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SoSCTAuthern California Association news JUNE 2004 Honoring Those Who Standout

he following individuals and T organizations were honored at Southern California Te n nis Association’s Annual Meeting, for the impact they had on the game locally in 2003.

Fran Wakefield – Lifetime Achievement Award Family Of The Year Hank Lloyds – family Fran W The Hank Lloyd Neighborhood Junior akefield Te n nis Program (NJTP) – Organization Of The Year Brandon Wai and Cindy Chu – Evelyn Houseman Junior Sportsmanship Award University of California Riverside – Long Ellis Intercollegiate Award Lela Atkins, Henry Baisden, Nathan Belloli, Park Cockerill, Duncan Depew, Sam Noa and Mauree Kathrynn Penny – n Solomon and Susan Amateur Athletic Foundation/National Pendo accepted the P Junior Tennis League Service Award resident’s Award for Rivi Lesley Waite – Adult League Tennis era Tennis Club. Service Award AAF/NJTL honorees with Heidi Stryker – Team Tennis For Youth Commissioner Of The Year Award Chuck Kingman – Promotion Of Competitive Tennis Service Award Tina Karwasky – Involvement And Service To The Game Award Anne Kellogg – Involvement And Service To The Game Award (As The Valencia High School Coach) Jim Schultz – Involvement And Service To The Game Award (As The El Modena High School Coach) Brandon Wai’s p arents accepted the Bobby Perry – Umpire’s Award Sportsmanship A ward for their son. Steve Tscherne accepted Riviera Tennis Club – Cindy Chu’s parents accepted the the Organization Of President’s Award Sportsmanship Award for their daughter. The Year Award. www.scta.usta.com

...Honoring Those Who Standout

Leslie Waite

Chuck Kingman

Jim Schultz and members of the El Modena High School team

Heidi Stryker Bobby Perry

Tina Karwasky

Anne Kellogg and members of the Valencia High School team University of California Riverside ...... Trio Recognized

Mark Winters

ach year at the USTA Annual to name an award for what she did?” Meeting, individuals and Barbara and help get it Pam Austin, Director of Tennis at the E organizations are acknowl- established,” the modest Pacific Palms Conference Center, was also edged for making a difference. That Schneider said. “To be the honored at the Annual Meeting, being one was never more true than in the first to receive it, is very of three individuals receiving the Inter- case of the presentation of the surprising. She did so much national Tennis Hall of Fame 2003 Tennis inaugural Barbara Williams that what I have done can- Educational Merit Award. The recognition Leadership Award. not compare. She was my is presented annually to those who Carol Schneider was the first friend and mentor. Barbara demonstrate leadership and creative skills to receive the award named for was friendly with everyone. in tennis instruction, writing, organization the late Williams, who had a She knew how to work and promotion of the game. tremendous influence on the game with people, encouraging As mentioned in the February News, in the Eastern section. Her Carol Schneider so many to become volun- Kerry Blum received the Eve Kraft Com- activism was also seen on the teers both locally and munity Service Award for her ability to cre- national level, where she became the first nationally. She did so much in so many areas ate, organize and administer local tennis woman to serve on the USTA Board of including membership. Who in the world can programs for people of all ages, ability levels Directors. “Betty Cooksen and I were asked live up to her measure or equal a portion of and backgrounds.

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USTA Annual Meeting Notes W illiam J. Kellogg

