“Expect More” in Action: Naperville Buddy Up Tennis Athlete competes in national tennis tournament
Earlier this month, Owen Finke achieved an important milestone. At 13, he was the youngest athlete to ever compete in the United States Tennis Association (USTA) National Adaptive Tennis Championship – and the only one with Down syndrome.
The tournament, which took place from October 4th – 6th, is an annual unified competition held at the USTA National campus in Orlando, Florida.
In unified tennis, athletes with and without disabilities compete together on doubles teams. Owen represented the Midwest region alongside his mother Katie Finke, who is also Coordinator and Coach of the Naperville Buddy Up Tennis chapter.
Reflecting on the event, Katie remarked, “It was a lot of fun. They made it really special for the athletes.”
Throughout the three-day event, participants engaged in specialized drills, enjoyed prize court activities, and took part in round-robin tournament play.
“Owen had a blast,” said Katie. “He did well and he made a lot of new friends.”
Katie started the Buddy Up Tennis Naperville chapter in 2016 in partnership with Five Star Tennis Center. Throughout the years, Owen has progressed consistently with the support of Buddy Up Tennis Coaches and Buddies.
In fact, Katie cites Owen’s consistency and experience as factors that helped him be successful at the tournament.
“They were really impressed with Owen’s technique,” she added.
Overall, the experience was incredibly positive for both Owen and Katie. She hopes that they will be able to participate again.
“It was super fun,” she said. “I really hope to do it many times in the future.”
Owen’s achievement marks a significant milestone, raising hopes that he will inspire others with Down syndrome to continue expecting more.
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