We recently connected with several of our 2026 grant and scholarship recipients to gain further insight into their journeys and goals. We are thrilled to be allowed to share these updates with you! Explore the sections below to see how a few of our featured individual and organizational honorees are making an impact.

Summer Ratcliff : Secures Both the Harrison & Shelby Grant and Dorothy Kohl Award

To make it to the top of competitive junior tennis, you need two things: an elite, high-intensity training environment to sharpen your weapons, and a packed tournament schedule to test them under fire. Finding success in both areas is a massive undertaking, but for Summer Ratcliff, the ultimate blueprint for next-level ascension has just officially been unlocked.

In an incredible double-play, Summer has been named a recipient of both the 2026 Harrison and Shelby Memorial Endowment Grant and the prestigious 2026 Dorothy Kohl Future Star Achievement Award from the USTA Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation.

Together, these awards serve as the ultimate career launchpad, knocking down financial barriers on multiple fronts so she can focus 100% on dominating the baseline.

The Academy Edge Meets the Summer Grind

The impact of this dual honor is an absolute game-changer, perfectly bridging the gap between daily training and real-world match execution. Thanks to the Dorothy Kohl Future Star Award, Summer is able to keep her spot fully immersed in her high-intensity tennis academy, a high-octane atmosphere packed with elite coaching and hungry peers that is exactly what she needs to push past her limits.

“Receiving this grant means I can continue to elevate my game, specifically by continuing to be able to attend my tennis academy,” Summer shared. “This type of atmosphere is exactly what I need to get to the next level. Thank you USTA Midwest!”

But sharpening your skills at an academy is only half the battle; you have to take those skills on the road. That is where the Harrison and Shelby Memorial Grant drops a perfect assist. This deeply meaningful grant, honoring the legacy of two cherished Central Indiana teens, directly fuels her extensive summer tournament schedule, allowing Summer to travel further and square off against the strongest possible competition.

“This grant means I can continue to elevate my game, especially with the summer season,” she noted for us here at MTEF. “The tournament play opportunities are extensive, and this financial support will allow me to attend and compete against stronger competition.”

With an elite academy sharpening her skills daily and a packed summer tournament schedule fully funded, Summer Ratcliff is locked, loaded, and ready to serve up a spectacular season of breakthroughs. Watch out for her on the brackets, the next level has officially arrived!

SeMya Henderson : Richard Bradley Memorial Scholarship

For any young athlete, an injury during peak training years can feel like a devastating roadblock. For tennis player SeMya Henderson, a serious knee injury didn’t just pause her time on the court, it forced her to completely rebuild her game from the ground up.

“Relearning footwork and technique was incredibly tough,” SeMya shares, reflecting on the grueling process of recovery.

But true athletes are defined by how they bounce back. Today, SeMya’s hard work, resilience, and undeniable potential are being recognized. She has officially been named a recipient of the 2026 Richard Bradley Memorial Scholarship, a grant dedicated to supporting individual players as they navigate their tennis development.

“This grant is huge for me and my development as a young tennis player,” says SeMya. “It’s more than just funding, it feels like recognition of my hard work and potential on the court.”

Looking Ahead to the Next Chapter

With the physical hurdle of rehabilitation behind her, SeMya is using this grant to propel her game to the next level. Instead of worrying about the financial barriers of high-level training, she can now pour her energy exactly where it belongs: into her craft.

The Richard Bradley Memorial Scholarship will allow SeMya to:

Focus intensely on turning her past weaknesses into strengths.
Refine her technique with targeted training.
Prepare her body and mind to compete at her absolute highest level.

SeMya’s story is a powerful reminder that setbacks are just setups for greater comebacks. The entire community is excited to watch her thrive, refine her game, and dominate the court in 2026 and beyond!

Jackson W. Baker Honors His Tennis Roots with the Rick Van Horn Grant

Four years of high school tennis can shape an athlete in incredible ways, building memories, tight-knit bonds, and a lifelong love for the sport. For Jackson W. Baker, his time on the courts has been nothing short of unforgettable. Now, as he closes his high school chapter and prepares for his next big leap, his dedication to the sport is being celebrated on a major stage. Jackson has officially been named a recipient of the 2026 Rick Van Horn Grant from the USTA Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation.

For Jackson, this prestigious award is the perfect exclamation point on a phenomenal four years. It acts as both a badge of honor and a massive spark of encouragement to keep pushing his boundaries on the court, in his community, and in the classroom.

“It means a lot,” Jackson shared. “I love tennis, and to be recognized and awarded this generous gift encourages me to keep playing, mentoring, and excelling in school.”

The Power of the Squad

Looking back at his steady development, Jackson credits the incredible village that stood behind him throughout his high school career. From supportive parents who cheered from the sidelines all season long, to dedicated coaches and teammates who pushed his game to new heights, Jackson’s tennis foundation was built on ultimate teamwork.

That community-first mentality has turned Jackson into more than just a fierce competitor, it has made him a true mentor to younger players discovering the sport.

The Next Stage: Morehouse College

With high school graduation in the rearview mirror, Jackson already has his sights set on his next competitive destination. This fall, he is heading to Morehouse College, where he plans to bring his passion, leadership, and technical skills to their club tennis team. The Rick Van Horn Grant serves as a brilliant launchpad for this transition, helping support his ongoing journey as a student-athlete at the collegiate level.

In addition to his success on the court, Jackson Baker and his sister have put their creativity to work by authoring and publishing their very own coloring book. The project showcases their shared passion for art and storytelling, and it is officially available for purchase online. You can check out their work and grab a copy on Amazon here: https://a.co/d/08u41vBY

Backed by his phenomenal high school roots and the momentum of this MTEF grant, Jackson is ready to serve up big things in this exciting next chapter!

Individual Grant Winner Highlights

Alexandra Hamby

For most players, the toughest part of a match happens between the lines. But for Alexandra Hamby, the challenge often begins long before she even steps onto the court. Living at least two hours away from the nearest high-level training centers and competitive tournament locations, Alexandra and her family have had to turn long-distance travel into a regular routine just to keep her game sharp.

