The Under 35 Racquets Weekend was an exciting and highly anticipated event that brought together young racquet enthusiasts from across North America. Held annually, this event serves as a celebration of both the sport and the vibrant community of younger players who share a passion for racquet sports.
Players from New York (Ben Nalle & Keech Turner), Philadelphia (Spencer & Sebastian Yager), Boston (Stephen Merwin, Albert Nichols, Trevor Jones and Camillo Satomayor), Detroit (Ricky Atkins, Drew Frenzel, Ryan Polk, Byran Melvin IV, Dillon Melvin, Michael Cytacki, Joe Maiorana and Gavin Freeman), and Montreal (Stuart Bailey and Jack Kelly) gathered for a weekend of friendly competition and camaraderie. Moreover, three Brits (Valla Scott-Geddes, Will Annetts and Louis Winstanley) flew in from the UK to socialize and support the weekend.
Play began on Friday as attendees arrived over the course of the afternoon. As the players were getting their eyes in on court, Racquets Professional Steve Toseland had his eye on the "ideal" cocktail match. Brothers Spencer and Sebastian Yager - both relatively new to the game but with impressive Squash Resumes - would be taking on Detroit's brother combination of Bryan IV and Dillon Melvin. The U35 attendees flooded the gallery during the cocktail hour to watch the Brothers Melvin vs. Brothers Yager in a full display of what the U35 is all about - camaraderie and spirited play. The cocktail match was followed by a Coat and Tie Stag at the club where jokes and revelry were abound.
Saturday started with a clinic, run by Steve Toseland, for those players that are fresh to the game. Toseland, with his deep knowledge and love for Racquets, played a pivotal role not only in coordinating the event but also in ensuring that beginners had the resources they needed to learn and improve. His clinics (of which there were three) provided a welcoming environment for novices, offering invaluable tips on technique and strategy. It was clear that Toseland’s commitment went beyond just organizing on court play —he was deeply invested in fostering the next generation of players.
The other U35 participants were placed into groups and sent onto court for 1 hour "round robin" style play throughout the day. Steve did an excellent job pairing groups at similar levels to ensure quality play throughout the weekend.
By Saturday evening, the players were satiated with their time on court and ready to get out and see the sights. U35 Participants were treated to a Detroit City Football (Soccer) Club Playoff Game vs the Tampa Bay Rowdies at DCFC's home field in Hamtramck. DCFC is a USL (2nd tier below MLS) team that is completely grassroots. Moreover, they have a winning record against MLS teams. The stands were full to the brim and the stadium ran out of alcohol by halftime. Inappropriate chants were sang by the DCFC loyal and flares were lit throughout the game, but despite the enthusiasm, DCFC lost in penalty kicks. Undeterred, the U35 contingent was out on the town till the wee hours of the morning.
Rumors of a "spirited" 4:30 AM Racquets Match between Spencer Yager and Will Annetts circulated throughout the club Sunday morning, but remain unconfirmed since there were no witnesses! Bleary eyed, the U35s showed up on Sunday morning for additional play before their flights home.
A special thank you to Steve Toseland and Valla Scott-Geddes for all of their work organizing, coaching and marking over the course of the weekend and to our Club Manager, Glenn Rivers, and his team for the food, beverages and hospitality.
Play!
Joe Maiorana
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