Congratulations to Arthur Ashe Essay Contest winners
The juniors listed below have been named USTA Pacific Northwest Section winners for their age division in the 2009 Arthur Ashe Essay Contest. National Junior Tennis and Learning (NJTL) participants were asked to write an essay about what this Arthur Ashe quote means to them, “From what we get, we make a living; what we give, however, makes a life.” The winners will receive a personalized plaque and certificate in recognition of their efforts.
Girls’ 11/12
Zoe Parkel, Portland - USTA Jr. Team Tennis of Portland
Boys’ 11/12
Mitchell Steadman, Jacksonville, Ore. - USTA Jr. Team Tennis of Rogue Valley
Girls’ 13/14
Catherine Sample, Fairbanks, Alaska - Fairbanks Tennis Association
Boys’ 13/14
Varun Medhal, Camas, Wash. - Kids ‘N Tennis
Girls’ 15/16
Lily Zhao, Portland - Portland After-School Tennis
Boys’ 15/16
D. Aven Bross, Fairbanks - Fairbanks Tennis Association
USTA unveils new NJTL name and logo
The National Junior Tennis League will be re-branded as the National Junior Tennis and Learning (NJTL) network, the USTA announced. With the new name and logo, the 40-year-old network of community tennis associations will continue its mission of developing the character of young people through tennis and education.
The re-brand will heighten awareness of NJTL initiatives and will also broaden the public’s understanding of the mission to instill in youngsters the values exemplified by Arthur Ashe throughout his life – humanitarianism, leadership, and academic excellence. Please click here to learn more.
NJTL Rallies bring tennis and fun to junior players
National Junior Tennis and Learning (NJTL) is a network of community organizations dedicated to introducing as many youngsters as possible to the sport of tennis. The program provides them with a safe haven, adult role models and opportunities to develop positive social and leadership skills, while at the same time enhancing their academic discipline. Founded in 1969 by Arthur Ashe, Charlie Pasarell and Sheridan Snyder, NJTL has significantly impacted the lives of America's youth by developing the character of young people through tennis and emphasizing the ideals and life of the late, great Arthur Ashe.
The NJTL program offers many exciting opportunities and benefits to its participants. NJTL chapters are eligible to receive:
• NJTL Chapter of the Year Award - a sectional and national award designed to recognize outstanding programs for their continued excellence in youth tennis programming.
• Community Tennis Development Workshop scholarships - financial assistance, based on need, for leaders of NJTL programs who stand out in the community.
• USTA Pacific Northwest Program Grants and NJTL start-up and expansion grants - please click here to learn more about some of these opportunities.
A NJTL program or chapter can be formed through a school, youth organization or club, a private tennis facility or even a park and recreation site. If you are interested in forming a new NJTL Tennis program or chapter in your community, please click here to complete the registration form. If you have any questions or would like more information about NJTL Tennis please contact Valerie Wright by email at wright@pnw.usta.com or by phone at (541) 773-2070.
NJTL Resources
The USTA Pacific Northwest has worked to compile a list of resources that will help to enrich new and existing NJTL chapters. Please click here to learn more about this information that will help you enhance your NJTL program.