This year, the Canyon Girls Tennis Team took their sport “up to a whole new level,” and not just playing-wise! The team decided to use their sport to raise money for Canyon High’s own Nate Sparks, who is currently battling leukemia.

As a result, the first annual S.A.L. (Students Against Leukemia) Mixed Doubles Tennis Tournament was played on November 16, 2008. The girls passed out entry forms for the tournament, solicited donations, and participated in the tournament. The response was great for our first annual event! There were 52 players on that beautiful Sunday morning and included players from Hart and West Ranch High Schools, as well as two teaching pros -- David Schwartz and Patty LaBat.

“Our tournament was, in my opinion, a huge success and loads of fun for everyone that participated,” said Chika Kondo, a 17-year-old senior. “The different age groups that participated really show just how versatile the game of tennis is and how it is a sport that can be played by just about any age group.”

The girls and boys paired up, and our finalists included Canyon High’s own Chika Kondo & Eddie Perfecto as Finalists to the Champions, David & Sydney Schwartz. Consolation finalists included more Canyon High players: Nicole Smith & Corey Yamaoka and Runner-ups, Sarah Domier & Ernie Robles, Canyon’s JV Tennis Coach. 

The Girls Tennis Team will be presenting the Sparks family with a check for $1,500 as a result of their efforts and the wonderful support of our community. The S.A.L. Tennis Tournament was a huge success on many levels. It raised money for a wonderful cause, it showed great community support and caring, it increased awareness of the CHS tennis program, gave the girls and boys another competitive opportunity to play tennis, and it was a great day of fun and exercise! Next year’s tournament is expected to attract twice as many players, so be prepared to get those entry forms in early! WAY TO GO CANYON GIRLS TENNIS TEAM!