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May 2019 Newsletter
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A NEWSLETTER FOR MEMBERS OF THE WILMINGTON COUNTRY CLUB
TABLE OF CONTENTS
04 05 06
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
MEMBERSHIP
A NOTE FROM PHIL
07
12 08
GET SOCIAL
DINING & SOCIAL
EVENT PHOTOS
14
16 20
BRIDGE & BOOK CLUB
GOLF
GROUNDS
26 22 30
RACQUETS
FITNESS
JUNIORS
3
OFFICERS
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
PRESIDENT GaryW. Ferguson
VICE PRESIDENT Melissa Riegel
I am pleased to announce that the Board of Directors has approved the Tennis Complex Capital Project.The project will create a new Racquets Center in the location of the existing indoor tennis lobby, address ADA and life safety needs of the existing indoor court building, construct a new building that will attach to the existing court structure that will house two new indoor courts as well as a multi-purpose sports court to be used to satisfy a variety of programming needs such as Pickleball, youth tennis development, basketball, or can be a third full-size tennis court. Construction will start this fall with a targeted completion about this time next year. Although the schedule is designed to minimize disruption, there will be some minor adjustments to the winter tennis and Hole #10 on the North Course during construction.
TREASURER John S.Wellons
SECRETARY Thomas C. Humphrey
DIRECTORS
CLASS OF 2019 Richard D. Cates Kimberly A. Ciconte J. Brinton Detwiler Megan S. Greenberg William B. Harman, Jr. Laura Lubin Rossi David E.Wilks Edward K.Wissing CLASS OF 2020 SteveW. Casey D. Michael Gioffre, Jr. Adam G. Landis Jonathan N. Saunders Edward A.Tarlov MarthaWhite HONORARY DIRECTORS Joseph F. Hacker, III Richard H. Keller
I am also happy to report that the project will be accomplished within our normal budgeting process and will not require an assessment or long term debt.
Over the last several years, a number of committees have been involved and I would like to thank all the members who have provided advice and support. Special recognition goes out to Bob Hackett who has led theTennis Improvement Project Committee for the past year.
Look for more information in the coming months.
Gary Ferguson P resident
ADVISORY DIRECTORS
Robert G. Hackett, Jr. Calvert A. Morgan, Jr. Pierre duPont Hayward
Allen M.Terrell, Jr. John F. Porter, III
4
MAY EMPLOYEE MILESTONES
MEMBERSHIP
Tip Tribbitt Executive Chef, 31Years
Manny Bulong Locker Room Attendant, 21Years
Please welcome the following new members when you see them at the Club.
Ann Cresswell Pastry Chef, 14Years
NEWLY ELECTED MEMBERS
ZacharyWoods Outside Service Manager, 7Years
James L. Deese
Frank Duran Line Chef, 7Years
NEWLY ELECTED JUNIOR MEMBERS Kayla Anzilotti, Claudia Anzilotti, Gavin Brezski, Josephine Fiss, Madison Kuhner,
Justin Lewis South Course Assistant Superintendent, 3Years
MAY MEMBER MILESTONES
Mr. David G. Bills Mrs. Dawn M. Bills
15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 15 25 25 25 25 30 30 30 30 45 45 45 45 50 55 55
Mr. Roberts W. Brokaw III
Drew Rowland Food & Beverage Service Director, 1Year
Mrs. Allison Brokaw Mr. Kenneth E. Bubes
Mrs. Shara Bubes
Dr. Eugene M. D'Amico III Mrs. Ellyn S. Hutton Heather L. Dealy, M.D. Mr.Vaughn C. Hardin Mrs. Heather Hardin Mr.Thomas N. Barone Dr. Zelimir Kozic Mr. Joseph Setting, II Mrs. Ashley Hoopes Wilks Mrs. Anne Brooks Mr. Charles E. Durgin Dr. Mandell J. Much, Jr. Mr. Gregory R. Slonaker Mrs. Jane D'Alonzo Mrs. Mary Franklin Mrs. Nancy Goodridge Mr. Randall Preston Mitchell Mr. Frederick L. Meserve, Jr. Ms. Dori Smith Mr.William Smith
David Neyers Chef de Partie, 1Year
Mrs. Josephine Bayard Mr. E. Matthew Brown
5
A NOTE FROM PHIL
May Greetings! Although the outdoor sporting season starts in April, May is when the member use really increases. This Bulletin is packed full of information regarding upcoming events and activities, so please take a moment and review it thoroughly.Additionally, there are a number of miscellaneous items to share with you that may not otherwise be included. Please read on . . . • The patio is now open for your dining pleasure! Please be reminded that tables may not be reserved in this area. • While dining on the patio, parents and grandparents are also reminded that the putting green is considered part of the golf practice facilities and not a playground. Please help your youngsters understand appropriate use and attire for this area. • There are two additional outdoor venues to enjoy as both Pub37 and the Café 1901 have their own patios. Use of each subscribes to the age and dress codes that coincide with the particular venue.
• Opening the patios also means that warm weather is here and with that comes a change in the way we dress. Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with the rules of attire that have been established by your fellow members for the various Clubhouse venues/entrances. Please do your best to always support the spirit of those standards. • Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 12th. All dining venues will be open for regular business including an expanded brunch in the Tavern/Grille.The Mother’s Day Grand Buffet kicks off at 4:30 pm. After that, only the Grand Buffet will be offered. Seatings for that are available every half hour until 6:00 pm. Make your reservation now to join us for one of our biggest events of the year! •There are several additional Food & Beverage events taking place in May. Cinco de Mayo will be celebrated Sunday, May 5th with a family night taco bar in Café 1901 and the adult version (‘Ritas & Fajitas) in Pub 37.We also will be holding a Seafood Night in the Dining Room on Saturday the 18th. Check out this Bulletin for more information about these and other events. • By now you should have received information about all our summer programs.We are pleased to offer more opportunities for you and your kids to use the Club than ever before. Sign up and enjoy the summer! • In Golf, the first MixedTwilight of the season will be held onThursday the 16th. Sign-ups are underway.There is also a demo day every Saturday in May on the practice range. • Bocce, Pickleball and Croquet are underway. Play is available every day, but Tuesday evenings feature league play. Call the Racquets Shop for more information. • On Sunday, May 5th our neighbor, Winterthur, will be holding Point-to-Point. They have asked that we share a reminder that no longer will members be able to park at WCC and “hop the fence”. If you are attending Point-to-Point, please plan on parking at the venue. • Speaking of parking - this is the time of the year when activity in the parking lots really pick up. Please slow down and use caution. Parents with small children, please hold hands.The threat of a tragedy is always present. Also, parking along the curb in front of the Clubhouse requires displaying a valid ADA permit. • The Pool and Poolside Café will officially open for Memorial Weekend, Saturday, May 25th at 10:00 am. Unofficially, if the weather is favorable, we may just feature a special “pre-opening” swim party on Friday the 24th.Watch your email and our Social Media platforms for more information as the day draws closer. • As activity picks up, a gentle reminder that the voice use of cellular telephones is prohibited at the Club. Please keep your device in the silent or vibrate mode.While it may be used for texting or checking email, please use discretion when choosing where and when you use your phone. If you are observed using a cell phone inappropriately, we will remind you of the policy and ask you to discontinue use. Members are urged to inform their guests of this expectation. It also seems necessary to note that the “keep it quiet” expectation extends to the recent trend of using your electronic device to drive Bluetooth speakers to listen to music while participating in Club activities. If you really have to have your tunes with you while at the Club, ear buds are permitted. As you can see, there is more going on around your Club than ever before. Hopefully you will have an opportunity to enjoy the offerings. As always, thanks for reading and I’ll see you at the Club! Phil Iannelli G eneral M anager
6
GET SOCIAL
SUMMER OF FUN BOOKLET
We are ready for another fun-filled summer at the Wilmington Country Club! With the return of some traditional and some new events - there’s something for everyone this season. In addition to our ever-popular Farm to Table dinners we are bringing back the “Adults Only” Summer Party - this time with a Havana Nights theme. We have some new events on the schedule as well including a Rosé Dinner and Burgers & Brews. We look forward to seeing you this summer! Share your summer photos with us by tagging us on Facebook and Instagram and using the hashtag #WCCSUMMER19 . We’ll repost some of your photos on our Instagram. Click the photo below to view the booklet!
