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Home , 1993 French Open, Ashley Harkleroad, Audra Cohen, Carly Gullickson, Christina Fusano, Chris Haggard

USTA MIDDLE STATES

Fall 2008 • Volume III • Issue 2

50Philadelphia’s Years Gold Cup program celebrates golden anniversary

going to Nationals ChampionshipCheck pages 14 & 25 S toeason! see whose ADVERTISEMENT

Freedoms and Sizzle! espite the Freedoms just missing the wildcard playoff Dspot and although the Smash may not have ended the year with a winning record, both seasons were truly successes. The Freedoms move to the King of Prussia Mall provided fans with a new and enhanced overall experience, and the festive atmosphere and high level of world-class professional helped to make the transition very smooth.

The 2008 Freedoms squad was made up of fifth year Freedoms Coach Craig Kardon, alumna Audra Cohen, the top 4 ranked WTT doubles pair of Alex Bogomolov, Jr. and , hometown hero and ‘08 Wimbledon singles and doubles champion . The Smash, which returned to the DuPont Country Club team consisted of fourth year coach , Illinois star alum Ryler de Heart, the always energetic , doubles standout Chris Haggard, four-time doubles champ and Middle States own . Each player proved to be an asset to their respective team, whether it was bringing in the wins, cheering on teammates or getting the crowd on their feet.

Community outreach has always been an important component of both teams and this year was no exception. Tennis superstars Venus Williams, John McEnroe and the helped to raise over $20,000 for the Freedoms’ and Smash’s charities – Fox Chase Cancer Center and the Christiana Care Heart and Vascular Center, respectfully. Combined, the Freedoms and Smash provided free clinics to around 2,000 children and gave away over 4,000 Advanta Jr. Racquets. Other celebrities, on and off the court, such as , , actress and comedian Wanda Sykes, Michael Barkann from Comcast SportsNet, John Clark and Vai Sikahemma from NBC 10, and Delaware Senator Tom Carper helped to add to the fun and excitement.

Check out philadelphiafreedoms.com and delawaresmash.com for more pictures and the latest news or call us at 302.774.4238 for season ticket information! USTA MIDDLE STATES

Fall 2008 • Volume III • Issue 2

Departments 08 Cover Story 18 USTA School Tennis Golden Celebration USTA’s No-Cut Program keeps kids Executive Director’s The Philadelphia District’s Gold Cup on court. Peter Sok and the West 04 celebrates its 50th Anniversary. Karen Chester B. Reed Henderson High Message Jennings examines this one-of-a-kind School tennis teams are shining player development program and reveals examples of the No-Cut policy at some of its most successful alumni. work. 10 Membership

12 Diversity 23 USTA League Tennis 13 Community Development Jim Holt, tennis coach at Nazareth, Pa.’s, wheelchair tennis Gwynedd-Mercy College, unites stand-out Sheila Costanzi enjoys his passions – coaching and special life in a new league; while League 17 Junior Competition education. The Touch of Tennis veteran’s battle-it-out for Section clinics have brought opportunities bragging rights, and a ticket to through tennis to people of all ages Nationals. 20 College Tennis and abilities for 10 years. 26 U.S. Transplant Games 21 Professional Tennis 14 Jr. Pittsburgh welcomed thousands of Movin’ on to Mobile! Four Jr. Team transplant champions. However, in 28 Districts Tennis (JTT) teams outlasted an this competition, just participating is impressive field at the 2008 Middle worthy of the gold medal. • AMD set to host revamped Pro States JTT Section Championships. Circuit event The two-day fun filled event was chock full of intriguing story lines. • CPD uses tennis to conquer disease

• Wimbledon champion visits DD NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000

• EPD hosts 8th Annual Mecco Cup

• Former NJD juniors paving their way on Pro tour

• Parents key to JTT success in PATD

[email protected] 3 NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 I’m stillplayingandnow….working Ilove. inthesport So, toendwhere eventually someonedidtakepityonmeatthewalland35years Istarted, later, underestimate thelastingimpactthismighthave. like this,bringthemaracquetandcanofballs(oldusedonesare fine)andaskthemtoplay. You can’t hitting ballsby themselves, justwishingsomeonewouldaskthemtoplay. If there issomeoneyou know Team Tennis andUSTA League players, mythoughtswondertoallthosekids,sittinghomealoneor As we finish ourchampionshipseasonin Middle States andcelebrate theaccomplishmentsofourJr. of thetenniscommunityworking togethertocreate players. andsupport parents andplayers insearch ofaunified goal.ThisiswhatUSTA isallabout–thecomponents The Gold between tennisclubs/facilities,teachingprosCup conceptbuildspartnerships andcoaches, Growth of Tennis” and“Serving Tennis toAll.” embodies themissionandvisionofUSTA Middle States –respectively –“To Promote andDevelop the toalastinglegacyinthePhiladelphiaingenuity gave Area birth Tennis District. The Gold Cup story the lateBobStrimel, Sr., decidedtocreate program anew forchildren andhow compassionand 50th Anniversary. The Gold isanamazingtaleofwhathappenedwhenatennisenthusiast, Cup story improve theirtennisskillsinacompetitive, environment. supportive This year Gold Cup celebratesits NetPlay. Eachseason,Gold Cup allows hundreds ofyoung players theaffordable to opportunity If onlyIhad knownprogram calledGold abouta marvelous Cup, ourcover inthisissueof story pity onmeandasktoplayinareal game. sufficiently feastedonmyarmsandlegs.EachtimeI wenttothewallIhopedsomeonewouldtake

4 [email protected] Marlynn Orlando Message – Executive Director’s till thesunsetandmosquitoeshad restrung. I’d hitballsagainstthewall an oldwoodenone,whichwasnever club behindourhouse.My racquetwas they landedfrom theswimandracquet were retrieved from mybackyard where wall. Theballs were alwaysflat,asthey the highschoolandhitballsagainsta As akid,Iwouldridemybikeupto Edward Tseng Lauren Reddy Richard Rauenzahn Marlynn Orlando Ann LoPrinzi Karen Jennings Monique Holloway Loretta DeWalt Nicole Coia Lisa Cocchia Tom Benic Contributors Editorial Volume IIIIssue2Fall 2008 Published byUSTA MiddleStates middlestates.usta.com [email protected] (610) 935-5484(f) (610) 935-5000 Valley Forge,P.A. 19482 Suite 74,POBox987 1288 Valley ForgeRoad USTA MiddleStates www.bentleygraphics.com Bentley GraphicCommunications,Inc. Print &DesignProduction Patricia Weger Treasurer Ruth Roulston Secretary Jeffrey Harrison Senior Vice President Malcolm T. Riley, Jr. President USTA MiddleStates Officers Ben Zislis Carrie Rupp Marge McGann Nathaniel Harrison

Guest columnist – Ed Tseng District Contributors

Allegheny Mountain Contributor Top Five Mental Mistakes Tom Benic Tennis Players Make

Central PA Many tennis matches are won and lost on the six inch between Contributor your ears. You probably know the mental side of tennis is the most important factor in predicting success on the court. But have you ever been taught to be Richard mentally tough? Rauenzahn Physical skills take a while to develop, but you can instantly become a better player by having the same attitude and mind-set as a . Below are my top five mental mistakes that tennis players make.

Delaware Mistake # 1: Playing with a negative attitude. Have you ever missed a first and said to yourself, Contributor “Don’t !” and you then proceed to double fault? Many players tend to focus on what they’re doing wrong in a match and end up frustrating themselves even more. The fact is you rarely fix a Monique problem when you focus on it with a negative outlook. By shifting your attitude, your energy goes into Holloway playing better rather than worrying about making another mistake. Mistake # 2: Focusing on strengths instead of weaknesses. Sure, it’s fun to practice what you’re good at, but it doesn’t help improve your weakest link. If you have a killer but no and your opponent sees that in the warm-up, guess what? They’re going to hit everything to your backhand. Although it seems obvious, most of your practice should be spent improving your weaknesses, not your strengths. Eastern PA Contributor Mistake # 3: Thinking winning is everything. If this was truly the case, wouldn’t you just play people you knew you could beat? That would get old fast. Facing a challenge is the best way to learn, and Loretta losing a match is the best motivation for boosting your game. If you focus only on winning, you’ll end DeWalt up putting too much pressure on yourself and quickly lose the joy in playing the game. Winning is a byproduct of having fun and focusing on the right process. Mistake # 4: Performing according to your emotions. The biggest difference between elite players and average players is that when most players feel tired, frustrated or unfocused, they play that way, while the best players know how to channel their emotions into game-winning power. Energy is a state of mind, and learning how to summon it when you feel it the least is the key to rising to the top of your New Jersey game. Contributor Mistake # 5: Setting vague goals. Almost all of the players I work with cite “becoming a better tennis player” as their number one goal. But what they don’t realize is that goal won’t actually help them get to Ann LoPrinzi the next level. The best way to set goals is making them specific and giving them a realistic timeframe. With that in mind, an effective goal would be to say something like: “I want to be able to get nine out of ten of my serves in play by the end of the month.” Ed Tseng is an internationally known peak performance expert and motivational speaker from Princeton, N.J. He was a tennis professional at the Princeton Racquet Club for ten years and received the USTA MS NJD Pro of the Year Award in 2005. He has a B.S. in Marketing and Professional Tennis Management from Ferris State University.

Philadelphia NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 Contributor

Karen Jennings

[email protected] 5 ADVERTISEMENT

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The 2007 USPTA Middle States Award winners were presented their awards at the DuPont CC at a match.

Left to right: Wilson Pipkin, President USPTA-MS, Becky Desmond – First inductee into the USPTA MS Hall of Fame, Koach Tim Conroy – Pro of the Year, Bill Neal – College Coach of the Year, Robert Wirth – Rookie of the Year, Jerome Simon – High School Coach of the Year, Billie Jean King, Tim Irwin USPTA MS Executive Director

“We are not just tennis teachers, For more information on USPTA Middle we are changing the world.” States Convention and to receive a conference brochure contact Tim Irwin at 610-730-0042 or e-mail [email protected]. Tennis Shorts News from around the section

Allegheny Mountain Central PA Delaware , McMurray, Pa., was recognized as one of The 9th Annual Hempfield Wheelchair Tennis Tourn- The Delaware Tennis Center at Bellevue State Park the four recipients of the prestigious Junior ament was played at the Hempfield Sports Complex in in Wilmington, Del., hosted a day of fun and tennis Sportsmanship Award presented annually by the USTA. Landisville, Pa. Nationally-ranked competitors filled the on July 15, through a Regional Rally. More than 120 The award winners were guests of the International Tennis courts in both singles and doubles competition. Local youngsters from seven National Junior Tennis League Hall of Fame during Hall of Fame Weekend, July 11-13, star Tarek Zohdi of Ephrata, Pa., took home both singles (NJTL) chapters from three states descended on the in Newport, R.I. and were treated to an unforgettable and doubles championships. Zohdi, the tournament’s Diamond State for tennis games, expert instruction and weekend. The festivities included the 2008 International No. 1 seed, battled through a difficult semifinal three- cool prizes. Participants and volunteers were then treated Tennis Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony as well as the setter before winning the final. In the Men’s Wheelchair to that evening’s World TeamTennis match between the Campbell’s Tennis Championship, an ATP event. Riske, A Doubles, Zohdi and Mark Jenkinson teamed up to Delaware Smash and the , where once 17, who reached No. 1 in the Girls’ 18 National singles take the title without dropping a set. Zohdi, who was again juniors from different NJTL chapters came together standings in 2007, recently traveled to as a hitting ranked as high as No. 5 nationally in Men’s Wheelchair to cheer on the hometown Smash. partner with the US Fed Cup team. Photo courtesy of A Singles standings currently sits at No. 22 and has not ITHF/Michael Baz dropped a match in the past rankings period.

