the United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) has been the leading organization for tennis professionals. As racquet sports have evolved since our inception in 1927 our organization has also changed to meet the diverse needs of those in the industry.
the USPTA will continue its journey as the Racquet Sports Professionals Association (RSPA). This transformation reflects our commitment to supporting professionals across all racquet sports, recognizing the diverse and dynamic nature of our industry.
As the RSPA, we're expanding our horizons to provide unparalleled career support for professionals in all areas of racquet sports. Here's what you can expect:
The transition to RSPA is more than a rebranding – it's a recommitment to our core identity:
While there may be easier paths to certification, the RSPA offers something more valuable – a lifelong partnership in your professional journey. We believe that the future of racquet sports requires more than just technical skills. It demands a holistic understanding of the industry, adaptability, and a commitment to service.
Join us as we embark on this exciting new chapter. Together, we'll shape the future of racquet sports, support each other's growth, and continue to share our love for the games that bring us together.
Welcome to the RSPA – where you can turn your passion into a pursuit.
We're excited to announce that a brand-new RSPA website is currently under construction. This new digital home will reflect our expanded mission and provide enhanced resources for all racquet sports professionals. While we put the finishing touches on our new site, this page will serve as an information hub for our transition from USPTA to RSPA. Stay tuned for the launch of our comprehensive RSPA website, where you'll find even more tools, resources, and opportunities to support your career in racquet sports.
The Racquet Sports Professionals Association Announces Expansion on a Global Scale
The Racquet Sports Professionals Association (RSPA) has announced its expansion beyond the United States, with the assistance of Nelson Artz, the newly appointed managing director for Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA). This expansion will offer racquet sports professionals in these regions top-of-the-line professional development opportunities, helping to establish a higher standard in racquet sports careers.
With the global growth of racquet sports, the RSPA is the gold standard of teaching certification and professional development to serve professionals from around the world and, under the leadership of Nelson Artz, the RSPA aims to transform the world's passion for racquet sports into thriving careers by developing professionals who lead with integrity, innovate in coaching and inspire a diverse and inclusive community.
Nelson Artz began his career as a tennis coach and was among the pioneers to study the emerging field of sports management more than 30 years ago. His international career includes serving as global director of retail, promotion and grassroots at Wilson Racquet Sports, a brand with which he has maintained a strong 30-year relationship.
Artz is also the founder of the Nelson Artz Group GmbH & Co. KG, a marketing and brand development agency that collaborates with numerous national and international brands in sport, leisure and tourism, offering comprehensive 360-degree full-service solutions.
“Nelson's extensive knowledge and experience in both the coaching and business aspects of racquet sports are invaluable as we embark on our global expansion. His leadership will be instrumental in establishing the world's largest racquet sports professional association and enhancing racquet sports careers and experiences worldwide,” said Brian Dillman, CEO of RSPA.
"I’m honored to take on this role at RSPA. The association's dedication to uniting and advancing racquet sports professionals aligns perfectly with our global expansion goals. I look forward to contributing to RSPA's growth and promoting racquet sports across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa," said Nelson Artz., Managing Director for EMEA at RSPA.
About the RSPA The Racquet Sports Professionals Association (RSPA), formerly the United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA), is the leading trade organization for racquet sports professionals. Since 1927, the RSPA has grown to support the diverse needs of the racquet sports industry, including tennis, pickleball, padel, squash and platform tennis. With more than 14,000 members worldwide and 17 divisions across the country, the RSPA offers career advancement support, certification and development opportunities, from coaching to club management, executive development to sales and marketing and beyond. Our mission is to champion the passion of racquet sports by developing professionals who lead with integrity, innovate in coaching and inspire a diverse and inclusive racquet sports community. Learn more at RSPA.net.
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Media Contact:
Collin Brazan RSPA, Director of Marketing collin.brazan@rspa.net 407-634-3061