by James Asher
On February 4th-6th, the Racquet Club hosted the Greevy Cup, a 20-29 Level tournament for USCTA members. We had a fantastic turnout for the event, with eighteen entrants descending on Philadelphia. The first-round matches had great battles with Washington’s Steve Hufford against Kenny Soffer and Philadelphia’s Norris Jordan against Ross Bolling. Hufford played a fantastic first set over Soffer to take the initiative and grab the set 6-4. Soffer responded decisively to take the second set 6-1, forcing a final set. Soffer continued his momentum to take the third set 6-4. In the other first-round close match, Jordan produced a tennis masterclass, taking the first set 6-0. Bolling showed grit and determination to win the second set 6-1. The third set was nip and tuck, with Bolling sneaking out the final set 6-5.
In the quarterfinals, Soffer and Mike Barton had a great battle. Barton came out on fire and caught Soffer cold to take the first set 6-1. Soffer once again showed his fighting qualities to take the second 6-4. In the third set, Barton seized the initiative with his phenomenal movement and great control to take the match out of Soffer’s hands to win 6-0. The lineup for the semifinals was Bill Barker versus Phil Stockton on the top half and Henry Smith versus Mike Barton on the bottom half. Barker and Stockton played a classic match with long grueling rallies. Stockton took the first set 6-4. The second and third sets were close, but Barker snuck out both sets 6-5. In the other semifinal, Smith showed his class to win over the ever-improving Barton 6-3 6-5.
The Final was a barn burner. Barker was relentless in the first set and showed no signs of fatigue after his grueling three-set semifinal to win 6-2. Smith changed his tactics in the second set to take the set 6-2. The final set was another battle. Barker went up 4-2 and looked to be taking control only for Smith to fight back and narrowly claim the title 6-5.
Thanks to all players for attending, and we look forward to the next event!
Click here for the draws.
