USTA MIDDLE STATES
Quarterly • Winter 07-08 • Volume II • Issue 4
More of the same Fulfilling Arthur Ashe’s Vision
al on ati
ntern in City of Bridges PNC I Exclusive Inside! NETPLAY • WINTER 07-08 • 610.935.5000 2 [email protected] USTA MIDDLE STATES
Quarterly • Winter 07-08 • Volume II • Issue 4
08 Cover Story 14 Junior Competition Departments Shane Baker and the University Singles Out! Say goodbye to doubles of Delaware Club Tennis team rankings. The new combined singles are making opportunities out of and doubles rankings for juniors are 04 Executive Director’s opportunities. The team runs “tennis in effect starting Jan. 1, 2008. Get up Message and tutoring” clinics for local children to speed with the new rules! in order to fund their club tennis program, and spread their love of Diversity the game. 11 16 College Tennis Is your alma mater heading to 18 Professional Tennis Nationals? Collegiate Club Tennis 12 Community programs from all six districts Development faced-off at the 2007 Campus 22 Districts The NJTL of Trenton was named Championship – Middle States. USTA’s National NJTL Chapter of For some it was a chance to hit the • AMD embraces PNC International the Year for 2007. Learn more about courts while for others it was a rivalry • Tennis community comes the organization that is setting the bar renewed. together for cause for NJTL’s all over the United States. • Mother/daughter 20 Adult Leagues continues tradition The National Championship season • Maddie Smith closes stellar Jr. Team Tennis is finished; some teams hit the mother 13 collegiate career The courts were hot in Tucson, Ariz., lode and an expectant mother used as the 2007 Jr. Team Tennis National USTA League tennis to stay fit. • What and who is the NJ District Championships were held in October. Find out how our section stacked up • Ball kid hits the big time NETPLAY • WINTER 2007-08 • 610.935.5000 against the rest of the competition. 31 Younique Courts
33 Happenings
[email protected] 3 NETPLAY • WINTER 07-08 • 610.935.5000 To theentire USTA Middle States family–Happy Holidays toyou andyours. Fame inductees. present andfuture volunteers fortheircontributions andIcongratulatethankthe2007Hall of get today, butaboutthelastingimpactyou makeforyears andyears tocome.Isaluteallofourpast, association itistoday. Andithasinspired metoremember thatworking isnotabouttheresults you the numerous volunteers Middle whohave andcontinuetosupport States andmakeitthestrong about ourhistory, buttheHall ofFame managedtodoit.It hasmademeappreciate even more, It’s mover noteasytostopaforward likemeinmytracks…gettingtotakeabreath andthink collectively theyhave created theUSTA Middle States past,present andfuture. spreading theirinfectious spirituntocountlessothers.Theyhave created alegacy, andindividually These are people who love the game of tennis so much and have given of themselves over and over again, inspiredI wastruly by theircombinedcontributionstotennis,Middle States, USTA andhumanity. inductee wasintroduced. Of course,Iwasimpressed by theirachievements intenniscompetitionbut I satintheDoneckers Ballroom with250other attendees andlistenedintentlyasoneby one,each as Executive Director ofMiddle States. people,butIwasunpreparedmeeting new forthelastingimpactitwouldhave onmeasapersonand by Margeher committeeandsupported McGann andherstaff.Ianticipatedenjoying thedinnerand Harrison (center) atthe2007USTA MS Hall ofFame Induction Dinner &Auction Marlynn OrlandojoinsUSTA MS Board President Malcolm T. Jr. Riley (left)and Senior Vice President Jeff 4 [email protected] Forward Thinking Executive Director – being skillfullyhandledby Rose Weinstein and section’s biggestannualevent butthedetailswere Induction Dinner andAuction. itwasour Iknew the 2007USTA Middle States Hall ofFame I really hadnoframeofreference headinginto forreflection.opportunity happened recently whichprovided mean and wonderinghow togetthere. But something and better. I like plotting a course for new horizons looking toimprove things,andmakethembigger I’m thinker…someonewho’s aforward always Marlynn Orlando
Carrie Rupp Marge McGann Nathaniel Harrison Ben Zislis Richard Rauenzahn Marlynn Orlando Ann LoPrinzi Dr. Craig Kimmel,M.D. Karen Jennings Monique Holloway Loretta DeWalt Costello Photography Tom Benic Contributors Editorial Volume IIIssue 4 Winter 2007-08 Published by USTA Middle States Photo by: & Education Center Shane Baker Ashe atArthur Youth Tennis Cover middlestates.usta.com [email protected] (610) 935-5484(f) (610) 935-5000 Valley Forge, P.A. 19482 Suite 74,POBox 987 1288 Valley Forge Road USTA Middle States www.bentleygraphics.com Bentley Graphic Communications,Inc. Print &Design Production Patricia Weger Treasurer Ruth Roulston Secretary Jeff Harrison Senior Vice President Malcolm T. RileyJr. President USTA Middle States Officers Communications, Inc. Bentley Graphic Lida Addison
District Contributors
Allegheny Mountain Contributor
Tom Benic FindingFinding thethe rightright Central PA Contributor tennistennis shoeshoe forfor youyou Richard Dr. Craig Kimmel, MD Rauenzahn One of the most common sports medicine problems I treat is foot pain. I find it amazing that the same parents who spend $500 per week or more on tennis instruction will choose to save money on their child’s most important piece of tennis equipment – their shoes. I recently treated a 15-year-old who was having severe pain in her feet. She said Delaware the pain started about two weeks after getting a new pair of sneakers. When Contributor I asked her how she chose her sneakers, she said her mother told her she could order them online. She was also instructed to spend no more than $50. She went online and picked Monique a pair of sneakers that matched her team uniform color. Holloway Let me suggest a better way to choose a pair of tennis shoes. Before you buy a pair of shoes do a little bit of preparation. Write down what you like and dislike about your current tennis shoes. Make a list of those things that are most important to you. Some young players who play baseline on hard courts may have durability as their primary concern. Older players, or those playing on clay, may be looking for a lighter or more cushioned shoe. Eastern PA When you begin shopping try to find a store that carries a large variety of tennis shoes. A tennis Contributor specialty store is probably your best bet. Once you find a store you like, make sure the sales staff is knowledgeable about their footwear and also, what is appropriate for you. They should ask you what Loretta sneakers have worked well for you in the past, what your style of play is and what court surfaces you use. DeWalt Don’t forget to bring along your old sneakers so they can evaluate the wear patterns. They should also watch you walk in your old sneakers to evaluate your foot type. A good shoe store will always measure both feet in both length and width. Most people have slightly different foot sizes. Tennis shoes should be purchased to the size of the larger foot. Once you find a pair of shoes you like remember these key tips: • Always try on shoes in the late afternoon when the feet are the most swollen or after playing New Jersey tennis. Feet often swell by 10 percent during competition. Contributor • Always try on both shoes and walk and run in them. Try tennis motions such as cutting Ann LoPrinzi and pivoting and being up on your toes to be sure they are comfortable. • Always wear the same socks that you will play tennis in to ensure proper fit. • All shoes should have the width of your thumb of free space at the end of your shoe. Check for this when you try them on. This should be done while you are standing not sitting • Always check both shoes inside and out for any rough edges, prominent seams or loose flaps. A good tennis shoe should always feel comfortable from the instant you try it on. Your feet are very NETPLAY • WINTER 2007-08 • 610.935.5000 Philadelphia smart. Listen to them! If they tell you that a shoe is not comfortable don’t buy it. If the shoe salesman Contributor tells you that you must “break-in” the sneaker before it feels comfortable or that the most expensive shoe is the best shoe, run; don’t walk out of the store. Karen If you’re having foot pain, or trouble finding the ideal tennis shoe for you contact your physician. Jennings As one of our local pros loves to say, “you can’t go anywhere in tennis without your feet.” Dr. Kimmel, Primary Care Sports Medicine, practices Family Practice and Sports Medicine in Cherry Hill, Lumberton, Moorestown and Mount Holly, N.J. He has been in practice for 20 years and can be reached at (856) 234-9006. [email protected] 5 NETPLAY • WINTER 07-08 • 610.935.5000 and Joel Arnold. right) Bob Jordan, J. Scott Calkins, HoweTennis legendsdescendedonDoneckers’ Atwater, fortheMSHall ofFame including(leftto Bud Landis, Newton Meade 6 [email protected] thanks toJohn andDoris Costelloforphotographingtheevent. Central Pennsylvania District, programs withinthisarea willespeciallybenefitfrom theproceeds. Many junior tennisprograms andactivitiesthroughout thesection.Asresult oftheevent beingheldinthe dinner. This year, more thedevelopment ofjuniorplayers than$40,000wasraisedtohelpsupport and event. Special thankstotheBoyds CollectionLtd.andSnyders ofHanover Snacks whosponsored the The dinnerandauction,hosted by the Middle States Tennis Patrons’ Foundation isamajorfundraising (posthumously) were honored fortheirachievements inandcontributionstothegameoftennis. Fame. Howe Atwater, J.ScottCalkins,CharlotteAtwater Miller, Tom Sweitzer andJohn McGrath October 26asfive remarkable individuals were inductedintothe14 The heavydownpours outsidedidnothingtodampenthespiritsinside Doneckers in Ephrata on National Championship. We fortheerror. apologize J.ScottCalkins actuallyplayedMaryland. fortheUniversity ofMiami, ateamthateventually wonthe Correction: The Fall issueof NetPlay mistakenlywrote thatJ.Scott Calkins played atthe University of 2007 Middle States Induction Dinner and Auction
Hall ofFame Pierce Atwater andNancy Hungerford Stephanie Ann Otto (Back: LtoR)Denise Kaplan,ChickHungerford, Dunn,Mary Hall ofFame Event Subcommitee (Bottom:LtoR)Marge McGann, Rose Weinstein, and Jane Brown Grimes (current USTA President). Ceremonies andpastUSTA President), MervHeller (pastUSTA President) (son anddaughterof inducteeJohn McGrath), Judy Levering (Mistress of States and Hall ofFame Founder), John McGrath Jr. andAlice Berringer J. ScottCalkins. Back Row: Phil Caplan (pastPresident USTA Middle Front Row: Inductees Tom Sweitzer, CharlotteMiller, Howe Atwater and Inductees andUSTA Presidents out middlestates.usta.com. Nominating Committee.For more check information positions ontheUSTA MSBoard ofDirectors andthe is acceptingnominationsforthe2009-2010terms The USTA Middles States Nomination Committee Board Nominations 2009-2010 Middle States
th annualMiddle States Hall of Tennis Shorts News from around the section
Allegheny Mountain Central PA Delaware They may not be Roland Garros, but thanks to Bridget Forster (Lebanon, Pa.) was a recent It has been a whirlwind few months for Dover the efforts of the Frick Park Clay Court Tennis victor at the prestigious “Little Mo” Nationals Del., native Madison Brengle since turning Club the historic courts located in the Pittsburgh at the Austin Tennis Academy in Austin, Tex. professional in September. After playing with suburb of Regent Square aren’t far off. Local Forster who was seeded No. 2, swept through some of tennis’ biggest names at WTT Smash recreation players have spent countless hours the 16 player girls’ 10 draw without dropping Hits, the 17-year-old captured her first title as a revitalizing the red clay courts which are some of a set to claim her first “Little Mo” National pro at the 25,000 Comcast Professional Women’s the only clay courts in AMD open to the public. Championship. Widely regarded as one of the Challenger in Augusta, Ga., teaming-up with Spearheaded by the tennis club’s co-founders top national non-sanctioned events for tennis Kristy Frilling to capture the doubles crown. Jose Mieres and Gulshan Sharma, the facility players under 12 years of age, the event featured Brengle got her first taste of the big time at the which has been dormant for a few years hosted an impressive list of past winners including 2007 Advanta WTT Smash Hits playing with the Paul Sullivan Tennis Championship as well Andy Roddick, Donald Young, Madison Brengle the likes of Billie Jean King, Elton John, Andy as numerous clinics since September. The club, and Ashley Weinhold. The event is named after Roddick and Lyndsay Davenport. She had a large which has grown to more than 100 members, has Maureen Connolly (Little Mo), who at the age of contingent of friends and family in the crowd at received tremendous support from Citiparks and 18 won the Grand Slam of tennis winning all four the event held at Villanova University. Her fans local businesses that have provided the necessary major championships. got a firsthand look at her powerful backhand, tools to maintain the courts. For more check out which has helped her shoot up the rankings. clayfricktennis.org. Photo courtesy of Andrew Stein.
Eastern PA New Jersey Philadelphia Martha Blakely, a 17-year-old senior at Jackie Shtemberg became the first female Dr. Richard Cohen waited 54 years of playing Wyomissing High School recently captured her student-athlete from the College of New Jersey competitive tennis to capture his first gold ball third-consecutive PIAA-AA state championship. (Ewing, N.J.) to win gold at the Intercollegiate at the USTA National Senior Father/Daughter She cruised through the field dropping just three Tennis Association (ITA) National Small College Championship with daughter Julia, 18, in games in the entire tournament. Blakely used a Championships. The sophomore’s road to the November. One week later, he captured No.
powerful backhand and pinpoint accuracy on her Division III National title was not easy as she 2. This time with son Josh, 22, as they won NETPLAY • WINTER 2007-08 • 610.935.5000 forehand in joining sister, Grace, 22, as a three- knocked off the draw’s top seed in the final. gold at the USTA Senior National Father/Son time state champion. She is currently ranked Shtemberg, a 2006 ITA All-American, is now Championship. The impressive run placed Cohen No. 6 in the Middle States girls 18’s standing and 42-5 on her career in singles play and 37-10 in in the record book as he became the first to win No. 43 in the National standings. A veteran of doubles. The event, administered by the ITA gold at both the Father/Daughter and Father/ Middle States Zone and National teams, Blakely and USTA, dates back to 1986 and determines Son Nationals in the same year. It certainly isn’t will take her considerable talents to the next level national champions for NCAA Divisions II and uncommon to see the name Cohen appear in at Virginia Tech in the fall. III, NAIA and Junior/Community College men’s Middle States’ headlines. For years Josh and Julia and women’s singles and doubles. Photo courtesy of have been feared singles opponents garnering top TCNJ Sports Information Department. section and national rankings. [email protected] 7 NETPLAY • WINTER 07-08 • 610.935.5000 W By CarrieRupp UD Club Tennis follows Arthur Ashe’s wishes same of the More Cover Story from numerous organizations,such as the and uniforms.There are grantsavailable pay fortheirown equipment,travel expenses by thestudents.Thisalsomeanstheymust solely theteam isrun Because itisaclubsport, Campus (TOC) program. inthefinancially abletoparticipate Tennis On is alsoresponsible formakingsure histeamis activities oftheteam,suchaspractice,buthe Baker isnotonlyresponsible fortheday-to-day school’s clubtennisteam.Astheteam’s captain, University ofDelaware and amemberofthe The formerAAYTE kidisnow a senioratthe 50 years.” handled thepositionlikehe’d beenthere for his senioryear ofhighschoolhefitrightin, we hired himtobeasitemanagerafter “When “He’s a really mature, responsible kid,” Tharpsaid. deeds atDelaware.” doing thesamegood manager andnow he’s instructor, asite then wasajunior the program asakid, “He camethrough Director ofAAYTE. Tina Tharp, Executive roles atAAYTE,” said through all ofthe “Shane really went youngsters inNewark, Del. for program tutoring and tennis a creating ways likeformerAAYTE Shane participant Baker Education CenterinEastFalls, Pa., andinsmall Ashe Arthur opening ofthenew Tennis and dayinlargeways,likethe accomplished every “More ofthesame” ofAshe’s missionisbeing of thesamewouldbemysuggestion.” simply stated,“I’d liketosee itexpanded...more 8 [email protected] and Education, the late Arthur Ashe and Education, thelateArthur Ashe state ofArthur Youth Tennis hen askedwhathethoughtofthe “Working togetheronaproject like thisdefinitelybrought the teamtogether.”
finished fifth atthe event. The University of Delaware Club Tennis team posesatthe2007 Campus Championship– Middles States. Theteam different wayto fundraise. With hisbackground to raisemoneythisyear they’d needtofinda Instead, Baker thatifhis teamwanted knew wanted tosign-upforthem,itreally wasn’t effective.” “But no one ever wanted to do it, and students rarely “In thepastwe’d sellcredit cards,” Baker said. fundraising. In order tocover them,clubteamsusuallydo students, butthere are stilloutstandingexpenses. (NIRSA) andUSTA, ofthe whichaidtheefforts Intramural-Recreation Sports Association Intercollegiate Tennis Association(ITA), National Baker calledScott idea. brainstorm anew back tohisroots to Baker went manager atAAYTE, and formersite (NJTL) participant Tennis League as aNational Junior
this definitelybrought theteamtogether.” Baker said.“Working togetheronaproject like the responsibility oftheteamandclinics,” “My teammatesreally steppedupandshared equipment forthechildren touse. for thechildren and AAYTE loanedracquetsand per student.USTA Middle States donatedprizes set upclinicsfortheschools,chargingafeeof$10 responded,A few andBaker andhisteammates tutoring andinteractwithpositive role models. receive tolearnthesport, opportunity school schoolsofferingtheirstudentsan elementary his team,Baker begansendingflierstolocal With ofmore thesupport than50percent of ‘N’ Tutoring Program. children, similar toAAYTE’s AfterSchool Tennis clinicsforlocalDelawareclub teamrunning Together thetwodeveloped theideaofUD and spoketohimabouttheteam’s dilemma. Tharp, Tina’s husband,
Continued page onnext They Came From All Over
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Story Countinued The clinics, which Baker considered a success, helped his team secure funding to participate in USTA’s first annual Battle of the Sections: a 1 Northeast Region event at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in August as well as November’s Badger Classic at the University China 1 of Wisconsin. Canada 1 Spain 1 “Running these clinics gave us the opportunity to States represented at 2007 Ireland 1 take these trips, and in turn we’re giving these kids Campus Championship – United States 142 the opportunity to play tennis,” Baker said. “We Middle States all play club tennis because it is fun and we enjoy the sport, playing with these kids and teaching TOTAL 146 them is right up our alley.”
Baker said it was tough to schedule more clinics The University of Delaware was just one school that participated in this year’s Campus Championship – Middle this fall because the team was competing most States. With 13 unique schools in attendance, the championship saw an extremely diverse group of students compete. Approximately 150 participants representing 20 states and five countries, United States, Canada, Japan, Ireland weekends, but that they plan on continuing their and Spain, filled the courts at Lehigh University in October. Take a look at the above map to see where this year’s tennis and tutoring program into the spring and participants hail from. For more information on this year’s Campus Championship please see page 17. even into the summer. And although Baker’s club tennis career will be complete in May he says it’s not the end of his involvement in tennis or in reaching Delaware’s youth. to me that my goals aren’t just ideas, they can An electrical engineering major who is enrolled eight-year-old. His first stint in the program was really work.” in a five year combined bachelors and masters a summer program that taught him the sport. program, Baker is scheduled to graduate in May As he got older he participated in the Goldstein Baker’s goal of running a similar NJTL is right 2009 with both degrees. But working in the Junior Leader Program as well as volunteered inline with Ashe’s quote. He doesn’t want to engineering world is not where Baker sees himself with the “Munchkins” program. Baker says reinvent the wheel or do his own thing, he wants for forever. AAYTE brought him out of his shell. It helped his leadership skills, his ability to public speak and to follow the path that’s already been laid, reach
more people and grow the game of tennis. Simply, NETPLAY • WINTER 2007-08 • 610.935.5000 “The state of Delaware loves the sport of tennis,” fueled his desire to give back to the community. he wants to do more of the same. • Baker said. “But there aren’t many racquet clubs It also introduced him to his “mentors” Scott and and tennis facilities. I’d like to one day open a Tina Tharp, who he says he would look to for facility similar to AAYTE.” guidance in his attempt to start a similar program in Delaware. His desire to open a facility for children similar to the one he grew up in stems from the success “Starting these clinics motivated me,” Baker said. AAYTE brought him. Baker joined AAYTE as an “It showed me that there are people out there that want this, that are interested in tennis. It proved [email protected] 9 NETPLAY • WINTER 07-08 • 610.935.5000 10 [email protected] ADVERTISEMENT Diversity
Prescription for Good Health By Karen Jennings, PATD Contributor
ooking for the best way to prevent diabetes African American community - and promote good health? Look no further because diabetes is so prevalent. Lthan a tennis ball and tennis racquet. Statistics show nearly 21-million The Albert Einstein Healthcare Network has Americans have diabetes today. No launched a new community-based program that one knows what causes the disease but uses tennis and fitness to fight diabetes. experts do know obesity and lack of exercise play a role. The communities “We have an interest in developing community- hardest hit are African American, based programs about diabetes and wellness in Latino, Asian American and Pacific communities that we serve,” says Dr. Tina Phipps, Islander communities. Director of Einstein’s Center for Urban Health A New Media Technology Charter School student gets his first taste of Policy and Research. “In fact, one of the children in our tennis in pilot program to promote fitness and diabetes awareness program has type-one diabetes,” says Why tennis? Tennis is one of the top aerobic Green. “So what we’re trying to do is sports. It’s known to lower blood pressure and provide experiential learning.” fight heart disease. “And I’m a tennis player myself,” Phipps says. “I’ve wanted to find a way In addition to providing tennis as an outlet for By the Numbers exercise, the Einstein program trains youth in to use tennis as a sport in a health promoting healthier eating habits. Area businesses donate way.” Total Prevalence of Diabetes healthy food. Teens learn how to cook and prepare healthy snacks. and Pre-diabetes Phipps says the Einstein health project involves a partnership with the Black Women in Sport Older students in the program will develop Total cases of Diabetes: 20.8 million children Foundation, Black Tennis Foundation of promotional materials touting the importance of and adults Philadelphia, Sisters in Shape, Inc., and Temple fitness, healthy diet and exercise. University. Together they deliver a three-tiered Diagnosed: 14.6 million people program to Middle School and High School aged “Through these types of activities they’ll be able Undiagnosed: 6.2 million people students at the New Media Technology Charter to influence the younger kids,” explains Green. Total cases of Pre-diabetes: 54 million people School in Philadelphia. The first two tiers involve “Because you know how kids are. They influence fitness testing and nutrition education. each other.” Breakdown by Age Under 20 years of age: 176,500 “Then we start doing the tennis portion of the The American Diabetes Association estimates program for the next four to five weeks,” says Tina that one in every 10-healthcare dollars spent in Age 20 years or older: 20.6 million Green of the Black Women in Sport Foundation. the United States goes toward the treatment and Age 60 years or older: 10.3 million prevention of diabetes. That’s more than $130 Green says 20 boys and girls take part in billion a year. Breakdown by Gender Wednesday afternoon tennis lessons at either Men: 10.9 million or 10.5 percent of all men Philadelphia Tennis Club or the Althea Gibson “I think it will have a great impact on the aged 20 years or older have diabetes although Community Tennis Center. “None of them had community,” says Green. “Hopefully, parents will ever been on a real tennis court before,” says Green. get involved when they pick up their kids and nearly one third of them do not know it. want to play tennis and eat healthier as well.” Women: 9.7 million or 8.8 percent of all women The response has been positive. “I was very aged 20 years or older have diabetes although pleased as I watched. Everyone was participating, “We want to excite a lot of kids about tennis and nearly one third of them do not know it. The fitness and healthy eating,” says Dr. Phipps. “And laughing and having fun. I think it’s important prevalence of diabetes is at least two to four for kids because it gives them another outlet in we want to grow the program and expand it to NETPLAY • WINTER 2007-08 • 610.935.5000 times higher among non-Hispanic Black, a sport they might not be exposed to, especially other sports too.” • in the city of Philadelphia, where they’re cutting Hispanic/Latino American, American Indian, back in sports programs.” Visit middlestates.usta.com and Asian/Pacific Islander women than among non-Hispanic white women. Green says the tennis and fitness program is for a healthy holiday recipe important for the future health and wellness of courtesy of the American SOURCE: American Diabetes Association web the young people too. “I think this has great site: diabetes.org. potential – especially in our community – the Diabetes Association
[email protected] 11 NETPLAY • WINTER 07-08 • 610.935.5000 T NJTL of Trenton honored nationally Community Development dedicated board members hard-workingfinancial supporters, volunteers, “The USTA National NJTLChapterofthe Year for2007. Because of itssuccess,ithasbeennamedUSTA’s has setthebarhighforrest ofthecountry. good nutritionandstrong academicperformance Two NJTLof Trenton poseforthecamera. participants NYC Mayor David Dinkins. These individuals business executives and leaders, suchasformer teaching-pros, parents community ofparticipants, reputable individuals. The board includes tennis enthusiastic anddiverse groupvery ofhighly The NJTLof Trenton’s Board of Directors isa mentors forthestudents. as role modelsand and staffmemberstoserve The NJTLof Trenton alsohired qualifiedcoaches outstanding leadership, whichisheadedby Faber. One reason forthesuccessofprogram isits of reaching atleast3,000children by 2010. and nutritiononanannualbasis,withthehopes opportunities to children through tennis, education This program’s objective istoprovide primary andleadership.self esteem,sportsmanship andinstillingvalues ofteamwork,opportunities academic excellence, providing educational of itsco-founder, Ashe,by encouraging Arthur past decade.Thisprogram emphasizes theideals thousands ofyouths andtheirfamiliesover the growth andhassignificantly impacted thelives of risk young people. This program has seen astounding forlowandatopportunities income,underserved The NJTLof Trenton offersunique recreation said Dan Faber, Executive Director, NJTL of Trenton, Inc. 12 [email protected] productive citizens, healthylifestyles, of Trenton, withitsfocusondeveloping he National Junior Tennis League(NJTL)
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NJTL of Trenton work onhomework participants withthehelpof volunteers andtutors. needing extra support bothonandoffthecourt. needing extrasupport round program fortalentedjuniorsandstudents Ashe Program. Asheprogram isa TheArthur year wheelchair tennisprograms andaspecialArthur fall, winter, andspringprograms, adultprograms, in thegreater Trenton area. In addition,there are which caterstoover 1,200students ateightsites Its tennisprograms includeasummerprogram, its manyprograms. NJTL of Trenton usestennisasthefoundationfor on hard work andmotivation. Because ofthis,the inwhichplayers seeself-improvementsport based good manners,sportsmanship, andteamspirit.A Tennis whichemphasizes responsibility, isasport Princeton matchestocheerontheirmentors. the NJTLof Trenton membersare invitedtothe asmentors.In andserve return,and ofthecourt, University tennisteamwork withthestudentson the prestigious Princeton Wednesdays, members of top-notch. For example, on to maketheNJTLof Trenton outside of the organization help Even groups andorganizations the children we serve.” to strive tomakelifebetterfor work recognized as we continue “We feelgratefultohave our growth and success,” said Faber. and we look forward to continued direct result our teameffort of “Our achievements are the continuing successes. are highlyresponsible forits help oversee theprogram and
at [email protected]. inyourAssociations area, pleasecontactBenZislis For onCommunity information Tennis clear, andtheywillcontinuelongintothefuture. • Greater Trenton Area. The results ofitsimpactare impact onthelives ofsomanyyouth inthe The NJTLof Trenton hashadsuchafavorable give thisprogram more funding. organizations, grantmakersandprivate donorsto buildrelationshipsto further withcommunity provide scholasticmatches.He isalsohelping to develop middleschooltennisteamsand which heplanstomove isby forward attempting is stillfocusedonmoving One forward. wayin exponentially sinceitsinceptionin1975,Faber Even thoughthisprogram hasgrown nutritional breakfast isoffered. are discussed.During thesummerprogram, afree lifestyles negative effects ofobesityandsedentary program, healthy snacksare distributed,andthe totheorganization. important Withinvery this lifestyles,thisprogram hasbecome sedentary Due tohealthconcerns involving obesityand programs isitsNutritional Tutoring Program. Another oneoftheNJTL Trenton’s unique to engagethesechildren intennisactivities. School, aschoolforautisticchildren inaneffort The NJTLof Trenton withthe alsopartners Reed and Girls Club;daycare centersandthe YMCA. ofRecreation;Departments the CYO; theBoys include the Trenton, Ewing andHamilton organizations thatcollaboratetoassistthisprogram been given the opportunity to succeed. Some of the never havefor thelocalyouths whomayotherwise has established have led to improved opportunities thattheNJTLofThe manypartnerships Trenton
Jr. Tennis Team Section’s Best compete on national stage
USTA’s Jr. Team Tennis program held its national championships Oct. 12-14 (14-and-under) and Oct. 25-28 (18-and-under) at the Hilton Conquistador in Tucson, Ariz. USTA Middle States sent four teams to the desert resort including the Spirits (CPD), Deuce (NJD), Los Amigos (NJD) and the Fantastic Fuzz (CPD). The courts at the Hilton Conquistador in Tucson, Ariz., the site of the 2007 National Championship. All four teams represented USTA Middle States positively, showing the utmost of skill and sportsmanship. The Spirits were the top finisher for the section, finishing second out of 17 teams in the 14-and-under Intermediate division. The second-place finish was the highest ever for a USTA Middle States team. For more information on the Spirits, see page 22.
