September Feature- Champion of Equality
At this year’s US Open, Felicia Rashiatore was the USTA Northern honoree of the “Champions of Equality” award. In 2023, the US Open launched a Champions of Equality event where members across the 17 USTA sections are recognized for their devotion to advancing inclusivity within the game of tennis. Those chosen for the award exemplify the spirit of Billie Jean King, and integrate her philosophies in the scope of their work.
Tennis has been a significant component of Rashiatore’s day to day the majority of her life. She was introduced to the sport by her father at age 10, and was coached by him throughout her junior, collegiate, and even pro career.
While a player on the WTA, Rashiatore reached a personal best singles world ranking of No. 70, and a ranking as high as No. 80 in the world for doubles. Rashiatore played in multiple grand slams, and even competed her way to the quarter-finals of the women’s doubles 1984 French Open.
Rashiatore describes Billie Jean King as her idol growing up. At 18 years old, Rashiatore had the once in a lifetime experience playing King at her Farewell Tour in the early 80s. This made being chosen for an award commenced in King’s honor all the more thrilling for Rashiatore.
Seeing and listening to King speak at the Champions of Equality event was a delight for Rashiatore. Rashiatore says King’s “energy and enthusiasm for tennis and women athletes is contagious. [She] remembers it then, and is even more inspired now!”
Since early adulthood Rashiatore has worked as a teaching pro at various institutions as she and her family moved around. Now Rashiatore has been the Tennis Manager at Williston Fitness Center for 18 years. Rashiatore’s goal each day is to ensure everyone has the opportunity to enjoy and play tennis.
Rashiatore expressed how proud she is of her staff and the offerings they have available for adults and children. Rashiatore’s most recent accomplishment is starting a wheelchair tennis program this past summer. Rashiatore’s team collaborated with Courage Kenny to learn from their programming and acquire knowledge on wheelchair essentials. Rashiatore also credits Jon Rydberg and USTA Northern as being instrumental factors; between spreading the word on the new program and assisting with wheelchair events held at the facility. Rydberg was a great resource as he provided demonstrations on teaching wheelchair tennis, and connected Rashiatore’s staff with current wheelchair players in the section.
Rashiatore left the Champions of Equality event motivated to continue making strides in tennis. The event allowed Rashiatore to interact with keen individuals across the nation who share the same drive. At the conference Rashiatore collaborated with others, sharing their innovative ideas for equity with one another. Rashiatore is animated to resume advancing wheelchair tennis and growing the game for all to indulge.
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