North American Indian Tennis Association tournament sets new participation record

An annual celebration of tennis and Native American traditions since its first edition in 1976, the North American Indian Tennis Association's national tournament hit new heights during Memorial Day weekend. With this year's event held in Tulsa, Okla., the 47th staging of the tournament boasted a record 125 registered players along with 100 children participating in a USTA-sponsored kids' clinic.

With competitors representing 23 different Native American tribes across the United States, the three-day tournament crowned champions in various adult, junior and senior tournaments, with skill levels ranging from beginner to the 5.0 NTRP level.

The event traditionally kicks off with an opening ceremony that includes a blessing, drumming and singing. It also includes a Saturday evening banquet complete with awards, raffles and special speakers.

“It's just a rich history of Native American families coming together for Memorial Day weekend every single year that love the game of tennis and love spending time with their family,” first-year tournament director Jessica RedCorn said of the festivities.

“A lot of the families turn it into a family reunion because they might not just be from one state, so they can travel all together and then spend three days of tennis and fun and food. And it's just a really good time.”

At this year’s banquet, three original NAITA members were honored: Jeri RedCorn (Jessica’s aunt), Dr. George Blue Spruce and Weldon Smith.

In addition to the event's well-attended kids' clinic, youth was also served in the women’s and men’s tournaments in Tulsa. Caroline Henry—a Tulsa resident and a junior on Division II Emporia State University’s tennis team—completed a triple crown by winning the women’s open singles, doubles (with Beth Wagner) and mixed doubles (with father Steve Henry) titles.

"I told her, 'Oh my gosh, I hope you brought a separate suitcase for your trophies!'” said RedCorn.

On the men’s side, high school student Reeve Corbin won the men’s open singles and doubles (with Jasen Baker) titles. Other events included a couples challenge and intermediate and senior tournaments, as well as junior competitions from 12-and-under to 18-and-under.