“TENNIS TOOK ME FAR, BUT NOT AWAY FROM MY PEOPLE”: Jovan Parlić and SAMA Organize Humanitarian Tournament in Chicago for Children from Serbia

On Saturday, May 31, the tennis courts of the University of Illinois Chicago will host a humanitarian tennis tournament with a singular goal: to support the children of Serbia through sportsmanship and solidarity. All proceeds will be directed toward purchasing medical equipment for the Health Centers in Loznica and Bogatić—two rural institutions in Serbia facing significant shortages of modern pediatric care tools.

The tournament is a collaborative effort between tennis coach Jovan Parlić and the Serbian American Medical Association (SAMA). As the organizers emphasize, the event seeks more than just athletic talent—it aims to foster humanity, which they consider the most important outcome of the day.

Jovan Parlić, a tennis player originally from Niš, Serbia, is currently the men’s tennis coach at UIC. He views the tournament as a fusion of his profession and his mission. “The idea came from a desire to combine what I love most—tennis and working with young people—with something that can have a broader and deeper impact on the community,” Parlić explains. “Through conversations with people from SAMA, we recognized a shared mission: to help Serbia, especially those in rural areas where assistance is most needed.”

Parlić began his career at the Tennis Club “Radnički” and later honed his skills in the United States—first at the “Orange Bowl” tournament in Miami, then as a student at the University of Arkansas, and finally as a coach at the renowned “IMG Bollettieri” Academy. Despite his international experience, he remains deeply connected to Serbia.

“I grew up in Serbia and came to America at 17 in search of a better life,” Parlić reflects. “Today, as a coach at a major American university, I feel a responsibility to contribute to the country I came from. Helping Serbia is a deeply emotional and moral obligation for me.”

Founded in 2009, SAMA’s mission is to unite physicians of Serbian descent in the U.S. and Serbia to improve healthcare conditions in their homeland. Their humanitarian efforts have evolved from modest equipment shipments in the late 1990s to a robust nonprofit organization with numerous projects today.LinkedIn

“SAMA and I share the same idea—to translate the effort and knowledge we’ve gained abroad into help for people from our region,” Parlić adds. “That’s why this tournament is more than just a game—it’s a bridge between the diaspora and the homeland.”

Open Tournament for All Ages and Skill Levels

The tournament welcomes participants of all ages and skill levels—from recreational players to former competitors. “The point isn’t just competition; it’s about bringing people together around an important humanitarian cause,” Parlić notes. “Everyone will have the opportunity to play as many matches as possible and spend quality time on the court in a positive atmosphere.”

Message from Chicago: Everyone Can Help

When asked what message he would send to the diaspora, athletes, and colleagues, Jovan Parlić is clear:

“I believe everyone can contribute—it doesn’t have to be a large donation. Sometimes, offering your time, knowledge, or energy is enough. Humanitarian work shouldn’t be an exception; it should be part of our daily lives. When we unite, we can accomplish a lot.”

So, if you’re in Chicago this Saturday—bring your racket and a big heart. This tournament is an opportunity to create a better future for the children of Serbia through the game of tennis.

For more information, registration, and donations: SAMA