What's the Secret?

By KB, TTN - Three games played yesterday and the pack is beginning to split up a bit. There seems to be about 8 that are separating slightly from the rest of us. Aargghh! We've got 20 matches played and are about 30% thru the season.

Other than the early-season leaders, MG has led for 8 matches and MN for 9!! Kudos to both of them!!  We have a new leader - BW! Long live the leader!!
(Unless of course you aren't the leader...)

In looking at the top 4 folks and trying to see a rhyme or reason for their success I believe I've found a secret. What is it you say? Just don't give points to the folks that haven't won!! (What did you expect? More? This ain't rocket science, folks.) Interestingly enough BW's lowest 6 picks have only won 1 match, MN's bottom 4 haven't won any matches, MG's last 8 have only won 3 matches and SV's lowest 7 picks have only won 1 match. (Out of 25 tennis players.)  These 4 that are atop the leaderboard aren't wasting their powder on those that aren't winning; they make good picks, eh?

(This portion of TowerTennis is sponsored by 'Your Mom' Men's Roller Derby Team.  Your Mom is back in town after a successful tournament in Indiana where they beat New York Shock Exchange, a previously unbeaten and top ranked derby team.)

Axtell loses struggle to bag Angry Jeff!

CA's daughter changes allegiance as result!

By Steve England, ESVN - Last year CA held a set-point against MN, but was unable to close the deal!  MN forced a tie-breaker then went on to victory.  With a much improved game, and his first TowerTennis victory under his belt - CA looked to avenge last year's loss to Angry-Jeff.

The early games were neck and neck with multiple swaps between deuce/add, deuce/add.  CA pulls ahead at 4-3, but aided by amazing backspin shots - MN evens the score, then jumps ahead.  MN takes the 1st-set 6-4.

Up one set to none, MN holds a constant lead in the second.  Leading 5-2, Angry-Jeff is only 2-points from another victory, when Axtell comes alive to overtake. Chris closes to 5-3... effectively dodging a bullet, but falls at the hands of Angry-Jeff the very next game.  MN tops CA again 6-4, 6-3.  Note: Play-by-Play coverage provided by Mary Axtell.

MM down 2-5... Takes 11-straight for the win!

By Steve England, ESVN - Still astonished from the loss of a huge lead in his 1st-round match against Keith.  Mark turns the tide on KI, fighting back from a 2-5 deficit!  Compounded by KI's wicked new serve, and his own slow start.  Mark finds himself only 1-game away from losing the 1st-set!  Suddenly, KI's serve starts to fail.  Meanwhile, Mark decides to "play his game", and let the chips fall where they may.  The results were a complete change of fortune!  Mark starts firing on all cylinders...  from service winners to offensive ground strokes - everything started working!  Mark climbs out of a huge hole to take eleven unanswered games.  MM defeats KI 7-5,6-0.

SV bounces back from 2-4 to take DR down in two!

By Steve England, ESVN - No match with Dean is ever easy!  SV prepared for today's battle with DR by warming up the previous day with the Croatian Sensation.  Carefully hydrating, carb loading, and even working out at the HyVee Fitness Center before match time.  Despite this preparation, SV finds himself behind, and can't seem to find a hole in Dean's armor.  SV's strokes were mostly well executed, but the returns were endless!  Trying to create an advantage - SV starts rushing the net.  This tactic was even worst!  Dean would simply lob over SV's head.  If things aren't working - then it's either change, adapt, or lose!  SV decides to push the limits of his game, and work the angles to open up the court.  The strategy worked, and SV manages to top DR 6-4, 6-3.

Axtell looking to bag MN like he was a bear!

With bear blood on his hands... Nextell's killer instinct looks toward "Angry Jeff" as his next opponent!  When CA looks at a challenge... he usually wins!  In contrast... Angry Jeff defeated Nextell in their last encounter. Will a man who hunts an animal capable of killing him - succumb to mere volleys once again?  The world will see soon, when these two hunters meet on the court to compete for TowerTennis Glory!

Don't miss this battle of MEN!  Angry Jeff, and Nextell will announce soon when their encounter will occur.

Sopcic wins tie-breaker with lunging backhand!

After the OC/TB match was postponed today due to illness.  The Croatian Sensation warmed SV up to prepare for his upcoming battle with DR.  SV's game was outstanding, but Sopcic took an early 5-2 lead.  SV changed a few tactics/Sopcic perhaps slacked off a little.  Before we knew it... it's tied at 6-6.  Sopcic then elevates to new heights, and shuts SV out in the breaker!  On match-point SV executes a one-handed topspin backhand from the service-line, cross-court beyond the reach of a normal human.  Sopcic however, lunges through the air to volley the ball down the opposite sideline as he crashes to the ground in victory.  In a practice warm-up Sopcic steps up in the breaker - sweeping SV 7-6 (7-0)!  

