Summer Smash Tennis Tournament coming to Snohomish in July is open players from around the region

Frustrated by what he saw as limited opportunities for local area high school tennis players to play in the off-season, Snohomish resident Kraig Norris decided to create one.

The Snohomish Summer Smash, a two-day tournament for high school players ages 14-18, will take place July 24th and 25th at the Snohomish High School Tennis Courts.

Registration costs are $25 for Singles players and $40 for Doubles teams, with a two-match minimum ensured for players, and water and tournament t-shirts provided. Trophies will be awarded for each division winner. Proceeds go to the Snohomish High School Boys and Girls Tennis Teams.

“My inspiration came from reading about the Midsummer Night Madness basketball tournament taking place in Everett,” Norris said. 

“There are tournaments for football, volleyball and lacrosse players, but unless a player is registered with the US Tennis Association, there are very few opportunities to play tennis.” 

So Norris, in conjunction with Snohomish High School Coach Dick Jansen, set about to change that. 

“We have reached out to the coaches of thirty five regional high schools, trying to increase exposure and get as many players competing as possible. This is a chance for players from different districts and divisions to compete against each for the first time. 

"For someone hoping to secure a spot on their Varsity team, this is a chance to get some playing time, and players who have played only Singles will have a chance to try their hand at Doubles, and vice versa.”

It won't just be all about the competition either; borrowing a page from beach volleyball tournaments, there will be music playing during the matches.

“This is serious tennis, but it’s also going to be fun.” 

Registration deadline for the tournament is July 8 , and players interested in participating can email the tournament director for a registration packet.