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CroquetNews 2025 VOLUME 4 | WINTER ISSUE

ONE FOR THE AGES 19th AC WORLDS SHOWCASES TOP PLAYERS IN FLORIDA

The Official Magazine of the United States Croquet Association

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CroquetNews 2025 Volume 4

On The Cover

2025 AC World Championship “Last 4” semifinalists: Champion Reg Bamford, Silver medalist Mark Avery and Bronze medalists Robert Fletcher and Logan McCorkindale. Photos by Dylan Goodwin / croquetnetwork.com

Publisher

Dylan Goodwin | croquetnetwork@gmail.com

Managing Editor

Julie Jantzer-Ward | uscacroquetnews@yahoo.com

Submissions

Damon Bidencope

November 6, 1959 - September 13, 2025

Submit inquiries and articles to uscacroquetnews@yahoo.com. Text should be submitted as a Microsoft Word file and photos should be submitted as separate individual high resolution (300 dpi) files. All content may be edited for length and photos will be adjusted appropriately. Croquet News is produced four times per year and is distributed as a benefit to USCA membership. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the publisher. Views expressed by contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the USCA. © 2025 United States Croquet Association

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A Life Well Played Remembering Damon Bidencope

A TRIBUTE TO THE CROQUET CHAMPION, LEADER AND FRIEND WHOSE LIFE WAS CELEBRATED IN PERSON AND ONLINE BEFORE THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE 2025 AC WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP IN WEST PALM BEACH The croquet world lost one of its most passionate champions on September 13, 2025, when former USCA President Damon Bidencope passed away at age 65 after a battle with melanoma. On October 17, during the WCF AC World Championship held at the National Croquet Center in West Palm Beach, Fla., players from around the globe gathered to celebrate not just an extraordinary croquet career, but a remarkable life — one defined by generosity, wit, competitive fire and an unwavering commitment to making the sport accessible to all.

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www.croquetamerica.com | 5

Damon Bidencope

November 6, 1959 - September 13, 2025

From Australia to America Born and raised in Tamworth, Australia, Bidencope’s sense of curiosity and adventure emerged early. His sister, Felicity, remembered a fearless little brother “hurtling down the hill on his red plastic tractor” and later channeling that energy into schoolyard games, motorbikes and a deep love for sport. His croquet journey began in earnest in 1978 at the University of Sydney, where he lived at St. Paul’s College, a men’s dormitory with its own croquet lawn. During that time, he saw international games played in Sydney and determined that he wanted to play at that level. Felicity recalled how suddenly their household vocabulary expanded to include “wickets, running hoops, jump shots, peeling and pegging out.” By the time he graduated with an architecture degree, Bidencope was co-captain of the Australian croquet team and competed in his first MacRobertson Shield in 1986 when Australia played in England. Longtime friend Martyn Selman, who met Bidencope at university, describes him as “inventive, generous with his time, strong-willed — many would say stubborn — and intelligent. He definitely had a mischievous streak, which could be very, very funny.” He was invited to play exhibition matches in a tournament in Sonoma, Calif., and that initiated his move to America. “Armed with just an architecture degree, a croquet mallet and, unbeknownst to my parents, less than $100 in his pocket,” Felicity remembers, “Damon proceeded to make ripples and then waves in the US croquet world.”

Building American Croquet During his time in Northern California in the mid-1980s, he became instrumental in establishing croquet courts and programs at Sonoma Cutrer and later at Meadowood in Napa Valley. He was one of the first croquet professionals, teaching countless people the game during this period.

ABOVE: Bidecope with fellow U.S. Croquet Hall of Fame Inductee Bert Myer. Both were inducted in 2016. BELOW: Bidencope presents at the USCA Annual Awards Ceremony this past spring.

During the Celebration of Life ceremony, former AC World Champion Stephen Mulliner recalls one of Bidencope’s more creative experiments at Meadowood: “He thought the courts were easy, so he tightened the hoops to contact. This had never been done before. The experiment lasted about an hour and a half before there was a deputation from the players — which met not much resistance because Damon was playing, and he couldn’t get through the hoops either. By lunchtime, the tournament was back to normal.” He collected three National Doubles and four National Singles titles and served as co-captain of the 2006 MacRobertson Shield team. He was inducted into the U.S. Croquet Hall of Fame in 2016 and, posthumously, into the WCF Hall of Fame this fall. In the early 1990s, he co-founded the Chattooga Challenge and ProAm with Dick Pearman in North Carolina, creating a premier destination for elite play in the mountains of the Carolinas. There, he met his future wife, Jennie, beginning a lifelong journey together that that stood at the center of all he achieved.

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Bidecope with Jennie, Michael and Emma.

With Jennie at the National Croquet Center.

The Man Behind the Mallet From their home in Charlotte, N.C., Bidencope built a respected career as a commercial real estate appraiser, specializing in eminent domain and trust work. One colleague described him as “the best appraiser and expert witness I’ve ever known … a Renaissance man with a sharp mind and wit.” Yet despite his business success, his passion for croquet and the community it fostered never faded. He was an expert-level skier who could outlast his daughter Emma on the slopes despite her youthful confidence. He loved the family’s house on Goat Island, accessible only by boat, where he embraced coastal life — fixing docks, helping neighbors and tinkering with boats. His love for the water extended to sailing, a passion he discovered when his son Michael took up the sport as a teenager. “Never one to sit on the sidelines,” Jennie shares, “Damon dove right in, learning rigging and sailing right alongside him.”

Leading with Purpose and Passion Somehow, while running a full-time business, he also served as USCA president — a completely volunteer position. “He had two jobs,” Jennie would joke. “One paid, one free.” Bidencope devoted countless nights, weekends and vacations to the USCA, where he served on the Management Committee, as First Vice President, and ultimately as President from 2017 to 2025. He championed accessibility, youth development and the idea that croquet should be a sport open to all.

Bidencope with his sister Felicity.

www.croquetamerica.com | 7

Damon Bidencope

November 6, 1959 - September 13, 2025

Mulliner notes that Damon’s achievement was “unprecedented — not only did he play for the USA as well as Australia, but he ended up becoming president of the USCA ... That really is unique in the history of croquet. To play for two countries, then lead one in the top position. He will always have my admiration for that.” Current USCA President Bev Cardo remembers her first meeting with Damon in 2019: “He was so excited about new ideas. He talked about the talent development program. He spoke about new ways to bring exposure to the game. Randy and I walked out of that lunch so happy, and we said, ‘This man is going to do great things for the organization.’” Under his leadership as president, American croquet achieved unprecedented success on the world stage. Dr. Mohammad Kamal emphasizes how “GC truly entered its golden era on his watch. The United States has the three-peat of the Singles World Championship with Ben, Matthew and Blake, and we are the current world team champions in GC.”

Nurturing the Next Generation of Champions Bidencope with Michael Albert who served as the USCA’s First Vice President during his tenure.

Perhaps Bidencope’s greatest legacy is the High Performance and Talent Development (HPTD) program, which he championed with his signature passion. The program promotes croquet through weekend clinics taught by experienced pros at venues around the country, developing new talent while refining the skills of top competitive players. The fund supporting this program has been renamed the “Damon Bidencope High Performance and Talent Development Fund” in his honor, ensuring his commitment to making croquet accessible will continue.

The Gift of Friendship One of the most consistent themes offered during the Celebration of Life tributes was his gift for friendship. Jim Bast reflects on their nearly 40-year relationship: “We had our ups and our downs, but we always held each other in high regard and respect.” Mulliner captures it perfectly: “There are some people who leave a smile on your face whenever you think of them. With Damon, it was so easy, after even two or three years before you’d last seen him, to go up and say hello. And it was always the warmest and most pleasant experience to catch up.”

A Game Well Played

Teaching croquet at Peachtree Hills Place in Georgia.

Felicity Bidencope concluded her eulogy with a croquet metaphor that captured her brother’s life: “Damon, you played your life’s game with great warmth and enthusiasm, accomplished precision, always good humor, courtesy and great skill. Not all the hoops were attained easily, but navigate them you did, peeling your friends and family along with you.” Bidencope is survived by his wife Jennie, children Michael and Emma and a global croquet community that will forever be enriched by his passion, generosity and love for the game. The Celebration of Life livestream is available on the USCA YouTube channel at https:// www.youtube.com/live/iH6dQLH5QfI. Donations in Damon’s honor may be made to the USCA’s Damon Bidencope HPTD Fund, continuing his lifelong mission to teach, inspire and grow the game he loved. Donation link: https://croquetamerica.com/content. aspx?page_id=305&club_id=962311&item_id=10075

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NATIONAL CROQUET CENTER PRO SHOP

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USCA Merchandise Is Now On the Website.

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The USCA Storefront is open for business. Need a mallet cover? Perhaps a hat or jacket, or surely one of the many shirt styles? The USCA website now has an operating storefront where you can find these items and many more like them. The store also carries the Bob & Ted series of educational DVDs, as well as books and other materials to help you learn the game. Wear your USCA merchandise proudly! For details call Ursula, 561-478-0760 United States Croquet Association 700 Florida Mango Road West Palm Beach, Florida 33406

Use your phone’s camera to scan this code and press the screen to go to the website. You must log in as a member.

www.croquetamerica.com Look under the Members-Only tab under Merchandise..

courtside

USCA Management Committee ________________________

Excellence on the World Stage “Champions aren’t made in the gym. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them – a desire, a dream, a vision.” — Muhammad Ali For the past few days, I’ve been sitting courtside watching all-time greats such as Robert Fulford, Reg Bamford and Robert Fletcher take to the lawns for best-of-five matches that will determine who advances to the finals. The WCF Association Croquet World Championships are well underway at the National Croquet Center (NCC) in West Palm Beach, Fla., and The Beach Club in Palm Beach, where the weather has been spectacular and 72 players from 16 countries are competing for the world title. The field of competition represented here is a showcase of talent, skill and sportsmanship, which has added to the rousing energy that is present. This tournament has been a remarkable success in every respect, a true reflection of excellence from everyone involved. Our Anchor Supporter, Jay Carey of the W.P. Carey Foundation, has been instrumental in helping us deliver our best and has even created a custom mallet engraved with the AC Worlds logo to be awarded to the 2025 Champion. Jeff Soo, our Tournament Manager, has run a flawless event, while Michael Albert has been an outstanding Tournament Director. My sincere thanks go to our entire team for their superior work, all of whom are listed in this issue. I hope you enjoyed our live-stream coverage of the tournament on YouTube. If you haven’t yet subscribed, please do so! We are deeply appreciative of our sponsors, whose generous support makes it possible for us to provide such high-quality coverage. The week began with a Celebration of Life for our beloved past president, Damon Bidencope. The ceremony included heartfelt tributes and memorable stories that captured Damon’s unique leadership, commitment to the sport and his vision to unite with players from around the world through the game of croquet. Some of those reflections are shared in this issue. Other inspiring news is that the Women’s Advancement Committee is announcing the inaugural Women’s AC Nationals and Women’s American Rules Six Wicket (AR6W) Nationals, both to be held in February 2026 at the NCC. You can see more information about these events in the Clubhouse section. On a personal note, I am happy to share something new: Bev’s Boot Camp, which I’ll be launching in 2026. I will be travelling to croquet clubs across the country to work with women who have the desire to compete in AR6W tournaments. My visits will consist of a three-day program that focuses on the key elements I’ve used in my own training and development —skills, strategies and mindsets that build strong, confident competitors. There is tremendous momentum in our sport right now with new initiatives and shared enthusiasm among our many members. Thank you for your continued support.

Bev Cardo

USCA President President@croquetamerica.com / www.croquetamerica.com

President Beverley Cardo president@uscroquet.com First Vice President John Brown firstvp@uscroquet.com Second Vice President Adam Lassiter secondvp@uscroquet.com Treasurer David Isaacs treasurer@uscroquet.com Secretary John Craddock secretary@uscroquet.com ________________________ REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENTS Florida Alex Galasso floridarvp@uscroquet.com Mid-Atlantic Chris Morris midatlanticrvp@uscroquet.com Midwest Scott Spradling midwestrvp@uscroquet.com Northeast Kathleen Green northeastrvp@uscroquet.com Southeast Linda Trifone southeastrvp@uscroquet.com Western Patrick Sweeney westernrvp@uscroquet.com ________________________ USCA STAFF Office Manager Ursula Peck membership@uscroquet.com Tournament Brian Hovis tournament@uscroquet.com Tournament & Schools Adam Peck usca@uscroquet.com Membership Coordinator Stephanie Lutge croquetoffice@uscroquet.com United States Croquet Association 700 Florida Mango Road West Palm Beach, FL 33406 www.croquetamerica.com Tel. (561) 478-0760 Fax (561) 686-5507 www.croquetamerica.com | 11

theclubhouse WOMEN IN CROQUET: BREAKTHROUGH YEAR AHEAD 2026 is going to be an amazing year for women in the sport. Although some may find offering women-only events controversial, women-only croquet events play a vital role in the growth and balance of the sport by providing a platform where women can compete, lead and build confidence in an inclusive and supportive environment. These tournaments help level the playing field, encouraging participation from players who might otherwise feel overshadowed in mixed competitions. They celebrate women’s achievements, highlight emerging talent and create visible role models who inspire the next generation of players. Beyond competition, women’s events strengthen community, foster mentorship and contribute to a more diverse and dynamic future for croquet as a whole.

Upcoming Events for Women in 2026 January 15-18, 2026 Women’s Golf Croquet Open National Croquet Center, West Palm Beach, Fla. February 15-18, 2026 USCA Women’s Association Laws National Championship National Croquet Center, West Palm Beach, Fla. February 19-22, 2026 USCA Women’s American Six Wicket National Championship National Croquet Center, West Palm Beach, Fla. March 25–27, 2026 WGCA Women’s International Friendship Cup (GC) National Croquet Center, West Palm Beach, Fla. April 23–26, 2026 USCA Women’s Golf Croquet National Qualifier National Croquet Center, West Palm Beach, Fla. October 12–15, 2026 WGCA Women’s Doubles Open Albemarle Croquet Club – North Carolina —Cheryl Bromley, USCA Women’s Advancement Committee Chair

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New USCA Player Kit

Matthew Essick shows off the new USCA kit option during AC Worlds.

As of October 1, 2025, the USCA has received permission from the WCF to implement our new “look” for players representing the USA in international competitions. The new “kit” uniform will consist of the current USCA croquet team shirts, white with red and navy blue sleeves and side panels, coupled with navy blue or white pants. We trialed the navy pants at the recent Carter Cup and everyone was pleased with the look and practicality. Shoes must be flat-soled and closed-toe in either white or black if wearing navy blue pants. White shoes only if wearing white pants. —Michael Albert, Chairman, Lee Olsen Fund

Women’s AC and American Six Wicket National Events

The Women’s Advancement Committee is pleased to announce the Women’s Association Croquet Nationals (February 15-18, 2026), followed by the Women’s American Rules 6W Nationals (February 19-22, 2026) to be held at the National Croquet Center in West Palm Beach, Fla. These two inaugural tournaments will run back-to-back to encourage women from all over the country to take part and compete.

