2008 annual award winners Judy Utley Receives Jacobs Bowl Through the Ranks, Utley Serves USTA with Love for the Game

JACOBS BOWL “Judy’s organizational skills, The highest honor presented attention to detail and by the USTA Southern Section, leadership ability have been this award is presented to a volunteer who has exhibited instrumental in the growth and outstanding service in the USTA development of Southern Southern Section. the past two years. She's Judy Utley respected by volunteers and staff Greensboro, NC at the National, Sectional and ennis has always had a place in State levels. When you need the heart of Judy Doyle Utley, something done, you can count as a player and as an adminis - on Judy to get it done right!” T trator looking for ways to – Rex Maynard, President of the improve the sport. An avid league and USTA Southern Section recreational player, she started her work off the court in Greensboro, NC, during Utley has seen the Southern Section the mid-1980s. She was instrumental in flourish with much success. The Section the creation and development of the Judy Utley has seen tremendous growth in every Gate City Women’s Tennis League as aspect, including league play, Jr. Team well as the Greensboro Junior Interclub Committee benefited from Utley’s mar - Tennis and overall membership. The League. She served as president on the keting mind when she served as chair in Davis Cup visited Winston-Salem, NC, Greensboro Tennis Association Board of 2002 and 2004. Also in 2004, as chair of twice and is coming back to the Section Directors. the NCTA Building Committee, Utley in March 2009 when the team takes on Her continued hard work and dedica - found the building that was purchased Switzerland in Birmingham, AL. She ini - tion led Utley to the North Carolina and is currently used as the state office. tiated projects to impact the Section for Tennis Association (NCTA) Northern She became a member of the NCTF several years to come, such as the revision Piedmont board director position in Board of Directors and was actively of the USTA Southern bylaws. 1995. Her love of league tennis became a involved in different campaign commit - Utley has not kept her talents restrict - project when she became a member of tees from 2004-06. ed to just North Carolina and the the Southern Tennis Association Adult “When it comes to volunteers, Judy is Southern Section. On the National level, League Council from 1991-95. From the gold standard,” said Kelly Gaines, she works closely with her passion and 1995-2000, Utley served as Southern North Carolina Executive Director. “No volunteers with League Tennis. She is a Chair of the Adult/Senior League task is too small, too large or too consum - member of the USTA League Committee. She continued to excel with ing. She is a great volunteer and valuable Committee, chair of USTA League her volunteer work and moved her way to any organization, but more importantly NTRP Subcommittee and member of through the ranks of NCTA as secretary she is a great, great friend.” USTA SERV Committee. and vice president during the late 1990s. Serving two terms as Southern Tennis Since the beginning of her career, In 2000, Utley became the president of Association Secretary in 2001-02, fol - Utley has been recognized for her extraor - North Carolina Tennis Association. lowed by double terms of vice president, dinary heart, dedication and contributions As NCTA past president, Utley con - Utley became the Section’s Executive to tennis. She received the 1989 NCTA tinued her volunteer work on several Vice President in 2005. 2008 marks the Adult/Senior Tennis Council Award. In North Carolina committees, serving as end of her two-year term as USTA the mid ‘90s, Utley was honored by chair on many. The Strategic Planning Southern President. Under her leadership, Southern with the Gerri Rothwell Award for her outstanding service and dedication to the league tennis program. She earned the USTA League Award from North Carolina in 1998 in addition to two dis - trict volunteer service awards. Bill Oakes, USTA Southern Director Looking for the latest in Southern tennis news? of Sales and Marketing, said, “Judy was a The USTA Southern Section’s e-newsletter offers up-to-the-minute info on leagues, valuable resource to me, the states and tournaments and exclusive contests. the volunteers as a sounding board and Go to www.southerntennis.com/newsletter and subscribe today! mentor during her presidency.”

20 WWW.SOUTHERNTENNIS.COM Everette’s 17 Years of Service ‘Significant’ Top-Rated Player Leads Adult Competition Efforts at All Levels husband, Maurice (1979 and 2005), and CHARLIE B. MORRIS JR. doubles in the 65s (2003) and 70s SERVICE AWARD (2008). She was ranked as high as No. 4 in 50s singles in the Section and No. 5 Presented in memory of Charlie Morris to the in the Section’s 40 singles in 1983. volunteer who best exhibits Between 1979 and 2000 she won six exemplary volunteer spirit at mixed North Carolina titles with her the local, State, Sectional husband, two singles and a women’s dou - and/or National levels. bles crowns. Vicki Everette Honors bestowed on her include the Winston-Salem, NC 1996 North Carolina Adult Senior Tennis Council Award and Southern icki Evertte has been a signif - Tennis Association District Volunteer icant contributor and leader Service Award in 1994 and 1998. She in adult competition in was inducted into the North Carolina V USTA Southern since 1992 Tennis Hall of Fame in 2001. and a top-flight adult player who has Everette has been chairman of the held Top-5 rankings in the Section. USTA Southern Adult Competition As Adult Competition Committee Committee and chairman of the Chairman, Everette has led the efforts to Women’s Intersectionals Sub-Committee Vicki Everette improve the Section’s adult/senior since 2005 and chairman of the Senior Southern Championships and Section tories and cherished memories for the Cup Sub-Committee since 2003. She rankings. players who have contributed to the has also been a member of the following As Senior Cup Tournament Chairman Section’s unequaled success in this committees and sub-committees: (USTA Southern’s crown jewel of adult National event. Everette has tirelessly Adult/Senior Tennis (vice-chairman), competition which brings the top 300 given her time and talents at all levels Play Tennis America, USA 1•2•3/USA men and women together for state team and demonstrates the immense contribu - Team Tennis Adult and Nominating, competition in the 35s, 45s, 55s, 65s and tions of our volunteer force in countless along with serving as a delegate-at-large 75s age groups), she has overseen the ways. from 1999-2002. details that makes it the player’s favorite Everette has won numerous USTA She has held numerous positions at event of the year. As captain of USTA Southern Tennis Championships, USTA North Carolina, including presi - Southern’s Women’s Intersectional including the 50s singles (1997), 65s sin - dent from 1996-1997 and president of Team, she has led the team to many vic - gles (2003 and 2005), mixed with her the North Carolina Tennis Foundation from1998-1999.

