Sportable is pleased to announce the upcoming international event for wheelchair athletes. The River City Slam tournament will bring together 70 wheelchair tennis players from around the world at the collegiate school courts in Richmond, Virginia, from Friday, June 7 to Sunday, June 9.
Renowned for its outstanding tournaments, Richmond has attracted the attention of competitive athletes like Marc Miller, a dedicated Sportable athlete, who expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming event. According to Miller, Richmond hosts one of the best tournaments, providing a fantastic place to play compared to other locations. The tournament is seen as a pivotal opportunity for athletes to showcase their skills and compete for top honours.
In addition to the regular tournament, Sportable has introduced an International Tennis Federation (ITF) futures event, allowing emerging professional wheelchair tennis players from across the country and internationally to compete at a high level, with the goal of securing a place at prestigious tournaments such as the Paris Paralympics this summer.
Forrest Lodge, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Sportable, highlighted the importance of having both beginner and high-level players in the same tournament, describing it as a unique opportunity for aspiring athletes to witness the progression from novice to elite, serving as a source of inspiration and goal-setting for their own journey in wheelchair tennis.
Renowned athlete Laura Goodkind, who has travelled from California to participate in the tournament, shared her love for the freedom she experiences through the sport, expressing her ability to move according to her brain’s desires without the hindrance of her body. Goodkind emphasized the freedom and joy of movement that she experiences in wheelchair tennis.
The River City Slam is not only a platform for fierce competition but also a celebration of the resilience, skill, and unwavering passion for wheelchair tennis. Enthusiasts and supporters are encouraged to visit the tournament’s website to witness the action-packed matches.
Looking ahead, Sportable is already making plans to expand and enhance the event for next year’s tournament, aiming to elevate the experience for both athletes and spectators.
As the tournament draws near, the anticipation for an exhilarating showcase of talent and determination continues to build. The River City Slam is undoubtedly set to shine a spotlight on the dynamic world of wheelchair tennis, showcasing the remarkable abilities and unwavering spirit of the athletes taking centre stage.