The Championship match in pictures:

These photos were taken by KYLE SCHEWE -- who dedicated his time and skill to pictorially record the 2011 finals.

Many participated in the final match.  They endured rain and chill to be there.  Each making  their own  contribution to this event.  Thank you all! Hope you enjoy the movie -- Steve England

Rain plagued final helps SV to repeat!

Sopcic leads early as SV has to keep playing catchup! 

When SV comes from behind to tie the 1st-set at 5-all.  It looks like a tie-breaker was in the making!  Then Sopcic steps up his game, easily taking the next two to win the 1st-set 7-5.

In the 2nd, players mostly hold serve (aided by the puddles on the court) until they're tied at 4-all! This time SV seems to step up his game slightly, and takes two straight to level the match!

The final set was a different story!  SV scores four unanswered games before Sopcic gets on the board!  Sopcic then wins another, and now we have a match!  Leading 4-2, SV is determined not to blow his lead!  SV breaks Sopcic for a 5-2 edge, then benefits from some uncharacteristic unforced errors to win the match, and the championship!  SV tops TB 5-7,6-4,6-2.

SV would like to congratulate TB on an impressive season -- coming within 1-set of winning the championship in his 1st season of play!  Thanks go out to all who helped, and participated in the tournament, and SPECIAL THANKS to BY, BW, DR, KB + kids, KI, KS, JT, OC, and RB.  Also, I can't thank everyone enough for the kind gesture of giving me a gift certificate to 801 Chophouse... Wow, that was a surprise!

Rain almost postpones match!

"Rain, rain go away!" Were the words rumbling around court-side today. The weather certainly had an impact on today's championship match, at times even threatening to suspend the action for another day.  Players continued swinging through soggy tennis balls loaded down with water, and adjusting their strokes to compensate.

Spectators and umpire alike shivered in the damp conditions, but most remained to the end!  It certainly wasn't ideal conditions for tennis, but the rooster-tails spinning off the balls as they rocketed through the air, and the unusual bounces created unexpected difficulties which had to be compensated for.  In the end... both players were equally impacted, but the wet conditions probably took Sopcic's speed advantage away.  This surely leveled the age and fitness discrepancy, and perhaps prevented Sopcic's first Championship victory!

Championship Match Scheduled!

The final match of the 2011 TowerTennis Championship will be held Wednesday October 12 at 4pm.  Court-12 at the Waveland Tennis Complex.
4822 Observatory Rd, Des Moines, IA 50311

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Sopcic cleared to play!

CLEARED TO PLAY!!!  Was the consensus of the TowerTennis Ethics Committee. In a unanimous decision... Finalist Sopcic will not be prevented from competing for the title after failing to disclose childhood training.  The compelling email testimony of Sopcic's father Mark, heavily influenced the committee's decision.

Although the committee was united in that Sopcic should play for the title, there was further controversy as some committee members exceeded their purview, and went beyond the scope that they were authorized.  Although my actions as Tennis Director certainly appear to be nefariously motivated.  I alone know that my actions were justified, and am not afraid of publishing dissenting opinions.  "If a position cannot stand up to criticism, then that position should be abandoned" -- Steve England 2011.  The charges levied against me as Tennis Director/Commissioner are a result of not looking deeper into the reasons for my actions.  I personally believe that a victory is proportional to the difficulty with which is was achieved!  By eliminating my competition through disqualification -- I eliminate the glory of any potential victory.  I would further add that I have never lost in tournament play to the individuals in question.  Therefore, why would I feel a need to disqualify them, unless I felt it justified?  On the surface it only makes me look bad, and again -- minimizes any glory associated with a victory.

Below is the most outspoken opinion:

The 2011 Tower Tennis Ethics Committee was convened in order to determine the eligibility status of one, Matthew Sopcic, a 2011 Tower Tennis participant, in his first year of competition. The ethics committee  considered many details before rendering a decision. Items considered included, past practices, family member statements, as well as a complete examination of the individuals ethics and moral fortitude. The committee found that one, Matthew Sopcic, did indeed compromise the integrity of the Tower Tennis tournament, as well as himself, by failing to fully disclose his previous tennis experience and skill level. This allowed Mr. Sopcic to "ramrod" his way through the lower bracket with little to no resistance. Meanwhile, upper level players , much like himself, were forced to compete with equal competition, which resulted in many elite level players being eliminated from the tournament early. This clearly gave Mr. Sopcic a competitive advantage, as he did not have to sacrifice his body match in and match out while those in the upper bracket were slowly being worn down by similar level competition. Mr. Sopcic's "sandbagging" approach throughout the 2011 Tower Tennis Tournament is a shame and an embarrassment for those of us who hold it in such high regard. However, due to the fact that the Tournament Commissioner failed to conform to standard disclosure policies with all participants, Mr. Sopcic cannot be held accountable for the Commissioner's own failure, and should be allowed to compete in the 2011 Tower Tennis Championship Match, with no restrictions or doubt in his eligibility status.
During the process of investigating one, Matthew Sopcic, the committee was disturbed by what they found in reviewing the actions of Commissioner Steven England. The Committee found an alarming pattern of not only attempting to, but in one case the actual suspension of an elite level competitor. During the 2011 Tower Tennis Tournament, defending runner-up and contender for the 2011 Title, Jeffrey Bode, was suddenly and abruptly suspended for actions deemed inappropriate by the Commissioner. Whether or not this suspension was just or not, it clearly gave Steven England a competitive advantage going forward within this year's tournament. We believe the commissioner was/is attempting to increase his odds of a championship repeat by eliminating his greatest competitors. The fact that the commissioner holds the power of judge, jury, and prosecutor, should be addressed going forward. -- BW

