Session One: History of the ATA & Black Tennis

Moderator: Larry Bivins, former journalist, and blogger of "Tennis in the Hood"

Panelists:  Art Carrington, Katrina Adams, Bob Davis, Lange Johnson, and Willis Thomas Jr.

We began the session with an inspiring short video on Althea Gibson, followed by our five panelists who gave a glimpse of the early years of the ATA before Althea Gibson and Arthur Ashe. You will hear the vital role that HBCU’s played in the first years of the ATA and others who made it possible for young blacks to play tennis. This session provided insights into the partnership that has evolved between the ATA and the USTA.

Session Two:  A Champion's Life On and Off the Courts

Moderator:  Martin Blackman, General Manager Player Development, USTA

Panelists: Sean Holcomb-Jones, Martin Blackman, Chris Eubanks, Michael Mmoh, and Roy Smith

This session showcased young African American players on the professional tour. They discussed and shared their experiences in becoming a Champion on and off the Court. 

Session Three:  The HBCU Tennis Legacy

Moderator: Esu Ma'at,  Co-founder, Quantum Power Skills LLC

Panelists:  William Crutchfield, Gene Thompson, George Henry, Lonnie White

College tennis has held a significant place in ATA's history.  This panel of HBCU Coaches shared their thoughts on the critical role that HBCUs have played in Black tennis, why it's essential to support HBCU tennis programs, and what we can do to preserve Black tennis, especially post COVID-19

Session Four:  Optimize Your Tennis Game

Moderator: James Champion, Founder, The Champion Services Group

Tara Ayers, Dr. Suzanne Afflalo, Dr. Gary Sailes

Stress is a normal part of the human experience. Injury, relatives, time demands, fatigue, competition, travel, and finances are just a few of the things in our lives that can cause athletes to become unglued in their relationships and during tennis competitions.

Session Five:  Black Women Champions & Their Impact on Tennis

Moderator: Jim Berry, News Anchor WFOR - TV Miami, FL

Leslie Allen, Zina Garrison, Kyle Copeland, Kim Sands

Four of ATA's Female Champions whom all went on to play every Grand Slam pro tournament shared their thoughts on the ATA, Diversity in Tennis, and their hopes for the future of tennis.  Having their own unique reflections, each revealed the important role the ATA played in their development, the value of the ATA for today's young black players, and most importantly,  how they survived competing in the sport as black women. 

Session Six:  The Future of Black Tennis

Moderator: Deanne Chevannes, Focused LLC

Dr. Dale Caldwell and Cecil Harris

Tennis is a $5.57-billion-a-year industry. An increased presence for Blacks in tennis should not be limited to what happens on the court. There are many career paths in tennis in which Blacks are severely underrepresented. Tragically, there is a shortage of Black Players, Administrators, Coaches, and Entrepreneurs at the highest level of the sport. This panel will discuss the things that have to happen to increase the success of Black players and bring equity, inclusion, and income to Blacks in every aspect of the very lucrative tennis world.  

UNFORTUNATELY:  we do not have a recording for this session - only the PowerPoint is available.