By Catherine Ake
Saturday April 25th, the College of Science and the South Bend Alumni Association are hosting the 2nd annual Ace for Science Tennis Tournament at the Eck Tennis Pavilion on Notre Dame’s campus. Students, faculty, staff, and community members are invited to join the three-flight doubles tournament raising money for K-12 science programs in the South Bend community school corporation.
Last year, the tournament had 19 teams compete and raised $8,000. This year, ACE looks to double the level of funds to meet the schools’ needs. 7 community schools benefited, and used their resources for a variety of projects. Warren Primary School created a Lego Robotics program, a Science Discovery Area, and a STEM Exploration and Wonder Station.
“With the grant funds, I was able to purchase many different kinds of materials to enhance our science learning station. This area is used for exploring and discovering, investigating and researching, and building projects. The children are learning about the ‘How’ and the ‘Why’ things happen. This has inspired the children to foster their own innate need to wonder, ask questions, and learn,” said Amy Troyer, Kindergarten Teacher at Warren PC.
Other projects included a Hydroponics Lab at Nuner Primary school, a school-wide science fair at Clay Intermediate, and the purchase of Biochemistry and Rocketry materials for Rise Up Academy.
Lunch is provided for all participants. Winners of each flight will receive a trophy. There will also be a silent auction and the opportunity to “Challenge the Pros” in which doubles teams can challenge tennis pros from the South Bend Racquet Club. “Challenge the Pros” is a one game contest. If the challengers win, they will receive a year’s free membership to the South bend Racquet Club or a gift certificate to their pro shop.
Entry fees are $50 per player ($20 for students). To join, contact Margaret Dobrowolska mdobrowo@nd.edu or Kathy Peterson at peterson@nd.edu.