South Windsor High School students and teachers took the court on Tuesday, May 26th for the Zebra Cup, a charity tennis tournament raising money for Alzheimer’s awareness. Organized by junior Esha Mali and sophomore Elena Zande. The event brings together the school community for a good cause and friendly competition.
During the event, members of the tennis team each choose a teacher to partner with in double matches. The tournament not only raises money for Alzheimer’s awareness, but it also creates a fun environment where students and teachers connect outside of the classroom.
Senior captain, Amanda Marques, was partnered with Ms. McGinn this year.
“It is fun because the teachers are used to teaching us, but go into tennis not knowing anything, so we become the teachers,” Marques told The Prowl.
The role reversal between students and teachers is one of the aspects participants enjoy the most. Instead of the teachers teaching, students are able to guide and teach them during matches.
This fundraiser has become a memorable tradition for South Windsor High School, as around 20-25 pairs participate in the tournament each year. This helps bring together students and teachers from across the school community.
English teacher Mrs. Smith participated in this tournament with Junior tennis player Esha Mali. While they only won one game, they still had a blast. There was food, music, and a canopy, creating an energetic atmosphere on the courts, so even if you aren’t winning, it is still a blast.
“This event is so inclusive!” Smith told The Prowl, “…Personally, I am a terrible tennis player, but Esha and the other students cheered me on regardless; it feels like true camaraderie.”
Teachers and students both were encouraged by teammates regardless of their tennis experience.
Beyond the competition, the Zebra cup creates a more connected school community, while helping raise awareness for Alzheimer’s disease. This friendly competition with fundraising continues to grow into an event that strengthens school spirit further and further.
By bringing students and teachers outside of the classroom and into a different kind of learning environment, the tournament creates a supportive environment that focuses on teamwork and inclusion. Participants said the event allows students and teachers to build stronger relationships while supporting an important cause.
