by Arthur Horowitz
The 2019 Hickey Cup, 60s level tournament, was hosted by the Georgian Court University over February 1stweekend. The tournament drew a field of 16 players from Philadelphia, Washington, DC, New York, Tuxedo, Newport, and Georgian Court University. The Philadelphia players dominated the tournament play, but it was also the impressive debut of a number of Georgian Court athletes and athletic coaches.
Kyle Reap from the Racquet Club of Philadelphia won the tournament by defeating Dave Christensen from Tuxedo in an outstanding 6-3, 5-6, 6-3 match. Both Kyle and Dave played with skill and determination. Dave often dominated the play with his strong fast railroad serves. Kyle on the other hand prevailed with a steady serve, solid volleys, good chases, and outstanding dedans play, both defense and offense. It was a great match to watch. Kudos to the winner and finalist for a match well played. It seems quite likely that we’ll see both of these gentlemen in the 50+ level event next year.
Christopher Folkestad and Haren Arcot, both from the Philadelphia Racquet Club, dominated the consolation round of the tournament. The 8 game pro set went down to the very last point when Christopher bested Haren 8-7.
The tournament play took place at the Georgian Court University on the court built by former world champion and Olympic gold medalist Jay Gould II in 1899. The university maintains the court and was a welcoming tournament sponsor along with the staff from Princes Court in McLean, Virginia. Moreover, six of the university’s students and soccer and lacrosse coaching staffs participated in the 16-player field. These relatively new court tennis enthusiasts made an outstanding impression on the seasoned veterans in the draw, with three of them making the quarterfinals. While none of them made it to the semis or final, all of these Georgian Court athletes competed well, handling the experience and devious serves of the out of town players admirably. Of note was the play of soccer player Matt Slasyk and lacrosse player Samantha Fernandez, both of whom made strong showings in their matches.
Prince’s Court professional, Ivan Ronaldson organized and marked this year’s Hickey Cup, ably assisted by world-class junior, Noah Motz. Special thanks go to Lori Thomas and her staff at Georgian Court University for providing logistical support, refreshments, and maintaining this jewel of a court in Lakewood, NJ.
