Racquet Fuel

Athlete+
  • 4.8 (20)
  • TENNIS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Racquet Fuel provides insights into the best practices and innovations of racquets industry business leaders. Co-hosts Kim Bastable, Director of Professional Tennis Management at the University of Florida, and Simon Gale, Senior Director Racquet Sports Development at the USTA National Campus, help racquets leaders in your ability to grow the game and to improve the experiences you offer to both your staff and players by talking to industry leaders, including USTA executives, authors and innovators. If you are on a career path in racquet sports or already a racquets business leader and you want to stay up to date on ideas and innovations in racquets industry business and leadership, this podcast is for you. Presented by the Athlete+ Podcast Network at the University of Florida Institute for Coaching Excellence.

  1. Building a Sustainable Tennis Business: Lessons from Australia’s Victorian Tennis Academy - Tina Keown & Jack Glennane

    2D AGO

    Building a Sustainable Tennis Business: Lessons from Australia’s Victorian Tennis Academy - Tina Keown & Jack Glennane

    What does it take to build a successful tennis academy that not only develops players, but also develops people? In this episode of Racquet Fuel, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale speak with Tina Keown and Jack Glennane, directors of the Victorian Tennis Academy. Operating four venues and 24 courts just minutes from the Australian Open grounds, VTA has become one of Australia’s leading tennis organizations, earning multiple Tennis Australia awards along the way. Tina and Jack share how they’ve built a thriving multi-venue tennis business by focusing on people first. From implementing a seven-tier career pathway for coaches to shifting toward more sustainable employment models, they discuss how leadership, culture, and long-term thinking can help clubs retain great staff and deliver exceptional experiences for players. They also reflect on their own journeys from casual coaches to directors and the lessons learned while balancing leadership, operations, and growth. This conversation matters for anyone managing a tennis program, leading a racquet sports department, or trying to create a sustainable coaching workforce. Whether you run a single facility or oversee multiple locations, you’ll gain practical insight into building strong teams, empowering staff, and evolving from working in the business to leading it strategically. What You’ll Learn: Why hiring for values first helps build stronger coaching teamsHow creating a clear career pathway can turn coaching jobs into long-term professionsWhy the tennis industry often loses coaches to other industries—not competing clubsHow owner-operators can balance day-to-day operations with long-term leadershipThe importance of empowering staff with ownership and leadership opportunitiesWhy investing in professional development and education helps retain great coachesHow diverse programming—from court hire to adult leagues—creates a more sustainable business model Resources & Mentions: Victorian Tennis Academy — Multi-location tennis academy based in Melbourne, AustraliaTennis Australia  — Learn more about what Australia has to offer for the racquet sports world Hosts: Kim Bastable — UF Director of Racquet Sports EducationSimon Gale — USTA Leader & Facility Executive Guests: Tina Keown — Director, Victorian Tennis AcademyJack Glennane — Director, Victorian Tennis AcademyLearn More & Get Certified: Racquet Fuel is powered by the University of Florida’s Director of Racquet Sports Certificate Program, the industry’s leading education for current and aspiring racquets leaders. Explore our self-paced online courses and join the next generation of directors shaping the future of the game. Learn more here: Personal Brand Management for the Racquets Industry — UF PBM Course 1: Facilities, Operations, Marketing & More — UF DORS 1 Course 2: Leadership, Management & Finance —  UF DORS        - Course 1 completion is required for Course 2. Discount Codes: Personal Brand Management for the Racquets Industry: Use code “RF25” for $25 off Course 1: Facilities, Operations, Marketing & More: Use code “RF100” for $100 off Inquiries: Contact: UFDORS@hhp.ufl.edu

    33 min
  2. Designing Tennis for the Modern Family: Innovation, Adaptation & Urban Growth — with Anthony Evrard

    FEB 26

    Designing Tennis for the Modern Family: Innovation, Adaptation & Urban Growth — with Anthony Evrard