WILMINGTONCOUNTRYCLUB
of fun
#WCCSUMMER19
be part of the " IN " crowd I N S T A G R A M
INSTAGRAM: @WILMINGTONCC1901 FACEBOOK/WILMINGTONCOUNTRYCLUB
7
FOOD SERVICE HOURS
DINING & SOCIAL
MONDAY No Clubhouse Food Service Hut: Closed TUESDAY Dining Room: Closed Tavern/Grille: 11:30 am - 9:00 pm
Pub37: Opens at 10:45 am Café: Opens at 11:00 am Hut: Opens at 5:00 pm
WEDNESDAY Dining Room: Closed Tavern/Grille: 11:30 am - 9:00 pm
Pub37: Opens at 10:45 am Café: Opens at 11:00 am Hut: Closed
THURSDAY Dining Room: 12:00 pm - 2:30 pm 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Tavern/Grille: 11:30 am - 9:00 pm
Pub37: Opens at 10:45 am Café: Opens at 11:00 am Hut: Closed
FRIDAY Dining Room: 12:00 pm - 2:30 pm 6:00 pm - 9:30 pm Tavern/Grille: 11:30 am - 9:30 pm
Pub37: Opens at 10:45 am Café: Opens at 11:00 am Hut: Closed
SATURDAY Dining Room: 6:00 pm - 9:30 pm Tavern/Grille: 11:30 am - 9:30 pm
Pub37: Opens at 10:45 am Café: Opens at 11:00 am Hut: Closed
SUNDAY Dining Room: Closed Tavern/Grille: 10:30 am - 8:00 pm
Pub37: Opens at 10:45 am Café: Opens at 11:00 am Hut: Closed
TAVERN & GRILLE WEEKLY SPECIALS APRIL 30TH THROUGH MAY 5TH Roast Pork Loin, Braised Red Cabbage, Mashed Sweet Potatoes, Apple Cider Sauce MAY 7TH THROUGH MAY 11TH Calves Liver with Bacon & Onions, Green Vegetable, Potato du Jour MAY 21ST THROUGH MAY 27TH Roast Turkey Breast with Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Green Vegetable, Cranberry Relish MAY 28TH THROUGH JUNE 2ND Grilled Chicken Primavera over Fettuccine, Garlic Bread --- Specials cost $14.95 and include choice of soup or salad. Reservations in the Tavern/Grille for parties of 5 or more are appreciated. MAY 14TH THROUGH MAY 19TH Coq au Vin, Green Vegetable, Rice Pilaf
MAY DESSERT SPECIALS
ORANGE BLOSSOM PANNA COTTA Roasted Berry Compote, Almond Pound Cake
PINOT NOIR GLAZED CHOCOLATE CAKE Cinnamon Crème Fraîche
STRAWBERRY RHUBARB COBBLER Vanilla Ice Cream
JEWISH APPLE CAKE Chocolate Mousse Topping, Caramel Sauce, Salty Brittle
VANILLA BEAN CRÈME BRÛLÉE
FRESH STRAWBERRIES
ICE CREAM & SORBET
CRAFT COCKTAILS Stop by the Tavern & Grille and Pub37 to try our new craft cocktails!
9
MAY 2019
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
1 9-Holers Red Tee Low Gross Front North 9:00 am Men’s Twilight League North 5:15 pm
2
3
4 Titleist Demo Day 11:00 am - 3:00 pm US National Junior Squash Doubles Championships Grand Prix Junior Squash Singles Tournament Tennis Super Camp 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Tennis Tri Club Men’s Grass Court Tournament GAP Challenge Matches 11
HS Match North - First Tee Restricted 3:00 pm - 3:30 pm
WGAP Match South 9:00 am Happy Hour 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Pub37 US National Junior Squash Doubles Championships
5 Men’s GAP Matches South 9:30 am Family Night Taco Bar Café 1901 4:30 pm ‘Ritas & Fajitas Pub37 4:30 pm US National Junior Mother’s Day Expanded Brunch Tavern & Grille 10:30 am - 2:00 pm Mother’s Day Dinner Buffet Dining Room & Ballroom 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm 19 Men’s BB of Partners Qualiafying Ends South Men’s President’s Cup Qualifying Ends North PGA JLG Match Team 2 vs. Newark North 3:00 pm Squash Doubles Championships 12
6
7 WGAP Match South 9:00 am 18-Holers Alt Event - Odd Holes North 9:45 am Sr. Club Championship Match Play Rd. 1 Begins North WCC Book Club 4:00 pm Ladies’ Lounge Pickleball & Bocce Night 6:00 pm 18-Holers - Team Points North 9:00 am HS Match North - First Tee Restricted 3:45 pm - 4:15 pm Pickleball & Bocce Night 6:00 pm Call-ins 10:00 am 18-Holers Senior/ Super Senior Championship North 9:00 am Men’s BB of Partners Rd. 1 Begins South Men’s President’s Cup Rd. 1 Begins North Sr./Super Sr. Handicap Rd. 1 Begins North Pickleball & Bocce Night 6:00 pm 14 21 Farm to Table (6/22)
8 9-Holers - Hate ‘Em Back North 9:00 am Montchanin Bridge 12:30 pm Men’s Twilight League North 5:15 pm
9
10
No Clubhouse Food Service Hut Open 5:00 pm HS Match North - First Tee Restricted 3:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Thursday Bridge 9:30 am HS Match North - First Tee Restricted 3:45 pm - 4:15 pm
WGAP Challenge Matches Happy Hour 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Pub37 Margarita Tennis Mixed
Callaway Demo Day 11:00 am - 3:00 pm
Doubles 6:00 pm
13
15 9-Holers - Shamble Back South 9:00 am Montchanin Bridge 12:30 pm Men’s Twilight League North 5:15 pm 9-Holers & 18-Holers Cocktail Reception 5:30 pm 22 9-Holers - Stringball Front North 9:00 am Montchanin Bridge 12:30 pm Men’s Twilight League North 5:15 pm
16
17
18
No Clubhouse Food Service Hut Open 5:00 pm
Thursday Bridge 9:30 am Mixed Twilight Front South 5:30 pm
Happy Hour 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Pub37 Wine Tasting 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Pub37
Seafood Night Dining Room 6:30 pm Cocktails 7:00 pm Dinner XXIO Demo Day 11:00 am - 3:00 pm
23
24
25
20
Thursday Bridge 9:30 am Men’s May Member-Guest South 1:00 pm Ladies’ Tennis Member-Guest Grass Courts 6:00 pm
Happy Hour 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Pub37
Pool Opens Taylor Made Demo Day 11:00 am - 3:00 pm Beat the Pro Contest South Course
No Clubhouse Food Service Hut Open 5:00 pm
Private Outing North & South
26
27 Tennis Battle of 52 with Greenville CC 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Memorial Day Pool Party 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm Beat the Pro Contest South Course
28
29
30
31
Pool Open Junior Golf Kickoff “Golfzilla” 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm Beat the Pro Contest South Course
18-Holers BB of Partners South 9:00 am 18-Holers BB of Partners Rd. 1 Ends Pickleball & Bocce Night 6:00 pm
9-Holers - Tee to Green Back South 9:00 am
9-Holers & 18-Holers Co-Twilight Event Front North 5:00 pm Junior Racquets Summer Kickoff 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Happy Hour 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Pub37 Last Day of Junior Tennis Indoor Programs
Click the video below to watch a recap of our Taste of SpringWine Dinner!
THURSDAY BRIDGE NEWS Need a partner? Call Mary Jo Fidance (302) 652-5570 and leave a message stating the date you need a partner! THURSDAY MORNINGS - 9:30 AM Ginny Kuhn, Chair, (302) 540-3386 Mary Jo Fidance,Vice-Chair, (302) 652-5570 Lou Ann Carter, Bridge Manager, (302) 652-6709
MARCH 21ST First Place: North - South
Section A: Judith Spruance - Patricia Turk Section B: Pat Sinex - Eleanor Maroney First Place: East - West Section A & B: Joanne Bahr - Carroll Shannon Section C: Marie Caruso (Guest) - Mary Harding Cist MARCH 28TH First Place: North - South Section A & B: Candy DiSabatino - Mary Jo Fidance First Place: East - West Section A, B & C: CindyWright - Marie Mackay APRIL 4TH First Place: North - South Section A: Margaret McGrath - Thomas Hughes Section B: Marion Borden - Toni Battaglia First Place: East - West Section A & B: Lee Davis - Marie Abernethy (Guest) APRIL 11TH First Place: North - South Section A: Joan Bolling - Lou Ann Carter Section B: Louise Roselle - Eleanor Maroney (Guest) First Place: East - West Section A, B & C: Candy DiSabatino - Mary Jo Fidance
APRIL 18TH First Place: North - South Section A: Kimmie Fulweiler (Guest) - Anthony Cardinal Section B: Barbara Mitchell - Nancy Diver First Place: East - West Section A: Susan Herrmann - Virginia Kuhn Section B: Diana Terrell - Alan Terrell Section C: Dorothy Newlin (Guest) - Barbara Togman MONTCHANIN SOCIAL DUPLICATE BRIDGE
WEDNESDAYS Lunch Buffet - 12:30 pm Bridge - 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm If you are interested in joining our group or have any questions, please call Marina Tarlov at (302) 658-1532.
14
BOOK CLUB For Tuesday, May 7th, we have chosen Hyeonseo Lee’s gripping autobiography The Girl with Seven Names: A North Korean Defector’s Story , which gives an insightful view of what life was like under a ruthless and secretive totalitarian regime. As a child growing up in North Korea, Lee believed her nation to be “the greatest on earth”. She was shielded from the difficult lives led by average North Koreans because of her family’s high status; but as the famine of the 1990s struck, she began to wonder if she had been brainwashed her entire life. The poverty, public executions and then her father’s brutal treatment by the government, made her increasingly disenchanted with aspects of North Korean life. Living on the Yalu River which bordered with China, she could see a way to cross into China.At the age of seventeen, she decided to escape North Korea. As Lee’s memoir continues, her trials with con men and security police grow more astounding, especially as she tries to get her mother and brother out of North Korea. Join us on Tuesday, the 7th at 4:00 pm in the Ladies’ Lounge as Becky Dickinson and Patsy Walls lead the discussion of Lee’s incredible struggle to escape North Korea and later be reunited with her family. For June 4th, we have chosen C.W. Gortner’s richly imagined and carefully researched novel, Mademoiselle Chanel , in which the rags to riches story of the ever fascinating Coco Chanel emerges with all its heartbreak and magnificence.
15
HOURS OF OPERATION
GOLF & GROUNDS
GOLF SHOP Monday: Closed Tuesday - Friday: 7:30 am – 7:00 pm Saturday, Sunday & Holidays: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm BAG ROOM Monday: 8:30 am – Dusk Tuesday -Friday: 7:00 am – Dusk Saturday, Sunday & Holidays: 6:30 am – Dusk
DRIVING RANGE May 1st – May 5th
Monday: 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm Tuesday,Thursday & Friday: 7:30 am – 7:00 pm Wednesday (Clean Pick): 7:30 am – 6:00 pm
Saturday & Holidays: 7:00 am – 7:00 pm Sunday (Clean Pick): 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
DRIVING RANGE May 6th – May 31st
Monday: 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm Tuesday,Thursday & Friday: 7:30 am – 8:00 pm Wednesday (Clean Pick): 7:30 am – 6:00 pm
Saturday & Holidays: 7:00 am – 8:00 pm Sunday (Clean Pick): 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
GOLF COURSE OPENING Monday: 9:00 am Tuesday - Friday: 8:00 am Saturday, Sunday & Holidays: 7:30 am
MEET THE NEW GOLF PROFESSIONAL STAFF
TITLEIST, CALLAWAY, XXIO, & TAYLORMADE DEMO DAYS THIS MONTH We invite the membership to come out to try the latest equipment from Titleist (May 4th), Callaway (May 11th), XXIO (May 18th) and TaylorMade (May 25th). Company representatives along with our PGA Professional Staff will be available for complimentary club fitting. Although not required, appointments may be made in advance by calling the Golf Shop at (302) 655-6022. MOTHER'S DAY SALE All apparel 25% off Tuesday, May 7th through Sunday, May 12th.
