Courtside Sessions

Courtside Sessions is BACK for Season 4 and we are starting things off with one of our favorite conversations yet! WTA #7 Elina Svitolina stopped by our headquarters ahead of the Miami Open and we got to sit down for a truly special episode. Elina opens up about the story behind her Diadem signature racket, walking us through the playtesting process, and the personal design choices that make her frame uniquely hers. She also gets real about her journey back into the top 10, the mental health challenges that come with life on tour, and the mindset and routines that keep her performing at the highest level. This episode is packed with insight for junior players, parents and coaches alike. We hope you enjoy - welcome to season 4!

Ever wonder what pickleball looks like across the pond? Dan, 1/2 of The Picklebros UK, breaks down the European pickleball scene, from taping lines at tennis clubs to the sport's explosive growth. We discuss his Central Park discovery, coaching journey, the epic 36-hour world record match, and his thoughts on the latest Edge Blue Core technology. If you're curious about global pickleball growth, this episode is for you! TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Courtside Introduction 02:10 Pickle Bros Story 04:44 UK Pickleball Growth 08:11 Rackets Community 09:00 Youth & Juniors 10:35 Equipment & Technology 12:26 Coaching Insights 13:24 Media & Content 15:09 Surprises & Records 17:54 Paddle Review 20:50 Closing Thoughts Welcome to Courtside Sessions, a podcast for junior tennis players, parents, and coaches! Join us as we dive into insightful discussions, share expert tips for athletes, and explore the latest trends and topics shaping the tennis community. Find the Court Side Sessions Podcast here https://courtsidesessions.transistor.fm/ 🚀 Subscribe for More Stay ahead of the game! Hit that subscribe button to stay updated on all things tennis with Courtside Sessions. 👥 Connect with Team Diadem + our guest: / diademsports The Picklebros: https://www.instagram.com/thepicklebrosuk/ Your support fuels our passion for tennis! Give us a thumbs up [Like 👍], subscribe to Courtside Sessions [Subscribe 📌], and hit that notification bell [🔔] so you never miss an episode! 🎾🎙️

In this episode of Courtside Sessions, we sit down with Dr. Guy Harvey, distinguished marine scientist, internationally acclaimed wildlife artist, and founder of the Guy Harvey Research Institute. Dr. Harvey discusses his transition from academic research to entrepreneurship, the strategic use of licensing to fund conservation efforts, and his recent introduction to pickleball in the Cayman Islands. This conversation offers valuable insights into building purpose-driven businesses, family enterprise management, and the intersection of art, science, and sport. As proud partners with the Guy Harvey brand, Diadem is honored to feature his marine artwork on our exclusive pickleball paddle series, demonstrating how strategic collaborations can advance both sport and conservation missions. 00:00 Meet Guy Harvey 02:10 Sports & Art Journey 05:37 Pickleball Insights 11:13 Conservation Impact 17:00 Artistic Inspiration 23:53 Family & Legacy 30:51 Highlights & Reflections 33:41 Closing Remarks Learn more about Guy Harvey and his marine conservation efforts at the links below! Guy Harvey Foundation: https://guyharveyfoundation.org/ Guy Harvey Research Institute: https://ghriresearch.org/ ---------- Welcome to Courtside Sessions, a podcast for junior tennis players, parents, and coaches! Join us as we dive into insightful discussions, share expert tips for athletes, and explore the latest trends and topics shaping the tennis community. Find the Court Side Sessions Podcast here https://courtsidesessions.transistor.fm/ 🚀 Subscribe for More Stay ahead of the game! Hit that subscribe button to stay updated on all things tennis with Courtside Sessions. 👥 Connect with Team Diadem + our guest: https://www.instagram.com/diademsports/ Guy Harvey: https://www.instagram.com/drguyharvey/ The Guy Harvey Foundation: https://www.instagram.com/guyharveyocean/ Your support fuels our passion for tennis! Give us a thumbs up [Like 👍], subscribe to Courtside Sessions [Subscribe 📌], and hit that notification bell [🔔] so you never miss an episode! 🎾🎙️

