-Ashaway MonoGut® ZX Series Tennis Strings Provide Exceptional Dynamic Stiffness, High Spin, and Gut-Like Playability- Ashaway To Continue As Official String Of USA Racquetball-European Beach Tennis Championships- Murray was destined to win Wimbledon ever since he was our water boy, says RusedskiTraveleads joins growing stable of TIA UK Preferred SuppliersATP celebrates 40 years of rankings with new bookTIA UK reports to be on track to AGM

04 My Serve

06 Product News

08 ERSA Sign-up Sheet

09 Industry News

18 News Shorts

20 Wimbledon

22 Tips

26 ERSA Around the World

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Welcome to issue 5 of RacquetTech Magazine!

The 2nd Annual ERSA Member Meeting / Symposium will take place in Düsseldorf in April in 2014. We are checking dates around Easter vacations and tournaments, along with which hotel has the capacity. We will send out an e-mail in the next 2-3 weeks with all the information for 2014. We will limit the number to 60 and have already over 50 members interested. We may offer a second Symposium in the south of Europe if this one fills up quickly and we have too many registered. Also, let us know your thoughts on changing the Symposium to a different venue every year or keeping it in central Europe.We are planning to launch a new website in the next 2-3 months. We would like all of your ideas and input on what you would like to have on the website. We will still offer a FORUM which all of our managers will be active on. This will give you access for free to some of the best stringers in the world. We will increase our TOOLS to include Racket Tuning Tool, which is the most requested from our members, along with the tools we already have including the Online Digest, String and Racket Databases and Find a New String and Find a New Racket ToolsYou have probably read in our magazine and others about the increases in the Grand Slam prize money. This was done to increase the money for the first and second round loosers to cover their expenses. The winner’s prize money has also increased by large amounts. The distance between the Futures and Challengers tournaments prize money and the Grand Slams is getting larger. The smaller tournaments have had the same prize money for many years with no increases, although their expenses are going up each year. I think the ATP, WTA and ITF should make sure the prize money increases for the smaller tournaments follow the increases for the larger tournaments. I think will help to keep the tennis industry healthy.Here is my adjusted schedule as of today if anyone has a chance to meet up with me. I will be in the Düsseldorf office except for these dates. August 1- 12 Montreal, Rogers Cup, August 12-19, Vacation USA (I will still be available at my e-mail address), September 5 – 15 Warsaw, Poland, Davis Cup Australia - Poland, September 26 - October 10, Tokyo, Japan Open. I will also be travelling doing workshops in October, November and December. I will update my schedule in the next issue with workshops in Italy (Racket Tuning), TenniscoachUK, England, TIA UK Workshops and Certification – UK, Beginner / Advanced and Racket Tuning Workshops in Dusseldorf.

Mark MaslowskiDirector - ERSA

RACQUETTECH EUROPE

European Racquet Stringers AssociationDirectorMark Maslowski

ERSA Germany, Austria, Switzerland ManagerSanda Maslowski

ERSA AustraliaAnthony Aley

ERSA UK ManagerJamie Pethick

ERSA UK TesterRoger Dalton

ERSA Spain ManagerRichard Parnell

ERSA France ManagerJean Baviera

ERSA Italy ManagerMarco Rossani

ERSA Netherlands ManagerTimo van DrielRob Maessen

ERSA Greece Manager

ERSA Greece Tester

ERSA Czech Republic & SlovakiaVaclav Smat

TECHNICAL CONSULTANTRod Cross

TENNIS CONSULTANTGabe Jaramillo

European Racquet Stringers AssociationLenaustr. 3840470 DüseldorfDE GermanyPhone /Fax 0049(0)211-68814151

George Pahiakos

Petros Biris

FOUNDING MEMBERSAshaway BabolatHead IsospeedKirschbaum LuxilonPacific Wilson

CORPORATE MEMBERSAshaway HeadPrince IsospeedGOSEN Tecnifibre

STRING SUPPLIER MEMBERSApollo Leisure Bow BrandKirschbaum Signum ProTyger / Tennis Planet

Timo van Driel – NetherlandsRob Maessen – NetherlandsOscar Sallmen – SwedenGiuseppe Sella – EnglandRay Wan – EnglandGeoff George - England

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PRO TOUR STRINGERS

Marco Rossani – Italy (Level 1)Adriana Moretti – Italy (Level1)Michele Fabbretti – Italy (Level 1)

New Certified Stringers, Master Racquet Technicians and Pro Tour Stringers.

ERSA now offers certification for different levels of stringers, from beginners to the top professional stringers in the world. The first level is ERSA Stringer is for new stringers to show they have completed a stringing course and learned to string correctly. Certified Stringer is for stringing services, such as coaches, club stringers, shop string¬ers, after passing a day of practical and written tests. Master Racquet Technician is for shop stringers and owners who can tune racquets, string at a high level and have a broad knowledge of products for their customers. Pro Tour Stringer certification is for MRTs who are stringing at ATP and WTA tournaments. There are 3 levels for this certification, Level 1, Level 2 and Master Pro Tour Stringer. The highest level, Master PTS is only given to stringers who have proven themselves at professional tournaments for over 10 years.NEW – Anyone with a Master Racquet Technician certification can take the Level 1 Pro Tour Stringer certification without tournament experience. This will only be a practical test. After five years, the applicant can apply to take the Level 2 certification. A resume will be required with tournament experience. Master Pro Tour Stringer can be applied for after 10 years and must be recommended from another Master PTS.Congratulations to :

