PIEDMONT — Show a little love on the tennis court by participating in Corey’s Court Challenge to raise funds for improvements to the courts while honoring Piedmont High School tennis coach Corey Reich, for whom the courts are dedicated.
A 2004 graduate of Piedmont High, Reich was diagnosed with ALS when in college. He then returned to Piedmont and is an assistant coach for the boys’ and girls’ Piedmont High varsity tennis teams, the only teams to qualify every year for the North Coast Section team championships since its inception in 1998.
Said Reich on Tuesday about the courts being renamed for him, “It’s an amazing honor. Piedmont has such a rich tennis tradition, players and coaches alike — to be singled out is humbling.”
Piedmont High tennis team members Emily Becker and Nicholas Lalli came up with the idea of the round-robin doubles tennis tournament to support renovations at the courts.
“Our class wanted to donate to the new Corey Reich tennis center,” Becker and Lalli said. “This … was our way of bringing everyone together for Corey for a great celebration. Come out and watch some great tennis and join in the fun.”
Reich feels emotional over their efforts.
“To see my current players, Emily Becker and Nick Lalli, take time out of their busy junior year schedules made me tear up. It is so thoughtful of them to want to contribute and get other students, alumni and the community involved,” Reich said.
To register for the court challenge, donate the suggested $50 to the Piedmont Recreational Facilities Organization for the “Class of 2020 Round Robin registration at prfo.org/donate, then email PHS tennis coach Jim Landes at jimlandes@gmail.com with the player’s name and affiliation (Piedmont High player or community member). Supporters can also bring a $50 check payable to PRFO on the day of the event. You may donate to play or observe. Observers can make donations of any size.
The PRFO is spearheading the event with community support. The nonprofit organization has pledged to raise money to enhance the renovations funded by the city. City-budgeted improvements include resurfacing the courts, installing new net posts and nets, new fencing, new ball stops and drainage improvements. With support through the PRFO, improvements can expand to installing new bleachers, new tennis court benches, new LED lights and a new drinking fountain. Planned also is a permanent Wall of Champions to recognize winning teams and players.
Tennis players will be randomly assigned a Piedmont High tennis team doubles partner for each of four sets. Players with the best scores will receive prizes. Attendees can also enjoy music, food and an exhibition match. Proceeds also will enable the Piedmont High class of 2020 to fund a commemorative medallion at the site. Work is scheduled to take place this summer at the courts.
If you go
What: Corey’s Court Challenge
When: 1 to 5 p.m. April 28
Where: Recreation center tennis courts, Vista Avenue in Piedmont
Cost: $50 donation suggested