In Part 2 of our captivating conversation with Nick Saviano, we dive deep into the philosophy and methodology that has shaped some of tennis's brightest stars. Nick opens up about his core belief that working with young people is a "sacred trust" - a responsibility that demands coaches constantly grow and evolve to be everything they can be for the children and parents who entrust them. At the heart of this episode is Nick's revolutionary coaching framework, built in layers from the inside out. Starting with fundamental principles of life success - controlling reactions, staying focused on process over outcome, and finding joy in the work - Nick explains how these universal truths become the foundation for everything else. He breaks down his methodology: from life principles to coaching fundamentals, then tennis-specific skills, high-performance techniques, and finally the latest technology and AI innovations. We get an intimate look at the Saviano High Performance Tennis Academy, where Nick has been a positive contributor to the development of champions like Sloane Stephens, Genie Bouchard, Coco Gauff, and countless others. But perhaps most powerfully, Nick shares the story of a former student who recently texted him after being accepted to clerk for a Supreme Court Justice - a testament to how the principles taught on the tennis court translate to success in any field. Nick's philosophy goes beyond creating tennis champions; it's about planting seeds of greatness in young people and creating a lasting impact that extends far beyond their playing careers. His unique "diamond pyramid" concept reveals how true high performance intersects with meaningful impact on others' lives. This episode is essential listening for any parent, coach, or mentor who wants to understand how to develop not just better athletes, but better human beings. 00:00 Courtside Introduction 01:01 Coaching Philosophy 08:41 Layers of Success 14:21 Academy Journey 18:55 Personal Impact 25:42 Advice for Parents 29:57 Legacy & Impact 34:12 Closing Remarks Welcome to Courtside Sessions, a podcast for junior tennis players, parents, and coaches! Join us as we dive into insightful discussions, share expert tips for athletes, and explore the latest trends and topics shaping the tennis community. Find the Court Side Sessions Podcast here https://courtsidesessions.transistor.fm/ 🚀 Subscribe for More Stay ahead of the game! Hit that subscribe button to stay updated on all things tennis with Courtside Sessions. 👥 Connect with Team Diadem + our guest: https://www.instagram.com/diademsports/ Nick Saviano: https://www.instagram.com/savianotennis/ Your support fuels our passion for tennis! Give us a thumbs up [Like 👍], subscribe to Courtside Sessions [Subscribe 📌], and hit that notification bell [🔔] so you never miss an episode! 🎾🎙️

From player development at the USTA to entrepreneurial success, Martin Blackman’s career has always been driven by a passion for creating pathways for tennis players. In this episode, Martin takes us through his journey from his early days in tennis to his impactful role at the USTA and now to his current ventures. He shares his philosophy on player development, the evolving landscape of the tennis industry, and what’s next for him as an entrepreneur. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how Martin is reshaping the future of tennis for players, coaches, and fans alike. 00:00 Introduction 01:20 Player Development 02:21 Personal Journey 07:10 Nick Bollettieri Insight 11:47 Parenting Advice 16:34 Junior Career Goals 23:37 Turning Pro 35:16 Future of USTA 38:19 Conclusion Welcome to Courtside Sessions, a podcast for junior tennis players, parents, and coaches! Join us as we dive into insightful discussions, share expert tips for athletes from athletes, and explore the latest trends and topics shaping the tennis community. Find the Court Side Sessions Podcast here https://open.spotify.com/show/0jQsZdQgiSsc5thZhyHI8K?si=5062e17c0b754e1a https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/courtside-sessions/id1742627756 https://courtsidesessions.transistor.fm/ 👥 Connect with Team Diadem: @diademsports Your support fuels our passion for tennis! Give us a thumbs up 👍, subscribe to Courtside Sessions, and hit that notification bell 🔔 so you never miss an episode! 🎾🎙️

This episode is a deep dive into the kind of growth that doesn’t always show up on the scoreboard. Corbin Gapski, a key member of the Diadem team, joins us to talk about the in-between moments—the stretch of time when you’re building, learning, and showing up every day, even when the results aren’t immediate. He shares what it’s like to feel the pressure of expectations, the doubts that creep in when you’re not “there” yet, and the mindset shifts that have helped him stay focused on long-term purpose over short-term wins. It’s an honest conversation about trusting the process, embracing discomfort, and redefining what progress actually looks like. Whether you're chasing goals in your sport, your work, or just trying to find your rhythm in life, Corbin’s story is a reminder that growth isn’t always obvious—but that doesn’t mean it’s not happening. 00:00 Introduction 00:55 Corbin's Background 01:39 College Story 03:02 Volunteer Experience 05:06 Baseball Comeback 11:24 Diadem Learning 20:25 Texas Expansion 26:33 What's Next 33:03 Conclusion Welcome to Courtside Sessions, a podcast for junior tennis players, parents, and coaches! Join us as we dive into insightful discussions, share expert tips for athletes, and explore the latest trends and topics shaping the tennis community. Find the Court Side Sessions Podcast here https://courtsidesessions.transistor.fm/ 👥 Connect with Team Diadem + our guest: https://www.instagram.com/diademsports/ https://www.instagram.com/diademsouthwest/ Your support fuels our passion for tennis! Give us a thumbs up 👍, subscribe to Courtside Sessions, and hit that notification bell 🔔 so you never miss an episode! 🎾🎙️

In this episode of Courtside Sessions, former NBA star Tyler Hansbrough shares his journey from professional basketball to becoming an avid pickleball player. Tyler opens up about his transition from basketball, the impact of pickleball on his mental and physical health, and how the sport has become a new competitive outlet for him. Tyler also discusses the importance of fundamentals, working with great coaches, and how the supportive pickleball community has helped him thrive post-basketball. Tune in to hear about his journey, his love for the game, and how he's using his skills to make his mark in the pickleball world. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction 00:45 Pickleball Passion 02:06 Basketball to Pickleball 06:25 Community Impact 07:27 Pickleball Tips 10:11 Basketball Career 12:29 Winning Mindset 20:31 Mental Strategy 24:18 Doubles vs Singles 27:13 Competitive Trash Talk 29:29 Memorable Matches 32:10 Final Reflections Welcome to Courtside Sessions, a podcast for junior tennis players, parents, and coaches! Join us as we dive into insightful discussions, share expert tips for athletes, and explore the latest trends and topics shaping the tennis community. Find the Courtside Sessions Podcast here https://courtsidesessions.transistor.fm/ 👥 Connect with Team Diadem + our guest: https://www.instagram.com/diademsports/ https://www.instagram.com/masterhansbruh/ Your support fuels our passion for tennis! Give us a thumbs up 👍, subscribe to Courtside Sessions, and hit that notification bell 🔔 so you never miss an episode! 🎾🎙️