Navigating the rising costs of fuel, hotel stays, and tournament fees over hundreds of highway miles is a massive undertaking. That is exactly why receiving the 2026 USTA Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation Individual Grant is such a crucial milestone.

Submitted by her parent, Jamie Hamby, this grant provides a vital financial lift, directly absorbing those heavy travel expenses so Alexandra can focus 100% on what matters most: expanding her opportunities, leveling up her skills, and thriving on the court.

Crushing the Distance Barrier

With this critical backing in her corner, the highway miles ahead look a lot smoother. The funding allows Alexandra to consistently travel to elite competitive environments, ensuring she doesn’t miss out on high-stakes match play just because of her zip code. By putting her face-to-face with a wider variety of advanced players, the grant acts as a powerful launchpad for her technical growth, giving her the perfect platform to transform her hard work into dominant match-day results.

Alexandra’s dedication proves that passion knows no distance, and with the support of the MTEF grant, she is fully locked in and ready to take her game to the next level this season!

Maya Keller

In competitive tennis, talent is only half the battle the physical demands of the sport require an elite level of conditioning. For Maya Keller, keeping pace with the strength and power of larger, older players has been her biggest hurdle.

That hurdle just got a lot easier to clear. Maya has officially been named a recipient of the 2026 USTA Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation Individual Grant.

Maya plans to use this vital funding to focus heavily on her physical conditioning, investing in targeted personal fitness training and physical therapy. By building full-body strength and prioritizing injury prevention, she is ensuring her body is fully prepared to match up against any opponent on the grid.

New Courts, New Competition

Beyond fitness, the grant provides the financial freedom for Maya to expand her tournament schedule. She can now travel to more distant regional events, allowing her to test her skills against a much wider, more diverse pool of competitors in unfamiliar environments.

A Dedicated Team

Maya’s steady climb is deeply rooted in her partnership with coach Richard Watson, who is fiercely invested in her success. After every tournament, the duo works closely to break down her matches and immediately refine her game. Supported by Coach Watson and her local training homes at the Highland Park Park District and College Park Athletic Club, Maya is ready to take her game to the next level.

Want to help fund more dreams like this? The USTA Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation relies on supporters like you to provide critical grants to deserving players and organizations. Consider making a donation to MTEF today to help us grow the game and empower the next generation!

Mariyona Shannon

For any aspiring player, the leap from junior tennis to the collegiate level requires absolute dedication. But as a player’s skills grow, so do the financial demands. Between the skyrocketing costs of high-level equipment, specialized training, and tournament travel, including lodging, gas, and meals, the financial path to college tennis can be a daunting hurdle.

For Mariyona Shannon, navigating these rising expenses has been her primary challenge. Her dream just received a major boost, however, as she has officially been named a recipient of the 2026 USTA Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation Individual Grant.

Shared by her father, Michael Shannon, this grant represents a powerful validation from the USTA Foundation, recognizing Mariyona’s unwavering commitment and directly funding her journey toward playing for a collegiate team.

Fueling the Drive to College Tennis

The grant provides critical relief for the Shannon family, easing the logistical burden of travel so Mariyona can focus entirely on her performance. By allowing her to compete in more high-profile tournaments and maintain elite training, the funding keeps her firmly on track for recruitment.

Elite Guidance in Her Corner

Mariyona’s steady progress is heavily guided by two foundational mentors: Coach Lynn McNally and Coach Mark Faber. Both coaches have been deeply influential in shaping her game, pushing her technical limits, and mentally preparing her for the fast-paced, highly competitive world of college-level tennis.

With a strong support system at home, elite coaching, and the backing of the USTA Midwest Foundation, Mariyona is fully equipped to turn her collegiate tennis dreams into reality.

Kirill Rata

Let’s be honest: climbing the junior tennis ladder takes serious grit, but it also takes a toll on the family wallet. Between the relentless tournament fees, constant travel expenses, and high-level training costs, the financial side of the sport can feel like a heavy overhead smash.

For Kirill Rata, navigating these rising expenses has been a major hurdle for his family. That is exactly why receiving the 2026 USTA Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation Individual Grant (Cycle 1) is such a massive game-changer.

Submitted proudly by Natalya Sergeyeva, this grant serves as a powerful boost, taking the financial pressure off his family and opening the doors wide for Kirill to do what he does best: compete, grow, and chase down his big tennis goals.

The Blueprint for Growth: More Matches, Harder Training

With this critical financial backing in his corner, Kirill’s roadmap for the upcoming season is completely unlocked. The funding gives him the ultimate green light to ramp up his tournament schedule, allowing him to travel further and step onto the court against a wider variety of tough competitors. By testing his skills in high-stakes match play and dedicating himself to harder training sessions, Kirill is ready to turn his weaknesses into weapons and rapidly accelerate his development.

The Power of Positive Mentorship

Behind Kirill’s steady rise is a rock-solid partnership with his coach, John Mittvick. Coach Mittvick hasn’t just leveled up Kirill’s physical game; he has fundamentally transformed his mental toughness. Under his guidance, Kirill has learned the invaluable art of staying positive through tough sets, pushing past fatigue with a fierce work ethic, and most importantly, building a deep sense of self-belief on the court. Armed with a “never give up” attitude, Kirill is fully equipped to handle whatever his opponents throw at him.

With a dedicated coach in his corner, a supportive family, and the explosive momentum of the MTEF grant, Kirill is ready to serve up a phenomenal season!

Coco Burfien

Tennis is a beautiful game, but any player climbing the ranks will tell you a tough truth: it is an expensive and highly exclusive sport. As a player progresses, the financial demands for high-level coaching, specialized trainers, and constant travel can become an overwhelming hurdle.

For Coco Burfien, navigating these rising costs has been one of her greatest challenges. That is why being named a recipient of the 2026 USTA Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation Individual Grant is such a massive milestone.

Being awarded this honor is about far more than just financial relief; it is the fuel she needs to keep a lifelong dream alive.

“This grant means everything,” Coco shared. “It enables me to pursue my ambitious goals and continue a journey I have been on for eight years.”

