to new games - United States Tennis Associationassets.usta.com/assets/649/15/NetPlay - Fall 2009.pdf · to new games Select momentS of UStA middle StAteS hiStory e s s a c s t s

Fall 2009 • Volume IV • Issue 2

From wood Frames to new games Select momentS of UStA middle StAteS hiStory

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Madison Keys, social Media

& QuicKstart tennis

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10 Diversity Fourteen-year-old Madison Keys lit up the Philadelphia tennis scene this summer, and she has no plans to stop.

13 Community DevelopmentUSTA Middle States and the Philadelphia Department of Recreation are granting the city’s youth access to the game of tennis.

Departments4 Welcome Letter

5 Guest Columnist – Drew Sunderlin

7 Tennis Shorts

14 Member Spotlight

26 Younique Court

28 Districts

• Junior competitors flocked to AMD for the Fox Chapel Junior Open

• A CPD woman is bringing tennis to Tanzania

• Student athletes from DD find success on the collegiate courts

• Several EPD clubs and organizations hosted tennis benefits this summer

• Jr. Team Tennis continues to grow in NJD

• QuickStart Tennis is changing the way kids in PATD learn the sport

USTA MIDDLE STATES

10 Diversity Fourteen-year-old Madison Keys lit up the Philadelphia tennis scene this summer, and she has no plans to stop.

13 Community DevelopmentUSTA Middle States and the Philadelphia Department of Recreation are granting the city’s youth access to the game of tennis.

16 Hall of Fame The USTA Middle States Hall of

Fame returns to the City of Bridges.

Fall 2009 • Volume IV • Issue 2

Celebrate 85 years! As the section celebrates its 85th birthday, learn about its history while celebrating its future.

High school students all over the state are doing whatever it takes to play the game they love.

22 Tennis On Campus Two Gettysburg College student-

athletes are working hard to bring Tennis On Campus to their school.

NETPLAY • FALL 2009 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected]

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Published by USTA Middle StatesVolume IV Issue 2 Fall 2009

Editorial

Nathaniel Harrison Marge McGann Carrie RuppBen Zislis

Contributors

Tom BenicKasey ConnorsCostello PhotographyBrian DenisLoretta DeWaltAmanda Faris-DenisJeff GarrettJeffrey HarrisonMonique Holloway Gloria JaremkoAnn LoPrinziNell MatthewsMarlynn OrlandoKitty PerrinAlexandra SchofieldCathy ShaakSonia SomasundaramDrew SunderlinJen Wozniak

USTA Middle States Officers

PresidentJeffrey Harrison

Senior Vice PresidentPatricia Weger

SecretaryEllen V. Williams

TreasurerRuth Roulston

USTA Middle States

1288 Valley Forge RoadSuite 74, PO Box 987Valley Forge, PA 19482(610) 935-5000(610) 935-5484 fax [email protected]

Print & Design

Bentley Graphic Communications, Inc. Pottstown, Pa. www.bentleygraphics.com

Greetings Middle States members,

We should both be lucky enough to age as gracefully and wisely as USTA Middle States. As this issue of NetPlay highlights, our section turns 85 this year. 85! That’s a long time! But somehow, our Middle States has managed to find the fountain of youth, allowing the section to stay vibrant and relevant to thousands of tennis players throughout our 85 year history.

Looking at the historical timeline on pages eight and nine makes us acutely aware that our time here is simply a mark on the calendar, a blip in the path. Those that truly excel and reach beyond ordinary efforts become a permanent mark in history. Although our story played out on grass, clay and hard courts, it’s the people who punctuated the history with their tennis talents, volunteer leadership and pioneer spirit. We are fortunate to have so many tennis greats who came from Middle States. Players like Bill Tilden and Vic Seixas made Middle States proud, then and now. Our section is also blessed with several historical tennis clubs that have hosted many Davis Cup and Fed Cup Ties. These clubs are steeped in tradition and have played an integral part of American tennis history.

Middle States is strong with players like Connie Ebert and Newt Meade both of whom are 85 years old and yet remain active in tennis. In this issue they share how they got involved in the sport a remarkable seven decades ago.

As we celebrate 85 rich years, we also look towards the future. In 2009 we have focused on a new play format for 10 and under players, QuickStart Tennis (QST). We’ve brought QST demonstrations all across the section so coaches, pros and parents can see how to get children playing younger and excelling faster. We’ve also introduced Flex Leagues, a program which adapts to our adult players needs, allowing more flexibility in scheduling and playing.We had the pleasure of witnessing the future of American tennis this summer in 14-year-old Madison Keys. Keys played for World TeamTennis’ Philadelphia Freedoms. If you were fortunate enough to see her play, you got to see a remarkable talent who is sure to have a bright career. So, Happy 85th Birthday Middle States. We feel fortunate to be part of your rich history and hopeful that we can help forge a vibrant future. Now, all together…make a wish and blow out the candles.

Warm regards,

Jeffrey Harrison Marlynn Orlando President, USTA Middle States Executive Director, USTA Middle States

Jeffrey Harrison and Marlynn Orlando

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Are you having trouble figuring out what string or tensions to use to elevate your game or relieve some chronic arm, wrist or shoulder problems? You are not alone. So what type of string should you be

looking to try? First, you need to assess what your needs are.

Example #1: You are an up and coming junior tournament player looking for a string that will give your game an edge or one that will not break in the middle of that critical point. You have read about the number of players who are using polyester or poly-hybrids, but are they right for you? Here are some facts you need to know:

1. Polyester is difficult to break, plays great, but for a short period of time. Polyester strings only last about 20 hours of play before they loose their resiliency and tension and go dead. Poly-blends can last up to 30 hours.

2. Polyester is much harder on the arm than synthetics or natural gut. They are NOT recommended if you have arm, wrist or shoulder problems.

3. Most players on the circuit use a blend of polyester and gut or polyester and a very soft, coreless multifilament nylon.

4. The pros cut polyester or polyester blends out of their racquets, on average, after one match and one practice (The commentators on television fail to mention this when they are singing the virtues of this string type).

Example #2: You are a club player who suffers from the discomfort of tendinitis, bursitis or arthritis and are searching for that magical string which will reduce or maybe even eliminate your pain. What works best? Here are the facts you need to know:

1. The most resilient string with the greatest shock absorption qualities is natural gut. The second is a hybrid blend of natural gut and a soft, coreless multifilament synthetic. Third is a soft, coreless multifilament synthetic.

2. Natural gut can last up to 60 hours in your racquet (if you are not abusive to your strings), gut hybrids (no poly) 45 hours and soft synthetics 30 hours.

3. Tension is a big factor in reducing pain. Lower is better, but there are limits.

4. Frame type, grip size and stroke production can also be major factors when it comes to discomfort.

Next, you have to find a competent stringer who is familiar with all the various strings on the market today and can recommend good choices. Seek out a qualified, professional stringer. Just like a good teaching professional, a qualified stringer’s reputation should precede them. Ask around. Some guidelines should be, but are not limited to, United States Racquet Stringer’s Association (USRSA) certification, experience in both club and professional events, high level playing experience (to speak from experience), a laundry list of clients and a solid reputation of standing behind their work.

Drew Sunderlin (Ambler, Pa.), a USPTA Master Professional and Master Racquet Technician with the USRSA, is the owner of Ft. Washington Swim & Tennis Club, Strings ‘n Things Pro Shop and Strings ‘n Things Competition Stringing Service. Sunderlin is considered by many to be extremely knowledgeable when it comes to helping his clients choose the right frame, string and tension for their individual needs and style of play. He strings over 3,000 frames a year for both professionals and amateurs. If you would like to contact Sunderlin with any questions you might have regarding racquets, stringing or customizing, you can reach him at: [email protected]

Allegheny Mountain

Tom Benic

Central PA

RichardRauenzahn

Delaware

MoniqueHolloway

Eastern PA

LorettaDeWalt

New Jersey

Ann LoPrinzi

Philadelphia

Jeff Garrett

DistrictContributors

Guest Colum

nist

Guest Columnist Drew Sunderlin

ADVERTISEMENT

This year marked the greatest lineup of tennis stars ever seen in Philadelphia - Andre Agassi, Serena Williams, Venus Williams, John McEnroe, Martina Navratilova, Kim Clijsters, Anna Kournikova, Lisa Raymond, and, of course, Billie Jean King! Our new pre-match activities featuring “block parties,” USTA QuickStart Tennis, music, kids’ games, and more, were a huge hit. The tennis competition was fabulous and our enthusiastic fans interacted with the players and participated in countless contests, promotions, and giveaways. All of this

made for seven memorable nights of tennis and fun.

The Freedoms would like to give a special thank you to all of the sponsors, volunteers, ballkids, umpires and staff that made the 2009 season

one of the best yet!

Looking forward to seeing everyone next July!

Despite the closing of the Delaware Smash earlier this year, World TeamTennis was still able to have a presence in Delaware in July with tennis clinics and the annual 5k race. Former #1 players Martina Navratilova, Kim Clijsters and Lisa Raymond each visited tennis clubs in the Delaware area and participated in clinics, autograph sessions, and questions and answer sessions for

both adults and children. Tennis

facilities included Greenville Country Club, DuPont Country Club, Belleview State Park and Radley Run Country Club. Special thank you to our sponsors: DuPont, Christiana Care, Physiotherapy and Associates, Sir Speedy of Newark, Fast Signs of Delaware, USTA Middle States Delaware District and the DuPont Country Club tennis staff.

What a Season!

2009 Philadelphia Freedoms

World TeamTennis in Delaware

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Tennis Shorts

Skylar Lancaster, an eight-year-old from Pittsburgh, recently won a bronze medal at the 2009 Jr. Olympic Skills Competition, the official youth skills competition of the U.S. Olympic Team. Youngsters from all across the country converged on the U.S. Olympic Training Center, in Chula Vista, Calif., for the opportunity to be crowned Rapid Rally Champion. Lancaster qualified for the competition by winning a local qualifying event in Pennsylvania. The Rapid Rally competition lets you compete against yourself and the clock to hit a low-compression tennis ball against a wall (above the net line), standing behind the Rally Line (15 feet from the wall), as many times as possible in 30 seconds.

For proof that tennis is a lifetime sport, look no further than the Model A’s Tennis Club of Mill Creek, Del. On summer mornings, you’ll find players as old as 91 at the Delcastle Tennis Center. The club was started more than two decades ago by the late Ralph Pollman, who took up tennis at 64 after suffering a heart attack. His doctor had prescribed walking, but he found it boring and turned to tennis. Model A’s now use a computer program that schedules play opportunities for the more than 100 members who have varying backgrounds from USTA veterans to former high school players to beginners. Photo courtesy of The News Journal/Robert Craig

Set Point Tennis, a Berks County based Community Tennis Association (CTA), wrapped up their first season of Jr. Team Tennis (JTT). The league, the brainchild of CTA leader Mike Murphy, brought together some of the area’s finest high school players to compete as both teammates and opponents. Teams comprised of both boys and girls varsity players from Conrad Weiser, Exeter, Holy Name, Twin Valley, Wilson and Wyomissing high schools. Even the high school coaches were involved as JTT coaches and in some cases steered teams without one of their own players on the roster. The league, comprised of nearly 50 competitors in two age divisions, played matches at Wilson High School and Hillcrest Racquet Club.