The following are more moderate:

Wow.  The condemnation of the tournament director was not warranted, but I do feel that Sopcic should be allowed to continue in tournament play; to include, but not limited to, the 2011 Finals. -- Dynasty Champion JT.

I agree with JT -- Committee Member/2011 Semifinalist DR.

 After much consideration, I am left with no choice but to side with Mr. Broadway's findings.
 It is unfortunate to witness the tournament's evolution to autocracy. -- Committee Member MM.

Open letter to the TowerTennis Ethics Committee:

The following has been submitted in evidence whether Sopcic knowingly withheld information critical to his bracket placement. The committee's decision will be published once rendered.

Committee members:

As Matt's father, I would like to provide detail to his past tennis training.  First thing, it does not surprise me Matt did not remember his tennis training as he was very young and the training was short lived.  As a 6 or 7 year old, his mother Karen & I thought it would be a good experience for Matt to attend a summer tennis class at the local YWCA.  I don't remember all details but it was an introductory class taught by the local tennis instructor.   The young instructor had few tennis credentials and at best was a member of his local high school  tennis team so the term "tennis professional" does not apply.  Due to the fact that his mother and I worked during the day, Matt's grandmother was nice enough to chauffer him to and from these lessons.   I believe the introductory lesson's consisted or 4 total classes.   It became apparent that he would not continue further to an intermediate class when all he focused on was the fact that after class he had to pick up the balls that he hit during practice.   Thus started Matt's baseball career that he continued through High school.  At least with baseball you had teammates that helped pick up balls after practice. 

Regard,

Mark Sopcic

Scandal rocks TowerTennis!

Sopcic gained favorable bracket position by not disclosing professional instruction!

Less than two weeks before the climatic event of the 2011 TowerTennis Championship, scandal rocks the TowerTennis world!  The unique structure of the TowerTennis bracket seeks to initially place players within the bracket so that they play others of similar abilities.  This structure promotes participation by pairing strong players with strong players, and weak players with weak players.  Eventually, the two best will raise to the top.  However, a 3rd place player may get eliminated early.  This unique aspect of the bracket has been demonstrated when Dynasty Champion JT was eliminated after two rounds the past two years.  The best player in the lower bracket has a built-in edge making it to the semi's.  Once there, with only one big match to make the finals -- An initial placement in the lower bracket avoids the top competition until the semifinals, and gives any player an extreme advantage.

When interviewed before the tournament began.  Sopcic stated that he had little to no experience.  This assertion helped to place him in the lower bracket.  Long suspected of sandbagging, Sopcic was even given the nickname: "Sandbagger Sopcic".  As in many scandals of the past -- It's not the action, it's the coverup!  Sopcic's failure to disclose that he was given professional instruction as a child alters the balance of power within the bracket.

An adhoc committee has been convened to hear the evidence against Sopcic.  Sopcic faces possible expulsion from the tournament, which would result in a tainted victory for Defending Champion SV.  The judgement of the committee will be published as soon as it's available.

Sopcic advances to the Finals!

Sopcic stages a come from behind victory in the 3rd to defeat DR 6-3,1-6,6-4!

Dean faced quite the challenge in this semifinal showdown!  Dean's quest to force an: "Elder's Match" was thwarted by youthful brawn!  Suffering from atrial fibrillation, a coronary stint, high blood pressure, and a heart attack damaged heart -- Dean takes on 27-year old Sopcic in a semifinal quest for glory!  Having dispatched "Dynasty Champion" JT earlier in the tournament -- Dean benefited from JM's departure from competition after JM was defaulted.  He then slipped by DNR in a come from behind 3-setter to advance for this semifinal showdown with young Sopcic.


Sopcic's road to the semi's faced a serious challenge from Nate O'Connor, but Sopcic came out on top in each of their two encounters.  Sopcic's only loss was to defending champion SV in the winner's bracket semifinal.  Even there, Sopcic forced a tie-breaker in the 2nd, and came very close to defeating the aging champ!

The 1st-set begins with Sopcic breaking DR's serve with the same difficult specialty shot he later uses to win the match.  Although several names were used to describe this extraordinary maneuver -- a technical description would be: A retreating two-handed reverse overhead lob.  If it wasn't for Sopcic's perfection of the highly difficult shot -- defending champion SV would likely be facing Dean in the finals, and not young Sopcic!  Despite Dean's excellent execution of deep shots which denied Sopcic net-position.  Sopcic jumps on a DR 2nd-serve to take the 1st-set.

In the 2nd -- Sopcic's specialty shot fails him several times aiding Dean in his quest to level the match.  DR lobs over Sopcic, then as Sopcic leaps into the air.  Sopcic swings for an overhead slam, but hits into the net to lose the 2nd convincingly: 1-6.

In the 3rd -- DR comes back from a double break point down to hold a 3-2 lead, then jumps ahead 4-2 after Sopcic corrects a bad call.  It looks like an upset is in the making, when Sopcic finds a new strategy to use against DR!  Sopcic battles back to 4-all, then extends his lead to reach triple match-point!  On the final point, Sopcic executes his specialty shot -- The retreating two-handed reverse overhead lob to win after Dean puts his response into the net.

Sopcic advances to the finals by defeating Dean in three: 6-3,1-6,6-4.  SPECIAL THANKS to KYLE SCHEWE for serving as tournament photographer!  Your action shots helped to tell the story, and preserve the details of this hard fought battle! 

Play-by-play Podcast: Relive the match one point at a time!

DR vs TB 2011 Semifinal by towertennis

Sopcic returns to Semifinals!

"If the master defeats the student, then the master has failed as a teacher… yet if the student defeats the master, then the master has failed as a warrior!"  So was the dilemma faced by Nate this afternoon!  

Whenever Nate stepped his game up -- Sopcic elevated to stay in the point.  At times the action reminded one of a wrestling match. As players vie for position, each trying to get an edge on the other.  Invariably, it seemed like Sopcic was the one who would slip from Nate's grasp to establish a foothold near the net.  A short shot, or a 2nd serve, would invite Sopcic to make his approach.  Perhaps out of frustration, or maybe a calculated tactic -- at one point Nate hauls off and launches an atom smasher of a shot streaking toward his net-hogging opponent.  It's fortunate that the net-cord blocked this bullet.  Had it not... Sopcic would forever wonder what it would have been like to someday become a father!

The match was much closer than the score would indicate!  Virtually each point was a multi-shot marathon filled with drama and superb action!  It's a shame someone had to lose, but like any contest, a victor must emerge.  In a sense, this was a right of passage for the young victor.  With his accomplishment he emerges as a true contender for the championship!  Sopcic defeats his teacher: 6-1,7-5. Now only two more matches stand between him, and the trophy!

 

Final-Four Decided!

Quarterfinal Showdown: Student seeks to become Master!

Sopcic let his 1st chance to make the finals slip through his grasp! Now he has a second chance, but standing in his way is Nate (TB's OJTI)! "The student has become the master"... Says the young developmental. However, "the student is ignorant, and has much to learn"... Replies Nate!

Sopcic has beaten everyone he's played in TowerTennis... Perhaps deserving of his nickname: "Sandbagger" -- but Nate possesses the best two-handed backhand in our game! If the Master shows patience, and waits to strike... The rising young star may indeed be eclipsed. This match could make the record books! Show your support by attending a great one: Tuesday September 27, 2011 at 2:15pm, Norwalk Tennis Complex, Norwalk, Iowa.

Injury forces DH to withdrawal!

Plagued by tennis-elbow, Woman's Champ Deanna steps down so the tournament can move on.   Always a fierce competitor, DH underwent cortisone injections in a hope that she could continue.  Unfortunately, treatment will extend well into October.  Not wanting to delay the Championship -- DH withdraws to keep things moving!

DR advances to Semifinals with late surge in the third!

Down 0-3 in the final set... Dean takes 5-straight to not only avert imminent defeat, but take the edge in a battle of rally-masters!  Fighting back to tie the match up at 3-all must have invigorated DR!  Dean runs 10 unanswered points to lead 5-3, 30-love!  Dean is only two points away from winning the match, when Doug energizes to take 5-straight points himself!  Closing to 5-4, Doug serves to stay alive! DNR looks like he'll pull off a counter-comeback, but soon finds himself match-point down after a failed volley of a deep DR lob! Doug survives the match-point down when another DR lob lands centimeters long!  Doug's reprieve is short lived, as he returns to his perilous status when a slam hits the net!  Doug then goes for the right sideline, but misfires wide!  DR defeats DNR 6-0,3-6,6-4.

