Volunteering Together: A Story of Love and Service

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 Brian Banks, a volunteer whose support, compassion and commitment to family embody everything this week is about.

For Brian Banks, volunteering with USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation is rooted in love, support and a shared passion for sports.

Brian’s journey into volunteering started through his wife, Sheela, a lifelong tennis player and former Division I athlete. When Sheela was looking for ways to reconnect with the sport, Brian encouraged her to volunteer at the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation Kids’ Day at the Mubadala Citi DC Open. Seeing her light up on the court, he knew he wanted to be part of it too.

“The next year, I joined her as a volunteer,” Brian said. “But even before that, I had already helped out at the USTA Mid-Atlantic Centennial Gala. I was inspired by Sheela’s passion for tennis and everything the sport teaches, especially to kids.”

Since then, Brian has continued to support Sheela’s work and the Foundation in many ways, from helping with school-based programs such the Red Ball Team Tennis program to greeting guests at special events. His reason is simple.

“I am here to support my wife. That is what matters most,” he said. “And if I can do that while having fun, staying active and meeting some great people, it makes the experience even better.”

Brian’s favorite memories are often tied to moments of encouragement and connection. He remembers one especially touching moment at the 2024 Kids’ Day when a young girl told him she was not having fun because she could not hit the ball.