USIC 90th Anniversary Celebrates Return of IC Week

The USIC 90th Anniversary Celebration held in Washington, DC from August 21-26 showcased a glorious week of rekindled friendships and competition during the first IC Week held since prior to the global pandemic in 2020.

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With 170 players plus their guests from 17 nations comprising 13 teams participating in five trophy events for men and women of all ages from 18 to over 80, IC Week was an uplifting experience for everyone involved.

Hosted by the Chevy Chase Club which offered 16 immaculate clay courts and supported by nearby Columbia Country Club and Kenwood Country Club each with eight additional clay courts, IC Week featured 234 matches which kicked off on Monday morning.

On Wednesday, winners were determined in four events. There was a fitting spirited final for the Columbus Trophy. With sets tied at 3-3, the match ended in a 12-10 tiebreak with Great Britain emerging victorious over host USA.

A dynamic British women’s team also prevailed in the La Carreta competition defeating France 2-1 in the final.

Joining their British counterparts, Germany also took home two trophies. Germany’s men triumphed 4-2 against USA in the Windmill Trophy final with the German women going undefeated in the Mercelis Trophy winning matches against Great Britain, USA, and Luxembourg.

The round robin Juego de Pelota concluded on Thursday with the host USA at the top of the standings.

IC Week was highlighted by activities including a well-received twilight walking tour of five Washington, DC landmarks featuring the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial which attracted more than 150 eager participants.

IC Philanthropy program took "center court" on Thursday with a fully subscribed Pro Am that raised more than $20,000 for USIC Philanthropy efforts tied to the IC mission.

With an Opening Evening reception on Sunday, an All-American Barbecue outdoors on Tuesday, and a Closing Dinner on Thursday, there was also ample time for relaxing with teammates and new friends.

The IC’s mantra of "Hands across the net, friendship across the ocean" was in full display all week. IC Council Chairman Peter McQuibban and IC Council Match Captain Kit Spencer joined IC Council members Don Tansey and Dan Waldman and leaders from the ICs worldwide from Argentina to Australasia. The USIC appreciates the commitment of all of the IC players and guests who travelled long distances to celebrate the rebirth of IC Week.