19-Dec-2016
Hot 100 List - December '16
Today we announce the December edition of the Hot 100. The
Hot 100 features 100 boys and 100 girls who have been playing outstanding
tennis. These players have substantially improved their rankings over
the past month.
17-Dec-2016
Metropolia Orange Bowl Photo Gallery
The Metropolia Orange Bowl is one of the premier junior tennis events
in the world - featuring top American tennis players and athletes from
around the world. Check out images that photographer Fritz Moore took
from the event.
16-Dec-2016
Unseeded Volynets and Sun Capture Metropolia Orange Bowl 16s Titles
A rainy day didn't keep Katie Volynets from making history at the
Metropolia Orange Bowl last Saturday, while Steven Sun won a dramatic
final to take the boys title, giving the United States a sweep of the
16s singles championships at the Veltri Tennis Center in Plantation
Florida.
15-Dec-2016
Kecmanovic Defends Title, Juvan Claims Girls Championship at Metropolia Orange Bowl
Serbia's Miomir Kecmanovic completed two of the toughest tasks in
tennis last weekend, adding a second straight Metropolia Orange Bowl
title to his International Tennis Federation Grade 1 Eddie Herr
championship the previous week. Kaja Juvan of Slovenia ousted
top-ranked junior Anastasia Potapova of Russia to capture girls title
at the ITF Grade A tournament, held on the Har-Tru courts of the
Veltri Tennis Center in Plantation, Florida.
14-Dec-2016
2017 USTA National Junior Competitive Structure
Significant revisions have been approved by the USTA Junior
Competition Committee to the national junior competitive structure
that will become effective on January 1, 2017. Take a look at how
they will affect you ...
12-Dec-2016
Top Ten Senior Stephanie Schrage Commits to Princeton
Never mind that blue chip senior Stephanie Schrage has consistently
ranked number one in the USTA Girls Eastern Section in the 12s, 14s,
16s and 18s divisions - or that she is ranked in the top ten of the
senior class. Schrage lists high school tennis success as one of her
favorite accomplishments. The team player will get the chance to excel
for her college team next year - as a Princeton Tiger.
9-Dec-2016
Kecmanovic, Carle Claim Eddie Herr ITF Titles
After a week of excellent weather and hundreds of matches played
across the sprawling IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, the Eddie Herr
International Championships concluded Sunday with the crowning of
eight singles champions in four age divisions.
7-Dec-2016
Don't Pass on Playing in a Pro Am
While it may not possess the prestige of a national tournament or high
school state tournament, it is possible that one of the most important
matches you might play, even as a junior, could be in a pro am. While
it might seem trivial, it can be a unique chance to make a lasting
friendship - or a chance to catch the eye of a college tennis coach.
5-Dec-2016
Roundtable: Junior Tennis Events and Recruiting
There are many opportunities for junior tennis players to interact
with college tennis coaches without visiting campus. Coaches
frequently attend junior tournaments, college showcases, and college
information sessions. We put the following question to a panel of
college coaches: What junior events do you and your staff attend each
year? How valuable are these events in your recruiting process?
2-Dec-2016
November Aces Shine Abroad and at Home
New York, London and Mexico City were the locales for several
memorable performances last month, but Knoxville, Columbus and
Birmingham also enjoyed time in the spotlight in November as teenagers
showcased their games and moved up the professional rankings to enter
the brief off-season on a positive note.
30-Nov-2016
In Troubled Times, Tennis Creates Bridge with Atlanta Police
Officer Jarius Daugherty stands on the court, a racket in his hand and
a full complement of police equipment on his belt. At the moment,
however, he's just trying to keep the ball in play as he runs a tennis
drill for a bank of youngsters with varying tennis skills. Daugherty
isn't much of a player; he only recently picked up a racket at the
beginning of an 11-week program called Volleys Against Violence.
However, what he lacks in skill is more than made up for in
commitment.
27-Nov-2016
Building A Game: The Tennis Imagination
Junior tennis abounds with players adept at contemporary tennis: an
attrition-based, narrowly-focused baseline game. This mode certainly
generates outcomes in the form of match wins, rankings and
scholarships. But what about a long-term, sustainable process for
staying engaged with the tennis? Talk of strokes - that is,
groundstrokes - is plentiful. But talk of a playing style - the rich
literature - is minimal.
25-Nov-2016
Metropolia Turkey Bowl Photos
Photographer Fritz Moore was in Coral Springs, Florida, this past week
to capture images of the Metropolia Turkey Bowl. Check out action
shots of junior tennis players from around the world.
24-Nov-2016
World Junior No. 1 Kecmanovic Leads Eddie Herr ITF Boys Field; China's Wang Heads Girls Draw
When Miomir Kecmanovic returns to Bradenton's IMG Academy for next
week's ITF Grade 1 Eddie Herr, he'll do so as the No. 1 junior in the
world. The only Top 10 player in the girls draw is China's Xiyu Wang,
who has a recent win over current ITF No. 1 and Wimbledon girls
champion Anastasia Potapova of Russia. Kecmanovic and Wang are
favorites at the Eddie Herr, but there are a number of other
challengers ...
23-Nov-2016
Pan American ITF Photo Gallery
Many top juniors from the US and elsewhere were in Tulsa, Oklahoma,
last month for the ITF Pan American - where Americans Kayla Day
and Alex Brown won the singles titles. Also present was our prolific
photographer, Bill Kallenberg. Take a look at the action shots he
captured from the event ...
21-Nov-2016
Go With the Flow
You will often hear at a junior tennis match, "I was so in the
zone today," or "How is this guy zoning so hard out
there?" If you are talking about yourself, it's a
compliment. If you were referring to your opponent, you were basically
saying they were playing above their level. Let's take a look at
what these phrases really mean - and why they allow players to perform
at their best.
18-Nov-2016
Quick Restart: Bradley Klahn Returns to ATP Tour
During his 21 months away from the game because of injury, 2010 NCAA
singles champion Bradley Klahn was forced to consider a career that
did not include tennis. But the thought of walking away proved more
painful than undertaking a long rehabilitation - and this week Klahn
saw that determination rewarded at an ATP Challenger. Colette Lewis of
ZooTennis.com spoke with the Californian about his return to
competition, his mindset, and a myriad of other topics.
16-Nov-2016
Shutting Off The Thinking Mind in Tennis
Meet the Thinking Mind. Many junior recognize its presence more and
more as the college playing years are right around the corner. Players
often become tight in the presence of college coaches at tournaments,
in showcases, and on college visits. Here are four tips to overcoming
the thinking mind - and taking control of your thoughts at this
critical time.
14-Nov-2016
Hot 100 List - November '16
Today we announce the November edition of the Hot 100. The
Hot 100 features 100 boys and 100 girls who have been playing outstanding
tennis. These players have substantially improved their rankings over
the past month.
12-Nov-2016
Action Shots from the Atlanta ITF
Photographer Bill Kallenberg was onhand at the Atlanta ITF at Lifetime
Tennis in Peachtree Corners, Georgia. Check out action photos of the
event.
11-Nov-2016
Fall Signing Week '16: Georgetown Gains 5-Star Recruits Lee, Ross
Next year, Georgetown University will field a strong roster that will
include the addition of two 5-Star Recruits - Connor Lee and Luke
Ross. Both young men have committed to joining the freshman class on
the Hoyas men's tennis team for Fall 2017. While the players will be
traveling from opposite ends of the country, they share a common goal
in taking the Georgetown team to the next level as teammates.
11-Nov-2016
Fall Signing Week '16: Well-Traveled Gordon Returns Home
Seventeen-year-old Michaela Gordon has traveled the world for tennis
competition, playing all four junior slams as well as major events in
Europe, Asia and Central America. Yet when it came time to select a
college for the next step in her development, the blue chip from Los
Altos Hills California found what she needed in her backyard, at
Stanford University.
10-Nov-2016
Fall Signing Week '16: Sah Commits to Stanford
Blue Chip senior Timothy Sah is one of the top junior tennis players
in the country, and his results from this past summer back that up,
capturing the singles title at the USTA Southern California Sectionals
and reaching the quarterfinals in Kalamazoo. Next year, Sah will take
his game from San Diego up to Palo Alto - where he will compete for
the Stanford Cardinal.
10-Nov-2016
Fall Signing Week '16: Chiu Heads to Dartmouth
During her 18 years on this Earth, Abigail Chiu's life journey has
taken her from Hong Kong to Austin, Texas. Next year, Chiu will make
yet another trip, to Hanover, New Hampshire. The talented Chiu will
become a member of the Dartmouth College women's tennis team.
10-Nov-2016
Fall Signing Week '16: Turchetta Heads West to Stanford
The pressure to decide is always intense for a blue-chip athlete such
as Sam Turchetta. Numerous colleges reached out to him, and he
welcomed all of the options. But a school in California was always at
the top of the list.
9-Nov-2016
Fall Signing Week '16: Wan Decides on Columbia
Christie Wan plans to study business in college, and that is
appropriate since she is all business on the tennis court. The
17-year-old 5-star blue chip prospect from Fullerton, Calif., has
spent the past two years at Sunny Hills High School after she
transferred from Whittier Christian High School. And today she is
excited to announce her decision to continue her career at Columbia
University.
9-Nov-2016
Fall Signing Week '16: Tsygura Commits to the Cavaliers
The Scott Brown connection again is reaping recruiting rewards for
men's college tennis' best team of the decade. With Brown, a former
Virginia assistant coach, as the matchmaker, Blue Chip 17-year-old
Kyrylo Tsygura of North Potomac, Md., has committed to play for the
Cavaliers.
9-Nov-2016
Fall Signing Week '16: Rice Follows Mother's Footsteps to Arkansas
Add another legacy to the storied history of the University of
Arkansas as Blue Chip senior Tatum Rice of Lakeside High School in Hot
Springs, Ark., will stay in state and play tennis for Coach Michael
Hegarty at the U of A. While on the surface this may have seemed like
an easy and logical decision for the 17-year old right-hander, Rice
said it was a difficult choice.
8-Nov-2016
Fall Signing Week '16 : I Didn't Sign an NLI - Now What?
So you did not get the spot or the scholarship you had been hoping
for; maybe you turned down offers to wait for something else or you
may have found yourself not receiving any scholarship offers this time
around. I know this can feel quite disconcerting, and you may feel
like all is lost. I am here to tell you all is not lost, and that it
is all going to work out just fine for you.
8-Nov-2016
Fall Signing Week '16: National Roundup
Signing Week has arrived! As senior players begin signing National
Letters of Intent with Division I and Division II schools, we are
covering all the action. Today we check in with a group of select
seniors from around the country as they prepare to sign NLIs during
the fall signing period, which officially begins tomorrow. Find out
their schools of choice - and which factors proved pivotal in their
decisions.
