Wimble-Ryder 2010
As you might already know, we have some phenomenal multi-sport athletes in our tennis program, and the next big Gulf Harbour event is tailor made for them…of course that doesn’t mean that those of us who aren’t quite as phenomenal won’t have a chance to capture the Wimble-Ryder MVP award. I wish I were eligible, but alas, I’ll only be able to laud the victor.
How about some details? Per Event Coordinator, Tim Baldwin, the event will be held on Saturday and Sunday (May 1 and 2), 12:00p.m.-start on Saturday for tennis and a 1:00p.m.-start for golf on Sunday. The winner will be the individual who garners the most overall points (click here for full details).
Tennis Program Strategic Planning Team
You may have heard that the Board of Governors has begun the Strategic Planning for the direction the Club will be taking, now that it is your club. Of course such planning will encompass the tennis program, and as such, input from tennis players is vital to the process.
Bob Ostrom and Mike Curran will spearhead a group of active Tennis Members who will represent the tennis program, and present our ideas to the Board. The members of the team include Monica Robb, Meg Jacobs, Terry Brady, and Judy Jones.
Your ideas about our facility, our programs, and the direction you would like the tennis program to take will be important contributions in determining what tennis at Gulf Harbour will be like for years to come. Please share them with members of the Tennis Strategic Planning Team. For a more comprehensive outline of the process, please click here.
2010 – 2011 LCWTL Teams Almost Here
The wait to see how our new process works and what our teams will look like is almost over! The Captains Council will meet next Monday (26th) and Thursday (29th) to conduct the first ever “draft” for LCWTL team play. I hope you met the deadline to register your intent to play. Check the list of registered players to ensure that your name is on the rated and/or senior lists, and if it isn't please send and email to leaguetennis@gulfharbour.net. And, (I know you've been waiting for this!) the ratings are in and you can see them by clicking here. Important note: If you are planning to appeal your rating, please do so ASAP and notify the Captains Council of your intent to appeal, by forwarding an email to leaguetennis@gulfharbour.net.
Fun Stuff
I just want to express my gratitude to our ladies teams who invite us to their LCWTL League luncheons. Although I’m sure some pros pretend that they don’t like (surely it can only be pretense), it is truly a pleasure to sit and chat over a pleasant meal with the ladies with whom we spend so much time on court.
I have had at least one or two of our men walk by as I’ve given a lesson to one of our lovely players, and asked with comic facetiousness, “And you get paid to do that?” Well, I can only imagine what they might say if they saw us enjoying the company of several gorgeous women, with the bonus of complimentary food and drink! It’s one heck of a job, and somebody’s gotta do it…I’m just glad I’m one of those “somebodies.” Thanks ladies!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Gulf Harbour Tennis Davis Cup Runneth Over
Sixty-one registered and 61 played in Gulf Harbour’s most recent tennis event this past Saturday and Sunday (April 10th & 11th). That’s an exceptional registration-to-appearance ratio for a Club tennis event in any part of the world. Those were the numbers for the Annual Davis Cup competition that featured six teams with 10 players each (one had 11), who battled each other for the right to be called, “Davis Cup Champions of the 2009 - 2010 Season.”
On paper the teams were well-matched, but as in all sports, you have to play the game. The first round started with Bill Cole’s Team Canada sweeping all four positions, although Jim King and Sandy Gebara of Ed Bonkowski’s Team Germany (13 points) gave Bill Donegan and Janie Heck a scare, coming back from 6-2 down before losing 6-8. Canada took the early Cup lead with 32 points after the first round.
Right on their heels, however, was Marianne Crouch’s Team Germany with 29 points, after they lost just one match to Alan Canfield’s Team USA (17 points). Alan and wife Lili Canfield pulled out a tough win against Pete and Marianne McElroy (8-5) to give Team USA its only win.
Team USA came roaring back in its second match of the day, taking 26 points against Tim Baldwin’s Team England (16 points), who were playing their first match of the event. Team Germany (18 points) had a better showing in their second match as well, splitting matches and points with Amy Ciarrocchi’s Team Italy (18 points).
In perfect symmetry, the teams won and lost all four matches by the identical scores of 8-1. Scoring symmetry was definitely the theme of the day as two of the matches in the Team England versus Team USA were 8-2 and two ended 8-3.
Team Canada continued their strong performance in their second match, eliminating Team Italy from championship contention by a score of 24 – 15. Team Ireland faltered a bit in their second match, however, dropping two matches and losing the contest 27-21. The highlight of the affair between Ireland and England was Penny Lownes (partnered with Bill Crouch) hitting a volley winner on match-point to seal the 8-6 victory on Court 4 for Ireland.
Getting out to a sizeable lead early in the event proved to be the winning formula for Canada. At the end of the first day, the tally was Canada- 56, Ireland-50, USA-43, England-43, Italy-33, and Germany-31. The event format scheduled the top finishers in the two flights to face each other for the Davis Cup Championship, the two teams with fewest points would contest the 5th and 6th positions, and the middle level point-getters would battle for 3rd and 4th places.
Although it threatened from the outset, the rain held off long enough on Sunday for third-through-sixth places to be decided on the court. England avenged a first-round loss to Team USA in winning the playoff for third, winning three of the four matches (28 – 16). Team Germany came close to sweeping Italy, winning three of four matches, and losing the other 6-8 in a tough duel won by Rich Fox and Joan Palermo over Mark Davis and Wennie Johannes.
Unfortunately, the Championship match was submerged beneath the torrent from the sky, and Team Canada was awarded the Davis Cup based upon their dominant Day-1 performance. Team Ireland took second place with the point total amassed in Saturday’s skirmishes.
Despite the terrific responses we have received over the course of the season, as I reflect on this particular event and all of the other events and activities we have had, I don’t remember as many participants commenting on what a great time they had with any other event. Hopefully next season we will be able to see the Davis Cup played through fruition, and we look forward to even more participants joining the fray. Special thanks to the captains, and to all who made the event what it was!
On paper the teams were well-matched, but as in all sports, you have to play the game. The first round started with Bill Cole’s Team Canada sweeping all four positions, although Jim King and Sandy Gebara of Ed Bonkowski’s Team Germany (13 points) gave Bill Donegan and Janie Heck a scare, coming back from 6-2 down before losing 6-8. Canada took the early Cup lead with 32 points after the first round.
Right on their heels, however, was Marianne Crouch’s Team Germany with 29 points, after they lost just one match to Alan Canfield’s Team USA (17 points). Alan and wife Lili Canfield pulled out a tough win against Pete and Marianne McElroy (8-5) to give Team USA its only win.
Team USA came roaring back in its second match of the day, taking 26 points against Tim Baldwin’s Team England (16 points), who were playing their first match of the event. Team Germany (18 points) had a better showing in their second match as well, splitting matches and points with Amy Ciarrocchi’s Team Italy (18 points).
In perfect symmetry, the teams won and lost all four matches by the identical scores of 8-1. Scoring symmetry was definitely the theme of the day as two of the matches in the Team England versus Team USA were 8-2 and two ended 8-3.
Team Canada continued their strong performance in their second match, eliminating Team Italy from championship contention by a score of 24 – 15. Team Ireland faltered a bit in their second match, however, dropping two matches and losing the contest 27-21. The highlight of the affair between Ireland and England was Penny Lownes (partnered with Bill Crouch) hitting a volley winner on match-point to seal the 8-6 victory on Court 4 for Ireland.
Getting out to a sizeable lead early in the event proved to be the winning formula for Canada. At the end of the first day, the tally was Canada- 56, Ireland-50, USA-43, England-43, Italy-33, and Germany-31. The event format scheduled the top finishers in the two flights to face each other for the Davis Cup Championship, the two teams with fewest points would contest the 5th and 6th positions, and the middle level point-getters would battle for 3rd and 4th places.
Although it threatened from the outset, the rain held off long enough on Sunday for third-through-sixth places to be decided on the court. England avenged a first-round loss to Team USA in winning the playoff for third, winning three of the four matches (28 – 16). Team Germany came close to sweeping Italy, winning three of four matches, and losing the other 6-8 in a tough duel won by Rich Fox and Joan Palermo over Mark Davis and Wennie Johannes.
Unfortunately, the Championship match was submerged beneath the torrent from the sky, and Team Canada was awarded the Davis Cup based upon their dominant Day-1 performance. Team Ireland took second place with the point total amassed in Saturday’s skirmishes.
Despite the terrific responses we have received over the course of the season, as I reflect on this particular event and all of the other events and activities we have had, I don’t remember as many participants commenting on what a great time they had with any other event. Hopefully next season we will be able to see the Davis Cup played through fruition, and we look forward to even more participants joining the fray. Special thanks to the captains, and to all who made the event what it was!
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Things are Happening in Gulf Harbour Tennis!
What’s Hot?
If you haven’t already signed up for Davis Cup, you are almost out of time. The deadline is in two days, Thursday, April 8 by noon. We have 53 of the 64 slots already filled and would love to have the kind of record participation for the Davis Cup as we have had for other events this season.
With doubles and mixed doubles on tap, this is probably your last chance to play with some of your tennis friends until the fall, so come on out and enjoy the snowbird swan song. Remember, there will be awards for the best patriotic outfits, so come in garb appropriate to your team country.
The deadline (Thursday, April 15th) to submit your “Intent to Play Form” if you would like to play on one of Gulf Harbour’s Lee County Women’s Tennis League (LCWTL) Teams is quickly approaching. Complete the form online or stop by the Pro Shop for hard copy if you don’t have access to the internet.
If you are about to leave Gulf Harbour, you can’t possibly leave without checking out Laurie’s “End of Season Sale” in the Pro Shop! Is there another time when you could pick up an item in our Pro Shop for less than $10? No, I don’t mean lip balm. But I think that’s only $9.99 as well. Seriously though; stop in, make your final purchases and say your good byes to Laurie before you leave.
Your Teams
Gulf Harbour fielded 22 teams for league play during the 2009 – 2010 season, including 12 Lee County Women’s Tennis League, seven Lee County Men’s Tennis Leagues, and three in United States Tennis Association Leagues. From those 22 teams, Gulf Harbour produced five Division Champions (2 men, 2 women, 1 mixed); seven of our eight men's teams finished among the top five teams in their divisions; and from all indications, 50% of our women's teams will finish among the top five teams in their divisions.
Gulf Harbour’s LCWTL 3.0-Minus team led by Jenny King and Darlene Mattcheck dominated their division, leading all but one of the 18 weeks of league play, and finished the season 14 points ahead of the second place team. The 3.0-Minus team was the only LCWTL Division Champion for Gulf Harbour this season.
Also finishing among the leaders in their respective LCWTL divisions were the 50-Plus Gold team captained by Norma Schuyler and Carlotta Clark (2nd); the 3.0 Double Trouble team led by Sally Mellendorf and Linda Van Wyk (3rd); the 50-Plus Bronze team captained by Effie parker and Marianne McElroy (4th); Teressa Crocker and Wennie Johannes’ 60-plus team (4th); and the 4.0 team led by Marcia DeVries and Mary Harrington.
Gulf Harbour’s Men’s teams represented the Club extremely well in Lee County men’s competition, all finishing sixth or higher, and two claiming Division Championships. In the Men's 50-Plus Tennis League of Lee County, Tim Baldwin and Rich Fox’s White-A team led their division from wire-to-wire over the 15-week season, and clinched the title by 14 points.
In the Men's 70-Plus Tennis League of Lee County, Terry Brady’s 69-ers managed to hold off the second place team by two points. After beginning the season in third place, the 69-ers marched inexorably toward the lead, and taking the top spot for keeps in Week 13. It was only the second season of existence for the 69-ers, whose seven sweeps surpassed any other team in the entire League.
Other men’s teams that finished among the top-five in their divisions include John Hess’ White-C (2nd); George Kane’s Red-A (3rd); Tony Cupaiuolo’s Blue-B (3rd); and Fran Kelly’s Blue-C (5th). Just missing the top-five by one point, after a season of defaults, was Jim Masiello’s Blue-A team, which finished a respectable 6th.
Men’s Intramurals
Also team related, though not as serious, but every bit as much fun, as the Lee County and USTA team competition, is the Men’s Intramural competition which is in week No.3. After the first two weeks of play, Tim Baldwin’s Dirty Dozen is dismantling the competition, holding a 27-point lead over Jim Masiello’s Court Jammers, and are too far ahead of Terry Brady’s Swingers and Don Pitts’ Zazus to list the point spread. This is the final week of play, with the last matches this Thursday (4/8) afternoon.
Member Corner
We do have some talent amongst our tennis players, don’t we? A prime example is Carol Carr, who is a Club Champion in golf and also a finalist in the Ball Bashers B-Division in the tennis Mixed Doubles Championships as well.
Alan Canfield is leading his division in the Ultimate Tennis Spring League which features highly competitive, fun singles play. As a former Ultimate Tennis champion myself, I know how much fun it is to play the league, and how difficult it can be to go undefeated through the regular season and playoffs. Go Alan! Bring home the trophy.
Fun Night for Lee County Tennis
What are you doing on the evening of Friday, April 23rd? Well, in case you are looking for something to do, you can join MJ and I and Mike and Tara as we dine for a good cause (Lee County Community Tennis Association) at Nirvana. If you like Indian food and haven’t tried Nirvana, $25 will get you access to a full buffet, a glass of wine and a good time with very congenial staff. Click here for more details.
Your Pros
We want to thank those of you who cheered us on during Pro League this season. Mike and I didn’t have stellar seasons (and I won’t even bore you with our myriad excuses), but Joel played splendidly for almost the entire year, losing only 1 match, for his team, which finished 2nd.
Despite being unable to compete much once our season started in 2009, I managed to finish with a No.3 USPTA Men’s 50 Singles National Ranking and No.11 in Men’s 50 Doubles. I know it doesn’t look like it out there these days, but early last year I wasn’t too bad. Maybe in 2011 Mike and I will rebound and Joel will continue his rise. Joel is shooting to play on the No.1 court in Pro League next season.
