TENNIS TALK
By Roy Pennington
Wow! Did you see that shot I just hit? The ball was begging to be smashed, and I ripped it right down the middle for a winner. The bozos on the other side of the net had no chance. My partner and I celebrated with a high five and I brought more attention to myself with a strut and plenty of swagger.
Yes, we have all been there or at least witnessed such behavior. This is more than acceptable when done in fun and usually brings a laugh or smile from all participants. But, the next time you are on the courts, look up at the tennis viewing area. Likely enjoying the sunshine, visiting with long-time friends, swapping stories, and being amused by our play are a number of our more experienced tennis players. Many of them may not be chasing the tennis ball around anymore or maybe they are viewing the play from above (bless their hearts), but rest assured all have hit that same winning shot thousands of times but with less bravado.
We have all heard stories about these players or maybe grimaced as we were on the losing end of their winning shots. A few of them come to mind:
· I remember enduring Lon Olsen’s drop shots which I returned but only after the ball bounced two or three times on my side of the net. Lon would then apologize. I felt it was sincere until the next shot when he repeated the deftness. I learned, but not soon enough.
· George Beck’s tennis partners describe his game as very consistent such that it was almost boring. While off the courts, George was a real character and that mischief is still quite evident.
· For a long time, Hal Gillette and the American twist were synonymous. A swing and a miss were followed by a frowned glance toward Hal. He would respond with a shrug, and then you guessed it, here would come another.
· No one had more fun on the courts than Phil Hawkinson. At a mixed doubles event, his attire of a wig and tennis skirt were breath taking (literally). It was shocking to see all the guys hitting on him/her.
· Then we have Phyllis and John Mueller who were a formidable mixed doubles team and, amazingly, they are still married. That is an anomaly in the tennis world.
You have your own stories about these and others. Look up at the viewing area. The faces and memories will bring a smile.
Our Villagers traveled up to Rossmoor on April 20th for our bi-annual challenge. Unfortunately, the plaque remained with our opponents. Losing didn’t diminish a fun day for 24 of us.
The Villages 3.5W USTA is in 2nd place. Our final home match is on Saturday, May 14th at 10:45 – against #1 Los Gatos Swim & Racquet. Come on down and watch some great tennis!