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SCHA league ended Saturday, but wasn't decided until one the last two matches of the morning were finished. LAFD was involved in both matches and needed to win one to be the outright winner of league. Roy Harvey and Chris Yokoyama squeaked out a tiebreaker win over Eli Barajas and Christian Luna of the LAAC to give them two out of three wins. Had any of the 6 teams gone three and zero in the Finals they could have won it all, but three teams tied at 2 and 1, giving LAFD the title due to the best season record.
(Tom) Martinez Handball Club took second in the regular season but came in at 1-2 in the Finals.
Los Cab #1, captained by Matt DeWeese took the overall second by coming in 3rd during the season and tied for first in the playoffs, as Mark Shelgren and Greg Sizemore won the last match of the day over LAFD.
After all the matches were over we had a great BBQ. Thanks to Jim Carson and Frank Pirkel for volunteering to BBQ and to Tom Serrato of FarWest Meats for providing the delicious chicken and dogs.
Thanks to Tom Gilbert and Gary Cruz for their help and to Victor Aguila for helping with the clean-up.
The winning team received a plaque and shirts for their efforts. Congratulations to Capt. Roy, Chris, Mario Rueda, Joe Castro. Jared Cooper, Ryan Chance, Chris Hart,Joe Steiner, Sergio Guzman, Ryan Klemme. and Ryan Carlos of the LAFD. Pictures forthcoming.
Let's do it again in five years!
Best Regards,
Larry FisherYou are now able to join the SCHA with a credit card using PayPal.
The SCHA survives on memberships alone. Please join so we can continue to support handball in SoCal. Current "Paid" SCHA Members March, 2014.Please help us get youth handball programs at your club, Boys and Girls Club, Park and Recreation or Police Athletic League.
Contact Gary Cruz 949-633-2422 if:
Team Fregoso put on a great event May 4-5 at Tournament House. Ralph, Jerry and Eddie have been playing in tournaments for years and they obviously have been taking notes. Congratulations and welcome to the tournament directors world! They are pictured below with the owner of Tournament House and handball supporter Robin Dixon.
Dear SCHA members
Thank you for your generous contribution of $100.00 for our Junior tournament held 16-17 March at Washington Irving Middle School.
Over 100 junior handball players participated. There was no entry free. Players and their families were treated to lunch. All players received gloves and tee shirts. Winners got back packs.
It was an extremely successful event.
West Coast Handball
The 2012 Los Angeles Athletic Club Invitational event was held on Saturday, December 1. Twenty eight players competed in round robin play changing partners in each of 4 rounds of play. There were four divisions play.
The winners were:Thanks to the staff and management of the club and the administration of the handball committee the event came off smoothly and members and guests were treated to a full day of handball and hospitality.
On Saturday, November 24, 2012, the USHA and Los Angeles Fire Department hosted the annual Turkey Burner Handball Tournament at Los Caballeros. Owen Gloves, Southern California Handball Association, and BK Just4U sponsored the event, which each player got a shirt, lunch and unlimited refreshments. Winners were awarded letterman-jacket styled sweatshirts and Owen Gloves, and finalists received Owen Gloves.
Victor Perez and Christian Luna defeated Carlos Chavez and Vince Gonzales Jr. in the Caliente Division. Chris Yokoyama and Curtis Irwin defeated Fausto Castro and Marques Toledo in the “Other Hot Division”. Larry “El Presidente” Fisher and Mark Shelgren defeated Jesus Pasos and Dan Jones in the Hot Division. Jesus Castillo and Ruben Lopez defeated Tony Bautista and Mike Bowers in the Mild Division.
LAFD has donated all proceeds to Marco Coromac’s Lacer After School Handball Program and the US Handball “Wafe Risner Fund” that will support players attending the 2013 Collegiates at Arizona State University in February.
Roy Harvey.
Vic Perez, Christian Luna, Vince Gonzales Jr, Carlos Chavez
Larry Fisher, Mark Shelgren, Jesus Pasos, Dan Jones
Chris Yokoyama, Curtis Irwin, Marcos Toledo, Curtis Irwin
Jesus Castillo, Ruben Lopez, Tony Bautista, Mike Bowers
On Saturday, September 8, 2012, 70 players from USHA and the Los Angeles Fire Department with family and friends gathered at Venice Beach for the LAFD 3-Wall Invitational. This tournament honors the 343 FDNY Firefighters who gave their lives on September 11, 2001. The tournament shirt featured a memorial for FDNY. Steve Carbahal and Greg Ramirez defeated Victor Perez and Jerry Puga in the “Open Div.” final. Darryl Arbuthnott and Mario Rueda defeated Oscar “Tree” Amaya and Johnnie Flores in the “A” Division. Joe “Pro” Pacheco and Jessie “Spider” Lopez defeated Tom Gilbert and Dave Ramsey in the “B” Division. Christian Gassler and Ronnie Hernandez defeated Brandon Prince and Jorge Espinoza in the “C” Division. West Coast Handball, United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, Bamco, and the City Employees Club sponsored the event. Participants received shirts, shorts, hats and a souvenir water bottle. All finalists and champions received embroidered backpacks.
By Roy Harvey
The Southern California 3 Wall Small Ball State Championships, in memory of Jr. Vasquez, finished up July 15. As usual the open final went to 11/10 tie breaker with Armondo Ortiz and Chip Morales surviving a strong comback from big ballers Samson Hernandez ( Totoy) and Sal Duenas. All divisions were competive and this years first 50 division was won, by Luis Vega and Chava. Radio station KROQ was there on Saturday playing music for the audience. The food was outstanding all weekend, including a taco man with free food for everyone on Sunday. Forty kids played and recieved free gloves, USHA headbands, LA Dodger wristbands, a tournament shirt and a LA Dodger shirt. There was a great family atmosphere all weekend long.
