In this episode, Simon Gale and Kim Bastable recap highlights from the first two seasons of the Racquet Fuel podcast. They discuss the challenges of attracting young people to the racquets industry and the evolving  and quite complicated landscape of racquet sports. They also explore the importance of mentoring and growing others, as well as the need to delegate and empower team members. The conversation touches on the shift from play to programming in tennis and the influence of pickleball and Padel on tennis programming.

Stay tuned to the end to find out what to expect for Season 3 – with a new episode publishing each week in April and May.

Episode Highlights:

• The racquets industry needs to do a better job of attracting young people and promoting tennis and racquet sports coaching and leadership as a viable career option.
• The role of a Racquets Director is evolving, with a focus on leadership and managing multiple racquet sports.
• Mentoring and growing others is an important aspect of leadership in the tennis industry. People inside the industry are responsible for growing the next generation of coaches.
• Delegating and empowering team members is a skill that leaders need to develop and one that’s often hard for tennis players, especially, since it’s a very individual sport where players learn to rely only on themselves.
• There is a need for play-based pathways in tennis programming, with a focus on providing a positive experiences for players, even beginning players.

Looking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a PTR- or USPTA-Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!