Eastern PA New Jersey Philadelphia Tommy Meyer, Bernville, Pa., can add another piece of Jan-Michael Gambill, and other Taylor Cohen of Huntingdon Valley, Pa., became the hardware actually six more to his expanding trophy case. legends and current professional tennis players including latest addition to an impressive list of athletes who have The 18-year-old won a record six gold medals at the 2008 Philadelphia’s Josh Cohen entertained hundreds at the appeared in Sports Illustrated’s “Faces in the Crowd” in Keystone State Games, an Olympic style competition, inaugural Newton Motorsports Pro Tennis Classic at the July 14 issue. Cohen, a recent graduate of Lower which brought together the best athletes from around the beautiful Lake Mohawk Tennis Club in Sparta, N.J. Moreland High School, won five PIAA Class AA tennis . Meyer, representing the Blue Mountain Proceeds from the event will benefit The Kaleidoscope championships (singles in 2007 and 2008, doubles region, finished first in the Boy’s 18 and Men’s Open of Hope Foundation for ovarian cancer research in 2006 and team titles in 2007 and 2008) - the first singles, teamed-up with brother Michael, 16 to win Boy’s and the Newton Memorial Hospital Foundation for tennis titles his school has ever won. The former top-100 18 and Men’s Open doubles and also captured both the improvements and upgrades to its Maternity Unit and nationally ranked USTA junior will take aim at the record Mixed 18 and Mixed Open doubles with fellow Berks Women’s Health Initiative. The event also featured a books this fall as a freshman at Clemson University. County resident Martha Blakely of Wyomissing. For junior clinic in which some of the Garden State’s future his efforts at the games, Meyer, who is ranked No. 4 in stars had the chance to learn from Gambill and former Middle States, received the most outstanding athlete award. world No. 1 Glenn Michibata.

First 20 to register by September 15 for QuickStart get a free 856-222-1777 tennis racquet 14 Federal St , Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054

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[email protected] 7 NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 A Memories Golden Cover Story to thenextlevel.” younger players wishingtomove their games Gold Cup veteran. “It wasastepping stonefor high schoolstudents,” saysMarie Seward, another asastimulusforour “The program alsoserved “It was really rewarding.” husband Frank rantheprogram for 15years. the winter,” saysBarbara Freitag. She andher couldn’t afford timein togetindoorcourt “It madetennisaccessibletochildren who they gettoplaytennisyear round outside.” Southern Californiaandwarmerclimateswhere kids tobeablecompetewithfrom Florida, months,” saysStrimel’s son,Bob, Jr. “He wanted juniors toplayonceaweek duringthewinter indoor clubsinthetri-statearea donatetimefor Strimel, Sr. “He cameupwiththeideaofhaving Gold Cup wasthebrainchildoflateBob district Gold Cup tournament. tocompeteinaseasonendingopportunity an and T-shirt membership, USTA junior a toplevelten weeks coaching, ofinstruction, For just$138dollars,Gold Cup studentsreceive “No otherdistrictoffersanythinglikeit.” sponsors,” saysPATD President Rose Weinstein. program the Philadelphia Area“Gold Cup isthemostsuccessfulandpopular Tennis District (PATD) Philadelphia calledGold Cup. first juniortennisprogramyear for anew in toy: theHula Hoop wasborn.It wasalsothe its firstsatelliteinspace.America’s mostpopular 1958 wasabigyear inhistory. TheU.S.launched to win Wimbledon? becamethefirstblackwoman the Juniors? Red Skelton? Jack Benny? The year By Karen Jennings 8 [email protected] Bill Haley andtheComets?Danny and Twenty-four centsagallongasoline? re you oldenoughtoremember 1958? of GoldCup have thevarious tournamentsyou have todayso trouble gettinguptogo. Back thenyou didn’t Gold Cup. But Ican’t remember atimethatIhad 70’s. “Ihadtogetupat4:30 inthemorningfor remembers thoseearlytennismorningsinthe Delco Tennis Director Monica Androsko also from Doylestown to Manayunk just to play tennis.” at 5a.m. some classesstarted We’d drive alltheway we had to get up really early on Saturday mornings, “I justreally enjoyed it,” says Tina. “Iremember Tennis andEducation CenterinPhiladelphia, Director oftheprestigious Ashe Arthur Youth Then there is Tina Tharp, theformer Executive of Junior CompetitionwithUSTA Middle States. 1982,” recalls Michael Kennedy, now theDirector inGold cupasajuniorin1981- “I participated Who elsecameupthrough theGold cupranks? USTA National. of theUSTA asaMen’s familyserving Coachwith player. Today, heispart DiLucia isaformerATP tourprofessional and most successful Gold cup graduates,” says Weinstein.“David DiLucia isoneofourbest-known and graduates reads like a“Who’s Who” intennis. junior tennisprogram. Thelistof Gold Cup touched by thisuniqueandhighlysuccessful back atthemanylives andcareers thathave been ofGold CupAnniversary withaspeciallook USTA Middle States section,celebratesthe50th This year, PATD, oneofthesixdistricts living involved intennis…allbecauseofmyDad.” especiallytennis,andI’vesports, earnedagreat impression onhis life.“He gave methelove of says hisdad’s vision isonethatleftalasting Bob Strimel, whonow works forGamma Sports

Winning Gold Cup LogoDesign I’ve arrived’!” I justfeltlike,‘Oh, I’m Ashe, goingtoArthur name onit,” saysTharp. “He wasalegendand Ashe’sand playinginabuildingthathad Arthur class withthetopplayers. “For me, itwasgoing Cup. It waseven biggertobeassignedatop Tharp saysitwasanhonortobe chosen for Gold sometimes untilmidnight,”tryouts recalls Freitag. “We’d at5or6o’clock start atnight anddo were assignedtoaclubbasedonourlevel ofplay.” andwe put numbersonthebacksofourshirts Club inLansdale,Pa. “It wascompetitive. They’d High Performance CoachatFrog Hollow Racquet get intheprogram,” saysConway, co-owner and “I remember there’d beover to 200kidstrying topplayers inPhiladelphiaonly thevery gotin. outjusttogetin.Harold Conwaysays to try Such abigdealthatearlyGold Cup studentshad being inGold Cup wasareally bigdeal.” 2008 Gold Cup LogoContest Winner Benjamin Sattler, Collegeville, Pa. Gold Cup Grads Where are they now?

David DiLucia Harold Conway Other Gold Cup Alumni:

Former ATP Player, Co-Owner and Bob Strimel 2001 WTT High Performance Gamma Sports Philadelphia Coach, Frog Hollow Racquet Club Freedom National Greg Williams Championship Pro, Green Valley CC player, National Men’s Coach, Dave Abrams USTA Executive Director, USTA Eastern

Sandy Hastings (former Gold Cup Coach) Michael Kennedy Monica Androsko Director of Junior Competition USTA MS Director, Director Delco USTA Southern Junior Competition Tennis, Coordinator of Boys National 18s Tournament

Students who “arrived” in the early Gold Cup high school level players will increase their drive Gold Cuppers will get a special anniversary edition system were awarded special Gold Cup patches for for success.” T-shirt designed by Benjamin Sattler of Collegeville, their participation. Like high school varsity letters Pa., winner of the Gold Cup logo contest. are today, the Gold Cup patch was the “In March when the boy’s season starts, you’re teenage tennis status symbol. fighting the elements,” says Phoenixville HS Boys “I couldn’t believe it when I found out I won,” Coach Leo Scoda. “The wind is blowing thirty says Sattler. “I’ve played tennis for four or five years “The patch was a pretty good size,” remembers miles an hour and it is 42 degrees. It’s not the but last year was my first year doing Gold Cup.” Monica Androsko. “It was green and gold with time of year when you can really teach or learn crossed tennis racquets and had the year on it. tennis skills. But with Gold Cup, the kids can be As winner of the contest, Sattler receives a free Everybody wanted a Gold Cup patch.” indoors playing in January so they’re ready when season of Gold Cup and his design will be featured the season begins in the spring.” on all Gold Cup news and promotional material. Like all things, Gold Cup has changed through “I enjoyed Gold Cup immensely. I liked that the years. Today’s students don’t get patches. After 50 years, it’s no surprise that Gold Cup it had a very one on one feel in a group setting. They get T-shirts. There are no tryouts. And now spans across two generations. Philadelphia It really let me improve my skills while letting me students are now free to choose their Gold Cup attorney, Craig Fox took part in the program see how my game stood up against my peers and host site. With higher gas prices now, most in the mid to late 70’s. Today his son Oliver older players.” students choose a club that is close to home. is enrolled in the program too. 2008-09 Gold Cup registration forms Some Gold Cup classes still take place before “He was in the Ashe program this year,” says Fox. will be posted online in September on: dawn. Others are now offered at more family– “It’s a great program. Court time is expensive, www.philadelphia.usta.com. As always, friendly afternoon and evening hours. especially indoors. And it’s a great way to get better.” students are encouraged to sign up early because classes fill up quickly. Enrollment is off the charts. Last year, a record And getting better, promoting tennis and having 350 students registered for classes at a dozen host fun is what Gold Cup and the USTA MS Over the past 50 years, Gold Cup has helped club sites. Philadelphia Area Tennis District is all about. produce great players and leaders in the tennis NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 community. If the past is a good indicator of the And high school team coaches are increasingly With this being the 50th Anniversary season future, the next 50 years should turn out great turning to Gold Cup to provide off-season of Gold Cup, there will be extra fun in store for tennis talent as well. training for their players. “I encourage the Rustin students. The first 50 kids to register will win High School players to participate in the Gold a pair of 2009 World TeamTennis Philadelphia Whether the student hails from the days of the Cup program,” says coach Laura Clark. “Because Freedoms tickets. The first 50 students will also hula-hoop or the ipod, it’s certain they’ll have one having high school level players playing other get the chance to win two tickets to the US Open. thing in common: a genuine love for tennis. • [email protected] 9 NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 Tennis is better through USTA.com. also save onUSTA andUSOpen merchandise special member-onlyevents andpromos. You can World TeamTennis. Members in canparticipate including theUSOpen, USOpen Series and to pro tournamentsthroughout thecountry USTA membersalsoenjoy preferred ticketaccess forplayers ofallagesandabilities. opportunities tournament play. Bothoptionsprovide playing USTA League Tennis andUSTA sanctioned Compete forNational Championshipsthrough States own NetPlay magazine. subscription to TENNIS magazine,andMiddle Read thelatesttennishappeningswithyour kind offers — available only to our members. offering a variety of exclusive benefits and one-of-a want to show how much we appreciate you by A a giftofmembership! Share your love with Membership USTA membersgetthespecialtreatment allaboutYOU! It’s

10 with friends. much you appreciate tennis. In return, we s a USTA member, you show the world how [email protected] card ready. membership and have your offers, visitUST To takeadvantage ofthesegreat Barnes &Noble, GNCandmore! 1-800-Flowers.com, Modell’s, Sports Authority, Budget, ChoiceHotels, Wyndham Hotel Group, Discounts include(butnotlimitedto):Enterprise, Avis, gearand more. dining,sports travel, hotels,entertainment, It’s allhere through the Active Network, Inc.— discountson up to20percent incash-backrewards withouthavingtoshow specialcards orcoupons. You canalsosave atthousands ofrestaurants withRewards Network! USTA memberscanearn Sandals at specials including discounts member USTA Beaches Resorts. with and country the across camps junior andagreatLooking fortennisinstruction vacation? Now getbothatselected resorts, campsand A.com

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Middle States Tennis Patrons’ Foundation

“Serve” First Give a new tennis player a forehand. Give a new tennis player a backhand. But more importantly – give a new tennis player the gift of the game you love.

By utilizing grassroots methods to introduce tennis to today’s youth, we have the most potential to impact them at an earlier age, and grow the sport. Invest in tennis growth and sustainability by making a charitable gift to the Middle States Tennis Patrons’ Foundation.

For more information on the Patrons’ mission, programs and how you can make a difference, visit our Web page at www.middlestates.usta.com and click on the Patrons’ button.

Please consider a gift to tennis through your section’s charitable foundation – the Patrons’ Foundation. All gifts are reinvested back into our section to grow the game and support our youth.

For the Middle States Tennis Patrons’ Foundation, it’s most important to “serve” first. NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000

[email protected] 11 NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 F to aparticipant. Touch of Tennis founder, Jim Holt, introduces himself Diversity “It’s amazing how manypeople are here, Ifeel she says,“are funandeye opening.” from Bethlehem toGMCwork theclinicsthat women’s tennisteam.Bennett travels over anhour competing forHolt andtheGMCGriffins onthe freshman year atGMCthisfall.She’ll alsobe Bennett, 18,from Bethlehem, Pa., her started to work the clinics. One of those volunteers, Ashley There are several volunteers who drive great distances impairments andeven thosewithphysicaldisabilities. X Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, visual and/or auditory athletes, includingthosewithSpina Bifida, Fragile age from 4to53,includeavast arrayofspecial whorangein A.J. Garabedian. Theparticipants, Scarlato, Wayne Chapman,Neal Bellucci and Jim Holt, Sr., andfellow clinicdirectors Chuck help from 35volunteers, includingHolt’s father, have flocked to the courts at GMC, and he’s received volunteered. Now, Holt says71special-athletes friends, colleagues,andstudent-athleteswho 35 special-athletes,aswell asabout20ofHolt’s In its first year, Touch of Tennis reached approximately and contactstoputthewholethingtogether.” “But Icouldchangethat.hadtheresources Iknew who wanttoplayandlearntennis,” Holt said. for athleteswithspecialneeds,especiallythose there“I knew were notalotofprograms available forthosewithspecialneeds. of avoid of opportunity Wordsworth Academy, theclinicsbecause started who isalsoaSpecial Education teacheratthe Touch of Tennis clinics10years ago. Thecoach, at Gwynedd-Mercy the College(GMC),started Holt, theheadmen’s andwomen’s tenniscoach lifelong memoriesthatfuelhisfire. the positive experiences,socialinteractionand on Wednesday it’s evenings inthesummertime, 12 [email protected] tennis iswhatunitesmore than100people next Roger Federer. of While thesport or Jim Holt, it’s notaboutdeveloping the

satisfaction tocontinuetheclinicseachyear. It’s responses likethisthatgive Holt the showed again.” uswe caneasilystart played tennisinyears, buttheseclinicshave home orattheshore,” Keenan said.“We haven’t “Tennis issomethingwe candoasafamily, at ofherdaughtersroutine. apermanentpart the sport the clinics, so much so, that Keenan plans to make Monica, whohasDown Syndrome, hasexcelled at Peg Keenan’s (Ivyland, Pa.) 15-year-old daughter fortheirconfidence.”is soimportant “It gives themownership ofaskill,which so goodaboutthemselves,” Sieberer continued. sweet spot intheracquet,itmakesthemfeel theyhave agoodhit,ortheyfindthat “When active and helps with their hand-eyegets theminvolved inasocialsetting,keepsthem coordination.” not onlygetthekidsoutofhouse,butalsoit “These clinics are phenomenal,” Sieberer said. “They while thisisthefirst year for Jason, 6. in participated Touch of Tennis forthree years, of twoyoung boys withautism. Alex,9,has Amy Sieberer, from Lansdale,Pa., isamother many oftheparents. andthevocal appreciationthe participants from The overall successisevident by theenjoyment of enjoying themselves.” Bennett said.“Ijustwanttomakesure theyare Ilove,”blessed tobeablehelpthemlearnthesport community for 10years Touch of Tennis clinics serving A SpecialTouch a drill. meetatthenettodiscuss and instructor A participant

and . Attendees work onalltennisskills,including couldn’t askformore.” • ‘slant’ anew and givingeveryone onlife.Ireally Tennis isaffectingpeopleonbothsidesofthenet perspective onlife,” Holt said.“Now Touch of the sameasthem,anditgives themadifferent experience, theyhelpkidswhomaynotbe “Many ofourvolunteers are exposedtoanew overwhelming senseofsatisfaction. This impactonthe volunteers gives Holt an faces.”see thesmilesyou helpputontheparticipants of your problems becomesominimalwhenyou work, ornot feelwell, butyou comehere andall inaugural year, says“you canhave abaddayat Scarlato, who’s helpedHolt since Touch of Tennis’ been impacted. areThe participants nottheonlyoneswhohave years ago has blossomedintowhatitistoday.” of gratificationinknowing thatmylittleidea10 feeling,” Holt profound said.“Ihave sense atruly impact onthesekid’s lives isalmostanunparallel “To thinkthatwe have madesomekindofan withavideoand participant T-shirt. equipment, aswell ascontinuetoprovide each He hopestoaddmore aidesand instructional continue toimprove theclinicandexperience. touse,Holtfor theparticipants stillplansto maximum capacity,” asGMChas onlyfive courts Although Touch of Tennis is“climbing towards – Carrie Rupp Community Development

everend Peter Marshall once said, “Let us not Rbe content to wait and see what will happen, but give us the determination to make the right things happen.” Over the past eight years, the Chestnut Ridge School District has encountered a group of individuals determined to make the right things happen, and because of it, its girl’s tennis A Place team has a place to call “home.”

Kayla and Samantha Blackburn, sisters from Alum Bank, Pa., were eight and six, respectively, to Call Home when they were first introduced to tennis at an courts, the first ever to grace the town of New The girls, Musselman, Chestnut Ridge aunt’s house in Texas. When they came home, Paris. The school offered to contribute $100,000 Community Tennis Association and the school they began lessons at the Summit Racquet Club towards the construction of the courts, but the district were thrilled. in Altoona, Pa., nearly 50 miles from their team was responsible for producing the rest. hometown. “By having courts at the school, the girls won’t Musselman and a few other parents and town have to miss as much class time as they have The girls’ love for their newly adopted sport was members formed the Chestnut Ridge Community before,” Musselman said. “We would miss about the impetus for the first-ever Chestnut Ridge Tennis Association. The group began fundraising, an hour and a half for every home match.” girl’s tennis team and their school and town’s holding spaghetti dinners, car washes, selling lack of courts didn’t dissuade them. The sisters coupons and holding a dinner and auction. Musselman also noted the district’s gym teachers successfully lobbied their school to start the team, They’re dedicated efforts raised approximately will incorporate tennis into their curriculum, the vowing to use a nearby town’s Park and Rec $40,000 dollars over three years – an impressive community will have access to the courts and the courts, located 17 miles away. effort, but still not enough to secure construction. school hopes to start a boy’s tennis team.

Fast forward six years. At this , Musselman and the other members The courts were completed in mid-August, and of the CTA met with USTA Middle States Tennis the 27 girl’s on this year’s team, the program’s The team, and head coach, Rebecca Musselman, Service Representative Amanda Faris-Denis. Faris- eighth-season, were able to walk to practices and received a dose of reality when the town, which Denis introduced the group to the possibility matches for the first time. owned the courts they were using, told them of applying for a USTA Public Facility Funding they wanted the courts resurfaced and if the team grant. The group applied, and was selected. The And for the first time, the team truly got to wanted to continue using them, they would have USTA granted Chestnut Ridge School District compete and represent their home. • to pay for half the costs. Chestnut Ridge decided nearly $30,000, enough to guarantee construction – Carrie Rupp it was in their best interest to build their own of the courts. Photo courtesy of Slippery Rock University Athletics Two Trenton Teens Attend in Washington was “how to be a leader and to be USTA NJTL Camp responsible.” She said the overall message of the wo NJTL of Trenton (NJTLT) participants, camp was “what you do affects others.” TNu-Kermai Cute Kermah (right) and Anjanique Newell (left), were selected to represent Cute, a 13-year-old at Joyce Kilmer Elementary USTA Middle States at the 2008 USTA NJTL School who enjoys dancing and singing, said Leadership Camp held July 22-28 in Washington, her tennis skills have improved since leaving the D.C. camp, she says she’s a more consistent player. Her highlight of the camp was attending a World The young ladies were nominated by NJTL of TeamTennis match between the Washington, Trenton’s Executive Director Dan Faber, who said, D.C. Kastles and the St. Louis Aces. “We nominated these two wonderful young ladies based on their work ethics and personalities. In The young ladies continue to stay in touch with addition, they both demonstrate our NJTLT core the many friends they met while at camp, some values: Acceptance of others; Responsible behavior from as close as New York, and some from as far at home, school and on the court; Academic as Hawaii and Texas. NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 excellence; and Healthy lifestyles and self respect.” While both girls said they were surprised and Anjanique, a 14-year-old at Trenton High School honored to have been selected to attend the camp, – Main Campus who enjoys baking and writing, they are both thankful and happy they had the said the most valuable lesson she learned while opportunity.

[email protected] 13 NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 C Jr. Team Tennis Home Fairmount Court: Park, Willingboro, N.J. (Mount Laurel) Kevin Lam(Absecon) andMichael Perrone Dickerson (Marlton), Kevin Taylor (Burlington), (Voorhees), Breezy Maravich (Moorestown), Ryan (MonmouthBembry Junction), Lauren Altschuler Roster: Cheyenne Brown (Dayton), Chental Coach: Millie Sams Deuce -14-and-under Advanced Berlin, N.J. Home Berlin Court: Vorhees Tennis Center, Conover (Medford). Hill), Kyle Sparkman (Medford) andMike Ben (Marlton), Bertino Luke Timber (Cherry (Haddonfield), Kate Maloney (Bridgeton),Mary Kaye (Egg Harbor City),Erica Pascocello Hill),Roster: AmandaConnell(Cherry Adrienne Coach: Christine Wu-Connell andMatt Heyse Smashers -14-and-underI 14 [email protected] hampions C Education (AAYTE) inPhiladelphia, willrepresent at Veterans’ Park inHamilton, N.J.Thefourteams, Advanced Ashe teamfrom Arthur Youth Tennis & Championships inMobile, Ala.,October 23-26 as well asonewild-card , the14-and-under Education Center Home Ashe Arthur Youth Court: Tennis & Morgan, Declan Hahn andConnie Wang. Claire Uhle,Reeta RaquelShrestha, Theodore J. Alexandra Nuzhdin, Jordan Lieb, Lieb, Zachary Roster: Julianne Herman, Mathieu Sullivan, Coach: AlanBlackwell AAY Four teamswere crowned Jr. Team Tennis (JTT) ntermediate Section Championsatthe2008USTA Middle States Section ChampionshipheldJuly 30-31 rowned! (14s) andOctober 30-November 2(18s). TE –14-and-underAdvanced wildcard USTA Middle States National attheJTT Hanover, Pa. Home South Court: Western High School, (York) Jenna Hessert (Dillsburg) andMelissa Plowman Jones (State College), KatrinaLynn (Berwick), Desai (York), Seth Heller Corinne (Biglerville), Roster: Michael McLaughlin (Hanover), Mikesh Coach: J.Michael McLaughlin Fantastic Fuzz -18-and-underAdvanced Rec, Harrisburg, Pa. Home Susquehanna Court: Township Park & Bush (Dillsburg) (Mechanicsburg), Steve Rozman (Steelton) andBJ (Mechanicsburg), Andrew Grossman Capuano (BoilingSprings), Jenna Laubauch Roster: Jess Klinger(Hummelstown), Amelia Coach: AllanandAnnetteGrossman Central Penn Jabs -18-and-underI

ntermediate Junior Competition

What’s the Buzz? Jr. Team Tennis Tidbits from the 2008 Section Championship

Back-to-back Dover Dominates The Fantastic Fuzz will travel to the National Dover, Del., dominated at Delaware’s 2008 Championship for the second year-in-a-row. The District Championship winning three of four team based in Hanover, Pa., went to the 2007 divisions. The three teams from the First State’s JTT National Championship and finished 12th. capital went on to compete at the Section More notably, at the national event, the team Championship – and their dominance didn’t received the coveted “Team Spirit” award. The dwindle. All three teams – Delaware Destroyers, Fuzz’s spirit was again high at the 2008 Section Delaware Nightmare 0 and Delaware Nightmare Championship as they donned crazy hats, which 1 – finished second in their respective age provoked smiles from all of their competitors. divisions. At the helm of the dominance is Gaby Brengle, a teaching pro at Dover Indoor Tennis All in the family and Wild Quail Country Club, and mother to It’s no wonder the Perrone family won the New up-and-coming professional star and former Jersey District’s 2007 Family of the Year honor, USTA Middle States top junior Madison Brengle. as all members of the family are truly immersed in the game. Two family members, Nathan, Looking the Part 9, and Michael, 14, competed at the Section The Jades from Wisehaven Tennis Center in York, Championships – on different teams. Nathan’s Pa., certainly looked like champions. The boys of team, Crush, reached the finals of the 14-and- the team wore orange t-shirts with the Wheaties™ under Intermediate division, while Michael’s logo and slogan “Breakfast of Champions,” while team, Deuce, won their pool and punched their the girls donned tennis gear designed by Serena ticket to the National Championship in the Williams. The team finished third in the 14-and- 14-and-under Advanced division. under Advanced division.

West Coast showing Good Sports For the first time, a team from the Allegheny Eight athletes were selected by opposing coaches Mountain District made the trek to New Jersey as the tournaments’ Sportsmanship Award for the Section Championship. The Wheeling- winners: Oglebay squad from Wheeling, W.V., made the 14-and-under Intermediate: Andrew Hicks & six plus hour drive to the Garden State for the Jenna Pang event. Coaches Millie and Gerald Mulhern said 14-and-under Advanced: Kevin Lam & they were excited to represent the western portion Mackenzie Smith of the section, and were “excited that the kids had 18-and-under Intermediate: Jason Werts & the opportunity to compete.” They earned it! Kathleen Rafferty 18-and-under Advanced: Kevin Papen & Carly Landini NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000

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Junior Competition USTA Zonal players love to “hate” Pete The shirts have become such a hot item that however I don’t always know their (the players Fioravanti hasn’t coached also want to players) games.” hate Pete. “I tell them if you want the shirt you have to take one of my classes,” joked the pro Despite the fact zonals are the first time at the Berlin Vorhees Tennis Center in West Fioravanti meets the majority of the players Berlin, N.J. Despite the negative connotation and the first time many of the players of the shirt, Fioravanti, is certainly liked and compete in this type of event, he is more appreciated by parents and children alike. than able to adapt to their contrasting styles of play and loves the energy they put out. A USTA High Performance coach, Fioravanti administers New Jersey’s Competition Training “The players all know each other from Center (CTC), which is a series of clinics held tournaments. It presents a great opportunity throughout the winter designed to make junior for them to bond off-court while still players tournament-ready while improving their working on ranking points. From the very overall game. This is nothing new for Fioravanti beginning they are cheering each other on who has seen his pupils excel in sectional, national which is what this event is all about.” hen describing the attributes of a great and collegiate events in his 15 years involved with Wcoach, words come to mind like leader, the CTC. This was never more evident than at the communicator, motivator and listener. These are 2008 Boys/Girls 12 Zone Championships at typically the individuals who instill discipline, He has also been a USTA Zone (zonals) coach Penn State University in State College, Pa., build confidence and leave a lasting legacy that for 11 years with the last seven at the helm of the in July. Players from all corners of Middle is carried in and out of competition. Coaching Middle States Boys/Girls 12 Zone team. States became a team and battled it out to an is an art as well as a science. An effective coach impressive second place finish. understands how to communicate with players Zonals is a team-based coed competition pitting in a way that gets results. Middle States against other USTA sections. It is The players even broke out in a chant of designed to acclimate players to a format similar “Pete, Pete...,” which surely had to make One coach that knows a thing about getting to that found in collegiate tennis putting an their coach feel good. results is Peter Fioravanti of Waterford, N.J. added emphasis on teamwork. Although he has However, while most coaches look for a “thank more than a decade of experience with the Zone However, nothing may have made Fioravanti you” or even a pat on the back at the end of the team, Fioravanti admits the experience can be feel any better than when the coach of the day, Fioravanti is just as satisfied hearing the challenging. USTA Midwest Zone team wore a t-shirt words, “I hate Pete!” that read, “I hate Pete too!” “It is a lot more coaching than teaching, which What started as a joke nearly ten years ago with can be tough,” said Fioravanti. “I love being -Nathaniel Harrison a stubborn group of girls that weren’t about to be on court coaching the players and strategizing, pushed around by the demanding yet gregarious pro has blossomed into a right of passage.

“I told the girls that I don’t do requests,” said Fioravanti. “So they all started to tell me that they hated me.”

Fioravanti then had t-shirts printed with a frowning face and the words, “I hate Pete,” written on them. When the next lesson came around Pete donned the shirt and gave the girls each one of their own.

“We really had a lot of fun with it,” said Fioravanti, the 2000 USTA Middle States New Jersey Pro of the Year. “I originally printed NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 just a handful of the shirts for the girls and now have printed more than 500.”

The 2008 Middle States Boys/Girls 12 Zone Team certainly didn’t hate their second place finish, and either did coach Pete Fioravanti.

[email protected] 17 NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 USTA School Tennis 18 [email protected] opening their teamtoall.” to refrain from cuttingplayers andinstead decision their in them supports and philosophy this share who coaches together brings Program No-Cut “The Development. Community of Director States Middle USTA Zislis, Ben said toplaybecause oftheirskilllevel,”opportunity shouldbedeniedthe toplay asport and theheart “The USTA believes nochildwhohasthedesire maintain smallerrosters duetolimitedresources. to playbecauseoftheneed opportunity the have not do who teenagers many still are thereterrific forthelongevityofsport, is number this While tennis. school high playing student-athletes approximately 10,000 Athletic Association(PIAA), there are According tothePennsylvania Interschlastic toplay.backgrounds theopportunity is givinghighschoolstudentsofalltennis The USTA’s High School No-Cut Program are.that theytruly areopportunities vast, we needtoensure youth. And justaswe tellthemtheir The USTA believes inempowering today’s and theirgoalsshouldbelimitless. endless are opportunities their them Wetell dreams. their of short nothing for settle to them todotheirbest,strive forthetopand A Peter Sok pumpsupthegirlsteampriortoamatch. our youth. Asrole models,we encourage parents we have thepower toinfluence s teachers,administrators,coachesand

the pressure ofbeingcutfrom theteam.” without out come to students encourages it and findsuccess,” Sok said.“In addition, who have never played tennis tolearnthesport “No-Cut tothosestudents gives theopportunity to helppromote thesport. Coach forthree years. It wasadecisionhemade in West Chester, Pa., hasbeenaregistered No-Cut at West ChesterB.Reed Henderson High School Peter Sok, theheadboys andgirlstenniscoach talent from alarger-than-normalpoolofplayers. their school.It alsoallows coachestocapitalize on of tennisasamemberteam,representing toexperiencethelifetimesport the opportunity belong toitplayacriticalrole, allowing players The No-Cut Program andthecoacheswho The 2008 West ChesterB. Reed Henderson High Schoolboy’s tennis team. brings opportunities to all

UST team tomatches.” wearing a team uniformandtraveling withthe cuts andthatI’d stillbepracticing withtheteam, Rodgers said.“It wasexciting thatthere were no team againmysophomore year hadIbeencut,” “I probably wouldn’t have triedoutforthe No-Cut program. ofthedevelopmental squadofHenderson’spart or Junior Varsity teams.Instead, shebecame (JV) Varsity the make not did but freshman a as a junioratHenderson, tried out fortheteam now Rodgers, Stephanie players, his of One he haswitnessedthrough theNo-Cut Program. Sok notedaspecificexampleofthesuccess “No-Cut” A’s Continued onpage19

How can you get involved?

ou can become a registered No-Cut Coach by visiting www.middlestates.usta.com or by contactingY Ben Zislis at 610-935-5000 ext. 232 or [email protected]. To celebrate and recognize the efforts of its registered No-Cut Coaches, the USTA provides each coach with: The 2007 West Chester B. Reed Henderson High School girl’s tennis team. • A recognition letter to your While there are pros and cons to adopting the Adult League players from the community. principal and athletic director No-Cut policy, Sok admits it takes quite a bit They also have tournaments where the girls • Customized press release of creativity and cooperation from the school compete with and against the boys in a fun, announcing the school’s administration and parents to make it work. co-ed atmosphere. Many of his student-athletes involvement in the No-Cut are involved in USTA’s Jr. Team Tennis program, Coach Initiative the largest youth tennis league in the country “Our school administration has been very • USTA No-Cut Coach recognition for boys and girls ages 6-18. JTT provides an supportive in getting the additional coaches and certificate facilities needed to run the program effectively,” alternative to many of the team members who Sok said. “Court space is obviously a problem we don’t receive a lot of playing time. It keeps them • One-year subscription to Racquet face, but our Athletic Director, Ken McCormick, on court during the off-season, and helps improve Sports Industry magazine overall team camaraderie. With a girl’s team of 33 does a fantastic job coordinating with the • No-Cut Tennis Team banner players and a boy’s team of 45, Sok has a lot of township to get us the court space.” for your school student-athletes to keep active. • USTA No-Cut Coach cap Sok says the biggest challenge to the No-Cut Program is that not everyone gets a chance Carole Sue Remley, who assists Sok with the girls • USTA Tennis on College to compete. But the athletes recognize and team, notes that the No-Cut Program is not just Campus Guide a feeding program for the JV and Varsity teams, understand this, and instead become their • Top Ten Games and Drills CD teammate’s greatest supporters. To provide more but offers students who don’t even know how to competitive opportunities, Sok schedules several play, the opportunity to get involved in something • Access to No-Cut Coach jackets, “inter-generational” matches where his team bigger than themselves. And by doing so, they are polo shirts, bags, and more from members compete against some of the USTA given the opportunity to learn a sport that can NetKnacks, Inc. enrich their lives long into adulthood. • – Carrie Rupp

Arrowhead tennis club boasts seven indoor air conditioned courts! Join us for on-going…Drills and Clinics • Private Lessons • Fitness Training Team Tennis • High Performance Training • USTA Tournaments Whether you are a beginner or advanced player, there is something here for you! See you at Arrowhead! Experienced Tennis Pro Needed! Attention juniors – join us We are looking for an experienced, energetic tennis professional on Sundays for a three hour high to join our expanding staff. Tennis pro should have a strong performance training where you can background in psychology and player development. Interested develop your skills, game strategy, individuals should send resumes to [email protected] and fitness! Call the club to register.

6 Nelson Drive NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 Medford, NJ 08055 609-654-7848 [email protected] www.arrowheadtennis.com

[email protected] 19 NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 Camaraderie: Court teams have advanced todistrict,sectional, and to theprogram forfive years. Over the years, his star playingJTT, butPapen hasremained loyal It rare tofindatopjuniorandscholastic isvery to playwithherratherthanagainst her.” school thanme,soitwasgreat tofinallybeable friend, CarlyKnox, hasalwaysgonetoadifferent with allmybestfriends,” saidPapen. “My best 13-years-old. “IplayJTT, becauseIgettoplay Jr. Team Tennis program sincehewas (JTT) by remainingfor thesport involved inUSTA’s competition, Papen hasemphasized hislove Besides beingastandoutinhighschool Delaware High School Tennis Championships. and wastwo-timeNo.1 singleschampionofthe years, where hewent undefeatedfor90matches His gameprogressed asheentered hishighschool through Dover Parks andRecreation. in 5thgradeandwasinvolved intennisprograms began takinglessonsfrom acoachwhenhewas life. Besides playingforfunwithhisfamily, Papen to thegameoftennisfrom thebeginningofhis his backyard, whichgave himanaturaladvantage The Dover native in grew upwithatenniscourt players, Madison Brengle andOliver Sebastian. clinics, juniortournaments,andhittingwithtop months ofJune, July, andAugust were filledwith University ofDelaware Blue Hens. For Papen, the the for player freshman a as season upcoming summer, inpreparation ashehitthecourts ofhis Papen, littletimetounwindthis 18,hadvery or tocollege,thatis,unless,you are Kevin Papen. of relaxation before headinginto thework force Most of the students looked forward to as theytossedtheirschool-coloredthree capsintotheair. months few months ago to millions of high school students of 2008.” These resounding words were spokena “Ladies andgentleman,Ipresent toyou, theclass College Tennis 20 [email protected] cheering youon.” member ofyourteam always haveevery to play, becauseyou “JTT issomuchfun

impossible forme toquit.” • “I have beenplayingforsolongthatitwould be future, tenniswillalwaysbewithme,” saidPapen. Papen’s love fortennisisunwavering. “In the Although hisfuture career pathmaybeuncertain, a doublemajorinAccounting andFinance. plans tomajorinatcollege,butis leaningtoward Currently, Papen isundecidedaboutwhathe own,” saidPapen. to havingagoodtimeatcollegeandbeingonmy with collegeplayers, butI’m alsolookingforward to thetennisseasonandseeinghow Imatchup on hisown atcollege.“I’m really lookingforward to Papen, tobeing butheisalsolookingforward family attend his tennis matches was very important Theideaofbeingclosetohomeandhavinghis successful collegecareer.” up playingtheNo. 1positionandhavingavery have much tournamentexperience.She ended because sheplayed inhighschool,butdidn’t a girl five years ago, who was very similar to Kevin, to seewhatKevin cando,” said Travis. “Icoached “I amsoexcited fortheupcomingseasonand hoping foraneven more successfulseason. Papen players, andothernew theBlue Hens are team finished10-7,andwiththeadditionof Last year, theUniversity ofDelaware men’s tennis my lastmatch,” saidPapen. me onagoodhighschoolcareer afterIfinished “Laura Travis niceandshecongratulated isvery of coach,Laura Travis. the players, Papen wasimpressed by thesupport were allwelcoming,” saidPapen. In additionto talentedandtheplayers “The teamlooked very school andbecameacclimatedwiththeteam. attend University ofDelaware, Papen visitedthe groupwith anew ofplayers. Before choosingto In August, Papen level atanew and hitthecourts memberofyourhave teamcheeringyou every on.” issomuchfuntoplay,“JTT becauseyou always haskeptPapenthrough JTT loyal totheprogram. The lively atmosphere andcamaraderiedeveloped juniors from allover thecountry.” great friendsonthattrip;Igottoplayadvanced was agreat experience,” saidPapen. “Imadesome in , Calif., andplaced8th.“Nationals competed in the 2006 JTT National Championshipswas 16, Papen and his team, the Delaware Fireballs, even thenationalcompetitions. When he Most ImportantinPapen’s Eyes – Lauren Reddy

