USTA Southern and ITA College Tennis Alumni Network host inaugural Unity on the Court

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Participants discuss the importance of celebrating Black History Month.

Event photos by Caleb Blakley

USTA Southern collaborated with the ITA College Tennis Alumni Network (CTAN) Atlanta Chapter to host the inaugural Unity on the Court event, celebrating Black History Month.

The event, held at Lifetime Fitness in Peachtree Corners, Ga., brought together 15 Black collegiate tennis alumni from a variety of universities, including Clark Atlanta, Delaware State, Elon, Georgia Southern, Hampton, Howard, Johnson C. Smith, Oglethorpe, Rutgers and Tuskegee, along with Morehouse College.

Nomi Cosby, a Howard University graduate and USTA Southern Diversity, Equity & Inclusion chair, expressed the significance of the event. 

“This event was important to me because it symbolizes the unity of collegiate athletes. We all have positive stories and experiences to share that help others understand the value of higher education, sports, and the pathways to success through athletics. I hope we continue to grow this event and inspire more college athletes to get involved with USTA locally,” Cosby said.

The gathering provided an opportunity for networking, shared a catered lunch and offered participants a chance to explore USTA resources for officiating, coaching, volunteering and mentorship. In addition, attendees received Southern and ITA-branded swag bags. Although rain prevented the players from taking to the courts, the competitive spirit was alive during a Black Tennis History trivia game, which sparked enthusiasm and camaraderie among the group.

Graduates express appreciation for event

Carlik Jones, an alum of Delaware State, shared his thoughts on the event, “The HBCU Unity Event was a fantastic experience. It brought together former collegiate tennis rivals who are now great friends. Reigniting those rivalries with the Black Tennis History trivia was a highlight, making the event both fun and meaningful.”

Vernard Littles, a Morehouse graduate, reflected on the event’s powerful impact, “The Unity Event was truly inspiring and reignited my passion for the sport I love. As a former college player and now a coach, I view this event as a pivotal moment in empowering more African-American players, coaches, and leaders. It was incredibly rewarding to connect with like-minded individuals who are dedicated to creating opportunities and opening doors for the next generation of tennis players.”

The feedback from the inaugural event was overwhelmingly positive. Bri Berne-Artis, an Elon alum, remarked, “It was amazing seeing so many familiar faces at the Unity Event. I’m honored to be part of such a rich tennis culture. I was reminded of the late Atlanta legend Coach Wink’s call to always uplift and engage with our community. Events like these remind me of the importance of stepping outside my routine to engage with our beautiful tennis village.”

ITA CTAN Atlanta Chapter Coordinator Jesus Villamizar Abia stated, “This event was truly amazing. Creating spaces where everyone feels comfortable and can connect is essential. This event was a powerful reminder that tennis is a sport for all.”

“USTA Southern looks forward to hosting more Unity events across the section,” said Cee Jai Jones, Director, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. “We are committed to fostering connections, celebrating our players, and creating more opportunities within our communities.”