Ken Minichiello
The annual men’s drop-in tennis party was held on April 3 at Sunrise Park to say goodbye to the snowbirds leaving for the summer. Seventy were in attendance for this event, to not only say their goodbyes, but to recognize a few of the players for their outstanding and not so outstanding performances this past winter.
Lou Tronzo, in his usual witty and humorous style, presented the “Most Improved” trophy to Lee Price. Wayne Cox received the “Best Smashing Serve” trophy. The top winning trophy went to Jim Martin for “Player of the Year” award. Trust me, these trophies were not of the quality that would ever be seen on anyone’s shelf!
Continuing on with a couple more recognitions, Dennis Whitley was also recognized as being the youngest player at 61. Dennis has been trying to keep up with these older men, some even in their late 80s, but finds that they are no pushovers. In spite of the age differences, good tennis as well as a lot of good old verbal ragging during play is enjoyed…an expected occurrence on the court!
Finally, this writer was presented with a military pilot’s helmet as a preventive measure against future head injuries…it was just a kindly reminder that you never know what to expect both on and off the courts at our age!
What better way to complete a perfect picnic than to have great food? Thanks to Buca di Beppo for the great Italian food they provided at this event. We had homemade Italian ravioli, lasagna, spaghetti with meat sauce, chicken parmigiana, fettuccine alfredo, sausage and peppers, salads and desserts…it doesn’t get much better than that!
This annual party provided the perfect venue to reminisce about the events of the past season as well as to provide another opportunity to enjoy the kind of fun and camaraderie that occurs on the courts…an event that the players and their wives or significant others look forward to every year.