Professional Tennis Casting Call Cherry Hill 10-Year-Old Performs On Tennis’ Grandest Stage

Zimmerman warms up prior to her performance before the women’s third-round match.

s the summer months turn to fall, and But in front of a big crowd, you don’t know who business, and there’s a lot of competition. But she Labor Day approaches, the number one is looking at you.” enjoys it, and we’ll love her, support her and help concern among most children is the her all the way.” • Anew school year. What will their new teacher be A fifth-grader at Bret Harte Elementary School in – Carrie Rupp like? Will they meet new friends? What are they Cherry Hill, N.J., Zimmerman is an active soccer going to wear on the first day of school? Ten- player and is enrolled in both drama and dance year-old Gabrielle Zimmerman of Cherry Hill, classes. She takes vocal lessons with noted voice NCAA Champ N.J., had more on her mind this time last year. coach Sal DuPree, the mentor of America’s Got Zimmerman, a self-proclaimed “busy bee” Talent’s first $1 million winner – Bianca Ryan; Devvarman Wins was one of just a few lucky children selected and she makes frequent trips to New York to audition to perform at the 2007 U.S. Open; and she had for roles in Broadway musicals, plays and commercials. $10K Pittsburgh the honor of performing twice. Although Zimmerman hasn’t found room for tennis lessons in her busy schedule, her family says they’d Men’s Futures Zimmerman auditioned in June 2007 with nearly love for her to play the sport they witnessed at the 200 other children at the 2007 U.S. Open Casting U.S. Open. omdev Devvarman, a native of Call, an annual event held at Radio City Music who won two NCAA singles “Our family plays tennis on vacations,” Gabby’s Hall in . The event, for children championships at the University of 12-and-under, was judged by actress Bebe Neuwirth mother Marjorie said. “I played when I was a child, S Virginia (2007 & 2008), won both the singles and Gabby’s father Richard is a natural athlete of “Cheers” fame, former O-Town heartthrob and and doubles titles at the Dick’s Sporting Goods, who also enjoys playing the sport recreationally.” Kids’ Day performer Ashley Parker Inc.’s $10,000 Men’s Futures of Pittsburgh Angel, and WPLJ (95.5) radio disc jockey Brad tournament at the Mt. Lebanon Tennis If Gabby needs any motivation to pick up a racquet, Blanks. Each contestant had 30 seconds to Center on July 6. a minute to perform “America the Beautiful.” The she received it behind the scenes on tennis’ biggest lucky winners were notified by the USTA in July. stage – the hallways of Arthur Ashe Stadium – In singles, he defeated last year’s finalist, where she met Billie Jean King, , Roger Travis Helgeson, 22, a University of Georgia Considered one of the “greatest experiences of her Federer, and even had the opportunity to sit in the grad, 6-3, 6-1. In doubles, he teamed with life,” and her most notable performance opportunity President’s Box after her performance with King. Treat Huey of the U.S., to defeat 2007 Men’s to-date, Zimmerman first sang after the women’s Futures singles champion, Rhyne Williams, third round match between Shahar Peer and “The overall experience was wonderful,” Richard 17, of Knoxville, Tenn. and partner Adam Nicole Vaidisova (September said. “They made us feel welcome and really El Mihdawy of the U.S., 6-3, 6-2. 1) and then opened for catered to us. Everything was organized and well The previous week Devvarman won both Carole King before the run. Our family couldn’t have asked for a better the singles and doubles championships women’s final (September experience.” at the Rochester (N.Y.) Futures on June 29. 8) featuring and . Gabby agreed, and noted she enjoyed indulging Both performances were in the backstage snacks – bowls of chips, almonds in front of sold-out crowds and chocolate covered strawberries. in Arthur Ashe Stadium. Her boisterous renditions Perhaps the most important thing Gabby learned of “America the Beautiful” from her experience at the Open was that she garnered her not one, but loves performing, and she’s confident doing so; two standing ovations. even if her parents were a little nervous for her.

“I love singing in front of “I was very nervous for her,” Marjorie said. “I would NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 everyone,” Zimmerman never have told her, but I was. I just don’t want said. “I’d rather sing in anything to happen to her to get her spirits down. front of 20,000 people I always tell her, no matter what, just keep singing, than just two or three. keep going.” And keep singing Gabby will. When you sing in front of a small crowd you know “She practices every single day,” Marjorie said. exactly who is looking at “She wakes up singing, and she goes to bed Photo courtesy of UVa Athletic Media Relations you, and what they think. thinking about singing. I think it’s a really hard [email protected] 21 NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 A W Adult Competition in April, Keleman received thehighesthonor National Women’s Championship 60ClayCourt draw oftwotournaments,including theUSTA success thisyear, includingwinningtheback Doubles J.Dennis. Because withpartner ofher Doubles andNo. 4in Women’s 60 Team age division,No. 13in Women’s 60Individual who isrankedNo. 7nationallyin Women’s 60 2008 hasbeenasuccessfulyear forKeleman competing inmore National level events. that Keleman becamemore active inthesport, wasn’t untilretiring from teaching10-years-ago quick. But competitive, very it she becamevery oftheNightas apart Owlpackage.She says go playatHunterdon Tennis Centerat11p.m. would comehomeandgradepapers,then love oftennis.Afteralongdayatwork, Keleman a waytobalanceherpassionforteachingwith teacher. Afterdiscovering tennis,Keleman found wanting tocoach,andultimately, becominga thatpushedKeleman towardsin teamsports It washerpositive experiencesparticipating andschool.”industry teamwork andworking togetherinbusiness, whichtaughtmeagreatteam sports, dealabout father andmother, mysistersandIallplayed Keleman said. “So, withtheinfluence ofmy forgymclass,”up; peopleonlyusedthecourts “Tennis wasn’t popularwhenIwasgrowing High SchoolandRiderUniversity. Annandale, N.J.,andattendingNorth Hunterdon andsoftballwhilegrowing upin Pa., wasalwaysanathlete–playingfieldhockey, Keleman, now 59,andaresident ofBethlehem, a garage.Ijustbecamesoinlove with thesport.” that, Iwouldjustgooutandhitagainstawallor person toplaywith,andoftenIdidn’t even need said. “Tennis wassuperbecauseIonlyneedone mental wellness andphysicalfitness,” Keleman “I wantedsomethingIcoulddoformyown doingsomethingforherself.then 29,started at theHunterdon Tennis CenterthatKeleman, younger sister, Elizabeth Tyrell-Storms, gotajob she didn’t domuchelse.It wasn’t untilher fact, herfirstsix years attheschool,sheconcludes slept” herrole asaneducatorandacoach.In 22 [email protected] N.J., Patricia Keleman “ate, drank,and Regional High SchoolinFrenchtown, s ateacherfor27years atDelaware Valley l l e R Bethlehem, Pa.,WomanChosentoRepresentU.S. p e r d e t n e s e Keleman to practicefree-of-charge onitsred Club inAllentown, Pa., graciouslyallowed To prepare forthecompetition,Oakmont Tennis doubles inthiscompetition. Keleman and Hahn plantoteam-upplay compete inthe World Individual Championship. teammates andcompetitorswillstayin Turkey to Team Championship, Keleman andmanyofher ranging from 35to80.Following the World competingin19agegroups, the participants teams from 38countriesaround theglobe,with October 12-18.Theregames whichrun are 375 men andwomeninAntalya, Turkey, forthe Keleman and herteammateswilljoinover 1,000 proud.” I’m pleasedandvery stillalittleshocked,butvery so Iknow theselectionprocess hadtobetedious. “There are justsomanytalentedplayers out there, States, Ireally wasflabbergasted,” Keleman said. “I’m justsohonored torepresent theUnited represent theU.S.incompetition. was theonlyMiddle States memberselectedto Team inthe Women’s 60AgeCategory. Keleman the oftheAliceMarble aspart Cup Betty Wacob (Panama City, Fl.), willrepresent Mass.), Brenda (Charleston,S.C.)and Carter team. Keleman, aswell asMolly Hahn (Belmont, & Super-Seniors World Team Championship possible –beingnamedtoa2008ITFSeniors

my country.” want togoanddomybestforteammates doesn’tcertainly getanyeasier, onlytougher. Ijust consistently andbeatthetopofyour game.It inthesegamesyou haveyour toplayso country me,” Keleman said.“To beselectedtorepresent for “This maybeaonceinlifetimeopportunity support. be makingthetrip, sheknows shehashisfull husband Stan, alsoanavidtennisplayer, won’t company ofloved ones.Although,Keleman’s be makingthelongtripto Turkey withoutthe 8, andaren’t settoreturn forthree weeks, will Keleman and herteammates,wholeave October tournaments, I’d never behere.” to taketimeofftravel toallofthesenational Northwood beingsoflexibleandallowing me me competitive. If itwasn’t fortheirhelpand drills andadvicewere ofkeeping anintegralpart stay ontopofmygame,” Keleman said.“Their “Working withthepros there really helpedme ofthegames. participation noted heremployer’s ofher enthusiasticsupport time atNorthwood RacquetandFitness Club, in Turkey. Also,Keleman, whoworks part- shewillbeplayingon thesurface clay courts, - Carrie Rupp USTA League

Her involvement in promoting athletics for the CostanziUSTA League disabled doesn’t stop there. Each year, she plays Conquers a critical role in organizing the Tennis Classic Wheelchair Tournament – her Disability on the Court recruiting players, sponsors and donors. She works closely with Freewheelers president and tournament director Robert Amelio, his wife Pam, and a friend, Linda Bollinger of the Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital in Allentown, Pa. The 14th annual tournament, held June 27-29 at Lehigh University’s campus in Bethlehem, Pa., brought together some of the area’s strongest players to support wheelchair athletics, a cause for which Costanzi will never cease to fight.

“Wheelchair tennis has become more popular but I don’t think it’s where it should be,” Costanzi says. “I don’t think enough people consider us athletes. They don’t view us as part of the same league.”

Costanzi participates in three to four women’s tournaments per year, and she has even played in several men’s wheelchair events, due in part to the greater number of male athletes in the area, but, more importantly, for the increased level of competition; and Costanzi certainly makes the most of each opportunity she has to play.

At this year’s 8th annual Jana Hunsaker Memorial Wheelchair Tennis Tournament held June 5-8 in Flushing, N.Y., Costanzi captured the Women’s Wheelchair A Singles division title. She defeated magine playing tennis without the use of people with disabilities. She’s served as the the nation’s top-ranked player at the time, Jocelyn your legs. And without your abdomen - your club’s secretary for 12 years and feels she will Dettloff, in straight sets, 6-3, 6-0. While Costanzi body’s core set of muscles. Now, try playing be committed to its cause for a lifetime. has played in too few tournaments this year to basketball.I How about bowling or pool? garner a ranking, her success on the court abounds. “The club is a great resource for athletics and Nazareth, Pa.’s Sheila Costanzi does it all – while for being around others that understand your This spring, Costanzi decided to join a 2.5 USTA seated in a wheelchair. But she doesn’t merely situation – because they’re living it,” Costanzi says. Continued on pg. 25 participate in these activities; she is extraordinarily successful in all of them. In fact, she’s probably more talented than many able-bodied individuals. Having survived a near death accident years ago, she’s learned to embrace her resulting disability by utilizing her competitive edge.

