2025

Player Profiles

2025

Open Division

Meghan

Kimber

Duluth, Minn.

23rd Year Playing

Karl

Kimber

Duluth, Minn.

2nd Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Played at Duluth East H.S.
• First year playing in the Open Division after playing in the juniors last year.
• Excited to be playing with his mom!

​

​

Tennis Background

• I played high school tennis at Duluth East and college tennis at Gustavus Adolphus College.
• I teach tennis in Duluth and continue to enjoy playing USTA leagues and tournaments.
• Four-time Pine Tree Champion. 2020 Pine Tree Sportsmanship Award Winner. 2024 Pine Tree Hall of Fame Inductee

​

Why I Play

• To help be a small part of something big and for the incredible camaraderie and competition!

Tennis Background

• Won the 2024 Junior Pine Tree 17U Championship with Molly Miller.
• Started playing when I was three.
• Two-time Minnesota A State Doubles Champion at St Paul Academy H.S.
• Currently on the University of Minnesota Club Tennis Team.

​

Molly

Miller

Bloomington, Minn�3rd Year Playing

Tennis Background

• First year playing in the adult tournament after playing the Junior Tournament the past 2 years.
• 2023 and 2024 Junior Pine Tree 17U Champion.
• I've been playing since I was 4 and am going to play D-III next year!

​

Why I Play

• I play Pine Tree because I love the community

and the cause and I grew up watching the

tournament every summer … and eating all the

different apple pastries.

Maik�Nguyen

Lilydale, Minn. �2nd Year Playing

Tennis Background

• State qualifier in doubles at Maple Grove High School.
• Is playing collegiately at Denison College in the fall.
• Pine Tree tournament volunteer and past junior player.
• Finished second in the 17U Junior Tournament last year.

Oliver �Walseth

Elk River, Minn.�3rd Year Playing�

Tennis Background

• First year playing the Open after playing Junior Pine Tree the past 2 years.
• Played since I was 8 years old and basically learned how to play from my dad who coaches at irondale high school and played at St Thomas.�

Why I Play

• To raise money, play mixed doubles which is

hard to come by, and have fun.

​

Maddie

Larsen

Maple Grove, Minn. �2nd Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Six-year varsity player at Mahtomedi High School. During my time there, our team earned 3rd Place at the State Tournament, and I finished as the runner-up in the Doubles Individual State Tournament.
• Plays on the Club Tennis Team at Georgia Tech, where we finished 2nd at Nationals this year!
• Pine Tree volunteer doing all of the social media for this year’s tournament.

​

Why I Play

• I play in Pine Tree because it supports such an incredible cause and brings together amazing people. My favorite part is the energy, the community, and of course, the apple treats!

​

​

​

Tennis Background

• Assistant Women’s Tennis Coach at the University of Minnesota.
• Was the women's head tennis coach for the Sanchez-Casal Tennis Academy from 2016 to 2018, where she worked with top-300 ITF juniors and top-800 WTA players.
• Played at Jackson States in college and was the top-ranked junior tennis player in Ukraine.

Jack

Allaben

Mahtomedi, Minn.

3rd Year Playing

​

Anastasia

Pennington

Ukraine

1st Year Playing

Clara

Thoemke

Inver Grove Heights, Minn.

1st Year Playing

​

Nathan

Tretsven

North St. Paul, Minn.

5th Year Playing

​

​

​

Tennis Background

• Played college tennis at Winona State where she WSU Presidential Scholar Athlete, 2024 NSIC All-Academic Team, 2023-24 WSU Student Athlete of the year nominee
• Played at Simley H.S. where Nate was her coach. Was a state tournament qualifier.
• Teaching professional at Fred Wells Tennis & Education Center

​

Why I Play

• The great cause for cancer research and childhood cancer research. I love my job of teaching/coaching and tennis so this is a great way for me to get involved.

Tennis Background

• Played high school tennis at North St Paul; college tennis at Hamline and UW-Eau Claire.
• Currently teaching at Life Time White Bear.
• Varsity Girls tennis coach at Mahtomedi H.S.

​

Why I Play

• It is a fun, high level event that raises money for

a wonderful cause!

Tennis Background

• Will be a sophomore at Trinity University.
• Played in 2024 NCAA Tournament.

​

Why I Play

• To help raise awareness and funds for pediatric cancer which is a cause that means a lot to me. What I love most about this event is the strong sense of community. Pine Tree does an incredible job bringing people together and organizing a tournament that’s both competitive and meaningful.

Keagen �Lowman

Cambridge, Minn.�1st Year Playing�

Tennis Background

• Played throughout high school and going into my freshman season playing at Augustana.�

Why I Play

• It’s always fun to play and the cause is great!

​

Lucy �Nabedrick

Plymouth, Minn. �1st Year Playing

Scott

Wall

DePere, Wis.

1st Year Playing

Anna

Nguyen

Apple Valley, Minn.

3rd Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Played at Apple Valley HS where I had two of the best tennis coaches in the world - Sue Hodgson and Susan Furtney!
• Played college lacrosse at the University of Minnesota for a couple years and started to really miss tennis. I played for the club tennis team at the U and haven't put down a racquet since!

​

Why I Play

• I love being a part of a great cause and getting

the opportunity to play some of the best tennis

players around!

Tennis Background

• First started playing at Legion Park in De Pere, Wisconsin
• Played college tennis at St. Thomas. Was All-MIAC conference in singles, Academic All-MIAC and named to the All-MIAC sportsmanship team during his career.

​

Why I Play

• I am excited to play for my first time this year and support a great cause!

Siddhesh

Mahadeshwar

Mumbai, India

1st Year Playing

Michaella

Sullivan

Lakeville, Minn.

