Hello Folks and Happy Opening Day of Baseball! Spoke to Natalie a short time ago, in her words "it was ugly, but I won". So there you have it! She won 4-2. The match stats tell a different story. She served three aces, no double faults and five breaks. Her opponent served zero aces, had five double faults and had three breaks. Natalie won sixty-three points compared to the opponents 46 points. These solid stats prove that the match wasn't ugly. Often a player's view of the match is waaaayyyy different then the reality of what happened. Often a player thinks they played much better then they did or even a lot worse then they did.
Our gal will play second on after ten, not before 11:30 a.m. Which of course is secret tennis world code for 11:30ish. Nat will play Natalie Suk of USA. The two have played one time prior, in Macon, October 2013. Pluskota took Suk down 1,2 in Macon. Should be a good match of tennis, with the winner advancing into the main draw.
Half the doubles draw will begin tomorrow, but not our half. Therefore, our 4th seeded team of Natalie and Sam will play on Wednesday. They will face the American Wild Card team of Terry Fleming and Meridith Roberts. I don't know these young ladies and do not believe Nat has faced either in the past.
Here is the link to live scoring:
http://www.itftennis.com/procircuit/tournaments/women's-tournament/info.aspx?tournamentid=1100031196
This evening Natalie is helping out with the ProAm for the members of the club. Something she always looks forward to participating in. Sure hope she remembered the camera so we have some memories to post.
Had to take Nana to the neurologist today. And she has been suffering mini strokes, something I've been trying for five weeks to convince ER doctors at two different hospitals was happening. The doc was using one of the CT scans taken at the second ER visit to make diagnosis. How sad that our brand new hospital let this slip thru.....sooo scary and pitiful! Nana has been getting progressively worse, one has to wonder if they did a better job would she be partial paralyzed right now?? Anyway, we have found an awesome doctor who I'm sure will at least make the correct plan of action. On Wednesday she goes for a test to see if the swelling in right arm is from a blood clot. Then on Friday she will have three MRIs to see if the spinal cord is being pinched from swelling. We will be starting home health care.
So ...as for me....I'm planning to trek to Jackson on Thursday. Then over the weekend Nat and I will trek to Pelham for the next tourney. Being Pelham is only two hours away and they are only performing tests, I think its ok for me to get a break and hit the road.
As you can see ...just another boring day around here! Hopefully, I'm going to get my Christmas, Valentine's Day, St. Paddy's Day.....TREE down before I leave. But hey, if not.....I'll just toss some Easter eggs on it before I leave. hahahahhahaha Only so many hours in my day! Love and Blessing.....Sherry!
Monday, March 31, 2014
Sunday, March 30, 2014
Snail Life
Good day folks! Hope this Sunday has been filled with peace and rest. Yea right, who am I kidding??? Maybe for you, but not me.....not sure when I will EVER see peace and rest. hahahhaah
Been moving at a snail pace today, just have noting left in the ole tank. Natalie however, now she has been a busy bee. Had practice today, found a new doubles partner and has a ProAm. Busy bee indeed. She has been enjoying her host family and fellow roommate Harmon.
Nat will play singles tomorrow third on after ten, but not before one. That my friends is code for 1ish. Our sixth seeded player will face fellow American Nyle Beenk, non ranked. I don't believe they have been opposite sides of the next prior to tomorrow.
As for doubles, I misspoke in my prior blog. Today is Sunday, therefore the doubles sign up doesn't close until tomorrow at noon. As mentioned in said prior blog.....my brain was drooping! Sorry if I caused any confusion. The good news, Natalie has found another dubs partner. She will play with fellow American Crawford. A new dubs relationship in the making.....time will tell. Sam is a very sweet young lady that Nat enjoys hanging out with. So no matter the outcome, they will enjoy dubs together and continue their friendship. Dubs draw will begin on Tuesday.
Unfortunately, Nana is not doing well. I can no longer get her out of the bed, chair or etc. She will have to stay in bed while she and I are home alone. Hopefully, the neurologist will see us soon and be able to give her meds to fix whatever is going on. The mere fact that its happening virtually overnight leads us to believe its not a long term condition. But hey, we NON docs can be completely wrong, so don't bank on anything we think bout this. Continued prayers please!
Well, time to go back to my snail life.....for at least today! Love and Blessings my friends....Sherry!
Been moving at a snail pace today, just have noting left in the ole tank. Natalie however, now she has been a busy bee. Had practice today, found a new doubles partner and has a ProAm. Busy bee indeed. She has been enjoying her host family and fellow roommate Harmon.
Nat will play singles tomorrow third on after ten, but not before one. That my friends is code for 1ish. Our sixth seeded player will face fellow American Nyle Beenk, non ranked. I don't believe they have been opposite sides of the next prior to tomorrow.
As for doubles, I misspoke in my prior blog. Today is Sunday, therefore the doubles sign up doesn't close until tomorrow at noon. As mentioned in said prior blog.....my brain was drooping! Sorry if I caused any confusion. The good news, Natalie has found another dubs partner. She will play with fellow American Crawford. A new dubs relationship in the making.....time will tell. Sam is a very sweet young lady that Nat enjoys hanging out with. So no matter the outcome, they will enjoy dubs together and continue their friendship. Dubs draw will begin on Tuesday.
Unfortunately, Nana is not doing well. I can no longer get her out of the bed, chair or etc. She will have to stay in bed while she and I are home alone. Hopefully, the neurologist will see us soon and be able to give her meds to fix whatever is going on. The mere fact that its happening virtually overnight leads us to believe its not a long term condition. But hey, we NON docs can be completely wrong, so don't bank on anything we think bout this. Continued prayers please!
Well, time to go back to my snail life.....for at least today! Love and Blessings my friends....Sherry!
Big Announcement!
Gunna try to attempt this with half drooped eyes and an even less drooped brain. Must say the last week of time has been exhausting to say the least. Spent four....yes.....FOUR days trying to schedule an appointment for Nana with an new endocrinologist. Talk about a run around due to the changes in our health care system. All I can say.....prepare yourself for the worst because that is what our system has been changed into....the worst!
Anyway....got Nana in for an appointment on Friday, the new doctor is very good. Sooooo good in fact that when he asked her if she had any questions her reply...."yes, when are you going to take me out?". OOOOO Lawdy...hahahahah! She is going to be scheduled for an IV at the infusion center. An IV that will work in her body for the next 12-15 months. And we need to schedule and appointment with a neurologist. Her motor skills have taken a major dive. Please continue to keep her in your prayers.
Now on to the business at hand...TENNIS! Natalie flew out on Friday, to Jackson, MS. Although she flew through storms and much turbulence she made it safe and sound. The talent pool for this 25K tourney went from extremely tough to the qualifier draw not being filled. Crazy indeed! Lucky draw for Natalie since she has a bye for the first round. Therefore, she will play one less match to qualify into the main.
