Re: New Stringing Service

 Hi Mike,

    Sounds like you are really starting at the beginning. I have several
recommendations:

The first one is to consider joining the Racket Stringers Assn. They are a
terrific resource for new stringers. You will appreciate them when you get a
racket to string and have no clue concerning the pattern. Not only do they
provide their members with a book showing all patterns, but you can call them
on the phone and get advice.

The second thing to do is to look in the Tennis Magazine(s). There you will
find both (800) numbers and web site addresses of the major sporting goods
manufacturers (e.g., Head, Wilson, Prince, etc.). It will be a little harder
to get contact numbers for Gamma, Ashaway, Babolot, etc., but the information
is available.

Another thing to do is to "prepare for success." Its funny how some people
go into a venture thinking that they can't possibly succeed. Success catches
them without enough string, the wrong grips, insufficient space/time, etc.

Talk to the local school coaches (both girls and boys teams) to let them know
that you can string their teams' rackets overnight. If there is a USTA
league in your area, let the team captains know the same thing. Every time
you are in a place where they are stringing rackets, talk to the stringer and
learn something new.

Be prepared for your new business to start off slow and to grow steadily. I
know people who have paid their way through college, bought a car, or paid
for their stringing machine by stringing rackets. And be prepared for your
hands to become callused in the most unusual places...

Best of luck

Joe Rill
HS10scoach


Received on Thu Jun 08 2000 - 13:04:13 CDT