We have some new faces joining us in May, please stop by to say hello. Michael LaGace , Assistant Golf Professional – Michael is joining us from Shadow Hawk Golf Club in Houston,Texas. He spent time growing up in West Chester, PA, and is excited to be back in the area. Michael is an excellent player and will be the Junior Golf Coordinator for 2019. Luke Grennan , Assistant Golf Professional – Luke is a recent graduate from the Penn State Professional Golf Management program who conducted internships at Oak Hill Golf Club in Rochester, as well as Manhattan Woods and North Shore Country Club in NewYork. Luke will be leading theWomen’s 9-Holers this season. Ben Gasparich , Professional Golf Management Intern – Ben is a senior at New Mexico State University and president of the NMSU PGM Program. Originally from Albuquerque, Ben worked last season at Roaring Fork Club in Aspen, and previously at Fenway Golf Club in NewYork. Matt Zehner , Professional Golf Management Intern – Matt is a junior at Penn State University and live in Lewes. He has worked at both Kings Creek and Peninsula in Delaware. Andrew Walker , Professional Golf Management Intern – Drew grew up in Winter Haven, Florida, and just completed his freshman year at Florida Golf Coast University. GOLF EVENTS IN MAY Thursday, May 2nd : Men’s Twilight League (North Course 5:15pm Shotgun Start) Friday, May 3rd :Women’s GAP Match (South Course 9:00am Shotgun Start) Saturday, May 4th :Titleist Demo Day (11:00am – 3:00pm) Sunday, May 5th : Men’s Senior Club Championship Match Play Signups End Tuesday, May 7th : Men’s GAP Match (South Course 9:30am – 11:00amTee Times) Tuesday, May 7th :Women’s GAP Match (South Course 9:00am Shotgun Start) Wednesday, May 8th : Men’s Twilight League (North Course 5:15pm Shotgun Start) Friday, May 10th : Men’s Senior/Super Senior Handicap Championship Sign-ups Open Saturday, May 11th : Callaway Demo Day (11:00am – 3:00pm) Wednesday, May 15th : Men’s Twilight League (North Course 5:15pm Shotgun Start) Wednesday, May 15th :Women’s 18 & 9-Holer Cocktail Reception (open to all women) Thursday, May 16th : Mixed Twilight (South Course 5:30PM Shotgun Start) Saturday, May 18th : XXIO Demo Day (12:00pm – 4:00pm) Sunday, May 19th : Men’s Better Ball of Partners and President’s Cup Qualifying Ends Sunday, May 19th : Men’s Senior/Super Senior Handicap Championship Sign-ups Close Monday, May 20th : Private Outing (North and South Courses Closed) Wednesday, May 22nd : Men’s Twilight League (North Course 5:15pm Shotgun Start) Thursday, May 23rd : Men’s Member-Guest (South Course 1:00pm Shotgun Start) Saturday, May 25th - Monday, May 27th : Beat the Pro Contest (South Course) Sunday, May 26th : Junior Golf Kickoff Event (2:30pm – 4:00pm) Thursday, May 30th :Women’s 9 & 18 HolersTwilight (North Course 5:00pm Shotgun Start) JUNIOR GOLF KICKOFF EVENT Join us for our Junior Golf Kickoff event at the Short Game Practice Area on Sunday, May 26th, from 2:30 to 4:00 p.m. This event is for all juniors at the club ages 4 to 13. Come enjoy a variety of games as well as trying to hit balls into the giant Golfzilla mouth! A perfect event for the entire family.There will be complimentary water, lemonade and snow cones available, as well as hot dog cart and limited chit.
FOOTJOY TRUNK SHOW
Will be held outside of the Golf Shop from Wednesday, May 22nd through Monday, May 27th. Stop by to see all of the latest in footwear from FootJoy, including some great prices.
ONLINE TOURNAMENT DIRECTORY
Have you taken a look at our new online tournament directory for 2019? This webpage on the Wilmington Country Club website allows you to review event dates and formats, sign-up, see results and more for most club events. Check it out at: wilmingtoncc.com/golf- tournament-registration/
WCC COUPLES GOLF TRIP
We are conducting a couple’s golf trip October 25 – 27 to Kiawah Island Resort. Call the Golf Shop or email mshank@ wilmingtoncc.com for more information.
