From Buffalo Grove to Wilson: David Packowitz’s Inspiring Journey to the TOP!
Tennis fans, get ready for a serve of pure inspiration! We’re here with an incredible story about David Packowitz, a hometown hero who went from playing with his dad in Buffalo Grove to landing a dream job at Wilson Sporting Goods. And it all started with a little help from a program called TOP.
Beyond the baseline, the Tennis Opportunity Program (TOP) isn’t just about swinging a racket; it’s about swinging open the doors to a brighter future. Founded in 1989 by tennis pro, Roger Mitten, this Chicago-based non-profit uses the discipline and strategy of tennis as a powerful vehicle for change. It’s a grassroots movement, run entirely by dedicated volunteers, with a single, inspiring goal: to turn “a tennis theme” into “a college dream” for economically disadvantaged youth.
TOP doesn’t just teach the game; it builds a full-court press of support. From providing intense on-court training, mentorship and new equipment to offering essential academic tutoring and covering tournament expenses, the program is a full-service springboard for success. The results speak for themselves. The ultimate victory for TOP is its stunning college placement record: since 2004, every single TOP Scholar who has stuck with the program has gone on to college with a scholarship. It’s more than a perfect track record; it’s a testament to the belief that with the right support, every serve can be an opportunity.
David Packowitz’s tennis journey began on the courts of Buffalo Grove, where his father, a coach with over 60 years of experience, taught him the game. But it was a connection through Mark Bey at Care Care Academy that introduced him to TOP (Tennis Opportunity Program). David joined the program in the seventh grade and played with them all through high school, graduating in 2011.
But TOP was more than just a tennis program; it was a launchpad. David credits the program with opening doors, providing top-notch coaching, and giving him the chance to travel to tournaments. This support was instrumental in helping him secure a coveted spot on the Division 1 tennis team at Marquette University! His journey wouldn’t be possible without TOP, Pakowitz feels “indebted” to the program.
And the story doesn’t end there! After earning a mechanical engineering degree and playing tennis for two years at Marquette, David pursued his passion for combining his love for tennis with his career. After some persistent effort, he landed an R&D internship at Wilson in Chicago. Today, he’s the Product Manager for performance tennis, overseeing top-line racket portfolios like Blade and Pro Staff.
David’s success is a testament to the power of hard work and the support he received. He wasn’t the best or most athletic player, but his willingness to learn and take risks propelled him to where he is today.
“Be open to failure, you don’t have to be perfect, the smartest, nor the best, you’ve just got to be coachable!” – David Packowitz
His story is a powerful reminder that with the right support, determination, and a willingness to learn, you can achieve anything. As Luca Serra, a leader at TOP, says, hearing stories like David’s is the ultimate reward, it confirms that the program’s long-term impact on kids and their families is truly worthwhile. David Packowitz’s journey is an ace, a grand slam, and a true testament to the power of a supportive community.
Out of everything you do “listen the most, and it will open all the doors” – David Packowitz
Your support turns the dream of tennis into a reality for aspiring players. Scan below to help more athletes like David find their strength on the court!
