Duke's men's and women's tennis teams are launching the "Big Sets for Little Hearts" initiative, partnering with the Duke Children's Hospital Pediatric and Congenital Heart Center to raise funds for young heart patients. The program invites fans to pledge donations based on sets won during the season, with a total of 647 sets won last year. Coaches and players express excitement about the opportunity to support their community while competing in the 2024-2025 season.

By the Numbers
  • 647 sets won by Duke tennis teams last season.
  • Donations can start as low as $0.10, totaling $64.70 based on the previous year's performance.
Yes, But

The program highlights an essential philanthropic effort, yet it also raises considerations on maintaining the balance of athletics and community service, ensuring that players don't feel overwhelmed by fundraising obligations alongside their training and competition schedules.

State of Play
  • The women's tennis team begins their fall campaign at the UNC Invitational from Sept. 13-15.
  • The men's team starts its season at the ITA All-American Championship, scheduled for Sept. 21-29.
What's Next

As the tennis season commences, expectations are set for significant engagement from the community. Increased pledges based on performance could be encouraged, leading to greater awareness and support for the pediatric heart center.

Bottom Line

The "Big Sets for Little Hearts" program exemplifies how athletic excellence can intersect with community needs, offering an impactful way for Duke Tennis to contribute to vital healthcare efforts while inspiring fan support.