That electricity was clearly in the air on May 18-22, as a palpable mix of nervous energy and excitement filled the building during the 2011 New England US Open National Playoffs. At stake was an invitation to live a dream shared by anyone who has ever led a racquet - an opportunity to play in the US Open in New York City.

 

 

Read a running blog from the 2011 New England Sectional Qualifying Tournament at the Yale Tennis Center in New Haven, CT. Blake Strode won the men's title, Lena Litvak won the women's title and Strode and Whitney Jones won mixed doubles.

Shawn Cormier is a long shot. A really long shot. Cormier, a 44-year-old former college tennis player from East Brookfield, competed in the 2011 USTA New England Sectional Qualifying Tournament for a chance to play in the US Open.