Nomi Cosby: bridging tennis excellence and community advocacy
Nomi Cosby's journey through tennis is not just a story of personal achievement, but a testament to the transformative power of sport in building community and fostering inclusion.
Cosby stands out as the only tennis player among 24 athletes to be inducted into the 2024 class of Howard University's Athletic Alumni Hall of Fame. She will be inducted using her formal first name, Chishona, at a ceremony in Greenbelt, Md., in November.
From her early years in Albany, N.Y., to her current role as a dedicated volunteer and advocate within the USTA Southern, Cosby’s impact resonates deeply within the tennis world and beyond.
Cosby’s introduction to tennis was guided by her parents, Jesse Husband and Jo Copeland, who recognized her passion for the sport early on. At the age of six, she began her journey on the courts under the tutelage of her father, Jesse Husband, her first coach. By the age of eight, Cosby was playing competitively, setting the stage for a lifelong dedication to tennis.
Her collegiate years at Howard University in Washington, D.C., from 1991 to 1995 marked a pivotal chapter in her athletic career. As a standout member of the varsity tennis team, she contributed significantly to winning the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Championship four times consecutively. These victories not only cemented her legacy within Howard's athletic community but also forged lasting bonds with teammates that continue to thrive today.
Beyond her collegiate success, Cosby’s professional and volunteer trajectory within the USTA has been equally impactful. She has garnered a deep understanding of the business and politics inherent in the sport, emphasizing the pivotal role of relationship-building in advancing tennis initiatives. Her current role as a volunteer committee member for USTA Southern Diversity, Equity & Inclusion shows her commitment to promoting accessibility and diversity within the tennis community.
She humbly described her Hall of Fame induction as deeply rewarding, fulfilling and a continual source of motivation. "Football and basketball players are frequently honored, but it was important for us to elevate tennis as well. Despite not being a revenue-generating sport, tennis offers just as much excitement,” she said.
Nomi Cosby
Her involvement extends beyond administrative roles; Cosby finds profound joy in her volunteer work with the USTA, particularly her experiences at the US Open and Arthur Ashe Stadium. Amidst the excitement of elite competition, she finds fulfillment in connecting with fellow volunteers and sharing her passion for tennis with the next generation through events like Kids' Day.
For Cosby, the true reward lies in the opportunity to inspire others and showcase tennis as a sport for all ages and backgrounds—a sentiment rooted in her belief that tennis has the power to bring people together in meaningful ways. She cherishes the bonds formed with fellow volunteers, many of whom have become cherished friends, reinforcing the sense of community that defines her tennis journey.
She explains, "At the heart of this role is building relationships. It's crucial for the growth and promotion of tennis."
As Cosby continues to shape the landscape of tennis through her dedication and advocacy, her story stands as a beacon of inspiration. Her unwavering commitment to fostering inclusivity and passion for the sport exemplifies the profound impact individuals can have within their communities and beyond. Her legacy serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of tennis and its capacity to unite and empower individuals worldwide.
In addition to volunteering, Cosby serves as Instructional Effectiveness Facilitator at Fairview Elementary School in Henry County, Ga. She is married to husband, Gerald and they have two children, Jalen and Aubrie.
USTA Southern thanks Cosby for your remarkable contributions to the sport and beyond.
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