Registration opens for 3rd annual tennis tournament held in memory of domestic violence victim

WILMINGTON, NC (News Release) — Registration is now open for the 3rd ‘Raise A Racquet Against Domestic Violence’ charity tennis tournament. This event is held annually in memory of MaryAnn Breault, who died Dec. 7, 2021 in a domestic violence-related murder-suicide.

Organized by the Greater Wilmington Tennis Association (GWTA), Holly Tree Racquet & Swim Club, and Breault’s daughter, Rachel Knowles, the tournament will take place March 1 through 3 at Holly Tree Racquet & Swim Club. All proceeds benefit Wilmington’s Domestic Violence Shelter and Services, Inc. (DVSS).

Players will compete in co-ed teams. Teams can include youth players aged 14+ with parent permission. Registration is $50 per player. The deadline to register is February 24.

“We’ve received nothing but positive feedback on the Impact Team Tennis format of the event,” said Candy Pegram, Community Coordinator, GWTA. “It’s representative of men and women joining forces to support a common cause in our community, and shows us how much stronger we are when we work together.”

This year’s tournament is made possible with the support of generous sponsors like UDT. Attendees are encouraged to wear purple and bring cash and in-kind donations–like hygiene & toiletries, canned food, diapers, gift cards–to on-site DVSS representatives.

Last year 230+ players participated, raising $20,500 for DVSS. This surpassed the previous year’s $17,000 raised, and organizers hope to break their record again.

“We are so grateful to be back for a third year,” said Lauren Daley Bryant, Executive Director, DVSS. “MaryAnn’s story, through ‘Raise A Racquet’, has been a catalyst for conversations around domestic violence, bringing awareness and helping us connect to those in need of our services.”

In 2023, DVSS assisted nearly 1,500 people, a majority from New Hanover County. Services ranged from shelter and material support to crisis calls and court accompaniment.

“I miss my mom every day,” says Knowles. “For me, ‘Raise A Racquet’ has become a part of my family’s healing journey, but more importantly, it’s a legacy that has made a real impact on the lives of others. I am thankful some good can come from this tragedy, and I know my mom would feel the same.”

For more information, including how to register, please visit: https://wilmingtontennis.com/event/world-team-tennis-tournament/