Ocean Pines Platform Tennis Competes in the 2013 Nationals

Seven players from Ocean Pines Platform Tennis competed in the APTA Mixed Doublesm60+ National Championship for the first time since the sport came to Ocean Pines.  All four Ocean Pines teams placed in the top ten.  Coming in seventh place was Mike Petito and Pauline  Bowell, eighth was Joe and Marie Lunczynski, ninth place was June and Jim Freeman and tenth place was John and Betty Biondi.  The tournament was held at Seabreeze Recreation Center at The Villages in Florida on Saturday, January 12^th and Sunday, January 13th.  The record-breaking 84 degree temperature made for a very heated competition.  The level of play was very challenging as the tournament drew many high ranking national competitors including the 2011 national champion, the 2012 national champion, The Village’s certified pro, and two teams who played in and won several regional tournaments. The Ocean Pines players gained a lot of experience and enjoyment by competing against so many talented and experienced competitors.  The six beautifully maintained courts, the exotic vegetation, the cheers from many previous Ocean Pines’ residents, and the hospitality from Joe Russo, who founded and promoted platform tennis in the Pines, and Russ Jones, pro fromThe Villages, made for an unforgettable experience.

Written by June Freeman