September 2010 Newsletter

Transcription

INTERNATIONAL
RACQUETBALL TOUR
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New Season, New President, New Logo!
2010-11 Season Preview
HEAD Penn Players Dominate World Racquetball Championships
Ektelon Re-signs Andy Hawthorne for Two Years
Mike Boatman Photography
HEAD Penn Racquet Sports Signs Top Racquetball Professional Rocky Carson
Kansas City, Here I Come!
2010-11 IRT Schedule
Interview with Cheryl Gudinas - Illinois Racquetball Hall of Fame
Championship Racquetball Sports Triangle... Tips from the Coach!
2010 San Diego Racquet House IRT Pro/Am [Entry Form]
2010 Cali Colombia Grand Slam [Entry Form]
2010 U.S. Open [Entry Form]
ISSUE 3 | YEAR 2010
NEW SEASON, NEW PRESIDENT, NEW LOGO!
By John Scott
Many racquetball fans and professionals recognize
Cliff Swain as the best player of all time. He has
numerous #1 titles, he is one of only a few repeat
players to win the U.S. Open, and now has another
honor to add to his amazing resume...he is immortalized in the new IRT logo.
Towards the end of last season, IRT President Jason
Mannino issued a challenge to fans across the globe.
The IRT was to hold a contest to submit ideas for a
new logo. After a worldwide search, one fan was
lucky enough to have his submission chosen: Jason
Hentges of Allentown, Pennsylvania. Hentges said
he’s honored to have his idea for the logo used as the
most recognizable symbol of the sport, "It's awesome! I tell you it's a real privilege that my idea was picked. It's neat that I can show my friends the logo
and say, hey that's me."
Hentges says that he had a lot of great players to choose from. He tried using the images
of Ben Croft, Kane Waslenchuck, and Sudsy Monchik before settling on the Swain image.
Hentges, who has been an avid player for over 15 years, wins a one hour lesson with the
number one player in the world as well as a VIP pass at the U.S. Open.
Click here to sign up
for the IRT newsletter
The tour would like to thank everyone for the hundreds of submissions received during the contest. We
look forward to showing off the new logo during the upcoming seasons!
2010-11 SEASON PREVIEW
By Kathy Geels
The International Racquetball
Tour (IRT) kicks off the 2010-11
season the second weekend in
September. This season offers
unprecedented opportunities for
fan participation and excitement.
In addition to already showing
the influence of a different leadership style under new president
and former pro Jason Mannino,
the sport will punctuate its
expanding global presence by
conducting the first ever grand
slam outside the continental U.S.
The schedule so far has twenty
Tier One stops planned, a
number quite a bit higher than
the average of thirteen. This
means increased opportunities
for all the pros, as well as
increased demands physically
and mentally.
In addition to these signs of vitality, the rankings themselves are
of particular interest due to a few
factors that might lend excitement to the race for spots four
through ten. The top three spots
appear somewhat locked, with
no indication that Kane Waselenchuk will give up his foothold on
number one, and Jack Huczek
and Rocky Carson seemingly
entrenched at two and three.
However, three factors could
offer more opportunity for
season ending rank to six, both
career firsts for Croft in his three
years on tour.
upward mobility in spots four
through ten than in recent years.
The high number of events, the
reintroduction of the two-serve
rule, and two vacancies at the
top formerly held by Jason Mannino and Alvaro Beltran for the
past five seasons - are all factors
that could shake up rankings four
through ten. The battle for position will be especially interesting
to watch in the first part of the
season as we see who will capitalize on the openings, and as
Beltran's post injury capabilities
become more apparent.
Beltran
will come into the
season ranked number thirty-two
after missing the
2009/10
season due to a knee injury. If he
regains much of the consistency
that has secured his position in
the top four since 2005, he has
the potential to play the role of
spoiler. At thirty-one, Beltran is
one of the oldest players on tour.
In the only event he played at
last season's end in Tijuana,
Mexico, Beltran hinted that he is
not done, taking out Mitch
Williams and Jason Mannino
before reaching his typical place
in the semi-finals and losing to
relative newcomer Ben Croft.
Beltran's first loss to Croft put the
up-and-comer into his first Tier
One finals and bolstered his
Beltran and Mannino missing at
the top should have little impact
on Waselenchuk, Huczek, and
Carson. Barring injury, the effect
of the increased number of
events won't have much effect
on these three either, since they
all emphasize conditioning a
great deal. The serve rule probably won't impact their games
against each other, unless
Huczek and Carson can identify
a thus-far unexploited weakness
in Waselenchuk or each other.
Huczek maintains an advantage
over Carson when comparing
careers over the long run, but
recently the two have played
evenly, neither giving away any
long term advantage from game
to game or in the overall statistics.
2010/11 will be Carson's twelfth
season, but he's only been in the
top four for the most recent four
years. Huczek's ten year career
started two seasons after
Carson, but his climb has been
more rapid and
consistent,
having maintained his ranking in
the top four for all but the first of
his nine seasons. In spite of the
contrast, he and Carson play
extremely close, each having
narrowly beaten the other for the
number one spot during Waselenchuk's two year absence in
seasons 2006/07 and 2007/08.
Huczek finished 2006/07 at
number one and Carson took it
away from him in 2007/08. The
two players both have unrelenting fitness standards and tend to
rely more on control than Waselenchuk, who is so far fairly
unapproachable in his physicality.
regained the number two ranking, he is trading places with
Carson for the second time and
forcing him down to three again.
Although Carson seems well
prepared for a few more seasons
of peak performance, at thirtyone, along with Beltran, and
Crowther, he will be one of the
oldest
full
time
players
(compared to Huczek's twentyseven). That being said, aside
from Waselenchuk, Carson is
currently the most troubling
player on tour for Huczek. Their
records against each other are
nearly split. Although tour newcomer Croft has beaten Carson
twice, no other players have so
far been able to consistently
challenge these top three players. This implies that as long as
Carson maintains his advantage
over Croft, it's likely the top three
positions will remain the same
this season.
The question of who will move
into the number four ranking is a
Carson - who has a somewhat
dynamic, non-traditional style has experienced a number of
peaks and valleys throughout his
career. Number two ranked
Huczek is the more consistent of
the two and his ranking is once
again on an upward trajectory
from the first and only dip in his
career, when he dropped down
to number three in 08/09. In this
upcoming
season,
having
© 2010 Mike Boatman
less easily answered question,
having been occupied for the
past five years alternately by
Mannino and Beltran. Mannino
has stated he will not be playing
pro events, and putting aside his
determination to rise, Beltran is
starting the season at thirty-two
after taking last year off from
knee surgery. This leaves Croft
(#6), Shane Vanderson (#5), and
Chris Crowther (#7) positioned to
break into the top four for the first
time in their respective careers.
At thirty-one, #7 ranked Chris
Crowther may be the least likely,
having reached the semis only
once so far in his four years in
the top ten. However last season
proved to be Crowther's best on
tour, with he and Croft emerging
as the only two top players previously ranked beneath Beltran to
jump up two places in the rankings (Crowther from nine to
seven, and Croft from eight to
six).
Although Crowther is the same
age as Carson and Beltran, he
has only played in the top ten for
the past five years (compared to
Carson's eleven, and Beltran's
nine). Perhaps a case of talent
realized too late in his career,
Crowther may not yet have
played his best game. Between
Ben Croft and Mitch Williams
pressuring him for position in the
rankings, he will need to have
another stellar season to
increase his ranking. For
Crowther, this upcoming season
will be an indicator of his ability to
advance, or at least keep pace in
the top eight. He is known to be a
crusher, and the service rule
change could favor him. So far
he has shown that he can maintain the pace from a conditioning
point of view.
As far as the other candidates
for number four are concerned,
Vanderson is currently ranked
the highest. However, he has not
made it to the finals since 2004,
in spite of consistently making
the semis several times each
season. His ranking seems to
have plateaued at number five
for the past four seasons, in spite
of some rapid moves as a rookie
- launching at first from ten to
seven, then to five within his first
few seasons. In addition to whatever problems a returning
Beltran poses to his career
goals, Vanderson will also experience the increasing pressure of
younger threats in Croft and
Jose Rojas. When looking at the
records of Crowther, Vanderson,
and Croft, Croft’s recent breakthroughs in the latter rounds and
his success against Carson
seem to indicate a reasonable
chance of moving past Crowther
and Vanderson this season.
fitness, Croft and Carson are in
excellent shape and put a lot of
pressure on their opponents.
Huczek's controlled game style
promotes long rallies and he is
known to be tireless on court.