The French Open has begun!

By Steve England, ESVN - As the best players in the world gather in Roland Garros for one of the world's grand slams.  I encourage everyone to watch when they have time, and be inspired to complete your own matches right here in Iowa.  The time period for the 2nd-round is quickly coming to an end.  

New FAM flights available!!

By KB, TTN - I just thought that title might be more exciting than the Fantasy Tennis update. I was able to get a little footage of what the FAM flights look like. Here's the one to Romania - Romanian Fam Trips

As to the Fantasy thing? Well, MN leads for the 7th match in a row. He leads BW by 4. One more day in the lead and he'll equal 'The Gishter'. Press on, Morty!

Thanks for reading and book that fam, y'hear?

New Supe-Killer in Town!

RB takes down KI and KB!

By Steve England, ESVN - An overly aggressive KB shows promise, but exercised insufficient control for the power unleashed! RB capitalizes on Keith's errors and quickly takes a 3-0 lead.  With Keith starting to show more control, RB doubles on break-point down allowing Keith to get on the board.  At this point, both players must feel the G-forces... for the gravity of this next game is intense!  After a 3-deuce struggle - Keith holds on a RB drop-shot which fails to clear the net.  Keith appears to be emboldened by success as he closes further, but gets continuously countered by low trajectory forehands deep to the baseline. On game-point one such shot lands long.  Keith is uncertain of the call, and can't call it out with certainty.  Forced by The Code of Tennis to call the shot good... KB loses his chance to level the set!  Later, RB holds convincingly when on double set-point his spin-shot catches Keith off guard.  KB lunges at the last second, but his shot hits the net-cord.  The ball deflects upward, and its anyone's guess. When the ball drops to earth, it falls on Keith's side.  RB takes the 1st-set 6-4.

Already leading one-set to none, RB begins the 2nd strong!  Ryan begins by breaking Keith at love, then is aided by multiple forehand winners, and a KB double-fault on game-point down to take a commanding 4-1 lead.  Keith fails to execute a drop-shot to go down 5-1, but benefits from a RB forehand error to add another game to his tally.  Keith saves a match-point down with a strong forehand winner deep to the left corner - only to later fall on a RB service winner!  RB defeats KB 6-4, 6-2 winning 59% of points played.

Youth Movement Overtakes Fantasy Tennis!!!

By KB, TTN - MN's lead is at 5 over BW and 10 over KS. He now leads for 6 matches.

Ok, on to more interesting stuff. There appears to be a youth movement that has infiltrated deep into the Fantasy standings. It's been simmering beneath the surface and has reached epidemic proportions. A look at the Fantasy Standings reveals the stranglehold that it has taken over the ranks. 8 of the top 9 Fantasy players have less than 5 years in the agency!! SV is the only exception to the rule!! How can he stay with the torrid pace of those atop the leaderboard?

On the other hand, 7 of the last 11 Fantasy players have vast amounts of FAA experience. Has all that time spent watching airplanes caused them to lose their touch? Or do they realize that the mythical lady of immense proportions hasn't even begun to start warming up to sing. They've read the story and remember that the tortoise catches the hare every time... Stay tuned.

AS/MN get match in under the wire!

Showing their dedication to TowerTennis - AS/MN avoid default in the nick of time! 

By Steve England, ESVN - Suffering from multiple injuries - MN wraps his mangled extremities and suppresses the pain!  Meanwhile, Scott multitask between stroke execution, and child care responsibilities.

Jeff coins a new phrase when announcing the score.  MN says: "4-2, and lots of love"... Too funny!

The rallies were long, and the points hard fought, but in the end MN prevails.  MN tops AS 6-2, 6-1.

Dynasty Champ falls to Sopcic!

Another champ bites the dust! 

By Steve England, ESVN - Only two previous champions are still active controllers. Sopcic has dispatched both on his quest for a title!  In today's match against the "Dynasty Champ" - The "Croatian Sensation" benefited from an uncharacteristic performance by JT!  JT displayed a new service style.  A style I feel is improved from the past.  It's not quite the bullet of old, but resembles a slicing kick serve with moderately high velocity.  This style is more consistent, and should serve him well into the future.

Players were generally true to their games.  JT relied on his power forehand, while Sopcic liked to pressure the net.  There were several exchanges where JT would fire power forehands from near the service-line, only to have them volleyed back from an omni-present Sopcic at the net.  Players were on serve in the 1st tied 3-all, until unforced errors by JT gave Sopcic a break to lead 4-3.  Sopcic holds at 5-3, then another unforced error by JT gives TB a double set-point.  Sopcic slices a backhand to the left sideline to take the 1st-set 6-3.