Thanks again to all those that support this tournament. There are just too many people to thank. Last year I thanked the money contributors, without them we could not do what we do. Please excuse me this year so I can thank those who help with the labor.
First my wife, Rosie, who starts on Thursday shopping and preparing food, and working all weekend, choping fruit, cooking, serving, organizing and managing the food area. Mark Zamora's wife,Tammy, worked a full day Friday and still made 40 pounds of potato salad for the tournament. She is also there serving cleaning and helping control the food area. Ryan Nekota comes every year and cooks all day on Saturday and Sunday, in the sun without making a fuss. Anytime we need help loading, sweeping, refing, chasing balls, making Gatorade, painting the courts, whatever, Jess Lopez is the man. Manny Resendez picks up trash, collects tickets, shags, he is always looking for a way to help. Besides helping us run the tournament Mike Kogan singlehandedly runs the kids portion of the tournament every year. Taking his own time and money Gerado Garcia personally hand carried 12 cases of Arrowhead water to the tournament. Robert Camacho picks up and sets up the huge shade tent we have every year. He also provides tables and chairs. Then he has to take and unload the stuff on Monday. The Ruiz family (Mom) makes large tray of chili con carne every year. Larry Borunda helps design and order the shirts, provide barbeque equipment and help with whatever is needed. These people and others help without being begged to help, they see what's needs to be done and just do it.
I am sure I forgot someone (I do every year). Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts....Tom Martinez, Tournament Director.
The finals of the 2012 LAFD Spring Doubles Handball Tournament was held at the Los Angeles Athletic Club on May 24, 2012. Over 154 players participated in the tournament, with 19 players playing in two divisions. Awards were given in "A", "B", "C" and "D" Divisions along with "A", "B" and "C" Masters Divisions. Preliminary games were played in Fire Stations, starting April 1, 2012 with finals in all Seven Divisions on May 24th...submitted by Commissioner Roy Harvey
Though unable to attend due to back surgery, Milt Joffee was instrumental in bringing back the Roadrunner tournament. He and Gary Cruz worked with the owner of the Palm Desert AC, (Ernie Foli) to hold a one day round robin tournament that featured round robin play. Also John Robles was hand for two instructional round table discussions.
All players were pleased to be able to complete the event in one day, socialize with players from other areas and learn some tips from Vern Roberts and John Robles.
March 24-25, 2012, the top doubles teams from the Inland Empire competed in the 2nd Annual Bill Doles Baby Doll Tournament in Riverside, CA. Players and fans were treated to some of the best hospitality around, along with spectating high quality handball. Top qualifying pros entered the open division for a chance to win the title plus cash. In the end, Marcos Chavez/Chip Morales took down Vic Perez/Greg Tomasyan in two games in a thrilling Sunday afternoon final. On the open big ball side, Marcos Chavez completed the slam with Sal Duenas defeating Daniel Cervantes and Benja Hernandez in a tie breaker.
Results from the amateur divisions include: Eli Barajas/Jorge Lopez defeated Jimmy Ramirez/Manny Resendez in the A division. The Arem father/son duo defeated Ashley Moler/Ralph Fregoso in the B division. In the C division, Pete Trejo/Candy man def. Bill Doles/Jim Craig. In the 50s, Matt DeWeese/Steve Pool def. Mark Zamora/Andy Gastelaum. In the 60s, Octavio Martinez/Rob Nichols def. Danny Carrillo/Ken Eng.
This tournament would not be possible without the generous contributions by the two main financial contributors Bill Doles and Jim Crews. Further thanks to Mark Shelgren and Tom Serrato for contributing, as well. Also, thank you to the Far West Meat Co for providing the chicken and links for the Sunday afternoon barbeque and to Marcos Chavez for providing free Owen gloves for all the junior players. Finally, thanks to tournament directors Tom Martinez and Mark Zamora for hosting another wonderful event.
The Cal Cup challenge saw the home court advantage in full bloom again this year as SO CAL hosted at the Classy Los Angeles Athletic Club and defeated NOR CAL by a 16 - 3 margin. In 2010 it was the north that prevailed 13 - 7.
Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the food, which the club did a exceptional job with, the tap beer, and other goodies, and the renewing of old friendships.
We'll do it again in 2014 in San Francisco.
Many thanks to Tom Martinez, Marcos Chavez, Gary Cruz, Marlene Wiscovitch, Rob Nichols, Tom Fitzwater, Mike Linnik, and John Nottingham.
John Nottingham
A capacity turnout for a tournament that only could have been better had Wafe been able to be present. The good news is the family was was present for the cutting of the ribbon dedicating the Wafe Risner Court and the unveiling of the perpetual Wafe Risner Trophy.
Congratulations to Armando Ortiz Jr. for being the first name placed on the trophy!
Thank you to Marlene Wiscovich and the LAAC Handball Committee for putting on a great show.
Los Cab faced LaFitness-Norco at Los Cab on Saturday, November 19. Los Cab won Open, B and Masters and LA Fitness won Golden Masters.
There are approximately 40 Fire Stations with Handball Courts. A player from a Station without a court may join with a nearby Station for the challenge. The challenge started in May 2011 when the Trophy was built by Engineer Brent Reudy at Fire Station 58. Fire Station 26 defeated them in July and took the Trophy. Fire Station 92 challenged them and won the Trophy in October. All challenge matches must be played at the Trophy holders home court. The top station keeps the Trophy until they lose it. The challenging team must win 3 out of 5 matches. Trophy holder decides on two singles and three doubles or vice versa. The ladder on the left side of the Trophy has the top 20 department players. Any player may challenge players 16-20 on the ladder. Players on the ladder may challenge within 5 rungs for Department ranking.
