July 2025 President’s Letter
July in Tennis: The Mid-Term Exam of the Competitive Year
For players chasing year-end National, Sectional, or local rankings, July often feels like mid-term exams in school. It’s a moment of truth—a time to reflect on the season so far and assess whether their trajectory is aligning with their goals.
Of course, this mindset isn’t universal. Some players aren’t focused on climbing the rankings ladder; instead, July serves as valuable planning time for the fall calendar, especially for events hosted in scenic or enjoyable tennis destinations.
Then there’s the weather factor: with triple-digit temperatures becoming the norm in many regions, July tends to push players toward indoor tournaments or cooler climates in the northern hemisphere.
Another important note—July 15th marked the deadline for Tournament Directors to submit applications for the 2026 USTA National Tournament Schedule, covering Levels 1, 2, and 3 events. It’s understood that several changes may be on the horizon.
Typically, after receiving these applications, the USTA Adult Competition Committee reviews and sets the official 2026 National Calendar. Once that schedule is established, USTA Sections, Districts, and local organizations make a concerted effort to avoid conflicts with National dates. This coordinated effort helps ensure stronger participation and smoother scheduling across all competitive levels.
While aligning tournament dates across national, sectional, and local levels is crucial, it's only one piece of a much larger puzzle in the world of competitive tennis.
A shining light in the tennis blogging community, Teresa Merklin, author of the daily blog FIEND AT COURT, recently provided a thought-provoking look into senior tennis. Across three consecutive posts:
June 27 –The Paradox of Senior Tennis: Why Competitive Play Fades with Age
June 28 –The Delusion of ROI: What Junior Tennis Gets Wrong – and Senior Tennis Get Right
June 29 –Healthspan, Choice, and the Case for Competitive Senior Tennis
She explored the full spectrum of the senior competitive experience—from intense competition and extensive travel to the powerful social connections formed through the game. Most notably, she tackled the foundational challenge of declining participation—a reality that has pushed the USTA to reexamine not just dates and sites, but the entire tournament framework, including formats and incentives.
Merklin's insights echo broader conversations happening behind the scenes. The USTA is reportedly considering several structural adjustments to rejuvenate participation and better support players across all levels. These reflections may very well inform the upcoming changes to the 2026 National Tournament Schedule, which is slated for release in September.
As the competitive calendar continues to evolve, the voices of players, organizers, and thought leaders like Teresa Merklin, the National Women’s Tennis Organization, and the National Men’s Tennis Association will play a vital role in shaping a tennis ecosystem that is sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant for the years ahead.
Quick Notes from the Senior Tennis World
1. Neal Newman Releases New Book on Mental Training for Tennis
One of senior tennis’s most accomplished players, Neal Newman, has just released a powerful new book titled: SELF COACH TENNIS: HOW TO BE YOUR BEST SELF-COACH.
Drawing from his background as both a licensed psychologist and a champion tennis player, Newman shares practical strategies for building mental toughness, emotional balance, and self-motivation on the court. His achievements speak for themselves—40 USTA National Doubles Championships, 4 ITF World Doubles Titles, and numerous international appearances representing Team USA. The book is available on AMAZON —just search the title: Self Coach Tennis.
For a deeper perspective, check out the review by Jimmy Parker, NMTA Past President, featured on our WEBSITE.
2. Lou Vickery to Receive Lifetime Achievement Award
Congratulations to Lou Vickery, who has been selected for the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Alabama Senior Hall of Fame. He will be honored at a special ceremony on August 10 at 2:00 PM at the Marriott-Capital Hill in Montgomery.
Lou is a well-known figure in tennis and publishing. His latest book,
What’s Your Racket?, offers thoughtful reflections and inspiration for players of all ages and skill levels. A fitting read for anyone who plays the game with passion and purpose.
