By Scott Roblin

Hellers share special bond, even on opposite sides of court

Sep 9, 2018 | 7:35 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – Over the last few years, the Heller name has been synonymous with success in the local tennis circle.

That was no different over the weekend, as three members of the Hellers made a run at the Medicine Hat Tennis Club’s annual Mixed Doubles Open to wrap up the summer season.

The husband-wife duo of Calvin and Tracy Heller ran the table to take home the championship in the open division, beating the team of Kassie Bourassa and Cory Streifel in straight sets 6-3, 7-6.

However, an equally special game for the Hellers came in the semi-final on Saturday, when they matched up against their son Mitch and his partner Kristen Norris.

While the younger team of Heller and Norris put up an admirable fight, it was Calvin and Tracy coming away with the win and advancing to the next round.

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Calvin joked that he’ll be reminding his son about their latest meeting for the next few weeks.

“I maybe got a little more swagger right now,” said Calvin. “But, that was special to win that with him too. To be able to knock them off today, I’ll keep it fresh in his mind for a while.”

Mitch, who won the Barry Shave Memorial Classic with his father earlier in the year, added it’s nothing out of the usual.

“I’m used to it, they keep winning everything,” said Mitch. “So we’ll see, maybe next year I’ll snag a few from them.”

After spending a few years away from the sport, Mitch has picked up the racquet again and said he’s rediscovered his love for tennis.

That’s something that Calvin said he takes pride in, seeing his sons invested in the same sport he loves playing.

“As kids you get them involved because you’re involved,” said Calvin. “Now it’s nice that they’re adults and choose to remain involved. So, it’s just a way to spend time with them, play a competitive sport on the court, and enjoy each other.”

Reina and Jordan Schibler were victorious in the open division consolation final, defeating Carla and Mark Thorogood 6-4, 4-6, 6-4.

The intermediate division championship was won by the team of Dawn Olson and Messele Fentabil, who took down Roberta and Lydell Wenzel in straight sets (6-3, 6-4).

As for the intermediate consolation championship, Lily and Gary Laurent beat Margaret Klok and Noel Thomas 6-3, 7-5 to win the title.