James Asher, a dedicated court tennis player, shared his experiences and thoughts on the game in a comprehensive interview. His journey in court tennis has been marked by challenges, memorable matches, and a deep love for the sport.

Asher's introduction to court tennis wasn't straightforward. He started playing at the age of 20, which is relatively late compared to many of his peers. His initial exposure to the sport involved learning the basics and developing his serve. Asher emphasized the importance of having a reliable serve, which he considers crucial in competitive play. He shared an anecdote about relying on a "bubble" serve during a match against Gabe at the U.S. Open, which proved effective despite its simplicity.

One of Asher's most humbling experiences was a match against Stanford, which left him questioning his skills. However, his best match, despite not winning, was against Leon Smart at Tuxedo for the National Open. Asher described how winning the first set boosted his confidence and made him realize he was beginning to understand the game better. This match was a turning point, showcasing his progress and potential.

When discussing the aspects of court tennis he would like to change, Asher mentioned the desire to experience serving from the hazard side, particularly for left-handed players. He found it intriguing how left-handed players could seemingly make serving look effortless. Asher even participated in a "wrong end tournament" where players served from the hazard side, which he found to be a valuable learning experience.

Asher's career has included various roles at the Racquet Club of Philadelphia, where he continues to work and raise his young family. He expressed his love for the club's community and the variety it offers, from court tennis to squash and doubles. The diverse range of activities keeps his job exciting and prevents the monotony that could come from focusing on a single sport.

Asher's dedication to court tennis is evident in his participation in numerous tournaments and events. He highlighted the Jimmy Dunn tournament, noting the overwhelming support and participation it receives each year. This event exemplifies the strong sense of community and passion for court tennis among its players and supporters.

Looking ahead, Asher has set personal goals for his game. He aims to reach a single-digit handicap, viewing it as a significant milestone that would indicate he has "cracked" the game. Asher acknowledges that achieving this goal will require patience and continuous effort, but he remains committed to improving his skills and understanding of the sport.

Reflecting on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Asher noted how it unexpectedly increased interest in court tennis. With limited options for other sports, many players turned to court tennis, leading to a surge in membership and participation at the Racquet Club. This influx of new players has brought fresh energy and enthusiasm to the game, which Asher finds encouraging.

Overall, James Asher's journey in court tennis is a testament to his perseverance, passion, and continuous quest for improvement. His experiences offer valuable insights into the sport's challenges and rewards, highlighting the importance of community, dedication, and the joy of learning and playing court tennis.