We'll see you this weekend! Game, set, match...
If you haven’t already signed up for Davis Cup, you are almost out of time. The deadline is in two days, Thursday, April 8 by noon. We have 53 of the 64 slots already filled and would love to have the kind of record participation for the Davis Cup as we have had for other events this season.
With doubles and mixed doubles on tap, this is probably your last chance to play with some of your tennis friends until the fall, so come on out and enjoy the snowbird swan song. Remember, there will be awards for the best patriotic outfits, so come in garb appropriate to your team country.
The deadline (Thursday, April 15th) to submit your “Intent to Play Form” if you would like to play on one of Gulf Harbour’s Lee County Women’s Tennis League (LCWTL) Teams is quickly approaching. Complete the form online or stop by the Pro Shop for hard copy if you don’t have access to the internet.
If you are about to leave Gulf Harbour, you can’t possibly leave without checking out Laurie’s “End of Season Sale” in the Pro Shop! Is there another time when you could pick up an item in our Pro Shop for less than $10? No, I don’t mean lip balm. But I think that’s only $9.99 as well. Seriously though; stop in, make your final purchases and say your good byes to Laurie before you leave.
Your Teams
Gulf Harbour fielded 22 teams for league play during the 2009 – 2010 season, including 12 Lee County Women’s Tennis League, seven Lee County Men’s Tennis Leagues, and three in United States Tennis Association Leagues. From those 22 teams, Gulf Harbour produced five Division Champions (2 men, 2 women, 1 mixed); seven of our eight men's teams finished among the top five teams in their divisions; and from all indications, 50% of our women's teams will finish among the top five teams in their divisions.
Gulf Harbour’s LCWTL 3.0-Minus team led by Jenny King and Darlene Mattcheck dominated their division, leading all but one of the 18 weeks of league play, and finished the season 14 points ahead of the second place team. The 3.0-Minus team was the only LCWTL Division Champion for Gulf Harbour this season.
Also finishing among the leaders in their respective LCWTL divisions were the 50-Plus Gold team captained by Norma Schuyler and Carlotta Clark (2nd); the 3.0 Double Trouble team led by Sally Mellendorf and Linda Van Wyk (3rd); the 50-Plus Bronze team captained by Effie parker and Marianne McElroy (4th); Teressa Crocker and Wennie Johannes’ 60-plus team (4th); and the 4.0 team led by Marcia DeVries and Mary Harrington.
Gulf Harbour’s Men’s teams represented the Club extremely well in Lee County men’s competition, all finishing sixth or higher, and two claiming Division Championships. In the Men's 50-Plus Tennis League of Lee County, Tim Baldwin and Rich Fox’s White-A team led their division from wire-to-wire over the 15-week season, and clinched the title by 14 points.
In the Men's 70-Plus Tennis League of Lee County, Terry Brady’s 69-ers managed to hold off the second place team by two points. After beginning the season in third place, the 69-ers marched inexorably toward the lead, and taking the top spot for keeps in Week 13. It was only the second season of existence for the 69-ers, whose seven sweeps surpassed any other team in the entire League.
Other men’s teams that finished among the top-five in their divisions include John Hess’ White-C (2nd); George Kane’s Red-A (3rd); Tony Cupaiuolo’s Blue-B (3rd); and Fran Kelly’s Blue-C (5th). Just missing the top-five by one point, after a season of defaults, was Jim Masiello’s Blue-A team, which finished a respectable 6th.
Men’s Intramurals
Also team related, though not as serious, but every bit as much fun, as the Lee County and USTA team competition, is the Men’s Intramural competition which is in week No.3. After the first two weeks of play, Tim Baldwin’s Dirty Dozen is dismantling the competition, holding a 27-point lead over Jim Masiello’s Court Jammers, and are too far ahead of Terry Brady’s Swingers and Don Pitts’ Zazus to list the point spread. This is the final week of play, with the last matches this Thursday (4/8) afternoon.
Member Corner
We do have some talent amongst our tennis players, don’t we? A prime example is Carol Carr, who is a Club Champion in golf and also a finalist in the Ball Bashers B-Division in the tennis Mixed Doubles Championships as well.
Alan Canfield is leading his division in the Ultimate Tennis Spring League which features highly competitive, fun singles play. As a former Ultimate Tennis champion myself, I know how much fun it is to play the league, and how difficult it can be to go undefeated through the regular season and playoffs. Go Alan! Bring home the trophy.
Fun Night for Lee County Tennis
What are you doing on the evening of Friday, April 23rd? Well, in case you are looking for something to do, you can join MJ and I and Mike and Tara as we dine for a good cause (Lee County Community Tennis Association) at Nirvana. If you like Indian food and haven’t tried Nirvana, $25 will get you access to a full buffet, a glass of wine and a good time with very congenial staff. Click here for more details.
Your Pros
We want to thank those of you who cheered us on during Pro League this season. Mike and I didn’t have stellar seasons (and I won’t even bore you with our myriad excuses), but Joel played splendidly for almost the entire year, losing only 1 match, for his team, which finished 2nd.
Despite being unable to compete much once our season started in 2009, I managed to finish with a No.3 USPTA Men’s 50 Singles National Ranking and No.11 in Men’s 50 Doubles. I know it doesn’t look like it out there these days, but early last year I wasn’t too bad. Maybe in 2011 Mike and I will rebound and Joel will continue his rise. Joel is shooting to play on the No.1 court in Pro League next season.
We'll see you this weekend! Game, set, match...
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Tennis Celebration Banquet a Fitting Climax
Wow! Awesome! Expressions such as these would be apt responses to the terrific turnout and fantastic festivities at last night’s Annual Tennis Celebration Banquet. If any of the 135 attendees didn’t have a good time, it was because he or she didn’t feel well, or holds a natural (or unnatural as the case may be) antipathy for lots of people having a great time.
From the delightful décor courtesy of Anna “The Diva” Dance and Pat Ostrom, the fabulous fare from Chef Norbert and his staff, the splendid service provided by Georgine Davidson and her crew, the dancing display by Joel and his numerous “Joelettes” (who will remain anonymous to protect their marriages), and the sagely short presentation by our dynamic Director, Mike Curran, the event was a smash, a winner, an ace…ok, I got a little carried away there!
Unfortunately, keeping it short meant that we didn’t get to welcome some of the new members who were in attendance for the first time, such as Tom and Bev Auda, Angela Mitrisin and Scott Turner, Judy Wilson, Chip and Nannette Graddy to name a few. And, we didn’t get to mention how good it was to see individuals like Linda Gardiner, Preston Clark, Bob Ostrom, Todd Lewis and others bounce back from serious health challenges to join the celebration.
Also in the name of brevity, we didn’t take the time to express our gratitude to:
• Bob Ostrom for continuing to champion the tennis program despite immense personal challenges
• Lili Canfield, Connie Hess, Terry Brady, Bill Wright, John Hess, Jim Rollero and others who contributed to the record-breaking Memorial Foundation tennis effort
• George Kane and Linda VanWyk for the major role they played in making our Club Championship events so successful
• Amy and Len Ciarrocchi for providing outstanding banners and sign work for our events
• Linda VanWyk for so adeptly taking the helm of the LCWTL Captains Council
• Tim Baldwin for all the organizing he does
• Laurie Giordano for keeping our ladies in the latest tennis styles and keeping the pros on track…as much as that is possible
• Jerry Jimenez for keeping our courts as well-groomed as any in Southwest Florida
• Georgine Davidson, Mike Snyder and their staffs, who stepped up to help make our events the successes that they were
• Meg Jacobs for bringing her champagne personality to the courts for every single event
• To each and every one of you for making the tennis program what it is.
Despite the omissions for brevity’s sake, the event was nothing short of spectacular. So successful was the event that the following mega-hit spinoffs are now in production:
• How to present over 60 awards in 30 minutes or less by Mike Curran
• How to have potentially disabling surgery, endure debilitating radiation treatments while appearing as though you have not a care in the world by Bob Ostrom
• How to show up Michael Jackson and John Travolta in three steps, while sandwiched between 13 women by Joel Hampton
• How to maintain a humble, yet pleased, smile on your face during repeated trips to the podium to collect your hardware while everyone looks on enviously by Jemin Martinsen, Chip Graddy, and Maxwell Thompson
• Presenting fine fashion for the beautifully mature by Anna Dance and Bev Adams
• How to dance, jump, and run rings around people decades younger than you by Peter Karofsky, Judy Schafft, Meg Jacobs
• How to energize a tennis party by the women of the 4.0 team and 3.0 Double Trouble
• How to look properly shocked (as in totally flabbergasted) when your name is called for an award by Sandy Gebara
• How to take 1000 photos while ensuring your smile is featured in 999 of them by John Hess and Jim Rollero
• How to imbibe massive amounts of alcoholic beverages and appear perfectly lucid by _________ (fill in the blank cuz I like my job)
• How to become, and remain, a member of the best tennis program within a 100-mile radius of your home or summer home by all of Gulf Harbour’s tennis members.
In case you missed the bottom line woven through the tangled strands of thought above, last night was truly a fitting climax to a tremendous tennis season during which so many of you contributed so much. As always, we will continue working to enhance your tennis experience, so gear up for an even better season next year! Game, set, match….
and Bev Adams
From the delightful décor courtesy of Anna “The Diva” Dance and Pat Ostrom, the fabulous fare from Chef Norbert and his staff, the splendid service provided by Georgine Davidson and her crew, the dancing display by Joel and his numerous “Joelettes” (who will remain anonymous to protect their marriages), and the sagely short presentation by our dynamic Director, Mike Curran, the event was a smash, a winner, an ace…ok, I got a little carried away there!
Unfortunately, keeping it short meant that we didn’t get to welcome some of the new members who were in attendance for the first time, such as Tom and Bev Auda, Angela Mitrisin and Scott Turner, Judy Wilson, Chip and Nannette Graddy to name a few. And, we didn’t get to mention how good it was to see individuals like Linda Gardiner, Preston Clark, Bob Ostrom, Todd Lewis and others bounce back from serious health challenges to join the celebration.
Also in the name of brevity, we didn’t take the time to express our gratitude to:
• Bob Ostrom for continuing to champion the tennis program despite immense personal challenges
• Lili Canfield, Connie Hess, Terry Brady, Bill Wright, John Hess, Jim Rollero and others who contributed to the record-breaking Memorial Foundation tennis effort
• George Kane and Linda VanWyk for the major role they played in making our Club Championship events so successful
• Amy and Len Ciarrocchi for providing outstanding banners and sign work for our events
• Linda VanWyk for so adeptly taking the helm of the LCWTL Captains Council
• Tim Baldwin for all the organizing he does
• Laurie Giordano for keeping our ladies in the latest tennis styles and keeping the pros on track…as much as that is possible
• Jerry Jimenez for keeping our courts as well-groomed as any in Southwest Florida
• Georgine Davidson, Mike Snyder and their staffs, who stepped up to help make our events the successes that they were
• Meg Jacobs for bringing her champagne personality to the courts for every single event
• To each and every one of you for making the tennis program what it is.
Despite the omissions for brevity’s sake, the event was nothing short of spectacular. So successful was the event that the following mega-hit spinoffs are now in production:
• How to present over 60 awards in 30 minutes or less by Mike Curran
• How to have potentially disabling surgery, endure debilitating radiation treatments while appearing as though you have not a care in the world by Bob Ostrom
• How to show up Michael Jackson and John Travolta in three steps, while sandwiched between 13 women by Joel Hampton
• How to maintain a humble, yet pleased, smile on your face during repeated trips to the podium to collect your hardware while everyone looks on enviously by Jemin Martinsen, Chip Graddy, and Maxwell Thompson
• Presenting fine fashion for the beautifully mature by Anna Dance and Bev Adams
• How to dance, jump, and run rings around people decades younger than you by Peter Karofsky, Judy Schafft, Meg Jacobs
• How to energize a tennis party by the women of the 4.0 team and 3.0 Double Trouble
• How to look properly shocked (as in totally flabbergasted) when your name is called for an award by Sandy Gebara
• How to take 1000 photos while ensuring your smile is featured in 999 of them by John Hess and Jim Rollero
• How to imbibe massive amounts of alcoholic beverages and appear perfectly lucid by _________ (fill in the blank cuz I like my job)
• How to become, and remain, a member of the best tennis program within a 100-mile radius of your home or summer home by all of Gulf Harbour’s tennis members.
In case you missed the bottom line woven through the tangled strands of thought above, last night was truly a fitting climax to a tremendous tennis season during which so many of you contributed so much. As always, we will continue working to enhance your tennis experience, so gear up for an even better season next year! Game, set, match….
and Bev Adams
Monday, March 15, 2010
2009 - 2010 Season Winding Down
An Apology
Ok, before I get rolling here, I'm going to apologize to one of the nicest guys you will ever meet at Gulf Harbour: Maxwell Thompson. Apparently some of the humor in my previous blog was not appreciated for what it was, so I have edited that blog and have asked that the same edit be done on the front page of Harbour Views. The humor was meant for our tennis community, all of whom know that Maxwell is hardly one to go around bragging, and not for direct distribution to the Gulf Harbour community at large. Sorry for any problems Maxwell. Moving onward...
Annual Tennis Celebration
We have 124 members registered for the Annual Tennis Celebration Banquet on the Saturday, the 20th and the maximum number of registrants is 150. It is shaping up to be a shindig of major proportions! It sounds as though anyone who cares about the tennis program and won’t be away has already signed up, but if you haven’t, just click here, login to the Club website, and you too can join the revelry.
Men’s & Women’s Team Competition
Some of our men’s teams have wrapped up their seasons, and it has truly been a successful one for Gulf Harbour’s tennis men, with two teams likely to be champions and all but one amongst the top-five in their divisions. Guys, if you think you will miss the competition, or didn’t get the chance to compete on a men’s team this season, Men’s Intramurals are almost here. See Laurie in the Pro Shop to sign up, and talk to John Hess for more info.
Our women are coming down the stretch also, and we are anticipating at least two champions from ladies teams. Jenny King’s 3.0-Minus team looks good for the top position and Norma Schuyler’s Gold team is closing in on a repeat of last year’s triumph. Stay current by checking out the Team Report on the Team & Leagues page of the Club website.
LCWTL Captains Council
Speaking of teams and leagues, the Notice of Intention to Play, which all members of the female persuasion who wish to play on a Gulf Harbour LCWTL need to complete, will soon be available for online completion thanks to the collaborative efforts of Norma Schuyler and Captains Council Chairperson Linda VanWyk. An updated version of the form is being developed.
If you haven’t yet read the LCWTL Guidelines, a link to the document is available on the Tennis & League page as well. There will be a meeting of the Captains Council this Tuesday, the 16th, and another iteration of the document is likely to emerge. We’ll keep you posted.
Your Pros
Mike’s shoulders are doing better after some “needle therapy” administered by a physician highly recommended by a number of our members. A few MRIs and co-pays later, and our Director is ready for Pro League next week.
That’s right! The final two Pro League events are coming up. The next two Fridays (the 19th and 26th) we are playing at Grandezza and Shadow Wood. As always, we enjoy having you there to represent Gulf Harbour. Apropos to this season spent underwater, we are ready to finish with a splash! Mike’s and T.A.’s teams are trying to avoid the cellar, and Joel’s team seems to be a lock to finish atop the standings. Whichever way it goes, the final two weeks ought to be entertaining.
I’m not sure how Joel’s USTA team is faring, but given the exceptional year he’s having, I imagine they are leading their league. Have you seen Joel’s new two-wheeler? It makes me nervous. Joel has a need for speed, and not just in his tennis game. He’ll also be demonstrating some quick steps at the Celebration too, so get your high-speed cameras ready John, JR.
If you haven’t checked out my USPTA site lately, I’ve made some minor revisions, and added some tidbits of interest on the News page. We will make Gulf Harbour known across the country! You can review the Tips page if you need a little assistance with your game, but don’t have the time or inclination to see me on the court in person (shame on you! Just kidding).
Ok folks, it has been a long day and I'm out of steam. We'll do a season wrap up in a few weeks. Until then, game, set, match...
Ok, before I get rolling here, I'm going to apologize to one of the nicest guys you will ever meet at Gulf Harbour: Maxwell Thompson. Apparently some of the humor in my previous blog was not appreciated for what it was, so I have edited that blog and have asked that the same edit be done on the front page of Harbour Views. The humor was meant for our tennis community, all of whom know that Maxwell is hardly one to go around bragging, and not for direct distribution to the Gulf Harbour community at large. Sorry for any problems Maxwell. Moving onward...
Annual Tennis Celebration
We have 124 members registered for the Annual Tennis Celebration Banquet on the Saturday, the 20th and the maximum number of registrants is 150. It is shaping up to be a shindig of major proportions! It sounds as though anyone who cares about the tennis program and won’t be away has already signed up, but if you haven’t, just click here, login to the Club website, and you too can join the revelry.
Men’s & Women’s Team Competition
Some of our men’s teams have wrapped up their seasons, and it has truly been a successful one for Gulf Harbour’s tennis men, with two teams likely to be champions and all but one amongst the top-five in their divisions. Guys, if you think you will miss the competition, or didn’t get the chance to compete on a men’s team this season, Men’s Intramurals are almost here. See Laurie in the Pro Shop to sign up, and talk to John Hess for more info.
Our women are coming down the stretch also, and we are anticipating at least two champions from ladies teams. Jenny King’s 3.0-Minus team looks good for the top position and Norma Schuyler’s Gold team is closing in on a repeat of last year’s triumph. Stay current by checking out the Team Report on the Team & Leagues page of the Club website.
LCWTL Captains Council
Speaking of teams and leagues, the Notice of Intention to Play, which all members of the female persuasion who wish to play on a Gulf Harbour LCWTL need to complete, will soon be available for online completion thanks to the collaborative efforts of Norma Schuyler and Captains Council Chairperson Linda VanWyk. An updated version of the form is being developed.
If you haven’t yet read the LCWTL Guidelines, a link to the document is available on the Tennis & League page as well. There will be a meeting of the Captains Council this Tuesday, the 16th, and another iteration of the document is likely to emerge. We’ll keep you posted.
Your Pros
Mike’s shoulders are doing better after some “needle therapy” administered by a physician highly recommended by a number of our members. A few MRIs and co-pays later, and our Director is ready for Pro League next week.
That’s right! The final two Pro League events are coming up. The next two Fridays (the 19th and 26th) we are playing at Grandezza and Shadow Wood. As always, we enjoy having you there to represent Gulf Harbour. Apropos to this season spent underwater, we are ready to finish with a splash! Mike’s and T.A.’s teams are trying to avoid the cellar, and Joel’s team seems to be a lock to finish atop the standings. Whichever way it goes, the final two weeks ought to be entertaining.
I’m not sure how Joel’s USTA team is faring, but given the exceptional year he’s having, I imagine they are leading their league. Have you seen Joel’s new two-wheeler? It makes me nervous. Joel has a need for speed, and not just in his tennis game. He’ll also be demonstrating some quick steps at the Celebration too, so get your high-speed cameras ready John, JR.
If you haven’t checked out my USPTA site lately, I’ve made some minor revisions, and added some tidbits of interest on the News page. We will make Gulf Harbour known across the country! You can review the Tips page if you need a little assistance with your game, but don’t have the time or inclination to see me on the court in person (shame on you! Just kidding).
Ok folks, it has been a long day and I'm out of steam. We'll do a season wrap up in a few weeks. Until then, game, set, match...
Monday, March 8, 2010
Club Championships: It's a Wrap!
A shortage of men left more than a handful of eager women waiting (that never happens, right?) and wanting when it came to the Mixed Doubles Club Championship. Despite that, we still fielded 90 men and women for the event.
Triple Crown Winners
Four members were seeking to win championships in all three Club Championship events. Chip Graddy, Jemin Martinsen (All Aces Division), Maxwell Thompson, and Judy Wilson (Ball Bashers A Division) had won the Singles and Doubles events, and were aiming for Mixed Doubles titles as well. Of the four, Chip, Jemin, and Maxwell accomplished the feat. Judy’s try for three came up a couple matches short as she and Greg Pilant fell in the quarters.
Morning Matches
On Finals Day yesterday, the Court Crashers and Ball Bashers B Divisions took to the courts first on a brilliantly crisp morning for the two early finals. Of the first two finals, the Court Crashers produced the high drama.
Court Crashers Final
Towering Tom VanWyk and fleet-footed Ann Wright, the No.1 Seeds, faced the always smiling Bill Otey and Wennie “The Wise One” Johannes, the No.3 Seeds, for the title. It was a tug-of-war affair most of the way through, with seven of the nine games in the first set reaching at least 40-30. Tom and Ann broke serve in the eighth game and held in the ninth to wrest the first-set away from Bill and Wennie.
The teams battled evenly throughout the second set, and Bill and Wennie edged Ann and Tom 7-4 in a second-set tiebreak. As the third set began, Bill and Wennie seemed on the verge of cruising to the title in their first event playing together when they went up 2-0. But Tom stood tall (as if he could stand any other way), and Ann darted around the court retrieving the gazillion lobs Bill threw up. After the slow third-set start, Tom and Ann ran off six consecutive games to claim the title.
Ball Bashers A Final
In the other early final, featuring the more skilled level of the Ball Bashers group, Maxwell bolstered his candidacy for the “Most Improved Player” award, by teaming with newcomer Angela Mitrisin to dethrone last year’s Champions, Bill Wright and Lili Canfield, and capturing his third event of the Club Championships.
The straight-set victory was a close match until the new Champions took control midway through the second set. Bill and Lili did not make it easy for Maxwell to complete the hat trick though. The first set (6-4) was nip and tuck all the way through, and Bill and Lili saved three set points before succumbing to Maxwell’s flaming forehand and Angela’s quick hands at net.
The match remained close in the early going of the second set, but Maxwell and Angela broke and held serve in the fifth and sixth games, respectively, to win the set 6-2, and capture the Ball Bashers A Division crown.
Afternoon Matches
An awesome afternoon of Florida sunshine with temps to match was the setting for the afternoon finals involving the Ball Bashers B and the All Aces Divisions.
Ball Bashers B Final
The former pitted the husband-wife team of Tim and Carol Carr versus last minute entries Bill Donegan and Sharon Bock. After a terrific run to the final, including a third-set super-tiebreak-win in the semifinals, the Carrs couldn’t find the same rhythm and intensity they had brought to the courts for their two matches the previous day.
Bill and Sharon (Have you noticed how many Bill’s played in finals?), who didn’t even know each other, much less played together before, seemed to get stronger with each match played, and peaked in the final. They lost just one game, although eight of the thirteen games reached at least 40-30.
It was Sharon’s second event win of the Club Championships, having claimed the Women’s Court Crashers Doubles title with Sally “No Mercy” Mellendorf. Shall we sing, “Movin’ on up?"
All Aces Final
In the All Aces Division, which features the Club’s best players, Chip Graddy and Jemin Martinsen faced perennial Club Championship Mixed Doubles Champions, Gary Delanois and Diane Johannes in the final, and it was a final to remember (I know cuz I was in the chair). I’m betting the spectators will agree with me, too, as they were treated to a momentum-shifting, three-set battle, the outcome of which remained in doubt until the final serve hit the net.
The first set was even-steven through the seventh game, when Gary and Diane seemed on the verge of the first break of serve, going up 0-30 and 15-40 on Jemin’s serve. With Chip offering support and assurances, Jemin held on to win that game. Diane was broken in the subsequent game, and Chip served out the set (6-3).
The Defending Champs cruised to a 5-0 lead in the second set, before “Big Mo” (momentum that is) turned on them, and Chip and Jemin stormed back, winning three consecutive games. But the second-set comeback would fall short, as Gary delivered a momentous (that’s Big Mo’s cousin) second serve at 5-3, 40-30, to close out the set 6-3.
Despite the stalled second-set comeback, Jemin and Chip coaxed “Big Mo” to stay on their side for the third set, and they jumped out to 4-1 and 5-2 leads. But Gary and Diane would not go gently into that good night. As befitting Defending Champions, they clawed back to 4-5, but couldn’t hold serve in that final game, giving both Jemin and Chip their coveted Triple Crowns.
The Event Epitomized
Despite the loss, Gary remarked, “It was the best match I’ve been involved in with this event.” Tim Carr also epitomized what this event was all about. If you know Carol and/or Tim, you know that they are excellent athletes who hate losing. Yet, after their losing effort and the accompanying disappointment derived from not playing their best, both said that they were glad they played. When I ran into Tim on the driving range later in the afternoon, he said, “That’s the most fun I’ve had in competition around here in a long time! I’m really glad we played.”
Despite the fact that the three Club Championship events were held in weather foreign to Southwest Florida at this time of year, and we had a singles draw significantly smaller than last year’s, the events included over 200 participants. During the semis on Saturday, Spectators huddled together for warmth well after the sun had set, still cheering on their friends and neighbors.
It is participating in such experiences and hearing comments such as those above that make giving up weekends with family worth it to your tennis staff. Next year we anticipate better weather and even higher levels of participation, as Gulf Harbour’s tennis experience is proving to be one of the best tennis experiences offered in the area.
Tennis Grill Night
After the hot competition on the courts, players and spectators cooled down by congregating at Johnny Brown’s for Tennis Grill Night. The event included 38 diehard members who gathered on the terrace to relive the Club Championships culminating weekend. But it wasn’t long before the evening chill chased participants inside. Although many who were present during the weekend’s competition were absent at the aftermath, those who did attend could attest to the quality of the experience.
Annual Tennis Celebration Banquet
Speaking of quality experiences, one you really won’t want to miss, and which should be able to accommodate everyone, is the Annual Tennis Celebration Banquet. If you haven’t yet seen Joel dance, or one of his “party” outfits, it’s worth the price of admission. He tells me he’s got something special lined up for the occasion.
If you don’t like to dance, that’s perfectly all right, because after a few wet ones, some of our tennis members forget that they don’t like to dance either, and that, too, is worth the price of admission. If good food, good music, great company, and Jim Rollero’s slideshow doesn’t whet your appetite for the smorgasbord of fun we have lined up, well I’ve got a nice 12’ X 6’ plot that might interest you. Oh, and by the way, we’ll be presenting competition awards as well.
Men's Intramural Teams
Also “coming in hot,” as Joel likes to say, is the annual Men’s Intramural team competition which kicks off March 23rd and runs through April 8th. You can sign up for the fun in the tennis pro shop. John Hess is the man behind the wheel of this one, so talk to John if you would like more information.
NetCaddy Numbers
Just a little FYI: Club Essentials, the folks that created NetCaddy, our court reservation system, reports that 70% of our online court bookings are being done by members as opposed to staff. Given that this percentage incorporated Courts 1 and 2, which are booked exclusively by staff, the actual percentage of member-initiated online reservations would be considerably higher. Gulf Harbour’s tennis members are showing, once again, that we are quite capable of adapting to change.
Team Home Matches
Before I close up shop, I’d like to remind you that it is crunch time for all of our teams, and we have some REALLY, REALLY BIG home matches coming up this week. First and foremost is Captain Tony Cupaiuolo’s Blue B team, which is right in the hunt for the Blue B Division lead. They play tomorrow at home against Division-leading Colonial, and must win big to have any hope of taking the top spot. Come on out and cheer them on, and check the Home Match Schedule on the Club's Tennis page for other upcoming matches. Game, set, match...
Triple Crown Winners
Four members were seeking to win championships in all three Club Championship events. Chip Graddy, Jemin Martinsen (All Aces Division), Maxwell Thompson, and Judy Wilson (Ball Bashers A Division) had won the Singles and Doubles events, and were aiming for Mixed Doubles titles as well. Of the four, Chip, Jemin, and Maxwell accomplished the feat. Judy’s try for three came up a couple matches short as she and Greg Pilant fell in the quarters.
