Tournament Recap: Pauline Betz Addie Cup 2023

Abbi Neuthaler

DATES: June 5-6, 2023
LOCATION: The Boars Head Club, Charlottesville, VA
HOSTED BY: Mid-Atlantic

The Addie Cup was formed in 1981 when several long-time Sears Cup players began to age up into the over-40 division. These events are annual and rotate venues once a year.

Mid-Atlantic was this year’s host to Eastern, Middle States, and New England. Heidi Clemmer worked tirelessly to accommodate these four teams, who compete for cumulative points, from age groups 40-80. The format is first-day semifinal, second-day final and 3-4 playoff.

The clay courts at Boars Head Club were ready for first-round singles action on June 5 at 9:00 am, Eastern vs Middle States and New England vs Mid-Atlantic. Many matches went three sets and as the second group of singles prepared to go on, captains began to formulate doubles pairs for the ever-important team slogan.... “It always comes down to the doubles”.

Results: Mid-Atlantic def New England 11-8, Eastern def Middle States 11-8

We were then treated to a beautiful evening of camaraderie, song, and a wonderful meal hosted by Mid-Atlantic players and many generous donations. Heidi continued to amaze us with thoughtful gifts for each player.

Second-day matches began using the same match order. On the featured court we were all treated to a very competitive 50’s singles match, Andrea Rice vs Carolina Torres. Their level of play set a new bar for fitness, mental conditioning, and problem-solving. Singles matches continued and the final results were only confirmed as the last two 40’s doubles matches concluded. Eastern def Mid-Atlantic 11-8 for the championship and New England def Middle States 11-8.

Kudos to all captains for recruiting such excellence. Due to a lack of funding, this was the first year that we were unable to hire a USTA-certified referee. Additionally, this event was not sanctioned. The players ALL observed the USTA CODE OF CONDUCT and exemplified sportsmanship, friendship, and commitment to the game we all love.