Founders of HEAVY-BALL PRO, Assaf Drori (left) and Takeshi Itoh (right) have both left their home countries as teenagers to live in the United States to train at different tennis academies. They both went on to play Division-I college tennis and first met at Albuquerque, New Mexico. 

Assaf began playing college tennis at the University of New Mexico and later, transferred to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He then went on to play professionally on the ITF/ATP Tour. He currently lives in Melbourne, Australia where he is the director of the All-Court Tennis Academy and is a Tennis Australia Club Professional Accredited Coach.

Takeshi played 4 years at the University of New Mexico and also went on to play on the professional tour. He was ranked as high as 15 in Japan and after his playing career, he began coaching players at tennis clubs, junior teams, and universities. He developed several top national/world ranked junior players.

The Birth of Heavy-Ball Pro

Assaf and Takeshi often found themselves sharing thoughts and ideas on ways to enhance training methods, designed to help players at all levels elevate their game.

As they discussed the challenges players faced, the idea of creating a specialized training tool took root. They envisioned something that would improve strength and control but also boost players' confidence on the court.

After developing and testing different prototypes, they produced a unique training device allowing players to refine their swing mechanics, improve their timing, and build strength. It was a game changer.

Recognizing the potential impact of their invention, Assaf and Takeshi decided to create a brand that embodied their vision. They named it Heavy-Ball Pro, emphasizing the focus on professional-level training for players of all abilities.

Heavy-Ball Pro is planning to expand their product line to include additional training aids, all designed with the same philosophy: to elevate players' games by enhancing their playing skills and confidence. For its commitment to innovation and player development, Assaf and Takeshi continue to work closely with players at all levels, passionate about helping them reach their full potential, all from their shared desire to help elevate the game.