Tennis Tuesday is a content series curated by the New York Empire that will feature some of the game’s greats and New York’s finest tennis coaches, administrators, and fans. This week, we chat with Sportime Harbor Island’s Director of Tennis, Ryan Horn.

1. You’re the Director of Tennis at Sportime Harbor Island. Tell us about what your role entails.

I oversee all programming including Junior U10, Junior Development and High-Performance programs, along with all adult programming including level specific clinics, USTA team practices and all private lessons.

2. What’s your background with the game of tennis?

I am originally from South Africa, and started playing tennis at the age of 3. I played competitive junior tennis, ITF, National Club League in the United Kingdom and collegiate tennis here in the USA.

3. What kinds of programs at clubs like yours do you think benefit kids learning the game the most?

I think it’s interactive skills and drills, having fun playing and learning tennis.

4. World TeamTennis uses an abbreviated scoring format. Some say this speeding up of the game gives it more mass appeal. What’s your opinion on that?

I love the abbreviated scoring system. I use it all the time in our programs.

5. How do you think events like World TeamTennis can help engage youth with the sport?

It creates a fun, exciting environment for the players and spectators to enjoy the entire event.