UNITED STATES QUAD RUGBY ASSOCIATION

December, 2005

Valdosta Cup 16 
by Spokes Ableman
photos courtesy of James Heath

“Seven, six, five, four, three…, well, the clock wasn’t working.  Is that the big story of Valdosta this year, Helmet Head?”  Asked my sarcastic buddy Spokes Ableman. 

“No way, Spokes,” I replied.  “This tournament, in spite of more troubles than ever before, was very successful.” 

“Well, no Kirkland, no Buckingham, no Boxell, no Atlanta, no TNT.  How do you figure, HH?” 

“Valdosta has always been a developmental tournament, Spokes.  Great teams have cut their teeth in Valdosta.  Tampa, Lakeshore, Tennessee.  It’s also the longest running tournament in the country.  I believe it’s the 16^th Cup because it was first started in 1989.” 

“And what about Hoveround, HH?” 

“We strive for greatness, Ableman.”

“Saw some new guys up there that looked pretty good.  Who’s this Wooly-Bully or whatever the heck they call him in the bay area?   He’s about as obscure as the lyrics to that song, but he took MVP playing with the new developmental team from Albany, the Southwest Georgia Storm.” 

“That’s right, Spokes.  Ryan “Bully” Lindstrom played on that team via the Tampa team, and he played long and hard.” 

“Who said anything about his play.  The nickname is what makes him.” 

“Spokes, stop.” 

“Ok, Joel Wilmoth looked good playing for Lakeshore.  Fast, big.  And “Best Newcomer” of the tourney.  And Bobby L was working hard as always.  Rudy and the Postman tied for “Best Pickers,” but you know what really struck me, HH?” 

“No, what, oh great wizard?” 

“Do I denote an air of smart-assy-ness from you, Helmet Head? 

“Anyway, what really struck me was the great time the players from Albany had playing, even limited minutes.  You quads get so caught up in Team USA and National Titles that you sometimes lose sight of what awesome fun it is to play this game.  You know, HH, if you play this game the way it is meant to be played, all those bigger goals will come and you’ll have a blast getting there and playing – just like Blaze Mitchell (Spirit of the Game winner), Heather Futton and Derek Wooten of the Storm.” 

“Ableman, I hate when you make sense.  There is also the fact that this tournament got valuable playing time for players that might not otherwise play a lot.  So, it was very successful from many aspects.” 

“And don’t forget, HH, you couldn’t do it without Lowndes County Parks and Rec, and all the great volunteers, referees, and last but not least Mike White from Chick Fl A who comes through every year.” 

“Good job all!  See you next year.”

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