Beyond the Scoreboard: Personal Growth and Lifelong Bonds

Over nearly a decade on the court, tennis has shaped Coco into the athlete and person she is today. While her sights are set on big competitive goals, she deeply values the personal growth, discipline, and lifelong friendships she has forged along the way. The grant ensures she can continue developing both her character and her game without the heavy burden of rising costs holding her back.

Luka Stojanovic (Current Coach): Deeply committed to Coco’s day-to-day development, Luka travels with her to tournaments to ensure she has elite guidance on the road.
Arul Amalnathan (Former Coach): A foundational part of her tennis life, Arul continues to offer invaluable advice, mentorship, and support.
Joerg Burfien (Father): The ultimate tennis dad and strategist, Joerg manages her grueling travel schedules, handles complex logistics, and meticulously analyzes match notes to help her fine-tune her performance.

With her team in her corner and the backing of the USTA Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation, Coco is fully equipped to take on the next chapter of her competitive career. Keep your eyes on the baseline… Coco is just getting started!

Beyond the Scoreboard: Personal Growth and Lifelong Bonds

It Takes a Village

Behind every great athlete is a dedicated team, and Coco’s support system is a powerful testament to that. Her journey is guided and championed by a close-knit circle:

Luka Stojanovic (Current Coach): Deeply committed to Coco’s day-to-day development, Luka travels with her to tournaments to ensure she has elite guidance on the road.
Arul Amalnathan (Former Coach): A foundational part of her tennis life, Arul continues to offer invaluable advice, mentorship, and support.
Joerg Burfien (Father): The ultimate tennis dad and strategist, Joerg manages her grueling travel schedules, handles complex logistics, and meticulously analyzes match notes to help her fine-tune her performance.

Organizational Grant Highlights

Bethel Area Tennis Association

In rural, low-income areas, sports like tennis are frequently out of reach simply due to a lack of local resources, facilities, and equipment. The Bethel Area Tennis Association (BATA) is on a fierce mission to completely change that reality. By keeping their programming completely low-cost, they ensure that every resident in Bethel and its surrounding communities can step onto a court.

That life-changing mission just received a massive boost. BATA has officially been named a recipient of the 2026 USTA Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation Organization Grant.

Spearheaded by Lori Lenhart, this critical funding helps bridge the resource gap by providing high-quality racquets to participants who don’t own their own, clearing the path for an estimated 110 local youth to discover a lifelong love for the game.

Transforming Lives Outside the Lines

The true metric of a sport’s impact isn’t found on a scoreboard, it is found in the lives of the players. Lori recently shared the inspiring story of a local seventh-grade girl who was struggling to find her footing and showed zero interest in traditional activities or sports. Everything changed when she picked up a racket through BATA’s programming.

Since finding her home on the courts, her mother reports that her confidence has absolutely exploded. She has forged deep, meaningful friendships, watched her self-esteem skyrocket, and become immensely active, even regularly asking her mother to join her on neighborhood runs. Tennis didn’t just give her a hobby; it gave her a sense of identity.

An All-Inclusive Community Hub

With the financial backing of the MTEF grant, BATA is aggressively expanding its footprint across the community. The funding allows the association to roll out an exciting, diverse lineup of programming tailored for all ages, including:

High-Energy Cardio Tennis for an active, healthy workout.
Instructional Leagues & Tournaments to foster competitive growth and sportsmanship.
Family Fun Nights & Junior Pop-Up Events designed to bring entire neighborhoods together on the court.

BATA is proving that when you remove financial barriers and provide the right equipment, tennis can become a powerful catalyst for community wellness, youth development, and unstoppable confidence.

Great River Tennis Association

Grassroots tennis is thriving in Quincy, Illinois, and across the Tri-State region, thanks to a powerful wave of community collaboration and fresh funding. The Great River Tennis Association (GRTA), Inc. has officially been named a recipient of the 2026 USTA Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation Organization Grant, and the impact is already being felt across local courts.

Led by GRTA President Mark Schuering, the organization works hand-in-hand with the Quincy Park District, area schools, local coaches, and a dedicated network of volunteers. Their collective mission? To give youth ages 5–18 the chance to “Experience Tennis” through affordable, beginner-friendly programming that champions physical activity, sportsmanship, and lifelong healthy recreation.

The Formula for Success: Less Frustration, More Fun

Introducing young children to a sport can be challenging, but GRTA is using the USTA Midwest grant to completely modernize its youth programming. By investing in age-appropriate “10 & Under Tennis” equipment, including lighter, properly sized rackets and low-compression balls, the organization is ensuring that a child’s very first swing is a successful one.

This tailored equipment keeps the game from feeling intimidating, drastically reduces early frustration, and allows beginners to focus on the pure joy of playing.

Strengthening the Player Pipeline

GRTA isn’t just focusing on the youngest players; they are also aggressively expanding opportunities for teenagers. A portion of the grant funding is directly targeting the 13–18 age demographic to strengthen the junior high and high school tennis pipelines.

To accommodate busy summer schedules, GRTA completely redesigned its seasonal programming to feature:

Morning lessons to beat the midday summer heat.
Free Friday “Instructional Match-Play” sessions, giving student-athletes a zero-pressure environment to test their skills and gain match experience.

By the Numbers: A Community-Wide Surge

The excitement surrounding these changes is measurable. Historically, local junior summer programs averaged around 30 to 40 participants. This year, fueled by the grant and renewed community collaboration, GRTA blew past those numbers with 82 pre-registered participants for the current cycle, puts them well on their way to shattering their ultimate goal of 90+ players.

“The grant has already sparked an incredible wave of excitement and collaboration within our local tennis community,” notes Mark Schuering.

With accessibility at the forefront, GRTA is proving that when you remove barriers and provide the right tools, the community will eagerly answer the call. The courts in Quincy are going to be packed this summer!

