WRC 2025: A Message From RSPA CEO Brian Dillman

Grow professionally, connect with industry leaders, or simply soak in the spirit of aloha.

Author

Rich Neher
July 31, 2025

The Racquet Sports Professionals Association invites racquet sports professionals to enhance their coaching skills and build their personal brand, all while enjoying the beauty of Kona, Hawaii, at the 2025 World Racquets Conference.

Brian Dillman’s message to our readers

“In 2024, we rebranded our association to meet the demands of a changing industry. In 2025, it’s your turn. Rebrand You: A New Wave Begins in Hawaii is more than a theme—it’s a call to action. This year’s World Racquets Conference isn’t just about learning new drills or hearing great speakers. It’s about investing in yourself. It’s about stepping into the next version of your career with more confidence, more clarity, and a renewed sense of purpose.

We designed this experience to be personal, immersive, and unforgettable—from hands-on workshops and certification opportunities to powerful panels, peer connections, and time to reflect in one of the most inspiring settings on Earth.

This is the kind of week that changes how you show up—on the court, in your community, and in your career. If you’re serious about leading the future of racquet sports, this is where you need to be.”

Brian Dillman

From RSPA CEO Brian Dillman’s LinkedIn page: As a transformative leader in the racquet sports industry, Brian has spearheaded the organization's strategic rebrand, expanding its reach beyond tennis to include pickleball, Padel, squash, and platform tennis. Under his guidance, the RSPA has become the definitive authority in racquet sports, providing certification and professional development for professionals worldwide. Brian was honored as the Racquet Sports Person of the Year by RSI Magazine in '24.

This year’s event promises to be more intimate and hands-on than ever before, especially with a theme that sets a bold new tone. The 2025 theme, “Rebrand You: A New Wave Begins in Hawaii,” is all about redefining what it means to be part of RSPA – shifting the focus from the association to the individual member and empowering them to embody the hire standard. Attendees will discover new ways to step boldly into the next version of themselves – becoming more confident, more adaptable, and better prepared for the future of racquet sports, as change is happening at an unprecedented pace. This conference is a chance to redefine your game, your presence, and your impact.

The first round of presenters was announced, and it is star-studded. Featured names include:

  • Mats Wilander – 7-time Grand Slam Champion • Brenda Schultz-McCarthy – Former Top 10 WTA Player

  • Mark Bey – Elite Tennis Pro& High-Performance Leader

  • Dr. Greg Rose – Co-Founder of Titleist Performance Institute

  • Andrei Daescu – RSPA Elite Pro and Pickleball Lead Curriculum Developer

  • Craig O'Shannessy – ATP Tour Strategy Analyst & Founder of Brain Game Tennis

  • Sarah Stone – WTA Tour Coach & Founder of the WTCA

  • Fernando Segal – Global Tennis Development Leader & Coach Educator

  • Marcos del Pilar – Elite Pro and Padel Lead Curriculum Developer

  • Ajay Pant – Vice President of Racquet Sports, Life Time & Industry Leader

  • Andy Zodin – Host, KickServeRadio.com

  • Karl Jones – Director of Racquet Sports Education, University of Florida

  • Tarek Francis – High-Performance Tennis Coach & Sports Management Pro

  • Frank Guengerich – Pickleball Industry Expert & Business Strategist

  • Chris Hagman – RSPA Elite Pro and Entrepreneur

  • Brian Dillman – CEO, Racquet Sports Professionals Association

The 2025 World Racquets Conference is designed to expand your expertise as a racquet sports professional both on and off the court. Attendees will have the opportunity to earn new certifications, refine their coaching approach, aiming for the hire standard, and deepen technical, operational, and leadership skills. It’s a tailored conference where you can elevate your skillset while surrounding yourself with some of the world’s highest-performing athletes, bold innovators, and passionate leaders shaping the future of racquet sports.

During and after the 2025 World Racquets Conference, attendees can enjoy everything the Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa—the host hotel—has to offer. From fully renovated accommodations to a poolside bar and lounge, and immersive cultural activities, there won’t be a dull moment. Whether you're unwinding after a day of learning or networking with fellow professionals, the resort provides the perfect backdrop for both relaxation and connection. But the experience doesn’t stop at the resort. Kona is a destination full of unforgettable adventures, such as world-class snorkeling, canoeing with Eka tours, hiking trails, and more!

Whether you're there to grow professionally, connect with industry leaders, or simply soak in the spirit of aloha, the 2025 World Racquets Conference in Kona promises to be an unforgettable experience, on and off the court.