Fall 2010 Volume V n Issue 2

Wild card! alexandra mueller earns spot in us open qualifying tournament Page 24

USTA League Celebrates 30 years Page 8

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COVER STORY Love it or League it! 8

USTA Middle States n Fall 2010

8 Cover Story Departments 12 USTA League is the largest 4 Welcome recreational tennis program in the 5 Guest Columnist Graig White country. Learn more about the program as it celebrates its 30th 7 Tennis Shorts anniversary. 11 Member Spotlight 16 Diversity 12 Community Development 28 Districts USTA Middle States’ Community n Junior tennis is booming in AMD Tennis Association network continues to grow and evolve. Meet the Section’s n Youngsters are going Can Crazy in CPD two newest groups. n Tennis star Anna Kournikova heats up DD 16 n EPD’s tennis community has big heart 18 USTA Serves n Meet the legendary Carl “Ace” Abbott USTA Serves provides nearly an NJD tennis pioneer $400,000 each year to deserving high school seniors who will continue n It’s time to their academic and tennis success register for in to college. Meet two of the lucky Gold Cup recipients – both Middle States juniors. in PATD 20 Jr. Team Tennis More than 75 teams competed in Jr. 18 Team Tennis District Championships this summer, and players from each team brought a unique passion for the game. Find out why several Enroll today at peopletopeople.com/USTA players choose to play the game! 24 Adult Competition Wild card! Abington, Pa., native Alexandra Mueller wins the first-ever Change your world. Forever. US Open National Playoff earning a wild card to compete in the US 24 20 Open Qualifying Tournament. NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] Published by USTA Middle States Volume V n Issue 2 Fall 2010

Welcome Editorial Nathaniel Harrison Marge McGann Carrie Rupp Ben Zislis Contributors Tom Benic Kasey Connors Loretta DeWalt Stephanie Farris Jeffrey Harrison and Marlynn Orlando Monique Holloway Karen Jennings 4 Seasons change, but Middle States remains Hot! Ann LoPrinzi Kate McLain By the time this issue of NetPlay hits your mailbox, we assume the temperatures have cooled and Marlynn Orlando beautiful fall weather has settled into our region. But as you know, a record breaking winter of snow Stephanie Pankiw was followed by one of the hottest summers on record for Middle States. It was hot, hot, hot; but the Cathy Shaak heat did not deter our dedicated tennis enthusiast as our successful adult and junior league programs broke participation records this summer. The courts across the section were filled with players of all Special Thanks ages competing for a chance to play in our district and sectional championships. Congratulations Andy Findlay to all players who competed this summer and especially to those who will continue on this fall at April Gift national championships. Best of luck to our Middle States teams. Dave Kenas photography Yes, tennis in Middle States is hotter then ever. Membership and participation numbers continue to Matt Lubas, City of Reading climb and break records. With the focused determination of folks like you in our tennis community, Mercyhurst College Sports more and more people are experiencing the benefits of the sport of tennis. In Middle States we are Susan Mullane Photography fortunate to have a vast network of Community Tennis Associations (CTA) that work tirelessly to Wilson Pipkin help grow the game. We currently have 88 registered CTA chapters in Middle States. These programs Virginia Tech Athletics Communications cater to a variety of niche audiences providing youth tennis programs, such as Jr. Team Tennis, adult Eric Taylor - 1stString.com programs, or programs for people with special needs. In the article on page 12, we are thrilled to John Walls welcome two new groups to our CTA network; Philadelphia Liberty Tennis Association (PLTA) and Akshay’s Tennis for Autism. CTAs are typically run by a network of volunteers with a USTA Middle States Officers tremendous passion for tennis and a strong interest and joy in making sure people have an President opportunity and place to play. Jeffrey Harrison On October 30 at the Dolce Valley Forge in King of Prussia, Pa., Middle States is hosting a Senior Vice President workshop designed to generate discussion and new ideas on how you can grow your community Patricia Weger tennis organization. The event will be a great opportunity for CTA and NJTL leaders to learn about Secretary partnering and networking, fundraising and grants, marketing resources, and USTA programming Ellen V. Williams opportunities. You can learn more about this great opportunity by contacting Ben Zislis, Director Treasurer of Community Development at [email protected]. Ruth Roulston The workshop is part of a series of educational programs Middle States offers throughout the year to USTA Middle States help our tennis community partners learn new tennis strategies and initiatives which can help them increase participation and improve performance. In 2010, almost 300 participants have been trained 1288 Valley Forge Road at over 15 QuickStart Tennis Workshops and nearly 250 instructors have been trained at seven Suite 74, PO Box 987 Recreational Coach Workshops. In addition, we continue to host in-person and online trainings for Valley Forge, PA 19482 our tournament directors and adult and junior league coordinators. 610.935.5000 610.935.5484 fax [email protected] As we finish out 2010 and look to 2011, we will continue to find ways we can support our www.middlestates.usta.com community of tennis players, coaches, pros, parents, and CTA and NJTL leaders so that tennis is the “hottest” sport in Middle States. Print and Design Warm regards, Bentley Graphic Communications Pottstown, Pa. Jeffrey Harrison Marlynn Orlando President Executive Director www.bentleygraphics.com

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] District Guest Columnist G uest Columnist Contributors Graig White

Allegheny Mountain Keeping the Fire Burning Tom Benic Body conditioning is an important have to be a constant requirement; rather, ingredient to good health, top performance, you may prefer to use a trainer for periodic and a happy outlook. Getting motivated to fitness “check-ups.” work out is relatively easy, but the challenge Progress slowly. “No pain, no gain” is to stay motivated day-after-day. To help 9 is nonsense. Any time exercise hurts, maintain your desire to exercise and keep you should stop. In fact, avoid doing too Central PA that fire burning, check out the following much too soon to prevent injury and muscle Cathy Shaak steps: soreness. Make your workouts a real part Reward yourself. Don’t be afraid 1 of your day. Set a regular time to 10 to enjoy yourself. After you have 5 exercise to help create the necessary “space” reached a mini-goal or had an especially in your day. good workout, pat yourself on the back for Keep a record. Record your workouts a job well done. On special occasions, reward 2 to help stay motivated and also to track yourself; maybe with a new pair of shoes or Delaware your progress. a weekend trip. Monique Remember that change is good. Vary Holloway 3 your workouts to avoid becoming bored. Variety will help you stick with the program. Step up your program with activities 4 you enjoy. Exercise does not have to mean drudgery. Biking, tennis, and swimming are examples of leisure or fun activities that also promote health and Eastern PA fitness. Loretta DeWalt Establish realistic goals. Set exercise 5 program goals that are within your reach. Always put yourself in a position to succeed! Short-term mini-goals can help you measure success, as well as reinforce your motivation. Monitor and adjust your goals as your fitness levels change. New Jersey Join a gym. Look before you leap. Tour Ann LoPrinzi 6 the club and speak to some members first to confirm that it is a place that will assist you in reaching your fitness goals. Train with a partner. Exercising with 7 a friend can make workouts more fun. Also, chances are greater that you will stick with your program if you know someone is waiting and depending on you to show up. Philadelphia Hire a personal trainer. Sometimes it is Karen Jennings 8 easier to stick with a program if a fitness professional works with you. This does not

Graig White, Director of Performance Enhancement at Rutgers-Camden and a noted conditioning/training expert, has help professional and amateur athletes fulfill their potential. To learn more, visit: www.teamconditioning.com.

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Jim Kohr can certainly claim ownership to the tennis courts at York’s Farquhar Park after he added a 15th York City-County men’s singles title to his resume. It marked the 8th consecutive crown for the 42-year- old proprietor of Hard Kohr Sports & Fitness, a tennis facility in York. Kohr, a USTA Middle States Intersectional team captain, defeated Mic Wallace in an exciting final 6-1, 6-7 (4), 6-4. The win culminated a complete sweep of gold medals (men’s singles, men’s doubles, mixed doubles) in the 90th edition of the tournament.

Delaware

Conde Nast, a publishing company in Wilmington, Del., can now print championship Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) men’s head 7 banners as they captured tennis coach Andrew Girard was named the the 2010 Corporate Tennis Wilson/Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) Challenge, going undefeated in National Coach of the Year for Division III. The its first five matches in a double Tartans finished the season with a dual-match round-robin tournament. record of 21-6 setting a school record for wins The event, held at the Sea in a season. He guided CMU to a seventh-place Colony Tennis Center in national ranking, the team’s highest in program Bethany Beach, Del., featured history. For the third straight season the Tartans co-ed teams who work and live in three different states in the Delaware Valley. Conde Nast finished with an competed at the NCAA Division III Championship impressive 5-1 record only falling to their Diamond State rivals the University of Delaware in the final match. and advanced to the quarterfinals for the first time in program history. Philadelphia Eastern PA

The Schuylkill County community of Orwigsburg is making quite a name for itself thanks to the development of the Blue Mountain Tennis Club. The brainchild of Blue Mountain High School varsity coach Mark Abel, who was looking for a way to introduce youngsters to the game before reaching the varsity level, has experienced tremendous success in its two years of operation. The club is now comprised of more than 60 youngsters ranging from new players to those competing for USTA Middle States and USTA National rankings.

New Jersey

Gloucester County College (GCC) tennis player Jared Anna Mamalat of Philadelphia finished a week Randazzo won two national of excellent tennis by capturing the singles crown championships at the exact at the International Tennis Federation (ITF) same moment in May. International Grass Court Championships at the Randazzo, a freshman, won Philadelphia Cricket Club. She played aggressive, the National Junior College sound tennis en route to the victory and may Athletic Association (NJCAA) have played her best tennis in a hard fought Division III national semifinal win over No. 8 seed Kyle McPhillips individual title in singles. in a lengthy three set battle. Mamalat, 16, who His victory also clinched the currently sits at No. 9 in the USTA Girls 18 national team championship National standings, defeated unseeded Skylar for the Sewell, N.J., school. The team title is the 15th national championship for GCC, but the first in Morton 6-2, 6-0 in the final. men’s tennis. The Roadrunners had a 13-3 overall record in 2010 and won both the Garden State Athletic Conference Championship and the NJCAA Region 19 Tournament Championship.

