Happy New Year from paddlepro.com
Despite a sour end to 2008 our numbers show Platform Tennis players have plenty of reason to celebrate. Platform Tennis is bucking the economic trend and proving to be a very viable sport in a downturned economy. Paddlepro traffic for the first half of the season showed a 40% rise from the second half of 2007 to 1.3 Million page views by over 90 thousand unique visitors. Holiday sales also indicate more people are playing platform tennis this year over last. We attribute this growth in a downturned economy that to Platform Tennis being a very inexpensive winter sport and being used as an alternative to more expensive activities.

By CHRISTOPHER CLAREY Published: December 26,2008
WEST NEWBURY, Mass. — It has been a good month for someone intent on sampling the subcultures of tennis... I was one of four middle-aged men...playing platform tennis.
Read full article at www.nytimes.com

Chicago, IL
On another beautiful winter day in Chicago the youth came out to continue the growth of the sport through their participation in the Chicago Junior Open, part of the Viking Junior Tour.  There were familiar platform tennis names among the 52 participants, and those who came to Winnetka were lucky to see great paddle, great sportsmanship and well-behaved juniors.  While “going for the gold” they weren’t afraid to go for the screens as well!   

Read more about the Chicago Junior Open.

New York
We will be shipping on Saturday December 20th using USPS Priority Mail (2-3 days to most locations).
All orders recieved before 3pm EST Saturday with "ground shipping" will be upgraded to Priority at no additional charge.

For last minute shoppers please use:
UPS 2 day on Dec 22nd
UPS Next Day on Dec 23rd

Boston, MA
The Boston Open Men's National Ranking Tournament is scheduled for January 10th, 2009. Tournament Director Jerry Albrikes has announced that a donation will be made to the Jimmy Fund at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Sign up soon to participate in this event and support a worthy cause.

Apply online

New Canaan, CT
Tournament Director Mike Gillespie has been working hard to revitalize the Connecticut State Mixed Tournament. This January 10, 2009 tournament will offer both Open and Senior events. Don't be left out in the cold - sign up early to reserve your spot!

Apply online

Westchester, NY
The New York State Mixed tournament will once again be held in Westchester County. Tournament Director Michele Jellinek promises that this January 10, 2009 event will be fun for all! She is hoping to again have players from Long Island, Upstate and Western NY as well as Westchester locals participate. Since draw size is limited, you should find a partner and sign up today!

Apply online

West Chester, PA
We first saw him at the age of 7, disappointed that he didn’t win a medal at the Junior Nationals. (He had to wait 2 more years to claim the 12 & Under crown!)  Then in 2004, he teamed with older brother David to capture the Boys 18 & Under title.  You would think the future of Peter Hissey as a platform tennis player would be filled with lots more victories and medals.  It seems, however, that we won’t be seeing as much of Pete on the court as in the past.  Click here to learn why.

North Pole
With only 12 days left until it’s time to stuff the stockings and place the wrapped gifts under the tree, paddlepro.com has some gift suggestions for you.  Whether you are buying for a child, a friend, your mother-in-law or your team captain there is something in our store to fit your needs - ranging from lessons to best selling products to unique gifts.  See our 12 Gift Ideas.

Short Hills, NJ
The world's largest platform tennis tournament is scheduled for this weekend. The NJ Men's Platform Tennis Association sponsored League Classic has a draw of 128 teams and promises as much (or more) paddle as most entrants could want. Those in the area should take the opportunity to view some top-level play in this fun-filled event.

View the complete draw here.     Messageboard comments    See the photos

USA
Men's Chair Ray Crosta has released current National Rankings. National champs Dave Keevins and Brian Uihlein are ranked number one, followed by Hall of Famers and perennial top four Flip Goodspeed and Scott Mansager. Rounding out the top five are Mike Cochrane - Scott Estes, Mike Marino - Mike Stulac and Denny English - Brian Heil.

View the complete Men's Rankings here.

USA
They say the more things change, the more they stay the same. That seems to be true with the Women's National Rankings. In a season of numerous new pairings, the top 2 ranked teams remain the same as last year. Bobo Delaney and Tonia Mangan remain #1 and Kerri Delmonico and Aila Main are #2. Familiar names fill out the next few spots as well. Doten-Keane and Dardis-Shay are tied for the third position, followed by Prop-Schneebeck and Prendergast- Zink.   See the complete Women's Rankings as released by Women's Chair Aila Main.

