Chris Cappello and Thomas Bovino Jam at COMO Average Joe

December 11, 2017
Stonington, CT
by Russ Burgess

Despite swirling snow all day, the Stonington COMO Average Joe Tournament entrants—17 teams in all—competed all day without a hitch. Thanks to the two new courts installed by Court Pro (with a “Grow the Game” grant from the APTA), and access to a local private court, time between matches was minimal. Players hailed from Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and plenty from Connecticut.

The final was an all-COMO event, with Chris Cappello and Thomas Bovino taking out Derek Johnson and Doug Randall. The picture attached pretty much sums it up—snow flying, smiling faces, and clear courts. You would think these players are all sponsored by racquet companies given their poses, but I can assure you they all purchased their gear on their own. 

Great appreciation for David Eck, club member, restauranteur and owner of Dog Watch BBQ in Mystic, who delivered lunch of pulled pork sliders, mac and cheese, and kale salad. Thanks to Peter Harvey for his contributions of time and planning. He also stepped in to play when one of the teams lost a partner due to “I forgot it was this weekend.”

Another special thanks to Rob Coster, who I paired up with one of our newest and least experienced players, Kevin Rodgers. I don’t think any team had more fun during the day and they set the tone for the spirit of our Average Joe event. All are welcome to play!