At first it was a conversation about how much they missed the competition of D1 tennis. Then, they chatted about how hard it was to find players at their level who lived nearby. Next came a brainstorm about an event they would love to compete in if it actually existed. And before long, they figured out how to create that very event and invite others along for the ride.

And so came the Washed Up Cup, the brainchild of Louise Ronaldson and Madison Harrison, former D1 tennis teammates at Mississippi State.

Harrison played No. 1 singles and doubles in college, made it to an NCAA Sweet 16, and has coached and recruited players. Ronaldson was a two-time SEC Freshman of the Week and a Top 40 doubles and Top 125 singles college player.

The Washed Up Cup took place July 31 through August 2 at the University of San Diego after less than three months of planning. Dozens of former NCAA and professional tennis players competed on one of five teams playing men's, women's and mixed doubles in a round-robin format. The weekend paired three days of tennis with elevated social events for the players, including welcome drinks Friday night and a catered yacht gala Saturday night.

In between competition, they hosted a free clinic for 40 kids through Youth Tennis San Diego (YTSD). HEAD Tennis generously donated rackets for the kids who participated.

"We're so pleased with how it turned out and already can't wait for the next one," said co-founder Madison Harrison. "The kids' clinic meant so much to us. The players were so happy to get back on court competing and brought such a high level as well. Many of them met each other for the first time and are already forming more groups to regularly play with each other."

"Many former college athletes lose the competitive identity and community that defined their lives during their playing careers," explained Ronaldson. "This event recreates that lively, competitive, and team-focused environment through high-level competition and curated social experiences that reconnect players with the sport and each other."

Although this was the first event, it likely won't be the last. Click here for additional details and to get connected.