Time to Rally: The Masked Tennis Pro

April 30, 2020 | By Steven Kaplan
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Photo courtesy of Getty Images

 

It comes as a surprise to many that wearing a mask provides modest protection to the wearer, but significant protection to those they come in contact with.  Therefore, wearing a mask is an act of altruism towards others, as well as an act of trust.

If I wear my mask, I trust in YOUR desire to keep me safe since I have acted to keep you safe.

As we prepare to reopen tennis facilities in a month or so, I think it’s important to remember that as tennis pros and coaches we are teachers and leaders.

We set the example for others to follow, and safe, responsible behavior is always one of the most significant lessons we will ever teach.

What about the leaders who refuse to wear masks?

The emperor has no clothes.

 


Steven Kaplan

Steven Kaplan is the owner and managing director of Bethpage Park Tennis Center, as well as director emeritus of Lacoste Academy for New York City Parks Foundation and executive director and founder of Serve & Return Inc. Steve has coached more than 1,100 nationally-ranked junior players, 16 New York State high school champions, two NCAA Division 1 Singles Champions, and numerous highly-ranked touring professionals. Many of the students Steve has closely mentored have gone to achieve great success as prominent members of the New York financial community, and in other prestigious professions. In 2017, Steve was awarded the Hy Zausner Lifetime Achievement Award by the USTA. He may be reached by e-mail at StevenJKaplan@aol.com.

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