Hey Y'all from a "dry" Macon, Georgia

Hey Y'all from a "dry" Macon, Georgia.  Amazing how many memories of Beth Choate-Wortman and junior tennis have flooded the mind this week.  For those that don't know, Beth was Natalie's first coach at age four.  Who was on her way to watch Nat (and others) play our state junior qualifying draw, when she lost her life in a car wreck.  Leaving behind her lovely husband, two very small children and her lovely parents.  Natalie would probably say  one of the most live changing events in her life.  However, we celebrate Beth's life and legacy through Natalie's successes, as well as the successes of other children that Beth coached.  Not to be overshadowing the two most important legacies....her children Luke and Mattie.  

I still marvel today, at Natalie strength through such a horrible event.  After speaking with two other wonderful coaches Rick and Brian, she decided to continue in the tourney.  Playing a morning  match then going home to bury her beloved coach only to return the next day to play tennis.  Her determination to "win" for Beth was felt by all those in attendance.  And win she did, both on and off the court by the person she has become, a true tribute to Beth's influences.   

.....drying tears......

Yesterday was a busy day on the court, and thankful a "dry" day.  Natalie took to the court at 9 a.m. vs.  Michele Sammonds.  A very nice player and young lady.  Going down in the first Nat regained control and won in 6-3.  The second set didn't go so well.  Although Michele played better in the second set, Natalie was making too many unforced errors.  The effects of the second set still reeling in Nat's mind kept her from starting strong in the third.  Going down 1-4.  So happy to say and see her regain control of her mind and the set.  Reeling off 5 straight games to serve herself into victory.  Soooo much gained from that match mentally.  With that third win, Nat earned a spot into the main draw.

Doubles started at 4:30 p.m.  Nat and Jac started very strong, hitting winner after winner.  Winning the first set very quickly, maybe 20-25 minutes.  Natalie continued to play well in the second set, running down some balls that amazed the audience....including me!  Our team fell in the second due to sloppy tennis, altho the opponents did apply a little more pressure.  The breaker in lieu of the third set, started rough with our gals going down 0-6.  We battled back, but tooo little toooo late and lost the the breaker and match.

Onto the main draw info and today's match.  Natalie will play second on after 10 o'clock.   She will be facing Angelica Moratelli (ITA).  Who is ranked 323.  We don't know this young lady, from the looks of her record she chases points in Europe.  Mostly at 10K and 25K tourneys.   

Time to shower and dress ....then.....the lil yellow ball will bounce....until then.....Love and Blessings....Sherry!