CHICAGO (WLS) — Enthusiasts from all age groups flocked to Gallagher Way on Sunday to participate in a lively tennis event that was open to the community at no cost.
Among the players, 10-year-old Mara Bowman and her cousins enjoyed a day of sporty fun and family bonding on the court.
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“Tennis is such an enjoyable sport, and it really helps you reach your goals,” Mara Bowman shared with enthusiasm.
This marked the fourth year of the Wimbledon in Chicago celebration, an event cherished by locals.
Monir Hachem, one of the attendees, remarked, “We came because we live nearby, we love tennis, we have young kids to keep entertained, and it’s simply a beautiful day at Wrigley Field.”
“It helps me make new friends like when you’re training. You might see other people and nearby tennis court, and you can say, like, ‘Hi,'” said Hugo Hachem.
The open-style activity was in the shadow of Wrigley Field a day before the storied tournament takes place in London. David Bowman, 8, doesn’t have a prediction about who will win all, but just loves the sport.
“You got to get to work as a team to achieve yourself,” he said.
It happened in partnership with the United States Tennis Association Midwest Chicago. The effort hoped to break down the common misconceptions about tennis while encouraging people to be active and connect with others.
“We just want to introduce tennis to everyone. It’s a great sport. We want to make it really accessible, and this is a free event to come out and give it a try,” said United States Tennis Association Midwest Chicago Executive Director Jill Siegel.
The event not only featured mini tennis games and other activities along with food, but also a trivia contest. Prizes were awarded to the top teams, and there was even a chance to win a trip to the Cincinnati Open tennis tournament.
Organizers say they hope events like this one will get people interested in the sport of tennis but also get neighbors to get involved in their communities.
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