Michael Zhu, an extremely talented 16-year-old from Princeton Junction, N.J., went on a remarkable run at the prestigious US Jr. International Grass Court Championships at the Philadelphia Cricket Club. Zhu, who finished 2008 atop the Boy’s 16 Middle States rankings, played eight matches in eight days as a qualifier en route to the final. His run ended there with a loss to Raymond Sarmiento in the Championship Match. The event which acts as a tune up for Wimbledon brings together some of the top junior players in the International Tennis Federation (ITF). “It was my first time in the final of an ITF,” said Zhu. “I don’t even have a ranking, I just got some points here, and it never crossed my mind that I would make it this far.” Zhu rebounded nicely a few weeks later capturing the singles title in the Boy’s 18 division at the Middle States Level 3 Section Championship. Photo courtesy of Paul Ballard/ZooTennis.com

Dr. Robert “Whirlwind” Johnson, a physician formerly of Chester County, Pa., was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, R.I. Johnson is considered the man most responsible for launching the careers of world tennis greats Althea Gibson and Arthur Ashe, the nation’s first African-American tennis champions. He initiated the integration of black tennis at the junior level and ultimately at the highest levels of the game, working as coach, trainer, sponsor and fundraiser – and courageously approaching tournament directors, lobbying for his players’ full participation. Johnson earned the nickname “Whirlwind” as a standout football player at Lincoln University, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) located near Kennett Square, Pa. The Robert “Whirlwind” Johnson Memorial tennis tournament is held annually bringing together HBCUs from around the east coast. Photo Courtesy of Julian Johnson

Jenni Goodling of York, Pa., never dreamed of being on the same tennis court again with Billie Jean King. Nearly 30 years ago it was King and doubles partner Chris Evert who knocked Goodling and Vicki Nelson out of the U.S. Open, thanks to a resounding 6-1, 6-0 defeat. However in July, Goodling was once again joined by King on a stadium court. That’s when the legend presented Goodling with the USPTA Middle States Pro of the Year award in King of Prussia, Pa., at a Philadelphia Freedoms match. Goodling, a former standout at Rollins (FL) College is the Director of Tennis at Out Door Country Club in Manchester Township and also serves as a teaching pro at the Wisehaven Tennis Center in York, Pa. The 47-year-old played on the Wimbledon grass, the Roland Garros clay and the hard courts at the U.S. Open during her professional career. Photo courtesy of Costello Photography

New Jersey

Delaware

Philadelphia

Eastern PA

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1924Middle States Lawn Tennis Association (MSLTA) is incorporated; it listed 79 clubs and nine member associations – Philadelphia Tennis Assoc., Philadelphia Inter-Club Tennis Assoc., and the districts of Pittsburgh, New Jersey, Delaware, Bethlehem, Susquehanna Valley, Northeastern and Northwestern.

1927 The Sears Cup becomes the first intersectional team competition for women in the United States featuring women from Eastern Lawn Tennis Association, Middle States Lawn Tennis Association, Mid-Atlantic Lawn Tennis Association and New England Lawn Tennis Association.

1971For the first time, Middle States Lawn Tennis Association sponsored a girl’s traveling squad to compete outside the section. Also, for the first time, the girls joined the boys in the highly popular inter-district Middle States Jamboree.

1991Jr. Team Tennis first begins in the section.

1946 The Church Cup, previously an intercity team competition for players from Boston, New York and Philadelphia expands to incorporate Eastern Lawn Tennis Association, Middle States Lawn Tennis Association, Mid-Atlantic Lawn Tennis Association and New England Lawn Tennis Association.

1982 The section begins to focus on educational initiatives hosting the 1st Annual Middle States Sectional Umpires School as well as the 1st Annual Middle States Tennis Teachers Workshop.

1992 The name “Middle States Tennis Association” is changed to USTA Middle States (USTA MS).

1950 Individual United States Lawn Tennis Association memberships are available at a cost of $3 per year.

1983 Middle States Tennis Association claims its first ever USTA League National Champion – a 4.5 women’s team from Wilmington, Del.

1994 The inaugural USTA MS Hall of Fame is held.

1967 The first New Jersey Tennis Association Invitation Tournament was held in Haddonwood Tennis Club in Deptford, N.J., which marks the first time participants could earn ranking points for an event.

----Susie Lee of Wayne, Pa., becomes the first paid employee, serving as Executive Secretary.

1989 Judy Levering of Lancaster, Pa., is named President. Levering not only enjoyed the distinction of being elected the first female president of the section, but also the first female to hold the office of USTA President, which she held from 1999-2000.

Celebrate 85 YearsSince 1924...Select moments of USTA Middle States History

USTA Community Tennis Association (CTA) Breakdown

• A CTA is any incorporated, geographically defined, not-for-profit, volunteer based organization that supports or provides programs which promote and develop the growth of tennis.

• There are nearly 1,000 registered CTAs across the United States.

• USTA Middle States ranks 3rd among the 17 USTA sections in number of registered CTAs.

• Benefits of becoming a CTAo USTA-offered Liability Insuranceo USTA-offered Directors and Officers Insuranceo Access to USTA-sponsored grants and

scholarshipso Nomination for USTA-sponsored awardso Access to trainings, workshops and seminarso Marketing and Web site assistance

Interested in learning more? Contact Ben Zislis at [email protected]

As USTA Middle States’ celebrates its 85th Anniversary, the section also celebrates the addition of its 85th registered USTA Community Tennis Association (CTA).

“It was pure coincidence that we registered our 85th CTA this summer,” said Ben Zislis, USTA Middle States Director of Community Development. “When we realized we were at 84, and in honor of our anniversary, we decided we wanted to do something special for the next organization to join our CTA family.”

That something special was a donation from the section of $500 worth of equipment – the lucky recipient – Conestoga Valley Tennis Association (CVTA).

“CVTA, led by Dale Gregg, is a wonderful CTA addition,” Zislis said. “The Conestoga Valley (CV) community is really embracing tennis thanks to Dale’s tireless effort to grow the game as well as his passion for USTA’s No-Cut policy.”

Gregg, a CV High School art teacher, has spent 21 years as head tennis coach of both the boys and girls teams at the school, and during that time has never cut a single player – not when he had a squad of 12 and not most recently, when he had a team of 55.

Improvement is AddictingUSTA Middle States registers its 85th CTA

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Cover Story

1980 USTA League tennis is launched.

1981 A Philadelphia USTA League team finishes second at the first-ever USTA League National Championships.

1973 The four northwest counties of West Virginia were annexed to the Allegheny Mountain District. ----The Middle States Tennis Patrons’ Association is incorporated.

1975 Middle States Lawn Tennis Association drops “Lawn” from its name to match National’s new focus and officially incorporates as Middle States Tennis Association (MSTA).

1978The Honor Award of USTA Middle States – Mangan Award – is established by the family of Thomas J. Mangan. In its inaugural year it is presented to Richard Sorlien, co-founder of Philadelphia’s acclaimed Gold Cup program.

2006USTA MS tops 30,000 members for the first time in its history.

1979 MSTA hosts its first Pro Circuit event, a men’s challenger in Wall, N.J.

1997 Satellite offices are established, placing one full-time staff person within the boundaries of each district.

2007 Malcolm T. Riley, Jr., is named President; the section’s first African-American President.

2008 QuickStart Tennis is introduced as America’s plan for 10 & under tennis.

2009 USTA MS launches Flex Leagues.

help with our fundraising efforts, but also with providing additional resources for our tennis boosters and existing programs.”

Gregg’s passion for tennis stems from his high school playing days at J.P. McCaskey High School in Lancaster, Pa., his college playing days at Millersville University, Millersville, Pa., and his involvement with Judy Levering and the Lancaster Tennis Patrons Association as an instructor in the 1980s. Through these opportunities, and countless other programs and initiatives he has spearheaded or supported, Gregg has always maintained the mantra – “improvement is addicting.” Improvement on court, which Gregg believes transfers off court is what has fueled him for so many years. His summer schedule which boasts some sort of tennis activity nearly every single day and the plethora of championship teams and individual champions he has coached are proof positive of his dedication not just to CVHS but also to his community. Thanks to his supportive booster club and its new partnership with USTA, tennis in CV is not just improving, but is also addicting. •

-Carrie Rupp

“I feel that since tennis is a lifelong sport that can be played and enjoyed by so many, any student should have the opportunity to grow in knowledge and skill as well as experience the joy of being a part of a team,” Gregg said.

Finding and making opportunities through tennis are the reasons Gregg and the CV tennis booster club decided to register with the USTA as a CTA this summer.

“In talking with Cathy Shaak, USTA Middle States Tennis Service Representative, she thought it would be beneficial for our booster club to register since we were already very active in our community,” Gregg said. “Our tennis booster club worked to create a family oriented tennis facility by providing funds for additions like picnic tables, hitting boards and a new equipment shed.”

The booster club has funded these initiatives in a number of ways including hosting tournaments, operating tournament concession stands and hosting summer camps for children ages 8-18 and a tiny tot’s camp for children ages 5-7.

“Individual tennis players and the community can benefit through CV’s association with USTA,” Gregg added. “This association will not only

Improvement is AddictingUSTA Middle States registers its 85th CTA

2004 USTA MS hosts its first-ever Tennis On Campus section championship (Campus Championship - Middle States) at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pa.


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Fourteen-year-old professional tennis player and rising star Madison Keys is not sure what her future holds, but warns tennis fans to “Be ready!” Keys, who trains at the Evert Academy in Boca Raton, Fla., and turned pro in April 2009, is focusing on being the absolute best player she can be with the ultimate goal of being number one.

Keys enjoyed the Philadelphia area this past July while playing World TeamTennis (WTT) for the Philadelphia Freedoms, becoming the youngest player in the history of WTT. While

on the Freedoms, Keys joined tennis stars Andre Agassi, Venus Williams and Lisa Raymond, among others. She also played against other beloved tennis professionals, and even beat 2009 Wimbledon champion Serena Williams 5-1 in the singles event on July 13.

When looking at Keys, who is 5-10 and has a 114 mph serve, it’s hard to imagine she is only 14 years old. But ask her a few questions and you quickly learn her age. When asked what she watches on TV, she replies “The Disney Channel! It’s my favorite station. My dad calls me a professional TV watcher.”

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Or what about her favorite food? “Ice cream,” Keys said. “Ice cream is amazing! My favorites are chocolate chip cookie dough and white chocolate raspberry.”

While Keys admits to occasionally fighting with her 10-year-old and eight-year-old sisters, she says her tennis experience has brought her family closer together. Keys grew up in Illinois, where she started playing tennis at age four after watching Venus Williams on TV. Keys liked Williams’ tennis outfit and decided she wanted one. Her father said she could have one – only if she started playing.

Keys’ love for tennis was apparent right away. “We’d pick her up from preschool and she’d go hit for a half hour…When I got home from work she’d be waiting outside for me to go out and hit some more balls,” Keys’ father, Rick, said. “When she was seven she declared that she wanted to be a professional tennis player. When she would get a reward for doing really well in school she could have a

“My favorite part of the day was meeting Madison. I was so happy I got her autograph!”

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Diversity

playdate or go to the movies with her friends, but she would always pick an extra hour of tennis for the week instead.”

The family eventually moved to Florida so Keys could train at the Evert Academy, where she is coached by John Evert. She started seriously training when she was 10-years-old and now plays five to six days a week. Prior to the move, Keys said she played in “a ton of USTA tournaments” all over the Midwest while playing in the Missouri Valley section.

In Philadelphia this past summer, Keys’ favorite part of playing with the Freedoms was the team aspect, “Sitting on the bench with your teammates supporting each other and being out there [on court] and being able to look over at your teammates and they can help pump you up or tell you what to do,” Keys said. “It’s different from when you’re normally out there, it’s a good change.”

