Revisiting the Economics of Zootennis

Almost exactly a year ago, I wrote a post explaining the financial side of this blog and the sources of revenue that help me pay for my travel throughout the year. I was amazed how many people mentioned that post to me in the months that followed, because frankly, although I enjoy economics, I realize it doesn't take much before most people's eyes glaze over.

I think it's time for an update, because although not a lot has changed, a few things have.

My affiliation with the Tennis Recruiting Network continues, and it remains my most reliable source of freelance income. I have lost one direct advertiser, but continue to enjoy the support of both OTZ Sports and Roddick Lavalle Tennis Academy. I thank them again for advertising on my site, and hope they have gotten the exposure and traffic they expected when they made their decision to renew their commitments. If you have a business or product you are interested in advertising on this site, I invite you to look at the media kit for more information.

During the grand slam summer season, you may have noticed advertisements for Head, Prince, Wilson and Babolat. These were placed by a third party agency that specializes in tennis sites, and I was pleased with the income that arrangement generated. Alas, once the big tournaments are over, that source of advertising drops drastically, and we're now heading into several very lean months on that front.

My affiliate agreements with Tennis Warehouse and Amazon continue, and with the holiday shopping season approaching, please consider clicking on the links on my site if you intend to shop at either site.

I have continued to avoid charging a subscription fee for access to any of the content on zootennis, but I have set up a link to allow donations through Paypal (see the donate button down and to your left). I appreciate all who have taken the time to donate in the past eight or nine months; it's not the first thing on your mind, I'm sure.

Traffic continues to grow, and although it isn't dramatically higher than last year, the steady increase helps with the google ads on the site.

So, if you've gotten this far, you probably have a natural curiosity about everything. But I believe that once a year I need to address this topic and provide suggestions for readers who ask me how they can contribute. I do feel extremely fortunate to have discovered this outlet and to have been able to fund my extensive travel from what I've made from freelance assignments and advertising and donations. I'm grateful for your support and look forward to many more years of providing junior and college tennis coverage.