MEN'S GOLF
GOLF INSTRUCTIONAL PROGRAM
MEN’S OPENING DAY After rain postponed Friday play, 80 players turned out on a windy Saturday for our Men's Opening Event on the South Course. In the two better net ball of four format, the team of Peter Thomson, Steve Crifasi, Jr., Steve Crifasi and Ed Stegemeier took home the victory
with an outstanding score of 9-under par in the challenging conditions. Hot on their heels was the second-place team of Randy Taylor, Ken Bubes, Greg Smith and Rick Cates with a final score of 8-under par, 134 total. Third place team net was Brad Mitchell, Adrian Jones, Ricky Giacco and Chris Tigani at 7-under par, 135 total. In fourth net was Robert Wittig, Tripp Way, Tom Evans and Tom Mester tied with Jeff Rogatz, Mike Kelly, Dwayne Robinson and Bill Long. Both teams were
SHORT GAME CLINICS Introduction Clinic : Saturday, May 18th / Saturday, June 1st 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm Advanced Clinic : Saturday, May 25th /Saturday, June 8th 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm
4-under par. In our gross division, the team of Jeff Ciconte,Trippe Wayman, Dan Bathon and Steve Hinckley had the winning score of 156. Congratulations to all of our prize winners and thank you to all of the participants! MEN’S PRESIDENT’S CUP & BETTER BALL OF PARTNER QUALIFICATION Qualifying is underway for Men’s President’s Cup and Better-Ball of Partners until Sunday, May 19. Before qualifying, please ask the Golf Shop to print an official scorecard with accurate strokes allocated for the qualifier. Players must write their name on the corresponding event qualification sheet before playing to declare their intent to qualify. The qualification sheets for both events are located outside of the Golf Shop entrance. When the qualifying round has been completed, please turn in your scorecard to the Golf Shop. If the Golf Shop is closed, please place your scorecard in the "Scorecard Return" box located outside of the Golf Shop entrance. The Golf Shop will post all scores from the qualification process as tournament scores. SENIOR CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH PLAY Our Senior Club Championship signup is underway and will end on May 5th. The matches are played on the North Course with no handicaps. Seeding for the event will be done through handicap index, from low to high. Steve Walczak will be looking to defend his title against the field. SENIOR/SUPER SENIOR HANDICAP CHAMPIONSHIP The signup process for this event will begin on May 10th and end on May 19th.This event is on the North Course, with matches played on the white tee markers at full handicap off of the low ball. Seeding for this event will be made through handicap index, from low to high. Players aged 55 and over will be eligible for the Senior Division, and those aged 70 and over will be eligible for the Super Senior Division. John Kairis is the defending Senior Champion and Dave Stephens is the defending Super Senior Champion. MAY MEMBER-GUEST The May Member-Guest will be held on May 23rd at 1:00pm on the South Course. Members are invited to bring 1 or 3 guests to this event. Sign-ups are limited to the first 104 participants entered into the event. The format for this event will be 2 Best Balls of 4. Cost for the event will be $175 per person including a lunch buffet (11:30 a.m.), on-course snacks and beverages, tee gifts, prizes, dinner following play (golf casual attire).To sign-up, please call the Golf Shop at (302) 655-6022. MEN’S TWILIGHT LEAGUE The Men’s Twilight League is underway, but we are still looking for players who are willing to be a substitute for those unable to attend a match. In order to be a substitute, you must possess an established handicap index. Playing in this event is a great way to meet other members in the laid back atmosphere of the matches. Please call the Golf Shop, (302) 655- 6022, to register as a substitute, or for further details.
$100/Student
BEAT THE PRO CONTEST
Over Memorial Day weekend, Saturday, May 25th through Monday, May 27th, the Golf Shop will again host our "Beat the Pro" event. Two players from the Professional Staff will play and post a better ball score on the South Course to be revealed at the end of the weekend. To play, sign-up with a partner on the sweepstakes board (located outside the golf shop). The event is a better ball of partners format (90% handicap). Men play from the White markers and women play from the Green markers. Each player on the team must wager an amount up to $200, which must be marked on the sign-up sheet before play. If the team's better ball score is lower than the professional's better ball score each player will double their wager in Golf Shop credit. If the team's better ball score is equal to or higher than the professional’s score, players will receive their initial wager in Golf Shop credit.
WOMEN’S EIGHTEEN-HOLE GOLFERS Jan Hobbs P resident Ellen Cannon V ice -P resident Pam McCrery T reasurer Catherine Dean S ecretary Opening Day had 27 players and the best weather in recent memory! With the introduction of “online” registration, email and sign-ups in Ladies’ Locker Room will only continue until the end of this season. If you are having trouble with online registration for our events, please stop in the Golf Shop for some extra help. Reminders for the month of May: • May 7th: Sign-ups close for Memorial BB of Partner • May 14th: Sign-ups close for Senior Super Senior Tournament. • May 15th: Cocktail Party for all women golfers at 5:30pm. • May 21st: Senior Super Senior Tournament, North Course, followed by luncheon. • May 28th: Signup opens for the President’s Cup. The excitement continues to build around the June 18thWomen’s Invitational (formally our Member-Guest). Sign up with 1 or 3 guests for the Monte Carlo themed event.This event is open to anyWilmington Country Club woman golfer and guest with an established handicap. Sign-ups close June 11th. The season long Ringer competition was introduced during the weekly event. Ringer box and individual cards are in the Ladies’ Locker Room. Sign up and record your improved scores throughout the season during any 18-Hole sponsored event. WGAP Team Matches are now underway. Best of luck to our three teams! WOMEN’S NINE-HOLE GOLFERS
NEW & FUN GOLF EVENTS FOR 2019 STARTING IN MAY
MEN’SWEDNESDAY NIGHT SWEEPS Beginning on Wednesday evenings May 29, after the conclusion of the Men’s Twilight League, we will be conducting a men’s game each week. Simply let us know by 12 p.m. on Wednesday if you are able to play, and the Golf Shop will make teams. Play starts from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., with groups going off the first tee. $10 entry fee for 9-hole games, with a different format weekly. WOMEN’S ‘GOLF & MORE’ We are inviting all women to join us for a new sunset golf event that will be taking place on select Thursday and Sunday afternoons this summer. Starting Sunday, May 19, these events are designed to be social, casual, and fun. Our first event will be a Par 3 event, with nine shorts holes played, and a member of the professional staff joining you for a few shots. After playing there will be drinks in the Pub! More information to follow. Please contact the Golf Shop to sign-up.
Tiny Mulvena P resident
Claudia Peters V ice -P resident
Kathy Perry T reasurer /M embership
The Women's 9-Hole Golfers opened their season Wednesday, April 10 with a festive breakfast and a rousing round of Golf Jeopardy, moderated by Michael Shank. Over 40 participants attended the lovely gathering coordinated by Phyllis Arenson and Patrice Sysko.
WILMINGTON COUNTRY CLUB
Please join us for a...
List of upcoming events for the month of May: • May 1st: Red Tee Low Gross - Front 9 North Course 9:00 am Shotgun • May 8th: Hate’Em - Back 9 North Course 9:00 am Shotgun • May 15th: Shamble - Back South 9:00 am Shotgun • May 15th: 9-Hole/18-HoleWomen’s Cocktail Reception - 5:30 pm • May 22nd: Stringball - Front 9 North Course 9:00 am Shotgun • May 29th:Tee to Green - Back 9 South Course 9:00 am Shotgun • May 30th: 9-Hole/18-Hole Co-Twilight APRIL RESULTS April 17th - Step Aside Scramble
MONTE CARLO t h e m e d
LADIES GOLF INVITATIONAL 06.18.19 9:00 am Shotgun South Course
Shamble Format - Luncheon following play
Open to all WCC lady golfers with a USGA handicap
First Place: Gretchen Mayne, Judy Orth, Marlene Zeleny, Gail Mumford Second Place: Mary Jo Gordon, Phyllis Aerenson, Patrice Sysko, Joan Crifasi Third Place: Claudia Peters, Karen Healy, Janice Conner, Ann Van Ogtrop April 24th - Scramble First Place: Becky Dickinson, Kathy Perry, Judy Boyle Second Place: Gretchen Mayne, Kristine Qualls, PatsyWalls, Greer Silliman Third Place: Carla Green, Chris Campbell, Patrice Sysko, Pat Ripsom
$150/PERSON Each member may bring 1 to 3 guests RSVP by calling the Golf Shop , signing up in the Ladies’ Locker Room, online, or by emailing [email protected]
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MAY GROUNDS VIDEO MESSAGE
FROM JONATHAN URBANSKI - DIRECTOR OF GOLF COURSES & GROUNDS
PROPER RANGE USE
Have you seen the new signs on our apple crates? While using the practice range, we are asking all members to take divots in lines, not patches. This will utilize the least amount of grass and allow us to remain on the grass longer. Kindly place your ball on the back edge of your previous divot when practicing. Grounds Chair Tom Humphrey demonstrates the proper way to take divots on the practice tee.
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ADULT TENNIS
RACQUETS
TUESDAY
10:30 am – 11:30 am: Ladies 3.0 Clinic 10:30 am – 11:45 am: Ladies 3.5+ Singles Clinic
WEDNESDAY
10:30 am – 11:30 am: Ladies 3.5+ CardioTennis
6:45 pm – 7:45 pm: Men’s CardioTennis
THURSDAY
9:00 am – 10:00 am: Ladies 3.0 CardioTennis 6:45 pm – 7:45 pm: Mixed CardioTennis
FRIDAY
10:30 am – 11:30 am: Ladies 3.5+ CardioTennis 10:30 am – 11:45 am: Ladies 4.0+ Clinic
SATURDAY
7:45 am – 8:45 am: Men’s CardioTennis 8:45 am – 10:00 am: Men’s Round Robin 8:45 am – 9:45 am: Ladies CardioTennis
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A MESSAGE FROM ED MCQUILLIN May is when all the outdoor tennis action is in full swing. Listed in The Bulletin are the many programs and events being held in May. Of special note, we will be hosting the National Junior Squash Doubles Championship which involves many of our WCC juniors and has been held atWilmington for over 30 years. Our annualTennis Super Camp with top area tennis professionals will be held on Saturday, May 4th from 2:00-5:00pm. We hope you will join this excellent tennis camp and learn a lot about your game while benefiting the Delaware Tennis Foundation. We begin our Pickleball and Bocce Tuesday nights at 6:00pm on May 7th. This year we will also be offering a daytime Pickleball time to play and will be competing against a few area clubs. We have three events on the grass tennis courts this month with the Men’s Tri-Club, Ladies' Evening Member-Guest and part of the Tennis Battle of 52 event.We hope you will participate in these events and enjoy the unique experience of playing on grass. Our spring and summer adult and junior programs are listed inThe Bulletin.We have an array of programs for all ages and levels and hope you can find a time that fits your schedule. UPCOMING EVENTS Friday, May 3rd - Sunday, May 5th : National Junior Squash Doubles Championships Saturday, May 4th : Junior Squash Singles Grand Prix #5 Saturday, May 4th :Tennis Super Camp, 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm Tuesday, May 7th :Tuesday Night Pickleball and Bocce 6:00 pm (May - September) Friday, May 10th : Margarita Tennis Mixer, 6:00 pm Saturday, May 11th :Tennis Tri Club Men’s Grass Court Event, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm Thursday, May 23rd : Ladies Evening Tennis Member Guest on the Grass Courts, 6:00 pm Monday, May 27th :Tennis Battle of 52 with Greenville CC, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Thursday, May 30th : Junior Racquets Summer Kickoff, 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm JUNIOR TENNIS CARNIVAL RECAP Thank you to everyone who came to the Jr.Tennis Carnival and Teen Ping Pong Tournament on Friday,April 12th!We had a great crew and raised over $900 for the Rodney StreetTennis andTutoring Association. Special thank you to our high schoolers who organized and ran the event - Ethan Bradley, Tristan Bradley, Peter DeSantis, Claire Dignazio, Seth Friedlander, and Saloni Rastogi! See you on the courts. Ed McQuillin R acquets D irector
JUNIOR TENNIS Red 1 (5-6 years) Monday 3:45 pm - 4:30 pm Tuesday 3:45 pm - 4:30 pm Saturday 11:15 am - 12:00 pm Sunday 1:30 pm - 2:15 pm $119/7 weeks, $22 drop-in Red 2 (7-8 years) Monday 3:45 pm - 4:30 pm Tuesday 3:45 pm - 4:30 pm Saturday 11:15 am - 12:00 pm Sunday 1:30 pm - 2:15 pm $119/7 weeks, $22 drop-in Orange (9-10 years) Monday 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm Tuesday 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm Friday 5:30 pm - 6:45 pm Saturday 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm $140/7 weeks, $25 drop-in Green (11-12 years) Monday 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm Tuesday 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm Saturday 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm $140/7 weeks, $25 drop-in Yellow (13-14 years) Monday 5:30 pm - 6:45 pm Tuesday 5:30 pm - 6:45 pm Saturday 1:00 pm - 2:15 pm $161/7 weeks, $28 drop-in JUNIOR ACADEMY Orange Competition Wednesday 5:15 pm - 6:30 pm Thursday 3:45 pm - 5:00 pm $161/7 weeks, $28 drop-in Green Competition Wednesday 3:45 pm - 5:15 pm Thursday 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm $196/7 weeks, $33 drop-in Yellow Competition 1 Wednesday 5:15 pm - 6:30 pm, $161/7 weeks, $28 drop-in Thursday 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm, $196/7 weeks, $33 drop-in Friday 4:15 pm - 5:30 pm, $196/7 weeks, $33 drop-in Yellow Competition 2 Wednesday 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm, $196/7 weeks, $33 drop-in Thursday 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm, $196/7 weeks, $33 drop-in Friday 4:15 pm - 5:30 pm, $161/7 weeks, $28 drop-in High School Monday 5:30 pm - 6:45 pm Tuesday 5:30 pm - 6:45 pm $161/7 weeks, $28 drop-in High Performance Wednesday 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm Thursday 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm $196/7 weeks, $33 drop-in Session 5 : April 8th - May 26th
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SQUASH RECAP WCC SUPER B DOUBLES TEAM are back to back PSRA League Champions. They successfully defended their title vs. Merion Cricket Club 2-1 in matches.They had a nice come from behind win in the semifinals against Berwyn squash and Fitness in the deciding match. Down 14-13, they won the last two points after a very confrontation call at 14-14! Oh, the drama! Team Members are Andy Houston, Buzz Hannum Jr., Scott Simonton, John Kairis, Lexi Saunders, Alex Davis, Chris Saunders, Bob Bolling, Halsey Spruance, Jason Clare, and Jim Zug Jr. Congratulations! THE FORSYTHIA SQUASH DOUBLES OPEN was held on Sunday April 14th. Andy Houston and Doug Herrmann defeated Jon Saunders and Leif Bohman 3-0 in the final. Other participants were Jack Harris, Kleon Diamantopoulos, Josh Taylor and Halsey Spruance. The winners took home some niftyWhiskey Decanters! Well done Andy and Doug!
