After seven rounds of play, the first Wildcard tennis tournament of 2024 concluded Saturday, February 3, despite severe weather earlier in the week. Thanks to the efforts of volunteers Bernie Wolfe, Larry Barclay, and Jerry and Terry Quinlan, who worked tirelessly to dry and clear the courts, the matches resumed on schedule

In a tightly-contested men's section, Bernie Wolfe and Jerry Quinlan tied for first place. Dave Blanchard came in second, while Bob Fries secured third. On the women's side, Terry Quinlan took the top prize, with Elicha Gastelumendi , second place, and Jan Ahlman and Dako Urabe tied for third place.

The recent atmospheric river dumped heavy rains on the region, but players were thrilled at the chance to compete. "It was wonderful to get out on the courts between storms,” said one. “A big thanks to everyone who made this tournament possible against the odds. 

Left to Right:  Dave Blanchard, Bernie Wolf, Terry Quinlan, Elicha Gastelumendi, 

Dako Urabe, Bob Fries, Jerry Quinlan

The Tennis Club Tournament of Champions brings the end to a great season of competition at Rossmoor, shortened a little because of Covid-19.

This is an invitation only event for anyone finishing in the top three scoring positions for any of the other tournaments during the year. Not surprisingly, the standard of play was very high with tight play and close results. Indeed, the overall results were all open going into the last round and all six top players could hardly have been closer.

Photo L to R: Dave Kern, Pauline Hanley, Yvonne Merrick, Bob Benz, Ken Steiner, Carol Pillsbury

On the mens' side there was a tie between Bob Benz and Ken Steiner for top honors, with Dave Kern one point off the pace.

The womens' competition was just as tight with Pauline Hanley taking first place, one point ahead of Yvonne Merrick, who was one point ahead of Carol Pillsbury in third.

Everyone had a great time. The event was hosted by Tournament Director Chris Slee who would like to thank all the volunteers who help run these events during the past year.

We all look forward to a complete season in 2022.

Saturday saw the last Wild Card tournament of the 2021 Season. There was a full card with 12 men and 12 women including five newcomers out for their first tournament with the club.  Chris Slee, tournaments chair, was on hand to host the event.

On the womens' side, newcomer Mary Benin and Terry Quinlan took first place honors. Anna George and Delia Wilkes took second place jointly, while Joan Gardner had the third highest score.

Barry Brian, playing in his first Wild Card, overcame his opponents with topspin, side-spin and underspin, anything but a simple flat shot. Jerry Robinson and Rick Sterling came in second, while newcomer Greg Hanson had the third highest total. Congratulations to all the winners.

The upcoming 2021 Womens Doubles Tournament is planned for Sat October 16 at 9 am and the last opportunity to win an invitation to the November Tournament of Champions. Rossmoor Tennis Club members may sign up at the Buckeye Tennis Complex kiosk. Stuart Coffey and Ike Ichikawa are the hosts for this event.