And to all a good night...

And to all...a good night.

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Final thought...

My thanks to all of you who took part in what is by far the most fun tournament this island has to offer...hands down. I hope you enjoyed the blog and my at times irreverent commentary...but hey, if I am asked...then this is what you get. To quote Steel Magnolias..."if you don't have anything nice to say about anyone...then come sit next to me!" All kidding aside...all was in good gest and if I insulted anyone then my apolo...wait...forget it...no apologies! If you can't take the heat get out of my kitchen! I am just trying to figure out now what to do with my time. Some more passing thoughts from the past two weeks:

BEST RETUN TO THE COURTS: Dieter Oelschlager and Laura Croney

BEST COJONES: Stevie Spencer, Barb Robbins, and Joanie Kupfer for playing up to the A's.

FASTEST/HARDEST SERVERS: Junior Bannis and Shane Dalton. Flavia Logie and Emmeline Simmons.

MOST TALKATIVE TEAM ON THE COURT: Debbie Woodson and Michael Armendariz

MOST TALKATIVE PERSON ON THE COURT: Susan Armstrong

MOST TALKATIVE PERSON OFF THE COURT: Barb Robbins

MOST GRACIOUS: Gabrielle Armstrong and Alec Kuipers

MOST IMCOMPREHENSIBLE: Without a doubt, Carlos Rojas

BEST FIST PUMPER: Kevin Motta

MOST LIKELY TO BE CALLED FOR A FOOT FAULT IF ANYONE HAD THE NERVE TO CALL A FOOT FAULT: Joel Mahepath

MOST COLORFUL PEANUNT GALLERY COMMENTATORS: Rikki Nelthropp and Flavia Logie

MOST LIKELY TO STREAK NAKED ON THE GRASS FIELD: Eli Stamper

BEST NICKNAMES: "Barbies" (Stevie Spencer/Cece Edwards), "Sharapova" (Michael Armendariz), "Slice and Dice" (Caleb Phelps/Al Baptiste), "Cronoodle" (Laura Croney/Poodle Heckman), "MOTOODLE" (Kevin Motta/Poodle Heckman).

MOST DIFFICULT TO PASS AT THE NET: the man with the wingspan of an albatross...Al Baptiste.

BEST DRESSED: Florence Logan

MOST ENTRIES PER HOUSEHOLD: the Armstrong family. 2nd place: the Kuiper family

WORST POTTY MOUTH: Most everyone who played in this tournament

MOST LIKELY TO GET HIT ON THE COURT: Anyone playing against Michael Armendariz

BEST SHOT OF THE TOURNAMENT: The "tweener" by Kevin Motta!

Ladies B final teams: Emmeline Simmons, Sharon Quinn, Jackie Mashburn, Jeri Ferrante.

Womens A final teams: Jane Severson, Susan Armstong, Karen Heckman, Laura Croney.

Bellows International, Ltd...we THANK YOU!

The members of the Tennis Club of St. Croix would like to give a big THANK YOU to Bellows International, Ltd. and Matt Ridgway for making this years 2nd Annual Heineken St. Croix Open such a success. Bellows provided merchandising, spirits, funding, and those amazing shirts and jackets that all participants received!

Pictured here are: Tennis Club of St. Croix President Liz Fox, Matt Ridgway, and Tennis Chairperson Karen Heckman.

Men dem!

Men settled their finals today and a great night it was! First up was Mens B Doubles. What was up with #1 seeds falling this tournament! #1 seed Joel Mahepath and Earl Powell fell today in three sets to #2 Caleb Phelps and Big Al Baptiste. Caleb and Al executed a nice plan as they sought revenge against their opponents from previous matches this year. Their plan was successful and after dropping the first set, they rebound (wait a minute...this isn't basketball!) and take the second set and decidedly take the third set by a score of 6-1. Congrats...and a big congrats to Caleb for taking the Mens singles title as well!

Mens A Doubles took front and center as the highlight match of the night. Fireworks were flying with some breathtaking play. Congrats to Carlos for making his first final and to Shane for a display of some amazing groundies and serves today. Their efforts were valiant but top seeds (wow! a #1 seed that held their seed!!!?) Christian and Kevin were just too much in the end and take the match in straight sets. Yet another gentlemanly match played with awesome shotmaking and laughter and banter throughout the match. Great job you guys!

And...an amazing two weeks comes to an end...

Saturday afternoon saw the finals of the remaining matches...Mens and Womens doubles. Its amazing how we can count on these matches to provide fans and spectators with some awesome competition and great matches to watch. Today we saw the best of the best...and were rewarded with some really great play.

Court 1: Ladies A Doubles final beween Susan Armstrong and Jane Severson versus Laura Croney and Karen Heckmen. This was a highly touted match for sure. These ladies play it out during the week so everyone was familiar with everyone's game. "Poodle" and Laura CRONEY, now know as team "Cronoodle", started off focused and raced to a 4-1 lead in the first set. Jane, ever the mistress of consistency and placement spurred Susan on to rebound to 3-4 but team Cronoodle closed it out to take the first set. 4-1 is the key score again as Jane and Susan lead in the second but the "Cronoodle" charges back...they take the second set 7-5 and the title of champions. This was a highly entertaining match which had the peanut gallery cheering and gasping during the great points and great play. Jane by the way, not only played great but seriously had the best outfit on the court today. This is saying a lot because ALL the women looked amazing today! Way to go Janie! Court 3: Ladies B Doubles also saw the top seeded team fall in straights to a new team. This tournaments "IT" girl, Jeri Ferrante and her partner Emmeline Simmons took out the #1 team of Jackie Mashburn and Sharon Quinn. Jeri and Emmeline had plans, and they stuck to it. Pounding servies by Emmeline and with aggressive net play by Jeri throughout the match, they shocked the formidable team of Jackie and Sharon in straight sets. Jackie had great groundies and some smart placement by Sharon, but it just wasn't enough today. Great tournament for all of the ladies and some real class acts on the court today.