2nd Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Former D2 varsity athlete at Michigan Tech
• ITA Scholar- Athlete

​

​

Tennis Background

• MIAC Rookie of the Year and MIAC all conference singles and doubles

​

Why I Play Pine Tree

• I play Pine Tree for my nephew Hudson

Tobias

Wernet

Mainz, Germany

11th Year Playing

​

​

Tennis Background

• 2024 (Niltooli Wilkins) and 2020 (Alexis Neslon) Pine Tree Champion.
• Grew up playing tennis in Germany, where he was once the country’s #1-ranked junior—though he’s still not over blowing a 5-2 lead to a young Juan Martín del Potro, who went on to become a Grand Slam champion.
• Later competed in Germany’s 2. Bundesliga before joining the University of Minnesota, where he played for the Gophers from 2007-11.
• More than any award or accolade, he’s most proud of the lifelong friendships, lessons, and memories that came from being part of a close-knit team grounded in hard work, resilience, and community—just like the team at Pine Tree.

​

Why I Play Pine Tree

• This is my 11th year playing Pine Tree, and it’s one of the most meaningful traditions in my life. I play because the cause hits close to home—supporting kids and families impacted by cancer is something I’ll always show up for. What makes this tournament so special isn’t just the mission, though—it’s the community. Every year, players, volunteers, and supporters come together to create something bigger than tennis. There’s incredible energy, purpose, and heart behind the weekend, and I’m honored to be a small part of it.

Tennis Background

• 2024 (Tobias Wernet) and 2019 Pine Tree (Julian Dehn) Open Division Champion.
• Tennis coach at Colassial Tennis Academy.
• Played Division I tennis for the Gophers and then at North Carolina-Greensboro, earning Southern Conference Player of the Year, and a national doubles ranking.

​

Why I Play Pine Tree

• Great cause, fun and competitive tennis!

Niltooli Wilkins

Lauderdale, Minn.

10th Year Playing

Cooper �Anderson

White Bear Lake, Minn.

2nd Year Playing

Ashley

Tarrolly

St. Cloud, Minn.

2nd Year Playing

​

​

​

Tennis Background

• Played high school tennis for White Bear Lake HS where I was incredibly blessed to have my mom Christine as my coach.
• Played junior hockey
• Returned to tennis at Saint John’s University where he played both hockey and tennis.

​

Why I Play

• It’s an incredible opportunity to make a positive difference in the world. I believe in the immense power of sports to make a difference in people’s lives and to play in an event that supports such a worthy cause is amazing. I remember coming to watch this event for many years and I am very excited to finally participate.

Tennis Background

• Plays tennis at the College of Saint Benedict
• All-MIAC and recipient of MIAC Elite 22 Award in 2024.
• In high school, Class AA state runner up 2018 (team) and 4th place individuals (2019).

​

Why I Play Pine Tree

• I have been playing tennis since I was three years old and absolutely love the sport. I am also very passionate

about giving back to the community, and this is

a fantastic cause.

Why I Play

• This is my third year getting the opportunity to play in this tournament and support an amazing cause! I have worked in the medical field for the past decade and in my last job helped lymphoma patients navigate being on a clinical trial for their cancer and helping support cancer research is a cause near and dear to my heart.

Tennis Background

• 2021 Pine Tree Open Champion.
• Completed a 5-year career playing tennis for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. 2019 Big Ten Sportsmanship Award recipient. 74 career doubles wins at Nebraska.
• 2015 MN High School State Singles Champion. 2016 Minnesota State Softball Champion.

​

Why I Play Pine Tree

• Super fun to be able to play for such a great

cause!

Ankit

Gupta

Minneapolis, Minn.

3rd Year Playing

Hayley

Haakenstad

Chanhassen, Minn.

7th Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Played at Saint John’s University from 2015-2017.
• Tennis instructor at Life Time Fridley.
• Boys assistant coach at Saint Paul Academy, and Girls Co-Head Coach at Benilde-Saint Margaret’s

​

​

​

Tom

Prittinen

Virginia, Minn�1st Year Playing

Natalie

Prittinen

Virginia, Minn. �1st Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Played at the University of Minnesota where she cracked Minnesota’s all-time list for singles wins in a season (28) and doubles wins in a career (67). Three-time Academic All-Big Ten Honoree. 2018-19 B1G Sportsmanship Award winner.
• Won Minnesota Class AA Singles Championship in 2013 and 2014.

​

Why I Play Pine Tree

• The impact PTATC makes on families

going through difficult times is incredible

and I’m grateful to be a small part of it.

Caitlyn

Merzbacher

Chattanooga, Tenn.

3rd Year Playing

Carlos

Nolasco

Madrid, Spain

3rd Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Played college tennis at Belmont Abbey College in Charlotte, N.C.
• Played on the ITF tour.
• Was ranked in the top 80 in the national junior ranking in Spain.

​

Why I Play

• I love the atmosphere and its mission. The best part is being back in town and getting to see all my friends!!!

​

Tennis Background

• Played at the University of Minnesota where she finished with the 10th-most singles wins in program history.
• Was also a two-time Minnesota State High School Singles Championship at Minnetonka High School.

​

​

Tennis Background

• Captain of the UWEC Tennis team 2015-16 and 4-year starter.
• I’ve taught tennis for the last 10 years ranging from Franklin, Whitewater, Stanford, YMCA tennis camps. I also teach part time at Life Time Lakeville.

​

Why I Play

• I love to see the tennis community coming together playing great tennis while raising money for an amazing cause.

My favorite thing about the tournament is

competing against my friends in an awesome

environment with fans packed in the stands.

​

Aria Benjamin

Minneapolis, Minn.

8th Year Playing

​

Kyle

Hoffman

Franklin, Wis.

