In a heartfelt display of compassion and commitment to keeping Drew Hassenbein’s legacy alive, Cole and Remi Becker have embarked on a meaningful journey for their B’nai Mitzvah project that’s as inspiring as it is impactful. Their mission: collecting used tennis racquets to support the Drew Hassenbein Foundation.
Serving Up a Worthy Cause
Cole, Remi, and the Becker family are very close with the Hassenbein family and were some of Drew’s biggest supporters and best friends. By collecting used tennis racquets, they are not only honoring Drew’s legacy, but helping the Drew Hassenbein Foundation continue its essential work in the world of tennis and youth development.
Why Tennis Racquets?
Tennis is more than just a sport; it’s a platform for growth, resilience, and empowerment. Tennis can teach important life lessons, instill discipline, and provide opportunities that extend far beyond the court. Your racquet donation may be the key to unlocking an athlete’s potential and helping them become the next tennis champion or successful professional.
How You Can Contribute
Donating tennis racquets is easy and greatly appreciated. The collection will continue through October 31st, so you have plenty of time to contribute. To make a donation, simply drop off your used tennis racquets on the porch of the Hassenbein Residence at 14 Henhawk Lane in Roslyn. If you’re unable to make a physical drop-off, please don’t hesitate to reach out via email for information on how to send your racquets.
Making a Difference
The Drew Hassenbein Foundation is more than just a charity; it’s a legacy of love and commitment. Drew’s family established this foundation, a 501c3 non-profit organization, with the goal of opening doors for underprivileged children, elite juniors, and aspiring pros – providing them with opportunities in the world of tennis. Through scholarships, mentorship, and support, the foundation helps aspiring young players reach their full potential and aspire to become the next generation of USA tennis champions.
Join this incredible initiative and be a part of the journey towards creating the next generation of tennis champions and leaders in our community.
Meet Logan, Drew’s classmate, a talented gymnast, and a close friend that shared his passion for competition.
“Dear Drew,
Trying to pick one memory with one of the best people I knew is too hard, so I wanted share a few. One of my favorite memories that I have with Drew is when we would both get home late from practice and do ab workouts together everyday for at least a month. As soon as I would get home he wouldn’t give me time to do anything except for FaceTime him and do our specific 10 minute ab workout that we would do every night. One of the reasons that I loved him so much was that he always wanted the best for me and pushed me to work hard until I reached all of my goals.
Another favorite memory I have of Drew is when I was at a gymnastics competition in Alabama and I texted him after the meet that I had gotten fourth place. He told me that if I wasn’t first, I was last and I had to go back to the gym and work harder. This pushed me and all I wanted to do was make him proud, which is what I strive to do everyday.
Lastly, one of my absolute favorite memories with Drew is from social studies class in 8th grade. Since Drew and I were both competitive athletes, our favorite thing to do was to plan our future commitment party that we were going to have together. I was going to go to GW and he was going to go to Harvard. Drew always gave the best advice and shaped me into the best person and athlete I can be.
Thank you Drew, I love you.
– Logan”
On Sunday, September 10, the 2023 U.S. Open concluded with tennis legend Novak Djokovic defeating Daniil Medvedev and earning his 24th Grand Slam victory.
After securing yet another Grand Slam title, Djokovic donned a “Mamba Forever” t-shirt, a powerful homage to his late friend, the basketball legend known for his relentless work ethic and unwavering determination—the embodiment and creator of the Mamba Mentality. This heartfelt gesture demonstrated Djokovic’s deep admiration and respect for Kobe Bryant, transcending the boundaries of their respective sports.
Drew Hassenbein was not only an avid supporter of Djokovic but also an passionate admirer of Kobe Bryant. Not only did Drew admire Kobe Bryant for his his skills and results on the court, but the work ethic and attitude that he possessed all the time. Those who knew Drew well often highlighted the striking similarities between him and the late basketball legend, especially in their fierce competitiveness and unyielding mental fortitude. Drew epitomized the Mamba Mentality in his own life, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him.
Drew’s final English assignment, completed just a week before his passing, revolved around the thought-provoking book, “The Five People You Meet in Heaven.” Drew approached this assignment with the same dedication and passion he displayed in all his endeavors. He penned an evocative essay, delving into the imagined scenario of meeting his hero, Kobe Bryant, in the afterlife. In this touching piece, Drew explored what it would be like to converse with the basketball legend among the clouds.
We know that Drew and Kobe were watching the match and enjoying Djokovic’s victory courtside from the VIP section above.
Dear Drew,
It was the week before the Roslyn JV tennis team tryout, and I couldn’t help but feel a mix of nerves and excitement. It was a moment I had been waiting for, but as the tryout got closer, I couldn’t help but second-guess my tennis abilities. My parents tried to give me advice, to reassure me of my abilities, but Drew just looked at me and laughed. Yes, he laughed. He simply said “Put on your shoes and let’s get on that court”. So, I did just that for the rest of the week and instead of worrying I did everything I could to prepare. At first I took offense by his laughter, but really his philosophy was spot on. Drew taught me that nervousness and excitement often go hand in hand, that it’s through embracing both emotions that we can truly reach our potential. So, I made the team, all thanks to you buddy.
A year goes by. Now it was time for the Varsity team tryout. I felt those same nerves like I did before the JV tryout. However, this time was different. This time… there was no Drew to calm me down, no Drew to coach me. Well, at least that’s what I thought… Finally comes the day of the tryout. Drew’s tips from last year are racing through my head.
I ended up making the team and got to play in the starting lineup in the very first home match. As I’m warming up for my match I look down and see a ladybug on the court. Seeing the ladybug on that very court during my first match felt like a message from Drew, a reminder that he was with me in spirit, cheering me on. It was like he was saying, “I’m here with you, just like old times. Just like all those times at the park, Syd”. I ended up winning that match. The victory was not just a personal achievement but a tribute to Drew and the love we both shared for the sport. The ladybug had served as a poignant symbol, reminding me that even in his absence, Drew’s spirit and love for tennis continue to inspire and guide me on my journey. Whenever I step onto the tennis court, I carry a piece of Drew’s passion and spirit with me, and will always remember that little ladybug that made its appearance at the most meaningful of times.
With love,
Syd
A love of tennis was one the many things that bonded Gary Falkowitz to his son, Ethan, and Mitchell Hassenbein to his son, Drew.
So it was a “surreal” experience, Gary told Newsday on Monday, to be attending opening day of the U.S. Open at Flushing Meadows without them.
Both fathers spoke with tears in their eyes and obvious pride in their hearts. Being at the Open wasn’t easy for them, but they both said it was something they had to do as they attempt to deal with the tragedy.
“You just put one foot in front of the other,” Hassenbein said. “And that’s all you can do. There’s no way of getting around it or getting over it. Just try to walk with it. Try to honor your son the best you can.”
The Falkowitz and Hassenbein families were guests of the United States Tennis Association on Monday. Mitchell Hassenbein also attended the qualifying rounds before the tournament began.
“Drew and I would come every day,” Hassenbein said. “Day One for qualifiers we were here, and I’ve been doing that because we would be here together. This is like a comfortable place for us. Great place.”
Asked what he had been thinking about, Mitchell said, “I think about how we probably walked through every single step of this building so many times and how he loved it. How he’d make me stay to all hours of the night and never wanted to leave. So I think of that and you do your best to honor him. Obviously, it’s very difficult. We’re doing just the best we can.”
Drew and Ethan both had center court experiences at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Drew was part of the coin toss ceremony before the 2021 U.S. Open final match between Novak Djokovic and eventual champion Daniil Medvedev.