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] Cover Story Love it or League it! USTA League 8 celebrates 30 years

They come from all over, from all walks of life bringing all different ability levels. They play at community parks, country clubs and local high schools. They compete for flight supremacy then district glory, struggle for a section championship and pin hopes on each shot at Nationals. They come for fun, competition and camaraderie, but most importantly they come. They are the more than 325,000 players that comprise the largest recreational tennis program in the country — USTA League.

he program has acquired many the country. It wasn’t until 1978 that the just one level of play, the 4.5 division; however, monikers during its 30-year history USTA underwrote a league pilot program it was played in five districts in USTA MS and Tby its participants: Michelob LIght, in which teams competed locally within was one of the few under the USTA umbrella Volvo, USA League and USTA League. It specified ability levels with the winners across the country. The winners of each has been endorsed by Hall of Fame athletes advancing to a local playoff. district advanced to Harrisburg, Pa., for the Wilt Chamberlain and Steve Largent. It has The first section to host this playoff in 1978 inaugural section playoff. In a hotly contested featured husbands and wives, fathers and was USTA Southern and USTA official and weekend of play, it was a women’s team from sons, co-workers, roommates and neighbors. newly minted USTA Middle States (USTA Central Pennsylvania and a men’s team from But what it has done more than perhaps any MS) League Coordinator, Jackie Kimball, New Jersey who called themselves section

other tennis program is grow the game of was eager to see the program in action. The champions. tennis in the United States. New Jersey resident attended the first playoff A few weeks later the two teams represented The concept of adult league tennis was in Atlanta as an interested observer collecting Middle States at the first Inter-Regional certainly not a new one when the USTA information to bring north to USTA MS. League Championships in Cherry Hill, N.J. developed a task force in 1976 to explore A precursor to the National Championship, By the fall of 1979, the ambitious Kimball was avenues to grow the sport. Similar adult- the event pitted the best teams from different coordinating teams in all four corners of the based programs enjoyed quite a history in sections in a full weekend of competition. section. The program began modestly with tennis clubs and in communities throughout The teams from USTA MS played well – the

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] women from Mechanicsburg, Pa., won and It marked the beginning of a fun journey for It is this level playing field that keeps tennis

the men from Trenton, N.J., finished second. Rider who has seen a little bit of everything a regular part of people’s lives. Rule changes, Cover Story from rule changes, new formats and new The success of that first sectional event ratings procedure as well as online scoring equipment during her three decade run, but proved to Kimball the enormous potential have the kept the sport’s momentum building. has never lost sight of why she stays involved for a successful national program. In 1980, The program’s growth has also benefitted by in the program. the program was instituted in all 17 sections the creation of new formats, divisions and and progressed to include three levels: 3.5, “It is the camaraderie and the friendships championships to keep players coming back. 4.5 and 5.5 – with competition beginning at that have kept me coming back,” noted This is something that Booth has noticed local levels with winners advancing through Rider, who has been on a pair of section as the same courts that were filled when the sectional, regional and finally for the first championship teams. “We have kept the program began continue to stay full. Love it or time a USTA National Championship. The same group together and kept having fun “It has been easy to make time for tennis 3.5 men’s team from Philadelphia became the together.” thanks to the program’s consistent schedule first team from Middle States to advance to Just like Rider, Jim Booth of Harrisburg, and the great people who participate. I the national championship in 1980, finishing Pa., has kept coming back to USTA League. have had some of the same teammates and League it! in second place. A captain for all 30 years of the program’s opponents for more than 20 years,” said Kimball’s impact was felt all over USTA MS history, Booth sat in on the original planning Booth. “We have a great group of guys who USTA League as under her guidance the section enjoyed meeting to bring the USTA League tennis just have a lot of fun being around each the largest growth of adult participation of all program to Central Pennsylvania. According other, win or lose.” celebrates of the USTA sections. USTA MS had nearly to Booth, the program came to the area at Losing isn’t something Booth has experienced 9 30 years 370 teams spread throughout six districts, just the right moment. much of in any division as a USTA League

involving more than 3,800 players of which “It was a tremendous time for tennis,” said participant. The captain of the 2003 Super one third of them were new USTA members. Booth. “You couldn’t get a court. Teams were Senior 4.0 National Champions, Booth One member of that first 4.5 women’s section popping up everywhere. The program was has also steered his 4.0 senior team to an champion, Susan Rider of Mechanicsburg, really flourishing.” impressive fourth place finish at the 2009 National Championship. As for Rider she Pa., was just beginning a nearly 30-year Booth played a large role in this growth had to wait 25 years to experience her first relationship with USTA League when she serving as the Central Pennsylvania District’s National Championship winning the 2005 became a participant in 1980. first USTA League Coordinator. Over the title in her second try. “I was recruited by teammates to play on years, he has seen or played a lot of tennis the team and was the youngest player on including one year playing on three separate These two participants certainly have a love the squad,” said Rider. “I had never played USTA League teams. He has played with affair with USTA League. Most individuals indoor tennis at that point in time, let alone father and sons, brothers and sisters and has follow the guidance of their parents who team tennis. Who would have thought that played on adult, senior and super senior teams. often say, if you sign up for a team you must stick it out. Thirty years later, this duo along someone who had never been away from “USTA League tennis has been a constant in with hundreds of thousands of others, are home would be playing in a league tennis my life even with a hectic schedule,” notes continuing to stick it out. • championship in New Jersey? It was great!” Booth. “Matches are set in advance and for the most part everyone is at the same level which – Nathaniel Harrison keeps league tennis competitive and fun.”

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NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] “Being a police officer and having gone through the toughest training academy in the nation has taught me that going for something Membership should never be ‘half effort’; if you put your all behind something you can and will always be successful,” Rufolo said. “With tennis, I’ve learned you don’t always have to win, but knowing you gave everything you had keeps you satisfied in life. This attitude has definitely improved my mental game and allows me to also enjoy the game much more.” Rufolo showcased his love for the game in June as a participant in the inaugural US Open National Playoffs Sectional Qualifying Tournament held at Mercer County Park in West Windsor, N.J. He entered the Eddie Rufolo with twin sons Jared Vincent (left) and Colten James (right). tournament, which provides participants an opportunity to compete for a wild card to the Qualifying Round of the US Open, because he likes to do “anything to be able presented by to help promote the sport” and of course, 11 Giving His All because he loves to compete. “I hope the USTA continues to hold this New Jersey police officer gives his all in everything annual tournament because I know as long as I am able to breathe I will be entering it,” he does — especially on the tennis court Rufolo said. dward “Eddie” Rufolo was 14 when “I continue to play tennis because it has From his days on the courts at Rahway High he was struck by a car while delivering become a staple in my life,” Rufolo said. School to his Wednesday night league play Enewspapers, suffering a compound “Each Wednesday I play with friends and with buddies, Rufolo is confident he won’t be fracture in his left leg. Confined to a cast for then we go for dinner. It’s a great way to straying away from the game any time soon. six months and restricted from the freedoms break up the work week and stay in shape.” “I see my future in tennis every time I play the average 14-year-old boy relishes, Rufolo It was a simple television commercial that at the clay courts in South Plainfield, N.J.,” put on weight and became depressed. It was spearheaded Rufolo’s journey to becoming Rufolo said. “I say this because many of the the simple gift of a tennis racquet, from a a State Trooper. A 26-year-old college members of this club are ages 50 and over. close friend that cheered him up, changing graduate working as an accountant, Rufolo I look at these people and think to myself: his life forever. was not satisfied with his “Groundhog Day” I hope I will always be able to play as these Once the cast was removed and Rufolo was life and knew his professional journey was people do.” able to return to normal life, he put the not complete. While eating breakfast one “I heard once that tennis is a lifelong sport,” racquet to use immediately. He played high morning, he saw a commercial announcing Rufolo continued. “But not until I became school tennis at Rahway High School in a “Career Night” at the New Jersey State involved in it did I realize how true this is. Rahway, N.J., and also briefly in college. Since Police Museum. He attended, and just like Tennis will be a part of my life till I die, and then, Rufolo, now a 38-year-old husband, the gift of the racquet changed his life, the even then, I hope to play with those who father of twin boys and Detective with the commercial was the impetus for a successful have passed before me.” • New Jersey State Police, plays regularly. and lasting career. -– Carrie Rupp

between sets Philadelphia boy sets sites on “Little Mo” title Seven-year-old Tauheed “Little T” Browning finished fourth at the “Little Mo” 8 and under Regional Championship in Chicago. Browning, a Philadelphia resident, reached the Regional Championship by placing first in the Boys’ 8 division at the Middle States Sectional event in May. With the top four finish, Browning, who has been training at the USTA National Tennis Center in Flushing, N.Y., will travel to the “Little Mo” National Championships at the Austin Tennis Academy in Austin, Texas, in October. Former notable champions of the “Little Mo” include Andy Roddick and Donald Young as well as former Middle States juniors Madison Brengle (Dover, Del.) and Bjorn Fratangelo (Plum, Pa.). •

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] Community D evelopment

12

Akshay Damany (front row, second from right) poses with his PARADE magazine All-America High School Service Team counterparts and Vice President Joe Biden (center) and Secretary of Education Arne Duncan (back left). An Inclusive Community CTA Network Welcomes Two New Groups

The mission of the United States Tennis Most recently, the section welcomed two new Association (USTA) is to “to promote diverse CTAs. and develop the growth of tennis.” The In early 2010, the Philadelphia Liberty Tennis organization focuses on this goal in many Association (PLTA) joined the CTA network. ways, most notably through the creation of programs aimed at recruiting more people, “Our mission is to promote tennis among all people, to play the sport. One of the most the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender successful ways USTA has reached out to (GLBT) community and its supporters in the public is through its Community Tennis Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley. We Associations (CTA). In USTA Middle States also promote camaraderie and community (USTA MS) alone, there are 88 registered spirit through social functions and events,” CTAs all aimed at supporting or providing said Brad Pawlikowski, President, PLTA. programs that grow the sport. “Registering as a CTA and creating a relationship with the USTA made perfect “The CTA network in USTA MS is sense because we both share the same true thriving,” said Ben Zislis, Director of desire to promote tennis in our community. Community Development, USTA MS. I look forward to years of future positive Akshary Damany receives his medal from “These volunteer based organizations are relations between PLTA and USTA as we Christine Park, President of New York vital for the growth of tennis. They positively both continue to grow and evolve.” Life Foundation. impact the section by growing tennis and providing a plethora of opportunities to PLTA, which was created in January 2008 their communities.” because of a need for organized tennis in Philadelphia for the GLBT community, is a The types of registered CTAs in USTA MS member of Team Philadelphia, the umbrella runs the gamut, from organizations focusing organization for all alternative lifestyle sports on programming for children or underserved teams in Philadelphia. It is also a member of communities, to social groups for adults. the Gay and Lesbian Tennis Alliance (GLTA).