Marco Gazziero – Itlay (Level 1)Paolo Facci – Italy (Level 1)Mauro Lissandrini – Italy (Level 1)

DIADORA TECHNOLOGIEN

Ashaway Kevlar® Plus Tennis String Available In Bulk Spools

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Artikelcode: 157862Farbcodes: C3679 (yellow/blue), C4767 (blue/green) UVP DE: 140,- €Gewicht:280 g

NET BREATHING SYSTEMEinzigartige Technologie einer atmungsaktiven Sohle, die in Lizenz von Geox in DIADORA Performance Schuhen verwendet wird.Das NET BREATHING SYSTEM besteht aus einer speziellen atmungsaktiven Membran, die die Schweißabsorption nach außen ermöglicht, aber undurchlässig gegenüber Wasser von außen ist und so den Fuß trocken hält. Die speziell konstruierte Außensohle mit ermöglicht dann den Transport der Feuchtigkeit aus dem Schuh heraus. Ein schützendes, atmungsaktives Netz aus synthetischen Fasern hält Schmutz und andere externe Partikel davon ab, in den Schuh einzudringen.

Der Diadora N-6100 ist ein neutraler Laufschuh, der mit 280 g Gewicht ein Lightweight Trainer ist, aber gleichzeitig durch NBS und Double Action besonders hohen Dämpfungskomfort bietet. Das exklusive und innovative NET Breathing System lässt „die Füße atmen“. Die synthetischen Fasern und die atmungsaktive, wasserdichte Membran der Sohle verbessern die Atmungsaktivität und verhindern dabei eindringen von Feuchtigkeit, Schlamm und Schutt. Das innere Schuhgewebe ist dabei mit einer speziellen antibakteriellen Behandlung versehen. Durch das exklusive Diadora Dämpfungssystem Double Action bestehend aus zwei Elastomeren unterschiedlicher Dichte, die sich im Fersen- und Mittelfußbereich befinden bietet der Schuh eine maximale Dämpfung. Störende Vibrationen im Fersenbereich werden eliminiert. Die Flexibilität und Druckverteilung im Vorderfuß wird erheblich verbessert. Das Axeler Propulsion System basiert auf der schnellen Energiegeneration während der natürlichen Fußbewegung vom Aufsetzen der Ferse bis zum Abdruck auf dem Zeh. Die so in den Axeler Elementen gespeicherte Energiespannung sorgt im Bewegungsablauf für zusätz l ichen Vortr ieb. Die Spezie l le abr iebfeste Gummimischung sorgt für deutlich geringere Abnutzung und lange Haltbarkeit.

- Bulk spools offer greater flexibility in string combinations, minimize string waste- PTFE filaments in braided Kevlar mains produce softer feel, enhance playabilityAshaway, RI – Ashaway Racket Strings has now made its Kevlar® Plus tennis string available in bulk reels to allow players and stringers greater flexibility in hybrid stringing combinations for all racquet types and string patterns. Ashaway's 1.25 mm (17 gauge) Kevlar Plus bulk reels are available in small reels of 360 feet (110 meters) and large reels of 720 feet (220 meters). Use of bulk reels minimizes string waste when stringing different hybrid patterns and racquet types.Ashaway Kevlar Plus is becoming a popular choice for hybrid combinations among power hitters and chronic string breakers. Kevlar fibers provide a powerful string bed for heavy topspin players, while braided-in PTFE filaments produce a softer feel and enhance playability. Using braided Kevlar/PTFE main strings also maximizes durability and enhances string abrasion resistance to increase string life."Hybrid stringing continues to gain popularity, especially among string breakers and heavy hitters," said Steve Crandall, Ashaway Vice President. "By adding very silky PTFE filaments to our braided Kevlar we've softened its feel and enhanced playability without sacrificing power, durability, or tension holding properties.

By choosing their favorite cross string, players can get a customized hybrid with powerful playability, softer feel, superior spin capability, and maximum durability."Kevlar® is a registered trademark of E.I. DuPont de Nemours and Co.Ashaway Racket Strings are made by Ashaway Line & Twine Mfg. Co., the only U.S. manufacturer of string forsquash, tennis, racquetball, and badminton. Operated by the Crandall family since 1824, Ashaway has been making racquet strings since 1949, and is responsible for several important technical innovations. Ashaway has been the Official String of USA Racquetball for more than ten years. Ashaway Line & Twine Mfg. Co. also makes braided products for medical and industrial applications. For more information visit www.ashawayusa.com

Diadora N-6100

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The ERSA is now distributing Kimony Stringing Tools and other products shown below on our website to ERSA members. The awls have a special coating to keep them from slipping in the grommet holes.St332 – Short AwlKST333 – Straightening Awl or Setting Off AwlKST334 – Curved AwlKST335 – Long AwlKST336 – Grommet AwlStick-on Power Pads – The best we have found and easy to useKLG161 Thin Leather Grip 0,80mmKLG163 Leather Grip 1,5mmKST308 Badminton Brace - Great for supporting badminton frame at high tensions. Especially on fixed post stringing machines i.e. Babolat and Wilson. The side braces are too far apart for high tensions and can save many broken frames.