Keys’ father said his daughter is “having a blast” while also getting to learn a lot from the other pros. “She’s playing with Lisa Raymond in doubles which is a great opportunity for her because Lisa Raymond is one of the best doubles players in the world.”

Keys also had the opportunity this July to meet many of her fans when she appeared at the National Junior Tennis and Learning Regional Rally held at Arthur Ashe Youth Tennis Center in Philadelphia. One of those fans, Eryn Palmer, 11, Philadelphia, said, “My favorite part of the day was meeting Madison. I was so happy I got her autograph!”

Giselle Ard, 14, Florence, N.J., said, “It was awesome having Madison come to the Regional Rally. She played really well; I wish I could play like her.”

Despite being so young, Keys has many fans that look up to her. Keys’ said, “I’m happy that other people can look up to me, but it is kind of weird for me at the same time.” Her advice for young tennis players is to “just have fun.” Adding, “You have plenty of time to get serious about it, so just enjoy yourself.”

Keys started ninth grade this fall by taking online classes through Kaplan, an online high school. Will there be normal parts of being a teenager she’ll miss? “Not really,” Keys said. “I mean I have all my friends at Evert so it’s not like I’m missing out on the friends part. I’m probably not going to go to a school dance or anything, but I think I’ll live. I’d much rather be in Europe playing tennis than in a gym dancing!”

After WTT, Keys spent the rest of the summer in Florida training for the Junior U.S. Open. As for the rest of her future, we will have to wait and see; as she said herself, this is only the beginning.

One of Keys’ favorite players, Venus Williams, put it best, “Madison has her whole future ahead of her. She can be as great as she wants to be, it’s all between her, the racket and the ball.” •

- Jen Wozniak

Historical Fact

1942 - Martin Tressel (Pittsburgh) founded the

Youth Tennis Foundation of Pittsburgh. The organization was one of the first to raise

funds for junior development.

1982 – Judy Levering (Lancaster, Pa.) is credited for creating the concept of Community Tennis

Associations (CTAs). Levering planted the seed in Central PA in 1982 by co-founding the Lancaster Tennis Patrons Association which continues to grow tennis in Lancaster

County today.

This summer, the USTA announced the National Junior Tennis League has been re-branded as the National Junior Tennis and Learning (NJTL) network. With the new name and logo, the 40-year-old network of Community Tennis Associations will continue its mission of developing the character of young people through tennis and education.

The re-brand will heighten awareness of NJTL initiatives and will also broaden the public’s understanding of the mission to instill in youngsters the values exemplified by Arthur Ashe throughout his life – humanitarianism, leadership, and academic excellence.

Founders Arthur Ashe, Charlie Pasarell and Sheridan Snyder established NJTL in

Two USTA Middle States teens had the opportunity of a lifetime traveling to Denver, Col., to attend the 25th Annual USTA NJTL Tennis Leadership Camp July 21-27. Azim Haqq of Trenton, N.J., a member of NJTL of Trenton, and Todd “T.J.” Muldrow of Wheeling, W. Va., a member of NJTL of Wheeling-Ogelbay were Middle States’ lucky representatives. Haqq and Muldrow joined 38 other

youngsters who went through a rigorous selection process

based on aptitude, sportsmanship, leadership skills and financial aid. The all-expense paid week-long camp provides the attendees with valuable tennis instruction plus a rewarding educational and motivational experience. In addition to 2-3 hours of daily tennis training with experienced tennis teachers, participants volunteered to sort and pack donated products such as clothing, school and medical supplies for shipment to World Vision programs, which reach more than 100 million people in nearly 100 countries.

“Denver was fantastic, I met a lot of new people and the coaches were awesome,” Haqq said. “One of the best parts was when we went to the Broncos Stadium. We met wide receiver Rod Smith. I had the most fantastic time. I hope I can do it again.”

Additionally, campers heard from a number of speakers, including USTA Director of Coaching Jose Higueras, a former top-10 player who has coached tennis’ biggest names including Roger Federer and Pete Sampras; Dan Gonzalez, a tennis pro and the son of former tennis great Pancho Gonzalez; and Frank Adams, USTA Intermountain Section President. The young students also visited popular Denver destinations including the Red Rock Amphitheatre, the U.S. Air Force Academy and Invesco Field.

1969. Since then, the NJTL network has grown to include over 550 chapters which serve over 220,000 youth annually. NJTL chapters, which vary in size and scope, can be found in 46 of the top 50 U.S. markets,

making NJTL one of the USTA’s largest community-based initiatives. Middle States itself is home to approximately 30 chapters. NJTL chapters are supported by the USTA through grants, awards, and various learning opportunities. NJTL participants have the opportunity to take part in a number of core programs, including the Tennis and Leadership Camp, the Arthur Ashe Essay and Art Contest, Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day, Regional Rallies, a scholarship to the annual USTA Community Tennis Development Workshop, and low-cost insurance. •

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local teens attend nJtl leadership camp

Historical Fact

1983 - Tennis legend Arthur Ashe attended the ribbon-

cutting ceremony of the new Arthur Ashe Youth Tennis

Center in Philadelphia. It is the only tennis facility in the

nation which bears the former US Open and Wimbledon

champion’s name.


usta unveils new nJtl name and logo

“For the past 25 years of our Tennis Leadership Camp, the NJTL national staff has created once-in-a-lifetime experiences for a deserving group of underserved youth,” said Barry Ford, Director, Outreach & Advocacy, USTA. “These students, some of whom are getting on an airplane for the very first time, are being afforded the opportunity to see a part of the country that they might otherwise never get to see, and to gain memories and forge relationships with their fellow campers that could last a lifetime. Using tennis as the conduit, we hope this camp will continue to have a profound impact on the growth and development of these and many more students for years to come.” •

Photo credit: Scott McCloskey/The Wheeling News Register

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The City of Brotherly Love has always been an advocate of tennis. In fact, for the last few years the Philadelphia Department of Recreation has worked closely with the Arthur Ashe Youth Tennis Center to provide quality tennis experiences – on and off the court – to residents of the city. Now, thanks to the hard work of the Dept. of Rec staff and the opportunity a USTA program grant has provided, the city has ramped up its tennis outreach efforts through QuickStart Tennis (QST).

For nearly two years, Kitty Perrin, USTA Middle States (USTA MS) Tennis Service Representative, has worked with the Dept. of Rec., specifically Michael Grubb, Sports & Athletics Program Coordinator, and Stuart Greenberg, Program Director, to grow the city’s tennis offerings. With the launch of USTA’s QST in February 2008, the team knew this initiative could be a perfect fit for the city.

“There is a need in these areas, not only to provide structured activities in

neighborhoods, but also to

provide for the growth of the game of

tennis,” Grubb said. “If we can implement and develop the QST

concept in the youth, this may allow for the game to grow with them, at their pace, until they are ready for a full size, full speed game.”

With a goal in sight, Grubb worked with Perrin to apply for a USTA MS program

grant, one of many opportunities available to Community Tennis Associations, organizational members and National Junior Tennis & Learning groups.

“The grant money is necessary to purchase the supplies necessary to implement a new tennis program,” Grubb said. “We are looking at anywhere from 12-20 facilities to conduct programs utilizing QST and the individual facilities simply do not have the funding to purchase the necessary equipment. Most of the neighborhoods the facilities are located in are low income, thus making it harder for the facility supervisor, who is not allocated a functional, working budget, to generate funds.”

Grubb applied for a USTA program grant on behalf of the Department and his request was successfully answered with a $3,000 grant, and that wasn’t all. Perrin worked with Virgil Christian, USTA’s Director of Community Tennis Development, to obtain funding through the USTA’s Public Facility Assistance Program for the painting of QST courts at 14 locations throughout the city.

This additional grant was an added bonus for the Dept. of Rec. because of the low number of tennis courts throughout the city.

“We tried to be creative with the placement of the QST courts by utilizing hockey courts, volleyball courts, and even under utilized asphalt surfaces,” Grubb said. “What that does is it now allows us to develop a brand new tennis experience for younger children in neighborhoods not usually touched by tennis.”

In total, more than 40 QST courts were painted. Becoming one of the first major cities to have permanent QST courts painted at several different locations is an accomplishment Grubb is very excited about and one that a lot of people put a lot of time and effort in to.

“One of the reasons the process has taken two years for us is because we wanted to make sure the facilities we targeted would be able to implement a successful tennis program,” Grubb said. “We wanted to make sure we had the equipment, the space available for courts, excited children ready to participate and a staff supported by the community. To see the planning process evolve into actual QST courts is an incredible benefit to our facilities, the neighborhoods they serve and the game of tennis.” •

- Carrie Rupp

Michael Grubb (center) and members of the Markward Day Camp pose on one of the newly painted QuickStart Tennis courts at Markward Playground in Philadelphia.

Granting access to tennis


1414

Mem

bers

hip

At only nine years old, Anupreeth Coramutla has already become a

gifted tennis player and a distinguished USTA Middle States member, ranking number one in the New Jersey District.

Following in the footsteps of his father and older brother, both avid tennis players, Coramutla started playing tennis at the age of six and has been playing near his hometown of Monroe, N.J., ever since. Coramutla started playing in junior tournaments at the age of eight, and has grown into a more serious player that now has the ability to play “tougher and older players.”

Coramutla practices twice a week in the Princeton, N.J., area and enjoys playing on the weekends with his father, Siva kumar, and brother, Anurag, whom he has been playing doubles with recently. He also attends Nike Tennis Camps each summer.

Coramutla, a straight-A student, stays busy being involved in tennis, karate, soccer and trumpet lessons, but said that tennis is his favorite activity, “Tennis is fun and challenging at the same time. It’s also a fitness sport and helps me meet new friends and opponents where I could learn different tactics and techniques to face and defeat them and come out successful.”

“Tennis is his passion,” Anupreeth’s mother, Kiron, said. “He has a real interest in the game. He’s a focused, consistent and enthusiastic player who enjoys going to tournaments, playing different people and making friends. USTA is very important to him because it puts you into the tennis world.”

Making friends is one of the main reasons Coramutla enjoys tennis and being a USTA member, which helps him make friends through

tournaments. But his other favorite part of a tournament is reaching the finals, which is an exciting experience. “It’s really fun playing in the finals,” Coramutla said. “It makes you so pumped up and happy, and if you win you pour out all your happiness.”

Coramutla won his first tournament in November 2008, and has been winning tournaments continuously ever since. He has won all the Nassau tournaments in Montgomery, N.J., from November 2008 to date and also at the Princeton Tennis Program (PTP) Junior Open in April 2009.

Despite being a competitive player, Coramutla says it is not all about winning. Playing in a tournament can be fun no matter what. His strategy is to “keep cool and play consistent.” He said that tennis is for “fun, friends and fitness.”

In fact, Coramutla’s mother said that one of his best qualities is his ability to stay calm and not act so serious, although sometimes he gets tense, “He never gets too frustrated and keeps his cool whether he’s winning or losing. It’s just for fun. He plays

his best and learns more of the game as he plays.”

Although Coramutla has only played in tournaments in New Jersey, he will travel further to more tournaments as he begins playing in older divisions. This year, Coramutla was invited on a two-week trip to Austria as a People to People Sports Ambassador, where he would play with young tennis players and coaches from all over the world. He declined this year, but would definitely consider doing this when he is older as well.