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] The group has more than 100 members who range from beginners all the way to tennis teaching professionals. Community D evelopment “We do not discriminate on any basis,” Pawlikowski said. “We have had several straight allies join our group simply because they were so impressed with the variety and organization of our tennis programming.” The programming Pawlikowski referenced includes tennis leagues, ladders, clinics and socials, as well as invitations to their annual Club Championship Tournament and a possible roster spot on PLTA’s traveling Atlantic Cup Team. Next summer, PLTA’s Atlantic Cup Team won’t have to travel far, as the group will be hosting the games, which is an annual team tennis competition between the GLTA organizations from Boston, New York, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. “Last year was PLTA’s first foray into the 13 tournament and I’m proud to say we took a respectable second place,” Pawlikowski said. Members of the Philadelphia Liberty Tennis Association gather at the FDR Park tennis “We are really looking forward to bringing courts in Philadelphia to celebrate their Annual League Opener in May. the event to Philadelphia to highlight the a Web site, apply for grants in order to PARADE magazine as one of the nation’s great features of the city.” expand the program and also seek advice most outstanding students. In addition, to PLTA, a 17-year-old boy from USTA representatives who have a lot “This is the first time PARADE has selected from Allentown, Pa., started the organization more experience and knowledge than I do,” an “All-America High School Service “Akshay’s Tennis for Autism” which he Damany said. “Formalizing and expanding Team” and I am honored to be a part of it,” recently registered as a CTA. The program the program now is imperative to ensure that Damany said. “The award has raised a lot focuses on providing tennis opportunities it continues after I go to college.” of awareness for autism within the Lehigh for children with autism. Akshay Damany, Damany, who is assisted by his 15-year-old Valley and I am even more encouraged to whose innovative idea was featured in brother Krish, hopes to expand the program take my program to a national level. The the Winter 2009-2010 issue of NetPlay to other clubs [his program is based out of support from the community has been magazine, had a desire to formalize his Westend Racquet Club in Allentown] in overwhelming.” program that in less than a year evolved from the Lehigh Valley and hopefully one day, all Damany, whose profile was featured in one participant to four, and has garnered over the country. To support and promote interest from an additional four families. the magazine, received his award along “Akshay’s Tennis for Autism,” a local news with 14 other high school students at a “Joining forces with the USTA will help group organized a “Coaches Challenge” special breakfast in Washington, D.C. He because I can access their help in making tournament, involving the local high school received his medal from the U.S. Secretary coaches in the district. The event raised of Education, Arne Duncan, and attended a money for Damany’s program as well as the reception with Vice President Joe Biden. Lehigh Valley Chapter of the Autism Society CTA 101 of America. He and his Emmaus High School “Akshay is a remarkable, selfless, young A USTA Community Tennis Association tennis teammates also participated in a Walk man who is using tennis as a vehicle to help (CTA) is “any incorporated, geographically Now for Autism Speaks event, raising $1,125. a historically underserved population get defined, not-for-profit, volunteer-based introduced to the sport of tennis,” Zislis said. Why a CTA targeted solely to autistic organization that supports or provides “He truly deserved the PARADE honor for children? The developmental disorder programs which promote and develop the his efforts in giving back to these children. fascinates the rising high school senior. growth of tennis.” As an association, the He has a true passion for helping others.” “For a condition that has an extremely high group works to coordinate and maintain incidence [1 in 110 kids or a child every 20 “We are thrilled to further expand our tennis programs and services; guaranteeing minutes is diagnosed], very little is known diversity efforts with the additions of these that they are open and accessible to about the condition. There are very few new CTA’s,” Zislis continued. “We applaud all. These tennis enthusiasts may act sports programs for children with autism and their efforts to reach areas and people that as advocates, program administrators, none specifically target autistic behaviors,” may have formerly gone untouched. We’re promoters or fund-raisers. Fueled by Damany said. “I have found a way that my happy to have them on board.” local volunteers, they exist to promote passion for tennis can help others, and I plan and develop the game of tennis in the To learn more about the Philadelphia Liberty to continue to be involved in that.” community. Tennis Association visit: http://plta.us/. His dedication has not gone unnoticed. To learn more about “Akshay’s Tennis for To learn more, contact: Autism” e-mail: [email protected]. • Ben Zislis at [email protected] This spring, Damany was recognized by – Carrie Rupp

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] participation rates made this year’s games especially successful. A record 55 athletes competed in singles play, with 11 new athletes participating – the largest jump to date. For many athletes, tennis is one of the most demanding sports of the Special Olympics Games. While the Games might be challenging, Wilkins says the athletes come in and are rarely unhappy. Both singles

Around the G ame and doubles competition are run at the summer games, as well as unified doubles, which pairs athletes with able-bodied tennis partners. Not only do the Games offer participants a chance to compete, but they also turn into a social event for many. In fact, Wilkins compares the games’ atmosphere to a big, giant sleepover. Nancy Wilkins (center) and two New Jersey Special Olympics participants. The months leading up to the Games can be 14 stressful, between the amount of paperwork and preparing for the sectional tournaments. However, when one of her athlete’s walks Sharing a Passion through the door, Wilkins is instantly reminded of how uplifting the games are f o r T e n n i s for her, the volunteers, and the athletes or Nancy Wilkins, tennis is more themselves. than a game. Not only has the sport Wilkins’ many contributions to the Special Fshaped her life, but it has allowed her Olympics go beyond running the annual to impact the lives of others. Wilkins, who is event and sectional precursors. She also currently a tennis pro at RiverWinds Tennis coaches several athletes year round who Center (West Deptford, N.J.), has run the participate in the Special Olympics. Wilkins tennis competition at the New Jersey Special says these athletes have become part of her Olympics for the past 22 years. extended family. Wilkins’ involvement with the Special While Wilkins has received numerous Olympics has provided her the opportunity accolades and praise for her successes in to share her love of the game with hundreds tennis, including Middle States Pro of the of players with disabilities. When asked what Year in 2006, it is her work with the Special keeps her coming back year after year, her Olympics that remains closest to her heart. answer was simple, “The athletes…that’s an Since she started coaching athletes with easy one.” Photo courtesy: Zoha Photography disabilities, she says her goal has been for her athletes to “walk in the club and be treated Even prior to Wilkins tenure with the A 2010 New Jersey Summer Games participant. like everyone else”. Special Olympics, tennis has always been a cornerstone in her life. Wilkins first became “As soon as I started playing, I thought Wilkins keeps this very goal in mind while hooked on the game in the eighth grade, and ‘I want to be at a club wearing sneakers running the Special Olympics tennis games credits her sister with convincing her to quit everyday.’ I thought there couldn’t be each summer. She makes sure the games softball in favor of tennis. The switch wasn’t anything much better than that.” mirror any tournament she has played in, so difficult Wilkins says, “Once I started The transition from playing to coaching came and are run officially and correctly. playing tennis, I didn’t care about anything naturally to Wilkins, who says, “I think I fell For Special Olympics athletes, tennis is else. I just wanted to get on the court.” in love with teaching more than playing.” more than a competition, or a way to make She began playing competitively for Wilkins became involved with the Special friends. Wilkins is convinced the impact Gateway Regional High School (Woodbury Olympics in 1988, teaching at clinics and runs much deeper. She says that by teaching Heights, N.J.), and brought her skills to as a volunteer at the state games. Later, she players how to become more healthy and Elizabethtown College (Lancaster, Pa.). As took over for a friend as the Director of active, tennis has truly extended their lives. a senior captain at Elizabethtown, Wilkins Tennis. Since then, Wilkins’ involvement So while tennis has always held a distinct led her team to Nationals, and capped the with the games for over two decades has place in Nancy Wilkins’ life, her dedication season with a number four ranking among been a great addition to her life. to the Special Olympics not only brought Division III programs. her inspiration, but also allowed her to share The 2010 New Jersey Summer Games, held her unwavering passion for the game. • It didn’t take long for Wilkins to realize that at The College of New Jersey (Ewing, N.J.), she wanted to make a career out of tennis, took place June 11-13. The overwhelming – Kate McLain

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] Tennis at the Keystone State Around the G ame Games Celebrates 25 Years

n June 20th the summer Keystone The tennis tournaments at the Keystone State Games (KSG) began, State Games have included numerous players Omarking its 29th year. In addition, who became very successful in the tennis another anniversary was celebrated; the world. Some participants have become tennis tennis competition celebrated 25 colorful officials, pros at tennis facilities, owners of years as a sport at the Games. tennis facilities, and others have gone on to play for Division I colleges, or become The KSG have an Olympic style format successful coaches. The people that play at and include more than 20 different sporting the KSG love the game of tennis and it is events. The Games hope to support clear that it is a big part of their lives. Katrina Jones, Lancaster, Pa., (left) finished first in the healthy physical activity for Pennsylvania Girls’ 14 singles division; she poses with Ralph Tutlane, Jr., residents in an atmosphere where everyone Over the last six years in York, which is twice Tennis Director, KSG, and the Girls’ 14 silver medalists Grace Kensinger, Manheim, Pa. can participate. These games are a part the number of years that KSG usually spends of a county-wide initiative, the National at a site, the tennis participants have become Excited to make the most out of the 25th Congress of State Games (NCSG). The a community. This year, the addition of a anniversary, the participants also organized a 15 NCSG is a part of the U.S. Olympic Facebook group was started by a participant barbecue at Central York High School. Past Committee. to help keep everyone connected and aware and present KSG participants were invited to TENNISof what was happening at the Games. celebrate the continued success of tennis at The first year tennis was played at KSG was Tutlane also posted stories from the last 25 1986 in State College, Pa. at Pennsylvania the KSG. • years so that the group could reminisce. – Stephanie Pankiw State University. The KSG never stay in the same place for too long, and moved on the next year. Generally, the KSG spends Keystone State Games…Where are They Now? three years in any one location and then move on to another to ensure everyone in In 2008, Tommy Meyer (Bernville, Pa.) won a record six gold medals Pennsylvania has a chance to participate. at the 2008 Keystone State Games and was named the Games’ most This year, the KSG were held in York, Pa., outstanding athlete. Meyer finished first in Boy’s 18 singles and their location for the last six years. yearsMen’s Open singles. He teamed with brother Michael to win Boy’s In tennis’ first25 year at the KSG, there were 18 doubles and Men’s Open doubles, and also captured the Mixed only six different draws, boys and girls 14s, 18 doubles and Mixed Open doubles titles with fellow Berks County 16s, and 18s singles. In its second year, resident Martha Blakely (Wyomissing, Pa.). doubles competition was added in the Meyer is now a rising junior at Pomona-Pitzer College (Claremont, 18s for both boys and girls. From there, Calif.). In 2010, he led his team to one of the most successful seasons tennis continued to grow, and added adult in men’s tennis history. Meyer stepped into the top singles position, competition and mixed doubles to their list finishing as the 5th ranked singles player in the West Region. of draws, as well as expanding the doubles As a result, Meyer qualified for the season-ending NCAA singles tournament competition into more age groups. This year in Oberlin, Ohio. In the first round, Meyer drew Carnegie Mellon junior there were a total of 21 draws. Amex Nemerov. Meyer proved as efficient in the tournament as he was during The tennis competition at the KSG is a the regular season, proving he is among the nation’s best with his 6-3, 6-1 USTA sanctioned tournament, and what gives win. With the win, Meyer was named an NCAA All-American in singles, the KSG appeal is that both adults and kids Pomona-Pitzer’s first since 2008 and the 31st selection overall. Meyer’s can play in the same tournament. This means brother Michael, a 2010 graduate of Conrad Weiser High School, is set that families can all participate together, some to join his older brother on the courts of Pomona-Pitzer in the Fall. even play together as a doubles team. The kids Blakely is now a valuable member of the women’s tennis team at also like this tournament because they are able Virginia Tech University splitting time between singles and doubles. to participate in many different draws, giving Blakely’s success is not solely reserved for the tennis court, but also the them more opportunities to play. When they classroom. Most recently, the junior who is majoring in biochemistry, get older, the kids come back and compete as chemistry and mathematics, was named to the 2010 ESPN The adults as well. Magazine Academic All-America® Women’s At-Large Third Team, as “When you’re a junior you have all these neat selected by the College Sports Information Directors of America. She tournaments to play in, and then as an adult received the Skelton Award, given to the top Virginia Tech female scholar- there are less tournaments,” Ralph Tutlane, athlete, at the Tech All-Sports banquet on May 3. She has been selected the director of tennis at the KSG, explained, to both the Dean’s List and Athletic Director’s Honor Roll and was a “so the Keystone State Games keeps it fun.” member of the 2009 All-ACC Academic Women’s Tennis team as well 25 yearsas the 2009 ACC Academic Honor Roll. • NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] Tennis Leadership Camp Heats up Atlanta More than 30 children from the USTA’s 17 sections gathered in Atlanta, Ga., for the 2010 USTA NJTL