(Editor’s Note: ◗ MULTI-CULTURAL/DIVERSITY William J. Kellogg, FOCUS: Over a year ago, the USTA who is the Southern raised the Multi-Cultural emphasis to a California Tennis The “Experimental Tie Level 1 Strategic Priority.When the concept Association Sectional of Diversity entered the picture things Delegate, offers a Break Procedure” has became more complicated. At the Annual summary of Meeting, USTA President Alan Schwartz several topics clarified the situation stating that Diversity discussed.) been renamed the includes the Multi-Cultural topic as a subset “Coman Tie Break and that the USTA’s mission is to focus on Diversity with an emphasis on creating a FINANCES: 2003 was an extraordinary Multi-Cultural environment. Karlyn Lothery year for the USTA from a financial stand- Procedure” in honor of was named the new Director of Diversity. point. There was a $9 million surplus of Section goals will be established in accor- revenues over expenses and a 3.5% the late John Coman. dance with local demographics. Incentives increase in funding directed to the local will be established, but not until AFTER level. This year looks good, but there are Multi-Cultural goals are decided. clouds on the horizon for 2005 and beyond ◗ due to the fact that US Open television BLUE RIBBON COMMISSION contracts expire. (BRC): Last year,the Blue Ribbon Com- INSURANCE: In an era of litigation and mission was created to identify key issues COURT DRYING PROCEDURES: rising costs, the USTA is undertaking a and bring them to the attention of the review of its umbrella liability insurance As a result of the multiple rain delays that Board of Directors with the ultimate goal befell the last US Open, attention is being coverage. Many believe events are auto- of creating greater harmony in the USTA focused on court drying procedures. Using matically covered by the USTA whenever family. The need for more candor was a an army of youngsters with towels doesn’t they are held at their club. This is not an major concern. Now that a year has passed, seem to be the right way to accomplish the accurate impression. Non-USTA programs the Board reported that 19 of 21 recom- task. Building a roof over the stadium is not are NOT covered, even if conducted at a mendations from the BRC report have financially feasible. For this reason, the member club. The goal is to find out how been acted upon. Everything has not been USTA is investigating a variety of options CTAs and those who need it the most can addressed, but progress has been made. which include using the services of M.I.T. be covered for a minimal cost. The Board believes that the issues identified engineers; a new court surface that uses water-repellent paint; tarps with blowers TDM/TMS: If you don’t recognize these need constant follow-up, so expect anoth- underneath; and a high-tech microwave sys- letters, you will soon enough. They are the er survey and subsequent report to be con- tem. From my perspective, the most inter- commonly known acronyms for the com- ducted sometime in 2004 or 2005. esting is a Zamboni-like machine that would puter programs that have been written to dry the court (which numerous volunteers run tournaments. TMS has been around for COMAN TIE BREAK: For the past have offered to drive). over a decade and has gained wide accept- 17 y e a r s , t h e USTA rulebook has contained ance. However, the USTA wrote its own an alternate tie break format called the THE ROAD TO THE US OPEN: program (TDM) to handle the task and is “Experimental Tie Break Procedure”. At the The USTA will be leveraging the US Open insisting that sanctioned tournaments use Annual Meeting, the Southern California to create a television series of men’s and it. This has resulted in a few problems. section proposed that it be renamed the women’s summer professional tennis events Realizing the shortcomings, the USTA is “Coman Tie Break Procedure” in honor of (including the Mercedes-Benz Cup and JP treating the program as a top priority proj- the late John Coman, who was responsible Morgan Chase Open) that lead up to the ect. TDM has great promise because it ties for getting it in the rulebook in the first final . By playing these tourna- the online sanctioning process, the USTA place. I am pleased to report the resolu- ments, competitors will be able to signifi- membership database, tournament results, tion was unanimously endorsed which cantly increase their prize money winnings rankings and the tournament schedule all enabled the procedure to move past the at the Open. into one bundle. experimental stage.

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TheThe MerceMercededes-Benzs-Benz Only CupCup IsIs ForFor You!You! YESTERDAY Vic Braden

he Mercedes-Benz Cup will be and tickets, call (310) 824-1010 E xt . 253 or he annual played at the Los Angeles Tennis go to the tournament website: tournament holds Center-UCLA, July 9-18. This www.mercedes-benzcup.com T special meaning for year’s tournament, which is in its 78th year T me.For decades, Southern of benefiting Southern California Tennis Final Pre-Qualifying California has produced a Association programs, is two weeks earli- giant share of world cham- er, because of the Olympic Games in The last of the 8 Mercedes-Benz Cup pions, but only one event has held the title, Athens. Of further note, Mercedes-Benz Pre-Qualifying events will take place "King of Tournaments", and that one tourna- USA has extended its title sponsorship of June 21-23 at California State University- ment was the Pacific Southwest Open, now the event for two years, through 2005. Northridge. Call Annette Buck at (310) proudly called the Mercedes-Benz Cup. Players committed to the 2004 tourna- 208-3838, Ext. 224 for tournament What's so special about the tournament? ment include: Taylor Dent, , information. When I arrived in Southern California, in 1953, Robby Ginepri, , Mark I felt like I had made it to heaven. I could Philippoussis, David Nalbandian, , see Jack Kramer, the professional champion, Sjeng Schalken and Paradorn Srichapan. practicing at the Los Angeles Tennis Club. , the 2003 champion, and NTRP Grand Prix was heading for fame. last year’s finalist Lleyton Hewitt will also was an active coach, and Bobby be on hand, as well as the world’s best Point Totals Riggs was well into his hustling days, on and doubles team, Bob and Mike Bryan. (Submitted by Annette Buck) off the court. As exciting as these activities “We are very excited about our dates,” were, things really changed in September said Tournament Director Bob Kramer. MEN’S 5.5 when the Pacific Southwest Championships “We are two weeks after Wimbledon, and 1. Efrain Morales 280 took center stage. the first event of the summer US hard- 2. Esteban Altuna 220 It wasn't just that the best players in the court season.Our entry list is off to a Charles Hamori 220 world wanted to play at the Los Angeles strong start. We are looking forward to 4. Jim Wheeler 120 Te n nis Club (only a breath away from this event being one of our greatest ever.” Michael Fischer 120 Hollywood); it was the fact that Hollywood The annual tournament offers a rich MEN’S 4.5 also played a key part in the tournament. It collection of fan friendly activities including: 1. B a r nie Wallace 340 was not surprising to see Clark Gable, Lana JULY 9TH – All-American Shoot-Out fea- 2. Joshua Dearing 300 Tu r n e r o r M a r i lyn Monroe in the box seats tures eight players who compete for a 3. Arnold Darini 280 at the clubhouse end of the court. In later main draw singles wild card. 4. Tim Belling 240 years, I remember hosting Barbra Streisand JULY 10TH – Tournament Qualifying begins. 5. Jose Calero 220 for the tournament committee and she quick- JULY 11TH – Wilson Family Tennis Clinic and MEN’S 3.5 ly ended up in Jimmy Connor's box seat. final rounds of Qualifying. 1. B ill Vance 480 Open tennis and the subsequent money JULY 12TH – Gibson/Baldwin “Night At The 2. Enrique Dondonay 380 demands made the center court at the Club Net” gala fundraiser benefiting MusiCares. 3. Oscar Ledesma 340 simply too small for the tournament. The JULY 13TH – Kids Day includes a free clinic 4. Gerard Del Rosario 260 move to UCLA in 1984, found the tourna- and a chance to watch the afternoon 5. Armin Afshani 240 ment a larger center court; one that is among matches for everyone 16 and under. WOMEN’S 4.5 the friendliest in the world. In addition to see- JULY 15TH – Senior Day provides those 50 1. S unny Kim 120 ing the best players in the world, at close and beyond with an opportunity to spend 2. Geraldine Brantley 80 range, the Hollywood tradition is carried on. time with Vic Braden and watch afternoon 3. Ellen Furman 60 matches. In the last three years on Monday night at Katie Sweeney 60 Gibson/Baldwin “Night at the Net”, I've JULY 16TH – USTA Member Appreciation WOMEN’S 3.5 and Pavilions Ladies Day is an ideal way for enjoyed watching Kelsey Grammar, Matthew those with USTA memberships and/or 1. Melissa Lent 220 Perry, Dr. Phil, Billy Crystal, Robin Williams women looking to give themselves a treat 2. Jacqueline Lazzar 120 and Dennis Miller play exhibition matches to enjoy a day of tennis. 3. Bridgette Williams 100 with the tournament’s top players. 4. Jennifer Hourigan 60 And it all seems as if it was only yesterday.