Curved Awl Grommet Awl

Long Awl Short Awl

Straightening Awl or Setting Off Awl

Kimony Tools

Kimony has introduced a String Protector KST337. As you can see in photo 1 the starting clamp flattens the string which goes around the sharp angle in the grommet. With some sensitive strings, this could cause the string to break prematurely, especially a poly with a mishit.

Kimony Stringing Tools have introduced the String Protector in photo 2 which allows you to place the starting clamp away from the sharp angles.

In photo 3 you can see the proper placement of the String Protector using a starting clamp to pull the first main string. I tested this device in Wimbledon on over 100 rackets. It is easy to use and works well. It takes 2-3 seconds to place on the racket and is very stable.

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SIGN-UP ERSA 2013

Name_____________________________________________________________

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Country

1.Year Membership 99Euro____________________________________________

2.Year Membership 170Euro___________________________________________

3.Year Membership 220Euro___________________________________________

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Card Number________________________________Exp. Date_______________

I am interested in the FREE Annual Meeting/ Symposium

Signature__________________________________________________________________________

Please Fax or e-Mail this form to European Racquet Stringers Association.

Fax +49(0)211-68814151; email mmaslo3330@aol.com

Sign up Now for 2013 and receive 3 sets of Test String and Stringer Software free of charge. You will receive the latest updated version every year with your renewal. Become a member today and receive:

- - RACQUETTECH MAGAZINE- STRINGER SOFTWARE - Value- WEB ACCESS- DISCOUNTS ON ADVERTISERS PRODUCTS- FREE SAMPLES- REDUCED PRICES ON WORKSHOPS AND CERTIFICATION- ANNUAL MEETING / SYMPOSIUM - Value

STRINGERS DIGEST

99 EURO

350 EURO

I am interested in the Symposium

1 Year Membership -99€2 Year Membership – 170€3 Year Membership - 220€

-- 100% Zyex® monofilament construction increases elongation, decreases stiffness for comfortable soft power-- Thinner, lighter version of MonoGut ZX Pro delivers even more playability for players who do not require added durability of 16 gauge MonoGut ZX-- Surface design plus solid monofilament construction minimizes string movement, improves abrasion resistance and durability

Ashaway Racket Strings offers two versions of its popular Zyex-based MonoGut® tennis strings, 16 gauge (127 mm) MonoGut ZX, and 17 gauge (1.22 mm) MonoGut ZX Pro. MonoGut ZX Pro is a thinner lighter string, designed to provide even better elongation, snap-back and playability for players who do not require the added durability of a 16 gauge string. Both strings offer 100% Zyex monofilament construction, which provides exceptional dynamic stiffness and gut-like playability. The total lack of polyester increases elongation and decreases stiffness for comfortable soft power.“Like natural gut, MonoGut ZX series strings provide exceptional energy return," said Steve Crandall, Vice President of Ashaway Racket Strings, "better than any other synthetic material. This means more power.

Ashaway MonoGut® ZX Series Tennis Strings Provide Exceptional Dynamic Stiffness, High Spin, and Gut-Like Playability

Also like gut, MonoGut ZX series strings remain soft at higher tensions, reducing impact shock. This results in more comfortable performance -- what we call 'soft power.' MonoGut ZX offers more durability, while many professional players prefer the responsiveness of the thinner lighter MonoGut ZX Pro." Crandall added that reports from players of all stripes indicate that MonoGut ZX series strings also generate spin like the, "so-called high-tech polyesters. Because of the strings' high elasticity and low coefficient of friction, players claim better snap-back for improved spin, better results from more compact strokes, and overall reduced impact shock and enhanced comfort." Crandall noted few breakage problems have been reported, and quoted several players as saying: 'Playing with this string is just easier;' 'Great power and spin;' and 'Totally different feel than when playing with other monos.'" MonoGut ZX and MonoGut ZX Pro are designed for players seeking both gut-like playability and superior durability in a solid monofilament string, as well as for players using monofilament strings in hybrid stringing patterns. MonoGut ZX and MonoGut ZX Pro come in either a natural gut-like tan or fiery red. They are available in 40-ft (12 m) sets and in both 360-ft (110 m) and 720-ft (220 m) reels. Recommended stringing tension is up to 60 lbs. (27 kgs).Ashaway Racket Strings are made by Ashaway Line & Twine Mfg. Co., the only U.S. manufacturer of string for squash, tennis, racquetball, and badminton. Operated by the Crandall family since 1824, Ashaway has been making racquet strings since 1949, and is responsible for several important technical innovations. Ashaway has been the Official String of USA Racquetball for more than ten years. Ashaway Line & Twine Mfg. Co. also makes braided products for medical and industrial applications. For more information visit www.ashawayusa.com

Prince Global Sports opened there first retail store in Wimbledon Village SW19 on Saturday evening June 15, two days before the Championships started. Nick Bolletieri and John Isner were special guests for the opening. The store is 100% Prince and filled with everything you need including stringing and customizing center. The opening evening was packed with people standing outside in front of the store. Prince said they were more than happy with the large number of people coming in everyday during the fortnight.The store will be run by Prince’s Duncan Callan, ERSA Master Racquet Technician and up until this year Wimbledon stringing team member. The store will be run the rest of the year for the local clubs in the area.