Coramutla’s good attitude, tennis skills and love for the game should carry him well into the future. In just three years, he has grown into a dedicated tennis player whom we should expect to see more of in the years to come. •

- Jen Wozniak

Member Spotlight Anupreeth Coramutla

15


1. Virginia BerkopecAllegheny Mountain DistrictBorn: 10/14/1923Member since 2008Avid fanFavorite Player(s): Americans and Roger Federer

2. Joel ArnoldEastern Pennsylvania DistrictBorn: 12/12/1923Member since 1982Tournament PlayerFavorite Player(s): Rod Laver, Bobby RiggsFavorite Player(s) today: Roger Federer

3. Newton MeadePhiladelphia DistrictBorn: 8/23/1923Member since 1982Tournament PlayerFavorite Player(s): Jack Kramer, Pancho Gonzales, Bobby RiggsFavorite Player(s) today: Roger Federer

4. Frank ForsterDelaware DistrictBorn: 11/21/1923Member since 1988Recreational PlayerFavorite Player(s): Don Budge, Pancho Gonzales, Jack KramerFavorite Player(s) today: Ameri-cans, Andy Roddick

5. Connie EbertPhiladelphia DistrictBorn: 6/16/1924Lifetime Member since 1982Tournament PlayerFavorite Racquet: BabolatFavorite Player (s): Billie Jean King, Chris EvertFavorite Player(s) today: Venus and Serena Williams

Mem

bership

QuickStart Tennis and Jr. Team Tennis were nonexistent in 1924, the year USTA Middle States was incorporated. In fact as Newt Meade, ranked 15th nationally in 85 doubles recalls, pros wouldn’t think of putting a racquet in the hands of a child under the age of ten. Now with junior racquets and adapted nets and balls, children are beginning the game at a much younger age. According to some of our octogenarian USTA members, it is the evolvement of the racquet and the court surface that has caused the game of tennis to change the most these past 85 years.

Meade says he learned by watching other players. Growing up in Hunting Park, Pa., he lived near Woodford, a public park in Strawberry Mansion, and at age 12 would offer to fetch water and lemonade in his red wagon for the adult players on the courts. When they offered to “tip” him, he asked for a racquet instead. About that same age, Reading, Pa., native Joel Arnold (also ranked 15th with doubles partner Meade), practiced hours on end, hitting tennis balls against his family’s two-story barn wall. There was no internet; no practice videos. No one taught Arnold, he learned by reading a book by Bill Tilden. As good as Arnold became, he was not good enough to make the Reading High School team which in the 1930’s was one of the strongest in the section. This year that tradition continues in the Reading area, as another Reading area high school, Wyomissing, took the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) AA Boys Team Championship title.

With the changes in racquets and surfaces, the strokes went from underspin to topspin and as a result the serve and volley game became a baseline power game. Arnold also notes how Middle States tournaments

have changed in both prizes and personnel. Arnold ran 37 tournaments at Berks County Tennis Club and served as senior ranking chairman for 24 years. “People who played were working people who played on weekends,” Arnold relates. “There was always a party afterwards. We didn’t run tournaments to make money.”

Another competitive player, Connie Ebert, started playing at age 20 and then took some time off to start a family. In the early 60’s Ebert was encouraged to enter into tournament play by a fellow Rifle Club member, Ann Hoffman, and never looked back. Ebert continues playing Women’s Inter-Club, Inter-District, and national tournaments to this day.

Not all our members play tournaments. Frank Forster from Newark, Del., began playing as a child and continues playing recreationally to this day. There were large gaps of not playing during college, and when he served as a naval aviator in the service. Forster also touts the change in the racquet to the change in the game, and also believes the balls are much improved saying, “The balls used to split at the seams.”

Virginia Berkopec of Pittsburgh does not play tennis at all. She may have played a little early on, but working for ten years as a legal secretary and then raising four children took up most of her time. Only after her children were grown, did Berkopec begin watching tennis on television. Now she loves watching the Grand Slams and roots for the Americans and Roger Federer. In fact, it was during the US Open just last year that Berkopec took advantage of the $29 membership offer and became a USTA member for the very first time. •

- Marge McGann

Underspin to Topspin•

•

•

•

•

1 32 4 5

The spin from Octogenarians who lived it

It has been eight years since the Allegheny Mountain District (AMD) hosted the Middle States Hall of Fame Induction Dinner and Auction. In 2001 they gathered a class of six – Alfred Carl, Sr., Gretchen Rush Magers, Jack Merchant, Roberta McCallum Russo, Robert Ruzanic and Paul Sullivan – accomplished players, coaches, pioneers and advocates. The class of 2009 is no different and honoring Brian Earley, Don Johnson, Peggy Michel and Whitney Snyder on October 23rd at the LeMont Restaurant will be a highlight for the Pittsburgh area and for all of Middle States.

2001 Inductee Roberta McCallum Russo was the first Pittsburgh native since Charles Garland in 1920 to step on the grass courts of Wimbledon, which she did in 1981. Nineteen years later, Don Johnson took to the same courts and won the Mixed Doubles title with Kimberly Po in 2000 and the Men’s Doubles title the following year with Jared Palmer. While not a Pittsburgh native, but certainly a beloved Pittsburgh resident, Peggy Michel took the Wimbledon Women’s Doubles crown with Evonne Goolagong in 1975.

That same year Michel and Goolagong lent their expertise to the inaugural World TeamTennis (WTT) League Pittsburgh Triangles team and with the team, captured the WTT Championship title. Currently, Michel serves as Vice President of Sales and Sponsorship for the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells. The year Johnson captured his Wimbledon Men’s Doubles title (2001), he also played for WTT’s Philadelphia Freedoms and helped the team win the WTT Championship.

2001 inductee Paul Sullivan was known as “Mr. Tennis in Pittsburgh”. And fellow inductee Jack Merchant held the motto “Have Racquet Will Travel”. Both title and motto would easily fit inductee Whitney Snyder, long-time coach and pro and also benevolent fundraiser. All three used their professional talents and skills to promote and grow the game of tennis in AMD. Snyder has inspired hundreds of young players, many of whom have gone on to

grow the game in their own right. Just as Alfred Carl, Sr. did, Snyder does not just teach tennis, he teaches life skills.

When asked what was most important to him, Snyder replied “It’s all about relationships.” One of those relationships which he holds dear is the influence 2001 inductee Bob Ruzanic had on him as a young player and just starting out as a young professional. This year’s honoree Brian Earley also counts Ruzanic as a mentor. A graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, Earley is the Director, Pro Circuit for USTA and credits Ruzanic as a sound influence in keeping him in the game. Ruzanic holds a myriad of titles and accomplishments - one in particular was Chairman of the USTA Davis Cup Committee, for which he served the year Johnson played for the USA against India.

Like Jack Merchant and Paul Sullivan before him, Earley began running tournaments and also worked as a referee. Currently, Earley serves as Tournament Referee for the largest tournament of all, the US Open.

Then and now – the Middle States Hall of Fame is a wonderful opportunity to honor these fine individuals and at the same time, raise funds for the Middle States Tennis Patrons’ Foundation. The Patrons’ Foundation will funnel the money raised into programs that will one day create new inductees, ones that we will surely remember for their decorated pasts. •

- Marge McGann

16

Hal

l Of F

ame


Relationships – Middle States Hall of Fame Then and Now

Middle States Hall of Fame Induction Dinner& Auction

Friday, October 23, 2009

LeMont Restaurant – Pittsburgh, Pa.

For more information, contact: Renee Bridges at [email protected] or

610-935-5000 ext. 224

Pegg

y Mi

chel

Don

John

son

Brian

Earle

yWh

itney

Snyd

er

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USPTA

Middle States

From left to right: Wilson Pipkin -USPTA MS President, Bob Ruzanic - USPTA MS Hall of Fame, Jenni Goodling - USPTA MS Pro of the Year, Billie Jean King, Michael Harper - Rookie of the Year, Tom Sweitzer -

USPTA Pro of the Year, Sean Sloane - College Coach of the Year and Tim Irwin - Executive Director USPTA MS

Congratulations USPTA Middle States Award Recipients!

• USPTA Middle States Conference February 5-6, 2010 •

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Jr. T

eam

Ten

nis

2009 was a year of “firsts” for Jr. Team Tennis (JTT) in USTA Middle States.

For the first time in Allegheny Mountain District (AMD) history a JTT Area Championship was held. The event, which featured 15 teams, was held July 26-27 at Peters Township Tennis Center and Mt. Lebanon Tennis Complex.

“The number of players and teams [that participated] was impressive for a pilot year,” said Debbie Hazlett, a coach of a 14 & Under Advanced team who played an integral role in the event’s planning and execution. “When JTT was originally discussed in AMD, many questioned whether players would participate in a program that did not offer ranking points. The July event tested the waters, and proved players at every level are interested and excited, from those who’ve never played in tournaments through nationally-ranked players.”

The “firsts” for AMD didn’t end there. Two teams saw great success at the section championships held August 8-9 in

Hamilton, N.J. Hazlett’s team – the Head Hunters, and an 18 & Under Advanced team – Peters Township, finished No. 1 and No. 2 in their respective divisions. The Head Hunters will be the first-ever team from AMD to represent the section at the national championships.

Another interesting “first” at the section championship was the presence of two teams who were coached by players. Peter Brzezinski, a 15-year-old member of Got Tennis from the Philadelphia District, decided to take matters in his own hands this year and start a team himself.

“I’ve been playing JTT for a couple years, but this was the first time I put my own team together,” Brzezinksi said. “The first challenge I had was making sure everyone was committed to playing, I formed the team kind of last minute so I wanted to make sure everyone would be able to be there, but I’m not going to lie – I think the hardest challenge was coming up with a team name.”

Mikesh Desai, an 18-year-old from York, Pa.,

and a seasoned JTT player also captained and coached a team this year. Desai, who is no stranger to JTT, having participated in the 2008 JTT National Championships as a member of the Fantastic Fuzz, saw his dedication to JTT pay off – with a section championship in the 18 & Under Advanced division and a bid to the 2009 National Championships.

While Desai will be off to college next year, Brzezinski is already gearing up for his next JTT season. When asked if he’d put together a team for next year he replied, “No doubt! I’m already starting to put another team together for next year.”

The championship was even bigger this year; for the first time it featured a 12 & Under division. Although the winner of this division, Top Spin from the New Jersey District, will not travel to nationals, Kasey Connors, Community Tennis Coordinator, hopes inviting younger players to compete at the section championships will help grow the program and improve retention. The only thing Connors would change about the 2009 championship…the weather! But, despite a rainy Day 2 – the first time a section championships was forced to play indoors – the event went off without a hitch, a testament to the enthusiastic participants and parents involved in the program. While Connors hopes next year’s event will see a weekend full of sunny skies there’s no doubt in her mind it’ll be a success as the program continues to grow leaps and bounds all over the section.

“I’m proud to say we saw a 30 percent increase in participation this year,” Connors said. “We have every intention of continuing to grow this program at every level, in every district. This increase would not have been possible without the dedication of so many volunteers, coaches, area coordinators and most of all parents.” •

- Carrie Rupp


19


Junior Competition

Parents of competitive junior tennis players often find it challenging to get their kids to tournaments because of work schedules and other commitments. At least one small group of New Jersey and neighboring Pennsylvania parents have found a way. They take each other’s kids to tournaments, and the arrangement has turned out to be a blessing for all.

Raji Karandikar, a single mom from Belle Mead, stepped up to the plate in a big way for the three-night Memorial Day weekend.

She took her son Neil, a Princeton Day School tennis star, and three others to Pittsburgh for the Northeast Region Championships, a national tournament. In this role, she makes sure the boys are fed, keeps up with starting times and gets each player to his match, watches all of their matches, and keeps the parents informed

with results. Karandikar senses a closer bond with their group, which sometimes includes additional kids, than others who may have similar arrangements at these tournaments.