Katonah, NY
Prince has hit the sweet spot with their new T22 Footwear. Although Prince calls it an update of the very popular T10 it feels like an all new shoe. The T22 achieves all a paddle player can ask for.  Read the rest of this review

Find platform Tennis Footwear in the proshop

Long Island NY
The Long Island Invitational hosted by LIPTA was held October 5th and 6th. 4th seeded David Caldwell & Jon Lubow defeated hometown heros Dan Rothschild & John Schmitt to win the Men's Open. Cynthia Dardis and Amy Shay defeated Keri Flyn and Sue Tarzian 6-4, 6-0. The father-son team of Steve & Steven Trifiletti defeating local favorites John Maher & Brad Thurman in the B event.
Men's Draw    Women's Draw   Men's B   Messageboard comments

Grosse Pointe, MI
The 2008 Detroit Invitational Tournament went off without a hitch under the able stewardship of tournament director Drew Shepherd. The Men's draw saw top seeds Flip Goodspeed and Scott Mansager defeat third seeded Thaddeus Reed and Todd Ward for the title. Nancy Budde and Eva Welsher, seeded second, upset top seeded Susie Keane and Marina Ohlmuller to claim the Women's crown. Chilly weather was offset by the afternoon Chili and Spirits.
Men's Draw      Women's Draw

Greenwich, CT
The Jane Fleming Memorial Platform Tennis Tournament had another successful run. Seasoned players and newcomers had a great day of play and social interaction. Fittingly, the tournament was based at the Field Club of Greenwich which boasts the Fleming Paddle House, dedicated as a tribute to Jane Fleming. Congratulations to Louise Cash and Darlene Finnegan on their victory over Ruth Ann Connors and Jill Feher in the finals.

View Photos    
See full Results    

Chicago IL
The PPTA has released the second video in their series of instructional videos. The second features 2 time national champ Bill Fiedler and his tips on becoming an effective net player.

	Watch This Video
Find more Instruction

West Islip, NY
PlatformTennisNews.com has published its December edition Issue 6 Volume 4. In this issue: David Kjeldsen's editorials on why your membership is worth $5, Platform Tennis league sites, feedback from readers, and his monthly Ace, Deuce, Fault on things going on in platform tennis.

Happy Thanksgiving to paddle players everywhere! As holiday shopping season begins tomorrow please don't forget your partner, captain and teammates. Visit your local certified pro - or place orders early as inventory on paddles is lower than normal this time of year.
PaddlePro.com proshop
- Lowest online price guarantee
- Up till Jan 31st to return/exchange
- Same day shipping on orders placed before 4pm EST
- Toll free assistance (and ideas) 800-2110-PRO

Scarsdale, NY
At the Sound Shore Invitational the final between Alex Bancila / Brad Easterbrook and Lennart Jonasson / Mike Stulac was a demonstration of amazing volleys and saves and great racquet skills. The Fox Meadow stalwarts who were on hand for their Sunday game were not sure this was the "same sport we are playing". Although unable to convert on their first few match points, Bancila / Easterbrook prevailed by a score of 6-4, 7-5. View the complete draw and photos.

Scarsdale, NY
The Viking Junior Tour was in town! Juniors came to the birthplace of platform tennis on Sunday and displayed tremendous sportsmanship and skill. The players were divided into four age groups for round robins, and there was plenty of court time for all. Again, the Fox Meadow crew pitched in to make it a great day for the kids. Thanks to Viking for their continued support with great favors for all and medals for the winners!  For photos and results of the Fox Meadow Junior Open, please click here.

Scarsdale, NY
The Sound Shore Invitational saw some of the east's first winter weather at 32 degrees and windy. This year's B Draw returned to a full 32 teams and was won by Tony Brown and Chip Zabatta over Patricio Misitrano / Enrique Catter. The Open draw turned out to mimic Chicago with all 4 top seeds shut out of the finals. The Final between Bancila / Easterbrook and Jonasson / Stulac will be played Sunday morning at 9am at Fox Meadow Tennis Club.

