ISSUE no 26 USTA OKLAHOMA TENNIS MAGAZINE
the
baseliner
MAY 2023
NATIONAL TENNIS MONTH
find yourself in the game
President Mary Jo Tasker Vice President - Adults Peter McCorkle Vice President - Juniors Eric Wedemeyer Secretary Emily Pomeroy Treasurer Jeff Bowser NE Quadrant Matias Marin NW Quadrant Carmen Bond SE Quadrant Lee Crowley SW Quadrant Dawna Johnston
USTA Oklahoma
Advertise with us!
OK Executive Director
USTA OKLAHOMA BOARD
Text
2 I thebaseliner.net
Special Thanks to Article Contributors: USTA.com Cover Photo: Lacey Butner Photography
Published by USTA OKLAHOMA
FEATURES
7
11
MAY ISSUE
click a head
25
20
COMMUNITY JUNIORS STATE CHAMPS AWARD NOMINATIONS ADULTS
29
HONORING STEVE HENRY TENNIS SPECIAL OLYMPICS CLINIC HIGH SCHOOL STATE COLLEGE SIGNING ADULT LEAGUE INFO
CONTENTS
S
"His loss will be felt throughout the country in the tennis industry as he was instrumental in growing the game." -David Minihan
4 I thebaseliner.net
Late Missouri Valley President 2023, past USTA Oklahoma President, long-time volunteer, tournament director, player, and advocate of the game.
Honoring the Life and Legacy of Steve Henry
Couresy of:
USTA MISSOURI VALLEY
LATEST ISSUE OF THE MV YEARBOOK DEDICATED TO STEVE
teve Henry was one of the most passionate ambassadors the sport of tennis has ever known. His unexpected passing on March 21, 2023 left a massive void throughout USTA Missouri Valley. One needs to look no further than his Celebration of Life on March 31, 2023 to see just how big of an impact Steve had on everyone he touched. Friends from across the section, and even the country, showed up to pay their respects to Steve and the Henry family. The overarching theme of messages from attendees was how important Steve was to tennis. He touched every aspect of the game, from his role at Oklahoma City Tennis Center to his various volunteer roles within USTA. Following his retirement from General Motors in 2006, Steve rededicated his life to tennis. He began a second career in 2007 when he accepted a position running Earlywine Tennis Center before accepting the position as the Facility Director of Oklahoma City Tennis Center in 2009. Steve was incredibly active on multiple levels of tennis from his district up to the section level. He ran a handful of local and national tournaments each year, but his pride and joy was the Oklahoma High School State Tennis Championships. It's one of the biggest tennis events in the state of Oklahoma each year and Steve stopped at nothing to make it an incredible experience for each player involved. "Our section and district are definitely in a better place because of Steve," said USTA Oklahoma Executive Director David Minihan. "His loss will be felt throughout the country in the tennis industry as he was instrumental in growing the game through organizations such as USTA and USPTA. He impacted many lives as a father, coach, volunteer, leader and mentor. He will be missed." Even with everything Steve did on the tennis court, his impact will be greatly missed off of it. He was a loyal and dedicated volunteer to the USTA. He began his service way back in 2008 when he joined the USTA Oklahoma Board of Directors. He continued his service from there up until his passing this year. After 16 years of volunteer service, he achieved one of his lifelong goals of serving as USTA Missouri Valley president beginning in 2023. He has also served two-year terms on three separate national committees: Junior Team Tennis, Junior Competition and Adult League. Those three appointments sum up Steve's service perfectly. He wanted to serve every level of competition that he could, from juniors up to adults. A framed black and white picture of Steve Henry with a black ribbon on it. His commitment was also evident in the tournaments he hosted and ran during his time at Oklahoma City Tennis Center. He was the tournament director for more than 100 USTA tournaments at Oklahoma City Tennis Center, including adult and junior district, section and national tournaments, along with multiple Pro Circuit events. Steve's impact cannot be overstated and his loss will be felt across the tennis world. The heartfelt tributes at his Celebration of Life are a perfect reflection of the hundreds of lives he touched throughout his life. Our thoughts are with the entire Henry family as they mourn his loss. Please click here to learn more about Steve in his own words. To read his full obituary, click here.
Heart of America Iowa Kansas Missouri Nebraska Oklahoma St. Louis
USTA has 17 Sections
USTA Missouri Valley has 7 Districts
Our district is USTA Oklahoma
USTA Oklahoma is a not-for-profit organization that has over 5,600 individual and organizational members. The US Open and pro tennis around the country are part of the USTA, but USTA is so much more. The mission is simple: promote and develop the growth of tennis by allowing people of all ages and abilities to play the sport.
WHO ARE WE?
Casey McKenzie Community Tennis Manager, Tulsa Junior Team Tennis Coordinator "The best thing about tennis is the whole family can participate. Tennis can be anything you want it to be. It can be competitive, social time, time with the family, or just a good workout. Love it!"
Katie Allen Adult Coordinator OKC "I love tennis because of the social and competitive outlet it provides. Tennis is a complete sport for me - it allows me to exercise, be a part of a community and make new friends. I hope to be playing for the rest of my life!"
WE ARE- HERE TO HELP!
Laura Puryear Tennis Service Representative "The saying by Billie Jean King really resonates with me-Love the Battle!' That's true on so many levels, both on and off the court...and there are so many great life lesson that can be taken from sport, especially tennis."
David Minihan Executive Director, USTA Oklahoma "I love tennis because it teaches so many valuable life lessons such as everyone is going to slip up in life, it's how you handle your misstep that matters. Hopefully with grace and dignity. Also, I met my beautiful wife through this great game! "
We can answer any questions, set you up with a team, send you info about an upcoming tournament, or match you with a program that fits you best! If you are not sure who to contact just CLICK HERE and we'll do everything we can do get your questions answered!
Randy Painton OKC Junior Team Tennis Coordinator "I I love tennis because its great exercise and that you can play it competitively your whole life.
Becky Riggs School Tennis Organizer "What's NOT to like about TENNIS!"
SO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT TENNIS?