Vanderson - as one of the best
pure shooters - tends to promote
shorter rallies, but depending on
his off season preparation may
struggle with the conditioning
demands of so many events.
Generally speaking, after the
players have had a chance to get
used to it, the latter round
outcomes will begin to tell the
story of the effect of the twoserve rule. Big servers such as
Crowther and Williams would
appear to gain from it, but Waselenchuk has already been successfully using the big serve, so
it's hard to say how much of an
equalizing effect it will have
against him.
Huczek and Carson may benefit
because they have the control to
move the ball around the court,
especially on return of serve. The
one obvious effect is that it will
allow those players that have
already been successful with
lobs and Z’s to go for broke
knowing that they have a second
chance. As far as the impact of
Players like Andy Hawthorne,
with his relentless diving, may
experience higher levels
of
physical stress from so many
events. Physical readiness could
be another cause for some
swings in the top ten. As far as
fans of the tour are concerned,
rankings four through ten could
be more exciting than ever in the
sport's history.
With a little analysis of player
records and knowledge of the
point system, the impact of
matches on individual career
goals and rankings can be
followed on the internet live via
the
IRT
Network
(www.IRTNetwork.com).
Looking at time lines that span
the short thirty-seven year
history of professional racquetball, it becomes apparent that
each tournament performance
HEAD PENN PLAYERS DOMINATE WORLD
RACQUETBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS
Rocky Carson Wins His Second World Singles Championship
helps to define an entire career.
Even though number one will
most likely be a lock for Waselenchuk, the outcomes of most
of the other matches impact
especially those careers which
have not yet reached maturity,
but are working vigorously at
establishing themselves in the
record books.
Being able to understand the
impact of wins and losses and
follow the changes in the rankings is a new opportunity for racquetball fans. As a result of these
changes, the sport is beginning
to appeal to a greater number of
enthusiasts.
2010/11 will be a good year for
the IRT and its fans.
All photography is the property
of Mike Boatman Photography.
http://www.mikeboatman.com/
Phoenix, AZ -- August 21, 2010 Players from HEAD Penn’s
powerhouse team of top
racquetball players helped the
United States sweep the Men’s
a n d W o m e n ’ s Te a m
Competitions at the International
Racquetball Federation’s (IRF)
15th World Championships.
HEAD Penn’s Jack Huczek, who
plays with the YOUTEK Royal
Flush and Jackie Paraiso, who
plays with the YOUTEK Royal
Flush, paced the American team
through convincing wins in the
team competition. The team
victories successfully defended
the American titles won at the
2008 World Championships in
Ireland.
In his first event since returning to
the HEAD Penn family, Rocky
Carson, who plays with the
YOUTEK Blackjack, also has a
major contribution to the
American dominance in the team
competition. Jack and Rocky won
both their respective matches as
the United States defeated
Canada in the Men’s Team Final.
Rocky also captured his second
consecutive IRF Men’s Singles
World Championship.
Showing the strength of the
HEAD Penn team, Carson’s
opponent in the Men’s Singles
Final was his teammate, Jack
Huczek. Rocky won the match in
two close games: 15-13, 15-14.
With his World Championship
wins in Ireland and South Korea,
Carson joins an elite list of
players who have won multiple
World Championships; a list that
includes Huczek.
In the Women’s Doubles
Competition, Paraiso brought
home the silver medal.
Boatman 2010
ABOUT HEAD: HEAD© Mike
NV
is a
leading global manufacturer and
marketer of premium branded
sports equipment. HEAD NV’s
ordinary shares are listed on the
Vienna Stock Exchange
(HEAD).Our business is
organized into four divisions:
Winter Sports, Racquet Sports,
Diving and Licensing. We sell
products under the HEAD
(tennis, squash, paddle and
racquetball racquets, tennis
balls, tennis footwear, badminton
products, alpine skis, ski bindings
and ski boots, protection,
snowboards, bindings and
boots), Penn (tennis and
racquetball balls), Tyrolia (ski
bindings), and Mares/Dacor
(diving equipment) brands. We
hold leading positions in all of our
product markets and our
products are endorsed by some
of the world’s top athletes
including Novak D j ok ovi c ,
Andrew Murray, Robin Soderling,
Gilles Simon, Stanislas
Wawrinka, Richard Gasquet,
Ivan Ljubicic, Svetlana
Kuznetsova, Victoria Azarenka,
Alize Cornet, Patty Schnyder,
Amelie Mauresmo, Zhou Mi,
Karim Darwish, Jack Huczek,
Bode Miller, Didier Cuche, Marco
Büchel, Patrick Staudacher,
Rainer Schönfelder, Markus
Larsson, Lindsey Vonn, Anja
Paerson, Maria Riesch, Elisabeth
Görgl, Sarka Zahrobska and Jon
Olsson.
Media contact:
Allison Barnett
602-447-2324
[email protected]
EKTELON RE-SIGNS
ANDY HAWTHORNE
FOR TWO YEARS
Bordentown, NJ – August 18,
2010 - Top Touring racquetball
professional Andy Hawthorne
has signed a new two year deal
to continue playing and using
Ektelon’s entire line of products.
Andy has been playing with
Ektelon his entire career and has
risen up the ranks on the men’s
professional tour. He achieved
his highest season end ranking of
#9 on the International
Racquetball Tour (IRT) and is
looking forward to rising up the
ranks even higher during the next
two years. “I am extremely happy
to be able to continue my
racquetball career with Ektelon.
The support they have given me
throughout my career has been
something I will never forget.”
Andy is a real road warrior as he
a n d h i s w i f e Tr a c y p l a y
tournaments almost every
weekend. He not only plays all
IRT Stops but he also supports
Ektelon in all facets by setting up
an Ektelon display of product at
all Tier 1 IRT Events.
Some of Andy’s most memorable
accomplishments this past
season have been making it to
the semi-finals of the 2010
National Singles Tournament. In
making it to the semi’s this put
Andy back on the US National
Team. Another notable win for
Andy was winning the Mixed
Open Doubles at the 2010 US
National Doubles in Phoenix, AZ
this past February. A title that he
had won two years prior. “Andy
is one of the most exciting players
to watch in the sport, and fans
love watching him dive after
every ball. He is a real battler on
the court as he goes all out after
every point of every match he
p l a y s ” s a y s E k t e l o n Vi c e
President, Scott Winters.
“I love to play this sport and
represent this brand. The way
Ektelon takes care of its athletes
is incredible and I feel very
fortunate to be a part of the team,
and I look forward to the new
season to start so I can get out
there with my new EXO3 Ignite”
said Hawthorne.
About Ektelon
Based in Bordentown, New
Jersey, Ektelon is a division of
Prince Sports, Inc. Ektelon has
enjoyed the longest, most
successful reign of dominance in
the sport of racquetball. Ektelon's
heritage includes some of the top
players in the sport’s history
including former No. 1 players
Mike Yellen, Dave Peck, Ruben
Gonzalez, Rhonda Rajsich and
current world No. 1 Paola
Longoria. In addition, Ektelon
has introduced more
revolutionary technologies and
programs to the sport than any
o t h e r c o m p a n y. E k t e l o n
innovations include oversized
racquetball racquets, the
Racquet Taper System (RTS),
Power Ring® racquets and Total
Racquet Customization,
VisionGrip and O3 among others.
For more information please
contact us at 800-283-2635 or log
onto our website at
www.ektelon.com.
Contact:
Aimee Ruiz
609-291-5996
[email protected]
Hi I’m Mike Boatman,
Most of you are already familiar w ith my work as the of f icial photographer of the International Racquetball Tour (IRT). I wanted to take this oppor tunit y to open the door for you to
learn more about me and what I do.
I a m a f u l l t i me c om merc ia l photog r apher w it h over 31 ye a r s of
e x p er ienc e. Photog r aphy i s my l i fe! O ver t he ye a r s I have won
nu merou s Nat iona l a nd I nter nat iona l aw a rd s for my adver t i s i ng i ma ge s. My cl ient s have won e ven mor e aw a rd s u si ng my
i ma ge s to i l lu s t r ate t hei r work . I n r e c ent ye a r s my work ha s
b e en fe at u r e d on mor e t ha n 19 ma ga z i ne c over. There i s some t h i ng to b e sa id for t he word P r ofe s siona l; it i s a te st i mony to
t he h ig he st s t a nd a rd s of
e xc el lenc e, whe t her sp e a k i ng of
r ac que tba l l or photog r aphy.
photo by Mi ke Aug ust in
I'm also an av id racquetball player. I star ted w ith paddleball
on Gar f ield Street in Holly wood, FL in 1973. This explains why
I have donated my time to photograph the U.S. Open
for the past 15 years. I also work closely w ith major
racquetball manufacturers to develop their
promotional materials.
