Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month: Yamana Uno on Tennis, Identity and Empowerment

In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, Yamana Uno reflects on how tennis, culture and community have shaped her personal journey, highlighting her passion for tennis and pride in her Asian American heritage.

"I first got into tennis when I was little, playing casually with my family in our neighborhood. At that point, it was just a fun way to spend time together and enjoy the game. As I got older, my passion for tennis grew even more and I began to play tennis with one of my oldest friends, Erika, and her mom, Kesara Becker. Playing with them wasn’t just about practicing my tennis skills; it was also about bonding, learning and having fun on the court. These positive experiences shaped my passion for the sport and laid the foundation for my tennis journey. 

Over time, tennis became more than just a sport for me. It became a way to build friendships and meaningful connections with others who shared my passion. Tennis also served as a positive outlet for the stressors in my life, giving me a space to clear my mind, stay active and focus on something I truly enjoyed. This sport has also given me an opportunity to work for the Avon Community Tennis Association with Coach Mize, where I can help young players in my community develop their skills, mental game and grow their love for the sport just like I did. The game has enriched my life in so many ways, shaping me into the person I am today.

What I love most about tennis is the way it challenges me both mentally and physically. The strategy, precision and endurance required to play keep me engaged and push me to improve with every match. It has been a sport that exercises my brain in ways that my academics may not, sharpening my ability to think quickly, anticipate moves and make split-second decisions. At the same time, it keeps me in shape physically, enhancing my agility, coordination and overall fitness. 

Beyond the technical aspects, tennis has also introduced me to a community of players. I’ve made many friends on the court who invite me to play matches, compete in leagues and even spend time together outside of the tennis court. The connections I’ve built through the sport extend far beyond the game itself, creating bonds that are rooted in our shared experiences.

Outside of tennis, my main hobbies are crochet, pickleball and traveling. As a graduate student, I find that having a relaxing activity like crochet helps me unwind and take a break from the demands of my studies. I also enjoy taking breaks from tennis by playing pickleball, which allows me to stay active while switching up the pace. Travel is another passion of mine, as it enriches my life and allows me to explore new places, cultures and perspectives. I mostly travel to Japan because my family lives there, but I have also visited several other countries. The combination of these hobbies complements my love for tennis, keeping me balanced, refreshed and connected to the people and activities that bring joy into my life. 

As we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, I take pride in being Asian and honoring the rich culture, history and resilience of our community. My heritage is a core part of who I am, shaping my values, experiences and perspective on the world. This month is a reminder to recognize and uplift AAPI voices, celebrate our traditions and embrace the strength and beauty of our diverse backgrounds."