For information about these activities ......

4 www.scta.usta.com high performance

Before my match, I waited anxiously in When this started to happen, naturally I Inside Look the Player’s Lounge for my name to be tried to end the point more quickly. As a called, as my sisters played ping-pong at the result of my inexperience, I neglected to fol- Riza Zalmeda back of the room and my mom munched on low my game plan. She took the third set the rest of my mozzarella-tomato panini. with ease, 6-2. I was disappointed. The (Editor’s Note: Riza Everyone was so relaxed, but I was uptight match was mine for the taking, but I had to Zalameda was No. 1 in the knowing this would be my first WTA singles give myself credit for getting that close to Girl’s 18 locally in 2003 match. My opponent was a French woman winning. It was surreal to me that for the and will play for the UCLA named Stephanie Foretz who, lucky for me, past 7 years I had come to the tournament women’s team in the fall. replaced the second seed I was supposed to only as a spectator. Now, at the age of 18, I This is her third article for play. She was not much taller than I am, but had the chance to take on elite players. the News.) she appeared much stronger. Court 4 was Mark Winters, the executive editor of already filling with people when we arrived at the News, made my “inside-look” at the t was funny to hear myself scream over the entrance. (The courts are so spread out Pacific Life Open last longer. He is trying to the telephone. I am not naturally a loud that we needed a cart to drive us there.) encourage young players to give thought to Iperson, and it wasn’t like I had won tick- I remembered what had becoming tennis writers. Since I had written ets to a concert from a radio station. said about getting accustomed to the sur- for him before, he offered to get me a Actually, it was the only response I could roundings, including the spectators, before media credential if I would write a story muster when, for the first time my life, I was starting a match: Do all your looking around about my tournament experiences. speechless. Two nights before the Pacific Life during the warm up and then you won’t be He took me on a personal tour of the Open began, Chief Operating Officer, Steve tempted to look around during the match. Press Room where I could not help but Simon, called to tell me I would receive a To m y a m a z ement, I took the first set 6-3 notice all the TV monitors resting on the wildcard in the women’s qualifying. just by out-steadying her. I knew she was top of each writer’s cubicle. The channels I honestly didn’t think I had a chance to feeling, what I call, “first round jitters,” just showed the match on Center Court, scores, even be considered, so I had no expecta- like me, but I maintained my composure and player statistics and after-match interviews. tions. Like hundreds of other players chasing hid my frustration. I found that doing so Mark pointed out the files which contained Women’s Tennis Association points, I applied almost always intimidates an opponent. summaries of player interviews and the for the wildcard by meticulously composing a However, my intensity began to drop as my racks of match statistics. As I walked up and letter that described myself, my tennis career execution faltered. At that point, my oppo- down the rows, I saw piles upon piles of clip- and aspirations, and most importantly, my nent refused to make an error. Each game pings, articles and stat sheets scattered on reason for applying. I had never applied for could have gone either way, yet she claimed desks. There were about 50 journalists a wildcard before. After getting some help the second set 6-2. working: half of them writing articles due from my close friend, Susan Stevens, and my I was still competitive, but frustrated and that night and the rest watching Roger family, I was satisfied with my effort. drained with the temperature soaring. (continued on page 9) ......

