The Complete Package for the Recreational Player – Part 1 – Finding a Qualified Racquet Tech

At the recreational level of tennis, there are a lot of things players know, but there are also a lot of misconceptions that have been allowed to seep into the game that, from my perspective, need to be addressed. How do you choose a racquet, what string to use, and what tension is best for you? Who is the real expert when it comes to getting the help you need to find the right combination that can maximize your game?  Call this the “Weekend Warriors” guide to better tennis, part 1!

Knowing the difference

Racquet technician versus teaching professional

You’re ready to buy a new racquet. Who ya gonna call? The teaching pro or the Master Racquet Technician? How many of you weekend warriors actually know what a Master Racquet Technician is? If you don’t know, check HERE for a brief explanation.

Teaching professionals are trained to work with you in all aspects of the game while on court. Racquet technicians are professionals who are trained in the art of helping you select the right racquet, string & tension combination to maximize your game before you get to the court. There is a big difference between the two. Some teaching pros possess both skills, and if you can find one of them, then great. To help you locate a trained racquet technician in your area, you can go HERE to see a list of IART members ready and willing to help.

A working relationship

After you find your racquet technician, you should work on building a lasting relationship. Most highly skilled racquet technicians I’ve met are dedicated, and they love what they do. Find one and develop a solid relationship, and you’ll be glad you did. Above all, be truthful, and your tech will be able to zero in on what’s best for you and your game. If you’re a 3.5 NTRP-rated player, then be honest and say so; don’t tell them you’re a 4.0. Things like this have an impact on what your technician recommends when it comes to your equipment.

Care & Perfection

When you find the technician of your dreams he/she will go above and beyond to see that you’re taken care of. Highly trained technicians have a passion for what they do, and many times, they will do things while servicing your racquet that you’ll never know about – good things that is. Perfection is the norm, not the exception! Here’s what your newfound racquet tech will do for you before ever servicing your racquet.

• Racquets will be inspected for cracks and any other damage that should be pointed out to you.
• If your bumper/grommet set needs to be replaced, they’ll let you know when you drop it off.
• Individual grommets will be inspected for cracks, and if needed, they will be replaced
• They will use Teflon or nylon tubing to protect your string when necessary
• They will use power pads when necessary (small pieces of leather placed between the racquet and string)
• Many will use plastic bags to bag your racquet for additional protection from moisture, especially on natural gut
• Your racquet will be cleaned before it’s strung
• Their stringing machine will be calibrated, and the clamps will receive periodic cleaning, ensuring accurate tension
• They will recommend new grips when needed and often give you a free overwrap just for being a good client

The bottom line here is to find a good, reputable racquet technician when you’re in the market for a new racquet or when you just need a routine service. Racquet technicians are your “go-to” option when it comes to equipment. It’s called teamwork, and if you engage with your technician and show a genuine interest in what they do as well as your desire to have the very best service possible, you’ll enjoy your tennis experience to the maximum!

Go HERE for part 2
Go HERE for part 3
Go HERE for part 4