Brittany, Joanne, and Justin Amacio with the Invitational finalists Abbatiello, Rodriguez, Artie Fuchs, DeAngelis, and Robinson.

BROOKLYN, N.Y. - The first annual Joe Amacio Memorial tournament was held at the HES in conjunction with the HES Men's & Women's Singles (a USHA 1-Wall Ranking Event).  

Joe Amacio was an avid handball player who loved the perfect game.  On April 14th Joe Amacio succumbed to an aneurysm. 

Artie Fuchs made the following speech before presenting Joanne (Joe’s widow) and Britany and Justin (his children) with a $3,000 check and a medal that read, “Joe Amacio – A True Winner.”

Joe “Boiler Joe” Amacio was a wonderful husband, a terrific father, a great friend and a very good handball player! We all know the man upstairs needed a fourth player for doubles and called upon Joe. Joe came close to winning a tournament a few times but first place just kept eluding him. Although Joe has left us he will always be in our hearts forever. 

"Read More" for tournament results and draws.  Click HERE for audio tournament breakdown from Albert Apuzzi.

INVITATIONAL DOUBLES

The final pitted Matt Abbatiello and Roland Rodriguez against Jason DeAngelis and Rob Robinson. The game was nip and tuck at the start. Then Jason’s drives and Rob’s kill shots proved too much as they opened up a 15-7 lead and went on to win 25-16.  See Doubles Draw Here.

MENS SINGLES

Men's Singles Semifinalists Rebaza and Polanco with finalist Jagnandan and winner Sala.

In the semis Rebaza started with all guns firing and lead 11-2. At this point he didn’t capitalize on some opportunities and Jagnandan tied the game at 15 all before winning 25-15. Sala easily disposed of Polanco 25-3. In the final Cesar lead 13-2 and 24-14 before finishing Satish off with a 25-17 victory.  See Men's Draw Here.

WOMENS SINGLES

Women's Singles finalist Davis with winner McCourt.

In top semis Davis ran over Figueroa 25-5 while Ten played McCourt to 16 all before falling 25-16. In the final Tracy jumped out to a 12-2 lead. Down 18-4 Theresa mounted her own attack and astonished the viewers by defeating Davis 25-20.  See Women's Draw Here.

Written by Artie Fuchs.  Photos by Ron Pescatore and Ken Davidoff.  

A Special "Thank You" to Charles Spinnato (also a boiler repairman), who helped raise about half the funds by collecting from Joe's colleague.