Arlene Barco

or 19 consecutive years, the Amateur Athletic he played the Nike Junior International Tournament in FFoundation has provided funding to support the , finishing third in Boy’s 12 play. National Junior Tennis League. Beginning on July 5th, When asked about the success he has enjoyed, NJTL offers summer tennis instruction for young- Sarmiento talked about the help he received at sters at 140 locations throughout the section. Glassell Park, and how he was inspired hitting with Tw e n t y -four sites also hold the program on a Year- (and returning one of Agassi’s serves) Round basis. during a Mercedes-Benz Cup “Between Match While the purpose of AAF/NJTL is to introduce Activity” featuring the AAF/NJTL program. youngsters to the sport, many participants, such as Those taking part in AAF/NJTL this summer will Serena and Venus Williams, have gone on to become Raymond Sarmiento and Arlene Barco receive 24 hours of instruction in a period of six very good tennis players. Raymond Sarmiento, who spent two years weeks, along with a program T-shirt and a certificate of participa- in the program at Glassell Park, is an example of an AAF/NJTL grad- tion. Registration is $10.00 per child, but scholarships are available. uate reaching the top of the game. In 2003, he was ranked No. 2 in For more information about the AAF/NJTL summer excitement, the Boy’s 12 in Southern California and No. 8 nationally.Last summer, contact Arlene Barco at (310) 208-3838 Ext. 234.

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Workshops Work

Gina Pelazini

his year, 183 teachers have attend- T ed the USA School Tennis work- shops, conducted in Indian Wells, El Monte, Los Angeles, Pasadena, Bakersfield and Long Beach. At these gatherings teachers and volunteers learned practical techniques for teaching tennis to large groups at limited facilities. Each participant received a state-certified curriculum guide and each school repre- sented received 18 new Wilson tennis racquets. The best thing about the workshops was that they were FREE! Any school interested in holding a School Tennis workshop should contact Gina Pelazini at (310) 208-3838 Ext. 235. Teachers learned how to teach tennis in restricted space......

Mark Winters

laude and Barbara Balboa Park in the Valley,” Barbara said. “I Barbara was quick to say “I was more of a C Pickering are hanging was playing doubles with a friend and he was Rover and I had a lot of fun.” Claude went up their blue shirts and tan playing doubles with a friend of his. They further, mentioning times he either chaired pants. After more than 50 knew my partner and asked us to play.” or called the service line. Foremost among years for him and 20 years Being a husband/wife umpire tandem his recollections were an exhibition match for her, the umpiring duo draws attention. But, it doesn’t stop there. between Pete Sampras and Brad Gilbert, has called their last match. “We were both born in Texas,” Claude said, played at North Ranch Country Club, fol- Ordinarily, a departure of this sort would be “I was born in Pilot Point and she comes lowing Sampras’ first US Open win in 1990, acknowledged only in the umpire communi- from Houston.” calling the service line for ’s ty.Fortunately, Dean Melnick, a tennis parent Having been a baseball umpire and doing final match at the 1984 Olympics and a US who had regular contact with the Pickerings “everything…Little League, American Legion Open men’s doubles final. during his son, Jeffrey’s junior career, brought and the like”, Claude decided to move into “I can’t remember the year, but I do attention to their retirement. He said, “being tennis in the 1950’s. Barbara started much remember the top seeds, two of the best a referee is a tough, demanding job and they later because, “I got tired of being a tennis doubles teams in the world, were playing,” are classy, quality people. Something should widow. In time, we started working togeth- he said. “After you have been on court for a be written to let them know a lot of people er and if I do say so myself,we became a while, they change umpiring crews. In this in the tennis community want to say ‘thanks’ great team.” case, when it was time for the change. Both for the job they have done.” Claude, a Nicholas Powel Award winner, teams said ‘don’t let him get away. We want Being true to the “don’t draw attention was mentored by a trio of John McGovern him calling serve.’ You don’t expect thanks to yourself” umpire code, neither Rock, as Umpires’ Award winners. “I worked with a when you are an umpire. In fact, you don’t he is affectionately called by his wife, nor number of great people, but those who want any attention, but to stay for the Barbara, were looking for a farewell. Having influenced me the most were Harry Maiden, whole match was special. I was at my an opportunity to talk about their experi- Syd Nieman and John Coman. John was the zenith.” ences brought about a change of heart. As last of the gentlemen. When I was just The Pickerings will be moving from one would expect with over 75 combined beginning, he told me to call the ball quickly Lancaster to Surprise, Arizona where their years in the field, they had a number of tales and be consistent. I tried to follow his advice zenith awaits. Admitted Claude, “it’s near to tell. throughout my career.” Phoenix, up near the mountains. It’s a very “Rock and I met on the tennis courts at When it comes to best memories, pretty area.”