Cleveland, OH
Despite the rains and winds from mother nature on Saturday, the 34th Annual Cleveland Masters went off without a hitch November 14 - 16, 2008.  On the National Ranking and PCQ Mens side, #1 seed Brian Heil and Denny English of Columbus, OH defeated Brett Englesberg and Jeff McMasters of Pittsburgh, PA.  For the Women's PCQ, the team of Kathy Allen and Lindy Ward of Cincinnati, OH defeated Vicki Nagy and Beverly Dyminski of Pittsford, NY, 6-1, 6-1.  In the Mens 90+ Open, John Schloss and Eric "Who want's to be my partner" Miller from Cleveland, OH were the champs defeating last year's champs, Danny McLaughlin (Cleveland, OH) and Billy Sullivan from Columbus.
Men's Open Women's Open Men's 90's - Photo of Finalists

Scarsdale, NY
With only 2 places left in each the Open and "B" draw the 2008 Sound Shore Invitational is showing no signs of a depression. In fact this event will be the largest Sound Shore Inv in recent years. 2 spots remain so sign up now if you want to participate this coming Saturday. Both Open and "B" draws should be posted with starting times by Friday 11-21.

Patterson CT
The Patterson Club Junior Open was held as part of the Viking Junior Tour on November 16, 2008, at the Patterson Club and Fairfied area clubs. The tournament had a great turnout of 39 teams playing on a beautiful fall Sunday afternoon. Kids from all over region 1 turned out for this Viking Junior Tour Tourney. View results and pictures.

Grosse Pointe, MI
The 2008 Detroit Invitational Tournament features both Women's and Men's National Ranking and Region 5 PCQ events, as well as the Popular Chili and Spirits on Saturday afternoon. This will be a one day event on December 6th. Draw sizes are limited - sign up early!

Sign up Online

West Hartford, CT
The Connecticut Classic is back - although it shifted from Region 1 to Region 2. After a day of rain for the Women's CT Classic, the Men's version went off without any delays. Through fierce competition, Lennart Jonason and Johan duRandt from Massachusetts defeated Ray Crosta (NJ) and Mike Stulac (NY) to claim the crown. Semifinalists were Bill & Leo Power (MA) and Drew Broderick & Guy Moore (NJ). Consolation winners were Freid & Smith; Reprieve winners were Arraya & Levanat; Last Chance winners were Teglas & Budden. Courtia Worth reports that it was "a fabulous tournament - very competitive with high spirits!" Download results here

West Hartford, CT
RAIN was the dominant factor at today's women's CT Classic tournament held at the Hartford Golf Club. The rain stopped long enough to get the first round matches going, although after about an hour it started to drizzle. By late morning it was pouring and the golf pro was calling to say lightning was in the area.  Matches were halted and the players had an early lunch before returning to another break in the weather. The newly formed team of Sheri Shea and Susan Tarzian won an exciting 3-set final over Long Islanders Jaffe and Rudloff, despite the weather. Download full results here

South Orange, NJ
They have won it before, but never together! Joanne O'Shaughnessy and Susan Penney overcame a larger than usual field and some inclement weather during the finals to defeat Donna Charlton and Janet Faig in the first Women's Region 1 Presidents Cup Qualifier of the season. Tournament Director Phyllis Weiss gave in to the demand and increased the draw size to 46 teams for this year's event. In this way she was able to accommodate many new players who wanted a tournament experience. As always, there was good competition and good food!

Download full results here

Greenwich CT
George Hamilton and Yeah you Right Productions have published footage from the November 2008 Singles Platform Tennis Championship.

Play this Video

Chicago IL
Steve DeRose and Jon Lubow made their trip to Chicago worthwhile by bringing home the crown. This is the first major title for the New Jersey duo, who entered the tournament as 9-12 seeds. They defeated several seeded teams on their way to a finals showdown with Denny English and Brian Heil, of Columbus, OH. There were numerous other upsets in the men's draw. Congrats to Steve and Jon!

download full results.

Chicago IL
There were numerous "new" partnerships sprinkled throughout the women's draw, but the finals featured two teams who have been together for some years. Mary Doten and Susie Keane won Womens Chicago Charities 7-6, 6-0 over Bobo Delaney and Tonia Mangan. Congrats once again!

download full results.