7-Nov-2016
Fall Signing Week '16: Colorado's Ross Commits to Dartmouth
It all started around the age of two for Casey Ross. He would walk
around with a special cut-down squash racket - swinging at balls. Ross
is now a 5-star senior, and he recently verbally committed to
Dartmouth because of its unique academic and athletic environment.
7-Nov-2016
Fall Signing Week '16: What the FAFSA Changes Mean for Recruiting
In a rare move, deadlines changes been made to the Free Application
for Federal Student Aid, better known as FAFSA. These modifications
have an impact on money available for financial scholarships, which
can also change timing in the recruiting process. Recruiting expert
Marcia Frost breaks down the changes ...
7-Nov-2016
Fall Signing Week '16: Overview and Blue Chip Update
With the "Countdown" behind us, on to the main event! Tennis
Recruiting and GAMMA are ready to kick off our coverage of Fall
Signing Week '16 with a final look at the Blue Chip boys and girls.
We update you on several commitments over the past few weeks, and we
note that seven highly-ranked recruits plan to announce their college
choices this week - right here at TennisRecruiting.net.
4-Nov-2016
October Aces Highlight Fall
October may bring changes in foliage, temperature and length of day,
but there's no sign of the off-season in the college and junior tennis
world. Collegiate major champions were crowned, and many juniors and
former collegians earned memorable titles during the month.
3-Nov-2016
Countdown: Drawing Attention from College Coaches
Dear Coach - My name is David Mullins and I started playing tennis at
the age of 10. It all started when my father took me to a local park
and threw some tennis balls to me. Since then ... blah, blah, blah,
blah ... I cannot tell you how many times I received letters like this
from players - telling me their entire tennis and life histories. I am
here to tell you that college coaches do not care about any of this,
well, at least not initially.
2-Nov-2016
Countdown: Huryn - From Russia, With Love for Tennis
Aleks Huryn's journey to college tennis in Philadelphia, started
as a five-year old learning the sport from his mother, Sveta, in
Russia. When the five-star recruit graduates from high school this
spring, he said he couldn't be more excited to announce that he will
be a Penn Quaker.
1-Nov-2016
Countdown: Norman Chooses the Dukes
As she shoots for the stars, Elizabeth Norman will take aim from
Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. Norman, a well-traveled 5-Star recruit
who lives in Marietta, Georgia, committed in July to play for James
Madison University in Harrisonburg.
31-Oct-2016
Countdown: Embree Ready For Second Chance
Lauren Embree had a junior and collegiate career anyone would dream
of. However, even success on the pro level couldn't keep the
All-American from getting burnt out. After announcing her retirement
this past March, the Gator Great is back on tour following a 6-month
layoff.
28-Oct-2016
Countdown: Q&A with WFU Coach Tony Bresky
Tony Bresky wasn't anticipating a career in tennis, but that's how
things have worked out for the Wake Forest head coach, now in his
sixth year. After assistant and associate head coaching stints at
Indiana State and Virginia, Bresky has brought the Demon Deacons to
new heights in men's tennis. Colette Lewis of ZooTennis.com caught up
with Bresky in Tulsa at the ITA All-American Championships - where the
two discussed many tennis topics.
27-Oct-2016
Countdown: Building Coaching and Team Relationships
"Relationship" is a word we hear over and over when it comes
to college tennis and recruiting. College tennis players spend a lot
of time with their teammates and coaches, and everyone wants this time
to be productive and enjoyable. We asked our coaches the following:
How important is it for potential recruits to build strong
relationships with you and the players on your team? What are ways you
go about accomplishing that relationship building?
26-Oct-2016
Countdown: Mendelsohn Rides the Waves
Max Mendelsohn likely would have committed to Pepperdine even if it
wasn't located in scenic Malibu. But as he gazed at the ocean
from the famous spot many coaches bring recruits, Mendelsohn's
decision came into greater focus. "I just fell in love and knew
it was the place I wanted to be," Mendelsohn said. "The view
doesn't hurt either."
25-Oct-2016
Countdown: Alex Angyalosy Chooses the Red Raiders
Five-star recruit Alex Angyalosy from Boca Raton, Fla., has committed
to join the Texas Tech University women's tennis team. Angyalosy will
definitely delight Lady Red Raiders fans at the McLeod Tennis Center
with her all-around, counter-puncher style of play. But Angyalosy, an
honor student at the Florida Virtual School, also plans to pursue the
pre-medicine program at the northwestern Texas institution, located in
Lubbock.
24-Oct-2016
Countdown: Blue Chip Girls
Last week we visited with the senior Blue Chip boys to find out
how they are doing in the college recruiting process. Today, the girls
get their turn. How many have decided? Which players are still wide
open? And are any of them leaning towards your favorite school? Find
out now...
21-Oct-2016
Countdown: Bruins Beckon Bolton
Elysia Bolton has nearly two years of junior tennis remaining, but the
16-year-old blue chip already knows the location of the next stage of
her career: the UCLA campus in Westwood.
20-Oct-2016
Countdown: Illini to Welcome Brown
The Fighting Illini have nabbed one of the top players in the country
to join their team in 2017. Iowa's Alex Brown has announced he's
signing with the Orange and Blue.
19-Oct-2016
Day Repeats, Brown Ascends at ITF Grade B1 Pan American Closed
The champions at last week's International Tennis Federation Grade B1
Pan American Closed in Tulsa, Oklahoma, were on opposite ends of the
world junior rankings spectrum. World No. 1 Kayla Day defended her
title with a 6-1, 6-4 victory over Ellie Douglas in the girls final,
while No. 732 Alex Brown edged wild card Lukas Greif 6-4, 7-6(4) to
win his first ITF junior title.
18-Oct-2016
Hot 100 List - October '16
Today we announce the October edition of the Hot 100. The
Hot 100 features 100 boys and 100 girls who have been playing outstanding
tennis. These players have substantially improved their rankings over
the past month.
17-Oct-2016
Countdown: Blue Chip Boys
We kick off the second week of the Countdown to Signing Day with a
look at the top boys in the senior class. This year's Blue Chip
recruits talked with us about their decision process. Some have made
verbal commitments, most have confirmed or taken their official
visits, and some are still wide open. Take a look and see where
things stand ...
14-Oct-2016
Countdown: Van Alphen Stays Close to Home at USC
The phrase "beginner's luck" is often tossed around to
explain instances of surprising or unexpected success, but that term
does not seem appropriate to describe Sydney Van Alphen's winning
the first tennis tournament she ever entered. She has been a natural
since the beginning. That natural inclination helped her earn a college
scholarship to the USC Trojans for next Fall.
13-Oct-2016
Countdown: Transitioning to College Tennis
During my 35 years coaching tennis at the high school level, I played
a key role in helping my players transition from junior tennis into
college tennis. I was highly successful, so many parents over the
years have asked me about my approach - and what I thought might be
the key factors to success.
12-Oct-2016
Countdown: Bernstine Follows Father, Chooses Hokies
When Chase Bernstine finished his first two seasons of tennis at
Goochland High School with a perfect record, recording two state
singles titles and a doubles title in the process, his teachers and
classmates thought he was going to go out and win the US Open. While
he hasn't done that yet, Bernstine has parlayed his on-court success
into a spot in Blacksburg, Va., next Fall at Virginia Tech.
11-Oct-2016
Countdown: Georgia Snares Coppoc and Goulak
Georgia's academic and athletics reputation proved to be
irresistible to a pair of blue chips and have verbally embraced
the Bulldogs. Morgan Coppoc and Annette Goulak, who have played
successful doubles together, were delighted to have the opportunity to
play on the same college team.
10-Oct-2016
Countdown to Signing Day
Once again, in the junior and college tennis, the changing leaves
mean that we are getting closer and closer to Signing Day. November 9th
is is the first day of the one-week fall signing period - the only
opportunity this calendar year for seniors to sign a National Letter
of Intent with a Division I or Division II school. As always, The
Tennis Recruiting Network and GAMMA are here to keep you up to date on
all the happenings.
7-Oct-2016
ImRecruitable College Showcase Events Nov 30 to Dec 1
ImRecruitable will host its 5th Annual College Tennis Showcase
November 30th and December 1st 2016 at Patch Reef Park Tennis Center
in Boca Raton, FL. This unique, one-of-a-kind event combines both
on-court training with college coaches as well as showcase match play
in front of observing coaches. This event allows players the
opportunity to gain maximum exposure and networking with college
coaches.
5-Oct-2016
September Aces Feature Memorable Wins
From junior slams titles for North Americans, to Challenger wins for
Europeans to a Davis Cup clinch for a South American, September
featured memorable wins by teenagers and current collegians. Former
collegians, including the reigning NCAA champions, also grabbed the
spotlight last month as summer turned to fall.
4-Oct-2016
Quick Take with Former Western Illinois Standout Justin Junck
Justin Junck graduated in 2003 from East High School in Sioux City,
Iowa. After playing college tennis for one season at Nebraska, where
he played No. 5 and 6 singles and No. 1 doubles, Junck transferred to
Western Illinois, where he played at the top of the lineup his last
three years, earning Mid-Con All-Conference honors. Harry Cicma of NBC
Sports asked Junck a few questions about his experience at WIU and
advice for junior players.
3-Oct-2016
Roundtable: Attracting Fans to College Tennis Matches
Every college program wants to develop its fan support, and college
tennis programs are no exception. Teams will often promote special
events that cater to loyal fans and alumni as well as to bring in new
fans. Kids days, homecomings, food, and hit-with-the-players sessions
are just a few examples. We presented the following question to our
panel of coaches: What are some of the things you do to attract fans to
your program? What special events do you put on?
1-Oct-2016
US Open Juniors Images
Here are action shots from the US Open Junior Championships from
photographer Bill Kallenberg. Check out images of the kids who
competed for this coveted Grand Slam Title in New York last month.
30-Sep-2016
What an Agent Does: Interview with Topnotch Management's Sam Duvall
Sam Duvall played high-level tennis as a junior outside of Louisville,
Ky., and he played college tennis at Bates College. As a senior,
Duvall had an internship at Octagon, a sports management firm. After
several years at SFX, Duvall started his own firm,
Topnotch Management. Colette Lewis of ZooTennis.com spoke with Duvall
about many issues around sports management - and what advice he would
give top juniors and their families.
28-Sep-2016
Rome Tennis Center Blends Economics and Education with Tennis
In Field of Dreams, a voice told Kevin Costner's character, "If you
build it, he will come." Cities and municipalities have been doing
this for sports like baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse. Add
tennis into the conversation, as word has reached the "powers that be"
that a large, modern and sprawling tennis center can drive money into
the local economy, bring awareness to all that a city offers, and
offer unprecedented educational and recreational opportunities for
residents.
26-Sep-2016
Keegan Smith Stays Home at UCLA
Keegan Smith was considering taking visits to North Carolina,
Washington, Arizona State, Michigan and the University of San Diego.
But the blue-chip recruit never made the travel plans. He kept his
suitcase in the closet and committed to UCLA.
22-Sep-2016
Virginia's Collins and Kwiatkowski Earn Titles at American Collegiate Invitational
The University of Virginia picked up where UCLA left off last year at
the third annual American Collegiate Invitational, played at the end
of the second week of the US Open. After Bruins Mackenzie McDonald and
Robin Anderson had swept the titles in 2015, the Cavaliers dominated
the proceedings this year, with recent graduate Danielle Collins
taking the women's title and senior Thai Kwiatkowski capturing the
men's championship.
20-Sep-2016
PlaySight Hot 100 List - September '16
Today we announce the September edition of the PlaySight Hot 100. The
PlaySight Hot 100 features 100 boys and 100 girls who have been playing outstanding
tennis. These players have substantially improved their rankings over
the past month.
16-Sep-2016
Day, Auger-Aliassime Win US Open Singles Titles; Shibahara and Hart Capture Doubles
After American boys dominated the 2015 US Open Junior Championships,
US girls were the story of the 2016 tournament, with two championship
performances providing a fitting ending. Kayla Day defeated Viktoria
Kuzmova of Slovakia 6-3, 6-2 in the singles final, and wild cards Ena
Shibahara and Jada Hart won the girls doubles championship, beating
Day and Caroline Dolehide in a dramatic all-American final.
14-Sep-2016
Roundtable: Sending the Initial Email to College Coaches
College information sessions and recruiting experts are always
encouraging players and parents to take the initiative and reach out
to college coaches. That first contact is often by email - but high
school players are sometimes at a loss as to what points to emphasize.
We put the question to our panel of coaches: What should a player
include in his/her initial email to a college coach?
12-Sep-2016
What Every Player Should Know Before Joining a College Team
David Mullins spent sixteen years competing as a college tennis player
and coach at the highest levels. As he reflects on his career, he
notes that college tennis has changed dramatically since he first got
involved. Mullins talks about these differences - and offers a list of
the realities and expectations of college athletics to students and
parents.
8-Sep-2016
Kawai Will Play for Illini
After taking visits at schools from Texas to Pennsylvania, 18-year-old
Asuka Kawai has decided to play for the Fighting Illini, beginning in
the fall of 2017.
5-Sep-2016
Tennis Recruiting Welcomes the Class of 2023
Labor Day is the unofficial end of summer. School starts back up, and
there are new sixth-graders walking the halls. This week's rankings
at the Tennis Recruiting Network are the first of the 2016-17 season -
and they also mark the arrival of the Class of 2023.
2-Sep-2016
Hot Aces in Packed August
August is the month of the USTA National Championships, but due to
extensive coverage of the finals during Championship Week, just one of
those eight gold ball winners is featured below. While most of those
highlighted are young pros, including a quartet of Russian girls,
current and former collegians also had tournaments to remember last
month.
30-Aug-2016
Liu Sweeps Girls Titles at ITF International Hard Courts, Kecmanovic Wins Boys Singles
The ITF Grade 1 International Hard Court Tournament last week at the
Junior Tennis Champions Center in College Park, Maryland was left
without a boys final when Oliver Crawford, who injured his ankle in
the doubles semifinals the day before, was unable to take the court
against Serbia’s Miomir Kecmanovic. But the girls final nearly filled
the void, with Claire Liu defeating Xiyu Wang of China 6-3, 4-6, 6-3
in a match that took just under three hours to complete.
29-Aug-2016
Conversation with Two-Time NCAA Singles Champion Amber Liu Chang
Amber Liu Chang was a two-time NCAA singles champion and three-time
team champion while at Stanford from 2002 to 2006. By now, she
expected to be well-established in the business world. But while on
the WTA Tour, she was coached by former French Open champion Michael
Chang, and the two are now married with three children. Todd Holcomb
got the chance to catch up with Liu Chang and talk about her tennis
career, advice for young players, and the joys of the life she did not
anticipate.
26-Aug-2016
Champions from Kalamazoo
Photographer Bill Kallenberg was in Kalamazoo, Michigan, for the USTA
Boys 18 and 16 Nationals - one of the most revered tournaments in US
junior tennis. Kallenberg shared photos of the winners with us - you
can check them out now ...
24-Aug-2016
Roundtable: Setting College Doubles Pairings
Doubles often sets the tone for college dual matches. In the NCAA
Division I, whichever team wins two of three doubles matches gains one
point. Division III teams, on the other hand, can take a 3-0 lead by
sweeping the doubles. Regardless of the scoring format, doubles teams
are an important part of the season. We put the question to a panel of
coaches: What factors go into setting your doubles pairings? How much
do you change your pairings throughout the year?
22-Aug-2016
PlaySight Hot 100 List - August '16
Today we announce the August edition of the PlaySight Hot 100. The
PlaySight Hot 100 features 100 boys and 100 girls who have been playing outstanding
tennis. These players have substantially improved their rankings over
the past month.
20-Aug-2016
Images from the Zoo
Check out action shots from the USTA Boys 18 and 16 Nationals in
Kalamazoo, Michigan. Photographer Bill Kallenberg was onhand to
capture the players and pageantry of this great event. Check out
his handiwork ...
19-Aug-2016
Mmoh Masters Kalamazoo 18s
With his professional experience and an ATP ranking inside the Top
400, Michael Mmoh was a heavy favorite this year at Kalamazoo's USTA
Boys 18 National Championships. Despite the considerable pressure
that comes with a No. 1 seeding, Mmoh delivered, winning the title
and a US Open main draw wild card with a 6-1, 6-2, 6-3 victory over
No. 7 seed Vasil Kirkov.
19-Aug-2016
Kayla Day Wins Girls 18s, Wild Card in San Diego
Kayla Day veered from her normal routine. The Santa Barbara native
usually just trains the week before a major event, but this year she
played a warm-up tournament before the USTA Girls' 18s Nationals. The
new formula worked to perfection, as the top-seeded Day capped a strong
run through the singles draw by beating seventh-seeded Nicole Frenkel
of Winchester, Mass., 6-2, 3-6, 6-1 in the final at the Barnes Tennis
Center in San Diego.
18-Aug-2016
Greif Gains Gold Again
The summer of 2016 will be remembered as a golden one for US Olympians
like Michael Phelps and Simone Biles. Although Kalamazoo is not Rio,
Lukas Greif will share in their fond memories of the past few weeks,
after defeating Jenson Brooksby 6-0, 6-3 to win the USTA Boys 16s
National Championships, adding a second gold ball after claiming the
16s Clay Courts title three weeks earlier.
18-Aug-2016
Mossmer Finishes Strong in Girls 16 Nationals
Throughout her seven matches in the 2016 USTA Junior Girls Nationals,
Nicole Mossmer proved to be an an excellent starter and finisher. That
powerful combination was clearly too much for all her opponents as the
La Jolla, California, resident captured the Girls 16 singles
championship on Saturday afternoon with a 7-5, 6-0 victory over fellow
San Diegan Julia Haynes on the Stadium Court at the Barnes Center in
San Diego.
17-Aug-2016
Alex Lee Claims USTA Boys 14 Nationals
Alex Lee of Oak Brook, Ill., is now a two-time national champion. The
top-seeded Lee captured the singles crown of the USTA Boys 14 National
Championships, with a 6-1, 6-3 victory over No. 5 Jameson Corsillo of
Boca Raton, Fla. Prior to his win at McFarlin Tennis Center, Lee
captured the Easter Bowl championship in a three-set match against
Andrew Dale.
17-Aug-2016
Pielet Wins Third Gold Ball in 14s Nationals
Gianna Pielet summed up the meaning of the USTA Girls 14 National
Championships pretty well. "You win a gold ball in this tournament;
the others you don't," Pielet said. "I get my name put in back of the
USTA yearbook. That's a very prestigious award." Pielet defeated
seven opponents in the tournament without losing a set. She was at her
best in the final - a 6-1, 6-2 victory over Sonia Maheshwari of
Morrisville, N.C.
16-Aug-2016
Victor Lilov Strikes Gold Twice in Boys 12s
Victor Lilov, displaying the precocious abilities to analyze an
ongoing match calmly and to make the appropriate adjustments, defeated
a relentless 17th seed Braden Shick 6-4, 6-1, to win the singles crown
at the rain-soaked Boys 12s National Hardcourt Championships in
Little Rock, Arkansas.
16-Aug-2016
Wiersholm Validates Clay Title by Winning 12s Nats
It's been quite a summer for Kirkland, Wash., resident, Katja
Wiersholm. Three weeks after winning her first gold ball at the USTA
Girl's 12s National Clay Court Championships in Boca Raton, the rising
seventh grader added a second gold ball to her collection at the Lake
Windward Club in Alpharetta, Ga. by winning the USTA Girl's 12s
National Championships. Wiersholm edged Vivian Ovrootsky of San Jose,
Calif., 6-3, 6-3, in a match that lasted just over 75 minutes.
15-Aug-2016
Hard Court Championship Week
Last week, the best American juniors were competing for gold balls at
the USTA National Championships all across the country. National
titles were awarded for both boys and girls in all four age divisions.
TennisRecruiting.net and Van Der Meer Academy announce our
Championship Week coverage - with photo galleries and articles that
celebrate the best of the best in junior tennis.
12-Aug-2016
Amateur Issues
One of the principles that college sports was founded upon is that of
amateur competition. In the eyes of all three collegiate governing
bodies, student-athletes participating in collegiate athletics should
be amateurs. Over the years, the line that defines amateur and
professional has become less clear. Recruiting expert Dede Allen takes
a comprehensive look at the issue.
10-Aug-2016
Rose Continuing To Blossom In Pros
Malika Rose referred to herself as a wildcard when searching for a
school to play collegiate tennis at. With the help of Chris Young and
Jamea Jackson, the Brooklyn, New York native become a catalyst for the
rise of the Oklahoma State Cowgirls, who stormed their way to an NCAA
runner-up finish this year. Now back on the pro circuit after a
near-yearlong injury layoff, Rose is eager to prove she's no thorn.
8-Aug-2016
Roundtable: Turning Professional Before Graduation
With the U.S. Open occurring this month, several top college tennis
players are considering turning pro. The lure of pro tennis can be
strong, even if it means leaving college before his or her graduation
date. So, we asked a panel of respected coaches the following
question: What advice do you give to one of your current players who
is considering turning pro before graduation?
