“You are not a drop in the ocean. You are an entire ocean in a drop.” Rumi

Longtime Aforza member Anar Sumar sadly passed away this July. She will be greatly missed and remembered with love. Anar leaves behind an inspiring legacy of kindness and inclusivity to players here at Aforza. She had been a member of our club for over 25 years and created an awesome community of tennis friends and family during that time – one that will continue to inspire, challenge and befriend other tennis lovers for years to come.

Tennis was an important part of Anar’s life. Friend Marilyn Murray met Anar through tennis and, like many of Anar’s friendships, a friendly game of tennis grew into a lifelong friendship. Marilyn described Anar as generous, intelligent, fair and contagiously kind, and these same attributes contributed greatly to her play on the tennis court.

Anar was an unorthodox but talented tennis player. She never took any formal lessons, but was a fierce competitor. She was famous for her drop shots and lobs – often the source of frustration and challenge for her competitors. Marilyn says, “Anar played extremely well and made those playing with her better. For Anar, tennis was more about strategy and the mental game.” Her enticing and infectious smile will always be remembered, along with her thoughtful presence on the court.

Above all, Anar valued fairness. She was competitive but considerate, and always went out of her way to include everyone, particularly newcomers to Aforza. Anar always gave people a chance and her group of tennis friends grew as a result – so many who were touched by her inclusivity and are forever grateful for her friendship.

Anar’s greatest joy was her family and especially her grandchildren. She had both a creative and active soul. Anar loved to write poetry, travel and cook, and she played tennis and golf regularly here and abroad. She was adored by so many.

We offer our deepest condolences to Anar’s family – she was exactly what makes the community here at Aforza great and her light will be missed. Memorial tributes may be made in Anar’s honour to The Calgary Women’s Shelter.