University of Delaware Athletics
Tennis Programs Continue Relationship With Special Olympics of Delaware
5/9/2016 3:35:00 PM | Men's Tennis, Women's Tennis
Photos
NEWARK, Del. – The weather was not the greatest, but the Blue Hens recently held their annual Special Olympics Tennis Clinic with a record number of participants.
Nearly 30 Special Olympics of Delaware [SODE] athletes joined the UD men's and women's tennis teams at the Delaware Field House Outdoor Courts for an evening full of instruction and interaction.
Laura Travis, who recently completed her 24th season at the helm of the women's tennis program. “This year, we had the most number of athletes join us in spite of the cold weather. The energy level and enthusiasm is unbeatable. I always look forward to seeing the photos of the smiles, eye contact and engagement.Travis continued, “Many of these athletes are returners, so it is fun to see them each year. Mary Moore (SODE tennis coach) and all of the coaches and unified partners do a fantastic job in teaching and coaching throughout the year while Mark Wise (SODE Director of Sports Training) is a perennial support for this event. A major thank you goes out to the parents who drove their athletes – some who came from quite a distance as well to participate.”
The evening concluded with pizza and drinks for all of those who participated in the event.
“Coach Travis and her team members deserve tremendous thanks for this evening,” exclaimed Tim Brooks, retired Dean of Students at the University of Delaware. “I had the opportunity to sit with a number of parents and they were all impressed by the Blue Hens student-athletes. It was clear that their sons and daughters were having a wonderful time. These kinds of events are extremely important to the Special Olympics community.”
One of the participant's parents also raved about the event and stated, “We are so glad we went to the clinic. Although it was a tad chilly, it was full of fun and great instruction and camaraderie! I think they all cold have played another hour or so! Kudos to the UD tennis teams!”
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Please contact Maggie Hayon | mhayon@udel.edu | O: 302-831-6389 | C: 920-912-6635
