NC State Women's Tennis Hosts Eighth-Annual Winter Chill Tournament

RALEIGH – The NC State women's tennis team and the Abilities Tennis Association of North Carolina (ATANC) will partner once again to host the eighth-annual Winter Chill Tournament Saturday, Dec. 5 at the J.W. Isenhour Tennis Center.

Abilities Tennis provides individuals with intellectual disabilities opportunities to create positive experiences focused on the sport of tennis. It works to enhance the mental, physical, emotional and social well-being of its participants by providing them with skills needed to participate in tennis at various levels. The Winter Chill Tournament provides a unique opportunity for people with intellectual disabilities to participate in competitive sports.

"Often people tell me that attending our events reminds them of what is really important in life," said executive director of ATANC, Lou Welch. "I think everyone is craving a sense of community, and each year that they are able to return to NC State, see the team and feel the enthusiasm of the crowd, they feel important for the day. They understand that a large group has gathered for them and that a lot of preparation has gone into making this day special, I think most do not recognize their influence on this special group."

The women's tennis team looks forward to partnering with Abilities Tennis to host the Winter Chill Tournament each year. The Pack players will keep score and referee during the tournament prior to playing alongside the athletes in doubles matches, and lead the participants in a genuine collegiate-level clinic experience.

"Over the past three years I have had the privilege of participating in the Winter Chill event. The participants always have a smile on their face and seem to truly love being able to be on the court playing tennis. I have been fortunate to be a part of such a great event," said senior Taylor Zaytoun of the NC State women's tennis team.

This community event continues to grow each year. Over 80 volunteers representing eight local high schools and various other organizations will be in attendance at this year's event. Last year, attendance reached over 90 players with many expected to attend this year's affair.

The women's tennis team will be hosting a full day of activities, which includes a free tournament-style competition for all athletes, craft activities as well as racquet stringing by Total Racquet and much more.

For more information about the 2015 Winter Chill Tournament visit atanc.org. Registration for volunteers and participants is still open and available online.

Get to know the Wolfpack women's tennis team by visiting the team's roster page and check out when to catch the team in action on the recently released 2016 schedule.

Stay up to date with the latest on NC State women's tennis:
Twitter: @PackWTennis
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NC State Women's Tennis Hosts Eighth-Annual Winter Chill Tournament

Players Mentioned

Taylor Zaytoun

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