Chicago IL
The PPTA has begun to produce a series of Instructional videos which will be released throughout the year. The first release features 9 time National Champion and newly inducted Hall of Fame member Scott Mansager and his tips on Driving the Return of Serve

Watch This Video

Greenwich, CT
Roger Knight is right! Singles is filled with excitement and athleticism - and is fun to watch! In this year's tournament, Mark Parsons prevailed over 23 other competitors to win the title. These singles aficionados are sure that if you try it, you will want to stick with it, and they anticipate more growth for the tournament next year. View the complete DRAWS and some action PHOTOS of the Eastern States Singles competition.

Scarsdale, NY
The Sound Shore Invitational has been the scene of many great matches, terrific food and interesting favors. Applications are now being accepted for the November 22nd & 23rd Men's Open (National Ranking and Region 1 PCQ) and Men's "B" tournaments. Draw sizes are limited, so sign up early! For more information, contact Mike Cochrane at mike@paddlepro.com.

West Islip, NY
PlatformTennisNews.com has published its November edition Issue 6 Volume 3 In this issue David Kjeldsen's thoughts about why all APTA members do not pay the same, the appearance of communications, readers' responses and his quick opinions on what's been happening in the last month.

Scarsdale, NY
The Fox Meadow Tennis Club was again the host site for The Sally, a tournament to benefit The Children's Village. It was a beautiful fall day, and Sharon Saunders and crew made sure that the 45 teams entered had a full day of play combined with lunch and an opportunity to shop. Congratulations to repeat champs Cynthia Dardis and Amy Shay, who defeated Nancy Harwood and Lisa Reach in the finals. Read more about The Sally and view photos here.

Scarsdale, NY
The Platform Tennis Museum and Hall of Fame Foundation has announced that their website www.platformtennishalloffame.org is now public for viewing. The website development is still in progress as is the construction on the physical Hall of Fame at the Center Court Athletic Club in Chatham, NJ.

Rochester, NY
Congratulations to the winners of the 30th Annual Shadow Lake Invitational. As always, Fritz Odenbach did a wonderful job in running the event and competing in it! Congratulations to Chrissy Johnston & Lynn Thompson who defeated fellow Pennsylvanians Kelly Fischer & Nathalie Lemieux to claim the Women's "A" crown. The Women's "B" prize went to Jody Belcher & Ali Loveys, who topped fellow Rochester players Kathy Baxter & Jenny Jokinen. Mark Ruppert (NJ) & Rusty Wright (Westchester County, NY) closed out Nathan LeFevre (CT)& Fritz in the Men's "A" tournament and Travis Odenbach & Eric Yaekel (both Rochester) defeated Rich Anderson & Bill Wadsworth (both Buffalo) to win the Men's "B" tournament. View the full draws here: Women's "A"     Women's "B"     Men's "A"     Men's "B"

Milwaukee, WI
Congratulations to the winners of The Milwaukee Open, the season's first National Ranking Tournament. Director Scott Pecor reports that the seeds held in both the women's and men's events, with #1 meeting #2 in the finals of each. In the women's tournament Heather Prop and Lynne Schneebeck edged Mary Doten and Marina Ohlmuller 7-6, 6-4 to claim the title. Mike Marino and Mike Stulac earned the men's crown with a victory over Denny English and Brian Heil. View the full results of the Women's and Men's Milwaukee Open tournaments.

Fairfield, CT
The Patterson Club Men’s B Platform Tennis Championship was held on October 18th, 2008 hosted by the Patterson Club in Fairfield, CT. The tourney had a full 32 draw this year with teams from all over the tri-state region participating on a perfect fall day. Congratulations to the third seeds Scott Mckessy and David Mueller who defeated the fourth seeded team of Chris Gorman and Hardy Manges 6-4, 6-2 in the finals. Special thanks to The Patterson Club for hosting the event and to the following clubs who allowed use of their courts-Aspetuck Valley CC, Weston Field Club, Country Club OF Fairfield, Fairfield County Hunt Club, Fairfield Beach Club, and Brooklawn Country Club. Wilson Racquets Sports was a key sponsor for this event. View the complete draw. ~ submitted by Scott Slobin, Tournament Director

Essex Fells, NJ
The skies were sunny and the weather had a hint of fall when teams took the court for the 1st ever "stand alone" Atlantic Classic Women's "B" tournament. By the end of the morning's round robin play, the teams of Kim Elander-Mary Beth Hahn and Erin Cacciabaudo-Celine Salvi had emerged to play for the title. Following lunch, director Drew Broderick and his committee provided Bloody Marys and commentary for those who stayed to watch Elander-Hahn prevail in three sets. In addition to prizes, the champions were granted entry into the main draw of the Atlantic Classic Women's "A" tournament in January.