Nat was to play doubles with fellow American Abaza for this one. However, Jan had to pull out of dubs yesterday due to an injury. Natalie has till noon today to find another partner. Therefore, she will continue to work on that and practice today.
Now to the "BIG" announcement....made last night. Because Poker for Pluskota ONE was a success. Because many of you sent Natalie gifts. We were able to purchase airline tickets to France. Natalie will attempt to play three tourneys during a month stay. When I say attempt I mean...... the third said tourney is the French Open. She will need a lil luck and boost in rankings between now and then to hopefully "sneak" into the qualifier draw. Because we have to "chase" points to improve her rankings, we thought we would piggy back the French onto the trip. Definitely a risk worth taking as long as we can "chase" points at other tourneys. Departure date is May 5th. We will continue to fundraise for the monthly EuroRailway pass, hotel and food costs.
If you have any connections for housing in or around Paris... please email us at npluskota@hotmail.com, text or call one of us. We would appreciate any day or days we can get housing. For every penny counts.
Last night we hosted Poker for Pluskota TWO. Like the first event, we had a blast. Many thanks to everyone that attended our event and making it a success! The picture below is a bird house that Sandy Tomblin made for us to give away. That is Natalie's old tennis shoe, decorated with items Nat has accumulated along the way. An AWESOME birdhouse if I say so myself. Great job Sandy!
Anyway....got Nana in for an appointment on Friday, the new doctor is very good. Sooooo good in fact that when he asked her if she had any questions her reply...."yes, when are you going to take me out?". OOOOO Lawdy...hahahahah! She is going to be scheduled for an IV at the infusion center. An IV that will work in her body for the next 12-15 months. And we need to schedule and appointment with a neurologist. Her motor skills have taken a major dive. Please continue to keep her in your prayers.
Now on to the business at hand...TENNIS! Natalie flew out on Friday, to Jackson, MS. Although she flew through storms and much turbulence she made it safe and sound. The talent pool for this 25K tourney went from extremely tough to the qualifier draw not being filled. Crazy indeed! Lucky draw for Natalie since she has a bye for the first round. Therefore, she will play one less match to qualify into the main.
Nat was to play doubles with fellow American Abaza for this one. However, Jan had to pull out of dubs yesterday due to an injury. Natalie has till noon today to find another partner. Therefore, she will continue to work on that and practice today.
Now to the "BIG" announcement....made last night. Because Poker for Pluskota ONE was a success. Because many of you sent Natalie gifts. We were able to purchase airline tickets to France. Natalie will attempt to play three tourneys during a month stay. When I say attempt I mean...... the third said tourney is the French Open. She will need a lil luck and boost in rankings between now and then to hopefully "sneak" into the qualifier draw. Because we have to "chase" points to improve her rankings, we thought we would piggy back the French onto the trip. Definitely a risk worth taking as long as we can "chase" points at other tourneys. Departure date is May 5th. We will continue to fundraise for the monthly EuroRailway pass, hotel and food costs.
If you have any connections for housing in or around Paris... please email us at npluskota@hotmail.com, text or call one of us. We would appreciate any day or days we can get housing. For every penny counts.
Last night we hosted Poker for Pluskota TWO. Like the first event, we had a blast. Many thanks to everyone that attended our event and making it a success! The picture below is a bird house that Sandy Tomblin made for us to give away. That is Natalie's old tennis shoe, decorated with items Nat has accumulated along the way. An AWESOME birdhouse if I say so myself. Great job Sandy!
Friday, March 28, 2014
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
A Snip of Time Video
As we plan for the next three weeks on the road. I remembered a video clip of Natalie and some of her fellow competitors watching a very important point in a match. I had been watching the "crew" through the window for while and was giggling at their passion for cheering Allison onto victory. You could see each and everyone of them playing the point "with" her. Funny indeed! Wish I had filmed more, but here is a snip it of time....please enjoy~!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fxV0lzwRvOM&feature=youtu.be
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fxV0lzwRvOM&feature=youtu.be
Monday, March 24, 2014
More details
Hello Folks, hope you and yours are doing well. Natalie has been practicing and working out. In preparation of heading west to Jackson, MS. As well as helping around here and with her Nana. Who doesn't seem to be doing very well. We can pray she will be around for a much longer time, however doesn't seem that is God's plan. Guess time will tell, until then we will do what we need to do and spend as much time with her as possible.
We continue to plan and organize for Poker for Pluskota TWO. Which is this coming Saturday. The Pluskotas are looking forward to another fun filled evening with friends....new and old. We have some nice things to give away, to name a few of them....table topper poker table, LongHorn gift card, World Series of Poker t shirt.
Happy to say the spring cleaning continues. Probably the only one in the house to be happy about it. That's ok, they will get over it and my house will be cleaned before we hit the heart of the clay court season. For following Jackson, we will head to Pelham, Alabama and then Dothan. Return home for a week and then back on the road for a month straight. More details about that to be announced at Poker for Pluskota TWO.
Time to end this blog and get ready for some basketball.....March Madness.....let's goooooo BIG ORANGE....gooooo Lady Vols and Vols! Love and Blessings.....Sherry!
We continue to plan and organize for Poker for Pluskota TWO. Which is this coming Saturday. The Pluskotas are looking forward to another fun filled evening with friends....new and old. We have some nice things to give away, to name a few of them....table topper poker table, LongHorn gift card, World Series of Poker t shirt.
Happy to say the spring cleaning continues. Probably the only one in the house to be happy about it. That's ok, they will get over it and my house will be cleaned before we hit the heart of the clay court season. For following Jackson, we will head to Pelham, Alabama and then Dothan. Return home for a week and then back on the road for a month straight. More details about that to be announced at Poker for Pluskota TWO.
Time to end this blog and get ready for some basketball.....March Madness.....let's goooooo BIG ORANGE....gooooo Lady Vols and Vols! Love and Blessings.....Sherry!
Friday, March 21, 2014
Can't Make it to Poker for Pluskota......here's another way you can help Natalie
Can't Make it to Poker for Pluskota???
Jasmine will tell you another way to help Natalie........
Thanks for your consideration! Love and Blessings Sherry!
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Poker for Pluskota ....Be a part of Team Pluskota
Come Play With Us
and Become a Part
of Team Pluskota!
Poker for Pluskota
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Our eagle
Our eagle has landed safe and sound. After a dinner with her brothers and Jaynie, Natalie and company went to the gym to play a lil basketball. Got home before nine and went straight to bed. I guess she really missed having a driver and being able to sleep on a long trip home.