Los Amigos (18-and-under Intermediate) finished eighth, Fantastic Fuzz (18-and-under Advanced) finished tenth and Deuce (14-and-under Advanced) finished twelfth.
In addition to the results on the court, the Fantastic Fuzz was honored off the court. The team received the Team Spirit Award and team member Jenna Hessert was honored with the Sportsmanship Award.
For team photos and rosters, please visit middlestates.usta.com.
Jenna Hessert poses with her 2007 Sportsmanship Award Players in need of a home court
Jr. Team Tennis (JTT) is spreading like wildfire in Middle States... and with word- of-mouth fueling the fire, more and more kids are coming forward and expressing their desire to join a local league. This overwhelming demand means we have to have more local leagues in place where we can send our “fired-up” kids to play. Our players need a home court.
League Organizers and Team Managers wanted Anyone can help organize a new local league and bring friends together to have fun and play the sport of a lifetime. No experience is necessary — the USTA MS staff will help you get started and will provide continuous support. The Fantastic Fuzz’s energetic attitude awarded them the 2007 Team Spirit Award. • Start small with the minimum two teams, or think big with multiple teams. • Let the USTA JTT software help you organize the league and schedule matches. • Look to parent volunteers for additional help • Use Park & Rec/public courts for match play
Not only are kids playing tennis in JTT, they are socializing, making new friends and
doing other things as a group such as movie nights, pizza parties, etc. Championship NETPLAY • WINTER 2007-08 • 610.935.5000 opportunities are also available for those league teams who choose to compete beyond the local level. JTT has District, Section and National Championships that qualifying teams can advance to.
Don’t leave a player without a home court. Volunteer today to help organize a local league in your area. For more information visit middlestates.usta.com or contact The Spirits gather around the tournament desk as they Erica Curtis at [email protected]. collect their second place finish award. [email protected] 13 NETPLAY • WINTER 07-08 • 610.935.5000 Singles out! Singles out! T By Nathaniel Harrison doubles play. emphasis on puts added system New rankings Junior Competition be theadditionof juniordoublestournaments. One direct result rankingsystemcould ofthenew with working theirwayintotheball.” become inlove withthebaselineandstruggle develop intodoublesplayers,” said Torres. “They have onlyplayed singlesasjuniorsare hard to at timesitisoverlooked. Collegefreshman who “Doubles tennisisseldomseenontelevisionand them immediatecontributorstotheteam. prepare juniorsforcollegiatetennisandmake He anticipatestherankingchangewillbetter overheads andthetransitiongame.” Torres. “It (doublesplay)improves volleying, improved theiroverall gameplayingdoubles,said “Some ofthebettersinglesplayers have really rankings system. Lawrenceville, afanofthenew N.J.iscertainly and Women’s CoachatRiderUniversity in Ed Torres, adoubleschampion andHead Men’s earlier willaidtheirtransitiontothenextlevel.” and/or collegeteamlearningtoplaydoubles junior players endupplayingonahighschool communicating withapartner. Since manyofour includingnetplay,point ofview volleys aswell as can teachplayers somuchfrom adevelopmental States Director ofJunior Competition.“Doubles doubles play, saidMichael Kennedy, Middle rule changeputsanaddedemphasison “This help players withtheiroverall development. Moreover, theUSTA feelsplayingdoubleswill to reward players fortheirsuccessindoubles. encourage players toplaymore doublesand ranking. TheUSTA ismakingthischange to singles ranking plus 15 percent of a player’s doubles Rankings will be based on 100 percent of a player’s onJanuaryno longerbepublishedstarting 1. standings andrankingswill Individual singlesanddoubles ranking for junior players in 2008. 14 [email protected] institute acombined Association (USTA) will he United States Tennis
Lauren Balsamo
playing singles.” aggressive whichissomethingthattough todo Lindsay. “Ireally liketoattackthenet andbe “Doubles requires usingdifferent shots” said game, notjustrallyatthebaseline.” are forced touseallthecomponentsofyour you andwithdoubles you positive onthecourt said Lauren. “You alwayshave someonetokeep more exciting andteamorientedthansingles,” ofplaying (doubles)isthatit “The bestpart to musicandeatingchocolatechipcookies. also developedpre-match anew ritualoflistening game andrelationship toplayingdoubles.They together. Thesisterscredit animproved overall Fun wasn’t theonlyresult thetwonettedplaying off {ofsingles}playingtogether.” “It’s fun,” saidLindsay. “It takesthepressure in tournamentfinals. 16’s standingsincludingtwoappearances their wayuptoNo. 15intheMiddle States girls Lauren, 16andLindsay, 14eventually worked as adoublesteaminUSTA tournaments. States, thesistersdecidedtocompetetogether players in the New Jersey District andMiddle Balsamo ofManasquan, N.J.Bothranked-singles combined rankingsisLauren andLindsay One duo sure tonoticetheimpactofnew in highschool,collegeandperhapseven thepros. doubles partnerships leading to teamsa combinedrankingmaystimulatecontinuityin playing together In addition, to promoting doubles play in general; doubles playiscriticalforsuccess. system.Inof thenew eachoftheseprograms Campus andUSTA Leaguecanreap thebenefits such asUSTA Jr. Team Tennis Tennis (JTT), On Besides varsity tennis,recreation-based programs
The Bryan Brothers demonstratetheirfamouschestbump The Bryan dropping aset. finished theirscholastic doublesdebutwithout who eachprimarily played singlesinthepast season withascintillating32-0record. Thepair school’s firststatechampionshipfinishingthe School (Wall, N.J.),where theypicked upthe with afantasticscholasticseasonat Wall High They followed theirsuccessinUSTA tournaments a positive way,” saidLindsay. shots ormoving myfeetandshealwaysdoesitin “She’s given mesuchgoodadviceonbendingfor criticism.”giving herconstructive her thatyou couldn’t saytosomeoneelse,like “Playing withyour sister, you cansaythingsto games complimenteachother.” saidLauren. poach atthenet. She isasteadyplayer andour thatsetsmeupto “Lindsay hasagreat serve better communication. approach whichledtoimproved strategyand became more witheachother’s comfortable As theyplayed more andmore togetherthey Continued page onnext Junior Competition
How they stack up: The impact of the change Singles Out Chart Player X (a player with better singles results) Best eight (8) singles tournaments = 1500 points Best eight (8) doubles tournaments = 1200 points 15% of 1200 = 180 points 1500 + 180 = 1680 total combined ranking points
Player Y (a player with better doubles results) Best eight (8) singles tournaments = 1200 points Best eight (8) doubles tournaments = 1500 points 15% of 1500 = 225 points 1200 + 225 = 1425 total combined ranking points
How it works at National The new ranking system will include results from singles matches and doubles matches in all Story continued tournaments that are now included in the calculations for the National Standing List and the year-end Ironically enough, they honed their skills playing National Ranking. at the nearby Atlantic Club in Manasquan, N.J., The points earned in singles competition will be combined with the points earned in doubles hitting with Coach Torres. The high school competition to form one final point total that will be used for the National Standing List and the state doubles crown was their sixth overall National Ranking. championship together. Players will receive credit for 100 percent of their singles points from their eight (8) best events along with 15 percent of their doubles points from their eight (8) best doubles events. “It’s always a gamble putting siblings together, especially if you don’t know what their relationship is like beforehand,” said Wall coach How it works in Middle States Anthony Nardino. “But they obviously clicked The combined rankings will begin January 1, 2008 and is retroactive to January 1, 2007. A combined and communicate and support each other so well. ranking table which is unofficial has been published to the internet at this time. They lift one another up.” Doubles at the national level will be counted with the same one tournament limitation out of four tournaments that is currently in place for singles. The combined rankings is structured so that 100% of Much like the Balsamos another set of siblings, the top 4 singles events are counted and 15 percent of the top four doubles events are counted and the Bob and Mike Bryan began playing doubles point totals are combined. together as juniors. The twins, whose father would not let them play against each other in singles growing up, competed in junior events together culminating with the 1996 US Open boys’ doubles championship.
The Bryans then took their game to Stanford University where after sweeping the NCAA Championships turned pro. They have seen their ranking catapult to No.1 since turning pro and have become only the third pair in the history of Open tennis to complete a career Grand Slam of doubles titles.
However, the Bryans don’t just play doubles, they promote it. They are national spokesman for
JTT and are big proponents of team tennis for NETPLAY • WINTER 2007-08 • 610.935.5000 kids. They also have helped bring doubles to the attention of fans – particularly kids – with their play on the U.S. Davis Cup squad. •
Juniors: Keep an eye for the Junior Guidebook. Hitting
mailboxes in early 2008 Lindsay Balsamo [email protected] 15 NETPLAY • WINTER 07-08 • 610.935.5000 E College Tennis Lauren Subosits there’s mayknow thatfew anadditionalrivalry isstrong betweenWhile therivalry twoteams, ultimate braggingrights–anationaltitle. Championship withthechanceatclaiming bid to the 2008 USTA Tennis On Campus NationalChampionship, bothteamsreceived anautomatic and No. 2respectively, atthisyear’s Campus With PSUand Villanova finishing No. 1 word, defeatingPSUin thefinals. 24-23 bothyears. In 2005, Villanova hadthelast finished inasupertiebreaker, withPSUwinning emotional matchesbothwent toovertime and PSU cameoutontop…barely. Theexciting, Villanova metinthesemifinals. In bothmatches, Championships –Middle States, PSUand At the2006 and2007USTA Campus competition thelastthree sectionchampionships. and Villanova University have beeninheated dominate. Pennsylvania State University (PSU) yet teamsseemto inour sectionthesamefew Each year theprogram hasgrown exponentially, been inexistenceUSTA MSforfour years. USTA’s Tennis On Campus(TOC) program has you maysee onthesurface. (USTA MS),butitsroots grow deeperthanwhat is beginningtobrew inUSTA Middle States of Tobacco Road.ofthesamemagnitude Arivalry and Michigan University, andofthesignificance 16 [email protected] Boston Red Sox, The Ohio State University between theNew York Yankees andthe lover sports very recognizes therivalry
fun experienceforbothofus.” became friends,” Subosits said.“Ithinkitwasa other, andinsteadofhatingoneanother, we “We were always[matchedup]againsteach we eventually becamefriends.” other attournamentsandtrainingcamps, played in,” Narahari said.“We keptseeingeach “We metatoneofthefirsttournaments we competitive tennisby thetimetheywere nine. playing an hourapart, The two girls grew up about Township, Pa. Subosits, 19,ofPeters No. 1singlesplayer Lauren friend andrival ofPSU’s Johnstown, Pa., sheisa TOC team.Anative of singles player for Villanova’s Villanova, istheNo. 1 Narahari, 20,ajuniorat be,” Priya Narahari said. still friends,we alwayswill schools, Lauren andIare competitiveness between the but regardless ofthe “I’m loyal very to‘Nova, a bitfriendlier. about, butthisoneis By CarrieRupp as theirteamssquare-off competitive remain Friends BETTER RIVALS they are friendsoffofthe While bothgirls affirm that we’ve alwaysstayed friends.” seemed togetmeanaboutit, other alot,butwe’ve never have competedagainsteach Narahari said.“Lauren andI competing against each other,” when you’re continuously easily formed,especially girls are, friendshipsaren’t “It’s funny, you know how their successintohighschool. year after year. They continued Mountain District rankings the USTA MSAllegheny themselves atthetopof tournaments, finding playing USTA sanctioned Both girlscontinued
Priya Narahari
Narhari said.“Iwassousedtocompetitive tennis, stressed thatitwascompetitive butalsosocial,” “It seemedlikeitwould bealotoffun,andthey team meetingandwashooked. of herfreshman year. She attendedaninformative Narahari found outabout TOC atthebeginning teams, andonceagain,theirpaths crossed. both girlsjoinedtheirschool’s respective TOC to satisfytheircompetitive nature. Coincidently, Narahari and Subosits knew they needed something While theychosenottoplayvarsity tennis,both educationmajor.elementary chemistry. Subosits chosePSU.She isan chose toattend Villanova where sheisstudying Narahari, whoisoneyear olderthanSubosits, education, optingnottoplayvarsity tennis. scholarship offers,bothchosetofocusontheir After successfulhighschoolcareers andnumerous line calls.” with eachother, eachother’s andwe alwaystrust friendly players onthecourt. We are bothhonest business,” Subosits said.“But we conservative, are very “As it’s soonaswe walk onto thecourt absolutely we justfocus onourown games,” Narahari said.” “We’re friends before the match, but during the match the atmosphere changes. theydoagree court, ononething…onthecourt Continued page onnext
College Tennis
Story continued: but really it’s been a great balance and a perfect fit.”
