Season 24 Episode #70 Bobby Schindler and Shaun J Boyce
In this episode, we talk to Jeff Chandley who is the Director of Tennis at the historic Atlanta Athletic Club. The conversation with Jeff Chandley offers insight into his journey, career philosophy, and key achievements in the tennis industry. Here are some highlighted statements and insights:
1. **Career Path**: Jeff Chandley has a diverse background as Director of Tennis at multiple prestigious clubs, including Atlanta Athletic Club and The Landings Club. His career began unexpectedly, as he transitioned from football to tennis in high school, later playing at college level despite starting late in tennis.
2. **Mentorship from Peter Van Lingen**: Chandley emphasizes how impactful his time was under South African tennis legend Peter Van Lingen, noting that Peter taught modern tennis techniques long before they became mainstream. Chandley credits this mentorship as shaping his teaching and business approach in tennis.
3. **Business Mindset**: Chandley reveals his focus on learning the business side of tennis early in his career. He humorously describes learning accounting for a country club, a completely different world from balancing his personal checkbook. This has shaped his career, with a focus on both tennis instruction and managing the business side of club tennis.
4. **Emphasis on Club Culture**: Chandley repeatedly stresses the importance of culture in running a successful tennis program. At Atlanta Athletic Club, he says, they’ve built a community and a sense of belonging for both staff and members, which he believes is central to their success. He highlights creating a fun, inclusive atmosphere where people enjoy coming to work.
5. **Four Pillars of Success**: Chandley identifies his personal management framework, which includes:
- **Image Enhancement**: Maintaining a strong external and internal image.
- **Instruction**: Specializing in and improving coaching abilities.
- **Maintenance**: Keeping facilities in top condition.
- **Customer Service**: Ensuring a high level of care and attention to members.
6. **Transition to Racket Sports**: Chandley noted the growing trend of pickleball and his own certification as a Pickleball Pro. This reflects a broader industry shift from strictly tennis to a more inclusive focus on racket sports.
7. **Work-Life Balance Challenge**: He finds the concept of "work-life balance" frustrating, particularly in the context of younger generations. Chandley emphasizes that dedication beyond the standard 40-hour workweek is often necessary to succeed in a high-demand environment like a private club.
8. **Mentorship and Leadership**: Chandley is committed to mentoring younger pros, offering them opportunities to grow within the club and the industry. He stresses that his success comes from hiring individuals with a customer service mentality and a passion for learning, rather than just technical skills.
These insights provide a comprehensive understanding of Jeff Chandley's professional journey, his leadership style, and the importance he places on both tennis instruction and club management.
YouTube Replay: https://youtu.be/IdB4OwHCglE
Shaun Boyce USPTA: shaun@tennisforchildren.com
https://tennisforchildren.com/ 🎾
Bobby Schindler USPTA: schindlerb@comcast.net
https://windermerecommunity.net/ 🎾
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