Ace The Stigma is a nonprofit dedicated to suicide prevention, raising mental health awareness and reducing stigma through the power of tennis. Next month, the charity organization is returning to Jacksonville for its second annual Florida event on June 11-12 at the Florida Yacht Club.
Founded in 2023 in memory of Chuck Reiney, a beloved figure in the Charlotte, North Carolina tennis community who died by suicide at the age of 53, Ace The Stigma has grown from a single event into a nationally recognized movement. Chuck was a husband, father, avid tennis player, and former club president whose passion for the sport brought people together on and off the court. His passing inspired his brother Mike Reiney, longtime friend Bill Sharp, and others to turn their grief into action by creating a platform where tennis and mental health advocacy meet.
Since its founding, Ace The Stigma has made a significant impact. In its first year, the organization raised $190,000 for mental health causes. That number grew to $285,000 in year two. The inaugural Jacksonville event in 2025 drew more than 70 participants, raising $23,500 for Here Tomorrow, a Jacksonville-based nonprofit dedicated to making suicide prevention accessible without barriers. The 2024 Charlotte event was also recognized as the USTA North Carolina Charity Tennis Event of the Year.
What’s New in 2026
This year’s Jacksonville event expands to a two-day format on June 11 and 12, with new offerings designed to bring even more people into the fold. June 11 kicks off the weekend with a brand-new VIP Event. Tickets are $50 per person and include special guest speakers on mental health, hors d’oeuvres, and drinks. This evening is designed for anyone who wants to support the mission, whether or not they plan to play on Friday. The second day, June 12 brings the on-court action with Triples Tennis and, new for this year, Pickleball. Player entry is $100 per person, which includes access to Thursday’s VIP Event, food provided by Chick-fil-A, and drinks during Friday’s event. No partner is needed as the round-robin format ensures everyone gets matched up for a fun, non-competitive evening on the courts. Registration for the event closes on June 10.How to Get Involved
If you’re in Jacksonville, then you can come to the annual event and support mental health awareness. Those unable to attend, but still want to help make an impact, can make a direct donation through the Ace The Stigma website. Net proceeds from the 2026 Jacksonville event will once again benefit Here Tomorrow, supporting their work in increasing awareness about the warning signs of mental illness, educating at-risk individuals and their families, and providing outreach and treatment for those who are struggling. For more information, to register, or to explore sponsorship opportunities, visit acethestigma.com.Posted by:
