Women's Professional Racquetball

ROLLOUT: WPRO Athletes Nail Public Relations

2012-03-13T09:44:00.002-07:00

ROLLOUT: WPRO Athletes Nail Public Relations

By KIMBERLY | Published: 03/13/2012Rollout: WPRO Athletes Nail Public Relations

Kimberly, Rhonda & Bonnie

This past weekend, I did something my racquetball-loving husband has been asking me to do for years – I was a tournament groupie. He’s a sponsored and ranked A-level player, and this sport is his (healthy) obsession. Me, I’ve gotten on a court a couple of times, but have never considered cheating on my distance running.

Well, recently Layer Cake helped promote the Mile High Pro / Am Racquetball Tournament, a stop on the women’s pro tour organized by (pro) Debbie Beldring of the Denver Athletic Club. The four-day tournament was a huge draw for amateurs, but the real stars were the ladies of the WPRO (Women’s Professional Racquetball Organization). Insanely talented and fully passionate about their sport, they blew apart my “pro athlete” bias by also being down-to-earth, gracious to everyone from refs to reporters (even the ones who got something wrong), and genuinely appreciative of all their fans. They thanked their sponsors at every opportunity and made an extra effort to spend time with those who attended. As a marketer, I couldn’t help but notice. Perhaps in addition to racquetball skills clinics, they should offer lessons in public relations!

Let me illustrate the effect the WPROs had on me. On Thursday, I stopped by “just to introduce myself.” A couple hours went by real fast, and over the next 3 days, I hung around for hours at a time – Friday night (!), Saturday night (!!), even rearranging my sacred Sunday morning run (!!!) to attend the finals, a killer match between Rhonda Rajsich and Paolo Longoria. I was a junkie, a groupie gleefully experiencing something that heretofore I’d described only in the abstract. I have long told non-profit clients, “Make your supporters come back and bring friends by making them feel special, like they have a backstage pass to a sold-out show.” Now I know just how well – and fast – that works.

We (heart) the WPRO and are crossing fingers that Denver and the DAC will become a regular stop on the tour.

Next time, maybe I’ll even venture back on the court!

Note: A “rollout” is racquetball’s perfect shot, played so low to the ground that it rolls out from the wall. It is virtually impossible to return.

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Hall of Fame ~ Professional Female Racquetball Players

2012-03-06T12:54:00.000-07:00

The Racquetball Hall of Fame was created in 1973 by the USA Racquetball, the following are the professional elite female athletes of racquetball that have been inducted over the years.

1988

Peggy Steding | Odessa, Texas (deceased: 4-17-36 to 11-17-91)
(Professional Athlete, Inducted 1988)
Peggy started playing racquetball in 1971. She had always been athletic and was attending Odessa College on a tennis scholarship. She had also competed in basketball, volleyball and fast-pitch softball, before discovering racquetball. Peggy dominated women's play in the early 70's and continued playing in the senior divisions prior to her death in 1991. In 1992 the USRA Female Age Division Athlete of the Year award was renamed the Peggy Steding Award in her honor. It is said that Peggy elevated the game of racquetball for women during her reign as champion.

1991

Cindy Baxter | Reedsville, Pennsylvania
(Amateur Athlete, Inducted 1991)
Cindy was instrumental in building a reputation for the U.S. National Racquetball Team in the eighties by distinguishing herself as a major competitor on the international racquetball scene. Early in her career, Cindy became the first U.S. athlete to win three consecutive gold medals in the World Games, first in 1981, again in 1984, and again in 1986. Her achievements in the sport have been documented by the Guinness Book of Records, and have yet to be matched.

1994

Jo Kenyon | Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
(Amateur Athlete, Inducted 1994)
Jo Kenyon was the 15th inductee to the USRA Hall of Fame, on the basis of her long-history of age group competition. A retired veterinary receptionist, Kenyon took up racquetball at the age of 50 and quickly laid claim to over 25 national title over the ten year period preceding her induction. Her love of the game, and the tournament environment, helped her become one of the top female age group competitors -- even after undergoing a hip replacement in May of 1998. Only three months after that procedure, Kenyon was back in top form, winning a silver medal in doubles, followed by a renewed
string of gold medal finishes in subsequent seasons.

1996

Mary Low Acuff | Asheville, North Carolina (deceased: 7-9-19 to 2-4-05)
(Amateur Athlete, Inducted 1996)
Hall of Fame athlete Mary Low Acuff dominated the "upper echelons" of age group competition among women beginning in 1984, with career wins that include forty-five national titles, nine silver medals and a scant two bronze medal finishes. In 1994 alone, Mary Low took five national titles and a world championships victory, then followed up in 1995 with a record of nine national wins and another world title to her credit. The mother of eight was a long time supporter of the USRA and is a legend in racquetball, who continued to compete in every tournament available to her. In 1999, Mary Low was joined by her husband Earl in the Hall of Fame -- the two are the only husband-and-wife pair to share this honor.

1997

Lynn Adams | Libertyville, Illinois
(Professional Athlete, Inducted 1997)
Lynn Adams won 325 of her 369 professional matches, for a .887 winning percentage. An eight-time player of the year (1982-88, 90), Adams won six pro tour season titles (1982-83, 85-88) and seven overall championships (1982-83, 85-88, 90). Even more impressive is Adams’ courageous fight against multiple sclerosis throughout her life and racquetball career.

Heather McKay | Brisbane, Australia
(Professional Athlete, Inducted 1997)
Heather McKay (Brisbane, Australia) had lost only two matches in two decades of international squash dominance before turning to the sport of racquetball in 1980, at the age of 39. McKay didn’t waste much time earning the title of best women’s racquetball player in the world, winning the pro national’s in 1980 and ‘81. She again won the coveted title in ‘84. Before returning to Australia in ‘85, the Canadian national amassed nine national titles and the ‘84 Steding Cup, given yearly by the women’s pro tour for outstanding contributions to women’s racquetball.

2001

Caryn McKinney | Atlanta, Georgia
(Professional Athlete, Inducted 2001)
Well known for her court-sense, Caryn McKinney dominated the Women’s Pro Racquetball Association [WPRA] Tour throughout the 80’s and into the 90’s, where she consistently placed in the top five. During her professional career she reached the semifinals in nearly 50 pro events, winning eight. Her career peaked in 1989 when she captured the WPRA National Championship, the top spot in the rankings and was named the tour’s Player of the Year. As late as the 1998 U.S. OPEN, McKinney remained competitive on the women’s pro tour, reaching the semi-final there against an tough field of up-and-coming current tour regulars. Well respected as an instructor and coach, she taught at the Elite Olympic Training Camp for eleven years, longer than any other instructor.

2004

Fran Davis | San Francisco, California
(Contributor, Inducted 2004)Fran Davis is known throughout racquetball as one of the top clinicians in the game.
She has also been successful as a coach for the U.S. National Team. She served as Assistant Coach for the 1990, ’92, ’94, ’96, ’98, and 2002 IRF World Champions and in 1987 she was named the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) Racquetball Coach of the Year. She was also part of the 1995 U.S. Pan American Games coaching staff, helping them to sweep the competition in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Shannon Wright | Fridley, Minnesota
(Professional Athlete, Inducted 2004)Shannon Wright dominated women’s racquetball throughout the late 1970’s and early 80’s. During her 12-year career she racked up over 35 professional tournament victories, captured seven National Championships, and finished #1 on the Women’s Professional Racquetball Association (WPRA) Tour four times. She is said, by some, to have revolutionized women’s racquetball with her hard-hitting style and aggressive play.

