Special Olympics tennis invitational returns to Charlottesville

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (WVIR) – A tournament to make sure everyone has the opportunity to compete in tennis at a high level returned to Charlottesville.

The Boar’s Head Sports Club hosted Special Olympics Virginia’s annual Xperience Tennis Invitational this weekend.

Twenty-five athletes hailing from 13 different states competed in a three-day tournament.

Competition director Ron Manillla said the tournament was one of the first of its kind and has become more competitive over the years.

“You’ll never see such warm competition than with special Olympic athletes in any of the sports they play, and I’ve always just believed in special Olympics as the way the world should be,” Manilla said.

Manilla said the tournament is a well-loved tradition for those who compete and, he loves seeing athletes return year after year and advance.

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