Michelle Oquin Adult District Coordinator "While I love competition and hitting a swinging volley, my favorite thing about tennis is the people I have met and the friendships I have gained. My closest friends were once on the other side of the net as opponents."
WE ARE.... okalhomaWE?
usta oklahoma
Clinic held to introduce the sport to players for future Olympic Games
Athletics Bocce Bowling Cornhole Horseshoes Golf Motor Activities Power Unified 3 V 3 Basketball Unified Softball Young Athletes Athletes registered – 3905 Coaches registered – 1357 Teams registered – 260 Total: Athletes/Coaches – 5262
7 I thebaseliner.net
Special Olympic Tennis Clinic
2023 Summer Games Sports
Approximately 75 players and coaches enthusiastically participated in the tennis event demonstrating their interest and dedication to exploring new sport opportunities. Held at the OSU campus near Boone Pickens Stadium, this diverse group of participants brought different levels of experience to the event, with some individuals trying their hand at tennis for the very first time. David Minihan and Caitlyn Sagraves spearheaded the planning and execution of the clinic. Their passion for tennis and commitment to promoting the sport drove them to create an inclusive and engaging experience for all participants. Malayna Hasmanis, the Development Director of Special Olympics Oklahoma, is really excited for the expansion of sports programming, which has been driven by the leadership of David Minihan. The event provided a valuable experience for those eager to explore tennis and potentially participate in the upcoming Summer Olympic Games in 2024 and now have the opportunity to consider adding tennis to their repertoire of sports.
EDMOND CENTER COURT
Edmond Center Court was one of 33 honorees in the USTA’s annual Outstanding Facility Awards program, which recognizes excellence in the construction and/or renovation of tennis facilities and programming throughout the country. Out of that pool, USTA chooses one facility to highlight as the premier facility. We are honored to have Edmond Center Court recognized this year for this prestigious award. Edmond Center Court has 24 lighted outdoor courts, six climate-controlled indoor courts and a state-of the-art clubhouse. David and Lisa Minihan operate the facility which was built as a partnership with the City of Edmond and Edmond Public Schools in 2020. “Edmond Center Court is proud to serve as home to Edmond high school players as well as a teaching and recreation facility for residents. We also host dozens of major events each year, including NCAA and ITA championship events, as well as USTA national junior tournaments,” said David. A number of JTT teams play out of Edmond Center Court, while the facility hosts nearly 1,000 USTA League matches throughout the year. Weekly junior programming at Edmond Center Court features approximately 500 players, and it is also home to Play It Forward Tennis, a USTA Foundation NJTL chapter that provides free instruction and equipment to players from underserved communities as well as special needs players. “Great tennis facilities like Edmond Center Court 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 Craig Morris, Chief Executive, Community Tennis, USTA. Josh Moore, Edmond City Council and Tourism Advisory Board Member said, “Edmond Center Court tournaments attract players from across the nation and elevate Edmond as a tennis community.” Most recently, professional players competed for $15,000 at the USTA Men’s Pro Circuit Tournament at Edmond Center Court Jan 23-29. To be considered for an USTA award, facilities must be under the jurisdiction of a park and recreation department, an educational institution, a nonprofit corporation or be a private or commercially-owned and-operated facility that offers both USTA and public programming designed to help grow tennis. Nominated facilities were voted on in the following categories: public courts that are either small tennis centers with 2-10 courts or large tennis centers with 11 or more courts; private facilities that support the USTA and other “growth of the game” programs open to the public; and educational institutions such as colleges, universities, public and private grade schools, middle schools or high schools.
8 I thebaseliner.net
FACILITY OF THE YEAR
https://visitedmondok.com/
WATCH THIS VIDEO
Edmond Center Court Receives USTA’s highest honor: Facility of the Year
First Missouri Valley person to be on this committee since 2009
"Lisa has been such a great role model for leadership. She is an outstanding tournament director and has volunteered through the pathway of District, Section, and now National. She truly strives for excellence while embracing the core values of our organization.”
WOMEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Mary Buschmann, USTA Missouri Valley Executive Director
Q & A
NEXT PAGE
ational Women’s History Month took place in March, and we highlighted a one of the most influential people in Oklahoma tennis. Lisa Minihan has been selected to serve a two-year term on the National USTA Nominating Committee. Her selection to the committee is the first for someone from the Missouri Valley Section in almost 15 years and will give her the opportunity to help select the future leaders of the United States Tennis Association. Lisa is the current Director of Operations at Edmond Center Court and has held a variety of positions within the USTA Oklahoma and USTA Missouri Valley organizations. She most recently served as the President of the USTA Missouri Valley Section from 2018 to 2020 and continues to serve as board member for the Oklahoma Tennis Foundation. “Lisa has been such a great role model for leadership”, says Mary Buschmann, USTA Missouri Valley Executive Director. “She is an outstanding tournament director and has volunteered through the pathway of District, Section, and now National. She truly strives for excellence while embracing the core values of our organization.” The USTA National Nominating Committee is comprised of 15 members and is charged with identifying applicants for the USTA Board of Directors. Committee members serve two-year terms with an opportunity for a second term as well. Minihan says she is honored to represent Oklahoma and the Missouri Valley Section. In honor of Women’s History Month, we asked her to share some of her thoughts on growing up in a tennis household and how the game continues to be an integral part of her life. .