On Sunday, July 23, the Drew Hassenbein Tennis Tournament was held at Timber Lake Camp in Shandaken, N.Y. The event, which featured competitors from sleepaway camps around the Tri-State area, was played in the name of the late Drew Hassenbein, who grew up on Long Island and loved the summers he spent at TLC.
There were far too few of those summers. Two months earlier, Hassenbein and his friend, Ethan Falkowitz, were tragically killed when the car they were traveling in was hit by a drunk driver. They were both just 14 years old and had just been celebrating a victory for the Roslyn High School tennis team, with Hassenbein having won his singles match just a few hours earlier.
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The world of tennis is more than just a sport; it’s a realm of shared passion, growth, and unwavering camaraderie. Nowhere was this more evident than at the Glen Head Country Club’s Men’s Charity Pro-Am—an event that went beyond competitive matches and showcased the power of sport in honoring the legacy of Drew Hassenbein. As the pros, including coaches from the Robbie Wagner Tournament Training Center and former Top 100 player Noah Rubin came together, the day unfolded as a heartwarming tribute to the spirit of tennis and Drew.
At the heart of this event were the coaches from the Robbie Wagner Tournament Training Center. Among them stood Adrian Chirici, Drew’s head coach—a figure who played an instrumental role in shaping Drew’s journey in tennis. However, it wasn’t just Adrian who contributed; every coach who stepped onto the court had been a part of Drew’s growth. The bond that Drew shared with these coaches wasn’t merely that of a player and coach; it was a connection rooted in mentorship, guidance, and mutual respect. Each coach had left an indelible mark on Drew’s path, fostering his development both as a player and an individual.
The significance of this event lay in the celebration of these bonds. It was a day to recognize and appreciate the tireless effort that coaches invest in their players, transcending the technicalities of the sport and delving into the realm of personal growth. The coaches from the Robbie Wagner Tournament Training Center symbolized the essence of mentorship, reflecting the role that mentors play in shaping aspiring athletes into well-rounded individuals.
On the day of the Pro-Am, the atmosphere at the Glen Head Country Club was electric. Tennis enthusiasts, from seasoned players to newcomers, gathered with a shared enthusiasm that transcended skill levels. For every participant, the event wasn’t just about competing; it was about commemorating Drew’s legacy and celebrating the sense of unity that tennis fosters.
Noah Rubin, a former Top 100 player in the world, participated in the event, adding a layer of prestige and excitement. Rubin’s journey in tennis mirrored the values that the Pro-Am aimed to celebrate—hard work, dedication, and a commitment to the sport’s spirit. His attendance not only validated the significance of the event but also underscored the sense of unity that exists within the tennis community.
The climactic moment of the Pro-Am saw Noah Rubin teaming up with Drew’s father, Mitchell Hassenbein, for the final match. This match, more than a display of skill, became a symbol of unity—a representation of the connections that tennis forges. Their victory was more than just claiming a title; it was a nod to the past, present, and future of tennis, resonating with the legacy of Drew Hassenbein.
In conclusion, the Men’s Charity Pro-Am hosted by Glen Head Country Club transcended the boundaries of a typical tennis tournament. It was a heartfelt tribute to Drew Hassenbein’s legacy and the profound influence of mentorship. The coaches from the Robbie Wagner Tournament Training Center, the spirited participants, the presence of Noah Rubin, and the exhilarating final match—all converged to create an event that celebrated tennis not just as a game, but as a force that unites, inspires, and leaves an enduring impact. As the echoes of friendly rallies and shared laughter faded from the courts, the event’s legacy continued to resonate, reminding us that in the world of tennis, the true victories are often measured in the connections we forge and the lives we touch.
Ever since Drew Hassenbein was introduced to sports at the age of four, winning was of the utmost importance to him. Second place was not an option, and everything was a competition. Drew was an all-around athlete and played every major sport, but tennis was always his passion.
At eight-years-old, Drew was introduced to his coach Adrian Chirici at Robbie Wagner Tournament Training Center. After a few lessons, Adrian told his parents (Mitch and Jaime), “I’ve been coaching tennis for a long time, and I believe your son can be not just good, but really good!”