Morning Matches
On Finals Day yesterday, the Court Crashers and Ball Bashers B Divisions took to the courts first on a brilliantly crisp morning for the two early finals. Of the first two finals, the Court Crashers produced the high drama.
Court Crashers Final
Towering Tom VanWyk and fleet-footed Ann Wright, the No.1 Seeds, faced the always smiling Bill Otey and Wennie “The Wise One” Johannes, the No.3 Seeds, for the title. It was a tug-of-war affair most of the way through, with seven of the nine games in the first set reaching at least 40-30. Tom and Ann broke serve in the eighth game and held in the ninth to wrest the first-set away from Bill and Wennie.
The teams battled evenly throughout the second set, and Bill and Wennie edged Ann and Tom 7-4 in a second-set tiebreak. As the third set began, Bill and Wennie seemed on the verge of cruising to the title in their first event playing together when they went up 2-0. But Tom stood tall (as if he could stand any other way), and Ann darted around the court retrieving the gazillion lobs Bill threw up. After the slow third-set start, Tom and Ann ran off six consecutive games to claim the title.
Ball Bashers A Final
In the other early final, featuring the more skilled level of the Ball Bashers group, Maxwell bolstered his candidacy for the “Most Improved Player” award, by teaming with newcomer Angela Mitrisin to dethrone last year’s Champions, Bill Wright and Lili Canfield, and capturing his third event of the Club Championships.
The straight-set victory was a close match until the new Champions took control midway through the second set. Bill and Lili did not make it easy for Maxwell to complete the hat trick though. The first set (6-4) was nip and tuck all the way through, and Bill and Lili saved three set points before succumbing to Maxwell’s flaming forehand and Angela’s quick hands at net.
The match remained close in the early going of the second set, but Maxwell and Angela broke and held serve in the fifth and sixth games, respectively, to win the set 6-2, and capture the Ball Bashers A Division crown.
Afternoon Matches
An awesome afternoon of Florida sunshine with temps to match was the setting for the afternoon finals involving the Ball Bashers B and the All Aces Divisions.
Ball Bashers B Final
The former pitted the husband-wife team of Tim and Carol Carr versus last minute entries Bill Donegan and Sharon Bock. After a terrific run to the final, including a third-set super-tiebreak-win in the semifinals, the Carrs couldn’t find the same rhythm and intensity they had brought to the courts for their two matches the previous day.
Bill and Sharon (Have you noticed how many Bill’s played in finals?), who didn’t even know each other, much less played together before, seemed to get stronger with each match played, and peaked in the final. They lost just one game, although eight of the thirteen games reached at least 40-30.
It was Sharon’s second event win of the Club Championships, having claimed the Women’s Court Crashers Doubles title with Sally “No Mercy” Mellendorf. Shall we sing, “Movin’ on up?"
All Aces Final
In the All Aces Division, which features the Club’s best players, Chip Graddy and Jemin Martinsen faced perennial Club Championship Mixed Doubles Champions, Gary Delanois and Diane Johannes in the final, and it was a final to remember (I know cuz I was in the chair). I’m betting the spectators will agree with me, too, as they were treated to a momentum-shifting, three-set battle, the outcome of which remained in doubt until the final serve hit the net.
The first set was even-steven through the seventh game, when Gary and Diane seemed on the verge of the first break of serve, going up 0-30 and 15-40 on Jemin’s serve. With Chip offering support and assurances, Jemin held on to win that game. Diane was broken in the subsequent game, and Chip served out the set (6-3).
The Defending Champs cruised to a 5-0 lead in the second set, before “Big Mo” (momentum that is) turned on them, and Chip and Jemin stormed back, winning three consecutive games. But the second-set comeback would fall short, as Gary delivered a momentous (that’s Big Mo’s cousin) second serve at 5-3, 40-30, to close out the set 6-3.
Despite the stalled second-set comeback, Jemin and Chip coaxed “Big Mo” to stay on their side for the third set, and they jumped out to 4-1 and 5-2 leads. But Gary and Diane would not go gently into that good night. As befitting Defending Champions, they clawed back to 4-5, but couldn’t hold serve in that final game, giving both Jemin and Chip their coveted Triple Crowns.
The Event Epitomized
Despite the loss, Gary remarked, “It was the best match I’ve been involved in with this event.” Tim Carr also epitomized what this event was all about. If you know Carol and/or Tim, you know that they are excellent athletes who hate losing. Yet, after their losing effort and the accompanying disappointment derived from not playing their best, both said that they were glad they played. When I ran into Tim on the driving range later in the afternoon, he said, “That’s the most fun I’ve had in competition around here in a long time! I’m really glad we played.”
Despite the fact that the three Club Championship events were held in weather foreign to Southwest Florida at this time of year, and we had a singles draw significantly smaller than last year’s, the events included over 200 participants. During the semis on Saturday, Spectators huddled together for warmth well after the sun had set, still cheering on their friends and neighbors.
It is participating in such experiences and hearing comments such as those above that make giving up weekends with family worth it to your tennis staff. Next year we anticipate better weather and even higher levels of participation, as Gulf Harbour’s tennis experience is proving to be one of the best tennis experiences offered in the area.
Tennis Grill Night
After the hot competition on the courts, players and spectators cooled down by congregating at Johnny Brown’s for Tennis Grill Night. The event included 38 diehard members who gathered on the terrace to relive the Club Championships culminating weekend. But it wasn’t long before the evening chill chased participants inside. Although many who were present during the weekend’s competition were absent at the aftermath, those who did attend could attest to the quality of the experience.
Annual Tennis Celebration Banquet
Speaking of quality experiences, one you really won’t want to miss, and which should be able to accommodate everyone, is the Annual Tennis Celebration Banquet. If you haven’t yet seen Joel dance, or one of his “party” outfits, it’s worth the price of admission. He tells me he’s got something special lined up for the occasion.
If you don’t like to dance, that’s perfectly all right, because after a few wet ones, some of our tennis members forget that they don’t like to dance either, and that, too, is worth the price of admission. If good food, good music, great company, and Jim Rollero’s slideshow doesn’t whet your appetite for the smorgasbord of fun we have lined up, well I’ve got a nice 12’ X 6’ plot that might interest you. Oh, and by the way, we’ll be presenting competition awards as well.
Men's Intramural Teams
Also “coming in hot,” as Joel likes to say, is the annual Men’s Intramural team competition which kicks off March 23rd and runs through April 8th. You can sign up for the fun in the tennis pro shop. John Hess is the man behind the wheel of this one, so talk to John if you would like more information.
NetCaddy Numbers
Just a little FYI: Club Essentials, the folks that created NetCaddy, our court reservation system, reports that 70% of our online court bookings are being done by members as opposed to staff. Given that this percentage incorporated Courts 1 and 2, which are booked exclusively by staff, the actual percentage of member-initiated online reservations would be considerably higher. Gulf Harbour’s tennis members are showing, once again, that we are quite capable of adapting to change.
Team Home Matches
Before I close up shop, I’d like to remind you that it is crunch time for all of our teams, and we have some REALLY, REALLY BIG home matches coming up this week. First and foremost is Captain Tony Cupaiuolo’s Blue B team, which is right in the hunt for the Blue B Division lead. They play tomorrow at home against Division-leading Colonial, and must win big to have any hope of taking the top spot. Come on out and cheer them on, and check the Home Match Schedule on the Club's Tennis page for other upcoming matches. Game, set, match...
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Mixed Doubles Club Championships: Day 2
The Morning of Day 2
Though still cooler than we like in these parts, a brilliant and relatively calm morning greeted competitors and fans as they arrived at the courts this morning.
The big guns were out in force as the All Aces Division cruised into high gear. Top seeds Gary Delanois and Diane Johannes ended the dramatic run of Arnie and Randy Wohl in straight sets, and the second-seeded team of Chip Graddy and Jemin Martinsen overcame Pete McElroy and judy Schafft, also in straight sets.
In early Ball Bashers A action, Bill Wright and Lili Canfield continued their quest to be repeat champions by downing Rich Fox and Norma Schuyler in straight sets. The team of Bob and Tania Pleischl eliminated Bruno Glavich and Gina LaManna in another straight-set match that was a lot closer than the score.
Judy Wilson kept alive her hope for a triple crown, when she and partner Greg Pilant ousted Tim Baldwin and Bonnie Graham. Maxwell Thompson almost saw his hopes dashed, as he and partner Angela Mitrisin barely slipped by Jake Keltner and Monica Robb in a third-set super-tiebreak. It was the second consecutive year that Jake and Monica were ousted in a third-set super-tiebreak.
The Morning’s Ball Bashers B competition provided the most dramatic matches for the spectators. Three of the four quarterfinal matches ended in third-set super-tiebreaks, with one going beyond the 10 points necessary to win.
In the first of those drama-filled affairs, Tim and Carol Carr edged No.1 Seeds Bill Cole and Sandi Hill 3-6, 7-5, 10-8. Next to finish was Gabe Gebara and Bev Adams, who lost the first set 2-6, and came back to win 6-3, 10-3. In the longest match of the day, lasting well over two hours, Bryan Schwartz and Linda Gardiner squeaked out the super-tiebreak against Jim Hynden and Joan Palermo11-9 after trailing 4-9 in the breaker. The first two sets were 7-5, and 2-6.
Even the lone match that didn’t go to the third-set breaker produced some thrills. After dominating the first set, Bill Donegan and Sharon Bock cruised to a 5-0, 40-0 lead against Jim Rollero and Sally Mellendorf. One spectator notified me that he match was all but done. Someone forget to tell Jim and Sally.
Despite the huge deficit, Jim found himself serving at 4-5, 30-0 and the crowd was anticipating yet another super-tiebreak. They were disappointed as Bill and Sharon broke serve to claim the victory on their second match point.
The Court Crashers played their semifinal matches this morning as well, and No.1 Seeds Tom VanWyk and Ann Wright posted an easy victory to ease their way into the final. Tom and Ann will face Bill Otey and Wennie Johannes, who won a close first set against Chuck Beagan and April Burkholder before cruising through the second and final set.
Overcoming Tom’s imposing net presence and Ann’s agility will be no easy task for Bill and Wennie, but they have experience on their side. The match should be an interesting one to watch.
Afternoon Delight
In the afternoon matches, another Johannes made her way into a final, as Diane Johannes and Gary Delanois took another step forward in their All Aces title-defense. They eked out a close two-set battle with Tim Jones and Kathy Lanzalotta, and will meet Singles and Doubles winners Chip Graddy and Jemin Martinsen in one of the most anticipated finals of the event. Chip and Jemin ended the championship hopes of Alan Canfield and Amy Ciarrocchi in straight sets.
The climax of the Day 2 afternoon matches was the Ball Bashers A Division semifinal that pitted Defending Champions Bill Wright and Lili Canfield against Greg Pilant and Judy Wilson. It appeared as though we would have a new Champion in the early going, but despite winning the first set with relative ease, Greg and Judy lost a close second and didn’t contend in the third-set super-tiebreak.
Maxwell Thompson kept his hat-trick hopes going when he and Angela Mitrisin held off a game Bob and Tania Pleischl in a tight second set, after dominating the first set. The stakes will be high for both parties in tomorrow’s Ball Bashers A Final, as we have the triple and the title defense on the line.
The Ball Bashers B Division brought the day to a close with Tim and Carol Carr posting a straight-set win over Bryan Schwartz and Linda Gardiner, and Bill Donegan and Sharon Bock doing the same over Gabe Gebara and Bev Adams. Sharon will be trying for her second event win of the championships, having won the Court Crashers Women’s Doubles with Sally Mellendorf.
Once again Gulf Harbour members were out en masse to support the players, and tomorrow’s finals at 10am and 12pm ought to be worthy of record attendance. In addition to the opportunity for three of the competitors to win triple crowns, the Wright family can have husband and wife champions in two divisions, and the Johannes family can have mother and daughter champions in two divisions.
I’m sure there are some other sub plots that I am neglecting to mention, but the bottom line is that the third and final day of our Club Championships is likely to be a special one, especially with the Tennis Grill Night to follow. We look forward to seeing you once again, and good luck to all the participants. game, set, match...
Though still cooler than we like in these parts, a brilliant and relatively calm morning greeted competitors and fans as they arrived at the courts this morning.
The big guns were out in force as the All Aces Division cruised into high gear. Top seeds Gary Delanois and Diane Johannes ended the dramatic run of Arnie and Randy Wohl in straight sets, and the second-seeded team of Chip Graddy and Jemin Martinsen overcame Pete McElroy and judy Schafft, also in straight sets.
In early Ball Bashers A action, Bill Wright and Lili Canfield continued their quest to be repeat champions by downing Rich Fox and Norma Schuyler in straight sets. The team of Bob and Tania Pleischl eliminated Bruno Glavich and Gina LaManna in another straight-set match that was a lot closer than the score.
Judy Wilson kept alive her hope for a triple crown, when she and partner Greg Pilant ousted Tim Baldwin and Bonnie Graham. Maxwell Thompson almost saw his hopes dashed, as he and partner Angela Mitrisin barely slipped by Jake Keltner and Monica Robb in a third-set super-tiebreak. It was the second consecutive year that Jake and Monica were ousted in a third-set super-tiebreak.
The Morning’s Ball Bashers B competition provided the most dramatic matches for the spectators. Three of the four quarterfinal matches ended in third-set super-tiebreaks, with one going beyond the 10 points necessary to win.
In the first of those drama-filled affairs, Tim and Carol Carr edged No.1 Seeds Bill Cole and Sandi Hill 3-6, 7-5, 10-8. Next to finish was Gabe Gebara and Bev Adams, who lost the first set 2-6, and came back to win 6-3, 10-3. In the longest match of the day, lasting well over two hours, Bryan Schwartz and Linda Gardiner squeaked out the super-tiebreak against Jim Hynden and Joan Palermo11-9 after trailing 4-9 in the breaker. The first two sets were 7-5, and 2-6.
