Moreno/Diaz Win Pro-Am
Fourteen year-old Jose Diaz from Stockton, CA became the youngest player to ever win the St. Jude Pro-Am Charity Doubles Tournament. He was paired with University of Memphis graduate Javier Moreno as they defeated Patrick Martin and defending US OPEN Champion Jason Mannino in the finals 15-8 in front of a packed crowd of fans and sponsors.
Javier Moreno, who has played in every Pro-Am Doubles for St. Jude, was thrilled to be paired with Jose. “I came close to winning this event 2 years ago so this was nice. I coach kids and to have the opportunity to play with such a talented kid for St. Jude Children’s hospital is perfect.”
Jose was diving all over the court, cutting off ceiling balls as they opened up an 8-0 lead before Martin and Mannino started to catch fire. “It made me feel good; knowing that playing racquetball would help other kids,” said Diaz.
The St. Jude Pro-Am Charity Doubles event was sold out for the 12th year in a row raising nearly $10,000 and bringing the total to nearly $150,000 and the tournament has not officially started. Patrick Martin who was playing in his third St. Jude Pro-Am was still happy despite the loss. “To be able to donate and play with a pro was worth it all,” said Martin.
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