Tennis Club presents...Bag Check! An unauthorized look at all the gear your favorite players are carrying around. Today on Bag Check: Raymond Berkeley
"Hi...I am Raymond Berkeley and this is my bag check. But first off, I just wanted to say that I am really to old to be playing these games against these young guys. I mean really...why did I do this...how did someone talk me into doing this. But seriously, I love this game...I play all the time at Doc Frabel's house you know. I have been working on my strokes a lot, you know. We gotta play sometime. Oh and another thing...."
Excuse me Raymond...we need to move on here please...
* One tennis racquet
* One towel
* An "East End Tennis Club" T-shirt
* Some kind of balm that you would normally associate with a 75 year old to get their joints unlocked.
* A child's toy hidden somewhere that he has forgetten he is carrying around.
* Can of used tennis balls. They are still good because he will only play two sets.
:)
Wednesday 31 October 2012
Sunday 28 October 2012
Going to the Club with daddy is fun! *hiccup*
Most Likely to have Child Protective Services called on them: Jason Miller
Passing comments and awards ;)
What a great 3rd Annual Heineken Open...we sincerely hope you enjoyed yourselves during the 10 day tournament. Lots of fun, lots of food, lots of good times. A few passing comments and awards:
Most Improved Player : Julian Depersio
Most Photogenic (or most available to pose for a pic): Trudy Fenster
Best Cheerleader: With screams of "Good shot, Maria!", and "Come on, Alec!"...without a doubt, Ken Mashburn. Get this man a pair of pom pons.
Most welcomed new players: Karl Maschauer, Larry and Pam Morris, Merlice Charles, Derrick Webster, Chuck Butcher, and Elizabeth Bartasius.
Most welcomed return to the game: Lisle Brathwaite, Sherry Mansfield, LaToya Elizee and Shelby Cruz.
Gutsiest Performance: Debbie Woodson after playing with a fresh injury and 8 stitches on her thumb. And STILL...managed to look like a million bucks.
Loudest Team on the court: Without a doubt, Debbie Woodson and Michael Armendariz
Loudest Player on the court: Without a doubt...Michael Armendariz.
Biggest Servers: Once again, Christian Nelthropp and Flavia Logie. We know you thought we were going to say Les Kelly, but Christian edged him out.
Most Talkative on the Court: Raymond Berkeley.
Most Talkative off the Court: Raymond Berkeley.
Most Talkative in the Clubhouse: Raymond Berkeley.
Most Talkative in the parking lot: Raymond Berkeley.
Most Likely to call their partner off a shot: Dynel Soto over Kris Elien.
Most use of ace bandages in a tournament: Sherry Mansfield and Les Kelly.
Biggest supporters of our Heineken sponsor: Carlos Rosas, Jay Craft, Jason Miller and Flavia Logie
Best dancer at late night events: Carlos Rosas
Best dressed teams: Flo Logan and Juli Mielleur, Kelly and Alec Kuipers
Biggest Potty Mouth: Jay Craft barely edges out Alec Kuipers.
Players to lose twice in the same event: Jason Miller and Raymond Berkeley
Best use of a tennis outfit: Dynel Soto, Gabrielle Armstrong, Patsy Knight and Jerri Farrante. :)
Classiest moves on the court: Kevin Motta, Christian Nelthropp, and Gabrielle Armstrong in retiring their matches at match point, allowing their opponents to move on. Classy.
Classic comments: "COME ON! (Flavia Logie), "Yo tengo gasoLINA!" (Carlos Rosas)," I am too old for this crap!", "We dont need any stinking games on our score!" (Larry Kupfer), "You #%@!*# IDIOT" (Jay Craft), "You didn't win? Did you screw it up?!" (Barbara Jocelyn), "OH NO!" (Andre Galiber), "Come on, you have to move your feet to get to that ball so you can hit the forehand drive, I can't believe I am not moving my feet, you have to move your FEET! Nice shot!" (Susan Armstrong)
Most Improved Player : Julian Depersio
Most Photogenic (or most available to pose for a pic): Trudy Fenster
Best Cheerleader: With screams of "Good shot, Maria!", and "Come on, Alec!"...without a doubt, Ken Mashburn. Get this man a pair of pom pons.
Most welcomed new players: Karl Maschauer, Larry and Pam Morris, Merlice Charles, Derrick Webster, Chuck Butcher, and Elizabeth Bartasius.
Most welcomed return to the game: Lisle Brathwaite, Sherry Mansfield, LaToya Elizee and Shelby Cruz.
Gutsiest Performance: Debbie Woodson after playing with a fresh injury and 8 stitches on her thumb. And STILL...managed to look like a million bucks.
Loudest Team on the court: Without a doubt, Debbie Woodson and Michael Armendariz
Loudest Player on the court: Without a doubt...Michael Armendariz.
Biggest Servers: Once again, Christian Nelthropp and Flavia Logie. We know you thought we were going to say Les Kelly, but Christian edged him out.
Most Talkative on the Court: Raymond Berkeley.
Most Talkative off the Court: Raymond Berkeley.
Most Talkative in the Clubhouse: Raymond Berkeley.
Most Talkative in the parking lot: Raymond Berkeley.
Most Likely to call their partner off a shot: Dynel Soto over Kris Elien.
Most use of ace bandages in a tournament: Sherry Mansfield and Les Kelly.
Biggest supporters of our Heineken sponsor: Carlos Rosas, Jay Craft, Jason Miller and Flavia Logie
Best dancer at late night events: Carlos Rosas
Best dressed teams: Flo Logan and Juli Mielleur, Kelly and Alec Kuipers
Biggest Potty Mouth: Jay Craft barely edges out Alec Kuipers.
Players to lose twice in the same event: Jason Miller and Raymond Berkeley
Best use of a tennis outfit: Dynel Soto, Gabrielle Armstrong, Patsy Knight and Jerri Farrante. :)
Classiest moves on the court: Kevin Motta, Christian Nelthropp, and Gabrielle Armstrong in retiring their matches at match point, allowing their opponents to move on. Classy.
Classic comments: "COME ON! (Flavia Logie), "Yo tengo gasoLINA!" (Carlos Rosas)," I am too old for this crap!", "We dont need any stinking games on our score!" (Larry Kupfer), "You #%@!*# IDIOT" (Jay Craft), "You didn't win? Did you screw it up?!" (Barbara Jocelyn), "OH NO!" (Andre Galiber), "Come on, you have to move your feet to get to that ball so you can hit the forehand drive, I can't believe I am not moving my feet, you have to move your FEET! Nice shot!" (Susan Armstrong)
Final Awards night
A few pics from the Awards night. More pics can be seen on the Facebook page for Tennis Club of St. Croix. Check us out! "Like" us...for updates on more happenings at the Club.
Tennis Club presents...BAG CHECK!
Tennis Club of St. Croix presents...BAG CHECK! An unauthorized look at all the gear the players are carrying around. Today on BAG CHECK: Jason Miller
"Hi...I'm Jason Miller...and this is my bag check!"
* Two tennis racquets. Wet.
* 6 tennis towels. Drenched.
* Extremely moldy black socks.
* Hall pass from Emma Miller. Soggy.
* a resin bag (seriously...who was the last person to use one of these, Lendl?" Clumpy.
* At least three items with "Auburn" on them. Yes...wet.
(thank you Jay Craft for some inspiration)
"Hi...I'm Jason Miller...and this is my bag check!"
* Two tennis racquets. Wet.
* 6 tennis towels. Drenched.
* Extremely moldy black socks.
* Hall pass from Emma Miller. Soggy.
* a resin bag (seriously...who was the last person to use one of these, Lendl?" Clumpy.
* At least three items with "Auburn" on them. Yes...wet.
(thank you Jay Craft for some inspiration)
Blog is back! Sunday match comments...
Blog returns after a week break...sorry...but was exhausted but rested up now to make some closing comments, etc.
Sunday was an awesome day of tennis at the Club. We were so lucky to have days of glorious weather...our thanks to you all for not washing your cars and cursing the event!
First up was the Ladies A Doubles final. Still fresh from the upset win of Logie/Woodson were Rose and Dynel who shamelessly drilled recently stitched up Debbie Woodson. They started off strong against Susan and Karen. But...Karen turned up the Poodle Power with deep forehands and crafty net play, thwarting their bit for another upset. Rose was everywhere, so was Susan, while Dynel did her hair. Congrats to Susan and Karen with the win 6-3, 6-2.
"ALbatross" Baptiste and Wendell Powell took on Michael Armendariz and Jay Craft in Mens B Doubles in a battle of #1 and #2 seeds. Wendell and Al got off to a good start over the obvioulsy hungover Jay and recuperating Michael. A & W were up in the second set tiebrake 5-2, when someone from the stands yelled, "Come on Maria! Do it for Heineken!" With grunts and fistpumps, Michael and Jay win the next 5 points in a row to force the third set. Starting off with a break in the third set, confidence was building but Wendell picked up his play and did not miss. In a closer than the score indicated set, A & W take the third set and win the match 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3.