D iversity Tennis Leadership Camp (TLC) July 19-25. Two of the children are from USTA Middle States – both are members of the NJTL of Trenton. Martin Soto, 13, from Trenton, N.J., and Nakyra Carmichael (pictured), 12, Trenton, N.J., were two of the lucky campers who enjoyed a week of activities including tennis instruction, team building activities and sightseeing. The team also saw some professional tennis action at the Atlanta Tennis Championships where Marty Fish defeated John Isner. The group toured World of Coke as well as the CNN newsroom, and also spent an afternoon volunteering at Books for Africa with New Look Leadership Academy. USTA.com featured a blog written by the campers. NJTL of Trenton’s Martin Soto provided the entry for July 21: Today, the NJTL kids started off the day with two hours of tennis practice. We trained with Erica Perkins and Amy Bryant. Then we took a charter bus to Books For Africa where we teamed up with Usher’s New Look Leadership Academy campers. Everyone was divided into groups to sort 16 boxes of new and used books. One group even emptied a whole box. We ended our volunteer work with a picture and ice cream. I personally loved all the tennis drills that were provided by Amy and Erica. I liked the volunteer work so much I only took two breaks the whole time! Created in 1984 to provide an educational as well as motivation tennis experience for NJTL participants who could not afford such an opportunity, the goal of the camp is to provide NJTL participants a chance to be part of a life lasting tennis and social experience. The TLC is a wonderful opportunity for NJTL participants to experience an intense week of training, emphasizing individual skills development, physical fitness, proper nutrition, good sportsmanship and other healthy attitudes. • – Carrie Rupp S a v e t h e D a t e 2010 Annual Hall of Fame Induction Dinner and Auction Saturday, November 13 Citizens Bank Park Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Hosted by Middle States Tennis Patrons’ Foundation, assisting the development of junior tennis programs and activities furthering tennis education objectives

Dennis Alter Robert Jordan Ann Koger Lisa Raymond Ron Woods

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] D iversity

USTA Middle States NJTL 17 a Success! it exposes them to something totally new and were less about competition and more about KidsOver 100 kids came out to MercerDay County different. It exposes them to the competitive making it an enjoyable learning experience for Park in West Windsor, N.J., on July 20th for spirit of athletics and team building. It’s great.” the kids. With the smiles on their faces, it was USTA Middle States’ National Junior Tennis & The older kids, ages 10 to17, competed in obvious that everyone had an incredible day. Learning (NJTL) Kids Day. The participants different tennis drills and games to earn points Ibelise Smith, 17, of Wilmington, Del., who plays came from six different NJTL chapters, and for their team. The games worked on ground with the Rodney Street NJTL chapter, explained ranged in age from 6 to 17 years old. strokes, volleys, and serves, which allowed the why she loves tennis, “It’s exhilarating and exciting. The chapters in attendance were NJTL kids to have fun and work on their techniques It’s not just a hobby; it’s a way of life.” of Trenton (Trenton, N.J.), Community at the same time. The competition between the Kids Day was a great success because the groups Integration Program (Yeadon, Pa.), Black four teams made everyone try their best so that that came out for the event were excited to be there Women In Sport Foundation (Philadelphia), they could have a shot at being the big winners. and the kids were excited to play. The NJTL wants Rodney Street Tennis & Tutoring Association The younger children, ages 6 to 9, enjoyed every child to have the opportunity to learn and (Wilmington, Del.), Arthur Ashe Youth Tennis instruction on QuickStart Tennis courts doing play tennis, and Kids Day provided the perfect and Education (Philadelphia), and Reading relays, races, and drills focused on different opportunity to help them reach their goal. • Park and Recreation Department NJTL hand-eye coordination skills. These activities – Stephanie Pankiw (Reading, Pa.). Music was playing as the kids arrived at the courts, and the day started with a group dance between sets to the Cha Cha Slide. Each NJTL chapter was then merged, and divided into four teams, so Tennis-A-Thon the tennis competition could begin. This format allowed the kids to meet children from other held in chapters across the section. Pretzel City Madison Castillo, 10, from Morrisville, Pa., Dozens of children participated participates in NJTL of Trenton programming, in the City of Reading’s (COR) and said, “It is fun to interact with everyone, Tennis-A-Thon held in July meet new people, and play with some different at the Hampden Park tennis people.” courts in Reading, Pa. The The Mayor of Trenton, Tony Mack, was in event, a fundraiser for the City’s attendance to watch his children participate. tennis program, challenged They have been playing for three years with participants to hit tennis balls more than 25,000 times combined. Mayor of Reading, Tom the NJTL of Trenton. Mayor Mack explained McMahon even stopped by the event to take the 25,000 shot of the fundraiser. Because the the kind of impact this event can have on the children reached the goal, Fromuth Tennis (Spring Township, Pa.) matched all the donations children participating, “It’s an everlasting effect, raised at the event. The money raised will be used to support the City’s tennis program, which was named the USTA’s National Junior Tennis & Learning chapter of the Year in 2009. •

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] between sets USTA Serves USTA

Local NJTL’s Max Rubin Receive USTA USTA Serves Scholarships Awarded Serves Grants USTA Serves, the philanthropic 18 to Middle States Student-Athletes and charitable entity of the United STA Middle States is pleased to relations. To receive the scholarship is an States Tennis Association, awarded announce that two section players, honor for Rubin, who says, “My whole 26 grants in its 2010 spring funding Max Rubin and Joel Novick, life I have been involved with USTA, so its cycle, totaling $301,000. Four of U the recipients are USTA Middle have received college scholarships for the amazing to be recognized by them.” upcoming school year. Rubin and Novick are States organizations. Arthur Ashe Novick, from Cape Youth Tennis and Education, Inc. two of 70 high school seniors nationwide who May Court House, were awarded college scholarships by USTA (Philadelphia, Pa.), Black Women N.J., was selected in Sport Foundation (Philadelphia, Serves, the National Charitable Foundation of for the USTA Serves Pa.), Katie at the Bat (Narberth, Pa.), USTA. Scholarships totaling $398,000 were College Education and NJTL of Trenton (Trenton, N.J.) granted to students who have demonstrated Scholarship. The received grants. a commitment to tennis through USTA $6,000 scholarship and other youth tennis programs, as well as is awarded to “USTA Serves is excited to continue exhibited academic excellence throughout 56 students investing financial and other resources to their high school career. nationwide who help support organizations that believe Joel Novick in the powerful combination of tennis Rubin, 18, a resident of Cherry Hill, N.J., have demonstrated and education to help change lives. We was awarded the Eve Kraft Education and superior academic achievement, a applaud the expertise, commitment Scholarship Award. One male and one commitment to community service, and and passion for tennis and education female nationwide are selected for the $2,500 active participation in tennis programs. He that these organizations have shown to award, which honors the recipients’ successes says of the award, “It means everything. children and people with disabilities on the court and in the classroom, as well as To help further my education and to help whom they serve,” said Deborah Slaner community service involvement. finance it through tennis is awesome. I’m really grateful.” Larkin, Executive Director, USTA In the fall, Rubin will attend Duquesne Serves. “Our goal is to support as many Novick, 18, is a graduate of Middle University in Pittsburgh, Pa. Although the programs as possible and we look Township High School and has enrolled college selection process was challenging, forward to our next grant cycle when at Franklin & Marshall College (F&M) in after visiting four or five chools, Rubin said we’ll hear from even more programs.” • of Duquesne, “The second I got there, I Lancaster, Pa. His decision to attend F&M knew it was the place for me.” was largely because he would be able to play tennis, as well as the high caliber of the Since picking up a racket at age three, tennis liberal arts education. Novick also takes pride in giving back to the has been a significant part of Rubin’s life community, which he does by running a and shaped him as a person. After playing in After a second attempt picking up the sport tennis clinic for kids. Novick says that many junior tournaments throughout his youth, in his freshman year of high school, Novick’s of those who he coaches are not as exposed Rubin knew that tennis was something he goal was merely to make the team. He far to the game, adding, “I want to share tennis wanted to pursue and play in college. He surpassed his goal, and ended up playing No. with other people, and help people love the says that he felt an immediate connection 3 singles on the varsity squad, and was the sport as much as I do.” No. 1 singles player the remaining three years with the Duquesne team, and is very much The 2011 USTA Serves College Scholarship looking forward to the season. on the team. In fact, the team at Middle Township High School is a family affair – application will be available in November. To Outside of tennis, Rubin is considering a Novick’s twin brothers play in the No. 2 and learn more, visit: www.usta.com/foundation. • major in elementary education or public No. 3 singles spots. - Kate McLain