2006

Connie Martin | Gresham, Oregon
(Contributor, Inducted 2006)Connie Martin has been involved in the teaching and programming of racquetball since 1975. Currently Connie is the Program Director for Cascade Athletic Clubs in Gresham, Oregon, the commisioner of the Oregon Racquetball Association and coaches the Gresham High School Racquetball Team and the Mt. Hood Community College Team. She was the founder and executive director of PARI (Professional Association of Racquetball Instructors), now known as AMPRO. She has published numerous books on racquetball programming including the original PARI teaching manual and the YMCA training program for Junior Racquetball. Connie Martin and her club were the recipients of the first International Racquet and Sport Club Association (IHRSA) award for outstanding service. Additionally Connie played the Women's Pro Tour and was a member of the US Racquetball Team in 1987 winning 2 golds and 1 silver at the World Championships.

Susan Pfahler (left) & Mary Lyons (right) | Neptune Beach, Florida
(Amateur Team, Inducted 2006)In both Open and Age Division competition, the championship record of doubles team Susan (Morgan) Pfahler and Mary Lyons is unmatched in racquetball history. No other pairing, male or female, can claim 17 doubles titles. Their run began in 1984 with Women's 25+ titles and a bronze medal in Women's Open. Over the next two decades, they accumulated a total of 17 gold medals, including a double gold in 1992 (Women's Open and Women's 35+) followed by five consecutive wins in the Women's 35+ division from 1993 to 1997. From 1997 to 2005, they captured their Age Division title each year. Both players have earned the respect and admiration of their peers through long and outstanding performance, good sportsmanship, teamwork and fair play.

2009

Jacqueline Paraiso | San Diego, California
(Amateur Athlete, Inducted 2009)Jacqueline's esteemed record on the Pro Circuit closely mimicked her prowess as a DOUBLES LEGEND. Her acclaimed Titles include 3 Overall Pro Tour Championships, 2 US Open Titles, 18 First Place finishes, and 23 Final appearances. Even more impressive were her accomplishments in Doubles that boast a treasure chest of Gold Medals that includes 16 National Doubles Titles, 5 Olympic Festival Gold, and 3 Pan American Games Gold - over 75 Gold Medals in all! The highlights of Jacqueline's International career are the Gold Medals she won with here twin sister, Joy MacKenzie, at the 1995 and 1999 Pan American Games.

Jacqueline has qualified more times for a position on the US Team than anyone in the history of the sport and has made more appearances for Team USA than any other racquetball player, man or woman. In 24 appearances over 20 years she won 1 Silver and 23 Gold Medals! Paraiso and MacKenzie played together 7 times for Team USA, winning Gold each time.

Rhonda and Paola in Denver

2012-03-06T10:50:00.000-07:00

Rhonda Interview in Denver CO

PAOLA LONGORIA: EL REVÉS DE ORO. ANUARIO 2011 PERIÓDICO EL NORTE / GRUPO REFORMA

2012-02-29T17:41:00.001-07:00

PAOLA LONGORIA: EL REVÉS DE ORO. ANUARIO 2011 PERIÓDICO EL NORTE / GRUPO REFORMA
Paola Longoria El revés de oro. Por: Jesús Carvajal

El camino del oro para Paola Longoria inició a los 7 años de edad en su natal San Luis Potosí.

Indiscutible reina de los recientes Juegos Panamericanos al obtener tres preseas doradas, la estudiante de FIME de la UANL hizo volver los ojos del mundo hacia el raquetbol que no es olímpico y que tiene en los Panamericanos su mayor plataforma.

Y colgarse las medallas de oro no es una casualidad. Su trayectoria empezó desde pequeña, cuando apoyada por sus papás practicaba deportes como la natación, el futbol, el taekwondo, tenis y otros, pero cuando descubrió el raquetbol le pareció muy divertido.

Hubo entrenadores que vieron en ella aptitudes excepcionales para los deportes de raqueta y, con ello, la ayudaron a ser la mejor en su área y a que obtuviera ocho campeonatos mundiales juveniles, de los que luego se retiró para dedicarse al tour de la Women's Professional Racquetball Organization, en donde domina en el ranking.

El raquetbol, en palabras de Paola, es un deporte difícil, ya que exige de una condición física excepcional porque se requiere fuerza de brazos y piernas, además de una mentalidad de triunfo, lo que evidentemente ella tiene de sobra.

Sus mejores armas son su revés, su capacidad de concentración y su preparación física.

Luego de su destacada participación en los Panamericanos, Longoria busca seguir siendo la número uno en la gira de la WPRO y obtener el Campeonato Mundial de singles de federación, el único título que a sus 22 años todavía no tiene y al que aspira para el 2012.

Pero su máxima aspiración sería ir a unas Olimpiadas, algo que no depende de ella porque primero deberá lograrse que el raquetbol sea considerado deporte olímpico, para lo que se necesita que las autoridades impulsen más este deporte que es muy completo y que tiene seguidores en muchos países.

FEATURED ATHLETE KRYSTAL CSUK

2012-02-21T10:05:00.000-07:00

Shooting Star

By Sarah Warhaftig

After attending her first junior nationals at the age of 11 Krystal Csuk realized racquetball was going to be a huge part of her life. After pairing up with Coach T.J. Ferro, as well as her mother’s support Csuk took her racquetball dreams to the next level.

T.J. Ferro has been and always will be Csuk’s motivation to train every day. “He taught me so many skills from basic mechanics in racquetball to life skills,” says Krystal. T.J. passed away from lung cancer in 2010, but his racquetball spirit still lives inside of Csuk. “I think of him every day, and keep me motivated to train, even when life is busy.” Krystal calls him his shooting star, watching from above rooting for her at all of her matches and this keeps her inspired to excel both on and off the court.

While Krystal is not on the court, she holds a busy schedule as a physical therapist trying to balance boyfriend, friends an family. She admits to losing a bit of sleep to fit it all in, but she expects herself to give each day her best. She realizes some weeks are easier than others, but tries to train 2-3 hours on workdays and more during the weekends. She feels lucky to have a boss who is a racquetball player himself, and has been one of her biggest supporters to continue playing.

As Krystal continues to move up the WPRO rankings she is excited to see where the tour will go. On new tour commissioner Gigi Rock, Krystal says, “I think she offers a bright new outside perspective and is sparking change within the WPRO.” Krystal hopes with a cooperative group dynamic from the ladies on the tour, the WPRO will embrace positive change and an exciting future.

Krystal has reached her highest ranking yet at #6, and her first semi-final appearance in December of 2011 are listed as her biggest accomplishments to date. In April of 2011, Csuk made the trip to Nicaragua with the US National Team, and was extremely proud to represent her country. Krystal will continue to improve her game, challenging herself on and off the court; she knows the best is yet to come!

