Elmira, NY -- The Elmira College men's and women's tennis programs will be partnering with Roberts Wesleyan College to host a charity clinic and college pro-am style tournament on Friday, November 13^th, and Saturday, November 14^th. All proceeds from the event will be donated to the Autism Council of Rochester.
 
The two-day event, entitled "Hit an Ace for Lola Grace", was inspired by Lola Grace, the four-year old granddaughter of Roberts Wesleyan head coach Tom Linhart Sr. and the niece of Elmira's head coach Tom Linhart Jr. Lola was diagnosed on the autism spectrum and has been receiving intensive therapy daily, which has resulted in tremendous improvements. The goal of the event is to continue to raise awareness, while also raising funds to benefit government and private organizations such as The Autism Council of Rochester, which have had such a positive impact on Lola and countless others.
 
"This is a great opportunity for my father and I to support a cause that is near and dear to our hearts," Linhart Jr. said. "Autism affects so many individuals and families, but there are many amazing organizations and program that support those affected. We have seen the benefits of these programs first-hand with my niece."
 
The two-day event is set to kick off with a two-hour clinic from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, November 13^th, at the Murray Athletic Center Tennis Dome. Participants will receive instruction from both head coaches, who will be assisted by several members of both the Roberts Wesleyan and Elmira tennis programs. Both Linharts are PTR certified professionals, who have amassed over 12 years of college coaching experience. The clinic will afford participants a relaxed environment to work on their strokes.
 
In addition to Friday's clinic, participants will also gain entry to see the nationally-ranked Elmira College women's ice hockey game against SUNY Cortland at 7:00 p.m.
 
The pro-am tournament portion of the event will begin promptly at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 14^th. Participants of the event will be paired with a member of either the Roberts Wesleyan or Elmira tennis teams for a round-robin pool play. All pairings and pool breakdown will be based on ability level. After the conclusion of pool play, the winners of each grouping will advance to the Championship Semifinals, while the second-place teams in each pool will advance to a consolation bracket. All participants are guaranteed at least five sets during the course of the morning. In addition to Saturday's tournament, lunch will be provided, while prizes will be raffled off throughout the day.
 
"The clinic and the pro-am tournament will be an amazing chance for our players to help support a great cause, while also connecting with the community through their love of tennis," Linhart Jr. continued. "We are proud to put on an event that will unify the community in a great day for tennis and autism awareness."
 
The entry fee to participate in the "Hit an Ace for Lola Grace" event is $50. To apply or find out more information about the event, please contact Tom Linhart Jr. by email: tlinhart@elmira.edu or by phone at: (607) 483-0227 or (607) 735-1708.