Supe-Killer strikes again!

OC eliminates another Supervisor... and with his victory loses chance to ever leave DSM!

Unafraid of losing his chance to advance... Nate strikes with zinging backhands, and blistering serves!  Several OC shots fall-in as KN watches!  Nate easily wins the 1st-set, then takes a commanding 5-1 lead in the 2nd, before KN surges for two!  OC eliminates his 2nd supervisor 6-1,6-3.

DNR advances to Quarter-Finals after eliminating BY in 3-set rematch!

Down 1-3 in the 1st, DNR runs 4-straight to take a 5-3 lead.  Steve counters by closing to 5-4, but  Doug finishes him off with a 6-4 victory.

In the 2nd... DNR again finds himself down 1-3, and 2-4, before he's able to connect with another 3-game run! Doug now leads 5-4, and then 6-5 respectively.  Steve fights to force a tie-breaker at 6-all, then takes the breaker (7-5) to level the match at 1-set all!

 In the 3rd... Players exchange games until finding themselves completely tied: 1-set all, 3-games all.  Steve struggles with the net-cord, while DNR pulls away for the win.  DNR eliminates BY in three! 6-4, 6-7 (5-7), 6-3.

Sopcic steamrolls over CD 6-2,6-0.

Curt has scoreless set for 1st time in a 2011 TowerTennis match-up!

DH runs over AS 6-2,6-0.

Ladies Champion DH knocks off yet another male player!

By aggressively running Scott side to side, and attacking the ball - DH neutralizes Scott's size advantage!  Deanna pounced on the ball whenever she could, hitting well executed forehands, and two-handed backhands deep into the corners.  Likewise, Scott runs around his backhand on numerous occasions to favor a vertical forehand shot which was effective, but too infrequent to gain an edge.  Deanna tires the big guy out, then goes in for the kill!  DH eliminates Scott: 6-2,6-0.

Despite being rusty -- OC wins comfortably!

KI prevents shutout!

Matched up against the more skilled OC -- KI had quite the battle on his hands!  OC possesses without question the best two-handed backhand in TowerTennis!  Couple this with one of the top serves, and a topspin forehand that he can direct anywhere he wants, and you have the makings of a shutout.  KI's challenge under such circumstances was to win anything he could -- and he did!

OC found success targeting KI's backhand by hitting multiple shots deep to the right corner.  Meanwhile, KI ripped a few smoking serves OC's way!  One serve was a blistering ace that was so good KI broke out into dance (Like a NFL touchdown celebration)!  Although these big KI serves gave him an edge, he didn't finish the point on OC's return.  KI frequently, made himself vulnerable by hitting up on the ball.  Although this has a neutral effect if the ball is deep.  Anything landing between the net, and the service line will set the opponent up for a winning stroke.

OC's game was quite dominant, but there were several long rallies.  Losing the 1st-set 6-0, KI faced a very real prospect of going down without a single victory.  KI then mixes up a deep lob over a lunging OC to the left corner.  Then follows with a drop-shot to prevent the shutout!

At triple match-point down, KI slams a service winner to stay alive -- But quickly succumbs to an OC forehand cross-court nailing the sideline.   OC eliminates KI 6-0, 6-1.  

In the heat of battle... CD keeps his cool!

CD avenges earlier loss to BW by serving up smoking hot strokes, and steamy winners!

BW starts out strong, jumping to a 3-1 lead.  Then CD starts chipping away until he catches and surpasses.  CD is now leading 5-3 as BW lobs deep forcing Curt to swing on the run.  CD's return is bad, and BW closes to 5-4 before Curt takes the set.

In the 2nd... Momentum carries over as CD pushes ahead to lead 3-0! Then BW counters by tieing it up at 3-all!  Fearing a 3rd-set -- Curt ratchets up his game to take the next three.  CD eliminates BW 6-4, 6-3.

Match Preview: BW vs CD -- Thursday August 25, 4:30pm Harmon Park

The Heat Is On!!

In a battle to stay alive in The 2011 TowerTennis Championship -- CD and BW will face off in a rematch from a controversial 2nd round battle. Heat played a major role in CD's loss against BW. This caused him to retire from play, despite a healthy lead. CD then went on to slide right past KS on a rain soaked court. CD now finds himself face to face with the player who sent him to the loser's side. BW was sent packing to the losers bracket in a loss to the more experienced KN. When asked of his strategy to defeat CD again, BW responded with: "I'm gonna run his ass ragged, and hope to outlast him." Meanwhile: CD responded with "I'll bring justice, by bringing an end to BW's tennis season!" This match is scheduled for 4:30 pm Thursday August 25th, at Harmon Park. Come out and see who can withstand the elements of the TowerTennis Championship!