A sur prising number of racquetball players ow n their
ow n business or work in executive management
positions. That's what this adver tisement is about:
introduce the racquetball communit y to my
commercial photography. I would like an oppor tunit y to
bid on your next project.
My prev ious clients include Br yan Foods Inc., CSX, Ex xon Company USA, Grand Casino, International Paper, Tyson Foods, UCA R Carbon Company, and Viking Range Cor p. Please
v isit w w w.mikeboatman.com for additional references. I of fer a 100%
satisfaction guarantee or your money back.
Thank you for your time,
Mike Boatman
[email protected]
309.698.8804
HEAD PENN RACQUET SPORTS SIGNS TOP
RACQUETBALL PROFESSIONAL ROCKY CARSON
The World Champion Joins a Powerhouse HEAD Penn Team
“I feel HEAD Penn’s products are
superior and give me the best
© Mike Boatman 2010
chance to be #1. I’m glad to be
back home!” said Carson.
Phoenix, AZ - August 2, 2010 HEAD Penn Racquet Sports
announced today that they have
welcomed back Rocky Carson to
the HEAD Penn Racquetball
team. Carson, who finished the
2009-2010 IRT season at #3, has
signed a long term contract to
exclusively use equipment from
HEAD Penn Racquet Sports.
Rocky Carson joins the
dominating HEAD Penn Team
which will now include 3 of the top
5 ranked players on the IRT Tour.
“I’m very excited to be back with
HEAD. Their faith in me as a top
ranked player and our shared
vision for the future of racquetball
solidified my decision to rejoin the
HEAD Penn team.” said Carson.
Carson’s breakout season
occurred in 2007-2008 when he
captured seven tournament titles,
including the 2007 US OPEN and
the 2008 IRT Pro Nationals, and
finished the season as the #1
ranked player in the world.
Always a fan favorite on tour,
Carson is looking to take his
game to the next level while also
finding ways to help grow the
sport he loves.
Carson started to build one of the
most impressive resumes the
sport of racquetball has ever
seen at the age of 10. Carson
won seven consecutive USA
Racquetball (USAR) Junior
National Singles Championships.
His success continued after
juniors where he captured five
USAR National Adult Singles
Championships as well as five
USAR National Doubles
Championships.
A Californian who loves to surf
when not on the racquetball
court, Carson helped popularize
outdoor racquetball with a
combined 8 World Outdoor
Racquetball (WOR) Singles and
Doubles Titles. Rocky Carson is
the only racquetball player in
history to earn the “racquetball
trifecta” by winning the USAR
National Singles title, USAR
National Doubles title and WOR
Outdoor Nationals title in the
same season. He has been a
member of the USAR National
Adult Team for 11 consecutive
years. As member of that team,
Carson won the 2008
International Racquetball
Federation’s (IRF) World Singles
Championship.
IRT National Sponsorship Program
“Rocky is not only an incredible
player but a true ambassador for
the sport of racquetball. His
popularity in the sport is
unparalleled and we are thrilled to
have him back on the HEAD
Penn team,” said Ben Simons,
HEAD Penn Senior Business
Manager of Racquetball &
Accessories.
When not traveling the world
playing racquetball, Carson lives
in Southern California with his
wife Jennifer and their children
Jasmine and Christian. Carson
will begin his trek back to No. 1 in
September, as the IRT kicks off its
season in Kansas City.
ABOUT HEAD: HEAD NV is a
leading global manufacturer and
marketer of premium branded
sports equipment. HEAD NV’s
ordinary shares are listed on the
Vienna Stock Exchange
(“HEAD”).Our business is
organized into four divisions:
Winter Sports, Racquet Sports,
Diving and Licensing. We sell
products under the HEAD
(tennis, squash, paddle and
racquetball racquets, tennis
balls, tennis footwear, badminton
products, alpine skis, ski bindings
and ski boots, protection,
snowboards, bindings and
boots), Penn (tennis and
racquetball balls), Tyrolia (ski
bindings), and Mares/Dacor
(diving equipment) brands. We
hold leading positions in all of our
product markets and our
products are endorsed by some
of the world’s top athletes
in c lu d i n g N o v a k D j oko vi c,
Andrew Murray, Robin Soderling,
Gilles Simon, Stanislas
Wawrinka, Richard Gasquet,
Ivan Ljubicic, Svetlana
Kuznetsova, Victoria Azarenka,
Alize Cornet, Patty Schnyder,
Amelie Mauresmo, Zhou Mi,
Karim Darwish, Jack Huczek,
Bode Miller, Didier Cuche, Marco
Büchel, Patrick Staudacher,
Rainer Schönfelder, Markus
Larsson, Lindsey Vonn, Anja
Paerson, Maria Riesch, Elisabeth
Görgl, Sarka Zahrobska and Jon
Olsson.
Media contact:
Allison Barnett
602-447-2324
[email protected]
CONGRATULATIONS
JACK!
Evelyn (Eve) Fay Huczek was born
June 17th. She weighed in at 7lbs
10oz and 20in long.
KANSAS CITY, HERE I COME!
By Kathy Geels
After a summer hiatus from
professional competition, the
world's best racquetball players
will arrive in Kansas City to
l a u n c h t h e 2 0 1 0 / 2 0 11
International Racquetball Tour
(IRT) season. The kick-off event
will take place at Overland Park's
posh social club, “The Athletic
Club”. This is the 11th ongoing
year of “The Ghost of
Georgetown” tournament, which
started as a local amateur event
and developed into a full IRT pro
stop in 2006. Hosting the pros at
the season's kick-off Tier 1 (T1)
event this year is a double bonus
for area racquetball enthusiasts.
It brings the prestige and
excitement of a much anticipated
season opener, and - due to the
successful business efforts of
local organizers - restores the
tournament to a T1 from its T4
status last year. After a year's
absence, and the end of a
summer away from pro ball, the
top eight pros will be returning to
this warm and enthusiastic
racquetball community.
The “tier” level of an IRT stop
refers to the amount of prize
money, which determines the
level of pro participation. Tier 1
indicates more money than a Tier
4, and is based on a purse
sufficient to attract all of the top
eight ranked pros, most of whom
typically do not appear for the
lower tiered events. It takes a lot
of community cooperation and
effort to put together a Tier 1
event, but maintaining the
connection between local players
and the IRT is well worth the
effort.
The entry deadline for the “Ghost
of Georgetown” tournament is
September 3rd. Round trip tickets
to Kansas City can be had from
most major airports for less than
$250 round-trip. Book a last
minute flight to play or just be a
part of the excitement of the first
tournament of the year. If you
can't make it this year, consider
penciling it in as a late summer
getaway in 2011.
On Court
While the outcome of
Waselenchuk as champion may
be predictable in the minds of
most fans, whether you are a
purist, a fan of the sport in
general, or an avid supporter of a
specific pro player, this event will
be well worth the price of
admission. Among other things, it
offers a first take on off-season
efforts, and material for informed
speculation on how the season
may progress. It will also provide
conversational material for other
topics of interest, such as
potential benchmarks for players
at this event. Due to shifts in the
top ranks, several players in the
middle ranks have greatly
increased chances of making the
semis for the first time.
Tournament results such as
those listed below, as well as a
fascinating array of player
s t a t i s t i c s ,
comparisons, and
trivia, have been
meticulously
archived in a
Click here to sign up
for the IRT newsletter
statistical database located at the
website bossconsulting.com/irt.
Tournament History
September 2006
Q Huczek d. Williams
Q Carson d. Mannino
Q Beltran d. Vanderson
Q Swain d. Crowther
S Huczek d. Carson
S Beltran d. Swain
F Huczek d. Beltran
September 2007
Q Huczek d. Croft
Q Vanderson d. Beltran
Q Mannino d. Williams
Q Carson d. Crowther
S Huczek d. Vanderson
S Mannino d. Carson
F Mannino d. Huczek
September 2008
Q Waselenchuk d. Thoerner
Q Beltran d. Vanderson
Q Mannino d. Williams
Q Huczek d. Croft
S Waselenchuk d. Beltran
S Huczek d. Mannino
F Waselenchuk d. Huczek
The tournament will offer the
season's first glimpse of the
athletes' work-ethic, motivation,
and how they have prepared for
this season. Croft and Crowther
may give early clues as to their
potential for this season.
