Q&A with Michelle Saunders, NorCal League & Tournament Player

I have even developed some of my closest friendships through tennis and my social life has even developed around tennis. I love that it truly is a life sport and I have partnered with people who are 75 or older. You can really can pick up a racquet at any age.

Q: Why is it important to celebrate Black History Month in general and in tennis?

A: It ties into what I said before about why diverse representation within the NorCal tennis community is important. Everyone, especially people of color, needs to see that it is not for the select few or extremely talented. Black folks' participation in sports at every level is common and that should apply to tennis too. From a historical perspective, people need to understand that it is not just the super athletes that can excel, but it’s a sport for mainstream people as well. I think it is important for future generations to see the past, learn from it and see that there is a myriad of sports out there for them to play.

Q: In your opinion, how can we better bring together people of different identities and cultures through tennis?

A: Northern California is a great example actually. As our communities become more diverse and we join and play in the different USTA NorCal programs like Adult League, we get to meet different people that expand our acceptance. When I started playing tennis through USTA Norcal at the turn of the millennia, there were very few folks that looked like me playing tennis. In fact, I only knew two people who were of Asian heritage that played. I personally did not know any Black females other than myself. These days, I’m on teams with significant percentages of AAPI, Eastern European, Latin American and mixed culture ladies all bonding through their love of tennis.  It’s great.

Q: Are there any leaders that you have looked up to in both tennis or outside of tennis?

A: I would definitely have to say both Venus and Serena Williams for sure. The changes they made to the game for women are undeniable. They both spent most of their careers fighting the headwinds of tennis and that has helped the many players that have followed in their footsteps.  It is very inspirational.

Q: Black History Month is a moment to pause and examine the ongoing fight for civil rights and social justice. You have a strong background in business leadership and currently serve as the Director- Industry Applications Sales at Oracle Comm Entertainment Media, are there any lessons you have learned that could be applied to both your work and involvement to bring more diversity to the tennis community?

A:  Yes! My motto that I live by is “I defy the myth.” Basically, I do not live by what others believe my boundaries should be. I create my own reality with tenacity and persistence throughout my life. 

Q: Do you have a favorite moment that stands out to you during your tennis career thus far?

A: There are so many.  But I’d have to say the first time I competed at Nationals in Florida. My parents had never seen me play competitively–at anything–and they came to watch and cheered. The look of pride on their faces as they watched was priceless.