LISA MINIHAN SELECTED TO BE ON THE USTA NATIONAL NOMINATION COMMITEE
director of OPERATIONS EDMOND CENTER COURT
N
Q: Did you ever think tennis would be such a big part of your life when you were playing as a child? Lisa: “Being a child of a tennis coach, tennis has always been a huge part of my life. However, I never thought I would make a career of it. It has been both a surprising and rewarding turn of events. It’s a very non-traditional vocation so there involves a fair bit of fate at play as well. Being in the right place at the right time. I consider myself very blessed.” Q: Who is the most influential woman in your tennis life and how does she inspire you? Lisa: “My USTA volunteer journey was shaped very early on by Barbara Fackel from Rock Island, Illinois. I was very young when I first served on a committee with her and I was impressed with her graceful leadership, her poise, and her confidence. Her passion for her goals never came at the expense of others and when she led a room everyone felt heard and valued. She was also an amazing mother and balanced a successful career of owning her own business. Honestly, I just wanted to be like her in every way. I wish that she was still here so I could continue to work alongside her and learn from her.” Q: Do you have any words of wisdom you like to share? Lisa: “People matter. For all the fortunate things I have been able to be a part of in the tennis industry, it’s honestly the people who matter more than the activity. The customers we serve. The colleagues we influence. The friends we make. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter so much where you choose to hang your hat, but that you invest in others along the way. If you do that, any career you have or volunteer work you do will be rewarding.” History Lesson: 1874 - Mary Ewing Outerbridge of Staten Island, NY introduced tennis to the United States. Outerbridge purchased equipment in Bermuda and used it to set up the first tennis court on the island. By 1887 women’s singles tennis was added as a competition at the US Open and Ellen Hansell was the first singles Champion. (https://wikipedia.org)
LISA MINIHAN
“People matter. For all the fortunate things I have been able to be a part of in the tennis industry, it’s honestly the people who matter more than the activity. The customers we serve. The colleagues we nfluence. The friends we make. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter so much where you choose to hang your hat, but that you invest in others along the way. If you do that, any career you have or volunteer work you do will be rewarding.”
CONTINUED
Lisa Minihan
BG 14 Oklahoma City Tennis Center September 2-4
register now
LaFortune Tennis Center July 28-30
BG 16-18 Edmond Center Court July 22-24
2023 Oklahoma LEVEL 5 Tournaments
BG 12 Oklahoma City Tennis Center June 3-5
BG 14 Edmond Center Court June 3-5
BG 14 Racquet and Health 91 November 4-5
Edmond Center Court Sept 29- Oct 1
2023 Missouri Valley LEVEL 4 Tournaments
Oklahoma City Tennis Center May 27-29
JUNIOR TEAM TENNIS
12 I thebaseliner.net
WhY Should i PLAY in USTA Junior Team Tennis? On a tennis team, you’ll learn about unity, sportsmanship and how to work together to achieve success. You’ll also learn that success isn’t just about winning; it’s about how you play the game and respond to challenges. For players ages 10 and under, they will receive PlayTracker points for every USTA Junior Team Tennis event they participate in.
When Should I Start Playing in USTA Junior Team Tennis? USTA Junior Team Tennis teams offer options for players ages 5 to 18. Players who start on a JTT team are expected to be able to serve, maintain a rally and know how to keep score. USTA Junior Team Tennis Counts Towards the Net Generation PlayTracker.
over 1,000 players participated in Oklahoma JTT in 2022
TAKE A LOOK
How Do I Start a USTA Junior Team Tennis team? Nearly 100,000 kids nationwide play Junior Team Tennis annually, thanks to the parents who donate their time and talents. If you would like to get involved contact your local tennis facility or email the Oklahoma Junior Team Tennis Coordinator for more information at mckenzie@ustaoklahoma.com
J T T
SUMMER JUNIOR TEAM TENNIS REGISTRATION
Ages 7-18
State Championships August 1 & 2 @ Edmond Center Court (Top 2 teams from Tulsa, Top 2 teams from OKC)
OKC: Randy Painton randypainton@sbcglobal.net 405-550-1232
AGE DIVISIONS: 14U & 18U
Tulsa: Casey McKenzie mckenzie@ustaoklahoma.com 918-688-4408
June 14 & 15 @ LaFortune
DATES: JUNE 4 - JULY 23 Match Days & Times: TBD AGE DIVISIONS: 10U Orange (Gender Neutral), 12U Green (Gender Neutral) , 14U (Gender Neutral) , & 18U (Mixed)
JUNIOR TEAM TENNIS QUALIFIER
Make sure your child has a full water container prior to checking in
RESPECTFUL Remember to be respectful to all the coaches, staff, and players. Remember that Junior Team Tennis is supposed to be a fun and relaxed competition for the players!
Players should check in with their coach 15 minutes prior to each match. After the match, win or lose, your child needs to immediately report back to the JTT coach.
The COACH is ONLY allowed to talk to their players during changeovers for 30 seconds. No coaching during tiebreakers, even when they change sides. The coach may only intervene if BOTH teams are confused on the score and asks for help.
If there is a scoring dispute between your child and his/her opponent, you are not allowed to interject. Again, your child needs to be coached prior to the season to go and get their coach to help with the scoring issue. Also, while you might think the score is incorrect and your child and opponent are playing the match with no scoring disputes, you may not interject. Your child and their opponent are playing the match in good faith.
JTT COACH
WATER
If you feel that your child is being cheated, you cannot do the following: -Approach or speak to the opponent during or after the match -Speak to your child during the match about them being cheated -Speak to the JTT Coach While you might feel that your child is being cheated, he or she may not. If your child thinks they are being cheated, they need to be coached prior to a match on how to handle the situation and that would be to leave their racket on the court and go to the JTT coach.
Please do NOT cheer DURING the point. Wait until after the point is over to cheer for a positive play, "Good shot" or "great backhand," this way the player can focus the duration of the point. Please do not cheer when the opponent makes and error. JTT is supposed to be fun so we highly encourage "positive" cheering.
JUNIOR TEAM TENNIS PARENT 101
CHECKING IN
CHEERING
NO PARENT COACHING!
Once your child enters the court, NO COACHING ALLOWED! You can cheer and that's it!
UNDERSTANDINGS THE DO'S & DON'TS
MY KID IS BEING CHEATED!
SCORING DISPUTE
thebaseliner.net/juniors
TENNIS SUMMER CAMPS For all ages Held every week, all over the State
what should i sign up for this summer?
JUNIOR TEAM TENNIS June 5 - July 27 Team match once a week
MISSOURI VALLEY JTT CHAMPIONSHIPS June 14 & June 15 Ages 18 & Under/ 14 & Under
where do I find more information?
WHERE DO I FIND MORE INFORMATION?