Although Crowther is one of the
oldest players currently touring
full-time, he is among the least
experienced playing among the
top eight. For a recovering Alvaro
Beltran, this tournament could
reveal signs of Crowther's
potential for upward mobility this
season, and whether the
accomplished veterans still have
the stamina and intensity to
compete through multiple rounds
against other more youthful
contenders such as Croft.
Fans might also look to Croft for
early signs of whether he has
again achieved dramatic
psychological gains, or if his
game has somewhat leveled.
With breakthrough wins against
Carson, currently one of the most
dominating players on tour, Croft
demonstrated he is top four
material, possibly top two
material, and conceivably a
number one player in the long
run. Kansas City is an exciting
opportunity to look for more
indicators. It will also provide
some forecast material for the
ongoing Huczek/Carson rivalry Huczek having nudged Carson
down to start the season at #3,
and Carson coming off an August
victory over Huczek at the 2010
World Games in Seoul. Carson
has whittled down the gap in his
career head to head against
Huczek from 13-20 down to 8-9 in
the past three years. However,
the finals regular has not yet
made it to Sunday in Kansas City.
Meanwhile, Huczek has made
the finals all three years, but has
only one win so far. Although
Waselenchuk's presence makes
it unlikely that these two meet
each other in this event, their
finishes here may be an
indication of their intensity
coming into the season.
In addition to the fascinating
talent and skill these players
bring to the court, the presence of
the top eight pros creates a
unique and exciting celebrity
atmosphere and brings out an
invigorating passion and intensity
in many fans. It's also a rare
promotional opportunity upon
which local racquetball
professionals - such as
instructors and programmers can build. Hosting the season
opener in Kansas City also
provides a special opportunity for
enthusiasts to combine their
hobby with an inexpensive and
exciting weekend getaway. It's a
clean, placid city that also offers
a wide variety of activities which
can be enjoyed by singles or
families if one seeks an
occasional diversion from the
tournament scene.
Kansas City Pleasures
For shopping, walking, or
enjoying the beautiful fountains
and view, the Country Club Plaza
is an impressive fifteen-block
shopping district of fine dining
and upscale establishments. It's
also a simple, convenient, and
extremely pleasant twenty
minute winding drive from the
Athletic Club, through the scenic
mansions of Mission Hills.
If you happen to have miniature
racquetball fans in tow, Worlds of
Fun is an accessible theme park
even the grumpiest enthusiast
would enjoy. It’s located close by,
and also directly next to it's shriek
filled counterpart, Oceans of Fun.
Half day pricing is available at a
discount for the racquetballers
that want to break away as a unit
for some boisterous family-time
outside the courts.
Whether you’re single or
encumbered, if you are one of
those rare individuals that needs
to eat, you would be remiss if you
did not sample Kansas City's
world class pit barbecue.
Fortunately, even if you’re a hard
core racquetball fan that cannot
bear the idea of breaking away
from the event for more than a
few hours, one of the country's
most delicious barbecue
restaurants, Hayward's Pit BBQ,
is almost within walking distance
of the Athletic Club. Even if you
cannot sit down for a meal, you
should at least take the time to
circle within 1000 yards of the
restaurant, a sufficient distance
from which to smell the
overwhelming aroma of this
unique barbecue blend. This
should in turn convince you to at
least order carry-out. And don't
worry; at Hayward's, everybody
gets a bib.
A final recommendation, if you
are interested in sampling more
culture which is singularly that of
Kansas City, and also can be
enjoyed with minimal logistical
effort, consider the world class
Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.
With it's uniquely sprawling and
midwestern twenty-two acre
estate, it's an inexpensive,
enriching way to spend some well
deserved leisure time. Could help
you score better on Jeopardy,
too.
These are just a few potential
highlights of the Kansas City
event, which offers fans and
amateur players an affordable
opportunity to experience the
highest level of the sport in a
highly charged atmosphere.
Enjoy event hospitality, parties,
and local
attractions at this
understated gem in the heart of
the mid-west. It's a fun, low effort
racquetball getaway.
Whether you’re a hard core fan
focussed on the thrills and
anticipation of the season's first
event, or a more casual
enthusiast looking for a way to
combine a pro stop with a
weekend family vacation, the
“Ghost of Georgetown” season
opener could be a good choice for
you and your family.
Sponsorship opportunities are available to those looking to host, advertise, or support IRT events throughout the year. Ever think
about speaking one-on-one with professional racquetball players? Want to sit court side at IRT events? Sponsorship opportunities
include these, and other amenities to fit any budget. If you are interested in supporting the IRT National Sponsorship Program
please e-mail us at [email protected].
Help support the IRT by supporting our partners. You can purchase IRT partner gear at www.RacquetballWarehouse.com.
International Racquetball Tour
2010-2011 Schedule
AUGUST 27-29
SEPTEMBER 9-12
SEPTEMBER 15-19
SEPTEMBER 30-OCT 3
OCTOBER 1-3
OCTOBER 8-10
OCTOBER 8-10
OCTOBER 15-17
OCTOBER 20-24
OCTOBER 29-31
OCTOBER 29-31
OCTOBER 29-31
NOVEMBER 4-7
NOVEMBER 5-7
NOVEMBER 5-7
NOVEMBER 18-21
DECEMBER 3-6
DECEMBER 3-6
DECEMBER 9-12
JANUARY 6-9
JANUARY 13-16
JANUARY 20-23
JANUARY 21-23
JANUARY 21-23
JANUARY 27-30
JANUARY 27-30
FEBRUARY 4-6
FEBRUARY 11-13
FEBRUARY 9-13
FEBRUARY 17-20
FEBRUARY 17-20
FEBRUARY 24- 27
MARCH 3-5
MARCH 3-5
MARCH 10-13
MARCH 17-19
MARCH 18-20
MARCH 24-27
APRIL 1-3
APRIL 7-10
APRIL14-17
APRIL 28-MAY 1
MAY 5-8
MAY 6-8
MAY 12-15
MAY 12-15
MAY 19-22
MAY 25-29
JUNE 10-12
JULY 22-24
WPRO TEXAS OPEN IRT SATELLITE - DALLAS, TX (T5)
GHOST OF GEORGETOWN - KANSAS CITY, KS (T1)
CALI COLOMBIA GRAND SLAM - CALI, COLOMBIA (GS)
SAN DIEGO RACQUET HOUSE IRT Pro/Am - SAN DIEGO, CA (T1)
KITCHENER CLASSIC - KITCHENER, CANADA (T4)
AUBURN VW OPEN - KENT, WA (T4)
LOU BRADLEY MEMORIAL - MADISON, WI (T2)
WEST MICHIGAN OPEN - GRAND RAPIDS, MI (T4)
U.S. OPEN - MINNEAPOLIS, MN (GS)
NEW MEXICO Pro/Am - ALBUQUERQUE, NM (T3)
68 INSIDE SPORTS Pro/Am - KANSAS CITY, KS (T3)
IRT HALLOWEEN CASH TOURNAMENT - PORT RICHEY, FL (T4)
CORONA OPEN - CHIHUAHUA, MEXICO (T1)
POMONA VALLEY OPEN - POMONA, CA (T4)
LONG ISLAND OPEN - LONG ISLAND, NY (T4)
18TH ANNUAL TURKEY SHOOT - GARDEN CITY, KS (T2)
ROSE CITY Pro/Am - PORTLAND, OR (T1)
ST. NICK SPLAT - MILLERSVILLE, MD (T3)
MARKET AMERICA Pro/Am - GREENSBORO, NC (T1)
COAST TO COAST CALIFORNIA OPEN - LOS ANGLES, CA (T1)
NEW YORK CITY Pro/Am - LONG ISLAND, NY (T1)
LAWLER SPORTS Pro/Am - TERRE HAUTE, IN (T1)
NEW JERSEY OPEN - FAIRFIELD, NJ (T4)
CONCORD OPEN - CONCORD, CA (T4)
WICHITA OPEN - WICHITA, KS (T4)
LEWIS DRUG Pro/Am - SIOUX FALLS, SD (T2)
CINCINNATI OPEN - CINCINNATI, OH (T4)
KEYSTONE CLASSIC - WINNIPEG, CANADA (T4)
U.S. NATIONAL DOUBLES - PHOENIX, AZ (USAR)
SEATTLE OPEN - SEATTLE, WA (T1)
TORNADO ALLEY OPEN - WICHITA FALLS, TX (T4)
SAN DIEGO OPEN - SAN DIEGO, CA (T1)
CARL MYERS MEMORIAL - GARDEN CITY, KS (T2)
LEAMINGTON RACQUETBALL CLASSIC - LEAMINGTON, CANADA (T4)
FLORIDA SPRING BREAK Pro/Am - FL (T1)
SALT LAKE CITY Pro/Am - SALT LAKE CITY, UT (T1)
NORTHWEST OPEN - BELLINGHAM, WA (T4)
ST. LOUIS OPEN - ST. LOUIS, MO (T1)
TOPEKA OPEN - TOPEKA, KS (T4)
SOUTH CAROLINA OPEN (T4)
MEXICO OPEN - TIJUANA, MEXICO (T1)
ALISO VIEJO Pro/Am - ALISO VIEJO, CA (T1)
CAMPESTRE JUAREZ OPEN - JUAREZ, MEXICO (T1)
CINCO DE MAYO SHOOTOUT - PUEBLO, CO (T4)
BOSTON Pro/Am - BOSTON, MA (T1)
CANADIAN RACQUETBALL CLASSIC (T1)
COSTA RICA OPEN - SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA (T4)
IRT PRO NATIONALS/USAR FINALS - LOCATION TBD (GS)
MARYLAND OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS - LAUREL, MD (T4)
TAMPA OPEN - TAMPA, FL (T3)
Dates subject to change. Check http://irt-tour.com for the latest updates.
