Racketlon returns to North America this coming weekend, with the fifth edition of the Massachusetts Racket Masters. While the geo-political climate between the US and Canada is being tested, racketlon will bring together players from both sides of the border for a weekend of fun, spirited competition.
Men’s Singles
The elite men’s draw has 12 entries, the biggest number ever, highlighting the growth of Racketlon USA. This growth has largely been driven by Patrick Moran, and his unquenchable quest to grow the pool of quality players in the USA.
Moran is seeded one, but may face Canadian Jeremy Easterbrook in the second round. The national level badminton player, who reached a World Racketlon ranking of 62 back in 2018, is likely to cause some headaches for Patrick Moran. But it’s another Patrick who is tipped to win the men’s elite singles draw.
“Pat Laplante is the 🐐 [Greatest Of All Time] of Canadian Racketlon! He was under 21 world champ and at his peak he was top 10 in the world skill wise! Not far off that now!” said Patrick Moran.
Despite the respect for the Canadian, Moran and his national teammates are up for the fight. He declared, “The Americans are coming for Laplante! Could this be the year?”
Catching up with Laplante before the tournament, he said he was “Really excited to play and have great competition. The American players are improving every year and it gets more and more challenging, which is what I’m looking for!”
Laplante is in the same quarter of the draw as second seed Andrew Leung. Leung is a very talented squash player, allowing Léon Mamié just one point in the squash set in Hong Kong.
Also in the bottom half of the draw with Laplante and Leung is number 4 seed, Jonathan Gill.
Follow the Men’s Singles draw on Tournament Software.
Women’s Singles
It’s hard to see anybody being able to stand in the way of Stephanie Chung lifting her first FIR elite singles title. That said, the World Number 6 isn’t looking to take it easy and has also entered the Men’s A singles and doubles draws.
The other competitors in the 4-player box are Julia Virovlyansky, Clara Lehv and Mary Gu, who are all Americans.
Clara Lehv is tipped to go undefeated in the squash this weekend, but Steph’s experience across all four racquet sports will make her very tough to beat!
Follow the Women’s Singles draw on Tournament Software.
As has been the case in past years, the tournament is a fundraiser for the Smith College Squash team. Team members will not only take care of the tournament desk and registrations, but will also be competing in their own first timers bracket.
The stage is set, and we’re getting ready for a great weekend of racketlon in Northampton, Massachusetts.
Written with contributions from Andy Stenson & Patrick Moran.
