USPTR - Worthwhile course?

[Robert Johnson]

Hi,

Having coached in the past here in the uk, im looking to take things further and enrol on a coaching course. I completed the LTA's DCA course a few years back but wasn't impressed with how it was run.

The only other option over here seems to be the USPTR.

Does it have a good rep in the states (as good as USTA?).

Would be interested to hear peoples views, especially those that have taken both courses.

Thanks,

Rob

[Ash_Smith]

Rob

USPTR ISN'T the only other option!!! Check out the RPT (Registro Professionel de Tenis) www.RPTeurope.com.

I'm admittedly biased as i'm a tutor for the RPT but we run courses all over the UK and Spain (and further beyond). In the UK we are the only training provider who have equivilancy status with the LTA meaning you can hold our quals and still apply for a coach lisence on our Mark of a Pro+ course (DCA) and Advanced Course (CCA).

This equivilancy programme means this a real alternative to LTA coach education courses - somethigng the PTR cannot offer.

Shout me back if you want any further info.

Regards

Ash

[wihamilton]

I'm a PTR certified professional. I'd definitely recommend the program. The PTR has 10K+ members and can hook you up w/job opportunities if you're looking.

[10ispro]

you can also get certified by ITF to coach/teach tennis.

[SFrazeur]

In the USA, certification depends on where you are. My suggestion would suggest to anyone would be to go with what is popular and close to your area. In my area the PTR has a lesser to bad reputation. This attitude is most likely going to change in the future somewhat as the PTR has been doing a fair bit of work with Colleges, giving discount to certification costs and so forth.

-SF

[Robert Johnson]

Thanks for all your replies. For some reason id not heard of the RPT but looks interesting. Im thinking now with all these options i may arrange to pop down and watch a course from each taking place and then make a decision.

By all means Ash, if you have some more info that would be great. The link on the website for more details wasn't working. Prices/length of course would be good to know.

Regards

Rob

[Ash_Smith]

Rob

The Mark of a Pro+ course (DCA equivilent) is 5 days for the core course then roughly a month later 2 days (Spanish drills day and specialist shots day) then another month later 2 final days (Singles tactics and doubles tactics). Currently we are offering the Mark+ for £150 as we have a funding deal through Bristol College (with an NVQ).

The advanced course is 5 days, but i'm unaware of the current price at the moment as we are tying up funding with the LSC.

I'm tutoring a Mark+ in Swindon starting on April 7, there are plenty of others available in and around London through the year.

Drop me an email if you want any more info.

Regards

Ash

[Ash_Smith]

Robert

Thanks for your msg - check your inbox...

Ash