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Another Way not be compelling? Match Day Charise Godoy is not only 4’8”,she is the team’s No. 1 singles player. Melissa To Play Mark Winters White, the 5’9” hoops standout, was play- Mark Winters ing her last match because her eligibility had n Southern California, Division I intercol- come to an end. While watching the little ow often has the story been told of a play- legiate tennis programs such as and big tandem high-low their opponents, it er moving from junior success to non-par- I Pepperdine, UCLA and USC, along with was easy to understand how they had com- H ticipation because they were not Division I University of San Diego and San Diego State piled a 12-2 record for the season. skilled? Unfortunately, tales of this sort were receive most of the attention. Teams playing On the singles side, Sonoma State won standard until six years ago when the USTA, on the Division II, Division III and NAIA lev- four of the six contests. California State’s Intercollegiate Tennis Association and National els are, more often than not, headline two W’s provided the reason for watching Intramural Recreational Sports Association orphans. Left to compete with little notice, intercollegiate tennis on any level. The decided to bring about a change. The association they play a brand of ball that is thoroughly matches were enthralling. trio formed a partnership to increase interest captivating. I had heard about Silvana Stans, the 24- and participation in college and university tennis I discovered how intriguing a Division II year-old Romanian, mother of two, but I across the country. match can be when I attended a “must win” had never seen her play. Watching her tend Every year, the USA Team Tennis National confrontation between the women’s team at to her children, (a movie appealing girl and Campus Championships closes the season. California State University Los Angeles and boy tandem), while she kept an eye on the UCLA finished fourth in the tournament that Sonoma State University on the last doubles was revealing.How would she be had a record-setting forty teams participate. The Saturday in March. Since a victory would able to redirect her attention and perform event was played on the clay courts at the assure the home team a spot in the at No. 4 singles? Florida Tennis Center in Daytona Beach. California Collegiate Athletic Association Perform she did, giving her opponent a Mark Otten deftly organized the UCLA Conference Championships, California State “use the court subtly” lesson 6-0, 6-2. A team that participated in the co-ed World coach Tina Karwasky spent most of the year ago, Stans was the No. 1 player and Te a m Te n nis format competition. Other mem- practice time, between the team’s two other reached the Independent College Division bers included: Nick DeGoede, Nida Denson, matches that week, concentrating on dou- final at Ojai. Unfortunately, an appendecto- Derek Lowe, Laurel Turbin, Nicole Wink and bles. To her shocking relief, the score was 3- my last fall damaged her abdominal muscles Agustin Zarzosa. Anthony Horsley served as 0 in California State’s favor at the end of and a bad back moved her to the No. 4 coach and spiritual leader. doubles action. spot in the line-up. Having played Satellite Otten explained that he became captivated Ordinarily, doubles is not a “to be tournaments in Europe as a junior, it was by tennis as an intramural activity as an under- watched” part of today’s intercollegiate clear she has game which was clearly evi- graduate at University of California Davis. “They matches. Players, having been rooted on the dent with each shot she hit. had a huge program,” he said. In Westwood, he baseline for years in junior play, are not com- The sweet swinging Bachofer provided found a different situation, “there was only an fortable at the net. The resulting “two peo- the final match win for the 5-4 escape. intramural tournament every quarter.” ple playing singles on half a court” isn’t nor- Listening to the echo of the shots she hit Otten took advantage of the growing inter- mally very appealing. was tingling. Her shot selections varied from est in tennis on campus saying, “a tennis league California State’s was, but not because tantalizingly perfect to “what was she think- was started that split the participants into the victories came about easily. The real ing”.Still,she collected enough points to groups so they could choose which days they story was the playing combinations. Phoebe earn the crucial decision. wanted to play. The idea was to provide com- Bachofer/Ronalyn Miller, (a hit In the end, California State recorded its petition once a week for four weeks. Players everything two-handed/- tenth victory in a row, running the team’s from each group reached the play-offs. After it Hardenne-like backhand combination), record to 12-3. Admitting “this is the best was over, a decision was made about who was were big shot solid at No. 1 doubles. Maggie I've ever seen my team play doubles”, on the traveling team.” Bollinger/Jessica Scruggs were altogether dif- Karwasky added, “my assistant coach and I Inspired by the success his team enjoyed in ferent at No. 2. Both ladies backed sneaky were nervous wrecks, suffering a thousand the program’s first season, Otten started a quick serves with encyclopedic shot making deaths. On our level, we slice, dice and do spring quarter intramural doubles league, hoping which, time and again, carried them from the what we have to do to win. Fortunately, we to further increase tennis participation on cam- brink of losing a point to escaping with one. were able to do that against Sonoma pus. The goal is to build a team that will be a Varying speed and spin with “you are going State.” national competitor next fall. “A lot of people to have to work on your overhead” lobbing, (Postscript: With a 5-4 upset win, the come out of high school playing tennis and when Scruggs, in particular, put on a variety show. team’s eleventh consecutive victory, over they reach college they don’t know what to do,” As entertaining as the top doubles were, Grand Canyon State College, California he said. “One of the biggest things this program No. 3 stole the show. How could a team, State upped its record to 13-3 (5-2 in does is give people an opportunity to meet featuring an individual who is 4’8” (and league play) and earned a spot in the four those who have an interest in playing tennis.” another who is a former basketball player), team CCAA Championships.) ......

