This July USTA Eastern continued its partnership with the NY Sportimes, who have moved the team’s home courts to Randall’s Island. The season was a success for the Sportimes, who finished the regular season at 1st place in the conference, as well as for USTA Eastern. Throughout the season volunteers and staff were on hand to man the Eastern booth as well as to cheer on the Sportimes. Additionally, USTA Eastern hosted several events revolving around the World Team Tennis matches.
On Friday, July 10, USTA Eastern sponsored an event to celebrate the 40th anniversary of National Junior Tennis and Learning (NJTL). Coaches, players, and supporters of the local NJTL organizations were invited to a hospitality event as well as to watch the matches, which featured the 2009 Wimbledon champion Serena Williams. (*Click here: USTA Eastern Celebrates 40th Anniversary - White Plains, NY - AmericanTowns.com by Phyllis C. Murray, Pres. Founder of One Love Tennis, Inc.) The first ever Zonals competition for the 10 & Under division was held July 13-14. Players had the opportunity to play matches on the Sportime courts during the day and then stayed around to watch the WTT matches in evening.
During the second week of the season, USTA Eastern held two Metro appreciation days. On Wednesday, July 15, almost 100 Metro league coordinators and captains came to watch John McEnroe and Martina Navratilova compete in the stadium. On July 17, Metro Jr. Team Tennis players came to Randall’s Island to watch the Bryan brothers play. The events were a hit! According to Metro Regional Vice-President Mark McIntyre, “There was a 100% positive response to the experience. Everyone said they had a tremendous time and it was all-round a wonderful experience. I think the JTT players were especially thrilled to see the Bryan brothers.”