Many thanks to the DeArmas family for taking great care of our gal. And thanks to Lynn Alley for sending a thumb drive of pictures home with Natalie. Please enjoy this video made from some of the said pics:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VZ89r9pCzTU&feature=youtu.be
Many thanks to the DeArmas family for taking great care of our gal. And thanks to Lynn Alley for sending a thumb drive of pictures home with Natalie. Please enjoy this video made from some of the said pics:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VZ89r9pCzTU&feature=youtu.be
Monday, March 17, 2014
Nat is driving home
Regards from a rainy Georgia! Wish I was on my way to sunny Florida to join Natalie at the Innisbrook tourney. But, no such luck! A lack of housing led us to change those plans, unfortunate indeed. We will miss that tourney for sure, always have enjoyed it. Do wanna wish the ladies in the qualifier .... good luck....Jen, Sam, Mayo and Alexa to name a few!
Nat is driving home as I blog, just bout to Macon, Georgia. If you know Natalie, you know she hates to drive. So much so that she didn't want to get a license when she was 16 years old. It was six months after her birthday that I insisted she was getting hers. She continued to insist that her brothers and I would just drive her to where she needed to go. Needless to say that theory wasn't working for the prospective drivers. Sorry, I digressed! For Nat to drive alllll the way from Orlando to home is a big deal....for her that is. We are looking forward to her return.
As far as our Nana is concerned, she is doing much better, thank you. We appreciate all the prayers and messages on her behalf. Hoping the blood work done on Friday will shed light on future treatment.
Sending prayers out to those in the earthquake area of Cali! May you all be safe and sound! Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Nat is driving home as I blog, just bout to Macon, Georgia. If you know Natalie, you know she hates to drive. So much so that she didn't want to get a license when she was 16 years old. It was six months after her birthday that I insisted she was getting hers. She continued to insist that her brothers and I would just drive her to where she needed to go. Needless to say that theory wasn't working for the prospective drivers. Sorry, I digressed! For Nat to drive alllll the way from Orlando to home is a big deal....for her that is. We are looking forward to her return.
As far as our Nana is concerned, she is doing much better, thank you. We appreciate all the prayers and messages on her behalf. Hoping the blood work done on Friday will shed light on future treatment.
Sending prayers out to those in the earthquake area of Cali! May you all be safe and sound! Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Sunday, March 16, 2014
Finals Update
Hope you enjoyed the internet broadcast of the match. And I'm sure like me you wish the outcome was in our favor. It was not meant to be, God had the master plan. Just wonder what it is???? Our team played well, just not consistent. Losing four games in the first set that we were leading in, not good. Must say Natalie and Sally Peers had a good run at this tourney and the last one. Racking up some points, altho at a 10K ....not very many. They get 7 for losing in the final today, pathetic system that holds back players and keeps those at the top safe and sound.
Our team lost 9-11 in the breaker. After battling back from 4-7, to go up 9-8....they just couldn't finish it off. Unfortunate indeed! Natalie will drive home tomorrow. Then back to the practice courts with Jason on Wednesday. Will be good to have our gal home and the family all together. Take care my friends...Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Our team lost 9-11 in the breaker. After battling back from 4-7, to go up 9-8....they just couldn't finish it off. Unfortunate indeed! Natalie will drive home tomorrow. Then back to the practice courts with Jason on Wednesday. Will be good to have our gal home and the family all together. Take care my friends...Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Saturday, March 15, 2014
Orlando Championship to be on internet radio.....here's the link
Natalie just texted me that we can listen to a live radio broadcast of her championship dubs match tomorrow....here is the link:
http://radiotennis.com/page.html/iPageId,331
http://radiotennis.com/page.html/iPageId,331
Dubs Final in Orlando...time and link
The schedule for tomorrow has been released, our team will play first on at noon. Here is the link to live scoring:
http://www.itftennis.com/procircuit/tournaments/women's-tournament/info.aspx?tournamentid=1100031193
Hope you are enjoying your weekend! Love and Blessings....Sherry!
http://www.itftennis.com/procircuit/tournaments/women's-tournament/info.aspx?tournamentid=1100031193
Hope you are enjoying your weekend! Love and Blessings....Sherry!
We are going to the SHIP....WOOT!
We are going to the SHIP.....WOOT! We as in our team ....as in ....Natalie and Sally are going to the Championship tomorrow. They dominated their semi final match, according to Nat (6-3, 6-1). Decided to check out the stats for the match, she is right. See what you think, here are a few:
Double Faults.....us 1......them 5
Points Won in a Row...us 9....them 4
Games Won in a Row...us 5.....them 2
Points Won...us 57....them 35
Tomorrow, Natalie and Sally will play the American wild card team of Katherine Belles and Alex Nelson. Two young players that Nat has not faced on a court. The time of the match has not been released, as of the time of this blog entry. I will post match time later today. Until then Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Double Faults.....us 1......them 5
Points Won in a Row...us 9....them 4
Games Won in a Row...us 5.....them 2
Points Won...us 57....them 35
Tomorrow, Natalie and Sally will play the American wild card team of Katherine Belles and Alex Nelson. Two young players that Nat has not faced on a court. The time of the match has not been released, as of the time of this blog entry. I will post match time later today. Until then Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Friday, March 14, 2014
She was happy
Happy Friday Folks! This gal got some much needed sleep last night. Which was bad news for the Pluskota men, for their "to do" lists grew today. Got much spring cleaning done. They are begging for me to go on the road.
Spoke to Natalie a short time ago. She was happy, even joyful that it is to be eighty degrees tomorrow. Our lil freezy cat loves the sun. Anyway, she practiced today and is settling in with her host family for a movie night. Nat was glad to hear she is first on tomorrow at 10 a.m. She and Sally will play Turner (USA) and Vaselyeva (RUS), who are tourney ranked 1,389. The opponents were lucky enough to get a "walk over" from the #2 seeded team in the first round. Then they played a wild card team to get to the semi finals. They are a solid team, for Natalie has played against Turner in the past. Our team needs to continue to do what it takes to win, play their game and they will be good to go to the finals. Will for sure be good doubles.
Back to cleaning and organizing.....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Spoke to Natalie a short time ago. She was happy, even joyful that it is to be eighty degrees tomorrow. Our lil freezy cat loves the sun. Anyway, she practiced today and is settling in with her host family for a movie night. Nat was glad to hear she is first on tomorrow at 10 a.m. She and Sally will play Turner (USA) and Vaselyeva (RUS), who are tourney ranked 1,389. The opponents were lucky enough to get a "walk over" from the #2 seeded team in the first round. Then they played a wild card team to get to the semi finals. They are a solid team, for Natalie has played against Turner in the past. Our team needs to continue to do what it takes to win, play their game and they will be good to go to the finals. Will for sure be good doubles.
Back to cleaning and organizing.....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Thursday, March 13, 2014
DeArmas' for dinner
Good Evening Folks! Hope each and everyone of you are having a great day! Natalie has had a busy one. Started on the singles court at ten, facing the number one seed. Nat quickly found out why the gal was the one seed. Very good player that beat Nat 1,2. In Natalie's words, "she had an answer for everything, winners everywhere".