In this episode of Courtside Sessions, we’re joined by Alex Gruskin, one of the voices behind Cracked Racquets — one of the most influential platforms in college tennis, club tennis, and modern tennis media. From growing up playing junior tennis to leading the charge in tennis podcasting and live-streaming college matches, Gruskin shares his journey from the club tennis courts at the University of Michigan to building a full-fledged media brand loved by tennis fans around the world. Whether you're a college tennis die-hard, club tennis competitor, or just discovering the growing world of grassroots tennis media, this episode offers a front-row seat to the evolution of how the sport is covered and consumed. 00:00 Introduction 01:40 Junior Tennis Insights 06:09 College Tennis Club 10:19 Cracked Rackets Journey 14:33 Tennis Media Path 19:21 Family Support 24:21 Team Dynamics 29:04 Cracked Rackets Future 37:17 Closing Remarks 💡 About Cracked Racquets Cracked Racquets is a global leader in tennis media with the mission of democratizing tennis coverage by delivering high-quality, affordable broadcasting to every level of the sport – juniors, college tennis, to the pros. By leveraging their innovative CrossCourt Cast broadcast software and emerging AI-powered tools, tennis communities of all sizes that have traditionally been underserved have access to professional-grade coverage. Cracked Racquets provides in-depth coverage of junior, college, and professional tennis through their high energy podcasts, live broadcasts, and active social media channels. The Cracked Racquets team is committed to empowering tennis audiences everywhere by making the sport more connected, inclusive, and engaging. Follow Cracked Racquets on social media @CrackedRacquets or on one of their podcast feeds hosted by Alex Gruskin below: SOCIALS https://www.instagram.com/crackedracquets/?hl=en https://www.youtube.com/c/crackedracquets https://x.com/CrackedRacquets?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor https://x.com/AlGruskin?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor https://www.tiktok.com/@crackedracquets https://www.threads.net/@crackedracquets https://www.facebook.com/crackedracquets/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/crackedracquets/ https://bsky.app/profile/crackedracquets.bsky.social https://web-cdn.bsky.app/profile/did:plc:py7u4a7zlo4fdeuwmoudbmyp PODCASTS https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mini-break-tennis-podcast/id1455067534 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/great-shot-podcast-tennis-podcast/id1290618412 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cracked-interviews-tennis-podcast/id1264427749

In this episode, we’re hanging out with Sarah Koudouzian, an athlete whose journey is full of grit, heart, and some serious inspiration! Sarah opens up about overcoming personal challenges, coming back to the sport after 10+ years, and how sports became a powerful way for her to grow, bounce back, and find her inner strength. From mentorship to community-building, Sarah’s all about lifting others up along the way and creating a positive impact. Her story is a reminder that we all have the power to turn challenges into victories — and that empowering others can truly change the game. Don’t miss this episode filled with real talk, motivation, and lots of energy! ---- Welcome to Courtside Sessions, a podcast for junior tennis players, parents, and coaches! Join us as we dive into insightful discussions, share expert tips for athletes from athletes, and explore the latest trends and topics shaping the tennis community. Stream the Court Side Sessions Podcast here https://courtsidesessions.transistor.fm/ 🚀 Subscribe for More Stay ahead of the game! Hit that subscribe button to stay updated on all things tennis with Courtside Sessions. 👥 Connect with Team Diadem + Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/diademsports/ Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/sarahkoudouzian/ richsport.inc: https://www.instagram.com/richsport.inc/ https://www.richsport.inc/pages/shop Your support fuels our passion for tennis! Give us a thumbs up, subscribe to Courtside Sessions, and hit that notification bell 🔔 so you never miss an episode! 🎾🎙️

Inside the World of UTR Sports with CEO Mark Leschly 🎾 In this episode of Courtside Sessions, we sit down with Mark Leschly, the principal owner and CEO of UTR Sports, to discuss the impact of the Universal Tennis Rating (UTR) on the world of tennis. From his junior playing days in Denmark to competing at Harvard and on the ATP Tour, Mark shares his personal journey through tennis and how it ultimately led him to revolutionize the sport with UTR. 🔍 What You'll Learn in This Episode: The history and evolution of UTR – Why it's the most accurate and widely-used tennis rating system How UTR compares to other ranking systems like ITF, USTA, and World Tennis Number The role of data science and analytics in UTR’s success The expansion of UTR into pickleball and its impact on the growing sport The rise of junior tennis players competing in both tennis and pickleball Mark’s personal tennis career, from playing at Harvard to competing on the ATP Tour and Danish Davis Cup team 🎾 Why UTR Matters for Players, Coaches, and Parents Whether you're a junior player looking to get recruited, a college coach scouting talent, or a recreational player wanting competitive matches, UTR has transformed how the sport operates by making matchplay more accessible, fair, and level-based across age and gender. 📈 UTR & The Future of Pickleball Beyond tennis, UTR has also stepped into the world of pickleball, partnering with APP and USA Pickleball to develop the most advanced pickleball rating and ranking system. Mark discusses the similarities, differences, and growing overlap between the two sports, including the rise of junior pickleball players and the development of pickleball-specific clubs and tournaments.

In this episode of Courtside Sessions, we welcome Chris Marquez, a seasoned tennis coach, former player, and tournament director, to the studio. From his late start in tennis to his rise as a top Florida player and his eventual transition to coaching, Chris shares his inspiring journey in the world of tennis. Chris talks about the value of mental toughness, the importance of playing against diverse competition, and the challenges of moving from junior to college tennis. He also opens up about his shift from aspiring professional player to coach, and the personalized approach he takes in training players today. We also dive into Chris's experience creating the Clay Court ITA Tournament, his relationship with sports legend Dick Vitale, and the powerful role of family support throughout his career. Whether you're a junior player, coach, or simply a tennis enthusiast, Chris’s insights on persistence, passion, and adapting to challenges are sure to inspire you to keep pushing forward in your tennis journey

From Spain to the SLAMS! In this episode, we sit down with Spanish pro tennis player Javier Barranco, the 2024 Diadem Breakthrough Tour Champion. Javier takes us through his incredible performance that led to his victory, sharing the training, mindset, and determination it took to claim the title. He also opens up about his journey from junior tennis to breaking into the ATP Top 200, the sacrifices of life on tour, and the passion that keeps him pushing forward. ----------------------------------------------- Welcome to Courtside Sessions, a podcast for junior tennis players, parents, and coaches! Join us as we dive into insightful discussions, share expert tips for athletes from athletes, and explore the latest trends and topics shaping the tennis community. Find the Courtside Sessions Podcast here: https://courtsidesessions.transistor.fm/ 🚀 Subscribe for More Stay ahead of the game! Hit that subscribe button to stay updated on all things tennis with Courtside Sessions. 🔗 Related Episodes: [Link to https://youtu.be/8SZ1kBVhlDc ] [Link to https://youtu.be/GOWNhorLZgc ] [Link to https://youtu.be/niaiXtxz1u0 ] 👥 Connect with Team Diadem + our guest: @diademsports GUEST: https://www.instagram.com/javi_barranco/ Your support fuels our passion for tennis! Give us a thumbs up 👍, subscribe to Courtside Sessions, and hit that notification bell 🔔 so you never miss an episode! 🎾🎙️

In this special episode of Courtside Sessions, we sit down with Diadem Sports co-founder AJ Bartlett to explore his remarkable journey from competitive tennis player to successful entrepreneur. AJ shares the inspiring story of how his passion for the game led him to co-create Diadem, a brand known for its innovation in tennis and pickleball equipment. From humble beginnings with just one product, the Solstice Power string, to a full lineup of rackets, bags, and balls, AJ gives us an inside look at the early challenges and triumphs that have shaped Diadem into a global brand. We also dive into AJ's personal tennis journey, from competing in junior and college tennis to earning ATP points on the professional circuit. Along the way, he talks about the lessons learned from his time on the court and how those experiences influenced the creation and growth of Diadem. Whether you’re a fan of tennis or an aspiring entrepreneur, AJ’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Tune in for an engaging conversation with the man behind the brand!

In this episode of Courtside Sessions, we sit down with Matias Descotte, one of Diadem's Breakthrough Tour athletes, to explore his journey from junior tennis to the pro circuit. Matias opens up about the challenges of competing at the highest levels, the mental toughness required to handle life on the road, and how he balances his passion for tennis with staying grounded off the court. We dive deep into his training routines, how he prepares for matches, and his insights on the importance of having the right gear, including his go-to Diadem equipment. Whether you’re an aspiring player or a tennis enthusiast, you won’t want to miss this inspiring episode full of valuable advice, personal stories, and a glimpse into what it takes to succeed as a Breakthrough Tour athlete.

