The Purity of Competition Rule and How it Defines TLN

       While a relaxing afternoon playing tennis with a friend or family member is always fun, there's nothing like grinding it out on the tennis court, fighting for every point against a player that is equally matched. It's this competitive nature of Competitive Tennis that keeps a large portion of the players to our league coming back season after season.

      In order to make sure all league participants are getting set up with well matched opponents Tennis League Network (TLN) uses this rule to guide our program:

That's why we have Rule #27--Purity of Competition Rule:
Rule #27) Purity of Competition Rule Tennis League Network reserves the right to move a player up or down a division/level based on how they performed in the previous season or during the CURRENT season.
A player can get promoted several ways.
1) By making the finals of their division's playoffs.
2) A player can also be moved up or down during the season based on how they have performed during the season. If a player has averaged a score of 12-4 or less for 3 of their matches they will be a candidate for moving up or down a division.
3) Inverse is true for a player that has lost 3 of their by an average score of 12-4 or less.

 

Why We Created This Rule

      To strive to be the best league on the market, Tennis League Network needed a way to bring quality of matching to the program. We wanted to ensure that people were getting matched up with people at their level consistently. Our veteran players return season after season because they feel pretty confident that they are getting matched with players that give them a tough, but fair match.

      When our league was created we used 'out of the box' thinking and forged our own path. We are more flexible than all the other leagues because we ARE willing to make the tough or sometimes easy decisions to move players up or down levels in season. We can do in season moves because we are not defined by a concrete schedule with a small set of players.

Changing Divisions

      It can be tough for players (especially new players who are the hardest to initially place) to be moved up or down a level. For those who are a candidate to move down, it can be a big blow to the ego. For those who are doing well, they want to keep winning and would prefer to stay where they are. However, it is in the best interest of EVERYONE in the league that people are put in the proper leagues especially after we've received the results/proof from the matches. We have many busy professionals/stay at home moms/college students who regularly set time aside to play tennis, and they expect that when they show up they'll be facing an opponent who is at their level.

      We don't just stop at one adjustment in a season, if the results dictate to move a player multiple levels WE WILL DO IT.   We are that FLEXIBLE.  The true definition of a Flex League.

    

SPECIAL NOTE:  We are also watching the tennis partner program, tennis ladder and tournament matches for ratings adjustments.   Sadly we've noticed a lot of NEW players under-rating themselves for their first tournament entry.  That's why in this case we are putting all NEW players into the highest level tournament.

The Tennis League Network Difference

      What makes our league different is an attentiveness to the needs of our players. We CARE about our players and their time spent playing tennis.  This rule is solely in place to make sure everyone is enjoying their season and return for future seasons.

      Not a member of Tennis League Network yet?

     JOIN THE FLEX REVOLUTION!

If you're looking to play competitive tennis matches in your area, make sure to Sign-Up for a local league.

Steve Ograyensek--Tennis Never Gets Old

Steve Ograyensek grew up in Western PA and spent some time in Detroit, Michigan--cities without much in the way of tennis facilities. Fortunately he's found his way down to Central Florida where there is plenty of tennis to keep him busy during retirement.

And Steve isn't just playing tennis, he's enjoying sports and activities including football, softball, biking, motorcycling, snorkeling, paddle boarding, and has recently started juggling. He believes 'the individual motor skills required of each sport greatly compliment each other in a synergistic manner in motor skills required for other sports' and it's for this reason he's crossed over into many disciplines.

He's got plenty of experiences to share and we were happy to have him tell his story.

***

Thanks Steve for joining us to answer a few of our questions. We want to share some of your thoughts and experiences about your passion for playing tennis, your experience with Tennis-Orlando.com a division of the Tennis League Network franchise, as well as a few additional questions. To get started, when did you first begin playing tennis? 

I always just wanted to play after seeing it on TV and having previously played baseball and football.  My father got me a cheap aluminum racket to get started in the late 1960s. I have played ever since but never formally coached on any organized team at any level.

As someone who has many years under their belt, what do you love about tennis? 

I always loved sports like playing football and baseball as a kid. Tennis is very similar to baseball such as fielding ground balls and making the play, batting, and pitching. In tennis you perform these skills every point with volleys, ground strokes, and serves, plus in baseball you're waiting around for a ground ball to be hit to you, and getting up to bat.

