Black Girls Tennis Club: Pioneering Pathways for Joy, Equity, and Radical Wellness

Winner of the Provider Champion Award at the 2024 Tennis Creates Gala

Black Girls Tennis Club (BGTC) began as a spark of inspiration during a casual lunch conversation in December 2021. What started as a shared dream between co-founders Kimberly and Virginia has blossomed into a movement transforming lives through tennis. Officially established in 2022, BGTC’s mission is nothing short of transformative: to serve as a pathway to liberation for Black women and girls through play, focusing on joy, equity, and radical wellness.

A Mission Rooted in Liberation and Growth

At its core, BGTC aims to dismantle systemic barriers while fostering a sense of community and empowerment. “Tennis is a tool, but the real work is creating spaces where Black women and girls can thrive,” the co-founders share. Over the past two years, the organization has grown from a bold idea into a dynamic nonprofit with diverse programs and partnerships that amplify its mission.

BGTC offers youth programming in the form of free clinics, introducing nearly 150 girls annually to tennis while promoting holistic wellness. For adults, the Self Love Tennis Club integrates tennis drills with mindful practices, encouraging participants to prioritize self-care. The organization also focuses on systemic change through initiatives like the Coach Pipeline, building a network of trained professionals, and events and activations in collaboration with brands and community partners.

Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges

Despite its impressive growth, BGTC has faced challenges along the way. Tennis remains an exclusive sport due to high costs, limited representation, and accessibility issues. BGTC tackles these hurdles head-on by offering free clinics, advocating for equitable court access, and forming partnerships with organizations like the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation and Girls Rule the Court™. “We’re committed to creating a sustainable and inclusive ecosystem for tennis,” they explain.

The organization’s efforts extend beyond programming. In Norfolk, BGTC led a city-wide tennis court assessment to address court maintenance and access inequities. These initiatives are examples of how BGTC combines grassroots advocacy with systemic solutions.

Moments That Matter

For BGTC, success isn’t just about numbers—it’s about impact. One standout moment came during their first clinic when two participants, who had never played tennis before, decided to try out for their school teams. One made the team. “That was when we knew we were making a difference,” the team recalls with pride.

BGTC’s impact is measured in personal stories and through broader metrics like participation rates, program retention, and the growing roster of partnerships. Their ability to create ripples of change will be celebrated at the 2024 Tennis Creates Gala, where they will be honored with the Provider Champion Award. “This recognition validates our work and fuels our drive to keep going,” they shared.

Looking Ahead: Bold Goals and Big Dreams

BGTC has ambitious plans for the future. Expanding youth programming, creating community swim and racquet clubs, and developing a tennis wear line are just the beginning. They aim to amplify their mission on a global scale by partnering with major tennis events and producing media content that centers Black communities. “Representation matters. We’re building a legacy that shows tennis is for everyone.”

Another long-term goal includes evaluating opportunities at HBCUs to close educational and athletic gaps, strengthening the pipeline for Black players and coaches. “We want to see more Black players, coaches, and leaders in every aspect of tennis,” they emphasize.

Transformative Power

When asked to sum up their organization in one word, BGTC chose transformative. “We’ve transformed not just ourselves but also the narrative around who belongs in tennis,” they reflect. This spirit of transformation is woven into everything they do, from the first clinic to their latest initiative.

As BGTC continues to grow, its impact remains deeply rooted in its mission of joy, equity, and radical wellness. By reimagining the role of tennis in the Black community, they are not just changing the game—they’re rewriting its rules.

Congratulations to all the 2024 USTA Mid-Atlantic award winners! Black Girls Tennis Club will be awarded, along with the other honorees, at the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation 2024 Annual Tennis Creates Gala, presented by Onelife Fitness, on December 7, 2024. Join us in celebrating their remarkable contributions to the tennis community. Tickets are on sale now—don’t miss out! Tickets can be purchased here.

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USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to promoting tennis and its physical, social, and emotional health benefits. Learn about our impact in the region and how USTA Mid-Atlantic creates community, character, and well-being.