I was in high school in the 1970's when I was able to see Stan Smith perform and exhibition match in Annapolis at a now defunct tennis club. Sitting in the front row of folding chairs I was just a few feet from the court lines and it was an amazing thing to see Smith reach and smash overheads or his perfect volleys. His serve of course was a cannon and just watching it gave me ideas on how to improve mine.
I played with his racket and wore his trademark shoes at one time. It's nice to see the shoes have become a permanent fashion symbol so that when I want another pair I can find them.
