Our Mission

To showcase rising tennis talent while supporting the McNabb Center’s mission to improve lives through mental health, addiction recovery, and social services in East Tennessee.

Tournament & Purpose

The Helen Ross McNabb Foundation proudly presents the Knoxville Challenger, a seven-day professional tennis event held in Knoxville, TN, which benefits the McNabb Center. The tournament takes place November 3–9, 2025, at the Goodfriend Indoor Tennis Center. The Challenger is part of the USTA Pro Circuit series, providing young international and American players a pathway to the top levels of the game.

Players include emerging professionals, those climbing the ATP rankings, and top-ranked juniors. Participation in USTA Pro Circuit events like the Knoxville Challenger helps players gain the experience and ranking points needed to compete on the global tour.

Many of today’s top-ranked American and international players competed in the Knoxville Challenger early in their careers. This year’s athletes will compete for $60,000 in prize money and valuable ATP ranking points.

In addition to world-class tennis, the Knoxville Challenger is unique in its unwavering support of the McNabb Center. Over the past 15 years, this event has raised more than $2 million for individuals in need.

To learn more, visit our Tournament Info section.

About the McNabb Center

The McNabb Center is East Tennessee’s leading nonprofit provider of mental health, substance use, victim, and social services. Our mission centers on helping individuals achieve a “Well Mind, Well Being” through compassionate care from infancy through adulthood.

Founded in 1948, the Center now serves over 51,000 people annually. With a staff of psychiatrists, nurses, clinicians, and case managers, we provide services tailored to meet each client’s needs using best practice standards.

While our programs reach across all demographics, we have a long-standing commitment to supporting individuals with the most severe and persistent mental illnesses—especially those with the fewest resources.

For more information, visit mcnabbcenter.org or call 1‑800‑255‑9711.

In Memory of Harry W. Stowers

Harry W. Stowers co-founded Stowers Machinery Corporation in 1960 with his brothers. After managing operations in Chattanooga, he moved to Knoxville in 1982 and became a generous supporter of the community, family, and friends.

One of Harry’s greatest passions was the McNabb Center. He was actively involved in fundraising from 1987 until his passing, served as Executive Chairman of the Helen Ross McNabb Foundation Board (1994–95), and was awarded the Helen Ross McNabb Spirit Award in 2007.

A dedicated supporter of all programs at the Center, Harry was especially drawn to helping at-risk children. He was a lifelong sports enthusiast, a former basketball player at Lehigh University, and an avid tennis fan.

His lovely wife, Sarah Hobson Stowers, continued his philanthropic legacy until her passing in 2021. They are survived by their children—Harry (Wes) Stowers Jr., Stewart F. Stowers, MD, and Jenny Stowers Brock—and many grandchildren.

We invite you to join us in support of the Knoxville Challenger and the McNabb Center.