Fire Station 92 is now the top Handball House on the Los Angeles Fire Department. Stations may challenge trophy holder, to a best 3 match out of 5 format. The trophy holder decides if it is 3 singles and 2 doubles or vice versa.
Danny Carillo wins again with new partner, Gollo Tellez who is a legendary big ball player and trying his hand at indoor little ball. He helped Carillo beat Mark Zamora and Andy Gastelum in the final. Hospitality was super, great food, and great fun. 10 teams participanted in the event.
Carrillo suplied menudo Sunday morning, and on Saturday morning Mike Kogan provided tamales.
Most players stayed to see Pacquio get beat up by Marquez.
Over the last weekend of October, the Kauai Handball Association hosted its fourth annual Hana Hou Handball Makahiki at the Kauai Athletic Club courts. There were about seventy players from fifteen to seventy-nine years old. Both male and female players participated in some singles and doubles events in the Open/A; B/C; 60’s; 70; and white ace.
Coach Shigeru Nobeta brought six men and three women players from Japan---notably 6-foot 2-inch Masakazu Uchida and his 5-foot wife, Yuko. Dave, Donna, and Nick Mosely again provided some tough competition from Denver, Colorado. Not to be outshined, the Moranz family from Kauai had Uncle Joe and cousins Joey and Mikal provide further energized action. Crissy Martin, former Kapaa High School soccer standout and coach, showed promise in her debuted single and doubles events.
Oahu had Bill Carrington, Travis Hoover, and Mike Kincaid. Maui was represented by Rocky Johnson. The Big Island brought Bill Kish, Mac McInnis, and Byron Moku. Other Kauai players were Robert Elliott, Mario Gonzalez, Troy Hayden, Clay Hiramoto, Bogart Kealoha, Armand Mora, Mike Olson, Milo Spindt, and Doug Yoneji.
Brian Davis of Wailua and Joe Cox of Seattle, WA helped with the tournament matches and scheduling. Carlynn Ledward of Wailua provided the chili, salads, cold cuts, and desserts. Pono Market donated a large platter of maki sushi which made the Japanese players feel at home. Ron Morin of Senter Petroleum contributed some gasoline gift certificates. Anheuser Busch helped with some adult beverages. Other sponsors like Dr. Dan Fulmer, Nancy Erselius, Ed Barberini family, Bernie Dulberg family, GTS, Ltd. and some others assisted in defraying some expenses. Clay Hiramoto produced a PowerPoint CD of Donn “Curly” Carswell’s twenty-five years of Kauai handball from 1986 to 2011 as a souvenir for the players. Wayne Black of San Francisco was the head chef on Dell Mora’s “mother of all grilles” with his famous seasoned chicken, sausages, and beef steaks. Koko Kanealii, Darryl Gonzales, and Garret Santos of Kanak Attack added spice to the contemporary and traditional Hawaiian songs. The twin hula dancing sisters further awed the local and out-of-town folks.
2011 HANA HOU HANDBALL MAKAHIKI RESULTS: (K) denotes Kauai player
3-Wall Big Ball invaded the 2011 Simple Green U.S. Open of Handball this year with huge crowds that were awed by the stellar play resulting in this tournament, which is a perennial favorite on the handball calendar, just getting bigger and better. Hosted as always by Los Caballeros Sports Village in Fountain Valley, CA, and sponsored by Bruce FaBrizio, Simple Green and Naty Alvarado, 32 Pro Doubles teams were invited to compete in 3-Wall Big Ball alongside the 4-Wall indoor players. Matches were played on 3 outdoor courts including the first “free standing” 3 wall court designed by Jeff Healam from Tucson Rolling Shutters and constructed by Fred Stanfield of Las Vegas with his crew, framer Gabriel Garcia and painter Miguel Caro. Saturday and Sunday crowds viewing the exhibition court matches swelled to over 300 and instantly became standing room only.
In the upper half of the brackets, Gilberto Rosales AKA “Boxer” and Raul Calvillo, fresh off their win in Las Vegas were seeded # 1 with Juan Santos and Miguel Hernandez seeded #4. However Edgar Arabjo and Andre Diaz took out the #4 seed in the round of sixteen and then made it all the way to the semis where they found themselves up against Boxer and Calvillo. Game 1 started out sluggish for Arabjo/Diaz who had to adjust to Boxer’s dominating kills and Calvillo’s consistent play. With Boxer putting everything down, the #1 seeds took the first game 21-6. Diaz picked up the pace in Game 2 but Rosales/Calvillo were just too much and they took Game 2, 21-12.
In the bottom half, Ricky Ruiz and Samzon Hernandez were seeded # 2 coming off their impressive win in the Pacific Coast Indoor Championships (4-Wall Big Ball) and Braulio AKA “Shorty” Ruiz and Yuber AKA “Pee Wee” Castro out of New York were the #3 seed. Both teams advanced to the semis with relative ease although Shorty and Pee Wee did go tiebreaker with Sal Duenas and his partner Carlos Lopez. In a matchup that pitted brother against brother, the action was intense with constant diving and acrobatic moves but Ricky and Samzon proved why they have been dominating Big Ball prevailing 21-19, 21-18.
The final match showed that the seeding was correct with #1 facing #2 and both teams looking unbeatable. Ricky/Samzon had won 14 of their last 15 tournaments and the crowd of over 300 made them the betting favorite in this much anticipated war. However the consistent play of Ricky/Samson proved too much and they pulled away midway thru the 1st game and never looked back. It felt like at one point that Ricky had flattened about 15 shots in a row. Instead of feeling pressure, the winners applied pressure and won the match going away. The third place game played prior to the finals was won by Shorty and Pee Wee. It looks like Big Ball is here to stay!