Drew was encouraged to play the prestigious “Little Mo” Internationals at Forest Hills. He had a successful campaign that convinced him that Adrian may be right! From there, he started to compete in National Tournaments and by the age of 12, he became the #1 ranked player in the country. By eighth grade, he was already being scouted by college tennis programs.
But Drew did not rest on his laurels. He continued to excel and competed in other prestigious events such as the Easter Bowl and getting an invitation to the National Qualifying of the Les Petits AS. As a seventh-grader, he played first singles and led Roslyn to the Nassau County team title, as well as winning the county doubles title and qualifying for the New York State Championships.
You could see the joy that Drew had from being part of a team, which really brought out his best attributes; he embraced carrying the weight of his school and teammates and playing for them.
Drew’s secret, according to his dad Mitchell, was you can be blessed with some natural ability, which was true of Drew, but if you didn’t match it with the work, effort and passion, it won’t amount to anything. Drew didn’t believe in taking days off, and always had the fear of not being the best that he could be. Drew’s mantra was, “I don’t collect trophies, I collect hours—hours of hard work!”
Off the court, Drew was a dream child. He was super close with his mom, sister, and especially his dad. Tennis created an inseparable bond between them, as they shared a love for the sport and were always traveling around the country together for tournaments. They were best friends.
Drew loved spending time with his aunts, uncles, and cousins, and cherished his time with his grandparents, who loved to watch him play.
His passion outside of tennis was always his friends. He had a rare, effortless quality that made everyone in his life feel special and important.
The entire Long Island tennis community, and beyond, feels this loss. The outpouring of support from people around the world has been tremendous. At Drew’s funeral, all of his lifelong friends spoke, and each one introduced himself by saying, “My name is______ and Drew is my best friend. Drew had a way of connecting with everyone he met—adults, teachers, opponents coaches—he was funny, witty and most of all, kind. He was a beautiful soul that will be missed tremendously.
Drew’s aunt started a GoFundMe page to raise money for underprivileged kids and rising tennis stars and help them pursue their dreams. His family started the Drew Hassenbein Foundation which will be a 501(c)(3) organization with a goal to set up DHass scholarship for players and tennis events across the country.
Monday, June 12 was the Senior Athlete & Spring Sports Awards Night at Roslyn High School.
Drew’s family received several awards in his honor, highlighted by Drew winning MVP of the Boy’s Varsity Tennis team and being recognized as a Scholar Athlete.
The school also introduced two new scholarships in Drew’s honor which will be awarded to students at Roslyn annually.
The Roslyn Varsity Tennis Drew Hassenbein Memorial Scholarship is awarded to two seniors (one male, one female) who combine academic excellence with leadership skills and athletic commitment. Congratulations to the inaugural winners, Ava Veneziano and Gavin Koo!
The Roslyn Booster Basketball Drew Hassenbein Memorial Scholarship is awarded to a Varsity Basketball player who played Roslyn Booster Basketball and has demonstrated a passion and talent for basketball similar to Drew. Congrats to the inaugural winner, Spencer Smith!
A special thank you to Elissa Owen for putting together a touching video and to Drew’s cousin Dylan Hazen, for creating a beautiful musical tribute. The video was played at Monday’s event as well.
We love you and we miss you, Drew
Drew Hassenbein of Roslyn High School beat Ansh Chadha of Syosset High School 6-2, 6-7 (6-8),6-2 to win the first Nassau large schools boys team tennis title. Hassenbein is a national player in the 14-and-under ranks. The 13-year-old from Roslyn was No. 1 in the U.S. at 12-and-under.
According to his Coach Jannotte-Hinkley, “his IQ for tennis is something that I’ve not coached prior to this at this level.”
Drew, a seventh-grader at Roslyn Middle School, is highly-ranked in the National Boys 12 and Under Division.
