Coker Tennis Teams to Honor Zach Grooms on Sunday

By: Jake Miller

HARTSVILLE, S.C.- The Coker men's and women's tennis teams will honor former Cobra tennis player Zach Grooms before their home match against Lincoln Memorial on April 2.

Grooms was a four-year member of the Cobras men's tennis team, before passing away unexpectedly.  Grooms was a member of the 2013 team that won the Conference Carolinas regular season championship, and had a huge impact on and off the court with his coaches, teammates, and classmates alike.

The Coker men's and women's tennis teams are dedicating their seasons to Grooms, and are wearing special patches on their jerseys in his honor.

"Zachary Grooms was a cornerstone in the foundation of Coker Tennis. From his first semester to his last, "Z" molded this team's identity with his free spirit, competitive drive, and abundant energy.  When Z left Coker, he was offered a chance to work as an assistant coach, because of his ability to form true and lasting relationships with both the men's and women's teams.  He will forever be a part of this team, both in our hearts and in our traditions," said Simpson.

Prior to the match, Grooms's family will be honored with a ceremony and a moment of silence.

The match is slated for a 1:00 p.m. start at the Coker tennis courts.