What does it take to own and operate a thriving racquet club in today’s market? In this episode of Racquet Fuel, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale sit down with Elliott McDermed, co-owner of Overland Park Racquet Club, to dive deep into the journey from teaching pro to club owner.

Elliott shares the realities of club ownership - what he and his business partner Eric Rand expected, what surprised them, and how they’ve evolved their roles over the last decade. From revitalizing an aging facility to navigating staffing, financial challenges, and industry trends, this conversation is a must-listen for any aspiring club owner or racquets professional looking to take the next step in their career.

By the end of this episode, you'll learn:

✅ What it takes to transition from coaching or managing programs to full-scale club ownership—and why passion, not just profit, drives long-term success
✅ The behind-the-scenes realities of club ownership, including financial surprises, leadership dynamics, and the challenge of balancing work-life commitments
✅ Proven strategies for retaining top coaching talent in an industry where turnover is high, and why a strong staff culture matters
✅ How successful club owners approach renovations, facility upgrades, and program shifts to create a modern, financially sustainable business
✅ Why racquet sports are evolving beyond traditional tennis, and how clubs are integrating emerging sports like Padel and Pickleball
✅ The biggest lessons learned from experienced club owners—including why hard work, trust, and adaptability are essential for success

Thinking about club ownership? Elliott offers valuable advice for those considering the leap. If you’re on the path to leading a club, this episode provides real insights from an owner who's lived it.

Looking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the industry? Become a Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!

What does it take to lead 22 clubs, manage 250 pros, and grow the game of tennis across the country?

In this episode, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale sit down with Mike Woody, Vice President and National Director of Tennis at Genesis Health Clubs, to dive into his remarkable leadership journey. From his early days as a tennis instructor to becoming a key industry leader, Mike shares powerful lessons on growth, relationships, and navigating challenges in the racquet sports world.

By the end of this episode you'll know:

✅ How Mike transitioned from aspiring nurse to a lifelong career in tennis
✅ The biggest leadership lesson he learned (from a mistake that cost him $20K!)
✅ How he scaled from managing one club to overseeing 22 clubs & 250 pros
✅ The importance of building relationships in leadership and career growth
✅ Why focusing on the right priorities (instead of busy work) is crucial for success
✅ How to continuously evolve and invest in personal development

Whether you’re a coach, club manager, or looking to grow in the sports industry, this episode is packed with game-changing leadership insights you won’t want to miss!

Recommended Leadership Books:

• Discover Your Strengths by Marcus Buckingham
• The 12 Week Year by Brian Moran
• 10X Rule by Grant Cardone

Looking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the racquet sports industry? Become a Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!

If we have a shortage of pros and an abundance of positions in the racquets industry, why must you make your resume stand out? The reason is because the employer is still seeking the best person for the position. In this episode of Racquet Fuel, Kim Bastable and Simon Gale give their opinion on how you can make the best first impression - one that will almost guarantee getting you to the top of the interview pile. They share tips and insights on highlighting your achievements, how to effectively communication your qualifications to potential employers, how to discuss compensation (or not), and the dos and donts for recorded video interviews.

By the end of this episode you'll know:
- How to make a good first impression before an interview
- Ways to make cover letters stand out
- The difference in achievements and tasks in your job history
- How long a resume should be
- Professional ways to address compensation
- Dos and donts for video submissions

... and the secret to get to the TOP of Simon Gale's interview pile.

Looking to become a more confident, competent, and clear business leader with a lifelong career in the racquet sports industry? Become a Certified Director of Racquet Sports. Visit our website to learn more!