A tennis court is 78 feet long and 36 feet wide, but for many people, it represents something much larger than that. For Mitch Hassenbein, it’s the place he feels most comfortable. Mitch’s son Drew was one of the best players in the United States, a top-ranked junior amongst his peers and a star player for the Roslyn High School tennis team despite still being in middle school.
A year ago, Drew and Roslyn teammate Ethan Falkowitz were tragically killed by a drunk driver while heading home from a team dinner. The senseless tragedy left a community shaken and two families fractured. Now, Mitch Hassenbein is using the thing that bonded him most to his son as a way of remembering him, and using Drew’s legacy to help young tennis players.
“The thing about Drew was that he had this incredible passion and competitive nature, but he was able to keep it under control. And he was his best on the biggest stages,” said Mitch. “And that comes from confidence, which comes from all the hard work and training that he did in practice to perform when it came time to compete. If you can outwork everybody, you are going to have a lot of success. That’s one thing you can control, how much work and effort you put in, and that’s what Drew did every day.”
Hassenbein says he never feels more connected to his son than when he is on the court, and is now using all of the experience he gained from working and traveling with Drew. It began with him giving lessons at East Hills Park in Roslyn, and he then went indoors and began teaching lessons at Robbie Wagner’s Tournament Training Center (RWTT), the place where Drew spent countless hours training.
“I needed a way to find some peace and solace and some time when I can really reflect and think about Drew in a positive way,” he said. “Being on the court brings back so many memories. It was an automatic thing. For me, everyday was going to work, and then afterwards going to tennis with Drew, whether that was driving him to practice or working with him at the house. It was all about tennis training and commitment to a schedule. I can’t sit in the house. I need some sort of normalcy in my routine and a lot of that was driving back and forth between tennis courts and facilities, so I just wanted to maintain that and see if I can help some others at the same time. That’s what it’s been. It’s worked pretty well. It’s kept me busy, and it’s kept me distracted. And I think, and the hope is, the kids are benefitting from the time I am putting in.”
After receiving many requests for assistance from schools, Hassenbein joined the Friends Academy boys team this spring as an assistant coach. He is very enthusiastic about this opportunity, and the team is happy to have him join them.
“Mitch clearly loves tennis and has been an enthusiastic and inspiring assistant at practices and matches,” said Friends Academy head coach Owen Kassimir. “Most of the kids on the team knew Drew as a fellow tennis player and are happy to share the love of the game with his dad. I look forward to continuing our relationship both on and off the court.
Mitch Hassenbein (right) with Owen Kassimir (left) at a Friends Academy match this season
“In high school tennis, you have a short window with these players, the season goes by so fast, and my goal is just to help everyone improve a little bit, whether it’s their serve, or the forehand, the footwork, maybe strategy, anything I can do to help give them the edge to their games that I have learned in my experience on the national circuit from traveling with Drew and learning from him. The funny thing is I learned more from Drew than he did from me. After a while, he was the one telling me to change my grip on my racquet, and coach me. I refer back to a lot of my times with Drew and it becomes a comfort. One of the few places I have comfort is on the court, that’s where I feel really close to him.”
The Hassenbein family is also continuing Drew’s legacy through the Drew Hassenbein Foundation, which is helping expose underprivileged children to the sport of tennis, sponsoring elite juniors, and helping aspiring pros to become the next USA tennis champions. The foundation has already raised close to $500,000 through generous donations, fundraisers, tournaments, merchandise sales and more, which it has used to provide equipment for underprivileged youngsters, grant funding to help with coaching and traveling expenses for junior players, amongst other things.
The Foundation is currently sponsoring two of Drew’s close friends who are top juniors and providing them with the necessary resources to pursue their dreams.
“Both through the foundation and through my teaching, we are trying to tell Drew’s story,” said Hassenbein. “Drew was a recipe of hard work. People called him gifted and said he was a prodigy, but he was those things because of the work and hours he put in. That made him who he was, and he loved it. I am trying to teach and educate the people I’m working with that if you are serious about tennis, you have to love it. You have to love to do the work, and not do it because it feels like a job or because your parents are forcing you to. If you want to compete at the highest level, you have to love it and want to achieve great things.”
The Foundation has plans for a prominent event in the near future. The foundation will always be remembering Drew and his elite tennis ability. They hope to also expand their mission to make a difference for people struggling with grief and have a meaningful impact on reducing drunk driving incidents.
It’s been a year since the community lost two of its brightest stars, leaving a hole that can never be filled. Taking it one-day-at–time and remaining close to the sport of tennis here on Long Island, Mitch Hassenbein is doing what he can to keep moving forward, and ensuring that Drew’s legacy lives on.
“I haven’t overcome anything. Every day is a disaster and a tremendous challenge but this is what I’m trying to do to keep going, and trying to give back,” he said. “I have learned so much over the years, and want to help people in any way that I can. It’s about educating both the kids and the parents. I’m no genius, I’ve just been there and done it. I’m happy to be there for them in any way they need. It makes me feel good being able to help out, and parents or kids can call me anytime.”
You can learn more about Drew and the Foundation by visiting DrewHassenbein.org.