Even the lone match that didn’t go to the third-set breaker produced some thrills. After dominating the first set, Bill Donegan and Sharon Bock cruised to a 5-0, 40-0 lead against Jim Rollero and Sally Mellendorf. One spectator notified me that he match was all but done. Someone forget to tell Jim and Sally.
Despite the huge deficit, Jim found himself serving at 4-5, 30-0 and the crowd was anticipating yet another super-tiebreak. They were disappointed as Bill and Sharon broke serve to claim the victory on their second match point.
The Court Crashers played their semifinal matches this morning as well, and No.1 Seeds Tom VanWyk and Ann Wright posted an easy victory to ease their way into the final. Tom and Ann will face Bill Otey and Wennie Johannes, who won a close first set against Chuck Beagan and April Burkholder before cruising through the second and final set.
Overcoming Tom’s imposing net presence and Ann’s agility will be no easy task for Bill and Wennie, but they have experience on their side. The match should be an interesting one to watch.
Afternoon Delight
In the afternoon matches, another Johannes made her way into a final, as Diane Johannes and Gary Delanois took another step forward in their All Aces title-defense. They eked out a close two-set battle with Tim Jones and Kathy Lanzalotta, and will meet Singles and Doubles winners Chip Graddy and Jemin Martinsen in one of the most anticipated finals of the event. Chip and Jemin ended the championship hopes of Alan Canfield and Amy Ciarrocchi in straight sets.
The climax of the Day 2 afternoon matches was the Ball Bashers A Division semifinal that pitted Defending Champions Bill Wright and Lili Canfield against Greg Pilant and Judy Wilson. It appeared as though we would have a new Champion in the early going, but despite winning the first set with relative ease, Greg and Judy lost a close second and didn’t contend in the third-set super-tiebreak.
Maxwell Thompson kept his hat-trick hopes going when he and Angela Mitrisin held off a game Bob and Tania Pleischl in a tight second set, after dominating the first set. The stakes will be high for both parties in tomorrow’s Ball Bashers A Final, as we have the triple and the title defense on the line.
The Ball Bashers B Division brought the day to a close with Tim and Carol Carr posting a straight-set win over Bryan Schwartz and Linda Gardiner, and Bill Donegan and Sharon Bock doing the same over Gabe Gebara and Bev Adams. Sharon will be trying for her second event win of the championships, having won the Court Crashers Women’s Doubles with Sally Mellendorf.
Once again Gulf Harbour members were out en masse to support the players, and tomorrow’s finals at 10am and 12pm ought to be worthy of record attendance. In addition to the opportunity for three of the competitors to win triple crowns, the Wright family can have husband and wife champions in two divisions, and the Johannes family can have mother and daughter champions in two divisions.
I’m sure there are some other sub plots that I am neglecting to mention, but the bottom line is that the third and final day of our Club Championships is likely to be a special one, especially with the Tennis Grill Night to follow. We look forward to seeing you once again, and good luck to all the participants. game, set, match...
Friday, March 5, 2010
Mixed Doubles Club Championships: Day 1
In a reprise of the Men's and Women's Doubles Championships, the first day of the Mixed Doubles Championship featured multiple layers of clothing, and spectators ducking around corners to escape "The Hawk." In Southwest Florida? Yep, and it's getting to be old hat...really old hat.
In any event, the event got underway today, featuring a number of new members who entered the fray, and actually challenging for bragging rights as Club Champion. In fact, if this were a teenie-bopper movie, we’d have to call it “New Blood.”
In the Ball Bashers A Division, newcomer Angela Mitrisin joined with Maxwell Thompson to defeat Richard and Ruth Edelman, the 2008-2009 Champions of the Ball Bashers B Division who had moved up to challenge for the Ball Bashers A Division crown. As noted elsewhere, Maxwell is working on the triple-crown this year.
Also still in the hunt for the triple in the Ball Bashers A group is Judy Wilson, another recent addition to the Gulf Harbour tennis fold, who teamed with Greg Pilant to oust Jim King and former Ball Basher Singles Champ, Martha DeLeeuw. Fresh faces also upended last year’s Finalists, as Bruno Glavich and Gina LaManna took out Eddie Dance and Pam Lemon.
Among the matches that could be considered candidates for “Match of the Day,” honors, Bob and Tania Pleischl came back from a first-set loss to pick up the win in a third-set super-tiebreak against their good friends Bill and Marsha Cavinder. Jake Keltner and Monica Robb bounced one of the newcomer teams, getting by T.A. and Bev Auda in straight sets.
Rounding out the Ball Bashers action was Rich Fox and Norma Schuyler's win over Len Ciarrocchi and Sandy Gebara, and Tim Baldwin and Bonnie Graham's victory over John and Connie Hess. Rich and Norma are up against the Defending Champions and No.1 Seeds, Bill Wright and Lili Canfield, in one of tomorrow’s quarterfinal matches.
In the Court Crashers Division, tourney neophytes Chuck Beagan and Bill Otey both got wins in their first tournament matches at Gulf Harbour. Chuck partnered with April Burkholder to beat Rick and Meg Jacobs (Rick’s first tourney ever), and Bill teamed with veteran Wennie Johannes to defeat Bernie and Penny Klotz. The two newcomers play each other tomorrow in one semifinal, so one will have wrapped up his first foray into the Club Championships.
In other Court Crashers action, top seeds Tom VanWyk and Ann Wright advanced against Roy and Val Steigerwald, and will meet Jim Masiello and Teressa Crocker in the other semifinal. Jim and Teressa outlasted Peter Malen and Liz Byck in the first of two third-set super-tiebreaks. Teressa’s recovery from recent heart surgery makes the win against quality players like Peter and Liz that much more remarkable.
In the Ball Bashers B Division, the team of Tim and Carol Carr eased past Don and Anna Pitts and will face No.1 Seeds Bill Cole and Sandi Hill, who will be seeing their first action of the event. Sandi is physically questionable for tomorrow’s match, but will give it a go. In her return to tournament action after a victorious bout with cancer, Linda Gardiner teamed with Bryan Schwartz to down Mark Davis and Jackie Jewel, and will face Jim Hynden and Joan Palermo.
Erstwhile event photographer and Club DJ, Jim Rollero, partnered with Court Crashers Doubles Champ Sally Mellendorf to defeat Preston Clark and Nancy Davis. Preston came out of semi-retirement at the last minute, despite a shoulder in need of surgical attention, to replace Sy Davis, Nancy’s intended partner, who came up lame for the competition. Jim and Sally will take on Bill Donegan and Sharon Bock tomorrow morning. Wrapping up the Court Crasher matches, Ron and Marvel Jones eliminated Bob and Laurie Watson in straight sets, and will meet the No.2 Seeds, Gabe Gebara and Bev Adams in their next match.
The opening day opened and closed with matches in the All Aces Division, the top division of the Club Championships. Earlier in the day, Pete McElroy and Judy Schafft eclipsed another pair of talented first-timers in Brian and Sunni Hammermeister. Pete and Judy have the task of getting past No.2 Seeds, Chip Graddy and Jemin Martinsen, both of whom are trying to accomplish the Club Championship trifecta in the top division.
In the final match of the day, ending well after darkness and the temperature had fallen, Arnie and Randy Wohl escaped a third-set, super-tiebreak thriller against former Singles Champion Geoff Negin, who was partnered with Amy Markovich. As the diehard Gulf Harbour tennis members huddled together to forestall the night’s chill, the foursome exchanged rousing rallies that prompted both cheers and groans from the chilled crowd. Arnie and Randy will battle Defending Champions and No.1 Seeds, Gary Delanois and Diane Johannes in the early morn.
Other matches on tap in the top division tomorrow morning include Ed Bonkowski and Marcia DeVries against Tim Jones and Kathy Lanzalotta, Kathy being one half of last year’s Mixed Doubles Finalist team and current Doubles Champion; and Alan Canfield and Amy Ciarrocchi versus Joe Schwartzel and Carole Shapiro. All of the action promises to be worth braving the morning chill, and Club Manager Mike Snyder has even agreed to come in early to provide hot coffee for our hardy tennis fans. What-a-guy!
In closing, after the incredible display of support tonight with the wind-chill factor making a mockery of the actual temperature, I must say that I know of no more supportive tennis members anywhere in the land! Thanks for making the event what it is folks! Game, set, match…
In any event, the event got underway today, featuring a number of new members who entered the fray, and actually challenging for bragging rights as Club Champion. In fact, if this were a teenie-bopper movie, we’d have to call it “New Blood.”
In the Ball Bashers A Division, newcomer Angela Mitrisin joined with Maxwell Thompson to defeat Richard and Ruth Edelman, the 2008-2009 Champions of the Ball Bashers B Division who had moved up to challenge for the Ball Bashers A Division crown. As noted elsewhere, Maxwell is working on the triple-crown this year.
Also still in the hunt for the triple in the Ball Bashers A group is Judy Wilson, another recent addition to the Gulf Harbour tennis fold, who teamed with Greg Pilant to oust Jim King and former Ball Basher Singles Champ, Martha DeLeeuw. Fresh faces also upended last year’s Finalists, as Bruno Glavich and Gina LaManna took out Eddie Dance and Pam Lemon.
Among the matches that could be considered candidates for “Match of the Day,” honors, Bob and Tania Pleischl came back from a first-set loss to pick up the win in a third-set super-tiebreak against their good friends Bill and Marsha Cavinder. Jake Keltner and Monica Robb bounced one of the newcomer teams, getting by T.A. and Bev Auda in straight sets.
Rounding out the Ball Bashers action was Rich Fox and Norma Schuyler's win over Len Ciarrocchi and Sandy Gebara, and Tim Baldwin and Bonnie Graham's victory over John and Connie Hess. Rich and Norma are up against the Defending Champions and No.1 Seeds, Bill Wright and Lili Canfield, in one of tomorrow’s quarterfinal matches.
In the Court Crashers Division, tourney neophytes Chuck Beagan and Bill Otey both got wins in their first tournament matches at Gulf Harbour. Chuck partnered with April Burkholder to beat Rick and Meg Jacobs (Rick’s first tourney ever), and Bill teamed with veteran Wennie Johannes to defeat Bernie and Penny Klotz. The two newcomers play each other tomorrow in one semifinal, so one will have wrapped up his first foray into the Club Championships.
In other Court Crashers action, top seeds Tom VanWyk and Ann Wright advanced against Roy and Val Steigerwald, and will meet Jim Masiello and Teressa Crocker in the other semifinal. Jim and Teressa outlasted Peter Malen and Liz Byck in the first of two third-set super-tiebreaks. Teressa’s recovery from recent heart surgery makes the win against quality players like Peter and Liz that much more remarkable.
In the Ball Bashers B Division, the team of Tim and Carol Carr eased past Don and Anna Pitts and will face No.1 Seeds Bill Cole and Sandi Hill, who will be seeing their first action of the event. Sandi is physically questionable for tomorrow’s match, but will give it a go. In her return to tournament action after a victorious bout with cancer, Linda Gardiner teamed with Bryan Schwartz to down Mark Davis and Jackie Jewel, and will face Jim Hynden and Joan Palermo.
Erstwhile event photographer and Club DJ, Jim Rollero, partnered with Court Crashers Doubles Champ Sally Mellendorf to defeat Preston Clark and Nancy Davis. Preston came out of semi-retirement at the last minute, despite a shoulder in need of surgical attention, to replace Sy Davis, Nancy’s intended partner, who came up lame for the competition. Jim and Sally will take on Bill Donegan and Sharon Bock tomorrow morning. Wrapping up the Court Crasher matches, Ron and Marvel Jones eliminated Bob and Laurie Watson in straight sets, and will meet the No.2 Seeds, Gabe Gebara and Bev Adams in their next match.
The opening day opened and closed with matches in the All Aces Division, the top division of the Club Championships. Earlier in the day, Pete McElroy and Judy Schafft eclipsed another pair of talented first-timers in Brian and Sunni Hammermeister. Pete and Judy have the task of getting past No.2 Seeds, Chip Graddy and Jemin Martinsen, both of whom are trying to accomplish the Club Championship trifecta in the top division.
In the final match of the day, ending well after darkness and the temperature had fallen, Arnie and Randy Wohl escaped a third-set, super-tiebreak thriller against former Singles Champion Geoff Negin, who was partnered with Amy Markovich. As the diehard Gulf Harbour tennis members huddled together to forestall the night’s chill, the foursome exchanged rousing rallies that prompted both cheers and groans from the chilled crowd. Arnie and Randy will battle Defending Champions and No.1 Seeds, Gary Delanois and Diane Johannes in the early morn.
Other matches on tap in the top division tomorrow morning include Ed Bonkowski and Marcia DeVries against Tim Jones and Kathy Lanzalotta, Kathy being one half of last year’s Mixed Doubles Finalist team and current Doubles Champion; and Alan Canfield and Amy Ciarrocchi versus Joe Schwartzel and Carole Shapiro. All of the action promises to be worth braving the morning chill, and Club Manager Mike Snyder has even agreed to come in early to provide hot coffee for our hardy tennis fans. What-a-guy!
In closing, after the incredible display of support tonight with the wind-chill factor making a mockery of the actual temperature, I must say that I know of no more supportive tennis members anywhere in the land! Thanks for making the event what it is folks! Game, set, match…
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Club Championship Doubles Finals
A breezy and chilly Finals Day of the Club Championship Men’s & Women’s Doubles began at 9am with the Men’s and Women’s Court Crashers taking to the courts with approximately 50 spectators in attendance. Last year’s Finalists, No.1 seeds Sally Mellendorf and Sharon Bock were facing a very successful LCWTL League team in Jayme Lewis and Meg Jacobs. Knowing the competitive spirits of all of the participants, I was settling in for a long hard one in the umpire’s chair.