I love singles tennis in that it is an individual sport with no one to blame for lack of success but yourself. Also love the fact that tennis is relatively low impact, hard to get injured playing, and therefore can be played well into senior years. I want to remain competitive with younger opponents as long as I can.

That's definitely a worthy goal, and a great way to keep feeling young. Which league are you a member of and how long have you been participating in it? 

Tennis-Orlando Division A, Men's Advanced 4.0, playing in my 3rd season.

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

Four to five times per week: Saturday with my girlfriend (USTA 4.5 rated); Sunday with old friends; Tuesday and Friday Mornings with retired friends; and a Tennis-Orlando league match when I can schedule it during the week

As someone who plays a ton of tennis, what is it about this league that makes it different from others?

Meeting interesting people in different professions from many different places and making new friends. So far I have played league players from Brazil, Italy, Cuba, Peru, Spain, and Puerto Rico. Two were former members of national Olympic teams (not in tennis). Several were former collegiate tennis players. Professions include sports director, web application designer, MD /Psychiatrist, computer programmer, lawyer, salesmen, and local small business owner.

Ages range from the mid 20s to over sixty. ( I believe I am the oldest player at 61). All are highly competitive and excellent sportsman. The tennis league seems to attract accomplished individuals from all over the world.

You must have had a lot of interesting conversations with all of them. We’re there a lot of particularly memorable matches as well? 

A few come to mind:

1) Marathon 2.5 hour match with Yamil Flores, momentum flowing back and forth in 92 degree Florida afternoon heat; no one wanted to give up, but I prevailed. Played Yamil 3 times so far, prevailed each time, but all close matches
2) Prevailed over Mark Ruiz, a much younger superior player (also former US Olympic Diver), in three sets. I should have lost but was "in the zone" and could do no wrong that match. I am 1 for 3 with Mark so far.
3) Getting 3 games in the first set off Brad Ellenwood, a younger, superior 6 ft 4 in former collegiate player. Lost second set 6-0. I am 0 for 3 with Brad so far.

Of those players, would you consider any of them rivals? 

I enjoy the challenge of playing Brad Ellenwood and getting any games knowing he is the far younger, taller, superior player. I’m sure finally beating him would be pretty rewarding.

When it comes to pro tennis, who are your favorite pro players? Why?

Roger Federer; poetry in motion. He makes everything look easy. Conditioned to the point where he plays a long five set match and can meet with the Press afterward as if he had done nothing physically demanding.

Do you have any other interesting comments about your experiences with the league before wrapping up? 

I like the user friendly web site listing all publicly accessible courts, league rules encouraging players to share fees and meet half way, and completely flexible scheduling. Also like the profile information available on opponents including their legacy match records, favorite players, shots, preferences, and photos.

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

How to Prepare for Your Spring Tennis Leagues

Spring has finally sprung! After a cold winter for the northerners, the weather is finally starting to warm up which means it’s time to dust off your tennis racquet and hit the tennis courts. But before you dive right into one of our Spring leagues, there are a few things to remember:

Check Your Health 

Because of the cold weather, winter can keep us inside more than we like. This means that weight gain is all too common because of lack of exercise. These extra pounds can really creep up on you and can definitely have an impact on your game whether it’s achy knees or more huffing and puffing than usual.

To make sure everything is in good order, it’s always a good idea to get a yearly physical, especially before staring up your Spring tennis league. Doctors will be able to mitigate any health issues that may potentially hold you back from getting the most out of your league.

The league also suggests that players use shorter formats to start the season off. Play 10 game pro sets or 2 sets with a super tie-breaker. There's no need to stress your body out by trying to play a grueling 3 set match until your body is ready for it.

Make Sure Your Gear is in Order 

Don’t wait until your first match to find out that you need your racquet restrung! Go through all your tennis equipment including your racquet, shoes, and bag to make sure that they are in order.

This is also a good time to replenish your tennis balls, as no player wants to use a set of tennis balls that’s been sitting in a closet for several months.

Definitely check in with our partner Tennis Warehouse to pick up any necessary supplies you might need.

Get Into Shape 

If you find that your health is not quite where you want it to be, than you better get down to work in the gym. Basic cardiovascular exercise like running, using a machine like the elliptical, or doing some agility drills is an excellent idea.