INTERVIEW WITH CHERYL GUDINAS
ILLINOIS RACQUETBALL HALL OF FAME
By John Scott
John - So in 20 years you have
missed one pro stop?
John - When did you start playing
racquetball?
Cheryl - I was a high school
freshman back in the 1980's. I
started playing because there
was a guy that we all liked and he
worked at a health club. A bunch
of us started going to the club to
try to meet him. One of the things
that we would do when we were
hanging out was play ball. I just
kinda stuck with it.
Cheryl - Yeah I only missed
one
event, and that was only because
I was snowed in. We got a lot of
snow in Chicago and I couldn’t
get a flight out.
John - Who are your role models
in the game? Anyone really help
you get to where you are today?
Cheryl - Several people have
really helped. I had a strength
John - Speaking of Rhonda, by
winning you now are on the US
National Team…what does it
mean to you?
John - How many years on tour?
Cheryl - Let’s see... my first pro
stop was in 1990 in Chicago.
They were coming to town so I
thought...why not? I entered the
pro draw and lost first round.
Back then there was a Women’s
Consolation. I dropped down to
that and actually won it. I was very
surprised to win the conso’s, and
open draw at the same
tournament so I wanted to do it
again. Later that year there was a
stop in St. Louis. I thought I'd try
there and had the same kind of
results. Within two years I
decided to play full time, and I
haven't missed any events since
the mid 90's.
Cheryl - Michelle Gould was the
toughest. She's really the only
competitor that I couldn't beat. I
never beat her. Christie Van
Heese was perhaps my biggest
rivalry. I could be down in a
breaker and battle back to win. I
remember several matches with
me and her going back and forth.
She and I have had legendary
match-ups. Rhonda is the rival
now. She and I always battle. I
was able to get her in US National
Singles this year. I was down big
in the second, after loosing the
first game, and was able to come
back and win.
coach, who was also my high
school teacher. His name was
Tim Lang. Euguen Coyle was
also a great trainer. He and Tim
were very instrumental in my
success. Role models were Chris
Evon. She was a big influence.
She's still a great friend and
supporter. My best friend and
sports phsycologist Kelley Beane
is huge for me!
John - Who is the toughest
competitor you ever faced?
Cheryl - When I was starting out
it was something that I really
wanted to do. I always wanted to
have that uniform on. I was able
to make the team in 93. For many
years it was the most important
thing for me. I wanted to play for
my country. This year I was able
to tie Michelle's record for the
most National Singles
Championships. It was a great
honor.
John - How do you handle that
situation? You were down big in
the match, you had insurance,
the record, and a spot on the
team on the line…and all of a
sudden you were playing the
most solid ball of the tournament.
Cheryl - I had dealt with so much
pressure over the years. I can't
really explain it, but when I'm in
that situation, I generally figure
out a way to make it happen. A
light comes on to hit a particular
serve, and I execute it. That's why
I started the hard Z to the
forehand against Rhonda. I
forced her to force the shots and
I was able to chip away. Once the
tie breaker came, I'm sure she
was devastated because she had
me down big. I think it was 9-2 in
the second after I lost the first. In
that situation, there's a lot on the
line, not just the team, but also the
insurance. I think I handle those
things the best.
J o h n - W h a t ’s y o u r m o s t
memorable year?
Cheryl - Around 2002 when I won
the Open. I had never won it, lots
of people were talking about me
not winning that tournament.
Winning that one tourney was
big. There were two years where
I won 9 out of 11 tournaments. I
had a great streak. Looking back
on it I never thought that I would
play pro, much less end any year
#1. I would've said that there's no
way. The racquetball magazine
ranked me as #5 of all time
recently. It was a huge article and
honor for me to see that. I have
actually worked harder and
harder since that article to
improve even more.
number one on tour. Next May I
plan to play to break the record
for most US National Singles
Titles, and I want to be the oldest
person ever to win the US Open.
John - Cheryl you’ve had several
great accomplishments on and
off the court. Then one day you
get a call and they tell you that
you’ve been selected to be in the
Illinois Racquetball Hall of Fame.
What was going through your
mind when you heard about the
ISRA Hall of Fame?
John - Wow! Good luck! Those
are some lofty goals. We can’t
wait to watch all that unfolds. Is
there anyone that you want to
thank for all the help you received
over the span of 20 years on
tour?
Cheryl - It was shocking! I was
getting calls from people I hadn't
heard from in years! It was such
a great honor! I just couldn't
believe it.
John - What does it means to you
to be inducted with such great
athletes?
Cheryl - It’s just awesome. I love
it. It helps to keep me motivated
to work even harder, push even
more. I have big plans still to
come, and then you get a call that
you are in the state Hall of Fame
and it’s amazing. Part of me feels
like being in a Hall of Fame
means that my career is over, but
I do have some surprises up my
sleeve!
John - Really? Care to shed some
light on that?
Cheryl - My goal is to win this
world championship in Korea this
month. I also want to start the
season with the same
enthusiasm as I ended last
season. I want to finish the year
Cheryl - Ted Huddleston who was
really helpful. Andy Pitock, John
Dorsen, Alok Mehta, Steve
MacInnis, Don Volv, and Gary
Lehnert, Chris Evon and Krystal
Csuk. Dave Negrete was also a
help. He would watch me play
and give me feedback on my
shots. Of course my family,
friends, and all the girls on tour,
they are like my extended family.
CHAMPIONSHIP RACQUETBALL
SPORTS TRIANGLE... TIPS FROM THE COACH!
By Fran Davis
Hall of Fame 2004
Racquetball Woman of the Year 2009
Coach #1 Women’s Pro Player, Paola Longoria
Coach #3 IRT’s Pro Player, Rocky Carson
Master Professional Instructor/Coach USAR-IP
It is with great pleasure I share
with you that I am now coaching
Rocky Carson, the #3 IRT player.
I have known Rocky for many
years and when I coached the
US Team and when he played for
HEAD I got to know him even
more. His insights into the game
are remarkable.
During the 2nd half of last
season Rocky had a major
setback which cost him big time.
He began to worry about his
future and career in the sport
rather than focus on the present
moment of playing and winning.
As a result he lost his concentration and focus and he mentally
went astray in every aspect of
the Sports Triangle. When he
finally realized at the end of the
season what was happening he
immediately said to himself,
"okay this is it I am tired of
losing." At that point he began to
focus on winning National
Singles in Houston, World's in
Korea and finish up as the #1 IRT
ranked player. Let's take a look
at what breakdowns happened
inside the "Sports Triangle" and
what adjustments Rocky made:
Racquetball Skills
1 - During his winning seasons
he practiced and drilled on the
court by himself more than he
played. This kept his game sharp
and fresh as he was able to
tweak different parts of his game.
2 - During the 1st quarter of 2010
all Rocky did was primarily play
games and did very little drilling.
3 - At the end of the season when
he re-evaluated his game he
realized he was tired of being
inconsistent and losing to people
he knew he should beat. He
knew he needed to get back to
the right form of practices that he
used to do in his winning
seasons....drill more than play.
Conditioning Skills
he was training using lots of
explosive and power workouts
along with core strength training.
