User:TStrawnVA
| Abbreviation | IART |
|---|---|
| Formation | 2003 |
| Founder | Tim Strawn |
| Type | Professional organization |
| Purpose | Education and advancement of racquet technicians |
| Headquarters | Virginia, United States |
| Website | gssalliance.com |
The International Alliance of Racquet Technicians (IART) is a professional organization dedicated to the education and advancement of racquet technicians and stringers worldwide. Originally established in 2003 as Grand Slam Stringers, the organization later rebranded as the International Alliance of Racquet Technicians to reflect its expanding international reach — the first racquet technician organization of its kind. The IART provides structured training programs, technical resources, and community support for individuals in the racquet sports industry, with a primary focus on servicing tennis racquets.[1]
Mission and purpose
[edit]The IART’s mission is to elevate the professional standards of racquet service through education, shared knowledge, and collaboration among technicians at all skill levels. The organization serves as a hub for racquet professionals seeking technical guidance, business development strategies, and continuing education in the racquet service industry.
Education and training
[edit]IART offers an online training curriculum designed to build both technical and business skills.
Key educational programs include:
- Basic Stringing 101 – an introductory course covering racquet stringing fundamentals.[2]
- Advanced Stringing 201 – an in-depth program focused on advanced techniques used on professional tennis tours.[3]
- Tennis Business 101 – a business course addressing legal structures, operations, and best practices for running a racquet service business.
Members also have access to an online learning library with instructional videos and educational articles authored by experienced technicians.[4]
Membership and community
[edit]The IART community includes professional racquet stringers, coaches, and business owners. Members gain access to resources such as:
- a Q&A platform for technical questions
- a string characteristics database with over 550 strings from many manufacturers
- a bumper/grommet replacement database
- a tournament stringers directory
- a business directory of racquet service providers
- a monthly newsletter summarizing new educational content and industry trends
The organization emphasizes peer support, skill development, and business professionalism within the racquet service industry.
Events and outreach
[edit]From 2007 through 2016, the organization staged an annual symposium (originally the GSS Symposium, later the IART Symposium) that brought together technicians, manufacturers, and industry professionals to share best practices and innovations in racquet technology.[5] The final symposium was held at the Wilson Sporting Goods headquarters in Chicago, Illinois.
Leadership
[edit]The International Alliance of Racquet Technicians was founded by Tim Strawn. The organization is governed by its leadership team and volunteers who coordinate education, member services, and events.
References
[edit]- ^ Strawn, Tim (April 2010). "Overlooking the Real Problem". Tennis Life. p. 35.
- ^ Strawn, Tim (Oct–Nov 2009). "First-String Players". Tennis Life. p. 40.
- ^ Strawn, Tim (May 2010). "Fine-Tuning Your Strings". Tennis Life. p. 36.
- ^ Strawn, Tim (March 2006). "Don't Bust a Gut". RSI Racquet Sports Industry. p. 39.
- ^ "GSS/IART Symposium Coverage". Wilson Techno Times. Nov 2008.