Throughout the month of February, USTAsocal.com and our social media channels (@USTASoCal) will feature prominent stories and profiles that celebrate the accomplishments of those who shape the past, present, and future of tennis in the African-American community.
The Section will profile Southern Californians who experienced the impact of extraordinary people like Arthur Ashe, those who stood tall and broke barriers themselves, and others who continue to achieve excellence in the sport today.
To follow on social media, visit our Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter pages. We also encourage our visitors to view the new Diversity & Inclusion section of the website, launched in tandem with the start of Black History Month.
Follow along with our Black History Month content below:
For Black History Month, Tennis Has Its Share of Unheralded Stars and Legendary Figures (1/31/21) Look back at the storied history of tennis in Southern California, celebrating African-American athletes whose perseverance and successes changed the game forever.
Hoops Hall of Famer Lisa Thomas Still a Tennis Champion at Heart (2/01/21) Lisa Thomas has lived a life of accomplishment. Learn how this research scientist adapted her tennis game to become a basketball Hall of Famer, then shifted her focus to teaching youngsters here in Los Angeles.
At Hueneme, Moody Inspires Young Minds and Young Talent (2/11/21) Moody has taught English at his alma mater Hueneme High for the past 22 years and also serves as school’s boys’ and girls’ tennis coach. For years, Moody has introduced kids to the game of tennis through NJTL programming at Moranda Park Tennis Complex.
Ken Bentley Lays the Groundwork for Others to Succeed (2/17/21) As a young man, Ken Bentley exceled in the game despite often being the only Black player in the draw. When a man named Arthur Ashe entered his life, Ken realized that emulating Ashe meant much more than how he performed on the court.
College Tennis Reflects on Black History Month (2/18/21) Some of Southern California’s best and brightest college players, including USC’s Salma Ewing, look back at the history of the game and consider how the achievements of others paved the way for their modern-day accomplishments.