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- Contract extension continues promotion and support for growth of exciting sport

Ashaway, RI – Ashaway Racket Strings announced today that it has extended its contract to remain the Official String of USA Racquetball through the end of 2013. Although specific terms were not disclosed, extension of the agreement reaffirms Ashaway's long-term commitment to support and promote the sport of racquetball, and ensures their presence at key events and tournaments such as the US Open, Oct 2 - 6, 2013 in Minneapolis, MN.

“As the only US manufacturer of racquet strings, we are proud to continue our longstanding relationship with USA Racquetball," said Steven Crandall, Vice President of Ashaway Racket Strings. "Over the years, USA Racquetball has done an exceptional job of organizing and showcasing the best that racquetball has to offer, and it is natural that Ashaway should continue to do its part in raising the visibility of this exciting sport."

Czech Republic, Russia, Spain and last year's hosts San Marino are likely to field some of the strongest teams in the draw, while the host nation will have high hopes and is able to nominate one additional team in each competition.Reflecting the continued expansion of the ITF Beach Tennis Circuit, two nations (Lithuania and Ukraine) are set to take part at the Championships for the first time. The player nominations will be revealed after the nomination deadline on 15th July.

ENTRY LIST

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech RepublicFrance, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, HungaryItaly, Lithuania, Netherlands, Poland, PortugalRussia, San Marino, Slovenia, SpainSwitzerland, Ukraine,

Ashaway To Continue As Official String Of USA Racquetball

USA Racquetball is the National Governing Body for the sport of racquetball. Recognized by the United States Olympic Committee, it is committed to excellence and service to its members. In addition to providing the infrastructure and organization for racquetball, USA Racquetball also provides competitive opportunities for members and enthusiasts through the coordination of racquetball organizations, development and administration of rules and programs, sanctioning of events, and the development of teams for international competition, such as Team USA."We are excited to continue our partnership with Ashaway as the Official String of USA Racquetball," said Steve Czarnecki, USA Racquetball Executive Director. "Ashaway has a long and proud tradition of producing quality strings that can benefit racquetball players at all levels."

Ashaway is best known for manufacturing world-class racquet strings used by many of the world's top professional players. Ashaway is the only United States manufacturer of racquet strings, and offers a full line of racquetball strings, including its popular SuperKill® nylon and KillFire® aramid hybrid lines, as well as its most recent Zyex®-based UltraKill® family which allows players to choose the precise combination of power, durability and feel that is right for their game. Available in 16, 17, and 18 gauge thicknesses, each UltraKill string is built on a specially constructed Zyex polymer core engineered to provide specific performance characteristics while maintaining tension for longer string life.

Ashaway Racket Strings are made by Ashaway Line & Twine Mfg. Co., the only U.S. manufacturer of string for squash, tennis, racquetball, and badminton. Operated by the Crandall family since 1824, Ashaway has been making racquet strings since 1949, and is responsible for several important technical innovations. Ashaway has been the Official String of USA Racquetball for more than ten years. Ashaway Line & Twine Mfg. Co. also makes braided products for medical and industrial applications. For more information visit www.ashawayusa.com

A record-breaking 21 nations have so far confirmed their entries for the sixth annual European Beach Tennis Championships, which will visit Great Britain for the first time when they are held in Brighton on the south coast of England from 9-11 August. 140 players are expected to take part in the event, which consists of men’s, women’s and mixed doubles competitions.

The national entry list is led by Italy, whose teams have dominated the European championships so far, winning the gold and silver medals in the men’s and women’s events at all previous editions. Last year’s women’s title was won by current world #1s Simona Bonadonna & Eva D’Elia, while the men’s title went to world #2 Marco Garavini & #5 Paolo Tazzari, who lifted the trophy for a second time.

European Beach Tennis Championships

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Murray was destined to win Wimbledon ever since he was our water boy, says Rusedski

Greg Rusedski knew Andy Murray was a Wimbledon champion in the making when he first met him - as a water boy on the Davis Cup team!The Scot ended Britain's 77-year wait for a mens' singles champion when he beat world No 1 Novak Djokovic last Sunday.And Rusedski, who himself reached No 4 in the world and the US Open final in 1997, knew Murray was destined for greatness.

'It's brilliant that he won,' he told Sportsmail. 'When Tim [Henman] and I retired, we knew he was the guy who had the best chance to win Wimbledon. 'He was a little bit different to Tim and me, he had a little bit more ability, he was a really good junior and he had that tenacity and determination. I was thrilled he won; I said before the Championships that he was going to win the title.

'We did a corporate day after Queen’s together and he was so relaxed and comfortable. I think that had a lot to do with winning Olympic gold and the US Open and also the addition of Ivan Lendl was a massive plus.. He’s been very methodical and very smart and always looking for every edge he can.'I met him when I was 17 at the Davis Cup in Austria. He was what we call the "water boy". He wasn’t playing but he practiced with the other guys. I remember him wanting to learn and get better; hanging in the background taking everything in.

Partners: Greg Rusedski (right) has long believed Murray was destined to be a grand slam title

'One poignant moment was when Tim had hired a private jet for us to get back from Austria. Andy was sitting there in the back with me and Tim and he said: "this is going to be me one day".'It wasn't in an arrogant way but in a "I know what I want" kind of way.