Dynel was seen still checking her hair and make up...just saying.
In Mens A Singles, Alex Elizee took on the spirited (and I mean that in two ways...figure it out) Carlos Rosas. Taking the first set, Alex was met with aggressive play from Carlos and shouts of...of...well...I am really not sure what he was saying...but it spurred him on to take the second set. Through the help of an interpreter, Alex began to understand the yells of Carlos and he takes the third set 6-1. Congrats Alex!
Afternoon matches we see the ever matching Juli Mielleur and Flo Logan taking on Trudy and Lee. Forehand to forehand were Trudy and Juli, Flo keeping the ball in play to eventually force the error. Lee cursed a lot. Tough two sets as both teams take a win...but Trudy and Lee prevail in the third and they win 6-4, 4-6, 6-2.
Perenial finalist Susan Armstrong and Flavia Logie played their singles final as well. The first set was won by Susan 6-0, but the score was not indicative of the set. Flavia served big, volleyed, sliced, diced, dropped, drilled, threw everything at Susan but she took in stride. Always entertaining, and doing our Heineken sponsor proud, Flavia drops the second set giving the win to Susan. 6-0, 6-3. But a great match ladies!
Competing for the $500 first prize in Mens Open singles were Christian Nelthropp and Kris Elien. Interesting to see two lefties taking turns whacking balls at each other. Kris proved too strong and takes the match in straight sets, 6-1, 6-3. Nice win...$500 to Kris and $250 to Christian...BEERS FOR EVERYONE!!! Okay...it was wishful thinking as these two selfish souls didn't share in their glory...
Mens 50 doubles with Don DeWilde and Stan Myrie G (seriously...can someone find his last name, please?!) took on Mel Adams and Joel Mahepath. 50+ or not...these guys were cranking some balls. Don't let the age fool you. Stan smacked some volleys and overheads so hard, his Kangol almost came off and Joel's shirt almost came untucked. I said almost. Coming off strong Don and Stan take the first set 6-3, but had the second set slump attack and were down 0-3 in the second. No fear...6 games in a row later, they win the second set. Nice playing and surprisingly...no line judges were needed for this final. ;)
The highlight match of the evening had doubles partners Robby Stamper and Alec Kuipers taking each other on in the Mens B singles final. The Oompa Loompa comes off STRONG in the first set and takes it 6-2. Robby is bound and determined to challenge the kid in the second set and was all over the net like a cheap suit. Determined yes..successful...well...the kid proved to crafty and MATURE and takes the set 6-4 much to the delight of the crowd. Kudos for Robbie for being such a great sport. Kudos to the Kuiper family for having Alec play all events. And kudos to Alec for being a great competitor and good sport as well. Three events and two trophies. Not bad Alec!
Matt Ridgway from Bellows International was present to hand out trophies to all our winners. A big shout out to Bellows and Heineken for making this event the premiere tennis tournament on island.
Dynel finished her hair and makeup just in time to accept her two awards. Just saying.
Sunday was an awesome day of tennis at the Club. We were so lucky to have days of glorious weather...our thanks to you all for not washing your cars and cursing the event!
First up was the Ladies A Doubles final. Still fresh from the upset win of Logie/Woodson were Rose and Dynel who shamelessly drilled recently stitched up Debbie Woodson. They started off strong against Susan and Karen. But...Karen turned up the Poodle Power with deep forehands and crafty net play, thwarting their bit for another upset. Rose was everywhere, so was Susan, while Dynel did her hair. Congrats to Susan and Karen with the win 6-3, 6-2.
"ALbatross" Baptiste and Wendell Powell took on Michael Armendariz and Jay Craft in Mens B Doubles in a battle of #1 and #2 seeds. Wendell and Al got off to a good start over the obvioulsy hungover Jay and recuperating Michael. A & W were up in the second set tiebrake 5-2, when someone from the stands yelled, "Come on Maria! Do it for Heineken!" With grunts and fistpumps, Michael and Jay win the next 5 points in a row to force the third set. Starting off with a break in the third set, confidence was building but Wendell picked up his play and did not miss. In a closer than the score indicated set, A & W take the third set and win the match 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-3. Dynel was seen still checking her hair and make up...just saying.
In Mens A Singles, Alex Elizee took on the spirited (and I mean that in two ways...figure it out) Carlos Rosas. Taking the first set, Alex was met with aggressive play from Carlos and shouts of...of...well...I am really not sure what he was saying...but it spurred him on to take the second set. Through the help of an interpreter, Alex began to understand the yells of Carlos and he takes the third set 6-1. Congrats Alex!
Perenial finalist Susan Armstrong and Flavia Logie played their singles final as well. The first set was won by Susan 6-0, but the score was not indicative of the set. Flavia served big, volleyed, sliced, diced, dropped, drilled, threw everything at Susan but she took in stride. Always entertaining, and doing our Heineken sponsor proud, Flavia drops the second set giving the win to Susan. 6-0, 6-3. But a great match ladies!
Competing for the $500 first prize in Mens Open singles were Christian Nelthropp and Kris Elien. Interesting to see two lefties taking turns whacking balls at each other. Kris proved too strong and takes the match in straight sets, 6-1, 6-3. Nice win...$500 to Kris and $250 to Christian...BEERS FOR EVERYONE!!! Okay...it was wishful thinking as these two selfish souls didn't share in their glory...
Matt Ridgway from Bellows International was present to hand out trophies to all our winners. A big shout out to Bellows and Heineken for making this event the premiere tennis tournament on island.
Dynel finished her hair and makeup just in time to accept her two awards. Just saying.
Tuesday 23 October 2012
More pics and commentary to come on the Blog over the next several days...Winners/Finalists today were:
Mens A doubles - Elien/Buska over Adames/Bannis
Mens B doubles - Baptiste/Powell over Armendariz/Craft
Womens A doubles - Armstrong/Heckman over Soto/Mullgrav
Womens B doubles - Fenster/Rohn over Meilleur/Logan
Mens 50 doubles - DeWilde/Myrie G over Adams/Mahepath
Mens Open Singles - Elien over Nelthropp
Mens A Singles - Elizee over Rosas
Mens B Singles - Kuipers over Stamper
Womens A Singles - Armstrong over Logie
Womens B Singles - Meilleur over Nelson
Mens A doubles - Elien/Buska over Adames/Bannis
Mens B doubles - Baptiste/Powell over Armendariz/Craft
Womens A doubles - Armstrong/Heckman over Soto/Mullgrav
Womens B doubles - Fenster/Rohn over Meilleur/Logan
Mens 50 doubles - DeWilde/Myrie G over Adams/Mahepath
Mens Open Singles - Elien over Nelthropp
Mens A Singles - Elizee over Rosas
Mens B Singles - Kuipers over Stamper
Womens A Singles - Armstrong over Logie
Womens B Singles - Meilleur over Nelson
Saturday 20 October 2012
Tennis club presents. BAG CHECK.
Today's unauthorized bag check is Michael Armendariz...
In his bag we found :
One pneumonia chest x.ray... Just in case he runs into some competition that he can' handle and needs to withdraw
One Maria Sharipova bag tag
One pair of black fishnet stockings
One pair of bright red pumps. Size 12
A gallon size jug of orange vodka with blue fabulouso (thanks Joanie!)
Pink visor
One copy of The Dream Book and one copy of Men are from Mars and Women are from Venus
Twelve empty Heineken bottles
And that is Michael Armendariz bag check of the day...
In his bag we found :
One pneumonia chest x.ray... Just in case he runs into some competition that he can' handle and needs to withdraw
One Maria Sharipova bag tag
One pair of black fishnet stockings
One pair of bright red pumps. Size 12
A gallon size jug of orange vodka with blue fabulouso (thanks Joanie!)
Pink visor
One copy of The Dream Book and one copy of Men are from Mars and Women are from Venus
Twelve empty Heineken bottles
And that is Michael Armendariz bag check of the day...
SUNDAY FINAL SCHEDULE
Players to be determined after todays matches...but match times for FINALS as follows:
8:30 am
Womens A Doubles
Mens A Singles
Mens B Doubles
10:00 am
Womens B Double semi-finals (2 matches)
3:30 PM
Womens B Double
Womens A Singles
Mens Open Singles
5:00 PM
Mens B Singles
Mens 50 Doubles
8:30 am
Womens A Doubles
Mens A Singles
Mens B Doubles
10:00 am
Womens B Double semi-finals (2 matches)
3:30 PM
Womens B Double
Womens A Singles
Mens Open Singles
5:00 PM
Mens B Singles
Mens 50 Doubles
Saturday afternoon matches!
2:30 matches
COURT #1 - Susan Armstrong vs. Shelby Cruz
COURT #2 - Trudy Fenster/Lee Rohn vs. Jerri Farrante/Emmaline Simmons
COURT #3 - Juli Mielleur/Flo Logan vs. Sara Petievich/Pat Worede
4:00 matches
COURT #1 - Kris Elian vs. Greg James
COURT #2 - Christian Nelthropp vs. Kevin Motta
COURT #3 - Michael Armendariz/Jay Craft vs. Karl Maschauer/Mike Petievich
5:30 matches
COURT #1 - Carlos Rosas vs. Jerry Adames
COURT #2 - Flavia Logie vs. Trudy Fenster
COURT #3 - Larry Morris/Stan Vanesse vs. Joel Mahepath / Mel Adams
COURT #4 - Lisa Mahepath/Joan Warren vs. Adrienne Seward/Pam Morris
COURT #1 - Susan Armstrong vs. Shelby Cruz
COURT #2 - Trudy Fenster/Lee Rohn vs. Jerri Farrante/Emmaline Simmons
COURT #3 - Juli Mielleur/Flo Logan vs. Sara Petievich/Pat Worede
4:00 matches
COURT #1 - Kris Elian vs. Greg James
COURT #2 - Christian Nelthropp vs. Kevin Motta
COURT #3 - Michael Armendariz/Jay Craft vs. Karl Maschauer/Mike Petievich
5:30 matches
COURT #1 - Carlos Rosas vs. Jerry Adames
COURT #2 - Flavia Logie vs. Trudy Fenster
COURT #3 - Larry Morris/Stan Vanesse vs. Joel Mahepath / Mel Adams
COURT #4 - Lisa Mahepath/Joan Warren vs. Adrienne Seward/Pam Morris
Saturday morning winners!
Congrats to Kris Elien and Kurt Buska for taking the Mens A Doubles title with a win over Jerry Adames and Junior Bannis!
Dynel Soto and Rose Mullgrave score the upset over the #2 team of Debbie Woodson and Flavia Logie. They advance to the final against....
Karen Heckman and Susan Armstrong who defeated Elizabeth Bartasius and Barbara Robbins.
Al Baptiste and Wendall Powell, the #1 seed in Mens B advance with a win over Lisle Brathwaite and Phil Holzman.
Michael Armendariz and Jay Craft, the #2 seed in Mens B advance with a win over Monty Mrotz and Larry Kupfer.
Kathleen Antoine and Isabel Brady advance with a victory over mom and daughter D'Eramo dem! Nice playing Thea! Glad to see you on the court playing with the adults.
Mike Petievich and Karl Maschauer finally down the giant killer, Alec Kuipers, and his partner Robby Stamper...nice run Alec!
Jerri Farrante and Emmaline Simmons, last years winners, advance with a win over Brenda Sinfield and Toni Mrotz.
Congrats to all the players. Play continues today with matches scheduled for 2:30 pm (Shelby Cruz and Susan Armstrong has been rescheduled from their previous 4pm match time)
Matches at 4pm and 5:30 and dont forget the awesome sushi menu we have tonight at the Club!!
Dynel Soto and Rose Mullgrave score the upset over the #2 team of Debbie Woodson and Flavia Logie. They advance to the final against....
Karen Heckman and Susan Armstrong who defeated Elizabeth Bartasius and Barbara Robbins.
Al Baptiste and Wendall Powell, the #1 seed in Mens B advance with a win over Lisle Brathwaite and Phil Holzman.
Michael Armendariz and Jay Craft, the #2 seed in Mens B advance with a win over Monty Mrotz and Larry Kupfer.
Kathleen Antoine and Isabel Brady advance with a victory over mom and daughter D'Eramo dem! Nice playing Thea! Glad to see you on the court playing with the adults.
Mike Petievich and Karl Maschauer finally down the giant killer, Alec Kuipers, and his partner Robby Stamper...nice run Alec!
Jerri Farrante and Emmaline Simmons, last years winners, advance with a win over Brenda Sinfield and Toni Mrotz.
Congrats to all the players. Play continues today with matches scheduled for 2:30 pm (Shelby Cruz and Susan Armstrong has been rescheduled from their previous 4pm match time)
Matches at 4pm and 5:30 and dont forget the awesome sushi menu we have tonight at the Club!!
Friday 19 October 2012
Tennis Club presents...BAG CHECK!
Tennis Club of St. Croix presents...BAG CHECK! An unauthorized look at all the gear the players are carrying around. Today on BAG CHECK: Carlos Rosas
"Bueno! Mi nombre es Carlos Rosas AWAY! And this is RODDICK IN THE HOUSE my bag GASOLINA and I hope..."
Uhm...WHAT did he say?!
* T-shirts
* Tennis racquets
* An ice chest. I swear...a frickin ice chest.
* certificate of completion from Arthur Murray's School of Dance
* a Puerto Rican flag
* "La Vida Loca" cd by Ricky Martin
* a pair of womens..something or nuther...belonging to..I think...
* 48.617 ounces of gasolina
* Rosetta Stone cassette tapes..."Learning English in 30 days" Notice I said...CASSETTE TAPES.
"Bueno! Mi nombre es Carlos Rosas AWAY! And this is RODDICK IN THE HOUSE my bag GASOLINA and I hope..."
Uhm...WHAT did he say?! * T-shirts
* Tennis racquets
* An ice chest. I swear...a frickin ice chest.
* certificate of completion from Arthur Murray's School of Dance
* a Puerto Rican flag
* "La Vida Loca" cd by Ricky Martin
* a pair of womens..something or nuther...belonging to..I think...
* 48.617 ounces of gasolina
* Rosetta Stone cassette tapes..."Learning English in 30 days" Notice I said...CASSETTE TAPES.
Friday results!
Once again...we were blessed by the rain Gods with clear skies with another sliver of a moon. Please continue with the no car wash, watering your plants, etc. program. The first person to come to the Club with a spotless car tomorrw will have hell to pay...just try me!
Another winner today as Juli Mielleur defeated Natalie Nelson to take the Womens B Singles title. With a nice array of cross court forehands she controlled a lot of rallies. But Natalie...once again...retrieves balls time and time again. Score was 6-2, 6-3.
Oompa Loompa (yes...the moniker is back!) Kuipers continues his slaughter of adults with a win over Karl Maschauer. The score was 6-1, 6-2...but the score was NOT indicitive of the match play. Long rallies, great groundstrokes from both players, the points were long. Just looks like Alec got the last point. Someone needs to teach this kid about respecting adults. You're just lucky I pulled out of singles. We are hitting the courts next week...DO YOU HEAR ME!?
Big Daddy Kuipers was on the adjoining courts\ taking on Oompa Loompa's doubles partner (are you like...totally confused? ) on the next court...trying to set up a Father/Son final. Robby's constant barrage of short shots and lobs over Anton, kept this fight close...but Robby prevails with a score of 6-4, 6-3.
Court one we had big hitting Women's A Doubles. All these gals came on the court wearing their big girl underwear thats for sure. Sherry "I Just had foot surgery" Mansfield and Shelby "I'm gonna kill this ball" Cruz took on "Debbie "I almost lost my thumb" Woodson and Flavia "I need a Heineken" Logie. Solid forehands by Sherry and solid returns by Shelby, they played tough but the experienced team of Debbie and Flavia were not going to go down without a fight. Big points, but Sherry and Shelby stun the #2 seeds and take the first set 6-4. Flavia and Debbie, playing powerful and consistant tennis come back FIERCE (a snap and a wave baby!) and take the next two, allowing their challengers only one game. As Sherry was heard saying..."Flavia turned it UP!" Flavia and Debbie take the match 4-6, 6-1, 6-0.
Flavia's son, Lisle Brathwaite, saved the day for Phil Holzman as Larry Morris fell ill (get better Larry!). Coming in at the last minute, they held off Big Daddy Kuipers and another last minute savior entry, Mario Aiello. Good serving by Mario and strong net play by Anton, wasn't enough to get by Phil who was a literal backboard this evening. Lisle showed his strength tonight with Phil and they take the match, 6-2, 6-3.
Big Al Baptiste and Wendall Powell take on Depak Bansal and Carl Beckstedt in another mens B match. Depak has had a good and fun tournament and nice to see him on the court. Same for Wendall...where the hell have you been?! lol...nice to see you back on our courts. Al and Wendal take the match in straight sets.
Next up was Raymond "Old School" Berkeley and Jason Miller taking on Junior Bannis and Jerry Adames. Solid play all around this was a very entertaining match as Raymond commentated after many a point..sometimes even during the point. Ken SMASHburn kept the banter going...and a lot of fun was had by all. Junior and Jerry take the match in straight sets, 6-2, 6-3. I wanted to smash Ken myself for giving Raymond ammunition to talk and commentate. And talk...and talk...and...:)
Last up for the evening was Kris Elien and his ringer, Kurt Buska taking on Greg James and his student, Sunil Mahepath. Greg, really great to see you supporting your juniors...Sunil played well today. I mean for real...Sunil...just several weeks ago Kris was hitting partner to Nadia Petrova and here YOU are playing against him. Good job. This match went the distance but Kris and Kurt take the match 6-2, 2-6, 6-4!
See you all tomorrow. Tomorrow is a FULL DAY of tennis. Check out the blog for the Saturday schedule, more pics, more bag checks, and more fun!
Another winner today as Juli Mielleur defeated Natalie Nelson to take the Womens B Singles title. With a nice array of cross court forehands she controlled a lot of rallies. But Natalie...once again...retrieves balls time and time again. Score was 6-2, 6-3.
Oompa Loompa (yes...the moniker is back!) Kuipers continues his slaughter of adults with a win over Karl Maschauer. The score was 6-1, 6-2...but the score was NOT indicitive of the match play. Long rallies, great groundstrokes from both players, the points were long. Just looks like Alec got the last point. Someone needs to teach this kid about respecting adults. You're just lucky I pulled out of singles. We are hitting the courts next week...DO YOU HEAR ME!?
Flavia's son, Lisle Brathwaite, saved the day for Phil Holzman as Larry Morris fell ill (get better Larry!). Coming in at the last minute, they held off Big Daddy Kuipers and another last minute savior entry, Mario Aiello. Good serving by Mario and strong net play by Anton, wasn't enough to get by Phil who was a literal backboard this evening. Lisle showed his strength tonight with Phil and they take the match, 6-2, 6-3.
Big Al Baptiste and Wendall Powell take on Depak Bansal and Carl Beckstedt in another mens B match. Depak has had a good and fun tournament and nice to see him on the court. Same for Wendall...where the hell have you been?! lol...nice to see you back on our courts. Al and Wendal take the match in straight sets.
Next up was Raymond "Old School" Berkeley and Jason Miller taking on Junior Bannis and Jerry Adames. Solid play all around this was a very entertaining match as Raymond commentated after many a point..sometimes even during the point. Ken SMASHburn kept the banter going...and a lot of fun was had by all. Junior and Jerry take the match in straight sets, 6-2, 6-3. I wanted to smash Ken myself for giving Raymond ammunition to talk and commentate. And talk...and talk...and...:)Last up for the evening was Kris Elien and his ringer, Kurt Buska taking on Greg James and his student, Sunil Mahepath. Greg, really great to see you supporting your juniors...Sunil played well today. I mean for real...Sunil...just several weeks ago Kris was hitting partner to Nadia Petrova and here YOU are playing against him. Good job. This match went the distance but Kris and Kurt take the match 6-2, 2-6, 6-4!
See you all tomorrow. Tomorrow is a FULL DAY of tennis. Check out the blog for the Saturday schedule, more pics, more bag checks, and more fun!
FOOD...GLORIOUS FOOD!
" I am not a glutton. I am an explorer of food." - Erma Bomback
And explore we have! A special thanks to Club member, Sarah Stamper, for serving up an incredible array of food choices during this years Open. Last week we saw the popular chili night. Club member, Karen Heckman, sponsored the awesome wine and cheese event on Saturday. Last night, Sarah served up a dinner of pork tenderloin and salmon that was incredible. All sides, salads, desserts were just amazing.
Tonight...we were served up Guatamalan tamales! What a great idea! With shouts of "ONE BEEF!" and "ONE CHICKEN!", the bar area sounded like a diner as volunteers ran back and forth from the kitchen...serving up tamale orders. I guess the fact that 100 were sold, told you just how good they were!
And wait till you see what Sarah has in store for tomorrow...SUSHI NIGHT!
And explore we have! A special thanks to Club member, Sarah Stamper, for serving up an incredible array of food choices during this years Open. Last week we saw the popular chili night. Club member, Karen Heckman, sponsored the awesome wine and cheese event on Saturday. Last night, Sarah served up a dinner of pork tenderloin and salmon that was incredible. All sides, salads, desserts were just amazing.
Tonight...we were served up Guatamalan tamales! What a great idea! With shouts of "ONE BEEF!" and "ONE CHICKEN!", the bar area sounded like a diner as volunteers ran back and forth from the kitchen...serving up tamale orders. I guess the fact that 100 were sold, told you just how good they were!
And wait till you see what Sarah has in store for tomorrow...SUSHI NIGHT!
All Rolls $10 each
__ Buddha Roll (avocado & peanuts)
__ California Roll (crab, cucumber & avocado)
__ Shrimp Tempura Roll (fried shrimp, spicy mayo & scallions)
__ Asian Chicken Roll (Chicken, carrots, red pepper)
__ BLT Roll (classic Bacon, lettuce & tomato)
All Sides $5 each
Edamame
Seaweed salad
Ginger Broccoli
Veggie Lo Mein noodles
Come join us for another great night at the Club. Good times, good food...oh yeah, and GOOD TENNIS!
Tennis Club presents...BAG CHECK!
Tennis Club of St. Croix presents...BAG CHECK! An unauthorized look at all the gear the players are carrying around. Today on BAG CHECK: FLAVIA LOGIE
"Welcome to Tennis Club of St. Croix and this is my bag check" (I threw that in cuz it sounded good)
* Tennis racquets - one in each compartment
* beer openers - one in each compartment
* earrings and make up (for those days she wants to soften her image)
* coozies. A lot, a lot of coozies
* 9 Heineken bottle caps
* tin foil full of FISH CAKE!
* Testosterone tablets. Well. THAT finally explains the SERVE!!
"Welcome to Tennis Club of St. Croix and this is my bag check" (I threw that in cuz it sounded good)
* Tennis racquets - one in each compartment
* beer openers - one in each compartment
* earrings and make up (for those days she wants to soften her image)
* coozies. A lot, a lot of coozies
* 9 Heineken bottle caps
* tin foil full of FISH CAKE!
* Testosterone tablets. Well. THAT finally explains the SERVE!!
Saturday schedule
As far as I concerned we can still be getting tons of rain in the morning like we have been...just NOT in the afternoon. Thank you rain Gods!
Some of these posting are just times as players will be determined after tonights matches.
8:30 am
Farrante/Simmons vs. Mrotz/Sinfield (winners play again at 2:30pm) *
D'Eramo dem vs. Antoine/Brady
Mens B doubles (winners from Friday night)
Mens A doubles FINAL
10:00 am
Armendariz/Craft vs. Kupfer/Mrotz (winners play again at 4pm) **
Stamper/Kuipers vs. Maschauer/Petievich (winners play again at 4pm) ***
Armstrong/Heckman vs. Robbins/Bartasius
Womens A doubles winners from Friday night
2:30 pm
Winner * vs. Rohn/Fenster
Petievich/Worede vs. Logan/Mielleur
4:00 pm
Winner ** vs Winner ***
Susan Armstrong vs. Shelby Cruz
Kris Elien vs. Greg James
Christian Nelthropp vs. Kevin Motta
5:30 pm
Mahepath/Adams vs. Vanesse/Morris
Warren/Mahepath vs. Morris/Seward
Flavia Logie vs. Trudy Fenster
Remember...Saturday night is SUSHI NIGHT! Sushi rolls and side dishes. Also...we hear Joanie will be whipping up Saki Martini's!!!
Some of these posting are just times as players will be determined after tonights matches.
8:30 am
Farrante/Simmons vs. Mrotz/Sinfield (winners play again at 2:30pm) *
D'Eramo dem vs. Antoine/Brady
Mens B doubles (winners from Friday night)
Mens A doubles FINAL
10:00 am
Armendariz/Craft vs. Kupfer/Mrotz (winners play again at 4pm) **
Stamper/Kuipers vs. Maschauer/Petievich (winners play again at 4pm) ***
Armstrong/Heckman vs. Robbins/Bartasius
Womens A doubles winners from Friday night
2:30 pm
Winner * vs. Rohn/Fenster
Petievich/Worede vs. Logan/Mielleur
4:00 pm
Winner ** vs Winner ***
Susan Armstrong vs. Shelby Cruz
Kris Elien vs. Greg James
Christian Nelthropp vs. Kevin Motta
5:30 pm
Mahepath/Adams vs. Vanesse/Morris
Warren/Mahepath vs. Morris/Seward
Flavia Logie vs. Trudy Fenster
Remember...Saturday night is SUSHI NIGHT! Sushi rolls and side dishes. Also...we hear Joanie will be whipping up Saki Martini's!!!
Thursday 18 October 2012
OH WHAT A NIGHT YOU MISSED!
If you did NOT come to the Tennis Club tonight...then you simply just missed OUT. A great social scene tonight with much going on...and some GREAT tennis! This is without a doubt the most fun tennis event on St. Croix...but lets begin with some matches!
Gabrielle Armstrong and Natalie Nelson hit the courts tonight during an absolute lovely evening under a sliver of a moon. Gabrielle had nice groundies, Natalie great retrievals...but Gabs wears Natalie down. But wait...at match point for Gabrielle, she graciously approaches the net and retires the match, giving the win to Natalie. Gabrielle, like her brothers will be leaving tomorrow. Instead of taking the match and leaving the next person with no one to play...Gabs was a great sport and retired. Natalie...looks like you are in the final tomorrow night! For the record Gabs was ahead 6-1, 5-2, 40-love...great sportsmanship Gabrielle!
Newbie Elizabeth Bartasius and Talkie Barb Robbins took on Barmaid Joanie Kupfer and Ever-Smiling Jackie Mashburn in a match much closer than the score indicated. With a different game to look at, Joanie and Jackie started out a bit nervous, but quickly anticipated the chip and charge style of Elizabeth...many times returning the chip return with a well executed lob over her head. Score was 6-2, 6-2....but nice points by all.
Christian Nelthropp and Zach Armstrong took on Jason Miller and Old Man Raymond Berkeley (was he REALLY out there competing in a match or was it my imagination?!). Jason and Raymond charge fast and take the first set 6-2. Zach and his partner come back and take the second set by the same score. Third set? REALLY? Raymond in in shock at the prospect of actually having to play a third. Perhaps it was the shock of it, or the great play at the net by Zach...they are staring at match point against them, when Zach and Christian, once again graciously default. Another class act. Raymond...you know have to play two days in a row....are you okay?!
Open singles had Shane Dalton blistering some forehands at Coach Kevin, but Kevin repeatedly retrieved and absorbed those forehands and working the ball back to Shane, drawing the error. Kevin prevails by a score of 6-2, 6-3 in a well played match.
Things were getting loud at the Club as they prepare for a Member/Guest dinner...6:30 matches arrive to add more excitement!
Robby Stamper and Depak Bansal take to the court in a friendly warm up...but that quickly changed. Robby, more tournament seasoned may have been expecting an easier time...but Depak surprised him with a nice game tonight and almost takes the first set, finally losing the set to Robby 5-7. Robbie rides the momentum and takes the second set 6-2 to advance to the next round.
In a VERY close, emotional, heated match up was Juli Mielleur taking on Joan "Fearless" Warren. Joan's lessons and lots of match play has really improved her game and takes the #1 seed to the brink but loses the first set 5-7. Keeping up with an aggressive attitude Joan comes back with a win of her own at 6-4 to force a third set. Juli finally takes the match 6-2...both women all smiles at the net afterwards. Congrats to both. Joan for a nice set and Juli for the nice win!
Competing for a spot in the semi finals and an automatic guarantee of some prize money, Court 1 had Junior Bannis and Greg James. Now I must admit, I did not get to see much of this match as I was inside eating an awesome meal prepared by Club member Sarah Stamper and drinking my new favorite drink (Grey Goose and Fabuloso) made by Club member Joanie Kupfer. I was told that Greg simply wore down Junior and he moves with a score of 7-5, 6-0. *hiccup*
Last match had to be the highlight match of the night. Womens A doubles pitting Rose Mullgrav and Dynel Soto vs. Norma Cruz and LaToya Elizee. With both teams dominating in respective sets, they both take a set 6-2 to force the match to a decisive third. No one had a clear edge. Hold for hold, break for break, they kept things even...with the pressure building. LaToya was relentless and went from offensive to defensive constantly. Rose played some key pressure points when down and they move to a tiebrake. Once again close all the way through till the end...this match could have easily gone either way. Rose and Dynel take the tiebrake 7-5 and the match!
Gabrielle Armstrong and Natalie Nelson hit the courts tonight during an absolute lovely evening under a sliver of a moon. Gabrielle had nice groundies, Natalie great retrievals...but Gabs wears Natalie down. But wait...at match point for Gabrielle, she graciously approaches the net and retires the match, giving the win to Natalie. Gabrielle, like her brothers will be leaving tomorrow. Instead of taking the match and leaving the next person with no one to play...Gabs was a great sport and retired. Natalie...looks like you are in the final tomorrow night! For the record Gabs was ahead 6-1, 5-2, 40-love...great sportsmanship Gabrielle!
Newbie Elizabeth Bartasius and Talkie Barb Robbins took on Barmaid Joanie Kupfer and Ever-Smiling Jackie Mashburn in a match much closer than the score indicated. With a different game to look at, Joanie and Jackie started out a bit nervous, but quickly anticipated the chip and charge style of Elizabeth...many times returning the chip return with a well executed lob over her head. Score was 6-2, 6-2....but nice points by all.
Christian Nelthropp and Zach Armstrong took on Jason Miller and Old Man Raymond Berkeley (was he REALLY out there competing in a match or was it my imagination?!). Jason and Raymond charge fast and take the first set 6-2. Zach and his partner come back and take the second set by the same score. Third set? REALLY? Raymond in in shock at the prospect of actually having to play a third. Perhaps it was the shock of it, or the great play at the net by Zach...they are staring at match point against them, when Zach and Christian, once again graciously default. Another class act. Raymond...you know have to play two days in a row....are you okay?!
Open singles had Shane Dalton blistering some forehands at Coach Kevin, but Kevin repeatedly retrieved and absorbed those forehands and working the ball back to Shane, drawing the error. Kevin prevails by a score of 6-2, 6-3 in a well played match.
Things were getting loud at the Club as they prepare for a Member/Guest dinner...6:30 matches arrive to add more excitement!
Robby Stamper and Depak Bansal take to the court in a friendly warm up...but that quickly changed. Robby, more tournament seasoned may have been expecting an easier time...but Depak surprised him with a nice game tonight and almost takes the first set, finally losing the set to Robby 5-7. Robbie rides the momentum and takes the second set 6-2 to advance to the next round.
In a VERY close, emotional, heated match up was Juli Mielleur taking on Joan "Fearless" Warren. Joan's lessons and lots of match play has really improved her game and takes the #1 seed to the brink but loses the first set 5-7. Keeping up with an aggressive attitude Joan comes back with a win of her own at 6-4 to force a third set. Juli finally takes the match 6-2...both women all smiles at the net afterwards. Congrats to both. Joan for a nice set and Juli for the nice win!
Competing for a spot in the semi finals and an automatic guarantee of some prize money, Court 1 had Junior Bannis and Greg James. Now I must admit, I did not get to see much of this match as I was inside eating an awesome meal prepared by Club member Sarah Stamper and drinking my new favorite drink (Grey Goose and Fabuloso) made by Club member Joanie Kupfer. I was told that Greg simply wore down Junior and he moves with a score of 7-5, 6-0. *hiccup*
Last match had to be the highlight match of the night. Womens A doubles pitting Rose Mullgrav and Dynel Soto vs. Norma Cruz and LaToya Elizee. With both teams dominating in respective sets, they both take a set 6-2 to force the match to a decisive third. No one had a clear edge. Hold for hold, break for break, they kept things even...with the pressure building. LaToya was relentless and went from offensive to defensive constantly. Rose played some key pressure points when down and they move to a tiebrake. Once again close all the way through till the end...this match could have easily gone either way. Rose and Dynel take the tiebrake 7-5 and the match!
Tennis Club presents....BAG CHECK!
Tennis Club of St. Croix presents...BAG CHECK! An unauthorized look at all the gear the players are carrying around. Today on BAG CHECK: Les Kelly
* Tennis racquet. Old. Very, very old.
* 4 empty Cost U Less sized bottles of Advil.
* 1 opened and one new back up...Cost U Less size bottles of Advil
* TUMS. Size? See above.
*. Ace bandage for knees.
* Ace bandage for elbow.
*. white medical tape.
* Gift certificate for Cost U Less sized bottles of Advil.
* Biofreeze/Ben Gay/Solanpas...wait...is this Les' bag or my grandfathers?!
That was his bag check! Good bye!
Stay tuned for more editions of BAG CHECKS on your favorite players!
(thanks, Poodle!)
* Tennis racquet. Old. Very, very old.
* 4 empty Cost U Less sized bottles of Advil.
* 1 opened and one new back up...Cost U Less size bottles of Advil
* TUMS. Size? See above.
*. Ace bandage for knees.
* Ace bandage for elbow.
*. white medical tape.
* Gift certificate for Cost U Less sized bottles of Advil.
* Biofreeze/Ben Gay/Solanpas...wait...is this Les' bag or my grandfathers?!
That was his bag check! Good bye!
Stay tuned for more editions of BAG CHECKS on your favorite players!
(thanks, Poodle!)
Wednesday 17 October 2012
Thursday and Friday matches announced
I am going out on a limb here and posting matches for both Thursday and Friday. Please continue to do the "NO MO RAIN" dance so we don't have to redo matches. Karen Heckman and Les Kelly have been doing a great job so far. Actually, its Karen but we aren't telling that to Les...
THURSDAY 5:15 PM FRIDAY 5:15 PM
Robbins/Bartasius vs. Kupfer/Mashburn S.Cruz/Mansfield vs. Logie/Woodson
Kevin Motta vs. Shane Dalton Womens B Singles FINAL
Berkely/Miller vs. Nelthropp/Armstrong * Karl Mascheur vs. Alec Kuipers
Gabrielle Armstong vs. Natalie Nelson Anton Kuipers vs. Winner **
THURSDAY 6:30 PM FRIDAY 6:30 PM
Juli Mielleur vs. Joan Warren Baptise/Powell vs. Beckstedt/Bansal
Soto/Mulgrave vs. N.Cruz/Elizee Aiello/Kuipers vs. Holzman/Morris
Depak Bansal vs. Robby Stamper ** Elien/Buska vs Mahepath/James
Greg James vs. Junion Bannis Bannis/Adames vs. Winner *
Remember...Thursday night is a member/guest dinner at the Club. Come early for parking and spots on the deck and on the field.
Friday night is "Tennis/Tamales/and Margaritas!" Homemade tamales. $4 each / $7 for two. Plus margaritas made by everyones favorite bar maiden, Joanie Kupfer! We all have been treated to her cosmos, smoothies, mudslides, and martini specials. Wait till you try her Margaritas!
Saturday night is Sushi Night! $10 rolls and $5 sides of edamame and cucumber salad! Tamales and sushi being prepared by the Club's own Sarah Stamper!
ARE YOU HAVING FUN YET?! :)
Continue to check the blog for updates!
THURSDAY 5:15 PM FRIDAY 5:15 PM
Robbins/Bartasius vs. Kupfer/Mashburn S.Cruz/Mansfield vs. Logie/Woodson
Kevin Motta vs. Shane Dalton Womens B Singles FINAL
Berkely/Miller vs. Nelthropp/Armstrong * Karl Mascheur vs. Alec Kuipers
Gabrielle Armstong vs. Natalie Nelson Anton Kuipers vs. Winner **
THURSDAY 6:30 PM FRIDAY 6:30 PM
Juli Mielleur vs. Joan Warren Baptise/Powell vs. Beckstedt/Bansal
Soto/Mulgrave vs. N.Cruz/Elizee Aiello/Kuipers vs. Holzman/Morris
Depak Bansal vs. Robby Stamper ** Elien/Buska vs Mahepath/James
Greg James vs. Junion Bannis Bannis/Adames vs. Winner *
Remember...Thursday night is a member/guest dinner at the Club. Come early for parking and spots on the deck and on the field.
Saturday night is Sushi Night! $10 rolls and $5 sides of edamame and cucumber salad! Tamales and sushi being prepared by the Club's own Sarah Stamper!
ARE YOU HAVING FUN YET?! :)
Continue to check the blog for updates!
Wednesday results are here!
Thank you ALL so much for not washing your cars and for not ordering water for cisterns. We had a completely rain free night tonight for a welcome change! Thank you rain Gods!
All eight scheduled matches were completed without a hitch and with little or no drama, if you can believe it! First up...Natalie Nelson vs. Kimberly D'Eramo. The spectators agreed that it was nice to see Kim back on the court but then realized, we say that every Heineken Open. She then disappears until the next year. Kim...thats it! You will return to the game! Long points with great retrievals on shots by both players, Natalie wore down Kim with consistently getting one more ball back into play. Natalie advances with a 6-3, 6-2 win.
Top seeded Juli Mielleur proved too strong today for Pam Morris. We love the fact that Pam is taking part in these events! Juli wins 6-1, 6-0.
Crowd was excited to see last years favorite Oompa Loompa (Alec Kuipers) return to face Carl Beckstedt. Fresh off last nights big hitting match with Lisle Brathwaite, Carl was surprised to see another big hitter in a small package. Trading shots back and forth, Alec powers his way into the next round...even closing out the match with an overhead smash! Alec downs Carl, 6-3, 6-2. Nice job Alec!
Women's A singles started tonight with Trudy Fenster taking on LaToya Elizee. A GREAT first set showed both women hitting big, coming in, moving the ball around...LaToya showed she is as fast as ever in her return to tournament tennis. She takes the first set 6-2, Tide turns when Trudy, smelled a slight hint of blood in the air and took advantage of an noticeably different game from LaToya and takes the next set 6-0. Third set, with some long loopy balls here and there, wearing down LaToya, Trudy wins the final set 6-1 and moves on to meet her next opponent, Flavia Logie in the next round. LaToya was a real trooper who continued to play with a sour stomach condition, but did so in good sport and was ever smiling.
BIG mens A doubles played out tonight with Coach Kevin and student Julian Depersio taking on Coach Greg and student Sunil Mahepath. This was a great move by both coaches in playing with their students. Let me tell you...their coaching was apparent as both boys traded great groundies. Julian and Kevin proved too strong and were were ahead 6-1, 5-0, 40-15...when they approached the net at match point and graciously retired. Julian will be leaving island on Friday and not able to compete. Retiring at match point allowed their opponents the chance to advance to another round which was a total class act by Coach Kevin. Julian...hats off to you. You came off the court all smiles in your accomplishments. Way to go!
Fresh off his big win last night, Kris Elien and Dr. Kurt Buska took on the spirited team of Carlos "Away!" Rosas and Shane Dalton. Kris and Kurt take the match 6-3, 7-5. Shane and Carlos were making a run for it in the final set, but guess who was in the field yelling at Kris again to step it up. lol Congrats to Kris and Dr. Buska!
Larry Kupfer and Monty Mrotz took on Team Galiber (Marcel and son, Javier) in another mens match. Sometimes staring off a junior on the other side of the net can get on your nerves (in more ways than one believe me)...but Larry and Monty overcame some shady serving with some nice groundies and placements on the G team and take the match 6-4, 6-1. Point of the match: Larry throws up a defensive lob right at young G. Daddy G screams from the other end of the court, "I got it! I got it!" Young G screams "NO!" and puts away the smash. What a great way to scream NO at your dad and not get into trouble for it!
Late match with Alex Elizee and Kemit Lewis taking on Junior Bannis and Jerry Adames. A very entertaining match ensued to close out the evening. Well fought out first set, showed Alex and Kemit returning well and running down balls left and right. But Junior and Jerry come back with a vengeance take the next set 6-3 and continue their run in the third set, 6-1. Great come from behind win. Great movement by Junior and big hitting by Jerry takes them down!
A nice evening out on the field, on top of the deck and in the bar, everyone had another great time at the Club. See you all tomorrow. Remember, tomorrow will be a crowded night as the Club hosts a member/guest dinner. Get there early for parking and viewing for some exciting upcoming matches!
Top seeded Juli Mielleur proved too strong today for Pam Morris. We love the fact that Pam is taking part in these events! Juli wins 6-1, 6-0.Crowd was excited to see last years favorite Oompa Loompa (Alec Kuipers) return to face Carl Beckstedt. Fresh off last nights big hitting match with Lisle Brathwaite, Carl was surprised to see another big hitter in a small package. Trading shots back and forth, Alec powers his way into the next round...even closing out the match with an overhead smash! Alec downs Carl, 6-3, 6-2. Nice job Alec!
Women's A singles started tonight with Trudy Fenster taking on LaToya Elizee. A GREAT first set showed both women hitting big, coming in, moving the ball around...LaToya showed she is as fast as ever in her return to tournament tennis. She takes the first set 6-2, Tide turns when Trudy, smelled a slight hint of blood in the air and took advantage of an noticeably different game from LaToya and takes the next set 6-0. Third set, with some long loopy balls here and there, wearing down LaToya, Trudy wins the final set 6-1 and moves on to meet her next opponent, Flavia Logie in the next round. LaToya was a real trooper who continued to play with a sour stomach condition, but did so in good sport and was ever smiling.
BIG mens A doubles played out tonight with Coach Kevin and student Julian Depersio taking on Coach Greg and student Sunil Mahepath. This was a great move by both coaches in playing with their students. Let me tell you...their coaching was apparent as both boys traded great groundies. Julian and Kevin proved too strong and were were ahead 6-1, 5-0, 40-15...when they approached the net at match point and graciously retired. Julian will be leaving island on Friday and not able to compete. Retiring at match point allowed their opponents the chance to advance to another round which was a total class act by Coach Kevin. Julian...hats off to you. You came off the court all smiles in your accomplishments. Way to go!
Larry Kupfer and Monty Mrotz took on Team Galiber (Marcel and son, Javier) in another mens match. Sometimes staring off a junior on the other side of the net can get on your nerves (in more ways than one believe me)...but Larry and Monty overcame some shady serving with some nice groundies and placements on the G team and take the match 6-4, 6-1. Point of the match: Larry throws up a defensive lob right at young G. Daddy G screams from the other end of the court, "I got it! I got it!" Young G screams "NO!" and puts away the smash. What a great way to scream NO at your dad and not get into trouble for it!
Late match with Alex Elizee and Kemit Lewis taking on Junior Bannis and Jerry Adames. A very entertaining match ensued to close out the evening. Well fought out first set, showed Alex and Kemit returning well and running down balls left and right. But Junior and Jerry come back with a vengeance take the next set 6-3 and continue their run in the third set, 6-1. Great come from behind win. Great movement by Junior and big hitting by Jerry takes them down!
A nice evening out on the field, on top of the deck and in the bar, everyone had another great time at the Club. See you all tomorrow. Remember, tomorrow will be a crowded night as the Club hosts a member/guest dinner. Get there early for parking and viewing for some exciting upcoming matches!
Tennis Club presents....BAG CHECK!
Tennis Club of St. Croix presents...BAG CHECK! An unauthorized look at all the gear the players are carrying around. Today on BAG CHECK: Dynel Soto
* Lancome Tonique Douceur for her wristbands
* wristbands
*. hair pins
* make up bag
* replacement glove from the Michael Jackson collection
NOTE: 1 sporting item, 4 beauty items
* and tiny little bitty swatches of fabric....oh wait...those are tennis outfits.
Thats a look at Dynels bag! Bye!
Stay tuned for more BAG CHECK reports on your favorite players!
* Lancome Tonique Douceur for her wristbands
* wristbands
*. hair pins
* make up bag
* replacement glove from the Michael Jackson collection
NOTE: 1 sporting item, 4 beauty items
* and tiny little bitty swatches of fabric....oh wait...those are tennis outfits.
Thats a look at Dynels bag! Bye!
Stay tuned for more BAG CHECK reports on your favorite players!
Wednesday schedule
Draw is posted on the table at the Club. Please check it. Nonetheless, the schedule for tonight is:
5:15 pm
Pam Morris vs. Juli Mielleur
Natalie Nelson vs. Kim D'Eramo
Alec Kuipers vs. Carl Beckstedt
6:30 pm
Russell Armstrong vs. Anton Kuipers
LaToya Elizee vs. Trudy Fenster
Galiber dem vs. Kupfer/Mrotz
7:15 pm
Elien/Buska vs. Rosas/Dalton
8:00 pm
Elizee/Lewis vs. Bannis/Adames
5:15 pm
Pam Morris vs. Juli Mielleur
Natalie Nelson vs. Kim D'Eramo
Alec Kuipers vs. Carl Beckstedt
6:30 pm
Russell Armstrong vs. Anton Kuipers
LaToya Elizee vs. Trudy Fenster
Galiber dem vs. Kupfer/Mrotz
7:15 pm
Elien/Buska vs. Rosas/Dalton
8:00 pm
Elizee/Lewis vs. Bannis/Adames
Tuesday 16 October 2012
MIXED A DOUBLES IS COMPLETED!
Mixed A finals originally set for Sunday, then Monday, then Tuesday...talk about third time is a charm, right?! Well, spectators were treated to a fun match to watch tonight for sure. Mixed doubles is one of the most popular events every year. Lets face it...a key part of a successful mixed team is going to be a solid woman partner. We saw that tonight in both Susan Armstrong and Dynel Soto. With BIG games by both lefties, Kris and Christian, both women braved repeated shots directed at them...and they both embraced the challenge. Kris and Dynel got off to a strong start in the first set and take it with a score of 6-2. With spirited play by both Susan and Christian in the second set they move to a 4-1 lead in the second set. But Dynel and Kris were not done. Coming back with some spectacular play by Kris and some solid returns by Dynel they start a run of their own. Many who watched will tell you that Dynel won the next few games. Calling off Kris from hitting out balls, and basically telling him "LEAVE THAT BALL ALONE ITS MINE!", Dynel comes off strong and they take a 3 game run to tie the score at 4-4. 
Big serving Christian comes up to the plate but is broken. Serving for the match is Kris. Knowing what needs to be done, Susan and Christian played on Dynel, catching her with some volley errors. This is exactly what I said earlier about how a woman has to hold her own on the court. Kris is broken, score is now tied at 5-5. Susan now serves with Christian making a commanding presence at the net. She is broken, leaving Dynel serving for the match at 6-5. Pressure was on especially after the volley misses earlier but she serves big...saving her best serves till the end...and they take the match 7-5 in the second set, scoring the mini upset of the #1 seed. This was a great match to watch. Big games by the men, brave and solid play by both Susan and Dynel...the spectators enjoyed watching the match. A big thank you to TV2 who showed up again to film matches at the Heineken St. Croix Open.
See you all tomorrow night!
Tuesday matches....COMPLETED!!!
WOOHOO! Save for a small delay this afternoon because of rain, all matches were completed. Again, a big thank you to Karen Heckman for rearranging all the rain delayed matches from Monday! Lets hope for no more rain delays. Please...we beg you. Do NOT wash your cars nor order water delivery! :)
Making up matches from Monday, play started early this morning at the Club. Anton Kuipers beat a determined Stan Vanasse 6-4, 6-4. I hear Anton might reconsider wearing all black in the morning.
Carl Mascheur later took on Larry Morris. I heard Carl played a crafty and smart game today, taking the match 6-1, 6-2.
This afternoon, Russell Armstrong played a FIERCE game and defeated Monty Mrotz 6-3, 6-0. Monty said it was a pleasure to lose to such a nice junior player and said he learned something about his game in play young Russell. Great words by Monty and congrats to Russell!
Depak Bansal and Chuck Butcher completed the make-up schedule this evening. With newcomer Depak playing a baseline game gained by his recent lessons (which shows!) and shades of tennis from years past with a chip and charge game by Chuck, this was a fun match to watch. First set goes to a tiebraker...finally winning the tiebrake 11-9, was Depak! Depak continued his run and takes the second set at 6-3. Great to see Chuck back on the court. With his lively demeanor and fun attitude, we hope to see more of him on the court!
Beginning on the Tuesday schedule was Carl Beckstedt who took on a challenge by Lisle Brathwaite. BIG serves by Lisle, BIG returns by Carl...a very entertaining match was played out on Court 1. BIG serves by Lisle...the first set was taken to 4-4 all. Capitalizing on a break, Carl takes the set 6-4. Although he won the second set by 6-0, the play was much more even then the score indicates. Carl was heard saying after the match, "Those serves did not miss by much! When those start coming in...BEWARE!" Uhm....did someone say BIG serves? ;)
Making her St. Croix tennis singles debut was Pam Morris having to play her doubles partner, Adrienne Seward! Now talk about uncomfortable, right?! Consistant play by Pam, she takes the match 6-2, 6-3. Now we next get to see them again later as a team!
Shelby Cruz took on a very spirited and solid back court backboard game in Joanie Kupfer. With big serves and big returns, Shelby saw ball after ball come back, wearing down many a point. Tiebrake in the first set to Shelby. Way to go Joanie! Joanie says she lost her service motion and Shelby found her solid down the line game...and Shelby takes the match with a second set score of 6-0.
Gabrielle Armstrong met up with Merlice Charles. Again...congrats to Merlice in taking part in her first ever tournament and bringing a nice cheering squad to watch! Gabrielle takes the first set 6-1 and was on her way to a duplicate score, but Merlice had a great service game to hold. I say this because most newcomers would have simply folded under the pressure, but she played aggressively and it paid off. Gabrielle holds with some big serves of her own and takes the final set 6-2. Nice win Gabs! These two were as gracious, smiling, and polite...love to see it!
Seems everytime you turn around there is Alec Kuipers. Facing him today was Phil Holzman. Ever smiling and ever pleasant, Phil played hard but that little feisty Alec was everywhere. 6-0, 6-0 to Alec...and Phil still smiling says he enjoyed playing young Alec!
Unfortunately two withdrawals were made today. Lee Rohn withdrew from the event with a rib injury. We hope to see her back in the doubles by the end of the week!
If any of you HEARD, and I am sure you did...I coughed up near a lung in my final on Sunday afternoon. With doubles ahead of me and not wanting to let my partner, Jay Craft down, I withdrew due to illness. Robby Stamper says I was just "skeered" of him. But we all know Robby is an idiot. I am coming after you Robby in doubles. Just saying...
Making up matches from Monday, play started early this morning at the Club. Anton Kuipers beat a determined Stan Vanasse 6-4, 6-4. I hear Anton might reconsider wearing all black in the morning.
Carl Mascheur later took on Larry Morris. I heard Carl played a crafty and smart game today, taking the match 6-1, 6-2.
This afternoon, Russell Armstrong played a FIERCE game and defeated Monty Mrotz 6-3, 6-0. Monty said it was a pleasure to lose to such a nice junior player and said he learned something about his game in play young Russell. Great words by Monty and congrats to Russell!
Depak Bansal and Chuck Butcher completed the make-up schedule this evening. With newcomer Depak playing a baseline game gained by his recent lessons (which shows!) and shades of tennis from years past with a chip and charge game by Chuck, this was a fun match to watch. First set goes to a tiebraker...finally winning the tiebrake 11-9, was Depak! Depak continued his run and takes the second set at 6-3. Great to see Chuck back on the court. With his lively demeanor and fun attitude, we hope to see more of him on the court!
Beginning on the Tuesday schedule was Carl Beckstedt who took on a challenge by Lisle Brathwaite. BIG serves by Lisle, BIG returns by Carl...a very entertaining match was played out on Court 1. BIG serves by Lisle...the first set was taken to 4-4 all. Capitalizing on a break, Carl takes the set 6-4. Although he won the second set by 6-0, the play was much more even then the score indicates. Carl was heard saying after the match, "Those serves did not miss by much! When those start coming in...BEWARE!" Uhm....did someone say BIG serves? ;)
Making her St. Croix tennis singles debut was Pam Morris having to play her doubles partner, Adrienne Seward! Now talk about uncomfortable, right?! Consistant play by Pam, she takes the match 6-2, 6-3. Now we next get to see them again later as a team!
