WINDSOR—Last Saturday, April 20, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Windsor High School hosted its very first invitational tennis tournament.

Participating schools included the host team as well as Smithfield, Lakeland and Southampton high schools. WHS came out on top in first place.

“Our first tournament was very successful, with four schools attending. I think that the rivalry between Smithfield and Windsor is just starting and I hope it continues as both schools look to continue building their programs,” said Coach Matthew Randall, who organized the event.

Randall explained his thoughts behind coordinating the tournament and how it benefits the school and community.

“The main reason — is to prepare the kids for district with a tournament formatted in the same way as a District or state tourney. I noticed that this area was devoid of any type of tournament to prepare for Districts.”

He continued, “Tournaments are the best preparation for District, Regional, and State competition, as each of those have the same type of format, where players compete in three to four matches per day. I felt there was a need for a mid-season tournament to prepare the students.”

Randall said every player and coach received a T-shirt and was treated to breakfast as well as lunch.

“I want to make sure that the players are taken care of and want to come back,” he added. The winner and runner-up received trophies and prizes for their efforts.

Randall enthused, “Playing in high school and college and post collegiate tournaments, I always wanted to attend the tournaments where I was appreciated, even if I didn’t win. So, whenever I host a tournament, I want all participants to have a good time and know they are appreciated.”

Not only was the tournament a success, but also Randall said the fundraisers leading up to the event benefited both the school and community.

“The benefits are many,” he explained. “First, in order to fund this and other tennis related things for Windsor, the athletes, coaches and parents held a spaghetti fundraiser dinner. This brought the team and community together.”

“The students worked hard selling tickets and on the day of the fundraiser the parents and students prepared and served the food. This type of fundraiser builds good work ethic and discipline — two things essential for success in tennis. Second, I am about giving my players and the greater community the best opportunity and exposure to tennis and the best way of doing this is hosting a well-organized tournament.”

“I want to also thank the parents of both the girl’s and boy’s teams for their efforts in the spaghetti dinner fundraiser which made this tournament possible. With support like this, the students of Isle of Wight will have many chances to experience a tournament like this.”