4th Year Playing

​

Sam

Rathmanner

Dellwood, Minn.

2nd Year Playing

Annika

Munson

Grant, Minn.

2nd Year Playing

​

​

Tennis Background

• Placed 3rd (2023) and 4th (2024) in the Class AA State Singles Tournament and third in doubles (2022). Finished his high school career with 127 wins for Mahtomedi H.S.
• Is playing Division I tennis at Richmond.

​

Why I Play

• I play to support a good cause and to play mixed doubles because I rarely get to.

​

Tennis Background

• Played tennis since she was 6 years old.
• Played in many national tournaments and qualified for the high school state tournament all 4 years she played at Mahtomedi High School.
• Playing Division I tennis Toledo.

Why I Play

• I play Pine Tree because it’s organized very well and for a good cause. My favorite thing is competing against

other good players and playing in a mixed

doubles format.

Tennis Background

• I have played tennis since I was 6 years old.
• Played competitively in USTA Missouri Valley as a junior player.
• Coed State Champion in Iowa.
• Played college tennis at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa.
• All conference singles/doubles.
• Play in USTA leagues in Twin Cities area.

​

Why I Play

• I play Pine Tree to join a wonderful community in supporting cancer research. My favorite thing about the tournament is the competition and all the people who make this weekend what it is!

Anders

Jensen

West Des Moines, Iowa

3rd Year Playing

Kelsey

Kruse

Decorah, Iowa

3rd Year Playing

​

Tennis Background

• Iowa high school tennis: 3rd place team 2016, 3rd place doubles.
• Luther College 2016-20: All conference doubles and singles player.
• NCAA national tournament appearances, 3x conference champions

​

Why I Play

• Working as an ER nurse that works with kiddos

and their families every day, it’s great to be able

to give back and support them through tennis

and have a great time playing tennis!

Tennis Background

• Grew up playing tennis is Hawaii since the age of 5.
• Played collegiately at Northern Colorado and Western Kentucky. Then played at Minnesota State Mankato for one year in grad school.
• Volunteer coach at Mankato for one season and head coach for one season.

​

Why I Love Pine Tree

• I have never played before but I do love that this tournament is a fundraiser for such a great cause. Also excited to play some fun mixed doubles since that’s not an event commonly played.

​

​

Tristen

Bryant-Otake

Kailua, Hawaii�1st Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Assistant Director of Baseline Tennis Center Programming, Events and Venue Operations
• Played collegiately at TED University in Turkey
• Played professionally all around Europe
• Has played in 15 different countries

Bulut

Ozcelik

Angara, Turkey �1st Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Won the Open Division at the 2023 (Diana Bukajeva) and 2022 Pine Tree Apple Tennis Classic (Imke Reimers).
• Second-Team All-Big Ten (2019). Big Ten Doubles Champion (Individual Championships, Fall 2015).
• NCAA Tournament qualifier in both singles and doubles.
• 7th most wins in Nebraska Tennis History. Nebraska
• Scholar-Athlete Honor Roll (Fall 2015, 2017, 2018; Spring 2017, 2019). Tom Osborne Citizenship Team (2017, 2018).
• Runs On The Rise Tennis program focusing on developing junior tennis players in Minnesota!

​

​

Toby

Boyer

Ham Lake, Minn.�4th Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Going to be a senior at Mounds View HS
• Won 2024 Minnesota Class AA Girls State High School Doubles championships with younger sister Reese
• Played in the Junior Pine Tree in the past.
• Excited to be playing with my coach Toby!

​

Why I Love Pine Tree

• I play for the amazing cause and the amazing people!

Rory �Wahlstrand

North Oaks, Minn. �2nd Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Played high school tennis at Elk River H.S. where she was the 2024 Minnesota Class AA State Finalist.
• Will be playing college tennis this fall at Sacred Heart University.

​

Why I Play

• I am excited to support the tournament and the cause.

​

Ava

Nelson

Elk River, Minn.�1st Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Teaches at Rogers Tennis Club
• Plays USTA 18+ 4.5 and 5.0
• Played Division III tennis at St. John’s.
• Assistant coach for Elk River boys and girls varsity teams

​

Why I Play

• Great competition, greater cause

​

Curtis

Horton

Elk River, Minn. �1st Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Teaching professional at Life Time White Bear Lake.
• Played junior competitive tennis in Belarus.
• Played #1 singles and doubles at a Division II college.

​

Why I Play

• It's a great way to raise awareness and gather support support for this vital mission.

Tennis Background

• Gustavus Men’s tennis team - 4 Years.

​

Why I Play

• It is a super fun event to raise money for a great cause and eat delicious Pine Tree Apple Orchard

treats

Tyler �Johnson

West Bend, Wis.�7th Year Playing

Yuliya �O’Neill

Woodbury, Minn.

4th Year Playing

​

Aaron �Quach

Lino Lakes, Minn.�1st Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Played high school tennis at Centennial H.S.
• Played club tennis at UMD
• Coached at Fridley High School
• Currently a teaching pro at PublicIndoorTennis.com�

Why I Play

• I wanted to play in Pine Tree to help raise money for a good cause. My favorite thing about the tournament is the amount of people that come out to watch amazing tennis and support the children's hospital.

​

Tennis Background

• Played HS tennis at Centennial and finished 4th in the state tournament for doubles in 2012
• Played D-II college tennis at Upper Iowa University.
• Currently am the head girls tennis coach at Centennial.
• I am a teaching pro at PublicIndoorTennis.com�

Why I Play

• I’ve always wanted to play, and the

cause of the tournament is so great.

It’s fun to be with players who I have

played with over 10 years ago!