2025 USCA ANNUAL AWARDS Please submit your nominations for the following categories to the USCA by emailing admin@uscroquet.com. All entries must be submitted by December 31, 2025. • Appreciation Award

• Rookie of the Year

• Club of the Year

• District President of the Year

• New Club of the Year

• Regional Vice-President of the Year

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theclubhouse 2026 US OPEN GC PL AYERS Player (Country, World Rank)............DGrade Robert Fletcher (Australia, #1)............... 2749 Matthew Essick (USA, #2)...................... 2677 Reg Bamford (South Africa, #3).............. 2627 Ahmed Elmahdy (Egypt, #4)................... 2626 Thomas Balding (USA, #5)...................... 2619 Yasser Sayed (Egypt, #8)........................ 2576 Mohammad Karem (Egypt, #11)............. 2557 Stephen Mulliner (England, #15)............ 2529 Fawzy Helmy (Egypt, #16)...................... 2525 Soha Moustafa (Egypt, #18)................... 2518 Edmund J. Fordyce (New Zealand, #19).. 2514 Kareem Ghamry (Egypt, #24)................. 2497 José Alvarez-Sala (Spain, #31)............... 2461 Kyle Maloof (USA, #36).......................... 2444 José Riva (Spain, #39)........................... 2436 Yasser Aboelnour (Egypt, #43)................ 2404 Omar Fahmy (Egypt, #45)....................... 2394 Brian Lozano (Mexico, #49)................... 2385 Zack Watson (USA, #50)........................ 2385 Greg Fletcher (Australia, #52)................ 2375 Stephen Morgan (USA, #54)................... 2370 Tamer Hatata (USA, #74)....................... 2318 Darin Guffey (USA, #77)......................... 2312 Ahab Abdelwahab (USA, #78)................. 2311 Danny Huneycutt (USA, #93).................. 2270 Macey White (USA, #94)........................ 2266 Juan Ojeda (Spain, #111)...................... 2233 Jana Elsaeed (Egypt, #113).................... 2229 Adam Barr (Canada, #154).................... 2177 Kent Lovvorn (USA, #155)...................... 2176 Guy Scurfield (England, #208)............... 2119 Mohammad Kamal (USA, #213)............. 2116 (as of 10/15/25)

NCC to Host Second Annual US Open GC Tournament

The National Croquet Center (NCC) in West Palm Beach, Florida, will once again serve as the stage for one of the world’s premier croquet events when the Second Annual U.S. Open Golf Croquet Tournament takes place February 9-14, 2026. Last year’s inaugural tournament was a resounding success, drawing a world-class field that included top-ranked GC player Robert Fletcher, several of the highest-ranked U.S. players, and the No. 1 competitors from four different countries. With an average DGrade of 2261, the level of play was exceptional — and interest extended far beyond the lawns. More than 8,000 fans tuned in to the live-streamed playoffs and final, while local clubs filled the veranda with spectators, some arriving by chartered bus to enjoy lunch and the world-class atmosphere. This year’s event will raise the bar even higher. The 2026 U.S. Open GC promises one of the strongest competitive fields ever assembled, featuring three former world champions, five of the world’s top2025 US Open GC winner Robert Fletcher. ranked players, and No. 1 players from seven different countries. The average DGrade is expected to climb to an impressive 2422, solidifying the Open’s reputation as one of the most elite GC tournaments in the sport. A limited number of Silver Donor Packages - including lunch, a commemorative flip coin, a tournament shirt and reserved seating - will be available by reservation.

EVENT SCHEDULE Monday, February 9: Pro-Am Tournament The week begins with the popular Pro-Am, pairing 24 tournament sponsors with 24 top Open players in a Swiss-format doubles competition. Following play, participants will enjoy a reception and dinner with their partners, where awards will be presented to the top teams. Admission for spectators is free, and USCA members of all skill levels are welcome to participate. Signups for the 2027 Pro-Am will open in summer 2026. Tuesday-Wednesday, February 10-11: Block Play Thirty-two players will compete in block play to determine the top 16 who advance to the Championship Playoff Knockout. The remaining 16 will enter the Plate Competition. Thursday, February 12: Championship Playoff Begins The first round and quarterfinals of the Championship Playoff will be held, alongside continuing Plate block play. Friday, February 13: Semifinals and Secondary Events Action intensifies with the Shield Knockout, Bowl Playoff, and Championship semifinals, while the Plate Competition moves through its quarterfinal and semifinal rounds. Saturday, February 14: Finals Day The week culminates in the Championship Final, Championship 3rd/4th Playoff, Bowl Final and Plate Final, as the world’s best battle for the 2026 U.S. Open GC Championship Trophy. Additional information will be distributed via email as the event approaches. Croquet enthusiasts are encouraged to visit the NCC and witness top-level international competition in one of the sport’s most celebrated venues. —Bill Simmons

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Call for Entries: USCA 50th Anniversary Logo Design Contest The United States Croquet Association will mark its 50th Anniversary in 2027 and we want you to help shape the celebration! We’re inviting members nationwide to submit original logo designs that capture the spirit of croquet and honor this milestone. The winning logo will become the official mark of the Semicentennial, appearing on merchandise, publications, banners and apparel throughout 2027. Your creativity could define the face of the USCA’s 50th Anniversary! Don’t miss this chance to make croquet history. CONTEST TIMELINE • Opens: December 1, 2025 • Closes: February 15, 2026 (11:59 p.m. EST) • Winner Announced: Spring 2026 HOW TO ENTER 1. Download the official application form from the members-only area of the USCA website. 2. Complete the form and prepare your design. 3. Submit both application and artwork files via the online link provided in the Members Only section of the USCA website www.croquetamerica.com. PRIZES • Free entry to one USCA national event of your choice in 2027. • Custom USCA 50th Anniversary apparel featuring the winning logo. • Recognition in Croquet News, on USCA social media and at the 50th Anniversary Gala.

DESIGN GUIDELINES • Must include “50” and/or “1977-2027” • Must feature at least one croquet element (mallet, ball, wicket or court) or use the current USCA logo in a modified fashion to highlight the Semicentennial. • Must be clean, bold and versatile (works in both color and black and white). • Acceptable formats: PNG, SVG, EPS or AI (minimum 300 dpi). • Limit: Two entries per member. • AI-generated artwork is not permitted. JUDGING AND SELECTION • A Logo Contest Subcommittee will review submissions and recommend semifinalists. • The Semicentennial Planning Committee will narrow to three finalists. • The USCA Management Committee will make the final selection.

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TheInbox A $1 Million Challenge for Croquet’s “Jewel in the Crown” HISTORIC E XPANSION UNDERWAY AT THE NATIONAL CROQUET CENTER — AND YOUR GIFT WILL BE DOUBLED!

Vernon Pierce Architect

The Croquet Foundation of America is thrilled to announce the largest matching grant in its history: a generous, anonymous benefactor will match every donation to the Croquet Foundation of America up to $1 million to fast-track extensive upgrades to the main Headquarters and Museum Building (aka “The Clubhouse”) at the National Croquet Center (NCC) in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Your Support Builds the Heart of Croquet America

NCC is home to the Croquet Foundation of America, THE GRANDThe PAVILION the National Croquet Museum, the United States Croquet

All funds will be used for capital expenditures such as expanding our courts by 50 percent, from 12 to 18, installing new court lighting, 25 new parking spaces, a beautiful new Grand Pavilion, and major renovations to “The Clubhouse.”

Double Your Impact—Meet the Match! Your donation — cash, appreciated stock, or a sponsorship/ naming gift — will be matched dollar for dollar in the month received. Numerous naming opportunities exist and even sponsorships for CFA tournaments and events qualify. Every contribution brings us one step closer to an extraordinary, worldclass headquarters and national home for the croquet community.

Join the Vision “I discovered croquet later in life, and it’s the best sport I’ve ever played — challenging, great fun, and a wonderful way to make new friends. I’m delighted to help the Center welcome more players and visitors to the sport I love.” —Anonymous Challenge Donor

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Association, the National Croquet Club, the Palm Beach Special Olympics Croquet Club, the Connections School Croquet Club (autism), and our renowned exclusive caterer Sandy James Fine Food and Productions. It hosts many USCA national and regional championships and schools as well as visiting clubs and individual players. It draws thousands of visitors for parties and events — most involving croquet — to increase awareness that croquet is a serious sport. How to Give: We accept gifts of appreciated stock, credit or debit cards, personal checks or direct transfer from your IRA as part of your RMD (avoid tax with direct payment). Contact David McCoy, Chairman, CFA at 646-342-3221 to discuss your gift, or mail to Croquet Foundation of America, 700 S. Florida Mango Road, West Palm Beach, FL 33406. Let’s build the future of croquet — together. Your support today will echo for generations of players to come!.

USCA Inaugural Women’s AC National Tournament Trophy

During my 13 years as president of the Denver Croquet Club, I became the depository for old trophies and memorabilia. Most of it has since gone to the Denver Public Library’s Historical Department — and if your club isn’t doing that, you should! They love adding to the city’s history. Having moved twice, I accumulated boxes to sort. I finally dove into the box of old silver to take to sell. To my surprise, I found a silver pitcher for the Lilly Gower Award from the Denver Croquet Club with the names of two winners on it. When I asked Judy McKeon and Rich Lamm, our only remaining members still in Denver from that era, if they knew anything about the Lily Gower Award, they did not. They suggested I would have to look it up online. They did remember the two names on the trophy, Ann Sims of Denver and Ann Marsh from New Zealand, who visited her daughter each year in Denver. What a great surprise when I googled Lily Gower. She was a young woman in England who came out of nowhere in 1898 and rose to the ranks of conquering the male champions of the time. Including defeating the Champion of the United All-England Association at the Wimbledon AllEngland Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. While no one remembers why or who created the trophy for the Denver Croquet Club, I thought it would make a great trophy for the women of the USCA. Hearing from USCA President Bev Cardo that the United States Croquet Association is holding its Inaugural AC Women’s National Tournament, February 15-18, 2026, I thought our trophy would make a wonderful permanent trophy for the event. USCA President Bev Cardo agreed. So now the Denver Croquet Club is donating the “LILY GOWER AWARD” to the USCA women of croquet to be awarded annually. —Ron Eccles

Pennsylvania Event Raises $16,750 for Boys and Girls Club

On September 13, 2025, the Mennonite Heritage Center hosted the Annual Croquet Tournament organized by the Harleysville Croquet Club of Pennsylvania. With the support of the Harleysville Rotary Club, which generously used its 501(c)(3) status to help facilitate fundraising, the event successfully raised $16,750 for the Boys and Girls Club. When the tournament began just four years ago, organizers worked hard to draw 60 participants. This year, the event welcomed 96 players, playing on 16 well-manicured courts — with a waiting list of eager croquet enthusiasts hoping to join. Players were divided into three groups based on ability: Novice, Intermediate and Advanced, allowing everyone from beginners to seasoned players to enjoy the day.

In addition to its tournaments, the Harleysville Croquet Club plays at three to four different locations throughout the year. Efforts are underway to establish a permanent home where the club can continue to expand knowledge and appreciation of the game. What Behind the scenes, planning began four months in advance. The dedicated committee of Lisa and Duane Reiss, Valerie Rolon, Brad began as a small, local tournament has now become a hallmark community event, blending sport, fellowship and philanthropy. Smith, Marsha Poust, Sandy and Gary Phifer, Janet Volpe and I —Gary Volpe worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth and successful event. Looking ahead, the Harleysville Croquet Club has already announced that the next tournament will be held on September 12, 2026, again at the Mennonite Heritage Center. www.croquetamerica.com | 17

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Americans Rise to the Challenge in Cairo The 2025 Egyptian Open Golf Croquet Championship marked its 20th anniversary and remains one of the largest and most competitive GC tournaments in the world. Held annually in Cairo, Egypt, the event draws elite players from around the globe, all vying to dethrone the formidable Egyptian champions. This year’s tournament spanned 10 days in September, using 12 lawns across six different clubs. A total of 88 players from 10 countries competed, including 17 Americans. Leading the U.S. team was Tom Balding, seeded No. 1 in Block A. Sherif Abdelwahab held the No. 3 seed in Block D, Kyle Maloof was seeded No. 2 in Block E and Tamer Hatata was No. 3 in Block H. Based on wins and net hoops in block play, players either advanced directly to the championship knockout or entered two qualifying rounds for a spot in the knockout. Two Americans made it out of block play into the qualifier, while four advanced directly to the knockout. Abdelwahab defeated Egypt’s Sandy Hassan 7-2, 7-3 in the first round and then overcame his brother, Ahab Abdelwahab, 7-4, 7-4, continuing a past trend where many top-seeded Americans were unfortunately matched against each other due to their knockout seeding. Ultimately, five Americans advanced to the knockout stage. However, seeding led to three of the top U.S. players facing each other in the same bracket arm. In the first round, Sherif Abdelwahab faced Balding in a tough match, emerging victorious 7-5, 6-7, 7-3. Maloof, in his opening match, staged a comeback against Egypt’s Omar Fahmy (ranked 20th), winning 2-7, 7-4, 7-4. Hatata fell to Egypt’s Ahmed Elamary (ranked 52nd), 7-4, 7-5. Meanwhile, Darin Guffey defeated Deena Saad (ranked 37th) in a closely fought battle: 6-7, 7-5, 7-5. Three Americans moved on to the second round, joined by one Australian and one South African — the rest were Egyptians. Alison Sharpe of Australia was the only woman to reach Round 2. Sherif Abdelwahab defeated Maloof 7-5, 7-6 in an all-American matchup. Guffey took on Egypt’s Ahmed Abdelshafy (ranked 63rd) in another intense three-game match, narrowly losing 7-4, 6-7,

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7-6. Notably, Guffey has only been playing croquet for four years. As Bill Simmons recalls, “I remember beating him his first year. It was clear even then he was going to be a great player.” Sharpe was bested by former world champion Ahmed Nasr (GC world rank 9) in another tight three-game match: 7-6, 4-7, 5-7. In a major upset, former world champion Reg Bamford (GC world rank 3) was defeated by Egypt’s Fawsey Helmy (ranked 16th and the 2024 Egyptian Open champion), 7-4, 7-5. Bamford remarks, “Trying to win the Egyptian Open is like trying to climb Mount Everest. The Egyptians are tough.” With Guffey and Maloof out, only Sherif Abdelwahab remained to represent the U.S. against the Egyptian onslaught. In the quarterfinals, Abdelwahab faced Ahmed Nasr. After splitting the first two games, Abdelwahab won the decider in a thrilling finish: 7-5, 3-7, 7-6 — an impressive victory over the former world champion. The semifinals saw one American and three Egyptians. Abdelwahab faced Yasser Sayed (ranked 4th in Egypt and 8th globally). Sayed prevailed 7-4, 7-4, playing a conservative game and executing key shots under pressure. Abdelwahab reflects,

“This is the first time I’ve played in a semifinal,” marking the best American performance in the last three years. The final, once again, featured two Egyptians: Yasser Sayed and Mohamed Taha, the 2023 champion. Played as a best-of-five series, the match showcased spectacular play from both. While Sayed led early in games two and three, Taha’s aggressive strategy and successful risky shots allowed him to win both and claim the title: 7-5, 7-5, 7-4. In the Plate competition, seven Americans participated. Adam Peck was the only one to reach the Plate Knockout, where he faced Egypt’s Ahmed Kamal (ranked 56th) and narrowly lost 5-7. Peck, who has been playing for just one year, won three games each in both championship and plate block play — a promising start for a new player. The Plate final saw Spain’s Juan Ojeda defeat Ahmed Kamal in a thrilling match: 7-2, 3-7, 7-6.

A day trip to the pyramids.

Team USA’s performance in 2025 was its strongest in recent years. • In 2024, five Americans reached the knockout stage, but none advanced past Round 2. • In 2023, four Americans made the knockout. Matthew Essick and Stephen Morgan reached the quarterfinals, with Morgan defeating England’s Euan Burridge before falling to Omar Fahmy. Essick lost to former world champion Mohamed Nasr. Several Americans also competed in the Plate in prior years, including Tamer Hatata, Hossam El-Bibany, Cami Russack, Kyle Maloof and Bill Simmons. In 2023, Aston Wade of England won the Plate. Beyond the intense competition, players found time for camaraderie — dinners out and a day trip to the pyramids. The Egyptian Open is unique in offering players of all levels a chance to compete against the world’s best. It’s not for the faint of heart. The competition is fierce, but the friendships, the culture and the challenge make the experience unforgettable — even for those of us ranked between 1700-2000 who may not win often. There are no easy matches, and your block’s top seed could very well be a world champion.