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] Turning to Tennis Junior Competition ohn and Sue Walls of McDonald, Pa., Allegheny Tennis. The concept of West weren’t sure where to turn when their Allegheny is to offer more training for local Jyoungest daughter, Abby, was forced high school players and start a feeder program to give up a sport she loved. Like many to develop tennis in the community. John youngsters across the country, Abby spent her anticipates the program fostering the growth weekends competing in a local club soccer of a USTA Jr. Team Tennis league as the league where the standout player improved players get a little stronger. leaps and bounds each year. “There certainly is a level of excitement in However, before she reached her 10th the community with both the existing and birthday Abby was forced to the sidelines after new tennis parents,” said John, who believes suffering a serious concussion on the pitch. the inclusiveness of the sport will continue to At the advice of doctors, Abby was persuaded grow the programming. “Coaches decisions to try her hand at a different recreational on who plays seem to be taken out of the activity, one with less contact. She was steered equation with tennis especially with team to tennis. tennis. We knew Abby needed a safe sport to 19 play and tennis is something she can turn to “I knew if I tried I could put my passion for a lifetime.” • for soccer into another sport,” said the now 12-year-old Abby. “The first time my racquet – Nathaniel Harrison Abby Walls made contact with the ball I knew it was a sport for me.” Attend the Camp of Your Dreams The USTA Middle States (USTA MS) With her interest in the sport growing, Abby junior tennis camp scholarship program provides an opportunity for deserving juniors to attend top began participating in clinics at the local notch tennis camps. Scholarships are donated by some of the section’s best camps and instructors for North Fayette Parks and Recreation where she both day and overnight sessions. The program is open to all USTA MS members 18 years of age and began building a strong foundation for tennis. under who do not hold a section ranking. Scholarship winners will be matched with a camp based Armed with a growing passion for the sport on preference and location. The scholarship is for players who may not be able to attend a summer as well, John took to the internet to find out tennis camp otherwise. Proof of financial need is required as well as a letter of recommendation. more about USTA and opportunities for The application deadline to participate in the program as either a player attending or as a Abby. What he found was something they camp donating a scholarship is April 30. For more information check out the Tennis Camp couldn’t pass up: the USTA Middle States Scholarships page under the Juniors tab on www.middlestates.usta.com or e-mail Kitty Perrin at [email protected]. (USTA MS) summer camp scholarship program. With support from area camps and instructors USTA MS developed a program where deserving juniors can attend top between sets summer camps. Over the years, hundreds of players have been able to improve their confidence and their game at these Pittsburgh’s Fratangelo Captures camps including Abby who was awarded a National Championship scholarship to an Adidas Tennis Camp in June at nearby Shady Side Academy in Pittsburgh. Bjorn Fratangelo (Plum, Pa.) was crowned champion at the USTA Boys’ 18 National Clay Court Championship at the Delray “The camp was helpful to her development,” Beach Tennis Center in Delray Beach, Fla., in July. Fratangelo, said John. “We saw her improve everyday and who trains at the USTA National Training Center in Boca Raton, she not only gained confidence, but a better Fla., defeated unseeded Alexios Halebian (Glendale, Calif.) 6-4, understanding of the game.” 7-5. Fratangelo, who turned 17 during the event, entered the Abby hopes to build on the momentum tournament as the No. 1 seed and solidified his ranking as the No. from camp by participating in future USTA 1 player in the USTA Boys’ 18 National Standings. He almost tournaments. She currently participates in a made it a double, reaching the doubles final as the No. 2 seed team tennis program at North Fayette with a with Nathan Pasha, losing to the top-seeded team of Emmett few matches against other local communities. Egger and Shane Vinsant 6-0, 3-2, ret. (ill). The win is one of three major accomplishments for Fratangelo in 2010. He captured Determined to not have her miss the team the USTA Boys’ 18 Spring National Championship in Mobile, experience from soccer, John with the help Ala., in March and also the International Tennis Federation (ITF) of Dan Print, a tennis pro at the Western Easter Bowl in Rancho Mirage, Calif., in April. The Pittsburgh Area YMCA in Coraopolis, Pa., and Bob area native is no stranger to the Delray Beach tournament having Brozovich from Noth Fayette, formed West captured the Boys’ 16 crown in 2009. • Photo courtesy of Dave Kenas

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] Ian Irizarry Age 18 For the Hometown Beverley, N.J. Team Willingboro Wreckers “I love tennis because you have to work hard and try to Jr. Team Tennis Team Jr. keep focused, it’s a great all around sport, and it keeps Loveof the Game you together.” Jr. Team Tennis (JTT) District Championships were held across the USTA Middle States section throughout the weeks of July. Over 75 teams competed in district championships, and players from each team brought a unique passion for the game. Although tennis is a sport that is enjoyed by all ages, the reasons people play transcends 20 generations. We asked young players what they love most about tennis and competing in JTT, and the answers were as captivating as the matches themselves! – Kate McLain & Stephanie Pankiw Maddie Fortna AGE 13 HOMETOWN Lebanon, Pa. TEAM Crazy Eights “You get to hang out with people you usually play against in tournaments. Emily Trudo It’s nice to be teammates with them, and not actually Matthew Age 12 competing against them.” Schwartz Hometown Age 12 Marlton, N.J. Hometown Chester Springs, Pa. Team Top Spin Team LMS “That’s a tough one! I like playing with my team and getting “You are always moving and never better, and then trying really hard and succeeding.” standing on the court.”

Nikita Shulka Age 14 Hometown Cherry Hill, N.J. Team Big Bang “It’s a good chance to make friends from different places, and you have to rely on yourself to be better.”

Kelsey Stubblebine Age 11 Sean Swerney Hometown Richland, Pa. Karlyn Small Age 18 Team ELCO Age 14 Hometown Hometown Phoenixville, Pa. Franklinville, N.J. “Seeing friends play, Team Team Phoenetix Aces Comets meeting new friends, “It’s a personal thing, my and just having fun “The game has manners. grandpa, who is no longer with playing the sport.” Everyone is polite and it us, taught my dad how to play teaches you how to be and then me, so it’s a family chivalrous.” thing for me. I want to carry on the tradition.”

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] as opposed to playing individually creates a more supportive atmosphere. This allows the players to develop their skills step-by-step, Jr. Team Tennis facilitated by the opportunity to advance to District and Sectional Championships where the players are exposed to tougher competition and the proper customs and ethics of tournament tennis. Goculdas stated, “Kids who cannot even serve transition into 12 & Under’s dominant players, it’s as an exciting way for Thrive in children to grow into great tennis players.” Miller shared a story that perfectly illustrates the 12&U division. Before his team Jr. Team Tennis began competing in the CPD District Championship in July, Miller did not tell his is only the second year the USTA York, Pa., after winning locally at the Central them there was a possibility they could Middle States Jr. Team Tennis PA District (CPD) Championship. Both win any sort of award. At the end of the (JTT) Section Championships coaches offered great praise for the newest tournament, his team finished in first place. T At Districts both 1st and 2nd place teams has included the 12&U division, but it has age division. already proven to be a beneficial addition receive medals, and when the kids saw the 21 Goculdas feels the 12&U division has helped medals and realized they were receiving to the JTT program. Ketan Goculdas and to level the playing field. Before the division Bob Miller along with three other coaches them, their faces lit up. When the second was created, many of his younger players place team was given their medals Wisehaven led teams at the 2010 Jr. Team Tennis were playing up, on a 14&U team. Now Section Championship held August 4-6 at rallied behind them to show support. these children are given the opportunity to Both groups of players felt a true sense of the Mercer County Tennis Facility in West play with and against players their same age Windsor, N.J. Goculdas, coach of Rising accomplishment and spent time showing off and ability level. Miller noted the division their medals. This is just one example of the Stars, returned after having won the 12&U has a different dynamic than the older Section Tournament last year. Miller, new way the 12&U division truly allows a love for ones, “The environment is more relaxed the game of tennis to develop in a friendly to the tournament, brought his squad of making players feel more at ease.” Miller youngsters from Wisehaven Tennis Center in and fun environment. • also emphasized that being part of a team – Stephanie Farris

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22 Delaware Man Travels the World with USA Wheelchair Tennis ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫ ✫

hen Delaware resident “At first I was curious,” Finley said. “What need to be considered. I’ve learned that John Finley graduated are the rules to the games, how did they they often need to prove that they are W from Otterbein College end up in the chairs; I had many questions capable of doing things by themselves, (Westerville, Ohio) with a degree in sports I wanted to ask but I didn’t want to sound but once you are part of the group, they medicine and later from The University stupid or be too invasive. I certainly didn’t will ask you for help. There is a fine of Nevada – Las Vegas with a master’s in want to offend any of the athletes.” line between helping and insulting or sports administration, he didn’t dream Finley said he didn’t have to wait long to patronizing.” his career would take him to China, Italy, have his questions answered as the women Three-years after his time in Colorado England and most recently, Turkey. But opened up to him about their sports and Springs, Finley received the opportunity to the Ohio native, who is currently the Head their individual disabilities, welcoming travel to the Parapan American Games in Athletic Trainer at Goldey-Beacom College him immediately. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 2007. (Wilmington, Del.), has gotten to do just that thanks to a special relationship he Started in 1999, the Parapan American cultivated with USA Wheelchair Tennis. Games is a multi-sport competition, held every four years, for athletes with physical In addition to his position at Goldey- disabilities, from the Caribbean, Central Beacom, Finley has worked for a number America, South America and North of teams and institutions including America and is held in conjunction with Oklahoma State University, the Kansas the Pan American Games. Finley was City Royals, Cincinnati Reds and assigned to wheelchair tennis. Neumann College. But it was a rare opportunity to be a part of the medical A self-proclaimed “casual tennis player” Finley had little personal experience staff at the United States Olympic Training Jeremiah Yolkut (left), Team Manager, Center (Colorado Springs, Col.) in 2004 and John Finley (right). playing the sport, but was again, welcomed immediately as a part of the “team”. that introduced Finley to working with His time in Colorado Springs provided disabled athletes, forging his relationship Finley with the invaluable experience of “The team had a unique personality and with USA Wheelchair Tennis. working hands-on with disabled athletes, I fit in well,” Finley said. “They were a Finley, who traveled to the Olympic requiring him to think outside of the group of light hearted pranksters that Training Center as a volunteer, worked normal realm of athlete care. knew how to have fun. At the same time, when it came to playing tennis, they with both the USA Women’s Wheelchair “These athletes are very capable and are were very dedicated to the sport and to Basketball team and the Women’s Sitting able to take care of themselves,” Finley winning.” Volleyball team. said. “But there are some limitations that

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] Since his time in Brazil, Finley or thinking of them as disabled. has been an integral part of the They are truly remarkable Around the G ame success of USA Wheelchair athletes.” Tennis. He takes pride in Working for Team USA has been representing his country, serving an invaluable experience; one the as Head Athletic Trainer, current President of the Delaware traveling with the team on Athletic Trainers Association four additional trips – 2008 considers a privilege. While Paralympic Games, 2008 World Finley’s professional journey is Team Cup (WTC) and 2009 certainly not slowing down he WTC. Most recently, he traveled now uses his experiences as a way to Antalya, Turkey, for the 2010 to give back to the profession WTC, where Team USA took that has given him so much. gold in the Quad division. 2010 gold-medal winning United States Quad Team “When I began my career I “They [Quad Team] is the best “I only see the team once a year and a large had always hoped to work in U.S. team and expectations are always part of why I am there is business; but professional sports or at an Olympic high for them. The last two years at WTC with that being said, it is hard to spend Games, but I guess I never truly believed our Quads have not played well and lost so much time with them and not gain it would come true,” Finley added. “Not in the finals. It was great to finally see some wonderful friendships,” Finley said. only have I had the opportunity to work 23 them win a title they very much deserve,” “Each of the athletes has an incredible with some of the greatest athletes in the Finley said. story to tell and I understand that is part world and travel all over the world, I am Although Finley doesn’t know if he’ll be of the human interest factor. However, now able to share these experiences and “called to duty” next year to again travel that often overshadows the fact that they lessons and help mentor the future of with Team USA, he would love to continue are world class athletes! After being around athletic training. I couldn’t ask for more.” • the special relationship he’s formed. these athletes I have a hard time talking – Carrie Rupp

USTA MIDDLE STATES presents a COMMUNITY TENNIS DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP Helping Communities Grow and Connect Saturday, October 30, 2010

A one-day workshop designed to generate discussion and new ideas on how you can grow your community tennis organization.

