By Ricky Martinez, special to USTA.com
TUCSON, Ariz. – The Eastern section women’s team competing at the USTA League Adult 40 & Over 3.0 National Championships at the Hilton El Conquistador Resort have dubbed themselves “The Volley Girls,” and with good reason. In addition to their outstanding doubles results, they’ve found themselves moving in sync as any successful doubles team and forming a family bond in the process.
“It’s the camaraderie, the family, the team and the unity. All of that makes it a special adventure and to get to Nationals is just wonderful,” said Joshua Bill, who coaches the team at the New Rochelle Racquet Club in New Rochelle, N.Y. “It’s all about the journey.”
The team-turned-family formed one year ago and has quickly found themselves in Nationals. The Volley Girls' campaign started this year with local USTA competition in April and they haven’t looked back since. Team captain Eileen Riemerschmid said that “it’s been great captaining this young team that has so much potential.”
Bill added that USTA League has been beneficial for the New Rochelle Racquet Club because “it helps get everyone together, both the girls and the guys, and builds a team atmosphere. It helps us grow as a club, so it’s win-win.”
While getting all the way to the Nationals might not be feasible for every team in their second year, there was never a doubt in Bill’s mind that his squad would be in Tucson.
“This was our goal,” said Bill. “Hopefully we can win it and get back in this spot next year.”