WWW.SOUTHERNTENNIS.COM 21 The “Ice Cream Tournament” Makes For Cool Event in Louisiana were available to participants. mixed tournament was with - ADULT The logos of local business out a doubt the best run and TOURNAMENT sponsors were prominently provided the most refresh - OF THE YEAR displayed, especially on a ments and meals to the play - Awarded annually to a “thank you” board. ers.” sanctioned adult The 350-member Ouachita Still, the most important tournament within the Women’s Tennis Association “extra” was the ice cream USTA Southern Section (OWTA) provided the funds offered free around the MAC which has shown for the ingredients for Friday’s grounds, giving the tourna - excellence in all aspects lunch. Also provided were ment its nickname of the “Ice of tournament water, soft drinks, beer in Cream Tournament.” administration. coolers, ice and chips, in What also made this tour - Louisiana Senior Mixed Lee Tannehill addition to breakfast, T-shirts nament a standout was pre- Doubles State one of the foundations that and special rates for housing. and post-tournament cover - Championships helped this senior tourna - The quality of the food, age in Delta Style magazine. Monroe, LA ment make its mark in 2008. along with the friendliness, The other major sponsor was mentioned as keys to Other nominees: 2008 great tournament was the host Monroe making this competition spe - North Carolina USTA Asprings from its commu - Athletic Club (The MAC), cial. League Mixed Doubles State nity and the Louisiana Senior which provided its 10 clay One player wrote to tour - Championships, NC; Coastal Mixed Doubles State courts and other facilities free nament director Gloria Rehab Mixed and Combo Championships found an of charge. Additionally, its Alvarez and said, “I wanted Doubles Shoot Out, MS; important sponsor in its own gazebos were fantastic view - to express my sincere appreci - Healy Point Banana Open, locale. The Monroe/West ing areas and the layout made ation to you and the associa - GA; USTA Kentucky Adult Monroe Convention and for convenient access to din - tion for the finest state tennis State Closed Championships, Visitors’ Bureau supported ing areas and restrooms. A tournament which I have KY. the competition with a siz - printer and fax machine also been to. This year’s senior able grant. This support was Marion Harris American Cancer Adult Classic Honored More than 30 volunteers CHARITY The tournament has tirelessly devoted their time TOURNAMENT raised $600,000 for the last year to make the tourna - OF THE YEAR local chapter of the ment a success. Over the years, the event has been Awarded annually to a American Cancer tennis event in the USTA coordinated with strong lead - Southern Section that Society. ership from the first three generously donates its chairmen – Ruth Reid, proceeds to a philan - offering competition in the Nancy Furman and Becky thropic cause. Open, ages 35s-65s divisions Hatness – to current chair - Marion Harris American for men’s and women’s, up to man, Anne Elsey. Cancer Adult Classic five NTRP divisions and five Tournament directors in 2008 Greenville, SC Barkley Rickman levels of combo mixed dou - were David Holly and Robb in 1988, two years after the bles on the clay courts of the Thompson. sing a backboard in his charity tournament was Greenville Country Club. Ubasement, Marion founded. Since its first year, Players are allowed to play in Other nominees: 2008 Harris started playing tennis the tournament in three events. Shreveport St. Jude Classic, at the advanced age of 48. Greenville, SC, has raised Some of the highlights that LA; Aces Against Cancer, Nicknamed the “original $600,000 for the local chap - add to the fundraising KY; Alan Fleming Senior backboard” for his consistent ter of the American Cancer include a catered dinner ban - Open Clay Court State playing style, he rose in his Society. quet at the Club House Championship, SC; age brackets and became a The 22-year-old classic (cocktails and door prizes are Leukemia and Lymphoma Nationally-ranked player. received the USTA South included) and a silent auc - Society Ladies Round Robin, Then cancer took his life. Carolina Tournament of the tion that offers an Advantage GA; Music City Tennis The Marion Harris Year Award in 1988. Club membership (hono - Invitational, TN; Western American Cancer Adult The tournament began as a raruiums are based on a ten - Wake Tennis Association Classic was named for the senior-only event and grew to nis theme – "Fill the Charity Tennis Classic, NC. Easly, SC, resident who died add other divisions, now Hopper").

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Fuller Displays Sportsmanship, Competitive Success “Kate has maintained the tournaments. She was a final - BILL OZAKI JUNIOR highest levels of sportsman - ist at the 18s National Open SPORTSMANSHIP ship while attaining a high and a member of the champi - AWARD level of competitiveness nec - onship-winning Named to honor the essary to excel at the top lev - Intersectional Southern work and dedication put els of tennis,” said USTA Team. In doubles action, in by Bill Ozaki, Director Southern Director of Player Fuller won the title at the 18s of Junior Tennis for the Development and award National Open, and USTA Southern Section, it namesake Bill Ozaki. “Kate College Station ITF G4s with is given to a junior has become one of the top various partners on the court. player who best exempli - players in the South and the Fuller has received sports - fies the finest qualities of entire country while still manship awards at tourna - sportsmanship in Kate Fuller making time to support ments throughout the year, tournament play and the finest traditions of the court. She is not the type of USTA Southern, USTA including 16s National great sportsmen of player to argue in and out Georgia and her fellow team - Hardcourts, Winter Nationals tennis past and present. calls. However, no matter mates at Sectional and and the March Bullfrog. Her how cool, calm and collected National competitions.” competitors are very aware of Kate Fuller In 2008, Fuller won the the fierce, but fair, competi - Suwanee, GA she remains, it does not take away from her competitive - Atlanta ITF G4 and finished tion they get when Fuller is ate Fuller is not one to ness and dedication to the as semifinalist at the College on the other side of the net. Kthrow her racquet on sport of tennis. Station and Evert ITF G4 Tennessean Lipman, Georgian Kay Excel to Take Top Honors of the undefeated Southern DEWITT REDGRAVE III Cup team and of the 18s JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT Intersectional team. She won AWARDS the Peach State 18s and took Given in memory of the singles and doubles titles at DeWitt Redgrave III, this the Southern Closed 18s. award is presented Repeating as champion of the annually to an Kentucky Indoor 18s tourna - outstanding Southern ment, Kay also won the 16s boy and girl ranked in division in 2006. the 18s in recognition of Kay saw huge success in their tennis performance 2007 as a finalist in the and sportsmanship. Ryan Lipman Whitney Kay Southern Closed 16s and in Ryan Lipman Lip man believes in the National Opens 18s and the being named the Georgia Nashville, TN importance of physical activity Atlanta ITF Level 4. Female Player of the Year. She to develop strength and With a USTA 18s ranking also served on the Nike Junior Whitney Kay endurance, mental health and of No. 9, ITF No. 34 and Tour national team and the Alpharetta, GA self-confidence. He has dedi - Tennisrecruiting.com No. 5, USTA World Junior team in cated his time and energy to Lipman has signed and com - Montreal, where Kay was yan Lipman’s interest in becoming a compassionate and mitted to a scholarship at undefeated in both singles and Rtennis began as soon as good citizen and athlete. He Vanderbilt University in doubles. he was able to roll a tennis has achieved this by winning Nashville, TN, beginning in Kay currently has seven ball back and forth. However, nine Sportsmanship Awards the fall of 2009. USTA National his formal training did not since 2005, including three in Championship Gold Balls, four start until age 6. Three years 2008. hitney Kay has already Silver Balls, seven National later, he played in his first Lipman raced through the Whad a magical career as Open Gold Medals and five regional event. It wasn’t until 2008 tournament schedule, a junior and hopes to accom - Silver Medals. She has the age of 13 that Lipman and taking both the singles and plish big things in the years left received several Sportsmanship his coach increased the inten - doubles titles in the US Junior before taking a swing at the Awards recognizing her excel - sity of his training, showing International Hard Court pros. She is currently ranked lence off the court, as well, at exceptional results on the Championships and the USTA No. 1 in USTA Southern in tournaments including 14s court. He won the Southern Boys’ National Team 18s while holding a National Southern Closed, USTA All- Bullfrog in 2004 at 14 and has Championships where he went ranking of No. 3 in the 16s. Star Cup in Carson, CA, 14s captured more than 20 singles undefeated. He won the singles In 2008, Kay was a member and 16s National Open. and doubles titles. championship at the USTA

