Racquet
From Encyclopedia Jr, free information reference for Kids
A racquet (or racket) is a sports implement consisting of a handled frame with an open hoop across which a network of cord is stretched. It is used for catching or striking a ball in such games as squash, tennis, racquetball, and badminton. Collectively, these games are known as
The frame was traditionally made of wood and the strings of catgut. Wood is still used for
In the case of racquets used for the game of
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[edit] Tennis
Tennis racket construction began with handcrafted rackets being made of ashe wood and using string made from natural materials. It was not until the early 1970s that the first racquets made of carbon steel and aluminum were developed. The first of these was the steel Wilson T-2000 which used the patented Lacoste design of wire wrapped around the head providing a method for stringing the racket which did not involve drilling holes in the frame. In the mid 70s, aluminum construction allowed for the introduction of the first "oversized" racquet which was manufactured by Prince. This racquet had a head size of approximately 110 square-inches and opened the door for the introduction of racquets having other non-standard head sizes such as midsize 90 square-inches and mid-plus size 95 square-inches. The early 80s marked the introduction of composite materials and with it the popularity of the "graphite" (carbon fibre) racquet. Subsequent development by manufacturers such as Wilson, Prince, and Head yielded many variations on the graphite design using materials such as Boron, Kevlar, and ceramic materials. Throughout the evolution of the graphite racquet there have been several important different phases of popularity:
Oversize Racquets: Popular in the early 80s among club level players and a significant number of touring pros. Includes the Prince "Graphite" and Prince "Boron".
Midsize racquets: Gained popularity in the mid 80s and became the standard for head size on the pro tour, includes the Wilson Pro Staff used by Pete Sampras.
Ceramic: A short period during which graphite racquets using ceramic fibres to improve performance were popular and used by several touring pros. These racquets were distinguished by their white exteriors.
Widebody: Models such as the Wilson Hammer were developed having a frame thickness which was up to twice the thickness of standard raquets. While popular with club players, due to the additional power they generated, these failed to be used by touring pros.
"Stretch" Models: Were slightly longer than their standard size counterparts in order to give additional reach for shots such as the serve and volley where shorter players are at a disadvantage. These gained a small but loyal following among club players and touring pros alike such as Michael Chang.
Modern racquets vary in length, weight, and headsize. 21" to 26" is normally a junior's length, while 27" or 27.5" are for stronger and taller players. Weights of a racquet also vary between 9 ounces unstrung and 12 ounces unstrung. Headsize also plays a role in a racquet's qualities. A larger headsize means more power, while a smaller headsize has more control. Headsizes vary between 80 sq. inches or 137 sq. inches.
[edit] Specs For A Racquet
Head Size
Length
Balance
Swingweight
Beam Width
Power Level
Swing Speed
String Pattern
String Tension
[edit] Manufacturers
Prince
Gamma
ProKennex
Technifibre
Fisher
[edit] General
- The International Tennis Hall of Fame
- The International Tennis Federation
- TennisRacket.ca - Canadian tennis information including racket information
[edit] See also