JUNIOR SQUASH PROGRAM MONDAY 7:00pm – 8:30pm: High School TUESDAY 4:35 pm – 5:20 pm: 5-6Years 5:20 pm – 6:05 pm: 7-9Years
WEDNESDAY 7:00pm – 8:30pm: High School
THURSDAY 3:45 pm – 4:30 pm: 5-6Years 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm: 7-9Years SUNDAY 12:40 pm –1:20 pm: 5-6Years 2:20 pm – 3:05 pm: 7-9Years 3:05 pm – 4:05 pm: 10-12Years
Session 5 : April 8th - May 26th
JUNIOR GRAND PRIX Last months Grand Prix junior squash singles tournament had a few barn burner matches that ere super exciting. Johnny Wyant took first place over Luke Mumford, and SamWyant finished third over Fraser Johnson.The next Grand Prix will be held in conjunction with the National Junior Doubles on May 4th. Luke Mumford leads the current standings for the Grand Prix Championship “Race to the Cup”, with JohnnyWyant in close second place.
US NATIONAL JUNIOR SQUASH DOUBLES
The US National Junior Squash Doubles Championships will be held here atWCC on May 3-5, 2019. It will be the second largest field players in the 33 years history of the event. This tournament was born here in 1986! We have 74 teams across 11 divisions for boys, girls and mixed divisions. Although we have just over 100 kids, the number of juniors participating in the mixed division makes this event bigger than the largest field of 107 players.We will be usingWilmington Country Club,Vicmead Hunt Club, AND Germantown Cricket Club! Come out and support the players over the weekend. Matches will run from 4:00 pm on Friday - Sunday at 4:00 pm.
CONGRATULATIONS toToddAnderson who won the 2019 Canadian National Doubles 50+ Championship at the Granite Club in Toronto, Canada last month.Todd payed withTom Harrity of Philadelphia and the defeated Scott Hall of Toronto and Doug Lifford of Boston.This is their second 50+ Championship! Congratulations Todd!
Ed Chilton A ssistant D irector of R acquets
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PERSONAL TRAINING Our Fitness Staff is on site with our group exercise instructors and personal trainers. Members can schedule a personal training session with any of our personal trainers: Rick Howard, Corey Ryan, Chris Weiss, Krysta Lafferty, and Beth Sheehy.
FITNESS
ONE HOUR PERSONAL TRAINING SESSIONS OR FITNESS PROFILE Individual: $67 Package of 5: $310 ($62/hour) Package of 10: $570 ($57/hour) GROUP PERSONAL FITNESS SESSIONS 2 people: $40/person 3 people: $30/person 4 people: $25/person 5 or more people: $20/person
MASSAGE Tracy, Susan, Vicki, and Ryan have set aside available hours each week but request at least twenty-four hours advance notice, as they are not onsite staff. Some time slots are already filled; other hours may be available.
TRACY HALTERMAN therapeutic Wednesday:12:30 pm - 7:30 pm Friday: 7:00 am - 6:00 pm SUSAN BROWN therapeutic Monday: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Tuesday Evening
VICKI RUDAWSKY sports Tuesday &Thursday: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
RYAN HOLLEY Thursday: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Saturday: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
WCC GROUP EXERCISE CLASSES
GROUP EXERCISE CLASSES
YOGA CLASSES
MONDAY
TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY SUNDAY
Boot Camp Krysta Lafferty
HotVinyasa Beth Sheehy
Boot Camp Krysta Lafferty
HotVinyasa Beth Sheehy
6:00 am
Golf Fitness (Squash Building) Corey Ryan
Golf Fitness (Fitness Center) Corey Ryan
Golf Fitness (Fitness Center) Corey Ryan
7:00 am
*Foundations (90°) Mary Currie TRX ChrisWeiss
*Foundations (90°) Mary Currie
*Foundations (90°) Mary Currie
7:15 am
FIT Fusion Beth Sheehy (Every other Saturday) Krysta Lafferty
*Foundations (90°) Mary Currie
8:00 am
*Balance Mary Currie 45 minute class
*Balance Mary Currie 45 minute class
8:15 am
*WarmYoga Flow Mary Currie
*WarmYoga Flow Mary Currie Tri Fit Mary Harrison
*WarmYoga Flow Mary Currie Tri Fit Mary Harrison
8:30 am
9:00 am
Shape Up (Fitness Center) Beth Sheehy
*WarmYoga Flow Mary Currie
9:15 am
*Foundations (75°) Mary Currie 45 minute class Senior Fitness Mary Harrison (Beginner Level)
9:45 am
10:00 am
RestorativeYoga Beth Sheehy
10:30 am
WarmYoga Flow Beth Sheehy
RestorativeYoga Beth Sheehy
X-17 Krysta Lafferty
6:15 pm
GROUP EXERCISE AND YOGA RATES
PLEASE NOTE: Maria Lucey is taking a Summer Sabbatical so she will not be teaching the Tuesday/Thursday 7:15 AM FIT class.The class will resume once a suitable teacher is found.Thank you, Maria, for your energy and expertise! $14/Session *$16/Premium Session $140 Unlimited 30 Day Rate $380 Unlimited 90 Day Rate All classes are one hour in length unless otherwise noted. Limited space and pre-registration is preferred. Walk-ins welcome, space permitting. Due to the overwhelming response to our classes, if you sign up for a class and do not attend without canceling at least 24 hours in advance, you will be charged even if you have an unlimited package. Sign up online at wilmingtoncc.com or call (302) 655-6171 ext. 2113. GROUP EXERCISE AND YOGA RATES $14/Session *$16/Premium Session $140 Unlimited 30 Day Rate $380 Unlimited 90 Day Rate All classes are one hour in length unless otherwise noted. Limited space and pre-registration is preferred. Walk-ins welcome, space permitting. Due to the overwhelming response to our classes, if you sign up for a class and do not attend without canceling at least 24 hours in advance, you will be charged even if you have an unlimited package. Sign up online at wilmingtoncc.com or call (302) 655-6171 ext. 2113.
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RICK HOWARD - DIRECTOR OF FITNESS Congratulations on being named Fellow to the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). Rick is now part of an elite group of professionals whose frequent and sustained contributions to the strength and conditioning profession have promoted the goals and activities of the NSCA.
