The weekend of June 26-28 brought an unsettled weather system to the area for our annual New England wide USTA sanctioned men's 50+ tennis tournament, that drew an unusually large number of 23 entrants. The courts and facility were in terrific shape despite the damaging storms in the previous week.. Don Ellis' truly extraordinary efforts and plain hard work, somehow managed to mold the courts into tournament play conditions. He is unbelievable. Winchester is so very fortunate to have this man dedicated to the community. Those who played at the courts for the first time were impressed with the complex and many could not believe that a public clay court facility of this size could be so well maintained. Court's Supervisor, Vin Palumbo did his usual outstanding job of coordinating court time for the tournament, ensuring the courts were swept and ready for play early each day and watering the clay at opportune moments, to keep the surface in "A" one shape throughout the 3 day event. 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 form.
Local players who entered the tournament were Paul Foley, Dave Andersen, Joe Zesbaugh, Bill Gordon and John Gerrein. Paul won his first round match in 2 sets over Gerry Rothman from Wilmington, VT, but lost to George Ulrich of Waterford, CT, the eventual tournament winner, in the next round. Joe Zesbaugh also won his first round match over Alan Greenbaum of Newton, 6-1, 6-3. He then came up against 4th seeded Frank Kasilowski from Raymond, ME, who demonstrated why he was seeded 4th. Frank eventually lost to Ulrich in a tough 3 set semifinal match. In the other semifinal Rick Klaffky of Glastonbury, CT defeated Bill Simonton of Concord, NH, 6-3,2-6,6-2. The final saw Ulrich over Klaffky 3-6,6-0,6-4.
It was a very strong draw this year. In fact three of the four quarterfinal matches, both semifinal matches and the finals all played out in 3 sets! Some real quality tennis could be observed and the spectators thoroughly enjoyed it all.
We would be remiss, if we didn't thank two young ladies who assisted on Saturday, by setting up the tables, drinks, fruit, etc. Katie Nicholson & Seanna Culhane 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.
The next Packer Clay Court event is the E. Whitney Gray, Husband and Wife Tournament (w/consolations) to be held the weekend of August 8-9. We will have the annual buffet dinner and dance to the music of W.T.A's own, President Leo Lauretano and the band he plays in "Flashbacks". Come join in the fun.
- Gordon Nicholson