This particular weekend result was a first. All four boys ended up in the 18-and-under doubles final. Neil’s partner was Max Rubin of Cherry Hill, N.J., and they beat Dylan Kady of Upper Holland, Pa., and Michael Zhu of Princeton, N.J. To complete the successful trip, Zhu was the tournament’s singles champion in the 18s.

“I really enjoy it,” said Karandikar, who is a dentist. “They are all great kids. I have known them and their families for a long time. They all have a great relationship, and they have a great positive attitude about winning and losing. What amazes me is that even if they beat their friend in a match, they are happy for each other. After the doubles match, there was no bitterness. Having them all make the finals was a pleasant surprise.”

Because the kids have different starting times and, therefore, eating schedules, they have discovered a favorite lunch destination in Subway. The kids who are around will join Karandikar, and the ones who have to hang at the club will put in their order for takeout. For dinner, they all eat together. Karandikar, who doesn’t play tennis, has learned to understand the game and now loves to watch.

Wendy Rubin, Max’s mother, calls Karandikar ‘a tennis super mom,’ adding, “If they don’t play these tournaments, they don’t get national rankings.” •

- Ann LoPrinzi Reprinted, with permission, from The Trenton Times

Photo courtesy of Bruce & Wendy Rubin

L-R: Max Rubin, Raji Karandikar, Neil Karandikar, Michael Zhu and Dylan Kady.

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20

Juni

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For most high school tennis players, there is only one “road” for them to take in their scholastic tennis years – join the high school varsity team in the ninth grade, and play for your school team the next four years. However, not all high schools offer both boys and girls tennis teams. Some schools offer neither. So what is an aspiring tennis player to do when they realize there is no team? For several USTA Middle State players, all is not lost. They simply take the “road less traveled by”. Jared Salyards is a senior at Central High School in Roaring Spring, Pa. Unfortunately for Salyards, Central offers a girls tennis team, but not a boys team. Although given the opportunity, Salyards chose not to join the girl’s team. Instead, he set his sights on entering the District 6 Boys Singles Tournament as an individual, which is allowed by the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA). As a freshman, Salyards made a splash at the tournament, losing to the eventual four-time district champion. After honing his skills and traveling near and far to USTA tournaments, he claimed back-to-back District Championships as a sophomore and junior, and will be gunning for the three-peat next spring.

PIAA does allow a player whose sport is not offered at his or her school to play on the team of the next-closest school district, but Salyard’s request was denied by the neighboring school.

“When I found out I couldn’t play for a

team, I was bummed out, but I put all my energy into doing as well as I possibly could individually,” Salyards said. The results could not have turned out any better, as Salyards advanced to the final eight at

2009 PIAA State Singles Championships. “It felt really good to represent my school,” Salyards said. “Even though I didn’t have a ‘team’ to play for or with, my athletic director was very supportive of me, as well as my classmates who always followed my results.”

The upcoming season may be Salyard’s last year of competitive tennis, as he plans to enroll in a Pre-Medicine program in college and may not play tennis

collegiately.

Ironically enough, the player Salyards defeated in the 2008 and 2009 District Championship Finals, Lauren Valdivia,

from Lewistown High School, was a girl playing on a boy’s team because her school did not offer a girls team. Valdivia could have taken the route Salyards did and enter the Girls District Singles Tournament as an individual, but then she would not have been able to play for the boy’s team.

Peter Riley, a junior from Woodbury, Pa., has taken a different, but equally unique route to playing high school tennis. Northern Bedford High, which Riley attends, offers neither a boys or girls team, but has formed a Co-Op with nearby Tussey Mountain High. Tussey golfers play for Northern, and aspiring Northern tennis player’s play for Tussey’s team.

“I was nervous at first [to play on the Tussey team], not knowing anyone, but once I was on the team for a

little, everyone was more than welcoming,” Riley said. “I made some nice friends out of it.”

During his sophomore campaign, Riley was hoping to play more competitive USTA tournaments, and only enter the District Singles Tournament under his home school (Northern Bedford), but the Co-Op forced him to play for Tussey Mountain, or not at all. No matter for Riley, who also ranks No. 1 in his class academically, as he won a District

The Road Less Taken

Jared Salyards (left) and Peter Riley (right)

Robert Frost’s famous poem, The Road Not Taken, concludes with the line, “Two roads diverged in a wood, and I – I took the one less traveled by,

and that has made all the difference.”

21


Junior Competition

Championship in doubles as a freshman. This past spring, he upset the defending three-time District champion to claim the District Singles Title, and was also able to advance to the final eight in the state.

Riley, who is responsible for transportation to and from practice, home matches and to the bus departure location for away trips, says the experience wasn’t always easy but it was definitely worth it. He sums up his passion for the sport by saying, “When I walk onto the tennis court, I feel like that is where I belong. I just love to compete.”

Riley has set his sights on taking the District Title the next two years, and playing tennis at the college level.

Karli and Tanya Timko, sisters from Chartiers-Houston High in Houston, Pa., made some major headlines this year, as they were the first-ever girls doubles team to compete at the PIAA Boy’s Doubles

Championship. The Timkos, who won the PIAA Girls Doubles Championship in the fall of 2007, chose to play on their high school’s boys team this past year, since the school no longer had enough girls to form a full squad.

Maddie Bittner, a senior from Bedford, Pa., is home-schooled, but she hasn’t let that stop her from playing on Bedford High’s girl’s tennis team. Bittner has been Bedford’s No. 1 player for three years, and has garnered a District 5 Doubles Championship, as well as the last two District 5 Singles Championships.

“One of the most important things I’ve gained from my high school tennis experience, despite being homeschooled, is the experience of being part of a team,” Bittner said. “I love having girls my age by my side cheering me on through every high and low, and I love doing the same for them.”

If you look closely enough across the state, there are many other remarkable instances of high school student-athletes striving to do whatever it takes to play high school tennis. In several years, they will be well on their way in life, and high school may seem like a distant recollection, but they will still carry with them the great tennis memories they made along the way. Sometimes life throws you a fork in the road, and as Frost so brilliantly stated, one road may “perhaps have the better claim,” but for Salyards, Riley, and many other aspiring high school tennis players, the road they have chosen, has indeed made all the difference. •

- Brian Denis

Karli (left) and Tanya (right) Timko pose with their first round opponents – Andrew Kantor and Ted Otto of Harrisburg Academy – at the 2009 PIAA AA Boys’ Doubles Tennis Championship.

Maddie Bittner

Historical Fact

1953 – The Delaware Tennis Foundation was founded by

Brian Fields, William duPont, Jr., and Dutch Vosters. The organization has worked for

more than 50 years to fund the many tennis activities available

in Delaware.

1985 - Eve Kraft (Princeton, N.J.) was named by TENNIS

magazine as one of the 20 most influential people involved in the game. Kraft founded the Princeton Tennis Program

in 1955.


22

Tenn

is O

n Ca

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s

Dekonti Sayeh (Rockville, Md.) picked up a racquet for the first time when he was eight; but quickly put it down – opting to play basketball, football and track, among others. His athleticism on a basketball court led him to Gettysburg College, a small, private school located in the world-famous town of Gettysburg, Pa., where he played for the Bullets basketball team for one year. But a lack of playing time and other frustrations led him away from the basketball court and on to a tennis court.

Kevin Fitzpatrick’s tennis journey was different, a tennis whirlwind. Without a spring sport to occupy his time, Fitzpatrick began playing tennis with friends while a senior at Fairfield Prep in Fairfield, Conn. According to Fitzpatrick, “he fell in love,” and continued to play everyday of the summer with aspirations to tryout for Gettysburg’s tennis team.

Their journeys were different, but both Sayeh, 21, and Fitzpatrick, 21, now seniors, connected through tennis as members of Gettysburg’s varsity tennis team. Sayeh forewent his spot on the basketball team to join the tennis team his sophomore year, while Fitzpatrick’s hard work paid off, making the team his freshman year.

“Dek and Kevin have continually had the fire for playing tennis more than anyone else I have seen on our team,” said Thane Schweyer, current USTA Middle States Tennis Service Representative and former Gettysburg varsity tennis player and assistant coach. “Dek and Kevin are the type of kids who will get out and play tennis whenever they can. On numerous occasions I have seen them hitting the courts on off days trying to get their games to the next level.”

Although their passion for tennis shines bright,

both men have struggled with the challenges of playing varsity tennis on a competitive squad. Fitzpatrick was cut before the start of the ’09 season and Sayeh’s playing time was sparse. Because of this, Schweyer suggested the men start a USTA Tennis On Campus (TOC) team.

The idea seemed like a no-brainer for the duo who both voiced their desire to bring the “fun” back to their games.

“My number one priority in tennis is having fun,” Fitzpatrick said. “Many people – me included – put undue stress on themselves in competition, so I’m immediately attracted to a program that allows you to compete on your own terms. Now I not only get to compete in matches, but I can also have a relaxed attitude about competition.”

Both Sayeh and Fitzpatrick are enthusiastic about starting the program this fall, but realize it’ll take a lot of work to get it off the ground. Sayeh said they will follow the lead of the more than 20 established TOC teams from the section, garnering attention and membership by posting fliers, using Facebook, and reaching out to freshman at orientation activities.

One issue that looms as a deterrent to those interested in starting TOC programs on small campuses is just that – the size and the fear that a small school cannot support a varsity and TOC program. Gettysburg has an enrollment of just 2,600, but Schweyer says Sayeh and Fitzpatrick and the Gettysburg community shouldn’t be discouraged.

“Small schools still have a lot of former high school tennis players and athletes in general,” Schweyer said. “Many of these students are looking for an opportunity to stay active and

Dekonti Sayeh

Kevin Fitzpatrick

Thane Schweyer

23


establish friendships.”

While Schweyer is optimistic about

the team’s existence,

current Gettysburg Co-

Head Coach Brett Kelly presents an alternative view, “I think there is a possibility that the Tennis On Campus program will detract slightly from the varsity program, especially the depth of the program.” Despite this, Kelly believes Gettysburg is a place where the two could coexist, “Gettysburg College is a place where students are encouraged to take part in any programs or clubs that they wish to. If students are passionate about participating in Tennis On Campus, I support that.”

Although, Kelly adds the TOC program is in its infancy at Gettysburg there is opportunity for collaboration in the future, “Tennis On Campus is a great way for students to stay involved in the sport they love, even if the varsity

Tennis On Cam

pustennis program is not an option. It does have the possibility of involving the small, but very dedicated, tennis community here in Gettysburg. Any program that has the possibility of getting people interested and excited about tennis is a positive one.”

Sayeh, a psychology major, who is spending his summer working at his former high school, Sidwell Friends School (Washington, D.C.), is using his free time to not only brainstorm ways to get students on the team, but also what the team can do for the community.

“I know how enthusiastic people are about tennis; I look forward to giving them an outlet to show their passion,” Sayeh said. “I think our team will provide a great way to interact with the Gettysburg community through service projects, fundraisers, even collaborating with children’s groups and youth leagues.”

Fitzpatrick, an English major, agreed with Sayeh, adding, “I want the TOC team to remind everyone that tennis is a game for a lifetime. There’s no reason to ever stop playing. Through our competition and practice I hope that we, as a team, can gain a little bit of discipline and a lot of love for the game.” •

- Carrie Rupp

Historical Fact

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1967 - Delaware’s Bunny Vosters captured the first of 26 Mother & Daughter National

Championships. Of the national titles, 24 were with daughter

Gretchen, while daughter Nina assisted with the other two.

