The Copper Family Memorial Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) public charity committed to promoting youth tennis and fostering personal growth, resilience, and sportsmanship through the sport. Based in Colorado and Nevada, the Foundation provides opportunities for young athletes to develop their skills, build confidence, and cultivate a lifelong passion for tennis.
Since its inception, the Foundation has grown significantly, delivering meaningful programs and initiatives:
2022: Organized a two-day tournament, sponsored three Junior Team Tennis (JTT) teams, and supported a high school team in a Junior Varsity tournament.
2023: Hosted three Matthew D. Copper Memorial JV Doubles Challenge tournaments—two for high school girls and one for high school boys—and sponsored two JTT teams.
2024: Expanded to host four Matthew D. Copper Memorial JV Doubles Challenges—two for girls and two for boys—engaging over 150 players. Additionally, the Foundation launched two $1,000 scholarships for senior high school tennis players (one boy and one girl), sponsored a JTT team, and offered inclusive summer tennis drills for players of all skill levels.
The Foundation is deeply inspired by the lives and legacies of John A. Copper and Matthew D. Copper, whose passion for tennis and commitment to community serve as the cornerstone of its mission.
John A. Copper was a loving husband, devoted father, and enthusiastic tennis player. A dedicated aeronautical engineer at McDonnell Douglas for over 30 years, John balanced his professional life with a commitment to service. He volunteered for organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels, and a local housing program, and he also led his community as President of his local symphony and tennis club. John’s unwavering love for tennis kept him on the court every Saturday, whether at a local high school or tennis club. Initial funding for the Foundation was made possible through his estate, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire young athletes to this day.
Matthew D. Copper was a vibrant student and high school tennis player whose life was tragically cut short by leukemia in 2021. Matthew played for Greenway High School in Phoenix, Arizona, and later attended Arizona State University. His love for tennis and his determination on and off the court remain an inspiration. To honor Matthew’s memory, the Foundation proudly hosts tournaments in his name, sharing his passion and encouraging the next generation of tennis players.
The Copper Family Memorial Foundation is dedicated to empowering youth through tennis, creating opportunities for personal and athletic growth, and honoring the spirit of community. All donations directly support programs such as scholarships, tournaments, and skill-building initiatives that help young players thrive both on and off the court.
How to Support the Foundation:
By Mail: Copper Family Memorial Foundation, 16500 Hitching Post Circle, Parker, CO 80134
Online: Colorado Gives
Venmo: @copperfamily_org
For more information, contact us at copperfmf@gmail.com.
With your help, we can honor the legacies of John and Matthew Copper by giving young athletes the tools they need to excel, build confidence, and discover the lifelong joys of tennis. Together, we can make a lasting impact.