Sopcic begins the 2nd-set with reduced energy.  He seems noticeably winded in the 1st-game of the 2nd-set, but slams a service winner to take a 1-0 lead.  Again, players are on serve until Sopcic powers a forehand down the sideline for the break at 3-1.  JT begins to show frustration as Sopcic volleys into the open court extending his lead to 4-1.  Players return to holding their serves, as JT makes another unforced error at deuce to give Sopcic the advantage, followed by a Sopcic drop-shot for the win and a 5-2 edge.  In the final game Sopcic rushing toward the net hits the net-cord.  The ball dribbles over onto JT's side for match-point.  After a lengthy rally, a strong JT forehand sails long, and Sopcic knocks off another former champion.

Frequently during matches, players think that they are having a bad game.  In reality, it was their opponent applying increased pressure which forced them to poorly execute.  That was not the case in this match-up!  JT was indeed plagued by unforced errors.  These errors made the difference in this match!  These two giants could likely face each other again in the semifinals.  Remove JT's unforced errors, and the "Dynasty Champion" will have his redemption!

CD "brings it", but can't "keep it"!

CD melts... when Broadway cranks up the heat!

By Matt Sopcic, TTN - It’s safe to say that the rivalry between BW and CD is one of the biggest in all of tower tennis and today’s game play was all the proof needed to back that statement up.  Tensions from the 1-1 split during last years tournament carried over without either player wanting to feel defeat again.  Both Curt and Kevin prepared differently for this years 2^nd round meeting.  Kevin has been practicing every aspect of his game quite often with a whole host of people (which includes two time defending tower tennis champion SV).  Curt on the other hand has been dealing with a lot between work and home life. His impending certification, new engagement (CONGRATS), and concerns about playing during warm temperatures could easily throw off his normal game that is filled with consistent smooth swings of the racket.

Due to Curt’s circumstances I went in to observe this match believing that BW would run away with a victory and the first set proved me wrong.  Curt made it clear that he came to play.  Even though he lost the first game he won the next 5 and appeared to be well on his way toward a 2 set victory.  Kevin was visibly frustrated during Curt’s run because he was able to get to every ball and make solid contact but unforced errors (either hitting it long or short into the net) prevented him from winning games.  Unfortunately for Mr. Danielson though, Kevin had a never say die attitude and battled back to tie at 5.  Curt wins the next game to lead 6-5 and is 2 points away from winning the first set before a couple unforced errors allow Kevin to take it and force a tie breaker.  There was a little controversy on the first point of the tiebreaker when Curt called one of Kevin’s shots out.  A very vocal Mr. Broadway expressed his feelings about this but conceded the point since Curt made the call.  The tables eventually turned in Kevin’s favor as he won the tiebreaker 7-3.

Set #2 was a completely different story as a very tired Curt struggled to keep up with the light on his feet Broadway.  Kevin was able to reach anything on his side of the court while Curt appeared to almost concede the set 3 games in to a 6-0 loss due to exhaustion. 

Although this match had a very serious tone to it the entire time (no jokes were made) each individual won and lost with class.  In the event they face each other again I expect another close battle and would look forward to observing again.

A Marlboro Marathon!!!

BY/OC smoke the court in a tobacco tango!

By Steve England, ESVN - "BY" returns to the courts, to take on OC for a chance to advance!  Some of our newer controllers may be unfamiliar with "BY".  "BY" began his air traffic career in the Air Force the same year our nation celebrated it's bicentennial.  He joined the FAA in 1982 helping our agency to recover from the crippling strike which abruptly ended thousands of our predecessors careers. He helped to train hundreds of new controllers over the years, served as our longest serving FACREP, and was instrumental in developing the STARS scopes we use everyday.  In retirement Steve began his own small business (Lineage Lawns), but continues to participate in our tournament, putting aside his busy schedule to hone his game, and strive for victory!

Today victory eluded him when he went up against last year's Supe-Killer OC.  Nate's formidable stroke execution was certainly a factor, but unforced errors were a major element in this match.   Despite a lack of practice due to the demands of Steve's business.  "BY" takes the 2nd-set 5-7, before Nate closes the lid with a final coffin nail.  In a battle of two smokers, OC tops BY 6-1,5-7,6-3. 

MN still your leader as things heat up!!

By KB, TTN - School is getting over for the summer and things are heating up on the tennis courts!! Today's two-fer was a good one for some of the fantasy players.

With each match there is a Fantasy Jersey rewarded for the Leader and MN claimed his 4th Fantasy Jersey today. (MG leads this category with 8 Fantasy Jerseys.)

