Player Bill Cunningham checks in with tournament Director Josh Bates while Assistant Director John Radcliffe looks on.
Denise Lott
The annual USTA Jason Morton Tennis Tournament, hosted by the IronOaks Tennis Club at the IronOaks Tennis Center, was a big success. A field of 130 players competed in multiple matches throughout four days. The players ranged in age from 14 to 80. Many flew or drove in just for the event, coming directly from Illinois, Ohio, Iowa, Florida, Colorado, California and Texas, as well as all parts of Arizona, for the privilege of matching their skills against other high-ranking players.
The level of play for these competitors was outstanding. We had rising young stars competing in the Open category, along with former world champion players, and a Peru Davis Cup team member. The players’ reactions were that they loved being involved in this particular event because they were in awe of our facility. The were inspired by spectators that came to watch them, our players were so friendly and the stadium courts were exceptional.
With all of the talent on the courts, IronOaks players still made an impressive showing. Austin Mason secured the championship in the 75 age bracket singles category, Leo Lapane won the 75 doubles award and Jack Sanders grabbed the 80s singles winning slot. Other mentionable awards went to Bill Cunningham with the 70s consolation bracket win, and to our ladies, Barb Jorgensen and Janet Kelleher, who competed in the 35-year-old age bracket and took second place.
Everything went smoothly throughout the days, thanks to tournament director Josh Bates, with John Radcliffe as assistant director. Drena Radcliffe coordinated all of the food each day. BlueStar Management provided backup for the event.
Prime sponsors who helped us continue hosting this nationally-renowned event include Kolb Realty Group and Sun Lakes Disposal. Supporting sponsors were Spooner PT, LSL Landscaping Services, Robson Properties and A-1 Golf Carts. Contributing sponsors included Valley Home Health Care Services, Woodfield RV in Show Low, Tennis Cabana and Chase, Inc.