JUNIOR TOURNAMENTS L7-L5 & Junior Circuits Held every weekend
WORLD TENNIS NUMBER EVENTS Next one: June 25 at ECC Events held on Sunday
Junior Catch-All Site thebaseliner.net/juniors
USTA OK L5-L7
2023
Jan 6-8 Ind. Springs L6 REGISTER HERE Feb 3-5 OKCTC L6 REGISTER HERE March 4-5 ECC L6 REGISTER HERE March 4 (G) Earlywine L7 REGISTER HERE March 5 (B) Earlywine L7 REGISTER HERE Mar 11-12 Ind. Springs L6 REGISTER HERE Mar 11 RH-91 L7 REGISTER HERE Mar 25-26 Westwood L6 REGISTER HERE Mar 25 ECC L7 REGISTER HERE April 15-16 RH-91 L6 REGISTER HERE April 15 Ind. Springs L7 REGISTER HERE April 22-23 Earlywine L6 REGISTER HERE April 22 Enid L7 REGISTER HERE May 20-21 LaFortune L6 REGISTER HERE May 20 Ind. Springs L7 REGISTER HERE May 27-29 OKCTC L5 REGISTER HERE May 27 Enid L7 REGISTER HERE June 3-4 Duncan L6 REGISTER HERE June 3 Tulsa Union L7 REGISTER HERE June 10-11 ECC L6 REGISTER HERE June 10 Oak Tree L7 REGISTER HERE June 17-18 OKCTC L6 REGISTER HERE June 17 LaFortune L7 REGISTER HERE June 24-25 Enid L6 REGISTER HERE June 24 ECC L7 REGISTER HERE July 1-2 Ind. Springs L6 REGISTER HERE July 1 LaFortune L7 REGISTER HERE July 8-9 Ada L6 REGISTER HERE July 8 (B) Earlywine L7 REGISTER HERE July 9(G) Earlywine L7 REGISTER HERE July 15-16 Tulsa Union L6 REGISTER HERE July 15 Ind. Springs L7 REGISTER HERE July 22-23 Earlywine L6 REGISTER HERE July 22 Lawton L7 REGISTER HERE July 28-30 LaFortune L5 REGISTER HERE July 29 RH-91 L7 REGISTER HERE Aug 5-6 Duncan L6 REGISTER HERE Aug 5 Enid L7 REGISTER HERE Aug 12-13 LaFortune L6 REGISTER HERE Aug 12 LaFortune L7 REGISTER HERE Aug 19-20 ECC L6 REGISTER HERE Aug 19 Lawton L7 REGISTER HERE Aug 26-27 RH-91 L6 REGISTER HERE Aug 26 Tulsa Union L7 REGISTER HERE Sept 2-3 Enid L6 REGISTER HERE Sept 2 Westwood L7 REGISTER HERE Sept 9-10 Duncan L6 REGISTER HERE Sept 9 Tulsa Union L7 REGISTER HERE Sept 16-17 Earlywine L6 REGISTER HERE Sept 16 Oak Tree L7 REGISTER HERE Sept 23-24 Ind. Springs L6 REGISTER HERE Sept 23 Tulsa Union L7 REGISTER HERE Sept 29-1 ECC L5 REGISTER HERE Sept 30(G) Earlywine L7 REGISTER HERE Oct 1 (B) Earlywine L7 REGISTER HERE Oct 7-8 Tulsa Union L6 REGISTER HERE Oct 7 Ind. Springs L7 REGISTER HERE Oct 14-15 Enid L6 REGISTER HERE Oct 14 ECC L7 REGISTER HERE Oct 21-22 LaFortune L6 REGISTER HERE Oct 21 LaFortune L7 REGISTER HERE Oct 28-29 ECC L6 REGISTER HERE Oct 28 (B) Earlywine L7 REGISTER HERE Oct 29 (G) Earlywine L7 REGISTER HERE Nov 17-19 OKCTC L6 REGISTER HERE Dec 1-3 Ind. Springs L6 REGISTER HERE
18 & under
USTA JUNIOR TEAM CHALLENGE
schedule
USTA JUNIOR TEAM TENNIS
USTA JUNIOR TEAM TOURNAMENTS
usta ok
ages 10-18 entry level Tournaments
TENNIS COMPETITION JOURNEY
Jan 21 (BG 10 Orange) Enid REGISTER HERE Jan 22 (BG 10 Green) Enid REGISTER HERE Feb 18 (BG 10 Orange) Hidden Trails REGISTER HERE Feb 19 (BG 10 Green) Hidden Trails REGISTER HERE March 4 (BG 10 -18) Ind. Springs REGISTER HERE March 11 (BG 10-18) Earlywine REGISTER HERE April 15 (BG 10-18) Center Court REGISTER HERE April 22 (BG 10-18) Westwood REGISTER HERE May 13 (BG 10-18) RH-91 REGISTER HERE May 27 (BG 10-18) LaFortune REGISTER HERE June 3 (BG 10-18) Earlywine REGISTER HERE June 24 (BG 10-18) Center Court REGISTER HERE July 8 (BG 10-18) Enid REGISTER HERE July 15 (BG10-18) Oak Tree REGISTER HERE August 5 (BG 10-18) Earlywine REGISTER HERE August 19 (BG10-18) Ind. Springs REGISTER HERE Sept 2 (BG 10-18) LaFortune REGISTER HERE Sept 23 (BG 10-18) Enid REGISTER HERE Oct 7 (BG10-18) Ind. Springs REGISTER HERE Oct 28 (BG 10-18) Westwood REGISTER HERE Nov 18 (Orange) Hidden Trails REGISTER HERE Nov 19 (Green) Hidden Trails REGISTER HERE Dec 2 (G10-18) Oak Tree REGISTER HERE Dec 3 (B10-18) Oak Tree REGISTER HERE
USTA JUNIOR CIRCUIT
Junior Catch-All Site thebaseliner.net/juniors usta.com/juniorplay
junior circuit
TOURNAMENT PARENT 101
RESPECTFUL
Remember to be respectful to all tournament staff including the tournament director and umpires. Understand that an umpire has the right to code/penalize your child based on your disorderly conduct to any tournament staff.
