Cheers for tennis fans

Earlier this month, the wonderfully enthusiastic fans of Portland who packed the Memorial Coliseum witnessed the United States capturing its first Davis Cup title in 12 years (and its record 32nd overall), defeating Russia in an unforgettable clash of tennis super powers. I know that everyone who attended those three days of tennis took home with them a lifetime of memories.

On behalf of the U.S. Tennis Association, I want to thank the great city of Portland for its warm and welcoming hospitality and its world-class effort in hosting this event.

Throughout the months-long process of bringing the Davis Cup to the Rose City, at every turn in the weeks leading up to the event, and throughout those three days, the people of Portland were remarkable in their support, proving themselves time and again as unfailingly gracious hosts.

There are so many people to thank for the great success of the 2007 Davis Cup final — an endless procession of officials, staff, volunteers and fans whose exemplary efforts and endless enthusiasm made this event one of the best ever.

I’d like to offer a special thank you to Mayor Tom Potter for his support, and to Mike Scanlon, Mike Golub and Drew Mahalic, who worked so hard to bring Davis Cup back to this beautiful city.

Like the U.S. team, you all put forth a championship effort.

JANE BROWN GRIMES
Chairman of the board and president United States Tennis Association
White Plains, N.Y.

 – Letter to the Editor, The Oregonian, December 13, 2007