Milwaukee, WI
The Milwaukee Open still has some openings! Director Scott Pecor has agreed to accept applications until 6:00 PM on Wednesday, October 22, but don't wait until the last minute - or you might miss out! Visit The Milwaukee Open website for details, schedule, directions, and an archive of results since 2003.

Apply Online

Scarsdale, NY
The "invitations" have been mailed, but all are welcome to attend The Sally, on Wednesday, October 29 at Fox Meadow Tennis Club and other area clubs. This platform tennis fundraiser and shopping experience honors the memory and celebrates the spirit of Sally Rogers and benefits The Children's Village Sanctuary. Read more about The Sally and Children's Village.

Platform tennis is an explosive sport that requires quick changes of direction, power, balance and agility.  Are you guilty of stepping out of your car and on to the court…hitting ten balls and declaring you are ready to play?  Or touching your toes three times as your warm up? Or how about the infamous leg up on the net post hamstring stretch?  These are clearly not the best ways to prime yourself for your platform tennis game. Click here to see some tips from certified trainer Tina Cressent ( CPT, ACE).

Plainfield, NJ
Mike Cochrane / Scott Estes defeated Mike Stulac / Mike Marino 6-0,6-4 to capture the Premier Cup. The Premier Cup is an invitational tournament which includes 8 top teams and players, by invitation only. On Saturday, there are 3 round of round robin play. The top 2 from each group play on Sunday for cash prizes. Complete results: 3 - 4. Caldwell/Cordish and Easterbrook/Milbank 5 - 8. English/Heil, Cosimano/Haller, Broderick/Moore, Albrikes/Jonason. The NJMPTA sponsored the "Beer Garden", which contributed greatly to the festivities. view photos

Greenwich, CT
The Greenwich Country Club is pleased to continue as host of the 2008 Eastern States Singles Platform Tennis Championship.  This event is for all those who appreciate the excitement, athleticism, pace and enjoyment of singles paddle. Once you have played it, you will truly grow to love it ... it also may be the best thing that ever happened to your doubles game. Click here for more information about the Singles.

Click here to sign up online.

Wall Township, NJ
Once again, the War at the Shore has opened the platform tennis tournament season. This mixed doubles event, at The Atlantic Club, is always as much about renewing paddle friendships as it is about the competition. This year's War featured a number of "new" teams as well as new champions. Tournament Director Suzee Krebs reports that Carol Kimmelman and Steve DeRose defeated Kerri Delmonico and Ray Crosta by a score of 1-6, 6-4, 6-2 to capture the title. Click here for the full War at the Shore draw.

Madison, WI
Madison Platform Tennis Club in Madison, WI is ceasing operation. Our Reilly court, in excellent condition, has been expertly disassembled and is in storage in the Madison area, awaiting a buyer. Click here for more information

Nyack, NY
In celebration of Gerri Viant's 25 years of service and dedication to the Nyack Field Club and its platform tennis program, the club has recently dedicated the paddle house in her honor. Gerri is a multi-time national champion and a member of the Platform Tennis Hall of Fame. Congratulations, Gerri!

Bloomfield, CT
Platform Tennis players are invited to "Rally for the Cure" on Friday, October 24th in Connecticut. This 3rd annual event will raise money for the Rally for the Cure branch of the Susan G. Komen Foundation.  The Rally will kick off the platform tennis season for all ability levels in the Hartford area. Click here to view details and download a flyer about the Rally for the Cure

Newtown Square, PA
Platform tennis players will rally for Living Beyond Breast Cancer on Monday, October 20, 2008 at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, PA and various other clubs in the Philadelphia area. Click here for more information about the Women's Paddle Rally to benefit LBBC

Milwaukee Open
The Milwaukee Open once again kicks off the national ranking tournament season, on October 24th. Under new management of Scott Pecor this event promises to be a success once again. Visit The Milwaukee Open website for details, schedule, directions, and an archive of results since 2003.

Apply Online