A poignant tribute unfolded on a blistering Friday afternoon at L.A. Valley College, where the Loyola and Harvard-Westlake high school tennis teams united in remembrance of Braun Levi, the Loyola captain whose life was tragically cut short. Dressed in commemorative T-shirts bearing the words "Live Like Braun," players observed a solemn moment of silence, honoring Levi's memory before their Southern Section Open Division playoff match. The presence of Levi's mother, Jennifer, added an emotional depth as she received heartfelt support from those gathered.

Despite their grief, the Loyola team made a conscious decision to proceed with the match, channeling their emotions into a tribute to their fallen teammate. Coach Brian Held expressed the team's determination, stating their desire to compete in Levi's honor. Throughout the week, the Loyola community had come together, offering mutual support and healing through shared experiences. A celebration of Levi's life was planned for Saturday evening, further underscoring the profound impact he had on everyone around him. His doubles partner, Cooper Schwartz, initially reluctant to play, ultimately chose to participate, even using Levi's racket during crucial moments, symbolizing their unbreakable bond.

The spirit of resilience and unity shone brightly as Harvard-Westlake emerged victorious with a 14-4 win, advancing to the next round. Yet, the match transcended competition, serving as a testament to the strength and character of young athletes who can find purpose amidst tragedy. The legacy of Braun Levi lives on through his peers' actions, reminding us all of the power of camaraderie and the enduring influence of positive role models within sports communities.