May 2025 President’s Letter
As the spring tournament season wraps up and the summer heat begins to rise, the competitive spirit of USTA-level age-based events is reaching full stride. One standout highlight was the NMTA National Clay Court Championships, held at the beautiful Judy and Roger Pearce Tennis Center in Columbus, GA.
The event was a tremendous success thanks to the outstanding leadership of Tournament Director Linda Gordon and Judy Pearce’s dedicated staff. Their commitment to creating a player-first experience shown through—from thoughtful amenities, morning and afternoon snacks and daily lunches to the Friday night player’s dinner that brought everyone together to witness Mark Vines receiving the 2024 NMTA Player of the Year award.
This time of year, many tournaments face a tough opponent: the elements. Heat, humidity, and unpredictable weather can put a real strain on both players and tournament staff. That challenge was especially evident at recent National events in Atlanta, Baton Rouge, Austin, and Jackson.
Despite the conditions, the Tournament Directors and their teams rose to the occasion, ensuring smooth operations and a positive experience for all involved. Their resilience and professionalism deserve a round of applause, and we thank them for their unwavering commitment to the game.
Coming Soon: Monthly Member Bulletin
Stay connected with the NMTA community through our upcoming Monthly Bulletin, featuring recent tournament winners, photos, and recaps from across the region. It’s a great way to celebrate our members’ achievements and keep everyone up to speed on what’s happening on and off the court.
A New Name, A Lasting Tribute
The NMTA Board has voted to rename one of the premier events in the NMTA Invitation Series. The July 4th Asheville Doubles Team Tournament, a tradition known for honoring a player who has passed since the last event, will now be called: The NMTA Champions Memorial Team Classic
This new name reflects the tournament’s deeper purpose: to honor the memory of players who have passed, including Larry Turville, Mas Kimball, Ralph Grieco, and Armstead Neely, all of whom were passionate supporters of the NMTA and lifelong lovers of the game. The event will continue to celebrate the spirit and camaraderie that define our tennis community.
We’re now turning our focus to the upcoming NMTA National Indoor Championships in Memphis, TN, set for July 23–27. With the same dedication to excellence and hospitality, we’re excited to deliver another top-tier event for all participants. The Deadline for registration is July 13.
Enjoy your summer and stay healthy and hydrate!
Steve Duffel, President
National Men’s Tennis Association