Babes, boys, and a beautiful night.

On yet another absolutely beautiful evening, the place to be was at Beeston Hill, at the Tennis Club of St. Croix. Friday night was an incredible night of tennis action and activity. Ladies FIRST! Ladies B semi-finals were staged...and courts one and two saw some great tennis...and the views weren't so bad either. Court 2 had Emmeline Simmons and Jeri Ferrante taking charge and playing some really solid tennis against Cece Edwards and STEVIE (not to be confused with Holly) SPENCER. There was some big serving going on tonight on this court. Barbies dem played really well, but Emmeline and Jeri proved to be too strong this night and advance to their first final together by a score of 6-1, 6-3. On court 1, we had #1 seeds Sharon Quinn and Jackie SMashburn taking on the Fab Flo and the Krafty Kelly. Great playing all around, but Sharon and Jackie really played a nice game from midcourt and the net, and take the match 7-5, 6-3. SEE YOU IN THE FINALS LADIES!

Big boys secured their spots in the finals as well. First up was Christian "better with a buzz" Nelthrop and Kevin "COME ON!" Motta versus Junior "Boom Boom" Bannis and Jerry "I'm gonna get you" Adames. Nice to see Jerry Adames advancing and taking part in the Beeston tournament...hope to see you next year as well. There was so HUGE serving by Junior and but some bigger returns by Christian. Christian and Kevin advance with a 6-3, 6-4 win. Also advancing was an unusually more reserved Carlos Rojas and quick footed Shane Dalton as they proceed to win a great three setter against Greg James and Robert Nuscher. Actually, it didn't look like Nuscher...he was spotted upstairs with a cocktail! No...it was Doug "Monte Carlo Man" Speers, who substituted for the injured Robert. The match was great and played as much on court 1 as their own court 2 as both teams scrambled everywhere for great angles, drop shots and lobs. Carlos advances to his first A mens final...good work mi amigo! Shane and Carlos advance 3-6, 6-3, 6-4...a great comeback. Mens B #1 seeds Joel and Earl took on a determined Robby and Dieter who gave the top seeds a real run for their money. The newly formed team of Robby/Dieter played great at the net, having the top seeds running urkels...excuse me...I mean circles in retrieving volleys and smashes. In the end they just couldn't get past the experienced top seeds who win 6-4, 7-5. So Then we come to the match of the night. Al Baptiste and Caleb Phelps take on crowd faves Julien DiPersio and Zach Armstrong. This was a really well played match by all four guys. Caleb absorbing the big pace. Al with his mathematically impossible volley angles. Julien with some crazy screaming down the line winners, and Zach with great poaches and some really well thought out points. Al and Caleb were great in dealing with the fact that the youngins were the crowd fave...and played like real gentlemen. This match went down to the wire and several times, caused people to mad dash it to the bar for some liquid tranquilization (thanks Bruce for keeping me sedated). The #2 seeds advance 6-1, 4-6, 7-6. GREAT, GREAT MATCH.

SEE YOU ALL TODAY FOR THE FINALS!

It's good to be me. :)

Sommelier Kimberly Edwards with Prestige Wine, providing a sampling of great wines during the evening.

Kimberly D'Eramo intently answering quiz questions to win wines provided by Prestige Wines.

Isabel, Robert, and Kelly

Another great event at Tennis Club of St. Croix!

Wine tasting...awesome! Thanks Prestige!

It is a sure thing to say...that the Tennis Club of St. Croix...by far...without a doubt...hosts the largest and most fun tournament on the island of St. Croix hands DOWN! Right?! We need to thank Prestige Wines and Kimberly Edwards for providing a wonderful assortment of wines. Karen Heckman for providing the most incredible array of cheeses and chocolates. Joanie Kupfer and Liz Armstrong for hosting the bar yet again...and lets not forget Kenny! Everyone really enjoyed themselves last night...thanks to all for coming!

Road conditions to the Club...

Just advising everyone that the road at the light at Basin Triangle outside Csted, is closed. If you are coming from east you will have to go to the light at Orange Grove (Pueblo) and come to the Club that that direction. Traffic has been heaving so you might want to allow a few extra minutes for your travel time. :)

Wine tasting and more!

Don't forget about tonights wine tasting! Sounds like another great event at the Club.

Caleb Phelps will also be available for some massage chair therapy for you players and others needing some good stress relief...as if the wine wouldn't be enough! :)

See you all tonight!

Thursday recap...I need a drink!

You know...they say that every true tennis fan should experience night tennis at Arthur Ashe at the US Open. As far as many are concerned...night tennis at Tennis Club of St. Croix is a close second! The raucous crowds cheering from the lawn, the patio and of course "the upper deck", created a great atmosmosphere for all the remaining players. And man...were there some matches tonight!

