POIPU — Tournaments are back at the Po‘ipu Kai Tennis Club for the first time since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
USTA Hawai‘i and Kaua‘i Community Tennis Association are sponsoring a labor day tournament Sept. 3-5, to benefit the Kaua‘i United Way.
“I’m very excited about the tournament personally,” said tournament organizer Christine Watanabe. “We have quite a few folks registered. We really hope more people will sign up, and everybody is welcome.”
The single-elimination tournament is open to all skill levels, with in beginner, intermediate and advanced levels, in both singles, doubles and mixed doubles.
A $30 donation will cover registration, a goodie bag, and a daily lunch, that Watanabe said she filled with some “special gifts.”
Those that can’t afford the entrance fee are eligible for sponsorship.
All competitors will be entered into a drawing for a grand prize of a two-night stay at Koloa Landing. Additional raffle tickets can also be purchased for $2.
Competitors will play on Po‘ipu Kai Tennis Club’s six hard courts and two synthetic courts, located at 1775 Po‘ipu Rd.
Aaron Tada is the USPTA Teaching Pro at the club, and also works with high school tennis players to help them improve their game.
Watanabe reported that all proceeds from the event will go to Kaua‘i United Way, which has served as an umbrella charity organization since 1943.
The agency assists with health programs, emergency services, rehabilitation services and with youth and family support. They provide unrestricted funding to a variety of agencies on island. The charity is Kaua‘i centric, with programs supporting efforts on island.
Those interested in donating can do so at their website: https://kauaiunitedway.org/about-kauai-united-way/#donate
Watanabe highlighted the health benefits of tennis Wednesday, citing research that has “shown that playing tennis can extend your life” and “invigorate your spirit.”
The final day for registration is Sept. 1. Register today at https://bit.ly/PoipuTT