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A’s & Aces Wins Educational Merit for Katrina Recovery Work opment.” Mohartova also EDUCATIONAL A’s and Aces is received the 2008 Tulane MERIT AWARD dedicated to providing Athletics Torch Award, Recognizes an individ - academic assistance, which is given for promoting ual or group who has the ideals of balancing aca - developed an life skills and tennis demics, athletics, life pursuits outstanding tennis instruction. and contributing to the program, which revival of the community. provides leadership and program has improvised with In 2009, A’s and Aces inspiration in junior plans to add three more ele - programs for schools, tennis courts on the play - colleges, parks and grounds using the USTA mentary schools and begin playgrounds and QuickStart format for the 350 the inclusion of public mid - Anna Mohartova benefits the growth of kindergarten to fourth-grade dle and high schools. When tennis in the USTA to New Orleans public school children at five public ele - public tennis facilities Southern Section. children in a safe and secure mentary schools with which become available, they hope A’s & Aces environment. The name A's they currently work. to initiate summer tennis/reading camps to the New Orleans, LA & Aces was chosen to In March 2008, demonstrate a commitment Monhartova received the already successful and com - he city of New Orleans to excellence, both in the Outstanding Commitment munity-impacting program. Thas been in a state of classrooms and on the tennis Award from the Clinton recovery since Katrina hit in courts. Global Initiative, which Other nominees: Barbara 2005. Anna Mohartova, In addition to Monhartova, selected the program as a Daniel, AR; Florence Tennis Ph.D, has not let that affect the program is led by experi - New Orleans Recovery Association, SC; Georgetown her since co-founding A’s and enced academic professionals, Project because it “combines College, KY; Aneesh Kodali, Aces in January 2008. A’s and college and club coaches and instruction in tennis, aca - NC; Windward Lake Club, Aces is dedicated to provid - university faculty. With many demics for citizenship and life GA; Murfreesboro Tennis ing academic assistance, life tennis facilities in New skills to improve both their Association, TN; Lisa Stone, skills and tennis instruction Orleans not yet reopened, the scholastic and physical devel - GA. Kentucky’s Groce Honored for Long-time Service in Programs tinues to serve today. “I have helped establish and has GERRIE ROTHWELL been a lifelong ambassador chaired the USTA Kentucky AWARD for tennis because of my love Adult League Committee. Presented annually to for the game,” he said. “I In 1997 the award winner a volunteer within the have met some of my best was named general manager USTA Southern Section friends through tennis and of the Ashland Tennis who has demonstrated appreciate the opportunities Center. This award-winning outstanding service and that it has given me.” facility – honored with the dedication to the USTA Groce has been a USTA USTA Public Tennis Facility League Tennis Program. Kentucky board member Award in 1991 and Kentucky This award is given in honor of the late Gerrie since 2005 and currently Tennis Association’s 2002 Rothwell, former State serves as vice president. Facility of the Year – has 11 League Coordinator of Jerry Groce Other Kentucky awards he outdoor and four indoor ten - Arkansas. badly and the next-best thing has received or been associat - nis courts. Interestingly, the ed with include 2001 center is a public facility and Jerry Groce was this,” he said. Volunteer of the Year, 1997 is self-supported by the tennis Ashland, KY Twenty-five years later, Groce still has the same job Tournament of the Year for players: No taxpayer dollars he year was 1984 and but his responsibilities have the Senior USTA League or membership fees have sup - TJerry Groce was only 20, grown to include Combo, Championships, and the ported the center. too young to join a USTA Mixed and Super Seniors. He 1999 and 2007 Junior Groce has been a USPTR League team in those days. took a five-year hiatus from Tournament of the Year for certified teaching pro for 11 So he found another way to the post starting in 1997 to the Stuart Blazer Memorial. years and was a member of get involved in tennis: He serve as USTA Kentucky’s He has organized and run 1997 USTA Southern 4.5 volunteered to be a local state league coordinator. over 150 sanctioned and men’s championship team. In league coordinator, in addi - In 2004 Groce was named non-sanctioned tennis tour - 2001 he worked on the 2.5 tion to serving as a, NTRP to the USTA Southern Adult naments in the Ashland area National Championship verifier. “I wanted to play so League Committee and con - since 1984. Additionally, he Tournament staff.

