July 20, 2007
Arik’s Parents, Rick and Carolyn!
Coach Scott Paschal,
Just want to say thanks for all you did for Arik during his recent time there. It was a great experience for him and we would recommend it highly to anyone. We of course had checked out everything prior and knew exactly what to expect.
He improved and gained much confidence in his game. But, that was only one of many positive factors from his experience.
Full time training for tennis at your Christian tennis academy is definitely a growing up experience… of which he did a lot of. We appreciate the spiritual emphasis knowing that everything is approached with a Christian attitude.
What a difference from the real tennis world.
One of the main things Carolyn and I appreciated was the lack of a tv, and the positive fellowship interaction he had with everyone from ping pong, to cards, to just plain talking. His communication skills have been much better since returning.
In addition, he has a much greater awareness of what routine he needs to be in to compete at his best. From hydration, to proper eating and the use of supplements, he has learned a lot about his body and how to better care for it.
It is amazing that you could accomplish this much in only nine weeks.
We realize your program is just in its earliest stages, and can’t wait to see how God grows International Christian Tennis Association. Thanks so much to Melody Snelen, Rachel Snelen, and Joe who are so dedicated to the ministry. Arik really enjoyed getting to know them as did we. They are so positive and great tennis players as well.
Hopefully we can work it out for Arik to return and spend more time with you soon. The experiences he had of staying with Chris Tomlin and David Nasser, hanging out at the Davis Cup and Nasdaq 100 Open, being on Roddick’s practice court, hitting right next to Moya, etc. are certainly things he will always remember.
We also appreciate you continuing to call and check on Arik. You’re a great boost to his morale, which 15 year olds seem to need a lot of.
The International Christian Tennis Association is a wonderful organization that is long overdue. Despite the expected criticism, which is bound to happen, it will succeed as long as you continue to put God first.
Carolyn and I pledge to help you in anyway we can including prayers, financially, and just moral support. Good luck and may God be with you.
For Him,
Rick and Carolyn Bartlett
