LITM and UJA Partner For Sushi and Sake-Themed Version of Courts & Cocktails

Our Courts & Cocktails event series has provided a change-of-pace to the typical Saturday night dinner plans and enable adults to play tennis and socialize with old friends and also meet new ones, while helping to raise money for worthy causes.

For the latest Courts & Cocktails night, Long Island Tennis Magazine partnered with UJA Federation of New York to host a Sushi & Sake-themed version of the event at SPORTIME Syosset which raised money for the organization’s mission. UJA is the world’s largest local philanthropy, caring for Jews everywhere and New Yorkers of all backgrounds, responding to anti-semitism and global crises, and strengthening Jewish life.

“The event was a huge success, and we’re thrilled to have brought people together in support of UJA’s critical work,” said Jessica Grossman, the co-chair of UJA’s New Leadership campaign (which oversees the Rising Leaders group), along with her husband Matthew. “Through UJA’s efforts, we stand strong in our commitment to support Israel, fight antisemitism, and create a vibrant Jewish future for our children.”

This event was hosted by UJA’s Long Island Rising Leaders, a dedicated group of individuals in their 30’s and 40’s who connect through the shared values of philanthropy and social action. The Rising Leaders take part in volunteer projects with their family, attend programs with inspirational and influential speakers, and more, all with the intention of making a positive impact in our community.

Tennis professionals led the players through a variety of drills and games across the six courts, while bartenders served up an array of drinks including our version of the Honey Deuce, the famed drink of the U.S. Open. Following the on-court time, there was an expansive catered sushi dinner which featured a plethora of different kinds of sushi, edamame, salads and more.

“We were proud to partner with UJA and its Long Island Rising Leaders group for this version of our Courts & Cocktails event series,” said David Sickmen, Publisher of Long Island Tennis Magazine. “We target young adults for a fun way to meet people, exercise, play tennis and give back, so partnering with the Long Island Rising Leaders of UJA was a perfect fit. Being able to bring this group together for an exciting night of tennis, food and drinks, while also raising money for UJA was the best of both worlds, and we’re looking forward to continuing this partnership in 2025.”