​

Kelly �Quach

Lino Lakes, Minn.�1st Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Started playing tennis when she was 5. Currently plays collegiately at RPI. Was a Division III doubles All-American in 2022.

​

Why I Play

• To support cancer research and enjoy a slice of pie.

​

​

​

Nikki

Ridenour

Minneapolis, Minn�4th Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Currently playing college tennis at Luther College where he was an NCAA Division III All-American
• State doubles and team champion at Edina H.S.

Luke �Westholder

Edina, Minn. �1st Year Playing

​

Tennis Background

• Played tennis at Gustavus Adolphus
• An inspiring event with great people working towards an important goal.

Tennis Background

• Played tennis at the University of Minnesota
• Won the Minnesota State High School Singles Championship as junior.

​

Why I Play

• I play Pine Tree for the great cause, getting to

see so many tennis friends, and competing at a

high level.

Tommy

Entwistle

Sioux Falls, S.D.

4th Year Playing

Isabella

Lambert

Minneapolis, Minn.

7th Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Played collegiately at University of North Dakota.
• Currently at tennis coach.

​

Why I Play

• I love tennis and the community around it—but even more so, I love that the tournament supports such an important cause. It’s meaningful to be part of something fun that also helps raise money to find a cure for kids’ cancer.

Wyatt

Crowell

Prior Lake, Minn.�1st Year Playing�

Tennis Background

• Played high school and college tennis at North Central College.

​

Why I Play

• I am playing this tournament because of one of my mentors and friends Dwight Soeffker, he passed away in the fall of 2023 from lung cancer. He was a great coach and friend and always supported me in my tennis. I’ve known both adults and children who have fought against cancer and hold the cause very close to me. Being able to go out and play

a sport I love for a cause that is close to me

is one of the most meaningful things I can do

in this sport.

Charlotte�Bowles

Prior Lake, Minn. �1st Year Playing

Tennis Background

• 2023 Pine Tree Open Division Champion (Toby Boyer).
• Fed Cup participant for Riga, Latvia.
• Played Division I tennis at Stetson in Florida.
• Serves as the General Manager of Life Time Bloomington South.

​

Diana

Bukajeva

Riga, Latvia�12th Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Played as a junior player in London, England before moving to the states for love in 2000
• Spent 24 years playing and working in tennis at Courts Plus in Fargo, ND.
• Now the Director of Racquets at Edina Country Club.

​

Why I Love Pine Tree

• Love the cause

Oliver �Summers

London, England. �1st Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Played tennis at Saint John's University (2015-19).

​

Why I Play

• Great way to fundraise money for pediatric cancer research and the tournament has a very fun atmosphere.

​

Ryan

Meger

Mahtomedi, Minn.�3rd Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Currently playing at Denver; before that played three years of college at Nebraska Omaha
• All-Summit League & Academic All-Summit League
• played high school tennis for all six years and competed in many national tournaments in juniors.

​

Why I Play

• To support its cause and was asked to play by

Ryan.

Zoe�Adkins

Maple Grove, Minn. �1st Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Playing in first adult Pine Tree after playing in three junior events.
• Two-time Junior Pine Tree champion (2022, 2024)
• 2023 Minnesota Class AA Doubles Champion
• Two-time Class AA Team Champion at Rochester Mayo

Aaron

Zoubek

Zimmerman, Minn.�1st Year Playing�

Tennis Background

• Playing since he was 13
• Played at Elk River High School advancing to the state tournament in both team and individual

​

Keely �Ryder

Rochester, Minn. �4th Year Playing

Tennis Background

• All-Conference and All-Academic player in high school,
• Ranked 15th in New England in 2020
• USTA Adult League player and have qualified for nationals
• Played college tennis at Connecticut.

​

Why I Play

• I'm deeply associated with the cause (I was a Director of Camp Kesem in college) and feel for the tournament's purpose. I have raised $4k annually in college and hope to do the same this year!

Larson

Ringlien

Northfield, Minn.�1st Year Playing�

Varsha

Rathore

South Windsor, Conn. �1st Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Played at Minnetonka High School where I am now the girls tennis coach.
• Played D-II tennis for Augustana University in Sioux Falls and was an All-American doubles player.

​

Why I Play?

• There is nothing better than combining my passion for tennis with a greater cause, raising money and awareness for pediatric cancer patients and their families.

​

​

​

​

Tennis Background

• Played at St. Thomas where he was and All-American and All-MIAC in singles and doubles.
• Won back-to-back Minnesota Class AA Doubles Championships in 2011 and 2012 for Minneapolis South H.S.

​

Why I Play?

• For the Cure, and the awesome tennis community.

Jessa

Boike

Eden Prairie, Minn.

11th Year Playing

​

Luke

Elifson

Minneapolis, Minn.

6th Year Playing

​

Joseph

Punnoose

Bloomington, Minn.

2nd Year Playing

​

Malini

Wijesinghe

Apple Valley, Minn.

2nd Year Playing

​

​

​

Tennis Background

• Played tennis for 4 years at Gustavus.

​

Why I Play

• I play for the amazing cause which the proceeds go towards. Favorite thing about the tournament is the great atmosphere and high level tennis.

​

Tennis Background

• Played at Apple Valley High School
• Played collegiately at Bradley University where she was named the ITA/Arthur Ashe Sportsmanship & Leadership Award winner. Was All-Missouri Valley Conference and an Academic All-American.
• Has coached a number of different places including Southwest H.S., Hamline University, St. Catherine's University, Life Time Fitness and Edina Country Club.�

Why I Play

• It has been 10 years since I played, but I love

the competitive atmosphere and playing for a

good cause!

​

Tennis Background

• Division I athlete in tennis and cheerleading at Gardner-Webb University
• Assistant tennis pro at LifeTime White Bear.

