Were you satisfied with the inaugural Derby Day Tournament?
SZ: Satisfied would be an understatement. A lot of people said that three tournaments in one year was too much. "Who can dedicate three Saturdays to shuffleboard?" they asked. I think the answer is clear. Not everyone can make all three tournaments. However, there is definitely room on the schedule for a May Tournament. Derby Day falls on the perfect weekend.
It's been said you were flexible in scheduling. Are there any lessons learned for next year?
SZ: It's absolutely clear: Once you start playing into May, some people will have conflicts with Little League, softball coaching, horse racing, etc. We support dedicated parents and horse owner's who want to keep their other commitments. When we can, we are perfectly willing to juggle our schedule to help our players.
How does your tournament measure up against March Madness and The Masters?
SZ: Our tournament just completed it's first year. It would be silly to measure us against other tournaments with such stature and history.
How would you rate the level of competition at Derby Day?
SZ: Again, this was our first season. I felt the talent level was fine. It wasn't overwhelming, and we certainly hope to step it up a bit next year. I think March Madness has the most talent year in and year out. However, The Masters had an impressive eight team field this year.
Speaking of eight team fields, is that a trend for the future?
SZ: It's too early to tell. The Masters was kind of forced to limit the field this year, due to Easter weekend. I think both tournament formats have advantages. We may expand to twelve teams next year. We will make that decision sometime before New Year's Day. If we go to twelve, we will give each of our Top Four from this year a first round bye.
What are you happiest about regarding this year's tournament?
SZ: Six or Eight people entered with no idea what they were getting themselves into. They left ecstatic, and ready for next year. I feel it's an important part of my position to introduce more youngsters to the traditions of table shuffleboard. It's a great game. We want to keep the future bright.
What does the Triple Crown of Shuffleboard have in store for the rest of 2012?
SZ: It's tough to say. We're very happy with how the first TCoS played out. We're also thrilled to have Rick G. win the Triple Crown. I'm sure there will be informal games throughout the Spring/Summer at all three sites. There has been talk of a Fall Series, but most of that depends on our television partners.You'll see blog updates periodically.
One final question: what's the outlook for 2013?
SZ; I think the futures of both table shuffleboard in general and the TCoS in particular are bright. Obviously, we are all holding our breath with regards to The Masters and their site issues. We hope to be shooting on the long board the April 13th, 2013.
Thanks. I enjoyed the interview. Best wishes for the rest of 2012!
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