Mention the word tennis around Sharen Solomon and her passion for the sport becomes instantly apparent, if not contagious.
"I'm just really into tennis ... a tennis fanatic," she admits.
That she and her husband John spent their honeymoon at the U.S. Open shouldn't come as a surprise.
But fast-forward 25 years, and the irony begins for the couple.
In search for new competition, the Marblehead resident entered a USTA Flex League, and, as a bonus, was automatically placed into a national sweepstakes. Prizes included numerous on-line gift certificates ranging from $50-500, as well as a highly attractive Grand Prize, especially for a tennis fan.
"I've never won anything," said Solomon, referring to the time before this past January, when she experienced quite a reversal of fortune.
Courtesy of the USTA, the Solomons will be enjoying their 25th wedding anniversary with an all-inclusive, two night stay in the place where it all began: New York, for the 2010 U.S. Open.
"I'm just really excited. I haven't been back for 25 years, and I'm sure a lot has changed," said Solomon. "It should be fun."
Perhaps the tennis gods are repaying her for the countless hours she's dedicated to the sport, both as a player and instructor.
As a Witch City native, Solomon's tennis career began at Salem High School. Afterward, she went on to play at the University of Tampa, where she met her husband.
Yet, Solomon's tennis involvement was just beginning upon graduation.
The Flex League, which matches up local competitors of similar skill levels, is just one of many ways Solomon currently satisfies her healthy tennis appetite. She also plays year-round as a member of Bass River in Beverly, which houses indoor courts.
But Solomon extends her tennis passion beyond just personal play. She also coaches the JV team at Marblehead High.
"I just like helping the kids learn to play the game of tennis, learn to love and enjoy the game of tennis as I do," said Solomon. "I love the game of tennis and I can pass that on, which is great."
Possibly rivaling her affection for the game is her feelings toward Marblehead's no-cut policy, which affords any player who wants to play, regardless of skill level, a spot on the JV squad.
"I feel strongly about the policy," said the coach. "That's what made the decision to get involved. I wanted as many kids as possible to be involved, and for everyone to have a chance to play. It's such a great lifetime sport."
Whether karma, or simply pure luck, no one can deny the irony of the trip. Or Solomon's excitement.
Though she has no one player in mind, she can't wait to again see her favorite sport at a professional level. Stir in a Broadway play or two, and the couple has quite an anniversary ahead for themselves.
"I'm so into tennis, it will be an absolutely wonderful time," said Solomon.
