As the holiday season approaches, the girls' tennis team at Wayne Hills High School has demonstrated their commitment to their local community by making a significant donation to the Wayne Interfaith Network (WIN) food pantry. This act of generosity not only highlights the team's athletic prowess but also their dedication to making a positive impact on those in need.

Empowering the Community, One Serve at a Time

Rallying for a Cause

The Wayne Hills High School girls' tennis team recently held a successful fundraiser during their October 7th Senior Day match, where they collected donations to support the WIN food pantry. The team's $3,000 contribution was nearly double the amount the pantry typically receives from a group fundraiser, showcasing the team's dedication and the community's generosity.The fundraising effort was a collaborative effort, with the team's coach, Todd Green, and the team's parents working together to organize the event. Donors had the option to either make a flat donation or contribute a specific amount for every game the players won against their opponents from West Milford that day.

Serving Up Success on and off the Court

The team's fundraising efforts were not the only accomplishments they celebrated this season. The Patriots had a remarkable year on the court, posting a 12-6 record overall and a 9-1 record in their league. Their success extended beyond the regular season, as they secured the Passaic County championship for the third consecutive year and defended their Big North Independence League championship title, which they have held since 2021.The team's dedication to their sport and their community was evident in their achievements. "We not only made it a memorable match for our seniors, but were able to use athletics in a positive way to help our own community," said Coach Green, highlighting the team's ability to balance their athletic pursuits with their commitment to making a difference.

Delivering a Winning Donation

On October 18th, the team members visited the WIN food pantry, located at the Wayne YMCA, to present their $3,000 donation. The pantry's president, Barbara Cohen, expressed her gratitude, stating that the team's contribution was one of the largest donations the pantry had received from a single sports team.The WIN food pantry has been serving the residents of Wayne for over 25 years and will continue to do so as the YMCA building transitions into township ownership. The pantry's services extend beyond just providing food assistance, as it also offers a Thanksgiving program and other community services to support those in need.The Wayne Hills High School girls' tennis team's generous donation will help the WIN food pantry serve approximately 200 families in the Wayne community, making a tangible difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity. This act of community service not only reflects the team's values but also sets an inspiring example for other student-athletes to follow.