First up...the women! First up, ladies A doubles between "Poodle" Heckman and Laura Croney taking out everyones favorite bartender Joanie Kupfer and Barbara "9 hours" Robbins. The score was 6-0, 6-1. Truthfully, we think Joanie was thinking too much of what concoctions she was going to serve up at the bar instead of her tennis, thus only taking one game. You know Joanie just can't keep away from the bar. Next up are the #1 seeds of Sharon Quinn and Jackie Mashburn who took a match from Aimee Belmore and...what? Where was Xaulanda Simmons? Unfortunately, she was not able to make it and they had to bail on the evening...our first default of the week. They advance, but something tells me there may be a rematch of this foursome sometime in the near future. Jeri Ferrante and Emmaline Simmonds wore down Sara Petievich and Brenda Sinfield in other ladies action. Jeri and Emmaline were too tough tonight and take the match 6-2, 6-2. Rumor has it that Jeri actually had her skirt on correctly tonight...wow what a change! We all kinda miss her backwards skirt days quite honestly. ..at least I do. Tennis Club pro/motivational speaker Cece Edwards and Holly Drummond defeated Kye Walker and Deb Aronstein 6-3, 6-1. Cece and Holly played well tonight. Cece was focused as she knew she had coaching duties ahead of her (Robby and Dieter just never listen). Lastly a super showdown between the fabulously fashionable Florence Logan and Kelly "yes I am a lefty" Shirloh and the new team of Julie Millier and the every smiling Gabrielle Armstrong. Playing one up and one back, Flo and Kelly take a close first set in a tiebrake. Julie and Gabby rebound with a smartly played second set and win 6-3 to take the match to a deciding third. But...in the end the experienced team took out the rookies...Flo and Kelly advance with a 6-2 third set victory.

Big tennis and big drama was up next with the Mens B doubles. The highly anticipated showdown between the #2 seeds of Big Al Baptiste and Caleb Phelps versus Little Al Kuipers and Anton Kuipers was a real treat to watch. Kuipers dem drew repeated "nice try" from the peanut gallery, playing well but the slice and dice masters were too tough. After the match, Al and Caleb were spotted signing a contract, sealing their appearance on the Cooking Channel, hosted by Vince of Slap Chop fame. A natural fit! On court 1 Mike Petievich and Chris Schrieber put on an entertaining show against the #1 seeded team of Joel Mahepath and Earl Powell. The crowd was vocal while watching a series of great plays, great retrievals, missed opportunities and mishits (just typing that word makes me laugh...does anyone else get that?! lol). With a score of 6-1, 6-1, not sure of Mahepath/Powell broke much of a sweat...and Joel managed to keep his shirt tucked in the entire match. Seriously, there were some really great exchanges. Seriously, the points were longer and closer than the score revealed. Seriously, it was entertaining. And seriously...don'tcha just wanna pull the shirt out while walking by during a change over?! You know you do! Court 3 was a great match between Jason Miller and Carl Beckstedt versus the young guns Zach Armstrong and Julien DePersio. Big serves, bit hits, big boy tennis...the boys take the first set. Jason/Carl take the second forcing the match to go the distance. Pressure mounts and no one hold serve to take the final set. That is until Zach steps up...well done Zach...the boys dem take it 7-5 in the third. Now talk about drama...court 4 has Stamper/Goldschlagger taking on another set of Hovensa boys with Chad Caven and Keith Wilson. This was a great match...with Robby and Dieter taking the advice of their coach and playing to their physical strengths. Now...mentally that might be another story. Up 40 love and serving for the match...Robby and Dieter get broken! OH NO! Another tiebrake...people were rushing to Joanie's bar for more drinks to get them through the match! Chad and Keith put up a GREAT fight but Robby and Dieter take the deciding tiebrake!

Now...many of you commented on the blog and how much you enjoy it, and I hope you do. Now...when you see my new pal Chiso at the Club (sorry Natalie...you are replaced) who ended up helping me out after my car completely DIED at the Club. Ugh! He offered me a lift to get home tonight in order for me to write for YOU...the fans! So...when you see him tomorrow...buy him a drink and keep him happy. My car better be in the lot when get there in the morning is all I have to say. So once again buy him a drink. Better yet...buy me on.

And the fun continues...

What a great "Chili Night" last night. There was hardly a parking space to be found...great fun! Here is what the entertainment committee at Tennis Club of St. Croix has in store for everyone:

FRIDAY: Wine tasting event with Prestige Wines with sommelier Kimberley Edwards. Guess the varietals for free wine! Prizes and give aways with games and quizzes...all wine related! The event if free to members of the Tennis Club and just $15 per person for non-members. Come enjoy a selection of wines, cheese, fruit and enjoy some great tennis entertainment. Wine will be for sale BELOW RETAIL FOR THIS EVENT!

SATURDAY: Finals to be played at 4pm. Stay afterwards for the sounds of MOments...come listen and dance The grill will be fired up with burgers and hot dogs for sale, so bring the entire family.

That Cece can really throw a party! Thanks also to Liz, Joanie and Ken for everything!

Wednesday Tennis

The parking lot was CROWDED tonight for the tennis and Chili.   MM MM Good.   I hear the Chili was good, but it was GONE by the time I was done with my match... A big 3 setter.   After losing the first set 1-6, our coach (CeCe) took us aside and gave us our marching orders.   She was right... a little strategy change and the tide turned.  I would tell you what she told us, but we need it tomorrow night!