Another time, we played Superset tennis together and he played John McEnroe in the opening match. The first point in, we had Hawk Eye, he thought the McEnroe serve was out. Most people would be intimidated but he went out there and said “I’m going to challenge the first point against john McEnroe” so he had that in him.'Andy was so driven and determined and sometimes we don’t give enough credit in this country to people who say what they want to achieve. He had to be tough mentally and with all the things he went through as a child – with the tragedy in Dunblane and having to deal with a lot of expectation.'He is a deserved Wimbledon champion and I think he’ll be a multiple Wimbledon champion.'

Murray has won two grand slams in an era which has arguably the best top four players of any generation. And Rusedski has always known his countryman belonged in that bracket.'Having practiced with him at a young age, I had that feeling with the weight of shot and the intensity he played with, I felt something special,' he added.'I had that with three players; with a young Roger Federer when he was 16, I was No 9 in the world and he was beating me all around the court and my coach said: “you’re playing with one of the guys who’s going to be the greatest player to have played the game” and it proved to be true. 'Then with Novak Djokovic in Davis Cup in Glasgow. When I played him, I couldn’t make a hole through him and I had that sensation with Andy as well.'I think you’ve got the best generation of top four players. You have to be respectful to the past generations; during my time there was more variety in the game, the surfaces were a little bit different. 'Clay was slow, grass was fast, hard courts were quick and the Australian Open was a different surface completely. It is an amazing accomplishment considering those four guys who are around.'

Under the terms of the agreement, which was unanimously approved by K•Swiss’ Board of Directors, K•Swiss stockholders will receive $4.75 in cash for each outstanding Class A and Class B share of K•Swiss common stock they own, representing a 49% premium over the closing price for a share of Class A common stock on the NASDAQ Stock Market on January 16, 2013, and a 62% premium over the three-month, volume-weighted average trading price for a share of Class A common stock on the NASDAQ Stock Market as of January 16, 2013.

Steven Nichols, Chairman of the Board and President of K•Swiss, stated, “We are excited to enter into this transaction with E.Land as we believe it is in the best interests of K•Swiss and our stockholders. E.Land has a 30-year record of successfully building a global fashion and retail conglomerate and also shares our culture of valuing associates. I believe that such a platform will provide K•Swiss with the resources and scale to return to its former performance levels and to further maximize Palladium’s potential.” Traveleads is the latest Preferred Supplier to sign up with the Tennis Industry Association UK and will deliver expert, professional travel procurement to TIA UK Members.With over 40 years' experience, Traveleads is one of the UK's longest-established and highly successful travel specialists.With a bewildering variety of distribution channels all vying for the attention of the corporate buyer these days, Traveleads offers best option travel solutions to companies and individuals.As a leading independent travel management company, Traveleads will provide TIA UK Members with the opportunity to avail themselves of a very high quality business travel service at attractively competitive costs."We are viewed by our clients as trusted partners as we bring professional scrutiny and rationale to the procurement process," said Gary McLeod, Joint Managing Director for Traveleads."To be able now to work with TIA UK is an exciting new challenge for our team and we greatly look forward to helping bring greater control and efficiency to the diverse travel needs of members, whatever shape these take."Traveleads works with many of the UK's leading sport's national governing bodies, including the Lawn Tennis Association, British Swimming, the ECB, Scottish Rugby, British Cycling and the RFL - plus some 40-odd other sports and a host of household names in sport, including Andy Murray.Traveleads join the stable of Preferred Suppliers that already includes Perkins Slade Insurance Brokers, ActionCOACH Business Mentoring and Newby Crouch Chartered Accountants.The alliance between Traveleads and the TIA UK is an initial three-year agreement set to run to 2016.

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One of the greats: Murray has the chance to establish himself as one of the best players of his generation

Traveleads joins growing stable of TIA UK Preferred Suppliers

Drewett served as Tournament Director of the season-ending tournament from 2001-11, overseeing the event's enormous international success throughout that period.This week at Wimbledon, players, coaches and officials have been wearing special ‘BD' patches in honour of the former ATP Executive Chairman and President.

In addition, the ATP World Tour has named a video display in the museum at the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Drewett's name, in recognition of his contributions to tennis.The Brad Drewett Video Wall features highlights of great moments in ATP World Tour history.

The ATP also announced on Saturday that the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals winner's trophy is to be renamed as The Brad Drewett Trophy.

The ATP has published a special commemorative coffee table book celebrating all year-end ATP World Tour No. 1s over the past 40 years, which was launched on Saturday at Wimbledon.The unique celebratory book, entitled ‘No. 1', features exclusive interviews with No. 1s past and present, as well as never-seen-before photography over the past 40 years.From Ilie Nastase in 1973, through to fellow year-end No. 1s Jimmy Connors, Bjorn Borg, John McEnroe, Ivan Lendl, Mats Wilander, Stefan Edberg, Jim Courier, Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, Gustavo Kuerten, Lleyton Hewitt, Andy Roddick, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic in 2012, the book provides fans a unique insight into the emotions and mind-set of the world's greatest players as they battle to reach the summit of world tennis.

Novak Djokovic, the current World No. 1, said: "It is incredible to be a part of this elite [group], looking at the names who have ended the year as No. 1, the 16 since 1973, who have done so much for tennis on and off the court...I know how much effort it takes and how many people around the world compete for that place.Neil Harman, tennis correspondent of The Times, and Peter Bodo, senior writer for Tennis.com and Tennis magazine, served as the main contributors to the book.