    What if the future of racquet sports growth depends less on tradition and more on designing experiences for beginners, families, and urban communities? In this episode of Racquet Fuel, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale sit down with Anthony Evrard, Co-founder and CEO of Court 16, to explore how innovation, listening, and purposeful design are reshaping the way families enter tennis. What began in a Brooklyn industrial building with red ball courts has evolved into a multi-location, multi-generational racquet concept backed by strategic partners including Babolat and USTA Ventures. This conversation matters for anyone building programs, launching facilities, or trying to grow the game in non-traditional markets. Whether you lead a private club, public facility, or are dreaming up your own concept, you’ll come away with practical insight on carving out a niche and staying adaptable. What You’ll Learn Why competing for families’ time, not other clubs, changes your programming strategyHow “learn here, play anywhere” creates clarity in junior pathway developmentWhy niche specialization often beats trying to serve every segmentThe power of listening and responding quickly to your communityHow engaging the entire family strengthens retention and growthWhy letting players move on can actually build long-term loyaltyWhat it means to run your business like a “living Google document”Resources & Mentions Court 16 — Urban, family-focused tennis clubs founded in BrooklynUSTA Ventures (Court 16) — Growth-focused investment arm of USTA Hosts: Kim Bastable  — UF Director of Racquet Sports EducationSimon Gale  — USTA Leader & Facility Executive  Guest: Anthony Evrard — Court 16 Co-Founder and CEO  Learn More & Get Certified Racquet Fuel is powered by the University of Florida’s Director of Racquet Sports Certificate Program, the industry’s leading education for current and aspiring racquets leaders. Explore our self-paced online courses — Personal Brand Management, Operations & Programming, and Leadership & Finance — and join the next generation of directors shaping the future of the game.  Learn more here: Personal Brand Management for the Racquets Industry — UF PBM Course 1: Facilities, Operations, Marketing & More — UF DORS 1 Course 2: Leadership, Management & Finance — UF DORS 2Course 1 completion is required for course 2  Discount Codes: Personal Brand Management for the Racquets Industry: Use code “RF25” for $25 off Course 1: Facilities, Operations, Marketing & More: Use code “RF100” for $100 off   Inquiries:Contact UFDORS@hhp.ufl.edu

    35 min
  3. Building the Right Fit: Hiring, Leadership & Balance in Modern Racquet Clubs — with Andrew Minnelli

    FEB 5

    Building the Right Fit: Hiring, Leadership & Balance in Modern Racquet Clubs — with Andrew Minnelli

    What if the most successful racquet sports leaders aren’t the most credentialed—but the most adaptable, self-aware, and committed to culture fit? In this episode, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale sit down with Andrew Minnelli,  Director of Racquets at Bighorn Golf Club and Consultant with GSI Executive Search,  to explore what modern leadership, hiring, and career growth really look like in today’s racquet sports industry. Drawing from his unique dual role, Andrew shares insights from both sides of the interview table: leading a high-level club operation while helping facilities nationwide identify and place top talent. Whether you’re an aspiring director, a seasoned pro, or a club decision-maker, this conversation offers clarity on fit, balance, and building long-term success.   What You’ll Learn: Why culture fit and passion often matter more than a long list of certificationsHow COVID reshaped racquet sports leadership and accelerated multi-sport oversightCommon interview mistakes candidates make—and how to avoid leading with the wrong agendaWhy a strong 90-day plan should focus on listening, not instant solutionsHow search firms help uncover a club’s true needs—and prepare candidates for successWhat “balance is earned” really means for leaders managing teams, families, and careersA mindset shift: how being the best part of someone else’s day strengthens leadership impactResources & Mentions GSI Executive Search — Executive recruiting and leadership consulting for clubsBigHorn Golf Club— Boutique, high-touch club model in Palm DesertInternational POP Tennis Association — Expanding access and innovation in racquet sports  Hosts: Kim Bastable - UF Director of Racquet Sports EducationSimon Gale - USTA Leader & Facility Executive  Guest: Andrew Minnelli — Director of Racquets at BigHorn Golf Club & Consultant with GSI Executive Search  Learn More & Get Certified  Racquet Fuel is powered by the University of Florida’s Director of Racquet Sports Certificate Program, the industry’s leading education for current and aspiring racquets leaders. Explore our self-paced online courses — Personal Brand Management, Operations & Programming, and Leadership & Finance — and join the next generation of directors shaping the future of the game. 👉 Learn More & Enroll Here

