Miller Tennis Center, Orville's to host area's largest prize money for tourney

The Orville's Home Appliances Men's $3,000 Tournament, Western New York's largest prize money event, will be held at the Miller Tennis Center, 5959 Sheridan Drive, Williamsville, from Friday, Dec. 28 through Sunday, Dec. 30.

The tournament features world-ranked touring professionals and nationally ranked collegiate and junior players from neighboring regions, mixed in with some of the area's top players. The field includes 19-year-old old Rochester sensation Marcus Fugate and University at Buffalo tennis coach Sherif Zaher.

Fugate, who competes on the ATP pro tour, has reached two semifinals and one championship final of the USTA Professional Circuit.

Zaher, Western New York's No. 1 ranked player, is a former member of the University of Georgia's NCAA Division I national championship team. He has competed professionally and played World Team Tennis for the Sacramento Capitals.

First-round action begins at 5 p.m. on Friday. Rounds of 16 matches are scheduled for 2 and 4 p.m. on Saturday followed by the quarterfinals at 6 and 8 p.m.

Semifinals are at 1 p.m. on Sunday followed by the championship match at 4 p.m.

The public is invited, free of charge. Clubhouse seating is available for the first two rounds. Special courtside seating is available to all for the quarterfinals, semifinals and championship match.

For additional information, call the Miller Tennis Center at 632-8600.