Bronx Tennis Tournament Ties Competitive Play to Mental Health Advocacy

Dr. Jordan D. Metzl, a noted sports medicine physician at the Hospital for Special Surgery, will headline the dinner program. Metzl, founder of the IronStrength Community Program, argues that the habits formed on the court translate into long-term health benefits. “Active kids become active teens who become active adults,” he noted, framing movement as a form of medicine that extends well beyond the baseline.

This year’s tournament centers on the theme of kindness and compassion. Founder Gary P. Poon designed the event to counter the high-pressure environment of junior athletics by encouraging players to prioritize mutual respect. Since its 2019 inception, the tournament has operated with a mission to normalize discussions about anxiety, depression, and suicide prevention among adolescents. Tournament organizers partner with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and the National Institute of Mental Health to provide resources for participants.

The tournament serves as a tribute to Matt Stevenson, a tennis professional who died by suicide in 2017 at age 32. Stevenson’s legacy drives the event’s commitment to providing financial aid for junior players and funding for organizations like the Center for Healing & Justice Through Sport. Proceeds from the three-weekend event—which spans age groups from 12u through 18u—support the Matt Stevenson Junior Tennis Fund and various community-based athletic programs.