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About the Ace Open

The 2017 Ft. Lauderdale Airport Tragedy

On January 6, 2017, tragedy struck at Ft. Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport when a gunman opened fire in the baggage claim area. The attack left five people dead and six others injured, shaking the community and the nation.

Among those caught in the violence were my grandparents. My grandmother, a kind and vibrant woman deeply loved by all who knew her, was one of the victims who lost her life that day. My grandfather was critically injured—shot in the head in a way that left doctors shocked he survived. Against all odds, he pulled through.

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The Journey of Recovery at the Shepherd Center

After emergency care and multiple surgeries, my grandfather was transferred to the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, a nationally recognized rehabilitation hospital specializing in brain and spinal cord injuries.

It was there that the real challenge began—relearning how to walk, talk, and live independently. The Shepherd Center’s expert team combined cutting-edge therapies with compassionate care to support him every step of the way.

One memory I’ll never forget is walking with him on a therapy session to the Chick-fil-A across the street. It may sound small, but for him—and for all of us—it was a huge milestone on the road to recovery.

Remembering Our Grandparents

Though my grandfather survived, he was never the same after the shooting. The injuries affected him for the rest of his life. In May 2025, after years of living with these challenges, he passed away.

The Ace Open honors both my grandparents—remembering my grandmother’s life and my grandfather’s strength and determination. Their story inspired me to start the Ace Open in 2023, at just 15 years old. Our family has always loved tennis and community, and through this tournament, we bring people together to raise money for the Shepherd Center and support others facing difficult recovery journeys.

Ace Open: A Teen's Vision

Inspired by his grandfather’s resilience and the extraordinary care he received at the Shepherd Center, Nolen Jarl, at the age of 15, decided to start the Ace Open in 2023. Tennis was a sport the family played and loved, so creating an event around a sport they all cherished seemed like the perfect way to remember his grandmother and honor his grandfather’s recovery. Now, the Ace Open serves as a way to remember and celebrate them both while supporting others facing life-changing recovery journeys.

The Ace Open is more than a tournament. It’s a celebration of community, hope, and healing. Each year, players of all skill levels compete in tennis and pickleball while raising funds for the Shepherd Center. Every serve, every match, and every dollar raised helps provide vital care and support to patients rebuilding their lives.

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GET INVOLVED

Be Part of the Movement

Whether you’re picking up a racket or giving back another way, there are many ways to serve hope with us & if you don’t play tennis or pickleball there will be a silent auction again! Something for everyone 

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Sign up to compete in tennis or pickleball and enjoy a weekend of fun and friendly competition—all for a great cause.

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Sponsor

Showcase your business and support rehabilitation care by becoming an event sponsor. Sponsorship helps us provide essential resources to the Shepherd Center.

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Donate

Can’t attend or sponsor? Your donation directly supports patients’ recovery journeys at the Shepherd Center. Every serve, every dollar, every moment counts. 

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