James McDonald is a nationally recognized racquet sports consultant and director with over two decades of experience transforming racquet programs and facilities across the United States. Specializing in tennis, pickleball, squash, platform tennis, and padel, James offers a rare combination of broad expertise and a strategic, hands-on approach to club revitalization, staffing, and program development. As a partner at Racquets Resources, James currently serves as a highly sought-after advisor and interim director of racquet sports for private clubs aiming to elevate member engagement, expand programming, and optimize operational performance. His consulting work includes designing modern racquet sports programs, solving complex staffing challenges, and advising on court maintenance and sound-mitigation strategies—particularly for clubs integrating or expanding pickleball offerings. James has a strong track record of success in both boutique and large-scale club environments.

At Kings Bay Yacht and Country Club and Darien and Greenwich Country Clubs, he led the complete redevelopment of tennis programs—doubling revenues, increasing participation, and fostering a renewed culture of community through well-executed social and competitive events. His strategic preparation of a club for sale prior to Hurricane Andrew, along with his background in event management at The Lipton Tennis Tournament, demonstrates his ability to deliver timely, lasting results in fast-paced consulting roles—earning repeat engagements and club-wide acclaim. Earlier in his career, James served for more than a decade as Director of Tennis at Hollow Rock Racquet Club in North Carolina, where he built one of the region’s strongest junior programs, significantly increased membership, and mentored a generation of successful teaching professionals. At Tennis at The Barn in Westhampton, he played a key role in helping launch a new racquet facility, securing 50 memberships in its first month and establishing one of the Hamptons’ most vibrant pickleball communities.

James’s leadership in the racquet sports industry extends well beyond club grounds. He is a USPTA Elite Professional, IPTPA Certified Pickleball Professional, USPTA Padel Certified, and holds Series 6 and 63 financial licenses. He has also served as President of the USPTA Dade Chapter and directed a USTA Area Training Center, further cementing his reputation as an influential leader in the racquets community. Whether directing racquet operations, advising club boards, or guiding the launch of new facilities, James McDonald consistently delivers high-impact solutions backed by deep industry knowledge, operational insight, and a keen understanding of member expectations and evolving racquet sport trends. His reputation for excellence, innovation, and measurable results makes him a trusted partner for clubs seeking to elevate their racquet sports identity and performance.