The Line

Even after a year’s worth of great events like Pro Nationals in Vegas, Pan Ams in Winnipeg, Worlds in Mexico, Nationals in Houston … nothing compares to the Hilton U.S. Open in Memphis. The ‘99 U.S. Open offered up the best racquetball I’ve witnessed in my 26 years, and the buzz – once again – is the ability of all the pros to play all-out and give the fans a great show.

Last year’s best bet was Jason Mannino at 9-1 odds (shown at right with women's champ, Jackie Paraiso). Not only did he win the title, but he covered the over on the dive prediction (58) in both the semi’s and finals by diving an incredible 154 times in two matches.

The other great win was Ruben Gonzalez beating Mike Guidry. Facing match point in game three at 10-5, Rubes came back to win it in five. Every pro except Sudsy and Jason thought it would be Guidry in game 3 or 4, including me! We love ya, Rubes!!

This year promises the deepest talent pool in the history of pro racquetball. In addition to all the IRT regulars, it’s really interesting to see all the new up-and-comers who play the tour sporadically, then pop in out of nowhere. So make sure you catch the early rounds on the backcourts, too.

Following are my odds to win for the men, plus this year I’ll be adding a special line for the long shots during the tournament, and I’ll have a daily line on site. But, once the action begins remember: 1) all published odds are subject to change; 2) don’t ever bet against Ruben; 3) any and all wagering is illegal in the state of Tennessee. Good Luck!

• Sudsy Monchik “The Kid” [1-5] – The US Open has been bittersweet for this three-time IRT tour champ, but even-numbered years are good for him. In 1996 he won the inaugural event by playing flawless racquetball against Andy Roberts in the final. In 1997, Cliff really did a number on him. In 1998, he did a number on Cliff. Last year, Mannino could do no wrong, as he eliminated a distracted and off-peak Monchik in the semi-final. I think, in Suds’ mind, he figured he would just make Jason dive himself out. But when push came to shove, somehow, Jason was still standing. The simple fact remains that if Suds plays his very best he is extremely difficult to beat. I just want to see him flatten out a couple of those signature backhands, return some balls that look impossible to reach and show some of that flashy athleticism that we’ve all grown to love. Suds worked through some nagging injuries that caused him to miss the Pro Nationals and the Tournament of Champions at the end of last season. Look for Suds to come back strong in this event, to make a statement after being off for a while, plus becoming a dad for the first time earlier this summer.

• Cliff Swain "The Chameleon" [1-1] – This #1 all-time record-holder in pro wins, Cliff has been a regular on tour since 1985. Aside from some binge-drinking in the off-season with former pro Jerry Price (?), Cliff is a true athlete who keeps himself fit and focused for every event. Cliffy, Cliffy, Cliffy had a hard time sitting down after last years loss. He usually beats Jason Mannino like a rental car with full coverage, and after cruising into the finals without losing a game, it looked liked he had this one in the bag. But at match point, Jason dove for a ball that looked to have been two (or maybe three) bounces. Moving to the service box for what Cliff thought was a sideout and preparing to serve at 8-10, he heard referee Dan Llacera announce “game and match” to the new U.S. Open champ, Jason Mannino. Cliff looked like a guy who just learned that his house had burnt to the ground. This alone should be more than enough motivation for a guy who doesn’t need any. Since then, Cliff the chameleon has once again reinvented himself, winning three of the last four tour events up to New Orleans.

• Jason Mannino “Jay” [6-1] — Defending U.S. Open Champion – For those who witnessed Jay win first-hand at last year’s tournament, wouldn’t you agree that his win was the greatest underdog victory in the history of pro racquetball? It wasn’t that Cliff owns him. It wasn’t that Sudsy usually toys with him by making him dive all over the place. It was the fact that, at the biggest event of the year, Jay took down two of the great ones, back to back. His relentless pursuit of the ball will forever be branded in my mind. The incredible racquet control, back wall play and rally-ending, diving re-kills were mind-boggling. He even out-dueled Sudsy in banter with “I don’t know who you think came out to play today.” Jay dove 81 times in his match with Monchik, which took a little over 1 hour and 20 minutes. The next day he dove 73 times to take out Swain in a closely contested four games. His legend may be greater than reality. Back in Dallas I overheard a guy say “Monchik would hit the ball 200+ miles an hour along the floor and Jason would get it and re-kill it every time.” It may sound ridiculous, but it wasn’t far from the truth. One thing I know for sure — if we keep telling Jay how great he is, maybe … just maybe … he’ll quit telling us.