View our full list of 2026 Grant and Scholarship Winners

The Dorothy Kohl Future Star Achievement Award

Summer Ratcliff of Central Indiana
Natalia Martinez of Wisconsin

The Richard Bradley Memorial Scholarship:

SeMya Henderson of Chicago

The Rick Van Horn Scholarship:

Jackson Baker of Chicago

The Anne Krupp Memorial Scholarship be awarded to:

Monroe Family YMCA of Southeast Michigan

MTEF Individual Grants:

Chase Martin of Northeastern Michigan
Srijan Basireddy of Central Indiana
Serena Miller of Southeast Michigan
Yuuzki Olson of Ohio Valley
Jake Critchfield of Ohio Valley
Joshan Ramdam of Northeast Ohio
Coco Burfien of Northern Indiana
Grayson Serfaty of Central Indiana
Evan Tipton
Arpan Diyali of Northeast Ohio
Kirill Rata of Chicago
Maya Keller of Chicago
Alexandra Hamby of Mid-South Illinois
Benjamin Rai of Northeast Ohio
Nivi Raj of Chicago
Mari-Yona Shannon of Northwest Ohio
Ava Banike of Northern Illinois
Eleanor Simonsen of Wisconsin

MTEF Organization Grants:

Southern Illinois Tennis Association of Mid-South Illinois
Knox Sports Complex Incorporated or Central Indiana
The ACE Project of Chicago
The Lima Area Tennis Association of Northwest Ohio
Springfield Park District – Velasco Tennis Center of Mid-South Illinois
Advantage Cleveland Tennis and Education, Inc. of Northeast Ohio
Amigos, the Richmond Latino Center Inc. of Central Indiana
Love To Serve, Inc of Chicago
Todd Martin Youth Leadership of Western Michigan
People of Palmer Park
Decatur Community Tennis Foundation of Mid-South Illinois
Bethel Area Tennis Association of Ohio Valley
ACEing Autism of Northeast Ohio
West Michigan Community Tennis Inc. of Western Michigan
Monroe Family YMCA of Southeast Michigan
Evansville Area Tennis Patrons of Central Indiana
Great River Tennis Association, Inc. of Mid-South Illinois
Tennis Opportunity Program of Chicago
Blue Sky Tennis of Southeast Michigan
Motor City Tennis Club of Southeast Michigan
Thrive Through Tennis Foundation of Northeast Ohio
Accelerate4KIDS of Southeast Michigan

The wait is officially over. The USTA Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation (MTEF) has revealed its lineup of grant and scholarship winners for 2026, and it is a massive list of talent.

This year, MTEF is serving up financial support to 17 standout junior tennis players and 22 game-changing community organizations across Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

At MTEF, we believe tennis is much more than keeping a yellow ball in the courts. It is about building character, opening doors to education, and teaching life lessons that stick long after the match is over. This year’s winners are doing exactly that. Whether they are training for national junior tournaments or bringing the sport to local public parks, these honorees are using tennis to lift up their communities.

The Headline Awards

First up are MTEF’s premier scholarships. These awards are designed to help talented junior players and dedicated students smash through the financial barriers of travel, training, and education.

The Dorothy Kohl Future Star Achievement Award goes to Summer Ratcliff of Central Indiana and Natalia Martinez of Wisconsin. Named after the legendary Midwest Hall of Fame inductee, this award supports top-tier young women competing on the national circuit, helping them get the elite training and travel resources they need to thrive.
The Richard Bradley Memorial Scholarship goes to SeMya Henderson of Chicago. This scholarship honors a legendary volunteer leader and supports a student-athlete who perfectly balances big academic goals with tennis excellence.
The Rick Van Horn Scholarship goes to Jackson Baker of Chicago, celebrating a player who shows outstanding sportsmanship on the court and leadership in the classroom.
The Anne Krupp Memorial Scholarship goes to the Monroe Family YMCA in Southeast Michigan for its outstanding commitment to local youth development.

Strengthening the Grassroots

Beyond the individual awards, MTEF’s organizational grants are injecting funding straight into local neighborhoods. This year’s group highlights just how diverse the Midwest tennis family is.

Grants are heading to adaptive programs like ACEing Autism in Northeast Ohio, cultural hubs like Amigos, the Richmond Latino Center in Central Indiana, and historic local staples like the Motor City Tennis Club in Southeast Michigan. These non-profits serve as safe spaces, after-school anchors, and a first introduction to the sport for thousands of kids who might otherwise never pick up a racquet.

The Official 2026 MTEF Winner Directory

Premier Scholarships & Special Awards

The Dorothy Kohl Future Star Achievement Award: Summer Ratcliff (Central Indiana) and Natalia Martinez (Wisconsin)
The Richard Bradley Memorial Scholarship: SeMya Henderson (Chicago)
The Rick Van Horn Scholarship: Jackson Baker (Chicago)
The Anne Krupp Memorial Scholarship: Monroe Family YMCA (Southeast Michigan)

Individual Grant Winners

Chase Martin — Northeastern Michigan
Srijan Basireddy — Central Indiana
Serena Miller — Southeast Michigan
Yuuzki Olson — Ohio Valley
Jake Critchfield — Ohio Valley
Joshan Ramdam — Northeast Ohio
Coco Burfien — Northern Indiana
Grayson Serfaty — Central Indiana
Arpan Diyali — Northeast Ohio
Kirill Rata — Chicago
Maya Keller — Chicago
Alexandra Hamby — Mid-South Illinois
Benjamin Rai — Northeast Ohio
Nivi Raj — Chicago
Mari-Yona Shannon — Northwest Ohio
Ava Banike — Northern Illinois
Eleanor Simonsen — Wisconsin

Organization Grant Winners

Southern Illinois Tennis Association — Mid-South Illinois
Knox Sports Complex Incorporated — Central Indiana
The ACE Project — Chicago
The Lima Area Tennis Association — Northwest Ohio
Springfield Park District – Velasco Tennis Center — Mid-South Illinois
Advantage Cleveland Tennis and Education, Inc. — Northeast Ohio
Amigos, the Richmond Latino Center Inc. — Central Indiana
Love To Serve, Inc. — Chicago
Teaching & Mentoring Young Leaders — Western Michigan
People of Palmer Park — Southeast Michigan
Decatur Community Tennis Foundation — Mid-South Illinois
Bethel Area Tennis Association — Ohio Valley
ACEing Autism — Northeast Ohio
West Michigan Community Tennis Inc. — Western Michigan
Monroe Family YMCA — Southeast Michigan
Evansville Area Tennis Patrons — Central Indiana
Great River Tennis Association, Inc. — Mid-South Illinois
Tennis Opportunity Program — Chicago
Blue Sky Tennis — Southeast Michigan
Motor City Tennis Club — Southeast Michigan
Thrive Through Tennis Foundation — Northeast Ohio
Accelerate4KIDS — Southeast Michigan

Want to Fuel the Future?

