Celebrating Milestones and Futures at the 2026 Sunset Slam
The International Tennis Hall of Fame brought together supporters, partners, WTA & ATP professionals at the historic Horseshoe Court for the sixth annual Sunset Slam. This highly anticipated evening bridged the energy of the Cerity Partners Hall of Fame Open presented by the Margaret Fund with the deep community impact of TeamFAME, the Hall of Fame’s local tennis and education program serving students in grades 5 - 8 throughout Newport and Aquidneck Island.
From the moment students join TeamFAME as fifth graders to where they stand today, these young leaders have truly come into their own. Over the years, they’ve grown into accomplished tennis players, dedicated teammates, and inspiring students. Confidence emerged, challenges have been met with resilience, and friendships have grown into a lasting sense of belonging that will carry them far beyond the court.
One of the night’s most exciting announcements was the creation of the TeamFAME College Success Scholarship. The graduating seniors from the inaugural TeamFAME cohort, who have grown with the program since its launch, each received a $10,000 scholarship, distributed over four years to support their college journey.
The incredible moment capped off a memorable evening celebrating TeamFAME’s very first cohort of high school graduates—Fayth, Noemy, Hiba, and Millena. As they prepare to head off to college this fall, their milestone represents the transformative journey of TeamFAME: guiding young participants from their first serve into varsity student-athletes, Hall of Fame summer staff members, and future community leaders.
Watch the video below to see the 2026 TeamFAME Seniors come full circle!
Guests also mingled and heard from ATP and WTA players like Alex Michelsen and Reese Brantmeier while enjoying cocktails, light bites, and a live performance by Chelley Knight and the Dope Things.
The International Tennis Hall of Fame and TeamFAME were also proud to recognize three exceptional students who demonstrated outstanding leadership, character, and resilience:
Ingrid DeJarnatt received the 11th Hour Racing Rising Tide Award, recognizing her commitment to rising above challenges, uplifting her peers, and taking meaningful action to protect our oceans and community.
Emanuely Faustino received the TeamFAME Character of a Champion Award, presented in loving memory of Robyn Holloway, recognizing her legacy of compassion, positivity, and leading with kindness and integrity on and off the court.
Liam Barahona received the TeamFAME Character of a Champion Award, presented in loving memory of beloved tennis pro Coach Bruce Levine, celebrating Liam's reflection of Bruce’s generous spirit, leadership, encouragement, and perseverance.
The evening concluded with students taking the dance floor to celebrate their accomplishments and milestones. In a standout moment, TeamFAME student Gavin joined the band on stage for a special live performance, capping off another year of growth, connection and joy within the TeamFAME community.
The 2026 Sunset Slam was a powerful reminder of the community support behind TeamFAME's mission: empowering Newport youth to discover their potential, build confidence, and become the next generation of champions both on and off the court.