26 WWW.SOUTHERNTENNIS.COM Mother of Growing Family Devotes Herself to CTA League Association. She gave them a an increase in player partici - JR. TEAM TENNIS viable and usable marketing pation of more than 25 per - ORGANIZER OF tool with a complete overhaul cent in less than one year. In THE YEAR of the Jr. Team Tennis web - working with the parks and This inaugural award site. She doubled her own recreation department, she is presented to an expectations when launching had Jr. Team Tennis added to individual in the USTA a new league season that regis - the list of youth sports pro - Southern Section who tered 150 youngsters on 25 moted in the elementary has been outstanding in teams, only to continue its schools as a free community the coordination of Jr. growth with the fall 2008 sea - service. With the QuickStart Team Tennis son. She has expanded Jr. initiative, Hazelton has League play. Team Tennis into a county leagues offering 8-under and Michelle Hazelton Michelle Hazelton without previous participation 10- under divisions to bring in Fayetteville, GA involved, she became a CTA with the registration of six new junior members. volunteer, which led her to new teams. After requests In the midst of her Jr. Team mother of three (soon take the position as Jr. Team from parents and players, Tennis marketing and parent - Ato be four) , Michelle Tennis Coordinator in Hazelton created a winter sin - ing, Hazelton still finds time Hazelton was team captain for November 2007. gles league. to volunteer and work Jr. her son, who played in the Hazelton wasted no time Hazelton’s drive and dedica - Team Tennis State Southern Crescent Jr. Team making changes that have had tion has led to an explosion of Championships, as well as Tennis League. When she felt a tremendous impact on the tennis in the Southern helping train and mentor new the need to become more Southern Crescent Tennis Crescent area of Georgia with league coordinators. Wachovia Palmetto Championships Repeats Win After 18 Years advance through spectators, in which the sin - JUNIOR TOURNAMENT qualifying rounds. gles champions and finalists OF THE YEAR The Wachovia were recognized along with Awarded annually to Palmetto three sportsmanship award the USTA-sanctioned Championships is a recipients. junior tournament in Level 1 and the It’s no surprise that the the Southern Section Belton Classic is a Wachovia Palmetto that best demonstrates Level 3 tourna - Championships continues to the USTA and Southern Jim Russell, Mark Smith, Rex Maynard ment. be a success with 100-plus Section standards of Along with the combined years of experience organizing and are welcomed into the hard work were fun times. A running the event. conducting a Belton/Anderson area by bill - player party was held for all Tournament directors Rex sanctioned junior board signs and media crews. participants 18 and under, and Maynard and Mark Smith, ref - tournament. With promotion prior to that included guest appearances eree Jim Russell and chair - first week of June and its own Wachovia Palmetto from college coaches and spe - woman Rita Anderson work website with details, the tour - Championships cial recognition and gifts to with an experienced staff of nament gets outstanding press Belton, SC those who were playing in local volunteers every year. coverage. their final Palmetto. There elebrating its 52 nd Players can be found on was a special presentation of Other nominees: AFLAC Canniversary this year, the over 45 courts at seven major the Dunlop Scholarship, a Present the LA State Closed Wachovia P almetto multiple court sites throughout one-year, $2,000 scholarship Junior Qualifying Championships is one of the the event, with several courts established by Dunlop and the Tournament, LA; Joe country’s oldest tournaments. located in the backyards of tournament in 1992. The par - Creason Kentucky State Begun in 1957 in Belton, SC, Belton homes. All court loca - ents, coaches and staff also Qualifier presented by Yum! the Palmetto became the tions are assigned USTA certi - enjoyed a little fun at the and Texas Roadhouse, KY; state’s first tournament to earn fied officials with the main Palmetto Fling. That party Mississippi Cabot Lodge Jr the South Carolina Junior draw quarterfinals, semifinal recognizes the Wilton Qualifying Closed State Tournament of the Year award and final singles matches and McKinney Award winner and Championships, MS; Orange three times and is the the doubles finals chaired. A the South Carolina Hall of Beach Junior Southern Section’s first repeat full feed-in consolation draw Fame Inductees from the pre - Championships, AL; Raleigh winner after receiving the in 12s through 18s and in vious year. The tournament Tennis Association Junior honor in 1990. every division of doubles is concluded with an awards cer - Futures, NC; USTA Girls' As South Carolina’s junior designed, as well as a separate emony and luncheon for all 12 & Under National qualifying tournament, hun - tournament, the Belton players, parents, coaches and Hardcourts, GA. dreds of players and coaches Classic, for those who do not

WWW.SOUTHERNTENNIS.COM 27 Alabama’s Bendall Earns LLC Honor with Consistent Growth league in the area and now championship in Palm LOCAL LEAGUE handles the largest in the Springs, CA. USTA Southern COORDINATOR OF state, with 515 women.” Ruth selected Bendall to serve as THE YEAR Anne’s measures of local representative at the 2006 Presented annually to growth have been recognized USTA Community an individual in the at the National, Section and Development Tennis USTA Southern Section State levels numerous times Workshop. who has been and she is considered a leader “Ruth Anne is the perfect outstanding in the in launching new local pro - model to describe the attrib - coordination of league grams, “ said Marilyn utes of a superstar Local play at the local level. Sherman, former USTA League Coordinator. A natu - Ruth Anne Bendall Southern Director of Leagues. ral bright light, she promotes Birmingham, AL Ruth Anne Bendall Bendall has been recognized tennis at every opportunity through the years for her and welcomes new players or more than 10 years, since she took the LLC posi - tion in 1995, with this past accomplishments. Just two with a focus on the fun F Ruth Anne Bendall has years into the job, she earned aspects first,” added Sherman. served as Local League year as no exception. In 2008, the USTA Adult a trip to the US Open after “Her passion is infectious, Coordinator for the receiving a USTA award. In and her ability to be a team Birmingham area. During and Senior leagues increased growth by 11 percent. 2002, she was awarded the player and cheerleader has those years, Birmingham has Alabama Newton Cox League made her a champion consistently grown in league Bendall’s guidance has led to 21 percent growth in Super Coordinator Award. In 2005, amongst her peers.” tennis programs. Bendall’s after receiving a 25th extreme dedication and hard Seniors and 14 percent increase in Combo programs. Anniversary Southern Award, Other Nominees: work have resulted in an Bendall was given the oppor - Michelle Hazelton, GA; explosion of league tennis She did not think twice when asked to start a Tri-Level tunity to work a National Sueellen McCrary, NC Chapel Hill Tennis Club Serves More than Tennis to Community tennis programs with lessons, ments, CHTC is dedicated to MEMBER summer camps, clinics, helping the community to ORGANIZATION USTA Team Tennis, USTA which it caters. They provide OF THE YEAR National Junior Tennis scholarships to public school Presented annually to League and USTA League students for summer tennis a Member Organization Tennis, for which they serve camps. They host several spe - in the USTA Southern as host site to the Mixed cial events for organizations Section to recognize Doubles State such as Aids Ride for Life, outstanding service to Championships. Lineberger Cancer Center, the local community, to A new impact to CHTC UNC Children’s the organizational ha s been the tremendous Hospital/Tarheel Angels members and to the growth and success of the Foundation, and Durham game itself. Alan Radar QuickStart format. Weekly Orange Coutny Tennis The Chapel Hill two platform tennis courts. clinics are offered year-round Association’s Hispanic Tennis Tennis Club The community’s interests except June through August, Carnival. CHTC holds a Carrboro, NC and the development of top when the format is heavily charity tournament and silent junior and adult players has utilized in summer camps. The auction to benefit the Susan itting on 21 acres in CHTC has uniquely adapted G. Komen Foundation, where SCarrboro, NC, the always been a top priority for the member-owned organiza - the QuickStart into its other in 2008 the club team of Chapel Hill Tennis Club program offerings through staff, members and friends (CHTC) has evolved from a tion. Manager Alan Radar attributes the teamwork and skill test criteria for advancing exceeded its $20,000 goal by mere tennis club with 100 levels. In order for kids to raising over $35,000 for Race members and 12 courts to a dedication of the staff as the main reason it comes easily move from QuickStart to for the Cure. full recreation and wellness their “Slammers” level, they facility since its inception in for CHTC to offer various activities and programs for must be able to successfully Other nominees: 1967. In addition to its complete skills. This has seen Greenville Country Club, Olympic-size pool, basketball each member and to “provide unmatched service to mem - higher rates of youth enjoying MS; Performance Tennis at and volleyball courts, its 700- early success and accomplish - Brookstone Meadows Tennis pluss members can now enjoy bers while maintaining steady growth in member participa - ments. Club, SC; Windward Lake 18 clay, six hard and four Beyond the court achieve - Club, GA. indoor hard courts as well as tion.” CHTC offers extensive

