HISTORY
As far as records can determine (i.e., as far as I could be bothered to look things up), the storied history of the PWC begins in 2007, and other than 2012 and 2013 when the singles championships were held at the Paramount Westlake facility, the Paramount Medina location has been witness to every 3.0 PWC trophy presentation every known. And other than 2015 when an apparent lack of 3.0 entries led to no 3.0 events being held (truly a sad, sad day), the event has run continuously for what is now going on year 14.
In terms of 3.0 records during that decade-plus time period, testament to the difficulty of the event can be seen in the fact that there has never been a repeat champion, although Matt Birkbeck came agonizingly close to repeating his 2016 title just last year in 2019, falling to Peter Frankfort in three.
What explains the fact that repeating at the PWC is, up to this point, all but impossible? Well, part of it is the quality of the competition, no doubt. Indeed, the 2019 entry list was the largest field yet, with 12 of the highest quality 3.0 players northeast Ohio has to offer taking part. Attempting to run the gamut of all those 3.0's has got to be difficult, for sure!
Also, previous champions usually get promoted to 3.5 about a season later. So there's that. From what historians (i.e., me) can gather, of the previous 12 champions of the PWC, nine have been immediately promoted the very next season.
Also, there's the small fact that most people have lives and trying to commit to a three day tennis extravaganza, well, that can sometimes be the most daunting opponent any of us will ever compete against.
3.0 RECORDS
During the nearly 15 year history of the PWC, several players have entered the unofficial record books (i.e., a notepad I keep in my basement).
Finals Appearances - As previously mentioned, Matt Birkbeck is tied for the record with most PWC finals appearances with two as he and Thomas Green ('08 and '09 Runner Up) share that longevity honor.
In the Consolation Finals, the record for most appearances (2) is shared by Keith Moeller ('08 and '09), Jon Burkhart ('14 Consolation Title and '16 Consolation Runner Up), James Tricomi ('09 Consolation Doubles, '13 Consolation Runner Up), and Travis Haselswerdt ('18 and '19), with Travis (me!) being the one and only repeat Consolation Champion (which ... says something, I'm sure).
Adding up BOTH Championship and Consolation finals appearances, David Gann ('18 Runner Up, '19 Consolation Runner Up), William Baxter ('08 Consolation Title, '09 Doubles Runner Up), Robert Novy ('13 Runner Up, '14 Consolation Runner Up), and Kuo-Ping Fon ('12 Consolation, '12 Doubles Title) are all tied for two as well.
Appearances - Roderick Yamat blows the competition away when it comes to total appearances (5), and having played in the inaugural event in 2007, enjoys the longest PWC tenure of any 3.0 player heretofore. Thomas Green (3) is next up while a host of dozens are tied at two appearances.
Wins - Roderick and Matt once again must be mentioned as both are tied with the most tournament wins (5) while Peter and Travis (4) are tied for second. Taking third (3) are David Gann, Thomas, Kuo-Ping Fon, and former PWC champions Jack Demita, Andrew Fatu, Lloyd Yeh, and Atahan Koymen. It should be noted, however, that if you add Kuo-Ping's two doubles victories, he's in the winner's circle with five total wins as well. Needless to say, quite the record packing group!
SUMMARY
Well, based on the fact most 3.0's don't stay 3.0's for very long or that we tend to get bored and go do something else, the history and records listed above are no doubt impressive. At least impressive to the level of a 3/10, eh?
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