In their own words: Darnesha Moore on Black History Month

I received a full scholarship to Southern University and A&M in Baton Rouge—and it was the best decision of my life! Competing at a prestigious HBCU was such a fun and fulfilling experience. I was able to receive multiple awards, including two Southwestern Athletic Conference championships. Upon graduation, I immediately began coaching in Baton Rouge.

Shortly after, I received the opportunity to participate in the USTA Professional Development Coaching Fellowship. I gained a ton of knowledge, professionalism and experience with USTA Player Development, along with amazing networking. While traveling in this program, I met coach Andy Brandi, the co-head coach for men’s tennis at LSU. Since I was living in Baton Rouge at the time, I was able to spend time learning from Coach Andy at LSU. The next year, I started my own junior tennis program, Moore Quality Tennis, with a mission to increase the competitive culture for youth, provide parental resources, and host community events to grow the game of tennis.

Later in 2019, I became head men’s and women’s tennis coach at Alcorn State University in Lorman, Miss., where I’ve been since. In this time, I’ve served on a number of committees and task forces on topics surrounding diversity & inclusion, recruitment, retention, mentorship, the development of more female and ethnically diverse coaches and many more. I’ve also spoken at two ITA coaches' conventions.

The essence of my career comes from mentorship. I’ve always had someone who was a phone call or message away. I highly value connecting with others in this industry and soaking up as much knowledge as possible.

I’m beyond thankful to have crossed paths with the many mentors I’ve had at the USTA, including Paul Lubbers, Kent Kinnear, Jessica Battaglia, Dave Ramos, Lori Riffice, Leah Friedman and Martin Blackman. I was paired with Ann Kroger, who continues to help me so much in navigating the challenges of being a college coach. Each one of these leaders has been instrumental in helping guide my career.

My latest mentor is Roland Thornqvist at University of Florida, with whom I was paired in the ITA/USTA mentorship program by Dave Mullins (another phenomenal mentor). They’ve helped me with shared experiences, growth on and off the court and using my platform. Just a phone call away are my former Southern coach Jeffrey Conyers and former teammates who are now head coaches, including Gabrielle Moore and Lois Arterberry.