From the President 2

ISRA Family News 3

USAR 43rd National Singles Championships 5

Peoria’s 6th Annual Racquet For The Cure 8

Summerfest Open 9

Summerfest Open Results 11

Gudinas Inducted into ISRA Hall of Fame at Summerfest 12

Life’s a Beach at Summerfest! 13

Conditioning for 101 15

ISRA Movin’ On Up 2010-2011 Season 15

The Kill Shot Kid’s Corner 16

What Racquetball Means to Me 18

2010 ISRA Newsletter Advertising 18

ISRA 2010-2011 Tournament Calendar 19

Lend Your Support 20

ISRA Officer and Board Member Election Held 20

USA Racquetball Membership Application 20

Racquetball Challenge Courts 21 www.illinoisracquetball.com 1 ILLINOIS STATE From the RACQUETBALL ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT PRESIDENT When you think of a road trip, what do Laurel Davis - Oak Brook you think of? When I think of the ulti- mate road trip, I think of the one in Ani- VICE PRESIDENT mal House – friends getting together, Geoff Peters - Chicago visiting new places and making new friends. SECRETARY Marla Cusano - Lombard There is a road trip opportunity in the To get in shape for the road trip, future for many of us. As we kick off make sure you sign up for ISRA TREASURER the fall Travel League and tournament Michelle Halverson - Lombard Travel League and some of the tour- season, keep the dates of January 28-30 naments on the fall schedule. Read ZONE VICE PRESIDENTS on your radar. That’s the weekend that the rest of the newsletter and check Steve Angelo - Alton (South) the 2011 Illinois State Doubles Cham- out the ISRA website Pam Schubach - Peoria (Central) pionships will be held at Landmark (www.illinoisracquetball.com) for Kevin Brylski - Lake Villa (North) Health & Racquet Club in Peoria. This is news and schedules. Doug Halverson - Lombard (West) the first ISRA State Championship road trip (away from the Chicagoland area) in Have a great autumn. Not only do GOVERNING BOARD quite a few years. It will be a great time we look forward to seeing you on Patrice Calvi - New Lenox to get some friends together (your the courts this season…we also Rich Clay - Libertyville doubles partners), visit a new place hope to see you “on the road!” Mike Davern - Naperville (Peoria) and make some new friends Steve Goodman - Wheaton (racquetball players from across the Laurel Pam Grace - Wheaton state). Cheryl Kirk - Naperville Jim Maroon - Morton Landmark boasts a health club, bowling Rick Seaberg - North Aurora alley, movie theater and restaurant/bar. Joe Silius - Mokena Lynne Weisbart - Lake Forest Outside the club, the Par-A-Dice Casino, Northwoods Mall, Pleasant Hill Antique AUXILIARY BOARD Mall, The Shoppes at Grand Prairie and Larry Boyer - Mt. Zion other entertainment venues are all Keith Brown - West Chicago nearby. Bring your family and make a Dan Flood - Sugar Grove weekend of it (in between your Jeff Grace - Wheaton matches, of course)! Paul Jepsen - Hinsdale Joann Kempthorne - East Peoria Kit Lawson - Naperville Dave Milazzo - Gurnee Liz Molitor - Glen Ellyn On the Cover... Mike Vicary - Metamora Lynn Yeazell - Naperville Clockwise from top left:

ISRA NEWSLETTER STAFF — Cheryl with her parents Cheryl Kirk - Editor Bill and Pat Geoff Peters - Associate Editor — Cheryl and buddy ISRA Travel League Joe Silius - Advertising Editor Krystal Csuk competed Captains, start your Kit Lawson - Photo Editor on the Exhibition Court engines! It’s time to roster The ISRA Newsletter is published at the 2009 US Open your teams and get ready quarterly, and is the official publication of for a new season. Contact the Illinois State Racquetball Association — U.S. Women captured top Travel League Coordinator (ISRA). All rights reserved. Copyright honors in Ireland (2008) Pam Grace at 630-424-6035, 2010. Reproduction in whole or in part — Cheryl with Jeff Grace (L) [email protected], to of any text, photograph or illustration register your team. Don’t without written permission from the and Alok Mehta ISRA is strictly prohibited. Letters to the delay — the league will Editor, photographs, and articles or editorial — National Singles Gold begin the second week of contributions should be sent to (May 2010) — Cheryl ties October, just a few short [email protected]. with Michelle Gould for weeks away! most Finals wins ever! Typesetting by: TypaGraphics

2 www.illinoisracquetball.com ISRA FAMILY NEWS was bewitched and Kelly was, well, her Rose Kartheiser (Women’s Novice). delightful self. Enough said. Much Semifinalists were Kent Boston happiness and best wishes to two won- (Men’s A and Men’s 45+A), Mike derful people as they begin their life to- Kartheiser (Men’s 45+C), Jim gether! Fleming (Men’s 55+), Michael Glennon (Men’s Novice), Jim RESULTS NRAD (National Racquetball Associa- Fleming/Rita Marchuk (Mixed tion for the Deaf) 25th Annual Champi- Open/A), Raulene Hendee onship Hosted by WSAD (West Subur- (Women’s C), Hen Bee Tan- ban Association for the Deaf) Turcsany (Women’s Novice) and Schaumburg Tennis Plus, Schaumburg Carol Fleming (Women’s Novice). May 14-15, 2010 At the banquet on Saturday Fourteen Illinois players competed in the evening, the theme was Chicago’s NRAD’s 25th anniversary championships Roaring Twenties, and there were in May. They joined 33 players from 11 some pretty creative costumes. A other states (including 9 from MD, 6 skit was performed by the organiz- from NY and 5 from CA) for a two-day ing group, and entertainment by competition at Schaumburg Tennis mime JJ Jones was a big hit. The Plus. NRAD inducted two individuals into its Hall of Fame — Steve Hailing from Illinois were Kent Boston, Horwich and Bruce Herzig — and Gustavo Diaz, Carol Fleming, Jim Slemo Warigon (MD) was an- Fleming, Michael Glennon, Michael Gor- nounced as the organization’s new don, Raulene Hendee, Donna Rose president for the coming year. Kartheiser, Mike Kartheiser, Frank McDonough, Steve Murbach, Marc The WSAD wishes to thank all the Piotrowski, Hen Bee Tan-Turcsany, and individuals who bought raffle tick- Stephen Turcsany. ets over the past year that helped fund the event. Congratulations to first place winners Jim Fleming (Men’s 45+C) and Donna continued on next page Summer Wedding The lake and vineyards of the Mackinaw Winery, west of Bloomington, IL, provided the backdrop for the August 1st wed- ding of Kelly Carter and Joe Will- iams. As the happy couple made their vows in a gazebo with be- loved family and friends looking on, beautiful orange and grey ac- coutrements punctuated the nearby outdoor reception tent soon to be alive with music and chatter. At dusk, lights began to twinkle in the trees and a night of celebration and romance wafted in from the heat of the summer day. The bride never looked hap- pier (which is saying a lot!). Kelly personifies fun, and no one was disappointed. From her first play- ful wave as she approached her walk down the aisle, to her ad- dress over the microphone, to Mike Kartheiser, Shelia Hajduk, Dana Murray (front Denise Vanthyne) dancing way into the night, Joe Mime JJ Jones, Carol Fleming , Jim Fleming and Donna Rose Kartheiser

