LAKE NONA, Fla. –The United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) is proud
to present the 2022 USPTA Star Award to Leslie Banks from Phoenix, AZ (Southwest
Division).
The USPTA Star Award recognizes certified professionals that have
dedicated many years to volunteering in grassroots tennis while incorporating
multicultural and inclusive aspects to bring tennis and good sportsmanship to
the players they touch. Their giving spirits make them stars in their
community. You may not have heard of the people who receive the award, but
their stories inspire us.
After relocating to the Phoenix area in 2019, Leslie began to
dedicate her time to under-privileged children wanting to learn how to play
tennis. Last year, Leslie founded the non-profit ‘LoveAll10s’, holding weekly
private and group lessons for high school students. She also directed and
administered a no-cost summer camp that was attended by over 40 underserved
students. Leslie had recent high school grads who had been in the program help
coach and campers also received a nutrition presentation. Leslie worked
throughout the year holding fundraising events for the non-profit and
‘LoveAll10s’ received several grants and sponsorships. Through these tennis camps,
Leslie’s become even more passionate about creating a more encompassing program
that’s now called ‘Serve the Future’ to help elevate those hardworking and
inspiring teenagers through the game of tennis.
“Congratulations on winning the USPTA Star Award, Leslie, and the
continuous contribution you’re making to your community in the Southwest,” John
Embree, USPTA CEO said.
About the USPTA: Founded in 1927, the USPTA is the global leader in tennis-teacher certification and professional development. With more than 14,000 members worldwide and 17 divisions nationwide, the Association’s mission is to raise the standards of tennis-teaching professionals and coaches and to promote a greater awareness of the sport.
Media Contacts:
Marisa Lampe
Director of Marketing and Communications
marisa.lampe@uspta.org
407-634-3071
Madison Faulkner
Public Relations Coordinator
madison.faulkner@uspta.org
407-634-3061