Northwest Wayne News

The Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) has announced the recipients of its Division II Men's Regional Awards for 2024. Wayne State University's men's tennis team was honored with the ITA Community Service Award for the Midwest Region.

The ITA annually acknowledges coaches, players, and programs for their achievements both on and off the court. Wayne State University accumulated a total of 352 hours of community service during the 2023-24 academic year, spanning from August 1, 2023, to May 2, 2024.

Among the organizations that benefited from the team's efforts are Angels Place and Palmer Park Tennis. The team also collaborated with the RAGS Remembered Foundation, founded by Detroit Lions athlete Frank Ragnow. This foundation aims to foster a love for the outdoors in children and their families.

Additionally, Wayne State's men's tennis team contributed to the Upper Deck Golf Cancer Fundraiser held at Comerica Park with support from the Detroit Tigers. The event raised funds for cancer research over three days last fall.

Throughout these initiatives, Wayne State's men's tennis squad has been an active participant in supporting the Detroit community. Each student-athlete played a significant role as a volunteer in various activities aimed at benefiting local causes.

In addition to community service awards, other honors distributed by the ITA include titles such as Wilson ITA Coach of the Year and Arthur Ashe Leadership & Sportsmanship award. The national winners of these accolades will be revealed next Tuesday, May 21.

Wayne State's men's tennis team also excelled on the court this season. They secured a victory against Grand Valley State in the NCAA Midwest Regional final round with a score of 4-0. This win earned them a spot in the NCAA Championship Round of 16 in Altamonte Springs, Florida, marking their third consecutive appearance. Their upcoming match will take place at Sanlando Park on Tuesday, May 21.