UNDERSTANDING THE DO'S AND DONT'S
WATER Make sure your child has a full water container prior to checking in. CHECKING- IN Players should check in to the tournament desk 15 minutes prior to each match. Players will be penalized per USTA Friend at Court rules for being late. Being 15 minutes late for the scheduled match time will result in the player being defaulted. NO COACHING! Once your child enters the court, NO COACHING ALLOWED! You can cheer and that?s it! MY KID IS BEING CHEATED If you feel that your child is being cheated, you cannot do the following: Approach or speak to the opponent during or after the match Speak to your child during the match about them being cheated Speak to the tournament director and request an umpire. While you might feel that your child is being cheated, he or she may not. If your child thinks they are being cheated, they need to be coached prior to a USTA tournament on how to handle the situation and that would be to leave their racket on the court and go to the tournament desk and request a umpire. SCORING DISPUTE If there is a scoring dispute between your child and his/her opponent, you are not allowed to interject. Again, your child needs to be coached prior to the tournament to go and get an official to help with the scoring issue. Also, while you might think the score is incorrect and your child and opponent are playing the match with no scoring disputes, you may not interject or get an official. Your child and their opponent are playing the match in good faith. REPORT BACK TO THE TOURNEY DESK After the match, win or lose, your child needs to immediately report back to the tournament desk and find out when their next match is or if they are finished with the event.
GO find a court!
HOLLAND HALL
CASCIA HALL & HOLLAND HALL
4A
6A
JENKS
4A: GIRLS 1S: Sofia Acuna, Classen 2S: Clara Caldwell, Oklahoma Bible 1D: David/Lollis, Henryetta 2D: Dickinson/Moore, Byng 4A: BOYS 1S: Luke Thomas, Heritage Christian 2S: Ian Wu, Classen SAS 1D: Melton/Thomas, OCA 2D: Bell/Steenson, Riverfield
CHRISTIAN HERITAGE
STATE
CHAMPIONS
13 I thebaseliner.net
HERITAGE HALL
5A: GIRLS 1S: Lily Clark, Riverfield 2S: Faith Koontz, Holland Hall 1D: Crain/Henderson, Heritage Hall 2D: Siefried/Tuttle, Cascia Hall 5A: BOYS 1S: James Benien, Cascia Hall 2S: Larson Vanhorn, Heritage Hall 1D: Ferguson/Ridenhour, Heritage Hall 2D: Bueroler/Zeiders, Heritage Hall
6A: GIRLS 1S: Avery Arent, Jenks 2S: Quinn Leos, Jenks 1D: Atturu/Ludlam, Deer Creek 2D: Graff/Miller, Edmond North 6A: BOYS 1S: Brett Keeling, Jenks 2S: Krishna Bhavnrafu, Jenks 1D: Cameron/Pensavalle, Jenks 2D: Ohlson/Song, Jenks
5A
INDIVIDUAL
20 I thebaseliner.net
21 I thebaseliner.net
4A Champions CROSSINGS
High school OSSAA State Championship recently took place at the Oklahoma City Tennis Center FOR 2023!
5A Champions CASCIA HALL (see image p.20) & HOLLAND HALL
6A Champions JENKS
4A Champions CHRISTIAN HERITAGE
2023 Team OSSAA State Champions Crowned
5A Champions HERITAGE HALL
How long have you been playing tennis? Where are you playing in college? Where did you play in High School? Favorite tennis memory? Tennis coach? Pre-match ritual? Favorite tennis pro? Favorite Food? What racquet do you use?
Brett Keeling
10
okl
john brown UNIVERSITY
How long have you been playing tennis? 6 years Where are you playing in college? John Brown University Where did you play in High School? Owasso high school Favorite tennis memory? Upsetting the number 4 seed, Edmond Santa Fe, in the 1st round at state. I was a Sophomore and my partner was a freshman, with all the nerves we won in 3 sets with hundreds of people watching. Tennis coach? Coach Billy Baysinger, Brad Aylor and Richard Ly Pre-match ritual? Stretch and warm up with the team. After we finish we pray as a team before the tournament starts. Favorite tennis pro? Taylor Fritz Favorite food? Steak What racquet do you use? Wilson Blade
LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE PLAYERS
Andrew Aylor
OKLAHOMA SENIORS HEADED FOR COLLEGE TENNIS
Keeling had an undefeated highschool career!! 83-0
wesleyan university
22 I thebaseliner.net
I have been playing since I was 5 years old Wesleyan University in Connecticut Jenks High School All of the team events that I played in. Those were always the most fun. Matias Marin has been my main coach since I was little. I don’t really have a specific pre-match ritual but I usually spend time by myself and listen to music. My favorite tennis player is Dustin Brown. He is not well know but his matches are very entertaining to watch. Anything from Chick-fil-A. I love their chicken sandwiches. Wilson Clash
Highlighting some Oklahoma players signing to play tennis in college
mcpherson college
Ava Bolin
Gracie Epps
Mason Fair
I have been playing tennis for a little over 4 years. I will be playing at Washburn University. I went to Classen SAS @ NE. Can’t pick one memory but thankful for all the amazing people I met through tennis. My tennis coach is Kyle Taylor Before a tennis match, I usually go to the bathroom. My favorite tennis pro is JJ Wolf. My favorite food is Pasta. I use a Babolat Pure Strike
I've been playing for 7 years John Brown University Broken Arrow High School My favorite tennis memory is achieving second at 6A state Coach Napier and Coach Milner I do the same stretches and listen to a certain playlist before each match. Novak Djokovic Biscuits and Gravy Pure Aero
COLLEGE FRESHMAN TENNIS
MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY
I’ve been playing tennis since I could walk I am playing at the University of Georgia (go DAWGS!) I didn’t play high school tennis because I was traveling the world playing ITFs My favorite tennis memory is definitely when my whole family would go out to the tennis courts a night and we would all play together. It was so fun and we are all very competitive so we were always able have fun playing against each other Matias Marin Headphones in, find a space to myself, listen to country, rock, or Christian music, mentally prepare, and dance a little bit to loosen myself up. I always call my mom and dad before my matches if they’re not there in person. Rafael Nadal, Holger Rune, Elena Rybakina, and Frances Tiafoe Dumplings of any kind Radical Mp by head
university of georgia
WASHBURN UNIVERSITY
I have been playing tennis since third grade, so around 9 years. I will be playing at McPherson College in McPherson, Kansas. I play for Ada High School. It’s really hard to pick a favorite memory, every tournament is different and has its own special feeling! My tennis coach is Terry Swopes. I always eat the same thing for breakfast every tournament morning, and before the tournament starts I try to take a lap around the facility just to take in my surroundings and ground myself. I’m really loving Aryna Sabalenka right now, she won her first grand slam this year at the Australian Open. It’s sort of strange but I really love goldfish. I use a yonnex ezone.
