Viking and Wilson provided some insights into how paddles have evolved over the years:
“Paddle technology has come a long way. When platform tennis was first played in 1928 the paddles had square, wooden faces, had no holes and were lightweight (about eight ounces). As the sport grew in popularity, the paddles changed. Stronger woods were tried, but the extra strength resulted in added weight. Holes were then added to reduce weight and created the added benefit of allowing ‘spin’ to enter the game.
Metal edges were added in the 1960s to reduce wear. But, with the introduction of the metal edge came the "paddle rattle". In the 1970s, manufacturers experimented with Lexan and aluminum paddles. The first open throat paddle appeared and was made with an aluminum yoke. Fiberglass and acrylic skins were added to reduce warping, increase power, and reduce weight. The new surface mat[...]
APTA President, John Horine, reported:
“I would like to relay an exciting experience I had in early November. On November 12th, 11-time National Champion Bill Childs and I flew to Kansas City at the request of APTA member Peter McHugh for an exhibition and clinic. When we arrived at the Carriage Club on Saturday morning we were greeted by the tennis/platform pro Kirkland Gates. Both Bill and I were amazed at the enthusiasm of the players we met that day. All of the players that we met were eager to learn more about the game and how they could improve their skills.
We were on the court for over seven hours! The program in Kansas City is admittedly small in comparison to other areas of the country, but their hearts and excitement for the game are as big as anywhere!
Before the call from Peter McHugh, few people knew platform tennis was played in Kansas City. Now, hopefully the[...]
The final Chicago Charities Tournament of the decade/century/millennium was played on a perfect autumn weekend and showcased the top talent in the game. Over 150 teams, competing in four divisions, converged to do battle in one Tournament of the decade/century/millennium was played on a perfect autumn weekend and showcased the top talent in the game. Over 150 teams, competing in four divisions, converged to do battle in one of the most competitive fields ever assembled at an APTA tournament event.
Headquartered at Glen View Club's new "paddle palace", the tournament provided some upsets and some near upsets. David Ohlmuller and Chris Gambino, the nation's number one ranked team, came in from the east to defeat Chicago's Bill Fiedler and Scott Bondurant (two-time defending champions) in a three set men's final, displaying some of the finest driving and net play ever. The Chicago team h[...]
Viking Cup Adult/Child Tournament has over 230 participants
Back to TopViking Cup Adult-Child Winners: Hissey, Nunziata and Nowlan
The Viking Cup adult/child paddle tennis tournament is quickly becoming the APTA's largest paddle tournament! This year over 230 adults and children participated in playoffs at 13 sites over an eight state area.The Viking Cup adult/child paddle tennis tournament is quickly becoming the APTA's largest paddle tournament! This year over 230 adults and children participated in playoffs at 13 sites over an eight state area.
David Kjeldson, CEO of Viking Athletics and the primary sponsor for the Viking Cup, has continued his support of junior paddle development across the country. This adult-child format has been well received and has been well received and has been a great goal for the children.
In October, the local play-downs determined the draw for the national competition at the Fox Meadow Tennis Club in Scarsdale, New York. All participants received a Viking t-shirt and hat, as wel[...]
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