March 2025 President’s Letter
As spring emerges, tennis enthusiasts prepare for an exciting season of competitive play. The recently concluded 2025 Florida Larry Turville Grand Prix Senior Circuit and NMTA Triple Crown tournaments marked a strong start to the year, boasting increased player participation and larger draws. These events set a promising tone for the upcoming competitions.
The NMTA Masters Clay Court Championships, begins April 9-13, hosted at the Judy and Roger Tennis Center in Columbus, GA, will serve as the official kickoff event for the spring season. With a registration deadline of March 26, organizers from the NMTA and Columbus Regional Tennis Association (CORTA) are working tirelessly to ensure players enjoy an exceptional tournament experience. This much-anticipated event promises intense matches and memorable moments.
A highlight of the weekend will be the Friday night player party, where camaraderie and celebration take center stage. During the event, the NMTA Board of Directors will honor Mark Vines with the prestigious 2024 Player of the Year award. Vines, the Owner and Founder of Senior Tennis Training, LLC in Naples, FL, achieved remarkable success in 2024. He earned his 38th gold ball by clinching the Men’s 65 National Hardcourts title and two National Level 2 championships. His outstanding performance secured him the top Men’s 65 national ranking, as well as the number one ranking in the Florida Section and District.
The National Women's Tennis Organization (NWTO) just announced it is organizing a second doubles event in combination with the National Men’s Tennis Association (NMTA). It has been named the Coast-to-Coast Friendship Cup.
COAST TO COAST FRIENDSHIP CUP
Dates: Sept 11-14, 2025
Location: Judy and Robert Pierce Tennis Center at the Cooper Creek Tennis Complex, Columbus, GA
There will be 6 teams, each team having 9 men and 9 women, who will play men's and women's doubles and mixed in the 65’s, 70’s and 75’s age groups. There will be round robin play the first 2 days, then a playoff for ALL teams on Sunday. All teams will have male and female co-captains. If you are in these age groups and would like to play this event or have questions, please email Noble Hendrix: 1hendrix@bellsouth.net.
Now is the time to spring into action and plan your USTA tournament season, as well as, the several non-sanctioned NMTA Masters Invitational Team Series. With over 34% of USTA memberships concentrated in three key Sections—USTA Southern, USTA Florida, and USTA Texas—these regions are the heartbeat of spring tennis. As the season approaches, there’s no better time to start planning your tournament schedule.
The NMTA website (www.nsmta.net) offers a streamlined way for members to create a personalized spring calendar. The first five months of the year are brimming with National Age Group Level 1, 2, and 3 events, providing ample opportunities for players to shine. Additionally, the "Section Tournaments" dropdown feature offers a complete table-view calendar for Levels 1-7 events within your USTA Section, conveniently organized by dates and location.
With such thrilling events and inspiring competitive players, this spring promises to be a season to remember for the tennis community.
Play well, be safe, stay healthy and enjoy the Spring season!
Steve Duffel, President
National Men’s Tennis Association