The Loser and the Champ

2012-02-20T08:05:00.000-07:00

Season 4 Biggest Loser, Bill Germanakos and World Racquetball Champion Rhonda Rajsich, meet up in Phoenix Arizona and share stories of glory...

Checkout Rhonda's Bio

Checkout Bill Germanakos' Bio

WPRO Highly ranked racquetball pro's passion for sport led her to love affair with new hometown

2012-02-17T07:55:00.002-07:00

By Don Wade Posted February 13, 2012 at 12:07 a.m.

Adrienne Fisher works on her game on the racquetball court at Germantown Athletic Club. An Ohio native, Fisher came to know Memphis from competing in the sport's U.S. Open. She is now the fifth-ranked player in the world.

This is not a story of boy meets girl, but of girl meets game and girl meets city.

Adrienne Fisher met the game of racquetball when she was 6 years old. She fell in love with it, committed to it by turning pro as a teenager and decided to stay with it, even though she understood the game's figurative low ceiling: Pro racquetball is too fast to make for good television. And this keeps the game and its players forever standing by the side of the tracks as the Great American Sports Gravy Train rolls by without them.

"It's frustrating," Fisher says of the money not to be made on the women's pro tour. In her best year, she brought home maybe $2,000 in winnings and bonuses; she's currently the fifth-ranked player in the world.

"But it's a Catch-22," she continues. "There's not as many racquetball players as there are people playing tennis or golf. So the money's proportional to how many people are playing it. But playing the tour has never been about making money. It's something I love to do and I don't have to spend money. I can break even."

A second story: Fisher met Memphis at 16, kinda liked it, and grew to like it more as she made her annual return to play in racquetball's U.S. Open, which for years was held at The Racquet Club. Ultimately, Fisher, now 26, fell for the city, even as those around her -- native Memphians -- were disparaging it.

"I didn't go to Graceland until I moved here," she says, "but everybody was really nice. I know a lot of people from here say they hate it, but I don't know what the problem is. I love it here.

"There are just so many things to do -- the Pink Palace, Beale Street, all the good places to eat. I just went to my first Grizzlies game, and it was awesome. I'm now a Tigers/Grizzlies fan."

Originally from Centerville, Ohio, Fisher played racquetball at the University of Alabama and graduated with a degree in marketing and public relations. She is close to getting a master's in restaurant and hospitality management from Alabama and works for an area hotel owned by Kemmons Wilson Companies.

"They've been supportive," she says. "They let me go play the tournaments."

Fisher has mostly avoided injury during her career, but she did recently have her tonsils removed and has just returned to the court. She is always looking for ways to improve her health and conditioning. Recently, she began using an app on her iPhone to help her adjust her diet. Her biggest challenge to staying true comes at work.

"We get all the leftovers from the catering," she says.

Besides playing racquetball, she runs, lifts weights and takes the occasional spinning class.

The sport earns high marks for burning calories: website shapefit.com says a 130-pound person playing a casual game of racquetball for an hour would burn 413 calories, 590 if playing competitively.

She has added paddleball, essentially a slower version of racquetball that demands a lot more running, and results have come quickly. She has reached the semifinals twice this season -- a career first -- and less frequently finds she's using inventive ploys to buy time and catch her breath.

"I'm not making as many mistakes, not taking as long to recover between points, not having to clean my goggles, tie my shoelaces, check my strings -- I've used them all," she says with a laugh.

With no other pro women's players in town, Fisher has to play men -- if they're willing to step on the court with her.

"There are a lot of guys who don't want to play her because they're afraid they'll get beat," says Charlie Andrews, 50, one of the top players in the city, who usually plays Fisher on Sunday afternoons at the Germantown Athletic Club. "I don't ease up on her. She wants me to play as hard as I can. Her dream is to be No. 1. She's told me that on several occasions."

It is perhaps a romantic notion given that the world's No. 1 player, Paola Longoria, is demonstrably better than No. 2 Rhonda Rajsich, and Rajsich is clearly better than everyone else. Fisher's game is power. Or as tour veteran Cheryl Gudinas, 44, who once held the top spot four years running, says: "She hits the ball a ton."

Fisher embraces the power label, especially on her more formidable backhand side, and says, "Strategy is not my first thing. But that's just the way I play. I play aggressive rather than being defensive and waiting for people to make mistakes."

Gudinas, who has been something of a mentor to Fisher, recalls a semifinal match they had a couple of years ago. Gudinas had the serve and was one point away from closing out the match when she left Fisher a "setup," and an easy lane for hitting a passing shot. Instead of hitting the pass, Fisher went for a kill shot, skipped it, and lost the match.

"There are times when she could make it more simple for herself," Gudinas says, adding there is much to like about her game: "She has a really good drive serve, the power, and hits the ball well down the lines."

Says Andrews: "Fundamentally, she's sound. She's extremely competitive, which is a really good strength. She's fearless. She's not afraid to hit a shot."

Gudinas and Fisher serve on the Women's Professional Racquetball Organization's rules committee, and Gudinas says Fisher is "good for the sport."

Fisher plans to stay in the sport and in Memphis; her job is here, her boyfriend is here, and she envisions playing years from now, even without much financial reward.

"I'm going to play as long as they let me go play," she says. "And when it's time to start a family, we'll see. There are a lot of girls (on tour) that have families and jobs."
© 2012 Memphis Commercial Appeal. All rights reserved. This material has been approved to be republished, by the WPRO

The 2013 World Games are Calling the WPRO to Cali Colombia

2012-02-16T12:26:00.000-07:00

TIWGA President Ron Froehlich announced the Executive Committee’s final decision to grant the hosting rights to Cali, COL, at one of his daily press conferences during The World Games in Kaohsiung, TPE, on 21 July 2009. “The Games will be held for the first time in South America,“ Froehlich proclaimed.

Bid leader Pascual Guerrero, who now heads the Cali Organizing Committee (COC), was able to explain the motivation behind the city’s bid for The World Games 2013 to the international press as well. “The excitement among the public here in Kaohsiung justifies our efforts all the more; this is what we can look forward to in Cali, in Colombia and around Latin America,” Guerrero said. “This event offers the people in South America the opportunity to learn more about interesting and fascinating sports, and it gives Cali a chance to push urban development.”

The conclusion of the Host City Contract was celebrated at the Cali Congress Center in August 2009. Then Colombian President Álvaro Uribe Veléz, who attended the celebrations, reaffirmed the national government’s all-out support to the Cali organizers in the lead-up and during The World Games 2013.

Cali will stage the multi-sport games together with two other cities in the Cauca Valley from 25 July to 4 August 2013. The Opening Ceremony will be held on 25 July, the day the City of Cali celebrates the 100th anniversary of its foundation. The organizers are preparing to seize the moment to promote the full breadth of sports to the world, and to bring about significant change to the nation, region and cities. The slogan for The World Games 2013 is Fair Play to the Planet! The COC is committed to pay particular attention to environmental friendliness in all its actions. Adding the new slogan to those used in the marketing of Cali makes for a promising formula. The city of Cali, aka “Heaven’s Branch Office,” and frequently labeled the “Sporting Capital of the Americas”, ensures “Fair Play to the Planet!” during The World Games 2013.

Cali brings considerable experience as an organizer of major sporting events to the challenge of staging The World Games. In 2008 Cali was host to the Colombian national multi-sport games with over 6,000 participants. The city was also an acclaimed host to the Pan-American Games and hundreds of large-scale international championships in the past. The most recent major event held there – in December 2009 – was the UCI Track Cycling World Cup. Cali and its partner cities in the Cauca Valley have the necessary infrastructure to accommodate The World Games. Even if all events will be hosted at existing venues, Cali has already embarked on a number of projects to improve them even further.

With a view to The World Games and the FIFA U-20 World Cup, which is held in Cali and seven other Colombian cities in 2011, the 35,000- capacity multi-purpose main stadium was renovated completely over a period of only 16 months.

From the "Official Site" of the World Games: http://www.theworldgames.org/the-sports/sports/ball-sports/racquetball

National Doubles Champions Kim Waselenchuk and Rhonda Rajsich

2012-02-14T09:07:00.001-07:00

WPRO Ladies Rajsich & Waselenchuk Win U.S. Team Qualifying Division

2012-02-13T08:45:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Kim Waselenchuk/Rhonda Rajsich who won the U.S. Team Qualifying Division at the 2012 USA Racquetball National Doubles Championships presented by HEAD/Penn. Congratulations to Ben Croft and Rocky Carson on the men's side and to all the other winners and medalists

Join us for the National Singles, May 23-28, 2012 at the Meridian Sports Club in Fullerton CA. The WPRO Ladies will be there in full force to claim their spot on U.S. Team.

Sponsorship Opportunities are available. Contact; sponsorships@wprotour.com

Paola Longoria adds another victory at the Wilson Tour of Hope

2012-02-01T13:12:00.000-07:00

CINCINNATI, Jan. 29, 2012 .- Paola Longoria accumulated her fifth title on the professional racquetball circuit after winning against Kerri Wachtel, in the Wilson Tournament of Hope, a WPRO pro-stop

Longoria won in three sets, 11-3, 11-7, 11-7, which continued her lead against #1 World Champion and #2 on the WPRO Tour, Rhonda Rajsich, who was eliminated by Wachtel in the semifinals, 11-5, 11-6, 11-4.

Longoria had a buy in the first round, then defeated Laura Fenton in the quarterfinals, by 11-6, 11-1, 11-3 and already in the semifinals, pro Krystal Csuk was defeated by 11-3, 11-2, 12-10, to advance to the championship game of the sixth stop of the tour to Wachtel.

Her achievements began at the U.S. Open in Minneapolis (Minnesota), then Olympia (Washington), followed by Arlington (Virginia) and the tournament she won in Canoga Park (California).

The next WPRO tour stop will be played in Denver, March 8-11, 2012, where she will seek to add another victory.

Paolo also won the mixed doubles tournament, teaming with U.S. men’s player Allen Jansen, defeating in the final game of round robin Rajsich Rhonda and her partner Chad McGuffey, of sleeves 14-16, 11-5, 11-3.

For a look at the tour schedule go to: www.wprotour.com

WPRO Rankings - from the Racquetball Blog

2012-01-23T16:50:00.000-07:00

Paola Longoria reaffirmed her position as the #1 Women's Professional Racquetball Organization (WPRO) player, when she won the California Open in Canoga Park earlier this month, and the latest WPRO rankings confirm that. Rhonda Rajsich, who was runner-up to Longoria in Canoga Park, remains the #2 player.

However, Kerri Wachtel has moved up into the #3 position ahead of Samantha Salas, who's now missed two consecutive events due to an arm injury. Cristina Amaya has also dropped in the rankings, falling from 6th to 8th.

Adrienne Fisher remains 5th, followed by Krystal Csuk in 6th, Susy Acosta-Mendoza 7th, Amaya 8th, Jennifer Saunders 9th, and Angela Grisar in 10th.

Where's Cheryl Gudinas, former WPRO #1, you ask? She's dropped to 12th, although she did compete in the California Open, which was her first tournament after knee surgery, she lost to Saunders in the Round of 16. In fact, Gudinas is only 0.30 points ahead of T.J. Baumbaugh, who's 13th. It's Gudinas's lowest ranking for almost 20 years.

The next WPRO event is the Mile High Pro-Am in Denver, Colorado, March 8-11, 2012.

WPRO Rankings (January 9, 2012)
Rank - Name - Nationality - Points

1 Paola Longoria (Mexico) 1494.00
2 Rhonda Rajsich (USA) 1360.40
3 Kerri Wachtel (USA) 503.45
4 Samantha Salas (Mexico) 484.30
5 Adrienne Fisher (USA) 455.70
6 Krystal Csuk (USA) 377.60
7 Susy Acosta-Mendoza (Mexico) 371.50
8 Cristina Amaya (Colombia) 366.65
9 Jennifer Saunders (Canada) 337.00
10 Angela Grisar (Chile) 245.00

11 Da'monique Davis (USA) 222.75
12 Cheryl Gudinas (USA) 212.80
13 T.J. Baumbaugh (USA) 212.50
14 Kristen Bellows (USA) 200.90
15 Christie Huczek (Canada) 150.25
16 Linda Scales (USA) 140.00
17 Laura Brandt (USA) 106.50
18 Nancy Enriquez (Mexico) 106.00
19 Aimee Ruiz (USA) 100.00
20 Sharon Jackson (USA) 87.50

Follow the bouncing ball....

Posted by The Racquetball Blog

CATCHING UP WITH DA'MONIQUE DAVIS! (WPRO #11) - 1/18/2012

2012-01-18T12:46:00.000-07:00

The holidays are always a special time for me. I feel it’s a great way to spend more time with family as well as relax from any stressors. I took a break from racquetball and somewhat from work over the holidays to be with family and friends. I feel it re-fueled and re-charged me for the New Year and new goals. My diet however wasn't the greatest.. But hey, it's the holidays.. What do you expect!? :-)

The second half of the season is looking great! There are 6 stops left for me, I’m feeling healthy and eager to get on the court to learn new things and get better. I feel with each stop, I learn something new. So I fully plan on using every stop to learn as well as develop my game to a higher level.

It's tough to work and play racquetball. As a nurse, I'm fortunate to only working 3 days a week.. However those 12-15 hour shifts are very stressful and my days are especially tough when I wake up 2 hours before to get a workout in, but I've made it work the past year as long as I get enough sleep, eat right, and balance my days and nights I can accomplish doing both.

Goals for the next half of the year are to improve my speed and footwork, improve my mental game and to play hard at every stop. I'd like to make a semi-final this year (something I’ve never done). So I know I need to kick my game and training up a notch to do so. These female athletes are the best in the world and know how to ball! All I want to do is be able to give them a great match to remember.

Sarah Warhaftig - WPRO Media Director

Open Call for New WPRO Board of Director Members

2012-01-17T10:03:00.002-07:00

This is an open call for New WPRO Board of Director applicants, if you are interested in submitting an application for consideration as a Board Member for the WPRO, please fill out the information form. The WPRO offers numerous volunteer opportunities year-round, and we encourage you to become more involved.