www.illinoisracquetball.com 3 ISRA FAMILY NEWS continued from previous page

2010 NMRA INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP 24/7 Fitness Club – Allentown, PA July 14-17, 2010

Players numbering 145 from 31 states, Washington, D.C. and Manitoba, Canada, visited Allen- town, PA for the NMRA summer event. Illinois players Phil Dziuk and John O’Donnell, Jr. were among them as was Greg Podolsky, the Ca- nadian who provided the interna- tional representation!

John teamed with Cy Dietrich (GA) to take 2nd in the Men’s 75+ Doubles and with Amos Rosenbloom (MN) for a 1st place in the Men’s 80+ Doubles. Phil and his partner Dick Kincade (CO) were 3rd in the Men’s 80+ Doubles, and Phil placed 4th in the Men’s 80+ Singles.

Congratulations to these fine Team Illinois representatives for making the trip and for making such a fine John O’Donnell, Jr. and Phil Dziuk Men’s 75+ partner Cy Dietrich showing to boot!

4 www.illinoisracquetball.com USAR 43rd National SINGLES CHAMPIONSHIPS “The Finals”

Downtown YMCA, Houston, TX Male Player of the Year - Team Illinois May 26-30, 2010 (TX) Twenty-two competitors and their Tournament Director – Female Player of the Year – cheering sections made the trip to Jim Hiser (NJ) muggy Houston and brought back John Halverson Fair Play Award – some of the big hardware (16 in Congratulations to our winners TJ Ferro (IL) all): Women’s US Team Qualifying from Illinois at the 43rd USAR Na- Joe Sobek Contributor Award – Randy – , 1st; Women’s A – tional Singles Championships in Stafford (TN) Lynn Yeazell, 3rd; Women’s D - Houston over Memorial Day week- Dr. Bud Muehleisen Age Group Award – Dustie Baker, 1st; Women’s 35+C – end. This one was bittersweet, as a Frank Taddonio (AZ) Dustie Baker, 3rd; Women’s 40+A – good time was had by all but, by Peggy Steding Age Group Award – Lynn Yeazell, 2nd; Women’s 50+ – the same token, it was farewell to Malia Bailey (VA) Chris Evon, 2nd; Women’s 75+ – Houston after 26 years at the Down- Presidential Award – Bob Frazier (AL) Lola Markus, 1st; Men’s 35+A – town Y. Houston, thanks for the Military Racquetball Federation Achieve- Dennis Negrete, 1st; Men’s 40+ – memories! ment Award – Keith Minor, 4th; Men’s 40+A – Kimo Hansen (TX) Dennis Negrete, 2nd; Men’s 40+B – Awards Banquet Hall of Fame inductees – Rick Seaberg, 2nd; Men’s 45 – Keith At the Awards Banquet on Satur- Davey Bledsoe, Bret Harnett, and Larry Minor; 4th; Men’s 45+B – Rick day night, the John Halverson Fair Liles Seaberg, 3rd; Men’s 50+A – Play Award was presented posthu- Downtown YMCA honorees – Peyton Watmora Casey, 4th; Men’s 75+ – mously to our own TJ Ferro. Dorsett and Dick Bagby John O’Donnell, Jr., 1st; Men’s Marty Haak and Laurel Davis ac- 80+ – John O’Donnell, Jr., 1st. cepted the award in his memory. Team Qualifying Divisions Also on the stage representing Illi- Cheryl Gudinas defeated Kerri Wachtel, As noted above, special congratula- nois were Geoff Peters (presenter), 3, 9 tions go to those who “double Cheryl Gudinas, Krystal Csuk, Lynn Rocky Carson III defeated Jack medaled” – Dustie Baker, Keith Mi- Yeazell, Dave Milazzo, and Cheryl Huczek,11, 5 nor, Dennis Negrete, John Kirk. O’Donnell, Jr., Rick Seaberg, and Lynn Yeazell. continued on next page

Team Illinois (and Cheerleaders) at “The Finals”

www.illinoisracquetball.com 5 USAR 43rd National SINGLES CHAMPIONSHIPS cont. from previous page

Watmora Casey, Leo Klimaitis, Dennis Negrete, and John Mason

Others making the Lola Markus - trip were Chris Women’s 75+ Champ Caldwell, Jerry Fronczak, Brent Huff, Cheryl Kirk, Leo Klimaitis, Gregg Mandell, Jeremy Mandell, Jim Maroon, John Mason, Dave Milazzo, and Geoff Peters.