Also, a big shout out to Big and Little Kuipers.   That just goes to show what 6 days a week of lessons, an amazing drive and focus, and the support of your parents can do. Congrats to both of the Kuipers Dem in their comeback to beat Smashburn and Kupfer.  Maybe a little more congrats to the smaller of the two Kuipers men.  

I did get to watch a little of my lovely wife's match as well.  She and her lovely partner Carol Lockwood matched beautifully in their pink skirts and and white tops.   Maybe Dieter and I should match... Maybe not :)   These ladies left their hearts out there, but it was Aaronstein and Kye with the big win.  Congrats ladies.  

To all the other matches that I missed, Sorry, but Michael Armendariz covered them all.   He's so good at this. Check out his play by play every day on the blog... http://www.heinekenstcroixopen.blogspot.com/ every day for Michael's handiwork.

Now on to the future:

1)  Friday night is the semi finals and a WINE TASTING.... Free to Members.  15 bucks for guests.   I wish I had more details, but what else do you need to know.  Friday, fun, wine, friends, etc., tennis, etc. etc.   Come on Out.

2)  Saturday at 4PM is the Doubles Finals of the Open and the last matches, BUT the fun doesn't stop there.  Can you say cookout and awards ceremony????  Wait, Wait there's more.   At 5:30ish, my FAVORITE STX band the "Moments" are going to be playing.  The lovely "Mo" Hart will be belting out the oldies and the newer stuff.   It's really a great mix.   Eli loves their music. If you haven't seen them, they are really good.   Come out for the tennis.   Stay for the burgers and music!  

Ciao

Robby

CHEERS!

BIG nite at the Tennis Club of St. Croix tonight. First off...what a great night of food with tonight being "build your own bowl of chili" night. Awesome tasting chili and what a bargain! Many were seen taking travelers for lunch tomorrow...just like a good Crucian!

Womens B doubles take court first...and what a lovely sight they were. My favorite "it gal" Jeri Ferrante and her partner Emmeline Simmonds took out Patsy Knight (wait...how did this happen?!) and my newest obsession Natalie Nelson. Natalie...I am still thinking about our time on the court the other night (wink! wink!). I think I luff her. Newly matched up Kye Walker and Debbie Aronstein defeat our ladies in pink, Sarah Stamper and Carole Lockwood by a score of 6-0, 6-2. Not a bad score for a team who recently just paired up! Xaulanda Simmonds and Aimee Belmore bullied their way past D'Eramo dem by a score of 6-1, 6-1. HELLO?! No bullying! Didn't you watch my video?! Kudos to Thea for being fearless on the court tonight! The big match up of the night played out on court 1 with the ever smiling Kathleen Antoine and her partner Isabel "watch out for my forehand" Brady taking on our favorite female lefty Kelly Shirloh and the EVER fashionable Flo Logan. Great outfit, Flo! This three setter was won by Kelly and Flo by a score of 6-2, 3-6, 6-1. Nice work ladies!

Big night for mens doubles as well. First up were Michael and Mario taking on Mike Petievich and Chris Schrieber (by the way...Michael and Mario don't need last names. Kinda like...Madonna...or Cher). Sweeping the first set 6-1, Mike and Chris pull out a close 2nd set tiebrake against M and M. Nice job assholes. Excuse me...gentlemen...I mean gentlemen! Robbie Stamper and Dieter Goldschlagger took on our mystery men from Hovensa John Stommel and John Hagen tonight in a really tight three setter. After dropping the first set, Robby and Dieter bounce back and take the last two sets. Word has it Dieter and Robby had a hottie coach tonight. Nice comeback...and nice comeback for Dieter as well. Great to see him back on the court. Jason Miller and Carl Beckstedt blasted balls left and right, up and down and all around. Kim Hughes and his partner...some guy named Lax. Or...Sax. Hell I don't know...something like that...anyways....Jason and Carl advance. The match up of the night happened on court 3 with Larry Kupfer and Ken Smashburn taking on the Kuiper dems. Yep...they had the oompa loompa! Alec played one heck of a match. Word has it he even let his dad hit a few balls. Congrats Kuipers...they take the match in three sets!

Tennis Club of St. Croix tennis....its FANtastic!

Tuesday....GAME ON!

Tuesday....awwww...MORE TENNIS! Are we fanatical or what? Its either fanatical or crazy, we aren't sure yet. For some of us...who have no life...its just sad...

First up...womens A doubles...Susan "iron woman" Armstrong and Jane "slice master" Severson versus the ever lovely and word has it, one hell of a mixed doubles partner, Debbie Woodson...and...uhm....D....Dia....Dia...crap. I can't say anything...Diane Colabella. She scares me. This topsy turvey match was won by Susan and Jane by a score of 2-6, 6-0, 6-1. Yeah...I can't figure it out either.

Mens B started with Chad Caven and Keith Wilson taking on....whats this?! ANOTHER OOMPA LOOMPA?! Russell Armstrong and the not so oompa loompa Hakeem Logie. Valiant fight by the youngsters who surrender by a score of 6-1, 6-3 to Chad and Keith.

Mens A doubles began with Padraic Coursey and Les Kelly taking on Junior Bannis and Jerry Adames. Fast food speed by Pad and the fastest net hands of Les, were not enough to stop BamBam Bannis and Jerry who take the match, 6-3, 6-2.

"THE MOUTH"....there...I said it!!!!! :)

A worthwhile look...