The ATP is marking the 40-year anniversary of the rankings through a number of celebrations in 2013 under the ATP Heritage Programme, founded by former ATP Executive Chairman and President Brad Drewett, who passed away earlier this year after a battle with Motor Neurone Disease.Ahead of the US Open, the ATP will be holding a special gathering of former No.1 players at a celebration event in New York on Friday, 23 August, at the Waldorf Astoria.

ATP celebrates 40 years of rankings with new book

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"The Members' Forum held at the NTC in January at which David Miley, the Director of Development for the ITF, presented details on the Tennis 10s and Tennis Xpress initiatives, proved to be a great success, attended by some 30 guests, who also heard presentations by Andrew Fielding from Perkins Slade and ActionCOACH Lee Dickinson.Members also heard about ‘The Fun In The Park' event being held at Will To Win Hyde Park on 24 July in aid of the TIA UK's official charity, The Dan Maskell Tennis Trust, and the Will To Win Foundation.

The Company Secretary, Barbara Wancke, presented the proposed amendments to the Rules and the Code of Conduct, all of which were unanimously approved by members, who also re-elected the Council for the next year and ratified a modest increase in the 2014 fees.In an effort to improve cash flow, notice was given by the Board that, effective from 1 January 2014, a 10% surcharge will be added to outstanding dues unpaid after 30 days.

The Code of Practice will now be promoted more widely with the intent of it gaining universal acceptance by all tennis businesses and the British tennis public.

TIA UK reports to be on track to AGM

'We are on track' said the Tennis Industry Association UK at its fourteenth Annual General Meeting, held at Wimbledon on Thursday and attended by representatives of around half the membership."2012 -13 has been a transitional year for us, made possible by our partnering agreement with the LTA and consolidating our new office at the NTC with our fulltime Executive Director, Brett Watson, heading the admin team," said Ian Peacock, the TIA UK's President.

Delivering the annual report on behalf of the TIA UK Council, Mr Peacock summarised the activities over the past year of the country's only trade association for tennis businesses :

•Membership up by 8%•Website traffic and visitors up by over 60%•Two new Preferred Suppliers secured, taking the number of companies offering professional benefits to members up to three with two more pending announcement•The publication of the fifth edition of The Tennis Book•The on-going Research Project•A modest surplus in the annual accounts

The message was that the TIA UK is on track after a year of detailed review and consolidation of its projects and communications strategy."It is the Council's objective to build up financial resources to enable the TIA to stand on its own feet within a few years," continued Mr Peacock."The Board has also approved a change in focus towards consumers and a new website portal, promoted by comprehensive email and social media campaigns, is being designed to act as a gateway for ‘all things tennis', while preserving the valuable historical records and resources of the existing website."Like the Research Project, the new‐look website is a work in progress and it is hoped that this will help to fulfil and expand on many of the objectives of The Tennis Book, Tennis Outlook and Tennis Force.

Mr Peacock presented Robert Fuller of The Silver Tennis Collection Ltd with a plaque in recognition of the Special Service Award he received at the 2012 AGM.

Novak Djokovic has a new footwear contract with Adidas. He debuted his Barricade 7 at Roland Garros.

Retired tennis star Andy Roddick is now working full time for Fox Sports as a co-host on Fox Sports Live, a three hour nightly show being launched August 17.

Rod Laver, the only player to win the Grand Slam twice will be honoured this year at the International Tennis Hall of Fame’s Legends Ball on September 6. He will receive the Eugene L. Scott award for his commitment to tennis and impact on the sport.

Puma has appointed Andy Kohler as chief operating officer, taking over from Klaus Bauer.

12 Time Grand Slam Winner Mahesh Bhupathi of India is preparing to launch a six team professional tennis league in Asia. The six cities have not been released for the end of 2014 starting date. Many top pros have shown support for the league including Novak Djokovic, Maria Sharapovo, Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray, Serena Williams and Victoria Azarenka.

Tennis History app “This Day in History” was created by Randy Walker, former USTA press officer and Miki Singh, f o r m e r AT P P r e s s O f f i c e r a n d f o u n d e r o f www.FirstServeApps.com.

The ERSA will hold the 2nd Annual Stringers Symposium and Annual Meeting in April, 2014 in Dusseldorf, Germany. This has been moved back as many members could not

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Prince will offer a “Meet and Greet” at the IART. September 21 will kick off the IART Symposium in Tampa, Florida with on-court activities including Cardio Tennis, Round Robin Tournament and testing the new Prince rackets. Richard Parnell will be offering ERSA Pro Tour Stringer Certification the 25th of September.

TRX Cardio Tennis training courses were offered at the PTR Symposium at Hilton Head, S.C. The courses have added TRX fitness training to Cardio Tennis.

The International Tennis Federation has revealed the draw for next year’s Fed Cup by BNP Paribas. First round ties will take place from 8-9 February 2014. The World Group ties are as follows: USA hosts Italy, Spain hosts Czech Republic, Slovakia hosts Germany, Australia hosts Russia. World Group II sees Canada host Serbia, Sweden hosts Poland, France hosts Switzerland and Argentina hosts Japan.