Cheerleaders in- cluded Kevin Brylski, Laurel Davis, Terri Gra- Gold medalist John O’Donnell, Jr. ham, Don Grigas, with John Ellis (L) and Rocky Carson Pat and Bill Gudinas, Marty Haak, Sue Klimaitis, Proud parents Pat and Bill with Kit Lawson, Arlene Cheryl after her big win O’Donnell, and Kim Skarupski.

Okay, we’re off to Fullerton, California (yep, that’s near Disneyland) for the 44th National Singles next Memo- rial Day weekend. Let’s go west, every- body!

— Cheryl Kirk

VIP Reception: Geoff Peters, Laurel Davis, Grigas and Lawson: Marty Haak, Cheryl Kirk and Kevin Brylski Great job, Team Illinois!

6 www.illinoisracquetball.com www.illinoisracquetball.com 7 Peoria’s 6th Annual Racquet FOR THE CURE Peoria hosted its 6th annual Racquet Singles and Doubles. for the Cure (RFTC) at Landmark Saturday saw compe- Racquet & Health Club, June 25 & tition in Women’s 26, 2010, in support of The Peoria Singles, Women’s Memorial Affiliate of Susan G. Doubles and Mixed Komen for the Cure. The Planning & Doubles. A good Fundraising Committee, consisting number of the 76 par- of JoAnn Wickwire, Jim and Monica ticipants (51) entered Freaner, Dustie Baker, Kim Wain- two divisions. wright, Jill Grube, Jill Calvin, Laurel Playing in Peoria: Barb Vagedes, Judy Sands, Davis, Cheryl Kirk, John Snarr, Bob The final matches Julianne Valentino, Laurel Davis, Pam Grace, Schwab and Tournament Director played just past the Marla Cusano, Donna Ebner, and Tamara Buss Jim Maroon, set out to achieve two cocktail hour on Sat- objectives – fundraising and fun! urday. An evening banquet featuring We are proud to report that $5,800 awards and the always-popular silent All Night” DJ and Karaoke services. was raised, bringing our six-year auction was held in Landmark’s Starting grand total to $50,000! Gate banquet room. Stu Regnier of the Peoria, Susan G. Komen’s home- Peoria Memorial Affiliate of Susan G. town, is proud to host this annual The format was a two-day racquet- Komen for the Cure attended the festivi- event to benefit the foundation in her ball tournament beginning Friday ties. Returning this year also was “Up name. evening, primarily with Men’s — Jim Maroon

Thank you to our Sponsors! Gold ($1,000+) RESULTS Mixed Open/A (7): Jill Grube/Mark Calvin; Becky Gerig/Tony Marquez; Jim Freaner/ Landmark Racquet & Health Club Division/# entered: First; Second; Pam Schubach, Nancy Schum/Tim Dern Silver ($500+) Semifinals Core Construction (Wayne Baum), Mixed AA (3): Joann Kempthorne/Mike Ektelon, Maui Jim, Midwest Urological, SINGLES Vicary; Brian Andresen (IA)/Shelly Stewart New Haven Resort (Jim Wehrli), Women’s Open (4): Nancy Schum; Mixed A (10): Kerry Spix/Marla Cusano; Michael Veeder Kristin Coulter; Kelly Carter (3rd); Sharon Georgia Russell/Matt Kaag; Barb Vagedes/ Bronze ($250+) Hunter (4th) Jim Maroon, Brad Goeppinger/Debbie ATS (Jim Freaner), Women’s B/C (2): Viri Del Bosque, Lee Miller (MO) C. Kirk Consulting (Cheryl Kirk), Kriegshauser Mixed A Consolation (4): Julianne Valentino/ Clinique (Bergner’s), John Geatros; Carolyn Watkins-Vazquez/ Crusen’s II/Farmington Rd. , Men’s Open (7): Brent Huff; Dean Hamiti; Howard Williams; Antonio Vazquez/Dustie Excel Foundry & Machine, Tim Dern, Greg Hasty Miller, Glen Bero/Tamara Buss Mixed B/C (8): Douglas Gordon/Liz Illinois Pain Clinic, Geoff Peters, Men’s AA (2): Eric Mathews, Scott Fauque Anderson; Kim Wainwright/Mike Toland; Bob Schwab, Men’s A (4): Antonio Vazquez; Suresh Palani; David Angevine (3rd); Brad Lisa Vicary/Ron Jones, Bob Schwab/ Steiger Farms (Gary Steiger), th Sandra Coursey Jason Thoerner, Up All Night DJ & Statdfield (4 ) Men’s B/C (8): Brad Statdfield; Bob Mixed B/C Consolation (4): Josh Gaa/ Karaoke Services, Richmond; Carl Bunker, Suresh Palani Missy Moses; Joann Wickwire/Ken Wickwire Chiropractic (Kim Wickwire), Men’s B/C Consolation (4): Jonathon Smith; Chad Toland/Erin Hayworth, Lee Wilson Bowles; Doug Kerns; Travis Ziegler, Adriel Kriegshauser/Samuel Gomez Pink Racquet ($100+) Reed Clark Management (Ron Froman), Men’s Open Doubles (4): Brent Huff/Mark Jump Start Gymnastics (Dawn Kocher), DOUBLES Calvin; Brian Andresen (IA)/Mike Vicary; Kitchen Cooked (Paul & Lori Blackhurst), Women’s Open (5): Joann Kempthorne/ Mark Mattos (MI)/Tony Marquez (3rd); Eric Midwest Equipment (Jim Maroon), Pam Schubach; Jill Grube/Kristin Coulter; Mathews/Scott Fauque (4th) Susie Patterson, PepsiCo, Becky Gerig/Georgia Russell (3rd); Brenda Men’s A Doubles (3): Jeff Grace/Kerry Bob Richmond, White/Kelly Carter (4th); Judy Sands/Laurel Spix; Brad Goeppinger/James York; Rip-It Racquetball (Dave Negrete), Davis (5th) Robert McGowan/John Snarr (3rd) Sorce Enterprises (Al Sorce), Women’s A (4): Julianne Valentino/Pam Men’s B/C Doubles (6): Glen Bero/John Jim Stowell, Dennis Toland Grace; Liz Anderson/Shelly Stewart; Geatros; Mike Toland/Samuel Gomez; Prizes & Gifts ($50+) Carolyn Watkins-Vazquez/Debbie Miller Doug Kerns/Bob Schwab, Bob Richmond/ Many generous businesses (MO)(3rd); Barb Vagedes/Marla Cusano (4th) Carl Bunker and individuals too numerous Women’s B/C (4): Kim Wainwright/Lisa Men’s B/C Doubles Consolation (4): Chris to mention donated prizes and Vicary; Erin Hayworth/Missy Moses; Martin/Douglas Gordon; Bob Richmond/ gifts for the silent auction – Dustie Baker/Gail Goeppinger (3rd); Joann Carl Bunker; Doug Kerns/Bob Schwab, Thank You! Wickwire/Mary Herman (4th) Adriel Reed/Travis Ziegler