Since Monday was a night for a break (come on...putting on a two week tournament is HARD work!)...here is something worthwhile to occupy a few minutes of your time. Friends on our island got together and participated in a video to support tolerance and to take a stand against bullying. No teen should experience the pain that Tyler Clementi, Phoebe Prince, Jamey Rodemeyer, and Jaheem Herrera from St. Croix who took his life at age 11, endured. This video to the inspiring words of tolerance by Lady Gaga is dedicated to those kids. Check out tennis players Debbie Woodsen and the superstar Kuiper family with everyones favorite Oompa Loompa, Alec! This video was co-sponsored by our own tennis loving Patty Hensley and Pat Hensley. :)

Enjoy...and pass this message of tolerance. Thanks for indulging.

http://http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=POfjvqrO2QY

Thanks to our SPONSORS!

This tournament would not be possible had it not been for our sponsors. A big...no...HUGE shout out to Bellows for supplying our spirits and great $2 Heinekens for this...what HAS to be...the biggest and most fun tennis event on the island BY FAR.

Clinical Laboratories, Virgin Islands Paving, H H Tire & Battery, Richard and Karen Van Heckman, and Fox Promotional Products.

The word has it that this years womens jackets are by far without a doubt no questioning...the BEST entry gift ever given out!

Finally....Sunday Mixed recap...hiccup!

My apologies for not blogging since Sunday...but...even I get busy and have not had a chance to blog. Well...that combined with the fact that I ran out of vodka which is by my side while I write, that might have had something to do with it...

Sunday afternoon was a fun afternoon for all who came out to support the teams. Joanie whipped even more drink specials and kept the spectators happy. On court 1 we had A mixed with #1 seed Susan and Christian taking on #4 seeds Laura and Robert. Laura and Robert, fresh off their win over #2 seed team "Motoodle",were ready to attempt another upset. Laura and Robert , who in the semis beat team "Motoodle", played well. Unfortunately, Christian and Susan took the match in straight sets but with some really great rallies and shots by Laura and Robert, who took out team "Motoodle" in the previous match. Okay, okay, okay....sorry...but I just love saying "MOTOODLE!" Once again...so great to see Laura Croney back in the swing of things. Overheard on the court by Christian: "Laura...you haven't missed a step!" Good going Christian and Susan. We all know Susan carried Christian ONCE again...but I do mention his name out of courtesy. ;)

(Refill on vodka)..."Motoodle"...

Mixed B's held true to seed with #1 and #2 seeds respectively, Debbie and Michael taking on Julie and Andy. In probably the most entertaining match (if I should say so myself) of the afternoon...plenty of grunts, groans, screams, and yells were heard. Andy and Julie take the first set in a closely contested battle. Julie was suprised that a close first set finished so quickly...considering she had her share of LOOONG singles and doubles matches leading up to this final. 2nd place for longest time on the court to Julie. Luckily her explanation of matches still is much shorter for the holder of the longest court time. Do I dare mention the winner of that title? No....it will take too long to explain. Anywhooo....Debbie and Michael rally back with the second set. Up a break in the final set, Andy holds serve to take the match. Good work Andy and Julie. Michael matched up endurance wise with his male opponents this tournament considering the average age of most of his oppenents were under the legal age of 21 and average height was somewhere around the 4.5 foot level...

MUCH FUN was the after match scene at the bar with plenty of spirits flowing and good times and good laughs. Thanks again to Jackie and Julie for providing awesome baked goods on that Sunday.

And no, Max "whats your name"...the blog did not end due to my passing the title over as defending champion to someone else. Believe me....I may have passed the title...but NO ONE, and I say NO ONE is getting my effen tiara!

From CeCe and the Social Gang

WEDNESDAY NIGHT (10/19/11) is  'Make Your Own Chili Bowl' Night at the Club!  - ONLY $5 (and $7 for Chili AND Chips)

*Chili selection provided courtesy of Kim D'Eramo, Joanie Kupfer and Toni Mrotz & a vegetarian option will available courtesy of Sara Stamper.

Wash down your chili with $2 Heinekens and $6 Frozen Margaritas - all night long!!!
                                   
The exciting doubles matches start at 5:30 pm and run throughout the evening!

Sunday Final recap!

What a beautiful morning...thanks to VI Public Works for throwing a kink into the schedule for deciding to PAVE out front today of all days...BUT...two workers did inquire as to "what all the fun here was all about?"...so thats cool! They are officially invited to next Friday's Wine Tasting!

Womens B Finals - "You're not going to dropshot me so early in the morning are you?!" - Arriving really early to beat the heat, the two top seeds arrive early to begin the day! Jackie Holt defeats Deb Schreiber in a very closely contested two setter. These lovely ladies were neck and neck until the very end. A great match and really fun and great spirited among these two.

Mens B Finals - " Is this the Cooking Channel?" - Caleb Phelps and David Sokulsky (I think I finally got the spelling right) SERVED up a selection of SLICE and DICE. Both ATE up on short shots and lobs, almost trading their racquets in for a set of kitchen knives. Caleb finally wears down David and takes the match in three sets!

Mens A Finals - "(Robert to Kevin) You're not gonna lose BOTH the mixed and singles are you!?" - Teasing Kevin in gest, to spur him on to play the #1 seed, unfortunately those words were prophetic as the recently more svelte Christian powered past one half of team "Motoodle (gawd I love saying that word) in straight sets. Great run by Kevin and Christian. Christian played solid today...great work guys!

