The CSRA Singles Tennis Association was created in the spring of 1997 for the purpose of organizing "fun-style" tennis events for unmarried tennis players in the CSRA.

Two events took place in 1997. Our first event in May and a second in August. Both were played at Petersburg Racquet Club, which has proven to be a very supportive host club for our events. At both events, we had about 29 players, equally represented by men and women, with NTRP rankings from "don't know what that is" to 4.0. Without exception, everyone had a great tiem and asked that more events be scheduled.

The intent of these events is to rotate partners and opponents frequently to give each person a chance to meet as many other players as possible. We structure the play format to allow this change to happen about every 20 minutes. Although some players come as couples, they quickly become part of the rotation with everyone else. The idea is not to win or lose but to have fun and meet people.

 Cost for each of the first two events has been $10/each. This has covered the cost of dinner, beverages (beer, wine, soft drinks), court fees and prizes which have been donated from various local businesses. Cost for future events may be the same or slightly higher depending on the budget for each event.

In 1998, we would like to have a minimum of three events. We would also like to have more clubs and players become involved so that we can expand our base of participation. The first event for 1998 will be held on Saturday, May 2 at Petersburg Racquet Club. Play will begin promptly at 5:00 pm; format will be round-robin mixed doubles (we provide the partners and set up the matches).

The entry fee of $10 will cover the cost of courts, dinner and beverages. Local sponsors will provide donations for the prize drawings. Contact Jim or Mitch, below, for more information.

We do most of our event notices by either snail-mail or e-mail. For more information, or to be added to our mail distribution lists, please contact either:

Jim Spangler, 650-1144 (e-mail:jspang@groupz.net), or

Mitch, 860-4070 (e-mail: mitch.ten@juno.com)