6th Annual Game, Set, Match Gala and Tennis Fashion Show
Friday night the Houston Tennis Association and Tennis Express welcomed hundreds from the tennis community to the 6th Annual Game, Set, Match Gala and Tennis Fashion Show. The Royal Sonesta Houston Galleria held the event that benefited National Junior Tennis & Learning (NJTL) with funds for physical fitness and mental wellness programs. NJTL students and junior tennis players from local clubs amped up the gala’s charitable festivities by sporting new spring arrivals to Tennis Express.
A wine pull, live and silent auctions, and Special Occasion Events sign ups were exciting attractions for people who donated funds for NJTL programs. Some packages included a clinic with the pros, 3 Broadway shows and tickets to the Volvo Car Open or US Open.
Every way I turned there were people to meet, pictures to take at the lively photo booth, and kids to line up for the fashion show! A handful of the 22 juniors that modeled are NJTL students. Some of the bunch had participated in the Gala since its origination. Many returning guests said they could see the kids’ development over the years.
“They love it so much they keep coming back!” said Chad Glover of Tennis Express.
Hosting the evening and leading into the fashion show was KPRC Channel 2 News’ Rachel McNeil. About ten brands were modeled by both young men and young women that rocked the show! Shades of blues and greens had an unmatched performance in the show. Styles included those seen in Melbourne. My two favorite looks were a Nike Court women’s two piece outfit worn by Mchaley and the Wilson Boy’s Striped Green Glow outfit worn by Stuart . Some guys said their favorite quality in the clothing was the softness while others really enjoyed the colors. Family and friends showed their individual support and it was obvious at showtime that each kid’s energy was lifted. Not only did they love the crowd but they were comfortable in their match battle gear, too.
It was a long day for the kids – Friday morning the fashion show was previewed on KPRC Channel 2’s Houston Life. So it was an exciting and out of the ordinary day for many of the wonderful models. They were so professional.
Everything the HTA and special teams coordinated for the event raised countless benefits for NTJL to continue to empower young people. Special Guest speaker Katrina Adams, the USTA Chairman, CEO & President of the USTA said in her talk that to help the health and well being of over six thousand kids that are in the program has reached 60-plus neighborhoods and schools. Programs and services “include free tennis and educational classes along with scholarship opportunities,” via HTA.
To shop and even own the same items worn in the Game, Set, Match Tennis Fashion Show check them out at TennisExpress.com.
