WACO, TEXAS – On Saturday, November 11, the Texas Tennis Museum and Hall of Fame hosted its 2017 Annual Banquet, "You've come a long way, baby".  The evening, which honored 2017 Hall of Fame inductees: Beverly Bowes-Hackney, Tommy Connell, Dr. Lewis Hilley and John Zimmerman, was attended by more than 140 museum supporters.

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The day's activities began with the Waco Showdown, a USTA Pro Circuit at the Hurd Tennis Center. Banquet attendees enjoyed a screening of a PBS documentary that highlighted a string of Texas events, including the Virginia Slims Circuit and the Battle of the Sexes, that paved the way for generations of women both on and off the tennis court. 

 

Jim Chaffin, secretary/treasurer of the Museum, opened the program with a welcome to all guests.  John Verde acted as Master of Ceremonies. After dinner, Ashley Weinhold, current WTA touring pro and actress in the recently released movie Battle of the Sexes shared her experiences on the women's tour and the movie set. Molly Hamilton and Lynn McAllister were both recognized for their dedication to the museum. 

 

During the induction, a special video of each inductee, produced by USTA Texas, was screened and followed by an introduction of the inductee. Each was given the chance to say a few words and awarded a certificate, medallion and blue blazer signifying enshrinement into the Texas Tennis Hall of Fame.  

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Photos from the event are available in the gallery below.

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