06/15/2026
Last month we honoured outstanding contributions to our sport by publicly honouring the TNS winners in the following categories at the Support4Sport Awards: (Part 1/3)
1. Coach of the Year
Carlos Castillo
Shortly after coming to Canada from Ecuador, Carlos joined the Headstart Tennis team of coaches in Clayton Park. He started with a small group of kids and expanded participation by drawing in friends, families and new players of all ages and skill levels. He’s equally comfortable introducing adults to their first rally as he is guiding players toward tournament competition.
2. Volunteer of the Year
Leo Donovan
Leo has been central to the growth of tennis in Ingonish Beach, the beautiful area of the province known as North of Smokey. In 2025, he obtained his Instructor certification, secured grant funding, purchased new equipment and personally delivered a 6-week program which welcomed over 30 players of multiple age groups. Despite dealing with significant differences in skill levels, Leo manages to keep people coming back to the program. Through his energy and personal investment in each participant, he epitomizes the spirit of community sport.
3. Official of the Year:
Eva Przybylska
Eva has played tennis for many years and became an umpire in 2016. In a short while, she earned the competence of officiating at Open, Masters, ITF Junior and wheelchair tennis events across the region - and approaches the task with a calm and composed on-court demeanour.