Crosstown Rivals Band Together For Success

Captain calls upon members of team with gay players

By Andrew Meyers/USTA Southern Intern

Last year Gregg Coldiron and Allen Webb were rival captains for notably different teams. This year members of the Atlanta 4.5 team say their differences off the court have been a major reason for their successes on the court.

“We were always known as the gay team from Piedmont Park,” said captain Greg Coldiron. “No one wanted to lose to us, but at the same time we didn’t lose often.”

The team from Piedmont had a rivalry with the cross-town team from the Bitsy Grant Tennis Center. Coldiron explained “We played against each other a lot, and every time we played the scores were always close. We became rivals.”

Webb, the captain of the Bitsy Grant team was forced to make a decision last year. He had several players moved up to 5.0, and was forced either to move his whole team up to 5.0 or find other players. After a disappointing season at 5.0, Webb knew that he wanted to play 4.5. Webb then decided to call Coldiron to see about the two former rivals possible joining their teams.

Wanting to take that next step, both sides agreed to join up and form a team that could not only win City and States but possibly the Section Championships. After a disappointing loss in the city tournament, the new team earned a wildcard into States. Not expecting to win, they were a surprise to everyone. Pulling off upset after upset, the team who had only been playing together for one season, was able to earn a spot at the USTA League Southern Section Championships.

Even though there may be some differences within the team, their love of tennis is why they continue to play together. “We are different but diversity is a good thing. We are all good friends, and we do a lot off the court together,” explained Coldiron. “This team has been the most enjoyable experience I have ever had on any league team,” said Allen. “Unlike some teams I have been on in the past, we never have internal fights or arguments.”

For this team, the transition from rivals to teammates has been an easy one. No matter their own individual differences, this team from Atlanta enjoys tennis together.