Orlando, Fla. (December 18, 2025) – The Rollins College tennis programs are very excited to announce an official partnership with Orlando Health ahead of the 2026 Spring season. The alliance is a chance to illuminate the power of tennis in the community.
The tennis teams will work specifically with Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. Last week, student athletes from both teams visited Seacrest Studio at the hospital and live streamed the show directly to patient rooms. This provided a fun reprieve from the daily challenges these patients face and a moment of reflection for the Tars. Following the show, these student athletes visited with children throughout the hospital, spreading holiday cheer and Rollins spirit along the way!
Annie Sallick, junior on the women's tennis team, shared her thoughts on this Rollins x Orlando Health Arnold Palmer alliance:
"This partnership with Orlando Health, and specifically Orlando Health Arnold Palmer, is incredibly meaningful to our team. My brother was diagnosed with childhood cancer at 18, so supporting children and families navigating serious illness is deeply personal to me. As student-athletes, we are fortunate to compete in a sport we love and pursue our passions every day. Through this tournament, we are able to use that privilege to give back to children who may not currently have the opportunity to do the things they love. It's inspiring to see our team come together around a cause so close to home, and I'm excited about the future of this partnership and the impact we can continue to make through tennis."
Moving forward, Rollins tennis will hold a Pro-Am Tournament on January 24, 2026 at 9:00 am at the new Rollins Tennis and Golf Center. A hundred percent of the funds raised will go directly to Orlando Health to support the development of the Orlando Health Children's Pavilion. This event will jumpstart an enduring relationship, with the hopes of driving impactful fundraising, broadening awareness, and actively engaging the youth served by Orlando Health.
Tasi Purcell Batista, head coach of the Rollins College women's tennis program, shared how special the connection is for the men's and women's programs, aligning with goals of the teams and the institution.
"It means everything to us. At the heart of our programs is a commitment to serve others. Having the opportunity to connect with these children and their families is not only meaningful, it's a privilege that inspires everything we do."
The Orlando Health Foundation is especially excited about the partnership.
"Seeing the Rollins College tennis team bring their energy and kindness to Orlando Health Arnold Palmer was incredibly meaningful. Their visit lifted spirits, and their commitment to raising funds to support the Orlando Health Children's Pavilion shows the powerful impact student-athletes can make even beyond their determination on the court." – Mark A. Jones, Executive Vice President of the Orlando Health Foundation.
For those looking to support the cause, donations (directly to Orlando Health) can be made here Give.OrlandoHealth.com/Rollins
More information about the Pro-Am will be announced soon - tournament registration fee is separate. Stay tuned for details on how to purchase fan experience tickets!