MTEF runs on the generosity of our amazing tennis community. If you want to help us fund the next generation of rockstar players and programs, consider making a tax-deductible donation. Every dollar goes directly to youth equipment, community parks, and life-changing scholarships across the Midwest.

To Donate to MTEF: Click HERE!

At the USTA Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation (MTEF), we know that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. Today, we are proud to share the true story of Beatrice Bizzieri, a young athlete who refused to let circumstances sideline her dreams.

For years, Beatrice faced a hurdle no training could prepare her for: she lost her place to play. Her local facility was bought out, the courts were removed, and her coach moved away. It was a crossroads that could have easily marked the end of her tennis career.

However, the path stayed open thanks to the Oak Lawn Park District and a professional player from Iran named Saddam Alzoobaidi. While Saddam wasn’t a junior coach focused on technique, he provided something just as vital: a home. He welcomed Beatrice and her siblings, feeding balls and hitting with them several hours a week. Without Saddam’s hospitality and the Oak Lawn Park District facility providing an indoor court, Beatrice would have likely walked away from the sport entirely to focus on more accessible activities.

Saddam’s support kept Beatrice’s game alive and her competitive spirit sharp until the trajectory of her journey changed forever at the 2023 Team Cup. It was there she met Coach Basit Sayed. Despite the years without formal technical coaching, Coach Basit saw Beatrice’s raw potential and the elite player she aspired to become.

By Fall 2024, Beatrice’s family made the commitment to get her back into consistent training. Balancing the schedules of siblings, other sports, and work, they began a weekly commute to train with Coach Basit. His belief in her as a multi-sport athlete and his commitment to her technical growth provided the “missing piece” Beatrice had been searching for.

“Most importantly for a coach, I can tell he believes in me,” Beatrice said. “When I work with him each week, I build and sharpen my tennis skills, but I also feel like I am taking one step closer to reaching my ultimate goal of playing professional tennis.”

To honor her dedication and fuel her path forward, MTEF and our partners are thrilled to announce that Beatrice has been awarded two major honors:

The Dorothy Kohl Grant: A $10,000 grant awarded to high-potential junior female players.
The MTEF Individual Scholarship: A $2,500 scholarship to support her ongoing training.

These funds ensure that Beatrice can continue her weekly private lessons, keeping her eyes firmly fixed on a professional future. Beyond her individual work, she was also able to begin group training with Hendricks Elite Tennis during their summer camp last year and continues to return for weekly group practices. This has given Beatrice the invaluable opportunity to thrive alongside high-level players and coaches Marcy Hendricks and Jack Randall.

Help Us Write the Next Success Story

Beatrice’s story is a testament to what happens when we invest in the grit and heart of our Midwest athletes. It highlights the life-changing importance of community members like Saddam, who keep players on the court, and the transformative “Coach Basit” moments that take their game to the next level.

But there are many more players still waiting for their moment and the resources they need to keep playing. Will you help us champion the next generation?

Donate to USTA Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation today. Every gift, large or small, helps a young athlete take their next step toward the court. You could make the difference.

Chicago- The USTA Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation has named Aaliyah Robertson as the recipient of the 2025 Anne Krupp Memorial Individual Scholarship.

Robertson, a member of the Great Lakes Adaptive Sports Association (GLASA) wheelchair tennis program, has been involved in the sport for more than five years. She competed for two seasons on her high school tennis team before becoming disabled, a challenge that forced her to step away from the sport she loved. In November 2023, she discovered wheelchair tennis through GLASA, which also hosts the annual Chicago Wheelchair Classic tournament.

“I am so passionate about tennis because it not only physically challenges me but also mentally challenges me,” Robertson said. “I remember just feeling my mind go quiet as soon as I stepped on the court. To this day, I feel that way every time I play.”

Her transition to wheelchair tennis was seamless. In 2024, Robertson entered her first wheelchair tennis competition, the GLASA Classic, earning first place in C doubles and third place in B singles. She continued her success at the Cajun Classic in Baton Rouge, La., where she advanced to the quarterfinals in B doubles.

“I am a solid B player who has big goals and aspirations,” Robertson said. “This scholarship gives me a chance to fulfill those dreams and become a great player.”

While balancing full-time work to support her living expenses, Robertson also faces the financial demands of tournament travel and entry fees. The Anne Krupp Memorial Individual Scholarship provides support to help ease those challenges, allowing her to pursue more competition opportunities.

“Wheelchair tennis not only gave me that identity of being an athlete again but also gave me such an amazing support system that I will always cherish,” Robertson said.

Aaliyah credits her coaches Paul Moran and Michael Carrico for their impact through GLASA. And it’s no surprise that they, in turn, praise her commitment to the game, noting her consistent practice schedule and growth on court.

Robertson’s story is one of resilience and drive. Challenges that might have sidelined others have fueled her game. Her goals are clear, her focus is sharp – and wheelchair tennis better be ready. Play on, Aaliyah.

The Anne Krupp Memorial Individual Scholarship was created to honor Anne Krupp, a lifelong supporter of adaptive and wheelchair tennis. The award recognizes athletes who embody her passion and determination in pursuing the sport.

Photography by Darrel LeBlanc

Celebrating the Future of Tennis, Education, and Community Leadership

MTEF is proud to announce the recipients of its 2025 scholarships and grants. This year’s awards recognize exceptional individuals and organizations from across the USTA Midwest Section who are using tennis as a powerful tool for education, empowerment, and community development.

