Tributes to Steve Schnell and Bob Greenberg

Steve should be remembered as a major contributor to and supporter of the game handball in Gainesville . He was involved as a topnotch player and encouraged others to improve their games. He did this primarily by opening up his home court to both old and new players. This included college students who, in later years, developed into champions at various tournaments, including the annual State of Florida Three Wall Championships in Ormond Beach , which have been held over the Memorial Day Weekends. This list includes Will Arsenault, Sam Payson and Ed Stead.

And, most significantly, he hosted and conducted a state-level indoor tournament at his home, including a fine meal provided by his wonderful wife Patty. He invited some of the very best of the state’s singles players and a few national-level players from out of state. Those were great learning experiences for those who participated or watched. He did this for 20 years.

Steve was a top-three competitor around the state in his age group over several decades in both singles and doubles. For example, he was a regular competitor in three-wall at Ormond Beach from the first year in 1977 through 1989, winning the Golden Master Singles (age 50+) in 1984. In four-wall competition, all in the Golden Master Doubles category, he won the Southeast Regional in 1986, the State of Florida tournament in 1987, and the Florida Sunshine Games in 1989.

Yes, Steve can be credited with helping handball remain alive in Gainesville .

In addition, we should recognize Bob Greenberg, another enthusiastic competitor and supporter, for opening up his home court. He allowed friends to practice on his court during the year, which was very helpful due to the limited number of four-wall courts in Gainesville . Then he would help facilitate Steve’s tournaments by accommodating some players’ matches. He and Naomi also provided refreshments during the tournaments, plus access to their nice pool. No wonder handball was a lot of fun in those years.

                            Jack Martin

                            April, 2007