For more THON news: https://statecollege.com/penn-state-page/thon
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In the spirit of the Interfraternity Council/Panhellenic Dance Marathon, the Penn State Tennis club has developed a one-of-a-kind way to contribute.
Starting tomorrow at 7 p.m. at Racquet Club West, the Tennis Club’s second annual 12-Hour Tennis Marathon will begin in Lancaster, Pa. The club hosts a variety of events ranging from instructional sessions for young children, tournaments for three age groups and pick-up games, all to raise money for Thon.
Last year, the Tennis Club successfully raised $1,800 with the event and $8,800 total. This year, members are aiming for $2,500 and $10,000 total, Tennis Club Thon Chair Leslie Finlay said.
One hundred and twenty people participated in last year’s event, but Finlay knows the key to raising more money is greater involvement.
“We’re generating more and more interest,” Finlay said. “There are a lot of people signing up last minute.”
The group started as an independent organization three years ago and raised $3,500 from canning alone. Last year, as it gained more experience, the group expanded to other means of fundraising and the Tennis Marathon became their trademark event.
“It’s so hard to play tennis indoors in winter because it’s really expensive,” Finlay said. “We give people the chance to play in a great facility with great rates and it goes towards a great cause.”
Finlay, a senior, said the group’s goal is to potentially expand the concept and hold a second Tennis Marathon in the Pittsburgh, Pa. area next year. She acknowledged it may be difficult but one former organizer believes it is doable.
“I think it’s a great idea,” Cathy Shaak, the United States Tennis Association’s Middle State Central Pa. Representative, said. “The key would be community support. As long as they have that and a strong tennis community they’ll be OK.”
Last year, Shaak used her resources within the USTA to help put together the event. She said the students got great support from both professionals and amateurs in the Lancaster area.
In addition to support from the USTA, Finlay sought out sponsorships to help offset the cost. All of the sponsors from last year are back, plus a few more.
“It’s really important for us,” Finlay said. “Last year we paid $400 out of pocket and this year with the added sponsors it’s all taken care of.”