Individual Grants & Scholarships

Dorothy Kohl Future Star Achievement Award
$10,000 each
– Alexandra Hu (Northern Illinois)
– Beatrice Bizzieri (Chicago)
Richard Bradley Memorial Scholarship
$2,500
– David Lewis (Southeast Michigan)
Rick Van Horn Scholarship
$1,000
– Andrew Vincler (Central Indiana)
Anne Krupp Memorial Scholarship
$2,500
– Analiyah Robertson (Northern Illinois)
MTEF Individual Grants
– Beatrice Bizzieri (Chicago) – $2,500
– Elizabeth Boege (Chicago) – $2,500
– Nahla Bowles (Ohio Valley) – $1,000
– Austin Bruey (Ohio Valley) – $2,500
– Isaac Cantwell (Central Indiana) – $2,500
– Jake Critchfield (Ohio Valley) – $2,500
– Anthony DeRosa (Chicago) – $2,500
– Gia Trac-Quyen Kirin Do (Southeast Michigan) – $2,500
– Chinmayi Swaminathan (Wisconsin) – $1,000
– Levi Jones (Northeastern Michigan) – $2,500
– Anya Leckerling (Chicago) – $2,500
– Amit Limbu (Northeast Ohio) – $3,000
– Sammie Mercer (Ohio Valley) – $2,500
– MariYona Shannon (Northwest Ohio) – $2,500
– Alex Soso (Chicago) – $3,000
– Kaede Usui (Wisconsin) – $4,000
– Chloe Wang (Northeast Ohio) – $2,500

MTEF Individual Diversity Grants

These awards highlight students from underrepresented communities demonstrating promise and passion both on and off the court.

Asher Karim (Chicago) – $2,000
Samuel Kole-James (Southeast Michigan) – $2,000
Abhinav Manikandan (Central Indiana) – $2,000
Jaira McNealy (Ohio Valley) – $3,000
Joyous McNealy (Ohio Valley) – $2,500
Niya Rai (Northeast Ohio) – $1,000
Bethany Orozco (Chicago) – $2,500

MTEF Organization Grants

These nonprofits and community programs are leading the charge in creating accessible, inclusive, and impactful tennis and education opportunities for youth across the Midwest.

Accelerate4KIDS Foundation (Southeast Michigan) – $2,000
ACEing Autism Inc. (Northeast Ohio) – $2,000
Advantage Cleveland Tennis and Education (Northeast Ohio) – $2,000
Amigos, the Richmond Latino Center (Central Indiana) – $4,000
Bethel Area Tennis Association (Ohio Valley) – $2,000
Blue Sky Tennis (Southeast Michigan) – $4,000
DublinTennis Outreach Program (Ohio Valley) – $2,000
Evansville Area Tennis Patrons (Central Indiana) – $2,000
FAST CTA dba Cincinnati Tennis Foundation (Ohio Valley) – $2,000
Great River Tennis Association (Mid-South Illinois) – $3,500
Indianapolis Tennis and Education Foundation (Central Indiana) – $2,000
Inner-City Tennis Project (Ohio Valley) – $2,000
Milwaukee Tennis & Education Foundation (Wisconsin) – $2,000
Motor City Tennis Club (Southeast Michigan) – $3,000
North High School Tennis (Northeast Ohio) – $2,000
Opportunity Tennis Academy (Southeast Michigan) – $3,500
The ACE Project, Inc. (Chicago) – $2,000
Thrive Through Tennis Foundation (Northeast Ohio) – $4,000
Todd Martin Youth Leadership (Western Michigan) – $2,000
West Michigan Community Tennis Inc. (Western Michigan) – $2,000

For 2024, two Midwest organizations were recently named the recipients of the Robert P. and Barbara D. Harris Grant: Flint Community Tennis Association and Thrive Through Tennis Foundation.

The Robert P. and Barbara D. Harris Grant is awarded to organizations seeking to start or expand tennis programming in their community. Funding is provided to develop instructional programs, organize league play for players of all ages, ability and populations, create tournament play or anything that encourages long-term growth of tennis programming in the community. To learn more about these organizations, read below for their summaries.

Flint Community Tennis Association

P O Box 320771 | Flint MI, 48532 | (517) 749-3004 | flinttennis@outlook.com

Flint CTA’s mission is to promote tennis and court sports at Kellar Park in Flint, MI, by offering programming and educational experiences for all ages and abilities to enhance wellness in Genesee County. In its second summer, Flint CTA provides a safe space for children and adults to engage in physical, social, and community activities. It was established to continue the legacy of the Flint Tennis Club, founded in 1922, by opening the courts for public use and expanding diversity among players.

Flint CTA works to ensure that all ethnic groups feel welcome, broaden the age range of participants, offer affordable lessons and equipment, and run outreach programs for newcomers to tennis. The organization also provides employment opportunities for high schoolers and supports a young adult pursuing certification as a Tennis Teaching Professional.

With a significant need for programming in the area, the CTA helps address challenges like high school tennis team attrition, a lack of city recreational programming, and the involvement of the University of Michigan’s new club team. The organization fosters a welcoming environment where adults, particularly women aged 40-60 and those recovering from disabilities, can enjoy tennis without judgment.

Through collaborations with Genesee County and USTA, Flint CTA is improving facilities and restoring community pride in Kellar Park’s clay courts. The group has seen sustainable growth and continues to appreciate USTA’s financial support and resources for building community.

Thrive Through Tennis Foundation

11923 Beckenham Road | North Royalton, OH 44133 | (216) 633-5911 | www.thrivetennis.org

At Thrive Through Tennis Foundation, it is our mission to bring the joy and therapeutic benefits of tennis to individuals and the community. Since our inception, we’ve been passionate about supporting underserved populations in Northeastern Ohio, including Adaptive and Wheelchair groups, Homeschool students, and individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

We offer a free weekly wheelchair tennis program. Through our partnership with the Recreation Therapy Department of the Louis Stokes VA, we are honored to welcome disabled veterans to participate in our program. Currently, we borrow sport-specific wheelchairs, but we hope to acquire enough chairs to meet our growing demand.