What's up, Team Diadem? We're back with another electrifying episode of Courtside Sessions, and this time, we're thrilled to host a true tennis powerhouse, Ryan Knarr! If you’ve been following Diadem, you know Ryan as one of our top ambassadors and the USA High School Coach of the Year in 2021. He’s also the President-Elect for USTA Middle States, overseeing a vast community of tennis enthusiasts. In this episode, Ryan and Diadem Kev dive deep into his remarkable journey from being a late-blooming player to a key figure in tennis coaching and administration. We discuss his diverse experiences from playing across all NCAA divisions to his impactful work with community tennis programs. Ryan shares his insights on building a strong support system, navigating college tennis, and the importance of responsibility, trust, and belief in developing junior players. He also opens up about overcoming injuries, balancing passion with the business side of the sport, and his vision for growing the game. Catch all this and more as Ryan recounts his path, from his early days in tennis to his current roles shaping the future of the sport. Whether you’re a player, coach, or just a tennis fan, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice.

Join us as we chat with Sam Innerst, one of Diadem's newest team members! From milking cows to college tennis, hear Sam's inspiring journey and tennis tips. Sam also Breaks down the difference between junior and college tennis and how being an individual isn’t always better than having a support system in your coaches and teammates. He also speaks of how each player has a different experience and how important it is to carefully make your decision when advancing your career. Sam wraps up the talk with how his life has changed since finishing his playing career, and the transition from player to coach to industry worker. Step into the world of tennis with Sam in this podcast episode!

Join us for an inspiring episode of Courtside Sessions with KP Panu, one of our breakthrough tour players! We're talking tennis tips, junior training insights, and college tennis life. Don't miss out! This episode KP shares his journey from New Zealand to the U.S. on a tennis scholarship and his subsequent career development. KP elaborates on mindfulness training, including deep breaths and visualizing success to manage nerves during matches. In addition he also shares his 30-minute pre-match routine involving a cold shower, reading, meditation, and a warm-up to stay calm and focused.

Join us for an inspiring episode of Courtside Sessions with Emily Morgan, the CEO and founder of 821 Tennis. Emily's love for tennis started at just two years old in Kingston, Jamaica, and brought her to the United States, where she juggled her passions for dance and tennis like a pro. In this episode, Emily opens up about the ups and downs of her college tennis career, sharing the life lessons that have shaped who she is today. She talks about how the discipline, resilience, and strategic thinking she developed on the court have become key tools in her business. Emily explains how she’s taken these lessons and applied them to 821 Tennis, the tennis, fitness, and lifestyle brand that’s all about elevating the adult tennis community. She shares her unique approach to business, focusing on the process rather than just the results, and how this mindset has helped her brand thrive. Tune in to hear Emily’s thoughts on how sports can help you grow as a person, her vision for 821 Tennis, and how she’s breaking the mold in the tennis industry. Don’t miss this chat with a leader who’s making big moves in the tennis world.

In this super exciting episode of Courtside Sessions, we sit down with Nina Chabli, a junior tennis phenom who's making waves on the court! Nina spills all the details about her journey, from her intense training routines to her big dream of winning all four junior Grand Slams. She talks about her unique playing style and how her Instagram, "@NinaTennisKid," is all about tracking her progress and memories. Nina also shares some amazing stories from tournaments like the international Little Mo and dives into how she stays positive and mentally tough. We get a sneak peek into her daily life, fitness routines, and the supportive, competitive vibe at her tennis academy. Plus, Nina talks about her love for beauty, her fun side playing pickleball with her dad, and her dreams of becoming an influencer. Some of her biggest inspirations are legends like Monica Seles, Rafa Nadal, and Novak Djokovic. She shares their secrets to handling pressure and staying positive, highlighting the crucial role of mental strength and body language. Whether you're an aspiring tennis player or just love a good success story, you won't want to miss this episode with the incredible Nina Chabli!