While Narahari found out about the program on her own, Subosits was introduced to TOC after her cousin, who also attends PSU, introduced her to a friend that was already on the PSU Club Tennis team.
“I love club tennis,” Subosits said. “It’s exactly the experience I was looking for. It’s the right amount of competition and fun. My teammates and I are very studious, but we still need that outlet, and TOC provides that.”
It didn’t take long for the girls to reunite on the court. At the 2006 Campus Championship the two teams met in the semifinals. Narahari and Subosits dueled in the girls’ No. 1 singles, with Narahari notching the win, a 6-4 decision. But in dramatic fashion the match came down to the last court – the mixed doubles – where Subosits and Narahari squared off again.
“There was so much emotion in the match, and I was just a freshman and new to the whole experience,” Subosits said. “When we won I just cried because I was so happy to not only win the match, but to send my team to the finals. My whole team still jokes about it every time we play ‘Nova.”
While the two were able to battle last season, unfortunately this season the two didn’t get a chance to meet on the court. A few weeks before the Campus Championship, Subosits hurt her ankle. Luckily for her, her team was still able to take home the title. Her ankle will have plenty of time to heal before the national championship, where the girls and their teams may have another chance to compete against each other.
And whatever the outcome, both are just happy to be playing.
“Throughout all of the years, winning or losing against Priya really doesn’t matter, we’re both just out there having fun,” Subosits said. “We really are at the same ability level, and it’s just who is ‘on’ that day. We’re both winners.” •
Tennis On Campus in Middle States growing strong
ith approximately 450 Tennis On It was the Nittany Lions coming out on top this Campus programs nationwide, USTA year, winning their second consecutive section Middle States held it’s 4th Annual championship. With the win, PSU earned an WCampus Championship – Middle States with its automatic bid to the 2008 National Campus largest draw ever. The tournament, held at Lehigh Championship at Cary Tennis Park in Cary, N.C., University in Bethlehem, Pa., boasted 20 teams in April. from 13 unique schools. Participating in this The winning team included: Captain Jackie year’s tournament were: University of Delaware Davidson, Lauren Subosits, Allison Altdoerffer, (UD), Drexel University, Lehigh University, College Charlotte Newell, Becky Kovel, Steve Eaglen, Travis of New Jersey (TCNJ), Pennsylvania State Weidman, Diego Rodriguez and Mark Amengual. University (PSU), University of Pennsylvania (UPenn), Rutgers University, Shippensburg PSU fielded a second team, PSU-White, which University, Temple University, Villanova University finished second. But because the National and tournament newcomers University of Pittsburgh, Campus Championship fields a 64 unique team
Slippery Rock University and West Chester University. draw, third place Villanova received the second NETPLAY • WINTER 2007-08 • 610.935.5000 automatic bid. Rounding out the top five were This tournament marked the first time all six UPenn and UD – Blue respectively. USTA Middle States districts were represented at the section tournament. In addition to the 13 Joining PSU and Villanova at the National school that participated, USTA MS has six other Championship will be UD who punched their schools on board and is working with numerous ticket by finishing second during the regular season. other universities and colleges in the section to create more programs. For full tournament results and team photos, please visit: middlestates.usta.com. [email protected] 17 NETPLAY • WINTER 07-08 • 610.935.5000 Beach, Calif., 7-6, (2), 6-4. but thenfelltoJill Craybas, 21, ofHuntington Houston, Tex., 3-6,6-3,6-4,inthefirst round, main draw and she defeated Mashona Washington, a wildcard by theUSTA intothetournament’s Alexandra Mueller, 19, of Abington, Pa. was awarded in theworldwasplayingherfirst PNCfinal. in the semifinals. Pouchkova, 20, and ranked No. 83 when she lost to then 15-year-old Maria Sharapova Harkleroad, firstplayed inthePNC2002 champion LiliaOsterloh ofColumbus,Ohio. overvictory theNo. 2seedand2005PNC in sixdays,includinga6-4,7-6quarter-final Dubois, 6-2, 5-7, 6-4. Pandzic had won six matches while Pouchkova, 20, also was extended in defeating Pandzic ofCroatia, 6-3, 5-7,6-3inthesemifinals, needed nearly three hours to defeat qualifier Jelena Harkleroad, 22,now rankedNo. 63intheworld, matches throughout thechampionshipweek. tournament was marked by close, tense three-set championship matchasthisUSTA Pro Circuit Both singlesfinalistshaddifficult roadstothe 4-6, 10-6. and Abigail Spears of Valley Center, Calif., 6-4, overvictory RaquelKops-Jones ofFresno, Calif. the titletheywonin2006withasupertiebreaker Alisa Kleybanova of Moscow successfully defended In doubles,Stephanie Dubois ofMontreal and Club4Life inMonroeville, Pa. the 2007PNCInternational Tennis Classicat A singles events Harkleroad ended2007“instyle” winningherlasttwo Advantage Pittsburgh Professional Tennis 18 [email protected] 4-6, 6-4,6-3,towinthesinglestitleof defeated Olga Pouchkova ofMoscow, shley Harkleroad ofRinggold,Ga.
as Maria Sharapova’s breakthrough tournament. The PNC,inits8th year, isperhapsbestknown Australian Open. for aqualifyingtournamenttocompeteinthe in prize money andachancetoearnwildcard tennis players intheworldcompetefor$75,000 to seesomeofthebestup-and-comingwomen Pittsburgh tennisfansdidn’t have totravel far Craybas in thefirst round, 6-4,6-0. to reach thetournament’s maindrawbut lostto the world,wonthree matchesintheQualifier semifinalist in1999andonceranked No. 18in Alexandra Stevenson ofSan Diego, a Wimbledon to getonce-promising careers backontrack. professionals butalsoseveral tourveterans hoping The tournamentincludednumerous young Rao, aNew Jersey native whosefatherisfrom India. round before falling 6-0, 6-3 to Craybas and Sunitha teen Gail Brodsky andtheyreached thesecond In doubles,Risketeamed withBrooklyn, N.Y. singles matchwithDubois. then retired inhersecond-round duetoinjury ranked No. 50intheworld,6-2,6-2.Govortsova the first round to No. 1seed Olgo Govortsova, a localwildcard intothemaindrawandlostin Alison Riske,17,ofMcMurray, Pa. wasawarded By Tom Benic, AMDContributor Harkleroad Wins PNCInternational Singles Crown Alisa Kleybanova and Stephanie DuBoiswithPNC International ballkids
www.amd.usta.com. For PNCInternational checkout everything Pittsburgh tennisweb site Tennis intheBurgh USTA MSAlleghenyMountain District andthe Medicine, Club4Life,USTA Middle States and of Pittsburgh Medical Center, UPMCSports PNC, Cronimet, Whit Productions, University Primary sponsorsforthetournamentincluded braincancerresearch.supporting benefit the Tim and Tom Gullikson Foundation, inner cityyouth. Proceeds fortheauctionwillalso tennisprograms for is dedicatedtosupporting Patrons Foundation ofGreater Pittsburgh, which A silentauctionwasheldtobenefitthe Tennis played Pittsburgh. the current top50 players intheworldhave International doubles finalin2004. Fifteen of title withLisaRaymond,reached thePNC Stosur, whowonthe2005U.S.Open doubles later Sharapova won Wimbledon. Samantha Marie Elena CamerinofItaly. Fifteen months professional maindrawfinal,before bowing to seven matchesinseven daystoreach herfirst Sharapova wasaqualifierin2002whenshewon
USTA Officials Bloodline The Officials Call Family of USTA Middle States
By Nathaniel Harrison
t isn’t uncommon to see a member of the Meyer Family at a tennis event in Middle States. The game of tennis certainly has brought the Ifamily together and apart as they may be scattered across the section any given weekend at various events. However, what you may not know is what Left to right: Michael, Glen and Tommy, the “officials family” of USTA Middle States they will be doing once they’re there. A key component to Tommy’s success has been his knowledge of tennis and have become very mature For nearly a decade, the men of the Meyer family mother, who has driven him to all his lessons and in their decisions,” said Dick Green, Chairman of from Bernville, Pa., have been around USTA MS tournaments for the past nine years and now drives Middle States Association of Tournament Officials tennis either as a player or as an official. It all started more than 70 miles each way for training at the (MSATO). “They are mature beyond their ages when Glen Meyer, a self-proclaimed lousy recreational Arthur Ashe Youth Tennis and Education Center when it comes to officiating. They both have a very player, took the suggestion of wife, Diane, to become in Philadelphia four days a week (so he can do his calm personality and know the rules. The next an official in order to stay close to the game and homework in the car). step for MSATO is to get Diane officiating matches.” to get out of the house. So Glen, took the courses Green admits he was a little apprehensive about and completed the training to become a USTA official. starting someone so young, but the boys have won “I really enjoy the game and being around the him over with their poise, class and proficiency. players and coaches,” said Glen. “Plus it’s the best However, it hasn’t always been easy for the boys. seat in the house.” “I take great pride in As a result of playing tournaments all across the He has worked his way up the ladder from district maintaining the integrity section in multiple age divisions, the boys have and section level events to officiating national gotten to know a number of players which may tournaments at the famed Merion Cricket Club have caused problems for any young official. Not and has called lines at pro events including the of the game” for the Meyers. “At first, they would tease me Advanta Championships and World TeamTennis’ about how bad they were going to behave. But Philadelphia Freedoms. “I take great pride in after you make the first call, they realize that you Her dedication has been an impetus in the boys’ maintaining the integrity of the game,” said Glen. are there solely for business” said Tommy. “Coming development as players, however, what makes “I feel there is a level of respect between the player from a player’s perspective, I know how crucial them truly unique has been a different role they and myself, when I’m out there.” umpires are in tournaments.” now play at USTA events. Tommy and Michael Just as Diane got Glen into officiating, she was have both become certified USTA officials, making “It doesn’t matter to me who is out there,” said certainly the driving force in getting their children them among the youngest nationally. Michael. “My job is to enforce USTA rules and into the game. Her love of tennis was passed to their I treat them all the same (with respect).” children, Katie, 20, Tommy, 18 and Michael, 16, “I felt comfortable with officiating since my dad Respect is certainly something the Meyers have who found their passion for tennis at a young age was already doing it,” said Michael, who passed gained as USTA officials over the years. So be on through the Rallyball program. It soon became evident the exam in 2006 at the age of 14 and feels as the lookout for a member of the Meyer family. that the sport was growing on her two boys. As they if “he pulled a fast one” for making money for The odds are good that you will see at least one grew, so did their games. They each worked their way doing something he enjoys. ”I love being on court of them at a USTA event very soon! into the top of the USTA MS standings and soon watching up close when the players are battling it out.” could be found at tournaments nearly every weekend. One year later after a more relaxed tournament Tommy, the two-time defending Berks County playing schedule, Tommy followed his brother’s singles champion and a nationally-ranked junior lead and passed the exam to become an official. teamed-up with brother Michael to win the Berks “I hope they have the same work-ethic and morality NETPLAY • WINTER 2007-08 • 610.935.5000 County doubles championship in 2007. The duo as I do,” said the proud father. “This is something will play No. 1 and 2 singles for Conrad Weiser they can do to stay in the game for a long time.” High School this spring. Katie also starred at Despite their youth, age has not been a hindrance Conrad Weiser playing both No. 1 and 2 singles for the pair except for the fact when Michael started; and doubles for the Scouts through her high school he wasn’t old enough to drive. Players older and years. “The best part for me as a parent has been younger alike have shown respect to the pair which watching the boys grow into ranked-players,” said is a testament to their abilities as umpires. Glen. “They both have that ‘want’ to get better.” “They both have demonstrated a substantial Tommy Meyer courtesy of Reading Eagle [email protected] 19 NETPLAY • WINTER 07-08 • 610.935.5000 By CarrieRupp OF LOVE BUNDLE W USTA League game of tennis by a neighbor. She andherfather As ayoungster, Rudy wasintroduced tothe League tennis,cardio ontheellipticaland yoga. active andfit. Her fitnessplanincludedUSTA pregnancy hasbeenherdedicationtostaying One ofthefactorsRudy attributestoherhealthy easyone.”to saythispregnancy hasbeenavery some pregnancies inthepast,” Rudy said.“I’m happy him intothisworld.“It’s been difficult; I’ve lost arrival; theyjustfeelblessedtobeablebring whatever daytheirsonchoosestomakehisbig Truly, Rudy andherhusbandwillbecontentwith lot ofcontrol!” whatever happens,Idon’t thinkIhave a to have toshare withaholiday. your birthday But happen,” Rudy said.“Idon’t thinkit’s alwaysfair “I’m hopingtogoearly, butI’m notsure that’ll welcome theirfirstchild,ason,on December 26. Rudy, 41,andherhusband, Paul, are setto her pregnancy withherfirstchild. highlight, butitpalesincomparisontoanother– 3.5NationalChrysler Championshipwasamajor chance toplayattheUSTA Leaguepresented by been oneshe’ll never forget.Aonce-in-life-time 20 Lori Rudy andherhusbandPaul. [email protected] she’s sadtosee2007go. The year has Lori Rudy, Dover, Pa., can’t deny ith 2008rightaround thecorner,