Those who put down points on BW and OC were rewarded today. BW, MG and OC all rose in the rankings. (It helped that OC gave OC 24 points. Does he know something we don't?) Apparently SV, MM and DN didn't keep the faith as they slipped a few notches in the standings. Oh well, tomorrow's sun will most likely shine on another person, eh?

Championship Preview?

JT vs TB promises to be a championship level match!

By Steve England, ESVN, CNNsv, MSNsv - Although the bracket structure probably won't permit such a showdown - JT vs TB should be considered a championship level match!  Sopcic is without question playing the best tennis in the tournament so far.  His decisive victory over Defending Champion-SV in the 1st-round was a sign that this young man is on a mission!  The question is - can he continue his impressive assault on the bracket against an opponent like JT?  The Dynasty Champion has a frustrating ability to ware his opponents down.  Like Sopcic - JT gets to nearly every ball!  Unlike Sopcic - JT has a power forehand that will rip cross-court at will! Sopcic's advantage is at the net... JT likes to hang back by the baseline.  This match should come down to JT's ability to push Sopcic off the net.  Either through passing shots, or perfectly executed lobs.  The lob option is confronted with Sopcic's "Brown-Eye" maneuver (a retreating two-handed reverse overhead lob).  This leaves the passing shot as JT's only weapon to push Sopcic off the next.

The collective wisdom of the Fantasy Players predicts a 0.9 point advantage for Sopcic over JT.  Studies suggest that groups have an uncanny ability to predict on average the outcome of a future event.  This is much like Stock Options on the Futures Market.  Nothing is set in stone, but I predict a hard fought battle - culminating in a victory for TB.  These two giants play Tuesday, May 22nd.  You don't want to miss a battle of this magnitude!!!

Match Preview: BW vs CD promises to be a barnburner!

Will Broadway bring the heat? Or will CD keep his cool?

By Steve England, ESVN - Last year the main difference between Curt and Broadway was CD's ability to tolerate the hot temperatures on the court.  Each time these two arch-rivals faced each other, Curt seemed to have the more accomplished game.  Even when Broadway advanced - it was because Curt retired from heat exhaustion (despite an impressive lead).  

This year may prove to be quite different!  Broadway is beginning to blossom as a tennis player.  He recently foiled the algorithms - defeating Schewe 6-2,6-3.  In practice sessions with Defending Champion-SV, Broadway was quick, agile, demonstrated fluid strokes with excellent follow-through, and returned SV's most formidable serves!  This is a match everyone should attend.  I predict a barnburner irrespective of the outside air temperature!

Great Match-up facing imminent default!

AS/MN match overdue!

By Steve England, ESVN - I certainly realize there are more important things in life than a recreational tennis tournament.  However, when a match becomes overdue - it has a ripple effect down the bracket.  If the first round gets delayed, the 2nd-round is impacted, then the 3rd, and so forth.  The AS/MN match is now causing delays to the 2nd-round.  This tournament is for recreational purposes, and every effort is made to accommodate player schedules.  Unfortunately, history has shown us, that this results in the finals getting delayed until Christmas.  Therefore, it will be the policy of this tournament - to default any match once the delay extends half way into the next round.  A reasonable exception will exist if subsequent rounds are not impacted.  This will permit small delays for unusual situations, while preserving a reduced window to get things back on schedule in the next round.  The AS/MN match will be defaulted if the match is not completed by May 23, 2012.  In contrast, the AJ/CG match is overdue as well, but is not yet delaying any other rounds (the unusual number of byes grouped with their bracket permits this unique situation). 

It would be a shame for this match to not get completed!  In last year's battle between AS and MN - Scott leads 5-3 in the 2nd, when suddenly, MN discovers that attacking the net punches holes in Scott's defenses.  MN is able to mount a come-from-behind victory by adapting his game during battle.  

Where's MG?

By KB, TTN - Sorry to be so long with the fantasy update. I did the scores and resorted and then noticed MG was missing. He'd been our fantasy leader from the 3rd game until the 10th, a veritable Rock of Gibralter. Leading us to the promised land. Then MN topped him. And then... He has been found though. In 5th place, behind SV.

Speaking of SV, is it possible to win both the Tower Tennis Championship and the Fantasy Championship in the same year? And what would that be? Not exactly a Dynasty Champion like JT. Something else perhaps. Hmm...

Schewe refuses to live in fear! KS tops KN 6-2, 6-3!

By Steve England, ESVN - Despite possible damage to his career progression.  Schewe refuses to live in fear, and takes no prisoners in his quest to dispatch his opponent!  Although Schewe lead throughout the match, once again the score doesn't reflex how well KN played!  It was quite obvious that KN was skilled at ball placement - opening up the court, then going for the kill.  Unfortunately for KN, KS was all over the court!  Virtually every winner that KN slammed, met a wall named Schewe!  Schewe got to balls which should have been clear winners, then he returned them back into play, where the rallies went on and on.

