Tennis group hosts ‘Wimbledon’ fundraiser
by January 24, 2010 11:48 am 84 views
story and photos by Linda Kaufenberg
Oh WATA Night, held at Trinity Junior High School Gymnasium, is the only fundraiser for the Western Arkansas Tennis Association. WATA is a non-profit association formed in 1998 by local tennis enthusiasts that promotes and grows the game of tennis in Crawford, Franklin, Logan, Scott and Sebastian counties.
“The money raised by this event will amount to more than half of operations,” said Stephen Smith, past president and chair of the event. “We would like to net $20,000 tonight. There are 28 reserved tables so we expect between 250-275 in attendance.”
Leslie Jackson has been a part-time executive director for the past seven years. In transition, Marge Griesse will handle the day-to-day business at the Creekmore Tennis Center office. In addition, Crystal Laster works part-time as assistant executive director. She will serve as co-chair of the event next year, along with Kitti Severns. Melissa Kelly, an independent contractor, serves as a full-time teaching pro at the center.
WATA contracts for three-year periods to run its program out of Creekmore Tennis Center. They offer: Adult leagues including seniors; Junior team tennis; and, Two adult and two junior tournaments.
“We have a new program called Quick Start for little kids,” Smith noted. “We shrink the tennis courts, use smaller racquets and foam tennis balls. This helps the youngsters develop their strokes early. We are trying to get out and promote our programs in schools and churches.”
