Transforming Leeper Park Tennis Courts to Honor Local Teen’s Legacy

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In South Bend’s Leeper Park, a heartfelt mission is taking shape—a mission to honor the legacy of a young tennis prodigy whose life was tragically cut short by brain cancer. The courts where David Filer trained from a young age are now set to be transformed into a space that not only commemorates his passion but also aims to inspire future generations of tennis players.

David’s tennis journey began at the tender age of two, and by middle school, he had climbed to an impressive rank of #2 in the nation. His father, also named David Filer, recalls his son’s relentless drive: "He got better and better and won about seven Midwest championships."

But in 2022, everything changed when David, just 15 years old, was diagnosed with Glioblastoma—a terminal illness. Despite the prognosis, David’s love for tennis never wavered. “Tennis was what he wanted to do. We couldn’t take that from him,” his father shared. Until his final days, David continued to play, demonstrating resilience and inspiring thousands.

The tennis community rallied around him, with heartfelt messages pouring in from across the globe, including personal videos from legends like Novak Djokovic, Pete Sampras, and Roger Federer. “Hey David, it is Roger here from Switzerland. I just wanted to send you all of my support,” Federer said in one moving message.

Now, David’s enduring legacy will live on through the planned transformation of the Leeper Park tennis courts, where he once practiced. The project, spearheaded by the For the Love of Leeper Park committee, aims to completely overhaul the courts and possibly add a clubhouse to make South Bend a premier destination for tennis enthusiasts.

“This project is about more than tennis. It’s about community, perseverance, and honoring a remarkable young man who embodied the highs and lows of life through this sport,” said Darla Lippert, a committee member. The estimated cost for the project stands at $1.5 million, with the City of South Bend contributing $350,000. The remaining $1.1 million will be raised through fundraising efforts.

David’s parents, Pam Mozdzierz-Filer and David Filer, are touched by the community’s support. "That fighting spirit he used through his treatment with glioblastoma—that’s part of what tennis gave him. Knowing that other kids will have the same opportunity to play, just like David, is what excites me most,” his mother shared.

The goal is to complete the courts by the summer of 2025, bringing David’s dream full circle while creating a lasting impact for the next generation of South Bend athletes.