After taking the 1st-set 6-2, Schewe has a fight on his hands in the 2nd.  Multiple deuces later... KS executes a masterful drop-shot at add-in for the win!  Players are on-serve until Schewe breaks for a 3-1 lead.  Later, KN threatened to close to 4-3, but Schewe fights off the KN surge to extend to 5-2.  KN serving to stay alive holds, forcing Schewe to serve out for the win.  KN survives two match points before succumbing to a KS forehand landing near the deuce-side service line.  KN is drawn toward the short-shot, causing him to misfire on match-point.  KS advances 6-2,6-3.

Fantasy Champion Trophy

For those of you who enjoy playing Fantasy TowerTennis.  The 2012 Fantasy TowerTennis Champion's trophy has been delivered!  Pictured is the actual trophy you will receive if you finish the season with the most Fantasy points.  

Introducing - The Regional Champions Trophy

Winning the TowerTennis Championship is no small feat!  Nor, is winning your satellite-bracket to make the playoffs!  To recognize the accomplishments of all who participate is our annual tournament, a new trophy has been commissioned.  The Regional Champion's Trophy will have the names of every regional champion, the tournament runner-up, and the tournament champion displayed prominently for the year.  Designed to be reused annually - the names of the champions are inserted into small brackets mounted to the plaque.  When a new tournament concludes - simply remove the old names, and insert the names of the new champs.  

I hope this will inspire those who find themselves with a loss or two. Win your regional bracket, make the playoffs, and have your name displayed in honor for a year!

MN claims Fantasy leadership!!

By KB, TTN - There were some sizable changes on the leaderboard as a result of today's action at the Harmon Tennis Complex!! Most noticeably 'The Gish' was dethroned as 'Morty' stormed to a 3-pt lead. (The exact verbal exchange between them as MN passed him up is unknown. Something about dust and taillights we think.) Other somewhat outstanding changes included MM's moving up a position despite a close loss. KB also moved up from 16th to 9th and AJ moved from 18th to 13th. Good work all!!

We have only two outstanding first round matches to round out things and give some people some more fantasy points. Principal fans of CG are CG and CD. AJ's supporters would be DN and CD. Those backing MN would be DN and CG, while DJ, DN and AJ like AJ's chances. Be sure and encourage your favorite steeds in this here hoss race!!

Best of luck all in your second round endeavors!

On a sidenote, it was a privilege and an honor to face MM today. We may not have planned on that much of a workout, but it was good practice. Thanks, Mark.

Perseverance prevails! KB fights back from a 1-5 deficit in the 3rd to win!!!

MM congratulates KB

By Steve England, ESVN - Amazing come from behind triumph!  KB down one set to none, and behind 2-4 in the second.  Storms back to level the match one set all, only to again fall behind 1-5 in the third.  Seriously behind but not out, KB takes six unanswered games to stage an incredible come from behind victory!  KB tops MM 3-6,7-5,7-5...  Match Statistics:

Due to popular demand - See Player Fantasy Picks!

Several people have expressed a desire that the Fantasy TowerTennis selections be made available for all to see.  In the interest of transparity, your wishes have been addressed.  KB has produced a spreadsheet with all the data available.  A link to the selections spreadsheet is located both on the Fantasy page, and in the information bar to the right of each page.

When Two Codgers Collide...

By KB, TTN. (Actually, I don't know if MM would approve of this title, but some days I wear the title well.)
Yes, tomorrow's action (or lack of it) between MM and KB will be one for the ages. Two of the oldest in the field will square off - hopefully the heat and humidity won't wipe them out. In the event that MM prevails, there won't be a lot of change in fantasy; just a handful of one-spot changes. In the event that KB wins, 3 folks will profit: MN will take the lead over MG as he would move from 5th to 1st, KB would move from 16th to 9th and AJ would move from 19th to 13th.

There will also be a fantasy spreadsheet accessible soon on Towertennis.org. A list of tennis players line the left column and the rows will depict the fantasy players. Everybody's points/prognistications will be readily visible. It'll be terribly exciting.
You will also see the fantasy players that were either the most optimistic about a player (green) and the least optimistic (red) highlighted. I only did the top 2 or 3 as it gets quite colorful if I go much beyond that. Some ties expanded things past the top 2 or 3.
All players that gave the minimum of 1 pt or a maximum of 25 pts to a player are highlighted.

Sunday - a day of most excellent competition!

 By KB, TTN. It was a good day, a day of action at Henry Gadd Harmon Tennis Complex. He would have been pleased.