excited for her.” “She hasjustbeenglowing; thewholeteamisso “I guessit’s amother’s intuition,” Roulston said. said shehadahunch thatRudy was expecting. Ruth Roulston, USTA Middle States Boardher teammatesrightaway, although teammate Secretary, Rudy, totheteam,didn’t whowasnew tellallof wanted toplayasmuchIcould.” my doctorgave methe‘ok’ toplay, Ireally just wasgoingtobeok,and once weeverything knew to happenthistimeornot,’” Rudy said.“But “I wasreally focusedon‘isthis[pregnancy] going have theconsentofherdoctor. toher determined toplayitwasimportant before herleagueseasonbegan.Althoughshewas Rudy foundoutshewaspregnant weeks justafew beenthemostmemorable. season hascertainly fornearly10years, this A leagueparticipant playing USTA Leaguetennis. takinglessons.Soonand started aftershebegan clubin York,when shejoinedacountry Pa., rekindled herrelationship in1998 withthesport she stoppedplayingforalmost15years, Rudy with herhighschool’s tennisteam.Although, member oftheschool’s band,Rudy alsopracticed at Littlestown High SchoolinLittlestown, Pa. A school andshecontinuedtoplayasateenager often played togetherwhenRudy wasinmiddle
Continued onpage32 trip toLas Vegas withherteam. a week. She andherhusband decidedtomakethe championship, fourtofive times hittingthecourt Rudy saysshewasfeelinggoodleadinguptothe Championship. known asLas Vegas, thehostof3.5National began toprepare fortheirtriptoSin City, also With thesection crown, Rudy andherteammates a totalteameffort.” “All ofthematcheswere soclose.Our success was Championship wasthecompetition,” Rudy said. “The neatestthingaboutwinningthe Section Representative. Shaak, USTA Middle States Tennis Service with Roulston andonewithteammateCathy day tournament,winningtwoofthem,one Rudy played infourmatches over thethree I justwantedtohelpmyteamgetthere.” because ofmypregnancy. But Ijustkeptplaying. would beabletogothenationalchampionship well, formepersonally, Ididn’t even know ifI the Section Championship andwe were doing itself,” Rudy said.“As we made ourwaythrough for theSection Championship wasathrilljustin ourdistrictandgoingtoPrinceton“Winning championship. Roulston duringthe CentralPennsylvania District season aswell aswinningoneoftwomatcheswith – Fissella, goingundefeatedduringtheregular Rudy played doublesforherteam,Hempfield didn’t wanttobebabied.She’s acompetitor” over her, noonebabiedherandshecertainly said. “She’s alwaysbeenadelight.No onewatched after sheannouncedwaspregnant,” Roulston “Her attitudeandherplaydidn’t changeatall at theNational Championships RuthLori Rudy Roulston poseswithherdoubles partner USTA League National Champions! Two USTA Middle States teams bring home titles
he National Championship season is games lost, USTA MS secured its place in the officially finished and numerous USTA finals versus a USTA Mid West team that had Middle States teams finished at or near finished 4-0 in its flight. theT top of their respective divisions, including a Tri-Level team from Cherry Hill, N.J., and a team from Sea Sea Colony’s roster includes: Captain Dave Colony, Del., who took home top honors. Marshall, Graydon D. Oliver, Sebastian Faulk, Mike Duquette, Andrew Myer, David Heating Up The women from Cherry Hill, Love 50, competed McPherson, Bryan Knepper, W. Russell. Ramsey, f you didn’t think USTA League tennis in the women’s 4.0 Senior division. They defeated Matthew Cloer, Davidson Kozlowski, Brint was enough team tennis for you, then a team from Sacramento, Calif., 2-1 in the Morrow, Jonas E. Jarvholm, Baskar Anwalt, you haven’t tried Tri-Level. The league is championship match. Earlier in the day, they Alexander Golub, Vijaya K. Kannan, Ellis competitive,I recreational tennis without all defeated a team from Flagstaff, Ariz., 2-1 in the Ferreira, Ryan Valentime, Gavin P. O’Connell, semifinals. Love 50 reached the semifinals by Craig Rubin, Kris Nonnenmacher, Wayne the rules! placing first in its flight, defeating teams from Odesnik, K.K. Crenshaw, Shannon Buck, Craig How it works USTA Midwest, USTA Missouri Valley and Rubin and Peter Taylor. Three levels of players are all on the same USTA Caribbean. In addition to Cherry Hill and Sea Colony’s team. Same level teams play against one Love 50’s roster includes: Captain Judy Paul, success, USTA MS had eight additional teams another. A team match consists of three Kennie Smith, Theresa Baxter, Peggy Sears, Sue finish in the top four. A men’s 5.5 Open doubles matches played at three different Minoff, Kathy Thursto, Donna Spielberger, Invitational team from Sea Colony reached the levels. For example, a team with one 3.0 Barbara Rusignuolo, Barbara Jacobs, Kathy semifinals of their tournament as did a men’s 4.5 doubles pair, one 3.5 doubles pair and one Thurston, Mary Lynn Jewett and Jayne Rhynard. Adult team from Cherry Hill, who placed third. 4.0 doubles pair = a Tri-level team.
The men from Sea Colony competed at the Open The section’s success continued into November Flexible, Flexible, Flexible Invitational in Las Vegas in September. Captained at the National Eastern Mixed Doubles Tri-Level League is designed to be adaptive by Dave Marshall, the team defeated USTA Championships where six of the seven competing to the individual needs of each facility Midwest 2-1 in the finals. Sea Colony started the teams finished in the top four. • and city. Playing levels and format can be tourney with a 3-1 record, tying USTA Southern tailor-made to deliver a quality program for for the top spot in their respective flight. With For team rosters and full results, please visit any community. The Tri-Level League also only 88 games lost, to USTA Southern’s 106 middlestates.usta.com. targets smaller cities and facilities specifically, in order to provide the player with an organized, fun and competitive program. Leagues opportunities are currently available in the Philadelphia Area Tennis District (PATD) as well as the Central Penn District (CPD). Two leagues in PATD have proved to be successful this winter with nearly 100 players participating. Advancement opportunities can take you to Southern California in March for the Pacific Life Open Tri-Level National Invitational where section champions get the opportunity
to play on the same courts as the stars of the NETPLAY • WINTER 2007-08 • 610.935.5000 ATP at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. So grab five of your tennis friends and join in on the fun. Can’t find a league in your area? Get one started today! Coordinators wanted. For more information, e-mail Sally Baird at [email protected].
[email protected] 21 NETPLAY • WINTER 07-08 • 610.935.5000 MS junior Lauren Greco, PIAA singleschampandNo. 1-ranked www. piaa.org. For completedrawsandmore check out Blakely, 6-0,6-1. Class AAsinglesfinalto Wyomissing’s Martha Quaker Valley seniorCateStewart lostinthe The WPIAL title,but cameclosetoafourth crown. from the WPIAL to winaPIAA ClassAA doubles in thetournamentandbecame firstteam Griffin Currie.The Timkosalsodidn’t lose aset against Mercyhurst Prep’s Rececca Haener and Houston wonthetitlewitha6-2,7-5victory and Tanya Timko, afreshman, ofChartiers- In ClassAAdoubles,sistersKarli Timko, ajunior, the tournament. Larimore. Stroyne andPalko didnotloseasetin against North Allegheny’s Kelly Whelan andJen won thechampionshipwitha6-3,6-2victory sophomore Julie Stroyne andseniorEmily Palko In ClassAAAdoubles,Peters Township Area inthefinals. each ofitdopponents5-0,includingHempfield AAA teamtitleforthefirsttime,shuttingout Shady Side-Academy alsowonthePIAA Class four matches. For thetournament,Greco lostonlyonesetin WPIAL wonthetitle. 6-4. It wasthefifth year ina row agirlfrom the Landisville Hempfield Area’s Lauren Hankle, 6-3, the ClassAAAsingleschampionshipby defeating Shady Side Academy seniorLauren Greco won only thesecondtime WPIAL wonthree titles. PIAA went totwoclassifications in1998,thiswas championships andonesinglestitle.Since the Hershey RacquetClub, takingbothdoubles The WPIAL wonthree ofthefourtitlesat PI It wasnearlyacleansweep forthe WPIAL atthe Shine atStates Prep Stars Allegheny MountainDistrict 22 AA girls’ tennischampionships. [email protected] PIAA doubleschampions:Julie Stroyne andEmily Palko with Tanya andKarli Timko. Casey Watt semifinals before fallingtothetop-seeded duowhichincluded Bloom, 9-8(8). 7-6 (5);7-5inthe finals. Mengel alsoplayed doubleswithArren advancing tothe Carter The 15-year-old from Pittsburgh wonfourmatchesbefore losingtotopseed Augie Bloom, Also, ChrisMengel placedsecondintheBoys’ 16National Open inGrand Blanc, Mich. the 32-drawevent, includinga6-4,6-2win over theNo. 1seedKaseyGardiner inthefinals. Open, aLevel 3Girls 14’s National Championship. Yurovsky never dropped asetinwinning division’s Girls 14’s and 16’s. Although,shemayhave saved herbestforlast,winningtheCincinnati Ronit Yurovsky wontwoseparateLevel 4Section Championshipsthisyear intwodifferent age and No. 9nationallybouncedtheNo. 2seedDrew ofClifton, Courtney Va., 4-6;7-6;6-2inthefinal. consecutive matches en route to the championship. Watt, who is ranked No. 1 in Middle States Dame University signeewasthetournament’s topseedanddidnotdisappoint,winningseven Ohio, showcasing the game which made him one the nation’s top college prospects. The Notre National Open titlesinNovember. Watt captured goldataUSTA National Open in Toledo, Casey Watt, 17,ofGibsonia, Pa., andRonit Yurovsky, 13,ofNew Kensington, Pa., bothwon A remarkable achievement indeed. 14’s (BjornFratangelo) andBoys 12’s (A.J.Catanzariti). Greco), Girls 14’s (Ronit Yurovsky), Boys 18’s (Casey Watt), Boys 16’s (ChrisMengel), Boys Watt, Yurovsky Win USTA National Opens players ranked No. 1inthesectionstandingsGirls 18’s (Lauren 1 nationalrankinginGirls 18’s thisfall,whilesixotherAMD and nationalevents. AlisonRiskeofPeters Township earnedaNo. exceltournaments, butalsosawitsparticipants atbothsection only sawarecord numberofitsjuniorsenterUSTA-sanctioned junior tennisplayers inAlleghenyMountain. The districtnot Two-thousand-and-seven goodyear forthe1,000 wasavery in Western PA Juniors Blossoming
amd.usta.com AMD embraces PNC Classic Local wildcards do well The 2007 PNC International Tennis Classic not only showcased world-class women tennis professionals Nov. 4-11 at Club4Life in Monroeville, Pa. but it also was a stage for top local amateur players and a large number of dedicated volunteers. The AMD board of directors was fully involved in this year’s $75,000-purse USTA Pro Circuits tournament. The board helped negotiate the new tournament site, served as coordinators for events such as High 1 School Night, publicized the tournament, participated in the Pro-Am event, and contributed financially. Bob Ruzanic, president of the Tenis Patrons Foundation of Greater Pittsburgh, took on the all-important role of Tournament Promoter. Berry Campagna and Rochelle Seilhamer served as co-Tournament Directors. Bette Salmon, who guided the tournament for its first seven years, served as advisor to the tournament committee. Jim Block was the organizer of High School Night which brought players from six area teams to Club4Life for a first-hand look at some tennis’ rising stars. Participating schools included Gateway, Hampton, Penn Hills, Penn-Trafford, Southmoreland and Woodland Hills.