28 WWW.SOUTHERNTENNIS.COM Marketing Director in North Carolina Wins First Spirit Award incredible and never-ending! ences and just making tennis MARILYN SHERMAN When she walks out of the seem fun. SPIRIT AWARD office at the end of the day, “There is another side to This is the first year her work really doesn't end Mary Lloyd that not many this award is being there. Because whether a per - people get to see … she is a presented. Given son is at a USTA affiliated perfectionist. She works end - annually to a staff event, the local grocery store, less hours and tirelessly for the member or volunteer an elevator, a church or even sport that she loves. Her pas - who exemplifies on the street, they are not sion and enthusiasm is obvi - extraordinary spirit in ‘safe’ from Mary Lloyd and her ous when she is working in growing the game of tennis in the USTA enthusiasm about the sport of the office or on the court or Southern Section, the tennis. She is known for ask - presenting in front of groups award is named for Mary Lloyd Barbera ing anyone she crosses paths of people. It also shows up Marilyn Sherman, Mary Lloyd’s cooperative with ‘Do you play?’ With this when she is playing her own long-time USTA personality, dedication to her she is able to strike up a con - matches! But Mary Lloyd Southern Director of craft and warm smile are versation with anyone and doesn't even stop there; she Adult Competition and known to tennis players and make a connection between plays on teams but also volun - Leagues and presently USTA volunteers throughout the person and someone or teers to captain teams that USTA Director of Flex something she knows about. may not otherwise come Leagues. her state and USTA Southern. She has truly never met a together.” Mary Lloyd Barbera The following descriptions stranger and can somehow Greensboro, NC are quoted from the nomina - help everyone believe that, by Other nominees: Graham joining USTA, not only will Cox, SC; Bonnie Sue ary Lloyd Barbera tion form and accurately por - they, but the rest of the world, Duncan, SC; Kelly Gaines, M serves as Director of tray the winner of this inaugu - be better off! She is the queen NC; John Herring, KY; Marketing, Membership, and ral award: of games for prizes, skits and Teresa Mathews, MS; Ernie Special Events for USTA “Her enthusiasm for grow - songs about USTA experi - Rains, AL. North Carolina. ing the sport of tennis is Radio Personality Helps Bring Davis Cup to Birmingham selected the city to present to a shocked call-in listener MARC KAPLAN the first round of the 2009 that you just couldn't get up MEDIA EXCELLENCE Davis Cup competition (U.S. and leave your seat at a tennis AWARD OF THE YEAR vs. Roger Federer-led match at any time you want. Presented in memory Switzerland) over larger cities “This isn't like any old football of Marc Kaplan, former such as San Antonio, TX, and game,” the award winner said. Director of Las Vegas. Bussey isn't just about cov - Communications for the Solomon Crenshaw Jr., staff ering tennis’ impact in the USTA Southern Section, sports writer for the national and international to an individual or Birmingham News, quoted realm. He also has s a strong organization who has Bussey as saying, “All I want - involvement in grassroots ten - most contributed to the ed for Christmas was a Davis nis programs. He plays USTA game of tennis by William "Bubba" Bussey Cup and we're going to have a Adult League, Combo, and disseminating information and While most expect these merry Christmas.” Mixed with his wife, Betty. promoting the sport via two Alabama boys to confine Alabama Sports While playing the Alabama their publication to the their sports-talk show to the Foundation's executive direc - State Championships in general public. usual football/baseball/basket - tor Gene Hallman, who Mobile, Gulf Shores and assembled the team that won Dothan, he has done live William ‘Bubba’ Bussey ball/NASCAR, Bussey has the Birmingham bid, called remotes, updating his radio Birmingham, AL used his bully pulpit to pro - mote his most beloved sport: Bussey “a significant part of audience on his progress, tour - ith one of t he largest tennis. the bid.” Crenshaw's story nament details and other Waudiences of any His biggest achievement noted that the promotion insight s. Southern media personality, was broadcasting the glories of through the nationally syndi - Bubba Bussey and his partner, their show's hometown as the cated “Rick & Bubba Show” Other nominees: Bob Rick Burgess, reach across the next host of the Davis Cup. on radio was a factor in secur - Campbell, NC; Andy Collier, country with their syndicated His regular promotion of ing the bid. MS; Karyn Greer, GA; Tom radio program, “The Rick & Birmingham, AL, has been The day after the bid was Overton & Mia Rhodarmar, Bubba Show.” cited as a reason the USTA awarded, Bussey had to explain TN; Susan Wild, SC.

