Comments (0) Enjoy the first weekend of the new year by stopping by Simsmore to watch some great tennis. On Sunday January 3 our men’s 4.5 team takes on the Manchester team at 1pm and 3pm. Then later on at 5pm one of our mixed doubles teams takes the court. Stop by to cheer them on!!!
In another Simsmore Tennis first, The Grinch, aka the Great Green One, visited the club on Friday, December 18. Unannounced. At first, the Grinch merely ate left over cookies, emptied the Heineken mini keg, and scared children. Seeing the courts, he ran to court three, stole a racquet, and hit several wicked overheads (see below).
The Grinch, a little tense for good extension.
After working off some excess energy, the Grinch returned to the lounge. His demeanor had changed, it was almost like his heart had grown in size. He now convinced a young minority woman to pose with him, although he had to hold her tight (below)
The Grinch and an unidentified minority woman, believed to be Angela Maine
Seeing no more cookies, and warming to the female form, the Grinch convinced a Simsmore worker to pose on his lap, while management lurked nearby, apprehensive for the well being of the skilled worker (below)
Simsmore players, we still have about a week to make a big difference in the lives of two families. You can contribute cash, checks or gift cards at our front desk. Here’s some details on what is needed by our two families:
Family 1 – Mom (grocery store gift card, hair dryer), Dad (sweatshirt, wallet), son,17 (CD player, old navy gift card), daughter,19 (nail care set), son,19 (baseball hats, sweatshirts).
Family 2 – Mom (grocery store gift card, toaster oven), son,9 (football, wolf pack hockey item), son,14 (Bob’s gift card, sweatpants/top)
Remember, Simsmore Tennis will match the value of any gifts you provide!
In a surprising turn, Simsmore’s notoriously scrooge-like owner is aiming to fill his courts by discounting. During the period of December 24 through January 3, court rentals are half price for members. “It is a bah humbug kind of thing,” said Tim Ruark, “I go to the trouble of creating the best courts and lighting in the Hartford area, and then every December the government and religious leaders elect to pick my pocket. And travel companies too, how can I rent a court to a customer that is sitting in the Bahamas? You can’t skype a court rental! I can’t even sell them a magnet.”
Non members are also invited to play at a discount, as they can enjoy member rates during these dates. Simsmore Tennis will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, but generally open otherwise. Please call in advance if you are able, to ensure your court will be open.
Simsmore Tennis’s 4.0 men finally played a match, winning the first of their eight match season. The guys earned a 4-1 victory over Canton’s team. Leading off were straight set wins by Aram Bolduc and Phil Shapiro, at S1 and S2 respectively. Simsmore took two of three of doubles, with Tim Ruark and Jeff Stock winning in straight sets at D1 and Mike O’Sullivan and Mark Lescher winning in straight sets at D3. Although Mike played usta years ago, this was his first foray into new england usta and his first victory for Simsmore’s team! “I think it was the singles that made the difference today,” added Tim, “doubles matches are always tight with Canton, but having Aram and Phil give us a 2-0 lead was key. I think our players were pretty relaxed knowing we only needed one of three doubles lines.” Next match is January 16.
Congratulations to our JR USTA 18 & Under team for winning their first match vs. Bristol Slice!! Special recognition goes to Emma S. and Meghan R. for their fine doubles play. Also to Jason S. for winning a tough match. He demonstrated great focus and positive attitude by sticking to his game plan in spite of some excellent shots by his opponent.
Tennis News