"BY" out-executes "AJ"!

Shot execution was the difference, in this elimination rematch!

AJ's 1st-serve fails, while his ground strokes miss their mark.  Meanwhile, "BY" makes the adjustments to increase his percentages.  Well known for a bullet-serve -- "BY" goes down 1-3 in the 2nd.  Realizing that you have to get it in... to win.  Steve throttles back the power -- then takes 5-unanswered games to win the match!  "BY eliminates "AJ" in straight-sets: 6-1, 6-3.

Note: SV mistakenly tells "BY" that's he's made the quarterfinals in the above video.  After checking the bracket "BY" is actually in the round-of-eight.

Suspension Announcement!

As the person who has organized, directed, and commissioned this tournament since its inception in 2004.  I feel that I not only have the authority, but the responsibility to protect the integrity of this event, and those who wish to support it by removing a detrimental player who has consistently made a mockery of our annual event.  One rogue individual will not be permitted to harm what dozens of people have enjoyed participating in, and following for nearly a decade.   Regretfully, a prominent player in our tournament has chosen to consistently behave in a derisive, and offensive manner that is inconsistent with both tennis, and social norms.  Therefore, I feel forced to suspend this player from the 2011 TowerTennis Championship effective immediately.

I regret having to take this action, but feel that permitting this individual to continue to participate in our tournament would be detrimental to the event, and condone this type of behavior. -- Steve England

Sopcic on the edge of glory... loses grasp at moment of truth!

Sopcic forces tie-breaker in the 2nd, but misses chance to take a cramping SV to three!

Sopcic starts strong and is only one point from taking a 3-0 lead, but allows SV to come back from a 40-love deficit to take 5 straight games.  Sopcic now finds himself down 2-5, but battles back to 4-5 before SV wins the 1st-set.

In the 2nd... Sopcic is down 2-5 and faces 4 separate match-points down, but won't go quietly into the night!  In an unbelievable comeback, Sopcic ties it up at 5-all, then again at 6-all to force a tie-breaker!  With SV starting to cramp up (hindering his performance), all Sopcic has to do is take SV to three!  Sopcic knows his youth and fitness will out last the aging defending champ, but only if he can force a 3rd-set!  Sopcic on the edge of glory... loses grasp at the moment of truth!  Sopcic loses the tie-breaker, and with it an undefeated record, and a trip to the finals.  SV survives the young challenger 6-4,7-6(7-1).

Semifinal Showdown Preview!

Young challenger Sopcic seeks to take down defending champion SV!

Don't miss out on what could be a historic battle for TowerTennis dominance!  Will the old man prevail, or will a new stallion take over?  Sopcic takes on SV -- Wednesday August 17, 2:30pm Norwalk Tennis Complex, Norwalk, IA.

Quarterfinals: Sopcic routs KN 6-1,6-0!

Sopcic is unstoppable! As powerful and accurate as KN's forehand is, it was no match for young Sopcic!  

Sopcic was all over the court!  KN can usually sense when a player approaches the net, but not Sopcic!  Sopcic's panther-like approach, and cheetah-like speed, was a formidable combination!  KN would rip a forehand return, but out of the blue -- Sopcic would pound a volley from the net for a winner!  Sopcic returned practically everything, and demonstrated a court coverage unequaled in TowerTennis!  If he wasn't ripping a 1st-serve, he was attacking the net!  KN had quite the battle on his hands, but managed to save a set-point down, to prevent a shutout!  Sopcic wins the quarterfinals 6-1, 6-0!

DH wins tie-breaker! Deanna eliminates Angry-Jeff!

Reigning Ladies Champion Deanna takes down one of the men! Any tie-breaker is full of drama, as I'm sure this breaker must have been!  When the cloak of suspense cleared... DH had pulled ahead for the victory 7-6(7-3).  Now up 1-set to none, Angry-Jeff would have had to battle back just to tie!  Although the score was close.  With 8-years experience competing against the men -- Deanna shuts Angry-Jeff down, and takes the 2nd for a straight-set victory!  DH eliminates MN 7-6(7-3),6-4.

JM ends DK's quest for TowerTennis glory!

Despite rolling his ankle, battling DK's underhanded serve, and struggling with low percentages from his own 1st-serve.  JM aces DK several times, coupled with multiple service winners to end DK's tournament. 







File Photo by Schewe, taken during the DK/SV match earlier in year.

Sopcic wins convincingly over KI!

Sopcic continues his winning ways!  TB convincingly takes down KI in straight sets 6-1,6-0. Listen to the players describe the match in their own words:

Rain plagues Curt/Schewe Match!

Saturated tennis balls sporting spinning rooster-tails soak players as they stroke through heavy water-laden balls.