Sally and Sharon jumped out to an early 3-1 lead, but true to form Jayme and Meg climbed right back in it, and took the lead at 4-3. Sally and Sharon then kicked it into high gear, winning 12 of the next 13 points to claim the first set 6-4. They jumped out to an early lead again in the second set, and although they fought valiantly, taking a number of games to multiple deuces, Jayme and Meg just couldn’t overcome Sally’s aggressive net play and Sharon’s consistency in the back court. The final set was 6-1.
In the Men’s Court Crashers, Tom VanWyk and Manny Lima took advantage of a slow start by Peter Malen and Tony Cupaiuolo to seize the opening set 6-1. Tom and Manny appeared to be on their way to a quick second set as well when they went up a break for 4-2. However, Peter and Tony didn’t get to the finals by giving up. They went on a three-game run to go up 5-4, but Tom and Manny would not be denied. They held serve twice to reach the tiebreak, and didn’t look back, winning the tiebreak 7-1.
The Men’s and Women’s Ball Bashers finals were not the competitive affairs that we expected. In the men’s final, Maxwell Thompson and John Hess put on a dominant display winning 6-2, 6-1 over Bill Wright and Tim Jones. Maxwell’s net patrol and ferocious forehand more than complemented John’s penetrating groundstrokes, and they both covered the court extremely well.
Bill and Tim had been dominant in their previous matches, playing aggressively and taking the match to their opponents. In the final, they appeared less aggressive, but it looked as though Maxwell and John got the aggressive jump on Bill and Tim and it was a bit much to overcome.
In the women’s final, the story was much the same. Lili Canfield and Judy Wilson came out as though their opponents, Lee Tice and Mary Harrington, had done them a disservice. Effective aggression would be an apt characterization of Lili and Judy’s play throughout the match, and it was punctuated by the ace Judy served up on match point. It was hard to determine whether it was the Champions’ play, the breezy weather and/or the big moment that influenced Mary and Lee’s play, but they never seemed to get their games going well enough to throw Lili and Judy off stride.
By the time the Men’s and Women’s All Aces rolled around at 1pm, a crowd of approximately 100 family members, friends, and other interested parties had gathered…and they were not disappointed. In the men’s event, All Aces Singles Club Champion Chip Graddy and Finalist Geoff Negin battled Alan Canfield and Arnie Wohl for bragging rights. In the women’s event, All Aces Club Champion Jemin Martinsen and Kathy Lanzalotta faced Carole Shapiro and Jane Heck for the honors.
The Champions and Finalists all gave the crowd something to cheer about. Case in point: At set point in the first set of the Men’s match, an up-and-back, side-to-side, to-and-fro affair that ended with a spectacular shot from Alan. The spectators erupted in delight. The women provided similar high-level entertainment, with players running down balls that appeared to be winners to keep points alive.
Early in the men’s final, there were murmurs in the crowd as Alan and Arnie brought their AA-games to the court and took the first set 6-2. It appeared as though Alan and Arnie would pull off their second upset in a row. It was not to be. As in their semifinal match, Chip and Geoff stormed back from the first set loss to take the next two 6-3, 6-1.
There was a similar buzz at the beginning of the women’s final as Carole and Jane jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first set. Jemin and Kathy were unfazed by the deficit and ripped off the next five games. Carole and Jane made a momentary stand, breaking Kathy and Jemin as they served for the set at 5-3, but couldn’t hold serve to even the set, losing it 4-6.
Jemin and Kathy held the lead throughout the first half of the second set, but Carole and Jane came back from 1-3 to go ahead 4-3. Jemin and Kathy were resolute despite losing the lead and fought back from 4-5 and 5-6 to force and win the final set tiebreak.
It was a fitting end to a terrific weekend of tennis. The result of the final matches of the weekend means that there are four players with an opportunity to win all three phases of the Tennis Club Championships: Singles, Doubles, and Mixed Doubles. Maxwell and Judy have won both the singles and doubles in the Ball Bashers division, and Chip and Jemin claimed both events in the All Aces division. All four plan to play mixed doubles, so the mixed ought to be a true climax of the Club Championship season.
As for this weekend, there were winners and losers according to the score, but although the matches were competitive, the event was characterized by great sportsmanship and even camaraderie amongst many of the opponents. It truly was as close as a club could come to the true spirit of a club championship.
Although special congratulations must go out to those who prevailed and are now Champions, kudos must also go out to all of the competitors who braved the conditions and gave it their all regardless of their statuses as favorites or underdogs. We truly are lucky to work with as great a group of members as any tennis pro is likely to encounter anywhere.
Sally and Sharon jumped out to an early 3-1 lead, but true to form Jayme and Meg climbed right back in it, and took the lead at 4-3. Sally and Sharon then kicked it into high gear, winning 12 of the next 13 points to claim the first set 6-4. They jumped out to an early lead again in the second set, and although they fought valiantly, taking a number of games to multiple deuces, Jayme and Meg just couldn’t overcome Sally’s aggressive net play and Sharon’s consistency in the back court. The final set was 6-1.
In the Men’s Court Crashers, Tom VanWyk and Manny Lima took advantage of a slow start by Peter Malen and Tony Cupaiuolo to seize the opening set 6-1. Tom and Manny appeared to be on their way to a quick second set as well when they went up a break for 4-2. However, Peter and Tony didn’t get to the finals by giving up. They went on a three-game run to go up 5-4, but Tom and Manny would not be denied. They held serve twice to reach the tiebreak, and didn’t look back, winning the tiebreak 7-1.
The Men’s and Women’s Ball Bashers finals were not the competitive affairs that we expected. In the men’s final, Maxwell Thompson and John Hess put on a dominant display winning 6-2, 6-1 over Bill Wright and Tim Jones. Maxwell’s net patrol and ferocious forehand more than complemented John’s penetrating groundstrokes, and they both covered the court extremely well.
Bill and Tim had been dominant in their previous matches, playing aggressively and taking the match to their opponents. In the final, they appeared less aggressive, but it looked as though Maxwell and John got the aggressive jump on Bill and Tim and it was a bit much to overcome.
In the women’s final, the story was much the same. Lili Canfield and Judy Wilson came out as though their opponents, Lee Tice and Mary Harrington, had done them a disservice. Effective aggression would be an apt characterization of Lili and Judy’s play throughout the match, and it was punctuated by the ace Judy served up on match point. It was hard to determine whether it was the Champions’ play, the breezy weather and/or the big moment that influenced Mary and Lee’s play, but they never seemed to get their games going well enough to throw Lili and Judy off stride.
By the time the Men’s and Women’s All Aces rolled around at 1pm, a crowd of approximately 100 family members, friends, and other interested parties had gathered…and they were not disappointed. In the men’s event, All Aces Singles Club Champion Chip Graddy and Finalist Geoff Negin battled Alan Canfield and Arnie Wohl for bragging rights. In the women’s event, All Aces Club Champion Jemin Martinsen and Kathy Lanzalotta faced Carole Shapiro and Jane Heck for the honors.
The Champions and Finalists all gave the crowd something to cheer about. Case in point: At set point in the first set of the Men’s match, an up-and-back, side-to-side, to-and-fro affair that ended with a spectacular shot from Alan. The spectators erupted in delight. The women provided similar high-level entertainment, with players running down balls that appeared to be winners to keep points alive.
Early in the men’s final, there were murmurs in the crowd as Alan and Arnie brought their AA-games to the court and took the first set 6-2. It appeared as though Alan and Arnie would pull off their second upset in a row. It was not to be. As in their semifinal match, Chip and Geoff stormed back from the first set loss to take the next two 6-3, 6-1.
There was a similar buzz at the beginning of the women’s final as Carole and Jane jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first set. Jemin and Kathy were unfazed by the deficit and ripped off the next five games. Carole and Jane made a momentary stand, breaking Kathy and Jemin as they served for the set at 5-3, but couldn’t hold serve to even the set, losing it 4-6.
Jemin and Kathy held the lead throughout the first half of the second set, but Carole and Jane came back from 1-3 to go ahead 4-3. Jemin and Kathy were resolute despite losing the lead and fought back from 4-5 and 5-6 to force and win the final set tiebreak.
It was a fitting end to a terrific weekend of tennis. The result of the final matches of the weekend means that there are four players with an opportunity to win all three phases of the Tennis Club Championships: Singles, Doubles, and Mixed Doubles. Maxwell and Judy have won both the singles and doubles in the Ball Bashers division, and Chip and Jemin claimed both events in the All Aces division. All four plan to play mixed doubles, so the mixed ought to be a true climax of the Club Championship season.
As for this weekend, there were winners and losers according to the score, but although the matches were competitive, the event was characterized by great sportsmanship and even camaraderie amongst many of the opponents. It truly was as close as a club could come to the true spirit of a club championship.
Although special congratulations must go out to those who prevailed and are now Champions, kudos must also go out to all of the competitors who braved the conditions and gave it their all regardless of their statuses as favorites or underdogs. We truly are lucky to work with as great a group of members as any tennis pro is likely to encounter anywhere.
By the way, before we get to the Mixed Doubles event, let's not forget that the David and Goliath showdown is next Saturday and the Memorial Foundation event is the following Saturday. If you're looking for tennis, you don't have far to go. Until soon, game, set, match...
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Club Championships Doubles Day 2
Day 2 of the Club Championships Doubles began with most matches going according to form, and one unfortunate default. The default of Joy Jones and Mondee Breton, who missed their 10am start time, vaulted the team of Norma Schuyler and Bonnie Graham into the Women’s Ball Bashers semifinals without having struck a ball.
Without the benefit of a match played in the swirling winds, Norma and Bonnie did not have their A-games when they faced No.2 seeds Lee Tice and Mary Harrington in the semis. A-games were absolutely necessary, given the fact that Lee and Mary had soundly defeated a pretty good team in Joan Palermo and Karen Ackert, 6-1, 6-0 in the quarters, after Joan and Karen had defeated Caroline Cunningham and Helen Rogers in the previous round by the score of 6-3, 6-4. Lee and Mary advanced to the final by beating Norma and Bonnie 6-0, 6-1.
The other team in the Women’s Ball Bashers final, Judy Wilson and Lili Canfield had a much more difficult time reaching the final. After a good test in their first match of the day against Ann Tate and Daun Dessak (6-3, 6-4), they eked out a third set tiebreak in the semis against Angela Mitrisin and Anna Pitts.
Angela and Anna did not go quietly after losing the first set 3-6. They rallied to take the second set 6-4, and battled Singles Champion Judy and Lili all the way before dropping the breaker. Considering that Angela and Anna had not played together before this event, and had won a hard-fought 4-6, 7-6, 6-2 three-setter over Randy Thomas-Wohl and Sandi Hill earlier in the day, their effort against tomorrow’s finalists warrant major kudos. As with the other finals to be played, this one should be captivating.
In the Men’s Ball Bashers, Jake Keltner and Eddie Dance squeaked past Richard Edelman and Jim King 6-1, 6-7, 6-3 in the quarters, only to run into No.1 seeds Bill Wright and Tim Jones, who had little trouble dispatching Brian “The Hammer” Hammermeister and Jack “The Doctor” Noble, 6-0, 6-1 in their quarterfinal match. It’s safe to say that The Hammer didn’t do much pounding this time around.
First time partners Maxwell Thompson and John Hess outhustled the veteran team of Bill Cole and Bob Pleischl, 7-5, 6-2 in the quarterfinals to setup a matchup with No.2 seeds Rich Fox and Tim Baldwin in the semis. Rich and Tim faced a strong challenge from Frank Kaplan and Jim Rollero in the quarters, but emerged with the 7-5, 6-3 victory.
Maxwell and John continued their stellar play in the semis, eliminating Rich and Tim in straight sets (7-5, 6-3). They will face Bill Wright and Tim Jones, the No.1 seeds, who continued to outpace the competition. Bill, last year’s Ball Bashers Singles Champion, and Tim beat Jake Keltner and Eddie Dance in straight sets as well, but Jake and Eddie made them sweat a little in the second set. Final score: 6-1, 7-5.
Thompson and Hess have youth on their side, but after observing a few amazing gets by Tim today, I’m not sure how much of a factor that youth will be. If you are a gambler, you can bet that this Ball Bashers Final is going to a third set.
In the Women’s All Aces, Sunni Hammermeister and Judy Schafft tried to pull off their second consecutive come-from-behind win to reach the final, but fell short. After coming back from a first-set deficit in the quarters (6-7, 6-2, 6-1) against Carlotta Clark and Bev Adams, Sunni and Judy fell behind 1-4 to Carole Shapiro and Jane Heck, who eliminated Diane and Wennie Johannes 7-5, 6-1 in their previous match.
From the point of the 1-4 deficit, Sunni and Judy reeled off five consecutive games to win the first set 6-4. However, Carole and Jane found their stride in the second set and never looked back. They advanced to the final winning the final two sets 6-1, 6-1.
In other Women’s All Aces action, Sandy Gebara and Amy Ciarrocchi put the finishing touches on their quarterfinal match against Monica Robb and Pam Lemon (6-2, 6-4), before taking on the No.1 seeds, Jemin Martinsen and Kathy Lanzalotta. Sandy and Amy cruised through the 6-2 first set, but Jemin and Kathy stepped it up in the second, winning it 6-4. The third set stayed close until 3-3, before Kathy and Jemin pulled away to win it 6-3 in the third.
The match was terrific and it offered an illustration of how important it is to keep score in your matches. In the second set, Kathy was serving at 2-3, 30-30, and she and Jemin lost the next two points, which should have resulted in Sandy and Amy winning the game to get back on serve at 3-3.
Apparently no one realized that the game had ended, and Kathy produced a service winner on the next point, and she and Jemin won the game to go up 4-2. Whether accurate keeping of the score in that game would have affected the outcome no one can know. However, most players would rather be at 3-3 as opposed to 2-4. Keep and call your score after every point!
