Hi Outback Champions Series Fans,

Naples was a big event for me. I was very happy to have my first win on the Outback Champions Series and I hope it is one of many more. I have been practicing a lot and it was nice to see that the practice has paid off. However. my body has been aching and I did take some time off after Naples. Today I practiced and felt good on the court. I want to continue my progress at the next event in Grand Cayman -- My group is very tough : Courier, McEnroe, Wilander. I think I can beat Wilander this time and I'm ready for the challenge with the group.

In Naples, my match against Pernfors was the high point for me as a player. We had a very long Champions tie-breaker. I have played many of these on the Outback Champions Series - but this was the first time I came out victorious. On one hand, I like the format as it is easier on the body than playing an entire set, but on the other hand the match can turn so quickly -- just a matter of points. So focus and concentration is key in the Champions Tie Breaks. The win against Mikael is a good confidence booster for me and I will feel better going into another Champions Tie Break on the Outback Champions Series. I am ready to keep winning!

One of the highlights for me in Naples was unquestionably hitting with my son Spencer on center court in front of the crowds. In many ways he reminds me of myself when I was his age, only I was a lot cockier! Spencer was very nervous, I saw his arms trembling beforehand, but once he hit a few balls he was fine. Me on the other hand, I remember going into a match against Bobby Riggs (just after his notorious Billie Jean King match) and feeling so confident that I could beat him. I felt the same going against Rod Laver. I was a very confident player as a junior I felt unstoppable -- perhaps it was because I had a lot of tournament experience which Spencer has not yet had. I hope to encourage him to play more tournaments.

The Outback Champions Club is always one of the most memorable parts of the Outback Champions Series events. The OCC is the private VIP area where the players can eat the latest and greatest Outback meals while mingling with the guests which are mostly sponsors. Talking to the sponsors in the OCC is always interesting for the players - - its funny because the #1 subject is ourselves!! Having played many OCS events, there are many familiar faces and, like the Outback Steakhouse executives for examples, have become friends. I look forward to seeing all my friends again at the next event.

Catch you later....

Jimmy Arias

Get more information about the Outback Champions Series at www.championsseriestennis.com.