Niles crashes in consolation match but keeps things in perspective.
Today's was one of the most depressing displays of non-tennis that I have ever put forth. After fudging my way through a first set tiebreak, I lost the next twelve games. Double-bagel? Wow! It was definitely one of those head-shaking, have-to-laugh-at-yourself experiences.
Keeping things in perspective, even the best players in the world play as though they haven’t played much tennis on a given day, so why not me who resides in different stratosphere? We’ll let the shoulder, and the mind heal for a few days and evaluate whether we go on to St. Pete as planned.
As far as my “Kiss of Death” is concerned, No.1 seed Val Wilder was not immune. Ninth-seeded Tom Coulton, my vanquisher, played a stellar match, winning the second set in a tiebreak and running away with the third, 6-2. I’m still waiting for someone to offer me cash not to pick him.
Now that I’m out, and can’t be accused of trying to garner favorable calls, I’ve got to give the tournament officials, Referee Melissa Jackson and umpire David LeBoutillier kudos for the incredible job that they do out there. Having to be on the ball, and on the balls of your feet, all day is no easy, uh, feat. Yet, they were on hand each day making sure that things progressed smoothly.
And no tennis would be played without the crew that prepared and kept the courts ready for play. A pat on the back for Steve Vaughan and his crew! Oh, we can’t forget the members of the Lauderdale Tennis Club. Not only are they good tennis players, but they were really gracious, giving up their court time so that we could enjoy the championship. Thanks to all who made the experience a memorable one! Game. set, match…