This event is presented by Dwight Global Online School, an online high school that brings an independent school experience and the freedom to pursue your passions.
Matches to be played on indoor hard courts
Draw type: Feed-in championship to round of 16, with 5/8 and 3/4 playoffs
Main draw match format: Best of 3 Tiebreak sets with a full 3rd set; 10-minute coaching break between the 2nd and 3rd set; ad-scoring
Consolation match format: Best of 3 Tiebreak sets with a 10-point match tiebreak played in lieu of the 3rd set; ad-scoring
Selection: Top 48 in each division based on the most recently published national standings list
Players may register for multiple age divisions but will only be admitted to one; selection is done for the older age groups first. If a player is selected to an older age division they will automatically be withdrawn from the younger division. If the player is not selected to the older division, they will only be eligible for the younger division. Please keep this in mind when registering.
I have made it my life’s mission to honor Drew Hassenbein and Ethan Falkowitz, my teammates I consider my brothers who were taken from this world way too soon by a wrong-way drunk driver. Since this horrible tragedy, Drew and Ethan have foundations in their names supporting causes that meant a lot to them.
The Drew Hassenbein University of Michigan Fundraiser “Don’t Drink and Drive” event will take place on March 10, 2024 at Mitchell Field from 3-5:30 PM. It will be a fraternity 7-on-7 (plus a goalie) soccer tournament.
$10 for spectators and $15 for participants. Proof of donation will be required to be admitted.
We must put an end to drunk driving, and it starts with every one of you.
Please help make a difference and come out to support Drew’s foundation. Details for Ethan’s event will follow.
3:30-6PM
SID JACOBSON JCC SID JACOBSON JCC
300 Forest Dr, Greenvale, NY 11548
ALL ARE WELCOME! COME BY TO SUPPORT AND GET A TREAT FORYOU OR YOUR LOVED ONE!
Cookies, cupcakes, chocolates, candy, & many more treats.
Nut free and Gluteno ptions will also be available!
All Proceeds Go To The Drew Hassenbein Foundation
This weekend was the Dream Big Drew Hassenbein Tournament Boys 16 L3 closed (eastern) at Drew’s home court RWTT. Although Drew wasn’t physically with us this weekend, his presence was felt all around. His mom even imagined him on Court 5 (where he had his lessons with Coach Adrian) winning some big points and looking up at the window after every great point or missed shot. His parents, Jaime & Mitch, miss watching him compete, miss the stomach-churning matches, and everything else about Drew.
The tennis community is missing Drew too. As many shared this weekend, there were many people that admired and even looked up to Drew. The Hassenbein’s got the chance to spend time with Drew’s tennis friends, competitors, and tennis families. They truly felt the love and support from them all. Drew will never be forgotten!
Thank you to all the boys who played in the tourney. There were so many great matches, high level tennis & great competition. I know Drew would be so proud of you all. He will always be watching and rooting you on from above. Dhass on top always and forever!
Congratulations to all the winners!
1st place – Connor Plunkett
2nd Place – Zen Uehling
3rd Place – Giovanni Rezk
4th Place – Cole Langer
5th Place – Henry Groves
6th Place – Jesse Yang
Drew Hassenbein Foundation Awards
Sportsmanship – Zen Uehling
True Competitor Award – Filip Nikolovski
USTA Sportsmanship Award – Jack Reis
A special thanks to all the sponsors and everyone who donated to make it an extra special tourney. Thank you Robbie Wagner, Shari Ozer, Dot cakes, Howie (Gotham T-shirts), Holly Green (we sold out of sweatshirts), and Marinara Pizza. Your generosity is greatly appreciated. Much love from the Drew Hassenbein Foundation!
#DrewHassenbeinFoundation #DHassOnTop #DrewHassenbein
Thank you Roslyn Booster Basketball Club (@roslyn_booster_basketball_club) for putting together the 3v3 basketball tournament last MLK weekend.
Drew loved playing and competing in RBBC 🏀 since Kindergarten – 8th grade. He played every game with all his heart and passion.
Over 250+ Roslyn players, both boys and girls, participated in the tournament. We hope everyone had fun playing and competing. we greatly appreciate your support! A huge thanks to all the sponsors & GSM Charity Auctions for helping make it a special and very successful event.
#DrewHassenbeinFoundation #DHassOnTop #DrewHassenbein
While our hearts remain broken, we are forever proud to be Drew’s parents and always honor him. He truly made an impact on everyone he met, especially the tennis community and it truly showed this past weekend at the Battle of Boca. We believe Drew was with us in spirit and watching it all from above.
Thank you to all the players who participated and for “Playing For Drew” with all your heart and passion. That’s how Drew played every time he stepped on the court. A true legend that will never be forgotten.
A very special thanks to Jason Zafiros, Tournament Director, and Karen Zafiros Assistant Director of Battle of Boca for putting together an incredible tournament honoring Drew. Your kindness, generosity, enthusiasm, and support were over the top and we couldn’t thank them enough. We know Drew would be so proud and honored to be remembered by the tennis community at the Battle Of Boca.