8 www.illinoisracquetball.com SUMMERFEST OPEN

Doug Halverson with Men’s Open Doubles Champs Snyders and Crockett

The Glass Court Swim & Fitness, Mixed A Champs Lombard Thomas Bassett July 23-25, 2010 and Kelly Gremley Tournament Directors – Doug and Michelle Halverson

Players (118) from Illinois and seven for a ride, and arrive a bit soggy but additional states (Alabama, Arizona, ready to play their match. And play, Florida, Indiana, Maryland, Ohio, they did – the two were Kelly Wisconsin) gathered for the tradi- Gremley and Thomas Bassett, the tional “lazy little summer tourna- eventual winners of Mixed A ment” that has become the main- Doubles. Flexibility was the word of stay of summer racquetball in the the day, and everyone from the Chicagoland area. Glass Court hos- tournament desk staff to the players pitality was exquisite as usual, but kept their cool, unanimously affirm- they couldn’t control the weather as ing that you just can’t do much torrential rains began Friday after- about Mother Nature. noon and went on through the night, causing flooding and wreak- It was pretty much all Allan Crockett ing havoc on the tournament (AL) and Sharon Jackson (IN), the match schedule the next day. reigning King and Queen of Scores of players were late, two Summerfest. Allan took Men’s notably having to temporarily aban- Open Singles, then teamed with don their car on Interstate 294, call Glen Bero, 1st Place in Men’s B continued on next page

www.illinoisracquetball.com 9 SUMMERFEST OPEN continued from previous page

Sharon to win Mixed Open Doubles and with Trevor Snyders to win Men’s Open Doubles. Sharon added the Women’s Open THANK YOU Singles feather to her cap. It’s re- ally great to have these guys come From Doug, over to play – they are as gracious as they are accomplished. Michelle, Danny and Joe, thanks to these Several local players will be volunteers who “movin’ on up” at the beginning of the 2011/12 season (or sooner if contributed their they win another full draw): Matt time and efforts at Sochacki won Men’s A, Glen Bero Summerfest: took Men’s B, Nick Czapla (IN) cap- tured Men’s C, and Hung Che played in his very first tournament Marian Bala, Tristan Bush, Tamara Buss, Marla Cusano, and won Men’s D! Laurel Davis, Jonelle Dubois, Dan Flood, Lori Good, By Sunday, the clouds had Jeff Grace, Pam Grace, Kelly Gremley, Joy Herth, cleared, the sun came out, the Cheryl Kirk, Jim Maroon, Eric Mathews, Liz Molitor, matches finished on time, and ev- Geoff Peters, Kara Peters, Judy Sands, Pam Schubach, eryone headed out for swimming, volleyball, and the famous Glass Joe Silius, Chuck Snyders, Brad Statdfield, Court raffle. The beautiful summer John Thorson, Marcia Warren, and Jim Wehrli weekend we hoped for was saved after all, and another great Our gratitude goes to sponsors Comfort Suites, Summerfest is in the record books. Results below… A Complete Door (Michael O’Dea), and Kirsten’s Danish Bakery (Paul Jepsen) — Cheryl Kirk

RESULTS Division/# entered: First; Second; Women’s Open (6): Sharon Jackson (IN); Women’s Open Doubles (3): Laurel Semifinals Janet Eminger; Lynn Yeazell, Kelly Gremley Davis/Janet Eminger; Lynn Yeazell/ Women’s AA (2): Marcia Warren; Judy Judy Sands; Pam Schubach/Marcia Men’s Open (14): Allan Crockett (AL); Sands Warren (3rd) Juan Herrera; Trevor Snyders, Vinny Women’s A Doubles (5): Marian Bala/ Carvallo (FL) Boys 16 & Under (5): Sam Goodman; Jason Cheryl Kirk; Joy Herth/Kathy Ruzycki; Men’s AA (6): Brent Huff; Kenny Brown; Goodman; Bobby Koon (3rd) Carolyn Watkins-Vazquez/Mary Kent Hadraba, Dan Salamone (WI) Crambes (3rd) Men’s A (13): Matt Sochacki; Mark Men’s Open Doubles (4): Allan Crockett Calvin; Juan Arteaga, Thomas Bassett (AL)/Trevor Snyders; Juan Herrera/Geoff Mixed Open Doubles (4): Sharon Men’s B (17): Glen Bero; Justin Goldblatt; Mark Calvin/Brent Huff (3rd) Jackson (IN)/Allan Crockett (AL); Peterson; Juan Arteaga, Ricardo Fleury Men’s A Doubles (8): Fabrizio Mora (OH)/ Marian Bala/Andy Pitock; Laurel Davis/ Men’s C (16): Nick Czapla (IN); Nick Loy; Andrew Kulback (OH); Doug Halverson/Dan Geoff Peters (3rd) Alcides Gutierrez, Justin Peterson Flood; Joe DeArmas/Joe Wilhelm, John Mixed A Doubles (10): Thomas Men’s D (12): Hung Che; Brad Geatros/Frank Valentino Bassett/Kelly Gremley; Kristopher Statdfield; Doug Kerns, Cari Carman Men’s B Doubles (5): Jose Alberto Acosta/ Horgen/Jonelle Dubois; Julianne Men’s 35/40+ (8): Alok Mehta; Cary Ranferi Salgado; Jeff Jovien/Jesse Ortiz; Valentino/Frank Valentino , Pam Grace/ Slade; Joey Logan, Fabrizio Mora (OH) Matt Rowland/Mark Coleman (3rd) Jeff Grace Men’s 45-50+ (4): Tim Dern; Andrew Men’s 40+ Doubles (6): Joe Silius/John Mixed B/C Doubles (3): Keith Wiener/ Kulback (OH); Dan Malone (3rd) Amatulli (IN): Andy Pitock/Eric Jensen ; Mary Crambes; Art Davis, Jr./Deanna Men’s 55+ (6): Jim Maroon; Horace Howard Williams/Joey Logan, Dan Flood/ Munro; Tamara Buss/Michael O’Dea Miller; Patrick Taylor, Joe DeArmas Chuck Snyders (3rd)

