The Southern California 3 wall state championships in memory of Jr. Vasquez were held, for the first time at Smith Park in San Gabriel. After 2 years off because of covid , this tournament is back . This was the 17th annual event. The final pitted Last tournament A division winners Dylan Hernandez and Daniel Badillo against first timers in the event the father and son team of Bryan and Chris Watkins. Leading up to the finals Chris and son made two miraculous come from behind wins. Than again, fought back in second game (21,20) final to force tie breaker. They just didn’t have enough gas to close it out. But what a great father and son bonding experience.
We barbecued Sat and Sun. the food was free to anyone in attendance. There was plenty of shade provided and lots of action for two days. We gave away $2600 dollars in prize money spread through almost all divisions. This was also the first year of the one hundred division, Which was won by another father and son team of Brian Medina and father Luis Medina. There a tough team to beat.
On sunday the juniors had a great time. They received free entry, Owen Gloves, USHA headbands, barbecue, trophies, tournament shirt, and competition. After regular tournament they made their own doubles mini tournament. It was good to see them really enjoying the perfect game.
I’d like to thank our sponsors without which this would not be possible. Mark Shelgren, Chris Watkins, Bo Kinelli, Jimmy Mendoza, Ben Lee, Tavomatic repair shop, Harolds smog shop, Terry Oreily, Larry Borunda, SCHA, Octavio Martinez, hope i didn’t forget anyone.
Special thanks to to Zamora family and Martinez family for all their hard work before tournament, during, and after. And thanks to the players that were willing to help out just because that’s how we do it.
– Tom Martinez