Reflections: Adam Peck: “One of the hardest ‘see you laters’ I’ve experienced. Strangers… turned into family.” Tom Balding, “It would be an understatement to say I have fallen in love with your beautiful country.” Seham Hassan, “The most amazing thing … to meet and play top players.”

Sherif Abdelwahab and Bill Simmons.

—Bill Simmons www.croquetamerica.com | 19

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Visiting pro Stephen Morgan instructing the players.

At the end of the summer 2025 season, the court was enlarged and leveled to its new two-thirds regulation size.

Fishers Island Club: It Takes A Village The Fishers Island Club, perched on a small island off the Connecticut coast and reachable only by ferry, will celebrate its centennial next year. Known for its legendary Seth Raynor– designed golf course — often ranked among Golf Digest’s top 10 in the United States — the club has long drawn golfers to its rolling seaside fairways and spectacular ocean views. But in 2025, another sport quietly reclaimed its place on the hill beside the clubhouse. Croquet, once played decades ago on the lawns of the old “Big Club,” a grand building with a ballroom, billiards room and guest suites, had disappeared when that structure was torn down. Mary Jo Chapoton thought it might be time to bring it back. What began as a friendly notion became a five-year conversation among friends who shared the same idea. “It was a slow (Left to right) Mary Jo Chapoton, process,” Chapoton Stephen Morgan, Don Chapoton. says. “Sometimes discouraging, but everyone on our little team kept the conversation going.” They talked about what a beautiful setting it would be, how it could welcome everyone, golfers and non-golfers alike, and how croquet might restore a bit of the club’s earlier social charm. Their persistence eventually drew the attention of club leadership, and one winter, word came that a croquet lawn would indeed be built beside the newly rebuilt clubhouse. Over the next few months, the grounds crew topped off a hill overlooking the ocean and created a half-size court just in time for the 2025 season.

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The club's first invitational tournament was held with a neighboring club from Rhode Island.

“It wasn’t exactly flat,” Chapoton laughs, “but our visiting pro said, ‘If you learn to play on this court, you’ll be great players anywhere!’” The first summer was a joy. The Club president attended Opening Day, 60 members played during the season, and even passing golfers often stopped by to watch “the people in whites on the court on the hill having fun.” Visiting professional Stephen Morgan from the Watch Hill and Hillsboro Clubs led several clinics, and enthusiasm spread quickly. By summer’s end, crews returned to expand and level the court to two-thirds regulation size for 2026. From idea to reclaimed tradition in a single summer, Fishers Island’s new croquet court shows what vision, humor and persistence can achieve. As Chapoton sums it up, “It really does take a village.” Editor’s Note: John W. Craddock, Jr., M.D., serves as Secretary of the United States Croquet Association. Mary Jo Chapoton is a longtime member of the Jupiter Island Club in Hobe Sound, Fla., the Houston Croquet Association and the Bayou Club of Houston and is now the driving force behind the croquet revival at Fishers Island Club. —John W. Craddock, Jr., M.D., Secretary, USCA

Chesapeake Bay Launches the North American GC Open

CHESAPE AKE BAY CROQUET CLUB OFFERS FREE YOUTH MEMBERSHIPS The Chesapeake Bay Croquet Club (CBCC) is committed to fostering the growth and inclusivity of croquet by making participation more accessible to younger players. Recognizing the importance of engaging players under the age of 30, the club has implemented significant changes to its membership and tournament fee structure.

The inaugural 2025 North American Open Golf Croquet Championship was held in October at the prestigious Chesapeake Bay Croquet Club (CBCC) in Hartfield, Va. Renowned for its southern charm and laid-back hospitality, the club is recognized as the largest croquet facility in the world, offering 24 courts where double banking is infrequent. The tournament attracted a competitive group of 33 players from various regions across North America, ranging from Florida to Maine. The event began with two days focused on doubles play, featuring a semi-social format that serves as a warmup for more intense competition. Sixteen teams participated in a round-robin on Thursday, with all advancing to Friday’s playoffs. Teams eliminated in the first round competed in the Doubles Plate. By Friday evening, champions and finalists were determined. Marc and MaryCarol Stearns from Ponte Vedra, Fla., claimed victory in the Championship Flight Doubles Plate after a hard-fought match against Heather and John Welch of Sandwich, Mass. Nancy Crouch and Macey White from Chesapeake Bay emerged as the Doubles Champions, winning a dramatic 7-6 tiebreaker against Mike Hoggatt of Bonita Bay, Fla., and Karl Heinz Kempfer of Pasadena, Calif. Because of severe weather threatening the Sunday finals, the Singles Playoff was moved to Saturday. The round-robin was canceled and player seedings for the Singles Playoff were based on DGrade rankings. All singles participants advanced to the knockout stage, with the top 16 players competing in the Championship Playoff and the remainder in the First Flight Playoff. First-round Doubles playoff losers entered the Championship and First Flight Plates.

To encourage greater involvement from younger croquet enthusiasts, the CBCC has lowered its tournament entry fees and is offering complimentary memberships to players under the age of 30. This initiative directly addresses one of the primary concerns facing young players: the financial barrier posed by membership dues and tournament costs. Individuals younger than 30 are invited to join the CBCC at no cost. As members, they receive unrestricted access to all club facilities at any time. Additional benefits include exclusive discounts for tournaments and events as well as free lodging at the club during non-event days. CBCC members are encouraged to bring guests to enjoy the club’s amenities. Guests under 30 are welcome at no charge. For guests 30 or older, the club permits up to four complimentary visits; beyond the fourth visit, a daily fee of $30 per person will be required. Applicants for membership who are under 18 years old must obtain signed approval from a parent or guardian. Additionally, any child under the age of 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian while on club property to ensure their safety and compliance with club policies. —Macey White

In the First Flight Singles, Wayne Maloney from Chesapeake Bay prevailed over St. John’s graduate Matt Butler in the First Flight Plate. Tournament newcomer David Phillips from Celebration, Fla., marked his debut with a victory over Heather Welch securing his name on the permanent trophy as the First Flight Winner. In the Championship Flight Singles Plate, Chesapeake Bay’s Penn Pendleton and John Woods competed in a close contest, with Pendleton clinching the win via a decisive jump shot in the tiebreaker. For the main event, Mike Hoggatt overcame his doubles partner, Karl Heinz-Kempfer, earning the title of 2025 North American Open Singles Champion, and having his name engraved on the trophy. Special thanks go to CBCC volunteers Rick Darnell, Ginny Ritter, Cliff Scudder, Cynthia Fowler, Doug Fowler, Julie Woods, Greg Houck, Kimberly Leedy, Jeff Taylor, John Woods and Nancy Crouch. —Macey White www.croquetamerica.com | 21

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The New Steuber Classic Returns!

Bigger, Better and More Than $35,000 Strong National Croquet Center to host second annual invitational croquet tournament The Croquet Foundation of America (CFA) is pleased to announce the return of the “New Steuber Classic” for its second year, now offering a remarkable $35,000+ in prize money — the largest purse in the sport. This second annual tournament, dedicated to the growth of American Six Wicket Croquet, is made possible through the partnership of the JER and Linda Chilton Foundation, the CFA and the Charles P. Steuber Family. This United States Croquet Association (USCA)sanctioned event, with the National Croquet Club as host, takes place from February 25 to March 1, 2026, at the National Croquet Center (NCC) in West Palm Beach, Fla. “The second annual New Steuber Classic is expected to surpass last year's event in both scale and quality, and I thank our incredible partner, CFA’s founding board member, the late JER (Bob) Chilton and the Chilton Foundation for making that possible,” says W. David McCoy, CFA Chairman and CEO. “It’s a rare opportunity for both accomplished and beginner American Rules croquet players. It’s just as Bob would have wanted. We are deeply grateful.” “There are few competitive sports that both teach and require strategic thinking — and yet allow you to be social. Croquet is one of those games,” says Missy Diack-Chilton, Board President, JER and Linda Chilton Foundation. “I am grateful that through the Foundation and the New Steuber Classic, we can continue to inspire new and existing American Rules croquet players of this and the next generation. This honors my late husband Bob (JER) Chilton, who loved the game as much as I do.” Both the JER and Linda Chilton Foundation, and the Steuber family, will continue to provide generous prize money annually to the best players in their flights. Charles P. (Chuck) Steuber, for whom the Center is named, conceived, built and largely funded the NCC. The New Steuber Classic kicks off on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, and runs through Sunday, March 1, 2026. A total of $35,000 in prize money, granted by the JER and Linda Chilton Foundation, will be awarded to the top players in all flights of American Rules Croquet singles and doubles — the focus of this tournament. This year, there will also be an American Rules “Rookie” Croquet Clinic for rookie players who sign up to play in the tournament. The “Rookie Flight” will now offer first, second and third place for those players who have little or no experience.

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Doug Grimsley and Robert Fletcher were purse winners at the 2025 event.

The tournament continues to offer Golf Croquet (a single-shot version of the game) for those who wish to compete in this version of the sport. A total of $3,000 in prize money will go to winners and finalists in their flights, generously provided by Victor Steuber, son of the late Charles P. Steuber.

ABOUT THE TOURNAMENT The courts open for practice on February 25, 2026, at 12:30 p.m., with an opening reception at 4:00 p.m. EST. Waterford Doubles for American Rules and Golf Croquet take place all day on February 25 only. American Rules and Golf Croquet Singles run from February 26 through March 1, 2026. It's not part of the tournament, but on Friday night, February 27th, the CFA and the USCA will induct David Maloof and Carla P. Rueck (posthumously) into The United States Croquet Hall of Fame with a gala ceremony and dinner dance at the center. On Sunday, March 1, the tournament will feature a Grand Buffet Awards Luncheon, an awards ceremony and a 50-50 drawing with a grand prize of up to $10,000. The deadline for entry to the tournament is February 18, 2026. For additional information and registration, please contact Doug Moore at 646-322-1742 or douglaspmoore@gmail.com.

Sun City Bluffton Winner

Vicar’s Landing Grand Opening Successful On October 20, 2025, northeast Florida’s newest Croquet Club, Vicar’s Landing at Oakbridge, held its grand opening ceremony. The weather was beautiful, and the attendees were very eager to learn or return to the game of Golf Croquet. The lawn is half-size and composed of the newest product in artificial turf, making it perfect for this luxury retirement community. Joe Carroll, an experienced player and resident, put in countless hours researching, measuring and consulting with the construction crews to make this beautiful court a reality. More than 50 Club members showed up to hear from him about croquet and learn more about the game. Several other residents at the club are experienced players, and they played a lively demonstration game for four wickets while Carroll narrated what was happening. Afterward, residents were invited to go to a wicket and meet with a player to try their hands at hitting the balls and attempting to go through the very tight wickets. The experienced players have committed to teaching the game to those interested on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings.

Sun City Bluffton, S.C., had a ladies Croquet Tournament held on October 16, 2025. The winner was 94-year old Elaine Cormier. —Submitted by Jim Podraza, VP and a USCA member.

CUSTOM MALLETS Introducing Formula 1, the newest model in the PFC Hoop Maker range. Three years in development, the Formula 1 uses an advanced alloy formulation, which allows greater accuracy , more fluid power transfer and greater distance for less less effort. The Formula 1 weighs 2lb-11oz, has a dark grey laminate top and hightech green striking faces. Choose either 11" or 9-5/8" head length.

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www.croquetamerica.com | 23

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PASSAGES Robert (Bob) Barnard................ The Springs Croquet Club Damon Bidencope....................... The Chattooga Club and Tega Cay Croquet Club Georg Dej......................................... Croquet Canada Club Jim Else......................................Jekyll Island Croquet Club Tony Hall.......................................... At Large Member and Former President of the World Croquet Federation Tom Hardin................................Wildcat Cliffs Country Club James Hughes..................................Hall of Fame Member, Delaware Croquet Club, Croquet Club at PGA National and Palm Beach Croquet Club John Hunter............................................At Large Member Renee Kelsch.................................. National Croquet Club Doug Ledgett......................Sarasota County Croquet Club Biff Roche................................Puget Sound Croquet Club, and Mission Hills Croquet Club Anne Sherlock...................Bald Head Island Croquet Club Eugenia Wilkie..................................... West River Wickets Michelle Vogel................................ National Croquet Club

JIM HUGHES: 1929–2025

Jim Hughes, 96, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2025. Born in 1929, he attended Tower Hill School and graduated from St. Andrew’s School in Middletown, Delaware. He studied at the University of Delaware and later earned his degree from the University of Wisconsin, where he met his future wife, Peggy Thompson. After operating the family dairy farm in Delaware for five years, Hughes pursued his passion for animal care at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. He practiced in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, and Hockessin, Delaware, until retiring in 1986. Known as a kind and practical “country vet,” he was committed to providing affordable care and was an early advocate for humane end-of-life treatment for animals. In retirement, he embraced six-wicket croquet, becoming a national champion in singles (1996) and doubles (1993). He was a member of the Delaware Croquet Club, the Croquet Club at PGA National and the Palm Beach Croquet Club. His passion for the sport led to national leadership roles with the United States Croquet Association, where he served as chairman of the Rules Committee, national referee, vice president for the Mid-Atlantic Region and a member of the Management Committee. He played a key role in developing the USCA Handicap System and was inducted into the USCA Hall of Fame in 1998. Hughes and his wife raised their family on Old Kennett Road, where their farm became a hub of hospitality filled with animals, laughter and friendship. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father and grandfather — known for his quick wit, generosity and lifelong curiosity. He was preceded in death by his wife of 71 years, Margaret (Peggy); his son, James H. Hughes; his parents, James H. Hughes Jr. and Caroline Upham Hughes; and his sisters, Amy H. Blitzer and Mary H. Preyer. He is survived by his daughters, Elizabeth H. Reisch and Margaret H. Kelly (Bill); his daughter-in-law, Gayle G. Hughes; six grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren; his brother, Thomas G. Hughes; and many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

United States Croquet Association

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membersclubs NEW MEMBERS FLORIDA

Belleair – Belleair Country Club Croquet Carol Babka Rosemary Beaurline Marjory Williams Hobe Sound – Jupiter Island Club Joyce Bullen Gay Jupiter – At Large Member Bill Wunder Debbie Wunder Naples – At Large Member Robert Pendergrass Naples – Naples Croquet Club of Florida Joanne Fraser Naples – The Club Pelican Bay Joanne Fraser Naples – Wyndemere Country Club Gil LaCroix Ponte Vedra Beach – Vicar's Landing Croquet Club Jim DeNonna Venice – Sarasota County Croquet Club Ingelore Menge Marcy Mundo Duane Sinkwich Vero Beach – Indian River Estates Linda Barberi West Palm Beach – National Croquet Club Patty Dowling Alan Greenberg Riccardo Martiti Petronella Ravenshear West Palm Beach – Palm Beach Atlantic University Logan Johnson

GEORGIA

Atlanta – Peachtree Hills Place Croquet Club David Mahaffey Abigail Norman Jekyll Island – Jekyll Island Croquet Club Cherise Cartwright Margaret Else Bobby Lee Savannah – The Landings Golf and Athletic Club Chris Kader Tricia Wright

Sky Valley – Sky Valley Club, Inc. Cheryl Beckert Howard Beckert James Curtis Gale Masi Rick Masi

IOWA

West Des Moines – At Large Member Warren Stine

KENTUCKY

Louisville – Derby City Croquet Robert Stewart

MAINE

Ellsworth – Woodlawn Croquet Program Arthur Lee

MARYLAND

Galesville – West River Wickets Courtney Hogue Abigail Koepp Leila MacCarthy Gibson Island – Gibson Island Club Christopher Burnham

MASSACHUSETTS

Lenox – Lenox Croquet Club William Burruss Sandwich – Sandwich Croquet Club Mary Cadigan Jones

MISSISSIPPI

Jackson – The Country Club of Jackson Elizabeth Miskelly William Miskelly

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Deering – At Large Member George Bradley

