In this edition of our “Voices of RSPA” series, 51-year Racquet Sports Professionals Association (RSPA) member and Midwest Division Hall of Fame inductee Glenn William reflects on his many areas of participation in the industry, the importance of certification, and the numerous relationships that have shaped his career. Longtime RSPA member John Weil sits down with Glenn to explore his story. John is a 15-year teaching professional, a 46-year RSPA member, a Midwest Division Hall of Fame inductee, and has spent 33 years in the tennis industry in sales.
John Weil: Glenn, let’s start with your name, where you are, and your current position in the business.
Glenn William: I’m Glenn William — that’s Glenn with two N’s and William with no S. I split my time between Rochester, New York, and Whitehall, Michigan. I’m currently transitioning into pickleball through coaching, volunteering, and building facilities both in the U.S. and abroad.
John Weil: I know you’ve been a member for quite some time. How long have you been a member of the RSPA?
Glenn William: I joined in 1974 while I was a senior in college. I had always strived to become a member of RSPA since I picked up tennis, which wasn’t until I was a freshman in college. I’d never picked up a racket before that. I was on a football scholarship, but I realized that football and I didn’t have a future together. My dad was a longtime teaching pro and always encouraged me, so I decided to do something to make him proud. I picked up a racket and taught myself for a while.
John Weil: What was your motivation for joining?
Glenn William: My dad taught tennis in New Jersey but never found the time to become a USPTA member. He always talked about George Bacso, who was larger than life in New Jersey. When I came home from college that Thanksgiving, my dad was proud and told me, “You’ve got to join USPTA. Don’t make the mistake I made — get involved.” He was also the tennis coach for Robert Culp and Bill Cosby during their time filming I Spy. They’d come over from New York once a week for lessons. I’d sit inside and watch through the glass. That was inspiring.
John Weil: As a longtime member, what do you see as the benefits of membership?
Glenn William: First and foremost: education, education, education. Clinics, conferences, speakers, demonstrations — all of it. The second benefit, which I hadn’t considered at the time, is camaraderie. The relationships you build are lifelong. You can pick up the phone and have a conversation like it were yesterday. There are so many opportunities to connect, learn, and give back. Sharing knowledge is a two-way street — the more you share, the more you gain.
John Weil: You mentioned involvement. Can you give me a little background on your participation — board positions, conventions, seminars, testing, etc.?
Glenn William: When I joined RSPA, I was in Midland, Michigan, and became involved with the Midwest Division. It was a bit of a rudderless ship at the time, but I was surrounded by great people like you, Joe Lyden, and Bob Kust. I joined the board, and it became a very strong team. The Midwest Division won multiple Division of the Year awards during our time together. I started delivering clinics, speaking at conferences, and even became the division’s historian, keeping the scrapbooks. It was a terrific time — the height of tennis in the ’70s and early ’80s. We felt like the epicenter of learning and teaching.
John Weil: You touched earlier on meeting people through RSPA. Have those connections lasted, and how have they inspired you?
Glenn William: Absolutely. I was the director of tennis in Midland and Flint, Michigan, and stayed in touch with everyone I worked with. Joe Felice and John Cook were pros when I was in college — I’d drive to their clubs, watch them teach, take notes, and ask questions. They’ve remained dear friends. I still reach out to people like Mike Woody, Doug Cash, and Jay Hardman. It’s like picking up where we left off. I have no hesitation calling someone out of the blue — those relationships are a wonderful part of my life.
John Weil: My last question: What advice would you give to a prospective or new member about the RSPA?
Glenn William: It’s a great opportunity to get involved with people and to push yourself outside your comfort zone. I was never fond of public speaking, but starting with small conferences helped me grow. There’s so much to learn — attend district and divisional meetings, become a clinician, seek advice, and keep asking questions. I’m still learning all the time. Staying mentally, emotionally, and intellectually engaged with tennis, pickleball, or any racquet sport is incredibly rewarding.
Glenn’s story is a powerful reminder that growth in racquet sports comes from curiosity, connection, and courage. His legacy is one of service, mentorship, and a deep love for the game.
Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations in our “Voices of RSPA” series.