Venice Beach,
Twelveth Annual LAFD 3-Wall Tournament was held at Venice Beach on September 10th, 2011. Nineteen teams started in 4 groups, playing a round robin format. Once top teams were established, a single elimination bracket format was used to determine champions. Participants in this tournament were LAFD firefighters and Southern California Handball Association Players by invitation only. Jim Vandenbos, Tom Gilbert and Fire Chief Brian Cummings were present. Winners received embroidered duffel bags by Adidas
Roy Harvey
Fountain Valley, CA. – Los Caballeros Sports Village was the site for the 2nd Annual Pacific Coast Indoor Championships with over 100 players competing over the July 29-30 weekend. This year with a new twist – Big Ball was added to the mix. This tournament is quickly becoming the can’t miss event of the summer because of the value offered as well as the top notch competition. For a mere $25.00 – each player is guaranteed two matches, a commemorative shirt and two solid days of BBQ. You just can’t beat it! The finals had some great matches and the results are as follows:
Open – The match made in Norco, Carlos Chavez and Ismael Meneses nipped the always strong team of John Robles and Chris Watkins
A – Team Borracho of Jerry Fregoso and Abel Carrillo took down Larry Borunda and Lefty Tony in a close tiebreaker. Gold=Luis Jimenez/Tom Byer
B – Toothy Dan Fredrickson and 205 Fernando Garcia clubbed David Diaz and Sergio Guzman like baby seals. Gold=Christian Luna/Brittyn Bidegain
Masters – Coming off a win @ the LA Athletic Club Spring Fling, Paul Rodelo and Luis Guytan took down tough Marcus Hough and Manny Resendez.
Golden Masters – Mike Bock took Steve Pool to the Promised Land with a win over defending champs Larry Fisher and Matt DeWeese. Gold=Ken Eng/Gary Eisenbooth
Big Ball – Don’t bet against Ricky Ruiz who with partner Samzon came out of the loser’s bracket to beat Sal Duenas and Rudy 4 games in a row to capture the crown.
Premier Doubles – Joe Field and Julio Alvarez edged Damien and Ivan Chapa. Gold=Parrish Clark/
Premier Singles – Frank Montes came out on top of Damien Chapa. Gold=Pete Trejo
The final featured Ricky Ruiz and brother Braulio Ruiz vs. the current Collegiate champions Victor Perez and Nikolai Nahorniak. The Ruiz Brothers offensive game was firring on all pistons, to let Victor and Nikolia get anything going. The brothers collected $500 each for their effort. In the semis the Ruiz Brothers had to defeat Vince Munoz and Carlos Chavez in a tie breaker. On the other side Nikolai and Victor had an easier time defeating Marcos Chavez and Samzon Hernandez.
50 kids participated in this years tournament. Each Junior participant received a free pair of gloves ( provided by Owen Gloves), Tournament shirt, USHA Headbands, a handball teaching manual and Big Ball Handball ( provided by USHA).
Tom Serrato from FarWest meats provided the barbeque food on saturday including cooking it himself all day (with lots of help from his best friend Jack ).
A Taco Truck (Volunteered by Dan Cassidy) provied food for the Sunday players and their families.
My wife Rosie Martinez and Mark's wife deserve a special thanks for their hard work. After shopping most of the day thurs. and cooking salads all day fri. she helped all day sat. and sun. serving, cutting fruit, making garorade, loading and unloading, and putting up with me. After working an 8 hour day Mark's wife Tammy, spent the rest of the evening cooking 30 pounds of potato salad. She also worked the weekend side by side with Rosa. We would'nt know what to do without them. Please thank them before thanking us.
by Tom Martinez
$2,600 dollars in prize money for all divisions would not be possible without the generosity of donations from the following persons.
SoCal was in the spotlight beginning with the Hall of Fame induction of Steve August. Congratulations to Steve who is pictured below surrounded by his family and friends and below that with Carl Porter, Bob Hickman and LeaAnn Martin.
Later in the evening James Coronado was awarded the USHA Coach of the Year, then he teamed up with Juan Uribe (left) to capture the A Doubles Championship
On Saturday, David Chapman captured his 9th title by defeating Sean Lenning in two games.
Armando Ortiz (second from the right) with partner Sean Lenning won the Open Doubles over David Chapman and Emmett Peixoto
Paul Cajiao, pictured on the left (LAFD) came in second in the 50B Singles.
Mark Zamora came home with another National Title winning with the 50 Doubles with partner Dave Streibig
Luis Mendez (center) won the 11 and under singles.
German Botello (second from right) came in second in the 13 and under singles
Marc Penick won the 55 Singles and came in second with Tom Martinez in the 55 Doubles
A big thank you to the Minnesota Handball Assocation for hosting the event. The SCHA supported the tournament with a $500 sponsorship. We are looking forward to hosting in 2012 at Los Cab!
Rick began playing handball in the 1960’s and continues to compete today. Creating handball clubs, ladders and teaching handball (27 years @ Hale Middle School) to young people has been Rick’s passion over the last 30+ years. Rick has been active in the SCHA over 25 years, serving as youth board director, administrator of SCHA Valley League, and running numerous singles and doubles tournaments at The Spectrum in Canoga Park. Rick was instrumental in beginning the 3Wall Jr. State Tournament @ Venice Beach which later became the 3Wall Junior Nationals. Although inducted as a contributor, Rich has averaged 6-8 tournaments as a player over the last 30 years. Wearing his signature suspenders, Rick has won many B & C tournaments over his career and recently placed 2nd in 65 Doubles in Las Vegas. Rick, the SCHA is proud to have you as a member of our Hall Of Fame.
Mark Zamora – PlayerThe SCHA asked Mark for his handball tournament wins – he said let’s just use National titles (most handball players would like to have any title) and his list is more than impressive. Next time you see Mark play, enjoy his game, you’ll be watching a Southern California legend.
Not only does Mark have exceptional skills as a player, he spends numerous hours mentoring and tutoring young players on indoor, 3Wall, and big ball courts. Wherever you see him around a handball court, he is ‘bigger’ than life. Thank you Mark for contributing to the Southern California scene.
What a tournament. If you walked in to the Tournament House on Sunday afternoon, you would have seen three glass courts with three very different events, pro small ball finals, pro big ball finals, and 15 and under finals.
This was the first time that Big Ball was incorporated into a small ball tournament and it was a hit. We loved watching their game and they loved watching ours.
One hundred and sixteen players came out for the festivities.
Thanks to the generosity of Bill Doles and Jim Crews we were able to get this tournament started once more and provide superior hospitality. The owner of the Tournament House Robin Dixon provided beer and food practically all day Saturday and Sunday.
I asked a Big Ball player what he thought about the tournament, his response was: I wish we could have this tournament every weekend. Luis Vega's kid Jose Vega, a 12 and under participant, came up to me and asked; hey mister do you know when the next tournament is? I smiled.
Aside form the big contributors many players and non players helped us get this thing done. Mark Shelgren, Mickey Cabrera, Jose Pacheco, Stephnie Hathaway, and the players at Los Caballeros also gave generously. A special thanks goes out to Marcos Chavez who donated a pair of gloves to all of the kids participating in the tournament. It amazes me, the gererosity of Handball Players keeps on growing. Something good is happening. Lets grow this thing...Tom Martinez
South End Rowing Club and the Olympic Club – The weather was stupendous, the food was excellent and non-stop and the handball was top notch at the Master’s Tournament which was held February 10-13 in that city by the bay. Below is an actual photo taken while attending this event by your roving reporter. Only in San Francisco!
Southern California was well represented at the competition with John Robles teaming with Chris Watkins to take the 35+ title (beating Chapman in the final) and then with John Bike to take the 45+ crown. Tom Martinez and Greg Sizemore entered two events and made the semis in the 50+ and the finals in the 55+. Matt DeWeese and Tavo Martinez also entered the 50+ and the 55+ and didn’t win squat but took home the record for most matches played (7) over three days. Rocket Rod Gaspar took home the title in the 65+ and Danny Carillo did likewise in the 60+. Others that made the trek were (forgive me if I leave you out only because I don’t know where you live) James Coronado 35+, Greg Voisin, Paul Godina 40+, Larry Fisher, Dan Jones, Jerry Jarrett, Rex Melton 55+, Steve Housman, Mike Kogan, Burt Repine 65+, John Loretz, Rich Robitaille 70+, and Mike Baggetta 75+.
by Matthew DeWeese
On Saturday, November 27, 2010, Los Caballeros in Fountain Valley hosted a second event in 2010, which paired up one Los Angeles City Fireman with one USHA player. This has proven to be a popular format for expanding the pool of players in Southern California.
There were a few no shows and late arrivals, which resulted in a change of the original format, which started with pool play to determine seeding for bracket play. All teams were guaranteed four games of play. Awards were provided in four divisions, “Caliente”, “Hot”, “Warm” and “Mild” from sponsors Owen Gloves, SCHA, West Coast Handball and Los Angeles Firemen’s Handball Association
There were several compliments on the design of the souvenir T-shirt, which was designed by Branden Silverman, who helped “Grand Master” Mark Zamora to win the Caliente Division.
This event was a great success, and all proceeds will be donated to the Junior Nationals being held in San Diego, CA in December 2010...Roy Harvey
The winners are;
On Saturday, September 11, 2010, Firefighters from the Los Angeles Fire Department held the 12th Annual 3-Wall Doubles Tournament, on the 9th anniversary of the tragic events of 2001. The day started with the pledge of allegiance, followed by a prayer led by Captain Frank Lima. Fire Chief Millage Peaks made a surprise visit to the tournament and started the day with a speech which acknowledged the great sacrifice of the 343 Firefighters who paid the ultimate sacrifice that day, and further acknowledged the courage and professionalism of the Los Angeles Firefighters in attendance.
The tournament shirt acknowledged the FDNY with a picture of the department patch with the words “Never Forget!” below. All participants received shorts with the embroidered LAFD Handball logo. 32 teams started the day in the “A” or “C” divisions, with the losers of the first matches dropping down into the “B” and “Premiere” divisions.
Everyone in attendance was treated to hamburgers, hot dogs, baked beans, pasta salad and homemade salsa and chips for lunch. The MOAB (Mother of All Bar-B-Ques) drew a crowd as grill masters Ray Mayo and Christopher Cooper prepared the food for all in attendance. Once the players and their guests were fed, the LAFD Handball Association extended the hospitality to anyone who wished to eat, including the homeless and teens playing basketball on adjacent courts.
The tournament is normally limited to Firefighters however, 5 players from the Southern California Handball League were invited to participate. The setup started before 7:00 am with the “A” final ending after 7:00 pm as it got dark. The weather presented a challenge for the players and spectators alike. It was cloudy and cold all day, and the sun never broke through.
At the end of the day, up and comers Jerry Puga and Jonathan Stevens upset perennial winners and number one seeded Frank Lima and Tony Gamboa in a tie breaker for the “A” Division title.
The players from the Southern California Handball Association made a strong showing in the “B” Division, with civilian Manny Carbajal and Paul Caijao defeating the all civilian team of Eli Barajas and Baltimore Bunuan in another tie breaker.
David Diaz and Sergio Guzman were the number one seeded team in the “C” Division. They have played several tournaments together, and their experience as a team proved to be enough to defeat Jerry Hutchinson and Jeff Harvey in the final.
Chris Tavera and Kevin Easton dominated the “Premiere Division” with their hustle and surprising shot making. They defeated Alex Salas and Brian Thiebold in two straight.
A boot was available for donations, and nearly $100 was raised for the Muscular Dystrophy Association...Roy Harvey
The first year got off to a great start with all divisions filling up with 16 doubles teams and a premire division with 20.
Directors, Tom Gilbert, Jim VandenBos, Mark Zamora and Tom Martinez reached out across SoCal getting close to 150 players to play. Play started on Friday and continued to Sunday. Hospitality was provided by the Los Angeles City Fire Department and Los Caballeros Handball Club.
There were a large contingent of LAFD handball players that were playing in their first tournament outside of their station and many other players attracted to the premire division that focused on the non-tournament player
Master Chef Tony Villegas and Matt Krueger were behind the grill most of the day on Saturday as players, coaches and parents were treated to hamburgers and hot dogs at the beach. What could be better then that?
How about four days of non stop handball for 80 kids? Players came from all over the U.S. and Ireland, England, Mexico and Canada to enjoy SoCal weather and top competition.
Locally Vince Gonzales Jr (Santa Ana) won the 19 A, Brant Bidegain (San Diego) the 17 Open, Christian Luna (Hawthorne) the 17 B, Jacob Rodriquez (Santa Barbara) the 15 Open, Ruben Escamilla (Santa Barbara) the 15 B Consolation, Alex Guadarrama (Santa Barbara), the 13 Open, Damion Chapa (Rosemead) the 13 A, Luis Mendez (Santa Barbara) the 11 Open, Johnnie Coleman (Santa Barbara) the 11 A and Alexis Chapa (Rosemead) the 11 B Consolation.
Thanks go to all the coaches and parents for supporting the efforts of all the kids, The City of Los Angeles, The United States Handball Association, The Southern California Handball Association, the local players for letting us take away court time and in many cases helping out to referee. Sponsors Marc Penick, Pete Davis, and Tony Villegas made hospitality happen!
Chapman Junior Camp a Success
Fourteen juniors received three full days of training from David Chapman, John Bike Jr., Emmett Peixoto, and David Fink.
Many of these players have extended their time in Southern California to compete in the USHA 3-Wall Junior Nationals.
The first annual Southern California 3-Wall state Championship tournament in memory of Junior Vasquez was held in Glassel Park
Armondo Ortiz and Chip Morales won a tight clean battle against Carlos, and Marcos Chavez. The Chavez brothers came from behind twice, only to lose 20/20 in each game. They had to beat John Bike and Naty Alvardo Jr. in the semis. The Chavez brothers beat the Ruiz Brothers ( Bralio and Ricky} in the other semi.
A total of $2,500 in prize money was handed out to all first place and second place teams in all divisions.
44 juniors came to play this year. The most kids we've ever had.
We'd like to thank, Tom and Rosie Martinez, Mark and Tammy Zamora, Jimmy Mendoza, Mike Salgado, Bo Kennely, Mark Shelgren, Rex Melton, Lefty Tony, Mike Palacios, Tom Serrato, Larry Borunda, Nash from Converse shoes, Jimmy Ramirez, Terry O'Reilly, Mike Kogan, Andy Gastelum, L.A.C.E.R., David Goldbery, Greg Tomasyan, Andy Bilanzch, Young Doe, Stephanie Hathaway, Roy Harvey, Sight Waves, Owen Gloves, and all those who help set up and, take down clean up twice.
May, 15, 2010, at the Los Angeles Athletic Club. There will be a handball social beginning at 11 am. The social is free for those attending the banquet, $10 for others. Invitation
On Saturday night May 15, Kelly Russell and Mike Bock were inducted into the So. Cal Handball Association Hall of Fame. 90 people, including families and friends of the inductees attended the event held at The Los Angeles Athletic Club.
Tom Fitzwater flew in from Northern California to speak on behalf of Mike Bock--as his right side partner and good friend. Mike spoke of his long history with handball, starting in Chicago as a teenager, then coming to Long Beach to continue his career as one of the premier left side players in the country.
Kelly Russell had numerous friends speak on his behalf. Sybelle Hulick told of Kelly's personal support for Jack during his illness. Jim Tamagni related several stories about Kelly's history as a playboy as well as an athlete. Don Chamberlain and Skip Mc Dowell emphasized Kelly's incredible skills as one of the greatest right-side players of all time. Kelly spoke about his feelings about his numerous partners, his love of the game, and especially his father, Earl Russell--who played such a huge role in Kelly's life.
Jim Barnett was also honored and given his Grand Master for winning ten USHA National Tournaments.
mike kogan
In one of the most competitive tournaments in recent years 77 players competed in 3 singles divisions and 4 doubles divisions.
Local players Ricardo Ruiz and Carlos Chavez qualified as well as Bill Mehilos and Eddie 'Chip' Morales. Andy Nett by winning fifth place is in line to travel to Detroit as a reserve.
The 50+ Doubles was so deep in talent that Tom Martinez, who came in second in the Worlds, was forced to play a preliminary round. Danny Carrillo and Kelly Russsel emerged victorous with two come from behind victories first over John Guth and Kenny Eng in the semis, then again in the finals against Jim Vandenbos and Mark Shelgren.
It came down to fewest losses to determine first, second and third in the 60+ Doubles divison with Rob Nichols and Steve Sand prevailing in a grueling 5 team round robin.
In the Open Doubles John Robles and Chris Watkins bested Marcos Chavez and the up and coming Christian Luna. Robles and Watkins kept Chavez off balance while working Luna with 'hooks' and power.
The A Doubles was another tough five team round robin with Ron Tolksdorf and Curtis outlasting the others.
The A singles was a drop down from the open singles and Sal Duenas came away victorious over Ivan Ruiz.
B Doubles was a drop down from the A singles and St Louis transplant, currently living in San Diego, Jeff Streibig defeated Jerry Fregoso in a tight match.
Men's Doubles 50+ - Single Elimination:
Round of 16: Brian Nelson / Rick Nelson d. Boak Ferris / Don Anderson 7,10; Bob Mathews / Rod Gaspar d. Jesse Lopez / Rex Melton 10,6; Dan Jones / Matt Deweese d. Tom Martinez / Tony Escarcega 19,11.
Quarters: Daniel Carrillo / Kelly Russell d. Dan Jones / Matt Deweese 4,4; Gerado Garcia / Mike Bock d. Bob Mathews / Rod Gaspar 11,5; Jim Vandenbos / Mark Shelgren d. Brian Nelson / Rick Nelson 9,4; Ken Eng / John Guth d. Vern Roberts / Steven Lippman 13,11.
Semis: Daniel Carrillo / Kelly Russell d. Ken Eng / John Guth (18),10,2; Jim Vandenbos / Mark Shelgren d. Gerado Garcia / Mike Bock 10,5.
Final: Daniel Carrillo / Kelly Russell d. Jim Vandenbos / Mark Shelgren 12,17.
Men's Doubles 60+ - Round Robin:
Round 1 Greg Stansbury / Jerry Jarrett d. Mike Baggetta / Jim Crews 6,7; Mike Kogan / Steve Housman d. Frank Thomas-larken / Mike Bowers 1,4.
Round 2 Mike Kogan / Steve Housman d. Greg Stansbury / Jerry Jarrett (14),11,6; Rob Nichols / Stephen Sand d. Frank Thomas-larken / Mike Bowers 4,3.
Round 3 Greg Stansbury / Jerry Jarrett d. Frank Thomas-larken / Mike Bowers 2,7; Rob Nichols / Stephen Sand d. Mike Baggetta / Jim Crews 12,3.
Round 4 Mike Kogan / Steve Housman d. Mike Baggetta / Jim Crews 10,3; Greg Stansbury / Jerry Jarrett d. Rob Nichols / Stephen Sand (8),12,7.
Round 5 Mike Baggetta / Jim Crews d. Frank Thomas-larken / Mike Bowers WBF - Injury; Rob Nichols / Stephen Sand d. Mike Kogan / Steve Housman 6,8.
1st: Rob Nichols / Stephen Sand.2nd: Greg Stansbury / Jerry Jarrett.3rd: Mike Kogan / Steve Housman.
Men's Doubles A - Round Robin:
Round 1 Cesar Carlos / Eddie Fregoso d. Paul Sicking / Tom Byer (10),2,4; Curtis Irwin / Ron Tolksdorf d. Andrew Mugridge / Jon Mugridge 17,12.
Round 2 Curtis Irwin / Ron Tolksdorf d. Paul Sicking / Tom Byer 8,11; Manny Resendez / Mike Palacios d. Andrew Mugridge / Jon Mugridge 8,6.
Round 3 Paul Sicking / Tom Byer d. Andrew Mugridge / Jon Mugridge (15),19,9; Manny Resendez / Mike Palacios d. Cesar Carlos / Eddie Fregoso 5,14.
Round 4 Curtis Irwin / Ron Tolksdorf d. Cesar Carlos / Eddie Fregoso 9,4; Paul Sicking / Tom Byer d. Manny Resendez / Mike Palacios WBF - Injury.
Round 5 Cesar Carlos / Eddie Fregoso d. Andrew Mugridge / Jon Mugridge 19,18; Curtis Irwin / Ron Tolksdorf d. Manny Resendez / Mike Palacios 10,11.
1st: Curtis Irwin / Ron Tolksdorf, 2nd: Manny Resendez / Mike Palacios.
Men's Doubles Open - Round Robin:
Round 1 Marcos Chavez / Christian Luna d. Paul Rodelo / Roy Harvey 20,20; Chris Watkins / John Robles d. Greg Voisin / Jeff Cardinal 3,6.
Round 2 Marcos Chavez / Christian Luna d. Greg Voisin / Jeff Cardinal ; Chris Watkins / John Robles d. Paul Rodelo / Roy Harvey 4,8.
Round 3 Paul Rodelo / Roy Harvey d. Greg Voisin / Jeff Cardinal 8,16; Chris Watkins / John Robles d. Marcos Chavez / Christian Luna 7,8.
1st: Chris Watkins / John Robles.2nd: Marcos Chavez / Christian Luna.
Men's Singles Open - Drop down to A:
Round of 32: Dan Fredrickson (Fullerton, Calif.) d. Christian Luna (Hawthorne, Calif.)15,(16),7; Martin Ruiz Jr (United States) d. Juan Reyes (Santa Ana, Calif.)20,17; Steve Pool (Fountain Valley, Calif.) d. Nolan Reynolds (Bremerton, Wash.)(20),14,7.
Round of 16: Eddie Morales (Springfield, Mo.) d. Steve Pool (Fountain Valley, Calif.)15,7; Bill Mehilos (Des Plaines, Ill.) d. Martin Ruiz Jr (United States)10,6; Andy Nett (Winona, Minn.) d. Dan Fredrickson (Fullerton, Calif.)5,14; Mark O'leary (Palatine, Ill.) d. Sal Duenas (Santa Ana, Calif.)14,11; Carlos Chavez (Buena Park, Calif.) d. Greg Tomasyan (Burbank, Calif.)4,4; Ricardo Ruiz (Downey, Calif.) d. Ryan Flores (Scottsdale, Ariz.)16,8; Greg Ramirez (Canyon Country , Calif.) d. Ivan Ruiz (Chicago, Ill.)9,11.
Quarters: Eddie Morales (Springfield, Mo.) d. Braulio Ruiz (Calif.)8,15; Bill Mehilos (Des Plaines, Ill.) d. Greg Ramirez (Canyon Country , Calif.)15,8; Ricardo Ruiz (Downey, Calif.) d. Andy Nett (Winona, Minn.)4,7; Carlos Chavez (Buena Park, Calif.) d. Mark O'leary (Palatine, Ill.)14,10.
Semis: Eddie Morales (Springfield, Mo.) d. Carlos Chavez (Buena Park, Calif.)(18),3,8; Bill Mehilos (Des Plaines, Ill.) d. Ricardo Ruiz (Downey, Calif.)11,7.
Fifth: Andy Nett d. Braulio Ruiz 5, 8
Third: Ricardo Ruiz (Downey, Calif.) d. Carlos Chavez (Buena Park, Calif.)20,13.
Final: Bill Mehilos (Des Plaines, Ill.) d. Eddie Morales (Springfield, Mo.)15,20.
Men's A Singles Drop to B:
Round of 32: Martin Ruiz d. Jesse Luna 8, 6, Jef Streibig d. Don Weiler 1, 5, Isaiah Mercado d. Ralph Fregoso, default
Round of 16: Martin Ruiz d. Jerry Fregoso 19, 12; Ivan Ruiz d. Victor Aguila 19, 1; Josh Robles BYE; Isaiah Mercado BYE; Greg Tomasyan d. Steve Pool 18, 16; Juan Reyes BYE, Sal Duenas d Nolan Reynolds 11, 7; Ryan Flores d. Jeff Streibig 7, 10.
Round of 8: Ivan Ruiz d. Martin Ruiz 10, 12; Isaiah Mercado d. Josh Robles 7, (17), 9; Greg Tomasyan d. Juan Reyes 11, 18;Sal Duenas d. Ryan Flores 17, 12.
Semis: Ivan Ruiz d. Isaiah Mercado 6, 8; Sal Duenas d. Greg Tomasyan (16), 20, 6.
Final: Sal Duenas d. Ivan Ruiz (14), 20, 8.
Men's B Singles Single Elimination:
Round of 16: Jerry Fregoso d. Don Weiler 6, 6
Round of 8: Jerry Fregoso d. Nolan Reynolds (14, 7, 6; Victor Aguila d. Jesse Luna 14, (4), 2; Josh Robles d. Steve Pool 19, 15; Jeff Streibig d. Ralph Fregoso 15, 14.
Semis: Jerry Fregoso d. Victor Aguila 12, 5; Jeff Streibig d. Josh Robles 5, 1.
Final: Jeff Streibig d. Jerry Fregoso (11), 11, 10
Results
Sixty four players were treated to a full day of handball, chili and beer at Los Cab on Saturday, January 30.
Play Began at 8:30 am with the "Hot" division and hot is what they had to be as this 15 point game, 8 team round robin format was grueling. By noon most were glad the play was over and the hospitality was beginning.
Later in the day the "Warm" division played 21 point game drop down bracket play which began at 11 am and concluded at 4 pm
Resutls:
On January 9, 56 of the top California handball players converged on the South End Rowing Club in San Francisco to play for the 1st California Cup competition. Current and former National champions and other top handball players from northern and southern California competed in singles and doubles competition in Open, 35+, 40+, 45+, 50+, 55+, 60+, 65+, and 70+ divisions along with two 17 and under singles matches. The South End Rowing Club (located at Fisherman’s Wharf) hosted the event and provided outstanding hospitality all day long.
Competition was intense and after the first 10 of 20 matches, the score was tied at 5 matches each. Southern California went ahead 6-5 when they won both junior singles events. However, Northern California came back strong by winning most of the doubles matches and all three tie-breakers in the afternoon. The final tally had Northern California winning 13-7 matches. One of the many highlights of the day was Emmett Peixoto’s three game victory over Marcos Chavez. The 1st California Cup bragging rights stay with Northern California until 2012 when Southern California will host the event.
by Tom Fitzwater
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March, 2011 SoCal/Southern Nevada/Hawaii Volunteers, SoCal/Southern Nevada/Hawaii Tournament Directors, SoCal/Southern Nevada/Hawaii Distributors, Sept 02 Handball at LaFitness-Alhambra Anyone wishing to play handball in San Gabriel area call Tom Martinez at 626-242-6579. We play at the Alhambra LA fittness club on Maine Ave. (Phone # 626 299 5980) We play on Wed. and Fri. nights from 4pm till 7:30. Players include Eddie Chapa, Eddie Silverya, Mark Zamora, Dave Morones, Rosendo Lopez, Jess Lopez, Tom Martinez, Manuel Resendez, Mike Salgado, Andy Guteriez, and many others. We have a challenge court. If you are tired of playing C and B players, come on down. There is entrance fee for non LA fittness members. Mar 01 Handball in the Antelope Vally. Oct 98 Handball in Santa Barbara May 98 Handball in North County Inland San Diego May 98 Handball in Whittier Nov 97 Handball in Eagle Rock/South Pasadena May 97 Handball in San Diego Mar 97 Handball in San Luis Obispo |
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