and hope to keep setting new records for money raised and participants.

COLLEGE PREP STUDENTS NAMED OUTSTANDING SCHOLARS

ATA College Prep is proud to announce and congratulate six of its students for being named outstanding scholars by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation and College Board.

Fate MacAlasdair, Cole Kilian and Michael Malyshev have been Commended by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. They are among the 50,000 (out of 1.5 million) highest-scoring students in the nation on the 2023 PSAT. MacAlasdair and Malyshev have also been named as semi-finalists in this year’s scholarship competition scoring among the top 16,000 student test-takers in the nation.

The following CP students have been named as AP Scholars as a result of their excellent performance on AP exams. Marcus McWilliams and Jonathan Seder have been awarded as AP Scholars. Fate MacAlasdair has been awarded as an AP Scholar with Honors. Elliot Wasserman, Cole Kilian, and Michael Malyshev have been named as AP Scholars with Distinction.

These recognitions are a tribute to these students’ long-term dedication to study, work ethic, and perseverance. In addition to these student awards, College Board has named ATA College Prep to the 2023 AP School Honor Roll, with a Silver distinction. Founding Director Carol Hagar said, “We are proud of each of our students and instructors that comprise this amazing community of life-long learners.”

USTA AWARDS TOP HONOR TO AUSTIN TENNIS ACADEMY

Austin Tennis Academy is one of 41 Tennis Facilities from Across the Country Honored for Excellence

ORLANDO, Fla., August 28, 2024 – The USTA today announced that the Austin Tennis Academy in Austin, Texas, is one of 41 winners in the USTA’s annual Outstanding Facility Awards program, which recognizes excellence in the construction and/or renovation of tennis facilities throughout the country.

Austin Tennis Academy COO Deb Cahill and Coach Brian Notis with Todd Carlson from the USTA at the USTA Outstanding Facility Awards ceremony in the indoor building at the 2024 US Open on Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2024 in Flushing, NY.

“Outstanding tennis facilities like the ATA help us to grow the game at the grassroots level, and we are proud to recognize them for their ongoing impact on the sport of tennis,” said Theodore Loehrke, Managing Director, Section Partnerships, USTA. “The great work of ATA continues to support our shared mission of growing tennis to inspire healthier people and communities everywhere.”

Facilities were judged on the following criteria: overall layout and adaptation to site; excellence of court surface and lights; ease of maintenance; accommodations for players, spectators and press/officials; aesthetics; graphics (including the use of signs and landscaping); amenities such as casual seating for spectators, food services and social areas; and the facilities’ participation in grassroots tennis programs.

Nominated facilities were voted on in the following categories: Public Courts that are either small tennis centers with 2-11 courts or large tennis centers with 12 or more courts; Private Facilities that offer both USTA and public programming designed to help grow tennis (small: 2-11 courts; large: 12 or more courts); and Educational Institutions such as colleges, universities, public and private grade schools, middle schools, or high schools. All 2024 award winners will receive a wall plaque and an all-weather sign, which can be mounted at the facility.

The 2024 USTA Outstanding Facility Award winners are:

Public Courts: Small Tennis Centers (2 to 11 courts)

Academia Puertorriqueña de Tenis (San Juan, P.R.)

Casper Tennis Complex (Casper, Wyo.)

Center Recreation Complex Gallagher Tennis Courts (Lexington, Mass.)

Littleton Golf and Tennis (Littleton, Colo.)

Schaumburg Tennis Plus (Schaumburg, Ill.)

Telluride Racquet Club (Telluride, Colo.)

Waveland Triangle Clay Tennis Courts (Minneapolis)

Public Courts: Large Tennis Centers (12 or more courts)

Arthur L. Allen Tennis Center (Naples, Fla.)

Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning (Bronx, N.Y.)

Darling Tennis Center (Las Vegas)

Denton Tennis and Pickleball Center (Denton, Texas)

Frank Veltri Tennis Center (Plantation, Fla.)

H-E-B Tennis Center Harlingen (Harlingen, Texas)

Leftwich Tennis Center (Memphis, Tenn.)

O’Connor Tennis Center (Montgomery, Ala.)

Pelham Racquet Club (Pelham, Ala.)

Pompano Beach Tennis Center (Pompano Beach, Fla.)

Sioux Park Tennis Facility (Rapid City, S.D.)

Washington Tennis & Education Foundation East Campus (Washington, D.C.)

*named USTA Featured Facility of the Year

Small Private Facilities (2-11 courts)

Alpine Hills Tennis & Swimming Club (Portola Valley, Calif.)

CourtSense at Bogota Racquet Club (Bogota, N.J.)

Dedham Health and Athletic Complex (Dedham, Mass.)

Forest Highlands Golf Club (Flagstaff, Ariz.)

Life Time Frisco (Frisco, Texas)

North Carolina State University Club (Raleigh, N.C.)

Pearson Automotive Tennis Club (Zionsville, Ind.)

Sea Pines Country Club (Hilton Head Island, S.C.)

Tennis Addiction Sports Club (Exton, Pa.)

Large Private Facilities (12 or more courts)

Austin Tennis Academy (Austin, Texas)

Canebrake Country Club (Hattiesburg Miss.)

Genesis Health Clubs – Saw Mill Club (Mt. Kisco, N.Y.)

Germantown Cricket Club (Philadelphia)

New Orleans Lawn Tennis Club (New Orleans)

Omni Amelia Island Resort (Fernandina Beach, Fla.)

Educational Institutions

Barbara S. Wynne Tennis Center (Indianapolis)

Grand Haven High School (Grand Haven, Mich.)

IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.)

Lichtenberg Tennis Center (West Point, N.Y.)

Mark Reilly Tennis Center (Jeffersonville, Ind.)

Middle Tennessee State University Tennis Complex

PayCargo Tennis Center (Miami)

ATA PLAYER RECOGNIZED DURING TOURNAMENT

When you earn your way into the L1 National Clay Court Championships, you know you are going to have to grind. The surface is slow, the points are long, and, at least in the main draw, there is the prospect of having to play a full third set. This year 16 ATA players achieved the honor to compete in the annual event held each July. For one of these competitors, Fate MacAlasdair, this year’s event will likely stand out for a lifetime!

On the very first day of competition, Fate played and won the longest match of his life. Coach Newman remarked, “Most junior tennis players never play a three hour match, let alone a four hour and 15 minute match.” Through the scorching heat and stifling humidity, Fate fought valiantly against an equally-matched opponent. After the final ball was struck, Fate and his opponent came to the net exhausted and shook hands. Fate had won the match which went to three tie breaks, 6-7, 7-6, 7-6. For his efforts, Fate was awarded Player of the Day status for the B18 draw.

When asked about the accolade, Fate said, “It meant a lot to be recognized after such a long, first round match and I am grateful for the tournament organizers and my team.” Coach Newman is aware it wasn’t a chance happening saying, “Most players would not have made it through the sort of intensity and heat. Fate’s preparation over the past year has been outstanding! He has hardly ever missed a practice or fitness session. That year long preparation, as well as three hour practices this summer, put him in a position to be able to win such a challenging match. I’m super proud of the work he’s put in”

The legendary football coach Vince Lombardi is known to have said, ‘Luck is when hard work meets opportunity.’ We at ATA are glad Fate did the work without knowing exactly when, or even if, this moment would come!

ATA HOSTS WEST TEXAS JUNIOR PLAYERS

Even though it was going to be a long road ahead, Coach Raymundo Perez was excited about his maiden voyage with a new 15 passenger van loaded with the group of kids he’s taking on a five-hour trip from Midland to the Austin Tennis Academy. Coach Perez is the tennis coach at one of the two high schools in Midland (Legacy) and a part-time teaching pro at The Bush Tennis Center. Under the direction of Bush Tennis Center Executive Director Tim Stallard, there is increased emphasis on getting junior players in the community to travel more in search of broadening their horizons.