Remember to take it easy at first. Your body needs time to acclimate to this new activity so start out at a slower pace, and work your way up until it’s time to get started with regular league matches. Getting into shape also means eating healthy. Not only will this help you shed any extra weight you’ve packed on, but a good diet will help you recover from workouts faster.

It's definitely a great idea to cross train in between matches so you're body can get stronger for future matches.

Set Goals 

Although your New Year’s Resolutions are a few months behind you, that’s no reason to not set goals for your 2016 tennis activity. You can choose to design your goals in several different ways. One example would be to set a goal of playing at least two matches per week. Another goal would be to win 10 matches in a season. Another goal to try for is to make the playoffs for each and every season you enter in.  Of course trying to win a championship will be on a lot of people's goal list.  In general, your goal should get you playing more frequently and ENJOY YOURSELF ON THE TENNIS COURTS.

Sign-Up For a Local League 

The best way to play regular tennis matches with those at your level is to sign-up for a seasonal league with the Tennis League Network. Our league guarantees at least 6 playing partners at your level in your area, although the pool is usually closer to 15+ players per division.

The league allows for flexible scheduling. This is great for hard-working professionals and busy parents who feel like they just can’t find time to fulfill their love for tennis and balancing the sport with their lifestyle.

Don't let this Spring season pass you by, find your local league and Sign up today.

Jeff Schumer--A Well Deserved Champion

Jeff Schumer is a long time member of our league. He's plays in TennisNorthEast the Metro Boston Tennis League out of Boston, but recently took a trip to the West Coast and captured the West Coast championship trophy. It's an accomplishment Jeff is proud of and we're happy to see him win.

Jeff (Jeff's Profile) has a number of fun stories and memorable matches to share with us. He even has a couple of things to say about Steve Chagnon, Tennis League Network's CEO. We hope you get a kick out of this interview.

***

Thanks Jeff for joining us to answer a few of our questions. We'd like to share your experiences with the league, your passion for the game and more about yourself in general. For starters, when did you first begin playing tennis?

I was around it very early in my life as my uncle and his children played and exposed me to it maybe when I was about 7 or 8 years. However, I did not get interested in it and start playing it until my early teens when I started just banging against a brick wall of a high school gym and found a group of people to play with at that same high school's courts. I then got onto my high school team and was hooked. I've been playing on and off (mostly on) throughout my life.

As an active player and fan of the game, what do you love about tennis?

It suits me...I am fast, like the strategy involved (like being in a chess match), and just enjoy never being able to never be out of a match and have a chance to come back and win. But, I also have loved the social aspect of the game-I have met SO many people playing this great game. Of course, there's endless places to explore in the world where you can play it as well.

Which league are you a member of and how long have you been participating in it?

I just completed the fall 2015 season with Tennis Northeast , with a 3.75 rating

I've been a member since it's inception which I think was in 2006. I played for about 3 years and than just got busy with my family and playing tennis in a local league and a summer club where I belong. I played with Steve Chagnon when first he took over this type of league and then exploded the concept of it. However, previously it was run at an extremely basic level in which we just got names on numbers snail mailed to us and there were no different divisions by level, records of results in any manner, hailing local champions, or hosting National Tournaments.

Ten years is quite impressive! It's always great to see people join something and stick with it. And how often are you playing, in general and with the league?

My playing varies. When I was a kid and had no responsibilities I played daily 4-6 hours a day. Now, if I play 1-2 times a week I count myself lucky.

I have numerous tennis involvements between a local club league, a World Team Tennis team of which I am a Captain, having been on multiple teams (and having gone to Nationals twice in 2014!), playing with my family, and of course Tennis Northeast. As per a lot of tennis people I have met, you could say I'm sort of obsessed.

As someone who plays a ton of tennis, what is it about this league that makes it different from others?

The flexibility of scheduling matches that suits your own schedule, having players at my level (Tennis League Network has a way of really matching people extremely well by their ability for fun and highly competitive matches), and meeting various new players I would never have had the chance to meet.

Since you have so much experience under your belt, can you tell us about your most memorable match(es).

I have so many, but I will mention four. Playing in a Father-Son tournament this last summer at Longwood Club in Boston. We got crushed in every match, but just being out their with my son amongst so many phenomenal players was a memory of a lifetime.

