2010 Beaver Tennis 'ACES' Community Service

In an effort to give back to the community of Pasadena, Coach Mandy Gamble and the Men's and Women's tennis team have begun assisting a new not-for-profit program that aims to make tennis accessible to youth from underprivileged socioeconomic backgrounds.  On Tuesdays and Thursdays, three to four Techers give up their own practice time to meet with 30 eager young participants at the John Muir High School tennis courts for a fun time and free tennis lesson.  Local tennis pro Uran Wu directs this new program, which is coordinated by Neighbors Acting Together Helping All (NATHA).  

As a member of the Women's Tennis Team, I find that it's a very rewarding experience to introduce tennis to students who may never otherwise have the opportunity.  It is my hope that I can not only share the sport I love, but perhaps make a positive difference for these kids--if in the very least our efforts help provide a constructive after-school outlet.  Coach Mandy says, "It has been great to see big smiles on the faces of Techers, as well as on the kids they are helping.  By exposing our student-athletes to service learning, I hope to give them a chance to enrich their own sense of well-being and to experience the joy of giving."  For more information about the program, contact Rose Bowl Tennis.  

Article written by Leslie Tong ‘10