Ten student-athletes, ages 10 to 18, have been announced as the winners of the USTA Foundation's 24th annual National Junior Tennis and Learning (NJTL) Essay Contest, presented by Deloitte.

The 10 winners all participate in NJTL chapters nationwide and were selected from more than 1,000 entries submitted this summer. The NJTL network provides under-resourced youth with free or low-cost tennis and education programming, helping them to succeed both on and off the court.

This year’s contest centered around a famous quote from legendary tennis player Althea Gibson: “No matter what accomplishments you make, someone helped you." Students were asked to explain in their own words what this quote means to them. Additionally, students were asked, “Who from your NJTL chapter helped you, how did they help you, and what impact has this made on your tennis skill and/or life?”

Each winner, along with their parent/legal guardian, received a trip to New York City from Aug. 23 to Aug. 26, 2023, where they participated in various activities, including a tour of Deloitte’s New York City office. This educational and immersive experience was led by Deloitte professionals and provided students with activities designed to help them understand the importance of strategic thinking, working with others, and networking.

Students also had the opportunity to visit the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, N.Y., the home of the US Open, where they played tennis with Grand Slam doubles champions Bob and Mike Bryan.

Each essay contest winner also received an honorary certificate at a special luncheon held Friday, Aug. 25, at the New York Hilton Midtown Hotel. Janet DeNunzio, Group Brand Director of Sponsorships at Deloitte Services LP, and Michelle Curry from the estate of Althea Gibson both provided remarks.

“These talented students and future leaders exemplify the essence of what the NJTL network is all about,” said USTA Foundation Board President Kathleen Wu. “We are grateful to Deloitte for its ongoing support in helping us to provide a truly memorable and valuable experience for this year’s essay contest winners and their families.”

The 10 winners of the 2023 NJTL Essay Contest were selected in the following categories:

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