For Tennis Northeast I played one regular season match in a town far from me and only accessible by one main road. We set our match for 5 pm. Anyway, I got there 15 minutes late due to the traffic. My partner and I agreed to play to a set time. When we reached that time, I had won by games (like 6-4, 4-3). However, he argued that since I was late we should play out the rest of the match. I reluctantly agreed and then went on to lose the match by a game or two.

I played a match for the championship of my local division this past fall against a higher ranked and so much younger opponent. I'm 54 and this guy was 26. We played 3 sets in 4 hours! I was happy to take it all in the 3rd set.

I just played in a National Tourney in L.A. this past January, 2016 in the 3.5 Level Division. I surprisingly made it to the finals as I had no expectations going in. I played against Darren Smolkin who I thought was the guy to beat. It was a 10 game pro set. I went down quickly 6-1 letting him dictate play. However, I got fired up/inspired by Steve C. who was watching the match and just told me to take "show some balls" as how I usually hit pretty hard. I ultimately started dictating the match and won 10-9 to capture the Championship. It has been the pinnacle of my amateur tennis "career."

Those are some great stories. In addition to those matches, who are your favorite rivals in the league? Why?

Believe it or not Steve Chagnon and I have been battling it out ever since I decided to jump back into the league this fall after my 6 year hiatus. We have had several matches go down to the last game or even point. He makes me run and attacks strong at the net which often puts me on my heels. I think I edge him overall in matches won, but before this year he called me his daddy as I owned him.

I'm sure Steve is going to ask for a rematch after that! When it comes to pro tennis, who are your favorite pro players? Why?

There have been SO many greats over the years. The classics like John McEnroe (who I used to be like with my antics), Jimmy Connors, Steffi Graf, Williams sisters, Andre Agassi, Roger. Basically I really have found the tops at the game to be phenomenal to watch, root for, and learn from.

Do you have any other interesting comments about your experiences with the league?

It really is very user friendly with the Website and Tennis League Network is constantly tweaking it to make it fun and competitive for everyone. I wish somehow the mixed doubles could become more popular, but it's great for those who really like singles.

Well once again a big thanks for your time. Good luck out on the court this season!

Adam Cooper -- Tennis, Teaching and Rotting Pyramids

We’re happy to feature Adam Cooper this week who hails from our nation’s capital, Washington DC. Congratulations are in order as Adam has hit the 100 matches milestone as a member of TennisDC—an impressive mark that we like to regularly recognize with our players.

He got his start playing tennis by hitting balls endlessly against the side of the local high school wall when he was 12 years old—humble origins, indeed. Clearly Adam has continued to enjoy the game for years, which we love to see.

Adam is certainly an interesting tennis player. By day Adam is a busy teacher, who also plays oboe with a local chamber and takes regular trips to Latin America to take in the architecture—very neat! We asked Adam a few more questions about his experiences with TennisDC, thoughts on the sport and his personal life.

 ***

Adam, thanks for taking the time to answer some of our questions. To start, could you tell us a little bit more about yourself in your own words?

I grew up in Rockville, and after a circuitous route, which took me to Minnesota and Colorado, came back here to settle down. I am a Montessori school teacher, teaching children between the ages of three and six. I play tennis primarily during the summer, and spend my winter months playing oboe for a local chamber music group. I love Mesoamerican archaeology, and every year or two try to visit some rotting pyramids in Mexico or Guatemala. 

I’m actually born and raised in the DC area myself—great to see! What league in particular are you a member of in TennisDC?

I’m in TennisDC’s Winter Elite/Advanced league, and I’m a 4.0 level player.

And since you joined, about how often do you play? 

Well, I'm a teacher—so in the summer I play three or four times a week, and during the school year maybe once a week.

Being a teacher certainly has its perks. How long have you participated in your specific league? 

For the TennisDC league I joined in June 2011, but didn't start playing seriously until June 2014.

In all the years you've been playing tennis, what do you love most about it?

It's boxing at a distance. It's civilized fighting. It's not a team sport: it's just you and another opponent, and you can only rely on your own strengths and weaknesses to get through a match.

That’s certainly an interesting way of phrasing it—I’ll have to keep that in mind! Since joining TennisDC, what is it that you like most about the league in particular?

I like how flexible it is. You can play as much or as little as you want, and the playoff format provides some additional incentive and structure.

