Another Successful New Jersey State Mixed

BRAD OHLMULLER, CHAIR OF THE NEW JERSEY STATE MIXED
JANUARY 14, 2009
NORTHEASTERN NJ

The threat of 6 inches of snow could not derail another successful NJ State Mixed Platform Tennis Championship hosted by the Montclair Golf Club (MGC). For the 5 ^th consecutive year, the event attracted a full-field draw of 64 teams, with another half dozen or so teams on a waiting list. The tournament’s success is due in large part to the players, who encourage and compete with players at all levels; the hospitality and support of all the participating clubs – MGC, Short Hills, Essex Fells, and Orange Lawn; and a great lunch and party, perfectly orchestrated by the MGC staff.

While the weather reports were gloomy all week, with reports of 6 inches of snow expected across Northeastern N.J., the paddle gods did their best to limit the weather to flurries through most of Saturday’s play. Some music in the hut at MGC, a roaring fire-pit, and of course some cocktails later in the day made watching the quarterfinal matches very enjoyable. Unfortunately, the tournament was marred by injuries, with both Billy Browne and John Milbank unable to complete play. John’s injury prevented Bobo Delaney from reaching the finals for the fourth year in a row. In the end, Steve Derose and Carol Kimmelman defeated Anthony Cosimano and Kelly VanCalcar in an entertaining and competitive match 7-6, 6-2.

MGC hosted the event, and once again lived up to its great reputation. The MGC staff should be commended for doing a phenomenal job. The courts and paddle hut were in perfect condition, the lunch was great and enjoyed by all, the party after Saturday’s play was perfectly planned and executed, and the lunch on Sunday in the Grill Room proved to be a perfect end to a successful tournament. Many phone calls and emails from participants following the event echoed these sentiments. The tournament committee appreciates MGC’s commitment to this fine event.

A special thanks to all of the players; the tournament sponsors – Fox Asset Management, Seven, Centercourt Athletic Club, and Optimum Orthopedics; and the gracious volunteers for making this event such an enormous success. A suggestion for those looking forward to participating in another spectacular NJ State Mixed in 2010 – SIGN UP EARLY!

Final Draw

Champions Steve Derose and Carol Kimmelman, Finalists Anthony Cosimano and Kelly VanCalcar