Banks Finds Calling with Tennis

“Once they brought this to my attention, I realized this was something I always wanted to do,” Banks said. “When I started, I realized how expensive the sport was. I always wanted to bring more kids who didn’t have the chance to play tennis. That was my mission. Once this was brought to me, I completely was all-in and said yes. I didn’t even think about it twice. I felt like it was my purpose.”

Each week, Banks introduces tennis to at least 25 kids in underserved areas. He runs programming for children throughout the week as well as on Saturdays. Banks also facilitates open play for adults on Sundays, with attendees having the option to receive instruction from Banks or just drop in and play. He hopes to grow that audience and ultimately offer World TeamTennis or league opportunities.

The East St. Louis CTA partners with local organizations — including the Lessie Bates Davis Neighborhood House, Griffin Center and Christian Activity Center — to provide free group lessons or even private training. Banks pops up a portable net and teaches kids at the facilities basic tennis skills and stroke mechanics. The East. St. Louis CTA also utilizes three courts at Lincoln Park that were constructed in 2017 with assistance from a USTA grant.

“It definitely helps having the same experience they are now having,” Banks said. “I of course couldn’t afford the equipment or private lessons. The fact I was able to get free lessons from quality coaches, and those coaches were black as well.

“Being able to learn from people of the same background and same race is important because representation matters. People are actually able to connect with you from experiences. Then they know you’re sincere about your work and what you’re doing.”

In addition to free tennis programming, the East St. Louis CTA provides racquets, balls, bags and other equipment free of charge to participants. Banks said the USTA has stepped up big-time to assist in funding that equipment via grants, on top of aiding with exposure to get the word out about the organization’s work. The East St. Louis CTA was named the CTA of the Year by both the USTA Missouri Valley and USTA St. Louis in 2020.

Those interested in learning more about the East St. Louis Community Tennis Association or getting involved can visit their website by clicking here. Banks said individuals can also contact him directly at Darian@EastSTLCTA.org.

Along with his on-court efforts, Banks works behind the scenes emailing and communicating with parents, developing programs and writing grants for the East St. Louis CTA. Additionally, Banks is employed full-time as a tennis instructor at Vetta Sports Concord in South County.

He’s found time to sprinkle in some World TeamTennis and USTA leagues, including the Adult 18-45 Social League at Clayton’s Shaw Park on Friday nights. Banks played tennis collegiately at Webster University.

“Every single time I’m on a tennis court — whether it’s playing or coaching — it never feels like work,” Banks said. “I always enjoy it. No matter how many days a week I’m working or how long the hours can be sometimes. I love building up players from the beginning, helping them to grow their games and inspiring them to get better.”