Absolutely. And can you tell us about your most memorable match in the league? Or multiple matches if possible.

I had a very good week or so during July 2014, when I won several 6-0 sets in a row and was promoted from Advanced to Elite. I remember fondly a match against Roger Fox where I did not lose a game and was in "god mode". A swift reality check followed however, once I was promoted I found it difficult to win sets, let alone matches...

How about rivals in TennisDC?

I enjoy playing Abhi Garg, Roger Fox, and Clark Campbell. they all have different styles, and enjoy talking tennis after a match.

We’re curious: Do you have a favorite tennis pro, or did you have one growing up?

I grew up watching Stefan Edberg, a very stylish player who could produce amazing angles while volleying. He combined a totally passive personality with an extremely aggressive game, and I always enjoyed that contrast.

Do you have any other interesting comments about your experiences with the league?

I just really enjoy the wide variety of players that are out there: Power players, pushers, serve and volleyers, strategic thinkers, etc. You can pick up a match any week you want.

Well said. And we thank you for your time, and best of luck on your future matches and endeavors.

Lucas Natalini--Where Have all the Clay Courts Gone?

Today Lucas Natalini joins us to share his experience with Tennis League Network after having reached 'Veteran Status' after playing 25 games.  He's a member of the Tennis Los Angeles franchise and currently plays on the Westside of town.

Lucas came to the US 5 years ago. His first tennis games here were tough as he had become so used to playing on slower clay courts, which are everywhere in Buenos Aires. After putting in work he is back on his game. He's come a long way and he hopes to win his division.

Congratulations are also in order as he and his wife are expecting their first child next year.

***

Hi Lucas. Thanks for taking the time to share your experience with the league so far. To start, could you tell us a little bit more about yourself? 

I was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina. 99% of the courts are clay courts so the game is slower. When I was 23 I went to a concert and I met an American girl who was taking Spanish classes in Argentina. She was the reason why I moved to the US. We are now married and expecting our first child next year.

I moved to the US in 2010 and I remember that the first few matches I played were the first on hard courts. I was lost. The ball was bouncing so low and after the bounce it was traveling through the air so fast. I lost pretty much all the matches I played for a year or so.

I was only playing with people I knew through work and some relatives and in 2013 I started doing some research online and I found this league. I thought the concept was great so I gave it a try. I  played 5 matches and I only won one. I had to stop playing tennis because I was overwhelmed with my new job.

This year I felt that I really wanted to play tennis and the only way to get good at it is to do it regularly. I took classes with a great coach for about 8 weeks. This fall season is my third tournament in 2015 and I fell my game has improved a lot. I hope I can win my division sometime.

Which league are you a member of? 

Tennis Los Angeles's  West - Div. C: Men's Competitive2 3.25

And since you joined, about how often do you play? 

2 or 3 matches a week. A few months ago I decided to start playing only during daytime. After working 8 hours in front of a computer, I cannot see the ball at night :)

How long have you participated in your specific league? 

I played one tournament in 2013 and this is the third I played in 2015.

In all the years you've been playing tennis, what do you love most about it?

I like that you are on the court by yourself. I grew playing soccer, rugby and volleyball and in those sports there is always somebody to help you. In tennis, it's just you. No matter how much professional players like to thank their coaches and physical trainers, the person on court is the one doing the job. I like that I am the one winning or losing a match.

Since joining, what is it that you like most about our league in particular? 

A few things. I like the competition, getting to know my opponent and also, I like that we are all trying to get better. I can definitely notice some improvements in some guys.

Can you tell us about your most memorable match in the league? Or multiple matches?

I was playing Steve Chocron for the first time. We both have similar game styles. We went to a third set. I was serving 3-4 and 30-40. It was after 9PM. I faulted on my first serve and the employee from Roxbury comes and says: "Guys, I am going home"...and he turned off the lights.

So Steve and I met again the following week and that whole week the only thing I was thinking was that whatever I did, I could not double fault. That is what ended up happening. He started serving 5-3 and somehow I broke his serve. We got to the tiebreaker and he beat me. It was a great match and after that match I definitely learn how important the mental part is in tennis.

Based on your picture, we're guessing Roger Federer is your favorite player. If so, why?

