united states court tennis association united states court tennis ...

USCTA
the veteran organizing duo of Jane Lippincott and Sheila
Reilly. Both have played in numerous Championships and
recognized the need to merge competitive match play with
a friendly and hospitable environment. Lippincott and
Reilly were assisted by a committee comprised of representatives
from all of the US clubs. The committee included
Jen Winthrop and Suzy Schwartz from Boston, Beth Curren,
Washington, Ginny Goodyear, Aiken, Pam Post and
Evelyn Clothier, Philadelphia, Chauncie Rodzianko and
Evelyn David, Tuxedo and Julie Rinaldini, Greentree. The
Newport contingent included: Emily Boenning, Amy Hayball,
Anne Livingston, Mary Livingston, Michele Packham,
Sarah Rodgers, Jackie Whelan and Beth Winthrop. In addition,
American born Frederika Adam, and who now lives in
London, was our overseas representative.
Ryan Carey, assisted by Mary Livingston, used his
creative talents to design the Ladies’ World Championship
logo. Berry Packham served as the tournament director.
Michael Do captured the tournament with his photography.
While Newport was responsible for much of the work,
the tournament was a US-based, not just Newport, event.
As an example, all of the clubs donated items for the very
chic Roberto Coin tote bags. These included Tasty Cakes
from Philadelphia, Golf balls with a message signed by
Tom Greevy from Tuxedo, headbands from Boston and
aprons from Washington! Rich Smith provided hand towels.
Harrow provided shirts and Pol Roger brought the
champagne!
Tennis was the focus, but social events were needed to
offset the dreary May weather. How bad was it? Some of
the English were overheard commenting that the weather
was better at home! So, in true American fashion, we put
on some great parties. What better way to kick off the
tournament than a Cinco de Mayo party on May 5th Margaritas
and tacos were the order of the day. To bring some
civility back, Jay and Suzie Schochet hosted a wonderful
dinner at their house on Wednesday night. Long time sup-
Sheila Reilly. photo by Michael Do
Page 52
porters of the women’s
game, no tournament
would be complete
without a visit to their
house. Portobello Jewelers,
exclusive retailers for
Roberto Coin jewelry in
Newport, hosted a wine
and cheese party at their
store.
The sun did come
out on Friday, just in
time for the group and
invited guests to head
Sara Lacombe. photo by Michael Do
to the Newport Country
Club for the World
Championship dinner.
Organized by Emily Boenning and Michele Packham, the
players were treated to the spectacular beauty of a May
evening in Newport. During the evening, Jane Lippincott
was presented with a commemorative plate, by USCTA
President, Jim Wharton and USCTPF Chairman, Haven
Pell, marking her years of service to both the junior and
women’s game in the US. Many speeches followed and all
agreed it was a great success!
The finals were on Saturday and included a lunch for
all of the players and spectators. Berry and Charlene Packham
hosted a barbecue for the remaining out-of-towners
on Saturday night. During the week, lunches were provided,
under the leadership of Beth Winthrop, the Ladies
of the T&R and Brenda Nardolillo, player and owner of
Provencal Bakery.
While there are many to thank, the committee would
be remiss in not acknowledging the support of the National
Tennis Club and its membership. Many of the members
housed out-of-town players, others provided sweat equity
by tidying up the court and many just came out to support
the players. It was a great effort!
Last but not least, one must acknowledge the great
job of the Newport professionals, Rich Smith and Tony
Hollins. They both marked many matches, but still found
time to provide the players with some constructive criticism,
suggestions for things to do in Newport and were, in
essence, the onsite hosts for the week. In addition, Smith,
worked with the organizers from the very beginning to insure
a successful week.
Unfortunately, all good things come to an end. On
Saturday, we closed the books on another successful World
Championship. And yes, the sun did come out on Sunday,
just in time for those left behind to play a round of golf!