WWW.SOUTHERNTENNIS.COM 29 Performance, Club Leadership Keys to Kline Family Success tournament for in Greenville, SC. She played MICKEY MCNULTY eight years. eight years for her high school FAMILY OF THE YEAR Besides his col - and was named Most Valuable Given in memory of lege play, Larry Player in the Kentucky state Judge Mickey McNulty, won the state championships. She was this award is presented boys’ high school ranked No. 1 in Kentucky in annually to a family that championship in the girls’ 12s-18s, No. 7 in the resides in the USTA 1977. Section and No. 51 by a Southern Section that Susan also national recruiting web site. has been outstanding in played at the She volunteered in teaching its promotion of tennis. University of the QuickStart program last The Larry Kline Family Louisville, was summer and is a member of Prospect, KY The Larry Kline Family ranked No. 1 in the North Oldham High New England in School Beta Club. he Larry Kline family tennis devotees emerged. the girls’ 12s and held junior Erich is an Eagle Scout and Tmay call the Louisville Larry has served as vice rankings in North Carolina has volunteered at the Scout Tennis Club its home base but president of USTA Kentucky and Florida. She has a long Day Tennis event and assists the family’s extraordinary suc - and as a member of the list of volunteer achieve - the coach of the North cess on the tennis court has Kentucky Tennis Association’s ments, including serving as Oldham Middle School tennis led them far from the club Junior Council. But it’s his Kentucky coach for the team. He has played for they operate. day job as owner/tennis direc - Southern Team Centre College and was the Larry, wife Susan, son Erich, tor of the Louisville Tennis Championships in 2006 and captain and most valuable 19, and and daughter Lauren, Club that gives him his high - 2007, organizer of the 2007 player of his high school ten - 17, are all highly accom - est visibility. Twice he’s won Joe Creason State Qualifier at nis team. He held state rank - plished players and tennis vol - USTA Kentucky’s Pro of the North Oldham High School ings in the boys’ 12s and 14s. unteers. The Klines were also Year Award (1996 and 1999), and worker at the Rally for named Kentucky Family of served as head coach of the the Cure and Susan G. Other nominees: Fritz the Year in 2006. Area Training Centers/CTC Komen for the Cure events. Gildemeister Jr. family, SC; Larry and Susan played for from 1995-2006 and hosted a Lauren has signed to play Gary F. Liles family, AR; the University of Kentucky National boys’ championship tennis for Furman University Mike Vandegrift family, NC. and from there a family of Georgia’s MACH Academy Earns NJTL Honors with Programming summer camps, family nights tion, computer literacy, social NJTL CHAPTER and special match days with skills development and nutri - OF THE YEAR other tennis associations and tion/fitness. The four sessions Presented annually to clubs. Programs are offered at combine to give each partici - an NJTL Chapter within the Fleming Tennis Center in pant a well-rounded support the USTA Southern Augusta, GA, with 11 out - to be the best they can both Section that has door courts and the Smith- on and off the court. The demonstrated Hazel Community Center in “Tutoring for Success” project excellence in Aiken, SC, with three courts. is currently serving partici - administration of its For the past six years, MACH pants after school and during NJTL programs. has managed and operated the tennis/fitness sessions to MACH Academy the Fleming Tennis Center, help them stay on track aca - Augusta, GA Michael Harden making it available year- demically. MACH Academy round to participants. A has had an all-time high of Academy tive shelters and public assist - recent expansion added an registered USTA members MAC Hoffers on- ed housing developments. education center with com - with an increase in those court instruction and devel - Tennis instruction is avail - puter lab, fitness center, class - playing team tennis. opment as well as off-court able for all ages through clin - rooms and office/conference Participants were selected to education and life skills pro - ics, camps and league oppor - areas. attend the 2008 NJTL gramming throughout the tunities. Participants can Successful student-athletes Regional Leadership Camp, Central Savannah River enroll in Pee Wee clinics (3- are MACH’s greatest NJTL Tennis Leadership Area. They reach out to 5 years old), QuickStart clin - achievements. The Camp and Arthur Ashe Kids youth and underachieving ics (10-and-under), year- “Technology and Tennis for Day. students in low-income round clinics (6-18), USTA- Life” program offers off-court neighborhoods, local protec - sanctioned tournaments, sessions in four fields: educa -

30 WWW.SOUTHERNTENNIS.COM Slammin’ Smith and Globe-Trotting Chandler Honored Slam with wins on four sur - SLEW HESTER faces. Smith and Landauer ADULT ACHIEVEMENT won the Indoors in Boise, ID, AWARDS the Grass courts in Rockaway, Given in memory of NY, the Hard courts in Indian past USTA Southern Wells, CA, and, close to his Section President Georgia home, took the Clay William E. “Slew” Hester, courts. this award is presented But, that type of success can annually to a ranked be expected from Smith, who female and male adult has been ranked No. 1 in dou - or senior player in the bles nationally in the last four USTA Southern Section Fran Chandler Tom Smith years; in 2005 and 2006 he in recognition of their outstanding tennis year, she transferred to the while competing in Turkey. was ranked in the 50s and in performance. University of Mississippi, In 2006, as a member of the the last two years he has been ranked in the 55s. In that Fran Chandler where she earned All-SEC Margaret Court Cup team, honors in 1983 and 1984. In she competed in South span, he reached 12 of 15 Jackson, TN 1984 she was selected as the Africa and the team took National doubles finals and school’s female athlete of the home the championship. In two singles finals. Tom Smith year. 2007 and 2008 her Margaret He won his two other gold Alpharetta, GA Since she turned 30, she Court Cup team competed in balls (emblematic of the National crown) with Fred ran Chandler was born in has been playing senior Turkey and finished third. Robinson of Charlotte, NC. FJackson, TN, and, except events. While playing in She has represented USTA They were champions in the for college, has always lived National Category 1 events, Southern as a member of the 2005 Hard courts in 2005 and in Jackson. But her tennis has she has accumulated eight intersectional team for 12 took the 2006 Indoor tourna - brought her to new heights championships, finished sec - years. Chandler was inducted ment around the world. Currently ond in 10 events, and has fin - into the Tennessee Sports Smith has also been a force she is ranked world No. 1 in ished third 11 times. In 1987 Hall of Fame in 2007. on the world stage. In 2008 he 45s singles. she and husband, Willie, won Chandler attended the traveled to Antalya, Turkey, In 2008 she won the the Equitable National University of Mississippi but lost the world finals as he National Clay Courts, Husband-Wife mixed dou - School of Pharmacy and did in 2007. National Indoor and bles. graduated in 1985. She is cur - Additionally, he played for National Hard Courts in the She began international rently in her 16th year as a the United States on two sen - 45 age group in singles and competition in 2003 by being pharmacist with Kmart in ior cup teams: the Perry Cup also won the National Clay chosen to represent the USA Jackson. in 2007 and the Austria Cup Courts in doubles. in the World Cup competi - in 2008. Her college tennis career tion as a member of the t was a stunning, slamming In the last two years, Smith started at Murray State Young Cup. The team, play - Iyear for Tom Smith as he has been named Senior Player University, where she was a ing in Germany, won the and Phil Landauer, of of the Year by the Georgia female athlete of the year as a title. In 2004 her Young Cup Columbus Ohio, won the Professional Tennis freshman. After her freshman teammates finished third 2008 National 55s doubles Association.

