The Preface to The Code: Why Tennis Needs More Than Rules
Over the next few months, we will conduct a thorough examination of the principles outlined in The Code. For the uninitiated, that resource is aRead More
Colonel Nick Powel and the Origins of The Code in Tennis
Over the next few weeks, we will embark on a deep dive into the individual principles contained in “The Code.” However, before we embark onRead More
Rulebooks, Sidequests, and Obsession: Searching for “The Code”
As I prepare to launch into a deep dive into The Code by Colonel Nick Powel, I find myself suddenly obsessed with locating the original version heRead More
1 responseThe Origins of The Code: How Nick Powel Shaped Modern Tennis Etiquette
Today marks the start of a new weekly series breaking down the rules contained in The Code, which is a key part of the USTA’s officialRead More
1 responseHarnessing the Full Power of Sportsmanship Affirmations
A few weeks ago, as I registered for the USTA 55+ National Championships, I was greeted with something I’d never encountered before when signing upRead More
What is the Purpose of USTA League Play
After last week’s post about the prospects of a potential future medical appeal for the Trophy Husband, I realized I still had a significant looseRead More
3 responsesMedical Appeals and Medical Setbacks
For obvious reasons, one of our recent breakfast table conversation topics revolves around the question of whether the Trophy Husband might one day need toRead More
3 responsesSelf-Rating Happens Every Time You Show Up for a Drill
Last week, I made the case that nearly every USTA League player begins their journey with a self-rating. However, here’s the thing: self-rating isn’t aRead More
1 response(Almost) Everybody Self-Rates
In this year of our Lord 2025, almost every active player in USTA League tennis first engaged with the NTRP system by going through theRead More
1 responseSelf-Rating Criteria: Lost in Translation
Last Wednesday, I wrote about the pitfalls of the USTA self-rating system and how high school tennis experience, as specified in the guidelines, doesn’t alwaysRead More