Soon after losing on the singles court, Natalie headed to the court for doubles. My understanding, she and Sally only had to play solid for the opponents seemed to be tanking the match. Nevertheless, our team did their jobs and won the match 2,1. So on to the semi final match (WOOT), to be played on Saturday. No match play for our team tomorrow, due to rain earlier in the week. The other side of the draw needs to "catch up" if you will. Then we will know our team's opponents for the semis.
Tonight, Natalie will be joining her host family the DeArmas' for dinner. She has enjoyed staying with Nancy, Dave, Drew and Heather for this tourney. And from my point of view, I'm very thankful for her host family keeping her safe and sound....and....fed! Thanks DeArmas Family!
Must say I'm getting a lot done around the house. For sure the Pluskota men are counting the days till I go back on the road with Natalie. For they are working hard and so is my well educated finger, pointing the way. Time to head to the kitchen to hang the new "to do" list for the men, oooo won't they be happy! NOT! ahahahahahha Take care my friends....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Soon after losing on the singles court, Natalie headed to the court for doubles. My understanding, she and Sally only had to play solid for the opponents seemed to be tanking the match. Nevertheless, our team did their jobs and won the match 2,1. So on to the semi final match (WOOT), to be played on Saturday. No match play for our team tomorrow, due to rain earlier in the week. The other side of the draw needs to "catch up" if you will. Then we will know our team's opponents for the semis.
Tonight, Natalie will be joining her host family the DeArmas' for dinner. She has enjoyed staying with Nancy, Dave, Drew and Heather for this tourney. And from my point of view, I'm very thankful for her host family keeping her safe and sound....and....fed! Thanks DeArmas Family!
Must say I'm getting a lot done around the house. For sure the Pluskota men are counting the days till I go back on the road with Natalie. For they are working hard and so is my well educated finger, pointing the way. Time to head to the kitchen to hang the new "to do" list for the men, oooo won't they be happy! NOT! ahahahahahha Take care my friends....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Poker for Pluskota....HELP keep Natalie on the tour!
Don't forget to mark your calendar...March 29th
Poker for Pluskota!
Please HELP us keep Natalie on the Tour!
Come join us for some fun and fellowship!
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
My name is clearly on it
A brief update from Orlando. Been raining on and off today. So been a back and forth to the courts type of day, in hopes of getting practice accomplished. Had a great homemade pot roast dinner at her awesome host family's home.
Natalie will play first on at ten o'clock....which is code for....nothing! hahahaah Sorry, couldn't resist. Our gal will play dubs fourth after ten....which is code for 1:30ish. Here is the link to live scoring, please enjoy following Nat's matches tomorrow!
http://www.itftennis.com/procircuit/tournaments/women's-tournament/info.aspx?tournamentid=1100031193
Since my name is clearly on it.....time to go enjoy it....Cheers....Love and Blessings....Sherry 8)
Natalie will play first on at ten o'clock....which is code for....nothing! hahahaah Sorry, couldn't resist. Our gal will play dubs fourth after ten....which is code for 1:30ish. Here is the link to live scoring, please enjoy following Nat's matches tomorrow!
http://www.itftennis.com/procircuit/tournaments/women's-tournament/info.aspx?tournamentid=1100031193
Since my name is clearly on it.....time to go enjoy it....Cheers....Love and Blessings....Sherry 8)
Early....
Good EARLY morning! Our Nana has me up this early today, and let me tell you I need sleep. Exhaustion does not even begin to sum it up. But ya gotta do whatcha gotta do for Nana's sake!
Today will be a practice day for Natalie. Having played both singles and doubles matches on the Tuesday of a ITF tourney gives you Wednesday off. I'm sure today will also included seeing the trainer for treatment on her wrist. And probably another ride on her house parent's boat, something she is enjoying more then they may realize.
When Natalie resumes match play on the singles court, she will face the #1 seed. Yes, another tough draw. My guess.....God is preparing her for better tennis! Her opponent will be Sasnovich(BLR), who is currently world ranked 131. Don't know this young lady therefore don't really have any comments about the match.
On the doubles court, out team will face Hermoso(MEX) and Kramperova(CZE). These opponents are tourney ranked 933. You may recognize Kramperova's name. Natalie has faced her on both the singles and doubles court in this year. Beating her and her "last week's" partner in Gainesville. Don't know Hermoso, therefore I will just say.....should be a good match.
I'm sending prayers up to the Heavens on behalf of the passengers of the missing Malaysian plane and their families .....may the good Lord show us the answers and their safe return.....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Today will be a practice day for Natalie. Having played both singles and doubles matches on the Tuesday of a ITF tourney gives you Wednesday off. I'm sure today will also included seeing the trainer for treatment on her wrist. And probably another ride on her house parent's boat, something she is enjoying more then they may realize.
When Natalie resumes match play on the singles court, she will face the #1 seed. Yes, another tough draw. My guess.....God is preparing her for better tennis! Her opponent will be Sasnovich(BLR), who is currently world ranked 131. Don't know this young lady therefore don't really have any comments about the match.
On the doubles court, out team will face Hermoso(MEX) and Kramperova(CZE). These opponents are tourney ranked 933. You may recognize Kramperova's name. Natalie has faced her on both the singles and doubles court in this year. Beating her and her "last week's" partner in Gainesville. Don't know Hermoso, therefore I will just say.....should be a good match.
I'm sending prayers up to the Heavens on behalf of the passengers of the missing Malaysian plane and their families .....may the good Lord show us the answers and their safe return.....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
Dubs in Orlando
After going down in both the first and second set, 0-3, 1-3....respectively. Natalie and Sally battled back in both sets to win them and the match. Advancing to the Quarters. Tomorrow' schedule has not be released as this moment in time.
Just a short update....Love and Blessings.....Sherry!
Just a short update....Love and Blessings.....Sherry!
She took a dive....
That thud you may have heard bout an hour ago, was Natalie falling down during a point. She was down a set (3-6) and down 1-3 in the second when she took a dive. Landing on both wrists. At the time, she thought she may have broken the left wrist. After a short visit with the trainer, she decided that she was playing better and would continue. In her words, "I relaxed and just chopped at the ball as well as ran around it to hit forehands". Yes, she has a VERY high tolerance for pain....to a FAULT! She continued the match and won it in the third 6-3. Serving for the match, Natalie served an ace to make it her add for the second time, but then she clinched it. I'm sure the thunder you heard was Nic and me yelling at the computer live scoring screen in celebration.
Natalie ceases to amaze us. To be able to continue a match with what you concieve at the moment a broken wrist.....WOW! Who does that??
She was seen by the doctor, who thinks it is only sprained. So, it's wrap and go! Go onto the doubles match which should just bout be underway. Nat and Sally will play Whoriskey (who she just beat in singles) and her partner Gararchi. Should be good dubs! Until the lil yellow ball stops bouncing and I get an update....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Natalie ceases to amaze us. To be able to continue a match with what you concieve at the moment a broken wrist.....WOW! Who does that??
She was seen by the doctor, who thinks it is only sprained. So, it's wrap and go! Go onto the doubles match which should just bout be underway. Nat and Sally will play Whoriskey (who she just beat in singles) and her partner Gararchi. Should be good dubs! Until the lil yellow ball stops bouncing and I get an update....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Monday, March 10, 2014
Orlando Update
Arriving safely in Orlando, Natalie has been practicing and preparing. Tomorrow, she will being the day second on after ten...code for noonish. Nat will begin on the singles court, playing the first round of the main against her former college team mate and doubles partner Cat Whoriskey. You may remember they played doubles together in the last tourney of 2013 in Captiva Island.
Then Natalie and her partner Sally will take on the American team of Gariachi/Whoriskey. Natalie has played on both sides of the net with Gariachi, a very sweet young lady with a huge smile. Should be a solid match of doubles and my VERY BIAS pick would be our team! ;)
With Nana summoning me every 10-15 minutes for no reason, I'm sure I will hear my name soon. Having said that, it's a short blog.....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Then Natalie and her partner Sally will take on the American team of Gariachi/Whoriskey. Natalie has played on both sides of the net with Gariachi, a very sweet young lady with a huge smile. Should be a solid match of doubles and my VERY BIAS pick would be our team! ;)
With Nana summoning me every 10-15 minutes for no reason, I'm sure I will hear my name soon. Having said that, it's a short blog.....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Sunday, March 9, 2014
Care Enough to Follow!
This morning, I find myself watching the ever interesting Maya Angelou. She spoke about wanting to add to her life's accomplishments. The one thing she didn't do that she had wished had, have a daughter. You see, she was lucky enough to have a son but not a daughter. Anyway, she reminded me of a story that always makes me giggle. I would like to share it with you, hoping you have the same reaction. Here we go......
When Natalie was in high school, she played basketball....another "love" of hers. Her sophomore year, her coach (Daley) begged her to run cross country. For he coached a top team for several years. That year he needed a fifth runner, the top four were very good. Sooo good that they could all scholarship, and winning state would help them achieve their goals. After many conversations Natalie finally agreed.
Mind you, she was playing on the junior tennis tour, on the basketball team and tennis team. How in the heck would she fit in cross country? Her day went like this....school, basketball practice, tennis practice, homework, dinner (while driving somewhere).....then about 9-10 p.m.....running the neighborhood. I'm exhausted just remembering all that she did!
Because it was dark outside by the time it came to running. One of us, usually me would drive behind her with the car lights on her. You may ask why....wellll.....first and foremost her safety. Second, to support her efforts.
The first time she was going to run the neighborhood, Nat asked me to beep the horn at every 1/4 mile so that she could "mark" off the neighborhood. Know how far she was running if you will. So, there we were....Natalie running in the pitch black of night. Me following her in the car with my lights on her. Me beeping the horn every 1/4 mile. It didn't take many running practices or days before word spread. People came up to Natalie and talked to her about how mean I was for making her run at night, in front of the car and when she wasn't going fast enough I was beeping at her to indicated to her to speed up. <<insert giggles here>>
When Natalie told me about these "nosey neighbors", my feelings were hurt. But then I thought, why be hurt by people who don't care enough about us to ask what we are doing? They just assumed and spread rumors. Of course, Natalie explained what we were doing and how she appreciated my help and willingness to make sure she was safe. And now, this is one of our favorite stories that continues to make us giggle! And this morning Maya's words reminded me of this story and made me giggle.....those words:
"I care enough to let you go and I care enough to follow you" --- Maya Angelou
Care enough to follow! Love and Blessings.....Sherry
P.S.....just realized today (3-21-14)....I mis spelled Maya's name. Sure wish someone would have let me know.....remember....spelling, English, writing techniques....not my profession! I do this blog for fun and to keep folks informed of Nat's journey with a few added bonuses!
When Natalie was in high school, she played basketball....another "love" of hers. Her sophomore year, her coach (Daley) begged her to run cross country. For he coached a top team for several years. That year he needed a fifth runner, the top four were very good. Sooo good that they could all scholarship, and winning state would help them achieve their goals. After many conversations Natalie finally agreed.
Mind you, she was playing on the junior tennis tour, on the basketball team and tennis team. How in the heck would she fit in cross country? Her day went like this....school, basketball practice, tennis practice, homework, dinner (while driving somewhere).....then about 9-10 p.m.....running the neighborhood. I'm exhausted just remembering all that she did!
Because it was dark outside by the time it came to running. One of us, usually me would drive behind her with the car lights on her. You may ask why....wellll.....first and foremost her safety. Second, to support her efforts.
The first time she was going to run the neighborhood, Nat asked me to beep the horn at every 1/4 mile so that she could "mark" off the neighborhood. Know how far she was running if you will. So, there we were....Natalie running in the pitch black of night. Me following her in the car with my lights on her. Me beeping the horn every 1/4 mile. It didn't take many running practices or days before word spread. People came up to Natalie and talked to her about how mean I was for making her run at night, in front of the car and when she wasn't going fast enough I was beeping at her to indicated to her to speed up. <<insert giggles here>>
When Natalie told me about these "nosey neighbors", my feelings were hurt. But then I thought, why be hurt by people who don't care enough about us to ask what we are doing? They just assumed and spread rumors. Of course, Natalie explained what we were doing and how she appreciated my help and willingness to make sure she was safe. And now, this is one of our favorite stories that continues to make us giggle! And this morning Maya's words reminded me of this story and made me giggle.....those words:
"I care enough to let you go and I care enough to follow you" --- Maya Angelou
Care enough to follow! Love and Blessings.....Sherry
P.S.....just realized today (3-21-14)....I mis spelled Maya's name. Sure wish someone would have let me know.....remember....spelling, English, writing techniques....not my profession! I do this blog for fun and to keep folks informed of Nat's journey with a few added bonuses!
Saturday, March 8, 2014
Blog Entry 401
And this is blog entry number 401.....wow...doesn't seem liked I've posted that many entries. Sure hope y'all are enjoying my blog half as much as I do. It is always fun when we arrive at a tourney and someone mentions they follow our blog or enjoyed one of our posts.
Heard from Natalie a short time ago. She and Sally played the semi final match around 1:30 today. They went up 5-3 in the first before losing it 5-7. Went down in the second, battled back to six all and won the tight breaker. Never really got their engines in gear for the breaker in lieu of third set and lost it 4-10. Bringing her Gainesville tourney to an end.
With having free housing, she will stay put for the evening. Then in the morning travel to Orlando for the next 10K tourney. She is in the main draw of singles and most likely will be for doubles as well. Nat will team up with Sally again in Orlando. I was to join her this week, not sure if I will due to Nana's current health challenges. Will wait out the week and see what develops.