Her nose for winning is most evident on the tennis court, where, in addition to playing in numerous wheelchair tournaments, she’s recently completed her first season as a member of a 2.5 USTA League Tennis team – where she played against able-bodied, stand-up opponents.

“Sheila loved the opportunity to be on a USTA women’s league,” says friend and Tennis Service NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 Representative (TSR) Joe Romano. “She loves the sport, so she’s not shy to accept a challenge.”

Costanzi started playing tennis competitively in 1999 through the Lehigh Valley’s Freewheelers club, a non-profit sport and activity club for Sheila Costanzi poses with members of her 2.5 USTA League Tennis team, as well as USTA Middle States TSR Joe Romano (far right).

[email protected] 23 NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 Adult Leagues August 22-24,2008 USTA AdultLeague MiddleStatesSectionChampionship Weekend Memories 24 [email protected] Photos coutesyofMarge McGann and Tom Benic Continued from pg. 23 2008 USTA League National Championships Schedule League Tennis team as a true test of her talent. If she can contend with stand-up players, there’s September 26-28 October 24-26 no doubt she’s a legitimate competitor. 4.0 Adult Tucson, Ariz. 4.5 Senior Tucson, Ariz. “Playing against stand-up players can’t hurt me. 5.0 Adult Indian Wells, 3.5 Senior Indian Wells, Calif. I might get beat, but it’s great practice,” says Calif. Costanzi. “I’ve always said that you have to play Open Invitational Las Vegas, Nev. up to get better. That’s also why I started playing October 31-November 2 in the men’s wheelchair league. It’s harder, but 3.5 Adult Tucson, Ariz. it makes me a better player.” October 3-5 3.0 Senior Las Vegas, Nev. 3.0 Adult Tucson, Ariz. Indeed a wheelchair player encounters extensive difficulty when playing against stand-up opponents, 2.5 Adult Las Vegas, Nev. November 20-22 but Costanzi doesn’t dwell on the disadvantages. Eastern Senior Mixed Orlando, Fla. October 17-19 “It’s harder to them and also to hit a winner 4.5 Adult Tucson, Ariz. because their much more mobile,” Costanzi says. November 21-23 “Stand up players can rush net, and they have a 4.0 Senior Indian Wells, Calif. Eastern Adult Mixed Orlando, Fla. greater reach. It’s easy for them to lob and pass us because our reach is limited. But I don’t think about these differences when I’m playing.”

Although her team’s winning percentage wasn’t Heading West spectacular, Costanzi says the experience was Ten Middle States teams crowned Section Champions – set to represent worthwhile. While she regularly played both their section at the 2008 USTA Adult League National Championships. singles and doubles, she preferred the former, as many serious competitors do. 2008 USTA Adult League Middle States Section Champions “Sometimes I take the game more seriously than my partners. Most players in the league are beginners, 2.5 Women playing purely for enjoyment.” But not Costanzi. Philadelphia District – Pennsbury II (Captain: Simi Santoro) She, on the other hand, plays tennis to satisfy her 3.0 Women competitive spirit. “It’s tough [playing in the 2.5 Philadelphia District – Penn Oaks “Got Balls?” (Captain: Jeanne Polries) league] for someone who’s competitive and doesn’t like to lose.” Although she was not as successful 3.0 Men in the 2.5 League as in wheelchair specific events, Central PA District – Hempfield-Kontanis (Captain: Kosta Kontanis) she plans to continue playing against stand-up 3.5 Women opponents this fall. Philadelphia District – Penn Oaks (Captain: Laurie Black) After spending more than twenty years in a 3.5 Men wheelchair while raising her twenty-two-year-old Delaware District – Alp (Captain: Alp Akalin) daughter single handedly, Costanzi is well-prepared 4.0 Women to tackle life’s next challenge, and she isn’t about Philadelphia District – Net Surfers (Captain: Heather Virgulti) to let her disability slow her down. 4.0 Men “It’s wonderful that there are sports and sports Eastern PA District – Kirby Park (Captain: Christopher Barclay) adaptive equipment available to us to help make 4.5 Women it easier to be competitive despite our disabilities,” New Jersey District – The Hooters (Captain: Margaret Lumia) she says. “There are constant improvements, 4.5 Men but always setbacks to deal with too.” Philadelphia District – Ft. Washington (Captain: Arland Hotchkiss) We all can learn a thing or two from Sheila

5.0 Women Costanzi – she embraces challenges and maintains NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 Eastern PA District – Laila’s Ladies (Captain: Laila Carim) a consistently positive attitude despite life’s setbacks. And the game of tennis has certainly highlighted these strengths in her character. For full championship results, Romano praises her life’s many accomplishments: visit: www.middlestates.usta.com. “I hope Sheila continues to do what she does *Senior and Super Senior results were not available at time of print. best - inspire us.” • – Nicole Coia

[email protected] 25 NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 It’s aCelebration show offtheir medals. Adrian Nitkowski andPittsburgh’s own Jane Barrett thanks to the efforts oftheNKF,thanks totheefforts theevent is athletes from smallpocketsofthecountry. Now much smallerandfeatured justahandfulof The event, whichbeganin1982,wasoriginally here.”in commonwitheveryone Harrisburg, Pa. “You rightawayhave something of life,” saidAdrian Nitkowski, acompetitor from “This isacelebrationoffamiliesand did soraucouslythroughout theweek ofcompetition. and livingdonorstocelebratelifeitself, andthey participating transplant-recipientBut theyare alsoachanceforthenearly 1,500 athletes, donor families of transplantationandtheneedfororgandonors. athletic competitiondesignedtoshow thesuccess Kidney Foundation (NKF),are anOlympic-style The games,whichare presented by the National Pennsylvania forthe2008U.S. Transplant Games. toflocked from allcornersofthecountry Western These mothers,father, sisters,brothers andfriends it’s theSteel City’s 250thbirthday. of thosecelebratingprobably didnoteven realize City isnotgivingawayfree beerand95percent Steelers are notparadingthrough tickertape,Iron in thepasttwo Transplant Games Julie Riggi,aformer Widener gold standout,hasstruck T Special toNetPlay 26 [email protected] from Hawaii foracelebration. No, the Maine, New Jersey, Oklahoma andeven hey cametoPittsburgh from Indiana,

is now playingUSTA time tostart tournaments,” “I have already competedinthree triathlons,soit for himselfthrough athletics. Nitkowski hassetanumber ofpersonalgoals Walter Payton’s disease.Since the transplant, Sclerosing Cholangitis(PSC)alsoknown as the ageof10hewasdiagnosedwith Primary in tennis,track&fieldandsoccer. However at Nitkowski active asachildparticipating wasvery the ageof22wasrecipient liver. ofanew career endwiththegamesisNitkowski, whoat Another athletewhodoesn’t wanttosee histennis donation indriver educationclasses. the classroom toeducatestudentsaboutorgan transplantation. She usesherlifeexperiencesin it comestocreating awareness aboutorgan nurse, hasseenbothsidesoftheissueswhen Riggi, whopreviously wasanemergencyroom needs tobedone.” “But, whenthegamesare over iswhenwork truly awareness about organdonation,” saidRiggi. aboutcreatingthe event but mostimportantly “The gamesare all aboutcreating awareness for tennis league. but islookingtowork herwayintoacompetitive Riggi playstennisrecreationally forthemostpart both the2006and2008games.Aschoolnurse, high school,hascaptured singlesgoldmedalsin Riggi, whobeganplayingcompetitive tennisin keptmehealthier,”sports saidRiggi. of increased ofbreath, medication andshortness “Even whenitwasdifficulttocompetebecause means tostayhealthy. University varsity tennisplayer usestennisasa lung transplantin2004.Theformer Widener was achallengeforRiggi,whoreceived adouble Just years afew agowalkingupanddown stairs the worldtome.” and beactive inacompetitive environment means Mickleton, N.J.“Just around beingabletorun little somethingmore eachtime,” saidJulie Riggi, “Everyone hasastory. tocomeawaywitha Itry the athletesshare special. thatistruly Olympics. However, itisthebondingexperiences are totaledjustliketheyare with countriesinthe up againsteachotherintheseevents andmedals Cities andregions are brought togethertoteam- cycling, swimming and ofcoursetennis. showcased inBeijing includingtrack&field, The gamesfeature manyofthesamesports hosted inmajormarkets throughout theworld. something truly worth celebrating. • worth something truly lot totheathletes justbeingabletocompeteis meansa While winningthese events certainly at thegames. transplant recipient who also won multiple medals 1998, butalsomethiswife,Ingrid, aheart year since not onlycompetedinthegamesevery The 2008silver medalistin30-39singles, has me dojustthat.” active, andtennisisagreat tohelp lifetimesport said Nitkowski. “Thekeyistostayhealthyand

Team Pittsburgh George Shimpeno andJack Smedley- Men’s 60-69Doubles Team Pittsburgh Drew Kondash Sloan- andHarvey Men’s 40-49Doubles George Shimpeno- Team Pittsburgh Men’s 60-69Singles Adrian Nitkowski- Team Philadelphia Men’s 30-39Singles Silver Medalists Team Philadelphia Julie RiggiandJoseph Radvansky- Mixed Doubles Team Pittsburgh David LockwoodandMax Stull- Men’s 60-69Doubles Jane Barrett- Team Pittsburgh Women’s 50-59Singles Julie Riggi- Team Philadelphia Women’s 18-29Singles Alicia Goodchild- Team Philadelphia Women’s 14-17Singles Gold Medalists Team Pittsburgh Jane Barrett and Mark Shaw- Mixed Doubles Joe Radvansky- Team Philadelphia Men’s 50-59Singles Max Gordon- Team Philadelphia Men’s 14-17Singles Silver Medalists

– Nathaniel Harrison

Y unique C urts The Section’s Best Kept Secrets The Championships, Maustadon o pocket of the country may boast a Little did he know that in a few years he stronger tennis history than would be playing on grass everyday, some southeast Pennsylvania. The first official 8,000 miles away in his own backyard U.S.N Women’s National Singles Championship, thanks in part to his growing ceramics a predecessor to the U.S. Open was held at the business. When studio expansion resulted Philadelphia Club in 1887. The famed in some of his backyard being cleared out, Germantown Cricket Club in Germantown, Pa. Maust couldn’t think of a better place for hosted the U.S. Open from 1921-1924 before grass court tennis. returning to Forest Hills. Also, tennis legends like , Bjorn Borg and Arthur Ashe played At first the court with a volleyball net on the hallowed grounds of stretched across at ground level provided untrue the umpire’s chair and the ball kids are neighbors in Haverford, Pa. play thanks to the bumpy, rugged ground. who Maust taught the game of tennis.