5-Aug-2016
Mmoh Heads 18s Field, Greif Tops 16s Draw at Kalamazoo
The USTA Boys 16 and 18 Nationals have always drawn the cream of the
US junior crop, with the 18s champions offered wild cards into the US
Open main draws and the 16s champions receiving wild cards into the US
Open Juniors. New this year are an array of new enticements: wild
cards into USTA Pro Circuit events - as well as additional US Open
Junior wild cards - are being offered tor those who finish in the Top
5 in each division. Colette Lewis of ZooTennis.com takes a look at the
fields.
3-Aug-2016
Wimbledon's Junior Champions Lead Aces
Wimbledon's junior champions lead last month's list of top
performances, with eight current and former college players among
those posting impressive results in the USTA Pro Circuit and beyond.
Due to the extensive Clay Week coverage here at the Tennis Recruiting
Network, the USTA Clay Court winners are not included, but here's
another round of congratulations to those who collected gold balls
last month.
1-Aug-2016
A Daily Mental Plan That Might Just Work
Focus ... Concentrate ... Stay in the present ... these are all words
and terms we use when coaching players from time to time. We have
difficulty understanding why they get distracted and lose focus during
various stages of their matches or in practice. But how many tennis
players have a daily mental routine or practice? Not just a plan
before or during matches - but an actual daily practice to strengthen
their minds and emotions?
31-Jul-2016
Images from the Georgia Junior Open
This past Friday marked the grand opening of the Rome Tennis Center on
Berry College campus - 51 courts on thirty acres with six NCAA
regulation courts, three center courts for tournament and collegiate
play, and one exhibition court. All courts have lighting and access to
shade structures. The Georgia Junior Open was the first tournament
held at the facility earlier this month - and Tennis Recruiting was
onhand to capture the event ...
29-Jul-2016
Li Captures Girls 18s Clay Title in Steamy Memphis
Memphis in July is no place for the faint of heart. Temperatures in
the high 90s and a heat index often in the 110s, compounded by five
rain or lightning delays, presented one physical and mental challenge
after another as the USTA Girls 18s Clay Court Championships wore on.
For Ann Li, no obstacle proved insurmountable, as she earned her first
singles gold ball with a 6-4, 3-6, 6-4 victory over Amanda Meyer.
29-Jul-2016
Sebastian Korda Wins Boys 18s Clay Courts
Unseeded and undaunted, Sebastian Korda picked up the first gold ball
of his singles career as he downed Alexandre Rotsaert in the finals of
the Metropolia USTA Clay Court Boys 18s National Championships at the
Delray Beach Tennis Center. Korda, 16, needed a little over two hours
as he defeated the hometown favorite 6-4, 6-1 to win the singles title
in an all-Florida match-up.
28-Jul-2016
Noel Wins Second Straight Clay Court Title
Overcoming a significant deficit when the heat index is in triple
digits is never part of the game plan. But scrappy, feisty
13-year-old Alexa Noel did so anyway to capture the singles title at
the USTA Girls 16 National Clay Court Championships. In a clash of
two players who now call New Jersey home, Noel outlasted Amber O'Dell
in 2 hours and 20 minutes by a score of 1-6, 6-4, 6-3.
28-Jul-2016
Good Greif - Indianapolis Teen Wins Boys 16s
In the end, it was too much Greif for Jenson Brooksby in the finals of
the USTA Clay Court Boys 16s National Championships in Delray Beach.
The seventh-seeded Lukas Greif failed to lose a set in the entire
tournament and cruised past Brooksby, 6-1, 6-1 for his first gold ball
in singles play. Greif, 16, a rising junior, had won two gold balls
in doubles play and a silver ball in the 16s this year.
27-Jul-2016
Christine Inah Canete Takes Girl's 14 Clays
Nobody had to light a fire under 12-year old, Christine Inah Canete,
this week at the USTA National Girls' 14s Clay Court Championships in
Plantation, Fla. - as an electrical fire caused some minor disruptions
to the schedule and a bit of smoke. Canete, the No. 9 seed, went up
against Ellie Coleman, a No. 17 seed, in the singles final and took
a 6-1, 6-1 match to win her second gold ball of the year.
27-Jul-2016
Khan Twins Dominate Boys 14 Clays
It might be the ultimate family victory, but twins Zane and Faris Khan
don't really like playing against each other, even for the
championship of a national tournament. It happened again last week in
Fort Lauderdale, Fla., where Zane pulled out a 6-4, 6-4 victory over
Faris in the singles final of the USTA Boys 14 National Clay Court
Championships. The two native Texans also won the doubles title.
27-Jul-2016
Clay Court Nationals Photo Gallery
For the first time TRN had a photographer at the USTA Boys 18 and 16
National Clay Court Championships hosted by the City of Delray Beach
in Florida. We hope you enjoy the photos taken by contributor Fritz
Moore.
26-Jul-2016
Wiersholm Earns First Gold Ball in Boca Raton
In a finals match punctuated by suspense, surprise, momentum swings
and two lefties, sixth seed Katja Wiersholm of Kirkland, Washington,
emerged victorious over second seed Robin Montgomery of Washington,
D.C., 7-6 (5), 0-6, 7-6(4) at the 2016 Girls 12 National Clay Court
Championships.
26-Jul-2016
Wen Takes Title at Boys 12 Clay Courts
Top-seeded Evan Wen of Morristown, N.J., took home the singles gold
ball of the USTA Boys 12 National Clay Court Championships on July 23.
Wen endured a stomach ailment and long matches to win his first
national title. He defeated sixth-seeded Victor Lilov of Raleigh,
N.C., 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 in the more-than two-hour final played at the LTP
Tennis and Swim Club in Mount Pleasant, S.C.
25-Jul-2016
Clay Court Championship Week
The USTA Clay Court Championships have concluded around the country.
This week, TennisRecruiting.net and Van Der Meer Academy have roundups
of all the action from the Boys' 12s to the Girls' 18s - from Virginia
Beach to Fort Lauderdale. Check out coverage of all the tournaments -
and meet the latest gold ball winners of all ages. Get ready... for
Clay Court Championship Week.
24-Jul-2016
Action Shots from the Grizzlies Holiday Championships
To say that Georgia Gwinnett College had a strong season in college
tennis is quite the understatement. When both your men's and women's
programs win NAIA titles - and the two programs combined for five
national titles over the past three years - life is good. Earlier
this month, junior tennis players headed to Gwinnett to play a
tournament. Photographer Bill Kallenberg has great action shots
of the event ...
22-Jul-2016
Top-Ranked Blumberg Chooses Carolina Blue
As he considered his options for college, Blue Chip William Blumberg
encountered a problem - every school he visited went to the top of his
list. Blumberg considered Duke, USC, Wake Forest, Stanford, Virginia
and North Carolina before finally paring his choice down to the
Cavaliers and Tar Heels. In the end, the nation's top-ranked senior
liked what he saw to UNC, and he plans to graduate early and join the
Tar Heels in January for the 2017 spring season.
19-Jul-2016
College Tennis Players Spending the Summer with BB&T Atlanta Open
While most college students are spending their summer break working at
summer camps, house sitting or maintaining lawns, there a half-dozen
or so college tennis players giving a needed assist to the BB&T
Atlanta Open, an ATP World Tour 250 event that is one of eight summer
tournaments in the Emirates Airline US Open Series. These student
athletes are getting to interact with names like Isner, Agassi and
Kyrgios.
18-Jul-2016
PlaySight Hot 100 List - July '16
Today we announce the July edition of the PlaySight Hot 100. The
PlaySight Hot 100 features 100 boys and 100 girls who have been playing outstanding
tennis. These players have substantially improved their rankings over
the past month.
15-Jul-2016
Shapovalov, Potapova Claim Wimbledon Junior Titles; Liu and Arconada Win Girls Doubles
The brief junior grass season ended perfectly for Anastasia Potapova
of Russia and Denis Shapovalov of Canada, with the pair celebrating
Wimbledon Junior Championships in front of large, enthusiastic crowds.
Potapova defeated Dayana Yastremska of Ukraine 6-4, 6-3 in Saturday's
girls final, while Shapovalov overcame Alex De Minaur of Australia
4-6, 6-1, 6-3 in Sunday's boys championship match.
13-Jul-2016
Behind the Tennis Recruiting Rankings
This week marks the 569th consecutive week that Tennis Recruiting has
put out graduation-based rankings of American junior boys and girls.
Rankings are front and center on Tennis Recruiting, and people often ask
us how our rankings work. Today we describe our ranking system ...
11-Jul-2016
Roundtable: Coaches On Off-Court Factors in Recruiting Part II
Last month, we talked with college tennis coaches about how aspects
other than on-court play factor into recruiting. We got a few more
responses, and so we present answers to the following question: What
off-court qualities do you look for in a recruit? What is important to
you, as a coach, concerning the demeanor and attitude of a recruit?
8-Jul-2016
How to Win Without Your A Game
When you look at the world's top players, isn't it amazing how often
they are in the quarters, semis, and finals of Grand Slam tournaments?
How is it possible for them to be that consistent time after time? How
do they bring their "A game" when it matters the most? The
reality is that the top players understand that the key to consistency
and playing well has to do with how to act when they don't have their
A game.
6-Jul-2016
The Weight of Winning - Greatness and Glory
Coaches teach, develop and mold players from their experiences,
successes and mistakes. Their job is to push their players through
doors where there have never been before - and to get them past their
fears of failure, success and the unknown. Coach Paul Thomson of UAH
describes a recent dual tennis match that serves as a microcosm of why
coaches do what they do.
4-Jul-2016
How to Enjoy the Pressure of Competing
One of the most common issues that comes up during my early sessions
with top junior tennis players is the overwhelming pressure they feel
before and during matches. On a positive note, many junior players
look for ways to improve their mental performance and stop the
worrying. But the problem goes beyond mental skills - many juniors
just don&apos't enjoy the competition. Here are three things players
can do to enjoy tournament play - and perform at a higher level.
1-Jul-2016
Junior and Collegian Aces Shine Brightly in June
From clay to grass and spring to summer, June's transitions produced
aces from a variety of circumstances. The French Open gave us two
unexpected junior champions, while the Pro Circuit was fertile ground
for other teens and NCAA stars both in the United States and in many
other countries across the globe.
27-Jun-2016
Talking with Former Stanford Standout Hilary Barte
Hilary Barte, the No. 1-rated women's tennis recruit in the class of
2007, won two doubles national titles and one team championship while
at Stanford, where she played No. 1 singles and doubles for all four
seasons (2008-2011). Barte had a combined singles and doubles record
of 258-63, and she was an eight-time All-American. We talked recently
with Barte about her new career as a real-estate agent, her days as a
junior, college and professional tennis player, and how tennis
prepared her for that profession.