Thank you goes to those of you that have ordered our Team Pluskota t-shirts and or sent Natalie a gift for her expenses. Every dollar matters! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!
Well my friends, might as well get some cleaning done since I'm home. The dust bunnies have taken over since I've been gone! Love and Blessings......Sherry!
Heard from Natalie a short time ago. She and Sally played the semi final match around 1:30 today. They went up 5-3 in the first before losing it 5-7. Went down in the second, battled back to six all and won the tight breaker. Never really got their engines in gear for the breaker in lieu of third set and lost it 4-10. Bringing her Gainesville tourney to an end.
With having free housing, she will stay put for the evening. Then in the morning travel to Orlando for the next 10K tourney. She is in the main draw of singles and most likely will be for doubles as well. Nat will team up with Sally again in Orlando. I was to join her this week, not sure if I will due to Nana's current health challenges. Will wait out the week and see what develops.
Thank you goes to those of you that have ordered our Team Pluskota t-shirts and or sent Natalie a gift for her expenses. Every dollar matters! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!
Well my friends, might as well get some cleaning done since I'm home. The dust bunnies have taken over since I've been gone! Love and Blessings......Sherry!
Friday, March 7, 2014
Dubs in Florida ----- Semis here we come....woot
After days of rain, matches were played today. Although according to Natalie, it's freezing there. Happy to say Natalie and Sally were able to play two doubles matches.....yes....they won the first so they got to play the second. Our team won the round of sixteen, 6-3, 6-2. The opponents were Carruthers/Covington.
Moving into the quarters against fellow Americans Porter/McCarty, our team went up 3-0 in the first. Before going to "sleep" for a few games and down in score 3-5. Guess Natalie and Sally made up their minds to win the set and did 7-5. Of course I'm guessing cuz I'm not there, which means I could be totally wrong....doubt it but you know ;) The second set was a quick 6-0 in our favor, sending our team to the semi final match tomorrow.
Pluskota/Peers will face the CZE team of Frankova/Kremperova, who are the three seeds with a tourney ranking of 719. Please be reminded that our team is the one seeded team. This semi final's match time has not be posted as of yet. And a side note, the finals of doubles will be played tomorrow too, hopefully our team will play in both matches. But first ....the semis!
Natalie has been busy participating in the ProAm on Monday. Practicing in the rain, under the roof at the University of Florida with the Gator Girls. Which she really enjoyed! Tonight she is having dinner with her partner Sally's housing family. Of course a home cooked meal is hard to come by right now, so I'm sure she is enjoying a yummy meal.
As for Nana, she had a slight fall yesterday. Due to pain, I took her to the orthopedist today for x-rays. She broke a vertebrae #4 and has evidence of #1 being broken in last year due to her osteoporosis. So a corset for her and hopefully in a few days the pain level will be way down. We are very thankful that she didn't break a hip, often the ender for many elderly folks. After all we want to plan a 90th birthday party for her in September, so she needs to be around then and for many more.
Have a great evening and weekend folks....hopefully our will not involve the medical profession! Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Moving into the quarters against fellow Americans Porter/McCarty, our team went up 3-0 in the first. Before going to "sleep" for a few games and down in score 3-5. Guess Natalie and Sally made up their minds to win the set and did 7-5. Of course I'm guessing cuz I'm not there, which means I could be totally wrong....doubt it but you know ;) The second set was a quick 6-0 in our favor, sending our team to the semi final match tomorrow.
Pluskota/Peers will face the CZE team of Frankova/Kremperova, who are the three seeds with a tourney ranking of 719. Please be reminded that our team is the one seeded team. This semi final's match time has not be posted as of yet. And a side note, the finals of doubles will be played tomorrow too, hopefully our team will play in both matches. But first ....the semis!
Natalie has been busy participating in the ProAm on Monday. Practicing in the rain, under the roof at the University of Florida with the Gator Girls. Which she really enjoyed! Tonight she is having dinner with her partner Sally's housing family. Of course a home cooked meal is hard to come by right now, so I'm sure she is enjoying a yummy meal.
As for Nana, she had a slight fall yesterday. Due to pain, I took her to the orthopedist today for x-rays. She broke a vertebrae #4 and has evidence of #1 being broken in last year due to her osteoporosis. So a corset for her and hopefully in a few days the pain level will be way down. We are very thankful that she didn't break a hip, often the ender for many elderly folks. After all we want to plan a 90th birthday party for her in September, so she needs to be around then and for many more.
Have a great evening and weekend folks....hopefully our will not involve the medical profession! Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Don't forget to order your shirt.....
Team Pluskota Shirts......still available!
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in the comments area. Use pluskotatennis@yahoo.com
Or you can mail check/money order via snail mail to:
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You can email me your questions: sherrypluskota@yahoo.com
Gainesville Update
Good Morning and Happy Friday! Natalie is scheduled to play doubles second on after nine o'clock.....which of course is code for 11ish. I guess they are calling for rain in Gainesville for most of the day. Not fun weather when you are in a holding pattern at a tourney.
Nat texted me a few moments ago, "All clear here, just freezing and cloudy. But we will get to play". So there you have it, please feel free to follow the link in my previous blog to the live scoring and enjoy. Wish I could but I'm bout to meet with the hospital administrator and director of ER, bout the lack of care Nana received. Until I'm on the flip side of that and the soggy lil yellow ball dries enough to bounce.....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Nat texted me a few moments ago, "All clear here, just freezing and cloudy. But we will get to play". So there you have it, please feel free to follow the link in my previous blog to the live scoring and enjoy. Wish I could but I'm bout to meet with the hospital administrator and director of ER, bout the lack of care Nana received. Until I'm on the flip side of that and the soggy lil yellow ball dries enough to bounce.....Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Thursday, March 6, 2014
Weather Permitting
All matches cancelled for the day in Gainesville, Florida. Natalie and Sally (and the rest) have been in a holding pattern for most of the day. The tourney folks try everything possible....including anti rain dances....to try to get matches on the court. Unfortunately for all involved nothing worked today, and all the matches were cancelled. Our team will play at least two doubles tomorrow, not sure if they would play three in one day. Weather permitting of course, and that is not looking good.
As for Nana, she has been doing really well and getting stronger. Really awesome to see our family working together to take care of her in a very loving way. Not sure what the future holds for her, but I'm very glad she has been living with us for three years and pray it will be for another ten.
Once that soggy lil yellow ball dries out and begins to bounce.....I'll update you.....till then.....Love and Blessings.....Sherry!
As for Nana, she has been doing really well and getting stronger. Really awesome to see our family working together to take care of her in a very loving way. Not sure what the future holds for her, but I'm very glad she has been living with us for three years and pray it will be for another ten.
Once that soggy lil yellow ball dries out and begins to bounce.....I'll update you.....till then.....Love and Blessings.....Sherry!
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Rain delay
Due to rain delays, Natalie didn't get to play doubles today. Therefore, she and Sally will play tomorrow second on after ten...which is code for 11:30ish. When the win (positive thinking), they will play a another match shortly after. Here is the link for live scoring:
http://www.itftennis.com/procircuit/tournaments/women's-tournament/info.aspx?tournamentid=1100031192
Nana update: She is doing great, amazing what getting her the right medicine will do. Too bad it took 7 days to convince 2 different hospital ERs to administer it. So sad that her doctor and I had to argue for two hours before they caved in, our medical system is very messed up! God help us!
Time to retire for the night.....Happy Ash Wednesday.....Love and Blessings.....Sherry!
http://www.itftennis.com/procircuit/tournaments/women's-tournament/info.aspx?tournamentid=1100031192
Nana update: She is doing great, amazing what getting her the right medicine will do. Too bad it took 7 days to convince 2 different hospital ERs to administer it. So sad that her doctor and I had to argue for two hours before they caved in, our medical system is very messed up! God help us!
Time to retire for the night.....Happy Ash Wednesday.....Love and Blessings.....Sherry!
Keep Natalie on tour......HELP!
In an effort to keep Natalie on tour, we are hosting another fundraiser....Poker for Pluskota TWO! Hope you can join us on March 29th. Here is the informational flyer:
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Much going on....link to live scoring
Soooo much is going on in our lives...exhaustion does not even begin to describe it. Natalie made it safe and sound to Gainesville, Florida on Sunday. Her coach Jason is there, so practice has been productive. Much different when your coach is with you, your game doesn't suffer on the road. Hopefully one day soon Nat will be sponsored so that Jason can travel to most if not all tourneys with her. Our gal played her first singles match in the main draw today. She lost a solid three set battle to Alejandra Cisnerois of Mexico. 6-3. 2-6, 2-6.
Tomorrow will begin the double draw for our number one seeded team of Pluskota and Peers (AUS) who are tourney ranked 454. The opponents are Steffie Cerruthers (SAM) and Domineque Covington (GBR) who are tourney ranked 2369. Don't know either of the opponents for Natalie hasn't played either to my knowledge. The ladies will play third on after nine ....which of course is code for 1ish. They will play on centre court and there will be live scoring, here is the link:
http://www.itftennis.com/procircuit/tournaments/women's-calendar.aspx
Sorry for the delay in blogging, but as I said much going on here. Just got home around three o'clock after being at the hospital via ER with Nana since yesterday. After spending the last seven days begging two different ER doctors to give her a certain medicine via IV....I and her doctor finally got through one of their thick skulls around midnight. And by 2 a.m. the IV was going. Now we are home, thank GOD!
As far as the bully dads go....since there is a minor buzz about the issue. Natalie has 30 days to submit a grievance with the Southern Section Office. She will continue to consider it and pray bout it, for she/we would not want them to treat anyone else the way they treated her and her players. Especially when we are talking about personal safety....let alone the cheating issues on the court. And let not forget one of the bullies claimed to be a USTA official. Help us pray about this!
Since my eyes are heavy with exhausted I will end this blog....until they open rested...Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Tomorrow will begin the double draw for our number one seeded team of Pluskota and Peers (AUS) who are tourney ranked 454. The opponents are Steffie Cerruthers (SAM) and Domineque Covington (GBR) who are tourney ranked 2369. Don't know either of the opponents for Natalie hasn't played either to my knowledge. The ladies will play third on after nine ....which of course is code for 1ish. They will play on centre court and there will be live scoring, here is the link:
http://www.itftennis.com/procircuit/tournaments/women's-calendar.aspx
Sorry for the delay in blogging, but as I said much going on here. Just got home around three o'clock after being at the hospital via ER with Nana since yesterday. After spending the last seven days begging two different ER doctors to give her a certain medicine via IV....I and her doctor finally got through one of their thick skulls around midnight. And by 2 a.m. the IV was going. Now we are home, thank GOD!
As far as the bully dads go....since there is a minor buzz about the issue. Natalie has 30 days to submit a grievance with the Southern Section Office. She will continue to consider it and pray bout it, for she/we would not want them to treat anyone else the way they treated her and her players. Especially when we are talking about personal safety....let alone the cheating issues on the court. And let not forget one of the bullies claimed to be a USTA official. Help us pray about this!
Since my eyes are heavy with exhausted I will end this blog....until they open rested...Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Sunday, March 2, 2014
BULLY DADS!
For those of you involved in sports, you won't be surprised by what I'm about to blog. Wish I could say I was surprised but for me.....angry....worried....disappointed would be some of the words to describe my feelings. Here we go.....
While at home training, Natalie coaches and teaches some younger local players. This week she was asked to escort one of the players to a tourney here in Atlanta. She was to watch her player's match Friday evening, take her for dinner then to hotel for the night. Then on Saturday morning, warm her up and if time permitted, watch her match. Then I was to meet Natalie and we were to travel to UGA to watch the Tennessee ladies tennis play.
Let me share some facts....it was freezing Friday night....and if you know Natalie.....you know she doesn't "do cold"....a freezy cat if you will. So, she had several layers on and a hoodie. The hoodie's hood was on and pulled tight, so one could only see her face.
When I arrived on Saturday morning here is a good portion of the story I heard of the happenings of Friday night's doubles match. Natalie's student and her partner played doubles against a girl from Kentucky and one from Louisiana. Without alot of details....tooo hard to explain......"our team" hit a ball over the net, one of our gals said something like "watch out" (as if you are at the net, and you are bout to be killed with the ball...so watch out). The opponents missed the routine easy shot right into the bottom of the net. For the record, in doubles a partner can call out such as ours did.
Of course, the ones losing called an official over to argue their point. And in that argument changed the entire story of what happened, completely lying as to what happened. Unfortunately, the USTA official was inexperienced and didn't know the rules or how to handle the situation. According to Natalie after 15 minutes of sitting quietly.....she shouted out "good job <<insert her player's names here>> now let's play tennis"
Following Natalie's quest to get the match going by shouting out to those on the court. The two fathers of the opponents came to where she was sitting. One of the fathers sat behind her so closely that he was touching her. The other standing so closely he was touching her. In other words.....one BULLY from Kentucky and one BULLY from Louisiana. They started with let the players handle it on the court. They continued to threaten and berate Natalie. One continued with "I'm a USTA official, I know all the rules and you need to let them handle it."
Finally, the official came over and said that the girl who had been lying to the line judge in the first place, has "requested she (Natalie) leave" and refused to play until she had left. At this point Natalie removed herself from the situation, wanting to not be the sole focus and distraction for our girls. Let's keep in mind, she was there for those girls, not to be belittled and bullied by two parents. Besides our team was winning, correct and NOT CHEATING!
Natalie walked away and one of the dads followed her and when she stopped to stand, he stood right next to her ....soooo close that he was up against her. A bully indeed!
At one point Natalie asked them to step away from her and to stop threatening her or she would have to do something about it. Saying "I'm not here to deal with your shit". The response she got, "oooo you gunna cuss now, you gunna cuss now?". A convo that sheds light on the fact that they didn't know who Natalie was or her age.
As they walked away Natalie heard one of them say "it was a guy, the whole time I thought it was a girl". Obvious to Natalie that they thought she was a teenage boy that they could just bully into shutting up so they could help cheat their daughters way into victory.
First, I'm very proud that Natalie acted in the professional way that she did. Never allowing the BULLIES actions to influence her to go to their level. Setting a great example for her players and those that were around watching this all unfold. Second, I'm disappointed and angry that Natalie did not call the police once the BULLIES had her surrounded and threatened. Her personal safety was at issue and should have been her first priority. She should have had them arrested on the spot!
After hearing all this non sense I found myself with the need to speak to the tourney director. After explaining that the two BULLY dads had threatened Natalie and "her team", I voiced my concern about the upcoming singles match. You see, we were leaving and Nat's player was going to play one of the dubs opponents in singles. I asked that he keep an eye on Nat's player because she and Nat had been threatened the night before and now the player was nervous. That I didn't know if her parent was going to be back in time for the match and I was concerned for her safety. He promised he would keep her safe.
Upon our drive home from Athens, Natalie got a text message from the mom of her player. Asking if we were anywhere near the tourney because the girl was cheating in the singles match. That Nat's player was on the court crying because the opponent change the score "stealing" games from her. To shorten this long story....Nat's player bravely finished the match then withdrew from the back draw. The cheater won that singles match but boy are she and her dad LOSERS IN LIFE.
The only thing I can say is that we have seen this before. There was a well known cheater when Natalie was in junior tennis. People reported her, video taped her and submitted the tapes. She won matches while cheating but she didn't go far in the tennis world. Because the tennis world is so very small, word spreads fast......college coaches wouldn't touch her. Just like back then....the word is already spreading about this weekend. People are reaching out to us for the facts....and the facts as we see em....will be given. The truth will be told!
Please know that I'm trying to give the jest of what happened, our opinion of what happened. There is always two sides of the story and the witnesses....please feel free to contact any and or all of them! We welcome it....for the truth is the truth!
While at home training, Natalie coaches and teaches some younger local players. This week she was asked to escort one of the players to a tourney here in Atlanta. She was to watch her player's match Friday evening, take her for dinner then to hotel for the night. Then on Saturday morning, warm her up and if time permitted, watch her match. Then I was to meet Natalie and we were to travel to UGA to watch the Tennessee ladies tennis play.
Let me share some facts....it was freezing Friday night....and if you know Natalie.....you know she doesn't "do cold"....a freezy cat if you will. So, she had several layers on and a hoodie. The hoodie's hood was on and pulled tight, so one could only see her face.
When I arrived on Saturday morning here is a good portion of the story I heard of the happenings of Friday night's doubles match. Natalie's student and her partner played doubles against a girl from Kentucky and one from Louisiana. Without alot of details....tooo hard to explain......"our team" hit a ball over the net, one of our gals said something like "watch out" (as if you are at the net, and you are bout to be killed with the ball...so watch out). The opponents missed the routine easy shot right into the bottom of the net. For the record, in doubles a partner can call out such as ours did.
Of course, the ones losing called an official over to argue their point. And in that argument changed the entire story of what happened, completely lying as to what happened. Unfortunately, the USTA official was inexperienced and didn't know the rules or how to handle the situation. According to Natalie after 15 minutes of sitting quietly.....she shouted out "good job <<insert her player's names here>> now let's play tennis"
Following Natalie's quest to get the match going by shouting out to those on the court. The two fathers of the opponents came to where she was sitting. One of the fathers sat behind her so closely that he was touching her. The other standing so closely he was touching her. In other words.....one BULLY from Kentucky and one BULLY from Louisiana. They started with let the players handle it on the court. They continued to threaten and berate Natalie. One continued with "I'm a USTA official, I know all the rules and you need to let them handle it."
Finally, the official came over and said that the girl who had been lying to the line judge in the first place, has "requested she (Natalie) leave" and refused to play until she had left. At this point Natalie removed herself from the situation, wanting to not be the sole focus and distraction for our girls. Let's keep in mind, she was there for those girls, not to be belittled and bullied by two parents. Besides our team was winning, correct and NOT CHEATING!
Natalie walked away and one of the dads followed her and when she stopped to stand, he stood right next to her ....soooo close that he was up against her. A bully indeed!
At one point Natalie asked them to step away from her and to stop threatening her or she would have to do something about it. Saying "I'm not here to deal with your shit". The response she got, "oooo you gunna cuss now, you gunna cuss now?". A convo that sheds light on the fact that they didn't know who Natalie was or her age.
As they walked away Natalie heard one of them say "it was a guy, the whole time I thought it was a girl". Obvious to Natalie that they thought she was a teenage boy that they could just bully into shutting up so they could help cheat their daughters way into victory.
First, I'm very proud that Natalie acted in the professional way that she did. Never allowing the BULLIES actions to influence her to go to their level. Setting a great example for her players and those that were around watching this all unfold. Second, I'm disappointed and angry that Natalie did not call the police once the BULLIES had her surrounded and threatened. Her personal safety was at issue and should have been her first priority. She should have had them arrested on the spot!
After hearing all this non sense I found myself with the need to speak to the tourney director. After explaining that the two BULLY dads had threatened Natalie and "her team", I voiced my concern about the upcoming singles match. You see, we were leaving and Nat's player was going to play one of the dubs opponents in singles. I asked that he keep an eye on Nat's player because she and Nat had been threatened the night before and now the player was nervous. That I didn't know if her parent was going to be back in time for the match and I was concerned for her safety. He promised he would keep her safe.
Upon our drive home from Athens, Natalie got a text message from the mom of her player. Asking if we were anywhere near the tourney because the girl was cheating in the singles match. That Nat's player was on the court crying because the opponent change the score "stealing" games from her. To shorten this long story....Nat's player bravely finished the match then withdrew from the back draw. The cheater won that singles match but boy are she and her dad LOSERS IN LIFE.
The only thing I can say is that we have seen this before. There was a well known cheater when Natalie was in junior tennis. People reported her, video taped her and submitted the tapes. She won matches while cheating but she didn't go far in the tennis world. Because the tennis world is so very small, word spreads fast......college coaches wouldn't touch her. Just like back then....the word is already spreading about this weekend. People are reaching out to us for the facts....and the facts as we see em....will be given. The truth will be told!
Please know that I'm trying to give the jest of what happened, our opinion of what happened. There is always two sides of the story and the witnesses....please feel free to contact any and or all of them! We welcome it....for the truth is the truth!
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