Although it may not have the history, a new “There were a few drawbacks to this set-up, The event entitled, ‘Maustadon’ isn’t exclusive but grass court in Middle States is creating its own including many discussions about whether or not players are required to wear tennis whites and play buzz. Carved out of the rolling hills of Lancaster the ball went through or over the net,” said Maust. with a wooden racquet. Tournament director and County, this pristine grass court would make Roger host, Maust even handcrafts trophies with the and Venus envy. However, it isn’t on the grounds Within the next two years with some help from adorning Maustadon logo which bares a striking of a fabled country club, it sits in the backyard a Penn State Turf Management professor and resemblance to the Wimbledon logo. of Dennis Maust and Rachel Hess of Lititz, Pa. a leveled surface, Maust finally had his dream. The play is very competitive and puts the court Dennis grew up playing tennis with his brother Though the court is not full size (it is a few to the test, however a bigger problem might and friends. He eventually ended-up on the varsity feet short on each end) and an occasional tree be drawing enough female competitors. team at Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, branch comes into play, the luscious green grass Va., where his love for tennis bloomed. Maust is strikes up dreams of playing Wimbledon. Other “If two men want to play as a team, than one currently the head boy’s tennis coach at Lancaster unique features include an umpire’s chair, a net must wear a dress,” joked Maust. “Everyone is Mennonite High School, where his son Ted which keeps balls from sailing into the neighbor’s welcome to play, however they must look the part.” played No. 1 singles for two years. adjacent yard and a gravel driveway just past the baseline which can make things a little interesting. Although it is a far cry from Merion, Germantown His inspiration for the court didn’t come from the and the All England Club as far as history All England Tennis Club or the historic courts on the The court certainly gets regular use, however the and prestige, thanks to the efforts of Maust, Main Line, it came when the professional potter was highlight is an annual round robin mixed doubles it certainly looks the part. • working at the time as a design consultant in Bangladesh. tournament which draws high school tennis players, – Nathaniel Harrison Maust grew smitten with grass court tennis while family friends and tennis enthusiasts to the Maust playing on a court at an English tea plantation. household each June. Players rotate in and out of NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000

[email protected] 27 NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 D Oct. 5-12 Challenger Set for Pittsburgh Women’s Harkelroad.2007 ChampionAshley Allegheny MountainDistrict at 724-933-1911. For more calltheclub information, title. months before shewonthe Wimbledon singles lostinthe2002finals, just18 ofthe quarterfinals Federation Cup. help theUnited States defeatGermany inthe Harkleroad wontwomatcheslastspringto in theworld.Atoughinternational competitor, , 23,iscurrently ranked61st 50 and250intheworld.Lastyear’s champion The fieldwillincludeplayers rankedbetween Admission isfree untilthequarterfinals. with thechampionshiponOctober 12. October 5,andthetournamentwillconclude in Monroeville, Pa. Thequalifierwilltakeplace North in Wexford afteroneyear atClub4Life The weeklong tournamentwill return toOxford beneficiary. programs for innercityyouth, isthetournament’s tennis organization dedicatedtosupporting Foundation ofGreater Pittsburgh, anon-profit the tournament’s inception.The Tennis Patrons PNC asthetitlesponsor, arole PNCheldsince Dick’s Sporting Goods, Inc., willtakeover for weekend. tournament won’t conflictwitha Steelers’ For thefirsttimein years, theUSTA Pro Circuit with itanearliertimeslot. on astitlesponsor. Thetournamentbrings and thefirst year Dick’s Goods, Sporting Inc., is the Pittsburgh area hashostedthewomen’s event Wexford, Pa., October 5-12.Thisistheninth year Challenger tobeheldatOxford North in 28 [email protected] Greater Pittsburgh $50,000 Women’s the Tennis Patrons Foundation of ick’s Sporting Goods, Inc., presents Other singleswinnerswere: Oglebay Park drew arobust 32drawinthemen’s opendivision,thelargestfieldin years. divisions. With prize moneyoffered andsomeintensive promotion, thetournament at Wheeling’s The West Virginia Open isthe Middle States Sectional Championshipin a numberofadultage defeating Hughes andKahlerinthefinal,7-5,7-5. Poske thenteamedwith herbrother, CarlPoske ofPonte Vedra, Fla., towinthemixed doublestitle, University gradmethermatch,losingtoSierra Poske, aFlorida native and Wake Forest grad,6-0,6-0. In the Women’s Open Singles final,three-time champion Jackie Hughes of Pittsburgh anda Duquesne Pittsburgh, 2-6,6-4,6-4inthefinal. with Justin ThomasofChester, W.Va. todefeatChrisComptonandAllan Quackenbush, bothof McClelland, asophomore atDuquesne University, alsowontheMen’s Open Doubles title,teaming J Singles, Doubles Wheeling’s McClelland Wins Men’s Open Ferraccio andSchmitt8-2. and Elise Held. Theduodefeated Joshua mixed doubleswaswonby Brandon Anandan Elizabeth Adams 8-6.The andKristyBorza Lee wonthewomen’s doublestitledefeating Kaimalu Cope8-2.Lauren Greco andStacey men’s and doublestitle,defeatingEnrico Certo Andrew Nixon andDouglas Subosits wonthe Severna Park, Md., 6-3,6-2. Daciek (Virginia Tech), thethird seed,from reached thefinals before bowing to Patrick Wheeling, W.Va., (Duquesne University) In men’s singles,Jeremy McClelland of second 6-1,andthenthetiebreaker, 10-8. 5. Schmittwonthefirstset6-4;Kissell / West Penn AmateurinMt.LebanononJuly National Championships CollegiateClayCourt University) forthewomen’s singlestitle of the Kellie SchmittofBethel Park, Pa., (Marshall of Miami) neededa supertiebreaker todefeat Michaela KissellofLatrobe, Pa., (University Court Championship Court Clay Collegiate at battle natives area Pittsburgh under “MSAdult Tournaments.” www.amd.usta.com, are ontheAMD website: Complete drawsandresults now working asanassistantpro attheMt.Lebanon Tennis Center. overVirginia Open witha7-6(5),6-0victory ScottKahler, a Pittsburgh native andFurman grad, eremy McClelland of Wheeling, W. Va., repeated asMen’s Open Singles championofthe West T

itles at West Virgina Open • Women’s 45–Deedra Davis, Wheeling, W.Va. • Women’s 35–Sherri Polen, Saint Clairsville,Oh. • Men’s 65–Richard Wells, Pottstown, Pa. • Men’s 55–Charles Taylor, Canonsburg,Pa. • Men’s 45–George Learmonth, York, Pa. • Men’s 35–Mark Panepinto, Wheeling, W.Va.

hoists herprize. Michaela Kissell,women’s singleschampion, and Lauren Greco (right). Women’s doubleschampions:Stacey Lee(left) amd.usta.com Central PA District centralpa.usta.com

Participants dressed in pink and used pink tennis balls to show their support for the fight against breast cancer. Tennis enthusiasts “rally” for a cure

he First Annual Rally for the Cure® Women’s Doubles Tennis Classic was held on June 14, 2008, at Negley Park in Lemoyne, Pa. Suzy Atkins, Leslie Collins, April Gift, and Stephanie Otto served as the planning committee for the event, which raised $1,600 for the Susan G. TKomen Foundation. A group of 24 tennis enthusiasts participated in the doubles tournament held at the scenic setting overlooking the Susquehanna River and the state Capitol. Sharon Bear, Mechanicsburg, Pa., hits the court at the Women’s Doubles Tennis Classic benefiting Rally for the L.B. Smith Ford of Lemoyne and West Shore Tennis Club of Mechanicsburg, Pa., served as the main Cure®. sponsors of this year’s event. Breakfast, lunch and beverages were provided thanks to the generous donations from local businesses. Themed gift baskets were auctioned and a Mary Kay representative was on site and donated 20 percent of the day’s sales to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Winners of the tournament received jewelry sets donated by Cleo’s of Lemoyne. “We are proud to introduce this grassroots, cause-oriented program to Lemoyne,” Atkins said. “Together we are helping to get the critical life-saving message of early detection out to tennis players, raise money for breast cancer research, and have fun in the process,” The committee is looking forward to hosting the event next year. Anyone interested in participating can contact the committee through the West Shore Tennis Club at (717) 796-1770. According to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, breast cancer is the leading cause of death for women ages 35-54. The disease accounts for more than 75 percent of all cancer deaths in women 55 years of age and older. Rally for the Cure® is based in Wilton, Conn. If you are interested in hosting your own Rally or social event, further information can be obtained by calling 1-800-327-6811 or by visiting the Web site: www.rallyforthecure.com.

Howe Atwater Hit for Hope In Memoriam he Central PA District would like indsay’s Hope Hit for Hope was held June 27-28 at to recognize the life of the late Howe Bent Creek Country Club in Lititz, Pa. The event, Atwater. Atwater, a 2007 inductee of L a 24-hour tennis marathon, raised over $40,000 for theT USTA Middle States Hall of Fame, passed “Lindsay’s Hope.” Lindsay’s Hope is a non-profit organization, away on July 1 at the age of 82. A state high started by 17-year-old Lindsay Weierbach, which supports school champion in Illinois, Atwater won research for a cure for scleroderma, an autoimmune disease the Lancaster County Open 10 times after that affects the skin and connective tissue. Weierbach has moving to the county in 1955. He was ranked had the antibody for six years and co-founded the organization among the nation’s top 10 in his age category with her parents Kathy and John. Lindsay’s Hope hosts in his 40s, 50s and 60s. In 1986, he won the numerous fundraising events for scleroderma research to help USTA 60 championship, and the others like her. following year he won the Canadian national 60 singles and doubles titles. He was inducted Tennis pros George Zink, Ben Zink, Sean Kelleher, Anne NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 into the first class of the Lancaster County Nguyen, Jack Bippus, and Ryan Jeckel ran court activities Tennis Hall of Fame in 2001. around the clock in half hour sessions with the first hour devoted to the instruction of Special Olympians. For the Lindsay Weierbach (left) and her mom, Atwater’s and prowess on the court Kathy, pose at the first annual Lindsay’s Hope remaining 23 hours, the pros gave half-hour lessons for Hit for Hope event. spanned a number of decades across a number a donation of $100. of states and will always be treasured and remembered. Various sponsors purchased clinic time and donated the courts to Lancaster Boys and Girls Club, Special Olympics of Lancaster, Lancaster Tennis Patrons Association NJTL program and others. [email protected] 29 NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 Delaware District W hits BethanyBeach Corporate LeagueChallenge WTT A great turn out! T R Tutoring Association. Senator Tom Carper greets theyoung membersofRodneyStreet Tennis and where we hopetoteachtennisover 1,000children.” Chairman Joe Abelson said,“We toanothersuccessfulseason lookforward are encouragedto “Stay ontheCourts…Not inOne.” Rodney Street ofthe29thseasonwherethe start at-riskyouth through tennisandtutoring USTA ChairmanoftheBoard andPresident Jane Brown Grimes celebrated contact Sue Gardiner atElkton Indoor Tennis at(410)398-8282. For informationregarding inJanuary CorporateLeagueopportunities 2009, Challenge atSea ColonyinBethany Beach, Del., May 16-18. 30 odney Street kicksoff29 [email protected] parents, volunteers andstaff, Senator Tom Carperof Delaware and Rodney Street Tennis and Tutoring Association.Alongwithyouth, he skies were clear on June 16 for the Opening Day Ceremony of the participated inthe participated World TeamTennis, CorporateLeague AstraZeneca, University ofDelaware andJPMorgan Chase orld TeamTennis CorporateLeagueteamsfrom (WTT) th season County (WTCNCC). volunteers fromof thewonderful the Women’s Tennis ClubofNew Castle earned, andtheevent went offwithoutahitch,thanks tothededication smashing success.Theathletesenjoyed thecompetitionand medalsthey Venus starsduringyouth clinic C the Special Olympic Games Lots ofSmiles andGreat F court asamemberofthePhiladelphia Freedoms.court Thechildrenher instruction. thengottowatchherinactionasshehitthe children tomeetthetennissuperstarandabenefitfrom hadthe opportunity Smash, forDelaware youth atDuPont Club. About Country 80lucky aclinic,sponsoredrun by USTA Middle States andtheDelaware resh offwinning the2008 Wimbledon title, Venus Williams helped Olympics Summer Games. The games, held in June, were a were June, in held games, The Games. Special Summer 2008 Olympics the at medals their receive place) (third Woods Judy and place) (second TomWells place), laudia Brown (first delaware.usta.com T ennis at Eastern PA District easternpa.usta.com Sexes Battle at Mecco

nited States Congressman Charlie Dent, Representative of Pennsylvania’s 15th District, took to the courts on Tuesday, July 8, for the 2008 “Battle of the Sexes” exhibition match at the Mecco Cup. Dent, who teamed with UTournament Director Fernando Perez, faced intense competition from professional tennis players from the USTA Women’s Pro Circuit in this good-natured competition for gender supremacy on the court. Eventually he ended up playing side by side with the 1993 Doubles Champion . Despite Jensen jumping in as a substitute for Tournament Director Fernando Perez (Allentown, Pa.), the men were defeated by their formidable opponents, (Bradenton, Fla.), who last year was ranked the No. 43 singles player in the world, and Asia Muhammed (Las Vegas, N.V.).

