Doing Our Part - Reaching the USTA's Goal
Lynne Rolley, PTR Board Chair
The USTA boldly announced on April 3 that their goal is to be the leading tennis-playing nation in the world, targeting 35 million players by 2035. We applaud the USTA for setting such an ambitious goal and we all know that the most important tool to achieving this goal is through the strong tennis teaching professional on the ground.
The teaching pros in the United States (and around the world) are the Johnny Appleseeds of the sport. They are the ones planting the seeds for the growth of tennis in every community. They are the most important cog in the wheel that determines if a person wants to learn tennis, becomes good enough to feel comfortable consistently playing tennis, and organizes and enthusiastically promotes tennis. They are the ones who have to make tennis easy to play and make it the most fun.
Everyone has their opinion on what needs to be done to get more people to start to play tennis and keep people playing tennis. That is why we want to hear from you! What are your thoughts on how to make tennis more popular and get more people to play?
Please share thoughts with us by tagging us on social media, on Twitter at @PTRTennis, on Facebook at PTR – Professional Tennis Registry – Officialor Instagram @PTRTennisOfficial or email us directly at ptr@ptrtennis.org. We will re-share and publish all the great ideas!
Lynne Rolley
PTR Board Chair
The Move to Saddlebrook - Office Updates & New Member Benefits at Saddlebrook Resort
We are thrilled to share some exciting updates regarding our ongoing projects and enhanced benefits for our esteemed members at Saddlebrook Resort. As we continue to grow and improve, it’s our utmost priority to provide you with exceptional experiences and opportunities.
New Office Build Progress: We are delighted to announce that our new office build at Saddlebrook Resort is well underway and on track for completion by July 1st. This new space will serve as a hub for our operations, enhancing our ability to serve you better and create memorable moments together. Stay tuned for further updates as we approach the grand opening!
Renovations at Saddlebrook Resort: In addition to our office build, we’re excited to inform you that renovations at Saddlebrook Resort will commence in the coming weeks. These renovations aim to elevate your experience at the resort, ensuring that every visit is nothing short of exceptional. We can’t wait to unveil the refreshed and rejuvenated atmosphere for you to enjoy.
Enhanced Member Benefits: As valued members of our community, we are pleased to introduce enhanced benefits exclusively for PTR/PPR members. These benefits are designed to add value to your membership and enrich your time at Saddlebrook Resort:
Lodging Discounts
Enjoy special Friends & Family rates on lodging, ranging from $109 to $299 nightly based on room type and seasonality. Simply reference your PTR/PPR Membership and provide your Member Card upon check-in to avail these discounted rates.
Stay-n-Play Packages
Receive a 10% discount on seasonal package rates for Tennis, Golf, and Pickleball. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or looking to try something new, these packages offer a perfect blend of leisure and excitement.
Resort Dining
Indulge in delightful culinary experiences with a 10% discount on Food & Beverage purchases at Saddlebrook outlets. Just present your membership ID at the point of sale to enjoy these savings.
Racquet Sport Court Use
PTR/PPR members can enjoy complimentary use of Tennis and Pickleball courts when scheduled through the Sports Pro-Shop. Plus, take advantage of discounted rates for guests, ensuring everyone can join in on the fun.
Golf
Exclusively for PTR/PPR members, enjoy discounted rates on tee times, starting from $45 to $85 per round, plus tax. Simply present your membership ID at the point of sale or reservation to avail this benefit.
We’re committed to providing you with unparalleled experiences and value throughout your membership journey. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, recreation, or a little bit of both, Saddlebrook Resort is your ultimate destination.
For reservations or inquiries, please contact us at 813-973-1111 or email Resv@saddlebrook.com. You can also book directly using the provided booking link in the Benefits tab in your member portal.
The History of PTR - Dennis Van Der Meer... Where It All Started
Dennis Van Der Meer was a highly influential figure in the world of tennis, particularly in the realm of coaching and player development. He was born on February 25, 1933, in South Africa, and later became a naturalized American citizen. Van Der Meer’s impact on tennis can be seen through his pioneering work in coaching methodologies and the establishment of the Professional Tennis Registry (PTR).
Van Der Meer was a talented player himself, reaching a career-high ranking in South Africa before transitioning to coaching. He recognized the need for standardized coaching methods and certifications to improve the quality of tennis instruction worldwide. In 1976, he founded the Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) with the mission to educate, certify, and service tennis teachers and coaches around the globe.
The PTR became a leading organization for tennis coaches, offering various levels of certification and continuing education programs. Its curriculum emphasizes technical, tactical, mental, and physical aspects of tennis coaching. Van Der Meer’s approach focused on simplicity, efficiency, and consistency in teaching methods, making tennis more accessible to players of all levels.
Under Van Der Meer’s leadership, the PTR grew significantly, establishing partnerships with tennis federations, academies, and clubs worldwide. His influence extended beyond coaching certifications; he authored numerous instructional books and videos, contributed to the development of teaching aids and equipment, and conducted workshops and seminars internationally.
Van Der Meer’s legacy in tennis coaching and player development is immense. His contributions have helped shape the careers of countless players and coaches, and his vision for standardized coaching methods continues to influence tennis education globally. Dennis Van Der Meer passed away on July 27, 2019, but his impact on the sport of tennis endures through the work of the PTR and the coaches he trained.
Meet the Team - Chris Jones
Meet Chris Jones, the heart and soul of our office operations here at PTR! Joining our team back in September 2022, Chris has been the go-to person for ensuring our members receive the top-notch experience they deserve.
You might find yourself chatting with Chris if you give us a call, and you’re in for a treat! But there’s much more to Chris than just managing our office. Let’s delve into some fun facts that make him truly unique:
Karaoke Enthusiast: Chris’s go-to karaoke jam? “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston. With that kind of energy, it’s no wonder he keeps our office vibes lively!
Rice and Beans Aficionado: While some might find it dull, Chris could happily feast on rice and beans for eternity, especially if they’re pinto beans. Simple yet satisfying!
Marvel Maven: Are you a fan of Marvel movies? So is Chris! He particularly resonates with characters like Jean Grey and Wanda Maximoff. If he could have a superpower, it’d be something as versatile as dark magic or telekinesis, allowing him to wield a range of abilities.
Middle School Speedster: Don’t let his current demeanor fool you; Chris was once the Usain Bolt of his middle school days, leaving even the teachers in his dust!
Chris brings a blend of efficiency, enthusiasm, and a touch of quirkiness to our office dynamic. So next time you’re in touch with PTR, make sure to say hello to Chris—you’re in for a conversation as delightful and diverse as he is!
NEW EDUCATION AVAILABLE - PPR Completes Level II Pilot
We’ve successfully completed our inaugural Level II pilot!
Level II Certification is for those PPR Professionals who are working with more advanced and competitive players. This 8-hour course delves deeper into coaching the high intermediate to advanced competitive player.
Our next Level II Certification Workshop will be held April 28 & 29th on Hilton Head Island with a date at Saddlebrook Resort this summer.
PPR has made tremendous strides in furthering our education curriculum as we continue to aim for enhancing educational opportunities for all our members.