​

Why I Play

• To raise money for a good cause and be a small part of respected organization and the post-match

apple treats.

Tennis Background

• Played tennis at Luther College in Iowa. Also played at White Bear Lake High School.

Nick

Lofrumento

Cocoa Beach, Fla.

3rd Year Playing

​

Lauren �Lofrumento

White Bear Lake, Minn.

6th Year Playing

Madeleine Schneider

Gartringen, Germany

1st Year Playing

Julian

Dehn�St. Louis Park, Minn.

11th Year Playing

​

​

​

Tennis Background

• 4x letterwinner at the University of Minnesota (’08-’12).
• Ranked as high as #22 in the country in doubles.
• Pine Tree Open Champion in 2019 with Niltooli Wilkins.

​

Why I Play Pine Tree

• It's great to be able to support this wonderful organization and cause and it's fun to see the tennis community

come together every year.

Tennis Background

• Played college tennis at Minnesota-Crookston where she played #1 singles and #1 doubles and holds the all-time school record with 33 singles wins.
• Was named All-Conference and to the All-Academic Excellence team while at Crookston.
• Was named one for 30 finalists for the NCAA Woman of the Year Award - the most prestigious award a college athlete can earn during her career.

Tennis Background

• Won two team state championships at Edina High School.
• Holds the record for most wins at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.
• Met his wife Mary on the tennis team at Eau Claire.

​

Why I Play Pine Tree

• I love playing in the Pine Tree because it is so cool to see our tennis community come together doing what we love and supporting a great cause. The atmosphere is always amazing and the support from everyone in the tennis community is incredible.

​

Chris

Kuna

Edina, Minn.

8th Year Playing

​

Mary �Kuna

Chaska, Minn.

1st Year Playing

​

Tennis Background

• Played college tennis at Wisconsin-Eau Claire where she was WIAC All-Sportsmanship Team, won the Team Player Award and Team Most Improved (2012).
• 4x letterwinner at Oshkosh West High School. Team was runner up at the state tournament. Also, state qualifier for the individual tournament.

Shelby

Anderson

Stillwater, Minn.

9th Year Playing

Rumeal

Setts

Coon Rapids, Minn.

2nd Year Playing

​

​

​

Tennis Background

• Played 6 years at Stillwater H.S., followed by 4 years playing at Eastern Illinois University.
• Currently a tennis pro at InnerCity Tennis and assistant coach at the University of St. Thomas.�

Why I Play

• My favorite part of the weekend is seeing the tennis community that has been part of Pine Tree for the past 40 years, and knowing all of the great things the weekend has done to help in the fight against childhood cancer.

Tennis Background

• Coon Rapids High School, U of M Club Tennis Team
• Was a USTA and ITA official
• Have instructed in the Twin Cities for nearly 15 years
• Just finished my collegiate career at Hamline University during graduate school.�

Why I Play

• Tennis has been a lifelong passion for me, and I truly believe in its ability to bring people together, teach resilience, and empower individuals. When I heard about Pine

Tree and its mission to support research to

those that are less fortunate, I knew I had to be

involved. It’s more than just playing; it’s about

using tennis as a tool to make a difference.

Tennis Background

• Been playing tennis since 2 years old.
• Played at Eden Prairie HS.
• Competed at Tennis on Campus Nationals for North Dakota State Club Tennis.
• Teaching tennis at Life Time Eden Prairie.

​

Why I Play

• I grew up watching my dad and many others play this tournament. It’s always been a part of my life and I enjoy being a part of this event.

Irwin

Montalvo Roach

Victoria, Minn.

2nd Year Playing

Lauryn Schenck

Edina, Minn.

2nd Year Playing

​

Tennis Background

• First year playing in the Open tournament after playing in the junior tournament previously.
• Plays at Edina High School.

​

Why I Play

• To play for a great cause.

​

Tennis Background

• Two-time Pine Tree Open finalist including last year with Sonya Das.
• Was a 2x Minnesota State Tournament Participant at Hopkins HS
• Division III All-American at Gustavus

Also won the ITA Arthur Ashe Leadership and Sportsmanship Award.

​

Why I Play

• It provides vital fundraising for life changing research and treatment. My favorite part of Pine Tree is the fun and supportive environment it creates for everyone.

​

​

Tennis Background

• 2024 Pine Tree Open Finalist with Chase Johnson
• Played college tennis at MIT where she was All-Conference and an ITA Scholar-Athlete.
• Was a two-time Minnesota Class A Singles Champion at St. Paul Academy High School.

​

Why I Play

• I’m thrilled to be participating in the 2024 Pine

Tree Apple Tennis Classic to raise money for

cancer research at Children’s Hospitals

and Clinics of Minnesota! It’s an incredible

tournament and community for a great cause,

and a lot of fun to both play in and watch.

Chase�Johnson

Golden Valley, Minn.

4th Year Playing

​

Sonya

Das

Arden Hills, Minn.

5th Year Playing

​

2025

Masters Division

Kelly

Buckley

Mequon, Wisc.

1st Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Played collegiately at Santa Clara University
• As a freshman, played at DePauw where she qualified for the NCAA Division III Singles Tournament.
• Member of the 2025 ITF Masters 35s World Team Championships in Antalya, Turkey.
• Awarded 5 gold, 4 silver, and 1 bronze ball in

adult Level 1 age group competitions.

​

​

Brett

Morse Karzen

Wilmette, Ill.

5th Year Playing

Tennis Background

• 2021 Pine Tree Masters Division Champion.
• Three-Time Doubles All-American at Gustavus Adolphus College
• 47-time USTA national father/son champion
• 2024 National Pop-A-Shot Basketball Finalist

​

Why I Play

• Great cause, great tournament, great people, great food!

