Tennis Hall of Fame: A View from the Chairman’s Box
Thursday, July 16, 2015
It is in Clouser’s wealth of experience and dynamic presence where the Tennis Hall of Fame and by extension, the game of tennis has ultimately benefited. Clouser's seven years as chair has witnessed a renaissance for the entire nonprofit that is the International Tennis Hall of Fame. It is more than a tournament, more than a tennis venue, more than a tourist attraction, as the International Tennis Hall of Fame, under Clouser’s leadership is an emissary of the game. It reaches out and does philanthropic work to get more kids involved in tennis with programs that supply racquets, court time, and guidance. “ It was tennis that kept me out of trouble and helped me to go to college and for that I remain grateful to the game. It’s part of what we do here,” said Clouser.
Lucky
Clouser knows every nook and cranny of the site, he refers to all the folks who work for the Tennis Hall of Fame by name. He navigates through the venue - always with a smile, and is an approachable and gregarious host. His demeanor and outgoing personality perfectly compliment the atmosphere he helped to create.
His knowledge and passion for the Hall of Fame’s preservation, growth, and stature were born from a visit. “A friend of mine took me for a visit here in 1991, and when I walked through the door, I was blown away, it was breathtaking. And, it still is - every time I walk through the door.”
Clouser’s emotional attachment to the place runs deep and it was clear to me, that as his tenure ends, it is bitter sweet. His eyes reflected the sense of achievement in raising the money for capital improvements, increasing the beautiful footprint of the site, and completing the museum renovations as the sport’s repository of tennis. At the same time, the emotion in his expression reflected a long farewell. But soon enough, he pointed at the south stands and said, “that is next.” He continued, “this time next year, the Bill Talbert Stadium Court will be one of the best show courts in tennis.”
What is Next
“The future is bright.” Clouser has deep respect for and faith in the Tennis Hall of Fame’s CEO, Todd Martin and is confident the growth will continue and good things are coming. “Todd is great and so well respected in tennis, and it is time for new leaders and new ideas.” I raised the topic of the possibility of attracting more professional tennis events or even the return of a women's event. “If anyone can bring a women's event here to the grass, it is Todd,” said Clouser. So, as the Chairman looked out over the venue, he put his hand to his cheek, and a smile came to his face. In classic Clouser style, he said, “it really is beautiful.” It is clear to me he walks through the doors with the same enthusiasm and awe as the first time it took his breath away.
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