The district board also hosted during the week Middle States President Malcolm Riley and Executive 2 Director Marlynn Orlando, Pro Circuit Director and Pittsburgh native Brian Earley, and Andrew Baechle, Allegheny County Parks Director. The tournament drew another strong field of professionals, including Olga Govortsova, 19, of Belarus, ranked No. 50 in the world, and six others ranked in the top 100. After a week of great tennis the singles championship was won by Ashley Harkleroad of Ringgold, Ga., who defeated Olga Pouchkova of Moscow, 4-6, 6-4, 6-3 in the final. Stephanie Dubois of Montreal and Alisa Kleybanova of Moscow successfully defended the doubles title they won in 2006 with a super tiebreaker victory over Raquel Kops-Jones of Fresno, Calif. and Abigail Spears of Valley Center, Calif., 6-4, 4-6, 10-6. 3 Among the fans attending the tournament were 20 youngsters from the AMD’s Competitive Training Center, who made the tournament a part of their training weekend. They also got to meet with Harkleroad before her semifinal match. Six local amateurs were awarded wildcard entry into the tournament by the tournament promoter and demonstrated their abilities earlier in the tournament week.
• Alison Riske, 17, of McMurray, who is ranked No. 1 in the nation in Girls’ 18, drew Govortsova for her very first match in the main draw. She played credibly but lost 6-2, 6-2. Then Riske teamed with Gail Brodsky, a teen pro from Brooklyn, N.Y. and they defeated Maret Ani of Estonia and Andreja Klepac of Slovenia in doubles when Ani had to retire with an injury. They then lost to Jill Craybas, Huntington Beach, Calif. and Sunitha Rao of India, 6-0, 6-3. 4 • Kristy Borza, No. 1 singles player at the University of Pittsburgh, won her first qualifying match over Mami Inoue of Bradenton, Fla., 7-6(2), 4-6, 6-4 then lost to Petra Martic, Croatia 6-0, 6-2. In doubles, Borza teamed up with Russian teen Maria Mokh and took the opening set from the team of Govortsova and Poutchkova, before bowing. • Jessica Johnson Guyaux of Sewickley and Kellie Schmitt of Bethel Park scored a major upset in doubles by defeating Govortsova and Poutchkova in a super tiebreaker in the main draw, then lost in the quarterfinals Photo 1: Pitt standout Kristy Borza to Harkleroad and Christina Fusano of showcased her big time game. Plymouth, Calif. Photo 2: Middle States President Malcolm 5 • Lauren Greco of Oakmont, who won Riley with TSR Andy Findlay. the Class AAA PIAA high school state Photo 3: Tournament Promoter Bob Ruzanic championship the day before, played with Samantha DeStefano, who sang the credibly in a Qualifying match with veteran National Anthem prior to the semifinals.
pro Kelly Liggan of Ireland, losing 6-4, 6-3. NETPLAY • WINTER 2007-08 • 610.935.5000 Photo 4: Jessica Johnson Guyaux and Kellie • Jackie Hughes of McKeesport, AMD’s Schmitt did not disappoint the home crowd. top-ranked adult, lost to the Qualifier’s 3rd seed, Anna Tatishvili of the Republic Photo 5: New Jersey’s own Sunitha Rao of Georgia, 6-1, 6-0. (centered) spent some time with area high school tennis players. Photo 6: AMD Board Member Gina Levine partnered with rising teen star Gail Brodsky in the Pro Am. 6
[email protected] 23 NETPLAY • WINTER 07-08 • 610.935.5000 Central PA District Pennsylvania (CPD) District.” was excited andproud torepresent USTA Middle States andtheCentral received from aspectoftheprocess. alltheparents support Theteam inevery for thekidsandparents. Thegroup wasa dream towork with,and I States team.Evangelista summeditallupsaying,“It wasagreat experience Still, their secondplacefinishwasthehighest ever foraUSTA Middle just played abittougher.” and didagreat jobofplayingtough,” Evangelista said.“The Southern team up just short, losing by only seven points. “The teamplayedwell together very against astrong teamfrom Alpharetta, Ga. (USTA Southern), theteam came garnering awinningpercentage of67.17percent. In the finals, however, They wonaflighthigh223gamesincludinganindividual record of17-3, once in Tucson, herplayers rolled through theirflightandsemifinal-round. Luckily, coach Evangelista hadherluckypennytuckedsafelyinshoe, and vowed theywillconcentrateontheirhighschooltenniscareers nextyear. Tennis National Championshipcouldnot bepassedup. Allthree girls coaches andparents, butintheend,aonce-in-a-lifetimetriptoJr. Team conflicted withthe Tucson championship. It wastoughdecisionforplayers, all advanced totheirrespective districtplayoffs. Unfortunately, theplayoffs Christine, Amelia,andJenna alsoplayontheirhighschooltennisteams,and justtwoweeks beforecourts thetrip. and rehab asdictatedby hisdoctor. Happily, Alecwasabletoreturn tothe hip andhadtorely Everyone oncrutches. countedtheweeks ofrecovery Nine weeks priortothenationalevent, AlecGrossman tore atendoninhis However, theteam’s road tothefinalswasnotwithoutsome rough patches. finals, Iwascoastingonpure joy. It wasaproud momentindeed.” as winningtheevent,” CoachJackie Evangelista said.“By thetimeof a greater cause. This wasapositive exampleofwhatcanhappenwhentenniscommunitiesuniteandplayers lookbeyond theboundariesoftheir own clubsinorder toaide Not onlydidthepeopleincommunitycometogether, clubs,whooftencompeteagainsteachotherforbusiness,worked together. buttheparticipating all, $7,000wasraisedby thisone-dayevent tohelpAllison,whoiscurrently undergoingchemotherapyandradiationtreatments atahospitalinPittsburgh. raffle wasalsoheldtogive away free membershipsatthe Summitand ProCare, as wellasticketstoa Pittsburgh Penguins professional icehockeygame. In Prizes were donatedby area businessesandincludedgiftsfrom Sheetz, Olive Garden, Dick’s Sporting Goods anddiscountstootherarea restaurants. A 24 [email protected] T Come Together…Right Now group played atotal ofeightgamesandtheirscores were calculatedattheendtodetermineawinner. The tournamentincludedmen’s, women’s, mixed andparent-child events as well asseveral different levels ofjunior events. Each Herb Faris Tennis atMansion Courts Park. Theadultcompetitionwasheldinthemorning,andjuniorsplayed intheafternoon. The event washeldat ProCare Health and Fitness, The Summit Tennisand AthleticClub, theLeopold Recreation Center, andthe the efforts of Eric the efforts Hovan, Altoona High Schooltenniscoach,aone-daydoubles round robin event washeldon October 14. ofabenefittournamentfor15-year-old AllisonSchmittwhowas support recently diagnosedwith ovarian cancer. Through ennis players from Altoona, Hollidaysburg, State College,Indiana, Roaring Spring andtheLockHaven area cametogetherin T Tennis Silver “Placing second tomewasassweet the United States andPuerto Rico. second outof17teamsfrom across Jenna Laubach.Theteamfinished Grossman, William and Harvey Evangelista, Andrew andAlec of AmeliaCapuano,Christine by Jackie Evangelista, consisted Tucson, Ariz.The“Spirits,” coached Championship heldOct. 12-14in USTA Jr. Team Tennis National the silver medal from the2007 Mechanicsburg, Pa., brought home tennis teamfrom 14-and-under Intermediate he USTA Middle States T receive USTA funding Hempfield Area Courts Facility Funding Grants, pleasevist: middlestates.usta.com To seemore photosandtoread more about HARC andUSTA’s Public oftheirexistingprograms aswell events.participation asimplement new With Pipkin theadditionofcourts, andHARC hopetoincrease the courts.” completion oftheproject we willhave sixindoorand10outdoor lighted court,” said Wilson Pipkin, Director ofRacquetSports, HARC. “Upon 10 years. Asalocalrecreation facilitywe were committedtoupgradingthis “We thatwasunusableandhad beenformore hadastadiumcourt than awarded through theprogram. increased Thusfarmore playingopportunities. than$900,000hasbeen projects toprovide construction new more andenhancedtennisvenues for publicparks tennisfacilityenhancements,renovationsused tosupport and (NRPA) forthethird consecutive year to award thegrantswhich willbe The USTA haspartnered withthe National Recreation and Park Association organizations receiving aidatthistime. in conjunctionwiththe Tennis intheParks Initiative. HARC isoneof21 (HARC) wasawarded a2007USTA Public Facility Funding Grant Landisville, Pa., of the Hempfield a part Area Recreation Commission he USTA recently announcedthattheHempfield Area in Courts centralpa.usta.com Delaware District delaware.usta.com Three Delaware teams go to WTT National Finals hree teams from the Delaware area competed at the World TeamTennis Rec League National Finals at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, in Indian Wells, Calif, on Nov. 2-4. The event was hosted by tennis Tlegend Billie Jean King. A record 51 teams from 16 states, Canada and Puerto Rico competed in 10 divisions at the event. This was the largest field in the event’s 13-year history. Three of the 51 teams were from the Delaware District. It was the First State Racquet team’s first visit to the national championship. The team, captained by Alison Moran and Taya Dianna, included Cindy Weick, Jorge Jenkins, Milos Markis and Bert Heilman. The team, which competed in the 3.0 division said competition was fierce, but friendly. It was truly the team effort in every match and practice that enabled the team to finish strong. “We also want to thank Jim Flesch for instructing us in the weeks before the trip,” said the captains, adding First State Racquets on center court at Indian that the team adopted the mantra of “What Would Jim Say?” to keep them motivated and focused. Wells Tennis Garden. The team was especially proud of team member Milos Markis who went undefeated at the tournament. Front L to R: Jorge Jenkins, Captain Alison Moran, Cindy Weick; Another Delaware team, captained by Rebecca DePorte, also competed at the 3.0 level. Other members Back L to R: Assistant David Weick, Milos Markis, included Moira McGuinness, Tara Andrews, Ian Hunt, Satish Shanmugam and Ramesh Kasina. Bert Heilman, Captain Taya Dianna Six teams competed in the 3.0 division, with a team from Puerto Rico claiming first place, followed closely by a team from Oklahoma. First State Racquet and Team DePorte battled for third, with Moran and Dianna’s team coming out on top. The third area team competing at Nationals was Subba Kumpatia’s 3.5 level team – Big Shots. Team members competing at the tournament included Avinash Sreenivasan, Kim Ziegler, Amparo Lyons, Cindy Beach and Bianca Skilling. All three teams competed in events hosted by Delaware World TeamTennis Recreational League, which is coordinated by Moran and Dianna. “I think a lot of people are realizing that the WTT league is a great way to continue playing tennis between the end of the USTA summer league and the start of the USTA mixed doubles league,” says Dianna. Moran added that they receive numerous comments from league participants about the fun yet competitive spirit of World TeamTennis. For more information about the local WTT Recreational League, go to delawarewtt.com or email [email protected].
