Karen Fellabaum

DATES: March 2023
LOCATION: Daniel Island, SC
DIVISIONS: National Level 2, Women’s 40-80

The NWTO Championships at Daniel Island is an exceptionally well-organized event, with the historic port city of Charleston serving as a stunning background.

Ben Cook, Tournament Director, mentioned that the March 2023 edition drew 80 players from 16 States. The weather was ideal until Friday when we were completely rained out. Play resumed on Saturday at 8 am with the format for all being 2 tiebreak sets and a deciding 10-point tiebreaker.

Player Swag Bags included, among other items, a plush NWTO embroidered navy towel, the ubiquitous slow-kettle-cooked Boiled Peanuts, The Scout Guide for Charleston, Candied Pecans, as well as a program of events. The NWTO member amenity was lip balm.

Proceeds supported the Lowcountry Youth Tennis Association (LYTA) and there were additional opportunities at the sumptuous Thursday Banquet for players to support tennis and educational instruction in Title 1 schools through LYTA.

As Cindy Babb eloquently expressed in her opening remarks, the event brought players together for the joy of competition and the blessing of friendships. Elizabeth Barnhill, NWTO Co-President, took the podium to highlight the NWTO mission:

To support age-level tennis throughout the country
To advocate for women's events
To encourage camaraderie
To create philanthropic opportunities, through invitations to non-profits, and to apply for grants.

She also presented a check to John Farrelly, the local representative of Title 1 schools.

Other sponsors included Daniel Island Club, Cohen Family Foundation, Crews Subaru, and Marine Repair Services Container Maintenance Corporation.

Throughout the week the unflappable Tournament Referee, Meg Farrelly, texted information via the NWTO Championships broadcasting system. These communications kept players up-to-date and were especially beneficial when weather created postponements.

Players received box lunches Thursday-Saturday and NWTO sponsored a lovely Mexican Fiesta on Friday evening at the private home of Bettina Routh. There was a 20% discount in the Pro Shop and the tournament desk overflowed with drinks, bananas, nuts, energy bars, and chocolates. Additionally, Meg and Cindy compiled a comprehensive list of favorite local eateries and recommended tournament accommodations, including limited private housing.