Sliva wins NWPA Season Finale

The Parlor Billiards and Spirits in Bellevue, Washington hosted the final tour stop of the NWPA's 2009 season along with the year-end banquet.  The Parlor, with its 17 tables, Pro Shop and excellent food, is always a favorite with the players.  28 women began play on Saturday morning in what would be a very important tournament for the final standings. Liz Cole, having already secured her position as Tour Champion once again, opted not to play this tournament. This left an opportunity for many players to acquire a considerable number of points and move up in the standings dramatically. Sunday afternoon saw Cindy Sliva and Andrea Saenz-Maes facing off for the point while Shelby Locati and Eve Stockstill vied for the opportunity the play the loser of the point match.  Eve played a solidly to win 7-4. Andrea and Cindy both played tough and took their match hill-hill. Andrea was able to run out on the last game to win the match. Cindy with renewed determination squared off against Eve and won that match 7-0 to face Andrea again. The finals match, a single race to 9, was once again a battle between these two fierce competitors. This time, however, it was Cindy who was able to secure the win for the match and take first place. Excellent  tournament ladies!!!

Saturday evening was the year-end awards banquet and while 2nd and 3rd place were still up in the air for the year, Liz Cole was once again crowned NWPA Tour Champion. In addition, several other awards were given. Suzanne Smith was awarded the coveted Player of the Year. Suwanna Kroll was the most improved player and newcomer Michelle Hughes earned Rookie of the Year. Finally, Carissa Biggs earned the Most Embarrassing Moment Award which happened at the Golden Fleece tournament where she jumped the cue ball off the table and hit Ford while he was refereeing her shot.  It was a great year. Congratulations to everyone!