USTA Heart of America League teams gear up for Nationals
Several League teams from USTA Heart of America have either competed, or are gearing up to compete, in the National Championship tournaments taking place across the country. I was able to catch up with the captains of two League teams ahead of their journeys to Surprize, AZ, for their shot at the National Champion title.
Ann Crampton, captain of Women’s 65 & Over League team
“We are taking a team of 10 HOA/Missouri Valley players to the 65+ USTA National Invitational Tournament in Surprise, AZ, February 16-18,” said Ann. “We play at the 8.0 level, and there will be teams representing all 17 Sections. Nearly all of our team has been to multiple National tournaments before, but I can say from experience that it never gets old.
“The tournament site in Surprise is beautiful, and it’s walking distance from the stadium where the Kansas City Royals play their Spring Training games,” Ann continued. “And we will definitely be rocking our Super Bowl Champions Kansas City Chiefs gear!”
Terry Jackson, captain of a Men’s 55 & Over League team
“In our age group, we didn’t have a local league season,” said Terry. “We played Sectionals at Overland Park Racquet Club in July. All our matches were close but we were able to earn our way to Surprise, AZ."
“This is the 11th or 12th time I’ve been on a team going to a National Championship,” Terry added. “There are at least two guys on our team who haven’t played in a National Championship before. I’m really happy for these guys."
Ann Crampton's team
Terry Jackson's team
- Ann Crampton's team
- Terry Jackson's team
“Unfortunately, we’ve had a couple of injuries pop up in the last couple of weeks,” said Terry. “Two of our players will not be able to participate due to these injuries, which leaves us with only eight players attending. That’s a pretty slim roster. Luckily we’ll only play two matches per day, so rest will be available to whoever needs it."
“These events are always a good time, win or lose,” Terry concludes. “It’s a great way to spend a few days in the sunshine and warmth in the middle of winter.”
Best of luck to Ann, Terry, their respective teams, and all others headed to Nationals in the coming days and weeks!
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