The 2016 FTL Champion

Here is our 2016 FTL Champion, Amy Kroska (team owner of The Flippin' Flapjacks), proudly hoisting her FTL Champion's plaque.  After the presentation ceremony, I was able to pull Amy aside and get her thoughts and reactions to her championship run, the 2016 season, and what lies ahead for her team next year.

How does it feel to be the FTL Champion for 2016?
It feels great! I knew it would be hard to beat all these tough players. They all have such clever and powerful games! I worked hard after Cincinnati to freshen up my game and learn from my mistakes, and I'm so pleased that the work paid off. I want to give a big thank you to Rob Clark, the league director! He does each tournament with such pizzazz. I hope to see everyone again next year!

Describe your thoughts and feelings during that third set between Kerber and Pliskova.
I was terrified. I was having major jitters since this is the first time I've been in contention for the FTL championship. I kept losing my confidence and my belief! But, luckily so did Pliskova, so it all worked out in the end.

Now that you are a champion, how does this alter your mindset as we head into next year?
I'm going into next season with the knowledge that I can win on a big stage against top players. So, this season has been a big confidence booster. I hope to carry that belief forward through all of 2017.