The South Carolina Tennis Foundation (SCTF) has announced the 2024 scholarship recipients for incoming college freshmen. Each scholarship, valued at $2,000 and awarded for the freshman year only, honors a special individual. Since its inception in 1993 with two scholarships, the program has expanded to include four. The 2024 scholarship recipients are:
- Ally Jones: Clemson University – Foster Family Scholarship
- Grant Pagatpatan: University of South Carolina – Lucy Garvin Scholarship
- Marlie Punch: University of South Carolina – Randall G. Heffron, D.M.D. Memorial Scholarship
- Maggie LeCroy: Anderson University – Jim Russell Scholarship
Selection criteria for the scholarships include academic performance, extracurricular activities, character, sportsmanship, tennis accomplishments, and an essay on “The Impact of Tennis on My Life.”
Ally Jones was TL Hanna High School’s valedictorian and an exceptional leader. Ally, who finished #1 in her class of 445, will be attending Clemson University this fall with aspirations to continue her tennis journey. Throughout her high school career, Ally has not only excelled academically but has also made significant contributions to her school’s tennis program. Her achievements include being named Region 1-AAAAA All-Region in Girls Tennis from 2020 to 2023 and participating in the SCHSL Girls Individual Tennis State Championship in 2023. Her dedication to the sport has been recognized with the Coach’s Choice Award in 2020 and the Yellow Jacket Award in 2021.
“Tennis has impacted my life in so many ways,” Ally reflects. “From the early days of tennis camps and clinics, where I met others who shared my love for the game, to the thrilling experiences with the Upstate Junior Team Tennis, the sport has been a significant part of my personal growth.”
Grant Pagatpatan who graduated in the top 1% of his class of 343 at Hilton Head High School, will attend the University of South Carolina this fall, continuing his impressive journey both academically and athletically. Grant’s passion for tennis has profoundly impacted his life, shaping his personal and academic growth. His journey began in sixth grade and evolved through countless hours of practice and competition. From early days playing on clay courts at his grandparents’ condo in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, to competing at private clubs and high school tournaments, tennis has been a significant part of Grant’s life.
“Tennis is more than a sport for me,” Grant shares. “It has been my outlet for creative expression, a way to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and a means to connect with family and friends. The sport has taught me so much about myself and has pushed me further than I could have imagined.”
Marlie Punch was Dorman High School’s valedictorian and an inspiring student. Marlie, who finished as the top student in her class of 765, will attend The University of South Carolina this fall. Marlie joined the tennis team in August 2020 and quickly found her place among her teammates. Her commitment to the team and her leadership abilities were evident as she progressed from #1 JV player and JV MVP in her sophomore year to #3 Varsity singles in her senior year. Her role extended beyond playing; she also led a USTA tennis camp for local elementary schoolers, an experience that deepened her passion for the sport and solidified her role as a leader.
“One of my most memorable experiences was coaching the USTA tennis camp. I was initially nervous about being responsible for several children, but it became a truly rewarding experience,” Marlie reflects. “Seeing the campers grow excited about tennis and learning to work together was inspiring. It taught me that tennis is not just a sport but a uniting experience.”
Maggie LeCroy was a distinguished senior in the top 3% of students in her class of 270 at Belton-Honea Path High School.
Throughout her eight years of playing tennis, Maggie has achieved remarkable success and earned numerous accolades. Her high school tennis career highlights include:
- Sophomore Year: #1 singles and #1 doubles positions, Kaleb Griffin State Farm Athlete of the Month, All-State at Individual State Tournament, Region 1-AAA All-Region Player of the Year, Academic Award
- Junior Year: #1 singles and #1 doubles, Region 2-AAA Player of the Year, Region 2-AAA All-Region, Anderson Independent Player of the Year, Team Captain, Academic Award
- Senior Year: #1 singles and #1 doubles, Belton-Honea Path High School Female Athlete of the Year, Region 2-AAA Player of the Year, Region 2-AAA All-Region, All-State at Individual State Tournament, North-South Tournament Participant, Academic Award, Team Captain
Maggie’s leadership and sportsmanship have also been recognized with several awards, including the Malloy Evans Sportsmanship Award (2024), SCHSL State Tournament Sportsmanship Award (2023), and Hall of Fame Classic Sportsmanship Award (2021 and 2023), Rex Maynard Award (2019). Her dedication to tennis and her positive impact on others are evident in her roles as a mentor and coach, including volunteering at the Belton Tennis Association and leading local tennis clinics.
Maggie’s journey with tennis began at the age of ten and evolved into a profound passion that has significantly shaped her life. “Tennis has created a lasting impact on my life,” Maggie reflects. “It has taught me self-discipline, accountability, and the importance of leadership. The sport has also brought me invaluable friendships and taught me about the importance of time management and commitment.”
We wish all of our scholarship recipients continued success as they enter their freshman year of college.
