November 2025 President’s Letter
The NMTA President’s Monthly Newsletter is a tradition each President strives to continue. My predecessor, the legendary Jimmy Parker, was a masterful wordsmith who eloquently captured the NMTA “State of Affairs.” I, admittedly, am not as talented—or as timely—but I will do my best to keep you informed.
As October ends and November begins, this time of year marks one of the busiest and most demanding periods for me personally, the National Men’s Tennis Association (NMTA), as well as for the USTA Adult Competition Committee and the National Women’s Tennis Organization (NWTO). All three entities are working diligently to finalize the 2026 National Level 1, 2, and 3 Tournament Calendar.
This process involves countless conference calls, Zoom meetings, and individual discussions, all focused on coordinating dates, replacing cancelled tournaments, identifying new sites, and minimizing scheduling conflicts. Once the national framework is set, each USTA Section, State, District, and local organization can begin planning their respective event schedules.
For the avid tennis competitor, this ensures a full calendar of both age-based tournament events and, combined with league play, ensures plenty to satisfy every player’s appetite for competition.
International Competition Highlights
There are two very relevant announcements to share with all who enjoy and play this great game.
First, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) each year hosts international team events for every age division, culminating in a two-week tournament that brings together the top players from governing bodies around the world.
Most recently, in Bol, Croatia, American teams captured three of the six titles at the ITF 75-, 80-, and 85-and-over World Team Championships. These events—played on the red clay courts of Bol—featured 70 teams representing 23 nations from across the globe.
Often referred to as the super-senior equivalent of the Davis Cup and Billie Jean King Cup, this competition gives top American tennis players the honor of representing their country in international play.
Congratulations to the 12 U.S. men—four from each age division—who proudly represented Team USA:
Norm Ashbrooke, Marc Mazo, Brian Cheney, David Fish, Fred Drilling, David Dollins, Jimmy Parker, Jody Rush, Jerald B. Hayes, Wilbur Jones, Don Mathias, and Robert Quall.
Their success is a testament to the enduring strength, depth, and spirit of senior tennis in the United States.
Upcoming National Event – The Donoff Cup
Lastly, next week in Columbus, Georgia, the Cooper Creek Tennis Center will host the USTA Men’s National Intersectional Team Championships, where competitors will battle for the prestigious Keith Donoff Cup.
At this event, each of the 17 USTA Sections is invited to select its top players from the 35- through 85-and-over age divisions to compete for national honors. This team event, sponsored by the NMTA, is always a highlight on the tournament calendar and brings together many of the very best players in the United States.
It is truly one of the most special gatherings in American senior tennis—a celebration of competition, camaraderie, and the enduring spirit of the game we all love.
Here are helpful website links to save and to mark as favorites:
1) 2025 Tournament Calendar
2025 Level 2 & 3 View
2) USTA Tournament National Standing Lists
3) USTA Points Table per Level
4) Doubles Registration Instructions
5) 2026 USTA Level 1 Tournament Calendar Table View
6) 2026 USTA Level 2-3 Tournament Calendar Table View
7) 2025 USTA Sections Tournament Calendar by USTA Section Levels 4-7
Play well, be safe and be healthy,
Steve Duffel, President
National Men’s Tennis Association
Steve Duffel, President
National Men’s Tennis Association