Upholding a family tradition uring the week of August 20, Lee and Ashlee Vosters played in the Mother-Daughter Tournament at the Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, R.I. They had a wonderful time at this tournament which Ashlee’s grandmotherD Bunny Vosters won for 24 years with her daughters Nina and Gretchen. Here is the experience in Lee’s own words: We got back late Saturday night after a grueling week in Newport and a very long drive home. We played a match on the Hall of Fame center court, with a band playing, tons of spectators and people having lunch on the veranda of the casino. It was way too cool, and to top it off we won our match against a team from Oregon. Ashlee played awesome tennis. The mother was a pro and the daughter used to play for University of Southern California. We lost the semifinals in three sets to the eventual winners. The mother used to be Yana Novatna’s doubles partner. The daughter played national juniors and plays Division I for Boston College. We would like a rematch. The Vosters, Lee and Ashlee, proudly showing their third place awards. We played the No. 1 seeds for third and fourth place. The daughter is Liz For us mothers it is a matter of our minds, bodies and reflexes coordinating Kobak and was ranked No. 1 nationally in juniors. She won super nationals as our hearts are often bigger than our ability to facilitate the desire to NETPLAY • WINTER 2007-08 • 610.935.5000 & has played pro tournaments. The mother is a psychiatrist in N.Y. We win. We are keenly aware of what target practice is all about now. My pulled it out in three sets as Ash was determined to get the bronze ball. husband noticed several bruises on my torso, which attests to the abuse During that last match, Courier, McEnroe, Cash, & Kraijek played on the we sometimes took from these tough opponents but is a testament to our next court, which made concentration a little hard in the second set. own determination. It was a great opportunity for us to share the courts, All in all it was a tremendous experience on many levels. We played Division competition and energy of our daughters in a sport we hope to play for I athletes in all our matches and the mothers more than held their own. a lifetime. The setting was beautiful and unique; the museum was a wonderful journey through tennis history. [email protected] 25 NETPLAY • WINTER 07-08 • 610.935.5000 Eastern PA District Congratulations tobothoftheseplayers fortheiroutstandingaccomplishments. home silver intheBoys 14Doubles Rayce withhispartner Roberson from Abilene, Tex. winners from theirrespective State Games. Damany againwonthegoldinBoys 14Singles andtook Force Academy inColoradoSprings, Col.,inAugust, isanationalcompetitionthatfeatures themedal there ashewasselected tocompeteattheState Games ofAmerica.Theevent, whichwasheldattheAir Damany won the2007Keystone State Games goldmedalinBoys 14Singles. His successdidn’t end an award whoexemplifies given toaparticipant sportsmanship, positive attitudeandhonesty. TennisAthlete, Outstanding games’ the as selected was Lynn court, the on success her to addition In in theGirls 18Singles, andbronze intheMixed Open Doubles Fred withpartner Hockenbury. including goldinthe Women’s Open Singles, goldintheGirls 16Doubles withsisterSara Lynn, silver on behalfoftheNorthwood. prizes, andtournamentsponsors Starbucks andSam’s Club donatedanadditional$1,000 to theACS for thewinnerswere donatedby Northwood. Staff, friends andlocalbusinessesgraciouslydonated raffle Special thanksgoouttoallwhomadethisevent a“Smashing Success.” timeandmemberships Court Northwood toturnthetournamentintoanannualevent. She wastheinspirationbehindinitialtournament anditishercourageouslegacy thatencouraged as herhealthdeteriorated,Bouisnever andplaytennis. turned down togetonthecourt anopportunity and aformerUSTA teamcaptain,who lostherbattlewithcancer. Leaguepresented by Chrysler Even ofNancythe memory Bouis,afriend,long-timeEasternPennsylvania District (EPD)tennisplayer This tournamentwasfirstheldin August2005asthe NancyBouisCancer Tournament,whichhonored oncentercourt. arranged inaheart Lehigh University tenniscoachandtournamentplayer, honored hiswifeElaine, with40luminaries who are currently cancer, battlingorhave survived illuminated thedark August night.Dave Shook, Theluminaries,purchased oforinhonorthose courts. by players andfamilymembersinmemory More bagsadornedwithwrittenmessagesoflove than100luminary linedtheNorthwood tennis lightingceremony heldatduskondayone. A touchinghighlightofthetournamentwasaluminary Relay For Life. individual donationsandtournamentproceeds wasdonatedtotheAmerican CancerSociety’s (ACS) Tournament andFundraiser, August 24-26.Themoneyraisedfrom thesaleofluminaries,raffletickets, The 2007 Men’s Openwinners Matt Potts (left)and Dave Shook (right). 26 [email protected] Lynn wonfourmedalsatthe2007games, other athletesfrom across thestate. tocompeteagainst athletes theopportunity multi-sport competitionthatprovides amateur modeled aftertheOlympic Games, andinclude The stategames,whichare heldannually, are State Games. medals from the2007Pennsylvania Keystone A. Lynn, Pa., Berwick, brought homegold Akshay Damany, Allentown, Pa., andKatrina golden atstategames Two EPDathletes Northwood RacquetandFitness “ Northwood 2nd AnnualSmash forCancer Tennis Club raisedmore than$2,000atits Success” Smashing against cancer the fight Racquet aides
Photo credit: Jason Minick, Philadelphia University Maddie Smith collegiate career! Congratulations to Maddie Smith for a record-setting and Clay, allplayed collegiate tennisatMoravian. Mom, Sue, aswell asMaddie’s siblings Carolyn who played collegiatetennisatMoravian College. and aformerUSTA Middle States rankedplayer, is aUSPTA tennisprofessional, highschoolcoach the youngest daughterofSue Smith. andArt Art Pennsylvania District (EPD)tennisgreats. She is all fouryears, comesfrom afamilyofEastern Smith, whoplayed intheNo. 1spotforPU records were setinthe2006-07season. wins (24), and combined victories (39),both holds theschool’s single-season records for singles doubles (68)andcombinedwins(135). She also University’s all-timelistforcareer singles(67), 2008 springwomen’s season,leadsPhiladelphia Smith, who can still play matches in the abbreviated and once shared Co-Player of the Week recognition. Smith wasnamedPlayer ofthe Week three times In theeight-week spanoftheconference season, Smith withtheCACC Player ofthe Year award. season, CACC CommissionerDan Mara presented 19-20. For throughout anoutstanding herefforts Women’s Individual Tennis Tournament, Oct. Central Atlantic CollegiateConference (CACC) as well as the singleschampionshipat2007 with freshman teammate Adriana Rodriguez, setting career by capturing the doublesFour years later, asasenior,championship, shecappedherrecord- posting aschool-record 18-6mark. puttogetherarecord-settingpartner performance, Tournament semifinals. In doublessheandher York CollegiateAthletic Conference (NYCAC) in singlesplay, includingatriptothe2004New High SchoolinBethlehem, Pa., hada13-7record (PU) tennisteam.Smith, whostarred atLiberty a freshman playing onthePhiladelphia University Four years ago,Maddie Smith madehermark as collegiate career Maddie Smith closesstellar easternpa.usta.com
New Jersey District newjersey.usta.com
(Left to right): Tony Severino, Mike Iannone, Lori Schwartz, Carol MacLean, Mille Sams, Ellen V. Williams, Laurie Bouch Wendy Rubin, Jon Fierabend, Laurie Bouch What and who is the NJ District? Laurie Bouch and Tennis enthusiasts who reside in the New Jersey District can rest assure that it is an active district committed to growing the game of tennis. As the first year of a two-year term for the current volunteer Arrowhead Tennis Club, board comes to an end, let’s talk about how the district operates. Perfect Together All six districts within USTA Middle States receives the majority of its funding from the section and operates within the section’s guidelines. A designated district delegate, usually the president, is automatically You might know Laurie Bouch from the 12 years a member of the USTA Middle States board. Both the district and section work with, and honor the she spent on the staff of USTA Middle States as mission of, the USTA national office, of which Middle States is one of 17 sections nationwide. the liaison between the New Jersey District and Middle States, or from her years playing on The Ellen Williams has a talented board of 10 to work with, a list of goals, and the satisfaction one gets College of New Jersey (TCNJ) tennis team. In the from the missions already accomplished in her third year as president. There is one employee, executive past couple years, you may know her because she secretary Millie Sams, a tireless worker for the district. As Williams explained, “Our purpose is to grow taught tennis at RiverWinds, was an assistant high the game of tennis throughout the district. In this quest, we undertake the mission of the entire USTA.” school tennis coach, and was the area sales rep for Balle de Match clothing. Or maybe you know her The district gets information out to tennis facilities and parks and recs about USTA programs and as the person who started a Community Tennis how they can benefit from them. They maintain the district Web site and recognize deserving individuals, Association in her south Jersey hometown. families and clubs at the annual awards celebration. They run the USTA League presented by Chrysler NJ District championships. They support groups operating in the district, and they assist From now on, you will know Bouch as the General financially with USTA League teams going to nationals. Manager of the seven-court Arrowhead Tennis Club “A big part of what we do is to keep the membership informed. We as board members are ambassadors in Medford, N.J. The club, which has undergone a few management and name changes in past for the USTA and for tennis,” Williams said. “The USTA often changes programs and there’s enough decades, was just purchased by Mandalap Enterprises out there to fit anybody’s schedule.” in October, and has gone back to the original Williams is proud that, under her tenure, NJD has become more structured and organized. During her name. Bouch is excited about the potential for the first term, new policies and job descriptions were put in place for future NJD leaders. In the past year, club and in using her past experiences for what NJD has grown Jr. TeamTennis, completed a Girl Scout initiative, and started new senior leagues. The she calls a very exciting time in her career. district is still looking to increase the number of leagues and programs and step up fundraising efforts. Because people were beginning to think that the The board members each have a major role and contribute to the overall success of the district. facility was going to be sold and turned into In addition, Lori Schwartz, the Tennis Service Representative employed by the section but responsible something else, players have looked to other area for the NJD, is out in the trenches growing programs and working closely with the NJD board as a clubs for tennis. The club, which is undergoing voting member. extensive renovations, will capitalize by adding creative programs, some of which are already in Schwartz trains Physical Education teachers on how to teach tennis in their gym classes and start after- place and gaining popularity. People will soon school tennis programs. She works with facilities helping them organize staff programs. She works with learn that Arrowhead is back on the tennis map. high school coaches to get middle school tennis pathways into high school tennis. She’s seeing a lot of results from her efforts to grow Jr. TeamTennis and start after-school Rallyball programs. And she The four-hour Sunday high–performance program helped start a successful women’s tri-level shore league this year. Every day is different for Schwartz, who for tournament players is “amazing,” according to says there’s not enough time in the day to do everything she wants to do.
at least one junior parent. It’s an “academy-like” NETPLAY • WINTER 2007-08 • 610.935.5000 “Schools and school districts are a big focus for me,” said Schwartz. “And the programs I help with don’t program providing a lot more than just skills and tactics. Because no more than four kids per court have to be USTA programs. We just want people out there playing.” will be accommodated, it is limited to only 28 What Williams would like people to know about NJD is that it is not a closed club. players and the demand is already increasing. “As members of the organization, they should become more involved on a volunteer basis. We are here Check out the new Web site, arrowheadtennis.com, to serve them, and it’s the membership funds that keep us in operation.” for details on this re-established club and more Please visit the NJD Web site newjersey.usta.com, for the full listing of NJD Board members. For questions, of its programs, or contact Laurie Bouch at comments, or to get involved, contact Millie Sams at [email protected] or 609-877-9215. 609-654-7848 or [email protected]. [email protected] 27 NETPLAY • WINTER 07-08 • 610.935.5000 Philadelphia District the USOpen David Goldstein sheltersRichboro’s Alex Kuznetsov onarainyday at someone handhimaballoncourt! And whoknows? Perhaps onedayhe’ll have in college. ranking inUSTA Middle States andplaytennis 18-and-under, sayshisgoalis toreach atop20 Goldstein, now rankedNo. 1inPATD forboys be sostrong,” saysGoldstein. that Rose isalwaysthere toencourageme. Without her, Idonotbelieve mypassionfortenniswould him getinvolved withtheMaccabi gamesandUSTA tournamentaction.“It really meansalottoknow David credits PATD’s Rose Weinstein forintroducing himtohisballpersoncareer. Weinstein alsohelped when I’m oldersoIwanttotakeadvantage ofitnow. It’s andgoodformytennis.” goodformyheart oftheaction,”chance towatchtennisandbepart addsGoldstein. “Idon’t thinkI’ll ever gettodothis admitted hewasabitdistracted.Annahaswayofdoingthat.“But Iheldmyown. Ilove havingthe John Isner andAnnaKournikova. “She’s justaspretty asIthoughtshewouldbe,” saysGoldstein who Hits AndyRoddick, charityevent, LindsayDavenport, Patrick hehadtheprivilegeofserving McEnroe, again,thistimewithEltonon centercourt John andBillie Jean King.AsaballkidforOctober’s Smash Goldstein’s tennisexcitement didnotendinNew York. One monthlater, the16-year-old foundhimself behind the action,” says Goldstein. “Iwaslooking right at them. It pitfortheNikolaiCourt Davydenko and wasTommy honestly match. Haas quarterfinal “I was the courtside best seat almost in the directly house.” but itwasreally cool atthetime.” But Goldstein’s plumassignmentwasbeinginvitedtositintheCenter ended upgettingtothefinals,” Goldstein laughs.“It’s notbig, Goldstein. “And Igot ahighfive from Novak Djokovic who Sharapova andRoger Federer walkthrough thetunnel,” says tunnel thatleadstoLouisArmstrong soIgottoseeMaria lounge. “It’s locatedinthe Dover, Del. Goldstein enjoyed hangingoutintheballkid Alex Kuznetsov ofRichboro, Pa., andMadison Brengle of Hantuchova. Later, heworked matcheswithrisinglocaltalent: He worked adoublesmatchforMartina Hingis andDaniela As arookie, outonthesmallersidecourts. Goldstein started and stayed witharelative inManhattan.” I finallygotthelettersayinghadmadeit.packedmybags to New York forasecond audition.“Thenitwasdown toabout150kids,” recalls Goldsteini. His chances? Fifty percent. “I hadtowaitseveral weeks before thefirst round ofcutsandwasaskedto survived return whatIwasdoing.”them rightawaythatIknew His pastexperiencemadeitobvious totournamentorganizerswhat hewasdoing.Goldstein thatheknew 28 [email protected] PATD Bullets • • three orfourminutestoshow how Ithrow theball,how fastIwasatthenet.hadtoshow “My firstinstinctwasthatIhadtomakeagoodimpression,” says Goldstein.“Ionlygot Open. Five hundred kids competed for just seventy rookie Freedoms.spots. In thespring,hesawanadon Tennis But forthe Channelpromoting try-outs Goldstein was determined. his ballkidskillswiththeAdvanta Championshipsand World TeamTennis Philadelphia nation withoutfirsthavingtoearnhisstripes. For thelast several years, heworked todevelop Goldstein, anavidtennisplayer himself, didn’t makeittothebiggesttennisevent inthe comingatyou. Itper hourserve justseemedsurreal.” US Open. “It wasincredible. It really was,” saysGoldstein. “You can’t imaginea150-mile Abington Senior asaballkidatthe High ofalifetime-toserve Schoolgottheopportunity D Ball kidhitsthebigtime philadelphia.usta.com and learnhow you canjoinin celebratingtheirsuccess. January 13 at 11:30 a.m. at Green Valley Country Club. Meet this year’s winners on line: PATD salutesthisyear’s oftennisatourAnnualAwards #1 rankedplayers andtopservants Brunch To read more about Tennis On Campus seepage17. fielded teams. Intramural Collegetennisisnow thefastestgrowing tennisprogram inthecountry. in thetopthree inOctober’s CampusChampionshipevent. Drexel, Temple and West Chesteralso PATD shines inthegrowing Tennis onCampuscircuit. Villanova andUniversity ofPenn finished “My firstinstinctwasthatIhad to makeagoodfirstimpression” actually work withplayers likethem.Lastsummer, the16-year-old juniorfrom Andre AgassiandMartina Hingis on TV. Littledidheknow thatone-dayhe’d avid Goldstein ofJenkintown, Pa., grew upwatchingthelikesofPete Sampras,
Picture byReggie Day David Goldstein inactionforthe SmashWTT Hits.