24-Jun-2016
Zhu Heads to UCLA
A program with the history and reputation of UCLA doesn't need a sales
force, yet Evan Zhu, who will join the Bruins this fall, found himself
surrounded by advocates for the school while in Southern California.
A trio of former UCLA stars - Nick Meister, Dan Kosakowski and Haythem
Abid - had practiced with, coached or competed against the
17-year-old, five-star recruit and were eager to see him in True Blue
and Gold.
23-Jun-2016
Images from the NCAA Championships in Tulsa
The college tennis season culminated last month with the NCAA Championships,
with the University of Virginia and Stanford University winning the
Division I team titles in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Photographer Bill
Kallenberg was onhand at the event, and he has some great images
capturing its pageantry and excitement ...
21-Jun-2016
Top Texan Chase Wood Chooses Florida State
"My parents always said that once your heart feels right, you'll
know it," said Chase Wood, referring to his college choice.
Wood's parents knew exactly what they were talking about as both
played collegiate tennis - mom for Tennessee and dad for Arkansas.
Taking into consideration his family's advice, athletic history and
his own goals, the 17-year-old blue chip recruit and top-ranked Texas
player verbally committed to Florida State University.
20-Jun-2016
PlaySight Hot 100 List - June '16
Today we announce the June edition of the PlaySight Hot 100. The
PlaySight Hot 100 features 100 boys and 100 girls who have been playing outstanding
tennis. These players have substantially improved their rankings over
the past month.
19-Jun-2016
National Selection Tourney Photo Gallery from Delray Beach
Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial start of summer, and with it
the tennis season heats up. The USTA put on National Selection
Tournaments all across the country during the holiday weekend as part
of the national junior competition schedule. Take a look at action
photos from the event in Delray Beach, Florida.
17-Jun-2016
2016 Top NCAA Division III Women's Classes
The Tennis Recruiting Network wraps up its spring recruiting class
rankings with a look at the D-III women. Today we present our list of
the Top 25 NCAA D-III women's recruiting classes for 2016. This year,
the top of our rankings has a distinct Maroon hue ...
15-Jun-2016
Joyce, Daavettila Repeat as Champions at US Open Midwest Playoffs
The location had changed, but the results were the same as teenagers
Martin Joyce and Sara Daavettila defended their titles at the US Open
Midwest Playoffs at the University of Notre Dame Monday.
14-Jun-2016
Roundtable: Coaches On Off-Court Factors in Recruiting
College tennis players have a lot of responsibilities. In addition to
consistently turning in top performances on the court, they also have
to deal with academics while working closely with their teammates and
coaches. We put the following question to a panel of respected
coaches: What off-court qualities do you look for in a recruit?
13-Jun-2016
2016 Top NCAA Division III Men's Classes
The Tennis Recruiting Network presents its recruiting class rankings
for NCAA Division III conferences. Today we present our Top 25 D-III
men's recruiting classes for 2016. This year, the No. 1 class comes
from Amherst College for the first time since 2013.
10-Jun-2016
2016 Top Mid-Major Women's Classes
TennisRecruiting.net picks up where it left off on Monday with more
rankings of mid-major recruiting classes. Today we present the Top 25
mid-major women's recruiting classes for 2016. Check out the Waves - who
are cresting at the top of the rankings.
8-Jun-2016
Talking with Division III Men's Singles Champion Skyler Butts
Skyler Butts of Claremont-Mudd-Scripps ended his career on a high note
last month in Kalamazoo, claiming the Division III men's singles title
after reaching the final in 2015, the same year the Stags claimed
their first team championship since 1981. Colette Lewis of
ZooTennis.com talked with the 22-year-old Californian about his tennis
background, postgraduate plans, one-handed backhand, hobbies and why
Division III was the right choice for him.
7-Jun-2016
USTA Midwest Section to Hold College Showcase in Indianapolis
On Friday, June 24, the USTA Midwest Section will host its 2016
College Showcase, giving students from the region a chance to learn
about the wide range of opportunities in college tennis. The showcase
will be held at the Barbara S. Wynne Tennis Center, North Central High
School in Indianapolis, Indiana, and will include both information and
on-court sessions for high school players.
6-Jun-2016
2016 Top Mid-Major Men's Classes
The Tennis Recruiting Network continues its series of recruiting
class rankings with the first of our mid-major conference rankings.
Today we present the Top 25 mid-major men's recruiting classes for
2016, which seem to be a bit Bullish.
5-Jun-2016
Images from Academia Sanchez-Casal
Things are hot and humid all over - but especially in Florida. Our
photographers were in Naples last week for the Level 6 event at
Academia Sanchez-Casal. Check out images from boys and girls of
all levels ...
3-Jun-2016
May Aces Spotlight College Tennis
College tennis takes the spotlight in May with the NCAA championships,
while junior tennis features the Grade A Italian Open in Milan as its
showcase event. Former college players, particularly those from the
PAC-12, had a slew of notable results, and several juniors earned
titles on the ITF Pro Circuit.
1-Jun-2016
Eudice Chong, Skyler Butts Claim Division III Singles Titles in Kalamazoo
Claremont-Mudd-Scripps senior Skyler Butts had to deal with hundreds
of his opponent's fans roaring on every point. Wesleyan sophomore
Eudice Chong had to face the only player who had beaten her in
Division III competition. But both took advantage of their experience
in the big moment to claim the 2016 NCAA Division III singles titles
last Saturday at Kalamazoo College's Stowe Stadium.
31-May-2016
Florida Level 4 Gulfstream Photo Gallery
Today we have images from the USTA Florida Gulfstream - a Level 4
sectional event from Boca Raton, Florida, featuring boys and girls in
the 18s and 16s divisions the weekend of May 14. Tennis Recruiting
photographers were onhand to capture action shots from the event ...
30-May-2016
Top Women's Classes - 2016 Spring Rankings
Our Recruiting Class Rankings continue with a look at the ladies.
Tennis Recruiting is proud to present its spring rankings of the Top
25 Women's College Tennis Recruiting Classes of 2016. As in the winter,
a trio of Blue Chip recruits powers the LSU Tigers to the top spot.
27-May-2016
Bowdoin Men and Emory Women Claim NCAA Team Titles
The NCAA Division III team championships at Kalamazoo College
displayed two sides of college tennis, producing an improbable
champion in the Bowdoin men and a favored champion in the Emory women.
25-May-2016
Check Out a College Recruiting Showcase
Want a leg up on your high school tennis colleagues looking to compete
at the collegiate level? Try a college-recruiting tennis showcase. If
you're in a hurry or overwhelmed by an unforgiving tournament
schedule, a showcase is just the ticket. Usually no longer than two
days, it gets players quick exposure to dozens of college coaches on
site in a tournament-like environment.
23-May-2016
Top Men's Classes - 2016 Spring Rankings
The Tennis Recruiting Network is excited to present its spring ranking
of the Top 25 Men's Recruiting Classes for 2016. New commitments have
brought seven new teams to the rankings - including two new previously
unranked classes into the Top 10. But the Top Dawgs of the rankings
remain the same as they were during the winter ... and the selection is
unanimous.
19-May-2016
What Is An Upset?
Tennis Recruiting is a website that rates and ranks junior tennis
players. One of the questions we get most often from our users is,
"What exactly is an upset?" There are many possible
definitions of an upset - this article explores the question and
puts forward an answer.
17-May-2016
Mississippi State Men Shock Illini
The NCAA Division I Men's Tennis bracket held a few upsets this year
heading into the round of 16. One is a big one - 2003 winners (and
2007 finalists) Illinois won't be going to Tulsa. Mississippi State
and first-year Head Coach Matt Roberts brought in a team that finished
20-8 and No. 21 in the nation to Champaign, Ill., and advanced to the
NCAA Round of 16.
16-May-2016
PlaySight Hot 100 List - May '16
Today we announce the May edition of the PlaySight Hot 100. The
PlaySight Hot 100 features 100 boys and 100 girls who have been playing outstanding
tennis. These players have substantially improved their rankings over
the past month.
13-May-2016
NCAA Tournament Roundtable - Part II
The NCAA Division I Tennis Championships start today. The top men's
and women's college tennis programs face off in first-round action
across the country, with all teams competing for tickets to
Tulsa, Okla., and a spot in the Sweet 16. Check out insights
from our college tennis contributors - and see who they picked as
darkhorses and champions.
11-May-2016
Asics Easter Bowl ITF Tournament Pioneers Travel Grants
In its nearly fifty years on the United States junior tennis scene,
the Easter Bowl has developed a reputation for innovation. This year
saw a new initiative emerge for those participating in the
International Tennis Federation's Grade B1 event at the Indian Wells
Tennis Garden: travel vouchers for boys and girls who reached the
round of 16 in their respective 64-player draws.
9-May-2016
NCAA Tournament Roundtable - Part I
The brackets are set, and this weekend, the NCAA Division I Tennis
Championships get underway. 64 men's and women's college tennis teams
will head to campus venues around the country to compete in first- and
second-round action. The winners will make up the Sweet 16 and head
to Tulsa, Oklahoma, to compete for the team title. Today, our college
tennis contributors preview the "Big Dance" of college tennis.
8-May-2016
SMU Tennis Programs To Be Featured On College Sports Weekly
Fox College Sports (FCS) will air a show featuring the SMU Tennis
teams as well as the SMU Tennis Complex, beginning on Sunday at 8pm ET
/ 7 pm CT on FCS Atlantic.
6-May-2016
McNally's Path Leads Straight to Columbus
Born and raised an Ohio State football fan, John McNally always
expected to join the Buckeyes once it became clear his level of play
would allow him to compete for one of the nation's top programs.
Dismissing a brief temptation to look elsewhere, the 17-year-old blue
chip from Cincinnati has announced his commitment to Ohio State for
the fall of 2017.
4-May-2016
ASU Reinstates Men's Tennis
After an eight-year hiatus, Sun Devil Athletics announced the
reinstatement of the men's tennis program at Arizona State. Through a
lead gift of $1M by Buffie and Ray Anderson, Vice President for
University Athletics, ASU will now field a total of 26 NCAA varsity
sports.
2-May-2016
Aubone Playing (And Finishing) On His Own Terms
When it comes to tennis, Jean-Yves Aubone has made sure things were on
his terms. Born to two professional tennis players, there was no doubt
that tennis would be the sport for "JY". He became one of
the premiere junior tennis players in the country - eventually heading
to Florida State. Since graduating in 2010, Aubone has been out on the
professional tour. Contributor Joey Dillon got the chance to catch up
with Aubone about all things tennis ...
