A New Exciting Era For The PTR Is Upon Us
Lynne Rolley, PTR Board Chair
As we approach a busy summer season in the Northern Hemisphere, we are entering a new season in the history of the Professional Tennis Registry. On June 1, we are going to officially open our new global headquarters at the famed Saddlebrook Resort in Wesley Chapel, Florida, just outside of Tampa. Not only has Saddlebrook been the training ground of some of the best players in the history of the game, most notably Pete Sampras, Jim Courier and Jennifer Capriati, but it was founded by Harry Hopman, the Australian who was one of the most notable and famous coaches in international tennis. Saddlebrook is one of the world’s great cradles of exceptional players and exceptional coaches, which make it an especially symbolic location for our new workplace.
Our new relationship with Saddlebrook is also especially appropriate because we are both in periods of new growth and improvement. Saddlebrook’s new ownership group, Mast Capital, has enthusiastic plans and desires to upgrade and improve the resort. The PTR is also looking forward to bringing the organization to greater heights as we enter a new era in our history.
The PTR was founded in 1976 by the world-renowned and future International Tennis Hall of Fame inductee Dennis Van der Meer, who steered the organization until Dan Santorum took over the reigns in 1986. Now, the PTR is entering a new era of leadership where we will continue to improve our education programs, add even more exciting special events and grow our membership while adding even more member benefits. The search for our new CEO will be headed by the search firm of Kopplin, Kuebler & Wallace.
There are exciting times ahead and we look forward to celebrating all of our successes in this new era of growth. We want to wish all of our PTR members the best of good fortune in this upcoming busy season. You are our extended tennis family and we will always be here for you.
Lynne Rolley
PTR Board Chair
Celebrating Diversity
In the dynamic world of tennis coaching, where talent knows no bounds, diversity and inclusion are integral to fostering innovation, excellence, and opportunity. As a leader in tennis education and certification, the Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) stands at the forefront of promoting diversity and inclusion within the coaching industry. With a membership that boasts 30% female coaches and 30% coaches of color, PTR is driving positive change and reshaping the coaching landscape for the better.
Diversity at the Core
At PTR, diversity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a core value woven into the fabric of our organization. Recognizing the importance of representation and diverse perspectives, PTR has championed initiatives to ensure that individuals from all backgrounds have access to quality coaching education and opportunities for advancement. Our commitment to diversity extends across all facets of our programs, from the ACE Program to PTRW and PTR On Campus initiatives.
ACE Program: Pioneering Inclusivity
One of PTR’s flagship initiatives, the ACE Program, serves as a shining example of our dedication to inclusivity. Named after the legendary Arthur Ashe, the ACE Program is designed to add diversity to the community of tennis coaches by providing comprehensive training and support to coaches of color and those intending to work in diverse programs or communities. By offering a pathway to success for coaches from underrepresented backgrounds, ACE is catalyzing positive change within the coaching industry and beyond.
PTRW: Empowering Female Coaches
In a traditionally male-dominated field, PTRW (Professional Tennis Registry for Women) is breaking barriers and empowering female coaches to thrive. With a commitment to providing opportunities, tools, and networking avenues for female coaches, PTRW is fostering a supportive community where women can connect, grow, and excel in their coaching careers. With 30% of PTR’s membership comprised of female coaches, PTRW is making significant strides towards gender equality in tennis coaching.
PTR On Campus: Nurturing the Next Generation
PTR On Campus initiative recognizes that the future of tennis coaching lies in the hands of today’s students. By offering certification opportunities to students eager to further their coaching skills while pursuing their education, PTR On Campus is nurturing the next generation of diverse coaches. With a focus on accessibility and inclusivity, this program is empowering young players and tennis enthusiasts to embark on their coaching journey right from campus.
Driving Positive Change:
As the tennis coaching industry continues to evolve, PTR remains steadfast in its commitment to diversity and inclusion. By fostering a culture of respect, equity, and opportunity, we are not only enriching the coaching profession but also shaping a more inclusive and vibrant tennis community. With 30% female coaches and 30% coaches of color within our membership, PTR is leading by example and proving that diversity isn’t just a goal—it’s our strength.
Join Us in Championing Diversity
At PTR, we believe that diversity and inclusion are not only values to uphold but also pathways to excellence. Whether you’re a coach, student, or tennis enthusiast, we invite you to join us in championing diversity and shaping the future of tennis coaching. Together, let’s continue to serve up inclusivity, empowerment, and opportunity for all.
In every serve, swing, and coaching session, let’s celebrate the rich tapestry of talent and diversity that makes tennis coaching truly extraordinary. Join PTR in championing diversity and inclusion, and together, let’s make a lasting impact on the tennis coaching industry and beyond.