WWW.SOUTHERNTENNIS.COM 31 Godreau Recognized for Excellence at Mississippi Academy Zonal team to the same SOUTHERN TENNIS Godreau manages place, Godreau was the PROFESSIONAL the 14-court facility. USTA Southern Coach for OF THE YEAR 14-and-under players. Awarded annually to a USTA-ranked. He serves as Godreau’s hard work and tennis professional in the tournament director for generosity exceed beyond his the Southern Section eight USTA sanctioned tour - on-court activities. He is that demonstrates a naments held at the facility mentor and trainer to new significant contribution each year, in addition to teaching professionals. To to the game of tennis supervising a 10-week sum - ensure new professionals through their mer camp. He can be found proper education, he drove promotion of the USTA’s eight teaching pros in a van programs and their coaching several National-, Julio Godreau from Mississippi to North support of the USTA Sectional- and State-ranked Mission Statement. normal duties of tennis pro - juniors over 40 hours a week. Carolina for a convention. With the USTA He provided six full and six Julio Godreau fessional with extraordinary achievements at the Parham QuickStart initiative in full partial scholarships to Madison, MS Bridges Tennis Center in force, Godreau started a pro - Parham Bridges Tennis ulio Godreau has been re c- Jackson, MS. gram that introduced 60 new Academy for players who Jognized for his outstanding As tennis academy and players to tennis. This led to needed financial assistance. work as a tennis professional program director, Godreau him hosting a USTA sanc - for years, including back-to- manages the 14-court facility tioned QuickStart tourna - Other nominees: Cannon back USPTA Mississippi Pro with approximately 700 play - ment at Parham Bridges. Campbell, GA; Joe of the Year awards in 2006 ers seeking weekly tennis Serving as coach for the Capobianco, SC; Joey and 2007 and the top honor action. The Junior Academy USTA Mississippi 12-and- Eskridge, SC; Jason of USPTA Southern Pro of serves as the training grounds under team at Southern Cup, Fleeman, GA; Graylin the Year in 2007. In 2008, for over 60 players on a he led his team to a second- Mayers, LA; pros at the Godreau went beyond the weekly basis, with nearly half place finish. Leading his Wilmington Club, NC; Sarah Stewart, AL. CTA Brings Big Names to Small-Town Event School ten - SPECIAL TENNIS EVENT ‘Serving Up Aces’ nis team OF THE YEAR was the most players were Presented annually to prestigious tennis event among the a special tennis event in ever held in Columbus. 60 volunteers the USTA Southern who worked Section that has been the event. exemplary in its took on all "Serving Up Aces" was promotion and support challengers undoubtedly the most presti - of tennis. The Columbus Regional Tennis Association in abbreviat - gious tennis event ever held "Serving Up Aces" (CORTA) hosted ‘Serving Up Aces.’ ed matches. in Columbus. After the vs. Todd Columbus came a mere two Following the Tennis Block event, calls and e-mails Martin & Block Party days before he played an Party, an exhibition match poured in from individuals Columbus, GA exhibition match against 13- was played by the top two and CORTA experienced time Slam winner Roger men and women Columbus growth in all aspects of their rom local high school and Federer in Madison Square State University players using programs with adult and jun - Fcollege players to the Garden in New York. a mixed doubles format. ior players. greatest man to play the Starting with a Tennis Then a pro/am was held fea - Grand Slam tournaments, the Block Party in the parking lot turing area players, including Other nominees: The Columbus Regional Tennis of the Columbus Civic CSU head tennis coach, Shootout, Association (CORTA) host - Center, the event was free to Auburn University women's LA; CTA of Henderson ed an event that truly show - the public and featured ten - tennis coach, two top-ranked County Kid's Mixers, NC; cased tennis March 8, 2008. nis instruction and interac - junior players (Christian Isner/Fish Exhibition Match, "Serving Up Aces" featured tive games, including a Garay and Katherine White), NC; Recreational Coaches 14-time Grand Slam champi - Family Fun Zone, QuickStart two TV personalities, a US Workshop, TN; Southern on Pete Sampras and Todd Tennis for children 10-and- Army Ranger and a former and South Carolina 10s Martin in a hard-fought exhi - under, Tennis 101 for begin - Major League baseball player. Training Camps, SC. bition that Sampras won 7- ners and Beat the Pros as The Columbus State 6(3), 6-4. Sampras' visit to teaching pros and top players University and Shaw High

32 WWW.SOUTHERNTENNIS.COM ‘Army’ Of Volunteers Conquers Award for SC Tournament beaches of the TEAM TENNIS The resort’s facilities Atlantic didn't EVENT/PROGRAM provided a standout hurt the tourna - OF THE YEAR base for the three-site ment's "cause," either. Presented annually to tournament. a USTA Southern Section One of the event that best highlight match - demonstrates direction of the es saw USTA South Carolina outstanding execution resort’s Tennis President Ron Charron play of a team event. Director Charly USTA South Carolina Rasheed. USTA South Carolina Bonnie Sue Duncan, Charly Rasheed Executive Director John The resort’s ing lines on the clay courts Sheffield in the final match Super Senior Doubles facilities provided a standout after every match. of round-robin play for the League State base for the three-site tourna - Sponsored by USTA South 4.0 Men's 60s division. Championships ment centered around Mt. Carolina and Wild Dunes Isle of Palms, SC Pleasant. The host club's buf - Tennis Resort on Isle of Other nominees: 2007 fet dinner on the first night he Wild Dunes Club vol - Palms, 727 senior citizens BMW Senior/Super Senior set the tone of the competi - Tunteer "army" in their from local leagues were treat - Combo State Championships, tion, with its tennis staff on red T-shirts helped propel the ed to a well-organized, three- LA; Avery Cup, NC; call and at the ready to sup - USTA South Carolina Super day team event. The tourna - Chattanooga Junior Team port the needs of the tourna - Senior Doubles League State ment was coordinated by a Tennis, TN; Kentucky High ment. Championships to the veteran group of USTA vol - School Interscholastic An abundance of beach Sectional award. unteers led by Bonnie Sue Leagues, KY; Super Senior houses, hotels and condos in The 35 volunteers were Duncan, USTA South State Tournament, GA; the area meant players had everywhere – answering ques - Carolina Super Senior State USTA South Carolina Jr. their pick of accommoda - tions, guiding lost players, league coordinator, and an Team Tennis State tions. The cool, clear weather arranging parking and brush - eager facility staff under the Championships, SC. and the proximity to the Kentucky’s Bigg Steps In, Earns Official of the Year Louisville, which led to sev - TENNIS OFFICIAL Bigg was injured and eral other local tournaments OF THE YEAR figured the best way to and then on to professional Presented annually to tournaments in Indianapolis a tennis official who has stay involved during and Cincinnati. Bigg has made outstanding recuperation was doing been on courts for various contributions to tennis on-court officiating. tournaments of the ATP, officiating in the USTA WTA, USTA, Challengers Southern Section. and others across the country, Judi Bigg Umpires. She can be seen off and noted that some of her Louisville, KY duty at local tennis events most memorable were the US promoting the work of offi - Open, Auckland, New udi Bigg is an actively Judi Bigg cials to recruit new members Zealand, Hawaii and Jinvolved official in all to the crew. President and chair of the Bermuda. aspects of tennis, both on and In 1989, Bigg was sidelined USTA KY Officials off the court. She can be from the sport she loved the Committee this past year. Other nominees: Caroline found on the lines or in the most with an injury and fig - She stepped in as president “Carrie” Kimball, LA; chair but also at the desk as ured the best way to stay during a crucial time for the Sandra Morrissette, SC; Bill treasurer or in the field as a involved during recuperation organization and excelled at & Debbie Parks, NC; Nita recruiter. This past year she was doing on-court officiat - her duties. For the past two Perry, GA; Jim Rheay, MS; excelled as more than an offi - ing. Her first event was the years, she has served as treas - June Southwick, AR. cial. Boys’ National 18s Clay urer for the Kentucky Bigg served as the KTUA Court Championships in

