On May 10th, over 40 students from LEGACY’s after-school programs throughout Philadelphia came together at the LEGACY Center for an exciting day of tennis games and competition. Each after-school program (Joseph Pennell School, Overbrook Educational Center, Alexander K. McClure Elementary School, and Richard R. Wright Elementary School) has been building their tennis skills all year long, and this competition provided the perfect stage to showcase their hard work.

The event kicked off with enthusiasm as the young athletes received team shirts, proudly donning their school’s colors. The afternoon was filled with laughter and camaraderie as the students participated in various warm-up games, setting the tone for the friendly yet competitive atmosphere of the day.

As the warm-ups concluded, the excitement ramped up with the commencement of the bracketed play. Each match was a testament to the students’ dedication and the effectiveness of the LEGACY’s OST (Out of School Time) programs. The competition was fierce, and each school showcased remarkable talent and sportsmanship. By the end of the day, it was OEC that emerged victorious, clinching the top spot in the competition. The joy and pride were palpable as the OEC team celebrated their hard-earned win.

The event concluded with a heartfelt trophy ceremony. Each child was awarded a medal to recognize their hard work and commitment throughout the year. The players from OEC received trophies for their victory and even got a school trophy to present to school leadership and display proudly in their trophy case! 

Adding to the festive atmosphere, the students enjoyed delicious soft pretzels, hoagies, chips, cookies and more! Each participant left with a brand new LEGACY drawstring bag filled with goodies, including a brand-new tennis racket, a fitness tracker, sunglasses, and a tennis ball keychain, among other surprises to remind them of a day spent in camaraderie and fun.

The competition was a celebration of the growth, perseverance, and community spirit fostered by the LEGACY after-school programs. The collaborative effort of the schools and the dedication of the players underscores the power of tennis to enrich young lives.