2023 Senior Spirit of Tennis Awards

Congratulations to the winners of the 2023 USTA Texas Senior Spirit of Tennis Awards, Lois Canady and Antonio De Santis.

Established in 1992, These awards honor a man and woman who prove that tennis truly is the sport of a lifetime. Their sportsmanship, enthusiasm, healthy lifestyle, and cooperative spirit make the community of senior tennis in Texas stronger. Learn more about these awards.

Women’s Award

Lois Canady, 82, has been captaining USTA Leagues for about 20 years – almost as long as she has been playing. As a captain, player, volunteer, and cheerleader, Lois is always kind, earnest, dedicated, and full of grace. 

Captaining league teams can often be a thankless job, but Lois chooses to be a captain because it gives others the chance to just enjoy the game. She has been a faithful CTA and section volunteer, and she is simply the type of person we all hope to meet through tennis: a real class act.

Men's Award

Antonio De Santis, 82, is a true advocate for tennis and its social and health benefits. Tony captains three to four leagues per season, and he has taken teams to the USTA League Nationals five times (and counting). Tony plays tennis two to three times per week. The other nights? He works out at the gym to "stay fit." 

Not only has Tony been an active player for 40 years, but he is also a dedicated volunteer with the USTA and his local CTA. He feels the need to do all he can to grow the game, no matter his age.