Mathan

Krishnappan

Toronto, Canada

6th Year Playing

Molly

Breunig

Golden Valley, Minn.

9th Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Been playing my whole life; played for Hopkins High School and UW-Eau Claire

​

Why I Play Pine Tree

• I love supporting a great cause… also love the great

tennis and the community support

​

​

​

​

Tennis Background

• Played collegiate tennis in Canada for McMaster University – won team National Championship in 2000, won Ontario Doubles Championship in 2002.

​

Why I Play Pine Tree

• To support childhood cancer research and have fun competing with Molly against the top players in the area.

Jamee

Whaley

Mankato, Minn.

Alexandria, Minn.

2nd Year Playing

​

Tucker

Combs

White Bear Lake, Minn.

8th Year Playing

​

​

Tennis Background

• Played collegiately at Minnesota State Mankato
• USTA League Tennis Player
• Volunteer coach in Alexandria
• Past President of the Alexandria Area Tennis Association
• Loves tennis, pickleball, traveling, fishing, friends/family and my cat Cici

​

Why I Play

• It is such an incredible tournament for a great cause. I love how it brings everyone in the tennis community together … and I want to support my friend Lisa. :)

Tennis Background

• Grew up on the mean courts of White Bear Lake, learning the game from household names like Combs, Cornell, Olson, Gordon and Schollmeier.
• From there, played Division III for St. Scholastica
• Now I'm just trying to convince my kids that I actually know how to play

​

Why I Play

• It's such an honor to play the game I love to

benefit such incredible kids. I'll keep playing

until we find a cure or my body gives out,

whichever comes first.

Tennis Background

• Played at Luther College lettering all 4 years and qualifying for the NCAA Tournament 3 times.

​

Why I Play

• I play in this tennis tournament because it's deeply personal to me. My nephew was recently diagnosed with cancer, and watching him face this battle with so much courage has changed how I see everything. No child should have to endure what he’s going through, and no family should have to navigate it alone. Being part of this tournament is one small way I can honor his fight, raise awareness, and support the research and care that these kids so desperately need. It’s not just about tennis—it’s about showing up for him and for every child facing the same fight.

Cami�Jarnot

Roseville, Minn.

3rd Year Playing

Austin

Seaverson

Bemidji, Minn.

1st Time Playing

Tennis Background

• Teaching pro at Fred Wells Tennis & Education Center.

Tennis Background

• Played tennis at Hibbing High School. Played for University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and then transferred and played for St. Scholastica. Tennis professional at InnerCity Tennis

​

Why I Play

• My favorite event is the year! What a great cause to play the game that I love while supporting children!

Callee�Anderson

Hibbing, Minn.

10th Year Playing

Wessel

Kemp

Osseo, Minn.

​

Back Playing

Pine Tree

Tennis Background

• Originally from South Africa.
• Played at Oral Roberts University.
• Was a tennis coach at InnerCity Tennis.
• Now a personal coach and fitness instructor.

Meghan

Kimber

Duluth, Minn.

23rd Year Playing

Kevin

Werwie

Sheboygan, Wis.

32nd Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Former All-Big Ten Player for the University of Minnesota tennis team
• Reached top 500 in the world in singles and doubles
• 8-time Pine Tree champion
• President of the Pine Tree Apple Classic Fund Board of Directors

​

Why I Play

• To support an incredible cause and be part of a special tennis event where I have met so many wonderful

friends over the years.

​

​

Tennis Background

• I played high school tennis at Duluth East and college tennis at Gustavus Adolphus College.
• I teach tennis in Duluth and continue to enjoy playing USTA leagues and tournaments.
• Four-time Pine Tree Champion. 2020 Pine Tree Sportsmanship Award Winner. 2024 Pine Tree Hall of Fame Inductee

​

Why I Play

• To help be a small part of something big and for the incredible camaraderie and competition!

Matt

Edin

Staples, Minn.

2nd Year Playing

Tennis Background

​

Matt Edin is from Staples, MN where he grew up playing tennis with his sisters. He moved on to play tennis at Concordia College in Moorhead, MN where he earned All-MIAC honors in each of his four years. He now resides with his wife and two children in Vadnais Heights, MN and continues to enjoy both playing and teaching tennis. �

Why I Play

• For the fun and competition.

​

​

Marla

Menne

White Bear Lake, Minn.

15th Year Playing

Tennis Background

• 2006 ITA national doubles champion and All-American; 4-time NCAA Division III National team quarterfinalist for Gustavus Adolphus College and MIAC all-conference; 4-time MIAC team conference champions.
• 2021 Pine Tree Masters Champion. 2018 Pine Tree Sportsmanship Award Winner.
• Pine Tree Apple Tennis Classic Planning Committee member.

​

Why I Play

• The cause

Paul

Kolenich

Greenville, Pa.

10+ Years Playing

Samantha �Eklund

Mahtomedi, Minn.

5th Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Played at Gustavus Adolphus where she was All-MIAC and advanced to was a finalist at the Small College National Championships. She was also named the Gustavus Adolphus Women’s Athlete of the Year.
• Plays USTA Leagues

​

Why I Play

• I am excited to participate in this amazing

tournament again after several years! The

incredible people, delicious food, and the great

cause behind it all brought me back.

​

​

Tennis Background

• Competed for 4 years at Tulane University
• 2024 Sportsmanship Award winner

​

Why I Play

• Great cause and good times!

Alex

King

Apple Valley, Minn.

2nd Year Playing

Julie

Bowles

Bloomington, Minn.

2nd Year Playing

​

​

Tennis Background

• I LOVE tennis!
• Played tennis at Apple Valley High School.
• Played Club Tennis at U of MN
• Currently play too many leagues and I’m loving it.