Grant Hinkle
Ivy Wilson
24 I thebaseliner.net
Abby Wise
Sewanee The University of the South
Eric Tien
wabash college
I’ve played for 14 years I’m playing at Wabash College I played at Casady School My favorite tennis memory is traveling with the tennis team to Dallas to compete My coaches are Andrew Cabato and Gary Trost I Take a 15 minute naps before every match Roger Federer is my favorite player I love Mexican food I use a Yonex Ezone 98 Tour
I started playing tennis for fun when I was about 5 or 6, but really got into it around age 9 or 10. Sewanee: The University of the South Metro Christian Academy My favorite tennis memory is winning the Novo Nordisk Donelly National Award which enabled me to travel to New York and meet Billie Jean King at the US Open. My competitive tennis coaches are Georgi Cravero and Matias Marin, and my school coach is Emily Cass. To prepare for matches I pack all food or supplies I may need the night before, I get a good warm-up and stretching done before my match. After warming up, I go talk to my coach and then take a few minutes to sit by myself listening to music to get in the right mindset. My favorite pro player is Frances Tiafoe. My favorite food is oriental food like sushi or hibachi. I use the Wilson Ultra.
oral roberts universtiy
I have been playing since I was 12 years old I will be playing at Oral Roberts University I go to Holland Hall My favorite tennis memory is winning State individually at 1 singles and as a team in 2022 My coach is Jan Steenekamp at Tucker Tennis Academy I usually like eating pasta for dinner the night before a match. My favorite tennis pro is Rafael Nadal My favorite food is Pasta The racquet I use is a Yonex VCORE PRO
NOMINATIONS OPEN!
CLICK HERE TO NOMINATE
In the Oklahoma tennis community, there is no shortage of individuals, organizations and groups doing great things to grow tennis and change lives through the sport. It is likely your life has been touched by those special individuals and organizations going above and beyond. Now is your chance to give them the recognition they deserve.
PLAYER AWARDS: ADULT PLAYER OF THE YEAR (4.0 & above) ADULT PLAYER OF THE YEAR (3.5 & below) JUNIOR HIGH PERFORMANCE PLAYER OF THE YEAR-Female JUNIOR HIGH PERFORMANCE PLAYER OF THE YEAR-Male EMERGING JUNIOR PLAYERS OF THE YEAR-Female EMERGING JUNIOR PLAYERS OF THE YEAR-Male TENNIS FAMILY OF THE YEAR JUNIOR SPORTSMANSHIP AWARD- Female & Male (10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, & 18U) PROVIDER/CONTRIBUTOR AWARDS: FACILITY OF THE YEAR MEMBER ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY TENNIS ASSOCIATION OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTOR TO YOUTH TENNIS PROGRAMS OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTOR TO YOUTH HIGH PERFORMANCE PROGRAM USTA JUNIOR TEAM TENNIS ORGANIZER OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTOR TO THE USTA LEAGUE TENNIS PROGRAM OUTSTANDING ADULT/SENIOR TOURNAMENT OUTSTANDING JUNIOR TOURNAMENT OUTSTANDING OFFICIAL LEADERSHIP AWARDS: HIGH SCHOOL COACH OF THE YEAR OUTSTANDING DIVERSITY ACHIEVEMENT DISTINGUISHED SERVICE
TULSA
12 & UNDER CAMP
FIND INDIVIDUAL COACHES AT NETGENERATION.COM
PHILCREST HILLS
ELITE CAMP
10302 S Garnett Rd Broken Arrow, OK 74011 megang@crccok.com
TULSA & OKC
SUMMER CAMP
26 I thebaseliner.net
cedar ridge
OKLAHOMA TENNIS CAMPS
10900 Riverside Pkwy Tulsa, OK 74137 918-299-2643 PHILCRESTHILLSTENNIS.COM
Rh-91
712 S Delaware Ave Tulsa, OK 74104 pensavalletennis@gmail.com
CLICK HERE
SUMMER ACADEMY #1
lafortune tennis center
SUMMER ACADEMY #2
university of tulsa
5302 S Hudson Ave Tulsa, OK 74135 918-496-6230 LAFORTUNETENNIS.COM
3030 E 91st St Tulsa, OK 74137 918-298-9500 RAH91.COM
LESSONS & CAMPS AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC
JUNIOR SUMMER CAMPS
425 Lilac Dr Edmond, OK 73034 405-340-4241 EDMONDTENNIS.COM
FULL DAY CAMP
OKLAHOMA CITY TENNIS CENTER
3400 N Portland Ave OKC, OK 73112 405-946-2739 OKCTENNISCENTER.NET
HIDDEN TRAILS
27 I thebaseliner.net
OKC/EDMOND
601 W 15th St Edmond, OK 73003 405-348-3120 EDMONDCENTERCOURT.COM
6501 S Country Club Dr OKC, OK 73159 405-685-7751 WOLFTENNISACADEMY.COM
EARLYWINE tennis center
HALF DAY CAMP
3101 SW 119th St OKC, OK 73710 405-691-5430 EARLYWINETENNIS.COM
EDMOND RACQUET CLUB
28 I thebaseliner.net
Captain quick links
Friend at Court and The Code - general tennis rules and etiquette - CLICK HERE National Adult League Regulations - CLICK HERE Missouri Valley League Regulations - CLICK HERE Experienced Player Guidelines - guide to the Self-rate Questionnaire and Ratings - CLICK HERE New Captain's Guide to Tennislink - find Match Schedules, Match Summary, Player Roster, and contact info - CLICK HERE 2023 League Schedules - CLICK HERE OKC RULES AND REGULATIONS TULSA RULES AND REGULATION CHAMPIONSHIP SCHEDULE
Know the Rules Communicate with other Captains/Teams - they are not your enemy No cell phone use on the courts Exchange line-ups using a printed form and confirm scores after the match Match winner records the scores Coaching is considered to be communication, advice, or instruction of any kind, audible or visible, to a player and is not ever allowed during league matches. Have FUN!!