The rain began the moment Curt arrived, but players decide to brave the slippery conditions to complete their long awaited match.  Schewe leads early in each set, but Curt demonstrated a strong service game with well placed shots frequently putting Schewe on the defense.  Curt would frequently hit deep to the baseline, causing Schewe to retreat backward.  This put Schewe out of position, and most often caused a bad hit.  Despite this, Schewe stays close, making virtually every game a multi-deuce marathon!  The wet courts did pose a safety issue, but players restrained themselves just enough to prevent injury.  Every point was a joy to watch, as the spinning balls flung spray into the air, sometimes soaking the players.  Curt eliminates Schewe from 2011 competition with a 6-2,6-2 victory in the rain.

SV advances to semifinals.

DNR starts strong, dominating the first half of the 1st!

SV would hit a monster serve -- only to see it returned down the line for a winner!  DNR couldn't do any wrong, and quickly jumps to a 3-0 lead.  SV holds, but Doug is now serving for a chance at a 4-1 edge, and is only one point away!  SV knows this is the pivotal point in the set, and probably the match.  Deuce after deuce after deuce goes by -- then finally SV squeaks out 2-points in a row!  What could have been an insurmountable lead for DNR, is now 3-2 with SV serving for a tie.  After getting pounded by DNR's service return -- SV changes from a flat power-serve, to a spinning kick-serve.  DNR seemed to have more difficulty with the slower serve, and SV goes on to win six straight to take the 1st-set.

In the 2nd -- DNR quickly wins the 1st-game, but SV takes 4 before DNR wins another.  At this point -- another SV win will probably put the match out of reach for DNR.  DNR battles for this game, but eventually it goes to SV.  Doug's heart wasn't in it after this.  Doug makes numerous unforced errors in the last game, culminating with a double-fault on triple match-point down.  SV slips by DNR 6-3,6-2.

Scott ends CA's tournament!

Hoping for his 1st TowerTennis victory, CA's ambitions malfunction at the Junction! 

Leading 4-2 after a couple service breaks, and a hold.  CA looks like his quest is on track, but double faults at game-point down.  This keeps Scott within striking range, permitting Scott to later tie the set with a lunging winner -- off an Axtell drop-shot.  Serving after Scott ties the set... Axtell volleys wide, a shot which would have sailed long.  This gives Scott a 5-4 edge, followed by a service hold for the win.

In the 2nd -- Both players show signs of stress as the heat-index climbs to 107 degrees.  Axtell desides to trash-talk from the shady side after finding himself down 1-4, and unlikely to recover.  Bent over clutching his stomach -- Axtell's hunger adds to his suffering, but he continues to play.  Knowing that a come back victory would prolong his pain.  Axtell double faults at 1-5 while trying to stay alive.  Despite saving one match-point down -- CA soon succumbs to AS, and is eliminated from this year's tournament.  AS wins 6-4,6-1!

Sopcic destroys Angry-Jeff!

In a match between two 1st-year players... Sopcic (this year's surprise tennis phenomenon) mops the court with yet another promising player (Angry-Jeff).
Angry-Jeff had not tasted defeat until today. Then he went up against Buzz-Saw Sopcic! Sopcic defeats Angry-Jeff 6-0,6-0.
Sopcic's game is quite impressive for his level of experience.  Angry-Jeff shouldn't feel bad -- Buzz-Saw Sopcic has surprised all of the top players during practice matches in Norwalk.  Although still not demonstrating "Classic" tennis strokes. Sopcic gets to virtually everything, and puts virtually everything into play.  This ability alone, will win most matches at our level.  He also benefits from youth, and fitness.  Watch out.. if this guy starts ripping classic strokes like OC!  It will be virtually impossible to stop him!  A championship awaits this young man!  The question is... will it be this year, or next?

Experience prevails over youth... KN tops BW 6-2,6-4.

KN's powerful forehand punishes BW! BW starts strong -- breaking KN at love, but can't hold against KN's forehand attack!  Down 2-3 but serving -- BW knows he needs to win to stay close, but KN volleys over BW's head for the edge!  Now leading 4-2 in the 1st -- KN's forehand seems unstoppable as he advances for a 6-2 victory.

In the 2nd -- BW starts strong with a 2-1 lead, but let's most opportunities past him by.  Meanwhile, KN jumps on it when he can -- keeping BW on defense!  BW predicts 3-sets when he breaks KN, then holds for a 4-2 lead -- but KN dominates the remainder of the set (as evidenced by KN's lunging drop for a winner as he crashes into the fence)! KN takes a straight set victory over BW 6-2,6-4.
KN vs BW 2011 Podcast by towertennis

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DNR builds big lead in the 3rd... Too much for BY to overcome!

DNR gets an edge in the 1st, rest in the 2nd, then builds a formidable lead in the 3rd.  Loving the approach shot, followed by a pounding volley game at the net.  DNR runs Steve side to side - a great tactic, but one which frequently goes awry!  Steve counters with high slicing lobs, and extreme spinning drops.