Womens A Finals = "Great shot! Great shot!" - Were the words traded from both women as they powered throught the first two sets, split by the two. Obviously trying to equal a record set by Barb Robbins (be warned...don't ask!), they proceeded into a third set finale ending with Susan "I Am Woman Here Me Roar" Armstrong cooling "Jet" Harris by a score of 6-4. The match was a three hour marathon. The bar appreciated the length of time I am sure because I think more bloody mary's and Heinies were sold to watch the remaining third set. Were these two paid by Bellows?!

Fruit, coffee, fresh baked goodies, and Bloody Mary's were flowing to keep me...excuse me, I mean the spectators refreshed during the matches. Thanks to Joanie again.

Don't miss out on the 4pm matches including your favorite Blogger (who is Perez Hilton?!) from St. Croix. Come cheer everyone on...drink specials and the grill will be fired up!

P.S. Name the song song and singer mentioned here for a free drink tonight!

Mixed Doubles Finals 4PM Sunday!

This afternoon it's Armstrong/Nelthropp versus Nuscher/Croney!!!!   Big A Fun

Also this afternoon it's Henry/Armendariz versus Millieur/Feldman!!!! Big B Fun

The Draw is fully up to date with Next weeks doubles and this week's Singles and Mixed play.

Just a reminder... Men's and Women's doubles play begins on Tuesday.   Chili Night Wednesday!  "All the Fixins".  Wine tasting on Friday.  Next Saturday Finals, Cookout, Awards Ceremony 4PM!

This morning's A Men's Finals saw Christian win the first set 6-0.  Kevin was refreshed with a rum and coke and it helped, but it was still Christian 6-4 in the second set.

Caleb "Sushi Chef" used his trade mark slice and dice to defeat David Sokulsky in three sets.

Also on Court 4, Susan Armstrong defeated "Jet" Harris in 3 sets for the Ladies A Finals.

In early morning action... Jackie Holt beat Deb Schreiber in a close 7-5, 6-4 match.


Cheers,

Robby

Okay...finals are SET!

The rest of the semifinals were concluded this afternoon. Taking the Mixed B final spot against Debbie and Michael will be #2 seeds, Julie and Andy as they beat Earl Powell and Lisa Adams. In mixed A's, Susan and Christian took the first set quickly, and held off a spirited fight by Junior and Rose...winning the second set tiebrake. Some really nice points, but Susan was too consistent and wins the match pretty much on her own. Yep...thats the general consensus.

And now for your lesson in mathematics. Take "Motta-vator and divide by .25 + "Poodle" minus (P) and your result..."Motoodle!" Fresh off his win last night over Robert, Kevin was wanting a clean sweep. But Robert has a secret weapon this time around. Laura Croney! This was a fun spirited match with the peanut gallery cheering and chanting "Hakuna Motoodle!"...but Laura and Robert were too tough for "Team Motoodle and they take the match.

Motoodle...Motoodle...Motoodle...I just love saying it...:)

Overheard on the courts this morning...

Debbie Schreiber: "Someone owes me a glass of wine for talking me into this tournament."

Barb Robbins: "I am going to be brave today and see what you have been writing about me in the blog."

Alec Kuipers: "Michael can I have some overheads?"...(eyes barely over the net)

Michael: "I thought every ball I am hitting to you is like an overhead."

Ken Mashburn: "Nice shot Sharapova!"

Michael: "Thanks, Ken."

Saturday matches / finalists

I arrived at the Club this morning..."gee, didn't I just LEAVE this place?!"


Vying for spots in Sundays final...everyone was excited and ready to put their best games on to secure the first set of finalists. First semi up...Jackie Holt vs Kim "little gun" De'Eramo. The #1 seed proved too strong today for Kim who had a great tournament (nice to you back!) and takes the match in three sets. The second semi was between Barb "Iron Woman" Robbins and #2 seed Deb "where is my wine" Schreiber. Barb is relentless with her ability to drag a clock out on all her matches. Deb moved Barb all around from side to side, net to baseline...and finally wore Barb down in two sets for over 2.5 hours. Jackie and Deb hold seed and will meet tomorrow morning at 7:30am, as they try to beat the heat. Come support these gals...and have a bloody mary while you are at it. Second upset in the Mens B singles today with #1 seed Julien DiPersio falling to unseed newcomer, Dave Solusky in straight sets. Dave played a smart game...Julien just needs patience. Well played Dave! First finalists to advance to the Mixed B's were #1 seeds Debbie Woodson and her partner...me! This was a tough match, against Kuipers dem. The every steady and agressive Kelly and the quick and solid groundies of Alec. Kuipers dem played GREAT, and once again kudos to Alec. This young man displays a great attitude on the court to back up his great game. It was a real pleasure to play them. Debbie/Michael raced to a 5-1 lead but Kuipers fought back before falling 6-4. They proceeded to race ahead 4-1 in the second but then Debbie/Michael rally back to 4-4...finally taking the match 7-5 in the second to secure their spot in the final.


More matches today at 4pm! Come check out the four top seeds in the Mixed A's today...this will be a great afternoon!

Doubles Draw and Mixed/Singles Finals

Hey Tennis fans...

Tommorrow (Sunday) morning is the finals for the Men's and Women's singles at 9AM!  Tomorrow afternoon we have the Mixed Finals... Come on out for some fun and Friends.

