We're here! After a really terrific breakfast that Jen made, we loaded up the trailor and packed into the Suburban. Next thing you know we're here in Memphis. Well, here but lost. My co-pilot, Mel missed a couple of roads on the map she was reading.
But, after an hour or so detour and a nice sightseeing drive of all of Memphis, we made it to the Raquet Club of Memphis. Which was nothing like what I pictured! I've never done a mission trip to an indoor tournament! And I learned we didn't have the right promo set-up for our booth, so we'll definitely have to wing it and learn on the fly.
The tennis club member party tonite was pretty cool. Tons of food... sushi, sandwiches, mexican... and amazing desserts. We set up our stuff during the party, then headed out.
Ran into a player I know and spent some time hanging out. She's pretty neat and I look forward to spending more time with her. I really enjoy developing relationships with people.
Our hotel is just 3 miles of so from the tournament, and the park my students will train at is right nearby the hotel. So, we're set! Tons of tennis training, a great hotel, world class tennis, ministry work... good stuff!
Oh, I almost forgot, one of my favorite food places is right next door to the hotel! Worked a deal with the GM and agreed to promote his place at the tournament. Normally I'd ask $2000-$5000 to promote a brand, but I LOVE this place and we were already in town... so we agreed on free food for the week for me, my academy, my staff, and Sue!
Thanks for your prayers! They are much appreciated and needed. I'll try to check back in tomorrow and bring some neat pics with me. Rachel Snelen's pics from her mission trip to Canada are fantastic! 'Tel earned her WTA ranking there, which is a first for her country and is being heavily promoted. So glad for her.
Finally, remember we're heading to the Pac Life Open soon. The Pac Life is the world's 6th largest pro tournament. I'm beyond thrilled to go to California... and we're also going to the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas this trip!! My tennis academy students are going to have a BLAST! Me, too!
Growing the game and spreading His fame,
Scott Paschal
www.christiantennis.net