I have always looked at sports the same way. If you want to win you need to attack. Federer attacks since the first point. I can write a book about all the reasons why I think he is great. Just to answer the question I think his game represents the way I would like to play tennis.

Do you have any other interesting comments about your experiences with the league? 

I really enjoy the fact that we are all taking time from our lives to play this beautiful sport.

Excellent. Well thank you for your time, and best of luck on your future matches.

Alex Twersky -- Ready...Set...TENNIS!

Alex Twersky is now a 'Peerless Veteran' in our league after playing in 100 matches--all in only 2 years! Alex started playing regularly a few years ago and soon after joined our league. He now plays upwards of 5-6 times per week.

Outside of tennis Alex stays busy--like most New Yorkers--as a marketing consultant. But he is also quite cultured and a fan of opera and film. In fact, he is a movie producer himself! He has released three films in major cities across America and hopefully has more in the works.

Here's more about Alex and his experiences with Tennis League Network:

Alex, could you tell us a little more about yourself?

I am a marketing consultant as well as being a film producer. My third feature, JULIA, is a thriller that was released today Oct 23 in theaters in LA and Chicago. Hopefully it will open in other cities soon before coming to VOD and DVD.

I love all things cultural – opera, art, film – apart from tennis I am not really into sports! I grew up in Forest Hills (Queens), then moved to Manhattan for 18 years before settling in Brooklyn, which I love!

Great stuff! And which league are you a member of? 

Brooklyn - Queens Competitive 3.5 Division.

How long have you participated in the league altogether? 

I only started the league this fall, but prior to that I have been in the partner program (for about 2 years) and started in tennis ladder in 2014.

 

 How did you first learn about us? 

Like all good things: Google

How often do you play matches? Both with the league or in general? 

When I started really getting into tennis about 2-2.5 years ago, I played 2-3x per week. Now I play 5-6x per week in the warmer months, and 3-4x per week in the colder ones.

What do you like most about the league? 

I like the diversity of players you’re matched up with. I believe you get better in a number of ways, one of which is playing a variety of people who have different styles.

Tell us about one, or a few, of your most memorable match(es).

I can’t recall a specific most memorable one, but the ones I like are the ones where my mental game and strategy align with my physical game. that’s bliss.

Who are your favorite rivals in the league? Why? 

Everyone is different: Artie Wood has a unique style of play that you have to adapt to, and other people like Anton Sujdarat (sp?) are just damn good!

How did you get started playing tennis? 

I played sporadically as a kid and young adult, but got into it a few years ago as a regular form of exercise. Helps that I really fell in love with the sport.

What level player are you? 

The league currently has Alex as a strong 3.5 level player.

What do you love about tennis? 

I love that it’s a game that’s not only provides terrific exercise and enjoyment, it allows you to sharpen your mental reflexes as well. There is a ton of strategy, almost like a chess match across the court, which gives you an experience blending the physical and mental that’s hard to compare to other one on one sports.

Luis Perez -- An Unlikely Tennis Veteran

Growing up in Uruguay, tennis was uncommon to say the least. Not only did soccer dominate the country, but tennis is an expensive sport, out of reach for many people in the country. This makes Luis Perez an unlikely tennis player.

But for the last four years, Luis has been an avid player of the game. In fact, Luis has become a 'Peerless Veteran' after playing 100 matches as part of Tennis League Network over the past 3 years.

What makes this even more impressive is that he is a member of our Fort Lauderdale league. This is a smaller community that grew out of our booming Miami league. It is composed of a tight group of talented players, who have had a lot of fun and playing each other on the courts.

Here's more about Luis and his experience with our league:

Which league are you a member of? 

Fort Lauderdale tennis flex league  

How long have you participated in your league?
Since 2012

How did you first learn about it? 
I found it via google.

How often do you play?
Between 2 to 3 times a week.

What do you like most about the league? 
Flexibility to schedule games, cost, organization and variety of players

Tell us about your most memorable match(es)
When I was very close to beat one of my arch-rivals Mr. Tatz Tanaka in a 3 hours game where I lost 7-5,7-5

Who are your favorite rivals in the league? Why? 
Michael Litel, super nice guy, consistent but not particularly aggressive game, nevertheless he is nearly un-beatable. Also, Leoncio Gutierrez, another great guy with very consistent game, nice technique.

