Tournament Recap: Coast to Coast Friendship Cup
Coast to Coast Friendship Cup: A Grand Slam of Camaraderie and Competition
The inaugural Coast to Coast Friendship Cup took place September 11–14, 2025, at the Judy and Roger Pearce Tennis Center in Columbus, Georgia. This three-day round-robin event brought together six spirited teams across the 65, 70, and 75+ age divisions, with both a men’s and women’s captain leading each squad. The format featured two matches per day on Friday and Saturday, followed by a final round on Sunday morning—ensuring every team faced off against every other in a full-circle showcase of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship.
While the level of play was impressively competitive, the true essence of the tournament was friendship. In fact, the atmosphere was so collegial that no roving umpires were needed—a testament to the mutual respect and integrity displayed on the courts.
Players traveled from all across the U.S., representing San Francisco, Oregon, Texas, Florida, Maine, North and South Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Ohio, Tennessee, and a strong contingent from Atlanta and Columbus. (Apologies if we’ve missed any hometowns—you were all valued parts of this special event!)
Congratulations go to Kathy Foulk and Joe Rasgado for their exceptional medal-winning performances. Their efforts stood out in a field full of talent and teamwork.
The tournament wouldn’t have happened without the tireless leadership of our team captains:
Steve Duffel / Joan Oelschlager
Alice Lewis / Gary Herd & Jimmy Chu
Jan Kirkland Cochran / Jeb Courtney
Sue Bramlette / Greg Mueller
Sally Summerlin / Danny Carlson
Each captain played a crucial role in assembling their squads and bringing their teams together.
A huge thank you to tournament directors Judy Pearce and Linda Gordon, along with their dedicated staff. They managed every detail with precision and care—from match scheduling and score posting to daily hospitality including lunches, snacks, beer, and even ice cream. The festivities continued with a wonderful catered dinner, further enhancing the community vibe that defined the weekend.
And let’s not forget the weather gods, who smiled upon us with crisp mornings, sunny skies, and warm, inviting afternoons—perfect tennis weather.
In every sense, the Coast to Coast Friendship Cup was a Grand Slam success. We look forward to seeing this new tradition grow in the years to come.
