Has the tennis year started? Really? I hadn't noticed.

It is hard to believe that Mabry is this weekend. This tournament used to be a pretty big deal. I guess it still is for seniors (major zone) but the 400, 200, 100 point tournament system has weakened its appeal as has the hit-or-miss weather this time of year. 16 draw for singles in 4.5 compared to 32 draws in years past. Did 5.0 even make? Did they even offer it? Berry Creek, disappointing participation. Abilene? If I saw it correctly, there were 9 guys signed up for 4.5 and only 3 for 5.0. Things are definitely amiss on the USTA tourney scene. Where are the die-hard regulars that sign up for every tournament? Kallus, you out there? Did you finally throw in the towel? Schmucker, did you decide to save the tourney fees and the hassle that comes with not showing up? Ansari is still at it, so 4.0 has that going for it? Where is the 4.0 graduating class of 2007 (Kern, Warren, etc.) that was so highly talked-up last year but never showed up at events. There is going to be a lot less to talk about this year if things continue the way they have started. I guess the MZ in San Antonio will be the first true test of player commitment this year. Maybe more guys are just planning to play closer to home, so let's see how things go at Lost Forest. I assume the Dugas brothers will play there so it will be interesting to see how many sh*t-talkers accept their challenge and come out to take them down. I wish them well cause it is good to see some new voices being expressed here. Til Later. JM