Both players run each other ragged for nearly 3-hours in oppressive humidity, when Steve finds himself down 0-5 in the 3rd.  Fighting to stay alive - Steve ratchets up his game hitting multiple 1st-serves, and saving multiple match-points before succumbing to DNR's insurmountable lead.  DNR defeats BY 6-4,1-6,6-2.

MN volleys his way to victory!

Net assault succeeds for Angry-Jeff! Down 1-4 in the 1st - Scott chips away at Angry-Jeff's lead closing to 3-4.  Scott allows a golden opportunity to tie slip through his fingers, as Angry-Jeff breaks for a 5-3 lead, then holds serve for the win!

In the 2nd Scott jumps to a 4-1 lead, and is poised to level the match, but can't finish Angry-Jeff off!  Angry-Jeff survives a marathon multi-deuce game at 2-4 which opened the door for a comeback.  Scott fends off an Angry-Jeff attempt to tie late in the 2nd, and pushes ahead to serve for the set at 5-3.  Suddenly, Angry-Jeff discovers that attacking the net with a magazine full of volleys punches holes in Scott's defences.  Angry-Jeff punishes Scott at the net, then overtakes Scott to lead 6-5!  Scott fights to stay alive - shooting down 3 match-points down before falling to the 4th.  MN remains undefeated!  MN over AS 6-3, 7-5.

Angry Jeff finds success with net attack!

OC routs RB

In an elimination match, both OC and RB fight to stay alive. Only one would emerge to play again, while the other waits until next year! OC dominates the points in a straight-set rout of RB! OC wins 6-0,6-1.

Nate eliminates RB!

Happy with his victory over RB, OC describes how the match which eliminated Ryan unfolded.

Broadway brings the heat!

CD retires midway through the 2nd! Despite winning the 1st, and ahead 3-1 in the 2nd. When Broadway heats things up and closes to 3-all. CD shows symptoms of heat exhaustion. CD is forced to retire, despite an impressive lead.  BW over CD 4-6,4-2 (retired).

Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion

The most common signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

• confusion
• dark-colored urine (which indicates dehydration)
• dizziness
• fainting
• fatigue
• headache
• muscle cramps
• nausea
• pale skin
• profuse sweating
• rapid heartbeat

Treatment for Heat Exhaustion

If you or anyone else has symptoms of heat exhaustion, it's essential to immediately get out of the heat and rest, preferably in an air-conditioned environment. If you can't get inside, try to find the nearest cool and shady place.
Other recommended strategies include:

• Drink plenty of non-caffeinated and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Remove any tight or unnecessary clothing.
• Take a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath.
• Apply other active cooling measures such as fans or ice towels.

If such measures fail to provide relief within 30 minutes, contact a doctor because untreated heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke.
After you've recovered from heat exhaustion, you'll probably be more sensitive to high temperatures during the following week. So it's best to avoid hot weather and heavy exercise until your doctor tells you that it's safe to resume your normal activities.

Risk Factors for Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is strongly related to the heat index, which is a measurement of how hot you feel when the effects of relative humidity and air temperature are combined. A relative humidity of 60% or more hampers sweat evaporation, which hinders your body's ability to cool itself.
The risk of heat-related illness dramatically increases when the heat index climbs to 90 degrees or more. So it's important -- especially during heat waves -- to pay attention to the reported heat index, and also to remember that the heat index is even higher when you are standing in full sunshine, and higher yet on the tennis court.
If you live in an urban area, you may be especially prone to develop heat exhaustion during a prolonged heat wave, particularly if there are stagnant atmospheric conditions and poor air quality. In what is known as the "heat island effect," asphalt and concrete tennis courts store heat during the day and only gradually release it at night, resulting in much higher court-side temperatures.

Schewe hopes for rematch with Broadway!

MM explains how he serves...

KS eliminates MM!

Schewe start's strong with a 4-0 lead, but MM battles back to close to 3-4 before Schewe finishes the 1st-set with a 6-3 win.
In the 2nd- MM begins strong - leaping to a 3-0 lead before Schewe can score.  Schewe closes, but MM holds him off at 4-2.  Schewe then steps it up, and wins each remaining game! KS takes out his OJTI in straight sets 6-3,6-4.

KS vs MM Podcast by towertennis

Sopcic calls out JT!

DH gracious about bad bracket placement!

TB continues his winning ways!

DH (victim of a bad bracket placement) took on this year's big surprise. DH has a history of competing with the boys, but this one beats everyone he plays! TB gives DH a straight set loss 6-0,6-2.

DK surges late in the 2nd... But falls to SV 6-2,6-3!