Rick Macci stated
“this is just opening ceremonies and we look forward to doubling the tournament size next year.”
Over 200 players participated in the first annual Dream Big Drew Hassenbein Battle of Boca.
The level of play at this tournament was extraordinary, especially in the men’s and women’s singles draw. In addition to the high-level D1 college players, several of the players are professionally ranked and currently on the pro tour. Long Island player Stephan Gershfeld, a friend and competitor of Drew made the trip to “Play for Drew” with all his heart. He had an incredible tournament advancing to the quarter-finals and winning some amazing matches.
Women’s Champion
Alexandra Yepifanova
Women’s Finalist
Ekaterine Gorgodze
Men’s Champion
Roberto Cid Subervi
Men’s Finalist
Stefan Kozlov
Congratulations to Alex Farias, one of Drew’s former doubles partners.
Alex won the “Drew Hassenbein Ultimate Competitors Award “ and the signed Mike Tyson Gloves that were raffled off. Nicholas Kotzen was the lucky winner of the 2 Drake Tickets that were also raffled off.
Congratulations to all the other raffle winners on the Roger Federer Merch and Victoria Azarenka tennis racquet.
As Jason Zafiros posted:
“Wake up each day with a purpose, when you think something is tough think again, when you say you will get to it tomorrow you might never get that chance so do it now.“
Thank you to everyone who made this event a huge success and helped keep Drew’s legacy alive.
Dhass on Top, always and forever🎾 ❤️ 💔
Love,
Jaime & Mitchell Hassenbein
The winner is guaranteed $3,000 regardless of the number of entries!! This is the highest payout in Battle of Boca history.
Each participant will receive a special edition Battle of Boca shirt! Check the tournament overview page for more details!
Level 3 Closed: L3 Closed
ALL MATCHES WILL BE PLAYED AT RWTT GLEN COVE
60 SEA CLIFF AVE, GC NY 11542
516-759-0518
Indoors clay:
Matches to be played on indoor green clay courts
Draw type:
Feed-in championship to round of 16, with 5/8 and 3/4 playoffs
Main draw match format:
Best of 3 Tiebreak sets with a full 3rd set; 10-minute coaching break between the 2nd and 3rd set; ad-scoring
Consolation match format:
Best of 3 Tiebreak sets with a 10-point match tiebreak played in lieu of the 3rd set; ad-scoring
Selection:
Top 48 in each division based on the most recently published national standings list
Players may register for multiple age divisions but will only be admitted to one; selection is done for the older age groups first. If a player is selected to an older age division they will automatically be withdrawn from the younger division. If the player is not selected for the older division, they will only be eligible for the younger division. Please keep this in mind when registering.
On Monday, October 9, Bake Back America, in collaboration with The Drew Hassenbein Foundation, organized an incredible event that not only brought communities together but also inspired and empowered individuals from all walks of life. The occasion was the “Drew Hassenbein Dream BIG Tennis Open,” a memorable event that paid tribute to the late Drew Hassenbein, an inspirational figure who gave his all on and off the tennis court.
Drew Hassenbein was a passionate and talented competitor, a star tennis player, and an all-around amazing kid who consistently pushed himself and others to be great. It was this spirit that was alive and well during the inaugural “Drew Hassenbein Dream BIG Tennis Open”, where a total of 36 competitors, representing different backgrounds and skill levels, came together to honor Drew’s legacy.
Bake Back America, the organizer of this event, began its journey by sharing gratitude and support with first responders and essential workers nationwide during the Covid-19 pandemic by baking and meal deliveries. Today, it has rapidly expanded, evolving into a dynamic platform that unites people and communities in performing acts of kindness. The organization’s forward direction is clear: to foster connections, empower volunteers, promote inclusion, and emphasize the importance of working together to give back.
The event took place at the esteemed Westchester Tennis Center, a well-known institution that has been a pillar of support for local tennis enthusiasts. Their generous donation of courts provided the perfect setting for the Dream BIG Tennis Open.
The Hassenbein family was deeply moved and grateful for the opportunity to honor Drew’s memory through this event. Their unwavering support and dedication to making this tournament a reality underscored their commitment to keeping Drew’s spirit alive and inspiring others to pursue their dreams with the same determination.
As the competition unfolded, it was evident that Drew’s indomitable spirit had touched the hearts of all the competitors. The Dream BIG Tennis Open brought forth a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship that was truly remarkable. Players of all ages and abilities gave their best on the court, displaying tremendous teamwork and an unwavering dedication to their sport.
In the end, the Dream BIG Tennis Open crowned three outstanding champions in their respective brackets. Gavin Lehrman, Cooper Schorr, and Lamar Remy emerged as the winners, showcasing their remarkable skills and determination. These talented athletes served as a testament to the level of competition and commitment that the event inspired.
The event was not just about tennis; it was about forging connections and inspiring one another. Bake Back America, in collaboration with the Drew Hassenbein Foundation, succeeded in creating an environment that encouraged everyone to dream big and work relentlessly toward their goals. The community’s collective efforts were a shining example of the positive impact that can be made when individuals and organizations come together to empower and inspire.
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.
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.
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.
Read more here
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.”
