Mixed MAPTA In a Nutshell

Jeff Lyon
October 26, 2017
Philadelphia, PA

In its 46th year, the MAPTA Mixed just might be one of the longest, continuous mixed paddle tournaments in the country. The draw continues to include a broad array of paddle enthusiasts—from first timers to repeat customers. At the time of this write-up, no divorce papers have been filed and all "friendships" are still intact. Scott Falatek and Cooey Lyon got lucky and won it.

Superlatives
Paddle Ambassadors: Scott Safford and Susie Najdek (Strong in party and paddle)
Best-in-Show Family: Saffords, with honorable mention to the Walters
Ironmen (played the most matches): Judy and Gary Kemeny
Best RSVP to the tourney: Previously undefeated Steve Reiniger and Christi Neilly
Highlight Reel Shots: Two that came from the same point: Scott Falatek’s solid overhead into the snowboard on the fly off of Karin Kochis’s devilishly fiendish cut spin dropper
MM perennial winners who were missed dearly this year: Team McAvoy/Hissey
Quote of the weekend: “Want to move to Texas? I’m single, too!” Austin’s country performer Chuck Shaw, who played what is probably WCC’s first country concert. Find him at www.chuck-shaw.com.

Special thanks to Cindy Prendergast for creating the swank favors, Paul and Karen Ridder for the delectable “Kakes,” La Cabra Brewing for the ambrosial craft beer, and Master Athletics for the balls. As always, thanks to Tom and Leila Safford and Keith and Denise Studnick, for showing us how to run a party and tournament. Many thanks to all who played, watched, and supported this Philadelphia mixed paddle tradition.