Today we’d like to introduce you to Roderick Slack.
Roderick, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Helping people is something I’ve always been drawn to. OnlyTheBall Tennis is how I use the great game of tennis to do just that… help people.
I was introduced by my older sister. I was a high school athlete in basketball and baseball so she figured she could teach me to be her practice partner. I was hooked but the seasons conflicted so I could only practice with the team. In the summers however I could pursue my love of tennis. The same was true in college. After college, I worked in private sector and tennis became my only sport.
In the 90’s, the Atlanta Lawn Tennis Association(ALTA) was in full swing and coaching opportunities were plentiful. I became certified first by Professional Tennis Registry then United States Professional Tennis Association. I was working in tennis retail and meeting lot of people who needed coaching and I became an independent teaching professional. I continued to educate myself on best coaching methods in the USTA’s developmental coaches programs and still regularly attend seminars.
I started working with junior players specifically and became a high school coach for The Atlanta International School in Buckhead. I held a position as Head Pro of ALTA Foundations “After School Tennis Program” in 1998… a program which was received the “A Plus” Award of the Atlanta Chamber of Commerce for community service.
I was employed at South Fulton Tennis Center in early 2000’s and became director of tennis there. I then moved to North Fulton Tennis Center( now Sandy Springs Tennis Center) where I develop a program for young players 4-7 called “Supertots” using dead balls. I still use this program today as the age and equipment for young players is specific…shorter racquets and slower balls. This has been a blessing for coaches… makes it easier for them to learn.
The last 12 years to presently, I’ve been an independent doing OnlyTheBall programs for kids and adults in East Cobb.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
If you love something obstacles and challenges aren’t seen as that. They’re part of the “due dilegence” to giving good service. In a competitive market, it’s important to find your niche and do it well. Tennis is a discretionary activity for most people so it’s important to give good value and listen to people. I’ve had a few clubs that didn’t appreciate my skill set so you move on till you find someone that does. Those people will tell others
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about OnlyTheBall Tennis Academy – what should we know?
OnlyTheBall a Tennis serves juniors and adults who want to play for various reasons..fun, develop a tennis game to compete in high school or beyond, league and/or tournament play. I’ve had success in helping people improve their game and I’m great at corrective techniques. What sets me apart is the service and going the extra mile.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Being observant and detailed oriented.
Contact Info:
- Address: Lower Roswell Rd. and Johnson Ferry area
- Website: Www.mindspring.com/~rodslack
- Phone: 770-630-3212
- Email: rodslack@mindspring.com
Image Credit:
Rod Slack
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