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Little Tennis
our-year-old Will Dunlop of Chester Springs, Pa., isn’t content watching cartoons on the weekend. On Sunday afternoons he and his dad, Greg, take tennis lessons together. “It’s a good opportunity for Will and me to get together, introduce him to a new sport and Fit’s good exercise on a nice afternoon,” says Greg Dunlop. “It’s something we do so we can spend some time together,” adds Amy Koser, another Chester County parent who enrolled herself and six-year-old daughter, Tricia, in “Little Tennis” classes in Downingtown, Pa., this fall. “Other sports have programs for pre-school children,” says Downingtown tennis instructor, Becky Desmond. “So why not have them try tennis? I started these classes so parents could know what their kids are doing and have fun with them while sharing in their success on the court.” Downingtown’s “Little Tennis” program breaks down the game of tennis into bite-sized words and steps that even the littlest toddler can understand. Desmond uses hula hoops to teach kids court positioning. Her athletes play against an “invisible man” and she asks the kids to repeat new words and terms as they’re introduced. “Keeping them busy and excited for 55 minutes can be a real challenge,” admits Desmond. “But frequently changing the activity makes the program successful.” Parents like Downingtown’s Bridget Panza are amazed how quickly their children pick up the game and technique. “On the first day, Chester Springs father, Greg Dunlop gives four year old son Will a they started my daughter, Emily, on the forehand ‘high five’ at Little Tennis classes in Downingtown and within five minutes she was doing it.” By the third week the young tikes are hitting volleys and overhead smashes. Desmond says the real secret to her success is having the parents involved with thekids right from the start. “Having them on court with the child allows them to experience first hand what the child is learning,” says Desmond. It’s worked well for Rob Smith and his five-year-old daughter, Madison. “Before, I was just letting her go out and hit to have fun,” says Smith. “But this way, she still has fun and learns the proper way to play so we won’t have bad habits to un-do later.” Desmond says her “Little Tennis” program not only attracts young kids to tennis. Many of the adults who come to class have never picked up a tennis racquet either. “I’ve had grandparents, aunts, uncles and even baby sitters participate at one time or another,” says Desmond. Many of her young protégés go on to participate in PATD’s junior league program. Desmond says the program is incredibly meaningful to her. “The most rewarding experience I had was when I did a high-five with a little guy and we momentarily spoke about beating the “invisible man,” remembers Desmond. “His father came up to me later and told me his little boy was autistic and that was the first time he had spoken to anyone. The father was beaming from ear to ear. I still cry with joy when I think about the moment.” Becky Desmond demonstrates ball and racquet control
The Sucess Continues The Harriton High School Girls Tennis Team won the Pennsylvania State PIAA Team Championship for the 4th year-in-a-row. The team went undefeated this season with a 26-0 record and has a 46 game winning streak over the past two seasons. 2007 Harriton High School Girls Tennis Team
Front Row L-R: Team Captains, Jen Krain, Lucy Haller, Arielle Spencer, Sami Berkowitz NETPLAY • WINTER 2007-08 • 610.935.5000 Back Row L-R: Celia Tong, Coach Jack Ladden, Alicia Chen, Jennie Shulkin, Casey Robinson, Anna Matlack, Charlotte Matlack, Morgan Frechie, Ricky Reisner, Taylor Spencer, Assist. Coach Marie Occiogrosso, Caroline Sutherland. Send Us Your Story Do you have an interesting tennis story to tell? Send your story ideas to: [email protected]
[email protected] 29 NETPLAY • WINTER 07-08 • 610.935.5000 30 [email protected] Country Club. Cheltenham, and the Freedoms representatives from Merion Cricket Club, Kinetix, Overbrook Fasion Show with models pose Billie Jean. Models included F What isyour favorite food? TV show? Down timeactivities? play anotherseasonforthe Smash! ranch wherewearebuildingatenniscenter! Iplantoworkhardnextyear andhopeforgoodhealth. to And ofcourse This yearhasbeenunreal!I becamean American citizen, wontwograndslamsandendedthe yearas#1andboughta What are your plansfor 2008? Mariaan ourcoach. and playingforthebest WTT team!Ilove themanagement andofcourse I feelverymuch athomeinDelaware!It’s greatseeingthesamefaces you rate theSmashasa team, city, itsfans, etc? You’ve played for three WTT teams throughout your career, how would but wouldn’thaveitany otherway! that!It’sThankfully ithasalwaysoutlike worked beenhecticandtiring that experience? flew to Wilmington to play for theSmash. How would you describe The lastfew years you’ve played in Wimbledon and24hourslater The Philadelphia Freedoms withteamed up the Cancer FoxChase Center and (FCCC) Saks Fifth Avenue on November 28 F in theirin bids at the silent auction. show with local pros tennis modelingoutfits provided by Saks. Attendeeswithmingled friendstheir and Billie Jean, putting also while cocktail event to benefit the FCCC. was focused aroundevening question a The answersession and withBillie JeanKingfashion and a ood -Mexican. TV show-Lawand Order. -surfing theweband Downtimeactivities checking outthestock market! ashion S Interview withDelaware Smash how with Billie Jean King to Benefit FCCC player Philadelphia Freedoms and Delaware Smash Leizel Huber! Season January, 2008! ADVERTISEMENT T ickets on Sale CEO of FoxCEO of Cancer Center, Chase and guests his Billie Jean King with Dr. talks Michael Seiden, President and
th for a Y unique C urts Little Round Top By Andy Findlay The Section’s Best Kept Secrets efferson County, Pennsylvania, is famous Tony has conceived, designed and built two Restrooms” by a walkway dubbed for its solitude, Punxsutawney Phil and the pristine Har-Tru courts on the rustic encampment “Goldsboro Bridge”. Western Pennsylvania Laurel Festival. which exudes a Civil War theme. Blessed with a J four-season climate, fifty of these delightful acres Tony primarily credits the existence of “Little However, the recent development of Tony Medvetz’s were given an extreme tennis makeover. Round Top” to the patience and support of his “Little Round Top” Tennis Camp, a unique pair wonderful wife Linda and their two children: of private tennis courts nestled on a hilltop just north “Quite simply, the courts are named ‘North’ and ‘South’” Magdalene, 4 and Katarina, 2. of Punxsutawney promises to add tennis to the said Medvetz, “out of respect for Generals Grant county’s sense of privacy, groundhogs and festivals. and Lee.” “For me, it’s the ultimate game to invite “Our camp is all about family. It’s only 30 my friends over to play tennis, create teams and minutes from where we live and regularly When Medvetz first stepped onto this property, it have the Yankees play the Rebels,” continued Tony. experiencing it together has made our family life evoked a vision of Colonel Joshua L. Chamberlain lots of fun,” explained the 44 year-old coach. stumbling down a rocky slope of “Little Round Already, Tony has hosted many different groups at Top” in the Battle of Gettysburg. Chamberlain’s Little Round Top including mid-year clinics for A visit to “Little Round Top” is an educational regiment cheered as the rebels fled, all except one. the Indiana Tennis Association. experience for all ages. Second Lieutenant Robert Wicker stood his ground “I’d like to use my camp for USTA junior clay and aimed his colt gun at Chamberlain’s head before Separating the two-lighted courts is Fort Ligonier, court training weekends,” noted Tony who still firing, bringing these soldier’s face-to-face in a fierce a tamarack pagoda with a spiral staircase and a possesses rifling doubles game from his IUP days. fight that remains a vital part of American history. crow’s nest overlook. “And maybe everyone could learn a little more This prompted Medvetz to bring weekend tennis As a primary residence there is “Camp Allegheny”, about our Civil War at the same time”, he noted. warriors to battle on the clay, hence the name. a rustic red pine log cabin designed after the “Little Round Top” was reborn in the Laurel nineteenth century. The residence is guarded Highlands of Jefferson County. by “Lookout Mountain,” a 90-foot tower accessible only by a hand-pulleyed Medvetz’s day jobs are coaching Indiana University Warsaw freight elevator and a of Pennsylvania (IUP) women’s tennis team and courageous climb. operating “Fast Times,” a successful screen-printing business in Indiana, Pa. The twenty-minute ascent emerges above tall oak, maple and poplar trees offering In between, Medvetz has realized his boyhood panoramic views of 60 miles, shared only dream of merging his passion for tennis, his by bald eagles, hawks and wealth of interest in the Civil War and a protective concern other wildlife. for the post Y2K era. The trappers’ lodge or “Fort Pillow”, a After acquiring more than 400 acres of rolling majestic, spruce tennis guest quarters is Pennsylvania hills and the help of many friends, connected to the “Princeton Courthouse NETPLAY • WINTER 2007-08 • 610.935.5000
[email protected] 31 NETPLAY • WINTER 07-08 • 610.935.5000 middlestates.usta.com. more aboutthecenterandits mission,pleasevisit: featured Community Tennis Association. To learn Tennis CenterinPhiladelphia, Pa., isthisissue’s The AltheaGibson CommunityEducation & District Central 32 [email protected] Foundation. Theevent raisedmore than$5,000. drinks andasilentauctiontobenefitthe Delaware Tennis out tocelebratewiththem.Guests enjoyed food and Club.Wilmington More Country than100peopleturned into theDelaware Tennis Hall ofFame onOctober 5at Greg Barkley, Shur, Harry Moore andMary were inducted Hall ofFame Delaware Tennis Barkley, andJeff Harrison Ed McQuillin, Harry Shur, Moore, Mary Greg Left toright: Lori Rudy warms upatthe3.0AdultLori Rudy National warms ChampionshipsinLas Vegas. Continued from page20 everything goessmoothly,everything Iplantobeoutthere nextseason.” lifetime experience…buthopefullyitwon’t be,” Rudy said.“Assuming that Rudy agreed withRoulston. “Theexperienceatnationals wasaonce-in-a- wasn’t easygettingthere. We stiffcompetition.” hadsomevery members,” Roulston said.“All ofourhard work paidoff,anditcertainly “The experiencewasgreat, especiallysharingitwithallofourteam they hadaccomplishedalotby justreaching nationals. they were disappointedtheydidn’t advancethat tothesemifinals,theyknew Rudy, Roulston andtheirteammatesfinishedsecondinpool.Although a pregnant woman!” I wasstillplaying,” Rudy said.“And…they tohave were lostto sorry months, seven at that surprised, were who opponents some had “I’ve endurance isalittleless,butIamplayingaswell asIhave ever played.” whole timeandhave beenadjustingmystrokes asIcontinuetogrow. My “It really toplay,” hasbeenwonderful Rudy said.“Ihave beenplayingthe Championship 6-4,1-6,1-0. similar fashion,sheandRoulston wontheirfirstmatchatthe National She played inthree matchtie-breakers attheSection tournament,andin Both ofthesewomen were championsand willbegreatly missed. husband’s togrow efforts both varsity and recreational tennis. tennis coach,Dave Shook, Elaine ofher wasabigsupporter 2006 withtheUSTA CourageAward. ThewifeofLehigh University Shook, anavidtennisplayer wholoved thegame,washonored in pro, shehelpeddevelop thegamesofmanyLehigh Valley players. was ranked in the top 10 in USTA Middle States. As a certified tennis Bethlehem City Tennis Championforeightconsecutive years and Zajac played intheU.S.Open atForest Hills, N.Y. She wasthe the passingofHelen Zajac andElaine Shook. The Eastern Pennsylvania District (EPD)suffered a great losswith EPD Remembers
Middle States Happenings
Photo 1: USTA Middle States office staff celebrates Halloween. Photo 2: U.S. Open Tournament referee and Director of USTA Pro Circuit, Brian Earley with fellow AMD native and Marshall University standout Kelli Schmitt. Photo 3: USTA Officials Workshop (front: L to R) Lolita Clyburn and Lois Huggins (back: L to R) Steve Branch, Dick Green and Larry Mulligan-Gibbs. Photo 4: Regional Rally- Althea Gibson Community Education and Tennis Center, Philadelphia (L to R) Valerie Chin, USTA Outreach Coordinator; Richard Meissner, Financial Manager, Kraft Foods Inc.; Emily Saunders, USTA; Bronal Harris, Executive Director, Althea Gibson Community Education and 1 Tennis Center.
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[email protected] 33 NETPLAY • WINTER 07-08 • 610.935.5000 Middle States Happenings 34 2 1 3 President) atthe 2007Middle States Hall ofFame Induction Dinner andAuction. Photo 4:Judy Levering (Mistress ofCeremonies andpastUSTA President), Merv Heller (pastUSTA President) andJane Brown Grimes (current USTA tattoos onhisbody. Photo 3:John Fredlein a10-year-old tennis player from Pittsburgh, isallabout showing hislove forMiddle States. He placed more than 40temporary Photo 2:Everyone wantedachancetomeetlocalstarAlisonRiskeatthePNCInternational including Club4Lifetennispro Marc Hill. Tennis Programs Coordinator; Tom Benic, President, AlleghenyMountain District. Representative; Marlynn Orlando, Executive Director USTA Middle States, Doug Brooks, Citiparks Head Tennis Professional, Jane Famili, Citiparks Photo 1:(lefttoright)Andrew Baechle, AlleghenyCountyDirector ofParks; Rob Gregoire, co-tennisdirector, Club4Life; BobRuzanic, Tennis Service [email protected] 4 States programs. NetPlay andotherMiddle know whatyou thinkabout look forthisicon,andletus Log ontomiddlestates.usta.com, theyearAs changes,soare we.
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