Beyond State Lines, Connected Through Sport
SONH athletes Lili Leonard-Heath and Andres Tourgee took to the courts in Maine for SOME’s state tennis tournament, earning valuable competition experience and celebrating their love of the sport.
September 17, 2026
For Lili Leonard-Heath and Andres Tourgee, tennis is more than a sport. It is an opportunity to challenge themselves, build friendships, and compete alongside athletes who share their passion for the game.
On September 5, the two athletes, joined by coaches Mike Elmer and Mary Alice Leonard-Heath, traveled to Bates College in Lewiston, Maine, to compete in the Special Olympics Maine State Tennis Tournament. The trip marked another opportunity for the small Team NH tennis team to reunite after competing together at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games and continue the relationships they have built through the sport.
The tournament welcomed athletes from across Maine, with competition ranging from individual skills events to advanced divisions. Members of the Bates College tennis team volunteered as line judges and provided support throughout the day, helping create a welcoming environment for athletes on and off the court. When rain arrived, tournament organizers seamlessly moved competition indoors, ensuring play could continue.
For Andres, the tournament was a familiar and exciting return. Competing in Maine for the third consecutive year, he earned a silver medal in his division after facing a longtime friendly rival. During breaks in competition, the two athletes warmed up together, demonstrating the camaraderie that makes Special Olympics competition so unique.
Lili challenged herself in a new way, moving up a division and competing against four male athletes. Despite initial nerves, she delivered a strong performance and finished fourth in her division, continuing to build confidence and experience on the court.
The trip also provided an opportunity to reconnect with members of the broader tennis community. The team caught up with Valeria Nikolaev, now the Head Women’s Tennis Coach at Bates College. The connection dates back to clinics held at Dartmouth College, where collegiate athletes and coaches have helped support Lili and Andres as they developed their skills and prepared for the national stage leading up to the USA Games this past June.
That support continues today. This fall, members of the Upper Valley Hawks have resumed tennis clinics at Dartmouth, building on relationships with both the women’s and men’s tennis programs. These opportunities have provided valuable instruction, court time, and encouragement for athletes interested in the sport.
Tennis may bring this group outside of New Hampshire for competition, but the dedication of athletes, families, coaches, and volunteers continues to create meaningful opportunities for Lili and Andres to train, compete, and build connections through sport.
Congratulations to both athletes on a successful tournament and thank you to everyone who helps make opportunities like these possible. From volunteer coaches and collegiate athletes to family members and tournament organizers, your support continues to open doors and create meaningful experiences through sport.