​

Why I Play

• For a good cause.

Tennis Background

• I took my first tennis lesson at the age of 12 at Lake Nokomis and have been playing ever since.
• Attended Gustavus Adolphus College where I played all throughout college.
• I really enjoy still being able to play in USTA leagues as well as the Pine Tree Apple Tennis Classic.

�Why I Play

• Last year was my first year playing the event and I couldn't imagine a better way to spend my weekend,

playing tennis and supporting a super important cause. The children are our future and the only way to

beat childhood cancer is to find a cure. Helping

to fund research by research that target

pediatric cancer.

Matt

Narr

Rochester, Minn.

15th Year Playing

Amy

Dean

Lisle, Ill.

6th Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Played college tennis at University of Cincinnati from 1996 - 2000.

​

Why I Play

• I play Pine Tree because it is inspiring to see the way our tennis community comes together to support the fight against childhood cancer and the meaningful impact this tournament has in funding the research and development of efforts to assist children and families dealing with the disease in every stage.

My favorite thing about this tournament is the

uplifting energy of the players, volunteers and

fans in the tennis community as they come

together to have a positive impact to such an

important cause….and the apple turnovers!!

​

​

Tennis Background

• Played collegiate tennis under legendary coach Steve Wilkinson at Gustavus Adolphus College.
• Member of the Pine Tree Apple Classic Fund Board, moving into the President role on August 4, 2025 after serving as Secretary for 3 years.

​

Why I Play Pine Tree

• Bringing the tennis community together to raise money for such an important cause, what could be better?!? And, the apple donuts!

Jodi

Schley

Minnetrista, Minn.

8th Year Playing

Nick

Ciapetta

Chicago, Ill.

5th Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Played on the club team at Ohio State; 3x USTA League National Qualifier�

Why I Play Pine Tree

• It's for a cause bigger than tennis, it's for our youth and the real battle they face off the court with pediatric cancer.

​

​

​

​

Tennis Background

• St. Thomas record holder for most career wins
• 2021 4.5 women's USTA 18+ 2nd place national team. 2023 USTA 40+ national champions.

​

Why I Play

• I love playing in this tournament because it combines my passion for tennis with a meaningful cause. Supporting children's cancer research through a sport I love is an incredibly rewarding way to give back. There’s no better way to use my time and talent than for something that makes a real difference.

Tennis Background

• Played collegiately at University of Miami (FL). Led her team to the semifinals of the NCAA Tournament. Was ranked as high as #33 in the nation in doubles as a sophomore.

​

​

Caren�Seenauth

Minneapolis, Minn.

5th Year Playing

Clay

Sollenberger

St. Paul, Minn.

13th Year Playing

Tennis Background

• 2001 Edina Classic Challenger 1 Champion
• Described as a "cult leader" and "guru" in the 2023 book Tennis Ball Machine Man
• 2022 Pine Tree Apple Tennis Classic Sportsmanship Award Winner.
• Play-by-Play voice of the Pine Tree Apple Tennis Classic television broadcasts.

​

Why I Play

• It's the tennis event of the year, run by the best committee in the upper Midwest. The cause is outstanding and the impact is real.

2025

Grand Masters Division

Linnea

Benson

Minneapolis, Minn.

7th Year Playing

Doug

Matuska

St. Paul, Minn.

7th Year Playing

Tennis Background

• 2024 Pine Tree Grand Masters Champion
• Started in 1984 with a wood racquet/still standing!
• Head pro at Life Time Bloomington South

​

Why I Play Pine Tree

• To support a great cause.

​

​

​

Tennis Background

• 2024 Pine Tree Grand Masters Champion
• Grew up playing high school tennis in Fairmont, Minn.
• Attended Luther College and was an Division III All-American in doubles. Member of Luther Athletics Hall of Fame.
• Have played in USTA leagues and tournaments through adulthood.
• Coaches boys and girls teams at Washburn H.S. in Minneapolis.

​

Why I Play Pine Tree

I play for the cause and the great tennis. My favorite thing about the tournament is the PEOPLE!

Ken

Cychosz

Minneapolis, Minn.

34th Year Playing

Maura

Smiley

Edina, Minn.

13th Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Edina East High School 3x state champs
• University of Minnesota
• Pro for Northwest Racquet Clubs, InnerCity Tennis, Interlachen, Town and Country and coached at Visitation High School

​

Why I Play Pine Tree

• Awesome event that raises a lot of money and awareness for children’s cancer research. Incredible

fundraiser for children’s cancer. Love how it

brings together generations of top players in the

area!

​

​

Tennis Background

• Member of UW Eau Claire Hall of Fame.
• 42 #1 rankings in Northern Section. 24 USTA Northern championships. Participated in 58 National Championships.
• Served as head coach of St. Thomas women’s team advanced to round of 16 NCAA Division III tournament (with 2 All-Americans) in 2021.
• Head Women’s Tennis Coach at UW-Eau Claire.

​

Why I Play Pine Tree

• Originally joined to play for a great cause. It is even more than that now. It is the one time during the year the tennis community gets together at all different ages to represent tennis around the great cause. One of the social events of the year.

​

Erika

Skanse

Victoria, Minn.

2nd Year Playing

Ryan

Skanse

Victoria, Minn.

1st Year Playing

​

​

Tennis Background

• Both are active USTA League Tennis player
• Ryan was a three-time All-American at Gustavus, winning the NCAA Division III Doubles Championship with partner Davie Jussila in 1991, and was a singles finalist in 1992. He is a member of Gustavus Adolphus Athletics Hall of Fame.
• Erika also played at Gustavus and worked at Tennis & Life Camp for three summers.
• All three children - Sam, Owen, and Max - play tennis.

