Texas

2024 USTA Texas Family of the Year Award

Congratulations to the 2024 USTA Texas Family of the Year, The Foster Family.

Established in 1975, this award recognizes a family for their contributions to Texas tennis. The family embodies the mission of the USTA – to promote and develop the growth of tennis – on and off the court at the local and/or section level. The recipient of this award is automatically nominated for the USTA Family of the Year Award, when applicable.

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What does receiving this award mean to you?

“I’m honored to receive this award alongside my parents, who have provided me with the moral and physical capabilities to give back to the sport which has blessed us in so many ways.” – Harrison Foster

“To be recognized by the section and to follow the likes of the Longbothams and all the other families is a great honor!” – Kevin and Leni Foster

Presented at the 2024 Awards Luncheon at the Omni Las Colinas Hotel in Irving on Saturday, Feb. 10th:

It’s no secret that tennis is a family affair, but for the Foster Family of Waco, their commitment to the game is reinforced by their willingness to give back.

A longtime coach, tennis pro, and USTA Official, Kevin serves as a leader on multiple national and section USTA committees and regularly volunteers with Special Olympics.

Leni, a player in her own right, also shares Kevin’s passion for volunteering, not only at Special Olympics but other tennis events including the USA Para Standing Tennis Tournament.

Their son, Harrison, is continuing the family legacy by specializing in running the skills portion at Special Olympics tennis events. He and his partner recently won gold in Unified Doubles at the Orlando Games.

Along with the many other members of their family, Kevin, Leni and Harry embody a spirit of selfless service with a slice of love.

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From Dad, With Love.

"Tennis has been a huge part of our kids’ lives. Ashley, Harrison, and Alex grew up at the Charlie McCleary Tennis Center in Waco, where they were active in JTT, traveling squads, ZATs, Champs, and Super Champs. All went to Midway High School, playing on the Varsity tennis team and advanced through District and Regional competitions.

"Ashley met her husband while playing on the high school team and played varsity tennis at Hardin-Simmons University, earning a degree in Communications. Harry earned a scholarship to Marion Military Academy, becoming one of the top-ranked players in the NJCAA and is now an airline mechanic. Alex continued to play at the social level and went on to work in the medical field.

"The Fosters have been on 'both sides of the net' not only as competitors, but also as volunteers and facilitators, helping with tournament administration, exhibitions, outreach clinics, and many Adaptive Programs for our section over the years.

"As a tennis dad, I could not be more proud of Ashley, Alex, and Harry and what tennis has done for all of us! Their children (my 'grandchillins') — Addelyn, Owen, Maisie, Harper, and Wilder — hope to carry on the family tradition of giving back to our great sport!"

– Kevin Foster