7 www.scta.usta.com intercolligiate/community tennis

Names in the NEWS

Gary Sacks was a member of the High Performance junior team representing the US at the 34th Banana Bowl and 26th Gerdau Cup in Brazil. David Nainkin was one of the coaches. Shan Sondhu was part of the High Performance US junior team participating in the XVIII International Taca Group Bowl in El Salvador and the Costa Rica Bowl. Michael Sell and Roger Smith were the coaches. Southern California juniors were impressive at the Easter Bowl National Championships as and Logan Hansen were 16 singles winners. In 16 doubles, Jonathan Calienes/Alex Krueger-Wyman and Richard Barker/William Barker, identical twins from Rice who were Hilary Barte/Hansen were finalists. Andy Magee and seeded No. 2, upset Lester Cook/Ante Matijevic of Texas A & M, McCall Jones were finalists in 14s action. Daniel Drew of the top seeds and No. 1 team in the country, 6-3, 6-3 Shawnee Mission, KS/Magee were the Boy’s doubles winners and in the final of the 115th Pacific Coast Doubles. Jones/Alison Ramos were finalists.

The Williams/Van Sciver Team

Mark Winters

he girl’s tennis team at Bell Gardens years, Van Sciver returned to the game playing High School is a big fan of Ralph on a Women’s 3.0 team at Rancho Cienega in TWilliams and Iris Van Sciver. Last fall 1999. Asked to play on a Mixed Doubles that the duo, who form a partnership both on and fall, she ended up playing on the team off the court, started a tennis program. It was Williams captained (and as the saying goes, it the first time in 15 years the school had such was a love match). an activity. Jennifer Medina, a student, had “One of the great things about the been asking Athletic Director Charlie La Bell Gardens High School courts is that they Commare to find a way for girls to play ten- are accessible to the community,” Van Sciver nis. La Commare, being an instinctive and said. “They are kept open so people in the thoughtful educator, hired Williams to accom- neighborhood can use them. After we finished plish the task. Because so many turned out practice last fall, people were always coming for the team, Van Sciver’s talents were added up to ask for help. Some were adults, many to the mix. were kids; some as young as four. They had a “We had 55 girls show up,” she said. “We didn’t want to turn great attitude and were really starving for tennis opportunities.” anyone away. They just kept coming. We didn’t have anyone who She continued, “one of the things emphasized with the girls on had played before. They didn’t know how to hold a racquet. They the team was setting goals. We wanted them to realize it was didn’t know the rules. Charlie was so supportive. Anything we tried important who you are around; who you associate with. If you to do, he was there. He got us a bus so that we could take the want to improve, surround yourself with positive people.” girls to watch the Women’s Championships at the Staples Center.” Williams and Van Sciver are on a mission. They are anxious to Williams is an accountant in real life. Now a USPTA certified provide opportunities for people to play tennis, which is one of the teaching professional, he has been actively involved in League ten- reasons Williams teaches a group of seniors at North Park in nis activities since the late ‘90s. Van Sciver, who can write and Inglewood. Last summer, they teamed up to run a program for speak Spanish fluently, teaches at Union Avenue Elementary School. youngsters at the Inglewood facility. Currently, they have a Saturday Her father Isaac Carson was an outstanding player and a member tennis program in the Echo Park area. This summer they will of the American Tennis Association Board of Directors. Having organize an Amateur Athletic Foundation/National Junior Tennis been introduced to the game as a teenager, she played tennis at League site at Bell Gardens High School. For information about all Hamilton High School and Fisk University. A non-participant for the Williams-Van Sciver team have planned, call (323) 573-2203.

8 www.scta.usta.com san diego district Inside Look (continued from page 5)

Federer’s match, on the balcony. Mark introduced me to several well- known journalists: LA Times sport’s editor, Bill Dwyre; LA Times staff writer, Lisa Dillman; Orange County Register writer, Lesley Waite Janice Carr; and . I particularly enjoyed meeting managing editor of Tennis Week, Andre Christopher. I was impressed ummertime and ships where the victorious teams earn a by his passion for writing and his down-to- the hittin’ is easy, spot in the USA Senior National earth personality. When I asked him how he as San Diego play- Championships. became such an articulate writer, he told me S a little story. When he was in high school he ers groove their Balboa Tennis Club hosts the USTA strokes in clinics for National Men’s & Women’s Open Hard would try to include one perplexing word in adults and camps for Court Championships, June 7-13. The 88th his essay that would stick in his vocabulary juniors, testing their La Jolla Tennis Championships, June 24-July and impress the reader. I responded, ‘That’s talent and mettle, in 4, is another not-to-be-missed event. funny--I try to do the same thing.’ Leagues and tourna- The Girl’s 16 Super National Another highlight was going to the inter- ments. Throughout the District, tennis Championship, August 8-15 at the Barnes view room to observe the question/answer clubs and facilities are revved up for the Te n n i s C e nter, showcases premier age session with my crush and favorite player, action. group performers from across the nation. Roger Federer. His charisma and nonchalant The Tennis Welcome Center program The Acura Classic, at La Costa Resort attitude charmed everyone in the room. I is the quickest way to find a place to learn & Spa (July 24-August 1), is one of the planned to ask him why he has always been the game or polish rusty strokes. Log high points on the local summer tennis cal- a favorite of the press, but I “chickened out”. onto www.tenniswelcomecenter.com and endar. Already signed up to play are some That is my biggest regret. I felt flushed and I type in your zip code to locate a facility of the top women’s stars, including Justine had knots in my stomach. Oh well, I’ll just nearby that offers low cost tennis clinics. Henin-Hardenne, , Lindsey wait for another writing opportunity to There are more than 40 sites throughout Davenport, , Venus come knocking. the county with a variety of programs Williams, Amelie Mauresmo and Maria available. Sharapova. USTA m e mbers receive a 20% discount on individual tickets for Monday