The Doubles Draw is complete and is at the club.   However, due to technical difficulties..   The draw will not be posted on the blog till later tonight.   Play starts Tuesday.   The bulk of the matches start Wednesday with Semis on Friday for the Wine Tasting event.  Doubles finals will be next Saturday with a farewell cookout.  I'm sure more details will follow.  Remember to check the blog tomorrow for the Doubles draw and updates through last night.

Cheers,

Robby

Shot of the Day

Thanks everyone, for coming out for some fun Friday Night Tennis. A special thanks to everyone for being patient with the rookie bartenders that filled in for Super Joanie while she played her Mixed Troubles match. One unruley customer had to escorted from the building as she kept ordering a lite beer from Miller . This is the Heineken Open, deal with it Moritz!
I don't think you can call it a quote but the shot of the day with the simple words WATCH THIS takes the quote of the day hands down. It was a great point already with a double digit rally, when Nusher hits a beauty of an overhead , sending Mota sprinting for the back fence. As he is approaching the crowd at mach speed Mota says WATCH THIS and proceeds to execute and even more importantly pull off a tweener for a winner. Now I have never witnessed a tweener on STX and the fact that he called it made it even more impressive. Like when the home run hitter steps up to the plate and points to the outfield fence he plans on sending that next homer over. Good Job Kevin , way to get the crowd into the match. I personally gave you a standing O but then I'm easy.
More great matches tomorrow and Sunday, come on out and don't forget those Two Dollar Heinekens and Joanies fabulous mixed drinks. Cheers Ken

Friday night fights...

To start off...you have to give credit to the folks at the Tennis Club of St. Croix for hosting a great event. Big kudos to Joanie, Karen, Ken, Cece, and Liz dem for contributing so much to this tournament. Tonight was another night of fun and some great tennis...mens and womens singles and some mixed. First off...Christian Nelthropp played UNBELIEVABLE tennis tonight. I mean...the guy barely had to do anything...wait...oh...he didn't do anything...never mind. Unfortunately, Greg James had to default his match due to illness...so Christian advances and we wish Greg a speedy recovery. He was probably tired from stealing so many of Stevie's shots from the night before. :) Tonight was an awesome display of tennis from the Motta-vator who took out Club pro Robert Nuscher in straight sets 6-1, 6-2. Kevin was literally on FIYAH...hitting consistent throughout the match with drives, topspin, crosscourts and speedy retrievals. There was even a TWEENER tonight! It was so good we kept replaying the shot on TIVO! The croud erupted and Robert smiled afterwards...nice! Robert served well but Kevin was just too tough on the groundies tonight. Everyone agreed, that this was a real gentlemans match tonight with a lot of respect on the court and great sportsmanship. Well played. Unfortunately, the same can not be said for the next mens match up between Robby Stamper and Caleb Phelps. Caleb sliced and diced Robby tonight all over the place causing a complete breakdown by Robby whose tantrums really got the best of him. Okay...okay...okay...I was joking. Seriously, does anyone ever think Robby would throw a tantrum? Maybe Eli but not Robby....they had fun but Caleb takes the match 6-3, 6-1 advancing to Sundays final. Women battled it out tonight as well. #2 seed Deb Schreiber took out Kye Walker by a score of 6-4, 6-2. Deb was pretty focused as she had her eye on the wine all night. First off the court and last one to leave. Gotta love Deb! Ha! Kim De'Eramo outlasted a great run by Sarah Stamper by a score of 6-2, 6-1. Sarah continues to improve and but Kim's experience had her beat...way to go Kim & Sarah! Speaking of going the distance...Barb Robbins, who is obviously trying to set a Club record for most time spent on the courts, outlasted Julie Meillur in a THREE HOUR match by a score of 6-2, 6-7, 7-6...unbelievable. Julie had a great tournament in singles and great to see her participating. Barb was just unreal in her ability to outlast everyone in this tournament. She is approaching ten hours on the court so far. Congratulate her when you see her...just don't ask her how the match went...her explanation will last as long as her court time. All kidding aside...Barbara reclaims the "Iron Woman" title by a long shot with tonights win. Mixed madness was in force with the Kupfers dem taking on Lisa Mahepath and Earl Powell. They tried but team Kupfer drops the match by a score to the winners of 6-4, 6-2.

Make sure and visit the Club tomorrow. Matches begin at 8am with singles, mixed matches at 9 and 4pm. This weekend will definitely be the place to be and be seen on STX! Tonight brought out a Who's Who of St. Croix. Dick and Barbara Jocelyn have been supporting the tournament with their smiles and cheers, newcomers Bill and Juana (fabulous!), Kathy Bennett, and St. Croix socialite Nicole Canegata (who was spotted cozying up to the other socialite....you know who), and Flavia Logie and Carlos Rojas continuing to keep us entertained. Bring your friends, take advantage of the great weather and drink specials and have a great time ;)

More drink specials and the grill will be fired up this weekend...so...SEE YOU THERE!

Doubles Draw closes tonight!

Wow... That Michael Armendariz can write a play by play... Thanks for the laughs this morning Mike.

The Draws are up to date for the weekend.   Men's and Women's finals are Sunday at 9AM.  Mixed Finals are Sunday at 4PM

Remember, if you want to play in next week's doubles brackets, contact me or Robert by the end of the day.   We are doing the draw tonight!

