Courts for Cancer was created by Eric and Kristi Boles, when in 2018, their son Ryder had to deal with a cancer diagnosis.  After they experienced a prolonged stay in the hospital, multiple rounds of chemotherapy, many follow-up exams, and a multitude of expensive medications they came to the realization that without the help and support of their Dexter community, they many not have been able to handle all of that stress, along with the financial burden.

In an effort to pay it forward, their family put together an annual Courts for Cancer event at Dexter High School.

"This is an opportunity for the members of the girls and boys tennis teams to participate in a community service event," stated Coach Kristi Boles.  "And a chance for them to have a positive impact on someone who is currently dealing with a cancer diagnosis."

On March 22, 2024 the 6th Annual Courts for Cancer event was held with the Bearcats hosting a tennis tournament with teams from Jackson, Sikeston, and Poplar Bluff.

"Our goal is to raise enough money to print shirts for each team to wear on game day and make donations to three different cancer-related entities: a Stoddard County educator/student who is dealing with a cancer diagnosis, a local cancer charity (18FORE Life), and a national organization (Friends of Kids with Cancer)," continued Boles.  "We will divide all profits from the event among all three entities.

Courts for Cancer has raised $11,425.00 in six years.

This year 18FORE Life received $1,000; Jennifer Bolin, Bloomfield Elementary Principal and a cancer survivor, received $1,000 and Friends of Kids for Cancer in St. Louis also received $1,000.

Athletes who participated in the 6th Annual Courts for Cancer are listed below.