◗ through Thursday day and evening sessions. Call (760) 438-5683 for information. The following USA Combo Mixed The Acura Classic is Doubles League local winners competed UCLA at the SCTA Sectional Championships: 7.0 - Southern California Mountain View Sports & Racquet Club Tennis Association one of the high points (Ennis Bibb-captain); 8.0 - East County Los Angeles Tennis Center - UCLA CTA Helix HS (Mike Graves-captain); 9.0 420 Charles E. Young Drive West - Balboa Tennis Club (Peggy Jung-captain). on the local summer Los Angeles, CA 9 0 024 - 9115 From the San Diego North County area: (310) 208-3838 7.0 - F a l lbrook Tennis Club (Vince tennis calendar. Luchenta-captain); 8.0 - Kit Carson Park (Ray Fuller-captain); 9.0 - San Dieguito STAFF Te n nis Club (Greg Clark-captain). Mark Winters - Executive Editor ◗ Congratulations to Balboa Tennis Henry Talbert - Executive Director Club on being named the 2003 Club of USA Senior League, for players born in the Year by the USPTA. Geoff Griffin, Darren Potkey - Manager of High Performance Tennis 1954 or e arlier, offers 3.0, 3.5, 4.0 and 4.5 tennis director, and Kent Sligh, director, Annette Buck - Director of Adult & Senior Tennis NTRP skill levels competition for men and accepted the award. Griffin was also rec- women. Roster deadline is June 10. Online ognized as one of 50 teaching pros CONTRIBUTORS registration is quick and easy. Call (858) nationwide by the USA Tennis National Arlene Barco, Vic Braden, William J. Kellogg, 755-8110 for information and a team Recognition Program for his participation Gina Pelazini, Lesley Waite and Riza Zalameda number. Local winners advance to the in the USA Pathway Program bringing Southern California Sectional Champion- new players into the game......

9 www.scta.usta.com youth tennis san diego Blum To Lead

Mark Winters

erry Blum, who began working as a volunteer for Youth Tennis San Diego in 1989, has become the organization’s Executive Director replacing Tom Durwood. Initially, KBlum was the Program Director and the YTSD Summer Camp administrator. In time, she became the Community Development Director and managed the After School Te n nis Program. Starting with 23 schools, Blum turned After School Tennis into YTSD’s shining star. Currently in the middle of a five year growth plan, 74 schools are involved. The goal is to have 120 institutions participate. More impressive is the fact that 93% of those taking part are on scholarships. “I look forward to growing our outreach and community tennis programs,” Blum said, “as well as improving upon and establishing even stronger programs at the Barnes Tennis Center.”

After School Tennis ften, life bounces like a tennis ball. Her mother strongly feels that “After There are ups and downs, and we School Tennis gave Jovita the opportunity to Olearn to roll with the new direc- reach beyond cultural differences and develop tions. Jovita Sanders has experienced life's confidence. Her confidence has indeed grown.” highs and lows, and has handled them suc- She laughingly recalls an embarrassing moment cessfully. She and her family believe that a during a high school tennis match. Against lot of the credit goes to the After School her school’s biggest rival, she tripped while Te n nis program. running for a short ball, her skirt flew up as she At an age when most were innocently fell to the ground, but, “I still made the shot.” starting school, Sanders was learning some She has continued to make shots. As a tough lessons. Her mother was dying and high school sophomore, Jovita led the Steele she and her brother and sisters were facing Canyon Cougars to the League title; their life on the streets of Mexico. Not once dur- first varsity championship. The next year, the ing this period did Sanders miss school. She results were not as good, but Jovita’s attitude would wash with cold water to clean up, put remained strong. "Life is about trying your on her uniform and go to school. Jovita Sanders best,” she said. “I have to keep improving and The ball bounced in her favor when School Tennis participant. play better. And, I know I can do it." Linda and Ron Sanders, an American cou- Linda remembered Jovita coming home Someday Jovita would like to be able to ple, encountered the children and became that first day saying, “I love it! I love it! I can give something back to After School Tennis attached to them. In time, the Sanders do it!” Jovita’s recollection is a little different. because the program has provided so much started the frustrating process of trying to “I was scared because all the other kids had for her. Before she does, she would like to adopt five Mexican children. Linda lived in already been playing tennis,” she said. “It was earn a scholarship to college. Then she would Tijuana for two years before they were able just my first time, but I knew I liked it." like to work with people, maybe in coaching. to bring the youngsters to their new home By her own assessment, she wasn't very She already volunteers at special clinics and in San Diego. good at first. Coach Judy Inskeep saw a dif- camps given by Yo u t h Te n nis San Diego, the Jovita, who didn’t speak English, was placed ferent picture. Realizing that she was deter- organization that sponsors After School in a bi-lingual program. Her parents realized mined and had talent, Inskeep encouraged Te n nis. YTSD Executive Director Kerry Blum that she and her siblings would need help in Jovita and helped her understand that she remembered her from AST days saying, order to assimilate into a new culture. Older could be successful. Through After School "Jovita has succeeded in becoming a confi- sister Dora played in the After School Tennis Te n nis, Jovita was able to attend tourna- dent and disciplined young woman. She rep- program at Oak Grove Middle School. When ments and camps. She began to win match- resents everything we strive for in the After she was old enough, Jovita became an After es, as well as sportsmanship awards. School Tennis program."

