Brian Schuman, that indefatigable hickory golf entrepreneur, has announced that the U.S. Hickory Players Club and the Metropolitan Hickory Society have combined forces to create a World Hickory Match Play Championship.
   The inaugural event is scheduled for June 2014 at the Philadelphia Cricket Club, site of the 1907 and 1910 U.S. Open Championships. The field will be limited to 32 players who will be comprised of special invitees, and entry applications selected by the tournament committee. Invitees will consist of current and very recent champions of major hickory events from around the world.
   Lionel Freedman, founder of the World Hickory Open, has accepted an invitation to act as Honorary Starter, and Official Referee of the Championship.
   Players will compete for a two-handled silver trophy and the title of World Hickory Match Play Champion.
   Schuman, who, as this is posted is now traveling abroad, promises additional details upon his return.
   Below is a sample of the invitation that will be sent to 32 players.