Children tore up the courts at North Shore Towers in July during two United States Tennis Association (USTA) Junior Eastern Tournaments.
The first tournament was held from July 7 through July 12 and the second from July 28 to July 31.
The Level 1B singles first round, held on July 7, included boys and girls aged 10 to 18.
Annelies Karp, tournament director, described that atmosphere as “unbelievable.”
“It’s like being at the U.S. Open,” she said. “The parents sit on a raised deck, like the box at the U.S. Open, and the courts are in unbelievable condition.”
Ten children were playing on the court at once, while about 20 parents and onlookers sat in the audience.
Parents looked on proudly from their seats, including Dave Kupp. His daughter, Angeline Devi,13, exchanged serves with her opponent while Kupp watched.
“She’s doing good now,” Kupp said. “This is her first L1 tournament, so I’m hoping for the best.”
Parent and Floral Park native Lucky Damiao saw his son, Kyle, 12, walk onto the court to begin his match.
“Of course I’m proud,” Damiao said. “I have seen him in a lot of tournaments. I hope things turn out well this time. It’s just a matter of experience.”
The tournament was open to residents of the North Shore Towers, as well as all of Long Island.
