|
|
|
|
Butch Staples named USTA Trainer of the Year |
The USTA has honored Butch Staples, head tennis professional at Chicago’s Midtown Tennis Club, as the first-ever United States Tennis Association Recreational Coaches Workshop (RCW) “Trainer of the Year.” The award recognizes associates that go above and beyond to train beginning coaches and promote the recreational sport of tennis.
“It only seemed fitting that Butch be the first to win this award,” said Kirk Anderson, USTA director of recreational coaches and programs. “Butch is one of ten master trainers in the country and has been with us since the program began in 2000. He has been a big proponent and supporter of the RCW. Even with a busy schedule, he always takes time to give back and train those who are just starting out.”
The mission of the USTA RCW program is to get teachers trained to introduce tennis in a fun way and help retain interest in playing the sport. Staples has taught 28 workshops in the past six years and remains No.2 in the United States for conducting the most RCWs. He is responsible for training many of the estimated 23,000 coaches that have gone through the program. His main focus has always been to teach beginning coaches to help promote and develop the growth of tennis.
“The USTA award truly exemplifies excellence in the tennis industry, and I am pleased that Butch has been recognized in this way,” said Steven Schwartz, president and CEO of Midtown Athletic Clubs. “His ongoing commitment to the sport of tennis is exemplary and we are privileged to have him as a head pro.”
Staples has been instrumental in helping to design and update the RCW curriculum. As a Professional Tennis Registry Master Professional, Butch is recognized by his peers as a world-class teacher and clinician.
“What the award and titles do not capture is Butch's gentle, nurturing style and deep loyalty to every associate,” said Michael Mahoney, general manager, Midtown Tennis Club. “He is arguably the most humble person I know in our industry. Butch shows by example how to be remarkable. I am thrilled to see him win this award.”
Staples has been a member of the Midtown staff for more than three years. He has been teaching since 1974 and holds a masters degree in Physical Education from Springfield College. Staples is certified by the Professional Tennis Registry as a master professional, the United States Professional Tennis Association and Tennis Canada. |
|
|
|