10 www.illinoisracquetball.com SUMMERFEST OPEN continued from previous page

Goodbye: Scott Martin bids Team Illinois farewell as he moves to the East Coast

Matt Sochacki — Men’s A Champ Winners! Hung Che (Men’s D) and Nick Czapla (Men’s C)

www.illinoisracquetball.com 11 Gudinas Inducted Into ISRA Hall of Fame at Summerfest

Match play halted temporarily at 8:00 p.m. on Saturday evening and everyone gathered in the Glass Court lounge to celebrate Cheryl Gudinas, the newest member of the ISRA Hall of Fame. ISRA President Laurel Davis conducted the induction ceremony, citing Gudinas’ impressive playing record over the years that has helped put Illinois on racquetball’s national map. Cheryl’s eight National Singles wins in Women’s Open/Team Qualifying (the most recent was this year in Houston) ties Michelle Gould’s record. She was World Champion in 2000, 2002, and 2004; US Open champion in 2002 and 2004; and National Doubles cham- pion in 1995 and 1996 (with Michelle Gould) and in 2001 (with Kim Russell). At press time, Cheryl had just returned from Seoul, Korea where she was competing as a member of the U.S. National Team at the IRF World Championships. The Team took Gold!

Cheryl’s gracious acceptance speech at her induction named many in Illinois who have coached and trained with her during her career. Her mom and dad, Pat and Bill, ISRA President Laurel Davis inducts were on hand to witness the induction as were many who Cheryl Gudinas into ISRA Hall of Fame have watched and enjoyed seeing Cheryl achieve racquet- ball greatness over the years.

Cheryl joins Sue Carow, Ron Johnson, Revie Sorey, Lola Markus, John O’Donnell, Jr., Diane DeArmas and TJ Ferro in the ISRA Hall of Fame.

Hot off the Press, August 21: The U.S. Team captured the title of World Champions in Seoul, Korea! L to R (front) Jackie Paraiso, Cheryl Gudinas, Aimee Ruiz, , (rear) Jack Huczek, , Coach Mike Guidry, Mitch Williams, Rocky Carson

12 www.illinoisracquetball.com Life’s a Beach at the SUMMERFEST OPEN

“The tournament was a success... the sun is out... my wife is gorgeous... life is good!”

Women of Summerfest relax poolside

Taking it easy: Jesse Ortiz, Jim Maroon, Tamara and Don Buss and Doug Kerns enjoyed the party

A photo of Kathy Ruzycki...taking a photo... Krystak Csuk, Cheryl Gudinas and Sharon Jackson head out to the pool

Allan Crockett serves...some more! Don Buss, Tamara Buss, Heidi Geatros, John Geatros, Jeff Jovien and Joe Wilhelm

www.illinoisracquetball.com 13 14 www.illinoisracquetball.com Conditioning for RACQUETBALL 101 by Cheryl Gudinas The thing to remember when training for speed and quickness is that it is only “What is the best workout to im- beneficial if you aren’t exhausted! So prove my racquetball game, be- keep workouts short and sweet, allow- sides playing racquetball?” ing for time to recover between sets.

My answer always relates back to Other exercises to incorporate could in- 1993, when I was fortunate to meet clude Ball Drops** (a Krystal Csuk favor- Scott Phelps. Scott was the Speed ite and Cheryl Gudinas not-so-favorite… Coach for the Dallas Cowboys and they are brutal!), Star Drills (working on Portland Trailblazers. He introduced change of direction efficiency), line all USA Racquetball Team members drills, and lateral movement drills. that year to the idea of Speed and Quick Feet. Upon implementing his It is important to remember that in rac- workouts and drills, my game quetball we move in all directions, not jumped up several levels almost im- just forward or side-to-side. Therefore, mediately. Naturally, there was a lot we should train similarly with forward of incentive to continue on with his and backward movements, diagonal workouts! So, I always tell players movements and lateral movements. that, if I only had time for one type of workout aside from racquetball Keeping it interesting and fresh is the to improve my racquetball game, it key. Try to change your workouts every would be “Speed, Explosiveness day to avoid boredom and keep your and Quickness.” body in a state where it is forced to Good luck in your training!! adapt and improve. This can include hundreds of exer- ** Editor’s Note: Had to ask…what cises. My favorite is the footwork My upcoming Racquetball Clinic sched- exactly is the dreaded Ball Drop? ladder, which combines coordina- uled for September 24-26 will be focus- Cheryl replied, “To work on first- tion, quickness and concentration, ing on this type of conditioning along step explosion, a ball drop is where all in one. I use the footwork ladder with improving racquetball skills and one person drops a ball from 5-8 2-3 times per week, for about 20 strategies. For more information on this feet away and the other has to ex- minutes each session. clinic, email me at [email protected] or plode, from receive-of-serve stance, give me a call at (630)308-2323. and attempt to get to it before it bounces twice.”

ISRA MOVIN’ ON UP 2010-2011 Season Racquetball success equates to SINGLES DIVISIONS DOUBLES DIVISIONS greater challenges. These individu- Men’s A to Men’s Open – Juan Men’s A to Men’s Open – Brandon als won at least one full-draw divi- Martinez, Oscar Madrigal, Scott Fauque Pevnick/Craig Geller sion during the 2009-2010 season Men’s B to Men’s A – Antonio Vazquez, Men’s B to Men’s A – Paul Shafar/ and recently received “The Letter” Ozzie Moran, Eric Mathews, Craig Gary Stone (suitable for framing) notifying Herman Men’s C to Men’s B – Daniel them of their new eligibility. Good Men’s C to Men’s B – Christopher Kennedy/Arturo Barranco luck to all in the coming year! Bucholtz, Arturo Barranco, James Mixed A to Mixed Open – Jill — Jim Maroon Camasto Grube/Jim Bush Men’s D to Men’s C – Tony Garcia, Glen Bero, Justin Peterson Women’s D to Women’s C – Dustie Baker

www.illinoisracquetball.com 15 The Kill Shot KIDS CORNER 2010 USAR Racquetball Junior guys for this Olympic Championships event. June 26-30, 2010 In addition This national competition that to the great brings together the top junior play- racquetball, ers in the country was held this year it was a at the University of Minnesota. We wonderful had seven Junior Team Illinois play- family expe- ers compete. It is an Olympic For- rience. Five mat, so you are guaranteed at least families three matches in each division spent a lot played. There were over 30 divi- of quality sions and not quite 200 competi- time to- tors. gether en- couraging Junior Team Illinois Results our players 18 & Under Singles on the court - Trevor Snyders, Gold division - and in the quarterfinals evenings - Saad Siddiqui, Red division - sharing din- quarterfinals ner and - Nick Loy, White division quality time. 18 & Under Doubles The friend- Team Illinois Juniors in Minnesota: - Trevor Snyders/Josh Hungerford ships the (L to R, seated) Trevor Snyders and Saad Siddiqui; (OR) - Bronze kids and par- (standing) Sam Goodman, Jeremy Dixon, Justin Kuhlman, - Nick Loy and Saad Siddiqui - Con- ents develop and Jason Goodman. (Not pictured: Nick Loy) solation with families 18 & Under Mixed Doubles from all over ball and youth baseball. - Trevor Snyders/Lily Berry (OH) - the country is terrific. Bronze Justin Peterson - Justin graduated 14 & Under Singles It was noted at a tournament meeting from Willowbrook High School and - Justin Kuhlman, White division - that we need daughters and grand- now attends the College of Bronze daughters to play more. It made the dif- DuPage, majoring in music. He 14 & Under Doubles ference in attendance at the tournament - Justin Kuhlman/Luis Fernandez from the year before. We have a couple (CA) - Consolation, 4th place of great female teachers/players in Illi- continued on next page 12 & Under Singles nois who would look forward to intro- - Sam Goodman, White division - ducing the game to our young ladies. Gold - Jeremy Dixon, Blue division - Moving On… quarterfinals We would like to honor and acknowl- - Jason Goodman, Blue division - edge our older junior players who, due quarterfinals to the fact that they grew up, will not 12 & Under Doubles qualify for juniors competition next year. - Sam and Jason Goodman, Their leadership and example of good Consolation - Silver sportsmanship for all our juniors is wor- - Jeremy Dixon/Braeden D’Almeida thy of our respect and recognition. (MI), Consolation - Bronze These are terrific young men who are great role models for our younger play- Thank you to the ISRA Board and all ers. the members in Illinois for their con- tribution of shirts and shorts to all Nick Loy - Nick is a graduate of who competed. We would also like Downers Grove North and now attends to thank Dave Negrete and Andy Illinois State University, majoring in busi- Pitock for their time and efforts in ness. Nick played in three national jun- working to prepare some of our ior tournaments while also playing foot- Nick Loy

16 www.illinoisracquetball.com The Kill Shot KIDS CORNER continued from previous page

Trevor Snyders - Trevor played in six national junior tournaments, truly excelling in his last one as one of the top juniors in the country. Active in high school football, soccer and baseball, he now attends Illinois State University.

SUMMERFEST (see article, page 9) Junior competitors included Jason Goodman, Sam Goodman, Bobby Koon, Nick Loy, Justin Peterson, Justin Snyders, Trevor Snyders, and Ryan Slade.

Of note in the adult divisions: Trevor Snyders was a semifinalist in the Men’s Open division, Justin Peterson took 2nd place in Men’s B and 3rd place in Men’s nd Justin Peterson C, and Nick Loy took 2 place in Men’s C. Trevor Snyders played football and baseball in his We are all looking forward to next sea- 4639, [email protected], or high school years. son. Any questions or comments please Steve Goodman at (709) 819-3067, contact us: Barry Dixon at (630) 881- [email protected].

Taking Racquetball to the NEXT LEVEL by Saad Siddiqui We [who avidly play the sport] all well within their respective divi- pretty much accept racquetball as sions. Then we’ve got the guys part of our daily lives. Without it, we who play many local and state- would be incomplete. That being said, level tournaments, but again, we’re part of a racquetball community they’ve never been to a national that lacks true size and strength. It’s tournament. They think it’s way Dvorak Award presentation: Saad with good to hear that racquetball partici- above them. They’re afraid to his parents and Cheryl Kirk pation is increasing lately, but in order challenge themselves. to see racquetball truly flourish as one getting into the sport, racquetball can of the great sports of this nation, we The fact of the matter is, we need people be viewed as a major sport, side-by- have some things we need to tweak. to step up and devote themselves to rac- side with basketball, football, baseball, quetball. Thinking you’re not good and so on. But it all starts with whether While at the Junior Nationals, I real- enough is underrating yourself and under- YOU’RE willing to take it to the next ized that we need more of our players mining the sport as a whole. The best level. to challenge themselves and step up don’t just skip their way to the top. You’ve to the plate. There are so many gotta lose and get you’re a— kicked in or- Editor’s Note: Saad, 18, was the people who play racquetball “just for der to move up and get better. recipient of this year’s James Dvorak fun.” Personally, at my hometown Award. He is the son of Dr. and Mrs. club in Rockford, IL, there are so Recreational players must start exploring Nadeem and Ghazala Siddiqui of many recreational players who have tournaments in general. Local tournament Cherry Valley, IL. Saad will attend never thought to play in a tourna- players need to explore state level compe- Loyola University of Chicago this fall, ment. They just play racquetball at tition. And if you’re at the state level, majoring in Chemistry or their convenience, and that’s it. These you’ve gotta get into that national compe- Biochemistry. He plans to play recreational players have never even tition. That’s how we increase racquetball racquetball in college and throughout been to a tournament, yet they think participation and get more people in- his lifetime; in fact, he’ll be competing that they aren’t good enough for the volved. Then, with the IRT and WPRO do- at the US Open in Minneapolis in competition; in reality, they would do ing their part, and with more newcomers October!

www.illinoisracquetball.com 17 What Racquetball MEANS TO ME by Georgia Russell petition. I love playing and meeting new people, and I also enjoy seeing my old Tell us a little about yourself: friends, too! It is great for my mind, age, hometown, occupation? soul and physical well being. I feel so I’m 49, I hail from Wenona, Illinois, great after playing (even if I lose). It mo- and I’ve been a fitness equipment tivates me to improve my game. technician at the University of Illinois for 20 years. What is your philosophy on life? Take care of #1 (yourself) first and fore- What influenced you to start play- most. Stay active in body and mind. ing racquetball? Live each day with no regrets. Hold My partner was the manager at a family and friends close, for they shape fitness center that was big into rac- our lives and help make us who we are. quetball, so I started to play, im- Show and tell people you care about What is one thing you would like to proved, played in leagues. Then I how you really feel about them now, do that you have not done yet? got real serious and took lessons before it’s too late. Count your bless- Travel. Become a sponsored player. from racquetball pro Bob Graf. My ings. Play in the State Singles and State game really improved at that point, Doubles Tournaments. so I started playing tournaments. What was your most memorable mo- ment in racquetball? What else would you like your rac- What are your goals in racquetball Winning the gold medal in singles and quetball friends to know about you? for this year? the bronze in women’s doubles at the I am not nearly as mean as I look on I want to play and practice more so National Masters tournament in 2009 at the court, I am actually a softy. I have I become more consistent…play as the University of Illinois. my own business doing fitness equip- many tournaments as my schedule ment repair. I enjoy riding my Harley will allow…possibly join the Illini What cause(s) do you support? Sportster, playing softball, working Racquetball Club to get more play- Breast cancer awareness and research, out, and taking my dog Odie for ing time in. ASPCA, The Humane Society, National walks. I love animals. I love coffee, Wildlife Federation, Illini Racquetball especially in the morning while What makes you love this sport? Club, NMRA, USAR and ISRA. watching the birds. I love the friendly and honest com-

2010 ISRA Newsletter Advertising Rates GUIDELINES: • The ISRA Board of Directors has established a formal policy of not allowing advertisements to include product pricing. • All ads should be camera ready. They can be accepted electronically in .tif, .jpg or .pdf formats. • These rates are in effect until December 31, 2010. • Deadlines are as follows:

• Issue Publication Date: 11/26/10 • Articles/Releases/Ads Due: 11/1/10

• Ad Rates: Full page: $150/issue Half page: $75/issue Quarter page: $50/issue Other sizes quoted on a case-by-case basis.

• For any questions or submission: Send articles/releases to Cheryl Kirk at [email protected] Send ads to Joe Silius at [email protected]

18 www.illinoisracquetball.com 2010-2011 Tournament CALENDARCALENDAR For updates or edits to the ISRA Tournament Calendar, please contact Geoff Peters at (773) 251-4413 or at [email protected]

August 31-September 4, 2010 November 18-21, 2010 February 11-13, 2011 IRF 22nd World Senior The 19th Annual 2011 St. Valentine’s Day Massacre Championships (35+) Turkey Shoot Open - JR Forest View Racquet Club, Albuquerque, NM The Glass Court Swim & Fitness, Lombard Arlington Hts. Doug Halverson (630) 629-3390 Dave Negrete; [email protected] September 18, 2010 School Dayze Doubles Shootout December 2-4, 2010 March 10-13, 2011 Silver Lake Country Club, Orland Park NMRA Doubles Championships (40+) 2011 Shamrock Shootout - JR Joy Herth/MatchPoint Racquetball Fullerton, CA The Glass Court Swim & Fitness, (708) 717-6987 www.r2sports.com Lombard Doug Halverson (630) 629-3390 September 25, 2010 December 4, 2010 Forest View One Day Rip It Racquetball March 23-26, 2011 Shootout Series - Singles Women’s One Day - Singles NMRA National Forest View Racquet Club, Forest View Racquet Club, Championships (45+) Arlington Hts. Arlington Hts. Portland, OR Dave Negrete Dave Negrete; [email protected] Steve Cohen [email protected] www.r2sports.com December 11, 2010 October 8-10, 2010 Forest View One Day Shootout Series - March 26, 2011 4th Annual Illinois Vest-A-Dog Doubles Forest View One Day Fundraiser Forest View Racquet Club, Shootout Series - Singles Norris Center, St. Charles Arlington Hts. Forest View Racquet Club, Rick Seaberg (630) 803-1396 Dave Negrete; [email protected] Arlington Hts. Dave Negrete; [email protected] October 20-24, 2010 January 7-8, 2011 15th Annual US Open Championships New Year’s Doubles Warm-up April 1-3, 2011 Minneapolis, MN The Glass Court Swim & Fitness, ISRA State Singles Heather Fender (719) 635-5396 Lombard Championships - JR Andy Pitock (630) 629-3390 The Glass Court Swim & Fitness, October 29-31, 2010 Lombard 2010 Halloween Classic January 14-16, 2010 Cheryl Kirk (630) 215-4242 Forest View Racquet Club, WSMRA Championships (35+) Arlington Hts. Denver, CO April 6-9, 2011 Dave Negrete Kendra Tutsch, [email protected] 2011 USAR National [email protected] www.r2sports.com Intercollegiate Championships Arizona State University, November 12-14, 2010 January 28-30, 2011 Tempe, Arizona All Military National Championships ISRA State Doubles Championships - JR Heather Fender (719) 635-5396 San Diego, CA Landmark Racquet and Health, Peoria Steven Harper, Laurel Davis April 15-17, 2011 [email protected] [email protected] USAR Regional Qualifiers - JR www.r2sports.com Locations TBD February 9-13, 2011 Eddie Meredith (719) 635-5396 November 15-20, 2010 USAR 44th Annual National Doubles IRF 22nd World Junior Championships May 25-30, 2011 Championships - JR Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona USA Racquetball 44th National Los Angeles, CA Heather Fender (719) 635-5396 Singles Championships - JR Fullerton, CA Heather Fender (719) 635-5396

