Two of North Texas’s finest wheelchair tennis talents, Mattingly Bristow from Weatherford and Jeremy Perez from Joshua, are representing the United States at the prestigious BNP Paribas World Team Cup: Junior Festival in Knokke-Heist, Belgium. This international event is the wheelchair tennis equivalent of the Billie Jean King and Davis Cups, bringing together top junior players from ten countries.

Local Stars on the Global Stage

Mattingly Bristow, a 15-year-old student at Weatherford High School, is recognized nationally for her exceptional skills and sportsmanship in wheelchair tennis. Her participation in this tournament highlights the growing recognition of North Texas athletes on the global stage. Jeremy Perez, a standout from Joshua, is ranked second in the nation among high school wheelchair tennis players. His recent achievements include being the first-ever High School Wheelchair State Champion and the Texas Slam Champion, as celebrated by Joshua ISD.

Joining them on the Girls’ Team is Lily Terral from Houston, further showcasing Texas’s contribution to the national team. The U.S. team, comprising Bristow, Perez, and eight other talented players, aims to clinch the junior trophy after narrowly missing out to Great Britain in last year’s combined final.

Competition and Community

The tournament runs from Wednesday, May 27th, to Sunday, May 31st, offering these young athletes a platform to demonstrate their skills and sportsmanship. This event not only highlights individual athletic prowess but also fosters a sense of community and international camaraderie among participants.

As these young athletes compete on the international stage, they bring pride to their local communities and inspire others with their dedication and achievements. Their journey underscores the importance of supporting youth sports and recognizing the potential within our local neighborhoods.

Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.