Who is Maryland's King of the Grass?

I was dealt a karmic blow at the AVP the following weekend. Opting for a bigger blocker for the Belmar AVP event, I got back in touch with Brad Torsone. We had played pretty well together in ’03 on the AVP and in the Pan Am Games. Throughout the Qualifier, we were treated to a chilly rain that wouldn't have been a problem except for the constant wind that blew it sideways. This being a single elimination qualifier, we couldn’t even go uno dos, adios. Uno duno. At least we got out of the wind and rain. We ran to the RV (parked on the street at the event), turned on the heat, and commiserated with some other players over tea.

“Things happen for a reason” is a phrase that works better after an event has taken place. Had Brad and I qualified in Belmar, the Jack and Dave Tour would have missed out on perhaps the best day of volleyball of the summer.

Unencumbered of AVP responsibilities, we contacted my sister Andrea and learned of a grass tournament the following day in the middle of Maryland. She and her boyfriend Billy were signed up, so getting to spend the day with them would be a bonus. The format: King of the Grass. The prize: $1,000 for first -- better than a 13th place on the AVP.

The home, adorned with “ JackAndDavesVolleyballTour.com” on the side in 9” letters, was the last vehicle to pull into the park in full view of all competitors. Our group was now 6 strong including two other women players: Meri-de Boyer and my sister’s friend Oksana. After playing all day with several different partners, all six of us managed to make the final two foursomes. Our women went 1-2-3, Oksana, Meri-de, Andrea. Focus then shifted to the men’s final. Who would take top honors in the individual event? Fortunately for the 4th player who wasn’t on our tour, he cramped up and ended the tournament. Jack, Billy, and I split the top 3 prize money spots and we all headed off for a celebratory dinner. If we're within a thousand miles of Bel Air next summer, we're definitely coming back.