• John Ellis “Ellie” [7-1] – Winner of this season’s Pro Nationals ... way to go Ellie! John is my favorite guy to joke with on tour because he doesn’t take himself too seriously (a great quality). And he just got married … so congratulations to you and your lovely bride! Jennifer’s pretty lovely, so if you get a chance, sit next to her when John’s playing and keep her company. Just tell Cliff to move over. John will have to step it up a notch to win in Memphis. He’s been a consistent semi-finalist but almost went down in the quarters to Adam Karp last year. He has a complete game and his shot-making ability is uncanny when he is on. From the sidelines, Dave Ellis will play father, coach, shrink, dance instructor, Spanish-speaking-tour-guide and bodyguard … and can often be seen trash-talking opposing players and yelling at the ref. Dave is a true asset to the Ellie entourage. Always working on his game, look for Ellie to play big at this event.

• Tim Doyle “TD” [9-1] – Tim has, at last, fully adjusted to his move to beautiful San Diego. He convinced his paranoid landlord to chill out on the surprise visits, and roommate Dave Johnson has helped with physical therapy and the healing power of alfalfa sprouts. Tim has also rekindled his old rivalry with Cliff by claiming two victories over him last season. If Tim plays his “A” game he will give everyone fits.

• Cheryl Gudinas [1-1] – Has just completed her best year as a player with a recent win at the World Championships. She has matured and now has confidence that she can beat anyone. Probably the best on the tour at developing effective game plans and then capitalizing when she finds an opponent’s weakness. She has a great variety of serves and is consistent on both sides. Backhand pinch may be her ‘bread and butter’ shot when in a jam.

• Jackie Paraiso [2-1] – Defending U.S. Open Champion. Has relinquished some of her ‘invincible’ aura by losing both at “The Finals” in Houston and the Pro Tournament of Champions in Portland. Losses to Cheryl Gudinas and Kersten Hallander may raise a question as to her supremacy on the tour. Played very defensive and tentative in Houston; did not shoot the ball. Although it is obvious she still has the talent, does she still have the desire and motivation?

• Christie Van Hees [2-1] – This top-ranked Canadian athlete is continually improving, but has not been able to break through the #3 slot. She moves and serve well, but seems to lose tenacity and concentration at critical times. Needs more consistency in forehand service returns. She plays well in Memphis and could make the finals again if she ‘gets mean.’

• Kersten Hallander [5-1] – A big win over Paraiso and hanging tough against Gudinas may have given her the confidence she has needed for the past few years. As athletic as anyone, she has the ability to make great shots, but her inconsistency and lack of confidence has hurt her in the big matches. Her service game has improved and brought her close to a semi-final victory in Houston. Needs to play the ‘big’ points better and make fewer unforced errors.

• Laura Fenton [6-1] – This has been a rough full year for Fenton, beginning with a debilitating back injury sustained at last year’s OPEN. She has yet to fully recover and was taken out in the quarterfinals by Rhonda Rajsich at “The Finals.” No one really knows just how much she’s been able to rehab, but a large draw and tough first rounds could take its toll. As she had to decide last year, she has to make up her mind, and go for it. What does she have to lose?

• 1. Make your reservations at a hotel near the Racquet Club of Memphis – you can walk to club, watch all the pro matches and stay late for parties.
• 2. Once you’ve arrived, register early – you’ll have a better selection of shirt sizes, you can check out your playing schedule (to confirm which club you’ll be playing at) and beat the long lines. You’d also be wise to pick up your souvenirs first-thing – they’re often sold out by the second or third day.
• 3. To watch pro matches on the exhibition court, purchase a full ticket package in advance, then show up early – back wall and lower seats fill quickly.
• 4. Make a point to watch the sidecourt matches – some of the best early round battles take place on the four courts adjacent to the exhibition glass court at the Racquet Club
• 5. If you’re playing at the University, bring your own towels and plan to take the shuttle (services are limited and parking is restricted and difficult to find).
• 6. If you’re playing at Wimbleton – get a rental car – it’s easy to get around in Memphis and you’ll avoid the frustrations of shuttle buses.
• 7. Be sure to buy tickets for the quarterfinals, semi’s, and finals – that’s when the ‘show’ begins – with laser lights, cheerleaders, contests, and more.
• 8. Make plans to visit nearby Beale Street (a great evening out) and take the short drive to the Hollywood Casino in Tunica for a full night of Vegas-style gambling.
• 9. Pick up and read a daily newsletter for the latest updates on events, special announcements, and a “who’s who” of players moving up in the draws – all with a little humor mixed in.
• 10. Schedule your return flight for late on Sunday – the finals are exciting and always a sell-out. You won’t want to miss them — a must see!