Lindsay DiSanto -- Totally Loving Tennis NorthEast

Lindsay DiSanto—joins us today from Tennis Northeast, Metro Boston Tennis League. She has very quickly become a Veteran player in the league. She also makes an appearance in the Flex League  video for TLN!       
Flex Leagues by Tennis League Network.

She stays quite busy when off the court, but still finds time to play lots of tennis. She’s currently working for a medical billing company and is in night school finishing up her degree. Lindsay grew up in North Reading, just north of Boston. She has planted roots down with her 2 year old yellow lab that she adores and loves taking for hikes. He, of course, loves that she plays tennis because he gets to enjoy chewing on all the old tennis balls!

She also two nieces and one nephew that she’s like a second mom to visiting them several times a week. However, Atlanta is calling her name and she would move there in a heartbeat so she could play tennis year round.

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Hi Lindsay, and thanks for joining us. We want to share your thoughts and experiences playing in Tennis NorthEast, the Boston division of the Tennis League Network franchise, and to learn a little more about you. Firstly, how long have you been playing tennis? What got you started and what has kept you going? 

I did a tennis clinic when I was younger during the summer. During high school I didn't want to play softball anymore, so I thought why not try out for tennis? I enjoyed the clinic when I was young, and if I didn't like it I didn't have to play the following year. But, I caught the tennis bug and not only did I enjoy it, I caught right on and made the varsity team as a freshman.

I stopped playing after high school, then did a clinic the past summer and caught the bug again! I joined a couple clinics at BSC Lexington through the fall, winter and spring and signed up for Tennis League Network so I could play more.

Since I am just getting back I love playing all levels, and strengths. I am trying to play as many people as possible to be exposed to as many different types of play, so I can become a better, more adaptable player.

I love playing singles. I like knowing the responsibility falls on me. I trust myself and know what I am capable of. I like knowing if I screw up, its also on me. It is just me and the ball!

That's a good way to describe playing singles. Which league are you a member of and how long have you been participating in it? Also, how did you end up finding out about us? 

This is my first season doing Tennis Northeast and it has been nothing short of amazing!  I first learned about it through the internet, then the captain of a team I subbed in for mentioned it and suggested I do it. 

I am a member of the partners program, Spring Season #1, Spring Season # 2, Summer, and Spring Doubles program. I also did the May tourney. I know a lot right? Go big or go home!

[Currently] I am listed as a 3.5, hopefully with all of the playing I am doing I will move up!

We're glad to see you in so many programs. About how often are you playing, in general and with the league? 

I play A LOT! I play at least 5 times a week, and even sometimes more than once a day!

What do you like most about the league? 

I love the flexibility. I love meeting new people, making connections, and playing different levels and strengths.

I am highly impressed with the league. I never thought I would meet so many great people. I really enjoy meeting everyone. I have made a lot of connections, and have played people multiple times.

Now that you’ve played a couple dozen matches in the league, would you consider any of your Tennis Northeast opponents rivals? 

I wouldn't call them rivals per say, but people that I really enjoy playing with. I love playing against Anne Marie Dinius, Meredith Sellers, and Ted Cummings. They are competitive and challenging, and I love a challenge!

Tell us about your most memorable match(es). 

So far, my most memorable match was at Woburn Racquet Club. It was extremely even and we ended up in a tie because we ran out of time.

Who are your favorite pro players? Why? 

I love Serena Williams. She is a living legend! I love her power and determination.

Great stuff Lindsay, and thank you again for taking the time to do this interview. 

Ian Kim -- Is There a Doctor on the Court?

Ian Kim is being featured today as a veteran member of the Tennis League Network. He’s a Seattle native, enjoying his summer until he starts as a medical student at the University of Washington School of Medicine this Fall.

Making the most of this time, Ian plans to travel to Costa Rica and Cambodia this summer before the academic cycle begins. He will also be climbing Mount Adams, Washington state’s 2nd highest peak, at the end of June.

He also has some great action shots of him playing tennis which we share.

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Thanks for joining us Ian! We want to share your thoughts and experiences playing with Tennis Seattle, a division of the Tennis League Network franchise, and to learn a little more about you. Firstly, how long have you been playing tennis? What got you started and what has kept you going? 

I started playing tennis more intently in college. However, I got my start when my dad used to take me out to the clay courts at a college sports facility in Korea from a very young age.

I love that tennis is challenges your body and the mind. You are constantly adjusting your form to make the best shot possible and also sharpening your mind to stay calm and confident till the end. It is a game that trains me to focus outside of the tennis court as well.

Which league are you a member of and how long have you been participating in it? Also, how did you end up finding out about us? 

I’m a member of the Seattle Tennis League, playing at the 3.50 level. I’ve been playing for 3 seasons starting Spring of 2015. As of the writing of this player profile he's compiled a very competitive 17-13 record.

I learned about the league from Adam Brown -- a close friend who I have played tennis with throughout high school and college. Adam never quits and always puts on a fight every time he plays. He is known for his consistency and drive for victory when he hits the ball down the line. He is a veteran member of the league as well.

Great, and how often are you playing tennis, in general and with the league? 

When it is not raining in Seattle, I play tennis. Unfortunately, that means I'm lucky to play once a week. I'm hopeful for the sun to return to our fair city so that I can start hitting some more.

Since you've become a veteran of the league, what has kept you around as a member?

I really enjoy meeting new people and improving my tennis game all at the same time. Seattle is an exciting city with diverse people. Getting to know them through Tennis has been brilliant.

I greatly enjoy playing with numerous players including David, Andrey, and Porter among others in our league and appreciate the friendships we have fostered over time.

Now that you’ve played a couple dozen matches in the league, would you consider any of your Tennis Seattle opponents rivals? 

Milo Zorzino  is my archnemesis. His serves are wicked and his forehand packs a rocket. We have played against each other since high school and are continuing to play through the Seattle Tennis League. Although I am 0 out of 2 games so far in our league matches, I am confident that I will turn that around in future seasons. Milo Zorzino beware!

Any memorable matches? 

Recently, I played with David Shelly, who I have previously struggled against on 4 consecutive matches.

This match, I initially felt that I would suffer the same fate after losing the first set 1-6. However, I was determined to try harder. I found my momentum and started to play with more aggressive shots. I eventually overcame to win 1-6; 6-3; 6-2. That win was thrilling and a great challenge heading into the playoffs.

Those are always the best matches to play. Do you have any favorite pro players? Why? 

I am a devote fan of Rafael Nadal. I connect with him as a left-handed player and admire his zeal and strength through the ups and downs of his career. 

Great stuff Ian, and thank you again for taking the time to do this interview. Have fun out there this Spring! 

Chris Reed -- A Master of His Craft

Chris Reed joins us today from sunny Southern California. We want to feature Chris today as he is now a 'Peerless Veteran' after having played 100 matches with the Tennis LosAngeles franchise! Like many others he started as a kid hitting against wall, but has developed his skill set over many years.

When he's not on the tennis court he's running his beverage company Reed's. Reed's sells Ginger Brews, Root Beer and other drinks all over the world! We definitely recommend you check out these drinks, sold in many grocery stores around the country.

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Thanks for joining us today, Chris. Playing 100 games with Tennis Los Angeles is an impressive feat. Which league are you a member of and how long have you been participating in it? Also, how did you end up finding out about us? 

I'm in the Westside Los Angeles competitive league (Level 3.5). I've been playing for 3 years now, after initially joining the ladder group from the recommendation of others.

Right now I'm playing 2 times per week.  Chris's Profile

What do you like about playing in Tennis Los Angeles? 

Its been my best tennis experience. No other situation I have heard of gives the ease or quality of finding competitive matches like the Tennis League Network does.

There are so many dedicated players willing to schedule matches. Plus a great variety of styles.

Now that you’ve played a couple dozen matches in the league, would you consider any of your Tennis LA opponents rivals? 

I have 5 guys that any day the match can go either way! They are my favorites, but I like to play really good players even if I lose just to play high level tennis.

That's a good mindset to have. Any memorable matches? 

I had a come from behind match. I challenged a league above me player who I had lost to twice prior.
We had split sets and I was down 6-9 in ten point tie break and won 5 points straight to win including 3 match points.

Very impressive. Do you have any favorite pro tennis players?

I love [Ernests] Gulbis. He's nuts and unedited. He had a match point last year against Djokovic in Cincinnati.

He is so erratic. Like me!

Great stuff Chris, and thank you again for taking the time to do this interview. We hope you play another 100 games with Tennis Los Angeles!

Tips for Playing Tennis at Night

Unlike many other sports, there are no time limits to tennis matches. There is no clock—only how much the mind and body can handle. When one person gives up mentally, or can’t keep up physically the match will soon end.

Most tennis players don’t like giving up and calling it quits though, especially in competitive leagues like the Tennis League Network. Often times this leads to matches extending out for hours. And if the match is being played outdoors, players may find themselves playing under the lights.

Be Prepared to Play at Night

Playing at dusk, let alone at night, is not ideal especially without adequate light. However, sometimes playing at night is inevitable. For example, if you have a career that keeps you busy, playing in the evening after work may be the only fit for your schedule.

Of course, you’re not going to be able to play in pitch black darkness. So it’s ideal to find a tennis court that is well lit. Often times these courts will be at large outdoor tennis centers or parks.

The only aspect you will have to adapt to is the bright lights which may cause difficulty during serves or overheads, as the light can interfere with your vision. That said, lights are definitely ideal for playing at night.

Unfortunately, lit courts aren’t always available. In smaller, neighborhood tennis courts lights aren’t an option. In this case players will have to adjust to the darkness, playing until both sides agree to call it quits.

But when is it too dark to call it quits? 

Some players aren’t going to want to throw in the towel to a match, especially if they are losing. If this happens, you’re just going to have to try and reason with them. There’s no point in running back and forth on the court, only to miss the ball, or suffer an injury. Promise to reschedule another time if all else fails.

A simple way to prevent this from happening is to agree before the match when you two will stop playing. You can decide to set a limit based on time, when the sun is down, a certain point in the match etc. Just make sure you clearly communicate your point so you and your opponent aren’t arguing later on.

Not Everyone Should Play in the Dark

Not everyone should play tennis at night. Quality of vision is going to vary from person to person, which will significantly affect the quality of play. For people with poor vision, especially those who are older, they are going to have more trouble seeing at night. Make sure your opponent understands this when playing a match.

Playing tennis at night does come offer a few benefits though. There’s less heat and humidity, no sunlight (which causes difficulty seeing at times), not to mention there are usually more courts available! An ideal situation would be to schedule a match on courts where you know there is going to be lighting. Start the match earlier in the evening, or late afternoon and continue to play as long as you feel comfortable. All leagues in our network have maps of local courts and provide detailed information. For example, Tennis New York has plenty of lighted courts to choose from.

If you haven't already, sign up for a local league. There are plenty of players to match up with, and you will definitely be able to find times to play that suit you best--even at night!