Our year-round Adaptive program runs weekly and serves children and adults with any physical, developmental, cognitive or emotional disability. We partner with local organizations like the Achievement Centers for Children, Empower Sports, the Autism Society of Greater Cleveland, and Special Olympics MBB Chapter. Our Adaptive players recently participated in the Special Olympics Regional Tournament and USTA Midwest Unified Doubles Qualifier Event.

Our Homeschool program reaches 20-30 students weekly, aged 5-14 years. The classes not only teach students tennis, but physical, technical, tactical and mental skills both on and off court. We are extremely proud to have developed a specialized tennis and fitness program for people with Parkinson’s disease. This innovative program combines tennis with fitness led by a certified Parkinson’s trainer. The blended program is helping participants boost their health, happiness and quality of life.

THRiVE stands for Tennis, Health, Results, Inspiration, Value and Education. Our programs bring these benefits to unique segments of the community. Our participants often express gratitude for the positive impact on their lives. They don’t just participate, they “thrive” from THRiVE!

This month we are sharing the inspiring story of a dedicated teacher, Ryan Whipple, who founded the Anne Krupp Youth Memorial Tennis Clinic in memory of his beloved coach, Coach Anne. Ryan imparts the love of tennis to today’s youth, emphasizing tennis as a sport for a lifetime. Ryan’s clinic remains open to all participants, free of charge, funded by donations to the Anne Krupp Memorial Scholarship. What a perfect way to keep Anne Krupp’s memory and passion alive.

And today, five years later…what began as a ripple is now a tidal wave! Ryan’s clinic has grown from 20 kids to more than 50, ages 5 to 12. Some of these kids travel from distant cities in rural Ohio to be a part of this transformative opportunity. Ryan’s tireless dedication cultivates the next generation of tennis enthusiasts and continues to inspire former students who return as volunteers. The impact on the community is profound. In 2023, the community doubled its contribution, funding half of a yearly scholarship. We’re sure Anne Krupp would be proud of this amazing program that gives the joy of tennis and connects to a lifelong love of the sport.

This tiny ripple is now making powerful waves, shaping the future of every participant as well as MTEF’s. Opportunities like this hold the potential to profoundly impact the lives of young individuals. It’s crucial to remember that such transformations are made possible through the generosity of individuals like YOU. You don’t need to be the one who establishes a new tennis clinic; but you can be the one who enhances the lives of young players simply by making a gift online today. Your contribution has the power to create lasting ripples of change that can evolve into a powerful tidal wave of goodness.

We are happy to announce the Robert P & Barbara D Harris Fund is now open for 2021.

This grant was established by the Harris family to honor and recognize Robert P and Barbara D Harris for a lifetime of charitable activities, community service and a love of tennis. They were both graduates of Michigan State University (MSU) – Robert in Chemical Engineering and Barbara in Medical Technology. They met in Cadillac, Michigan after Robert returned from Naval service in the Pacific in WWII. After a brief courtship they married and returned to Robert’s hometown of Flint, Michigan, where all three of their children were born.

Robert embarked on a 45-year career as a co-owner and then owner of SKS Heat Treating. Robert and Barbara actively gave back to the community during this time through Robert’s service on the Flint School board culminating in his appointment of President. Barbara was consistently active in the Junior League as well as with the Flint college and cultural association and PEO, an organization which supports women in education. These activities along with innumerable less visible acts of community related kindness made a deep impression on their children and all that knew them. Robert learned tennis while growing up during the depression in a local public park. He played 1st singles for Flint Central High School, and then played four years at MSU lettering in his last three years.

Raising a family and owning a business kept Robert from playing again until his mid-50’s when he played at the Genesee Valley Tennis Club in Flint, playing competitively in Florida into his 70’s after retiring. Barbara and Robert embodied respect and concern for others and the community in general. They established this community tennis grant to continue to help the people served by the USTA/ Midwest Section benefit from their legacy in a lasting way.

The deadline to apply for this grant for 2021 is July 31. This program grant is for organizations seeking funds up to $2,500 to start or expand tennis programming in their community. Funding can be used to develop instructional programs, organize league play for all ages, abilities and populations, to create tournament play, and/or anything that encourages long term growth of tennis in the community. All applications may be submitted under the grant link titled the Robert P & Barbara D Harris Community Tennis Grant.

https://webportalapp.com/sp/home/usta_midwest_group_organization_grant

Check Out Past Winners Below

Support from our Harris grant allowed us to provide free instruction to more than 600 Chicago Park District day campers! Nearly three-quarters of those had never played tennis before; so, the grant directly introduced the game to 450 new players!

Jill Siegel ED

“The generous grant from the Robert P and Barbara D Harris Fund helped with the expansion of our free afterschool program! Students received racquets and balls so that they could take part in virtual lessons last year, and the students recently returned to in-person instruction. Support from the Harris Fund has made tennis more accessible to children who otherwise might not have been introduced to the game.”

Dax Lowery

Executive Director NJTL of Indianapolis | indynjtl.org

Thanks to the grant made through the Robert P and Barbara D Harris Fund, The ACE Project was able to relaunch in-person programs in Southland Chicago. Youth benefited from daily tennis instruction, peer-to-peer socialization, adult mentorship, and rotating activities, such as art therapy, academic enrichment, digital literacy, and reading support. Following the completion of the 8-week season, we asked participants’ parents to provide feedback on the program; we received this message from Elizabeth, mother of ACE-er Taylor: “With the pandemic happening this organization provided safety and socialization for my child. The staff were welcoming and the children happy. It was much needed and greatly appreciated. While e-learning at home every day could be a challenge for parents and child, my daughter was able to continue the sport that she loves and meet new friends.” The ACE Project is so grateful for the support from the Robert P and Barbara D Harris Fund; it transformed our service in 2020, making the impossible possible.

