Gambill Becomes a Summer Lobster
June 27, 2008 - World TeamTennis (WTT)
Boston Lobsters News Release
In April, the Boston Lobsters returned from the annual World TeamTennis (WTT) draft in Miami with an ATP star to lead the team.
Jan-Michael Gambill, winner of five doubles titles and three ATP singles titles with victories over Number 1 ranked players including Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, Jim Courier and Lleyton Hewitt, will proudly wear the red and white Lobsters uniform this summer.
"[I've] played against the Lobsters last year and have been to Boston a few times," Gambill said. "I look forward to discovering Boston this summer. I know that Boston has a rich history as one of the oldest American cities."
This will be Gambill's 4th season playing World TeamTennis, capitalizing on another opportunity to compete in this unique league.
"Obviously there's the team factor that's different," he said. "The scoring system is different. The crowds are louder and it's a fun atmosphere. Not to say the ATP tournaments aren't fun, but it's a different kind of fun when the [fans] get involved."
When the Lobster's season comes to an end, Gambill will continue to improve his game.
"I'll be looking to get into some summer tournaments," he said. "I've been [caught] up with some injuries that I'm getting over, but hopefully they won't surface during my Lobsters season. I'll be looking to have a decent run in some summer events."
When the WTT season ends in late July, Gambill also plans to pursue other passions he already began exploring.
"I've started getting involved in acting and modeling so I'll be looking to do more of that," he said.
Ready, Set, Ferncroft
The first match is only a few weeks away. The bleachers are built. The court is painted. And the balls are stocked. The new home of the Boston Lobsters at the Ferncroft Country Club in Middleton, Massachusetts is ready for the 2008 season.
"It's amazing how everything is coming along so quickly," said Bahar Uttam, owner of the Boston Lobsters. "We are just more than a week out and Ferncroft is ready for the Lobsters."
The new venue, that can seat more than 1,500 fans, promises to be one of the best outdoor venues in New England.
"We'll also have a vendor village and entertainment for everyone," Uttam said. "It will be a wonderful place for a family to spend a summer evening."
In addition to the main court, the Ferncroft venue also includes the Woodman's Village, where vendors and sponsors will display their products. Food and beverages will also be available in the Woodman's Village. It will open to the public two hours prior to every home match.
"I'm excited to see the Lobsters perform on our new court," said John Mayotte, the Boston Lobsters' General Manager.
The bright red, orange, green and blue-colored court has become a World TeamTennis trademark.
"The colorful court adds to the fan-centric atmosphere of our matches," Uttam said. "Our goal is to entertain our fans while they watch world-class tennis athletes play the game they love. We are ready for them to come out and enjoy themselves."
Every Match: Advanta Racquet Giveaway!
World TeamTennis and Advanta are promoting youth fitness and introducing kids to tennis with the "Ready, Set, Racquet!" program. All kids 4-16 will receive a free racquet, tennis ball, and cover, compliments of Advanta. Since 2003, Advanta has distributed more than 135,000 free racquets to kids.
As If the Tennis Weren't Enough
Gates open 2 hours prior to match time
Fans coming to the Ferncroft Country Club this year will watch world-class tennis players performing at the highest level of the sport, as they cheer on their Boston Lobsters. But the entertainment doesn't end there. They will get something extra during every home match this season: Live music and dance performances before the match and during halftime.
July 7 @ 7 PM vs. Delaware Smash
presented by Herald Media, Inc.
Come see Ernie and the Automatics and National Anthem singer Erica Perry Singer, a junior at Bridgewater State College. She has performed the National Anthem at the Fleet Center, Fenway Park, and many North Shore events. Creative Movement, a dance troupe of out Waltham, performs at half time.
July 10 @ 7 PM vs. Philadelphia Freedoms with Venus Williams (PHL) SOLD OUT
presented by Joan Norton Financial Services
Hit songwriter and nationally recognized artist Charlie Farren performs the National Anthem. Farren, founding member and lead singer of his band Farrenheit, has performed with Aerosmith guitarist Joe Perry and with The Joe Perry Project.
Also, Grace Kelly will be showcasing her unbelievable saxophone talent. She's played in jazz festivals from Norway to Korea, sells albums on iTunes and has already played with countless jazz legends - and she just turned 16.
July 12 @ 7 PM vs. New York Buzz
North Shore Tennis Appreciation Night
Ayla Brown, a Wrentham native, sings the national anthem. Brown is a Boston College basketball stand-out and former American Idol contestant. In addition, Michael Mercier, a nationally recognized award-winning USPTA wheelchair tennis pro will be conducting a wheelchair tennis exhibition.
July 13 @ 4 PM vs. New York Sportimes - Family Day
presented by Polar Beverages
Free kids tennis clinic @ 2 PM
There's something for kids of all ages; a USTA clinic conducted by Lobsters coach Tim Mayotte, interactive games, autograph signings by Lobsters' players, and free giveaways! The clinic will feature the USTA Quickstart format, designed to help younger players and juniors get started playing tennis. The North Shore Youth Performance Choir performs.
July 16 @ 7 PM vs. Springfield Laser with Martina Navratilova (BOS)
presented by William Berry and Son, Inc.
Candy O'Terry is the popular Magic 106.7FM personality and creator and co-host of the Gracie Award Winning radio show, Exceptional Women. She will sing the Anthem, which she has done at many Boston sporting events. She will perform songs including "The Gift" and "Valentine." At the VIP lounge, Kirsten & Dave will perform their new hits. They have opened for Chris and Meredith Thompson, Paul Rishell & Annie Raines, and most recently, Guy Davis.
July 18 @ 7 PM vs. Washington Kastles
Business Networking Night
Come see Girl Authority sing the National Anthem and perform at halftime! Girl Authority is a group of young girls with a passion for performing. They will be joined by Woburn City Band, which will perform at the Woodman's Vendor Village.
July 19 @ 7 PM vs. Newport Beach Breakers with Martina Navratilova (BOS)
presented by Beverly Hospital
Candy O'Terry retunes for another performance. Randy Snow, former number 1 world wheelchair tennis player, will be recognized for his motivational speaking. He is a Fortune 500 speaker and a Gold Medalist.
World TeamTennis Stories from June 27, 2008
- Gambill Becomes a Summer Lobster - Boston Lobsters
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