    32 min

  4. JAN 15

    Building the Next 100 Years of Racquet Sports Leadership - with Brian Dillman

    What if the future of racquet sports leadership depends less on titles and more on advocacy, early identification, and building a profession people are proud to choose? In this episode of Racquet Fuel, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale sit down with Brian Dillman, CEO of the Racquet Sports Professionals Association (RSPA), to unpack one of the most significant leadership transformations in the industry. Brian shares the thinking behind the transition from United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) to RSPA, and what it takes to rebrand not just a name, but a culture. This conversation matters for anyone invested in building sustainable careers, recruiting the next generation, and elevating racquet sports as a legitimate, long-term profession.  What You’ll Learn  Why rebranding is a cultural shift, not a cosmetic changeHow early identification can shape future leaders long before collegeWhat “advocacy” really looks like at the facility, city, and industry levelWhy racquet sports must be positioned as a profession, not a side jobHow managing up, sideways, and down strengthens leadership impactThe risks and rewards of making big decisions with collective buy-inWhy “we, not me” leadership builds trust and long-term momentumResources & Mentions  Racquet Sports Professionals Association (RSPA)Hugh O’Brien Leadership SeminarHosts: Kim Bastable - UF Director of Racquet Sports EducationSimon Gale - USTA Leader & Facility Executive Guest: Brian Dillman - CEO RSPA Learn More & Get Certified Racquet Fuel is powered by the University of Florida’s Director of Racquet Sports Certificate Program, the industry’s leading education for current and aspiring racquets leaders. Explore our self-paced online courses — Personal Brand Management, Operations & Programming, and Leadership & Finance — and join the next generation of directors shaping the future of the game. 👉 Learn More & Enroll Here

    35 min
  5. From Grand Slams to Giving Back: Gigi Fernandez on Leadership, Legacy, and Building Tennis for Hope

    12/18/2025

    From Grand Slams to Giving Back: Gigi Fernandez on Leadership, Legacy, and Building Tennis for Hope

    What happens when a Hall of Fame career ends and the real leadership work begins? In this episode of Racquet Fuel, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale sit down with Gigi Fernandez, Hall of Fame tennis player, Olympic gold medalist, and founder of Tennis for Hope, to explore what leadership looks like after elite performance. Gigi shares her honest transition from individual excellence to collaborative leadership, including lessons learned running major programs like Chelsea Piers and launching a mission-driven foundation after personal loss. This conversation matters for anyone navigating the shift from being great at something to leading others with humility, purpose, and impact. What You’ll Learn Why elite performance does not automatically translate to effective leadershipHow Tennis for Hope was born from personal adversity and community responseThe importance of surrounding yourself with people who are smarter than youHow ego can limit leadership growth and what it takes to dismantle itWhy networking is a long-term leadership skill, not a transactional oneHow tennis uniquely teaches resilience, failure, and emotional regulationWhat legacy-driven leadership looks like beyond wins and titlesHosts: Kim Bastable - UF Director of Racquet Sports EducationSimon Gale - USTA Leader & Facility Executive Guest: Gigi Fernandez – Founder & President, Tennis for Hope; Tennis Hall of Famer & Olympic Gold Medalist Learn More & Get Certified Racquet Fuel is powered by the University of Florida’s Director of Racquet Sports Certificate Program, the industry’s leading education for current and aspiring racquets leaders. Explore our self-paced online courses — Personal Brand Management, Operations & Programming, and Leadership & Finance — and join the next generation of directors shaping the future of the game. 👉 Learn More & Enroll Here

    37 min
  6. Leading Gen Z: Shaping the Future of Work with Tim Elmore

    12/04/2025

    Leading Gen Z: Shaping the Future of Work with Tim Elmore

    What’s Really Going On with Gen Z in the Workplace? In this episode of Racquet Fuel, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale sit down with leadership expert and author Tim Elmore to unpack the realities of Generation Z and how they’re reshaping the workforce. Tim breaks down insights from his new book, The Future Begins with Z, explaining what makes Gen Z tick — their mix of high agency, high anxiety, and a craving for authenticity. The conversation hits work-life balance, purpose-driven motivation, four-day workweeks, and how connection is vital. What You’ll Learn: Generation Z is rapidly becoming the core of the workforce.They bring strong agency but also elevated anxiety to the job.The Peter Pan paradox captures their tension between maturity and authority.Leaders must start with belief and understanding instead of frustration.Onboarding is a make-or-break moment for Gen Z belonging.Meaningful work and work-life balance drive their decisions.Gen Z is motivated by a blend of money and mission.Entrepreneurial, flexible environments keep them engaged.Connection > control when it comes to leading younger employees.Gen Z’s preferences will heavily shape the future of work.Hosts: Kim Bastable - UF Director of Racquet Sports EducationSimon Gale - USTA Leader & Facility Executive Guest: Tim Elmore – Author of The Future Begins with Z, Leadership Expert, Founder of Growing Leaders Learn More & Get Certified Racquet Fuel is powered by the University of Florida’s Director of Racquet Sports Certificate Program, the industry’s leading education for current and aspiring racquets leaders. Explore our self-paced online courses — Personal Brand Management, Operations & Programming, and Leadership & Finance — and join the next generation of directors shaping the future of the game. 👉 Learn More & Enroll Here