Click to review any one of the documents listed https://wprotour.webconnex.com/opportunities

About the WPRO

The Women's Professional Racquetball Organization (WPRO) is the governing body for the highest-level professional female racquetball players in the world. The WPRO exists to provide elite female athletes the opportunity to compete on a year round basis in affordable tournaments nationwide. The WPRO Tour promotes marketing of the organization and other supportive services that best serve the racquetball community. It is currently comprised of elite female athletes representing over a dozen countries including the United States, Mexico, Chile, Canada, Colombia, Japan, Dominican Republic and Venezuela.

Featured Athlete Susy Acosta

2012-01-11T14:08:00.000-07:00

The Cake Boss

By: Sarah Warhaftig

Susy Acosta admits to having a sweet tooth. When the lefty out of Mexico isn't battling it out on the courts, she is creating some beautiful and tasty cakes for weddings, Quinceaneras (the Mexican culture's version of a Sweet 16), and special occasions-including her own wedding. Acosta has always enjoyed baking and said, "Well truthfully I enjoy eating my creations even more!" While she has always enjoyed baking, she discovered her creative abilities and decided to create a business, which she still runs today.

Susy, who has received the nickname "superwoman" for her fearless attitude, has had a successful 2011-2012 season. With already a semi-final appearance in Olympia under her belt, Acosta continues her charge up the rankings on the WPRO.

According to Acosta, though, her greatest feelings of success and accomplishment come from playing for her home country of Mexico. She feels blessed and proud to have sung the national anthem already a handful of times in her career. Her proudest moment came in 2003 at the Pan American games, where she and her partner, Rosy Torres, won gold. Her motivation to win a pro title is still pushing her to train and compete, and it makes hitting the courts everyday so much easier.

Acosta balances court time with weights, speed training, and her new yoga workout-though she admits to being a total beginner! Traveling and competing can be exhausting, but Acosta still manages to balance her court time with her other passions while resting in the hotel room. Just ask her WPRO roommates. Thanks to them, they can tell you when all the reality cooking shows are on.

When asked about the new look of the tour, Acosta says, "I am really excited and I truly believe this is a new era for our tour." The media and connection to the world is new and exciting, and Acosta believes this is just the beginning of new and great things.

An exciting player to watch on the courts, Susy looks forward to many more years of successful racquetball, and ultimately, a pro title would be her "icing on the cake."

Cakes designed by Susy:

Longoria wins 2012 California Open ~ by the Racquetball Blog

2012-01-08T21:36:00.000-07:00

Paola Longoria won her fourth tournament of the 2011-12 Women's Professional Racquetball Organization (WPRO) season by taking the Coast to Coast California Open in Canoga Park, California, and further solidifying her position as the #1 WPRO player. Longoria defeated a familiar opponent in the final, WPRO #2 Rhonda Rajsich, 12-10, 11-6, 11-7.

Longoria's now won eight of her last nine WPRO matches against Rajsich.

In the first game, it seemed like Rajsich might carry the day, as she held an 8-4 lead. Longoria fought back and took the lead at 9-8, and it looked like that would be it for Rajsich.

However, Rajisch came back and had two game points at 10-9, but she failed to convert them. Rajsich did fight off one game point herself, when Longoria led 11-10, but then Longoria finished the game off.

Both games two and three were close early, at 3-3 and 2-2, respectively, but then Longoria took leads in each game and although Rajsich drew close late in each game, she never tied it, as Longoria went on to take the match in three straight games.

The next WPRO Tier 1 event is the Mile High Pro/Am in Denver, Colorado March 8-11.

2012 Coast to Coast California Open, Canoga Park, California

Final

1 Paola Longoria d. 2 Rhonda Rajsich, 12-10, 11-6, 11-7

Follow the bouncing ball....

Posted by The Racquetball Blog at 9:03 PM 0 comments

Labels: WPRO

For Immediate Release ~ New Year’s Resolution

2012-01-04T18:33:00.002-07:00

The week right after New Year’s is always filled with post-holiday blues, large credit card bills, extra pounds and back to work for many! One group of working professionals though is eager to get back to work on the courts! The WPRO professionals will kick off the 2012 second half of the season and team up with the IRT to compete in the Coast to Coast California Open in Canoga Park, California.

Canoga Park and the Spectrum Club will host both the best men and women in the game and crown the first champions of the 2012 year! Event director Debbie Tisinger-Moore will bring back the tours for another year, to one of the nicest and largest racquetball facilities in the country. It’s a spectators dream to have both tours in town, with a stacked amateur draw to compliment the pro players.

As many of us enjoyed time with family and festivities, many pro players took the few weeks off to recover and regroup. Don’t be surprised if it was short lived for many, as the second half of the season is always critical for rankings and the push to end the season at the top. Improvements in games, conditioning and strategy were on the front burner for the ladies coming off the holiday break.

It will be a continued battle at the top slot as Longoria continues to play solid ball, Rajsich will have her hands full to knock Longoria out of the lead. Samantha Salas continues to steady at #3 and a strong second half season could propel her confidence as she seeks to take down the long reigns of both Rhonda and Paola. Tour veteran Cheryl Gudinas will return to the draw after missing the Arlington stop due to surgery. A first time semi-finalist in Arlington, Krystal Csuk will be a tough matchup, and consistent ball will keep Kerri Wachtel in the semis as well. Young guns Cristina Amaya and Da’monique Davis continue to quest to knock off some higher seeds.

If you are in the area and want to kick off the New Year with some great racquetball head down to the Spectrum Club, tournament information is linked below! To a new year, a second half of what has been an exciting year, and may it keep rolling.

http://www.r2sports.com/tourney/home.asp?TID=9125

Sarah Warhaftig

WPRO Media Director sarah@wprotour.com

WPRO Krystal Csuk Appointed as Athlete Rep for the USAR Board

2012-01-02T11:03:00.003-07:00

As the Commissioner for the WPRO, I am always pleased to see the pro-athletes support their community and help the advancement of racquetball.

Recently announced, Krystal Csuk has been appointed as an Athlete Representative on the USAR Board of Directors, effective immediately.

As stated by President Cheryl Kirk: "Krystal brings valuable experience and perspective to our midst through her education, employment, and racquetball experience. She also brings the younger athlete’s point of view as a former US Junior Team member."

Way to go Krystal...

Something about KRYSTAL CSUK

EMPLOYMENT

Tyler Medical Services

Licensed Physical Therapist (September 2008-present)

Physical Therapy Technician (January 2005-June 2008)

RACQUETBALL

v Current US Team Member - semi-finalist at National Singles

v WPRO Crystal City semi-finalist, Women’s Open Champion

v 2^nd place at 2011 National Doubles with partner Cheryl Gudinas

v 2002 Intercollegiate National Champion

v 2002 Baldwin Wallace College National Team Champions

v 2002 Adult U.S. National Team Member

v 4-time U.S. Junior National Team Member

v 2-time Junior National Champion

v Currently #6 on Women’s Professional Racquetball Tour

EDUCATION

v Northern Illinois University - Master of Physical Therapy (2008)

v Northern Illinois University - B.S. Health Science (2006)

v Basic fluency in Spanish

WPRO's Jen Saunders a Finalist for Manitoba's Athlete of the Year

2011-12-20T11:45:00.002-07:00

The Manitoba Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association had announced on December 7, 2011 the finalists for the selection of Manitoba's Team of the Year and Athletes of the Year for 2011.

