USTA Florida announced the launch of an all new provider resource webpage in March, aimed at supplying the Florida tennis community’s vast range of providers with education, guidance and the tools they need for continued success.
The page, www.USTAFlorida.com/Providers, serves as a hub of information for all different types of providers. All providers – school teachers, coaches, NJTLs and tennis teaching professionals – can access a wealth of information and training to help improve your game and prepare to serve your customers when tennis play resumes.
Each week, USTA Florida will break down what resources are offered for each provider category. This week we’re focusing on teaching professionals.
Teaching Professionals
Teaching Professionals are critical when it comes to growing the game and providing instruction and programming for players of all ages and skill levels throughout Florida. Whether you’re just getting started or want to grow in your role – you can find plenty of resources and information at your disposal.
Getting Started with a USPTA Membership
A valuable resource for tennis-teaching professionals is the United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA). USPTA is a USTA accredited organization that provides a variety of certification programs that include classroom, online, and on-court instruction. A USPTA membership is required and can be obtained in five categories:
- Professional
- Elite Professional
- Master Professional
- School Coach
- Tennis Instructor
If you’re not sure what type of membership is the right fit, our Provider page breaks down the differences in each category.
Coaching Resources
The coaching resources section offers expert advice from some of the best in the industry.
- Online webinars – Get advice and insight from USPTA professionals on a variety of different topics including coaching, parent-coach relationships, court maintenance, and more.
- YouTube resources – Get insight into the USPTA organization with news and updates along with a variety of coaching advice you can access anytime and anywhere.
- TennisResources.com – access to high-quality instructional videos for coaches and players of all levels.
Wheelchair Certification
It’s now easier than ever to incorporate wheelchair tennis into your program lineup. Whether it’s running a beginner clinic, hosting a tournament, or integrating wheelchair play into your existing programs – it’s important to have the education and insight to provide your participants with the best experience possible.
This section of the new Provider webpage offers information about the USPTA wheelchair certification. The program, available to USPTA Certified Professionals and Recreational Coaches with memberships in good standing, opens up new teaching opportunities and encourages the growth of wheelchair tennis. The certification consists of a day and a half of on-court and classroom education culminating in a 26-question written exam.
Continuing Education
Continuing education is vital for tennis professionals to stay current with the latest developments, skills, and new technologies in the industry. These education and professional development courses, many of which can be done online, are beneficial to continue growth in your role and career.
In this section of our Provider page, you can find links to sign-up for upcoming USPTA Regional Education Days, that offer attendees the chance to earn up to five USPTA continuing education credits. These Regional Education Days include updates from USTA/USPTA, USPTA/USTA Florida, and a Community Panel Q&A Session.
Tennis Industry United
In this unprecedented time, the entire tennis industry has come together to analyze the most pressing needs and top concerns of all involved in our sport and then collaborated on programs that can provide the immediate and longer-term support that is needed. This section highlights the Tennis Industry Resource Guide that offers a list of resources focused on financial assistance and relief.
Contact Us
Looking for something you can’t find here? Have a need? Let us know! USTA Florida will continue to add resources to www.USTAFlorida.com/Providers in an effort to keep providers informed, up to date, and supported. Contact us below with your suggestions.