Susan Klumpner

The ACE Project

“Have the vision to do, and the heart to share”

On behalf of A.H. Sports, this $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to a junior wheelchair tennis athlete 18 years or younger who lives in the USTA/Midwest Section. It is designed to help with funding for athletes in the pursuit of excellence on the tennis court. This scholarship is established to honor the efforts of Lynn Bender and Hunter Heck who have both been inspirations in the wheelchair tennis community. Like Lynn and Hunter, the recipient should exemplify persistence, passion, integrity, and leadership skills on the tennis court. Additionally, the recipient should also display these traits beyond the court and pursue activities that help inspire and teach growth for wheelchair athletes.

Lynn is a USPTA and USPTR tennis professional who fell into wheelchair tennis coaching and teaching when she married her husband Curt who has been a wheelchair tennis athlete for years. She serves on both the USTA/Midwest and previously USTA National wheelchair committees. Lynn’s passion for wheelchair tennis is what drives her to continue growing the sport.

Hunter is a wheelchair tennis athlete who “found his fire again” through the sport. He possess an internal drive to pursue success without barriers. Hunter spent over two years traveling throughout the Midwest and Southeast competing in tournaments and is committed to helping other wheelchair athletes follow their passion as well.

The deadline for 2022 and all future years will be December 1.

We sat down with Australian Open Mixed Doubles Champion Rajeev Ram, who is also a Carmel, Indiana native! Read his interview below to learn more about his EntouRaj for Kids Junior Tennis Grant offered through the USTA/Midwest Tennis and Education Foundation. Plus, what the value of teamwork, education, and chasing your dreams means to Rajeev!

About EntouRaj for Kids
Rajeev Ram: “EntouRaj for Kids is a non-profit that I started basically for kids of all ages and ability levels just to be introduced to the sport of tennis. We help anyone — from the recreational, high school players, all the way to the high-performance players who are looking to play in college, or maybe beyond. [The goal is] to help people as needed in the local area.”

What does the EntouRaj for Kids Junior Tennis Grant Provide?
Rajeev Ram: “We try and personalize it to the individual as much as we can. If we see a situation, maybe a family that’s in need, we try and speak with them personally and ask them, hey what would you like to do? Especially maybe some of the high-performance kids who are really into tennis. What do you need? Do you need coaching? Do you need money to travel? [We] really try and help them specifically in the way that they need it. We feel like that’s the best way to help them maximize the potential that they have. The high-performance grant specifically, is the exact same parameters as the Midwest gives and one I received as a kid growing up here in the Midwest Section.”

How did the grant you received as a junior help you succeed?
Rajeev Ram: “Just to sort of be recognized… [The idea] that I sort of deserved or was in the realm of deserving that sort of support or grant, was really great. Sort of that feeling that someone is paying attention to you and taking notice is inspiring in itself. Obviously, as a kid, you’re not as aware of the financial impact. So, I’m sure that portion would have helped my parents in terms of the travel expenses and all the other things that come with tennis. If you can help the family out with the more adult problems, and help the kid by saying, we love what you’re doing and recognize it, I think it comes with a couple of benefits.”

Who should apply for this grant?
Rajeev Ram: “Anyone that is looking to try and further their tennis, and kind of take it to the next level should definitely apply and we would encourage that.”

How has tennis made an impact on your life?
Rajeev Ram: “I don’t remember life without tennis. It’s just been synonymous with what I do on a daily basis. You know? I’ve been lucky that my passion has become my career, and I don’t take that for granted whatsoever. More than anything, tennis has just given me relationships and friendships all over the world that I would have never had. Whether it’s local coaches that have helped me since I was a kid, to people that I’ve worked with on tour, to friends that I’ve made while traveling to parts of the world that I probably never would have gone to had I not played. I think it’s just the relationships and the sort of experiences that it’s given me that I think are the most valuable thing to me — more than the fact that it’s become my career, or the wins, or anything like that.”

Did you play high school tennis?
Rajeev Ram: “I played high school tennis for a couple of years and college tennis at the University of Illinois… So high school tennis at Carmel High School and the college tennis at the University of Illinois for a year. Tennis is such an individual sport, and those few situations where you can play on a team, they’re pretty special.”

Why was it important to you to finish your college degree?
Rajeev Ram: “There’s definitely life after tennis. A professional athletic career doesn’t last until the age of other careers. So, I’m gonna have to do something— I’m gonna wanna do something after I’m done playing, and having a degree just really opens up some more doors. It was really a sense of accomplishment to be quite honest, to do it.”

You’ve played high school tennis, college tennis, Team Tennis, and on an Olympic Team. What has it meant to you to be part of a team?
Rajeev Ram: “I think being in a team situation, if you use it the right way, will bring out the best in you. You can share your thoughts, your feelings, your fears, everything with your teammates because the likelihood is they’re having the same exact feelings. Sometimes when you have teammates you can relate to, just like any other relationship, you kind of seem to thrive in that arena. I’ve really kind of learned to do that better because tennis is such an individual sport. A lot of times you’re told to keep your emotions inside and not give anything away, and all that. When you’re on a team or in doubles even, you’re in it together. So, you’re like, hey I’m feeling nervous today, or I’m feeling sick, or I’m feeling great! Let me be the lead, or whatever it might be. You can sort of reach your potential or reach even higher heights than you ever thought.”

What do you say to all the kids going out for their middle school and high school teams this Spring?
Rajeev Ram: “Definitely giving a shoutout to all the kids going out for the high school and middle school teams. You’re making a huge step just by trying out. It’s an unbelievable sport — whether you make the team or not is insignificant, to be honest. Just go out there and do your best. For all you newcomers to the sport, it’s something that’s given me my life, my livelihood. Everything I have I owe to tennis. So, I’m glad to have you a part of this sport, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.”

The EntouRaj for Kids Junior Tennis Grant will go to one junior player between 14 and 18 years old who competes in USTA and USTA/Midwest Section tournaments. The player must display tennis improvement and a need for financial assistance. Funding will pay for tournament and player development expenses, including airfare, lodging, entry fees, meals, and coaching. The deadline to apply is May 1, 2021. To learn more about this grant, click here.

Article By: Molly Doehrmann