by Amy Wintersteen
January 2026 marked the 18th Boomerang Cup, hosted by Royal Melbourne Tennis Club and by every measure, it was a tournament to remember.
This year’s event welcomed more than 180 players, including an impressive 84 international competitors, representing Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands. Across 32 teams and 81 handicap doubles pairs, the Boomerang Cup once again delivered its hallmark combination of world-class tennis, camaraderie, and unforgettable hospitality.
The United States was proudly represented by 14 players from the National Tennis Club as well as Kim Kilgore of Tuxedo Park and David Grier of Westwood. The Boomerang Cup lived up to its reputation providing players with spectacular summer weather, extraordinary food, and entertainment that rivaled the tennis itself. Visits to Ballarat, Sydney, Hobart, and Romsey courts, truffle hunting, bushwalks, swimming, and memorable meals all proved that while tennis was the focus, adventure was never far behind.
Newport fielded two teams, the Newport Nicks and the Volley Llamas and even supplied additional players to help other teams fill their rosters, a true testament to the spirit of the event. While Newport players performed strongly across both Boomerang matches and the Handicap Doubles, it was the Volley Llamas who surged through to the finals and solidified the win, powered by consistency, cohesion, and exceptional teamwork.
On court, the Volley Llamas delivered memorable performances. Keith Mayes and Beth Winthrop showcased elegant shot-making, carving short chases and controlling the court with poise and precision. Ellen Devoe and Noelle Shiland applied relentless pressure with disciplined serving and calm, controlled returns. Steve Devoe proved nearly untouchable in the galleries, channeling his inner Kip Curren with masterful blocks. Stathi Kyriakides thrilled the crowd with fearless cut shots, often struck before the ball could even spin, sometimes airborne, always spectacular. His performances made it abundantly clear why he was named USCTA’s Most Improved Player of 2025.
Their efforts culminated in victory, earning the coveted Boomerang Gold Balls—despite their questionable suitability for carry-on luggage.
Special recognition goes to John “JJ” Jones, who earned a bronze/copper ball as part of his adopted team’s triumph in the Plate Competition, and to newcomer Laura Yalanis, whose enthusiasm as Newport’s unofficial mascot and head cheerleader was unmatched.
Between expert coaching, exceptional point construction, legendary billeting, lively bar tabs, and somehow, real tennis, the 2026 Boomerang Cup reaffirmed why this event holds such a special place in the international tennis calendar.