1-May-2016
Florida Sectional at Academia Sanchez-Casal
Check out images from last week's USTA Florida L5 Sectionals in Naples.
Photographer Fritz Moore was on site at Academia Sáanchez-Casal
to capture some great action photos. Here they are ...
29-Apr-2016
Busy Month Leads to 18 April Aces
April is always a busy month with the two big ITF tournaments in
California boosting the summer slam chances of US juniors. Although
it's a couple of days before month's end, it's already time to look
back at all the junior and Pro Circuit champions as well as the two
former collegians who made the first full month of spring a memorable
one.
27-Apr-2016
How Champion Tennis Players Overcome Pressure
With less than an hour away from the start of a match, the junior
player is getting ready. Whether warming up on a court, stretching and
listening to music, or strategizing with their coaches, junior tennis
players are readying themselves for tournaments = and, more specifically
- readying themselves for pressure.
25-Apr-2016
JJ Wolf Stays Home at Ohio State
JJ Wolf's success in tennis was consistent, but the emotional
commitment to the game did not happen until recently. "I just
fell in love with tennis," Wolf said. "I didn't like
tennis that much until this past summer." Still a high school
junior, his newfound dedication and passion for tennis has him focused
on a pro career, but not before sharpening and maturing his game at
Ohio State.
22-Apr-2016
ITA Summer Circuit Schedule
The ITA Summer Circuit provides college, junior, and alumni tennis
players the opportunity to compete in organized events virtually year
round. Although the primary focus of the circuit is to provide
incoming freshmen and collegiate players the chance to play in the
summer months, these events are "open", so anyone is eligible to
compete.
20-Apr-2016
Ross, Sanford Earn Asics Easter Bowl ITF Titles
Both Gianni Ross and Alexandra Sanford made their first appearances in
International Tennis Federation Grade 1 finals at the Asics Easter
Bowl earlier this month. They succeeded in making that new experience
to a winning one, coming away with the trophies at the ITF Grade B1
event. The unseeded Ross defeated No. 4 seed John McNally 6-4, 7-6(3)
in the boys championship match, with No. 8 seed Sanford overcoming No.
13 seed Ellie Douglas 6-4, 1-6, 6-1 in the girls final.
18-Apr-2016
PlaySight Hot 100 List - April '16
Today we announce the April edition of the PlaySight Hot 100. The
PlaySight Hot 100 features 100 boys and 100 girls who have been playing outstanding
tennis. These players have substantially improved their rankings over
the past month.
16-Apr-2016
Asics Easter Bowl Champions Crowned in 12s, 14s and 16s Divisions
Staggered completion dates for the Asics Easter Bowl meant the 12s and
14s finals were played on the hottest day of the nine-day tournament,
while the 16s were required to deal with an unusual threat of rain in
the desert. Players from across the country had converged on the
Indian Wells Tennis Garden for the prestigious tournament, with the
champions coming from Florida, Illinois, Missouri, Georgia and
California.
15-Apr-2016
Spring Signing Week '16: Battaglia Joins the Bulldogs
After a stellar summer in 2015, Madison Battaglia's college recruiting
search got more complicated. Always interested in the academic
advantages of the Ivies, the 18-year-old from Cold Spring Harbor, New
York, considered the other offers she received, but when the time came
to make a decision, the blue chip relied on the experiences from her
official visit to New Haven to select Yale.
15-Apr-2016
Spring Signing Week '16: Talking With Coaches Roundtable Part II
NCAA rules dictate when coaches can make initial contact with
potential student-athletes, but the rest is up to junior players and
their parents. Last month, we asked our panel of coaches to help shed
some light on this grey area of the recruiting process. Check out the
rest of their answers to the following communication-themed questions.
14-Apr-2016
Spring Signing Week '16: Sean Hill Confident Selecting Wake Forest
Berkeley, Calif., is 5-star recruit, Sean Hill's home for now, but not
for long. After narrowing his list, Hill said he made not a quick, but
a calculated decision to continue his tennis career by playing college
tennis at Wake Forest.
14-Apr-2016
Spring Signing Week '16: Shelby Groeneveld Chooses the Sea Lions
To some teenagers the idea of choosing a college more than 2,500 miles
from home might be a little unsettling. That's not the case at all for
Shelby Groeneveld. Born and raised in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida,
Groeneveld will be switching coasts this fall when the 17-year-old
Calvary Christian Academy senior walks on the campus at Point Loma
Nazarene University in San Diego and shortly after that takes the
court for the Sea Lions.
13-Apr-2016
Spring Signing Week '16: Who Really Gets Recruited?
The recruiting process for college tennis players is no different from
companies looking to hire new employees. It includes research,
evaluation, interviews, comparisons, negotiations and offers. College
tennis coaches they are very careful in selecting recruits who are the
best possible fits for their teams. Here are some of the things they
are looking for ...
13-Apr-2016
Spring Signing Week '16: Tiffany Huber Picks the Cards
Five-star senior Tiffany Huber has graduated from high school, and she
is ready to enter the highly-competitive world of college tennis.
Huber, who has lived in Boca Raton, Fla., for the past four years,
considered a number of schools from the Big Ten, Big 12, and
Southeastern Conferences. Today, Huber announces that she will become
a member of the University of Louisville Cardinals women's tennis team
next fall.
13-Apr-2016
Spring Signing Week '16: Alhogbani Chooses the Cavaliers
If Five-star senior Ammar Alhogbani has his way, soccer won't dominate
sports conversation in his homeland of Saudi Arabia. People will be
talking about tennis - and his role in it. Alhogbani and his family
live in Alexandria, Va., just more than a two-hour drive from the
reigning NCAA champions at the University of Virginia. Alhogbani is
excited to announce his commitment to the Cavaliers, who are seeking
their third team crown in four years.
12-Apr-2016
Spring Signing Week '16: How Much Should Team Rankings Matter?
Rankings. They have kept you on edge throughout your junior tennis
career, but now that you are looking at different colleges and their
tennis programs, you are on the other end. As you go through your list
of candidate schools, you wonder to yourself how much the rankings of
the teams you are considering really matter. Recruiting expert Marcia
Frost takes on this question ...
12-Apr-2016
Spring Signing Week '16: National Roundup
Signing Week is now underway, and tomorrow seniors can start signing
their National Letters of Intent. Today, we check in with boys and
girls from across the country who are heading to a variety of schools.
Find out how they came to their decisions... in our National Roundup.
11-Apr-2016
Spring Signing Week '16: Guns Up for Jackson Cobb
Texas Tech coach Brett Masi grabbed himself an old school commitment
when he convinced Jackson Cobb to leave Austin for Lubbock.
11-Apr-2016
Spring Signing Week '16: Signing Week Arrives
The Tennis Recruiting Network and GAMMA kick off our coverage of
Spring Signing Week '16 with a look at the Top 100. We preview our
weekly coverage, and we update you on the status of all the
top 100 boys and girls who were uncommitted when we checked in
with them in March. A few of these kids plan to announce their
decisions this week.
9-Apr-2016
Countdown: Communicating With Coaches Roundtable
When it comes to the recruiting process, contact with coaches can be
one of the toughest aspects to navigate. Potential student-athletes
and their parents are often left guessing when it comes to ideal
communication frequency and timing. In order to help eliminate
ambiguity, we asked our panel of coaches about when and how they
should reach out to college coaches - and when offers are extended.
8-Apr-2016
Caruana and Day Claim Titles
The week started seasonably windy and unseasonably cold for the ITF
Grade 1 International Spring Championships last week in Carson,
California, but when it was over, No. 11 seed Liam Caruana and No. 2
seed Kayla Day were basking in warm sunshine as they held their
crystal championship trophies.
7-Apr-2016
Countdown: Checking In With Kristy Frilling Skelly
Kristy Frilling Skelly was TennisRecruiting.net's No. 2 prospect for
women's college tennis in 2008. The tall left-hander went on to become
the first female four-year All-American at Notre Dame, where she won
235 matches and led the Fighting Irish to their first-ever NCAA
semifinal finishes. TennisRecruiting.net recently caught up with Frilling
to discuss her tennis career and spirit for travel.
6-Apr-2016
College Tennis Weekly Features USTA, ITA
Earlier this year, the Fox College Sports Network premiered a new
television series - College Tennis Weekly. The TV show, hosted by
former LSU coach Tony Minnis and produced by Harry Cicma Productions,
is a welcome addition to the cable airwaves. This week, a new episode
that highlights USTA and ITA involvement in college tennis makes its
debut, and anyone with an interest in college tennis should check it
out ...
5-Apr-2016
Countdown: Ty Gentry Stays Close to Home at Oregon
Ty Gentry is a natural talent, and even without his discipline to be
exceptional, his athleticism and raw power would be anything but
ordinary. Gentry's experienced coaches describe him as one of the best
junior athletes they have worked with. Next year, the Blue Chip
recruit and two-sport athlete will bring his six-foot-five frame to
Eugene to play college tennis for the University of Oregon.
4-Apr-2016
Countdown: Bocchi Brings a 'World' of Experience to UMass
While most incoming college freshmen, especially those embarking on a
journey that includes being a student, athlete face an adjustment
period when it comes to academics, athletics and social matters.
4-Star recruit Martina Bocchi feels she's ahead of the curve as she
heads to Amherst, Mass. The daughter of an Italian diplomat, Bocchi
has lived on three different continents while developing her game
before committing to the University of Massachusetts.
3-Apr-2016
Southern Section Dominates at 2016 DecoTurf High School Tennis Championships
The 2016 DecoTurf High School Tennis Team Championships presented by
Icy Hot had a very different feel this spring with boys and girls
competing on the same weekend for the first time in tournament
history. The monumental weekend of high school tennis featured more
than 950 individual matches with 60 teams from 14 states taking to the
courts throughout the Scenic City of Chattanooga, Tenn.
2-Apr-2016
DecoTurf HS Team Championships Gallery
Last week, some of the best high school tennis teams in the country
traveled to Chattanooga, Tenn., to compete in the DecoTurf High School
Team Tennis Championships. Sixty boys and girls teams from fourteen
different states participated - featuring more than 950 individual
matches. Check out images from the event ...
1-Apr-2016
Juniors, Collegians Winning Futures Titles Highlight March Aces
No April fools today, but rather a look back on the lions of March,
including juniors succeeding on both the ITF Pro Circuit and Junior
Circuit, and two former collegiate stars earning Futures titles
outside the United States.
31-Mar-2016
ITA Forms Alliance with Arizona State
Arizona State University and the Intercollegiate Tennis Association,
the governing body for college tennis, announced a strategic alliance
that will leverage the resources of a research-based University to
grow the sport of tennis locally, nationally and globally.
