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Celebrating Pride Month: Abe Hasbun

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In celebration of Pride Month, throughout June USTA Florida will recognize those in the LGBTQ+ community whose character and passion continue to embrace our message that tennis is for all – regardless of skill, age, race, or sexuality. 

This month, USTA Florida is featuring players of the LGTBQ+ community who describe their experience in the sport, why Pride Month is important, and what it means to be proud of who they are. 

South Florida tennis player, Abe Hasbun credits the sport as his escape from reality. As someone who lived a closeted life, Abe found his voice and courage through the LGBTQ+ tennis community and has never looked back. 

Abe started playing tennis when he was in his 20s.

When did you first start playing tennis?  

As a teen, I lived a few houses down from a very nice tennis club in Miami, and I remember always having the urge to play tennis when I walked by and saw people playing. I was very interested in playing competitive sports in school, but basketball and baseball took precedence back then, and tennis became a sport I only played for fun with my cousins whenever they were in town. It was not until my mid 20’s that I picked up the sport once again. A friend of mine told me that he was going to go play in a local tennis tournament so I asked if I could come to watch. It turned out to be a USTA NTRP tournament. Watching that tournament rekindled that urge I had as a kid to play tennis, but unlike last time, I now had the time and means to finally play tennis. I signed up to play my first USTA tournament a week later!  

What do you love most about the sport?  

The strategy! Tennis is currently the only exercise that I participate in, so the cardio part of the game is wonderful, but the mental part of the game is really what keeps me wanting to play more and more. As I inch closer to the big 5-0 and the aches and pains become chummier with my body, I notice the decline in my physical skills, but I’m playing some of my best tennis ever and that’s because I’ve become a better strategist on the court. I am a self-taught tennis player, so I love watching the pros and trying to emulate new shots or new playing styles. I have been described as a junk baller or pusher because of my style, but I look at it this way: why only learn a forehand and/or backhand when you can also learn eight other shots? I saw this perfect quote online regarding this style of play, “these are both primarily terms to use if you want to somehow find a way to imply that the player you just lost to is still inferior to you”. Speed and power decline for most of us as we get older, but the beauty of tennis is that it provides you with so many other ways to become a better tennis player, despite age. It keeps you looking forward to the next match! 

What impact has the LGBTQ+ community had on you?  

Simply put, the LGBTQ+ community has provided a second family to me, one chosen by me. My immediate family is incredibly supportive and loving, and I am blessed to have them in my life. But, the feeling of acceptance and freedom that I have experienced in the LGBTQ+ community is inspirational and life changing. Like many in our community, I grew up fighting the self-doubt to live up to expectations from my religion and a big part of our society. There are those that have had a journey much tougher than mine when it comes to their sexuality, so it’s hard to feel sorry for myself, but I never truly felt like I belonged until I met my LGBTQ+ family in Ft. Lauderdale many years ago. They instilled the hope, confidence, and unconditional love that I needed, to be honest with myself. In the next few days, we will see tons of merchandise celebrating Pride Month with slogans such as, “Be True” and “Be You”. The words are short and simple, but I truly hope that anybody reading this takes the time to appreciate the beauty of that message.   

Abe spends a lot of time organizing LGTBQ+ tennis events.

How did the sport welcome you after coming out?   

It’s hard to imagine that a sport would have such an impact on my coming out story, but tennis definitely played a big role. I used to live a very closeted lifestyle in Miami when I started playing USTA tournaments in my mid 20’s. I met some LGBTQ+ players while playing in these tournaments, but most of them played in the Broward tournaments. I then started playing the Broward tournaments with them and soon discovered the gay community in Ft. Lauderdale. Tennis became the escape from a lifestyle that I wished to leave, and it opened the door to one that I knew was meant for me. I packed my bags and moved to Ft. Lauderdale in 2001 and have been here ever since. 

How does tennis help you connect with the LGBTQ+ community?  

Over the last few years, I have been lucky to be a part of the tennis LGBTQ+ community in South Florida. In 2014, I joined the South Florida Tennis Club (SFTC), the local gay tennis club. I’ve had the honor to serve as the club’s Tournament Director for the last seven years, and I lead an incredible team running the largest annual LGBTQ+ tennis tournament in North America. The 2022 Clay Court Classic tournament, sanctioned by the Gay and Lesbian Tennis Alliance (GLTA), was host to 315 LGBTQ+ tennis players from over 25 countries. The five-day event not only included a great tennis competition, but also hosted nightly social events in our community, including a Pride Night at the Delray Beach Open. And the best past is that tournament donates 100% of its profits to local LGBTQ+ charities each year. This year, we presented Sunserve, a non-profit organization that provides quality care to high-risk and vulnerable members of the LGBTQ+ community, with a check for $11,000. The donation was matched by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) as part of the annual Florida AIDS walk. So Sunserve received a total donation of $22,000. It’s safe to say that it’s an amazing feeling to be able to play a sport that you love, while being part of an amazing organization and helping your community at the same time! Other clubs throughout the world that are also sanctioned by the GLTA host annual tournaments, and this has given me the opportunity to travel and experience LGBTQ+ communities throughout the world.  

What advice do you have for members of the LGBTQ+ community about getting involved in tennis?  

Come out and play! Tennis is great exercise for the body, and you can make wonderful friends at the same time. USTA offers leagues for all skill levels and is very supportive of the LGBTQ+ community. You also have local LGBTQ+ tennis clubs like the SFTC that provide competitive tennis, as well as social activities.  

What would you tell someone in the LGBTQ+ community who is hesitant to come out?  

I am a firm believer that each person considering coming out will know when the time is right, and they should do so on their own terms. It is a very personal decision to make with possible life-changing consequences so everyone should have the right to make it without being pressured. If asked for advice, I would tell them that the LGBTQ+ community is full of resources that can lend support in various ways. And I would reiterate the benefits of gaining a new family and a supportive community.  

Abe says the LGTBQ+ community is always welcoming and looking to help others.

What does Pride mean to you?   

To me, Pride is about being honest with oneself and proudly living the life that you want to live. Having said that, I’m also reminded of how much easier it is to live as a proud and openly gay man today because of the sacrifices of past and present LGBTQ+ and allied activists and it is important to be proud of these brave individuals. There is pride in belonging to a community that is accepting, kind, resilient, and overcomes hardships time and time again. We have made tremendous strides over the last fifty years but even today, our rights to be treated as equal citizens are still threatened. Whatever challenges lie ahead, I do know that the rainbow flag will persevere and will continue to fly proudly throughout the entire world.  

Anything else you’d like to share?  

A few years after I discovered USTA tennis, I joined a team and started playing team tennis in Miami. One night during a match, I started feeling dizzy and fainted on the court. My teammates rushed onto the court and revived me after a few minutes of being unconscious. During my stay in the hospital, it was discovered that I had an irregular heartbeat and was advised not to play tennis. I followed the doctor’s advice and gave up the sport immediately. The heart problems continued to worsen, and I was eventually diagnosed with congestive heart failure. It all culminated with me being placed on the heart transplant list and being blessed with a donor’s heart at the age of 35. The recovery went better than expected and I started exercising a few months after surgery. After about a ten-year hiatus from the sport, I finally made it back on the court after finding my wonderful friends at the South Florida Tennis Club, where I hope to continue playing tennis for many years to come. Perseverance pays off! Be proud, be you, and become an organ donor! 

 

The post Celebrating Pride Month: Abe Hasbun appeared first on USTA Florida.

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Swiss Sportswear Brand On Announces New Tennis Apparel Collection – and We Can’t Wait!

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For a year, tennis fans have only been able to ogle the On tennis apparel worn by World No. 1 Iga Świątek and up-and-comer Ben Shelton. But get this — next month you’ll be able to sport your own On outfits on the courts!

On’s Tennis Apparel Collection: Elevating Performance and Style

on tennis apparel collection

On, the Swiss sportswear brand, recently announced that it will be serving up its first-ever racquet-sports collection in April, marking a significant milestone for the brand’s presence in the game.

The On Tennis Apparel Collection represents a major milestone in the brand’s dedication to premium, innovative product on and off the court. Drawing on the brand’s close collaboration with tennis stars like Iga Świątek and Ben Shelton, the collection combines cutting-edge materials with thoughtful design, ensuring athletes experience unparalleled comfort and freedom of movement.

The tennis world was absolutely buzzing last year when On announced that it had signed Świątek and Shelton to head-to-toe sponsorship deals. It was awesome to see them join the ranks of a team that includes the legendary Roger Federer as an investor.

Fan-ticipation of the new collection is off the charts because fans haven’t been able to get their hands on the outfits the players have been wearing. We know it will live up to the hype, too, because Świątek, Shelton and even newcomer, João Fonseca have been working closely with On, providing feedback and insight to ensure that this new collection is a smash hit.

Ben Shelton

The On Tennis Apparel Collection combine state-of-the-art materials with a sophisticated design that offers athletes unrivalled comfort and freedom of movement.

Key features

  • Breathable materials: The collection features advanced moisture-wicking technology to keep players cool and dry during intense matches.



  • Dynamic fit: Tailored to optimise performance, the pieces offer a snug yet flexible fit that allows players to move effortlessly on the court.



  • Style meets function: Convincing performance should not come at the expense of style. The tennis apparel line offers sleek, modern designs that make a statement.

The On Tennis Apparel Collection is comprised of 17 pieces across apparel and footwear, all designed with sleek, modern designs that make a statement while being snug yet flexible for ease of movement around the court. From Shelton’s pink and white tank to Świątek’s signature two-piece sets, the collection has been designed to go from on-court to off-court with ease.

In a statement, Świątek shared:

The design and advanced technology not only enhance my comfort during matches but also empowers me to perform at my best while feeling confident.


Iga Świątek

on tennis apparel collection

On’s new line of racquet sports apparel will debut in Europe on April 1, 2024. It will hit North Amer and online at On.com in North America on April 5.

THE ROGER Clubhouse Pro: Elevating Everyday Tennis

THE ROGER Clubhouse Pro

While waiting for the Tennis Apparel Collection, tennis fans can take advantage of another On offering to pair with the upcoming apparel. In collaboration with Federer, On recently dropped THE ROGER Clubhouse Pro tennis shoe—its first on-court model designed for casual but competitive players. Think of it as the perfect middle ground between its premier performance shoe THE ROGER Pro—worn by players like Shelton in professional competition—and the heritage off-court style from other “Roger” models. It’s also compatible with all racquet sports—or, as Federer himself put it: “Tennis, padel, or even, dare I say it, pickleball.”

Key Features

  • Underfoot Cushioning: With more cushioning than THE ROGER Pro, THE ROGER Clubhouse Pro features a combination of soft foam and the award-winning CloudTec ® sole that feels exceptionally light.



  • Hidden Speedboard ®: Providing extra stability without compromising dynamic movements, the hidden Speedboard ® at the heel and midfoot enhances on-court performance.



  • Herringbone Outsole: The full herringbone outsole provides proven traction and grip on-court, ensuring stability during every match.

In addition to THE ROGER Clubhouse Pro, On is launching THE ROGER Kids and THE ROGER Clubhouse Pro Youth, catering to the younger generation and providing the same technology and comfort in a casual, sleek, gender-neutral and court-inspired sneaker.

THE ROGER Clubhouse Pro is currently for purchase at On.com and in stores and sports retailers worldwide.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C4Is6fDNKb9/?hl=en


 



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8 Great Tips To Keep Opponents From Attacking A Weak Backhand

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Every tennis player has a weaker side (even the pros), and it’s usually the backhand side. This is especially true for recreational league players. And though your opponents might try and attack it without mercy, that’s no reason to throw in the towel.

Here are some proven tips which can help you not only disguise and strengthen your backhand but also win more matches!

Accept It

Your backhand is weak, so admit it and accept it, and STOP trying to rip winners like you do with your forehand. You don’t have nearly the same control, and therefore the risk of hitting it long, into the net, or right into your opponent’s strike zone far outweighs your hope of hitting a winner. Take off some pace, and hit it deep. Yes, you can still hit it deep without so much pace, and you’ll keep yourself in the point.

Nip It In The Bud

You should always be looking for your opponents’ weaknesses, and a great place to start is during the warm-up. How is their forehand? How do they handle their backhands, overheads, and volleys? Sure, that’s only the warm-up, so watch how they return those during the match, and how well they move on the court. Soon, you’ll discover their weakness(es). Attack those right off the bat, and there won’t be many opportunities to go after your backhand.

Run Around It

Keep your shots deep during a rally, and you’ll have an extra second or two (which is a lot in tennis time) to prepare for the return shots. And if one of them happens to be a backhand, you’ll have a little more time to run around it and hit a forehand.

Return To Sender

In doubles, DON’T go for a down the line winner. Return the ball in the same direction from which it came – and as deep as possible. This will force your opponent to hit one more ball and keep you in the point until you have the opportunity to run around it and rip a winner. In singles, hit the ball up the middle, and deep. This will shorten the angles of your opponent.

Less Is More

Avoid going for too much of an angle cross court when you play your backhands. Hitting an angle is asking for an angle in return (especially in doubles), and you’ll find it harder to avoid backhands if you get into that kind of rally.

Develop Other Weapons Of Mass Destruction

So you have a weak backhand. So what? You’ve got a pretty good forehand, and an even better net game – so work on developing those into weapons that will keep your opponents on the defense and help you avoid those backhands!

Practice Makes Perfect

Every tennis player can use some practice. Just look at the pros–they practice for hours EVERY DAY! Carve out a little “me time” every week and practice hitting backhands with a partner, or ball machine, or even a wall. This won’t make your backhand your strongest stroke, but it will become more reliable and consistent, and you know what they say about consistency. Consistency wins the race game!

Watch The Pros

Believe it or not, you can learn a lot about playing tennis simply by watching the pros. Study their games and learn their weaknesses, and then watch what happens when those weaknesses are attacked. Look for the variety of tactics they use to go from a defensive position to an offensive one.

Don’t worry about the limitations of your backhand. Follow these tips and not only will you have a more consistent backhand that you can rely on to keep you in the point, but you’ll be able to play more offensively, more often, and win more matches!

Which tips worked for you? We’d love to hear about it! Please share in the comments section below 🙂

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Positive Self-Coaching: How to Play Your Best Game

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How would you like it if, when you made an error on the court, your coach started screaming at you from the sideline, “You idiot!” or “What a moron!” or something even worse? My guess is that you wouldn’t like it at all. Seriously, no one needs a coach like that! And no one should self-coach like that, either.

What made me think of this actually happened last weekend during a doubles strategy drill at my club. One of the ladies, whom I’ll call “Barb,” was very verbal about her own play when she made a mistake. She cussed and called herself an idiot, a loser, and a few other names I won’t mention here. And if you guessed that the self-coaching abuse didn’t improve her game one bit, then you’re absolutely right! As a matter of fact, it made her play worse.

Look… I know that it’s all too easy to go there, to criticize ourselves when we make a mistake. However, the constant stream of self-deprecation will eventually have a negative effect on how we feel about ourselves and our performance.

So, DON’T do it!!

With the power of positive self-talk, we can change that negative mindset. Instead of telling yourself, “You suck!” or “You can’t even get the ball over the net!” tell yourself this: “Take a deep breath and calm down. Use your high-percentage shots with heavy topspin to get the ball over the net. If you mess up, don’t sweat it. Tell yourself, “You’ll get the next one!” or “You can do this!”

Positivism will allow you to focus on the present rather than dwell on the last or previous points. It will also create a positive mental state, which is necessary for optimal performance.

If you’re going to self-coach, use words of encouragement and motivation when errors have you feeling down or angry, and don’t forget to praise yourself for all the good points you play. Be the coach that you would like to have sitting in your corner!






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