ProtoStar Foundation Hosts Annual Kickoff for Junior Tennis Tournament
On June 27, the ProtoStar Foundation is gearing up for its exciting 2nd Annual Kickoff Event for the much-anticipated Level 5 Matt Stevenson Junior Tennis Tournament. This event is sanctioned by the United States Tennis Association (USTA) and will take place at the Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning. Players will compete in various categories, including 14u & 18u Singles, and Doubles and Mixed Doubles spanning over several days in late June and early July.
The Importance of Mental Health in Youth Sports
The tournament's theme this year is "Gratitude," reflecting the philosophy that recognizing the positives in life can enhance mental well-being. Gary P. Poon, the tournament founder, emphasized, "Psychologists have found that gratitude could help improve one's mental health. We encourage our junior competitors to practice gratitude daily, which can positively influence their enjoyment of tennis and their performance on the court."
Motivational Speaker to Inspire Players
UTSA Board Member and Immediate Past President, Dr. Brian Hainline, will join the event via video to welcome junior players, their families, and coaches. They will also hear from motivational speaker Tim Buwick, who aims to inspire attendees with talks blending physical fitness and mental health awareness.
Free Admission and Supporting Mental Health Initiatives
The Kickoff Event and Dinner is free for every registered player and one accompanying adult. Additional guests can attend for a small fee, with all proceeds directed towards the important cause of mental health awareness amongst youth.
Addressing Youth Mental Health Crises
By partnering with organizations like the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the tournament promotes essential resources on mental health issues faced by adolescents today. Materials will cover topics such as anxiety, depression, and developing resilience in sport.
About Matt Stevenson and His Legacy
The inspiration behind the tournament is the late Matt Stevenson, who passionately advocated for mental health awareness throughout his vibrant career as a tennis professional. Tragically, Matt lost his battle with mental health in 2017, leaving a legacy that this tournament seeks to continue by promoting positivity and the importance of mental wellness in sports.
Future of Junior Tennis Programs
Proceeds from the tournament will also help support junior tennis programs and offer financial assistance to promising players. Through these efforts, the ProtoStar Foundation enhances the community's access to sports and emotional well-being resources.
About ProtoStar Foundation
The ProtoStar Foundation is dedicated to grassroots efforts that fuse community engagement with sportsmanship education. As a nonprofit organization based in California, it aims to foster innovative projects that promote social impact, aligning with the mission of supporting youth and enhancing their sporting experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Matt Stevenson Junior Tennis Tournament?
The tournament aims to raise awareness about mental health issues in youth and support the development of junior tennis players.
Who will speak at the Kickoff Event?
Motivational speaker Tim Buwick will be the keynote speaker, complemented by a video message from Dr. Brian Hainline.
What are the dates for the tournament events?
The tournament will take place from June 28-30 for 14u & 18u Singles, and July 5-7 for 12u & 16u Singles.
Can anyone attend the Kickoff Event?
The event is free for registered players and one accompanying adult, while additional guests can join for a small fee.
How does the tournament support mental health initiatives?
The tournament collaborates with various organizations to provide resources on mental health, including materials on anxiety, depression, and overall mental wellness.