Frustrated by SV's service game - DK mixes up his own variety of serves with a sneak underhand, followed by a powerful ace.  Down 0-4 in the 2nd... DK surges to close the set to 3-4, and is threatening to level it at 4-all, but SV counters to suppress DK's threat.
SV goes on to win 6-2,6-3 in a match which was much closer than the score indicates.


Play-by-play Podcast of the DK/SV match by Kyle Schewe
Podcast of DK vs SV by Kyle Schewe

KN has a FRAKING HOT match! Topping MM in a 3-set oven bake!

KN tops MM 3-6,6-3,6-2. Story under development.

"It's Fraking HOT!" says Battlestar fan KN.

MM plagued by heat and prosthetic malfunction!

SV survives challenge from JM!

In a rematch of last year's Championship match, SV & JM face-off for yet another battle in the sun. It seems each time these two competitors meet, that the drama is similar!  JM looks unstoppable, but permits windows of opportunity for SV.  In their last three encounters JM wins the 1st-set, takes an early lead in the 2nd - only to eventually lose in marathon matches lasting 2 1/2-3 hours.  

Today's match was no different!  When JM's serve is hitting, he can dominate the action.  A serve and volley tactic works quite well for the 6'1'' monster at the net.  JM is quite accomplished with both the volley, and the overhead slam!  Only a perfectly executed lob, or fast paced passing shot down the line seems to work against his net game.  On a perfectly executed lob by SV nailing the baseline.  JM running at full speed ahead toward the fence - reaches the ball hitting it backward toward the heavens, as he crashes into the fence.  SV can only exclaim disbelief as he sees that the rocket launch trajectory will reenter into play.  Although SV returns this incredible shot by JM - his disbelief lingers, destroying his concentration as he puts a subsequent shot into the net. 

Once again heat was a factor, as both players approached the brink of heat exhaustion!  Fortunately for SV - an energy bar in the 2nd-set rejuvenates the aging Champion.  Although SV seemed to outlast JM in the heat.  JM revealed late in the 3rd, that he could strike back almost at will.  JM aces SV, followed by three service winners in rapid fire succession to hold serve in a dominant fashion.  Then suddenly, JM returns to a less forceful game, making numerous errors, as SV survives the late assault 4-6,6-4,6-2.

DR revels at eliminating Dynasty Champ JT!

End of an era! Dynasty Champ JT eliminated by DR!

DR knocks out The Dynasty Champ - Ending the JT Era!

Unequaled in the early years of TowerTennis - JT was a force to contend with!  His dominance in the game made him the standard that all others aspired to.  To win even a set from JT was an accomplishment worthy of headlines!  This is why DR's victory over JT is so important!
JT won his 1st TowerTennis Championship in 2004.  Playing DNR from what was then known as Airways Facilities. It was a battle between AF and AT.  JT was successful in his quest for the Gold, and began a tradition of winning. JT also began the tradition of having each Final Match at 7-Flags Fitness Center.  A tradition we continue to follow to this day.  JT dominated both the 2005, and 2006 Championships as well. Not losing until 2007 in a single defeat to BR (Rick Bohler, who is now retired).  This started yet another tradition - where the double elimination doesn't apply to the final match (It was felt that it was too anticlimactic for the biggest match of the year to have to be repeated).  JT did not appreciate losing, and vowed he would avenge his loss.  JT was a man of his word - soundly defeating BR the following year in 2008.  As a 4-time winner in 5-years, JT earned the Title: Dynasty Champion, and was awarded the one and only Dynasty Trophy.  In 2009 JT missed the signup deadline, and was not permitted to play. Although controversial at the time - The TowerTennis Commissioner was unyielding.  When JT returned to competition in 2010, the format of the bracket had changed somewhat.  Rather than a traditional draw, where a top seed doesn't face the toughest competition until the end.  The new format attempted to match up players of similar abilities right from the beginning.  As a consequence, JT faced players who would ultimately go on to finish 1 and 2, eliminating him from tournament competition quickly.  This year the same format is in use, and the results have been the same.  DR's victory is not only a great accomplishment for him, but it marks something far more profound.  With 2-years of 2 and out performances... It marks the end of the JT Era!

Schedule difficulties cause CG to withdraw!

CG was the surprise of last year's tournament! He finished in 3rd place with an unprecedented showing in both semi-final matches (The unique structure of the double elimination bracket is what permits such a thing to happen).

It was generally anticipated that CG would make another run for the title this year.  Unfortunately, the demands of CG's schedule doesn't permit him to easily complete his matches.  CG felt that it was best for the tournament that he withdraw from competition this year.  This allows DNR to advance without further delay to play 'BY', and AJ to advance within his bracket.

Hopefully, CG will have a more flexible schedule next year. It's the tournament's loss to have a competitor leave without competing.