The Necker Cup and It’s Profound Impact On Youth

Necker Island is one of the most beautiful islands in the world. From the architecture and amazing beaches, to the tennis complex and wildlife, the pursuit of perfection is evident everywhere. Personally I think the best way to thank god for the many gifts he gives us is to maximize the opportunity to do the very best with what has been given, and Sir Richard Branson has done just that with this masterpiece. Whether you’re scuba diving or windsurfing, sitting poolside or enjoying dinner by candlelight on one of the beautiful beaches, this treasure truly feeds the belly well.

Sean Wolfington, Sir Richard Branson and Ryan Wolfington

What brings me and my family to Necker Island is the Necker Cup, a celebrity Pro-am tennis tournament whose mission is to raise money and awareness to help underprivileged kids rise above unfortunate circumstances to realize their potential, and to find and fulfill their mission in life. Organized by Premiere Tennis, and hosted by Sir Richard Branson, this 6-day event coined “The most exclusive Pro-am Tennis Tournament in the world”, pairs the biggest names in tennis with amateurs to compete for the Necker Cup. The money raised from the different celebrities, pro athlete’s and business leaders from around the world, goes directly to in-depth programs that inspire, inform, equip, educate and mentor these young men and women. One of the worthy charities supported by the event is Marty Hennessy’s Inspiring Children Foundation.

Co-founded by my brother Ryan Wolfington, Inspiring Children’s goal is to provide the ultimate environment for a child to become their best in all areas of life. With programs focused on academics, athletics, leadership and character development, the young men and women involved are given a complete understanding of what it takes to succeed, helping them achieve their goals while pursuing happiness. Generous donations from events like The Necker Cup have helped Inspiring Children provide over 70 scholarships to colleges and universities around the world including Harvard, Stanford, West Point, Princeton and Georgetown.

Although the action of the tournament and the dream-like surroundings of Necker Island were ever present, the most beautiful thing I witnessed during the event was the manner in which these amazing young people carried themselves. Overflowing with character, strength and dignity, their presence was inspiring. With the help of this program, these young men and women are rising above their circumstances, charging full speed towards a bright and successful future while helping to pull many of their friends, family members, and future generations out from behind the 8-ball. Transforming the life of young people is the greatest gift anyone can bestow, and I’m reminded of that every time I attend this event.

Necker Island possesses many impressive sites and amenities, all of which my family thoroughly enjoyed, but being directly involved with the transformation of these extraordinary young people is what impacted me the most. Kudos to Sir Richard Branson and all of those who make this magical event happen, my family and I were honored to be a part of it. I have shared some of my personal photos from our trip below. Enjoy!

Since its conception in 2011, the Necker Cup tournament, organized by Premiere Tennis and hosted by Sir Richard Branson, has welcomed star participants such as Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, Eugenie Bouchard, Ana Ivanovic, Martina Navratilova, Stefan Edberg, Boris Becker, Bjorn Borg, Bob & Mike Bryan, Marion Bartoli, Vasek Pospisil, John McEnroe and more and raised over $3,000,000 dollars for worthy charities. For more information, visit http://www.neckercup.com
Necker Island Photo Gallery: