Tennis is about more than just a racquet hitting a ball; it’s the ultimate training ground for the relationships that define who we become. This isn’t just a “tennis story” it’s a testament to how the heat of competition can spark a lifelong bond between teammates.
We are continuing our journey with David Packowitz, a man currently shaping the future of the sport through his career at Wilson. But to see what drives David’s competitive spirit, you have to meet the guy who has been his right-hand man since they were kids: Ross Putterman.
The Match That Started It All
Growing up in Chicago, Ross and David were local titans who spent years orbiting the same tournament circles, constantly hearing whispers of the other’s talent before finally colliding on the courts at McFetridge Sports Center.
While they started out living fifteen minutes apart, the real shift happened when David was twelve. He moved to a house just two minutes away from Ross, right near a set of tennis courts at the end of the block. From that point on, they spent the majority of their youth as neighbors, meeting at those courts to play every single week.
Ross still remembers the nerves. David was the veteran with the upper hand, but that day, the momentum shifted. Ross walked off the court with a 6-1, 6-1 victory and a newfound sense of confidence.
“I walked away feeling pretty unstoppable,” Ross says with a laugh. “But come to find out, I only beat David because he was playing with a broken finger from a rollerblading incident. That’s David for you, always a daredevil, and always refusing to sit out.”
While that first win felt definitive, their head-to-head record remained roughly even throughout their careers. Despite their talent, they never actually liked playing against one another. Whenever friends asked the inevitable question… “Who’s better?” The two refused to answer. For them, there wasn’t always a clear winner, and they weren’t willing to let a competitive rivalry jeopardize their friendship.
That lopsided score didn’t create a rivalry; it sparked an instant connection. What started as a fluke victory became the foundation for a bond that has weathered the last two decades.
More Than a Partner: The “Pack and Putt” Era
David quickly became much more than just a competitor across the net. He became the doubles partner, the teammate, and eventually, the “Pack” to Ross’s “Putt”. Their duo became so well-known on the circuit that it turned into a local trademark; at games, people would constantly approach them to ask, “Which one is Pack and which one is Putt?” To lean into the fun, they started wearing matching shirts in different colors to every meet and tournament they attended.
In the high-pressure world of junior tennis, where the grind of travel and constant training can often feel like a solo mission, Ross and David found their anchor in each other. They weren’t just practicing together; they were a force on the doubles court. Over their high school career, they put up a staggering 100-5 IHSA record, and likely played another 100+ USTA doubles matches together outside of school.
Ross credits David as the reason he stayed in the game as long as he did. Having a best friend who understood the hustle, and shared the same uniform for hundreds of matches, made every hour of hard work worth it. That shared experience transformed the individual “grind” into a team effort that defined their youth.
A Friendship Without Borders
Now, over 20 years later, the rollerblading injuries are a distant memory. While David drives innovation at Wilson in Chicago,and Ross builds his life in Minneapolis, living states away has naturally changed their “weekly play” schedule. They may only get to suit up for a match together when they are in the same city, but that hasn’t slowed down their love for the game. Ross still hits the courts in his downtime as much as possible, keeping his game sharp for the next time the duo reunites.
“Ross and I shared an incredible journey together. A true stroke of luck that we lived so close and loved the same sport. Singles was fun and rewarding at tournaments but knowing that Ross and I would take the court later in the day is what I really looked forward to. Win or lose, we always knew had most didn’t, brotherhood.”
-David Packowitz
Even with the distance, they always make time for their friendship. From childhood courts in Chicago to hiking trips in Utah, they remain a team. They serve as a living reminder: The greatest trophy you can win in this sport isn’t made of silver; it’s the person standing next to you in the photo.
At the USTA/Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation, we are building more than just athletes; we are building roots for a stronger tomorrow. We are proving that on these courts, everyone can find their team.
Tennis fans, get ready for a serve of pure inspiration! We’re here with an incredible story about David Packowitz, a hometown hero who went from playing with his dad in Buffalo Grove to landing a dream job at Wilson Sporting Goods. And it all started with a little help from a program called TOP. Beyond the baseline, the Tennis Opportunity Program (TOP) isn’t just about swinging a racket; it’s about swinging open the doors to a brighter future. Founded in 1989 by tennis pro, Roger Mitten, this Chicago-based non-profit uses the discipline and strategy of tennis as a powerful vehicle for change. It’s a grassroots movement, run entirely by dedicated volunteers, with a single, inspiring goal: to turn “a tennis theme” into “a college dream” for economically disadvantaged youth.
David Packowitz
TOP doesn’t just teach the game; it builds a full-court press of support. From providing intense on-court training, mentorship and new equipment to offering essential academic tutoring and covering tournament expenses, the program is a full-service springboard for success. The results speak for themselves. The ultimate victory for TOP is its stunning college placement record: since 2004, every single TOP Scholar who has stuck with the program has gone on to college with a scholarship. It’s more than a perfect track record; it’s a testament to the belief that with the right support, every serve can be an opportunity. David Packowitz’s tennis journey began on the courts of Buffalo Grove, where his father, a coach with over 60 years of experience, taught him the game. But it was a connection through Mark Bey at Care Care Academy that introduced him to TOP (Tennis Opportunity Program). David joined the program in the seventh grade and played with them all through high school, graduating in 2011.
But TOP was more than just a tennis program; it was a launchpad. David credits the program with opening doors, providing top-notch coaching, and giving him the chance to travel to tournaments. This support was instrumental in helping him secure a coveted spot on the Division 1 tennis team at Marquette University! His journey wouldn’t be possible without TOP, Pakowitz feels “indebted” to the program.
And the story doesn’t end there! After earning a mechanical engineering degree and playing tennis for two years at Marquette, David pursued his passion for combining his love for tennis with his career. After some persistent effort, he landed an R&D internship at Wilson in Chicago. Today, he’s the Product Manager for performance tennis, overseeing top-line racket portfolios like Blade and Pro Staff. David’s success is a testament to the power of hard work and the support he received. He wasn’t the best or most athletic player, but his willingness to learn and take risks propelled him to where he is today.
“Be open to failure, you don’t have to be perfect, the smartest, nor the best, you’ve just got to be coachable!” – David Packowitz
His story is a powerful reminder that with the right support, determination, and a willingness to learn, you can achieve anything. As Luca Serra, a leader at TOP, says, hearing stories like David’s is the ultimate reward, it confirms that the program’s long-term impact on kids and their families is truly worthwhile. David Packowitz’s journey is an ace, a grand slam, and a true testament to the power of a supportive community.
Out of everything you do “listen the most, and it will open all the doors” – David Packowitz
Your support turns the dream of tennis into a reality for aspiring players. Scan below to help more athletes like David find their strength on the court!
Game, Set, Heal: How a Local Veteran and His Service Dog are Redefining Recovery on the Tennis Court HANOVER PARK, IL, Oct. 16, 2025 – On a quiet tennis court in suburban Chicago, one of the most dedicated doubles teams in the state is honing their skills. The team consists of Army veteran Ronald Verback and his partner, Samson, a 157-pound Bullmastiff who watches every move with unwavering focus. Even though they’re new to the game, only playing for six months, tennis has become a lifeline, made possible by a network of organizations dedicated to veteran wellness.
Just six months ago, life for Verback was a different battle. After serving for three and a half years, he returned to civilian life with the invisible wounds of PTSD. “I was in isolation,” Verback states, describing a difficult period that also included a hard-won fight against opiate abuse. His constant companion through it all was Samson, his service dog, whom he rescued from a farm in Kankakee when the dog was just a puppy.
The turning point came this past March at a community event held by The Allen Force, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit based in Illinois. The organization’s mission is to connect veterans and their families with resources and activities that foster a sense of community and well-being. It was at this event that Verback was introduced by Joe Tegtmeier to a unique program called First Service Doubles.
First Service Doubles (FSD) is an adaptive tennis initiative specifically designed for veterans with service animals. The program provides a structured, welcoming environment where the veteran and their canine partner can learn and play the sport as a cohesive team. The goal is to offer a unique form of recreational therapy that enhances physical health, sharpens mental focus, and strengthens the human-animal bond. “From the beginning, we were greeted with open arms,” Verback recalls. “We finally felt accepted in a sport.”
Under the guidance of their coach, Seth Hanson, at the Hanover Park District, Verback and Samson train for at least one hour every day. The sport provides a crucial outlet. “It provides not only physical demands, but also mentally challenges both of us,” Verback explains. Their on-court partnership is a testament to their deep connection. Samson understands his role through simple cues: a service vest means he’s on duty, but a bandana tied around his neck signals it’s time to play. However, their journey is not without its challenges. Verback travels an hour each way to find a court that welcomes them, and he often encounters public misunderstanding about Samson’s role. Some see a large dog and are fearful, while others dismiss him as a pet rather than a trained partner.
“Most people fear something new, they fear the unknown,” Verback says. He hopes to replace that fear with understanding and encourages people to approach him. “Don’t shout, don’t hate. Just ask me questions about what it is that we’re here doing, and just be respectful.” That spirit of perseverance defines Verback’s life off the court as well. Inspired by his father, Thomas O’Connell, he is currently studying to become a recovery support specialist, determined to use his own life experiences to help others. When asked to sum up the impact of First Service Doubles, Verback’s answer is simple:
“Inspiring.” It’s a word that many would use to describe him and his loyal teammate, Samson.
To donate, please text the word “mtefdogs” to 50155
How to Get Involved and join the Movement: Support First Service Doubles Ronald and Samson’s story is a powerful testament to the impact of this incredible program. You can be a part of it.
For Veterans: If you are a veteran with a service animal who is interested in finding a new passion, building community, and strengthening your partnership, reach out to First Service Doubles. It’s an opportunity to grow your skills, your confidence, and your network.
For Supporters and Tennis Facilities: Welcome these amazing teams to your courts. Offer court time, volunteer, or simply ask questions and spread the word. By opening your doors and your minds, you can help bring this healing and inspiring program to more veterans in your community.
Get Involved: Learn more about First Service Doubles and find out how you can help bring our veterans and their furry friends into the game. Every act of support helps build a more inclusive and compassionate tennis community.
