99 Teams Graced the APTA Junior Nationals

February 25, 2014
Philadelphia, PA

Sunny and warm describes both the boys and girls participating and the weather at the 2014 APTA Junior Nationals. The players were poised, gracious, funny, focused, and up for anything. And the spring-like weather couldn’t have been more welcome. The region had recently been hit with record snowfall and icy temperatures, and tree carnage was still noticeable on every street. The event had to be postponed due to a prolonged power outage (six days for some residents and clubs)! Finally, two weeks later, the kids were up and running…and driving, volleying, lobbing, and playing hard!

The green hooded sweatshirt favor was a big hit, and was seen in great number as the day cooled off. The kids, young and old, were full of energy—starting with the lunch buffet at Waynesborough Country Club and ending with all the finals at the WCC—throughout seven hours of round robin and draw play. The championship rounds at the host club were nothing short of impressive. The winners and finalists were all presented with a Viking racquet, courtesy of the APTA. The Boys and Girls 18 & Under winners were invited to the Men’s and Women’s Nationals, with the APTA sponsoring their entry fees.

A great big thank you to Tournament Director Laurie Hissey, who took on the role just two weeks ago, and ruled with great humor and steadfastness. An equal size thank you for Tournament Director Ann O’Shea, who created the event and put in all the hard work that goes with it (only to find that the new date coincided with a much-needed vacation). Abundant gratitude goes to Junior Tour Chairman Steve Caccam, who ramped up the energy after the initial postponement. Kathy Cramer, Junior Tour Coordinator, deserves a round of applause for all her effort toward the tournament (and for being a champion’s mother!) Our hut commanders were top-notch; much thanks for your time and volunteerism. To all the parents who supported the young players, excellent effort! APTA Executive Director Ann Sheedy and APTA President Rob Coster pulled double duty, manning the Merion Cricket Club hut and representing the organization. As always, we thank Viking for their support and the steady supply of balls.

Our young roving reporter, Mary Emma Guldi, may have worked the hardest of anyone there. Look for her story and photos soon!

2014 APTA Junior Nationals Slide Show