Mid-Atlantic

Jen Kaine: Cultivating Confidence and Empowering the Next Generation Through Tennis

November 21, 2024

In the upcoming 2024 Tennis Creates Gala, Presented by Onelife Fitness, Jen Kaine will be honored with the Adult Leader Award, a well-deserved recognition of her remarkable dedication to tennis and mentorship. Jen’s journey from a recreational player to a standout coach is a story of rediscovery, passion, and a deep commitment to empowering young girls through the sport she loves.

A Tennis Journey Rediscovered

Jen’s love for tennis began at age 10 when she participated in a free two-week summer program in her hometown. While she didn’t pursue tennis competitively, she enjoyed rallying for fun with her parents. It wasn’t until 30 years later—at the encouragement of a friend—that Jen dusted off her racquet and reconnected with the game. “When I rediscovered tennis, it felt like coming home,” she shares. Over the last 15 years, she has been an active USTA member, deepening her connection to the sport.

Finding Purpose as a Coach

In May 2022, Jen became a founding coach for Girls Rule the Court (GRTC), combining her background as a high school teacher with her love for tennis. “Coaching GRTC was truly a dream job,” she says. “It gave me the perfect opportunity to share my passion for tennis while making a meaningful impact in the lives of young girls.” Jen’s experience in the classroom made the transition to coaching feel natural. Her sessions blend skill development with personal growth, making her lessons as much about life as they are about tennis.

Moments That Matter

For Jen, the most rewarding part of coaching is watching her players grow—not just in skill but in confidence. “One of my favorite moments is seeing the girls feel proud of themselves when they master a new stroke or make progress with a skill,” she reflects. “It’s incredible to see how much their confidence builds week by week.”

Jen also observes the lasting impact GRTC has on its participants. "The girls are eager to participate, and I’ve seen many develop great leadership skills,” she notes. “The excitement they bring to every class shows me that the program is making a difference."

The Unique Impact of GRTC

What sets Girls Rule the Court apart is its focus on both tennis and social-emotional learning. “It’s not just about hitting a ball over the net,” Jen explains. “We have meaningful discussions about the topic of the day, which fosters a sense of community among the girls.” She especially loves watching quieter players find their voices and grow more confident in conversations as the weeks progress.

GRTC’s motto, “It’s not I can’t, it’s I can’t yet!” resonates deeply with Jen and the other mentors. “We encourage the girls to believe in themselves and embrace their potential by giving their best effort,” she says. “Our goal is to empower them, both on and off the court.”

Why Tennis—and Why Coaching?

Jen passionately advocates for both playing and coaching tennis. “Tennis is a great way to stay active and be social,” she says, highlighting the sport’s benefits beyond physical fitness. But for her, the role of coach holds something even more special. “Coaching with GRTC is a chance to make a meaningful difference in young girls' lives,” she shares. “Seeing the impact we have on them—watching them grow in confidence and leadership—is the most fulfilling part of the experience.”

A Champion of Empowerment

Jen Kaine’s work with Girls Rule the Court exemplifies why she is the Tennis Creates Awards’ Adult Leader Honoree Her passion for the game, her dedication to empowering young girls, and her ability to foster both skill and self-belief make her an inspiration to all. Through tennis, Jen is not only helping players improve their strokes—she’s teaching them to believe in themselves and embrace challenges with confidence, one swing at a time.

As Jen would say, it’s not just about where you are now—it’s about embracing where you’re going. And thanks to leaders like her, the next generation of young women in tennis is bound for greatness.

Congratulations to all the 2024 USTA Mid-Atlantic award winners! Jen 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.

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