The ITF has also confirmed that the 2013 final between Italy and Russia will be held on clay in Cagliari, Sardinia on 2-3 November.

The British Lawn Tennis Association has announced a three-year partnership with Rado which will see the Swiss watch brand act as the ‘Official Timekeeper’ of some of the LTA’s biggest events, including the Aegon Championships at Queen’s Club, the Aegon Classic at Edgbaston Priory and the Aegon International in Eastbourne. Rado also has a partnership with British #1 Andy Murray.

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The ITF has renewed its agreement with the Johan Cruyff Foundation to support Wheelchair Tennis. The foundation is set to extend its involvement by becoming a programme partner for the Wheelchair Tennis Development Fund and the ITF’s junior wheelchair tennis programmes.

At the 2013 World Champions Dinner in Paris last month, the Philippe Chatrier Award was presented by the ITF to the All England Club in recognition of its contribution to tennis.

France, Netherlands, USA and Great Britain were the big winners of the 2013 BNP Paribas World Team Cup event in Antalya recently. France beat Netherlands 2-0 to claim the men’s world wheelchair tennis title. Netherlands beat Great Britain 2-0 to take the women’s crown, while Great Britain beat Spain 2-1 in the juniors’ final. USA beat Israel 2-0 for the quad title.

The ITF has launched a legal advisory service for junior tennis players, operating as part of the Junior Tennis School.

Following his surprisingly early loss at Wimbledon which ended a run of 522 weeks in the Top Four, Roger Federer is a late entry to clay court events in Gstaad and Hamburg later this month.

The ATP has announced that the trophy for the season-ending ATP World Tour Finals will be renamed in honour of late President Brad Drewett.

Andy Murray’s Wimbledon victory was seen by an audience of 17.3 million people in the UK and had an audience share of 79.6%, according to the BBC. The figure made it the most-watched event of the year so far.

42-year old Belgian Dick Norman ended his 22-year playing career at the recent Top Shelf Open in the Netherlands.

Twice-Grand Slam finalist Vera Zvonareva, currently undergoing rehab following shoulder surgery, obtained her degree in international economic relations recently.

Williams sisters Serena and Venus will play Monica Seles and Eugenie Bouchard in an exhibition match to mark the opening night of the Rogers Cup in Toronto on August 5th.

The Spanish Tennis Federation has signed a partnership agreement with Air Europa.

More than 6.6 million messages referencing Wimbledon were sent on Twitter during the championships, up from 2.5 million last year.34 European nations were represented by players at Wimbledon. Two-thirds of all the players competing were from European nations. Source: SPORTS MARKETING SURVEYS INC. Wimbledon Equipment Census 2012.

Former ATP World Tour players Cliff Drysdale, Charlie Pasarell and Ion Tiriac were on Saturday inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame for their exceptional contribution to the sport of tennis. Also inducted was former women’s World No. 1 and five-time major winner Martina Hingis and Australia’s Thelma Coyne Long. Hall of Famer Rod Laver accepted the 94-year-old Long’s award, on her behalf.

Apollo Leisure has made a great effort to improve the stringing service each year. Babolat took over supplying the machines, with 12 top of the line Babolat Sensors in the stringing room, along with clothing and shoes. (Photo 2)

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Wimbledon Stringing

Team 2013

The stringing team at Wimbledon was one of the top groups I have had the pleasure to work with. Everyone had a lot of fun on top of working hard.

Almost exclusively all ERSA Pro Tour Stringers, every stringer did a top quality job with no mistakes. The front desk and people working in the back stencilling, bagging, cutting strings were all experienced get everything in and out on time. (photo1)

Somehow Apollo Leisure figured out how to get 12 machines in our small room. Years ago we only had 9, then up to 10 and now 12. This makes a great difference when you have 360-380 rackets a day the first couple of days. As the room is very narrow, I was surprised that we were not hitting each other while pulling the strings through the frames.

Also new this year, the All England Club authorized direct payments from prize money, which makes things much easier for the front desk.

We were running ahead of our record last year until the first Tuesday when many top players lost who string a lot. I will have the totals in the next issue and selected player’s logs. I knew we could not have a record year every year for 4 or 5 years in a row. We had gone up from 2,000 to just under 3,000 rackets in 4 years, a 50% increase in frames with a 20% increase in stringers.

The racket distribution was handled from Roger Dalton this year instead of stringing the first busy days. It is much better to have a Head Stringer/ Stringing Room Manager seeing that everything runs smoothly. Roger saw to it that whenever possible the rackets went on the same machine with the same stringer. In the first week, I saw no mistakes, no late rackets, no problems. This is how a stringing room should run.Next issue we will have the official Apollo Leisure report and logs for you.

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TIPS

TUNING WEIGHTS

A quick way to adjust weights when tuning a racket is to use adhesive putty (Tuning Putty 1) . Sometimes you figure out where to put how much weight, you stick the lead on and check the balance and swingweight and it is not exactly how you want it. When you move the lead tape it wrinkles and looks bad, then you have to replace it. I am very fast tuning rackets, but using adhesive putty saves me 5 minutes a racket. Divide up the putty into 0,1g, 0,25g, 0,5g, 1,0g, 2,0g and 5,0g balls (Tuning Putty 2), place them in a box for later use and cover. After you have figured out how much weight you need and where, stick it on, check the weight, balance and swingweight and make adjustments. When the racket is perfect, replace the putty with lead tape or silicon in the grip and recheck. Make minor adjustments and you are quickly finished.

