It was almost 20 years ago when Chris Jones was asked to be the fourth player in a doubles match.

 

“I could barely put the ball in play,” he remembers.

 

But that didn’t matter. From that first time, Jones was hooked as a tennis player.

 

Jones is one of the many USTA League Tennis captains helping to grow tennis by organizing team play and introducing the game to new people.

 

Jones first found himself involved with USTA League in 2006, when he was pointed toward a 3.5 team in the Philadelphia-based 18 and Over League. It was a perfect fit.

 

We connected with Chris to ask him about his experience with tennis, USTA League, and his local community.

 

What do you enjoy most about captaining? What’s the biggest challenge?

The most rewarding part of captaining for me is getting people out on the court, whether it's introducing players to USTA leagues/tournaments or starting new teams in leagues/divisions that weren't already running (i.e. ADVERTISEMENT men's 18+ 5.0, mixed 40+ 9.0, both in Delaware).

 

It's a great feeling sending out a lineup or an invitation to a team and getting back that email that says, "Thanks! Looking forward to playing!"
It's extremely difficult finding just the right balance, when it comes to roster size for a team. It's never fun defaulting courts in a match (especially during mixed doubles season) but if you recruit an army of players, you are potentially benching people that just want to play.

 

What do you think the biggest benefit of tennis is, for you?

Tennis has resulted in some amazing friendships for me. You meet so many new people through league and tournament play, inevitably you find someone with whom you really click and form a lasting and treasured relationship.

 

What is unique about the tennis community around you, or your team?

Because the different districts in the area are so close to each other in proximity, you find yourself playing alongside your friends one night then later that week you're playing against them in a different league!

 

--
 

Captains in our USTA League Tennis program keep our game going. Throughout the year, USTA Middle States features captains from around the section who have done a great job in promoting the game, and making the experience unforgettable for their teammates.

 

Have a captain you'd like to see recognized? Email us at NetPLAY@ms.usta.com.

 

There are plenty of USTA Middle States league opportunities in your area this fall. Find a league that works for you and join today!