    47 min

  7. 11/20/2025

    Pickleball & Padel Growth with Industry Pioneer David Johnson

    What’s Driving the Explosion of Pickleball and Padel? In this episode of Racquet Fuel, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale talk with industry pioneer David Johnson about the massive growth of pickleball and the rising momentum of padel in the United States. David shares his early journey co-founding Pickleball Central in 2006, what he’s learned watching the sport scale, and why participation curves are now shifting as the market matures. The conversation breaks down the real data behind growth trends, why multi-sport facilities are becoming the new norm, and what operators need to know before adding padel. They dig into staffing needs, leadership skills, membership models, and how hospitality ultimately determines whether a facility thrives. Hosts:Kim Bastable - UF Director of Racquet Sports EducationSimon Gale - USTA Leader & Facility Executive Guest:David Johnson – Co-Founder of Pickleball Central, Pickleball Consultant Learn More & Get Certified Racquet Fuel is powered by the University of Florida’s Director of Racquet Sports Certificate Program, the industry’s leading education for current and aspiring racquet leaders. Explore our self-paced online courses — Personal Brand Management, Operations & Programming, and Leadership & Finance — and join the next generation of directors shaping the future of the game. 👉 Learn More & Enroll Here

    37 min
  8. Business Standards with Consultants Ajay Pant and Doug Cash

    11/06/2025

    Business Standards with Consultants Ajay Pant and Doug Cash

    What standards are necessary to build a successful club? In this episode of Racquet Fuel, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale talk with Consultants Doug Cash and Ajay Pant about the importance of standards in business, particularly in the context of tennis clubs. They explore how standards define a brand, the necessity of enforcing them, and the challenges of managing high performers who may resist compliance. The conversation also delves into the consequences of lacking standards, the process of building a new culture, and the role of leadership in maintaining quality control. Both Doug and Ajay emphasize the need for transparency, team involvement, and the evolution of standards over time to ensure a consistent and high-quality customer experience. What You’ll Learn: Standards are essential for setting expectations before hiring.The bigger and more corporate the club, the more likely they have written standards.Enforcement of standards is often lacking due to confrontation skills.Standards should evolve as the business improves.Involve the team in developing and agreeing on standards.High performers can be the hardest to manage when they resist standards.Quality control is crucial for maintaining product consistency.Transparency with standards helps in building trust with employees.The culture of a business is reflected in what happens when no one is watching.Hiring for cultural fit is vital for maintaining standards.Hosts: Kim Bastable - UF Director of Racquet Sports EducationSimon Gale - USTA Leader & Facility Executive Guest: Ajay Pant - CEO & Owner of Karundy Consulting Doug Cash - CEO & Owner of CashFlowTennis Learn More & Get Certified Racquet Fuel is powered by the University of Florida’s Director of Racquet Sports Certificate Program, the industry’s leading education for current and aspiring racquets leaders. Explore our self-paced online courses — Personal Brand Management, Operations & Programming, and Leadership & Finance — and join the next generation of directors shaping the future of the game. 👉 Learn More & Enroll Here

    36 min
See All (69)

4.8
out of 5
20 Ratings

About

Racquet Fuel provides insights into the best practices and innovations of racquets industry business leaders. Co-hosts Kim Bastable, Director of Professional Tennis Management at the University of Florida, and Simon Gale, Senior Director Racquet Sports Development at the USTA National Campus, help racquets leaders in your ability to grow the game and to improve the experiences you offer to both your staff and players by talking to industry leaders, including USTA executives, authors and innovators. If you are on a career path in racquet sports or already a racquets business leader and you want to stay up to date on ideas and innovations in racquets industry business and leadership, this podcast is for you. Presented by the Athlete+ Podcast Network at the University of Florida Institute for Coaching Excellence.

Information

  • Creator
    Athlete+
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    69
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2023 UF Institute for Coaching Excellence
  • Show Website
    Racquet Fuel

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