Mike Wallace Serves Both On and Off the Court

October 2, 2012 | By Mary Jane Moore

On and off the court, Mike Wallace entertained his team’s players and Midtown Tennis Club’s clientele for several decades. After his games, players would gather around him, while he gossiped and captivated them with his stories.

The legendary television journalist passed away April 7 of this year. Mike was quoted as saying he would continue to play tennis “Til my toes turn up” and he almost made it. Mike played tennis for more than 70 years, and said the game sharpened his wit and his physical fitness as a great form of exercise.

Mike continued to play on weekends at Midtown Tennis Club until his late 80s. His style of play was crafty. His drop shot was infallible, and his lobs over his opponent’s heads were awesome.

Mike showed no mercy on his subjects on the TV show, “60 Minutes.” His court captain for many years was “60 Minutes” producer, Fred Rosen. The long suffering Morley Safer was also a weekend victim of Mike’s gamesmanship.

One prominent sportswriter noted that the producers of “60 Minutes” were aware of Mike’s gamesmanship, and knew if you beat him, you would be taunted for many years to come.

The iconic Mike Wallace has left a void at Midtown Tennis Club on Sundays, and leaves a “sweet spot” in our memories.
 


Mary Jane Moore
Centercourt
USTA NTC

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