STRING PROTECTOR

You know that certain strings break easy on sharp angles, especially when you have used a starting clamp on them (Starting Clamp photo). Being careful with the starting clamp helps 99% of the time, but occasionally a flattened string can break from shear breakage. The plastic string protector (with string protector photo) will protect the section of string that goes into the next whole and bends sharply around the grommet. This may save a string during an important match one day and it only takes 2 seconds to use. You can order through the ERSA.

If you are a small business, your employees can make or break your business. It is very difficult to find someone to supplement or fill-in for you to do a great job dealing with your customers. It is your business and you are the expert.We have found that three out of four people you hire in retail do not work out for one reason or another. Other small businesses in Germany have reported the same failure rate or higher, even up to 90%.

Resume and Job Application – Try and get as much information on the person you are hiring as possible. Most important is references and time spent working for one business. If the applicant is changing jobs every few months or they will not give references, move on to the next person. If you are hiring for a sport shop, make sure the person is interested in sports, especially in the sports you are dealing with.

Job Description – To match the resume and application, you need a very detailed job description. This will give the applicant a very good estimate of what is expected of him or her and if they can handle the job. We hired a young person with good stringing skills and a love of tennis. Customer service and selling skills were lower than the others working there. When stringing was slow, sales were almost non-existent. As his time was divided 50/50 between stringing and sales, half of his salary was bringing nothing to the business.

Interview many people and invite back the best few. Do not take the first person you interview or on a recommendation from a friend. See if the person is open and friendly if their job is mostly dealing with customers.

Spend a good deal of time teaching the person to work correctly and be a good example. How to great customers, answering the phone correctly, not using slang.

Work Contract should include on top of hours and salary, getting rid of problems before they start. These include mobile telephone, SMS and Internet rules during work hours. This has been a large problem in our business when there is no supervisor around. Also, being on time means coming in, getting ready, and having the store ready to open BEFORE published opening hours. Young people want to listen to music all the time or listen on headphones while working. This should be discouraged during opening hours. If someone is coming in to string early, this is fine, but not during store hours.

Remember, the customer is King! The atmosphere between employees and towards the customers will keep your customers coming back!

Hiring Employees

Everyone is competing with the BIG internet retailers today. How can I increase my income in my shop when I have to compete on price with the online shops? One way is to set your shop up to sell other items to your customers when they come in to pick up their string job or buy balls. As many of us have small shops we have to use our limited space efficiently. Try and think who is coming in most of the time and for what items. An example is for shoes. Be sure to have your shoe display right next to your sock display. Ask the customer if they need new socks after they choose their shoes. The socks should be next to the clothing. Next to the racket display place your string assortment and your grip assortment next to the strings. Try and have the grip display near the check out where strung rackets are picked up. Along with the grips, place other accessories, such a vibration dampeners, key rings, shampoo, etc. Many people will purchase these while standing at the check-out counter.

Remember KISS, Keep It Simple Stupid. Make it easy for your customer to find everything. If you have room, you can organize a men’s, Women’s, and juniors section with clothing, shoes, socks. Junior rackets near the junior shoes and clothes. In a small shop like ours it is not possible.Put signs up offering specials with suggested retail and sale prices. Things like a Free String Job with a new racket model that just came out or a free over grip with a string job.Move everything around every one to two weeks. In our hall the same customers come in every week so we change the window displays and the clothing on the displays. It is amazing how much this helps with sales.You can check with your distributors to see when they have new displays. Some you can get free of charge with your pre-order for the next season or at a very reasonable price. If you want everything matched you can set up and build your own displays.

The best way to promote your shop is with local tournaments or the beginning of the summer season. We offer TEST DAYS at these times. Our shop is conveniently located in a tennis hall so we use our ball machine and courts for racket testing. We offer testing before the outdoor team season starts and in winter when the new rackets come out. Customers can come and test several different rackets for a few minutes each. When they are interested in one or two, they can take them out and practice a couple of times with them We recommend to test the rackets at least two times to be sure you are comfortable with it.During local, regional and club tournaments you can offer specials on stringing or a free over grip with each string job. You can also ask a sales rep to support you during the event. They may come and offer a full assortment of test rackets. They often have promotional material available to send out, give away and give a more professional look at no cost.

Build Up Your Total

Income

Use the Local Event

Calendar to build up

Sales

ERSA Around the World

My wife Sanda and I took a few days off after the Symposium to go to Paris and relax. We visited Roland Garros, watched some great tennis and met up with a lot of ERSA members stringing at Roland Garros for Babolat. (photo 1 & photo 2)

After I returned from Wimbledon, our ERSA Italy manager, Marco Rossani, organized a weekend in Milan for MRTs to test for Pro Tour Stringer Level 1. After a few days in the office I flew down to Milan. The level of stringers was very good. Better than I had seen in other countries with stringers trying to achieve the PTS status.

Six Master Racquet Technicians passed the test of stringing three rackets with poly ATW in under one hour with the same DT, tested on a Beers ERT 300, one natural gut in under 30 minutes perfectly strung, and matching two rackets. After five years of tournament stringing, they can try for PTS Level 2.

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FIG 1

FIG 2