Mid-Atlantic

Creating Joy and Confidence One Player at a Time

April 25, 2025


As part of Volunteer Appreciation Week 2025, USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation is proud to shine a light on the people who make a difference both on and off the court. Our volunteers are the heartbeat of our mission, and their dedication helps create a community where tennis is accessible, inclusive and inspiring for all.

 

This is the story of Narguess, a passionate tennis player and volunteer who is using the sport to build confidence, spark joy and strengthen communities across the Mid-Atlantic.

 

Narguess first got involved with USTA Mid-Atlantic in 2023 as a volunteer for Kids’ Day at the Mubadala Citi DC Open. She remembers the experience as energetic, exciting and deeply inspiring.

 

“It was incredible seeing so many young players excited about the game and being part of a professional tournament atmosphere,” she said. “There is something so powerful about watching that spark happen in real time.”

That spark is exactly what keeps Narguess coming back. Since her first experience, she has become a regular volunteer at several USTA Mid-Atlantic events, including Girls Rule the Court™ and the Tennis Creates Gala.

 

“I have always been passionate about both tennis and community service,” she said. “So volunteering with these programs was a natural fit. It is rewarding to share the game I love while also giving back and creating positive experiences for others through tennis.”

Whether helping young girls build confidence on the court, supporting large-scale youth events, or celebrating the impact of tennis at the Foundation’s gala, Narguess sees each opportunity as a chance to connect, uplift and grow alongside others.

 

Each program brings something different to the table. Girls Rule the Court empowers young girls and builds leadership. Kids Day events bring joyful energy and introduce tennis to children in fun, accessible ways. And the Tennis Creates Gala gives supporters and volunteers a space to reflect and celebrate the work they are doing together.

 

“At the Gala, I was especially moved by hearing firsthand stories of how tennis has changed people’s lives,” she said. “It reminded me why I choose to give back. Tennis really is a tool for personal growth and community transformation.”

 

For Narguess, the most rewarding part of volunteering is seeing the excitement and pride on the faces of young players as they improve and believe in themselves.

 

“Whether it is a child hitting their first successful shot or a girl realizing her potential, those are the moments that stick with me,” she said. “They are growing in confidence and learning how capable they are.”

 

Volunteering has also shaped Narguess’s connection to the USTA Mid-Atlantic community. It has helped her meet like-minded people, build relationships and find a deeper purpose through the sport.

 

“Tennis is more than just a game,” she said. “It teaches discipline, resilience and teamwork. Being able to help others access that same experience means everything to me.”

 

When asked what advice she would give someone thinking about volunteering, her response is heartfelt and simple.

 

“Some of the most meaningful experiences do not cost anything,” she said. “Giving your time without expecting anything in return often leads to the most rewarding and fulfilling moments. Just show up. You never know the impact you can have.”

 

There’s a place for you here. Find a volunteer opportunity that fits your passion on our Volunteer Hub.

 

Subscribe to USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s YouTube Channel and follow @ustamidatlantic on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

 

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.

 

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