Viking Cup Adult/Child Event is emblematic of the spirit of the game

Credit went to David Kjeldsen, CEO of Viking Athletics for supporting the event that had become immensely popular and a breeding ground for future top players.

Carly Swain covered the event for Platform Tennis News.

“There is always one moment in childhood when the door opens and lets the future in.”- Graham Greene

David Kjeldsen, CEO of Viking Athletics has opened that door for junior paddle players and for the future of the sport. For three consecutive years, David has been the moving force that has turned the Viking Cup Adult/Child Tournament into a major national event on the paddle scene. During the month of October, 10 local tournaments were held in six different states. Two hundred fifty juniors and seniors participated in these local “play-downs.” Entries were up 20% from 1997. Each individual who entered received a Viking T-shirt and hat as well as a copy of “How to Play Platform Tennis” by Dick Squires. Viking Athletics also gave balls for all tournament play. The winners from each site came together at the Fox Meadow Club in Scarsdale, NY in November for the finals.

Fox Meadow is known as the “home of platform tennis” and seems to have now also become the “home of the Viking Cup.” It is centrally located to several other area clubs, has eight courts that the membership generously gives up for the day, and boasts a warm and friendly clubhouse where breakfast and lunch can be served. Newly added to the finals this year were winners from Baltimore and Pittsburgh. The largest local play-down (all 12- and-under) was held at Navesink Country Club in New Jersey by teaching pro Chris Gambino. And they therefore got to send the biggest contingent of winners to Fox Meadow. Representatives from all the sites and age divisions displayed excellent competitive skills. In the end, however, all the top honors went to junior/senior teams from the Philadelphia area. All three age divisions were won by players from the well subscribed Aronomink tournament, organized by Laurie Hissey.

Source: Platform Tennis News, Mid-Winter 1999, article by Carly Swain

In the same issue, Laurie Hissey reflected on David’s contribution to junior paddle:

“While sitting at Fox Meadow watching the Third Annual Viking Cup, the impact David Kjeldsen has had on junior paddle really hit me. David has sponsored the Viking Cup for the last three years, and this wonderful event is one of the big reasons my children are so “into” paddle. Before this event, there was no “reason,” no goal, for the kids to work toward. We have had so much fun getting ready for game days, that now we get out throughout the season. Whenever you see a successful event, you know there is someone behind the scenes keeping everything on track. This is definitely the case here. Robin Fulton and Caryl Swain do a fabulous job coordinating and running the local and national events. But any time there was a problem or question, David Kjeldsen came through. Nothing fazed him. Dave, once again, I want to thank you for your enthusiasm, your commitment, and your support. You have truly been a catalyst for junior paddle. Good job.”

Source: Platform Tennis News, Mid-Winter 1999, Letter from Laurie Hissey