31-Mar-2016
Countdown: David Geatz Interview on Recruiting
Since I am in the college recruiting business, I am frequently
answering questions from parents and potential student athletes about
college tennis and the recruiting process. I thought I would change
things up and provide some value by getting someone else's
perspective. Therefore, I interviewed University of Pennsylvania Head
Coach David Geatz, who has a ton of experience and success in college
tennis.
30-Mar-2016
Countdown: Road to Tulsa Continues
This has been a season where upsets have been the norm rather than
the exception - with at least one Top 10 team going down just about
every week. Bobby Knight of College Tennis Today scattershoots across
the landscape of men's college tennis - analyzing the contenders, the
darkhorses, and the long-shots.
29-Mar-2016
Countdown: D-III Recruiting
The team at Division III Tennis contributes to the Coundown to Signing
Day by touching on how recruiting has made an even bigger impact year
after year in our world - with so many more top players from around
the country deciding to choose D-III. One of our newest writers,
D3TennisGreek, brings his recruiting background and general love for
D-III Tennis to the table and will be outlining the recruiting
phenomenon that is happening throughout the country.
28-Mar-2016
Countdown: Previewing the Top 100 Boys
Last Monday, we visited with the girls. Today, the top boys in the
senior class talk college recruiting. Find out where the Top 100
boys are leaning, and see who your favorite school is after...
25-Mar-2016
Countdown: Ambrozy Joins Lions' Lair
Adam Ambrozy took his fifth official recruiting visit last fall to
ensure he had left no stone unturned. Both Columbia and the blue chip
recruit benefitted from that decision, when, just days after his trip
to the New York City campus, Ambrozy committed to the Lions.
24-Mar-2016
Countdown: Online Schooling Considerations
With the growth of technology and online schooling opportunities - and
with tennis being a sport that requires a lot of hours on the court in
order to excel - more and more recruits seem to be at least
contemplating this alternative form of education. Before deciding if
online schooling is the appropriate track for you, there are several
issues to consider including how it may affect your tennis, prepare
you for the future, and be viewed by coaches and admissions.
23-Mar-2016
Countdown: Jayson Fung Crossing the Country for Amherst
Jayson Fung started his college search by looking at several Division
I programs. The more he explored his opportunities, the more Fung
realized he needed to expand his options. Although Fung wanted to
play for a highly-competitive tennis program, he wanted a more
balanced college experience. The five-star recruit began focusing on
the Division III level, and found the perfect match at Amherst College
in Massachusetts.
22-Mar-2016
Countdown: Christina Rosca Commits to the Commodores
Throughout her junior career, Christina Rosca has become quite the
recognized athlete around New Jersey, reaching the top of the rankings
in her home state and cracking the top 25 on the national level. It is
no surprise that she also caught the eye of several prominent
collegiate coaches. Rosca decided this past fall to join the
Vanderbilt women's tennis team later this year in Nashville.
21-Mar-2016
Countdown: Previewing the Top 100 Girls
The Countdown to Signing Day continues with a look at the Top 100
girls in the senior class. The vast majority of these athletes
have already made written or verbal commitments, but college
coaches are still after these highly-regarded young women. Find
out which girls are still open, which have narrowed their lists, and
which have made commitments...
20-Mar-2016
Images from the Florida Big Hitters
Today we have images from the USTA Florida Big Hitters - a Level 4
sectional event from Plantation, Florida, featuring boys and girls in
the 18s and 16s divisions the weekend of March 5. Photographer Fritz
Michael Devon Moore attended and gave us these great action shots ...
18-Mar-2016
Stingrays, Rams Claim USTA National Spring Team Championships
The USTA National Spring Team Championships at the Mobile Tennis
Center had been plagued by rain in the first two years of its
existence, but last week, with an adjustment to the schedule, every
match in the 32-team tournament was played to completion, with the
Stingrays capturing the girls title and the Rams collecting the boys
title.
17-Mar-2016
Countdown: Paying Attention to What Is Important
With Signing Day right around the corner, high school senior tennis
players have lots on their minds. On and off the court, it can be hard
to figure out where to focus. Damon Valentino offers some strategies
tennis players can use to pay attention to what is truly important in
all facets of life.
16-Mar-2016
Countdown: Robert Levine a Blue Chip Blue Devil
Most blue-chip recruits get ready for college tennis by playing each
other at nationals such as Kalamazoo or ITF junior events. Blue Chip
senior Robert Levine of Bedford, N.Y., has taken a different route -
playing almost exclusively in ITF Futures pro tournaments, grinding
through qualifying in Texas, Florida, the Dominican Republic and
Canada. He has had some strong results - which helped him commit to
Duke University for Fall 2016.
15-Mar-2016
Countdown: Isabella Lorenzini Commits to the Wolverines
Five-star recruit Isabella Lorenzini of Clarendon Hills, Ill., will
continue to compete over the next year for her Hinsdale Central High
School girls tennis team. The junior captured the Illinois High School
Association Singles Championships in 2015 after placing second two
previous years - and she has played on three state championship
teams. But, in the fall of 2017 Lorenzini will head to Ann Arbor,
Mich., and become a member of the University of Michigan Wolverines.
14-Mar-2016
PlaySight Hot 100 List - March '16
Today we announce the March edition of the PlaySight Hot 100. The
PlaySight Hot 100 features 100 boys and 100 girls who have been playing outstanding
tennis. These players have substantially improved their rankings over
the past month.
14-Mar-2016
Countdown to Signing Day
If you have checked the recruiting calendar recently, you would know
that we are within a month of the beginning of the Spring Signing
Period. April 13th is the first day in 2016 when high school seniors
will be able to sign their National Letters of Intent - making formal
commitments to college tennis programs. As always,
TennisRecruiting.net and GAMMA bring you a courtside seat to all the
action. Take a look as we preview our special coverage... in the
Countdown to Signing Day!
13-Mar-2016
Southern Icy Hot Photo Gallery
Although the South has been enjoying a great thaw over the past couple
of weeks, the Level 2 Southern "Icy Hot" at the Hudlow Tennis Center
brought out some of the best boys and girls 18s and 16s to Norcross,
Ga. Contributor Bill Kallenberg was onhand to capture the event ...
11-Mar-2016
Roundtable: Effects of New Scoring in Division I (Part 2)
College tennis is looking a little different these days. No-ad
scoring, a single set for doubles matches and eliminated warm-ups with
opponents are just a few of the changes approved by the NCAA to
quicken the pace of dual match play. We talk with a set of college
coaches about how their players must approach their matches with a
different mindset.
10-Mar-2016
Road to Tulsa
With just over two months before this year's NCAA Division I Tennis
Championships in Tulsa, Oklahoma, College Tennis Today author Bobby
Knight scattershoots across the landscape of men's college tennis
- analyzing the contenders and darkhorse teams from the field.
9-Mar-2016
Ten Questions with Les Petits As Champion Stefan Leustian
Fourteen-year-old Stefan Leustian reached the third round of the
Junior Orange Bowl in December, one of the few times he had competed
against international players. In the six weeks that followed, the
Northern California resident began to post increasingly impressive
results, both in the United States and in Europe. Colette Lewis caught
up with Leustian at the USTA National Spring Team Championships - talking
with him about his recent performance, his titles, and more ...
8-Mar-2016
Blue Chip Senior Ashley Lahey Rides the Waves
Blue Chip senior Ashley Lahey of Hawthorne, Calif., has demonstrated
her resilience. After reaching singles finals at both the Easter Bowl
and Hard Court Nationals in 2013, Lahey suffered injruies that plagued
her throughout 2014 and the beginning of 2015. But she worked hard to
make a comeback, and her results and ranking climbed ascended quickly
over the past year. Today, Lahey is excited to commit to Pepperdine
University for Fall 2016.
7-Mar-2016
More from LSU Coaches Julia and Mike Sell
Julia and Mike Sell having been working this season as co-head coaches
for the LSU women's tennis team, and they have brought a wealth of
experience with them. The duo sat down at the ITA Women's Team Indoor
Championship at the University of Wisconsin to talk about their upset
of Oklahoma State, how tough the SEC conference is, and what they
think about the new college tennis match format.
4-Mar-2016
February Aces
Three of the four ITA Team Indoor Champions were first-time winners,
but they were not the only new faces among those excelling last month.
Two juniors claimed their first titles on the Pro Circuit, while two
NCAA champions, in their first full year as professionals, added to
their trophy collections.
2-Mar-2016
Julia and Mike Sell Bring Out the Best in LSU
It's not unheard of to have a husband and wife coaching a college
tennis team, but the story of Julia and Mike Sell is a very different
one. The two took different paths to LSU While Julia was honing her
skills as a college assistant, Mike was working with pros and developing
USTA juniors. But they both ended up in Baton Rouge, and their story
is a great one ...
1-Mar-2016
Reviewing His First Months Leading USTA Player Development with Martin Blackman
Since last April, when the USTA announced his hiring as the new
General Manager of Player Development, Martin Blackman has been a busy
man. We recently discussed the reorganization of USTA Player
Development, changes to junior competition, a new player council, his
social media presence, and many other player development
topics.
26-Feb-2016
Self Confidence - You Got This
Many college coaches would rank self-confidence as one of the most
important traits they look for in a recruit. But if we try to put a
number or a ranking on a self-confidence scale, it's virtually
impossible to do. So how do you demonstrate such an important trait
that is so hard to measure?
25-Feb-2016
Images from the Broward Classic
Tennis Recruiting is excited to work with a new photographer - Fritz
Moore. Moore spent some time last week at the Tennis Center of Coral
Springs coverng the Level 6 Broward Classic, and he recorded some
great action shots. Check out his work at the 10 & under regional
qualifier ...
24-Feb-2016
Conversation with Former Penn State Star Brad Fielding
Penn State University has a storied history when it comes to
athletics, with their current chapter in the Big 10 conference
starting in 1990. Former Nittany Lion standout Brad Fielding was one
of the stalwarts of the tennis program, playing No. 1 in both singles
and doubles during his career between 1987 and 1991 while helping lead
Penn State into its new conference home. Harry Cicma of NBC Sports
got the chance to catch up with Fielding about what college tennis means
to him ...
22-Feb-2016
Conversation with Chris Woodruff
Chris Woodruff won the NCAA men's singles title for his hometown
Tennessee Volunteers as a sophomore in 1993, then turned pro and
surged up to No. 29 in the world on the ATP Tour. Woodruff retired in
2002 and returned to school at Tennessee, where the team wanted him to
work with the men's team as a volunteer assistant. Woodruff has been
with the program ever since, now holding the title of associate head
coach. We talk with Woodruff in the latest edition of Where Are They Now?
21-Feb-2016
USTA National Selection Photo Gallery from Columbus
The Cooper Creek Tennis Center in Columbus, Ga., served as one of four
sites for USTA National Selection tournaments for the Boys' 16s and
14s divisions. Check out the great action shots that Bill Kallenberg
of Captured In Action was able to get at the event ...
19-Feb-2016
Surrounded by Tennis, Jones Blossoms
Tennis takes hold early in Midland, the longtime home of February's
Dow Corning Tennis Classic. Known for its community outreach and the
local schoolchildren who arrive by the busload for early round
matches, the tournament has been an integral part of the small
Michigan city's sports scene for nearly three decades. Colette Lewis
of ZooTennis.com talks with fifteen-year-old Alyvia Jones, a blue chip
recruit who lives in Midland, about her game as well as her experiences
growing up in a tennis town.
18-Feb-2016
Surprising Heels Win First Championship
When the 2016 ITA Men's National Team Indoor Championships got
underway last Friday in Charlottesville, Va., it seemed like the
matches were a mere formality before the host Virginia Cavaliers were
crowned as champions. In the end, ACC rival North Carolina snapped UVa's
140-match win streak to take the title.
15-Feb-2016
PlaySight Hot 100 List - February '16
Today we announce the February edition of the PlaySight Hot 100. The
PlaySight Hot 100 features 100 boys and 100 girls who have been playing outstanding
tennis. These players have substantially improved their rankings over
the past month.
12-Feb-2016
A Conversation with Raveena Kingsley
Seventeen-year-old Raveena Kingsley made several important decisions
last fall. The No. 1 recruit in the Tennis Recruiting Network's Class
of 2016 decided to stop playing junior tennis after the US Open, and
selected LSU for her collegiate career. Colette Lewis of ZooTennis.com
talked with Kingsley about her recent results, her college decision,
her introduction to the game, her preparation when facing a new
opponent and the pro players she admires.
10-Feb-2016
Cal Women Win First ITA National Indoors
When Amanda Augustus us took the helm of the California Bears women's
team in 2007, her impact was immediate. She led her team to two NCAA
final appearances and two semifinal berths at the ITA Indoors,
reaching the top 12 of the rankings every year. The one thing she
hadn't brought to Berkeley was a national title - until now.
8-Feb-2016
Roundtable: Effects of New Scoring in Division I (Part 1)
After experimenting with different methods to accelerate the pace of
play in college tennis, the NCAA has approved several adjustments to
the scoring system in Division I tennis initially proposed by the ITA.
No-ad scoring, shortened doubles sets and eliminating formal warm-ups
are modifications meant to engage fans and shorten the time
student-athletes spend on the court. We talked with a number of
college coaches about how these changes impact their preparation.
5-Feb-2016
Fifteen Champions Emerge as January Aces
Whether tournaments were won in South America or Central America,
Australia or Europe, or the East or West Coast of the United States,
the location was less significant for the fifteen young players below
than the fact they’ve kicked off 2016 in the best way possible: as
champions.
3-Feb-2016
Step One of the Recruiting Process
Over my many years of involvement with college tennis, I have been
consistently asked the same question - what should prospective
student-athletes look for when choosing a college? I have thought
about this question a lot, and I have come up with a very simple
answer: find the university, team, and coach that are the best fit for
your goals, philosophy, and experience. That is a simple answer, but
as always, the devil is in the details...
1-Feb-2016
Top Women's Classes - 2016 Winter Rankings
Nearly five hundred senior girls - including 91 of the Top 100 -
have already signed or verbally committed to college programs. With
so many commitments, our Winter Recruiting Class rankings could not be
more timely. The Tennis Recruiting Network is proud to present the
Top 25 Women's College Tennis Recruiting Classes of 2016.
29-Jan-2016
Andy Brandi on Junior Tennis
When Andy Brandi joined the United States Tennis Association's Player
Development staff as a National Coach five years ago, he brought with
him nearly every conceivable tennis experience: college tennis player,
college coach, WTA touring coach, and tennis academy coach. Colette
Lewis of ZooTennis.com got the chance to talk with him last month at
the Junior Orange Bowl in Coral Gables, Fla.
28-Jan-2016
ITA Division I Kick-off Weekend Wrapup
A tremendous weekend of college tennis action concluded on Monday
afternoon with Columbia winning a thriller over Stanford, so we now
know the 32 teams that will be participating in February at the 2016
ITA National Team Indoor Championships. The women's event will be held
at the Nielsen Tennis Center in Madison, Wisc., starting February 5,
while the men's event starts February 12 at the Boar's Head Sports
Club in Charlottesville, Va.
26-Jan-2016
Blue Chip Senior Gaby Pollner Chooses the Tigers
Ever since she first moved to Boca Raton, Fl., five years ago to
develop her tennis, Westchester, N.Y., native Gaby Pollner has built a
strong junior career résumé that includes appearances at
two junior Grand Slams and a career-high ITF ranking inside the top
130. And now that she is taking the next step into a college career,
the Blue Chip recruit has announced that she will return to her
northern roots this fall and play for the Princeton Tigers.
25-Jan-2016
Top Men's Classes - 2016 Winter Rankings
As we move toward the end of January, the senior class of the Class of
2016 has been fully engaged. More that 900 seniors have made
commitments to college tennis programs so far, and dozens more are
making verbal commitments each and every week. The decision-making
will continue, but the end of January is a great time to see where
things stand. Today, the Tennis Recruiting Network is excited to bring
you its poll of the Top 25 Men's College Tennis Recruiting Classes.
22-Jan-2016
Defending Champion, World No. 1 Target Australian Open Junior Titles
After winning the Australian Open girls title last year unseeded,
Tereza Mihalikova returns to Melbourne to defend her title, a rare
occurrence in junior tennis. The 17-year-old Slovakian, the only
junior slam champion in either of this year's boys and girls fields,
has had mixed results since her title last year, winning only four
matches in the three junior slams since.
20-Jan-2016
Elizabeth Plotkin's Heart Is Her Guide
Ten years ago, Elizabeth Plotkin of San Francisco was the No. 1
prospect on TennisRecruiting.net. Some thought she would go pro, but
she her heart led her to Duke. Four years later, some thought she'd be
a great investment banker. For a time she was, but her heart led her
again. Plotkin joined Teach for America, and soon found herself teaching
in low-achieving, inner-city schools. Todd Holcomb got the chance to catch
up with Plotkin in another edition of Where Are They Now?
18-Jan-2016
PlaySight Hot 100 List - January '16
Today we announce the January edition of the PlaySight Hot 100. The
PlaySight Hot 100 features 100 boys and 100 girls who have been playing outstanding
tennis. These players have substantially improved their rankings over
the past month.
15-Jan-2016
Eight Intriguing Questions for 2016
Another year... and another edition of "Intriguing Questions" from
columnist Colette Lewis. Today, Colette poses eight queries about
junior and college tennis for 2016.
13-Jan-2016
Blue Chip Senior Jessica Livianu Commits to St. John's
Blue chip senior Jessica Livianu received more than 75 letters from
Division I colleges across the country. While she appreciated each
one, the Brooklyn, N.Y., native focused on schools in the northeast.
After narrowing her list to St. John's, Columbia, and Penn, she took a
visit to St. John's that blew her away - and she recently committed to
Head Coach Lauren Leo and the Red Storm.
11-Jan-2016
Learning from Lendl
During his Hall of Fame career, eight-time slam champion Ivan Lendl
was known for his lethal forehand, his fitness, his preparation, and
his single-minded pursuit of tennis excellence. With a stern and often
forbidding presence on the court, Lendl, now 55, has made a markedly
different impression on the seven junior boys he is working with as a
USTA coaching consultant.
8-Jan-2016
Californians Failla and Huang Take 18s Titles
A pair of Californians - Jessica Failla of Ramona and Austen Huang of
Elk Grove - won their first national singles titles on Jan. 2 at the
USTA National Winter Championships in Mesa, Ariz. Failla, a freshman
at Southern Cal, defeated Alyvia Jones of Midland, Mich., 6-3 6-1 in
the girls 18 final. Huang, the No. 8 boys seed, didn't have a set
closer than 6-3 until the final, where he defeated No. 1 seed William
Genesen of Tulsa, Okla., 6-3, 0-6, 6-1 for the boys title.
7-Jan-2016
Top-seeded Choy Wins Girls 16s Winter Nationals
Sara Choy may be small in stature, but her game is quite big. The
diminutive, 4-foot-11 inch, 100-pounder won her first gold ball on
Saturday in the USTA Winter National Championship in Scottsdale,
Arizona with a comfortable 6-4; 6-4 win over Hannah Zhao in the Girls
16s singles final.
7-Jan-2016
Sixth-seeded Alshon Wins 16s Winter Nationals
Boca Raton's Christian Alshon hadn't lost a set throughout the USTA
Winter National Boys 16s Championships in Arizona. That was until he
faced the top-seeded Carson Haskins in the title match at Scottsdale
Ranch Park in Scottsdale. The two split the first two sets, 6-4 and
Alshon trailed 5-4 in the third set before he held serve and went on
to close out the match winning the final three games to secure his
first ever gold ball at nationals in singles.
6-Jan-2016
First-time Champions Jackson, Canete Take 14s
The USTA National Winter Boys and Girls 14 singles titles were
captured by first-time Gold Ball winners. Tenth-seeded Ryder Jackson
of Nicasio, Calif., emerged as the boys champion. Mae Fmar Canete, the
No. 3 seed from Los Angeles, earned the top prize in the girls event.
5-Jan-2016
Basavareddy, Canete Strike Gold in 12s
The 12s champions of the 2016 Winter Nationals share a few things in
common: Nishesh Basavareddy and Christine Canete were each seeded
third and upset higher ranked players. Each player has a sibling who
played in the 14s division, and both have Southern California roots.
And of course, they now both own USTA gold balls. Basavareddy earned
his first gold by beating top seed Samuel Landau 6-7(1), 6-1, 6-2, and
Canete beat second seed Katrina Scott 6-2, 6-2.
4-Jan-2016
Winter Nationals Week
Many of the top American junior tennis players were in Arizona this
past week in pursuit of gold balls. All week long, Tennis Recruiting
and Van Der Meer Academy celebrate the winners of the USTA National
Winter Championships. Take a look at our schedule, as we celebrate
Winter Nationals Week.
1-Jan-2016
Florida Champions Dominate Final Aces of 2015
The final month of the year may be short on professional tennis, but
it's long on the junior variety, with three major events in Florida
for 12s, 14s, 16s and 18s age divisions. With one exception, all of
last month's aces are the champions of the Eddie Herr International,
the Metropolia Orange Bowl and the Junior Orange Bowl.