Do you have any other interesting comments about your experiences with the league?
One of the best things happening to me in the last 5 years was to become a member of this league, I have not only improved my game of tennis but I have met a lot of nice people!

How did you get started playing tennis? 
About 4 years ago I was at 240 lbs., being 5’9” this was not ideal, I started eating better and got involved in tennis, now I am at 180 lbs., healthy and with lots of energy!

What level player are you?
3.5

What do you love about tennis?
In singles is just you vs the other player, if things go well is because of you and if they go bad is because of you. It's also highly technical, being an engineer I love the theory applied to practical and in tennis there is a lot of theory behind the tennis techniques.

And of course, in tennis,  the size or the age of the other player does not necessarily influence the results.

Who are your favorite pro players? 
Federer because the way he moves, he flies over the court. And Ferrer too because of his never giving up attitude during play.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Being from a humble family and growing up in a Latin American third world country (Uruguay), the chances to pick-up tennis as your sport are almost nil… the sport everyone plays is soccer because is cheap and easy, you grab a ball and you play on the street or on the closest empty field… tennis is expensive and reserved for an elite crowd.

I remember being 12 years old and walking by the tennis clubs, peering through the fences and watching all these people learning, training and playing and I loved it but never had the chance… Migrated to USA in 1986, got married and raised three children, today all grownups, just had the chance to pick up a racquet about three years ago and never looked back!!

So far I have not won any tournaments and only once made it to the playoffs, but it doesn’t matter, I have improved my game in these three years and I will keep playing until my joints scream at me to stop !!

Alex de Frondeville -- Frisbee Anyone?

New England is known for its cold weather. We wouldn't consider it a 'tennis city', compared to places like sunny Los Angeles or Miami. Though when the weather is warm you can guarantee Alex is making the most of it.

Alex recently became a veteran of Tennis League Network after playing in 25 matches in the Boston league. Despite his dedication to the game, it's not even the sport he plays most. That title belongs to ultimate frisbee.
He has seen a tremendous amount of success in competitive frisbee, and has won numerous national titles and is even a world championship!

Here's what Alex had to say when we recently interviewed him:

Which league are you a member of? 

Summer/Fall doubles, Fall Advanced singles league in Tennis NorthEast.

How long have you participated in your league? 

This is my first year. I started in competitive in the spring, then in the summer I was put in advanced.

How did you first learn about it?

I've been getting back into tennis (I played on my high school team) after 30 years of playing ultimate frisbee. I have been looking for regular playing opponents for two years with zero success. I randomly came upon this league doing a web search, signed up, and have loved it ever since.

How often do you play? 

I'm averaging about 1 to 2 matches a week. I'm not doing any outside tennis at the moment which I need to also be doing at the same time. I've been trying to develop a topspin backhand but it isn't good enough that I can break it out in these competitive matches.

What do you like most about the league? 

I'm definitely appreciating the ability to schedule matches based on my schedule. Some weeks I don't play any matches, but once I played 5 matches in 7 days!

Tell us about your most memorable match(es). 

Well, my very first match in the league this spring was with Josh Kushinsky. I double-faulted about a quarter of the time and got in 4 first serves in the entire match. This was the first time I had really played a true competitive match in years. Before my next match I went out and served two buckets of balls and proceeded to win my next 7 matches before being moved up to the competitive/3.5 division.

Who are your favorite rivals in the league? Why? 

I've played Nick Matsuura in Advanced twice this fall and we've split and they have been very close both times. I think I stole the victory the first time, but now that I'm improving my second serve, I don't think he will be able to tee off on it quite as much and I'm looking forward to winning the rubber match!

Do you have any other interesting comments about your experiences with the league? 

Playing singles and doubles at the same time has been a little bit more challenging in terms of scheduling matches, but that is on me, not the league. I'm grateful for the opportunity as I also love doubles.

How did you get started playing tennis? 

I started when I was pretty young, playing at a club in my hometown. I ended up playing on my high school tennis team, playing first doubles and making all-country and just missing the state tournament after losing in 3 sets to our 2nd and 3rd singles players in the sectional tournament.

When I got to Princeton, I quickly realized that I wasn't even going to make the JV team, saw a flyer for ultimate frisbee practice and played ultimate for the next 30 years. I picked up a racquet maybe 15 times in that interval.