The first upset of the day occurred in the Men’s All Aces. No.2 seeds Pete McElroy and Ed Bonkowski fell to Alan Canfield, Jr. and Arnie Wohl in straight sets (6-3, 6-4). The No.1 seeds in the All Aces, Chip Graddy and Geoff Negin received a scare from Greg and Grey Pilant, but were able to meet the challenge. Greg and Grey got the jump on Chip and Geoff, winning the first set 6-2, but weren’t able to hold off the Singles Champion and Finalist, who took the final two sets, 6-1, 6-3.
The Women’s Court Crashers provided two terrific comebacks, and two serious candidates for “Match of the Day” honors. Jayme Lewis and Meg Jacobs came back after losing the first set at love, to win the final two 6-4, 6-2 over April Burkholder and Ilona Starr.
Jayme and Meg will face Sally Mellendorf and Sharon Bock, who beat Ann Wright and Stephanie Freeman in another three-set war that was over two and a half hours long. Sally and Sharon lost the first set in a tiebreak after a seesaw battle throughout the set, took the second set 6-3, and were neck and neck with Ann and Stephanie through 4-4 in the third before prevailing 6-4.
The Men’s Court Crashers didn’t produce the level of drama experienced in the other divisions, but you will not find a more diverse final as far as games go. On one side of the net you have the gentle giant in Tom VanWyk (not so gentle on the court), who is teamed with Manny Lima, the former professional soccer player who one might call “altitude challenged.” On the other, you have Tony Cupaiuolo, “The Running Professor” with his self-crafted game who partners with the Peter Malen, a former accomplished NCAA swimmer.
Tom and Manny, the No.1 seeds, downed the volatile Jim Masiello and his stoic partner George Olsen 7-5, 6-2 in the semis, while Peter and Tony upset No.2 seeds Bill Crouch and Ron Jones 7-6, 6-3 to make the final.
The finals start at 9am tomorrow (Sunday) and for a full review of the draws and starting times, go to the Tennis page of the Club Website.
Without the benefit of a match played in the swirling winds, Norma and Bonnie did not have their A-games when they faced No.2 seeds Lee Tice and Mary Harrington in the semis. A-games were absolutely necessary, given the fact that Lee and Mary had soundly defeated a pretty good team in Joan Palermo and Karen Ackert, 6-1, 6-0 in the quarters, after Joan and Karen had defeated Caroline Cunningham and Helen Rogers in the previous round by the score of 6-3, 6-4. Lee and Mary advanced to the final by beating Norma and Bonnie 6-0, 6-1.
The other team in the Women’s Ball Bashers final, Judy Wilson and Lili Canfield had a much more difficult time reaching the final. After a good test in their first match of the day against Ann Tate and Daun Dessak (6-3, 6-4), they eked out a third set tiebreak in the semis against Angela Mitrisin and Anna Pitts.
Angela and Anna did not go quietly after losing the first set 3-6. They rallied to take the second set 6-4, and battled Singles Champion Judy and Lili all the way before dropping the breaker. Considering that Angela and Anna had not played together before this event, and had won a hard-fought 4-6, 7-6, 6-2 three-setter over Randy Thomas-Wohl and Sandi Hill earlier in the day, their effort against tomorrow’s finalists warrant major kudos. As with the other finals to be played, this one should be captivating.
In the Men’s Ball Bashers, Jake Keltner and Eddie Dance squeaked past Richard Edelman and Jim King 6-1, 6-7, 6-3 in the quarters, only to run into No.1 seeds Bill Wright and Tim Jones, who had little trouble dispatching Brian “The Hammer” Hammermeister and Jack “The Doctor” Noble, 6-0, 6-1 in their quarterfinal match. It’s safe to say that The Hammer didn’t do much pounding this time around.
First time partners Maxwell Thompson and John Hess outhustled the veteran team of Bill Cole and Bob Pleischl, 7-5, 6-2 in the quarterfinals to setup a matchup with No.2 seeds Rich Fox and Tim Baldwin in the semis. Rich and Tim faced a strong challenge from Frank Kaplan and Jim Rollero in the quarters, but emerged with the 7-5, 6-3 victory.
Maxwell and John continued their stellar play in the semis, eliminating Rich and Tim in straight sets (7-5, 6-3). They will face Bill Wright and Tim Jones, the No.1 seeds, who continued to outpace the competition. Bill, last year’s Ball Bashers Singles Champion, and Tim beat Jake Keltner and Eddie Dance in straight sets as well, but Jake and Eddie made them sweat a little in the second set. Final score: 6-1, 7-5.
Thompson and Hess have youth on their side, but after observing a few amazing gets by Tim today, I’m not sure how much of a factor that youth will be. If you are a gambler, you can bet that this Ball Bashers Final is going to a third set.
In the Women’s All Aces, Sunni Hammermeister and Judy Schafft tried to pull off their second consecutive come-from-behind win to reach the final, but fell short. After coming back from a first-set deficit in the quarters (6-7, 6-2, 6-1) against Carlotta Clark and Bev Adams, Sunni and Judy fell behind 1-4 to Carole Shapiro and Jane Heck, who eliminated Diane and Wennie Johannes 7-5, 6-1 in their previous match.
From the point of the 1-4 deficit, Sunni and Judy reeled off five consecutive games to win the first set 6-4. However, Carole and Jane found their stride in the second set and never looked back. They advanced to the final winning the final two sets 6-1, 6-1.
In other Women’s All Aces action, Sandy Gebara and Amy Ciarrocchi put the finishing touches on their quarterfinal match against Monica Robb and Pam Lemon (6-2, 6-4), before taking on the No.1 seeds, Jemin Martinsen and Kathy Lanzalotta. Sandy and Amy cruised through the 6-2 first set, but Jemin and Kathy stepped it up in the second, winning it 6-4. The third set stayed close until 3-3, before Kathy and Jemin pulled away to win it 6-3 in the third.
The match was terrific and it offered an illustration of how important it is to keep score in your matches. In the second set, Kathy was serving at 2-3, 30-30, and she and Jemin lost the next two points, which should have resulted in Sandy and Amy winning the game to get back on serve at 3-3.
Apparently no one realized that the game had ended, and Kathy produced a service winner on the next point, and she and Jemin won the game to go up 4-2. Whether accurate keeping of the score in that game would have affected the outcome no one can know. However, most players would rather be at 3-3 as opposed to 2-4. Keep and call your score after every point!
The first upset of the day occurred in the Men’s All Aces. No.2 seeds Pete McElroy and Ed Bonkowski fell to Alan Canfield, Jr. and Arnie Wohl in straight sets (6-3, 6-4). The No.1 seeds in the All Aces, Chip Graddy and Geoff Negin received a scare from Greg and Grey Pilant, but were able to meet the challenge. Greg and Grey got the jump on Chip and Geoff, winning the first set 6-2, but weren’t able to hold off the Singles Champion and Finalist, who took the final two sets, 6-1, 6-3.
The Women’s Court Crashers provided two terrific comebacks, and two serious candidates for “Match of the Day” honors. Jayme Lewis and Meg Jacobs came back after losing the first set at love, to win the final two 6-4, 6-2 over April Burkholder and Ilona Starr.
Jayme and Meg will face Sally Mellendorf and Sharon Bock, who beat Ann Wright and Stephanie Freeman in another three-set war that was over two and a half hours long. Sally and Sharon lost the first set in a tiebreak after a seesaw battle throughout the set, took the second set 6-3, and were neck and neck with Ann and Stephanie through 4-4 in the third before prevailing 6-4.
The Men’s Court Crashers didn’t produce the level of drama experienced in the other divisions, but you will not find a more diverse final as far as games go. On one side of the net you have the gentle giant in Tom VanWyk (not so gentle on the court), who is teamed with Manny Lima, the former professional soccer player who one might call “altitude challenged.” On the other, you have Tony Cupaiuolo, “The Running Professor” with his self-crafted game who partners with the Peter Malen, a former accomplished NCAA swimmer.
Tom and Manny, the No.1 seeds, downed the volatile Jim Masiello and his stoic partner George Olsen 7-5, 6-2 in the semis, while Peter and Tony upset No.2 seeds Bill Crouch and Ron Jones 7-6, 6-3 to make the final.
The finals start at 9am tomorrow (Sunday) and for a full review of the draws and starting times, go to the Tennis page of the Club Website.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Club Championship Doubles off Wet but Good Start
The Women’s Ball Bashers got the Club Championships Doubles ball rolling with Randy Wohl and Sandi Hill prevailing over the spunky team of Nancy Davis and Marvel Jones. According to Mrs. Jones (with whom I do not have a thing going on), her game wasn’t as “Marvelous” as it was during their league match win yesterday. The only other Women’s Ball Bashers match completed on schedule today was Joy Jones and Mondee Breton’s 6-2, 7-5 win over the always fiesty, former Singles Champion Martha Deleeuw and her partner Linda Gardiner.
One other match in the Women’s Ball Bashers got underway but soon was under water and rescheduled for tomorrow morning (see tennis page of Club website for scheduling details). Newcomers Sadie Forchelli and Sophia Phelps (who is regretting having to give up her tee time tomorrow) had won the first set 6-1 and were up 3-2 before the deluge dropped on them. The winner will face No.1 seeds Judy Wilson and Lili Canfield (Happy Birthday Lili!) next.
The Men Ball Bashers also managed to complete two matches, with one of those matches taking home “Match of the Day” honors. First-time participant Brian "The Hammer" Hammermeister teamed with "The Doctor," Jack Noble, to claim the 1-6, 7-6, 7-5 victory over Chuck Klucka and Len Ciarrocchi, after falling well behind. The Hammer and The Doctor will meet top seeds Bill Wright and Tim Jones next.
Making their debut in the Ball Bashers were Jim Rollero and Frank Kaplan. After cruising to a 6-1 first set, they held on to beat last minute entrants, Bill Otey and Ron Graham, 6-4 in the second. They have their work cut out for them next round as they face the crafty duo of Rich Fox and Tim Baldwin.
An interesting match-up in this division will be Singles Champion Maxwell Thompson and Singles Finalist John Hess, teaming up to face the experienced team of Bill Cole and Bob Pleischl. Both Maxwell and John have improved their games considerably this year, Bill appears to be almost fully recovered from his shoulder injury, and Bob has played more tennis than anyone over the past several months. It ought to be fun!
Still in the Men's Ball Bashers, no match is likely to be any more competitive than the Rich Edelman and Jim King pairing taking on Jake Keltner and Eddie Dance. With Eddie and Rich patrolling the net, Jim bashing groundstrokes and Jake counterpunching, a three-setter would be no surprise here.
The Women’s All Aces had two matches halted by the rain. Carole Shapiro and, yet another newcomer, Jane Heck, led 6-5 in the first set over Diane and Wennie Johannes (our only mother-daughter team) before the stoppage. They are on-serve, however, with Wennie serving to stay in the set. Equally tight was the match between No.2 seeds Sunni Hammermeister and Judy Schafft, who were locked in a fierce skirmish with Carlotta Clark and Bev Adams. The score was 5-5 with Carlotta’s serve on tap.
One other Women’s All Aces match was in progress before suspension of play. The rain may have provided last year’s Ball Bashers Champions who moved up, Monica Robb and Pam Lemon, a much-needed reprieve, as they were trailing Sandi Gebara and Amy Ciarrocchi 2-6, 3-4. However, they were on serve in the second set, so perhaps the stoppage was not welcomed. We shall see tomorrow as Monica and Pam try to push the match into a third set, while Sandi and Amy try to finish strong.
The Court Crashers men and women saw their first action today as well. In a match that was perhaps even closer than it sounds, Jim Masiello and George Olsen edged Charlie Beagan and Rick Jacobs, 6-3, 7-5. Charlie and Rick can feel very good about this loss, because we are certain that Kathy Masiello will have a much nicer evening due to the result. Of course, we suspect Meg might suggest that Rick visit the couch tonight, because she doesn’t want any losing vibes to rub off on her before she plays her first match tomorrow.
In other Men’s Court Crashers action, Peter Malen and Tony Cupaiuolo encountered a stiff first-set challenge from “The Dons,” Don Mattcheck and Don Pitts, before solving the riddle in the second set and finishing off a 6-4, 6-0 victory. Always the gracious in victory and defeat, Tony remarked, “If we could put together Don Mattcheck’s strokes and my legs…” Malen and Cupaiuolo take on No.2 seeds Bill crouch and Ron Jones tomorrow afternoon.
The Women Court Crashers played one match today with Stephanie Freeman and Ann Wright squeaking by Linda Riedl and Jean sanders 6-4, 6-4. Stephanie and Ann were down 0-40 at 4-4 in the second set, with Linda and Jean threatening to push it into a third, before coming back to hold serve, and breaking to wrap up the win. Their match against No.1 seeds Sally “No Mercy” Mellendorf and Sharon Bock ought to be a candidate for "Match of the Day" tomorrow.
Taking to the courts for the first time on the same side of the net will be All Aces Club Champion Chip Graddy and All Aces Finalist and former All Aces Club Champion Geoff Negin. They will trade heavy blows across the net with Greg and Grey Pilant, our only father-son team. There’s a rumor going around that the mother-daughter team of Johannes-Johannes issued a challenge to the Pilant-Pilant duo, but have yet to receive a response.
In any event, the winner of the Graddy/Negin-Pilant/Pilant battle will take on the winner of the match featuring the team of Alan Canfield, Jr. and Arnie Wohl against Pete McElroy and Ed Bonkowski. They say that styles make fights in boxing, and this contest will certainly involve contrasting styles. The attacking game of Pete and Ed versus the counterpunching techniques of Alan and Arnie will be on display tomorrow at noon if the weather holds.
We anticipate some excellent matches tomorrow through the finals on Sunday, so if you are a lover of the game, we look forward to seeing you at Gulf Harbour’s tennis center this weekend. Until next, game, set, match…
One other match in the Women’s Ball Bashers got underway but soon was under water and rescheduled for tomorrow morning (see tennis page of Club website for scheduling details). Newcomers Sadie Forchelli and Sophia Phelps (who is regretting having to give up her tee time tomorrow) had won the first set 6-1 and were up 3-2 before the deluge dropped on them. The winner will face No.1 seeds Judy Wilson and Lili Canfield (Happy Birthday Lili!) next.