This made Rocky faster getting
to the ball and he was able to do
a lot with the ball once he got his
racquet on it.
he strayed from his normal training and trained more muscular
endurance instead of explosion
and power. Rocky informed me
he would get tired while playing a
match especially the five game
matches.
3 - At the end of the season he
knew he needed to be stronger,
more powerful and definitely
more explosive so he began
doing the workouts focusing on
explosion, power and core
strength training.
Mental Toughness
he was in the "NOW", the present moment.
Rocky was too worried and
wrapped up in his future losing
sight of the "NOW".
3 - At the end of the season
Rocky got back to the "NOW". In
sports the past is gone and the
future never comes so in
racquetball you have to learn
that there is only one ball, one
shot, one serve and one point at
a time and that time is always
“NOW!” That is truly the real
beauty of it that every shot you
hit only happens in “NOW!”
Rocky's "Championship Racquetball Game" stems from his
belief in the Sports Triangle
where ALL three sides of the
triangle must be present and
working together to reach your
potential. He is living proof it
works. He just won the National
Singles
Championship
in
Houston...so one championship
down and two to go as he starts
to come back to championship
form.
Below is the Mental Toughness
Assessment to see how you
score as compared to Rocky and
other pros. It's fun and it does not
take a lot of time and you'll see
how you stack up on one side of
the triangle.
so be ready to become the
champion you always dreamed
of, but now you will have the
tools to do it and make it a reality.
For details on more personalized
instruction, a weekend camp,
instructional DVD’s, “Championship Racquetball” new book to
be released early 2011 and more
please visit:
Next issue I will give you some
more assessment tests so you
can see where in the “Sports
Triangle” you need more work.
Then, I will continue to build your
Championship
Racquetball
Dream House one level at a time
www.frandavisracquetball.com
Mental Toughness Assessment
In the space next to each question, answer by writing a number from 1 to 5:
1 = Almost Never, 2 = Seldom , 3 = Sometimes, 4 = Often, 5 = Almost Always
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
My on-court body image is always strong and confident regardless of the score or situation.
The “little voice” inside my head is always positive and confident no matter what is going on during the game.
I can stay focused, centered and fully “in the moment” during each and every point.
I do not complain or make excuses if I get a bad call or if things go poorly during my game.
I have special on-court rituals that I do to get myself back into the game and before certain serves, shots, etc.
I am easily coachable, and my coaches think that I listen and have a positive attitude.
I practice as hard as I play.
I always give my best effort regardless of the score, and I never quit on myself.
When I am behind, I think one point at a time and play high percentage racquetball.
I love competition….win or lose! I learn from my mistakes and remember my successes.
Add up your total here:
Score:
42-50 Mentally Tough!
34-41 Need Work!
Below 34 Red Alert!
RACQUETBALL WAREHOUSE PRO PLAYER GALLERY
Want to know what racquet your
favorite player uses? What
glove? Eyeguards? String?
Racquetball Warehouse has put
together a web page dedicated to
IRT players, packed with action
photos, information and
interviews.
Learn about your favorite player’s
accomplishments, products, and
more by visiting:
http://www.racquetballwarehouse.com
/proplayergallery.html
Score
IT’S A Racquetball Celebration
....AND YOU’RE INVITED!
Witness racquetball’s premiere “Grand
Slam”- the US OPEN Racquetball Championships. See all of the top players
in the world from the IRT, WPRO and
CPRT compete for the largest prize
money purse in the sport -- $48,000+.
Experience the thrill of dramatic player
introductions featuring booming music
and laser light shows. Stroll through the
US OPEN Player Village and see what’s
new from the world’s top racquetball
manufacturers.
Party the nights away with your
favorite pros and racquetball fans
from throughout the world. Be there
to see the stunning “made-for-TV”
portable stadium racquetball court.
In addition, over 700 amateur players will compete in age and skill divisions for every level. Special events
include the Saturday evening Gala
“PARTY WITH THE PROS”,
a Players Village complete with
Rocky Carson
www.usopenracquetball.com
concessions and live entertainment,
International/VIP Reception, ProAm Doubles Tourney for St. Jude,
IRT Champions Clinic, Play the Pro
Challenges, Friday Night Player’s
Dance Party, and continuous fan fair
activities on the stadium court. The
Research Hospital.
The main location and nerve center for the US OPEN will be located
in downtown Minneapolis at the
fabulous LIFE TIME FITNESS Target
Center, the same building in which
the Minnesota Timberwolves play.
All pro matches and many of the
amateur matches will take place at
this facility, located in the center of
the exciting Entertainment District in Minneapolis. Restaurants,
nightclubs, hotels, and world class
shopping are located all around the
club. Just four blocks away is the
second LIFE TIME location that will
be utilized, the Minneapolis LIFE
TIME Athletic Club. Lastly, a short
eight-minute complimentary shuttle
ride to the third location – LIFE TIME
FITNESS St. Louis Park, will complete
the rotation.
MADE-FOR-TV PORTABLE STADIUM
RACQUETBALL COURT
One of the most exciting aspects of the US OPEN
Racquetball Championships is that the NEW
“made-for-TV” portable racquetball court will be
used for all feature matches! The unique construction of the court allows stadium seating for more
than 1,200, in addition to court-side luxury boxes
for sponsors and VIPs. Dramatic player introductions complete with laser light shows and booming
music will treat racquetball fans to a total entertainment experience. The crystal clear LUCITE
acrylic walls will make you feel like you are in the
court with the players!
racquetball bash of the year – the 15th Annual US OPEN
“PARTY WITH THE PROS”. More than 600 racquetball fans
and guests are expected to turn out for an evening of exciting entertainment (location TBD). The cost for guests
and tournament spectators is $20 per person. Players
participating in the US OPEN will be admitted free!
PARTIES, PARTIES
AND MORE PARTIES
US OPEN PLAYERS VILLAGE
That’s right! For those of us who like to enjoy our evenings, the US OPEN promises a solid week of non-stop
VIP Reception and Thursday late-night “get together”
at The Shout House Dueling Piano Bar (located right
next door to the club). And that’s only the beginning!
On Friday evening, the action moves
to a local nightclub, which will feature a DJ spinning
the hottest tunes for your dancing pleasure. Saturday
The nerve center of the event will be the US OPEN Players Village. Many activities are scheduled to take place in
the Village, including an extensive Industry Trade Show,
pro autograph signing sessions, live stage with entertainment, concessions, cash bar, informational seminars, and
plenty of seating to kick back and relax. Admission is free
for all spectators and players.
Official Co-Sponsors
PRO MATCH SCHEDULE
Men’s & Women’s Pro Qualifying
Pro-Am Doubles for St. Jude
Men’s round of 32
Women’s round of 32
Men’s round of 16
Women’s round of 16
Men’s quarters
Women’s quarters
Women’s semis/Men’s semis
CHECK-IN
Wednesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Thursday
Thursday
Friday
Friday
Friday
Saturday
10:00 am - 11:00 pm
6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
9:00 am - 1:00 pm
1:00 pm - 6:00 pm
3:00 pm - 10:00 pm
9:00 am - 1:00 pm
1:00 pm - 9:00 pm
5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
All player
registration
will take
the at
downtown
LIFE LIFE
All player
registration
willplace
take at
place
the downtown
TIME FITNESS
TargetTarget
CenterCenter
club (main
host club).
TIME FITNESS
club (main
host Check-in
club). Check-in
is required
prior to
participating
in the in
event.
Hours Hours
for for
is required
prior
to participating
the event.
registration
are: Tuesday,
October
19th 319th
p.m.-310
p.m.,
registration
are: Tuesday,
October
p.m.10Wednesp.m., Wedn
day, October
20th 820th
a.m.-810p.m.,
Thursday,
October
21st 8 21st
a.m.-89a.m
day, October
a.m.- 10p.m.,
Thursday,
October
p.m., and
Friday,
October
22nd 822nd
a.m.-89a.m.p.m.9 p.m.
p.m.,
and Friday,
October
Sunday
9:30 am - 2:00 pm
benchmarks to determine eligibility for skill competition and
reserve the right to re-classify or disqualify players when/if they
are improperly placed. NOTE: Players in Age+Skill must meet the
same criteria.
MEMBERSHIP
All players must be current members of USA Racquetball. If
you’re not, a membership can be purchased at the event ($50
per year). In addition, all players entering the Men’s pro draw
must be current members of the IRT/WPRO Players
Association or join at the event ($20-IRT/$10-WPRO).
