Over 120 people gathered at Whitefield Academy for a groundbreaking ceremony for its new tennis complex on Wednesday, March 23. The complex is part of Whitefield’s new multi-million dollar master plan, which was approved by the Smyrna City Council this past December. The tennis complex will include 10 tennis courts and a field house with concessions, restrooms, and changing rooms for the school’s award-winning tennis teams. The varsity girls tennis team won the state championship in 2014; the varsity boys team won the state championship in 2012; and both teams won region championships in 2012.
The crowd stood in front of the school’s current courts as the Whitefield jazz band, clad in brand new uniforms, played upbeat music before the ceremony. Board of Trustees Chairman Jason Bilotti opened the event in prayer, and then Headmaster Kevin Bracher stood to address the crowd. Bracher acknowledged the many parents, coaches, volunteers, and organizations that have contributed to the success of the Whitefield tennis program. He thanked Lynn Dupree, athletic director, and Whitefield coaches Christy Cella, Nancy Morris, and Cindy Papantonis, as well as members of the varsity tennis teams. Bracher also acknowledged six alumni who have earned over $750,000 in scholarships and are currently playing tennis on the collegiate level at Agnes Scott, Boston College, The Citadel, Morehouse College, Oglethorpe University, and Washington and Lee. In addition, Bracher thanked ATI Tennis Academy, owned by Danny and Kathy Carlson, for their partnership in providing additional coaching support to the Whitefield teams.
Dr. Kevin Bracher, headmaster, with Renee and Jim SchwarzkopfBracher also thanked the many financial contributors, including Jim and Renee Schwarzkopf, whose generous donation enabled Whitefield to begin construction on the new facility earlier than expected. The Schwarzkopfs were presented with a commemorative gift, created by Smyrna glassblower Thom Lillie, in appreciation for their contribution.
“Jim and Renee’s daughter, Megan, who was also our valedictorian last year, played on the 2014 state championship girls tennis team. My son, Stephen, also played tennis that year. We share lots of memories of having to leave matches to find a restroom, or holding on to the fence to try and keep from sliding down the hillside of the courts while watching our kids play. When this new complex is built, those will be the ‘good ole’ day’ stories, but we will be so proud and ecstatic to have a facility which serves our needs.”
Following Dr. Bracher’s acknowledgements, Smyrna Ward 7 councilman Ron Fennel, also a Whitefield parent, addressed the audience, reflecting on the contributions that Whitefield has made to the Smyrna area, then introducing Mayor Pro-tem Teri Anulewicz.
“The City of Smyrna is very committed to supporting education, whether it be through our public schools or independent schools,” said Anulewicz. “Congratulations on your recent expansion to 100 acres! Looking around this beautiful campus, I can see the great work that has been done. Whitefield serves an important role in our community. It offers a spiritual and holistic education and is helping raise up the leaders of tomorrow. Congratulations on your great accomplishments!“
Alumnus Justin Samples ('15) plays tennis at Morehouse CollegeAnulewicz then called sixteen leaders and donors who have been instrumental in building the tennis program to come forward for the groundbreaking. Each was provided a golden shovel and the group simultaneously turned the dirt for the new tennis complex to rounds of applause. The group included: Teri Anulewicz, Smyrna mayor pro-tem; Jason Bilotti, Whitefield board chairman; Dr. Kevin Bracher, headmaster; Christy Cella, varsity tennis coach; John Charles, Booster Club president; Lynn Dupree, athletic director; Kevin Byrne; Ron Fennel, Smyrna city councilman; Veronica and Scott Golden; Joel and Michelle Holsinger; Tracy and Scott Ryan; and Renee and Jim Schwarzkopf.
Construction for the tennis complex will begin in the spring, and the remaining elements of Whitefield’s master plan will begin construction over the next several years. Whitefield’s master plan calls for the addition of new cafeterias, a new library, a new Lower School, administrative offices, athletic fields, a performing arts center, a swimming complex, and more.