The Men Ball Bashers also managed to complete two matches, with one of those matches taking home “Match of the Day” honors. First-time participant Brian "The Hammer" Hammermeister teamed with "The Doctor," Jack Noble, to claim the 1-6, 7-6, 7-5 victory over Chuck Klucka and Len Ciarrocchi, after falling well behind. The Hammer and The Doctor will meet top seeds Bill Wright and Tim Jones next.
Making their debut in the Ball Bashers were Jim Rollero and Frank Kaplan. After cruising to a 6-1 first set, they held on to beat last minute entrants, Bill Otey and Ron Graham, 6-4 in the second. They have their work cut out for them next round as they face the crafty duo of Rich Fox and Tim Baldwin.
An interesting match-up in this division will be Singles Champion Maxwell Thompson and Singles Finalist John Hess, teaming up to face the experienced team of Bill Cole and Bob Pleischl. Both Maxwell and John have improved their games considerably this year, Bill appears to be almost fully recovered from his shoulder injury, and Bob has played more tennis than anyone over the past several months. It ought to be fun!
Still in the Men's Ball Bashers, no match is likely to be any more competitive than the Rich Edelman and Jim King pairing taking on Jake Keltner and Eddie Dance. With Eddie and Rich patrolling the net, Jim bashing groundstrokes and Jake counterpunching, a three-setter would be no surprise here.
The Women’s All Aces had two matches halted by the rain. Carole Shapiro and, yet another newcomer, Jane Heck, led 6-5 in the first set over Diane and Wennie Johannes (our only mother-daughter team) before the stoppage. They are on-serve, however, with Wennie serving to stay in the set. Equally tight was the match between No.2 seeds Sunni Hammermeister and Judy Schafft, who were locked in a fierce skirmish with Carlotta Clark and Bev Adams. The score was 5-5 with Carlotta’s serve on tap.
One other Women’s All Aces match was in progress before suspension of play. The rain may have provided last year’s Ball Bashers Champions who moved up, Monica Robb and Pam Lemon, a much-needed reprieve, as they were trailing Sandi Gebara and Amy Ciarrocchi 2-6, 3-4. However, they were on serve in the second set, so perhaps the stoppage was not welcomed. We shall see tomorrow as Monica and Pam try to push the match into a third set, while Sandi and Amy try to finish strong.
The Court Crashers men and women saw their first action today as well. In a match that was perhaps even closer than it sounds, Jim Masiello and George Olsen edged Charlie Beagan and Rick Jacobs, 6-3, 7-5. Charlie and Rick can feel very good about this loss, because we are certain that Kathy Masiello will have a much nicer evening due to the result. Of course, we suspect Meg might suggest that Rick visit the couch tonight, because she doesn’t want any losing vibes to rub off on her before she plays her first match tomorrow.
In other Men’s Court Crashers action, Peter Malen and Tony Cupaiuolo encountered a stiff first-set challenge from “The Dons,” Don Mattcheck and Don Pitts, before solving the riddle in the second set and finishing off a 6-4, 6-0 victory. Always the gracious in victory and defeat, Tony remarked, “If we could put together Don Mattcheck’s strokes and my legs…” Malen and Cupaiuolo take on No.2 seeds Bill crouch and Ron Jones tomorrow afternoon.
The Women Court Crashers played one match today with Stephanie Freeman and Ann Wright squeaking by Linda Riedl and Jean sanders 6-4, 6-4. Stephanie and Ann were down 0-40 at 4-4 in the second set, with Linda and Jean threatening to push it into a third, before coming back to hold serve, and breaking to wrap up the win. Their match against No.1 seeds Sally “No Mercy” Mellendorf and Sharon Bock ought to be a candidate for "Match of the Day" tomorrow.
Taking to the courts for the first time on the same side of the net will be All Aces Club Champion Chip Graddy and All Aces Finalist and former All Aces Club Champion Geoff Negin. They will trade heavy blows across the net with Greg and Grey Pilant, our only father-son team. There’s a rumor going around that the mother-daughter team of Johannes-Johannes issued a challenge to the Pilant-Pilant duo, but have yet to receive a response.
In any event, the winner of the Graddy/Negin-Pilant/Pilant battle will take on the winner of the match featuring the team of Alan Canfield, Jr. and Arnie Wohl against Pete McElroy and Ed Bonkowski. They say that styles make fights in boxing, and this contest will certainly involve contrasting styles. The attacking game of Pete and Ed versus the counterpunching techniques of Alan and Arnie will be on display tomorrow at noon if the weather holds.
We anticipate some excellent matches tomorrow through the finals on Sunday, so if you are a lover of the game, we look forward to seeing you at Gulf Harbour’s tennis center this weekend. Until next, game, set, match…
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Up Next in Tennis
If you missed the excitement of the Club Championships Singles event or the camaraderie of the Tennis Family Night Dinner, do not fear, some more scintillating tennis entertainment is almost here.
Doubles Championships
Next up on the Club’s tennis scene is the Club Championships Men’s and Women’s Doubles events. To date, we have 20 women's and 14 men’s teams registered for the events, significantly more participants than we saw in the singles.
With several newcomers in the mix this year, it will be a challenge for Defending Champions to hold onto their titles. The February 2nd deadline is approaching fast (8 days), so if you haven’t yet registered, get yourself a partner and get some practice together before the event. You can enter online by clicking here.
Memorial Foundation Event
Shortly after we crown the Club’s Men’s and Women’s Doubles Champions, one of the more important tennis events of the year will come to Gulf Harbour’s courts. On Saturday, February 20, the Gulf Harbour Memorial Foundation’s fundraising effort will be sparked by a tennis funfest, including competitions, auctions, raffles, and more.
Themed “Up, Up and Away,” this year’s fundraising activities could push the Foundation’s historic fundraising efforts over the $1 million mark. Our tennis members have contributed significantly in the past and we are hoping to top last year’s mark.
Thanks to the generosity of several members, with Bill and Ann Wright, Bernie and Penny Klotz, Rick and Meg Jacobs, and Jim & Kathy Masiello among the most generous, we raised several thousand for our neighbors in Harlem Heights. This year’s proceeds will go to Lee Memorial Cardiac Care, United Veterans of Lee County, and CCMI, Inc. which supplies meals to some of the less fortunate populations in Lee County.
Members Corner
There are so many of our tennis members fighting heroic battles, particularly with health issues of their own or their loved ones that I think we could dedicate an entire blog to those in need of our support and positive energy. However, given time and space constraints, I'd just like to mention that our Tennis Committee Chairperson, Bob Ostrom, and Team Captains Connie Hess, and Sally Mellendorf are particularly in need of our support.
On a brighter note, Pam Lemon and Robin Correnti
demonstrated their athletic prowess and versatility by capturing the Member-Member Golf event this past weekend. Congratulations are certainly in order for that accomplishment.
Team Report
Gulf Harbour's teams continue to do more than hold their own in the Lee County women's and men's leagues. Leading the way for our women is our 3.0-Minus team, which has stretched its division lead to 30 points, despite injuries to Captain Jenny King. Also dominating their division are the ladies of our 50-Plus Bronze team, who are tightening their grip on first place. They lead the next best team by 27 points.
Our 3.0 Double Trouble team is now in second place by three points after holding the division lead for much of the first half of the season. They should be in the hunt for first all the way to the end despite the injury to Co-Captain Linda VanWyk.
Other top-five women's teams include the Defending Champion 50-Plus Gold team, which is 14 points behind the division leader, and solidly in third. With about half the season yet to be played, a repeat is still within reach. The 3.5-Minus Sure Shots are clinging to fifth, although they have slipped from the second-place slot they held at last report.
Our final top-five women's team is the 50-plus Silver Belles, which climbed three spots to fourth position since the last update. Although not in the top-five, the 50-Plus Silver Strings desrve mention for having climbed six spots to break into the top ten for the first time this season. They now hold the eighth spot.
Our 50-Plus men's teams continue to represent the Club with distinction as well. Our White-A team is holding tight to the four-point lead it has held for the past five weeks of play, and are playing as though they have no intentions of losing ground. On the strength of a sweep in their last match, the 69-ers of the 70-Plus League have eased into second place, and trail the first place team by only one point.
The Red-A team is tied for second, but slipped further behind the No.1 team, which now leads by five points. After clinging to first place for much of the season, Blue-B has dropped into a second-place tie after losing three of four individual matches to the new division leader last time out. The deficit is only one point so there is no need for alarm.
White-C currently sits in third, but has some major catching up to do if it is to catch the leader; and Blue-B is clinging to the top-five, sitting tied for fifth with Legends. Remember, you can find our teams' home schedule by going to the Tennis Teams & Leagues page of the Club website.
Your Pros
Your pros will be back in Pro League action ths Friday at Bonita Bay. Joel's second-place team will take on Mike's third-place team, and T. A.'s league-trailing squad will face the league leaders. T. A.'s team closed the gap a wee bit last match by beating Mike's team six points to four, and will be seeking to gain some more ground this week.
Tennis on TV
If watching Pro League isn't enough for you, the Australian Open has offered up some awesome play thus far. They are into the quarterfinals with the best players in the world battling for the decade's first Grand Slam. Click here for the Australian Open television schedule.
Until the next time, remember that in doubles, every ball is your ball unless your partner gets there first or is position to hit a better shot! game, set, match...
Doubles Championships
Next up on the Club’s tennis scene is the Club Championships Men’s and Women’s Doubles events. To date, we have 20 women's and 14 men’s teams registered for the events, significantly more participants than we saw in the singles.
With several newcomers in the mix this year, it will be a challenge for Defending Champions to hold onto their titles. The February 2nd deadline is approaching fast (8 days), so if you haven’t yet registered, get yourself a partner and get some practice together before the event. You can enter online by clicking here.
Memorial Foundation Event
Shortly after we crown the Club’s Men’s and Women’s Doubles Champions, one of the more important tennis events of the year will come to Gulf Harbour’s courts. On Saturday, February 20, the Gulf Harbour Memorial Foundation’s fundraising effort will be sparked by a tennis funfest, including competitions, auctions, raffles, and more.
Themed “Up, Up and Away,” this year’s fundraising activities could push the Foundation’s historic fundraising efforts over the $1 million mark. Our tennis members have contributed significantly in the past and we are hoping to top last year’s mark.
Thanks to the generosity of several members, with Bill and Ann Wright, Bernie and Penny Klotz, Rick and Meg Jacobs, and Jim & Kathy Masiello among the most generous, we raised several thousand for our neighbors in Harlem Heights. This year’s proceeds will go to Lee Memorial Cardiac Care, United Veterans of Lee County, and CCMI, Inc. which supplies meals to some of the less fortunate populations in Lee County.
Members Corner
There are so many of our tennis members fighting heroic battles, particularly with health issues of their own or their loved ones that I think we could dedicate an entire blog to those in need of our support and positive energy. However, given time and space constraints, I'd just like to mention that our Tennis Committee Chairperson, Bob Ostrom, and Team Captains Connie Hess, and Sally Mellendorf are particularly in need of our support.
On a brighter note, Pam Lemon and Robin Correnti
demonstrated their athletic prowess and versatility by capturing the Member-Member Golf event this past weekend. Congratulations are certainly in order for that accomplishment.
Team Report
Gulf Harbour's teams continue to do more than hold their own in the Lee County women's and men's leagues. Leading the way for our women is our 3.0-Minus team, which has stretched its division lead to 30 points, despite injuries to Captain Jenny King. Also dominating their division are the ladies of our 50-Plus Bronze team, who are tightening their grip on first place. They lead the next best team by 27 points.
Our 3.0 Double Trouble team is now in second place by three points after holding the division lead for much of the first half of the season. They should be in the hunt for first all the way to the end despite the injury to Co-Captain Linda VanWyk.
Other top-five women's teams include the Defending Champion 50-Plus Gold team, which is 14 points behind the division leader, and solidly in third. With about half the season yet to be played, a repeat is still within reach. The 3.5-Minus Sure Shots are clinging to fifth, although they have slipped from the second-place slot they held at last report.
Our final top-five women's team is the 50-plus Silver Belles, which climbed three spots to fourth position since the last update. Although not in the top-five, the 50-Plus Silver Strings desrve mention for having climbed six spots to break into the top ten for the first time this season. They now hold the eighth spot.
Our 50-Plus men's teams continue to represent the Club with distinction as well. Our White-A team is holding tight to the four-point lead it has held for the past five weeks of play, and are playing as though they have no intentions of losing ground. On the strength of a sweep in their last match, the 69-ers of the 70-Plus League have eased into second place, and trail the first place team by only one point.
The Red-A team is tied for second, but slipped further behind the No.1 team, which now leads by five points. After clinging to first place for much of the season, Blue-B has dropped into a second-place tie after losing three of four individual matches to the new division leader last time out. The deficit is only one point so there is no need for alarm.
White-C currently sits in third, but has some major catching up to do if it is to catch the leader; and Blue-B is clinging to the top-five, sitting tied for fifth with Legends. Remember, you can find our teams' home schedule by going to the Tennis Teams & Leagues page of the Club website.
Your Pros
Your pros will be back in Pro League action ths Friday at Bonita Bay. Joel's second-place team will take on Mike's third-place team, and T. A.'s league-trailing squad will face the league leaders. T. A.'s team closed the gap a wee bit last match by beating Mike's team six points to four, and will be seeking to gain some more ground this week.
Tennis on TV
If watching Pro League isn't enough for you, the Australian Open has offered up some awesome play thus far. They are into the quarterfinals with the best players in the world battling for the decade's first Grand Slam. Click here for the Australian Open television schedule.
Until the next time, remember that in doubles, every ball is your ball unless your partner gets there first or is position to hit a better shot! game, set, match...
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