NEW JERSEY

Rumson – Rumson Country Club Nancy Devlin Stephanie Hurtt Bruce Lakefield Bernard Murphy Rita Murphy John Sampson Cricket Sampson

NEW CLUBS Birmingham Croquet Club......................... Birmingham, Alabama Vicar's Landing Croquet Club.............Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida The Landings Golf and Athletic Club............... Savannah, Georgia NEW YORK

Buffalo – Buffalo Croquet Club Sarah Hedden Camillus – West Hill Golf & Croquet Club Liz Morgenthien New York – New York Croquet Club Libby Abelow Lorri Ahl Tyler Barbiaux Jonathan Baron Julian Bell Tom Cahill Nick Chapman Laurence Ciembroniewicz Tim DeMasi Michael Denci Mary Pat Denci Patrice Derrington Suzi DeYoung Michael Edsall Jon Feidner Susan Flechner Emily Genzer Joshua Hatfield Hilary Herscher Constance Howell Kevin Keane Vanessa Malhame Casey McNamara Heather Miller Hugh Pettingell Tyrone Po Michael Reinert-Sessions Jonathan Reinert-Sessions Rose Swain Jordan Wheeler Quogue – Quogue Field Club Dillon Bock Kristin Bock Patrick Maxwell

NORTH CAROLINA

Highlands – Highlands Strikers Croquet Club Teresa Callahan Linville – Grandfather Golf & Country Club Keith Tingle

Linville – Linville Ridge Croquet Club Michael Jordan Jerry Matkins Elliott Messing Pinehurst – Pinehurst Croquet Club Sally Conlon Bill Grover Maureen Reeves Christine Valcourt Geoff Valcourt

OKLAHOMA

Bartlesville – At Large Member William Maxey

SOUTH CAROLINA

Aiken – Green Boundary Croquet Club Janet Eubank Okatie – Spring Island Croquet Club Jordan Rozek Tega Cay – Tega Cay Croquet Club David Dill

TEXAS

Houston – Houston Croquet Association Albert Grobmyer Melissa Grobmyer Fred Hinrichs

WISCONSIN

Milwaukee – Milwaukee Croquet Club Craig Froh Bob Piekenbrock

EGYPT

Cairo – At Large Member Mohamed Karem

UNITED KINGDOM London – At Large Member Tom Coles

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REG RISES TO THE

CHALLENGE By Jeff Soo, Tournament Manager

REG BAMFORD (ZAF) WON HIS SIXTH WCF A C W O R L D C H A M P I O N S H I P, T Y I N G T H E RECORD SET BY ROBERT FULFORD (ENG) IN 2023 AND ADDING ANOTHER CHAPTER TO THE ONGOING RIVALRY BETWEEN THE T WO GRE ATEST AC PL AYERS OF ALL TIME. MARK AVERY (ENG) WAS RUNNER-UP FOR THE SECOND TIME, HAVING REACHED THE FINAL AT THE INAUGURAL CHAMPIONSHIP IN 1989.

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Reg Bamford setting up another triple finish during the finals.

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England’s Mark Avery surveys the court during the finals.

This was the fourth time the event was held in the U.S., the USCA having previously hosted the 1992 championship in Newport and the 2009 and 2016 championships in West Palm Beach, Fla. The primary venue was again the National Croquet Center (NCC) with 12 courts. The two courts at The Beach Club were also used on five of the event’s nine days. Seventy-two players from 15 countries competed. A Qualifying Competition was held at the NCC just prior to the main event. Sixteen players contested six rounds of a Swiss to determine the five qualifiers. Reece McCorkindale (NZL) was the first to claim a spot, winning five straight games. Stephen Allen (ENG) and USA players Curtis Drake, Jack Rush and Steve Scalpone joined him in the main event. Randy Reid (USA) won the playoff to earn the top reserve spot. The Opening Ceremony was preceded by a Celebration of Life for Damon Bidencope, featuring tributes from friends and family from around the world. The Championship format had eight blocks, drawn by world ranking and then adjusted to balance country distribution. Four players qualified from each block for the main knockout. All 16 of the top seeds qualified. Lower seeds with noteworthy performances included Kyle Maloof (USA), seeded fourth in Block A and won it with an 8-0 record; Jack Good (ENG), 19 years old and playing just his third season of competitive AC, won Block C with a 7-1 record; Greg Hill (AUS), seeded third in Block D and claimed the block with an 8-0 record. Zack Watson (USA) made a particularly strong start. Seeded seventh overall and playing on his home courts, he went undefeated in Block G with five triples, conceding no more than 11 points in any game. He continued the trend with a quick win in the first knockout round, earning a match with Stephen Forster (AUS). Their match was a classic, each player completing two triples to force a decisive fifth game. Both players had chances in the nailbiting finish, Forster finally connecting with a 20-yard shot to close out the match. Watson went on to win the Shield and finished the tournament ranked #4 in the world.

WCF AC WORLD CHAMPIONS 2025: Reg Bamford (ZAF) 2023: Robert Fulford (ENG) 2020: Reg Bamford (ZAF) 2018: Paddy Chapman (NZL) 2016: Stephen Mulliner (ENG) 2013: Robert Fletcher (AUS) 2012: Reg Bamford (ZAF) 2009: Reg Bamford (ZAF) 2008: Chris Clarke (ENG) 2005: Reg Bamford (ZAF) 2002: Robert Fulford (ENG) 2001: Reg Bamford (ZAF) 1997: Robert Fulford (ENG) 1995: Chris Clarke (ENG) 1994: Robert Fulford (ENG) 1992: Robert Fulford (ENG) 1991: John Walters (ENG) 1990: Robert Fulford (ENG) 1989: Joe Hogan (NZL)

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World #1 Robert Fletcher from Australia caught fire in the knockout with nine straight triples on his way to the “Last Four.”

Ben Rothman (USA) reached the quarterfinals, his best showing in this event since his breakthrough year of 2009. Despite needing a tie-breaking playoff game to qualify for the main knockout, he quickly won his first-round match and then faced Fulford, the defending champion. In 2009, he had beaten Fulford 3-0. This time, he needed a fourth game to win the match, finishing a delayed triple peel in near darkness. World #1 Robert Fletcher (AUS) struggled through illness at the start of the event, losing two block games. But by the start of the knockout, he was back in top form, advancing to the semifinals with seven triple peels in a row. Bamford followed a similar path, losing two block games but then reeling off eight triples in a row to reach the semifinals. Logan McCorkindale (NZL) finished fewer triples but likewise won his first three knockout matches in straight games.

USA’s Zack Watson made it to the quarterfinal round and eventually claimed the Shield with a win over fellow American Tom Balding.

Avery took a grittier path to the semifinals. Having won his first 10 games of the event, he then survived a bruising five-game match with Andrew Johnston (IRL), lasting all day Thursday and only finishing late Friday morning. From there, he went immediately into a quarterfinal match with Matthew Essick (USA). This was a quicker match, with few errors, the two trading +17 wins over the first four games. Avery won the decider with a fifth-turn triple. Avery continued the trend through his semifinal with Fletcher. Fletcher took a 2-0 lead with two triples, but Avery made a match of it with a triple of his own in game three. From there, Fletcher’s shooting turned cold, and Avery won the final two games +26 and +26tp to survive yet another five-game match. In the other semifinal, Bamford took full advantage of a couple of errors by McCorkindale to post another perfect result, 3-0 with three triples. Avery started the final with tightly controlled break play and seemed to have all but won game 1 when he stuck in Hoop 9 from very short range. Bamford took the game with two immaculate breaks, then made it 2-0 by lunchtime. Avery had a half-chance for the first break of game three, hitting on third turn and taking off to a fortuitous position for a cut-rush on Bamford’s ball just outside corner 2. But he

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New Zealand’s Logan McCorkindale won eight straight in the knockout to earn his first WCF Bronze Medal.

American Ben Rothman had to win a tiebreaker to escape Block C, but made it to the quarterfinals after defeating six-time AC World Champion Robert Fulford in four games during the Round of 16.

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Australia’s Stephen Forster made it to the quarterfinals after a dramatic game five win over Zack Watson in the Round of 16.

failed a steeply angled attempt at Hoop 1, leaving Bamford a relatively short hit-in and a laid break. Avery missed the lift, and Bamford played another immaculate triple peel to win the championship, becoming the first player to win this event with a triple in every game in the knockout. Consolation event winners: The Shield: Zack Watson (USA) The Bowl: Stephen Mulliner (ENG) The Plate: Duncan Reeve (SCO) The “Ramekin:” Greg Hill (AUS) The Manager’s Invitational: Nick Parish (ENG) Anchor support was provided by the W. P. Carey Foundation. The Palm Beach County Sports Commission also provided a significant grant. Event sponsors included Oakley Woods Croquet, White Tie Croquet Clothing, PFC Hoopmaker Mallets and Invictus Croquet, whose Invictus X Championship Croquet Balls were the official balls for the event. Many individual donors provided additional essential support. England’s Stephen Mulliner was 8-0 in block play, but fell in Round 1 of the knockout to Australia’s Stephen Forster. Mulliner went on to win the Bowl going 8-1 in that event.

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Bev Cardo and Michael Albert were co-Tournament Directors (i.e., overall event managers). Jeff Soo was Tournament Manager (i.e., competition manager), assisted by Elaine and Rocky Smith. Chris Clarke was the Tournament Referee. Tom Cooper was Marketing Director. Special thanks to Jane Casey for coordinating with The Beach Club, to John Graney for video support and to Brian Hovis, Adam Peck and the rest of the USCA Office Staff for their tireless support leading up to and during the event.

USA’s Matthew Essick survived a Round of 16 matchup with fellow American Tom Balding to reach the quarterfinals, where he lost to eventual Silver Medalist Mark Avery in five games.

England’s James Death went on a 12-1 tear to reach the quarterfinal round where he faced off against World #1 Robert Fletcher, losing in three games.

www.croquetamerica.com | 33

Tom Balding lost in the second round of the knockout to fellow American Matthew Essick, but came back strong with a second place finish in the Shield.

USA’s Stephen Morgan made it to the knockout with a 6-2 record in Block F and followed that with a run to Round Two’s Super 16 in the Knockout.

Kyle Maloof went undefeated in a competitive Block A group that included World #1 Robert Fletcher.

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2025 AC WORLDS MAIN EVENT BLOCK RESULTS Block A Kyle Maloof (USA) Samir Patel (ENG) Robert Fletcher (AUS) Alain Giraud (ENG) Tom Coles (ENG) Sam Murray (SCO) Brian Lozano (MEX) Joakim Norback (SWE) Patrick Sweeney (USA) Block B Stephen Mulliner (ENG) Jenny Clarke (NZL) Robert Fulford (ENG) Angharrad Walters (WAL) Rich Lamm (USA) Doug Grimsley (USA) Michael Gidding (AUS) Russell Harris (IRL) David Druiett (CAN) Block C Jack Good (ENG) Reg Bamford (ZAF) Euan Burridge (ENG) Ben Rothman (USA) Lachlan Berryman (AUS) Trevor Bassett (AUS) Shane Hettler (USA) Chris Percival-Smith (CAN) David Houston (SCO)

W 8 7 6 5 3 2 2 2 1 W 8 7 6 4 4 3 2 2 0 W 7 6 6 5 5 3 3 1 0

L 0 1 2 3 5 6 6 6 7 L 0 1 2 4 4 5 6 6 8 L 1 2 2 3 3 5 5 7 8

Net +124 +79 +70 +61 -34 -45 -50 -96 -109 Net +186 +109 +37 -8 -15 -63 -30 -67 -149 Net +70 +114 +27 +94 +34 -6 -62 -100 -171

Block D Greg Hill (AUS) Andrew Johnston (IRL) Logan McCorkindale (NZL) David Fuller (ENG) Stuart Lawrence (USA) Andrew Symons (SCO) Stephen Allen (ENG) Joe King (ENG) Jack Rush (USA) Block E Matthew Essick (USA) Greg Fletcher (AUS) Ian Lines (ENG) Edmund Fordyce (NZL) Gabrielle Higgins (ENG) Randy Cardo (USA) Sandy Greig (IRL) Paul Bennett (USA) Andrejs Savinovs (LVA) Block F Mark Avery (ENG) Stephen Morgan (USA) Jarrod Coutts (NZL) Brian Cumming (CAN) Dwayne McCormick (AUS) James Hopgood (ENG) Nick Parish (ENG) Chris Barley (USA) Archibald Zimonyi (SWE)

W 8 7 6 5 4 2 2 2 0 W 7 6 6 5 5 3 3 1 0 W 8 6 6 5 4 3 2 2 0

L 0 1 2 3 4 6 6 6 8 L 1 2 2 3 3 5 5 7 8 L 0 2 2 3 4 5 6 6 8

Net +152 +100 +73 -8 -18 -32 -42 -71 -154 Net +139 +100 +63 +48 +34 -33 -44 -123 -184 Net +163 +62 +29 +44 +12 -5 -33 -94 -178

Block G Zack Watson (USA) Jose Riva (ESP) Reece McCorkindale (NZL) Jordan Waters (ENG) Callum Hyland (AUS) Debbie Lines (ENG) Duncan Reeve (SCO) Curtis Drake (USA) Hugh Pettingell (CHE) Block H Thomas Balding (USA) James Death (ENG) Stephen Forster (AUS) Marcus Evans (ENG) Mohamed Karem (EGY) Mike Town (ENG) John Versey (NZL) Sherif Abdelwahab (USA) Steve Scalpone (USA)

W 8 7 5 4 4 4 3 1 0 W 7 7 7 5 3 2 2 1 1

L 0 1 3 4 4 4 5 7 8 L 1 1 1 3 5 5 6 6 7

Net +173 +88 +38 +22 0 -12 -7 -115 -187 Net +115 +106 +85 +16 -52 -22 -78 -77 -93

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Plate winner Duncan Reeve of Scotland.

USA’s Doug Grimsley.

England’s Debbie Lines during the Plate semifinals.

American Sherif Abdelwahab was runner-up in the Plate Knockout.

Brian Lozano (MEX) in play during the Plate Knockout.

Mark Avery congratulates Reg Bamford on his sixth AC World title. England’s Stephen Mulliner and New Zealand’s Edmund Fordyce played in the Bowl Final.

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2025 WCF AC WORLDS MAIN KNOCKOUT RESULTS ROUND 1

Robert Fletcher AUS 26 David Fuller ENG 21 Jack Good ENG 0 Greg Fletcher AUS 26 Samir Patel ENG 9 Stephen Morgan USA 26 Kyle Maloof USA 22 James Death ENG 26 Matthew Essick USA 26 Callum Hyland AUS 19 Edmund Fordyce NZL 0 Tom Balding USA 26 Andrew Johnston IRL 26 Ian Lines ENG 9 Brian Cumming CAN 0 Mark Avery ENG 26tp Zack Watson USA 26 Angharrad Walters WAL 2 Stephen Forster AUS 24 Stephen Mulliner ENG 26 Jose Riva ESP 26 Marcus Evans ENG 0 Reece McCorkindale NZL 0 Reg Bamford ZAF 26tp Logan McCorkindale NZL 26 Jarrod Coutts NZL 8 Alain Giraud ENG 26 Jenny Clarke NZL 11 Ben Rothman USA 26tp Greg Hill AUS 21 Euan Burridge ENG 0 Robert Fulford ENG 26tp

26tp 0 0 26 16 26 5 26tp 26 5 10 26 26tp 14 0 26tp 26tp 0 26 26 10 9 4 26 26 9 5 26tp 26 2 26 9 26tp 0 21 26tp

ROUND 2

Robert Fletcher AUS 26tp Greg Fletcher AUS 9 Stephen Morgan USA 0 James Death ENG 26 Matthew Essick USA 26 Tom Balding USA 0 Andrew Johnston IRL 17 Mark Avery ENG 26tp Zack Watson USA 26tp Stephen Forster AUS 0 Jose Riva ESP 10 Reg Bamford ZAF 26tp Logan McCorkindale NZL 26 Alain Giraud ENG 21 Ben Rothman USA 26tp Robert Fulford ENG 1

QUARTERFINALS

Robert Fletcher AUS 26tp James Death ENG 8 Matthew Essick USA 9 Mark Avery ENG 26tp Stephen Forster AUS 9 Reg Bamford ZAF 26tp Logan McCorkindale NZL 26 Ben Rothman USA 9

SEMIFINALS

Robert Fletcher AUS 26tp Mark Avery ENG 9 Reg Bamford ZAF 26tp Logan McCorkindale NZL 2

FINAL

Mark Avery ENG Reg Bamford ZAF

26tp 26tp 5 22 4 15 26tp 26 26tp 26 1 0 26 19 26 12 26 23 12 3 26tp 26tp 26tp 3 10 11 26tp 26tp 26tp 26 4 7 26tp 18 26tp 1 26 9 26tp 26tp 0 10 26tp 9 26 9 26tp 9 3 0 26tp 26tp 26tp 26tp 9 0 26tp 9 0 0 26tp 26 26tp 26tp 9 1

2025 WCF AC WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP QUALIFIER

15 26 25 26

Qualifier Steve Scalpone (USA) Reece McCorkindale (NZL) Curtis Drake (USA) Stephen Allen (ENG) Jack Rush (USA) Mike Todorovich (USA) Tom Cooper (USA) Brian Hovis (USA) Randy Reid (USA) Jim Bast (USA) Lynda Sudderberg (USA) Sandy Knuth (USA) Cami Russack (USA) Ron Eccles (USA) Tate Russack (USA) Jeff Morrison (USA)

GP 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6

Wins 5 5 4 4 4 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 1 0

Win % 83.3% 83.3% 66.7% 66.7% 66.7% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 50.0% 33.3% 33.3% 16.7% 0.0%

Buying or Selling? 0 26tp

Linda Grady, PA 561-512-0852 Donation Made To Your Favorite Charity at Closing!

0 26tp

19 0 0 26tp 26tp 26tp

lindagradyrealtor@gmail.com

www.croquetamerica.com | 37

Ben Rothman and Tom Balding in the commentator booth at the National Croquet Center. The international women of AC: Debbie Lines (ENG), Jenny Clark (NZL), Gabrielle Higgins (ENG) and Angharrad Walters (WAL).

Tom Cooper oversees the livestream production.

Tournament Manager Jeff Soo and Co-Tournament Director Michael Albert inspect hoop holes during the break in the semifinals round.

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Elaine Smith and Jeff Soo (left) working in the command center.

USA’s Zack Watson won the Shield.

England’s Stephen Mulliner won the Bowl. Presenters are Tom Cooper and Beverley Cardo.

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www.croquetamerica.com | 39

Presentation of the WCF AC World Championship Award to Reg Bamford (ZAF). Presenters from left to right include Co-Tournament Director Michael Albert, USCA President and Co-Tournament Director Beverley Cardo, USCA Marketing and Promotion Director, Tom Cooper and Tournament Manager Jeff Soo.

Silver Medalist Mark Avery (ENG) with Tom Cooper and Beverley Cardo.

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Bronze Medal winners: Logan McCorkindale (NZL) and Robert Fletcher (AUS) with Beverley Cardo.

CONSOLATION EVENTS SHIELD Semifinals Greg Fletcher AUS Tom Balding USA Zack Watson USA Alain Giraud ENG

0 26tp 26tp 0

Final Tom Balding USA Zack Watson USA

9 8 26tp 26tp

26 6 9 26tp 26tp 0

BOWL Scotland’s Duncan Reeve won the Plate.

Australia’s Greg Hill won the “Ramekin.”

Semifinals Jack Good ENG Edmund Fordyce NZL Stephen Mulliner ENG Jenny Clarke NZL Final Edmund Fordyce NZL Stephen Mulliner ENG

26 0 9 26tp

14 1 26tp 26 26 26 0 16

4 12 26tp 26

PL ATE

Commemorative Jay Carey mallet awarded to Reg Bamford.

England’s Nick Parish won the Manager’s Invitational.

Semi Finals Brian Lozano MEX Duncan Reeve SCO Sherif Abdelwahab USA Debbie Lines ENG Final Duncan Reeve SCO Sherif Abdelwahab USA

8 26 26 22

26 10 9 26 23 26tp 26tp 0

26 15

26 0

MANAGER’S INVITATIONAL Semi Finals Jordan Waters ENG Nick Parish ENG John Versey NZL Michael Gidding AUS Final Nick Parish ENG John Versey NZL

0 26 24 22 26 0

RAMEKIN

Bamford was awarded a special prize from sponsor Karen Weihs.

Reg Bamford and Jay Carey during the presentation of the commemorative mallet.

Draw David Fuller ENG Greg Hill AUS Process Ian Lines ENG Greg Hill AUS

22 26 13 26

Beverley Cardo addresses the gallery at the presentation ceremony.

www.croquetamerica.com | 41

Croquet Greats To Be Inducted Into THE

US CROQUET

HALL FAME of

On February 27, 2026, the Croquet Foundation of America (CFA), in conjunction with the United States Croquet Association (USCA), will induct David Maloof and Carla P. Rueck posthumously into the United States Croquet Hall of Fame.

The 48th Induction Ceremony, followed by a dinner party, will take place during the week of the Steuber Classic at The Charles P. Steuber National Croquet Center in West Palm Beach, Fla. The directors of the CFA and the USCA encourage their friends and all croquet enthusiasts to join them in paying tribute to the esteemed members of our croquet family, David Maloof and Carla P. Rueck, as we acknowledge their accomplishments. Biographies of the inductees follow. Invitations to the gala will be emailed to all USCA members, friends and family of the honorees in December. For information about the 2026 Hall of Fame Gala Induction Ceremony, email general.manager@croquetnational.com.

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DAVID MALOOF

David Maloof has combined extraordinary playing success with decades of dedicated service as a teaching professional and ambassador of croquet. A national champion in both Association and Golf Croquet, a world silver medalist and a fixture on Team USA, he has also introduced thousands of players to the sport at Mountain Lake, Fla., and in the mountains of North Carolina. His career demonstrates a rare blend of excellence, humility and mentorship. Born in 1954 in Milford, Mass., Maloof became a teaching tennis professional in 1975. He met his wife, Mieke, on the courts in 1978, and the couple moved to Lake Wales, Fla., in 1979, where Maloof began his long winter career at the Mountain Lake Club. Initially hired for tennis, he added croquet to his teaching portfolio in the mid-1990s. Over the next 44 years, he built programs in both sports, ultimately honored by the naming of the Maloof Croquet Center at Mountain Lake upon his retirement in 2022. Summers found Maloof and Mieke in Linville, N.C., where he taught croquet at Linville Golf, Linville Ridge and Grandfather country clubs. Self-taught through the study of Bob Kroeger, Ted Prentis and John Osborn’s instructional materials, Maloof quickly developed into a championship-level competitor. After winning his first USCA Nationals in Second Flight, he was reclassified into Championship Flight and began making his mark. In 2011, he won the Selection Eights Second Eight with a perfect 14–0 record, which led to selection for Team USA. At the 2013 Solomon Trophy, he posted a winning record, and at the 2013-2014 MacRobertson Shield in New Zealand, he compiled Team USA’s best results. He went on to capture back-to-back AC national singles titles in 2015 and 2016, as well as the doubles title with Jim Bast. His crowning achievement came in 2016, when he reached the final of the WCF AC World Championship, becoming only the second American ever to do so, finishing as runner-up after an 11-hour battle under the lights. Maloof ’s record includes seven USCA national titles, spanning both AC and GC. Partnering with Sherif Abdelwahab, he won GC doubles in 2016 and 2019, and with his son Kyle, he added the 2022 and 2024 GC doubles titles — his most cherished victories. He also won the 2016 GC doubles and 2015-2016 AC singles titles, cementing his place among America’s most versatile champions. Internationally, he represented Team USA in the 2013 and 2017 MacRobertson Shields, the 2013 Solomon Trophy and the 2020 GC World Team Championship, where the U.S. reached the semifinals. Even while competing at the highest levels, Maloof prioritized his work as a teaching professional. At Mountain Lake and in Linville, he introduced thousands of members and guests to croquet, creating thriving club programs and mentoring future professionals, including Matthew Essick and Tom Balding. Known as “Coach Maloof,” he continues to serve as head coach for the USCA High Performance and Talent Development Program. His teaching emphasizes not only technical skill but also sportsmanship and love of the game. Respected worldwide for his calm demeanor, integrity and precision under pressure, Maloof has been a model ambassador for U.S. croquet. His blend of competitive achievement, professional teaching and international representation place him among the sport’s most influential figures. His induction into the Croquet Hall of Fame will honor a lifetime of accomplishments on the court, leadership off it and devotion to nurturing the next generation of players.

SPONSORED CONTENT

From the Croquet Foundation of America, a separate 501(c)(3), not-for-profit corporation.

www.croquetamerica.com | 45

2025 USCA Southeast Golf Croquet Regional Belvidere, North Carolina | September 11-14, 2025

Lovvorn and Stovall Shine at Southeast Regional

THE ALBEMARLE CROQUE T CLUB HOSTED A FULL 32-PL AYER FIELD FROM ACROSS THE SOUTHE AST, WITH KENT LOVVORN CL AIMING THE CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE AND CHARLIE STOVALL DEFENDING HIS FIRST FLIGHT CROWN The 2025 USCA Southeast Golf Croquet Regional was held at the beautiful Albemarle Croquet Club in Belvidere, N.C., September 11-14. The competitive field consisted of 32 players, 16 in Championship Flight with an average DGrade of 1961, and 16 in First Flight with an average DGrade of 1672. The playing slots were all filled by members of the Southeast Region, leaving a waitlist of 19 players. Kent Lovvorn won the Championship Singles, defeating finalist Jim Jamison in two games. Just before the Championship finals, Jim and his wife, Barbara Jamison, squared off in the Championship Doubles finals against Rick Brown and Todd Russell, winning the game with Jim’s Hoop 12 jump shot. Brett Stovall captured the hand-crafted and coveted Championship Plate (and the brownie that went with it!). Stovall’s son, Charlie Stovall, won the First Flight singles, defending his win at the 2024 Regional. After a narrow 7-6 defeat by First Flight Finalist Dick Rendleman, Charlie battled back 7-4, 7-2 to take the best-of-three match. Rendleman and wife Nancy Rendleman won the First Flight doubles, defeating First Flight doubles finalists Linda Trifone and Brian Zindel. Adrienne Lucke won the First Flight Plate. Regional Vice President Linda Trifone presided over the games. Adam Lassiter was the Tournament Manager and Elaine Smith was the Tournament Director. Kent Lovvorn served as head referee, assisted by Lynda Bjorklund and Crayton Morrow.

Kent Lovvorn, Singles Championship winner, and Barbara and Jim Jamison, Championship Doubles winners. Jim was also Championship finalist.

46 | www.croquetamerica.com

The main tournament dinner was a shared meal at the Cypress Creek Grill in Elizabeth City, N.C. This was a particularly enjoyable and entertaining group of players, many of whom were experiencing the Albemarle hospitality for the first time. Other meals and snacks were shared in the lovely clubhouse (hand-built by the Lassiter Family), which became especially inviting in the afternoons when filled with the aroma of Miss Lynn’s homemade cookies and brownies.

CHAMPIONSHIP FLIGHT 01. Kent Lovvorn 02. Jim Jamison 03. Jimmy Huff 03. Robb Turner 05. Danny Huneycutt 05. Adam Lassiter 05. Josh Lassiter 05. Crayton Morrow 09. Brett Stovall 10. Rick Brown 11. Randy Lassiter 11. Rodney Lassiter 13. Bob Hamilton 13. Dan Horton 13. Todd Russell 13. Shep Slater

CHAMPIONSHIP FLIGHT DOUBLES 01. Barbara Jamison/Jim Jamison 02. Rick Brown/Todd Russell 03. Josh Lassiter/Rodney Lassiter 03. Jimmy Huff/Kent Lovvorn 05. Danny Huneycutt/Adam Lassiter 06. Bob Hamilton/Robb Turner 07. Brett Stovall/Charlie Stovall 08. Natasha Kittrell/Crayton Morrow

FIRST FLIGHT

Charlie Stovall, First Flight Singles winner; Brett Stovall, Championship Plate winner.

Adrienne Lucke, First Flight Plate winner, with Tournament Director Elaine Smith.

01. Charlie Stovall 02. Dick Rendleman 03. Lynda Bjorklund 03. Brian Zindel 05. Rick Pratt 05. Nancy Rendleman 05. Lee Robinson 05. Linda Trifone 09. Adrienne Lucke 10. Rocky Smith 11. Mary Anne Hamilton 11. Thomas Wolford 13. Ray Barrett 13. Barbara Jamison 13. Natasha Kittrell 13. Sybil Turner

FIRST FLIGHT DOUBLES 01. Nancy Rendleman/Dick Rendleman 02. Linda Trifone/Brian Zindel 03. Ray Barrett/Rocky Smith 03. Dan Horton/Thomas Wolford 05. Randy Lassiter/Lee Robinson 06. Mary Anne Hamilton/Sybil Turner 07. Lynda Bjorklund/Adrienne Lucke 08. Rick Pratt/Shep Slater

Nancy and Dick Rendleman, First Flight doubles winners; Dick was also First Flight Singles finalist.

Albemarle Croquet Clubhouse.

www.croquetamerica.com | 47

2025 USCA Midwest A6W Regional Championship Tulsa, Oklahoma | August 28-September 1, 2025

Smith and Stewart Lead the Field at the Midwest RegionalS PERFECT L ABOR DAY WE ATHER SET THE STAGE IN TULSA AS MATT SMITH CAPTURED THE CHAMPIONSHIP FLIGHT TITLE AND NEWCOMER SCOTT S TE WAR T IMPRE S SED WITH A FIRS T FLIGH T V IC TORY. The 2025 Midwest Six Wicket Regional Tournament hosted by the Tulsa Croquet Club (TCC) over Labor Day Weekend had the best weather in memory for all four days. Each flight had 14 players with three 4 handicap players in First Flight and one 4.5 moving up to Championship Flight. Although all pre-2025 TCC tournaments had enjoyed the rental of a 20-foot by 40-foot tent, chairs, tables and Porta-johns, the location no longer has room as a new brick and mortar building with heat/air, kitchenette and bathrooms is now available. Longtime TCC friend, now from Denver, Matt Smith scored a near-perfect game in the Championship Singles Final 26-2 win over TCC Member Kevin McQuigg. And the Matt Smith/Art Parsells partnership beat the Texas partnership of Britt Ruby and Joe Yoder in Championship Doubles. In First Flight Singles, Scott Stewart (7) beat Gene Bryan (5) in the Final. And the Steve Berry/Scott Stewart team took first in First Flight Doubles over the Carl Archiniaco/Gene Bryan pairing (Archiniaco being the only 4 handicap player in First Flight to score a trophy). We would like to celebrate our dear friends who traveled to Tulsa to play. Our OKC friends: Regional VP Scott Spradling, Suzanne Spradling, Conner Helms, Carl Archiniaco; Texas friends: USCA VP John O. Brown, Britt Ruby and Joe Yoder; KC Area friends: Greg and Jodi Adams, Greg and Joni Clouse, Deborah and Ron Millican; Denver friends: Matt Smith and Gwendolyn DeSilva, Judith McKeon, Steve Berry; Memphis friend: Gene Bryan; Louisville Area new friend: Robert “Scott” Stewart; and New Bartlesville TCC Member Bill Maxey. Welcome all!

48 | www.croquetamerica.com

Championship Flight Doubles runner up team of Joe Yoder and Britt Ruby with the winning duo of Matt Smith and Art Parsells.

A big shout out to Brian Hovis for helping us keep the entry fee down to a reasonable amount and coordinating with USCA, to Matt Smith for setting wickets for the Championship courts, to Steve Fisher for sweeping and smoothing the courts, to Joe Steiner for doing a lot of everything necessary to keep things on track, to Tournament Director Matt Baird for scheduling, reporting and managing. And to Barbara Parsells, Ginny Schulte, Lucy Spaulding, Mary Baird and Karen Hampton for food, drinks and hospitality. Everyone seemed to enjoy being here.

CHAMPIONSHIP FLIGHT 01. Matt Smith 02. Kevin McQuigg 03. John Brown 03. Joe Steiner 05. Conner Helms 05. Scott Spradling 05. Britt Ruby 05. Matt Baird 09. Ron Millican 10. Greg Clouse 11. Joe Yoder 12. Jon Spaulding

Lunch at the new LaFortune Croquet Pavilion.

FIRST FLIGHT 01. Scott Stewart

First Flight doubles winners Steve Berry and Scott Stewart.

02. Gene Bryan 03. Jodi Adams 03. Steve Fisher 05. Deborah Millican 05. Gregory Adams 05. Steve Berry 05. Judy McKeon 09. Bill Maxey 10. Suzanne Spradling 11. Carl Archiniaco 12. Michael Sharp 13. Wendell Thompson

CHAMPIONSHIP FLIGHT DOUBLES 01. Matt Smith / Art Parsells 02. Britt Ruby / Joe Yoder 03. Conner Helms / Scott Spradling 03. Ron Millican / Greg Clouse 05. Matt Baird / Kevin McQuigg 06. Stuart Price / Jon Spaulding 07. John Brown / Joe Steiner

Matt Baird lines up a rush to Hoop 4.

FIRST FLIGHT DOUBLES 01. Steve Berry / Scott Stewart 02. Carl Archiniaco / Gene Bryan 03. Deborah Millican / Suzanne Spradling 03. Gregory Adams / Jodi Adams 05. Judy McKeon / Steve Fisher 06. Wendell Thompson / Michael Sharp 07. Bob Baker / Bill Maxey

John Brown, Conner Helms and Joe Steiner. Judy McKeon and Deborah Millican.

www.croquetamerica.com | 49

american6Wtactics

PEELING (OR POSITIONING) WITH PURPOSE By Jeff Soo

Abbreviations used: blUe, Red, blacK, Yellow In the last article, we looked at the basics of the straight peel: peeling a ball through the same wicket you are about to score with the striker ball. For beginners and most intermediate players, opportunities to peel tend to come about by chance, such as when both your balls are for the same wicket and you happen to rush your partner ball to perfect peeling position, or when your partner ball has failed the wicket and you are in position for a rush peel. But there’s more to peeling than the occasional opportunistic straight peel. This article is geared to championship players and those who aspire to that level. There are many possible reasons to peel a ball, including intentional peels on the opponent. But for this article, we will stick to the most common reason for peeling in American Six Wicket: to clear partner ball deadness. If partner ball is three-ball dead or is only alive on the ball it follows (i.e., the hot ball), the only way to help it is to peel it or to leave it in scoring position. The patterns that work for peeling can also be used to place a ball in scoring position. The latter is easier, because you have two shots to get the placement right. But either way, you need to place balls with much greater accuracy than normally required during a plain three- or four-ball break. As with any shot sequence requiring accurate placement, you want to manage the break such that critical shots are played from short range (see “Creating a Rush,” Croquet News, 2024, Volume 1, for an extensive discussion of this concept). This is one reason four-ball breaks are preferred for peeling: the pivot ball is the key to setting up those short shots. Another reason to prefer four-ball breaks is to allow a wider range of peeling patterns. With a three-ball break, the straight peel is the only peeling method that allows you to peel and then continue the break in the normal way. And you have at most one chance to straight-peel any particular ball during a break, making this a severely limited option. The next pattern for an aspiring peeler to learn is the back peel. Like the straight peel, this requires both balls (striker and peelee) to be for the same wicket. But unlike the straight peel, the back peel works when the two balls are for opposite sides of that wicket, e.g., peelee is for 2 and striker is for 1-back. Figure 1 shows the prelude to such a position: U is three-ball dead from an attack to set up K’s break, after which R finessed into corner I. K failed to rush U to good peeling position at 2, and continued the break, picking up R after 4, then swapping Y and U after 5, while leaving Y as an advance pioneer at 2-back. Now K is about to rush R to 6:

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FIGURE 1: K for 6, preparing to back peel U after 1-back.

A back peel is when you score the wicket, roquet the reception ball, and peel it back through the wicket on the croquet stroke. (Arguably, the term also applies when both balls are for the same side of the wicket, if you run the wicket first, then rush the reception ball back into peeling position and peel it then.) In Figure 1, a back peel through 2 would leave you no easy way to

FIGURE 2.1

continue the break if the pivot ball was in its usual place near the middle of the court. The solution is to double load the wicket when setting up for the peel, i.e. place an extra ball (the pivot) near the wicket you will be peeling. In this case, that means rushing (or, if necessary, rolling) R to 1-back after K scores 6. The pivot then becomes the escape ball for the peel. The following figures show a closer view of 1-back. In Figure 2.1, K has just scored 6 and rushed R across to 1-back, and will now send R to its position as an escape ball while getting into position for a rush on U. (Another option is to place the escape ball further south, as described in the text accompanying Figure 2.3.)

FIGURE 2.2

In theory, the back peel is a straightforward pattern. But the high precision required means that small changes in ball positions can drastically change the odds of success. If you are an aspiring peeler, start by repeatedly practicing basic peel sequences, such as the one shown above. Once you have had a few successes (peeling the ball or getting it into the jaws, while also getting position for a helpful rush on the escape ball), try incorporating it into a short four-ball break, starting one or two wickets before the peel and continuing for one or two wickets afterward. Repeat the exercise at different wickets and with varied pioneer positions. After a back peel, you are reduced to a three-ball break for at least a wicket or two. A good follow-on to the exercises discussed above is to continue until you can convert back to a four-ball break. Incorporating a high-precision sequence such as this into a break has benefits beyond learning the pattern itself. In the process, you will learn more about break management, benefitting all aspects of your game.

In Figure 2.2, K is ball in hand on U. Note that K has rushed U somewhat to the side of the wicket. This is intentional, so the wicket won’t interfere with placing U in peeling position. In this example, the ideal position to take croquet on U is 6–12 inches NE or NW of the wicket.

In Figure 2.3, K has run the wicket and roqueted U. With the croquet shot, K will attempt to peel U while playing K into FIGURE 2.3 position for a southward rush on R. When aligning the balls for the peel, the striker must adjust for the expected pull to the left during the split shot. (Placing R 2 to 3 feet further south, as mentioned above, would allow K to play the peel without any split and hence without any pull, but with more risk of getting hampered for the rush on R.) www.croquetamerica.com | 51

gcamerica

The One Shot Every Player Needs in Golf Croquet By Cheryl Bromley

CENTER TO CENTER STUN SHOT: Red sends black across court for a plus 20 yard clear while holding hoop running position

Although precision placement shots form the foundation of the game and make up the majority of strokes played, and while good hoop running is essential, there is one shot I consider vital to have in one’s arsenal.

You may have already noticed that this shot pops up in most games, or, if you haven’t, you might now start recognizing it when it does. It is the two- to three-yard center ball stun shot. I refer to it as a stun shot because once the striker ball and target ball are outside of the range of a precise stop shot, the best way to keep your striker ball under control is to hit it center-to-center into the target ball. Center-to-center contact transfers the most energy from your ball, sending your CENTER TO CENTER STUN SHOT: Red sends black across court for a opponent away while your ball lingers around. Information Classification: General

How many times have you had an opportunity to hit a OFF-CENTER STUN clearing shot with balls just six to nine feet apart, but hit: Red hits ATTEMPT off-center to the the target ball slightly off center, only to have yourright ball split potentially rolling past the of the courtis away and out of position? Now, all your opponentmiddle must do to a south boundary position. Lowercome back into position, and you’re faced with a much longer energy transfer means is closer clearing shot than where you started. Hitting center toblack center and successfully gets into hoop will keep your ball in the vicinity, and you won’t have torunning position. Red now has to clear from plus muscle the shot with tremendous power to send the opponent seven yards. ball a good distance.

plus 20-yard clear while holding hoop running position.

Progression Practice Drill STEP 1: Place a striker ball and a target ball six inches apart.

Use a gentle stop shot technique (to avoid a double tap), focusing on center-to-center contact so the target ball moves forward only a small amount. Do this gently five to 10 times until it feels like you can keep your striker ball under control.

Information Classification: General

STEP 2: Increase the distance between the striker ball and

target ball to one yard apart and use a medium-paced swing focusing on center-to-center contact. Repeat until this feels comfortable and you are successfully keeping your striker ball under control. STEP 3: The real test will be figuring out how much pace is

needed when balls are two to three yards apart, to be able to hit the centers of both balls, send the opponent away and

52 | www.croquetamerica.com

OFF-CENTER STUN ATTEMPT: Red hits off-center to the right

potentially rolling past the middle of the court to a south boundary position. Lower-energy transfer means black is closer and successfully gets into hoop running position. Red now has to clear from plus seven yards.

keep your striker ball nearby. If you find this distance difficult, go back to step one and build back up again. If you are having good success, increase the distances between the balls to four or five yards apart and challenge yourself to keep your striker ball under control. Going forward, note how many times this opportunity appears in your games. I see it pop up often. Good luck!

eventresults 2025 Paradise Coast Invitational Wyndemere Country Club Naples, Florida October 24-26, 2025 Championship Flight 01. Jonathan Burt 02. Jeff Morrison 03. Ron Millican 03. Cameron James 05. Yen Sullivan 05. John Joseph

First Flight 01. Mary McCarthy 02. Michael Kolowich 03. Priscilla Flowers 03. Jennifer Joseph 05. Karen Heckman 06. John Clark

Second Flight 01. Trula Myers 02. John Grout 03. Barbara Wolf 03. Ron Rapuano 05. Jeffrey Cohen 05. Dave Goddard

2025 WGCA Women’s GC Doubles Open Albemarle Croquet Club Belvidere, North Carolina October 14-16, 2025 Championship Flight 01. Julie Wright/Susan Hogan 02. Lisa Maloney/Sarah Persons 03. Cheryl Bromley/Debbie Davidoff 03. Ellie Griffith/MaryCarol Stearns 05. Jane Louise Smith/Susan Langston 05. Sybil Turner/Mary Anne Hamilton 05. Mel Eckhart/Ellen Brown 05. Lynda Bjorklund/Adrienne Lucke

First Flight 01. Loraine Lockwood/ Nancy Rendleman 02. Polly Joa/Caroline Robinson 03. Trudy Crowetz/Jane Grandusky 03. Patti Malpass/Susie Parker 05. Janet Mullen/Kim Howell 05. Kathie Gamble/Renee Seblatnigg 05. Betty Robinson/Jeanmarie Dellosso 05. Barbara Hayworth/Meike Grayson

2025 North American Open Chesapeake Bay Croquet Club Hartfield, Virginia October 9-12, 2025 Championship Flight Singles 01. Mike Hoggatt 02. Karl Heinz Kempfer 03. Rick Pratt 03. Sarah Persons

05. Marc Stearns 05. Brian Midkiff 05. Jeff Taylor 05. Nancy Crouch 09. Penn Pendleton 10. John Woods 11. Barbara Wills 11. Gil Goetz 13. George Enochs 13. Todd Russell 13. MaryCarol Stearns 13. George Claffey

First Flight Singles 01. David Phillips 02. Heather Welch 03. Susi Wall 03. John Welch 05. Wayne Maloney 06. Matt Butler 07. James Peasley 07. Patti Phillips

Championship Flight Doubles 01. Macey White/Nancy Crouch 02. Mike Hoggatt/Karl Heinz Kempfer 03. Wayne Maloney/Russ Brudnicki 03. Brian Midkiff/Todd Russell 05. Gil Goetz/Rick Pratt 05. Sarah Persons/Cynthia Fowler 05. Penn Pendleton/George Enochs 05. George Claffey/Lisa Maloney 09. Marc Stearns/MaryCarol Stearns 10. Heather Welch/John Welch 11. Patti Phillips/David Phillips 13. Cynthia Giese/Thomas Friderichs 13. Maureen Faraci/Kimberly Leedy 13. Susi Wall/Barbara Wills 13. Jeff Taylor/John Woods

2025 Pinehurst A6W Club Championship Pinehurst Country Club Pinehurst, North Carolina October 3-5, 2025 Championship Flight 01. Stephen Errickson 02. Mike Taylor 03. Bob Cherry 03. Jim Spoonhour 05. Bill Daigle 06. Ed Roberts 07. Teresa Errickson 08. Horace Hayworth

First Flight 01. Ellen Brown 02. Mel Eckhart 03. Dick Rendleman 03. Tony Watts 05. Mary-Stewart Regensberg 06. Maggie Langley 07. Joanie O'Brien

2025 USCA Selection Eights National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, Florida October 2-5, 2025

05. Rick Hayes 05. Deborah Millican 09. Steve Grassbaugh 09. Jon Spaulding

First Eight

Second Flight

01. Brian Cumming 02. Stuart Lawrence 03. Sherif Abdelwahab 04. Randy Cardo 05. Doug Grimsley 06. Patrick Sweeney 06. Brian Hovis 08. Steve Scalpone

01. Jim Podraza 02. Peter Sherer 03. Chris Smith 03. Pam Johnston 05. Bill Sullivan 05. Mel Eckhart 05. Danna Huneycutt 05. Georgia Carter 09. Tish Peterkin 09. Michael Kolowich 11. David Kepner 11. Jennifer Joseph 13. Becky Essick 13. Susan Creasey

Second Group 01. Martyn Selman 02. Jim Houser 03. Lynda Sudderberg 03. Randy Reid 03. Tom Cooper 03. Mike Todorovich 07. Sandy Knuth 08. Dawn Jupin 08. Jeff Morrison 10. Cami Russack 11. Chad Mahan

Pinehurst Invitational Pinehurst Croquet Club Pinehurst, North Carolina September 24-28, 2025 Championship Flight 01. Brian Hovis 02. Paul Bennett 03. Mike Taylor 03. Brett Stovall 05. Randy Cardo 05. John Brown 05. Donna Dixon 05. Steve Errickson 09. Calvert Chaney 09. Gene Raymond 09. Cecil Creasey 09. Mark Fields 09. Ed Roberts 09. Ed Becker 09. George Peterkin 09. Bev Cardo 17. Ron Millican 18. John Curington 18. Linda Trifone 18. Nancy Crouch

First Flight 01. Teresa Errickson 02. John Joseph 03. Soup Campbell 03. John Donohue 05. Leo Leither 05. David Trigiani

Third Flight 01. Kathie Hart 02. Rocky Smith 03. Marc Blumberg 03. Elaine Smith 05. Ellen Brown 05. Betty Robinson 07. Julie Doric

Championship Flight Doubles 01. John Brown/Ron Millican 02. Randy Cardo/John Donohue 03. Cal Chaney/Ed Becker 03. Mark Fields/Cecil Creasey 05. Mike Taylor/Soup Campbell 05. Macey White/George Peterkin 07. Brett Stovall/John Curington 07. Brian Hovis/Donna Dixon 09. Bev Cardo/Nancy Crouch 09. Gene Raymond/Steve Errickson 11. Ed Roberts/Linda Trifone 11. Paul Bennett/Steve Grassbaugh

First Flight Doubles 01. David Trigiani/Jim Podraza 02. Jon Spaulding/Tish Peterkin 03. Rick Hayes/Pam Johnston 04. Teresa Errickson/Danna Huneycutt 04. Leo Leither/Chris Smith 04. John Joseph/Becky Essick 04. Deborah Millican/David Kepner

Second Flight Doubles 01. Michael Kolowich/Ellen Brown 02. Bill Sullivan/Julie Doric 03. Peter Sherer/Rocky Smith 03. Georgia Carter/Marc Blumberg 03. Jennifer Joseph/Kathie Hart 06. Susan Creasey/Elaine Smith 07. Mel Eckhart/Betty Robinson

www.croquetamerica.com | 53

eventresults 2025 Merion Cricket Club Invitational A6W/GC Merion Cricket Club Haverford, Pennsylvania September 20-21, 2025 A6W Championship Flight 01. James Houser 02. Quinn Reinhardt 03. Bob Niederer 03. Scott Kennedy 05. Jodie Rugart 05. Bill Miller 05. John Oehrle 05. Ed O’Laughlin 09. Justin Berbig 09. Kevin Hansley

A6W First Flight 01. Dave Fox 02. Michael Jeary 03. Michael Kolowich 03. John Welch 05. Ellen Fox 05. Marc Blumberg 05. Mary Blumberg 05. Barbara O’Laughlin 09. Tom O’Laughlin

GC Championship Flight 01. Kim Beaty 02. Conrad Rugart 03. George Claffey 03. Ryan Eberlein 05. Ezra Roth 05. Josh Head 07. Greg Presley

GC First Flight 01. Ajay Dravid 02. Heather Welch 03. Bob Stevens 03. Tom Bown 05. Darrell DeMoss 05. Whitney Thain 05. Cat Niederer 05. Bob Camp 09. Tom Watkins 10. Randal Roe 11. Marcella Ridenour 11. Eric Rabe

GC Second Flight 01. Valerie Bowmann 02. Trevor Head 03. Thomas Wilson 03. Al Murphy 05. Henry Leidenfrost 05. Eugenia Birch 07. Cindy Tallent 07. Joe Bright 09. Meg Roth 09. Joe Bright

54 | www.croquetamerica.com

USCA GC Eights National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, Florida September 18-21, 2025 Championship Flight 01. Kendall Hendrick (Undefeated) 02. Tate Russack 03. Mike Hoggatt 04. Cheryl Bromley 05. Chris Weihs 06. Cami Russack 07. Samuel Collins 08. Robert Smothers

First Flight Singles 01. Mark Ski 02. Quinn Reinhardt 03. Temp Peck 04. Ron Eccles 05. Ralph Charles 06. Pat Sprat

First Flight Doubles 01. Quinn Reinhardt/Donna Hamel 02. Pat Sprat/David Beccia 03. Lee Hamel/Georgia Carter 04. Jessica Beccia/Temp Peck

First Flight

Second Flight Singles

01. Brett Fullerton (Undefeated) 02. Rich Rose 03. John Grout 04. Jeff Morrison 05. Gil Goetz 06. Karen Weihs 07. Jay Carey 08. Jason Collins

01. Chris Morris 02. Michael Kolowich 03. Georgia Carter 04. Donna Hamel 05. Lee Hamel

Heritage Classic Sandwich Croquet Club Sandwich, Massachusetts September 19, 2025 01. Paul Panaccione 02. John Shanholt 03. Ed Gardella 04. Chris Olsen 05. Chrales Jeffrey 06. Clint Holland 07. Michael Sayler 08. Charles Kochakian 09. Frank DiLeo 10. Gail Kern 11. John Clark 12. Susan Woodall

2025 Osborn Cup New York Croquet Club New York, New York September 11-14, 2025 Championship Flight Singles 01. Chris Patmore 02. John Brown 03. Doug Moore 04. Norris Settlemyre 05. David McCoy

Championship Fight Doubles 01. John Brown/Mark Ski 02. Ron Eccles/David McCoy 03. Norris Settlemyre/Ralph Charles 04. Doug Moore/Chuck Loving

2025 North Carolina State Singles A6W Championship Pinehurst Croquet Club Pinehurst, North Carolina September 4-7, 2025 Championship Flight 01. Adam Lassiter 02. John Lassiter 03. Danny Huneycutt 04. Josh Lassiter 05. Mike Taylor 05. Stephen Errickson 07. Rodney Lassiter 07. Marc Campbell 09. Bob Cherry 09. Bill Daigle

First Flight

2025 Blue Crab Chesapeake Bay Croquet Club Hartfield, Virginia September 11-14, 2025

01. Tim Williams 02. Teresa Errickson 03. Pam Johnston 04. Randy Lassiter 05. Richard Greulich 05. Becky Essick

Championship Flight Singles

Second Flight

01. Macey White 02. George Cochran 03. Nancy Crouch 03. Gil Rocha 05. Bill Trower 05. Rich Laging

01. Danna Huneycutt 02. Mel Eckhart 03. Ellen Brown 04. Rocky Smith 05. Elaine Smith 06. Maggie Langley

Championship Flight Doubles

2025 Woodlawn Big Lobster Woodlawn Croquet Club Ellsworth, Maine September 3-7, 2025

01. Macey White/Lisa Maloney 02. Nancy Crouch/Pete Bowers 03. John Priest/Jan Fisher 03. George Cochran/Sue Laging 05. Rich Laging/Melissa Nelson 05. Bill Trower/Inex Cancienne

First Flight Singles 01. Peter Gordon 02. Jan Fisher 03. Pete Bowers 03. Melissa Nelson 05. Inez Cancienne 06. Wyck Knox

Second Flight Singles 01. Peter Gutherie 02. Francisco Echeverria 03. Lisa Maloney 03. Stephen Graham 05. Linda Gutherie 05. Sue Laging 05. Gloria Gordon 05. Isaiah Winger

A6W Singles Championship Flight 01. Derek Wassink 02. Bob Van Tassell 03. Bob Worrell 04. Bill Trower 05. Don Parker 06. Neil Houghton 07. Bob Pulitzer

A6W Singles First Flight 01. Lucas Van Alen 02. Katherine Robertson 03. Sandra Knuth 04. Rick Hayes 05. Jan Fisher 06. Fred Beck 07. Denys Shorthouse

A6W Singles Second Flight 01. Katie Bull 02. Glenn McAndrews 03. Linda Orff 04. Linda Merk 05. Ellen Goldener 06. Oakley Johnson 07. Janet Pearson 08. Bobbi Shorthouse

A6W Singles Third Flight 01. Ellen Fox 02. Susan Koepp 03. James Peasley 04. Whitney Small 05. Jennifer Lewis 06. Marie Richardson 07. Susan Sergeant

9W Doubles Championship Flight 01. Derek Wassink/Bill Trower 02. Don Parker/Dave Nelson 03. Neil Houghton/Lucas Van Alen 04. Bob Van Tassell/Perry Mattson 05. Sandy Knuth/Tina Hinckley 06. Rick Hayes/Katherine Robertson 07. Fred Beck/Jan Fisher

9W Doubles First Flight 01. Katie Bull/Ellen Fox 02. Ford Fay/Charlie Law 03. Glenn McAndrews/ Randall McAndrew 04. Janet Pearson/Barbara Entzminger 05. Jennifer West Lewis/Skip Strong 06. Ellen Goldener/Linda Merk 07. Susan Koepp/Linda Orff 08. Marie Richardson/Susan Sergeant

2025 Bluefish GC Challenge Chesapeake Bay Croquet Club Hartfield, Virginia July 14-August 30, 2025 Blue Introductory Flight 01. Steve Walker 02. Tom Pinou 03. Patti Bokach 04. Paul Brooks 05. Laura Raymond 06. Patricia Barrett

Red Introductory Flight 01. Greg Bokach 02. Dearsley Vernon 03. Denise Walker 04. Joanne Pinou 05. Cliff Scudder

Championship Blue Flight 01. Jeff Taylor 02. Sarah Persons 03. Penn Pendleton 04. Wayne Maloney

05. Joe Ward 06. Pat Hanners 07. Cynthia Fowler

Championship Red Flight 01. Rick Pratt 02. Lisa Maloney 03. Michael Heath 04. Russ Brudnicki 05. Julie Woods 06. Doug Fowler 07. Kimberly Leedy 08. Jeff Newsome

Prosser Cup Ocean House Watch Hill, Rhode Island August 18-20, 2025 Championship Flight 01. Chris Olsen 02. Kendall Hendrick 03. Jodie Rugart 03. Alex Galasso 05. Chris Morris 05. Priscilla Flowers 07. Bill Simmons 08. Cody Kittle 09. Conrad Rugart 10. John Shanholt 11. Gregory Gonzales 12. Mark Ski

First Flight 01. Caryl Firth 02. Michael Kolowich 03. George Claffey 03. Art Ellis 05. Amy Hempt 05. Gil Goetz 07. Mary Galasso 07. Britt Bell 08. Nick Capobianco 10. Emily Martin 11. Larua Hendrick 12. Jeanne Branthover

Second Flight 01. Scott Brown 02. Gail Kern 03. Kathy Brown 03. Trula Myers 05. Sean Hartley 05. Stephen Hayes 07. Katie Bull 08. Patricia Kells 09. Greg Presley 10. Karen Heckman 11. David Goddard 12. August Fromuth

Third Flight

Championship Doubles.

01. Josh Head 02. Chris Eaton 03. Ted Blount 03. Janet Anthos 05. Trevor Head 06. Andrew Parsons 07. Judy Prosser

01. Paul Neubecker/Rob Franks 02. Rich Laging/Quinn Reinhardt 03. Rich Curtis/Kathleen Green 04. Brian Zindel/John Joseph 05. Norris Settlemyre/David Kepner 06. Bob Gannon/Leo Leither 07. Courtney Green/Ryan Thompson

Milwaukee GC Doubles Open

First Flight Doubles.

01. Cheryl Bromley/Debbie Davidoff 02. Marc Stearns/MaryCarol Stearns 03. Rick Hayes/Maggie Leyes 03. Keith Anderson/Drew Kennedy 05. Barbara O’Laughlin/ Tom O’Laughlin (Plate Winner) 06. Mary Hennelly/Tom Hennelly 07. Gil Goetz/Gwen Connolly 07. Jeff Lee/Thomas Wilson 09. Kath Jenkins/Kathy Rivera (Backdraw Winner) 10. Drew Kayvani/Ben Kayvani 11. Brooke Baxley/Laurie Johnson 12. Cindy Joa/Craig Froh

01. Peter Sherer/Paul Strada 02. Peter Bowers/James Peasley 03. Jeff Cohen/Ryan Boniface 04. Lee Anderson/Art Fuchs 05. Jennifer Joseph/Sue Sherer 06. Gary Anderson/Linda Bowers

2025 Buffalo A6W Invitational Buffalo Croquet Club Buffalo, New York August 14-17, 2025 Championship Singles. 01. Rich Laging 02. Paul Neubecker 03. Norris Settlemyre 04. Quinn Reinhart 05. Courtney Green 06. John Joseph 07. Bob Gannon 08. Ryan Thompson 09. Rich Curtis 10. Brian Zindel

First Flight Singles. 01. Rob Franks 02. Lee Anderson 03. Gary Anderson 04. Kathleen Green 05. Peter Bowers 06. David Kepner 07. Leo Leither 08. Jennifer Joseph

Second Flight 01. Peter Sherer 02. Ryan Boniface 03. James Peasley 04. Linda Bowers 05. Paul Strada 06. Art Fuchs 07. Jeff Cohen 08. Chris Gulino

2025 Cranberry Classic Sandwich Croquet Club Sandwich, Massachusetts August 10, 2025 01. Sarah Mitchell 02. Ed Gardella 03. Michael Sayler 04. John Clark 05. Cecily Greenaway 06. Michael Kolowich 07. John Welch 08. Paul Bradley

Vacationland Invitational Woodlawn Croquet Club Ellsworth, Maine August 7-10, 2025 Championship Flight 01. Robert Pulitzer 02. Robert Van Tassell 03. Caryl Firth 04. Billy Simmons 05. Kendall Hendrick 06. Robert Worrell 07. Mary Galasso 07. Alex Galasso 09. Priscilla Flowers 09. Laura Hendrick

First Flight 01. Peter Markarian 02. Kim Beaty 03. Calvert Chaney 04. Tom Hennelly 05. Luke Van Alen 05. Robin Dobbs 07. Mary Hennelly 07. Charlotte Pulitzer 09. Liddy Chaney 09. Susan Butler

www.croquetamerica.com | 55

eventresults 2025 Tiger Wicket New York Croquet Club New York, New York August 2-3, 2025 01. Paul Neubecker 02. Chris Patmore 03. Mark Ski 04. Pat Spratt 05. Stephen Tasker 06. Peter Timmins 07. Geoffrey Johnson 08. Peter Dempsey 09. Joseph Douglas 10. Julian Bell 11. Jonathan Baron

2025 Western A6W Regional King City Civic Association Portland, Oregon July 31-August 3, 2025 01. Patrick Sweeney 02. Curtis Toops 03. Ronald Eccles

2025 NC Club Teams Grandfather Golf/Country Club/ Linville Ridge Linville, North Carolina July 24-27, 2025 Championship Flight 01. Jeff/Eileen Soo 02. David Maloof/Gene Raymond 03. Steve Hawes/Dick Rendleman 03. Mike Carroll/Ronald Taylor 05. Chris/Gail Barley 05. Keith Hart/Thomas Wolford 05. Cathy/Dan Horton 05. Ed Roberts/Mike Taylor 09. Robert Hamilton/Robb Turner 10. Crayton Morrow/Curtis Loftin 11. Cecil/Susan Creasey 11. Lynda Bjorklund/Adrienne Lucke

First Flight 01. Mark Visk/Sherm Rounsville 02. John/John Dobson 03. Roberta Taylor/Nancy Hart 03. Gene Lockard/James Pierce 05. Lee Robinson/Briggs Stahl

05. Mark Jordan/Nancy Rendleman 05. Mike Watson/Betty Robinson 05. Holly/Ned Sperry 09. Susie Parker/Dick Johnston 10. Mary Hamilton/Sybil Turner 11. Tony Watts/Charlie Rivers 11. David/Mieke Grayson

Second Flight 01. Ronald/Janice Baysden 02. Ellyn McColgan/Kathie Gamble 03. Angela Pittman/John Albright 03. Mel Eckhart/Elaine Moody 05. Ballentine/Lillian Carter 05. Rocky/Elaine Smith 05. Ann Hitch/David Moser 05. Ray Ogden/Marty Ormsby 09. Mike/Patti Malpass 10. William Harris/CD Smith 11. Dawn Trammel/Thomas Daniel 11. Joe/Doreen Spidaletto 13. Kim/John Gottshall

2025 Mountain Brook GC Open Mountain Brook Croquet Club Birmingham, Alabama July 24-27, 2025 Tournament Results 01. Matthew Jackson 02. Henry Smith 03. Shep Slater 04. Mike Hoggat 05. Mark Fields 06. Robert Smothers 07. Jonathan Andrews 08. Todd Russell 09. Jimmy Huff 10. John Green

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grandprix 2025 A6W OVERALL GP STANDINGS # Player Singles 01 Cardo, Randy 8745 02 Brown, John O 6454 03 Hovis, Brian D. 3152 04 Green, Courtney 3240 05 Ruby, Britt 3174 06 Cochran, George 3040 07 Gannon, Robert 4500 08 Lassiter, Adam 0 09 Stuart, Preston 2821 10 Creasey Jr., Cecil H. 2269 11 Ekstrom, David 1001 12 Fields, Mark 2912 13 Zindel, Brian 5052 14 Chaney, Calvert 4251 15 Helms, Conner L. 1092 16 Smith, Matt B. 2512 17 Bennett, Paul T. 700 18 Eccles, Ronald L. 2375 19 Van Tassell, Robert 0 20 Millican, Ron 4312 Total players: 333 Updated 10/8/2025.

2025 GC OVERALL GP STANDINGS # Player Singles 01 Matthew Essick 8443 02 Tom Balding 6044 03 Darin Guffey 6296 04 Kyle Maloof 4799 05 Kent Lovvorn 4823 06 Robert Fletcher 5179 07 Edmund Fordyce 3665 08 Brian Lozano 3771 09 Tate Russack 3223 10 Cami Russack 3440 11 Tamer Hatata 3368 12 Danny Huneycutt 3427 13 Shane Hettler 3670 14 Jimmy Huff 2841 15 David Maloof 2065 16 Malcolm Fletcher 3678 17 Harry Dodge 2419 18 Beverley Cardo 1796 19 Jim Jamison 2893 20 Marc Stearns 2072 Total players: 471. Updated 10/8/2025.

2025 AC OVERALL GP STANDINGS # Player Singles 01 Brian Cumming 3129 02 Thomas Balding 2061 03 Sherif Abdelwahab 2147 04 Wy Louw 2280 05 Matthew Essick 2049 06 Brian Hovis 1646 07 Chris Barley 1360 08 Zack Watson 951 09 Patrick Sweeney 1672 10 Robert Fletcher 1656 11 Doug Grimsley 1353 12 Stuart Lawrence 1351 13 Martyn Selman 956 14 Kyle Maloof 1132 15 Randy Cardo 1101 16 Steve Scalpone 831 17 Sandy Knuth 569 18 Jeff Soo 1002 19 Michael Todorovich 978 20 Edmund Fordyce 754 Total players: 70. Updated 10/8/2025.

Doubles

Total

11350 13764 7768 7240 6754 6600 3480 7750 4400 4738 6000 4018 1373 2150 4914 3468 5200 3489 5800 1458

20095 17167 10920 10480 9928 9640 7980 7750 7221 7007 7001 6930 6425 6401 6006 5980 5900 5864 5800 5770

Doubles

Total

3681 1880 1072 2015 1533 541 1999 1541 1835 1460 1409 1092 757 1533 2254 541 1732 2189 1081 1719

12124 7924 7368 6814 6356 5720 5664 5312 5058 4900 4777 4519 4427 4374 4319 4219 4151 3985 3974 3791

Doubles

Total

205 744 461 0 0 342 342 744 0 0 205 0 205 0 0 205 461 0 0 205

3334 2805 2608 2280 2049 1988 1702 1695 1672 1656 1558 1351 1161 1132 1101 1036 1030 1002 978 959

2025 A6W WOMEN'S GP STANDINGS # Player Singles 01 Crouch, Nancy 2780 02 Trifone, Linda 1813 03 Pulitzer, Charlotte 3570 04 Cooper, Loretta 3400 05 Dixon, Donna 750 06 Ramey, Missy 2730 07 Errickson, Teresa 264 08 Rugart, Jodie 0 09 Robertson, Kathryn 850 10 Sudderberg, Lynda P. 0 11 McGrath, Sally 447 12 Huneycutt, Danna 866 13 Fisher, Janet K. 487 14 Green, Kathleen 550 15 Cardo, Beverley 300 16 Sullivan, Yen 1 17 Rodeberg, Mary 201 18 Carter, Georgia 273 19 Peterkin, Patricia 479 20 Craddock, Mary 525 Total players: 112. Updated 10/8/2025.

2025 GC WOMEN'S GP STANDINGS # Player Singles 01 Cami Russack 3440 02 Beverley Cardo 1796 03 Mary Galasso 1663 04 Caryl Firth 2303 05 Nancy Rendleman 1829 06 Kim Beaty 1204 07 Priscilla Flowers 1213 08 Lynda Bjorklund 1977 09 Sarah Persons 1346 10 Ellie Griffith 1524 11 Barbara Jamison 1004 12 Cheryl Bromley 1274 13 Susan Creasey 1022 14 Lisa Maloney 1330 15 Kim Jones 1281 16 Nancy Crouch 540 17 MaryCarol Stearns 841 18 Amy Hempt 1203 19 Adrienne Lucke 1063 20 Jodie Rugart 1147 Total players: 179. Updated 10/8/2025.

2025 AC WOMEN'S GP STANDINGS # Player Singles 01 Sandy Knuth 569 02 Lynda Sudderberg 693 03 Donna Dixon 247 04 Barbara Wills 187 05 Mary Rodeberg 185 06 Becky Essick 84 07 Christine Smith 84 08 Teresa Errickson 83 09 Dawn Jupin 81 10 Susi Wall 78 11 Cami Russack 43 12 Tracey Roche 19 Total players: 12. Updated 10/8/2025.

Doubles

Total

2240 3154 852 0 2300 0 1932 2100 1175 1540 1087 546 594 267 500 750 500 439 176 96

5020 4767 4422 3400 3050 2730 2196 2100 2025 1540 1534 1412 1033 817 800 751 701 700 655 621

Doubles

Total

1460 2189 1400 532 980 1254 1044 266 733 381 874 513 737 324 236 909 487 90 158 71

4900 3985 3063 2835 2809 2458 2257 2243 2079 1905 1878 1787 1759 1654 1517 1449 1328 1293 1221 1218

Doubles

Total

461 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1030 693 247 187 185 84 84 83 81 78 43 19

www.croquetamerica.com | 57

uscaevents November 2025

1/22/26 – 1/25/26

March 2026

11/20/25 – 1/6/26

Sarasota County Croquet Club Venice, FL Tom Balding | 631-708-7575 tclareb5@gmail.com -

3/5/26 – 3/8/26

Green Turtle Croquet A6W Challenge Grand Haven Croquet Club Palm Coast, FL Macey White maceywhite@gmail.com 11/20/25 – 11/23/25

USCA GC Seniors Masters National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, FL Brian Hovis | 561-478-0760 tournament@uscroquet.com

December 2025 12/2/25 – 2/6/25

US Open AC

Mission Hills Country Club Rancho Mirage, CA Doug Grimsley | 703-591-0813 dgrimsley37@aol.com 12/5/25 – 12/7/25

USCA GC Club Teams

Sarasota County Croquet Club Venice, FL Brian Hovis | 561-478-0760 tournament@uscroquet.com 12/12/25 – 12/14/25

Seahorse GC Tournament

The Beach Club Palm Beach, FL Jane Casey | 203-570-1866 rjntkc@gmail.com 12/12/25 – 12/14/25

The Holiday Classic

Sarasota County Croquet Club Venice, FL Mike Kolowich michael@kolowich.com 978-985-8908 12/26/25 – 12/28/25

Florida State Tournament GC National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, FL Adam Peck | 561-389-2300 aepeck331@gmail.com

January 2026 1/5/26 – 1/10/26

The Desert Classic AC

Mission Hills Country Club Rancho Mirage, CA Paul T Bennett | 602-956-8966 kd7kdo@yahoo.com 1/9/26 – 1/11/26

NCC Club A6W Singles

National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, FL Tim McCormick | 207-329-5343 tmccorm1@gmail.com 1/14/26 – 1/15/26

Handicap Adjuster Sarasota Sarasota County Croquet Club Venice, FL Webster Bull | 978-985-3206 websterbull@gmail.com 1/15/26 – 1/18/26

Women’s Annual GC Open

National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, FL Priscilla Flowers | 828-421-3543 pmflowers375@gmail.com

The Jones

1/28/26 – 2/1/26

Beach Club Invitational

The Beach Club Palm Beach, FL Jane Casey | 203-570-1866 rjntkc@gmail.com

February 2026 2/5/26 – 2/8/26

Flagler Cup A6W

Grand Haven Croquet Club Palm Coast, FL Dorothy Silliman | 561-676-7152 dmsilliman@hotmail.com 2/9/26 – 2/9/26

US Open GC Pro-Am

National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, FL Brian Hovis | 561-478-0760 tournament@uscroquet.com 2/10/26 – 2/14/26

US Open GC

National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, FL Bill Simmons Jr | 908-625-9189 bjsjr1957@comcast.net 2/15/26 – 2/16/26

Kamal Cup: USA vs. Egypt (GC) Mountain Lake Croquet Club Lake Wales, FL Brian Hovis | 561-478-0760 tournament@uscroquet.com 2/15/26 – 2/18/26

Women’s AC National Championship

National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, FL Brian Hovis | 561-478-0760 tournament@uscroquet.com 2/19/26 – 2/22/26

USCA Women’s A6W National Championship

National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, FL Brian Hovis | 561-478-0760 tournament@uscroquet.com 2/20/26 – 2/22/26

The GC Shootout

USCA FL Regional GC Championship

National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, FL Brian Hovis | 561-478-0760 tournament@uscroquet.com 3/5/26 – 3/8/26

Blaine Davis Invitational

Gasparilla Mallet Club Boca Grande, FL Hans Peterson| 978-929-9000 hanspeterson9000@gmail.com 3/13/26 – 3/15/26

SCCC Club A6W Singles Championship

Sarasota County Croquet Club Venice, FL Hans Peterson| 978-929-9000 hanspeterson9000@gmail.com 3/13/26 – 3/15/26

USCA Croquet Week GC Tournament

National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, FL 561-478-0760 tournament@uscroquet.com 3/19/26 – 3/22/26

USCA Club Teams A6W

National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, FL 561-478-0760 tournament@uscroquet.com 3/25/26 – 3/27/26

WGCA Women’s International Friendship Cup (GC)

National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, FL Marc H Stearns | 562-762-5400 mstearns2@bellsouth.net 3/27/26 – 3/29/26

SCCC Club AC Singles Championship

Sarasota County Croquet Club Venice, FL Hans Peterson| 978-929-9000 hanspeterson9000@gmail.com

April 2026 4/8/26 – 4/11/26

Albemarle Croquet Club GC Open

Sarasota County Croquet Club Venice, FL Hans Peterson| 978-929-9000 hanspeterson9000@gmail.com

Albemarle Croquet Club Belvidere, NC Adam Lassiter | 252-326-1231 adamllassiter@gmail.com

2/23/26 – 2/28/26

4/9/26 – 4/12/26

Mission Hills Invitational A6W Mission Hills Country Club Rancho Mirage, CA Nicholas Gray | 760-770-2052 nickgray723@comcast.net 2/25/26 – 3/1/26

The Steuber Classic A6W & GC National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, FL Loretta Cooper | 609-941-5057 Loretta@coopergroupnj.com 2/26/26 – 2/28/26

SCCC Club A6W Doubles Championship

Sarasota County Croquet Club Venice, FL Hans Peterson| 978-929-9000 hanspeterson9000@gmail.com

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Grand Haven Loggerhead Open

Grand Haven Croquet Club Palm Coast, FL Dorothy Silliman | 561-676-7152 dmsilliman@hotmail.com

4/16/26 – 4/18/26

9/13/26 – 9/19/26

Wyndemere Country Club Naples, FL Jennifer Joseph | 614-288-6098 jandjoseph@aol.com

National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, FL 561-478-0760 tournament@uscroquet.com

Florida Southwest District Golf Croquet Championship

4/23/26 – 4/26/26

USCA Women’s GC Qualifier National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, FL Brian Hovis | 561-478-0760 tournament@uscroquet.com 4/30/26 – 5/3/26

Croquet Fools

Portland Croquet Club, Grandview Lawn Bowls Club Vancouver, B.C., Canada Patrick Sweeney | 503-452-2191 sweeney@503law.com

May 2026

5/7/26 – 5/10/26

NC Open AC Championship Pinehurst Country Club Pinehurst, NC Mike Taylor | 910-986-3343 mrtaylor1022@gmail.com 5/14/26 – 5/16/26

Albemarle Croquet Club GC Doubles Open

Albemarle Croquet Club Belvidere, NC Adam Lassiter | 252-326-1231 adamllassiter@gmail.com 5/21/26 – 5/24/26

Blue Crab A6W Tournament Chesapeake Bay Croquet Club Hartfield, VA Macey White maceywhite@gmail.com 5/21/26 – 5/24/26

2026 Rockfish GC Tournament Chesapeake Bay Croquet Club Hartfield, VA Macey White maceywhite@gmail.com

June 2026

6/4/26 – 6/7/26

ScissorTail Oklahoma Championship

Oklahoma City Golf & Country Club Nichols Hills, OK Suzanne Spradling | 405-590-7264 sshawsprad@cox.net 6/11/26 – 6/14/26

Southeast Regional A6W Championship 2026

Chesapeake Bay Croquet Club Hartfield, VA Linda Trifone | 601-955-6227 l.trifone@gmail.com

August 2026

8/7/26 – 8/9/26

NCC Club GC Singles

Rochester Invitational A6W Croquet Tournament

4/12/26 – 4/18/26

September 2026

4/11/26 – 4/12/26

National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, FL Julia Johnston | 561-852-1413 medstone100@me.com

USCA Association Laws National Championship

Sarasota County Croquet Club Venice, FL Brian Hovis | 561-478-0760 tournament@uscroquet.com

G&T Sports Park Hilton, NY Richard G Curtis | 585-461-2365 rgcrover@aol.com 9/4/26 – 9/7/26

NC State A6W Singles Championship

Albemarle Croquet Club Belvidere, NC Adam Lassiter | 252-326-1231 adamllassiter@gmail.com

USCA Golf Croquet National Championship

October 2026 10/1/26 – 10/4/26

Albemarle Croquet Club Fall GC Open Albemarle Croquet Club Belvidere, NC Elaine Smith | 330-231-1071 elainesmith8543@gmail.com 10/4/26 – 10/10/26

USCA A6W National Championship

National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, FL 561-478-0760 tournament@uscroquet.com 10/15/26 – 10/18/26

North American Open GC Tournament

Chesapeake Bay Croquet Club Hartfield, VA Macey White | – maceywhite@gmail.com 10/20/26 – 10/23/26

WGCA Women’s Doubles Open at Albemarle

Albemarle Croquet Club Belvidere, NC 561-478-0760 tournament@uscroquet.com 10/24/26 – 10/27/26

USCA Selection Eights (AC) National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, FL 561-478-0760 tournament@uscroquet.com

November 2026 11/4/26 – 11/8/26

USCA Seniors & Masters (A6W) National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, FL 561-478-0760 tournament@uscroquet.com 11/13/26 – 11/15/26

The GC Shark Tooth Open

Sarasota County Croquet Club Venice, FL Hans Peterson| 978-929-9000 hanspeterson9000@gmail.com 11/19/26 – 11/22/26

USCA GC Seniors & Masters National Croquet Center West Palm Beach, FL 561-478-0760 tournament@uscroquet.com

December 2026 12/3/26 – 12/6/26

USCA GC Club Teams

Sarasota County Croquet Club Venice, FL 561-478-0760 tournament@uscroquet.com 12/11/26 – 12/13/26 The Holiday Classic Sarasota County Croquet Club Venice, FL Nancy Hart | 803-530-2035 nh13sc@gmail.com

USCA SCHOOLS AT THE NATIONAL CROQUET CENTER

Our schools are taught by top USCA-certified instructors who are qualified and experienced players selected by our staff because of their croquet expertise and ability to communicate to those who wish to learn to play the game correctly. Students will have the opportunity to play croquet in a structured environment. Classes are small (8:1 or less student-to-teacher ratio) and are tailored to the specific playing levels of the participants.

AMERICAN 6W (3 days) Jan 20-22, 2026 Mar 03-05, 2026 Oct 20-22, 2026

GOLF CROQUET (2 days) December 2-3, 2025 February 3-4, 2026 March 4-5, 2026 April 7-8, 2026 October 6-7, 2026 December 1-2, 2026

ASSOCIATION (2 days) October 13-14, 2026

USCA SCHOOLS INCLUDE:

5 hours/day of on-court instruction Use of equipment Official Rulebook (New A6W or GC members) USCA Shot-making Manual (1st time A6W)

United States Croquet Association 700 Florida Mango Rd, West Palm Beach, FL. 33406

Daily Continental Breakfast and Lunches Certificate of Completion & Photograph Wine and Cheese Graduation Party

www.croquetamerica.com 561.478.0760

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Proud sponsor of the 2025 WCF AC World Championships www.croquetstore.com 60 | www.croquetamerica.com

Toll Free 866-364-8895

2025 Croquet News Volume 4: Reg Rules in Florida