USOC funds are not used exclusively for elite athletes; in fact, approximately forty percent of all USOC funds are allocated to support state developmental programs. Included under “USOC support” are numerous value-in-kind services such as computer programming assistance, data management, printing and publication services, video production, insurance, facility usage, scholarships, joint marketing opportunities and services, job placement assistance for athletes, coaching and teaching information and grant opportunities which are provided at reduced-, or no-, cost to the USRA. Without such support, the USRA could not even approach what it accomplishes on behalf of its membership.

Some also argue, erroneously, that the USRA spends too much of its time and effort in seeking Olympic inclusion. The reality is that only one out of ten full-time employees spends any time on this movement, while the remaining employees concentrate on state and membership issues.

Often overlooked is the importance of international growth. Without USOC support, international racquetball would be almost non-existent. The U.S. teams (junior and senior) continue to be a vital part of the USRA, providing a goal for our young athletes and invaluable media exposure for our sport. Although only seven percent of our annual budget is spent on these efforts, the teams provide invaluable press exposure and public visibility for the sport.

The USRA does not sacrifice any membership benefits in exchange for Olympic inclusion. In fact, the opposite has occurred. The USOC has provided athletes and members with numerous benefits that would otherwise be too costly for the association to implement.

USRA members continue to benefit from USRA/USOC integrated programs. Many new initiatives are in progress and will be announced early next year.