Tennis Community Steps Up and Serves an Ace for Autism
North Shore Autism Circle charity event a success at Sportime Roslyn
The North Shore Autism Circle hosted their First Annual Serve an Ace for Autism Celebrity Pro-Am tournament on Feb. 4 at Sportime Roslyn, sponsored by Long Island Tennis Magazine and Sportime. The event and evening were a great success thanks to all who came out and supported the cause which provides after-school and weekend programs for children with autism. Nearly $10,000 was raised for the charity.
“The turnout tonight was amazing with some high-level tennis players. Most of all, this is all about raising money for a great cause,” said former professional player Ilana Kloss, former number one-ranked doubles player in the world.
A Pro-Am tournament was played, featuring Ilana Kloss, Virginia Wade, Tim Mayotte, Corey Parr, Gene Mayer and Gigi Fernandez, all participating with players who had donated money to the charity. Off the court, everyone enjoyed an array of delicious food and drinks from local restaurants while watching their friends and family play alongside former pros.
“It’s great to see sponsors supporting this evening as it brings a great tennis event to Long Island where I’ve played for my whole life,” said Corey Parr, a former New York High School State Champion and All-American collegiate player at Wake Forest University.
A silent auction, numerous raffles, a prize drawing from Liberty Travel/Sandals and autographed memorabilia from Shafran Collectibles were all part of the night’s activities. Most importantly, the event benefited a very worth cause, the North Shore Autism Circle. It meant a lot for many people, including former professional Gigi Fernandez, who came up from Florida, said, “I came out today because a family member of mine is autistic and this helps support a great cause which is relatable to me.”
“Everyone had a great time, and we raised a lot of money for a great cause,“ said event coordinator Randye Hubsher recapping a great evening.
The scene inside the Sportime Roslyn lobby prior to the event
Donnay Owner Jerry Choe joined the fun
Lonnie Mitchell of Sandals with Gretchen Stald and Mary Sperrazza of Liberty Travel, gave out prizes and held raffles during the event
Sportime Roslyn Pro Corey Parr pauses during the changeover