WWW.SOUTHERNTENNIS.COM 33 Kentucky’s Soldan Shows Excellence in Performance, Volunteering ist in both singles and dou - WHEELCHAIR Off the tennis court, bles. She was crowned the PLAYER OF THE Soldan shines, too. Junior Champion at the YEAR Midwest Regional Awarded annually to a Championship. Her team Run/Roll Event and the Ford placed second in Districts of wheelchair player in the Tennis Championship, where Southern Section who the USTA Summer Team has shown outstanding she was also a participant. (Integrated) Tennis tourna - on-court ability, She volunteers at a local mid - ment. sportsmanship and dle school, teaching children Off the tennis court, community service. basic tennis skills. Soldan shines on the basket - With a junior female Mackenzie Soldan ball court. A member of the Mackenzie Soldan USTA ranking of No. 2 and Sterling Heights MI Louisville, KY ITF World ranking of No. 7, when times get tough and to Basketball prep, JV and varsi - ackenzie Soldan is an Soldan is a fierce competitor ty teams since 1999, she has M inspiration to many, never quit on their dreams” on the court. A member of just by sharing in experiences been asked to join the both on and off the tennis the Christian Academy of Louisville men’s basketball court through her volunteer with Soldan. Louisville Varsity tennis Soldan can be seen volun - team. She will be expanding work, fierce competition and team, she has participated in her sports expertise to foot - passion for success in other teering as an instructor at the 2008 USA High numerous events throughout ball and the quarterback posi - sports as well. Coaches, stu - Performance Tennis Team, tion since signing up for pow - dents and parents have all the Louisville and Lexington Cruyoff. During 2008 Soldan area, including the 5/3 Bank der puff football with her JV been “inspired to push on finished twice as a semifinal - classmates. More Than 100 Volunteers Support the last three years at the Dunwoody Country Club vol - WHEELCHAIR Dunwoody Country Club. unteered as ball people, hospi - TOURNAMENT As part of the NEC tality and transportation OF THE YEAR Wheelchair Tennis Tour and teams. Over 30 companies Awarded annually to a being sanctioned by the and organizations sponsored sanctioned wheelchair USTA and ITF, the Atlanta the event to provide food, tournament in the USTA Open in 2008 was the most giveaways and support. Southern Section that internationally participated The event kicked off with best demonstrates the to date. Of its nearly 100 par - an opening night party where USTA and Southern ticipants from 14 countries, players were served drinks Section standards of the American players were and food while the open draw organizing and joined by competition from was finished. A player party conducting a sanctioned Scott Dockter countries including Poland, was held on Friday night with wheelchair event. with an annual Wheelchair Chile, Japan and Argentina. a catered meal for partici - 22nd Annual Atlanta Tennis Tournament. The The four days of tourna - pants. They also enjoyed Run Open Wheelchair Atlanta Open continued to ment action showcased the ‘n’ Roll exhibitions and the Championships grow in player participation passion and hope of the com - chance to “hit for prizes.” Dunwoody, GA as well as community out - munity to bring a new spirit to Players were provided four all involved. Over 100 mem - days of meals, with each n 1987, the National reach in each of its 22 years. After several moves, the bers of ALTA (Atlanta Lawn sponsored by a different IFoundation of Wheelchair Tennis Association) and the restaurant. Tennis awarded Atlanta, GA, event has been at home for

34 WWW.SOUTHERNTENNIS.COM Jeter, Spencer Continue to Excel in Tennis Contributions Spencer have exemplified the PRESIDENT’S past 40 years with the USTA. RECOGNITION “Both Helen and Bud are AWARD ‘go-to’ people,” said Section Helen Jeter outgoing president, Judy Utley. Bud Spencer “Both are detail oriented and, when given a task, are hose associated with the thorough, organized and results TUSTA Southern Section driven.” After input from the are very familiar with the Southern leadership, the names Helen Jeter and Bud Constitution and Rules Spencer, especially in the state Committee and Grievance of South Carolina, where they Helen Jeter Bud Spencer Committee, Jeter and Spencer both currently reside. produced an updated devoted his time to the tennis The Southern Section has rec - Together, they combine for document to reflect and clarify courts, serving as vice president ognized their contributions by almost 40 years of contribu - the organization. “I especially of Low Country Tennis giving them each the Gerrie tions to USTA activities, appreciate the hard work and Association in 1993. One year Rothwell League Volunteer of beginning as league coordina - dedication that it took the two later, he became State League the Year, President’s tors a mere three years apart. of them to revise the Bylaws,” Coordinator in South Carolina Recognition and Charles B. In 1991, Jeter became the Utley said. “The Presidents for Senior, Super Senior and Morris Service Awards. State League Coordinator for Award is my way of saying Combo leagues. Spencer joined This past year, Jeter and the state of South Carolina ‘thank you’ for tackling such a the SC Board of Directors after Spencer were given a task to after a three-year stint as daunting project and for his six-year stint as LLC and revise the USTA Southern Upper Piedmont Tennis producing a document that went on to excel in almost Bylaws. It was an assignment Association Local League will serve our association for every capacity with his drive that took the hard work, drive Coordinator. Her influence on years to come.” and passion. and passion that Jeter and tennis has taken off as she has The Section and National since served in several State, offices have gained just as Section and National posi - much from his exceptional tions. A member of the South leadership and love for tennis. Carolina Board of Directors for Spencer was a member of the almost 15 years, Jeter served as Growth & Participation the state’s vice president, exec - Committee while serving on utive vice president and presi - several Ad-Hoc Groups for dent. Most recently, she served PBIF Funding, TSR Funding, as Chair of the USTA SC Multi Level and Singles Legal and By-Laws Committee Leagues Development. and member of the Long Spencer has been a member of Range Planning, Budget and the USTA Southern Adult Nominating committees. League Committee since 1996 Jeter’s volunteer work on and has served as chairman the Section level began in since 2005. An essential part 1993, serving as Chair of of the USTA Southern League NTRP Medical Appeals Championships, he was Committee, Section League appointed to the National Championships and Southern USTA League Committee, Adult League Championships. where he has served as vice- In 2001, she became a member chair since 2007. In 2008, of the Southern Board of Spencer became chairman of Directors and has been the USTA Special Task Force Delegate-at-Large and Section on Local League Growth. vice president. On the National level, Jeter expressed eter and Spencer have both her passion for league tennis as Jseen their hard work highly a member of the USTA recognized by South Carolina League Committee and League and the USTA. Each have Regulations Subcommittee. been awarded the USTA South Carolina Lucy Garvin fter 30 years in the mili - Volunteer of the Year Award. Atary, James “Bud” Spencer

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