GAYLORD – The 2025 ARTA Youth Tournament was held Aug. 2, at the Otsego County Sportsplex Tennis Center in Gaylord.
Hosted by the Alpine Regional Tennis Association (ARTA) and organized by youth coach and Tournament Director Dan Hawkins, PTR, the event enjoyed perfect weather as players arrived early to warm up for a full day of competition. Singles and doubles divisions were offered for ages 8–11 and 12+, with each age group also competing in a short court game called “Slappies,” where winners were crowned in both divisions.
In the 12+ doubles division, the team of Nate Kirk and Vinnie Tithof started strong, defeating Lucy Kunst and Nolan Rallis 6-4, 6-3. They continued their streak with a decisive win over 2024 reigning champs Kyte Hawkins and Collin Cherry, 6-0, 6-2. All 12+ doubles teams are members of the Gaylord Area High School club tennis program.
The 12+ singles bracket featured competitive play from all participants, but Kyte Hawkins proved dominant, going undefeated to win first place. Nolan Rallis placed second, and Collin Cherry earned third.
In the 8–11 round robin doubles division, the undefeated sibling duo of Norah Kolb and Lewis Kolb captured the title. Second place was decided in a close tiebreaker, with brothers Calvin Kennedy and Franklin Kennedy edging out Grayling’s Sara Molina and Ana Amman. Isaac Spanding, Elizabeth Amman, and Izzy Turner also put up strong performances, battling hard until the end.
The 8–11 singles competition saw Lewis Kolb claim first place, with Calvin Kennedy taking second.
The “Slappies” event was a highlight for the kids. In the 12+ division, singles champion Kyte Hawkins also secured the “Slappies” title, with Nolan Rallis in second. In the 8–11 division, Sara Molina narrowly captured first place.
Congratulations to all champions and competitors for their hard work this summer and for participating in the ARTA Youth Tournament. The sportsmanship, competitive spirit, and determination displayed by every player were truly inspiring.
Coach Dan Hawkins thanked “all the volunteers/ARTA members who helped the tournament run smoothly, including Charlie Simpson & Sheila Simpson and Anjuli Hawkin!” He added, “And of course a huge thank you to the parents for bringing your kids each week and for helping make the tournament such a success!”
ARTA also extends its gratitude to all volunteers and players who continue to support its mission of growing the game of tennis for people of all ages in Northern Michigan. For more tennis news and activities this fall, visit www.gaylordtennis.com.