What level player are you? 

The league has me at a 3.75 right now. Before I started this league, I had barely heard of USTA ratings and had to ask a friend I'd played a few times what I should be rated. She said between a 3.5 and 4, and when I applied as a 3.5, I was started at 3.25 and worked my way up.

What do you love about tennis? 

Unlike most of the sports I've played, it is truly an individual sport (when playing singles). There are lots of styles of play, strategies, and the theoretical best player doesn't always win.

Tell us a little bit more about yourself.

I was born in Massachusetts but moved to Rye, NY when I was 5 and my parents still live there. I switched from tennis to ultimate frisbee in college and I've been playing ever since. I've been fortunate to be able to compete and win at numerous national and world ultimate frisbee championships, the most recent of which was the world beach ultimate championships in Dubai back in March playing for the US grandmasters team (40+) where we beat Sweden in the finals. As ultimate winds down, it's time to get back into tennis which I should be able to play for a long time.

Nikolas Buitrago -- San Jose's Most Interesting Tennis Player

We wanted to feature a profile of Nikolas Buitrago to show his dedication to Tennis League Network after playing dozens of matches. So when we asked to learn more about him we were surprised to see that Nikolas does a whole lot more than dominate the courts: He dances, dives, swims and more!

He's also originally from Europe, having lived in Spain, France and Italy (No doubt he's had some jealousy from peers). He's also had the opportunity to see some tennis played at Roland Garros--home of the French Open.

If you want to find out more about San Jose's most interesting tennis player, read the interview below:

Which league are you a member of? 

I am a member of Tennis San Jose.  He's played 30 matches this year and has a 19-11 record.  https://www.tennissanjose.com/69467/profile?hh=1

How long have you participated in your league?

I have been playing in the league since June 2015.

How did you first learn about it? 

My friend, Albert Gomez, highly recommended it since I was looking to play a lot more matches than the other leagues I had joined. He was right, I found a lot more players as eager to play as me.

How often do you play? 

My work schedule isn't easy as I work on weekends and have to get creative finding time to play during the week. I try to play 3 matches a week, but if I had the time I would play double that!

What do you like most about the league? 

I love the rematch idea! It's great to be able to play against opponents you had great fun with or simply want to get another shot at beating them. The playoffs, of course, the pinnacle of the competition, are great, too.

Tell us about your most memorable match(es).

It's funny because, the 3 matches that come to mind are all losses to really good players. My losses against Geoff, Tam and Andre were all matches that pushed me to focus on what I need to improve. That's what I love so much about this sport: losing and then having to work up a strategy; a game plan; having to dig deep and find a way to beat your opponent. It's like trying to crack a code or solve a puzzle.

Who are your favorite rivals in the league? Why? 

I have so many rivals I like...and that is another thing I like about the league. There is such a variety of styles and a large draw of players to compete against. You rarely will have enough time to play against every single player in your draw. There is also a wide variety of levels that makes it really interesting because you never know who can upset who.

Do you have any other interesting comments about your experiences with the league? The players are really friendly and accommodating. I rarely have any problem finding someone to play against.

How did you get started playing tennis? 

At age 15, I took some lessons and loved it. I watched a ton of tennis and wanted to imitate all of my favorite players of the time.

What level player are you?

I am a 3.75...I think.

What do you love about tennis? 

I love to compete, one on one, where the only person I can rely on is myself. Win or Lose, it's up to me. I love how cerebral the sport is and how physically demanding it also can be. A lot of people don't realize how much technique, proper movement and a positive mentality goes into playing tennis.

Who are your favorite pro players? Why? 

I have so many...My first idol was Pete Sampras. I tried to imitate every tiny aspect of his game. A lot of people would give me praise on how well I could imitate him, but unfortunately I wasn't nearly as good of course.

When I first started playing, I would serve and volley all the time, and I would get my butt kicked most of the time as well. Nowadays, I have an admiration for a lot of different players and different aspects of their game and I try to adapt them to mine.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I grew up in Europe. I lived in Spain, Italy and France. I have great memories going to watch pro tournaments. One of my favorites is Roland Garros, I got to see a lot matches there.

I have a lot of hobbies: art, salsa dancing, swimming. This year I also picked up scuba diving. I have a lot of different interests and I am always looking to try something new and exciting.