29 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com “I’ve had some of my best friends come out of ball crew,” shared Kusmider. “I also love working with the rookies since I’m in charge. Seeing them get as excited as I was as a young kid starting out.” For those interested in volunteering, Kusmider said they always need new ball crew members because kids age out and attend college. Moran lauded the efforts of volunteers. “We wouldn’t be able to do this without our volunteers,” he acknowledged. “They’re on the front line.” And despite the recent accolades, Moran emphasized that their team never rests on their laurels. The day after COCO ends, they are back at work striving to make the next event better. “No one here is allowed to become complacent. As we raise the bar, other events are raising the bar too.” Of course, the fan experience is just as important as the player experience, so every year COCO conducts a fan survey and uses that feedback to guide improvements. For example, the outside courts used to feature bleacher seating, and then last year they changed it to provide chair-backed seating on all courts. Moran noted that tennis is unique in that unlike a football or baseball game, you must entertain people for an entire day. “It’s not a typical game day. It’s six or seven hours.” They offer a variety of events including a family weekend with kids’ activities, a Doubles, Bubbles & Bites lunch where fans get to meet the players while sampling gourmet fare and sipping on champagne and a gospel brunch with Gullah singers. Having Charlestonians playing in the tournament helps draw more youth interest as well. “We have Shelby. We have Emma. Kids see this and they want to be professional tennis players,” said Moran. That’s one reason why kids 15 and under are admitted free. “We’re hoping to build the sport and grow the sport,” Moran added. our town For tickets, visit creditonecharlestonopen.com or call 843-856-7900. Charleston’s own Emma Navarro. Credit One Stadium fans. Blonding experts • Extension specialists • Master Colorists • Airbrush Makeup With nationally recognized artists and educators on our team, we are the go-to salon for great hair and service. Due to demand we have expanded- new client appointments available. Book for a free gift on new client services through 2024. Visit VanitySalonSC.com to book your appointment, today! LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED FOR 12 YEARS & TWO LOCATIONS Mt. Pleasant 1909 N Hwy 17 843.216.7181 Charleston 2875 Ashley River Rd. 843.571.1945
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