Charity tennis event to raise money to combat opioid crisis
Event organizers expect a large spike in the amount of money raised for the Mixed Doubles Charity Classic held later this month at the Country Club of York.
The event attracts professionals from around the region. Held on July 15-16, organizers expect the tournament could double the $15,000 it raised a year ago. One of the big reasons for the increase in funds could be the reaction of the community and sponsors to the opioid crisis in the area.
“We have a lot of generous sponsors,” said Mark Koons, the director of tennis at the Country Club of York. “We also found out the cause is really hitting home in our community.”
Proceeds will go to Wellspan's Alternative Pain Management Program, Koons said.
Koons expects the third annual tennis event to raise between $25,000 and $30,000.
Admission to the event is free, and a tent with drinks and refreshments will be accessible for a $20 fee.
The tournament will once again attract professionals, with $2,000 in prize money earmarked for the winning team. Organizers have secured 13 teams with open slots still available as of Friday.
"We have more than 20 players that have played on NCAA Division I teams," Koons said. "But we're still hopeful to fill out a 16-team bracket."
Former Wimbledon semifinalist Alexandra Stevenson played in the event last year but will not return this year.
Teaching professionals Julia Cohen, a former top-100 player in the world, and Nima Roshan, a former top-200 doubles player, are also expected to return. The pair upset the No. 1-seeded team of Stevenson and Andy Stoner in a three-hour semifinal last year.
Philadelphia's Charlotte Sikora and King of Prussia's Punch Maleka won the championship last season. Maleka, who played on the Davis Cup team for South Africa, will return to the tournament this season.
The tournament begins play at 11 a.m. both days.
Wisehaven's Phil Myers and the Country Club of York's Nathan Gambino are also scheduled to play in the tournament.
In year's prior the event raised money for cancer awareness.
Mixed Doubles Charity Classic
When: Saturday July 15, Sunday July 16
Where: Country Club of York
Play begins: 11 a.m.
Admission: Free to fans
Goal: raise money for charity