World Team Tennis, Anyone?

A few days ago, we took the boys to a World Team Tennis match in DC. For those of you who don't know what WTT is, it's professional tennis that is played with slightly different rules that the USTA or what you see by the professionals on the ATP tour. The court looks different and it's a less "stuffy" atmosphere than regular tennis. It's also a smaller venue.

To say it was a hot and steamy night is an understatement. The temps reached 103 during the day but it was worth it to see such greats as Venus Williams, Martina Hingis, Leander Paes and Rennae Stubbs up close and personal, which you would never be able to do at a regular tennis match.

The boys were able to play some "quick start" tennis. Quick Start is a format that the USTA is pushing that encourages kids to succeed in tennis by playing with shorter courts and lower impact balls which are easier to hit because they travel slower.



It was founded by a lady named Billie Jean King. Perhaps you have heard of her? If not, this picture of her may help you recognize her.



Shane and Owen were one of the kids that were selected to participate in the opening "ceremony" and they got to welcome the players and "slap hands" with them. Owen said that Venus had "smooth hands." lol



Venus Williams...up close and personal...with no zoom...



Billie Jean King...up close and personal...with no zoom. What a pioneer for women.



Martina Hingis...up close and personal...with no zoom!



Your 2010 Washington Kastles, ladies and gentlemen!



Shane's too cool for characters now but not Owen!



It was kids night and both boys got a free Wilson tennis racket which they got the cover of it signed by all of the players. Hey Liz...note Leander Paes. He's a hunk, don't you think? :p



Leander Paes, one of the best doubles specialist in the world. He just won the mixed doubles at Wimbledon.



DC Mayor Fenty is obviously as impressed with Rennae Stubbs as I was. She is also a doubles specialist and after seeing her play, I can understand why!



One of the best servers in tennis today. Rarely do you see a woman ace a man but we saw it that night!



Two of the best tennis players in the world. To me. :p



Even though I forgot shorts and a t-shirt for Ken (oops, sorry honey!), it was a great night of tennis and a perfect way to spend a summer evening at a family friendly event. :up: