On Saturday, representatives from Starkville, Starkville-Oktibbeha Consolidated School District, the Starkville Community Foundation and community members gathered at the Starkville High School Tennis Complex to dedicate the newly resurfaced and renovated courts. The event included a ribbon cutting for the project as well as a four-person tournament featuring players from the community and the Yellow Jacket Tennis team.
“This project is a lasting way to honor the life of Natalie Willliams, who was a vibrant member of our community and enjoyed the sport of tennis as a member of the SHS team,” said Alison Buehler, SCF board member, during the dedication.
The resurfacing of the courts was a three-way partnership between SOCSD, the city of Starkville and the SCF. Each entity funded one-third of the project and have shared in planning the renovations.
SCF raised $10,000 for the project through their Natalie Williams Compassion Fund, an initiative created in memory of the former SHS student. Williams was a member of the SHS tennis and cross country teams as well as the Starkville High Band. She passed away in 2023, and the courts were dedicated in her memory. SCF members say they hope the project will encourage a resurgence of interest in the sport of tennis, which was an important part of Natalie’s life.
“It’s amazing to see so many young people here today to participate and celebrate the project. The sport of tennis is back in Starkville,” Buehler shared during the ribbon cutting.
The Williams family attended the dedication and shared their gratitude with the community as Natalie’s brother cut the ribbon on the project.
Vice Mayor Roy Perkins joined the ribbon cutting to represent the city, and SHS Head Tennis Coach Vanessa Shaffer represented SOCSD.
The tennis courts are open to the public for use for individuals as well as not-for-profit lessons except for times when the Yellow Jacket team has scheduled practices or matches. SHS also provides various tennis camps at the facility during Jacket Thrive Intersession weeks.
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