PLAY BEGINS/STARTING TIMES/
CONFIRMATION/ENTRY DEADLINE
Players must be prepared to play as early as 8 a.m. on
the dates indicated in the chart below. Requests for special
starting times must be indicated on the entry form. Every
effort will be made to accommodate special requests,
however no guarantees can be made. Starting times will be
available after 5 p.m. on Monday, October 18th
on-line at www.usopenracquetball.com. After 5pm on 10/18,
any event questions can be directed to the on-site tournament office desk by calling (612) 486-3617. Entries and
ticket orders can be confirmed online after October 1st
at www.usopenracquetball.com. Please immediately call
the US OPEN headquarters at (800) 234-5396 ext. 0 if any
errors or omissions are found. All entries must be received by
Wednesday, Oct. 6th and/or postmarked by Friday Oct. 1st.
SKILLSKILL
LEVELLEVEL
CERTIFICATION
CERTIFICATION
level by the state director or country representative as
being legitimately competitive in the entered skill division at
TICKETS FOR PRO MATCHES
Everyone will be required to purchase tickets for pro matches —
see ticket application or call (800) 234-5396 ext.0 All
non-players must purchase a ticket to be admitted to the
Saturday evening “PARTY WITH THE PROS”. Seating is
limited, therefore it is strongly recommended that you
purchase tickets in advance. ABSOLUTELY NO VIEWING
FOR PRO MATCHES WILL BE PERMITTED WITHOUT A TICKET.
Last year’s ticket packages sold out four weeks in advance, so
A very limited number of four-person courtside luxury boxes
(with catered VIP Lounge access) may be available.
Cost is $2,800. Call 614-890-6073 for availability.
HOSPITALITY
Limited hospitality (continental breakfast and lunch) for all
players will be available at LIFE TIME FITNESS St. Louis Park
cash bar and concessions throughout all hours of the event. In
addition, many restaurants are located right next door to the
club in the downtown Minneapolis Entertainment District.
SILENT AUCTION & PRO/AM DOUBLES CHALLENGE
Women’s 50+, 55+, 55+A-B-C, 60+
For the benefit of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital a
silent auction will be held during the event featuring Olympic
Memorabilia and sporting goods equipment from the industry’s
best manufacturers. Checks, cash, VISA and MasterCard are welcome. In addition, Wednesday evening, October 20th, 32 lucky
amateurs will have the opportunity to play in a single elimination (one game to 15) doubles challenge with a top professional
player as their partner. All proceeds will be donated to St. Jude,
and each amateur player will receive an autographed racquet
from their pro partner. Call (614) 890-6073 if you are interested
in participating as spots are limited. Pro/Am Doubles for St.
Jude – $325 donation. (NOTE: Your matches for any other divisions you enter will not be scheduled Wednesday evening so
you can participate in this special event)
Doubles – Men’s 19+, 55+ All Women’s (except W55+ Dbls), all Mixed
ST. JUDE HOSPITAL
OPENING ROUNDS SCHEDULE
Wednesday Oct. 20th
Singles – All IRT/WPRO Pro Qualifying, Men’s Open, Elite, A, B, C,
D, 24 & u, 24 & under A-B-C, 25+, 25+ A-B-C, 30+, 35+, 35+A-B-C,
40+(CPRT), 45+, 45+A-B-C, 55+A-B-C.
Doubles – Men’s Open, A, B, C, 35+, 45+
Thursday Oct. 21st
Singles – Men’s 50+, 55+, Women’s Elite, A, B, C, D, 24 & under, 24 &
under A-B-C, 25+, 25+A-B-C, 30+, 35+, 35+A-B-C, 40+, 45+, 45+A-B-C.,
Friday Oct. 22nd
Singles – Men’s 60+, 65+ 70+, 75+, 80+, Women’s 65+, 70+, 75+, 80+
Doubles – Women’s 55+
The US OPEN Racquetball Championships is once again
proud to name St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital as its
designated charity. Founded in 1962 by the late entertainer
Danny Thomas, St. Jude is dedicated to the successful treatment of diseases that afflict children. Having treated more
than 22,000 patients from 47 states and 53 countries, the
hospital is a world leader in the treatment of catastrophic
childhood illnesses. The US OPEN has raised over $260,000
for St. Jude!
4.
9
2.
v
3.
5.
6.
1.
TRAVEL AND LODGING
United Airlines has joined the US OPEN to offer special discounted airfares to the 2010 US OPEN. Please follow the
information below to obtain these special rates:
United Airlines
Discount: 5%-10% off published fares.
Instructions: Must call Olympic Travel Desk at (800)
841-0460 and mention USA Racquetball account #565EF.
HOTELS
When making hotel reservations, you must mention the US
OPEN Racquetball Championships. Discounted rates are
good for up to four people per room. You must make reservations by September 27th for these special rates. Regular
shuttle service will be available between the main host club
(LIFE TIME FITNESS Target Center) and LIFE TIME FITNESS
St. Louis Park (only 8 minute ride). The third club
1. COMFORT SUITES Minneapolis
2.
THE WESTIN Minneapolis
(main host hotel)
88 South 6th Street
(612) 333-4006
Rate: $119
-mention US OPEN Racquetball
-3 blocks to LIFE TIME Target Ctr.
4.
LIFE TIME FITNESS Target Ctr.
(main host hotel)
425 South 7th Street
(612) 333-3111
Rate: $90
3. THE GRAND HOTEL
(main host hotel)
(main HOST CLUB)
615 Second Ave. South
600 North 1st Street
(612) 288-8888
(612) 486-3600
(Minneapolis LIFE TIME Athletic Club) is walking distance from
the main club downtown (4 blocks). All host hotels are located
downtown and are walking distance to the main club.
PARKING / AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION
Parking downtown, like most major cities, can be expensive.
For players staying at the Comfort Suites a special $12 per day
in for the event a rental car is not necessary. For just $1.75 you
can catch the Light Rail train at the airport which will bring
you right downtown to the Target Center. All host hotels and 2
of the 3 clubs are walking distance apart downtown. The third
club, in St. Louis Park, is just 8 minutes away and the US OPEN
club. In addition, dozens of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options are all located all around the Target Center
downtown.
Rate: $159
5. MINNEAPOLIS LIFE TIME
6.
LIFE TIME FITNESS St. Louis Park
ATHLETIC CLUB
(auxiliary HOST CLUB)
(auxiliary HOST CLUB)
5524 Cedar Lake Rd.
615 2nd Ave. South
(952) 546-5474
(612) 752-7000
-free shuttle every hour from main club
(8 minute ride)
-4 blocks to main host club
Paola Longoria
PRIZE MONEY
over $48,000!
RULES/FORMAT/RANKINGS
All amateur divisions will be played according to
datory use of protective lensed eyewear tested to
ASTM F803 or CSA impact standards. Pro divisions
will use IRT/WPRO/CPRT rules. For all age divisions,
players must meet the proper age requirement as
Men’s Pro-$30,000
Women’s Pro $15,000
CPRT-$2,000 (Men’s 40+)
1st
2nd
$1,000
$ 500
Semis $ 250
Men’s & Women’s Open
Singles
1st
2nd
$ 350
$ 175
Semis $ 85
All divisions (pro and amateur) will use the ProPenn HD (purple)
court time restrictions. Every match played in all divisions at the US OPEN will be entered in the USAR’s
new state of the art ranking system.
CPRT (Men’s 40+)
Back for 2010! The Classic Pro Racquetball Tour is
sponsoring the Men’s 40+ division at the US OPEN
with a prize money purse of $2,000. ALL Men
age 40 and over are eligible to enter with official
CPRT ranking points awarded for each match won.
Featured stars include Cliff Swain, Ruben Gonzalez,
Brett Harnet, and Woody Clouse.
OFFICIATING
All players will receive $5 for each amateur
division match they referee. Players losing a
match in pro divisions are required to referee
with no fee paid.
