Tennis tournament benefits victims of violent crimes

2004-12-24 / Sports

By Ellen Fortson

Mr. and Mrs. Bryant Newcomb, daughter Lauren, and Veronica Swain welcomed players and spectators of the tournament.

Sunny weather, exciting point rallies, and community spirit blessed the 8th Annual John Newcomb Memorial Pro– Am tournament December 10 and 11 at Parklane Recreation Center. Mr. and Mrs. Bryant Newcomb welcomed the large crowd of tennis participants and spectators of the annual event. Mr. and Mrs. Newcomb and their daughter, Lauren, visit Columbia every year from New Jersey to honor the memory of their son, John Newcomb, a local tennis professional who died a tragic death of violence in Columbia ten years ago.

Ralph Brinson and Jason Scully won the men’s 6.5 Combo “We love the people of Columbia,” said Emmie Newcomb. “Year after year, we feel the continued love and support of the extremely kind people. The people of Parklane and the SC Victim Assistance Network are always very helpful and cooperative. We know why our son loved it so much here in Columbia. We wish them all a Merry Christmas and the happiest of the New Year.”

All proceeds for the tournament are divided between the Winthrop Scholarship Fund in John Newcomb’s name and the SC Victim Assistance Network. Veronica Swain, chief executive officer of the SC Victim Network program stated that the generosity of the people in the tournament continues to grow larger every year.

Mixed doubles winners John Sheffield and Shirley Riddle clenched the champsionship match. The funds enable victims of homicide to attend the conference, and to receive validation of their feelings through meeting other families who have suffered the same vulnerability when dealing with the new changes presented in their lives. For more information on the organization or volunteer services for the April conference, please call 888-852-1900 or visit the Victim Assistance Network website at scvan.org.