Dillard Tennis to Host Inaugural James Branche Dillard Invitational

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

New Orleans, LA - Dillard University is proud to announce that its tennis team will be hosting the Inaugural James Branche Invitational on October 20th and 21st. The tournament will feature teams from Xavier University of Louisiana (XULA), Loyola University, Southeastern University, and Louisiana Christian University.

The James Branche Invitational is named in honor of James Branche Jr., a former Dillard University tennis player who made a significant impact on the sport. Born and raised in New Orleans, Branche grew up just a few blocks away from the New Orleans Lawn Tennis Club, the oldest tennis club in America. It was there that he developed a passion for the game and excelled in his skills.

At the age of 9, Branche knew that attending Dillard University was his only option for college. As a senior at G.W. Carver High School, he won the Louisiana State Singles Championship and was ranked #6, thanks to the guidance of a DU student. However, his journey at Dillard was interrupted when he was deployed to Vietnam by the Army in 1966.

Upon his return to Dillard in 1969, Branche was determined to make a difference in the DU tennis program. He became the team captain for three consecutive years and led the team to victory in the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC) singles and doubles championships. Dillard University also won the GCAC all three years under Branche's leadership.

The Inaugural James Branche Invitational aims to honor Branche's legacy and his dedication to the sport of tennis. The tournament will bring together some of the top collegiate tennis teams in the region for two days of intense competition. Spectators can expect to witness thrilling matches and exceptional talent on display.

Dillard University invites tennis enthusiasts and sports fans alike to come and support the participating teams at the Inaugural James Branche Invitational on October 20th and 21st. The tournament promises to be an exciting event that celebrates the rich history and future of tennis in the New Orleans community.

For more information about the James Branche Invitational, please contact:

Name: Meenakshi Sundaram
Title: Head Tennis Coach
Phone: 504-816-4215
Email: msundaram@dillard.edu

Donate to Dillard Tennis here: Dillard Tennis Fundraiser 

-Bleu Devils-