On Saturday, August 26, several tennis legends, including Tennis Hall of Famer John McEnroe, Patrick McEnroe, Chris Evert, Mats Wilander, and Pat Cash, will take the court at SPORTIME Amagansett during Johnny Mac Tennis Project’s (JMTP) Third Annual JMTP Pro Am.
“We have created an annual event with 128 players, which is the size of a Grand Slam draw – pretty incredible,” John McEnroe explained. “This year, we have added Chris Evert and Pat Cash to the group, joining my brother Patrick, me, and Mats, with more players to come.”
Proceeds from the exciting tournament will support JMTP programs, which remove economic and social barriers for youth to allow them to success through tennis. “It is all about the mission – to bring tennis to New York City kids who could not otherwise get to play, and to make some great New York players,” McEnroe added.
“The Johnny Mac Tennis Project believes that tennis is a change agent and a sport of opportunity for kids,” noted JMTP Executive Director Ron Nano. “Our Tennis Pathway to Success® initiative provides multiple, year-round opportunities, from introductory programs provided to schools and community-based organizations, which focus on cultivating healthy lifestyles and self-discipline, to world-class tournament training for aspiring college scholarship recipients and professional athletes.”
While the roster of legends may seem rather intimidating, the tournament is open to amateur players. So if you’ve ever dreamt of playing alongside or against some of tennis’ best, here’s your chance. This year’s tournament will feature former WTA and ATP World Tour professionals, current and former Division I College players, and top John McEnroe Tennis Academy pros.
The round-robin doubles tournament will begin at 3 p.m. and will include up to seven rounds that will last approximately 15 to 20 minutes each match. Overall, there will be 64 professional players partnered with 64 amateurs.
Once the winners have been crowned, all are invited to an After Party hosted by Johnny Mac and friends. Guests will enjoy passed hors d’oeuvres, a buffet dinner, an open bar, live entertainment and dancing, a live auction and more.
“This annual event is a unique and exciting opportunity in the Hamptons, right before the U.S. Open, to play or watch some great tennis, to see some Tennis Legends competing close-up, and to support a great cause,” said Patrick McEnroe, President of JMTP’s Board of Directors. “Most importantly, this event allows us to continue bringing tennis to kids and young adults who otherwise would not have access to the sport.”
The Pro Am entry fee starts at $1,500 and the exclusive Benefactor Level (you’ll get to compete with and against the tennis legends, and current and former ATP and WTA touring athletes) is $10,000. A Pro Am spectator ticket is $50 and After Party Tickets are $500.
SPORTIME Amagansett at 320 Abrahams Path, Town of East Hampton. For more information, visit www.jmtpny.org.