1919 - Oakmont Tennis Club in Allentown, Pa., which was founded in 1919 played host

to the Pennsylvania Clay Court Championships for more than a quarter century. Bobby Riggs

and Don Budge were among the world-class players who once

graced the courts.


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One is trying to get people to view her latest clothing designs; another wants to engage fans and get his message out directly, bypassing mainstream media outlets. And a third is trying to ensure kids eat well and live healthy lifestyles as well as provide updates of her favorite restaurants around the globe.

All three are touring professional tennis players and all three are using social media tools such as Facebook and Twitter to reach new audiences and connect with fans.

Social media, a term few heard of a year ago, is now a term from which we can’t get away. Sports Information Directors use social media to provide fans the latest news on their college programs. USTA League players swap practice tips, find doubles partners and schedule matches. And tournament directors keep fans all over the world interested in events months after the players leave town.

Just as elements such as footwork, hand-eye coordination and hard work are integral to building a tennis champion; social media has become just as integral in growing the sport to a broader audience.

“Social media expands the potential audience of tennis by connecting diverse audiences through tools like Facebook and Twitter,” said Isaac Leamer, a social media guru, who manages

Twitter and Facebook pages for World TeamTennis and Billie Jean King.

People become connected through common interests as fans or members of groups for tennis players and tennis events. They receive news feed updates, photos and event invitations without the hassle of emptying e-mail mailboxes.

According to Leamer the key component to

these updates and

its effect on growing tennis is through tools like Facebook in which you don’t necessarily have to be a member of the group or be a fan of the page to access information.

“Just being someone’s friend who is a fan of tennis or a tennis event, you receive indirect access to the same information, said Leamer. “Through friend suggestions and highlights, users get updated on happenings every time they log onto Facebook.”

One group that has certainly used these tools to grow their program is the Temple University Club Tennis Team (TU) who use Facebook as the primarily channel for internal communication. Through wall posts, e-mails and calendar updates TU is able to schedules matches, meetings and practices. Yet the page’s greatest yield may be its role in recruiting new players.

“I found the page just by searching “tennis” and “Temple” in Facebook my freshman year,” said Nick Kirkstadt, an officer for the club. “It allowed me to find out more about the team and the program without leaving my dorm room”

According to Kirkstadt the club has more than tripled in the past year to 75 members and he doesn’t anticipate an end is in sight, “Facebook allows us to instantly update the entire club without sending multiple messages. Members receive updates on their phones and laptops anywhere they are at in a very timely manner.”

It is this need for instant information that has made social media so popular notes Leamer. Fans receive split-second updates from their favorite players and events. After she beat sister Venus in the Wimbledon final, Serena took to Twitter, providing subscribers her personal thoughts on the match in the locker room before she took the podium to address the media. On Billie Jean King’s Facebook page, there are frequent updates

about upcoming promotions and opportunities to win prizes during matches.

“Social media brings fans closer to players because it humanizes them,” said Leamer. “As players they can be creative in the way they promote themselves, tournaments and even products.”

It is this creativity and the flexibility that have prompted a wide variety of event organizers such as Hempfield Area Recreation Commission, Newton Motorsports Pro Classic and the US Open to turn to social media to reach new audiences. Not only do these pages provide event updates, but they also link to event merchandise, media coverage and the latest photos and videos.

One web site, www.usopen.org, now has an extensive battery of social media components to engage fans on their site and to keep them coming back. The site includes an enhanced video player and links to US Open Series branded areas within Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Sling Media. Additionally I-Phone users can download the US Open application bringing all the excitement from Flushing to their mobile device.

For a sport that has always been social. Tennis may have found the perfect partner in social media. •

- Nathaniel Harrison

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NETPLAY • FALL 2009 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected] • FALL 2009 • 610.935.5000 • [email protected]

USTA

League

Everyone plays tennis for different reasons. Some of us play in order to get our daily (or sometimes just weekly) dose of exercise. Some use their time on court to socialize or network. Some to prove that the tennis skirt they bought looks cute off the hanger too. And some don’t remember life without the

sport.

Many of the most dedicated tennis players across the country are participants of the USTA League program. There are more than 300,000 people participating in USTA Leagues, 12,000 of them are in Middle States. The program, which debuted in the section in 1980 boasts play options for those 18 and older.

Adult, senior, super senior, mixed doubles and now Flex Leagues – which groups players of similar ability together in an organized

seven to ten week league that allows participants to schedule matches on their own terms – provide plenty of tennis options for tennis

enthusiasts young and old, novice and experienced.

We asked some participants of the 2009 USTA League Mixed Doubles Section Championships - why do you play tennis? –

see what they had to say!

What do you have to say? Submit a question to be featured in the next issue of NetPlay. E-mail your suggestion to [email protected].

Karen JohnstoneHatfield, Pa.Tennis has helped me to become mentally tough and competitive.

Penny & Bert HarrisManuus, Pa.Tennis has brought us closer together and has helped to keep us active.

Cory IderLong Valley, N.J.Tennis helped to put me through college.

Lloyd PearsonSewell, N.J.Tennis has helped me to gain life skills, like setting goals and working to achieve them.

Jackie RoeElkton, Md.Tennis helped me recover from a bad injury caused by an accident. It changed my whole life.

Kang ChuBasking Ridge, N.J.Tennis makes me feel young. It has helped me become mentally and physically strong.

Joanna NorrisNew Tripoli, Pa.Tennis has been a confidence builder. It keeps me socially active and motivates me to live a healthier life style.

Historical Fact

Why do you play?


1975- The first Middle States Tennis Association men’s and women’s interdistrict team competitions were held at Bloomsburg

University in Bloomsburg, Pa.


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It was home to Dr. J, “the Broad Street Bullies” and Bruce Springsteen. It is the place where Duke University’s Christian Laettner made his miracle shot, Bobby Knight’s Indiana Hoosiers seized perfection and an imperfect boxer from South Philly shocked the world.

After 42 amazing years, a Philadelphia landmark, the Wachovia Spectrum will close its doors for good. The facility opened in 1967 to house the NHL’s newest franchise the expansion Philadelphia Flyers and Wilt Chamberlain’s powerful 76ers. However, it didn’t take long for a third tenant – the sport of tennis – to call the Spectrum home.

Beginning in February 1968 and for nearly 30 years the facility hosted the game’s greatest players at the United States Professional Indoor Championships (U.S. Pro Indoor). The tournament, which began in 1961 with a field of eight players and was initially played on a gym floor at Cheltenham High School, ended the decade comprised of a field of 64 of the world’s best. The list of champions included a cavalcade of Grand Slam winners such as Rod Laver, John Newcombe, Jimmy Connors, John McEnroe and Ivan Lendl. The U.S. Pro Indoor also served as a spring board for Pete Sampras who won his first professional singles title at the Spectrum in 1990, the same year the 18-year-old hoisted the trophy at the U.S. Open.

While the U.S. Pro Indoor saw some of the world’s greatest players battle it out on court, it was an off court decision that cemented the event’s place in tennis lore.

In 1970, a controversial new scoring system – the tie-break – was debated. Given the frequency

of use of facilities such as the Spectrum and an expanded draw of 64 players, tournament

officials needed a way to make the game more marketable to an emerging audience and avoid overtime costs.

So in 1970 in a bold move that did much to shape the long-term future of the sport, tournament officials at the U.S. Pro Indoor implemented a 12 point tie-break which required the winner to take seven points by a margin of at least two. The change

in rules sent shockwaves through the tradition rich sport.

Another reason the innovative tie-break became a necessity for tournament directors Ed and Marilyn Fernberger was

because in 1970 and 1971 the Virginia Slims of Philadelphia, a Women’s Pro Event, was held at the Spectrum in conjunction with the U.S. Pro Indoor.

With two event’s matches being played side by side it was imperative for the Fernbergers to keep play moving. Appropriately, both finals in the tournaments featured tie-breaks as Laver beat Tony Roche 6-3, 7-6, 6-2 and Margaret Court defeated Billie Jean King 6-3, 7-6.

The progressive thinking was met with a fine by the USTA, but the tournament’s overtime bill was greatly reduced. Incidentally, it wasn’t long before the International Lawn Tennis Federation (ITF) adopted the system which is now the standard for tournament play.

A few years later another innovative tennis concept was born in South Philadelphia – World TeamTennis (WTT). The brainchild of tennis icon Billie Jean King, WTT brought a new format and new energy to the sport. The inaugural match for the 16-team professional league was held at the Spectrum on May 6, 1974, and featured some of the games best players

including King who captained the Philadelphia Freedoms. Opening night was a success as King led the Freedoms to a victory over Evonne Goolagong’s Pittsburgh Triangles.

Just as it did six years earlier the tie-breaker again debuted at the Spectrum in 1976 this time during Federation Cup competition. In the 14th edition of the most important competition between women’s national teams, the United States led by King and Rosie Casals defeated Australia 2-1 in the final, giving the US their fifth title. For the first time, enough nations entered to necessitate Pre-Qualifying rounds which kept the Spectrum’s courts a buzz for more than a week.

The Spectrum also played host to the U.S. Women’s National Indoor in 1982, a USTA event which is contested all over the country. The event’s final saw Barbara Potter knock off Pam Shriver. Eventually, in the late nineties, tennis, including the U.S. Pro Indoor, was moved across the street to the newer Wachovia Center, ending the relationship between the sport and facility that lasted three decades.

It seems almost fitting that the last tennis event held at the Spectrum was hosted by King and the Freedoms this summer. The event, a clinic featuring the QuickStart Tennis format of play, saw King on court one final time. Later she assisted USTA Middle States in a commemorative plaque presentation to Spectrum officials, honoring them for hosting the 1976 Fed Cup.

As for the last man to hoist the Philadelphia Bowl as champion of the U.S. Pro Indoor it was Pete Sampras in 1998 and he won the final set in a tie-break. •

- Nathaniel Harrison

Special thanks to Marilyn Fernberger and The History of Philadelphia Tennis 1875-1995.

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Professional Tennis

AnnA kournikova“There certainly is pressure to win and traveling can take its toll on any young player, however I looked at it as a chance to meet different people and to see other places which for me did not make it as challenging. When I trained or played I went all out, however when you need to rest you should rest.”

Venus williams“Trust your gut. Either play through it and pick up a racket the next day or take a break if you need it. Do what is best for you.”

Andre agassi“Tennis holds an interesting statistic compared to other sports. If you start at an early age you are more likely to maintain it throughout your life. People will play to stay in shape, for a college education, for fitness. Once you start it you stay with it. Often it’s not how good you are it’s what you’re committed to do.”

serenA williams“It’s important to have another life away from tennis. I really like to read, it helps me relax and get away to another place.”

Can too much tennis be a bad thing? Have you ever been burnt out from a hectic tennis schedule? Feel overwhelmed from traveling to tournaments every weekend? We asked some of the best in the game to give advice to junior players who are at risk for tennis burnout.

AdVICe FrOM THe PrOs

Beginning in 2010, the USTA Middle States Yearbook will now be placed online for members to enjoy. You may order a printed copy of the 2010 Yearbook for $12.00 by completing and mailing the Yearbook order form postcard (found in the 2009 Yearbook).

If you can’t find your postcard, please visit www.middlestates.usta.com to print a copy.

USTA Middle STATeS YeArbook UpdATe!

Historical Fact

1924 - The Davis Cup returns to the section

and Germantown Cricket Club

(Philadelphia) for the first time since 1909.

Since then, Davis Cup and Federation Cup events have also been

held at: Spectrum (Philadelphia), Atlantic City

Convention Center (Atlantic City, N.J.), Philadelphia Country

Club (Gladwyne, Pa.), Merion Cricket

Club (Haverford, Pa.), Wilmington Country Club (Wilmington, Del.) and Allegheny

Country Club (Sewickley, Pa.).


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Fox Chapel Junior Open - Lisa Plakseychuk (photo 1 - left) of Pittsburgh and Daraja Hill (photo 1 – right) of Erie were among the 256 singles entries and 70 doubles teams in the August 3-6 Fox Chapel Junior Open, annually the largest USTA sanctioned junior tournament in Middle States. Hill won the Girls’ 12 opening round match in a third-set tiebreaker but Plakseychuk, whose parents emigrated from Russia just before she was born, came back to win the Girls’ 12 backdraw with three consolation match wins. A total of 409 tournament matches were played in four days in this 12th annual tournament, using as many as 30 courts at five venues in the Pittsburgh suburb of Fox Chapel, Pa. Shankar Rajupet (photo 2) of Fox Chapel defeated Evan Kowalski of Butler, Pa., in the Boys’ 18 singles final and also won the Boys’ 18 doubles title with Enrico Certo of Fox Chapel as his partner. Shankar’s brother Siddharth (photo 3) won the Boys’ 12 singles title in a third-set tiebreaker over Gautam Bulusu of Wexford, Pa., then teamed with Jonah Krause of Pine, Pa., to win the Boys’ 12 doubles title. Photos of all trophy winners and action photos are available on the district web site: www.amd.usta.com.

Robert Ruzanic, a player and teaching professional for many years in suburban Pittsburgh and former chairman of the USTA Davis Cup Committee, has been named to the Hall of Fame of the Middle States division of the United States Professional

Tennis Association (USPTA). Ruzanic, who currently serves as a Tennis Service Representative for the Allegheny Mountain District, is a past president of both the USTA’s Middle States section and the USPTA’s Middle States division. He was the former

chairman of the Nominating Committee for the USTA national board of directors and

was elected to the Middle States Section Hall of Fame in 2001. Ruzanic retired in 2003 after a 37 year tenure as Director of Racquet Sports for Allegheny Country Club near Sewickley, Pa.

Gerrod Travis from Pittsburgh’s Highland Park neighborhood has been selected as a national winner in the Boys’ 13/14 division of the 2009 Arthur Ashe Essay Contest, sponsored by the USTA. Travis participated in an after-schools program this spring that was sponsored by the Highland Park Tennis Club. He not only developed an interest in tennis but academic pursuits as well and entered the essay contest in May. As a national essay winner, Travis received the grand prize of a trip to New York City and tickets to Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day. His essay and an article about him and the Highland Park Tennis Club are posted on the AMD web site (www.amd.usta.com).

For more “newsmakers” visit AMD web site: www.amd.usta.com.

Close Races for No. 1 in New AMD Adult Ranking SystemJeremy McClelland, a junior at Duquesne University, holds a tenuous lead in the AMD Men’s Open Singles ranking, but the race for No. 1 in this and a dozen other divisions could be decided at the AMD Director’s Cup tournament in suburban Pittsburgh Sept. 19.

The district adopted a Points-Per-Round ranking system for 2009, similar to what USTA national, Middle States section and most of the USTA districts use nationwide. The rankings in 22 age and gender singles and doubles divisions are updated weekly throughout the summer and posted on the AMD web site.

McClelland picked up most of his 225 ranking points by winning the West Virginia Open, a sectional championship, and at the National Collegiate Clay Court Championships in Mt. Lebanon. Matthew Smith of Sewickley, Pa., earned most of his 200 points with a good showing at the Champion Ford/Hallman Chevrolet prize money event in Erie, Pa., in August and at the West Virginia Open. Ryan Abel of Manor, Pa., is tied for second with 200 points earned by winning the Clarion Adult Open in June and good showings at the West Virginia Open and the 1st Monroeville Classic in June.

Shannon Benic, a University of Pittsburgh senior from Fox Chapel, leads the Women’s Open singles division with 140 points, including victories at the Bob O’Connor Summer Tennis Classic, the Monroeville Classic and the National Collegiate Clay Court Championships. Jen Yocca of Pittsburgh is in second place with 110 points, earned primarily at the 35th Straub Brewery Clay Court Championships, the Clarion Adult Open and the West Virginia Open.

Rankings for all players and all divisions are on the AMD web site (www.amd.usta.com).

People in the News

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Central PA D

istrict

A Gift to JTT April Gift took Jr. Team Tennis (JTT) to a new level in the Central PA District (CPD) this past spring. Gift, a wife and mother of two boys, started a USTA JTT travel league expanding the program to include teams and players from seven counties in south central PA. Traditionally, JTT leagues in CPD have been held locally with two to four teams playing at one central location. This was the first open league in our district that involved teams traveling and competing on home and away courts. The program included 18 & Under, 14 & Under and 12 & Under beginner and advanced divisions. Nineteen teams and more than 160 youth participated in this first year. The program concluded in July with a Pizza &

Play awards party at the Hershey Racquet Club for all of the teams

and coaches. Gift is hoping to expand the program next year to include more teams from Lancaster, Adams and Franklin counties. If you would like more information about the program or to join the league please contact April Gift at

(717) 574-4841 or email: [email protected].

Tennis for Kids announce record year “Tennis for Kids” (TFK) reported a record attendance this summer with 1,583 participants – a 11 percent increase of players on courts throughout York County and surrounding communities. TFK is a USTA National Junior Tennis and Learning program that provides free tennis lessons for children ages 8-16. The non-profit group is driven by its mission to give all children the opportunity to learn to play tennis – a lifetime activity; and have the opportunity to enjoy the social experience that comes with participating in a sport like tennis, and the opportunity to fill empty hours with a wholesome,

healthy activity. In its 19th year, the program has expanded to 21 different sites filling more than 90 courts with kids throughout the summer. TFK President, Stef Campisi announced the organization is seeking the funds to add three more sites next year. “The program is growing by leaps and bounds,” Campisi said. “I am grateful for all of our dedicated quality people who make this a quality program, and to all our businesses, churches, foundations and parents who support us financially.”

Last year TFK founder and past President, Hank Merges, was honored at the USTA Community Tennis Development Workshop in Hilton Head, S.C., with the prestigious Eve Kraft Community Service Award for “individuals who perpetuate their selfless mission to bring the game of tennis to anyone who wants to play.” Learn more about TFK at www.tennisforkidsyork.com.

Gettysburg woman takes tennis to Tanzania Nell Matthews, a 51-year-old wife and mother of three from Gettysburg, Pa., traveled to Sanya Juu, Tanzania, in June. While there she had the opportunity to share the game of tennis with children, many of whom were disabled, at the Faraja School. Matthews, who credits Denise Dunn for providing much of the tennis equipment for the trip, shares her reflections below… I know one word of Swahili—”tembo,” meaning elephant—and I have never

taught tennis to disabled children. But this is to be my mission at Faraja School (www.farajaschool.org) in Sanya Juu, Tanzania. Magnificent Mount Kilimanjaro is the school’s backdrop. For preparation, I visited there for two weeks this past June. I brought with me two roll-up tennis nets, twelve rackets and low-compression balls for 85 children with thanks to the USTA. When I met the children, they were all clad in blue uniforms matching the clear sky overhead and were giddy with excitement to be on a tennis court. Actually, they had never played tennis, and we used the flattest part of their soccer field for the tennis court. A fine grass court, I thought, like Wimbledon….

The first to approach me was a boy with no hands and a smile that melted my heart. His name is Godlisten. How was Godlisten going to play tennis? Could I duck-tape his arm to a racket? While my mind was racing for a solution, he picked up a racket with his forearms and started to bounce a ball in a game of “upsies,” counting, “moja, wili, tatu, nne, tano, sita,” before the “mpira,” dropped to the ground. He was one of the better players. So it was then that I learned that disabled children will find their own ways to play.

My husband, our 13-year-old daughter, and I will travel back to Tanzania in September for a nine-month sabbatical/mission trip. We will live and work among some amazing people while helping these incredible kids. I’ll be teaching English and tennis, while learning Swahili and, I’m sure, much more.

In Gettysburg I don’t go more than a few days without picking up a racket. And judging by the laughter of students at Faraja, teaching tennis will be as fun in Tanzania as it is in the states!


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With the song “Philadelphia Freedom” playing in the background, tennis legend Billie Jean King conducted a QuickStart Tennis clinic at the Wachovia Spectrum (Philadelphia) for 10 local youth from the Rodney Street Tennis & Tutoring Association (RSTTA) on June 18th. “This was a great day for our kids. To spend time with Billie Jean is something they will always remember,” said Jane Brown Grimes, RSTTA Chairman and immediate past President of the USTA.

At the end of the clinic as the children were saying goodbye King said, “This was the best group of kids. I especially liked the way they came in and introduced themselves to me. They looked me in the eye and smiled; very impressive.”

Collegiate StandoutsDelaware proved it is more than a small wonder as four tennis players from the First State helped their collegiate teams reach remarkable successes in 2009.

Jessi Robinson’s Duke squad captured the NCAA Women’s Championship for the first time in school history. Ashlee Vosters, University of Richmond, led her team to the Atlantic

10 Championships. Blakely Ashley, a sophomore at Princeton, helped the Tigers earn a birth to the NCAA tournament by winning the Ivy League Conference for the first time in nine years, and Leigh Finnegan, a sophomore at the University of Illinois, helped her team defeat 19th ranked Vanderbilt, leading the Fighting Illini to NCAA’s based on their season record.

When asked to enumerate their college experiences, the young women offered the following. Ashley said, “I have really enjoyed the friendship, support of my teammates and being part of a team effort.” Finnegan, Vosters and Robinson agreed and indicated the lessons of teamwork will remain an excellent lifelong skill.

“Time management was a key element developed by playing on a D1 team,” Vosters said. “The academics, fitness training, practice schedule, travel and community service require excellent organization to be able to balance the rigorous schedule. At University of Richmond, the women’s tennis team attained the highest GPA of any sports team there.” She also added, “Volunteering for hunger prevention, book programs, mentoring and tutoring high school students was very important and contributed to team building.”

Finnegan agreed, adding, “The life of a student-athlete is rigorous and the importance of the team, which is your extended family, is critical to your well-being and the results of your team.” She credited Larry Hampton, Tennis

Director, DuPont Country Club, with mentoring her and giving her the tools to be successful.

Seniors Vosters and Robinson, both co-captains of their teams, leave their college careers with fond memories and valuable life skills. “Good team chemistry is critical to team success,” Robinson said. “This year we only had six players so every match counted. We couldn’t afford injury or sickness. We had to play through it. When there is a greater goal you have to work hard and

work together.”

Vosters felt her coach Mark Wesselink was instrumental to her success, “He inspired me to always

give 100 percent. He was supportive to the team across the spectrum of highs and lows throughout the season.” Other individuals Vosters credits are former Sea Colony Director of Tennis Dave Marshall who showed her the intersection between tennis, business and life. Her grandmother, Bunny Vosters, who remains a role model and inspiration, and Ed McQuillin, Director of Tennis, Wilmington Country Club, who helped develop her passion for tennis at an early age.

The opportunities, experiences and lessons learned have proved invaluable for these collegiate athletes. Discipline, teamwork, dedication and responsibility are all core aspects of their success. But another common thread which Ashley pointed out and reiterated by the others is “the love and continuous support both on and off the court by the parents,” whose efforts helped to maximize the girls’ potential allowing them to develop their passion for tennis; achieve at the highest college level and fulfill their dreams.

-Lee H. Vosters Delaware District board member and tennis parent who witnessed the

development and good sportsmanship of these four junior players.

Delaware Holds First QuickStart Tournament On a beautiful June day, Marty Godwin, Director of Tennis and Athletics at Kings Creek Country Club said, “The competition was serious but friendly between the seven youngsters who played in Delaware’s first QuickStart Tennis (QST) tournament, held in Rehoboth Beach.” All of the participants had fun; including Nathaniel Valenti (left) of Lewes Beach, Del., who competed against his doubles partner Becky Hurley (right) from Milton, Del., in the finals. Hurley persevered, but there were no hard feelings as seen by this friendly handshake. Godwin was pleased with the energy and excitement demonstrated by the children. After the tournament was complete, the children gathered to celebrate a successful tournament, enjoying pizza and cupcakes. The weather was beautiful, the tournament was a great success, and the children and their families had a wonderful time. It was another great example of how QST brings families together for fun on the courts!

Jessi Robinson (left) and Ashlee Vosters (right)

Delaware

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Eastern PA D

istrictSummer Tennis JamThe City of Reading hosted the first-ever “Summer Tennis Jam” at Hampden Park Tennis Facility and added some Wimbledon flavor to the event by utilizing “The Pit” – an old reservoir that has been converted into an all-purpose turf field. Over 200 Reading Tennis program participants attended the Jam, which was run and organized by the enthusiastic Reading Tennis staff, volunteers and parents.

Coordinated with the City Playgrounds, the Tennis Jam featured games involving USTA’s QuickStart Tennis format. Participants were divided into red, orange and green level

competition. Also, advanced players participated in a singles and doubles competition highlighting their abilities and

hard work.

The City of Reading, guided by the tennis community and the USTA, have a lot to be proud of in 2009. Matt Lubas, Athletic/Aquatic Supervisor for the City of Reading, gives special thanks to the City Playgrounds for their commitment to “Tennis in the

Parks,” and to the diligent city tennis staff for their energy in “using tennis to connect with our kids.”

More than 40 QuickStart Tennis courts were used at the Summer Tennis Jam, many of which were set up in “The Pit.”

News from around the district…• Thirty-two enthusiastic tennis players

gathered on June 1 for a day of good tennis for a good cause. Valley Youth House held their 24th Annual Golf & Tennis Tournament at Lehigh Country Club. At the end of a day of competitive play, Walt Keiper emerged as the men’s winner and Lauren Edelschein was the winner on the women’s side. Proceeds from the event support Valley Youth House’s programs that aid homeless youth. The agency serves 12,000 youth and families throughout southeastern Pennsylvania.

• On July 5, tennis enthusiasts converged on the Sand Island tennis courts in Bethlehem, Pa., for a fun day of round-robin tennis, fine picnic food and wonderful social fun! Several players even served as “grill meisters.” Sand Island provided the burgers and hotdogs and covered dishes were provided by players. The weather was cooperative and a fun day was had by all!

• On July 18, Coach Ed Krass made a return visit to the Sand Island Tennis Courts in Bethlehem, Pa., to present his One-On-One Doubles Tennis – a half-court, serve-and-volley singles game played between two players on the doubles court – clinic. Krass, who is nationally recognized as a leader in tennis coaching, first brought his game to the Lehigh Valley in 2007. Krass, calling his program “tennis with a rock ‘n roll attitude,” provided a demonstration followed by One-On-One doubles play.

• Congratulations to the four Jr. Team Tennisteams who represented EPD at Section Championships: Set Point Titans - 18 & Under Advanced Zoniacs - 18 & Under Intermediate In the Zone - 14 & Under Advanced Jr. Aces - 14 & Under Intermediate

The 17th Annual Lehigh Valley Health Network Golf & Tennis Classic was held at Saucon Valley Country Club. Funds raised were used to purchase equipment for the Lehigh Valley Hospital’s Muhlenberg site. Kudos to the many Eastern PA District tennis players who participated in the fundraiser.


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Whether one lives in Cape May or just vacations at the lovely seaside resort at the southern tip of New Jersey, there is no question about where to play tennis. The only courts in the city are at the William J. Moore Tennis Center on Washington Street, otherwise known as the Cape May Tennis Club (CMTC). The CMTC is situated on a residential street, sits

next to the well-manicured Physick Estate, and offers so much that there’s no reason to go elsewhere. That is, unless all 14 Har-tru courts and

two hard courts are in use. That tends to happen on summer mornings when people start arriving around 7:00 a.m. to sign-up for an 8:00 a.m. court.

The CMTC is one of 16 USTA Community Tennis Associations in the New Jersey District. It is a public club owned by the City of Cape May with beginnings in 1962. Volunteer officers make up an executive committee and there are 25 board members. A few paid sraff members manage the day-to-day activities.

Former board president Don Trappler, who lives in Wildwood, ended his two-year reign on August 16, and Guenther Woehlert now leads the CMTC. Trappler is one of the 600 paid members who tend to arrive early to get a court, as the system is simply first-come, first-served, regardless of whether you’re an officer, a member, a vacation homeowner, or a vacationer. No reservations are taken. If you plan to play at least six times during a two-week vacation, it’s worth it to purchase a two-week membership.

Trappler estimates that perhaps 1/3 are seasonal members, 1/3 year-round, and the other third is comprised of monthly or bi-weekly members. Court rates are a reasonable $12 per

hour-and-a-half. Annual dues are $245 and that includes unlimited play.

This unique club also gives lessons; runs kids’ tournaments, free clinics for middle school kids, tournaments for club members (including a popular wood racquet tournament), a high school tournament, and it gives out scholarships to high school players. A USTA Tri-Level women’s league is available there, as well as round robins, and the desk manager will accommodate visitors looking for a match. Socials, some including a catered dinner, are open to

anyone. And they have no trouble getting

sponsors for their events. “It’s like a quasi-country

club,” explained Trappler. “We are a good draw for the city.”

For more information about CMTC , including an interesting history, visit www.capemaytennisclub.com. And if you’re in the area, stop by for a game. It’s easy to get hooked on this absolute gem.

Jr. Team Tennis makes a splash in Gloucester County

Deb Slenkamp thinks “it’s one of the best things that has happened for tennis in a long time.” The Pitman High School boys and girls tennis coach, who also leads the Pitman Community Tennis Association, is talking about Jr. Team Tennis (JTT), and specifically, how this USTA program that is sweeping the country swept right into Gloucester County and took it by storm.

Slenkamp read about JTT and immediately thought her community needed it. She thought about her grown daughter Megan and how she would have loved it because she never got to play doubles in high school but had to play in college. She thought about her high school, players and the opportunities it afforded to keep them playing in a social, competitive environment. She thought about the minimal time commitment involved, and she thought about the interest it would spark in the game. But most of all, she thought about the fun it would bring to her student-athletes.

“They talk about it [JTT] with anticipation, like maybe they will get to play mixed doubles or singles today. That’s the fun part,” said Slenkamp. “They are getting the experience of singles and doubles, and it’s social.”

Slenkamp and her actively-involved husband Tom met with Lori Schwartz, USTA Middle States’ Tennis Service Representative for the New Jersey District, who invited the couple to attend the section’s Area League Coordinator training. The Slenkamps handed out flyers, sent e-mails, and talked about the program to everyone they met. Slenkamp is grateful to Schwartz and League Coordinator Millie Sams for their work in making this happen.

“For me, JTT is a way to get players who never enter tournaments involved,” Slenkamp said. “JTT gives everyone the opportunity to play and the experience of being on a team. I hope it continues for a long time.”

Slenkamp also feels the program’s scoring system, a modified version of World TeamTennis scoring, is encouraging to the athletes, saying, “The kids don’t feel

The pavilion at CMTC, a newly renovated part of the facility.

Coaches Mike Hudock (left), Deborah Slenkamp (center) and Peter Rattigan (right) pose with members of the Pittman JTT teams.

they totally lose. If you lose 6-3, you have still earned 3 points for your team. In high school, if you lose 6-3, you just lose.”

Five 18 & Under teams for a total of 43 players, played this first year at James Atkinson Memorial Park in Gloucester. Team Fizzle, compiled of teens mostly from Washington Township, started its first JTT season with a bang. They are the only NJD team that qualified for the national championships and are headed to Mobile, Ala., Oct. 30-Nov.1. With the work the Slenkamps are doing, the interest JTT has spurred and the success of Team Fizzle, JTT in Gloucester County is bound to grow.

Left to right: Jay Ford, President of Tournament Sponsor Crest Savings Bank; Don Trappler, CMTC immediate past president and Bob Zevola, tournament Director and former CMTC vice president, prepare to present trophies to participants of a CMTC tournament.

33


Philadelphia District

One fabulous Freedoms fan While WorldTeamTennis (WTT) may not have the dedicated core of fans that travel to away sites for games like the Eagles, Phillies, Flyers and Sixers might, Radnor, Pa’s David Hain didn’t miss a night of home action when the Freedoms took court at the King of Prussia Mall this July.

“If you like tennis how can you not like what goes on there,” Hain said, having missed just five home matches since 2004.

While Hain is an avid fan of the game now, it wasn’t always that way. The 47-year-old picked up golf and tennis when he became involved in corporate life around the age of 26.

Hain loves the fan, player interaction of WTT, he also enjoys the special-events that take place between matches, such as: player interviews, check presentations to charities and the opportunity to catch an autographed tennis ball.

“What I like is that it’s more interactive than a WTA event or the US Open,” Hain said. The married father of three

has had the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the game’s best including a conversation he had with Jan-Michael Gambill this year, “I asked him before he went out to play Andre Agassi how well he did against him when they played on the circuit.”

When asked which season was the best of the last five he’s attended religiously and Hain is quick to reply, “2009!” He says he was skeptical at first, of the team’s move from Cabrini College to King of Prussia Mall, but is now a believer.

“They [Freedoms management] have done a really great job in King of Prussia,”

Hain said. “I loved seeing John McEnroe, Andre Agassi

and the Williams sisters. But watching 14-year-old Madison Keys beat Serena Williams was stunning.”

He thinks having a player like Rafael Nadal

or Roger Federer come to town would be the only way

to top the 2009 season.

While the names on the lineup card may change, one thing remains constant in the stands. Count on David Hain to be as dedicated to the Freedoms each July as the most passionate professional sports fan is behind his or her team.

Children love QuickStart!

The excitement level rises every Thursday morning throughout the summer in Wynnewood, Pa., when a team of tennis professionals from the Julian Krinsky Group descend on Temple Beth Hillel with QuickStart Tennis (QST) gear.

Arvind Aravindhan, Director of Tennis with the Julian Krinsky Group, invited USTA Middle States to see a perfect example “that you can teach QST anywhere, on any surface.”

A short court, small racquets, cones and balloons placed strategically in the temple lobby set the children, ages two to five, on course to perhaps become the next Roger Federer or Venus Williams. Arvind and his group also provide QST on the basketball court at Temple Har Zion in Penn Valley.

For information about QuickStart Tennis visit: middlestates.usta.com.

Kyle Devlin, the QuickStart Tennis (QST) manager at the Bucks County Racquet Club (BCRC) in Washington Crossing, Pa., is having great success with a summer long QST program. Devlin, a new addition to the teaching staff at BCRC, has 29 children under the age of 10 utilizing the QST format of play. What started as a three day-a-week program has now turned into a five day-a-week program. BCRC is hoping to end the program with a QST tournament in the fall.


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