USPTA Partners with Three University PTM Programs
LAKE NONA, FL, June 6, 2023 — The United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA), Inc. is pleased to announce partnerships with the professional tennis management (PTM) programs at Ferris State University, Hope College and Methodist University.
Partnership requires a university to meet the USPTA’s standards for education and certification of future tennis professionals. Through coursework and on-court education, USPTA certification verifies to potential future employers that recent graduates possess the necessary skills to work as high-level tennis-teaching professionals.
“We need to have more young people who aspire to become tennis-teaching professionals. The pipeline that Ferris, Hope and Methodist PTM programs provide will help fill that need and we’re delighted to solidify our partnership,” USPTA CEO John Embree said.
The USPTA ensures partnered programs teach students skills that employers highly covet. Students from these programs are in demand by organizations seeking well-developed professionals and are often brought on as paid staff members or as interns while still in the PTM programs.
“We are very excited to further our relationship with the USPTA,” said Scott Handback, Methodist University PTM program director and assistant professor in the Reeves School of Business. “Historically, our students go through USPTA certification and become leaders in the organization at various levels. This relationship only furthers our cooperation on producing the future leaders in the racquet sports industry.”
Methodist University’s PTM program is the largest in the United States, has a 100% job placement rate following graduation and has produced more than 300 alumni across its 40-year history.
"We are very excited about this partnership. By partnering with the USPTA, our students will have access to so many continuing education and networking resources, allowing them to be a step ahead in the tennis industry," Adam Ford, Hope College director of professional tennis management, said.
The Hope College PTM program boasts a 100% job placement rate that sees 70% of students acquire job offers prior to graduation.
“Ferris State University's PTM program is excited to be endorsed by the USPTA! The Ferris State University PTM program has prepared passionate young adults for careers in the racquet sports and business industries for more than 35 years. We are thrilled to have the USPTA on board with us as we continue to produce the next generation of industry leaders,” Michael Janz, Ferris State University PTM assistant director said.
Ferris State University’s PTM program was the first in the United States to be accredited by the USPTA, and it awards its graduates with a degree in business with a choice of minor.
Students enrolled at partnered universities qualify for discounted USPTA membership rates and will undergo all level one and level two education components to become Certified Professionals with the USPTA.
About the USPTA: Founded in 1927, the USPTA is the global leader in tennis-teacher certification and professional development. With more than 14,000 members worldwide and 17 divisions nationwide, the Association's mission is to raise the standards of tennis-teaching professionals and coaches and to promote a greater awareness of the sport. Learn more at USPTA.com.
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Media Contact:
Marisa Lampe
USPTA, Director of Marketing & Communications
marisa.lampe@uspta.org
407-634-3071
Collin Brazan
USPTA, Public Relations
collin.brazan@uspta.org
407-634-3050