OP Racquet Center, Spec Tennis Club hosts successful tournament in honor of Dee Bohanan

(Sept. 25, 2023) The Ocean Pines Racquet Center was awash with goodwill on Sept. 23 as the community came together for the Friends of Dee Bohanan Benefit Tournament for Parkinson's Research. 
 
The event, organized by the Ocean Pines Platform Tennis and Spec Tennis clubs, was a heartfelt tribute to long-time member Dee Bohanan, who battled Parkinson's until her unfortunate passing on Sept. 14.
 
The tournament drew more than 40 players, including 10 participants in the “Newbie Round Robin” category. Spectators also flocked to the courts, with roughly 75 attendees helping to create an atmosphere of positivity.
 
Because of the strong turnout and the support of sponsors, the event raised nearly $4,000 for the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's research.
 
Karen Kaplan, president of the Platform Tennis and Spec Tennis clubs, called the tournament a big success. 
 
“The positive energy on and off the courts was amazing,” she said. “There was so much fun, laughs, camaraderie, and friendly competition. And it was an especially poignant moment when Dee's husband, Bo, joined us to present the medals.”
 
Kaplan thanked Cel Popen for helping to organize the tournament, as well as the Racquet Sports members and other volunteers who helped bring in sponsors and donors.
 
“To all the players and friends who donated, thank you so much!” she said. “A special thanks goes to our sponsors The Assateague Coastal Trust, Choptank Electric, the Bohanan Family, Sen. Mary Beth Carozza, Carrie R. Dupuie/CDR Financial, the MaryMac Foundation, A Bagel and..., the Hersheys, the Flanagans, and the Kent County Tennis Association.”  
 
The Spec Tennis Club remains committed to honoring Dee Bohanan's memory, supporting Parkinson's research, and fostering a strong sense of community through sport.
 
For more information on Spec Tennis programs at the Ocean Pines Racquet Center, visit www.oceanpines.org/web/pages/spec-tennis.