Voices of RSPA – Mike Hurley

In this edition of our “Voices of RSPA” series, 45-year Racquet Sports Professionals Association (RSPA) member Mike Hurley reflects on his journey in the industry, the value of certification, and the relationships that have shaped his career. Longtime RSPA member John Weil sits down with Mike 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: Mike, tell me about your current position, your business, and your RSPA level.
Mike Hurley: I’m an Elite Professional with RSPA. I live in Old Hickory, Tennessee, and I’m currently a private instructor and volunteer co-head coach at Mount Juliet High School.

John Weil: How long have you been a member of the RSPA?

Mike Hurley: I’ve been a member for over 45 years.

John Weil: What motivated you to become a member of the RSPA?

Mike Hurley: I came from a professional family – doctors, nurses, lawyers, CPAs, and teachers – so I was taught early on that if you want to stay ahead, you need to be involved in your professional association. It was natural for me to be in tennis and to be a member of RSPA. If you want to be at the top, it opens doors. You can’t be a doctor without being an MD. You can’t be a nurse without an RN. You can’t be a top tennis professional without being part of your association.

John Weil: What benefits have you gained from your membership?

Mike Hurley: Certification helped me stand out early in my career. It got me interviews and gave me an edge over others who were good players but didn’t have the teaching or programming experience. It also gave me access to a network of professionals who were willing to share their knowledge. People like Bill Tymm and George Bacso helped me grow. One of the best things that happened for my programming was launching your mr. peewee tennis program back in ’82. That gave me a head start with younger kids, and many of them are still playing today. Being part of RSPA helped me avoid pitfalls and move forward faster.

John Weil: Did you actively participate in the organization, such as board positions, conventions, testing, or seminars?

Mike Hurley: Absolutely. I was involved at the local, state, divisional, and national levels. I served on the Ethics Committee, National Awards Committee, Commercial Clubs Committee, and the USTA NTRP Committee. I was also on the testing committee with George Bacso. I introduced Bob Smith from Smith Business Systems to help bring computers into the organization. I held board positions in the Midwest Division, starting at the district level and moving up to Ohio President, regional treasurer, convention chairman, regional vice president, and eventually Midwest Division President. I’ve spoken at many conventions and was recently invited to speak at the Ohio High School Tennis Coach annual meeting.

John Weil: Did you meet many new individuals through the RSPA who are still in your network? Have they inspired you?

Mike Hurley: Definitely. Once you meet someone in RSPA, they become a buddy for life. My contact list grew as I moved out of the Midwest. RSPA opened doors to relationships with people like Greg Grover in Atlanta and Eric Voges in Chattanooga. These folks keep me inspired and involved. The relationships are the real payoff – not just monetary, but the ability to give back to the next generation. People like Mike Patrick, Dave Shoebel, Jimmy Pitkanen, the Chamberlains, Bobby Spellman, Fred Berdick, Greg Aten, and Jay Hardman – they’re all part of my circle.

John Weil: Are you still actively teaching or participating in the industry? What are your goals moving forward?

Mike Hurley: I’ve had two hip replacements and probably need a knee rebuilt next year, but I still plan to stay on the court as long as I can. I’m not teaching as much, but I’m helping with the high school and middle school teams—my grandson plays, and his brother is getting into tennis too. I still consult with people and offer advice when they ask. I’m also involved in adaptive tennis and recently wrapped up six years of consulting for HOAs and clubs. I still meet regularly with Bill Tym, who helped make USPTA (now RSPA) what it is today. Every time we talk, I leave feeling inspired to keep teaching and promoting the game.

John Weil: What advice would you give to a prospective or new member of the RSPA?

Mike Hurley:To be truly professional, you need to stay informed and involved. Don’t just pay dues – participate. Share your knowledge, speak, write, mentor. There’s always a need for people who can help with management and growth. Once you’re in, put your voice in the mix. You’ve earned your certification – now help make the organization better for everyone who comes after you.

Mike’s story is a powerful reminder that longevity in racquet sports is built on passion, participation, and people. His journey shows us that the true value of professional membership lies not just in credentials, but in community.

Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations in our “Voices of RSPA” series.