The National Junior Tennis League has been re-branded as the National Junior Tennis and Learning (NJTL) network.
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.
Founders Arthur Ashe, Charlie Pasarell and Sheridan Snyder established NJTL in 1969. Since then, the NJTL network has grown to include over 550 chapters which serve over 220,000 youth annually. NJTL chapters, which vary in size and scope, can be found in 46 of the top 50 U.S. markets, making NJTL one of the USTA’s largest community-based initiatives. NJTL chapters are supported by the USTA through grants, awards, and various learning opportunities. NJTL participants have the opportunity to take part in a number of core programs, including the Tennis and Leadership Camp, the Arthur Ashe Essay and Art Contest, Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day, Regional Rallies, a scholarship to the annual USTA Community Tennis Development Workshop, and low-cost insurance.
NJTLs are charged with providing free or low-cost programming for youth during out-of-school time that combine tennis and education to help keep kids safe, healthy and strong. Key NJTL initiatives include the Community Building Initiative, the Capacity Building Program, and the After-School Intermediary Project.
"The NJTL network is an important resource the USTA provides and a key USTA initiative in our effort to grow the game amongst America’s youth," said Kurt Kamperman, Chief Executive, Community Tennis, USTA. "It provides all children, regardless of their background, the opportunity to maximize their academic potential while learning a sport that can last a lifetime."
In 2009, there were no NJTL Chapters in Wyoming. The first was established at the Youth Center - Boys and Girls Club at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne. Aaron Lapkin (4 time state high school tennis champion) and Katie Stewart both helped get 10 and Under Tennis up and running at this NJTL Chapter.
Today, more Boys and Girls Clubs, CTAs and Parks and Recreation programs have joined the USTA as NJTL chapters. The 10 and Under Tennis play format coupled with afterschool programming that has an educational component are a winning combination to support a new NJTL Chapter. Contact Peg Connor today to find out more aobut starting a NJTL Chapter in your community.