Discussion will focus on: Partnering and Networking • Fundraising and Grants Marketing Resources • USTA Programming

Workshop Fee $25.00 per person* includes Continental Breakfast and Lunch Workshop Materials • Commemorative Gift

visit playtenniswithus.com for complete details

* $25.00 per person for USTA Organization members. $75.00 per person for non-members.

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] with a wild card into the 2004 US Open Qualifying Tournament and has seen her win three USTA Pro Circuit titles in 2010. Mueller soundly defeated Jidkova, 6-0, 6-3, in the stadium court of the Taube Family Tennis Center at Stanford University to win the Women’s Championship and earn herself a trip to Flushing Meadows, where she has not played since receiving a doubles wild card in 2007. Mueller, who has said she is playing the Mullane best tennis of her career, came out firing on Adult Competition Susan

all cylinders in the final. She broke Jidkova of:

to open the match and never looked back, courtesy

recording three breaks of serve while rarely Punch Maleka being pressured on her own, winning the Photo first set, 6-0. While the second set was more competitive, Mueller never allowed Jidkova Two Middle States Men Alexandra Mueller to settle into the match, ripping off forehand Compete in Men’s Championship winners to both corners and pouring in serves 24 Mueller Wins US Open that reached speeds up to 112 mph, which Two USTA Middle bested the service speeds of all the competitors States natives National Playoffs in the Bank of the West Classic except two. competed in the

Four months ago, the first players stepped In fact, Mueller won an astonishing 16 of 18 Men’s Championship onto the courts at the USTA Billie Jean points on her serve in the second set, while of the US Open Mercyhurst

breaking Jidkova twice more to record a 6-0, National Playoffs. of: Information

King National Tennis Center in Flushing, 6-3 win in just over 50 minutes. Punch Maleka

N.Y., opening the inaugural US Open Sports

courtesy National Playoffs for the first-round matches After the match, Mueller said, “I just played (King of Prussia, Photo Pa.) and Keith College at the USTA Eastern Sectional Qualifying really well today. I had a solid game plan Keith Whittingham Tournament. On August 1, with the original coming in, and I was able to execute it. I’d Whittingham (Erie, field of 373 women having been whittled like to thank the USTA for holding this Pa.) were two of the 16 men who qualified down to two, Abington, Pa., native, Alexandra tournament and for this incredible opportunity for the tournament held at the Atlanta Mueller, was ultimately the last woman to play at the US Open.” Asked about the Athletic Club, July 22-25. Maleka, the standing. The 22-year-old Mueller defeated difference in her mindset since her last trip to winner of the Middle States Sectional Alina Jidkova (Boca Raton, Fla.) in the finals the Open, Mueller responded, “Well, that was Qualifying Tournament, lost in the of the US Open National Playoffs. six years ago, so I’m a lot more mature now, first round to the top-seed and eventual tournament champion Blake Strode. Maleka For Mueller, who read about the US Open both mentally and physically. To be able to who swept through the Middle States event, National Playoffs on USTA.com and have this chance to go back really is amazing!” grew up as a soccer player in South Africa immediately signed up for the Middle States Mueller, who is currently No. 447 on the Sony before his father urged him to focus on Sectional Qualifying Tournament (Mercer Ericsson WTA Tour, will play her next singles tennis. Maleka played professional from County Tennis Facility, June 11-15), the match at the 2010 US Open Qualifying August 1 final represented a chance to take Tournament beginning August 24. • 1996 to 2005, rising to the cusp of the Top another step forward in a career that started 600 in singles and doubles in 2000. He currently works as a tennis instructor at an academy in Pennsylvania and is an aspiring US Open National Playoffs 101 music producer and DJ. Whittingham, a graduate of McDowell High School in Erie, With the arrival of the US Open National Playoffs, the 2010 US Open was officially “open” for the first time ever—meaning anyone and everyone 14-and-over, regardless of experience or playing ability, could Pa., fell to the third seeded Oliver Sajous. compete for a qualifying wild card and a chance at playing in the showcase event of American tennis. Whittingham is a rising senior and the No. 1 singles and doubles player at Mercyhurst The US Open National Playoffs operated as a series of tournaments—16 sectional qualifying College, a Division II program in Erie, Pa. tournaments leading to the US Open National Playoffs – Men’s and Women’s Championships, with the men’s and women’s winners, Blake Strode and Alexandra Mueller, respectively, each earning a wild card He went 12-2 at No. 1 singles last year into the US Open Qualifying Tournament held August 24-27 at the USTA Billie Jean King National and was named first team all-conference. Tennis Center, home of the US Open. Whittingham advanced to the final of The first phase of the inaugural US Open National Playoffs came to a close on June 26 with the last of the USTA Northern Sectional Qualifying the 16 sectional qualifying tournaments. USTA Middle States held its event, won by Punch Maleka (King Tournament without dropping a set before of Prussia, Pa.) and Alexandra Mueller (Abington, Pa.) at the Mercer County Tennis Center, June 11-15. falling to Tony Larson. He earned a spot The US Open National Playoffs – Men’s Championship commenced the second phase and was held at the US Open National Playoff when July 22-25 in conjunction with the Atlanta Tennis Championships, an Olympus US Open Series event Larson was unable to compete at the in Atlanta. The US Open National Playoffs – Women’s Championship was held July 28 – August 1 in Men’s Championship. • conjunction with the Bank of the West Classic, an Olympus US Open Series event in Stanford, Calif., where USTA Middle States’ own Alexandra Mueller won the inaugural title. • Playoffs 101 Playoffs

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] Big Summer for Peters

Township’s Riske Professional Tennis Alison Riske, 19, qualified for Wimbledon’s main draw after her breakthrough performance at the Aegon Classic (Birmingham, Great Britain). She beat Yanina Wickmayer of Belgium in the quarterfinals, 6-7 (5), 6-4, 6-3, before falling to Maria Sharapova 6-2, 4-6, 6-1 in the semifinals. Prior to her win versus Wickmayer, she deafeated Aleksandra Wozniak and Anna Chakvetadze. At Wimbledon, Riske found herself in a first- round rematch with No. 15 seed Wickmayer falling 6-4, 5-7, 6-3. Riske was ranked 146th in the world before the match and 10th Julia Cohen among American women. Riske played one year of tennis for Peters Philadelphia Native 25 Township High School and won the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Wows at $25,000 Event Association (PIAA) and the Western Julia Cohen (Philadelphia) battled her way Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League to a championship at the $25,000 WOW (WPIAL) Class AAA singles titles as well Tennis Challenger in Waterloo, Canada. as a PIAA team title in 2006. She had a Cohen, who reached the semi-finals of the scholarship to Vanderbilt but turned it down tournament in 2009, defeated Fatma Al to play professionally. She won the National Nabhani from Oman, 1-6, 7-5, 7-5. Cohen, Collegiate Clay Court Championships in ranked 182, has travelled to 15 countries Alison Riske 2007, which earned her the chance to play and played in 23 tournaments, including the

Photo courtesy of in the 2007 U.S. Open. • qualifying tournaments at the French Open USTA Communications and Wimbledon since the start of the year. • AdVERTISEMENT AdVERTISEMENT

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From left to right: Hall of Fame, Ed Garcia; High School Coach of the Year, Rose Weinstein; Pro of the Year, Andy Findlay (Ben Zislis accepted award for Andy); Norman Bramall Service Award, Anthony J. DeCecco, Jr.; College Coach of the Year, Suresh Ramamurthi; Rookie of the Year, Joao Marcelo Pinho

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Growing the Game through World TeamTennis 27

he Philadelphia Freedoms capped (QST) at WTT. A QST court was featured Anna Kournikova ran a tennis clinic before off another exciting season of World inside the Pavilion three of the nights to her match against the Freedoms on July T TeamTennis (WTT) this summer. give youngsters a chance to learn the game. 20th. Kournikova volleyed with players and The Freedoms, who finished the season 6-8, USTA MS Tennis Service Representatives taught mechanics to the group of aspiring held home matches throughout the month were joined by tennis pros from around the tennis players. of July at the Pavilion at Villanova University area who guided children on court. USTA MS is proud to be involved with (Villanova, Pa). Two distinguished tennis stars assisted WTT in a joint effort to grow the sport. USTA Middle States (USTA MS) was with QST clinics during WTT. On July Marlynn Orlando, Executive Director of proud to sponsor the event, as the Freedoms 12th, Billie Jean King, a co-founder of USTA MS says, “We are so thrilled to have celebrated their 10th season in Philadelphia. WTT, coached a group of eager young professional tennis in our section, and our The schedule featured several world-class players along with pros from the Frog continued partnership with the Freedoms players including Andy Roddick, Venus Hollow Racquet Club. The tennis legend’s allows us to connect with members while Williams, Martina Hingis, and Anna involvement was a wonderful addition to enjoying the benefits of world-class tennis.” • Kournikova. Kids Night at WTT. In addition to King, – Kate McLain & Stephanie Pankiw The season was a great opportunity for USTA MS to grow the game of tennis by between sets capitalizing on the excitement and interest in tennis at WTT events. The section promoted membership at each match in Novo Nordisk Donnelly Presents order to communicate the benefits of joining Scholarships to Two Lancaster Co. Natives USTA. Many members choose to renew Manheim, Pa., native Melanie Nolt, 19, received a $5,000 scholarship and the honor of 2010 their memberships, and the Middle States Novo Nordisk Donnelly Award national recipient. Nolt joined the other national winner, Kelsey welcomed several new members to the Aho of Marietta, Ga., in New York City where the two young women received their awards at community during the weeks of WTT. halftime of the New York Sportimes match versus the Philadelphia Freedoms on July 14. At the final home match, USTA MS Nolt was diagnosed with Type 1 members were honored at a Member diabetes at the age of 16. She recently Appreciation Night. Those in attendance completed her freshman year at Wilkes received a gift bag and complimentary food University, playing No. 1 singles and and drinks prior to the start of the match. doubles, leading her team to a perfect Guests were also joined by tennis star, 8-0 record and a regional rank of No. 12. Martina Hingis, who held a special Q&A She was the first player in Wilkes tennis session. The event was a perfect opportunity history to achieve a regional ranking in for members to connect with fellow tennis singles while remaining undefeated in players and friends. singles and doubles in the conference. Award namesakes Diane Donnelly Stone and Tracey Donnelly Aside from highlighting membership, Maltby with 2010 Novo Nordisk Donnelly Award recipients Melanie She received First Team All-Freedom Middle States promoted QuickStart Tennis Nolt of Manheim, Pa., and Kelsey Aho of Marietta, Ga., along with Conference honors as well as being Per Falk of Novo Nordisk and WTT co-founder Billie Jean King. named Player of the Year. •

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] In addition to the tennis instruction and play, special guests Glatz and Sturm gave presentations. Glatz, a physical therapist, exercise physiologist and athletic trainer gave a presentation entitled: ‘Stability and Mobility’. He explained core trunk mobility and its importance in creating power and limiting injuries. Sturm’s seminar to both parents and participants, entitled: ‘Improving Your The 2010 Advanced Competition Training Center participants. Confidence’ was appealing and enlightening. He explained how to find your Ideal Performance State (IPS), playing happy, and AMD Successfully Launches Advanced erasing bad memories. Sturm is a professor Training Center for Juniors emeritus at Mercyhurst College and Penn State – Erie. Featuring expert guest presentations by Nick Reese. Finishing a close second was Dan Glatz and Bob Sturm, the Allegheny “Panchos” (team included: Alex Brzozowski, Currently, there are many ACTCs offering

Allegheny Mountain D istrict Mountain District (AMD) Advanced Caleb Kramer, Brandon Dall, Dom D’Amico, low cost, high level training to the best players Competition Training Center (ACTC), a and Daraja Hill) and third was “Sketchers” within a geographic area; this type of USTA part of the USTA Middle States (USTA MS) (team included: Brad Cisek, Tracy Gibson, supported training serves as supplemental 28 Player Development program, completed CJ Jiuliante, Jon Perkins, and training for competitive players. The the 2010 program serving 45 of the District’s Nick Ward). program is not designed to replace the players’ existing coaching outstanding junior players ages 14-17. “Playing under pressure with program, but to provide During the three 6-hour sessions, several very good players made the additional knowledge and mini-tournaments were held. At the July ACTC beneficial for me,” match opportunities in a 24th, season-ending session, held at Kahkwa noted 15-year-old Daraja fun, team environment. Country Club (Erie, Pa.) team matchplay Hill (Erie, Pa.). “It helped ACTC’s offer a mixture of resulted in team “Danzaseno” finishing first. me work on high-level competition and match- Team members included: Hank Hill, Peter consistency and playing play, drills, fitness, strategy, Hazlett, Mitch Kreider, Mario Nicolia, and on clay in 90 degree heat.” skill development, and sports science information. Jr. Team Tennis Draws 42 Players Hank Hughes, Mt. Lebanon Tennis Center and Andy Findlay, USTA MS Tennis A total of 42 players, a Champion of the Allegheny Mountain Service Representative and Pennbriar Athletic District record, competed District (AMD) Spring League was: Wheeling- Club, headed the coaching team, which also on four Jr. Team Pittsburgh Steel. The team boasted Pittsburgh included AMD coaches Kristy Borza, Chris Tennis (JTT) teams in area players Mikayla Becich, Tiffany Kollah, Canady, Jackie Hughes, Jacqueline Payne, Raul Allegheny Mountain this Ross Molinaro, Amy O’Donnell, Brett Raymundo, and Pat Healy. summer. Three teams O’Donnell, and Willie Suhrie who joined advanced to the Middle forces with Wheeling players James Long, Debbie Hazlett initiated this program in 2009 States Jr. Team Tennis Andrew Marczak, Morgan McDermott, and continued as administrator this summer. Section Championships Todd Muldrew, and C.J. Petrini. Facilities hosting the trainings included: Mt. August 4-6 at Mercer Lebanon Tennis Center, Glen Creek Tennis County Park in West Match format included one boys’ doubles, one Club, Oxford Athletic Club – Wexford and Windsor, N.J. Teams girls’ doubles, one boy’s singles, one girl’s singles Kahkwa Country Club. • advancing to the Section and two mixed doubles. Matches were scheduled – Andy Findlay Championship were: Sunday-Thursday evenings to avoid conflict Wheeling-Pittsburgh with tournament schedules. Matches Steel, 18 & under were held at Lakevue Athletic Club, Jonathan Perkins Advanced; Head Hunters, Mt. Lebanon Tennis Center, Oglebay 14 & under Advanced; and SERVE-IVORS, Tennis Center, and Oxford Athletic 14 & under Advanced. The Head Hunters Club. A District Championship dominantly defended its 2009 Section was held on July 15 at Mt. Lebanon Championship title with a 2010 victory Tennis Center with three teams, and a return trip to the 2010 JTT National Head Hunters, Lakevue Kids, and Championships. The team includes: Abby SERVE-IVORS participating. Cummings, Hannah Famili, Peter Hazlett, Wheeling-Pittsburgh was coached Kylie Isaacs, Elizabeth Kollah, Sara Komer, by Greg McDermott, Head Hunters Caleb Kramer, Mitchell Kreider, Jackie by Debbie Hazlett, Lakevue Kids by McDermott, and Jonathan Perkins. The Head Hunters won the 14 & under Advanced Lisa Gloninger and SERVE-IVORS division at the 2009 and 2010 Middle States Jr. by Lynn McCabe. • Team Tennis Section Championship.

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] Metzger Open

The 18th Annual William H. Metzger Central PA D istrict Pennsylvania State Clay Court Open was held in Harrisburg, Pa., in June and was won by Roman Borvanov (Portland, Ore.). Borvanov, the tournament’s No. 2 seed defeated the No. 1 seed and 2008 Metzger Open Championship, Marcus Sarstrand (Spartanburg, S.C.). Both Borvanov (Moldova) and Sarstrand (Sweden) have played Davis Cup for their respective countries. The tournament, which was presented by Premier Eye Care Group, featured a Kid’s Day celebration with former tennis pros Luke Jensen and Rick Leach. Jensen and Leach conducted a tennis clinic utilizing the QuickStart Tennis format of play. Metzger Open t-shirts were sold throughout the Rally for the Cure® Event Held in Mechanicsburg tournament as a fundraiser for the Cystic 29 Fibrosis Foundation. The 3rd Annual Rally for the Cure Women’s “Even though we were not able to host the More than $1,000 Doubles Tennis Classic was held on June event outside at Negley Park this year, we was raised. 5 at the West Shore Tennis Club in were so fortunate to have the West Shore Mechanicsburg, Pa. Rally for the Cure is a Tennis Club as an alternate location as Plan grassroots program that works to spread B,” said Suzy Atkins, a committee member awareness about breast health and breast for the Rally. “Everyone seemed to have cancer in support of Susan G. Komen a great time – obviously the rain didn’t for the Cure® through volunteer dampen anyone’s spirit!” organized golf, tennis and social events. The mission of Rally for the Cure is to L.B. Smith of Lemoyne, Pa., and West empower people to join the fight against Shore Tennis Club of Mechanicsburg breast cancer by providing a platform for were this year’s main sponsors. Along with them to educate their family, friends and the 24 participants, there were vendors, community on the importance of early silent auction items, themed gift baskets, detection through an activity they are and a community night fundraiser held at passionate about. Isaac’s Restaurant. This year’s Rally for the To host a Rally event of your Cure event raised and donated over $3,000 own call 800.327.6811 or visit: for the Susan G. Komen www.rallyforthecure.com. • Foundation.

Can Crazy Participants from the Hempfield Area Recreation Center’s (HARC) summer National Junior Tennis & Learning (NJTL) recreation program took part in a fun art contest turning ordinary tennis cans into works of art! This was the third year for the “tennis ball can decorating” contest and nearly 50 children submitted entries. “The children were each given a tennis ball can to transform, and they certainly did,” said Wilson Pipkin, HARC Director of Tennis. “The sky was the limit with the artwork. They all did a wonderful job.” The works of art, which included a meatball sub, a purse, octopus, aquarium, lighthouse and cookie jar, were displayed in the lobby of HARC where club members voted for their favorites in three categories: most creative, most tennis inspired and best of show! The three winners, which were announced at the NJTL Jamboree, were: Sunflower (Best in Show), Tennis Court (Best Tennis Inspired), Meatball Sub and Purse (tied for Most Creative). More than 200 kids participate in the summer NJTL program which runs from June 22 to July 30 at four different sites, HARC, East Petersburg Community Park, Mountville Community Park and Amos Herr Park. •

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] D elaware istrict

2010 Tennis in the Streets Volunteers

30 Wilmington Embraces Kournikova 16th Annual Tennis Shares Tennis Tips in the Streets with Youngsters More than 40 volunteers arrived in On July 22, Anna Kournikova, a former downtown Wilmington, Del., on May 21 No. 1 doubles player, participated in a free tennis to introduce more than 800 at-risk youth clinic for youngsters at the DuPont Country to tennis at the 16th annual Tennis in Club. About 100 children, including 8-year- the Streets celebration. Eight mini tennis old Imani Lewis (pictured), showed up for the courts were set-up on one narrow block opportunity to meet Kournikova, get some in front of the Hotel DuPont. Hundreds tennis tips, and also her autograph. Despite of kids lined up to give tennis a try as the heat, Kournikova never stopped smiling as volunteers fed balls, shouted words of she spent time with the participants and signed encouragement and handed out prizes. The balls and t-shirts. World TeamTennis (WTT) event is hosted by the City of Wilmington and the Philadelphia Freedoms sponsored the Parks and Recreation in partnership with event as part of the WTT Delaware Community the USPTA Delaware and USTA Delaware Tennis Week. At first the children seemed shy, District. Shawn Baker, Recreation Program but Kournikova broke the ice by stepping right Coordinator for the City of Wilmington in and guiding them while they hit forehands said, “Tennis in the Streets 2010 was a huge and backhands. As the event was ending, she success. A good time was had by all. This spontaneously hugged one of the youngest boys was the best event yet!” • who looked star-struck as she walked away. •

Never a Dull Moment at Special Olympics Tennis First you need to see how many balls in a row you can bounce with your racquet; then how many you can keep in the air. Next, how many volleys you can hit inside the line and finally, how many forehands you can hit over the net. Then, if you are really serious, you play a match. This is the routine at the annual Special Olympics Summer Games Tennis event held at the University of Delaware. The skill events and match play are challenging since many are just learning the game and participants focus intensely on doing their best. Medals are awarded to the top winners in each category and many are proud of their achievements and excited to get their medals from a uniformed police Left-right: Adriana Cairns, Ashlie Lake, and Ashley officer. This year there were over 50 participants and 50 volunteers. No one Tieste proudly show off their medals for tennis skills. complained about the heat since everyone was focused on having fun. •

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] Notable Accomplishments Eastern PA D istrict Jeff Biro was named 2010 Tennis Coach of the Year by The Morning Call. The Allentown Central Catholic High School coach led his team to the best season in decades, when the boy’s team finished second in the District 11 AA division. “The key is the quality of our student athletes,” said Biro. “We stress two things: good effort and good attitude.” Healthy Kids/Healthy Families Series Misericordia The American Heart Association (AHA) The AHA partnered with the Iron Pigs and University’s Abby is committed to stopping the increase in other community leaders at Coca-Cola Park Searfoss receieved childhood obesity by 2010 and reversing the to provide a fun way to educate and motivate women’s tennis All- trend – putting all young people on a road families to become healthier together. The Freedom Conference to good adult health – by 2015. The Health Healthy Families Training camp promoted honors. Searfoss, Kids/Healthy Families Series, created by physical activity and heart-healthy living a senior, was a the AHA Lehigh Valley chapter was created in a fun, family-friendly environment and 31 first-team selection. to provide awareness of the epidemic of featured a photo booth, mascot appearance, The Northampton childhood obesity and offer ways to make nutrition counseling, health screenings, High School changes to help ensure that today’s and hands-on cooking classes for graduate, went 13-7 in the first singles spot generation of youth grows to children, physical activities, and had a 14-9 mark in doubles play. After be one of the healthiest. The a healthy fun wheel, CPR advancing out of the first round of singles series boasted three special station, an ‘Ask the Doctor’ play at the MAC Individual Championships, events including: “C’mon, station, exercise demos and she teamed with Ashley Mangabang to Get Healthy” at the me. Also on site, children make a run all the way to the finals of the Lehigh Valley Mall on had the opportunity to first doubles competition. Searfoss was January 16, the Lehigh try tennis as local tennis instrumental in helping the Cougars to Valley Roadrunners instructors promoted the their second consecutive appearance in the Kids Run on April 24 sport using the USTA Freedom Conference championship game and the Healthy Families QuickStart Tennis format as MU defeated King’s 5-0 in the semifinals. Training Camp on August of play. • She was Misericordia’s Team MVP. 28 at Coca-Cola Park. Former Parkland High Visit www.epdtennis.com for additional stories, School tennis player Haley Lesavoy received photos and happenings! the Loreen Arbus $10,000 Focus on Disability Scholarship A Caring given by The Alliance Community for Women in Media The Pocono Medical Center Golf & Foundation. Her award- Tennis Tournament was held at Buck winning PSA tells the Hill Country Club on June 7. The event story of disability in raised nearly $40,000 for the Pocono America, the societal Health Foundation and the children who changes effected by are served by the Clementine Abeloff the Americans with Community Health Center. Disabilities Act (ADA) that have enabled them to become more independent and self- The 37th Boutique at the Rink was held June 2-5 at Illick’s Mill Rink in Bethlehem. sufficient, and the remarkable contributions The proceeds from this event are all donated to organizations or facilities that provide Americans with disabilities have made. The services to Lehigh Valley cancer patients and their families. As part of the Boutique, current George Washington University which sells clothing and various other items donated by members of the community, a student started playing tennis with mom raffle was held. Winning Touch Tennis of Lehigh Valley and the Bethlehem Force EPD Laurie, a William Allen High School tennis team donated ”A Basket of Tennis Potpourri…” filled with items all related to graduate. She took lessons at Westend tennis, including a gift certificate donated by Winning Touch Tennis and other items Racquet Club in Allentown, and was a donated by Beth Force team members. This year the Boutique raised more than $124,000 USTA tournament regular. • for cancer services in the Lehigh Valley. •

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] Debra Dalrymple-Kleinfeldt: Tennis Advocate Brings Tennis to Phillipsburg When Debra Dalrymple-Kleinfeldt moved this and asked myself why I can’t be doing back home in 2001 to Phillipsburg, this for my community. N.J., from Atlanta, where she went to She talked with her daughter’s school, college and became quite good at tennis, checked out tennis grants, researched it was tennis-culture shock. Atlanta is Community Tennis Associations (CTAs) the ultimate tennis area with thriving and National Junior Tennis & Learning leagues and a social life that is all about (NJTL) chapters, attended a tennis Carl Abbott: tennis. Phillipsburg, located along the workshop, contacted area tennis clubs, and New Jersey D istrict A Hamilton Delaware River in northern New Jersey, the high school and local college coaches, had nothing. and convinced the town they need to offer Township Legend The high school team did okay, as families tennis. She started a CTA using a local Visitors to the Veterans Park tennis courts in who could afford it sent their kids to recreational group as the principals, but she Hamilton Township, N.J., are greeted with tennis clubs in neighboring towns, but alone is doing it all. a “Carl ‘Ace’ Abbott Tennis Center” sign. Debra wanted to make the sport she grew Besides starting the CTA and an NJTL, In the parking lot, you see a prime parking to love in high school available to all. Jr. Team Tennis (JTT) and summer lessons space reserved for this namesake. The regulars 32 The Phillipsburg High graduate first were begun in May. Soon there were 36 kids. know very well who Abbott is, but many who played tennis for her alma mater when Flyers went out to the schools, parents are come for USTA League play or tournaments her main sport of swimming was not joining in, and it’s growing. Debra also ran wonder who this guy is that gets his own offered. “There went all that training,” a Family Tennis Day. tennis complex and parking space. she said. “There were not a lot of people Ironically, the high school cut its JV program Six degrees of separation refers to the idea that playing but we had so much fun [on the just this summer so Debra is promoting JTT everyone is at most six steps away from any school team].” Perhaps it was an omen as an alternative and now has a team for other person, but most Hamiltonians are just that she was meant to bring tennis to those kids. “We turned around what could one or two steps away from Abbott. He was a this sleepy town. have been an awful situation.” high school teacher, guidance counselor and Now married with kids aged 3 and 6, coach. He got many people into tennis and She calls herself a conduit. “I’m just putting Debra got tired of waiting for somebody people in the right places and helping people gave them free lessons. He’s known as a very else to do it. fit, elegant, and charming guy who played make connections.” and coached soccer, basketball, and skiing and “I took it upon myself to be the tennis Information about all the new Phillipsburg never stopped playing something. Overall, advocate for the community. I know how tennis happenings can be found on he’s simply amazing and inspirational. to write business plans. I work for an www.njcta.blogspot.com. • engineer, and we write grants. I looked at Now 96, Abbott plays tennis two to three times a week. He has retained his youthfulness – a sharp mind, a remarkable memory, well-spoken, and a playful sense of survive one set, but I need a break, especially in humor. When Hamilton Township dedicated the intense heat. By having a core of six people, the Veterans Park tennis complex to him it prolongs everybody’s tennis longevity.” in 1998, one speaker said that “Mr. Abbott Nothing hurts, explains Abbott, who is not is held in very high public esteem as content enough just to play but wants to play a gentleman, an athlete, and a role model.” well. He doesn’t have mobility because of his Abbott, who owns a Master’s degree and a knees. “I hop and skip like a rabbit. And I Doctor’s Equivalency diploma, never became cannot serve normally because I can’t come more than a recreational tennis player, but he forward on my right leg so I serve underhand. is a township legend and understands I’m fortunate that I have very good health. something about longevity. His I don’t have the aches and pains that Carl Abbott (left) and tennis friends. tennis group engages in a others in my age category have.” novels. He never smoked and indulges in round-robin format so His best buddy Gus Perilli had an occasional cocktail. He has a passion for that he can take breaks. this to say, “He’s the most cars and owns three; including his trademark “It has helped us very amazing friend I ever had – yellow 1966 Jaguar. much,” said Abbott, a a role model both on and off The advice he would pass on? “Everyone member of the county the court.” doesn’t have to go to college, but everyone soccer and tennis halls Abbott, who lost his wife should have the experience of organized of fame. “I don’t know three years ago, has a network learning. Don’t be a person who will do how long I could play if of friends, volunteers at things against your own conscience. And we played two full sets. I can the library, and reads mystery stay active!” •

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] Philadelphia D istrict

College Scholarship Winners Kathleen Larkin and Steve Motyka are heading off to college with a little help from the USTA Middle States Philadelphia Area Tennis District (PATD). PATD has awarded Rose Weinstein with Philadelphia Freedoms Vice-President, Jeff Harrison. them each $3,000 to help them with college 33 expenses and encourage them to continue USPTA Coach of the Year playing tennis into their college career. The Most of us know Rose Weinstein as President Weinstein has held the position of head PATD Board created its scholarship program of the USTA Middle States Philadelphia Area coach of the boys and girls varsity tennis three years ago. Tennis District and an active USTA member team at Penn Charter High for the last six and volunteer. The United States Professional years. The girl’s team finished fourth in “Tennis is a sport of a lifetime,” said PATD Tennis Association (USPTA) knows her as 2010. Her boys captured the 2010 InterAc President, Rose Weinstein. “The Board feels their 2010 Middle States High School Coach League Championship. it is important to help players continue their of the Year. tennis careers in college whether it is on the In addition to her work with Penn college team or as a club sport.” Weinstein was recognized in an on-the- Charter, Weinstein helps with the Katie court presentation at a World TeamTennis at the Bat Foundation linking University Larkin, a graduate Philadelphia Freedoms match this summer. of Pennsylvania athletes with inner city of Germantown “To me it’s an honor to recognized by your youth. She also leads a tennis program for Academy, is a underserved children at LaSalle University. familiar face on the peers,” said Weinstein, speaking of the USPTA, the oldest and largest organization Weinstein was inducted into the USTA Philly and Middle Middle States Hall of Fame in 2008. • States tournament of teaching tennis professionals in the world. circuits. She held the No. 1 district ranking for her age Discount Junior Tennis – It’s a Golden Opportunity Kathleen Larkin division in three of the last four years. The only year she missed The Philadelphia Area Tennis District the No. 1 ranking, she came in at No. 2! (PATD) knows how expensive tennis training can be for parents and their kids. Larkin is settling in this fall at Lehigh So let Gold Cup, PATD’s award-winning University where she’ll study Business, discount junior tennis program, be your Mathematics and Statistics. answer! Motyka is For more than 50 years, PATD has offered attending West this unique tennis-training program to Chester University 15-year-old Derek Esplin designed the 2011 Gold Cup intermediate and advanced level students. TeeShirt logo. His prize: a FREE season of Gold Cup lessons! where he plans to The goal? To help aspiring juniors prepare major in Biology for tournament level and high school team Registration forms will be available online and Secondary tennis play. in mid-September on www.philadelphia. Education. Like usta.com. Classes fill quickly so sign up For just $150, your son or daughter will right away! Larkin, Motyka was receive ten weeks of top-level instruction at active on the Over the years, Gold Cup has trained the Steve Motyka your choice of ten clubs across the district. tournament circuits, Sessions begin in January. The fee includes likes of retired ATP tour pro David DiLucia competed in USTA Jr. Team Tennis and a t-shirt, junior USTA membership and and Philadelphia area teaching pros Harold played for the undefeated Downingtown the opportunity to compete in a season- Conway and Tina Tharp. East High School team at No. 1 singles. • ending tournament which counts toward a Don’t miss this chance to take your game to district ranking. the next level. •

NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] NETPLAY • FALL 2010 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] 1 2 Middle States H appenings

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7 8 Think you’re happening? Email your Middle States Happenings photo with a brief description to [email protected]. Visit middlestates.usta.com for photo captions

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