Newson Impacts KC Tennis Community

In honor of its 100th anniversary in 2020, the USTA Missouri Valley will be recognizing 100 deserving tennis providers, players, partners and more across our section throughout the year.

Selected nominees will be given a Gold Star award, recognizing them for the contributions they are making to support and grow the game in the USTA Missouri Valley based on specific program areas and attributes. 

One of the award winners from within the USTA Heart of America this August is Vick Newson, member of the National Junior Tennis and Learning network and former volunteer with the Stephanie Waterman Foundation.

“Changing a person requires a sustained commitment to the person/child,” Newson said in a 2019 interview with the USTA Heart of America. “I’ve been working with some of my kids for more than six years. Many times it is not easy to sustain the efforts to help, but when I see some of the successes and outcomes we are having with children, it has intrinsic rewards that help us continue.”

Newson’s involvement in community programming and providing tennis in Kansas City schools have impacts on children on and off of the tennis court. Scott Hanover, Director of the SWF, sang high praises of the work that Newson has done.

“Vick had an amazing impact on the Foundation and tennis in general,” Hanover said. “He did so much more than was in the job description. He truly loves the kids and families and did everything he could to bring positive tennis and educational experiences.”

His commitment to diversity and inclusion and to providing a positive tennis experience, alongside his longevity in the tennis world make Newson a role model and a well-deserving Gold Star winner.

“All of us have a responsibility to improve our communities,” he said. “If I don’t, who will?”

Pictured above: Newson (far left) with participants of the Stephanie Waterman Foundation program.