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NTRP Grand Prix WOMEN'S 4.5 SINGLES MIXED 4.5 DOUBLES 9.0 LEVEL Masters Anne Leistikow d. Linda Beisswanger/Jonathan Orange County-La Habra Tennis Championships Geraldine Brantley Koch d. Sunmee Jang/ Club (captain Mitch Wang) d. 6-1, 6-1 John Rodriguez San Diego-Balboa Tennis Club Photos: Annette Buck 6-3, 3-6, 1-0 (captain Peggy Jung) MEN'S 5.5 SINGLES 3-0 d. Albert Altuna 2-6, 6-4, 1-0

MIXED 3.5 DOUBLES 8.0 LEVEL Luis Alva/Keiko Takahashi d. San Fernando Valley-Fremont WOMEN'S 3.5 SINGLES Andrew Wasley/Dawn Wasley Te n nis Club (captain Ade MEN'S 4.5 SINGLES Queen Jones d. Janthon Marano 6-2, 6-4 Quingco) d. Orange County- Bill Hatfield d. Jose Calero 1- 6, 6 - 2, 1- 0 La Habra #1 (captain Fumi Wang) 4-6, 6-0, 1-0 2-1

3rd “First Serve” 7.0 LEVEL

MEN'S 3.5 SINGLES Boys High School San Fernando Valley-Warner Miles Wirth d. Jeff Ya nuck Team Tennis Center-Team Lori (captain Lori 6-1, 6-2 WOMEN'S 3.5 DOUBLES Tournament Anderson) d. Orange County- Mae Alongsagay/Nelda Swanson Servite Team A d. Fullerton Tennis Club #1 (pictured below) d. Fountain Valley (captain Ronald Beisel) Valerie Garcia/Jean Oshima 5-1 2-1 1- 6, 6 - 2, 1- 0 Mixed Doubles Sectional Championships Photos: Ali Ordonez 10.0 LEVEL Beach Cities-WestEnd/Hyman 6.0 LEVEL MEN'S 3.5 DOUBLES (captain Hyman Wong) d. Gilbert Rosas/Gavin Troster d. Orange County-Racket Club of San Fernando Valley-Braemar Kerim Oltan/Sean Oltan Irvine (captain Robert Finlay) Attitude (captains Les Berman/ 7- 5, 3 - 6, 1- 0 3-0 Susan Friedman) d. Ventura-Moorpark Friends (captain Florence Livingston) 3-0

11 www.scta.usta.com

Arthur Ashe Essay Contest

Last year, 42 youngsters from the section entered the ENTRY FORM Essay Contest. This year even more individuals 18 or younger should Yo ur Name ______plan to participate. To do so simply follow the instructions below. Birth Date______

RULES: Address ______Compose a typed essay on one 8 1⁄2 x 11paper in 300 words or less, answering the question, “Why is Arthur Ashe a Legend?” City ______State ______Zip Code ______ENTRIES: Send the entry form, on or before July 10th, along with your essay to: Phone (area code) ______– ______USA Tennis NJTL School Attending ______Arthur Ashe Essay Contest 70 W. Red Oak Lane Te n nis chapter/program or group name ______White Plains, NY 10604 Where did you get your application form (school, internet, pro, teacher,

AGE GROUP: library, paper)?______The age group you enter is determined by your age on July 10th. USTA Te n nis NJTL member ______yes ______no PRIZES: NJTL ID# ______Judges will select 10 names from Sectional winners. There will be one boy and one girl from each age group. Each of the 10 winners, along Girls 10 12 14 16 18 (circle one) with a parent or guardian, will win a trip to New York, August 27-29 Boys 10 12 14 16 18 (circle one) and will be guests at the 2004 Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day at the US Open Parent/Guardian Signature ______on August 28. All Sectional winners not selected nationally will receive a plaque from USA Tennis NJTL. Date ______

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UCLA Non-Profit Org Southern California Tennis Association US Postage Los Angeles Tennis Center - UCLA PAID 420 Charles E. Young Drive West UCLA Los Angeles, CA 90024-9115