thebaseliner.net/adults
Match reminder for Captains
Adult League Captains Page
USTA OKLAHOMA LEAGUE
CHAMPIONSHIP SCHEDULE
ANNIE COATES, TULSA Editor
behind the scenes
AMY WILSON, TULSA Optometrist
KELLY BEACHAM, OKC Stay at home Mom
ROCHELLE HALE, OKC Strategic Medical Device Account Manager
ANNE WOOD, OKC Software Developer
Getting to Know Your League Opponent Tennis brings people together from all walks of life. The next match you could be facing is a former pro athlete, a stay-at-home dad or a waiter from your dinner the week before. You never know who you might meet and what you could learn about your opponent.
KY NICHOLS, TULSA Engineer
JOSH JUAREZ, TULSA Owner of Josh's Sno Shack
AUSTIN ZELLNER, TULSA VP of Sales @ CareATC
THE DAY-TO-DAY TENNIS PLAYERS
Canceling a Match BEFORE Play Begins
Once a match is underway, the following rules apply if play must be stopped due to inclement weather: Any completed lines (e.g. Court #1 singles) stand as played. Any incomplete lines must be resumed by the SAME players in the SAME positions, SAME side of net, SAME set, game and point score. Incomplete lines must be resumed at the SAME location, unless players have mutually agreed to an alternate court. In Tulsa, Incomplete lines must be made up within TWO WEEKS. The Adult League Coordinator may extend the two-week time period if weather conditions are extreme. In OKC, the Adult League Coordinator will reschedule the match. Tulsa teams can elect to schedule a double-header to make-up any unplayed lines if the opportunity exists. When a match is rescheduled following the exchange of the line-up, the line-up stands ONLY for those lines that had already started.
STEP 1
Monitor weather conditions on game day
Both Team Captains
STEP 2
No earlier than 1 hour before the match, decide if the match needs to be rescheduled.
Home Team Captain
STEP 3
Contact the opposing team’s manager to 1) communicate the decision to cancel play and 2) discuss the date and time for rescheduling the match.
STEP 4
Contact your team to share news of cancelled play and proposed date(s) and time(s) for rescheduling the match.
STEP 5
Email the Adult League Coordinator with the agreed-upon plan for making up the match.
Since courts can quickly become unsafe in certain situations, do not allow play to continue under the following weather conditions: Heavy rainfall Sustained drizzle Sleet and/or snow When lightning is present If the weather is questionable prior to the start of the match, do not assume that the match is cancelled. Teams must show up ready to play unless both captains have spoken and confirmed with the facility that the match is cancelled. When both teams are assembled to play, but the weather or courts are questionable, teams are required to wait 30 minutes past the originally scheduled time, unless both teams agree to wait longer.
30 I thebaseliner.net
Inclement Weather Procedures Inclement Weather Conditions
Canceling a Match AFTER Play Begins
Unplayed matches must be rescheduled with a new date within TWO WEEKS. The Adult League Coordinator may extend the two-week time period if weather conditions are extreme. Within two weeks of a rained-out match, both team captains must agree on the make-up date. If the team captain cannot agree on a time within 48 hours, they must contact the Adult League Coordinator, who will set a time. Either the entire team can play at the same time, or individual lines can be scheduled at varying times. Teams can elect to schedule a double-header to make-up the match if the opportunity exists.
Adult Leagues Inclement Weather Conditions Safety of the players is the number one priority
COLD WEATHER
ADULT LEAGUES
If there is a disagreement regarding the temperature conditions, the following website should be referenced to decide www.mesonet.org
31 I thebaseliner.net
tornado warning
HOT WEATHER
WEATHER REMINDERS
(RAIN/HEAT/SNOW/ICE/TEMP. BELOW 40°) This rule covers only a limited number of possible hazardous/non-playing conditions. Therefore, when it comes to safety of the players, common sense shall prevail. A. In case of rain/snow/ice, the home captain is responsible for contacting the playing site, no more than one hour before match time to determine court playability. B. If a team match is in progress when inclement weather occurs, teams must wait one half-hour before agreeing to reschedule. (EXCEPTION: If the facility staff or both captains agree the courts will not be playable in one half-hour.) C. If the temperature including wind-factor at match time is below 40°F, both captains must agree to play the match; however, no match should be cancelled more than 3 hours in advance of the scheduled match time. D. If the heat index at match time is 105°F or higher, the match must be rescheduled, unless both captains agree to play. In order for this rule to take effect, team captains must communicate with each other, at least one hour before the start of the match and make their intentions known. If possible, delay the start time. E. If you are scheduled to play at a facility, and there is a TORNADO WARNING for that particular COUNTY, the USTA matches scheduled will automatically be cancelled. Captains should still call the facility to make sure the matches are cancelled. F. The Local League Coordinator has the authority to call matches off for eminent hazardous weather up to 3 hours before a match. Not showing up for a match without notifying the other captain, is a team default. A team that defaults an entire match will be dropped from the round robin. If there is a disagreement regarding the temperature conditions, the following website should be referenced to decide: www.mesonet.org/index.php/weather/local/tuln When rescheduling a match, if at all possible, try to move the match to a later time on the same day. When a match is cancelled, the home team is responsible for notifying the tennis facility that the match has been cancelled and for scheduling the make-up match with the league Coordinator. MAKE-UP MATCHES: A. Rescheduling matches for any reason other than inclement weather must be approved and rescheduled by the local league coordinator, 3 days in advance of scheduled match. PLEASE TRY TO PLAY WHEN SCHEDULED. B. You have 2 weeks to reschedule make-up matches.
what's the call?
Question: At my daughter’s tennis tournament, her opponent took her water bottle with her onto the court and placed it near the back tarp. Between points she would periodically take a drink, but didn’t delay the game. Is this allowed by USTA rules? Answer: It is allowed if, when the player was serving, she did not violate the 20 seconds between points and, as a receiver, was following the reasonable pace of the server. As you stated, this action did not delay play so it is permissible. Receiver readiness is covered in Section No. 32 of "The Code".
that' SERVE WAS out
Courtesy is expected. Tennis is a game that requires cooperation and courtesy.
SERVE?AFTER TIE BREAK
1
4
Click here for the latest edition of Friend at Court.
Question: Does the length of a tiebreak game determine who serves at the start of the next set? If someone wins a tiebreak, 7-5, versus a 15-13 tiebreak, does it change? Answer: Luckily, no matter the length of the tiebreak game, you just need to remember who received at the very beginning of it. If you (or your team) were the receiver for the first point of the tiebreak, you become the server for the first game of the next set. So go forth and play long tiebreaks; just remember who received first. (ITF Rule 5)
2
USTA OKLAHOMA ADULT LEAGUES
Question: During my doubles match, I served a ball that clearly was long. My partner and I made no attempt to play our opponent’s return because I was anticipating a second serve. Our opponent claimed he won the point because he made a good return. We said that the serve was out, and it should be a second serve. Who was right? Answer: The opponent was right in claiming he won the point. According to Code 5, players makes calls on their own side of the net, so even if you thought the ball was long, you still need to continue play as your opponent may have been giving you the benefit of the doubt.
RULE REMINDERS
32 I thebaseliner.net
WHAT'S THE SCORE?
Have you ever been uncertain about a rule during a tennis match? Don't worry, whether you play for fun or play competitively, it happens to us all! Check out some of the most common disagreements and go to THEBASELINER.NET/ADULTS for more rules and regulations.
6
Scoring: The first team/player to win 10 points by a 2 point margin wins the match. Points are simply scored 1, 2, 3, 4 and so on. If the score in the match tiebreaker becomes tied at 10 points, play continues until a player or team has a 2-point lead Order of Serving: The original order of service continues. Before the start, though, doubles teams can change their order of serving and receiving, and this order remains until the end of the tiebreaker. Who Serves First: The player or team whose turn it is to serve, serves the first point of the tiebreaker. The next two points are then served by the opposing player or team. From then on each player or team alternates serving two points until the end of the tiebreaker. Changing Sides: The player whose turn it was to serve in the set serves the first point of the tie-break. Their opponent serves the next two points and after that the serve rotates after every two further points. The players change ends after every four points.
FRIEND AT COURT HANDBOOK
A player should always give the opponent the benefit of any doubt. When a match is played without officials, the players are responsible for making decisions, particularly for line calls. There is a subtle difference between player decisions and those of an on-court official. An official impartially resolves a problem involving a call, whereas a player is guided by the principle that any doubt must be resolved in favor of an opponent. A player in attempting to be scrupulously honest on line calls frequently will keep a ball in play that might have been out or that the player discovers too late was out. Even so, the game is much better played this way. Ball that cannot be called out is good. Any ball that cannot be called out is considered to be good. A player may not claim a let on the basis of not seeing a ball.
5
Question: When the ball is in play, another ball rolls onto court. A let is called. The server had previously served a fault. Is the server now entitled to a first service or second service? Answer: First service. The whole point must be replayed. In all cases when a let is called, except when a service let is called on a second service, the whole point shall be replayed. NOTE: All LET calls must be made immediatley.
Touches, hitting ball before it crosses net, invasion of opponent’s court, double hits, and double bounces. A player shall concede the point when: • A ball in play touches that player; • That player touches the net or opponent’s court while a ball is in play; • That player hits a ball before it crosses the net; • That player deliberately carries or double hits a ball; or • A ball bounces more than once in that player’s court. The opponent is not entitled to make these calls. The principle of giving the opponent the benefit of any doubt applies.
opponent gets benefit of doubt
super tie break
THE CODE
10-point Tie-break in lieu of 3rd set
33 I thebaseliner.net
let
crossing the net
8
34 I thebaseliner.net
how to become a USTA Oklahoma Official
Courtesy of: usta.com
3
Roving Umpires have jurisdiction over one or more courts. During a Tournament, a Roving Umpire is responsible for ensuring the courts are ready to play, maintaining proper warm-up and rest-period times, resolving scoring disputes and controlling spectators. Referees are responsible for making sure that the competition is fair and played under ITF rules of tennis and the USTA Regulations. Referees supervise all aspects of play including the conduct of everyone in the competition: Players, Coaches, Parents, Spectators, Officials, Groundskeepers, and Administrative crew. Chair Umpires are responsible for conducting one match in accordance with the ITF Rules of Tennis and USTA Regulations during the match, the chair umpire is responsible for calling lines when there are no line umpires, call the score, record points, games and sets on the scorecard, and make the final decision on every question of fact in the match. Line Umpires are responsible for calling all shots directed to the lines assigned to them. Chief Umpires are responsible for scheduling umpires and organizing court assignments and logistics at some tournaments, the referee will delegate the chief umpire to appoint and (when necessary) replace or reassign the different umpires.
6 STEPS TO GET CERTIFIED
Officials play an integral role at tournaments of all levels, from local community events to professional matches, focusing on fair play and sportsmanship. Give back to the game of tennis by becoming a USTA Certified Official.
1 2 3 4 5 6
MORE QUESTIONS?
Follow Us
mckenzie@ustaoklahoma
stay connected
JUNIORS
@USTA OKLAHOMA
thebaseliner.net
Quarterly digital magazine "Catch-all" Junior page "Catch-all" Adult league page 2022 Schedules Tennis articles
Email
minihan@ustaoklahoma
TULSA ADULTS
okcleagues@ustaoklahoma
Upcoming tournaments Adult league information Local camps/lessons College tennis highlights Anything regarding OK tennis!
oquin@ustaoklahoma
OKC ADULTS