Jen Saunders, Ranks #9 on the WPRO Tour and one of the finalists for the top Female Athlete of the Year in Manitoba. She won in 2009 as Manitoba's Female Athlete of the Year and recently won her fourth Canadian Women's Singles Championship in racquetball. We wish her the best of luck!

Others nominated are: Swimmer Chantal Van Landeghem (Two-time winner of Sport Manitoba's Junior Female Athlete of the Year) won four individual medals and one relay medal at the FINA World Junior Swimming Championships. Jocelyne Larocque starred on defence for Canada's national hockey team in the 4 Nations Cup, and was a first team All-American for the University of Minnesota-Duluth.

Sarah-Anne Brault (past winner of Sport Manitoba's Junior Female Athlete of the Year) won the Canadian Triathlon Championship, and Manitoba Bison assistant soccer coach Desiree Scott was selected to play as a midfielder for Team Canada in the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup.

As a result of final voting by the Manitoba Sports Media, the winners will be declared at the 56th annual Athletes of the Year awards dinner on Sunday, January 29th, 2012, at the Delta Winnipeg Hotel.

Ticket information is available from MSSA Secretary-Treasurer Bob Picken (contact info below).

Among the MSSA awards to be presented at the dinner are the Cactus Jack Wells Memorial trophy, to recognize the event or individual creating a major impact on the Manitoba sports scene, the Dallis Beck Memorial Good Guy/Gal award to an individual providing exceptional support to the sport media, and the Jack Matheson Memorial awards to post secondary students interested in a career in sports journalism or sports public relations.

In addition, sportswriter Tim Campbell of the Winnipeg Free Press will be inducted into the MSSA Media Roll of Honour, recognizing his dedicated service to the sports community.

For more information: Bob Picken, MSSA Secretary-Treasurer
Phone: 489-8642 or e-mail: bponsport@shaw.ca

From the Ektelon Newsflash

2011-12-14T13:18:00.003-07:00

EKTELON LADIES - WPRO MID SEASON RECAP

The WPRO is midway thru the season and it has sure been an exciting first half with our top two Ektelon pros winning each event. The season began with Rhonda Rajsich as the #1 player and now her Ektelon teammate, Paola Longoria, has taken over the position. Rhonda won the first WPRO event of the season in August, while Paola has won the next three events after that. This past weekend was the Christmas Classic in Arlington, VA and Paola and Rhonda did not disappoint.

Rhonda started off the match on fire with big drive serves, tremendous court coverage and shotmaking from all angles. She was hitting with power and confidence and was in full control of the court and the match taking a 2-0 lead in games. Paola to her credit kept fighting to stay in the match despite not playing her best racquetball and making some uncharacteristic errors, mostly due to Rhonda’s quality of play.

Eventually, Paola battled back, managing to win games 3 & 4, taking control of momentum going into game 5. Paola took an early lead in game 5 and never looked back eventually winning the match 11-7 in yet another Longoria/Rajsich Classic Match. Both players fought tremendously hard throughout and treated the packed crowd to a great match. Congrats to Paola on winning her 3rd consecutive WPRO Pro Stop!

Ektelon is also very excited to announce the recent re-signing of Ektelon Professionals Jennifer Saunders, Keely Franks-Kennedy and Aubrey Kirch to multi-years contracts. Jen had a great showing this weekend by making it to the quarterfinals where she lost to Paola in a close four game battle. Jen is also in charge of our Ektelon display at all of our WPRO events, so if you can’t find Jen on the court you can find her at our Ektelon booth. Look for Keely and Aubrey to have great second halves of the WPRO Season.

Look for the second half of the WPRO Tour to be just as exciting as the first with only a few amount of points separating the difference between the #1 and #2 players in the world! Next up: Coast to Coast California Open, January 5-8, 2012 in Canoga Park, CA. Ektelon is proud to have the Ektelon Fireball as the Official Ball of the WPRO.

For more information on Ektelon "Click Here"

In Loving Memory...A Final Dialogue & Tribute to TJ Ferro

2011-12-13T07:05:00.000-07:00

From Krystal Csuk: "It would mean the world to me if you would post the article on my coach who passed away from lung cancer this month exactly two years ago, TJ Ferro, I want to spread the word about him and being influential and making a difference in racquetball. He was a father to me and my heart melts in the loss of him."

A Final Dialogue with TJ Ferro

December 14, 2009; 2:00 p.m.

by Cheryl Kirk

TJ was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer in April 2009. He passed away on December 20, 2009. His final year was one involving chemotherapy treatments; doctor appointments; attendance at Junior Nationals in June; playing competitively (for the last time) at the NMRA event in July with partner Jim Elliott; a Night of Appreciation at Glass Court the following week; trips to visit family in Florida and the Northeast U.S. in August and September; a hospital stay over Thanksgiving; and the joy of showing his grandkids Will and Ellie how to hit the ball on December 13^th. Just two days before TJ took a decided turn for the worse, Tom Curran (friend, USAR Board member and NMRA President) and I had the joy of spending a pleasant and upbeat afternoon with him to hear his thoughts on racquetball and what the sport has meant in his life. TJ’s partner Marty went on some errands with Shadow the dog, and we sat together to reflect…

How did you get interested in racquetball?

I was working for a health club, the Coliseum in Coral Gables, and it had 24 courts. I got to see Hogan, Yellen and all those guys play. I would go to hit once in awhile, maybe every 2-3 weeks. That was around, maybe 1984.

I began playing competitively in 1994 or so. I went to a tournament. I attended a camp featuring Ruben Gonzalez, Jack Newman, Lynn Adams, Andy Roberts, actually I went to three of their camps. Jack Newman asked me to help out at one of his camps – America’s Most Wanted.

What was your most memorable match?

The first time I ever beat Greg Hasty in the 45+ State Singles in Evergreen Park. He had beaten me 6, 7 times in a row and then I beat him the next 5 times. Haven’t really played him since the 90’s. He’s older than me, so he jumps age groups. That’s where my game shot up, he was the only guy I couldn’t beat.

What was your memorable moment during a match or tournament? Having my granddaughter see her first racquetball match and I won. She was about three. We made an Ektelon t-shirt for her.

Was there one event that you played in that you still remember as the ‘best ever’? What made it so special to you? The first NMRA tournament I played in. It was in Canton, OH. The most amazing tournament I’ve ever been to. (I loved the) sportsmanship, from then on, I was sold on the NMRA. People would ask, “Are you going to Nationals?” I’d say, “No, I’m doing the senior tour!” I wanted to get to Huntsman Games in St. George, UT and the World Seniors in Albuquerque, but I never could because of work.

What do you think makes our sport great and what makes it a challenge?

For me, getting more and more involved in the sport and teaching players the right way to play the game. Great, to me, is the people I’ve met and the friends I’ve kept over the years. It’s the competitiveness of it all. And personally having 3 or 4 people I trained ending up, or will end up, on the pro tour.

Were there any life lessons that you feel you gained directly from playing racquetball?