Dent, a lifetime Allentown resident, graduated from William Allen High School in Charlie Dent (left) and Fernando Perez (right) partnered 1978. He received a bachelor’s degree from Penn State in 1982 and returned to the for the 2008 Battle of the Sexes. Valley to earn his master’s degree from Lehigh University in 1993. From 1991 to 1998, Dent served as a member of the Pennsylvania State House of Representatives before moving on to the State Senate from 1999 to 2004. Since 2005, Dent has been representing Pennsylvania’s 15th District, which is comprised of the Lehigh Valley, Northampton County and parts of Montgomery and Berks counties. He is an ardent tennis fan, player and supporter of professional tennis in Allentown.

Lehigh Valley Hosts Eighth Consecutive Mecco Cup Venezuela’s Sequera Takes Title For the eighth consecutive year, the stars of the USTA Women’s Pro Circuit returned to the Lehigh Valley for the 2008 Mecco Cup. The tournament, a $50,000 USTA Women’s Pro Circuit event, took place at Westend Racquet Club in Allentown, Pa., July 6-13. Luke Jensen, the 1993 French Open Doubles Champion, served as the honorary chairperson.

Milagros Sequera of Venezuela defeated amateur collegiate player Amanda Fink (Calabasas, Calif.), 6-2, 6-0. In the women’s doubles final, , United States, and (4), , def. Chin-Wei Chan, Taipei, and (1), South Africa, 6-2, 6-3.

The main draw for this USTA Women’s $50,000 Challenger featured 32 professional singles players and 16 doubles teams. The qualifying tournament included an additional 32 world-class players.

Proceeds from the 2008 Mecco Cup were donated to the Miracle League and KidsPeace Children’s Hospital. The Miracle League of the Lehigh Valley allows special needs youngsters to participate in a league of their own, giving them a chance to play ball in a safe and supportive setting. The hospital helps local kids and teens who suffer from traumas and emotional pain in their young lives. The only such hospital dedicated just to children in a 75-mile radius, it provides them with a Runner-up Amanda Fink (left) and Champion (right) deeper level of care than they could receive at home or in their communities. pose before the start of the championship match.

Muhlenberg’s After-School Program a Hit!

Allentown School District’s Muhlenberg Elementary School has an after-school program that is put together by volunteers who love tennis and understand the benefits it can provide today’s youth. Oakmont Tennis Club pros Jeff Schmidt and Bob Dragotta, along with club president Jeff Wenck and several board members, help with the program which is NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 overseen by physical education teacher Inez Seyler and parent volunteer, Debora Roberson. The youngsters are taught basic tennis shots with a culminating match-play session. The kids had a special treat when , a professional women’s tennis player from Uzbekistan, who was practicing on the red clay courts at Oakmont, in preparation for the , took the time to answer questions from the fourth and fifth grade Participants of the Muhlenberg Elementary after-school Muhlenberg students. program pose with Varvara Lepchenko (back row, center) at Oakmont Tennis Club. [email protected] 31 NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 New Jersey District A at MECCO Cup New Jersey well represented as theiradviceforjuniorslookingtofollow theirpath. the pro tour. Theyshared someofthetrialsandtribulationstheyface,as well all have hadsomesuccessesanddisappointmentsintheirquesttomakeiton All three grew upandlearnedtoplaytennisintheMercer Countyarea and rounds indoubles.KimCoutswonaround inthesinglesmaindraw. in asLucky Losersandlostinthefirstround ofsingles.Neha wontwo never give up. Andhave fun! how tobeagoodcompetitor. Believe inyourself thatyou candoit,and tournaments asyou canin thejuniors.Ithinkthat’s thetimewhenyou learn to beingthebest pro tennis player you canbe, thengoforit!Play asmany and alotofupsdowns, butifyou’re willingtodedicateyour wholelife work, of lot a for prepared Be Advice forbuddingtennisplayers: your togetbetterandimprovemistakes, try forthenext time,andmove on. from Learn sport. any in as disappointments, are there course Of best. your doing and fighting keep to have You just battle. a for mentally, youyou have steponthecourt, tobecompletelyready, bothphysicallyand Dealing withdisappointment:It’s definitelytoughoutthere. time Every world, andwhojustrecently wasafinalistat Wimbledon. great toplaysomeoneformerlyrankedNo. tohave theopportunity 1inthe Also, inApril, andIbeatSamantha mypartner Stosur andherpartner. It was Best momentsofar: Winning myfirstprofessional tournamentlastsummer. a lotofwork, butIreally enjoy it. three hours per day on court, and then 30-45 minutes of fitness. It’s definitely month. 2-3 weeks outofevery When Iamhome,usuallyspendabout What lifeislike:Lots and lots of traveling!! I’m usually away at tournaments my gameaton,andthatI’m amuchbetterplayer now thanIwasayear ago. I amNo. 288,soithasdefinitelybeenabigjump!IfeellikeI’ve improved Fast facts:Age19;Exactly ayear ago,IwasrankedNo. 638.Rightnow, 32 contact Millie Sams at:[email protected]. For informationontheNew Jersey District, [email protected] in the draw. The Uberoi sisters, Neha and Shikha, both got got both Shikha, and Neha sisters, Uberoi The draw. the were in in July inAllentown, Pa., three formerNew Jersey District players t theMECCOCup, awomen’s USTA Pro Circuit tournamentheld Neptune, N.J. Couts, Kim

on theresults, more onthesmallsuccessineachmatch. it isyour dream andthatyou really love it. Work nottofocus andtry smart Advice forbuddingtennisplayers: Make sure you wanttodoit.Make sure day.me every a highorlow. It isagrindouthere onthetour, butIlove whatitteaches coaster, lotsofupsanddowns. Iamlearningtostayhappywhetheron Dealing with disappointments:Thelifeofapro tennisplayer isa roller the USOpen. aswell asplayingagainstMartina NavratilovaArvidsson, indoublesduring Best moment sofar:Beating two top50players, andSofia days before hitting theroad again. Shikha. Iplay2-3tournaments inarow; thenIgobacktotrainforafew What lifeislike:Iamtraveling almost25weeks ayear, 20usuallywith parents, coaches,teachers, friends.Be humble. timeyou areevery down. Leadabalanced life. Respect your team,i.e., give up. Be ready tolosealot.Know thatsuccessisdefinedasgetting up Advice forbudding tennisplayers: Work hard andbepatient.Don’t ever term memory! player losesonceaweek onaverage. Be ready forthat.Learntohave short Dealing withdisappointments: THAT is life’s lesson right there. A pro tennis -there is nothingthatcouldever replacemy country thatfeeling. silver medalforIndia intheAsianGames inDoha 2006.Ilove playingfor Best momentsofar:My biggestmoment,oroneofthem,waswinningthe newjersey.usta.com Princeton, N.J. Neha U Princeton, N.J. Shikha U me toplaymybesttennis.” injuries lastyear thatdidnotallow in BocaRaton,Fla.; “Ihadafew spends mostofthetimetraining late July; rankedNo. 196ayear ago; Fast facts:Age22;Ranked350asof a day, plusfitnessfor1-2hours. What life is like: We train 4-5 hours singles and80+indoubles. back! Iwasrankedashigh122 Now I feel much better and am coming I lostmyrankingalmostcompletely. withforsolong. that Iwasstruggling off to take care of asthma-related issues Fast facts:Age25;Lastyear Itook beroi, beroi,

Philadelphia District philadelphia.usta.com

Parents key to getting kids on court

Beth Hoover (center) helped run the Philadelphia District’s JTT District Championship as well as the Middle States JTT Section Championship.

he deadline to register a team for Jr. Team Tennis (JTT) was the following day and TSuzanne Jackson was just beginning to learn about the program. Little did she know that when her phone conversation ended with local JTT Area League Coordinator, Beth Hoover, Parent-coaches Kim Hall (left) and Barbara Hurt Simmons (right) pose with their Jackson would have registered not one, but team – the Whitford Aces. two teams.

A West Chester, Pa., resident, Jackson, had no idea what she was getting herself into, except Summer JTT League. The league is made up at community courts, as they are now for the fact that her two sons would now have of 280 players, who comprise 27 teams, many coordinators and coaches for their sons more time on the tennis court. The two boys of which are organized by parents. and daughters’ tennis teams. participated in the Gold Cup program (see page 6) over the winter and were looking to become The league coordinator, Hoover, is a parent too. Another enthusiastic and devoted parent more involved in tennis. In an effort to get her As the mother of four children, three of which coordinator is Barbara Hurt Simmons, who two sons on a team, Jackson contacted Hoover, play tennis, she has been immersed in a tennis organizes tennis summer camps at Downingtown who put her in touch with the USTA Middle environment for years. Her oldest daughter East High School, club tennis at the middle States Tennis Service Representative (TSR), competed in various local tournaments, but school, and the a JTT 14-and-under Intermediate Justin DePietropaolo. Because it seemed the found she missed the team aspect that she had team, the Whitford Aces. Her two daughters have other JTT teams had reached their player limit, with other sports. both played JTT and she admits to her love DePietropaolo encouraged her to start her of being involved with each of them. “The atmosphere at the local tournaments was own team. so intense,” said Hoover. “JTT is still competitive, “The best part of JTT is the enjoyment of “The day before the deadline, my son’s high school but the players get to compete as a team.” watching your kids play tennis in a team atmosphere,” team had a match and after the match the coach said Hurt Simmons. “Kids see tennis as an The program’s stress on a laidback and fun asked if any of the boys would like to participate individual sport, yet JTT provides the positive atmosphere has kept Hoover active in JTT for in JTT,” said Jackson. “We had a great response; experience of supporting one another and the past two years. With four kids, she recognizes too many for just one team.” cheering for your friends on the court.” the importance of spending time with your family Fortunately for Jackson, the team managers and believes tennis to be a great sport for families Both Hurt Simmons and Jackson have proven you were two girls from the high school girl’s tennis to be involved in together. can be a tennis novice or veteran and still organize team and they were willing to ask some of their a JTT team. The sport has continued to flourish “Tennis is one sport families can easily play teammates to join the team. Soon enough, because of the supportive and passionate parents

together,” said Hoover. “Courts are readily NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 who recognize their involvement with their Jackson had enough interested boys and girls available around town and it is amazing how children as a priceless experience. to fill two teams. fast the kids’ skills pass the parents.” – Lauren Reddy Jackson is just one of the many parents involved Many of the parent’s participation has carried in coordinating teams in the Chester County far beyond just playing against their children

[email protected] 33 NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000 Middle States Happenings 34 4 1 auction whichbenefited Fox Chase. of Fox Chase Cancer Center. McShane was the winning bidder in a half-time poses withJohn McEnroe, McShane’s daughterCasey, andLindaHammell Photo 4:Dr. John McShane, MD,thePhiladelphia Freedoms teamdoctor, Cure® Women’s Doubles Tennis ClassicintheCentralPA District. Atkinis andLeslieCollins,theorganizers oftheFirst AnnualRallyforthe Photo 3:AprilGift (Front) and(backrow: lefttoright)Stephanie Otto, Suzy Philadelphia Freedoms versus Delaware Smash matchonJuly 8. NJD Secretary Millie Sams meettennisstar Venus Williams priorto the Photo 2:New Jersey District (NJD)President Ellen V. Williams and event’s chairperson. honorary Cup. Jensen, the1993French Open Doublesasthe Champion,served (Breinigsville, Pa.) ataspecialtennis clinicforsponsorsatthe2008Mecco Photo 1:Lefttoright:Luke Jensen poseswithArlenePierantozzi [email protected] 2 6 5 to Right):ConnorLisco,Cara Wirth to Right):Adam Salam, andDavid KimmyBorza Kazakevich.Back (Left take abreak intheactionSt. Louis.Front: Elise Held. Middle (Left Photo 7:Members oftheUSTA Middle States Boys/Girls 16Zone Team and Jessie Rybacki. (right) chatswithPhiladelphia Freedoms staffmembers Steve Jackson Photo 6:2008USTA Middle States Hall ofFame inducteeGeorge Wills ran aCardio Tennis workshop forMCCmembers. Open women’s singleschampion–attheMerion Cricket Club. Austin poses with Tracy Austin –former World No. 1and19791981 US Photo 5:Merion Cricket Club’s (MCC)Director of Tennis, Pascal Collard, 3 7 NETPLAY • FALL 2008 • 610.935.5000

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