​

Tennis Background

• Elisabeth has enjoyed playing tennis for almost 50 years!
• She played college tennis at Carleton and was a member of a three-time MIAC Championship team.
• She plays USTA leagues and coaches Girls Tennis at Northfield High School. �

Why I Play

• It's all about the kids!

Paul

Schroeder

​

Blue Earth, Minn.�3rd Year Playing

Elisabeth

Walker

Northfield, Minn.

18th Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Minnesota High School state team title and runner up, along with individual doubles 3rd and 4th place.
• USTA Men's National 4.5 Team Champions, along with other numerous National appearances for men and mixed team events.
• Assistant coach at Bethel University for a number of years.�

Why I Play

• Playing for a good cause, great tennis, and best tennis event atmosphere of the year.

Kaelie

Breiter

Edina, Minn.�3rd Year Playing

Bruce

Gullikson

Burnsville, Minn.

34th Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Assistant Department Head at Life Time Bloomington South
• Tournament player and teaching pro for 4 decades.
• RSPA Master Professional.
• All-conference at Mounds View HS
• Nationally-ranked in USPTA singles and doubles; participated in many USTA team national championships.
• 2021 Pine Tree Sportsmanship Award Winner.
• USTA Northern Hall of Fame 2021.

​

Why I Play

• The cause is so worthy and the people who play organize and support it are so nice, and of course the food stand is great.

​

​

Tennis Background

• Edina High School state champs and Doubles state champ.
• All-American and Hall of Fame at St. Olaf College.

Chris

Combs

White Bear Lake, Minn.�40th Year Playing

Katie

Resch

Menasha, Wis.

16th Year Playing

Tennis Background

• I played one year of college tennis at Rhode Island College.
• Played intramurals at Wisconsin.
• Been on several USTA teams that have gone to nationals. In 2011, on a fantastic senior mixed team that won Nationals.�

Why I Play Pine Tree

• It’s an amazing fundraising vehicle to support the hard work and dedication of the doctors, physical therapists and researchers who work tirelessly to find a cure for cancer.

​

​

​

​

​

Tennis Background

• Calling himself a former player, Chris learned to play in a simpler time with long hair, short shorts, and wooden racquets.
• He has taught the game to others for over 40 years and has even taught four generations of some families.
• Not only was Chris an open division champ in 2000, he is also the only person walking the earth who has played in every Pine Tree tournament.

​

Why I Play Pine Tree

• First and foremost, I play for the chance to fund lifesaving research for some amazing kids. The perks of playing are the great atmosphere, tasty snacks, and to prove to my grandkids that I'm a cool grandpa.

Tennis Background

• 4.5 USTA League Player
• Been playing tennis since she was a kid.
• Just moved to Minnesota from Ohio and excited to meet other tennis players.

Kelly �Fackel

Rock Island, Ill.

1st time playing

Nguyen

Vo

Roseville, Minn.

4th Year Playing

Tennis Background

• Currently teaching at Fred Wells with Clay Sollenberger who has more grey hair than I do. 2017 USTA Northern Pro of the Year.

​

Why I Play

• It's the best tennis event in MN and a terrific cause.

Tennis Background

• Played at Anoka High School and then played at UW-Stout.

​

Why I Play

• I really enjoy the fact that it combines great tennis with the opportunity to give back to such an important cause. The atmosphere is full of positive energy, great sportsmanship and shared goals.

​

​

Tennis Background

• Over 40 years playing tennis
• Play on ATP tour for 3 years
• Supportive training member of the Mexico Davis Cup Team

​

Why I Play

• Experience and support this great cause.

​

​

Amy �Jamieson

Anoka, Minn.�10 years Playing

Mario �De la Torre

1st Year Playing

2025

Junior Division

​

​

​

2025 Junior Players

Akilliez Akradi * Adelyn Altepeter * Max Anderson * Alton “Bubba” Brown * Norah Brusco * Gavin Burke * Ela Cantellano * Jaime Chamu * Wally Cisewski * Casey Cronin * Ellen Davis * Parker Deppa * Talia Domschot * Annika Dox * Elliana Elder * Jonathan Fan * Martina Francisco * Ace Frank * Colette Geofroh * Brynn Gleason * Will Gleason * Lisa Gritzmacher * Brennan Grove * Sanjeev Gundlapalli * Aariz Hassan * Izhan Hassen * Oliver Hickey * Raya Hou * Richard Hou * Mia Huang * Amelia Johnson * Wellstone Jones * Jonah Kauls * Caleb Kennel * Carson Klett * Sammy Krauss * Hannah Kumpel * Lana Lee * Emily Leviton * Catherine Li * Theodore Li * Autumn Lin * Emerson Liu * Raymond Liu * Kaylee Livingston * Bella Loucks * Issac Lower * Gray MacMillan * Aada Maunu * Gus Mayer * Olivia McDonald * Desmond McPhillips * Bode Miller * Mya Nelson * Tanfengyi Pang * Everly Paulson * Elizabeth Payne * Stefan Pereira * Rivan Rawal * Noah Ryder * Lucy Saari * Santiago Sanchez * Sophia Scheglowski * Vera Scheglowski * Shelby Schnell * Declan Sievert * Max Skanse * Advika Singh * Max Skanse * Evelyn Smiley * Melat Tabara * Joe Thiede * Connor Trivedi * Tessa Trivedi * John Trygstad * Ida Vanden Heuvel * Livia Walseth * Louis Walseth * Kai Wilkins * Jack Williams * Jaden Wu * Sophia Zeng * Emily Zheng * Joy Zhou * Michael Zhou * Zachary Zhu * Asher Zipkin * Julia Zucchi