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In their own words: Justin Belisario on connecting communities through tennis

May 13, 2024

As we celebrate Asian American/Pacific Islander Heritage Month during May, the USTA also celebrates those in the AAPI community whose dedication to the sport as USTA volunteers helps to keep our game growing strong. With more than 350 national volunteers from all 17 USTA sections, it would be difficult to recognize every AAPI leader here. But we’re thrilled to highlight these volunteer leaders—in their own words—whose contributions, influence and enthusiasm continue to push this organization and this sport forward. Here, we highlight Justin Belisario of Los Angeles.

 

I’m first-generation Filipino-American, and while tennis in the Philippines has a devoted following, basketball is the national sport. But I consider myself extremely fortunate; my father introduced me to the sport of tennis at an early age and coached me growing up—and it was his love of the game that has helped to create and grow my passion for tennis. But it’s not just that. Thanks to my father (who continues to play tennis every day), it’s about how tennis can help people in so many ways, throughout their lives.

And for me, I’ve been fortunate that I have been able to combine my love for this sport with what I do in life. In September 2014, I joined ACEing Autism, a national nonprofit that teaches tennis to those with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and since March 2016, I’ve been the director of program operations. Currently, we have more than 140 ACEing Autism programs in 33 states. Every day, I see how the participants in our programs grow, develop and benefit from the social connections and fitness that we are able to provide through affordable tennis programming.

 

I played college varsity tennis at Johns Hopkins University, then went to the Philippines to receive my medical degree. I play in USTA Leagues, and most recently was on a couple of national teams in Tri-Level and Mixed Doubles. I’m also a USPTA- and PTR-certified teaching professional. As a volunteer in this sport, I’m a member of the USTA National Adaptive Tennis Committee and on the USTA Southern California Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee, and I’m also a member of the AAPI Task Force for the USPTA.

Photo courtesy of Justin Belisario.

I’m so thankful, and thrilled, to be able to work and volunteer in this sport. But beyond that, I’m connected with two organizations, ACEing Autism and the USTA, that are both dedicated to bringing this sport and all its great benefits to everybody, regardless of ability, background or ethnicity. 

 

We may be celebrating Asian American/Pacific Islander Heritage Month in May (along with National Tennis Month!), but the importance and impact that this sport has on lives throughout the country, and the world, is every day, all year round. Tennis connects people, connects lives and connects communities. It is truly a sport for all.

 

—Edited by Peter Francesconi

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