Cheers,

Robby

Quote of the Day (Yesterday)

Great to see so many people at the club last night for the amazing food and Tennis! The quote of the day goes out to long time member Mr. Lockwood ( Charlies Dad). We were having a stimulating conversation about all things relative , after enjoying all of the fantastic snacks. I , trying to make polite conversation, said so Mr. Lockwood where did you Grow Up? He immediately responds," I Haven't" and just continues along with his conversation as if he hadn't just zinged me good. All I can say is its like when one of these juniors blasts one of those incredible shots past you , correct response, Good one.
On that note, Big Tennis Club Kudo's go out to Robert, Kevin , Greg and all the others that are doing such a good job with these juniors . GREAT JOB GUYS!
Also a Big Round of Applause to CeCe, Joanie , Karen, Liz and Lizard for such a magnificent job! Thanks for all you do Ladies. Cheers Ken

And the awards go to....

And the winner for best appetizer is Kim D'Eramo for her sausage meatballs! That Kim always has had a way with her balls.

Second Place: Kami Solusky

Third Place: Sarah Stamper

It was decided earlier that the Best Dressed on the courts award tonight would go to the following:

Third Place: Stevie Spencer for being fabulous in purple!

Second Place: Flavia Logie for her homage to Serena Williams. She wears it well!

First Place: Jeri Ferrante. The fact that she wore her skirt backwards, did not diminish her ability to look amazing. :)

Okay...these lovely ladies know how to party the Oktoberfest night! :)

Oktoberfest/Tennis...Love/Love!

Festive was the definite mood at the Club tonight, with not only great tennis on hand, but a great night of food and friends with our Oktoberfest appetizer challenge. Hey...it really wasn't an Oktoberfest themed...but it was a great way to share some awesome apps (I am not talking iPhone here!) with friends and watch some great tennis at the same time. Singles matches started the evening. First off was the conclusion of the Mens A singles match between Club pro Robert Nuscher and Junior Bannis. I have heard of a rain delays before but this was crazy...nonetheless they started where they left off at 3-3/duece in the third set. From there...the Pro prevailed by taking the third set 6-3. Big hitting Christian Nelthropp started off a little slow but really picked it and beat Carlos "Roddick in the HOUSE" Rojas, 6-4, 6-0. Mens B #1 seed Julian DePersio beat Max...uhm....whats his name....whatever...by a score of 6-2, 6-3. Max retrieved a lot of balls today, but Julien was just too solid on his groundies. Gabrielle Armstrong played a good game against #1 seed Jackie Holt but Jackie proved too strong in the end and took the match 6-4, 6-2. Solid play by Jackie, but she could have intimidated Gabby by announcing before the match, "if we are going to be battling on the court together, you will NOT call me Mrs. Holt!" Nothing like SCOLDING your opponent before the match! A battle of wills on court 1 with Natalie Nelson taking on Julie Miellur. Great hitting and placement by Julie, but Natalie would just not go away. Julie takes the first set 6-4...but Natalie got one ball back after another and took the second set in a tiebrake. Third set, here we go...drama included. A medical time out was called by Natalie for...cramping toes?! Come on! This is like the Mens A players stopping play due to sprinkles! All kidding aside, cramping is a painful...Natalie took some time off to hydrate but ended up in too much pain. She retires with Julie up 4-1 in the third. Both Natalie and Julie had mixed matches to continue...how on earth was this going to play out?! With Max "whats his name" doing some big trash talking to #1 seeds Debbie and yours truly...everyone wondered if Natalie was going to be able to continue her mixed. After some time off, hearing plenty of cramping cures from the peanut gallery, and hydrating, Natalie and Max return to court 1 to take on Debbie and myself. Max held serve to start the match...but on the first point of Debbies serve, I poached and smacked a volley which hits Natalie! Natalie winces in pain...but it ends up not being from being hit...but rather from the cramping that started again. In severe pain, Natalie was THIS CLOSE to defaulting. I offer to help massage her calve which resulted in me being beat upon from Natalie because it "hurt so good" (name the singer!). With screams of "harder!" and "oh yeah, right there!" I was totally confused but happy to help out. More massage and Heineken therapy to Natalie, and she is ready to continue. Default avoided! Match play continues but the #1 seeds prove to strong and we win 6-2, 6-0. Truthfully, I may have been energized because...well...I am not sure, but I think I may have had sex. If not...it was the most action I have had in a while, so...thanks Natalie! Other not so physical matches were completed as well with iron woman Julie Miellur and Andy Felman taking out the new "it couple" of the tournament, Jeri Ferrante and Mario Aiello by a score of 6-4, 6-3. "Poodle" Heckman and the "Motta-vator" defeated big serving Flavia Logie and "what did he just say" Carlo Rojas by a score of 6-3, 6-3. Laura Croney and Robert Nuscher took it to Debbie Schreiber and Dan Lawrence. Kudos to Laura for returning to St. Croix tennis and to Deb Schreiber for playing up to the A's. Speaking of playing up, the final match of the evening was a thriller between newcomer Dave Solusky and Barbara Robbins and Stevie Spencer and Greg James. Barbara and Stevie playing up and having a great time at it. This was a great, well played match. Dave and Barbara took the first set but Greg and Stevie fight back hard and win it in a thrilling three set match by a score of 3-6, 6-4, 6-3. This was ONE FUN NIGHT OF TENNIS...don't miss out on the fun and join us tomorrow and this weekend for the conclusion of the first week.

By the way...are you doing anything tomorrow night, Natalie?

Pics

Nice Pics Michael... Thanks