Celebrate 50 Years of Coaching Excellence at the 2026 International Racquets Conference

The Professional Tennis Registry (PTR) and Professional Pickleball Registry (PPR) are thrilled to announce the 2026 International Racquets Conference (IRC). The premier coach education event is set for February 13–16, 2026, at the world-renowned Saddlebrook Resort in Wesley Chapel, Florida. This milestone event marks the official kickoff to PTR’s 50th Anniversary Celebration, honoring five decades of coaching education, innovation, and global community.

A Golden Celebration for a Global Coaching Family

For 50 years, PTR has empowered coaches across the world to grow the game and elevate their craft. This year’s conference will honor PTR Founder Dennis Van der Meer, whose vision transformed coach education and helped build a network of more than 20,000 members in 125+ countries. The event will celebrate his legacy while looking ahead to the next generation of racquet-sport leaders.

A Weekend Packed with Education, Connection & Celebration

The 2026 International Racquets Conference promises four unforgettable days of learning, inspiration, and community. Here’s a glimpse at what’s in store:

Friday, February 13 – Master Classes & Special Events
Arrive early for an exclusive day of Master Classes, offering deep-dive sessions for coaches who want to expand their expertise. Special events and pre-conference activities will set the tone for an inspiring weekend ahead.

Saturday, February 14 – The Grand Opening
The celebration begins with a Tradeshow featuring leading industry brands and partners, followed by a colorful Flag Parade representing PTR and PPR coaches from around the world. Attendees will enjoy on-court Tennis and Pickleball Presentations from top coaches and educators, capped off with the PTR/PPR Social and a lively Opening Party to officially kick off the conference weekend.

Sunday, February 15 – A Full Day of Learning and Celebration
Sunday’s lineup features more Tennis and Pickleball Presentations, offering actionable coaching insights and innovative drills from world-class presenters. That evening, the celebrations continue with a Cocktail Reception, followed by the prestigious Awards Gala, and the Sponsor Party & Casino Night, where attendees can unwind and connect in a festive atmosphere.

Monday, February 16 – Cheers to the Next 50 Years!
The final day will deliver even more educational sessions, along with the PTR/PPR Social and a closing celebration, “Cheers to the Next 50 Years”, sending every coach home inspired, motivated, and ready to elevate their impact in the game.

A World-Class Roster of Speakers

This year’s conference will showcase an impressive program of global coaching leaders, including Judy Murray, international coach and advocate for women in sport; Nick Saviano, elite performance coach and founder of Saviano High Performance Tennis; Tom Gullikson, former U.S. Davis Cup Captain and Olympic coach; Liam Smith, ATP and WTA tour coach known for developing top-ranked players; and Edgar Giffenig, author and internationally respected coach educator. Additional speakers and sessions will be announced in the weeks ahead.

More Than a Conference — It’s a Reunion

“The International Racquets Conference is truly a family reunion,” said Martin van Daalen, CEO of PTR. “It’s where coaches from around the world come together to celebrate their shared passion for the game, learn from one another, and look ahead to the next generation of leaders. This year’s event will be a powerful reflection of who we are and where we’re going.”

Join the Celebration

Registration for the 2026 International Racquets Conference is officially open. Don’t miss this incredible event celebrating 50 years of PTR. A weekend that honors our past, celebrates our present, and ignites our future.

Learn more and register at ptrtennis.org/irc-2026

Caitlyn holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from Northern Michigan University. With her creative expertise and strategic vision, she plays a key role in strengthening PTR’s brand identity and supporting its mission to educate, certify, and connect racquet sports coaches across the globe.