CELEBRATION OF CHAMPIONS
2009
2008
2007
2006
2005
2004
2003
2002
2001
2000
1999
1998
1997
1996
Men’s Pro
Women’s Pro
Kane Waselenchuk
Kane Waselenchuk
Rocky Carson
Jason Mannino
Kane Waselenchuk
Kane Waselenchuk
Kane Waselenchuk
Sudsy Monchik
Cliff Swain
Sudsy Monchik
Jason Mannino
Sudsy Monchik
Cliff Swain
Sudsy Monchik
Rhonda Rajsich
Paola Longoria
Rhonda Rajsich
Christie Vanhees
Christie Vanhees
Cheryl Gudinas
Rhonda Rajsich
Cheryl Gudinas
Kerri Wachtel
Christie Vanhees
Jackie Paraiso
Jackie Paraiso
Michelle Gould
Michelle Gould
TOURNAMENT DIRECTORS
Event Director:
Doug Ganim
Floor Manager:
Pete Ulliman
Operations Manager:
Chris Jorgenson
Executive Committee:
Dr. Jim Hiser, Kay McCarthy, Heather Fender,
Aaron Granberg
Pro Commissioners:
Jason Mannino (IRT), Shannon Feaster (WPRO)
Steve Lerner (CPRT)
Jack Huczek
2010 U.S. OPEN ENTRY FORM
Name ________________________________________________________________________________ Birthdate ________________________ Age ___________
Address ______________________________________________________________________________ City/State/Zip ____________________________________
Phone (day) _______________________________________________________ (night) _____________ Fax _____________________________________________
USA Racquetball Membership Number _________________________________ Exp. Date ___________ E-Mail __________________________________________
Seeding Information (2009 US OPEN, 2010 States, Regionals, Nationals) ___________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________ Home Club _____________________________________
Players may enter a maximum of two (2) events: (3 events permitted if at least 1 is a doubles division):
PRO
USAR DIVISIONS
Check one: Men’s
or Women’s
Skill + Age Divisions*
Skill Divisions*
Elite
Can only
enter ONE
from this
group
A
B
C
D
24 & under A
24 & under B
24 & under C
25+ A
25+ B
25+ C
35+ A
35+ B
35+ C
45+ A
45+ B
45+ C
55+ A
55+ B
55+ C
Open & Age Divisions
OPEN
W40+
M40+--see CPRT below
24 & under
45+
25+
50+
30+
55+
35+
Men’s (IRT)**
Open
A
B
C
19+
35+
Doubles & Mixed Doubles Divisions*
MX Open
45+
MX A
55+
MX B
MX C
MX 30+
MX 40+
Partner’s Name ________________________________________________
Division _________________
Partner’s Name ________________________________________________
Division _________________
*REQUIRED Skill Verification Form
Please indicate below your eligibility for competition in the skill level you have selected. This information
will be verified and re-classification may take place if deemed appropriate by the Tournament Director.
___ I have been AMPRO certified at this level by:
AMPRO Certified Instructor (name required) ____________________________________________
60+
65+
70+
75+
80+
___ have recently competed in this skill category in my state, and have been approved for participation in this
category at a Level Five event by the state director or designated representative shown below:
_______________________________________________________________________ (name required)
___ I competed at this level (but did not win the division title) at the:
____ 2009 U.S. OPEN, or the ____ 2010 USAR National Singles
Women’s (WPRO)**
Men’s 40+ (CPRT)**
** The Men’s Pro draw will begin in the round of 32 with qualifying rounds scheduled as needed. The Women’s Pro draw will begin in the round of 32 with qualifying
rounds scheduled as needed. Players wishing to enter the amateur Men’s OPEN division must enter it directly as a second event. CPRT (Men’s 40+) is open to all Men
over 40 years of age. CPRT draw will begin in the round of 16 with qualifying rounds as needed.
WAIVER: I hereby, for myself, my heirs, executors, and administrators, waive and release and all rights and claims that I may have against the USA Racquetball, IRT, WPRO, Ganim Enterprises, Life Time Fitness,
CPRT, and all other US OPEN sponsors, or their respective agents for any and all injuries I may suffer as a result of participation in this event. By registering to participate, I release all rights to the use of event
photographs/videos in which my image appears.
Participant Signature (parent if under 18) ___________________________________________________________________ Date ______________
ENTRY FEES
Players may enter a maximum of two events (3 events permitted if at least 1 is a doubles division). Consolation will not be offered due to court time restrictions. Players in multiple divisions may
play back-to-back matches. Returned checks will be assessed a $23 service charge ($10 for declined credit cards). Phone entries will be accepted through the entry deadline with a $15 service
charge and a major credit card by calling the US OPEN headquarters at (800) 234-5396 ext. 129. Maximum amateur draw is 700 players. Once filled, all additional entries received will be returned
with refund.
Amount Pd.
Division
First Event
($99)
_______________ _______________
Second Event
($51)
_______________ _______________
Third Event
($51)
_______________ _______________
USAR Membership
($50)
_______________ _______________
Late Fee/Phone Entry
($20/$15)
_______________ _______________
Extra Party with the Pro’s ticket
($20 each)
_______________ Quantity: ______
(players admitted free)
TOTAL
ENTRY DEADLINE:
All entries must be received by Wednesday, Oct. 6th and/or
postmarked by Friday, Oct. 1st. No refunds will be given after the
entry deadline. All entries received after the entry deadline will be
assessed a $20 late fee if space is still available in the tournament.
ENTRY FEE INCLUDES:
Limited hospitality, free access to Player Village and fan fair
activities, souvenir US OPEN shirt, US OPEN Souvenir Program,
Jack
ticket to the Saturday evening “PARTY WITH THE PROS”, plus
much, much more!
_______________ _______________
Visa/MC _____________________________________ Exp. Date _______________ Sec. Code ______
Cardholder’s Name (print) __________________________________________________________________
Signature _______________________________________________________________________________
Make check payable and mail to:
U.S. OPEN Racquetball Championships
1685 West Uintah • Colorado Springs, CO 80904-2969
or FAX this completed form to (719) 635-0685
?
Have you enclosed your Pro Match Ticket Application and payment for tickets? Seating is limited. Must purchase tickets in
advance to be guaranteed a seat. One check can be written for
entry fees and tickets.
To enter by phone call: (800) 234-5396 ext. 129
outside US: (719) 635-5396 ext. 129
To enter online: www.usopenracquetball.com
Huczek
PRO MATCH TICKET APPLICATION
Price
SESSION #1 (Mezzanine side wall viewing only): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $20
Men’s & Women’s Pro Qualifying Wednesday, 10 a.m.- 11 p.m.
Quantity
Total($)
SESSION #2:(Mezzanine side wall viewing only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $20
Men’s round of 32 Thursday, 9 a.m.- 1 p.m.
Women’s round of 32 Thursday, 1 p.m.- 6 p.m.
SESSION #3(Mezzanine side wall viewing only): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $24
Men’s round of 16 Thursday, 3 p.m.- 9 p.m.
Women’s round of 16 Friday, 9 a.m.- 1 p.m.
Men’s quarters #1,#2 Friday, 1 p.m.- 4:00 p.m. (IRT Champions Clinic 4p.m.)
Men’s quarters #3, #4 Friday, 5:00 p.m.- 9 p.m.
Women’s quarters Friday 5 p.m.- 8 p.m.
Women’s Semi #1/Men’s semi #1 Saturday, 10:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.
(Play the Pro Challenge - 1pm)
Women’s Semi #2/Men’s semi #2 Saturday, 2:00 p.m.- 5:00 p.m.
CPRT finals/Women’s finals/Men’s finals Sunday, 9:30 a.m.- 2 p.m.
BEST VALUES!– only available in advance!
PREFERRED TICKET PACKAGE (BACK WALL or SIDE WALL viewing for all sessions)........$125
STANDARD TICKET PACKAGE (Mezzanine SIDE WALL only viewing for all sessions)........$99
Guest Ticket for “PARTY WITH THE PROS” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $20
(free for all player participants) Saturday, 8 p.m.- 12:30 a.m.
$4
Processing fee (must be paid to process your order) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $4
Make check payable or use credit card and mail to:
US OPEN Racquetball Championships
1685 West Uintah
Colorado Springs, CO 80904-2969
To order your tickets by phone call: (800) 234-5396 ext. 129
outside US: (719) 653-5396 ext. 129 or fax this completed form to : (719) 635-0685
To order on-line: WWW.USOPENRACQUETBALL.COM
Visa/MC # ______________________________ Exp. Date _____ Sec. Code _____
Cardholder’s Name (print) ____________________________________________
TOTAL
Tickets will not be mailed in advance. They can
be picked up at the US OPEN Will Call Desk,
located at The Racquet Club (I.D. is required).
Seating is limited. Must purchase tickets in
advance to be guaranteed a seat.
Signature __________________________________________________________
Name to hold tickets under ___________________________________________
A very limited number of four-person courtside
Credit Card Billing Address ____________________________________________
luxury box seats (with table service) may be
City ___________________________________ State _________ ZIP _________
Pro/Gold Lounge with food and drink for the
Day Phone ___________________________ Night Phone __________________
available. Cost is $2,800. Includes access to
week. Call (614) 890-6073 for availability.

September 2010 Newsletter

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