There was a bit of movement on the fantasy ladder, mainly outside of the top places. MG retains a slight 2-pt lead over the advancing Schewester (He's close enough to feel the roar and he ain't skeered.). TR was the only big player on the move vaulting from 7th to 3rd. Further down the ranks DS moved from 11th to 7th, OC from 13th to 11th, MM from 15th to 12th and RB from 18th to 13th.
Ryan's move was the largest one of the day. Nice prognosticating, Ryan!

Thanks, KB

TR declaws Mufasa in the 3rd!

In his own words -- TR describes his match with MG:  "I'd been looking forward to this match all week, Mike had been doing a considerable amount of smack talk and I wanted to see if he could put his money where his mouth was.  The first set did not go my way as I ended up loosing it 4-6.  Mike put up much stiffer resistance in the first set than I was expecting.  He was able to put some spin on a few balls that prevented my return shots from being as good as I would have liked them to be.  Second set I was more prepared and we battled the whole but I was able to pull out a 6-4 victory.  The third set is what separates the men from the boys and that's where I dominated. I will give credit where credit is due, Mike started out the match very hot but by the third set he was gassed as I dished out some humble pie left and right.  The king of the jungle is no more, rest in peace Mufasa."

By Matt Sopcic, TTN -- Not to be overlooked was a match between up and coming youthful talent in MG and TR.  It was no secret how all week Simba was constantly informing anyone who would listen that he was going to mop the court with Ted's tears.  Poor planning on Simba's part led him to borrow a racket for todays match but it did not seem to slow him down in the first set as he came out with a 6-4 victory.  It seemed as though Ted didn't stand a fighting chance until the 2nd set started, that's when he quit playing games and got straight to business.  Ted was an artist out there painting the sidelines with most of his return shots.  Ted steals the 2nd set 6-4 only to DOMINATE the final set 6-1.  Simba clearly didn't have enough left in the Tank.  Maybe the stress of buying a new vehicle or celebrating his recent achievement on Local Control kept him from his best game.

Dynasty Champ defies the Smack - shuts DR down in straight sets!

By Matt Sopcic, TTN -- This could possibly be one of the most hyped up regular season days of tennis yet and the matches did not fail to disappoint!  In a match of possible title contenders between JT and DR a crowd was on hand to see the gloves thrown down for a battle between top talent!  JT had a look of revenge in his eyes (remembering that it was DR who removed him from the tournament last year) and came out of the gates hot grabbing a 3-0 lead.  DR knew that he couldn't allow the momentum to stay in his opponents favor and with the entire family watching, dug deep to dominate the next 4 games.  The volleys were long, often reaching 10-15 hits which took a toll on both players.  JT appeared to dig a little deeper and took the momentum back by taking the following 3 games for a 6-4 1st set win.  

Set #2 was controlled by JT from the start, the constant running back and forth during long volleys started to wear DR down.  Although he was able to return a lot of JT's best shots, the dynasty champion was able to figure out his forehand and place shots to secure the win.

Sunday Buildup - Will today bring a JT renaissance?

By Steve England, ESVPN -- When DR eliminated JT from competition in last year's tournament - we closed a chapter on the aging Dynasty-Champ.  Just as quickly as his meteoric rise to Dynasty status had occurred... Suddenly, two years of two-and-out performances seemed to end the JT era.  New faces arose to become both Champion, and contenders!  We as a group, had grown out of our infancy, and collectively moved on!

Today's match between DR and JT could prove that move to be somewhat premature.  If we wipe the dust from the Dynasty-Champs racket... is it possible he could reemerge as a viable candidate for the title?  Is he like an un-extinguished ember waiting to reignite and set our tournament ablaze?

JT faces a tough opponent in DR!  A man with 7-lives (only seven because he's already used up two of his nine). A man who has beaten every serious challenger he has faced.  A man who only gets better with age.  A man who's progeny is a collegiate tennis star!

Today's match could prove to be historic!  Will DR extinguish the JT era for good, or will there be a renaissance?  Will JT rise like a phoenix to recapture TowerTennis glory, or will he fade from prominence like a flickering flame snuffed out in the wind?

Sunday... could be exciting!

By KB, TTN -- Like a good prize fight, the outcome of Sunday's matchups stirs a bit of spirit in the soul. Here's some of the best-case scenarios for a few fantasy players. This could easily be too much info so I'll stay with top-10 folks.

MG will still lead no matter who wins the JT/DR and MG/TR matchups on Sunday. He leads by the most should JT/MG take victories.
TB and OC both want MG to win.
Should JT/MG win, this would make MN (up to 2nd), TB (4th) and OC (8th) the happiest.
A JT/TR pair of wins doesn't really change anything.
A DR/MG pair of wins helps BW (2nd), TB (4th), SV (5th), DS (6th), OC (8th) and MM/DH (10th) the most.
Should DR/TR win, KS (tie for 1st), TR (3rd), CA (5th) and CG (10th) stand to gain the most.

