Courtside with Damon Bidencope

CroquetNews 2021 Volume 3

Reaching Out, Touching You

This may sound like a rearrangement of the well-known Neil Diamond 1969 song “Sweet Caroline.” It is however apropos of efforts being made by many of your fellow dedicated members, volunteers and your association. The song reflects on lonesomeness that loosely parallels the recent period of limited activity with COVID-19 and the longing for the normal fellowship and camaraderie we share within our croquet community. The good news: we are writing new verses and bouncing back. Our USCA titled events are attracting keen interest and strong fields. Upcoming USCA Regionals and National Championships offer an opportunity to reconnect with friends, learn through competition or, for the recently converted croquet players, learn by observing the top players. These upcoming top events include: • Mid-Atlantic Regional (6W): August 27-29 at Green Gables Croquet Club, NJ • National Championship (GC): September 1-5 at CBCC, Hartfield, VA • Midwest Regional (6W): September 3-6 at Tulsa Croquet Club, OK • National Championship (6W): October 10-16 at NCC West Palm Beach, FL • Selection Eights (AC): October 28-31 at NCC West Palm Beach, FL • Seniors/Masters (6W): November 10-14 at NCC West Palm Beach, FL • Club Teams GC: December 3-5 at NCC West Palm Beach, FL While the above events may be the focus of the seasoned and aspiring competitors, opportunities for increasing your croquet knowledge, skill and enjoyment do not, however, require you to travel. We are reaching out across the US and offering instructional school programs at your lawn in all games of croquet with a team of our top-level instructors. So, if you have a half dozen croquet enthusiasts wanting to learn more, contact the USCA’s friendly office staff and we will provide the details. Some glimpses into what this program can provide are included in the "On the Road Again" article included in this issue that features a look at a new croquet gem in the middle of Buckhead, Atlanta. I am delighted to be part of the team moving your association and croquet forward in all its types (6W, AC, GC, 9W) and looking to achieve more than just reaching out. We want to connect and to enrich your croquet experience at your lawn. Sincerely,

Damon Bidencope

Proud USCA Member / USCA President President@uscroquet.com / croquetamerica.com