Enter Coach Jack Newman. Always a friend to the greater tennis community, during a discussion at a recent tournament held in Texas, Coach Newman heard about a couple kids from Midland looking for some training options for the summer. Upon hearing this, Coach Newman suggested they pull together a group of kids to come down to ATA for a week.

That invitation is all it took for Coach Perez, whose son competes at the same level as ATA’s top boys, and another parent to load up that new van and haul seven kids to Austin for a taste of ATA. Andre Perez, Preston Crutchfield, Jakub Hurst, Vivian Myers, Kate Hendricks, Zoe Castaneda, and Camille Jeane, came and represented themselves, their families, and the community of Midland well with both their tennis work ethic and how they held themselves as people.

ATA looks forward to a continued and growing relationship with Midland Tennis Center, and programs like it everywhere!

USTA HONORS AUSTIN TENNIS ACADEMY COACH

ATA’s very own Brian Notis is being recognized by the United States Tennis Association – USTA – for his 30 years of service as a tournament director. In light of this month being National Tennis Month, the USTA chose May as the perfect time to present Notis with its Blue Ribbon Tournament Director Award.

“Coach Brian Notis is, hands-down, the best tournament Director in the United States” said Jack Newman, Owner and CEO of Austin Tennis Academy. “He(Notis) has run tournaments of all sizes and types. He understands the tournaments software and he understands the tournament participants and their families. ATA could not be prouder, and believe this is a well-deserved award.”

The Blue Ribbon Tournament Director honor was first awarded in 2015 to recognize top junior tournament directors in the country, and then the program stalled as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Coach Notis is the first person to receive this award in four years.

“I’m both honored and humbled to receive this national award,” said Coach Brian Notis. “I’m so fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with and learn from so many great folks who have challenged me to raise the bar for our tournaments including Coach Newman and my Winter Nationals DNA team.”

Click here if you would like to read the USTA article about honoring Coach Notis.

ATA HOSTS 2024 GRADUATION AND 2024 END OF YEAR PARTY

As the 2023-24 school year draws to a close, Austin Tennis Academy and ATA College Prep will be hosting two special events coming up later in May: Commencement and the End of Year Party for Academy. Both events will be held on the grounds of the tennis center.

Graduation will take place the evening of Wednesday, May 22 in celebration of CP’s graduating class of 2024: Kenna Erickson, Ethan Martelli, Graycen Edwards, and Kendall Cedar.

Doors will open at 6:30 PM for viewing of the Senior Tables with Commencement beginning at 7:00. There will be a dessert reception immediately following the ceremony.

Then, the following evening, Thursday, May 23, it’s the annual End of Year Party.

Happy Hour begins at 6:00 PM followed by heavy Hors d’oeuvres with the official program getting started between 7:15-7:30 PM. This annual event is where Academy players find out who’s earned which Academy Awards for the year.

Junior Tennis Player & Parent Virtual Conference Features Coach Newman

A great educational opportunity for junior tennis players and their parents is coming up on Sunday, June 9 ~ the Junior Tennis Player and Parent Virtual Conference. The online event, organized by Lisa Stone of Parenting Aces and Danielle McNamara, former Yale Women’s Tennis Coach and current recruiting consultant, is focused on helping junior tennis players and their parents learn valuable tips and strategies on how to successfully navigate the junior tennis pathway.

The inaugural conference will feature some of the most successful and experienced junior and college tennis coaches in the country, leading experts in sports performance and tennis industry representatives. In fact, ATA’s very own Jack Newman is one of the coaches tapped to speak at the event. “I’m very excited about being part of this conference,” said Coach Jack Newman, ATA Owner and CEO.

The online event will last three hours – from 9:00 – 12:00 EDT – and the cost to attend is $30. Now here’s one of the biggest perks to registering for the event – even if you can’t attend the entire time period or be a part of it at all on June 9, all of the event’s sessions will be recorded and made available to conference registrants following the event. The organizers say whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, this conference is perfect for anyone looking to expand their knowledge of today’s competitive junior tennis landscape and how to navigate it.

Click here to register.

TOURNAMENT MOVES TO NORTH TEXAS IN 2024

The Texas Slam is moving north this summer! USTA Texas announced the Dallas Professional Tennis Association along with the City of Plano and High Point Tennis Center have been selected as the Texas Slam hosts for 2024. The event, being held June 9 – 15, features competition for both boys and girls from Texas across four age divisions and includes both singles and doubles.

The location won’t be the only update for this year’s event. Draws for the Texas Slam will be capped at 64 players per division shortening the event by one day. A qualifier event will be added to give a final chance for Texas competitors to enter the prestigious tournament. Plus, winners of the 18s girls and boys divisions will earn a wildcard into qualifying for the 25k Austin and Harlingen events respectively. These updates and more are all part of an effort to provide a better overall experience for the participants while attracting top talent to the event. For 2024, the Texas Slam will also include boys and girls wheelchair divisions, a first for the tournament.

High Point Tennis Center, which earned the USTA’s Outstanding Facility Award in 2022, will serve as the main site for the event. The surrounding Plano area boasts 133 tennis courts and 100 courts within 10 miles of each other. Previous Texas Slam host cities include Georgetown, Abilene, College Station and Wichita Falls.

USTA Texas Executive Director, Fred Viancos said the Texas Slam has a storied history and the section is proud to build on its legacy through innovation and player accessibility. “We continue to explore ways to make the Texas Slam the premier event for our Texas Juniors. We’re excited to have the event hosted in the Dallas Metroplex area.”

Tournament information will be available by Friday, March 1 on playtennis.usta.com.

ATA PLAYERS SIGNING TO PLAY COLLEGIATE TENNIS

One of the most significant events in a junior tennis player’s career is their Signing Ceremony, and there are two ATA seniors we will be celebrating this coming Thursday, February 15.

Ross Cockrell will be signing to play tennis at Colorado College in Colorado Springs in the fall and Tucker Taylor will head to Roger Williams University in Rhode Island to begin his college tennis career.

We’re proud of the work and dedication these two have put in necessary to realize their dreams of playing collegiate tennis, and we hope you’ll join us for their Signing Ceremony. There will be speeches, lots of laughs, even a few tears shed, and of course, cake.

Join the celebration Thursday at 6:00 pm at Austin Tennis Academy.

JACK NEWMAN RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS HONOR

Coach Jack Newman is known as one of the finest and longest-tenured junior development coaches in the United States. He founded tennis programs at Fretz Tennis Center in Dallas, at St. Stephen’s school in Austin, and finally, the Austin Tennis Academy. And anyone who knows Coach Newman knows he’s a man who has left an indelible mark on not only tennis, but hundreds and hundreds of people. In recognition of who he is, what he’s done, the difference he’s made, and the impact on lives he’s had, the USPTA Texas presented Coach Newman with the Tut Bartzen Lifetime Achievement Award.

Coach Newman officially received the Lifetime Achievement Award during the USPTA Texas Annual Conference held this year in Irving. “When I was first informed that the Texas Section of the USPTA was honoring me with a lifetime achievement award I had mixed emotions,” said Jack Newman, Owner/CEO, Austin Tennis Academy. “I thought, ‘Wait a minute, I still got a lot of life to live!!!'”

The Tut Bartzen Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes a member (Coach Newman has been a member for 40 years) who has demonstrated exemplary achievement in seven areas throughout their career: contributions to the USPTA and USTA; achievements in teaching and playing both on and off the court, contributions of time and expertise to other organizations and/or charities, and commitment to growing the game through published articles, presentations, education, and communications.

“As I’ve thought about this honor what resonated in my mind was all the people who contributed to MY lifetime of achievement,” said Coach Newman. “It starts with a college friend Jerry Schwartz, who invited me to spend the summer at his house when we were in college. I came to Dallas and started working at Fretz Tennis Center.”

“My colleagues at Fretz who aided in MY achievements,” Newman pointed out, “included our boss Babs Givens, coaches Andrea Rains, Joe Dinnoffer, Larry Whitson, Tim Barnard, Jeff Robison, Raymond Gonzales and many others who pushed me to be better. My coaching colleagues met through the DPTA who also contributed to my success included Nony Michulka, Sally Frame, Kathi Eckels, David Redding and David Anderson both doubles partners who carried me. While I was in Dallas I started relationships with others in our business who helped accomplish things including: David Blakely, Cynthia Shipper, Phil Parrish and many others.

Newman added, “When I left Dallas to help my friend Eric Schmidhauser start a program at St. Stephen’s boarding school, I had another group of folks who pushed me to be better. Those colleagues included Eric and Lucie Schmidhausers, Vince Segovia, Deb Cahill, Doug Davis and many others. And when we left St. Stephen’s to strike out on our own and found the Austin Tennis Academy, those same colleagues joined the journey.”

Along the way, Newman acknowledged, there have been many parents who influenced his philosophy including the Melmends, the Stahls, the Youngs, the Hacketts, the Smiths, the Kaufmanns, the Offerdahls and the Gubsers and so, so many more.

“After 20 years at the Austin Tennis Academy,” said Newman, “I have tried to surround myself with coaches and teachers smarter than me and they have added to MY achievements; people like Dio Miranda, Brian Notis, Bryan Rutherford, April Erickson, Doug Davis, Carol Hagar, Deb Cahill, Duey Evans, Vince Segovia, John Schoenmakers, Ryan Rowe, Norm Houston, Shiamaa Elsisi. Additionally, the list of students who became colleagues grows ever longer; coaches like Chase Bartlett, Chase Curry, Brandon Davis, Ashley Weinhold, AJ Garcia, Jake Rother, Tommy Collins. To those I have failed to list who added to this career I apologize, senior moment!”

And finally, Newman said, “As I have said on many occasions the student makes the coach and my students have certainly made me a better coach and person, and helped me accomplish many achievements. That includes folks from ATA stretching all the way back to the Fretz days: Melanie Rogers, Ted Bowie, Carla Rosenberg, Lance Cowart, Andrew Dobbs, Lynden Melmed, Eli Stahl, Doug Moore, Loren Collins, Neil Kenner, Andrew Menter, Craig Ackerman, all three Davis brothers, Roger Gubser, Mattew Bain, Kewa Nichols, Lindsey Pereira, Josh Hagar, Bailey Forgus, Nico Jamison, and so, so many more too numerous to name. My achievements are tied to my relationships with them and their families.”

Also during the 2024 USPTA Texas conference, as a featured speaker, Coach Newman delivered his presentation, ‘Developing Culture that Drives Results.’

Click here to view a ‘Congratulations Video’ for Coach Newman; and click here to read the USPTA’s release about Coach Newman.

CAMP REGISTRATION IS OPEN

Spring Break is just a month away, and that break is a perfect time for your child to be able to progress at a rapid pace with their tennis by attending one of ATA’s camps.

Spring Break camps will be held March 11 – 15 on the tennis courts at Austin Tennis Academy. There will be three different session levels held in the morning camps from 9AM to Noon each day that week. There will also be an afternoon session called Tournament Tough Camp for Academy-level players from 1 to 4PM each day. All camps run Monday through Friday rain or shine.

Click here for more information or to register your child to attend.

FORMER ATA COACH PURCHASES TENNIS CLUB IN INDIANA

The beginning of a new year ushered in the realization of a long-time dream for a former Austin Tennis Academy coach. Josh Rifkin, who left ATA a few years ago to return to his home town and start up his own gym, Synergistic Body, has now purchased the indoor tennis facility where he played tennis as a junior.

In an interview with Inside Indiana Business, Rifkin said “I’ve been thinking about something like this for well over a decade, not necessarily tennis club oriented, but a way to kind of bring tennis and community, among other components that have been my passion over the past, many, many years, together. So it is kind of serendipitous. The opportunity was there to make things kind of full circle for myself.” Wildwood Racquet Club has more than a 40-year history in Fort Wayne, Indiana; it has 12 indoor courts, four outdoor courts, and eight pickle ball courts. The facility also features a pro shop, fitness center, court-side bar and restaurant, and child care services.

The ATA community will remember Rifkin from his time helping develop junior tennis players both as a tennis coach and a fitness coach. “My time working at ATA was invaluable in preparation for my recent tennis club acquisition,” said Rifkin. “From enhancing my practical hands-on skills of tennis instruction and fitness training to understanding nuance of operations, programming, and team mindedness. The environment and culture (at ATA) allowed growth and learning from every corner.”

“We are so proud of the entrepreneurial spirit of Coach Josh Rifkin as he begins his journey at Wildwood Racquet Club,” said Jack Newman, ATA Owner and CEO. “Josh only does things one way, the right way.” Rifkin continues to return to Austin and ATA to support the Shootout, ATA’s annual fundraising event held each year in October.

CATA NAMES ATA COACH ‘2023 COACH OF THE YEAR’

The Capital Area Tennis Association named Ashley Weindhold its 2023 Coach of the Year. The awards were handed out during CATA’s Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony. Weinhold was out of town during the event so her father, Guy Weinhold, accepted the award in her honor.

CATA holds the event each year to recognize those in the Austin area who make invaluable contributions to the sport as well as the organization both on and off the court.

ATA COLLEGE PREP INDUCTS INAUGURAL NHS MEMBERS

2023 marks the inaugural year of the ATA College Prep Chapter of the National Honor Society, and with that comes the induction of its first and founding members. The National Honor Society is one of the oldest, largest, and most widely recognized co-curricular student organizations in American high schools.

The induction ceremony will recognize eight students as founding members of ATA College Prep’s NHS Chapter, joining more than 1.4 million students across the country who are members of the NHS. ATA College Prep NHS inductees include: Cole Kilian, Fate MacAlasdair, Michael Malyshev, Aya Manning, Marcus McWilliams, Riley Mueller, Caiden Riebold, and Jonathan Seder.

Membership in local NHS chapters, such as ATA College Prep, is an honor bestowed upon a student by a Faculty Council and is based on the four pillars of NHS: scholarship, character, leadership, and service. Once selected, members have the responsibility to continue to demonstrate these qualities.

The purpose the NHS is to create enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate a desire to render service, to promote leadership, and to develop character in the students of secondary schools.

ATA PLAYER’S STORY FEATURED IN ON-LINE ARTICLE

Every year, the Austin Tennis Academy sends quite a few of its players on to play collegiate tennis. That’s an incredible accomplishment, especially when you consider there are more than 160-thousand teenagers nationwide competing at the high school level and only about 20-thousand spots available on teams across all levels of college tennis. One of ATA’s seniors who found a way to make his dream of playing college tennis a reality is featured this month on Tennis Recruiting Network.

In fact, Tucker Taylor’s story is what inspired the writer to do a feature on him and his college choice for the website dedicated to the recruiting of junior tennis players. Back in September, Taylor committed to play for Roger Williams University and was interviewed by Rhiannon Potkey about his decision. Potkey said she had not done a story on Roger Williams before, and following her interview with Taylor, decided to showcase Taylor to help prove to other players that there are so many different options/opportunities for playing college tennis.

If looking only at the numbers, the odds about being able to play college tennis can feel overwhelming for junior tennis players. However, Potkey’s article on Taylor drives home the idea that there is a place for all different types players. The key: being willing to go down the road less traveled in order to find your perfect destination.

CLICK HERE TO READ TAYLOR’S ARTICLE ON TENNISRECRUTING

KENNA ERICKSON SIGNS WITH LSU

Austin Tennis Academy and ATA College Prep will soon be sending off one of their youngest players ever to attend college. That send off for Kenna Erickson begins with her Signing Ceremony, which are seen as a rite of passage for players moving out of juniors and into collegiate competition.

You’re invited to be part of the celebration happening the evening of Thursday, October 16. The signing ceremony will begin at 6:30 PM on Court 6 at Austin Tennis Academy. These ceremonies are special not only for the named player, but also inspirational for other players in the Academy as well as the entire ATA community.

Erickson will be 16 years old when she graduates in December from ATA College Prep; then in January she will head to Baton Rouge to play D1 tennis on the Women’s team at Louisiana State University.

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