There’s a lot to do with the sport. It’s really an individual sport, but in many ways it’s not. I go on the court to be competitive, but win or lose is not the big thing. If you’re doing the right things, you’re gonna win. (The most important thing is) to be a good sportsman on the court. Those are the things that made me a better player. You watch people who are competitive but who are not good sportsmen. You see it or you hear about it. It doesn’t work…you know who they are. Each one of us, Tom, you help me, I help Cheryl because then we’re all being good sportsmen like it’s supposed to be. Ninety percent of our tournaments are based in sportsmanship, like the NMRA events. It’s people who call a carry (on themselves), who play rallies over. You get a bad call, you get a bad call.

One time I heard that Gary Mazaroff would announce at the player’s meeting at the World Seniors event: “If you have a problem, play it over. If you still have a problem, play it over. If you still can’t accept it, go on home because you don’t belong here.” If all tournaments were like the NMRA and other non-reffed events, we’d be better off. I told Jim Elliott that it was interesting to watch a couple of NMRA players with a ref (at a non-NMRA event awhile back). They did not play with the same sportsmanship as they would at an NMRA event. Having refs doesn’t necessarily mean a fairer game.

What would you change about our sport to make it better? Well, we’ve already talked about referees. Also, (people being) a lot more aware of the rules and how to interpret them.

We’ve talked about women’s racquetball, but never have done anything (significant) to promote girls in racquetball. That could be an easy target. Juniors in general, 80% are male. What if the NMRA would pay entry fees and help with the expenses for any first-time female Junior Nationals attendees, to get girls to play tournaments? Especially junior championships. The other thing is, we might say the first ten new annual junior girl members of USAR will be paid for by the NMRA. Up to maybe $500 per year for first-year memberships. Get women pros and leaders to work with young girls.

Getting the pros more involved in being what they’re supposed to be, not just about money. Pros should at least get out there and teach their expertise and do demos. Instead of using them, we tend to use the amateurs. Separate companies (manufacturers) need to come in there and get their pros to do clinics and demos.

At this point, Marty returned and Shadow the black lab took a few laps around the living room…

What was your proudest moment in racquetball?

The Summerfest Night of Appreciation. I can’t even put into words, it was the most amazing thing that’s happened in my life. My legs were shaking that night. Just to have my family and friends who care for me come there to support me. Totally phenomenal.

Marty added, “His family got to know how truly successful and loved TJ is in the racquetball world. The racquetball family perhaps never realized TJ had a family, sons, grandchildren.”

Cheryl said, “It’s not easy to lose you, TJ. It’s not easy for any of us. But having that time with you in July meant so much, not just to you, but to all of us. It created memories we’ll have with us forever.”

Tom added, “What I took away from that night is how wonderful that TJ has lived a life worthy of such celebration. The way you live forever is in the memories of others -- you never go away. It made me proud of the sport. I was so proud to be a part of that group on that July evening.

What advice would you like to give to the next generation of racquetball players?

Keep it up – I hope that maybe all the racquetball players will try to get out there and get more people involved in the sport. I would like to see our sport grow. If I were still going to be here, I would definitely try to make that happen. Promote the game on any level.

Krystal is like my daughter. We’ve been through a lot together. She’s done great, I’m so proud of her. I couldn’t be more proud of her and Trevor for what they have accomplished in education and racquetball.

Incredible kids. Just having 34 kids with JTI, that in itself. Every one of them was dedicated 2-3 times a week. They pushed me, I didn’t push them.

For many, life took over, something had to give. Now a lot of them are coming back. What was cool about that night in July, they said they were beginning to play again. They realized that racquetball was not just a game, they could take more from it. Put in to get out. It helped in their education. None of them could be in JTI unless they had at least a C+ average. Most were B+ and better. Education first, racquetball second.

What do you want to say to all of the people you have come to know and love through racquetball?

If it wasn’t for all of them, I wouldn’t still be in the game. Teaching racquetball to kids has helped my own game because it reinforces the basics I was trying to give them. It made me go over and over the basics. At this point in my life, I want to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers throughout this last year with what I’m going through. I’d like to name you all by name, the Leon Berrymans and so many others, you’ve been with me since the early days. Geoff Peters, the Milazzos…

Anything else would you like to say to your friends and family?

My grandkids are my pride and joy. Anything in my life I could have had, they are my pride and joy.

Ellie, 7, has natural court sense. Her hand/eye coordination is there, she had that to start. She moved to the place where the ball was going.

Maybe we don’t fully understand and appreciate what we have in our racquetball family. We all have our separate lives but it’s so funny, we come together at a tournament and we’re all together. It’s like Thanksgiving dinner all over again.

“Racquetball people are the best,” said Marty.

TJ’s eyes grew heavy and it was time for a nap. One last question:

TJ, how would you want to be remembered by our sport? As a competitor, a good sportsman, a dedicated teacher and a good friend.

Our good friend, you achieved that and so much more. We love you and wish you Godspeed.

Post script: To demonstrate his love for Ektelon, TJ had proudly sported for years an Ektelon flame tattoo on the outside of each calf. When he was diagnosed with cancer last spring, he expressed his desire to be buried in his Ektelon clothing and cap (worn backwards, of course). That did indeed take place. As TJ told Ektelon VP Scott Winters on a phone call just a few days before he passed, “I can’t wait to get to heaven and start a junior program up there!”

No doubt it’s in full swing.

This story was granted by the ISRA giving the WPRO permission to use this article from their Winter 2010 Newsletter. Courtesy of the Illinois State Racquetball Association. Photo: Cheryl Kirk

Longoria wins her third Women's Professional Racquetball Organization event of the season

2011-12-11T17:00:00.001-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

by: Evan Pritchard

December 11, 2011

Arlington, Virginia - Paola Longoria of Mexico solidified her position on top of the Women's Professional Racquetball Organization (WPRO) rankings Sunday with a victory over WPRO #2 Rhonda Rajsich (Phoenix, Ariz.) in the final of the 20th Christmas Classic in Arlington, Virginia. Longoria didn't make it easy on herself as she lost the first two games before staging a comeback to win in five games, 7-11, 3-11, 11-8, 11-4, 11-7.

The turning point of the match was game three, as Longoria was up 7-2, but Rajsich came back to make the match close. But while doing so, Rajsich was hit by Longoria during a rally. The contact was unintentional, but Rajsich needed some injury time prior to continuing.

Despite the injury, Rajich did narrow the gap to 9-8. But Rajsich that was as close as Rajsich got, as Longoria won it 11-8.

Longoria won the fourth game comfortably, taking a 5-0 lead and winning 11-4. In game five, Longoria again took a the early lead at 4-1 and 8-4. But Rajsich, the WPRO #1 at the beginning of the season, again fought back and got within two points at 9-7.

But on her second match point opportunity, Longoria won it, 11-7. The victory is the 18th of Longoria's career.

Longoria and Rajsich have met in the last two WPRO event finals, with Longoria winning both times.

Longoria also defeated Rajsich in the for the gold medal game of the 2011 Pan American Championships in Guadalajara, Mexico in October.

Longoria advanced to the final with a semi-final victory over Adrienne Fisher (Centerville, Ohio), 11-3, 11-4, 11-7, while Rajsich defeated surprise semi-finalist Krystal Csuk (Chicago), 11-9, 11-3, 11-5.

Csuk, the 6th seed, was an upset winner over 3rd seed Kerri Wachtel (Cincinnati) in the quarter finals, 8-11, 12-10, 11-3, 3-11, 11-6.

