Foundation

About

The Sweeney Foundation was established in memory of Sam Sweeney. We are an Illinois nonprofit corporation as of April 2026. Our 501(c)(3) determination is pending IRS approval.

In memory of Sam

Sam passed away unexpectedly on February 9th. He is survived by his wife Kellirose and their two children. To everyone who knew him, Sam was a devoted husband, joyful father, fiercely loyal friend, and beloved coach, known for an infectious sense of humor and an instinct to put others before himself.

Sam was a pillar of the Crystal Lake tennis community. He coached varsity tennis at Prairie Ridge and Crystal Lake Central, taught at the Crystal Lake Park District, and served as a country club and Racket Club professional. He earned ATP doubles ranking points and was inducted into the North Central College Hall of Fame. He loved tennis, he loved brackets, and he loved bringing people together.

Our founding purposes

The foundation is organized for charitable purposes that carry Sam's spirit forward, including:

• Supporting families in the local community facing sudden hardship.
• Promoting youth development through tennis.
• Organizing community events that raise funds for scholarships and financial assistance programs.

The Sweeney Open

Our annual tournament, the Sweeney Open, gathers Sam's community in Crystal Lake on the court each year. Players receive pickle juice at the start as a tribute to Sam's well-known remedy for cramps. Proceeds support families in crisis, youth tennis development, and scholarships.