JR - Includes Junior Divisions All tournaments listed are sanctioned by USA Racquetball Illinois tournaments are highlighted in red

www.illinoisracquetball.com 19 Lend Your SUPPORT ISRA Officer and Board Member Your membership in the ISRA ELECTION HELD has helped make our organi- zation second to none. The Annual Meeting of the Board of Directors was held on Though we strive to make im- Wednesday, June 9, 2010. provements to build and grow the sport for future success, ISRA Board Elections were held, with the following results: we sometimes struggle to Geoff Peters continues as Vice President, Michelle Halverson keep our heads above water was re-elected Treasurer, Doug Halverson was renamed West as an organization. Our focus Zone VP and Steve Angelo remains South Zone VP. The fol- is not for the purpose of mon- lowing four individuals were re-elected to the Governing etary gain but to generate Board: Patrice Calvi, Rich Clay, Joe Silius and Lynne Weisbart. enough funds to give back Additionally, we are pleased to announce that Steve quality, first-rate programs, Goodman was recently appointed to the ISRA Governing tournaments and events we Board, bringing knowledge and focus for junior development. can all be proud to participate in. Our volunteers who donate Not all Officer and Governing Board positions were on this their time and/or money are year’s election slate since the Board operates on a two-year greatly appreciated as are staggered term format to help ensure balance and continuity. those who advertise in this ISRA Newsletter. For as little The ISRA continues to welcome volunteers who would like to as $25 for a business card size join the Auxiliary Board and become more involved in sup- ad, we can help get your porting racquetball on the state level. This sort of “apprentice- name out there to let every- ship” familiarizes individuals with the aspects of conducting one know what you do; for ISRA business and serves as a stepping stone for aspiring gov- $150, we can run your ad on a erning board members and officers. Any member who full page. Help Us Help You by would like to lend time and talent in support of the ISRA getting your ad into the next should contact Laurel Davis ([email protected]) or ISRA newsletter. any Board member.

Many thanks, — Marla Cusano, Chair, ISRA 2010 Nominating Committee Joe Silius, Advertising Editor

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

NAME ______ADDRESS ______CITY ______STATE/ZIP ______Send to: TELEPHONE (Home) ______(Business) ______E-MAIL ______ISRA BIRTHDATE ______603 E. Wilson Ave. Lombard, IL 60148 Adult competitor ...... $50.00 ______Member Sport, Junior competitor (age 21 and under) ...... $25.00 ______U.S. Olympic Tax-deductible donation ...... $ ______Committee Total enclosed ...... $ ______

Tournament ______Representative ______

All memberships are for one year, and include a subscription to RACQUETBALL magazine (four times/year).

20 www.illinoisracquetball.com Racquetball CHALLENGE COURTS Buehler YMCA Heritage YMCA Norris Rec Center (847) 359-2400 (630) 420-6270 (630) 377-1405 Palatine, IL Naperville, IL St. Charles, IL Thursdays 7-10 p.m. Saturday Tuesday and Thursday Saturday 8 a.m. - Noon 9 -10 a.m. 7 - 9 p.m. $15 One-Day Guest Pass $4.00 Friday 5 - 7 p.m. Members, Sunday8 -10 a.m. $8.00 $5.00 Members Courts Plus Non-Members and Non-Members (Elmhurst Park District) (630) 833-5064 Monday-Saturday Landmark Health Schaumburg Park District 8:30 -11:00 a.m. and Racquetball (847) 490-2505 $2.00 M-F, (309) 685-8360 Schaumburg, IL $3.00 Sat. Members Peoria, IL Saturday 8 -10 a.m. $10.00 Non-Members First and Third Sunday 6 - 8 p.m. Friday each month $3 Members, 6 - 8 p.m. $9 Non-Members Fitness Formula Clubs $5.00 Old Town (312) 640-1235 Silver Lake Country Club 1235 N. LaSalle St., Chicago, IL Life Center Health (708) 349-6940 Tuesdays 6:00-9:00 pm and Fitness at the Orland Park, IL Saturdays: 9:00 am – 12 noon Bartlett Park District Friday 7 - 10 p.m. $20 for guests (630) 540-4848 $7.00 Members Bartlett, IL and Non-Members Wednesdays Forest View Racquet 7:30 -9:30 p.m. and Fitness Club Saturdays West Cook YMCA (847) 640-2574 7:30 - 9:30 a.m. (708) 383-5200 Arlington Heights, IL $4.00 Members Oak Park Thursday $6.00 Non-Members Wednesday 7 - 10 p.m. 6:30 -10:00 p.m. $9.00 Non-Residents Thursday 2 - 4 p.m. $2.00 Members, Saturday 8 -10 a.m. $5.00 Non-Members Free to YMCA members, $9.00 Non-Members

To add your club to this list, contact: Marla Cusano at [email protected]

www.illinoisracquetball.com 21