For more information see the WPRO website at wwww.wprotour.com or contact Gigi Rock, WPRO Commissioner at (928)-284-8657.

20th Christmas Classic, Arlington, Virginia

December 9-11, 2011

Final (seeding)

(1) Paola Longoria d. (2) Rhonda Rajsich, 7-11, 3-11, 11-8, 11-4, 11-7

One WPRO professional will be looking for an early Christmas gift

2011-11-29T10:37:00.001-07:00

As the ladies of the WPRO head to Arlington, VA December 9^th through 11th to compete in the 20^th annual Christmas Classic, in its 6^th year as a WPRO stop. Tournament directors Karen Denu, Bill Millback and Wayne Toyne anticipate a large amateur event in collaboration with the best women in the game seeking a win in what will be the last WPRO stop of 2011. Held at

Crystal Gateway Sport & Health Club - Arlington, VA USA

Big news in the rankings as Paola Longoria moves into the top spot over Rhonda Rajsich with her win at the Puget Sound Challenge in Olympia WA, Longoria has won more tournaments, - 16 - than any other player over the last four WPRO seasons. Rhonda is the reigning champion of the Christmas Classic, but Paola will look to continue her reign coming off back to back wins over Rhonda in their last 2 meetings of the 2011-2012 season.

In addition to the shifting of the number one position, several players are also adding to the excitement, highlighting their careers with big wins. Cristina Amaya out of Columbia leads a strong contingent of international players with her highest ranking yet at 6^th. Samantha Salas out of Mexico is knocking on the door, looking to get off the 3^rd ranking and for now Longoria and Rajsich will stand in her way.

Mexico’s Suzy Acosta comes of a semi-final appearance in Olympia to grab the 8^th ranking. And Canada’s Jen Saunders comes in at 9th. After a semi-final appearance in Olympia Kristen Bellows looks to move back into the top 5 after a year’s absence on tour. Not to be overlooked, though, is TJ Baumbaugh, the number 13^th ranked player on tour, who will take a bit of a home court advantage in Crystal City, likely to unleash her hometown fans on opponents!

Contact Media Director: Sarah Warhaftig sarah@wprotour.com

More information http://www.r2sports.com/tourney/home.asp?TID=9022

Double Time for Ruiz

2011-11-28T11:28:00.001-07:00

Double Time for Ruiz

by Leo R Vasquez

photos: www.flatchicken.com

In the discussions about great doubles racquetball players is it too difficult to be included with some of the greatest female doubles players of all time? Casual racquetball fans view doubles as filler between singles matches, as the equivalent of the rodeo clown diverting your attention before the bronc rider is set loose. But perhaps the problem is that they don’t know what they’re watching. You need to understand the game, where to play, where to place the ball. It’s a different strategy than in singles. That lack of comprehension even reaches into the players’ ranks. Sometimes you can have a player who is great in singles, unbelievably good, who doesn’t really understand the game of doubles.

We can debate on a number of great female double players - from Malia Bailey to Michelle Gould, from Kim Russell-Waselenchuk to Jackie Paraiso and now Aimee Ruiz. The easiest way to define a racquetball player as a great one is using the number of national doubles titles, especially IRF World and Pan American championships. And then throw in a USAR National Singles Championship along the way.

FINDING A PARTNER

Ruiz was recently asked about how she has had so much success as a doubles player and how her game-style fits with her partners. “I think I have great partners. It’s a team in doubles, there is no I, so I can’t say it’s just me,”” said Ruiz. “I’ve always been fortunate to play with some of the very best doubles players, that there game styles help compliment my game. I definitely like to be the shooter on the court and am not afraid to try and roll it out from anywhere. You will not see me have a long ceiling ball rally that's for sure. I’m also a lefty, which I think is a plus because there aren’t very many lefty/rights teams out there.”

Most of her recent titles in the women’s doubles have come with world and national doubles champion Jackie Paraiso, who in her own right is also a world class singles player. “I had qualified to play the Pan American Championships in 2006 with my partner at the time Laura Fenton. Laura was unable to go due to injury. Jackie and I ended up winning the gold, and we kept in touch after that, and in 2007 we decided to play together,” said Ruiz about her new partnership with Paraiso.

The resume for Ruiz is quite impressive, she has won two IRF World Doubles Championships, (’06 with Laura Fenton and ’08 with Jackie Paraiso) and three Pan American Doubles Championships, (’06 with Fenton and ’07 and ’09 with Paraiso). She has also won the last seven consecutive US National Team Qualifying Women’s Doubles Championships, (‘05, ‘06 with Fenton and ‘07-‘11 with Paraiso) and seven US National Mixed Doubles Championships (’02, ’04-’06 with Jason Thoerner, ’03 with Shane Vanderson, ’08 with Mike Dennison, and ’10 with Andy Hawthorne).

WINNING THE NATIONAL SINGLES

Ruiz also plays singles at selected WPRO events as well as the US OPEN Racquetball Championships and National Singles Championships. Surely you caught every moment when she won the 2009 US National Singles title by defeating Cheryl Gudinas in the finals in Houston. “When I went in to Houston that year there was no pressure on me. I hadn’t even played Houston in about five or six years prior to that,” said Ruiz. ‘I don’t play the pro tour full-time, in fact I only played two Tier 1 events last season, so I don’t get to play the ladies of the WPRO in singles very often. I’m used to playing strictly guys in my area. I always know whenever I step on the court, if I’m playing well, and I’m “calm” I can win singles matches against the top women.”

Winning the nationals singles didn’t come easy for Ruiz and is something she will cherish forever. She was one of the last seeds in the draw and went on to beat #2 seeded Kristen Bellows, #3 Rhonda Rajsich and #1 Cheryl Gudinas along the way. “All of my east coast racquetball friends were there rooting for me at every single match and to win that with them and my husband there was really special,” Ruiz would say.

Doubles competition can also help players with their singles game as Ruiz has proved by winning her National Singles title. “I think my reaction is better in singles and that is from my doubles experience,” said Ruiz. “Doubles is such a fast paced game, you really need to be on your toes and ready for the ball at all times.”

At least in comparison to the most exciting racquetball of the year—which could be Kane Waselenchuck’s winning streak of 130 matches without a loss; world class doubles play by Ruiz makes it more fun to watch and engaging. It’s the best-kept secret in racquetball and provides the same excitement and thrills as in singles, except with four players hitting amazing angles with accurate precision.

RACQUETBALL CAREER

Ruiz works for Ektelon Racquetball as their Promotions Manager/Product Development Coordinator. She also is the Pro Player Director and manages all of the Ektelon professionals including Team Adrenalin. At National Events she helps with the marketing exposure for Ektelon and supports the pro players in the events. She also enjoys coaching younger players, and coordinates Team Ektelon meetings during events. Ruiz also manages Ektelon social media outlets, Team Ektelon Newsflashes, coordinates the website, press releases and maintains budgets.

WPRO 20th Annual Christmas Classic

2011-11-24T08:42:00.001-07:00

20th Annual Christmas Classic

December 9-11, 2011

Crystal Gateway Sport & Health Club

1235 South Clark Street

Arlington VA

NoVaRacquetball proudly welcomes the WPRO back to Virginia!!!

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Register Here