Junior Profiles: Scotty Safford and Ryan Hissey

The names Safford and Hissey may ring a bell for some of you because they are second and third generation paddle players out of the Philadelphia area. Scott’s parents, Tom and Leila, are accomplished players, as is Ryan’s mom, Laurie. Ryan’s uncle and grandmother are former national champs. Scotty and Ryan are following in their family’s footsteps by trying to make a name for themselves in the paddle world!

Between football, baseball and golf, it’s little wonder Scott and Ryan have any time to play paddle, but finding time and competing at a high level is something these two boys have been able to do quite well. They were the runners-up in the Junior National Championships in the 10- and-under age group last January. They also had success winning the Philadelphia Open 12s in 2001 and 2002, and in the Viking Cup lOs and 12s regional play.

Both boys follow the Phillies, Eagles and Sixers. They both say math is their favorite subject. Maybe that’s why they are so good at working out the angles and the geometry on the paddle court!