WHO GETS TO BE CALLED AN ATHLETE? Once it's clear you're not going pro, that line gets blurry. But it shouldn't be. For most people, being an athlete is a binary identity. Either you are, or you are not.
Our current sports culture focuses on winning championships, making highlight reels, and increasing individual rankings at every level, from professional to youth sports. Sports parents, coaches, and aspiring athletes are “adultifying” youth participation in hopes of going pro or garnering scholarship opportunities by playing on elite travel teams at increasingly younger ages, rather than focusing in the process of having fun and learning new skills.The culture of being outcome- or product-focused has negatively affected youth sports and how we view athletes at that level. In the minds of many across all levels, then, the term 'athlete' equates to elite athlete, someone at the
absolute top level of their given sport. If you can't make the cut past a certain point, the perception shifts to classify you as just an enthusiast or hobbyist, someone whose focus should lie elsewhere. In the most general sense under this standard, if you are good at sports and you're actively competing in some sense, you are an athlete. Or, you are not good at sports.You were picked last for teams at recess and in physical education. In fact, PE often separated out the athletes in class versus those that just took PE.Those that just took PE are thought to be the people that “just work out” when they are adults, meaning they exercise to get in shape without a specific athletic goal. If that describes you, clearly you are not an athlete, right? THE INCLUSIVE DEFINITION OF AN ATHLETE Not so fast! There are multiple sides to every story. Most of us are somewhere along the athlete continuum, so why not find an inclusive way to describe where we are on our path to being an athlete? For example, Bill Bowerman, co-founder of Nike, defined an athlete as anyone with a body. Project Play also uses an across the population definition of an athlete as anyone with a body. Margaret Whitehead, the modern champion of physical literacy, solves the misunderstanding that only elite athletes 'count' by suggesting that we are all athletes, within our given level of endowment. The bad news is that we can easily get caught in performance ruts because we don’t have the self-efficacy, confidence, or competence in our abilities.This can lead to a performance-limiting downward spiral of what activities we choose, if any at all. In other words, if you still feel like you're that last pick in PE or you're unenthused with the options of activities available to you, your drive to perform drops. At the root of being an athlete is demonstrating athleticism. Think about how being limited in the choices of play or sports affected you as a youngster (or how it affects your youngsters).You are less likely to stay active if you don't feel like you're good at what you're doing, or that you have no chance to improve. The radical idea behind an inclusive definition of athlete is that we all deserve every opportunity to improve our athleticism by taking advantage of a broad range of sports, games, play, and fitness activities—not just the narrow definitions provided by mainstream sports and gym class. DEVELOPING ATHLETICISM If you can’t yet wrap your head around thinking of yourself as an athlete, start to change your mindset by living an athletic lifestyle. Eat like an athlete, train like an athlete, think like an athlete.Thinking like an athlete (i.e. exercising to achieve particular goals and competing with yourself and/or others) will have a positive impact on your performance by changing how you approach your training sessions. At the root of being an athlete is demonstrating athleticism. Being athletic is more than wearing the latest sports gear or signing up for certain types of fitness classes. Athleticism, as defined by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) in their position statement on long-term athletic development (LTAD), is the “ability to repeatedly perform a range of movement 28
skills with style, precision and confidence in a variety of environments, which requires competent levels of strength, power, speed, agility, balance, coordination and energy.” Long-term athletic development, then, is “the chronic development of athleticism over time to enhance health and performance, reduce injury risk and enhance the confidence and competence of all youth.” Although the position statement focused on youth, “long-term” really encompasses cradle-to-grave.The goal of enhancing health and performance is valuable to change our mindset on how we approach exercise and fitness. The big question is, are we stuck with our perceived genetic predisposition to be an athlete or not? The answer is, of course, it depends! Being an athlete is multifactorial and includes not only genetics but also our opportunities to play, quality of coaching, opportunities to develop motor skills and muscle strength, and access to sports programs and facilities.The first step is to change to a more inclusive mindset by modeling, valuing, and promoting physical activity and increasing access and opportunity for play, sports, fitness, and quality coaching from childhood through adulthood. HOW TO BECOME THE BEST ATHLETE YOU CAN BE Think positively about how you are training to improve your own performance. You shouldn't just be active for specific health reasons—kids love to play, for example, but no 8-year-old is running around to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease. Focus on the performance end of the wellness continuum rather than the disease end. Embrace the opportunity to try new activities, to involve the whole family, and to continuously improve. PLAY Play outdoors whenever possible.You can include friends and family and it’s good for your mental health, too. For adults, playing with your kids is an excellent way to model healthy behavior, which kids can learn to value to become lifelong movers, too. Integrate games into your fitness routine—med ball hot potato or last person standing challenges, for example. Importantly, give kids time to play sports and time to be kids.The same advice applies to adults, too. MOVE WELL AND MOVE OFTEN Be sure to include movements in all directions. Start by learning the universal athletic stance, which is the foundation on which hip hinging and squatting patterns are built. Most exercises are forward and back (sagittal plane) exercises. Examples are biceps curls, squats, running, and cycling. Include movements that go side to side (frontal plane) like lateral shuffles, side lunges, and jumping jacks. movements that include rotation and anti-rotation (horizontal plane) like swinging a bat or racket, or landmine presses. Start to integrate athletic movements into your fitness routine.You don't need to incorporate all planes every day, but you should integrate different movements across your training program. DEVELOP MUSCLE STRENGTH AND MOTOR SKILLS Muscle strength has been linked not only to improved general fitness, but also to longevity and improved quality of movement. Muscle strength and motor skills are very closely linked, too, which is why when form is not correct in an exercise, we need to explore whether it is due to the lack of strength or the lack of motor ability. Select one or two motor skills per workout. Motor skills are locomotor (walking, running), body awareness (landing, balancing) and object control (dribbling with feet or hands, or swinging a golf club). TRY NEW ACTIVITIES The development of athleticism through LTAD is a framework for being physically literate.The notion of being able to repeatedly perform a range of movement skills requires us to sometimes get out of our comfort zones and try new movements or activities to expand the range. Perhaps a group exercise or yoga class might help balance your fitness training. Take the kids to the park. Chase the dog. Try activities on a different surface—skating, skiing, or swimming could be a big change. Have fun exploring new ways to move. ENTER A COMPETITION Nothing compares to the camaraderie that comes from being part of something bigger than yourself. Personally, I felt my enthusiasm for training reinvigorated by entering a contest. Compete against yourself in the presence of others—and it's also fun to see how you compare to peers. Just remember, being an athlete doesn't mean everyone finishes first. Being an athlete means being the best mover you can be. 29 Here are a few tips to become the athlete you know you can be: