Great Success at Packer Clay Courts

The weekend of June 25-27th brought great tennis weather to the area for the annual New England Men's 50+ Singles Championships at the Winchester, Packer Courts. Entries from all over were received making it the largest draw in the events history at Winchester.

The courts and facility were in first class shape through the continuing, outstanding efforts of Don Ellis. Court's Supervisor Vin Palumbo did his usual outstanding job of coordinating court time for the tournament, ensuring the courts were ready for play each day and watering the clay at opportune moments. A very large THANK YOU to both men not only for this tournament but for all they do on a daily basis to keep the courts in tip top condition.

Local players who entered the tournament were Joe Zesbaugh, John Gerrein, Bill Gordon & Martin Zombeck. Joe won his first round match against Greg Osche from Acton, MA but lost to the number 7 seed Rick Klaffky of Glastonbury, CT, an eventual finalist. Martin Zombeck made it to the Consolation semifinals, losing to Chuck Berkeley, the eventual winner of the Consolation round.

In the semifinals, Steve Radigan (North Haven, CT) def. Frank Kasilowski (Raymond, ME) 6-1,6-2. In the other semifinal, Rick Klaffky (Glastonbury, CT) def. Doug Teetor (North Andover, MA) 4-6,6-4,6-0. And in the final Radigan defeated Klaffky, 6-1,6-2.

We would be remiss, if we didn't thank the young ladies who assisted on Saturday. Katie Nicholson, Shauna Culhane, Kasey Rowe and Julianne Christopher were a wonderful help, dragging and sweeping the courts as the competitors completed their matches. It did not go unnoticed by the players and was much appreciated, given the hot and humid conditions.