Shelby Cruz took on a very spirited and solid back court backboard game in Joanie Kupfer. With big serves and big returns, Shelby saw ball after ball come back, wearing down many a point. Tiebrake in the first set to Shelby. Way to go Joanie! Joanie says she lost her service motion and Shelby found her solid down the line game...and Shelby takes the match with a second set score of 6-0.
Gabrielle Armstrong met up with Merlice Charles. Again...congrats to Merlice in taking part in her first ever tournament and bringing a nice cheering squad to watch! Gabrielle takes the first set 6-1 and was on her way to a duplicate score, but Merlice had a great service game to hold. I say this because most newcomers would have simply folded under the pressure, but she played aggressively and it paid off. Gabrielle holds with some big serves of her own and takes the final set 6-2. Nice win Gabs! These two were as gracious, smiling, and polite...love to see it!
Seems everytime you turn around there is Alec Kuipers. Facing him today was Phil Holzman. Ever smiling and ever pleasant, Phil played hard but that little feisty Alec was everywhere. 6-0, 6-0 to Alec...and Phil still smiling says he enjoyed playing young Alec!
Unfortunately two withdrawals were made today. Lee Rohn withdrew from the event with a rib injury. We hope to see her back in the doubles by the end of the week!
If any of you HEARD, and I am sure you did...I coughed up near a lung in my final on Sunday afternoon. With doubles ahead of me and not wanting to let my partner, Jay Craft down, I withdrew due to illness. Robby Stamper says I was just "skeered" of him. But we all know Robby is an idiot. I am coming after you Robby in doubles. Just saying...
The future of St. Croix tennis :)
Thursday dinner - open to all - please RSVP today!
Take a look at the fun happenings at the Club. The Member Honoree dinner is Thursday and sounds yummy! It is open to members and guests!
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Monday 15 October 2012
Monday rain - new Tuesday schedule!!!
Okay fans! Everyone showed up en masse to play and watch only to be cancelled due to rain...but NEVER FEAR...POODLE IS HERE! Matches to be completed TOMORROW as follows:
Anton Kuipers vs. Stan Vanesse 7:30 am
Larry Morris vs. Carl Mascheur 8:00 am
Russell Armstrong vs. Monty Mrotz - finishing up at 4 pm
Depak Bansal vs. Chuck Butcher - 4 pm
Galiber/Galiber vs. Kupfer/Mrotz to Wednesday at 7:30 pm
Mixed final tomorrow at 6:30 pm.
Remaining matches (regular scheduled) are as follows:
Joanie Kupfer vs. Shelby Cruz at 5:15 pm
Pam Morris vs. Adrienne Seward at 5:15 pm
Merlice Charles vs. Gabrielle Armstrong at 5:15 pm
Lisle Brathwaite vs. Carl Beckstedt at 5:15 pm
Phil Holzman vs. Alec Kuipers at 6:30 pm
Michael Armendariz vs. winner of (Morris/Mascheur) at 6:30 pm
Lee Rohn vs. Joan Warren at 6:30 pm
ONCE AGAIN...A BIG THANK YOU TO
Anton Kuipers vs. Stan Vanesse 7:30 am
Larry Morris vs. Carl Mascheur 8:00 am
Russell Armstrong vs. Monty Mrotz - finishing up at 4 pm
Depak Bansal vs. Chuck Butcher - 4 pm
Galiber/Galiber vs. Kupfer/Mrotz to Wednesday at 7:30 pm
Mixed final tomorrow at 6:30 pm.
Remaining matches (regular scheduled) are as follows:
Joanie Kupfer vs. Shelby Cruz at 5:15 pm
Pam Morris vs. Adrienne Seward at 5:15 pm
Merlice Charles vs. Gabrielle Armstrong at 5:15 pm
Lisle Brathwaite vs. Carl Beckstedt at 5:15 pm
Phil Holzman vs. Alec Kuipers at 6:30 pm
Michael Armendariz vs. winner of (Morris/Mascheur) at 6:30 pm
Lee Rohn vs. Joan Warren at 6:30 pm
ONCE AGAIN...A BIG THANK YOU TO
Sunday happenings!
First off...what on earth happened to this tropical storm?! Not that we are complaining...we actually completed all but ONE match of the mixed event today! Sunshine was available all day!
Matches begun this morning with Armstrong/Nelthropp taking on the ever smiling Team Elizee. Once again, great to see LaToya back on the tennis scene again. The #1 team proved to be too strong and Armstong/Nelthropp take the match 6-1, 6-1. From what I saw, this score was not indicitive of the quality of the match. Every time I looked over there was a great display of shot making.
On court 2 was the #2 seeded team of Dynel Soto and Kris Elien. Their opponents were Lisa Adam and Greg James. Despite a good effort by Greg to take as many balls as he could (deja vu?!)...Dynel and Kris were just too strong, winning the match 6-1, 6-0.
Court 3 was a battle of who was going to take the net. Al Baptiste or Michael Armendariz? Patsy Knight and Al took on Michael and Debbie Woodson. Al known for his presence at the net took every opportunity he could to dominate but they came short in the first set losing 6-4 to Debbie and Michael. Debbie and Michael take the next set 6-0, in a set closer than the score says...sending them to the final in the afternoon.
Waiting for a spot in the final were team Kuipers against Barbara Robbins and Marcel Galiber. This was a fun match to watch as the crowd challenged Marcel to take on the youngster in a fun spirited display of some really great shot making by all four players. Kuipers score the early break and ran with the first set taking it by a score of 6-3. Using the momentum from the first set they went up 3-0 in the second set. But Marcel and Barbara rallied back to tie it up. Leading once again at 5-3, Marcel and Barbara rally yet again to tie things at 5-5. Kuipers dem win the next 2 games and win 7-5 sending them in the the B finals versus Debbie Woodson and Michael Armendariz.
Later in the day, semi finals for A mixed began. First up, was team Motoodle making a challenge to the #1 team of Susan Armstrong and Christian Nelthropp. With a vocal crowd watching, fans were treated to some nice shot making by all the players. A valiant effort by Karen and Kevin, the #1 seeds take the match by a score of 6-2, 6-2. The other semi final was Dynel Soto and Kris Elien taking on the big winners from the night before, Fennella Cooper and Stan Myrie-G. Another youth versus experience battle, the first set was just that...a battle! Kris and Dynel take the first set in a tiebrake. Second set, although closer than the score indicated, Dynel and Kris take the set at 6-0 setting up a final between the two top seeds. They meet up on Monday night at 7:30...you don't wanna miss this one!
Mixed B finals begin. Having beaten some good teams along the way, team Kuipers came out confident and poised against the #1 seeds of Woodson and Armendariz. A crucial break in the eighth game had Debbie serving for the first set at 5-30, 40-0. Kuipers rallied back to break and win the next three games taking the first set 7-5. A determind Debbie and Michael come out swinging in the next set taking it by a score of 6-3. Third set! Both determined teams, Debbie and Michael go up an break early but Kuipers dem take the next two games! Four all, Michael and Debbie break them, Debbie serving for the match again at 5-4, 40-0. An extremely poised Alec literally wins the next three points to take it to deuce. Battling back and forth before a VERY vocal crowd, with cheers of "Lets go, Alec!" and "Nice shot, Maria!" (Maria? Did we hear that right?!). Four deuces later, Debbie and Michael pull it out taking the set 6-4 and winning the match. I can go on and on about the Kuipers, but Alec and Kelly played inspired tennis and Alec had a super run taking out some VERY good teams. Solid play, smart playing, and polite, Alec is a real joy to watch and play against. You gotta love this kid!
On court 2 was the #2 seeded team of Dynel Soto and Kris Elien. Their opponents were Lisa Adam and Greg James. Despite a good effort by Greg to take as many balls as he could (deja vu?!)...Dynel and Kris were just too strong, winning the match 6-1, 6-0.
Court 3 was a battle of who was going to take the net. Al Baptiste or Michael Armendariz? Patsy Knight and Al took on Michael and Debbie Woodson. Al known for his presence at the net took every opportunity he could to dominate but they came short in the first set losing 6-4 to Debbie and Michael. Debbie and Michael take the next set 6-0, in a set closer than the score says...sending them to the final in the afternoon.
Sunday 14 October 2012
Wine and Cheese event at the Club!
Sommalier Kimberly Edwards from Bellows International provided wine, prizes, and an informative evening of sampling wines. Paired with a gorgeous array of cheese and fruits provided by Club member Karen Heckman, this was the OTHER event going on while tennis was being played outside! This was a super fun event and thank Kimberly for her enthusiasm and knowledge...what a
way to spend the evening. The "pick the varietal grape" contest was heated with entries hoping to win a gorgeous set of 12 Riedel wine glasses. Congrats to Sherry Mansfield for correctly guessing all four choices! I guess all that wine drinking has paid off! The cheese selections were amazing with port cheese wine, infused carmelized onion, and others plus fruit...all the perfect mix! Stay tuned for other event coming up at the Club including a member/guest dinner, tamale night (OMG) and sushi night (double OMG!) Tennis, food and Heineken!
Tennis Club of St. Croix once again shows that this is THE tennis event of the year. Thanks to all who attented!
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