And here's to good tennis!!   KB

Victory at Valley Junction! CA steamrolls over DS like a locomotive for his 1st win ever!

By Steve England, ESVPN -- While DS was fighting the Taliban in Afghanistan - the rest of us were afforded the privilege of practicing our tennis in relative safety... Thank you for your service Delano!  Consequently, the outcome of today's match was anticipated.  With four seasons under his belt - CA's game has grown from only winning one game in 2009, to a tie-breaker against MN in 2011.  CA has the physique for tennis, and can generate extreme racket-head speed! If he continues to pursue the game, and master the muscle memory required - watch out world!

Despite opening with a blistering first service ace, CA can't put DS easily away.  DS fights back, and takes the first three games of the match to deuce.  Players are on-serve until the forth game, then CA starts to pull ahead.  DS utilized a tactic often employed by DK - the underhand serve.  His serve was effective, and permits him to hold at the beginning.  However, in later games DS modifies his serve, and triple-doubles as a consequence.  Returning to his previous style - Delano's service game improves but cant get back on the board.  CA aces DS to win the 1st-set: 6-1.

Delano begins the 2nd-set with a changed demeanor.  Now determined to win, he fights for every point!  In the end, the experience disparity cannot be overcome. CA wins in straight sets: 6-1, 6-1.

Bonus Story: Dangers on the court - Improper handling of tennis ball cans.

Introducing the Smack-Talk Board

Introducing a new addition to the TowerTennis website: The TowerTennis Smack-Talk Board is a single page (located on the task bar) dedicated to General Discussion.  Both players and fans alike may use this comment forum to post their feelings about players, matches, etc.  It is hoped that this will provide an additional source of entertainment for the TowerTennis community.

Dynasty Champ cancels match due to illness!

The much anticipated match between Dynasty Champion-JT, and the man who knocked him out of last year's tournament (DR), was unfortunately postponed today due to food poisoning.  No details are available about JT's tainted cuisine, but JT and DR are rescheduling for Sunday.

When last these two competed -- The former champ sprained his ankle, was defeated by DR and eliminated from competition.  DR went on to the semifinals where he lead Sopcic 4-2 in the 3rd-set.  DR came to within two games of making the finals, but lost the match after Sopcic executed a retreating two-handed reverse overhead lob for the win.

Both players are contenders for the title, with a long history of competition.  Although JT has a better record... Dean's game has improved considerably in recent years and poses a substantial threat to the former champ.   

Up And Down; And The Centurions

Yesterday SV, MM and KB all rose in the ranks?
Well, with OC's victory over DNR they've fallen a combined 9 places. Guess we should've put more points on the long arm of 'The Nate', eh?

MN was the big mover on the day. He went from 8th to 5th place. Nice work!

7 people crested 100 points - MG, BW, KS, TR, MN, SV and TB (in that order). Good on ya!

KB

OC edges DNR 7-6(7-5), 6-4

DNR was in his early 50's when he faced off against JT in the very first TowerTennis Championship.  Nearly a decade later... DNR is better than ever!  OC's rise to TowerTennis prominence began last year when his ground strokes began to show extraordinary power and finesse.  His stroke execution took him to the Final-Four, and caused him to be labeled "The Supe Killer".

Today's match was indeed one of upper level tennis! Each point was a multi-shot marathon of inspirational execution!  In the 1st-set DNR lead 5-3, and was on the verge of winning the first battle of this war.  OC then broke DNR's serve followed by a hold to tie it up.  Doug pulls ahead again at 6-5, but can't prevent an OC backhand winner from forcing a tie-breaker.  The breaker was close as well, but OC inched ahead to take the 1st-set 7-6(7-5).
Players were mostly on-serve in the 2nd until the end.  OC then edges ahead with aid of a service break to win the set and the match 7-6(7-5), 6-4.

Broadway... you're next!

Curt takes no prisoners in the 1st-set, but KN reloads for the 2nd exploding to a 3-1 lead.  KN played much better than the score indicates, but falls to CD in straight sets.  CD defeats KN 6-0,6-4!

Immediately upon advancing to the next round, Curt makes it clear that he wants a piece of Broadway!  These two split matches last year when CD succumbed to heat exhaustion despite a commanding lead. Their second encounter last year was in cooler conditions, where Curt proved that "Revenge is a dish best served cold!"  

MG continues to lead fantasy tennis!!

Like the pages of a good read, Fantasy Tennis continues to unfold before our eyes.

MG continues to lead, albeit it with a marginal 3-pt advantage, and a sizable pack nips at his heels.
The big movers on CD's win over KN were SV (moving from 10th to 2nd), KB (climbing from 20th to 12th) and DR (moving from 16th to 11th).
Stay tuned as the chase for fantasy points continues!

KB

Defending fantasy champion falls far behind!!

As the matches continue to sort out the contenders from the pretenders, previous fantasy champion, KB, falls into last place. He was heard mumbling, "This sure seemed easier last time around!"

By virtue of shrewd analysis, MG, KS and TR (respectively) began to distance themselves from a tight pack of pursuers. It's a pack of 16 that follow on TR's heels.

Best of luck to all, KB

File Photo: SV awards KB the 2006 Fantasy TowerTennis trophy.

RB achieves his first TowerTennis victory!

In his third season of TowerTennis, RB has faced four opponents: KS,BW,OC, and KI.  Prior to today, victory had eluded him, but victory he would not be denied!  RB practiced his tennis, and frequently attended Tennis Tuesday Workshops.  Now, that practice has paid off! After an initial service break by RB, players hold serve until the eighth game of the set.  KI then takes four straight points to reach ad-out.  RB counters by taking the next 3-points to hold, then he breaks KI to take the 1st-set 6-3!

In the 2nd-set, RB dominates with a 5-0 lead before KI gets on the board.  Now, serving for the match with a 5-1 lead... RB holds for the win, and his first ever TowerTennis victory!  Congratulations RB!

UPSET! -- DH falls to TR in Three!

Both players faced unknowns today!  This is TR's first TowerTennis Championship.  Not much was known of TR's tennis abilities before today's match.  Nor, did TR know of Deanna's tennis strengths.  The match-up seemed good with limited information, but when I was informed that they split sets, and were tied 3-all in the third -- I was pleased to have succeeded in pairing two players who could keep everyone guessing right to the end.

After battling for hours in the heat and humidity, both players find themselves tired and thirsty.  Now tied at 3-all in the 3rd, this match is still a dead heat!  Anyone can win at this point.  TR is nervous, but plays to not make mistakes. Meanwhile, DH went for winners.  The winners flew long and wide too often, and TR inches ahead for the win!  6-2,2-6, 6-3.

DH moves on to play ZP, while TR will take on the self proclaimed "King of the jungle".  During his after-match interview -- TR exclaimed that: "the 'king of the court' won't feel much like a king once I'm done with him!"

Fantasy Tie-Breaker criteria announced:

Only 3 matches into the season and the pack is still tightly bunched. The front-runners are MG and KS. A pack of 6 are within 5 points of them however!! Stay tuned as the drama unfolds. -- Keith Belling




Tie-breaker criteria for fantasy:

1. Highest points given to the Tower Tennis Champion.
2. Highest points given to Runner-up.
3. Total points given to the final 4 contenders.
4. Coin flip.

BW exceeds the predictions - defeating Schewe 6-2, 6-3!

Broadway has managed to edge Schewe in recent years, but Schewe's game has improved greatly.  The line on this match was only a 0.25 point difference, and the general consensus predicted a Schewe victory.   

Despite predictions -- BW's competitive nature shined through!  BW played his best tennis of the season, demonstrating speed, and fluid strokes.  BW foiled the algorithms, and defeated Schewe 6-2, 6-3.

In the next round -- these two will take on their counterparts from the CD/KN match.  In previous match-ups: BW lost to KN, and split with CD.  His victory with CD came after Curt retired from heat exhaustion despite a convincing lead.  Schewe lost to CD as well last year, but has never faced KN.

Delano dawns war paint for upcoming match with CA!

Taking his participation in his first TowerTennis Championship seriously.  Delano dawns war paint to phyche his opponents out.  His 1st-round match against CA could prove to be an upset.  Delano practiced last week, and played a few introductory games with CA.  He was overheard saying: "Land soft, kill quiet."

Although CA has more experience... "You can't win, if you don't hit it in!"  Meanwhile, CA is looking for his own 1st victory in a TowerTennis event.  CA demonstrated incredible strength -- pounding shots at extreme velocity.  If CA can rein in this power... watch out!

Defending Champ knocked out in shocking rout!

Although not unexpected that Sopcic would avenge his defeat in last year's championship match against SV.  The degree of the beating certainly was!!!  In a rematch of last year's finals... Sopcic was looking for payback, and payback with a vengeance was in store for SV!
Sopcic dominated the match from start to finish -- Knocking the defending champ out in straight sets 6-1, 6-3.
The Croatian Sensation is certainly positioned for a run at the title.  He faces the winner of DR/JT next round.  DR edged a practice victory over Sopcic back in March, but Dynasty Champion-JT lost in straight sets just last week.  Can Sopcic go the distance?  It's looking good so far, but several obstacles stand in the way.