USATT Launches Pro Tour

By Dan Seemiller

The USATT Elite Athlete Committee has approved the budget to start a USA Pro Tour in 2003. This year there will be six events (see opposite page) with each 4-star tournament awarding a minimum of $9,000 in prize money.

The purpose of this tour is to become comparable to other professional tours with excellent prize money. It is the goal of the tour to eventually host 16-20 4-star events each year. Attracting a national sponsor for the tour is a priority for USATT. Executive Director Clark Mitchell supports the tour concept and he and I believe it has sponsorship value to a national company.

The pro tour for this year has already been scheduled. The events will be well-organized, time-scheduled and held at first-class playing venues. USATT wants to work with tournament directors to ensure that they have a successful event. In turn these tournaments will provide our players the kind of competition they need and the monetary reward to keep them training at a high level. Attend a pro tour event and you won’t be disappointed.

As tour director I welcome inquiries from any interested parties in holding a Pro Tour event in 2004. We hope to expand the tour from the 6 events this year to 10-12 next year. The Pro Tour is a vital ingredient to a healthy and growing USATT. I want to thank our Pro Tour Directors for this year and look forward to speaking and meeting others who are interested in hosting an event in the Olympic year 2004. Please e-mail me at vseemiller@earthlink.net.

Mark your calendars for the Pro Tour event coming to your area in 2003. SEE YOU THERE!!!