UAHA 2019 Nationals – Kids On The Line

USHA NATIONAL FOUR-WALL JUNIORS

Juniors get the final words: Thank you!

Donations open door to a great experience

any juniors are able to travel to USHA national events only because of the generous donations to the
Ardito Travel Fund. Each recipient of travel money writes a letter of appreciation to his or her sponsor. Here are some examples of the juniors’ thoughts on the donors’ generosity:
I’m 16 years old and have been playing handball for 11 years. I’m so thankful that you were able to help support me in coming out to Portland, Ore., for my 10th junior nationals. I look forward to this tournament all year.
I have a brother, mom and dad who all play handball, as it has turned into a family affair. Sometimes all four of us will play in tournaments together. I started playing handball at the Lattof YMCA with Don Quinlan’s group and I’ve loved it ever since. This past year I have started to play in the open brackets at tournaments around the Midwest.
Once again, I would like to thank you for your help and support as it means more to me than you could think.
Ray Ure, Des Plaines, Ill.

I am 9 years old and the youngest player in the juniors tournament. I have been playing handball for one year.
My granddad is my coach. We practice three times a week. Bob Hickman teaches a class on Saturdays.
I want to have fun and win more games. My goal is to be the best handball player possible. My life goal is to get good grades and be the best person I can be.
Joshua Smith, Colorado Springs

I’m from Ireland, and this is my first time being at the junior nationals. I’m playing in the 19-and-under division in singles and doubles. I started playing handball at 14 and haven’t looked back since.

Being here has been a great experience, especially seeing all the players America and Canada have to offer. I’ve also made new friends and broadened my handball horizons.

I cannot thank you enough for helping fund and run this tournament as it really is the best junior tournament I’ve been to. It has improved my game tenfold. The chance to participate somewhere like the MAC really is a dream come true.

Thank you again and hopefully someday
I’ll do the same.
Brooklyn Hickey, Mallow, Ireland

Isaac Alberg (left) won the award for most improved, named for Lattof YMCA players Kate Conlon and Kurt Johannson, and Joseph Lallier earned the sportsmanship award, named after Vince Gabriele Jr. Alberg, in only his second year, became one of the most competitive juniors, and Lallier pitched in whenever help was needed.

A.J. Wilkinson, who won a title in his first USHA event, receives the best newcomer honor from LeaAnn Martin. The award is named for Tom Lynch, who has spearheaded fundraising for the annual juniors travel awards.

I am 13 and have been playing handball for about two years. This is my second nationals. I play handball, tennis, soccer, volleyball and track and field. I am a triplet and have two sisters who also play handball.
I play handball at the Lattof YMCA and my coach is Don Quinlan. I play handball one day a week for two hours a day, sometimes three.
Thank you so much for your generosity. I really appreciate it.
Zoe Klicker, Arlington Heights, Ill.

I want to thank you for helping us come to Portland, Ore. I had a great time here and wish to come again.
I’ve been playing handball for five years now, and ever since I returned my first shot in the short court I fell in love with it. I am
13 now, and I participated in the 13-and- under small-ball bracket. I won two games and sadly lost two.
I’m glad I lost because I learn from my losses. I’m ready for the 2019 nationals and thankful for you.
Antonio Rivera, Tucson

I am 12 years old and have been playing handball for seven years. I like handball because it keeps you in shape and it’s fun to play.
I appreciate you for supporting me because it has helped me be where I am now. And without you I wouldn’t be able to go on big trips like Portland, Ore., and Chicago. Thank you for your donations and supporting the Fred Lewis Foundation.
Ayden Brule, Tucson

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