Before heading to the prestigious BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, Calif., 2021 US Open finalist Leylah Fernandez hosted a memorable youth tennis clinic on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025, at the Challengers Boys & Girls Club in South Los Angeles in collaboration with the Leylah Annie & Family Foundation, USTA Southern California (USTA SoCal), and Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles (BGCMLA). The event brought together 40 local youth, aged 8-16, for a day of hands-on tennis training, mentorship and inspiration.
This clinic, designed to give young athletes a chance to connect with one of the sport’s rising stars, featured a special warm-up session with Fernandez. The clinic was held on four newly-renovated tennis courts, thanks to a grant from the USTA Foundation, which helps to support BGCMLA and the more than 250 similar National Junior Tennis and Learning (NJTL) organizations nationwide that use tennis as a vehicle to prepare young people for life both on and off the court.
Fernandez, alongside a team of expert coaches, worked directly with the kids to teach essential tennis skills and techniques.
"I had an amazing time today working with these kids," Fernandez said. "Tennis has taught me so much about perseverance, teamwork and discipline, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share that with these young athletes. I hope they leave here feeling inspired to chase their dreams, on and off the court."
The clinic included a comprehensive coaching session, with all attendees receiving personalized attention across the three courts. Each participant was gifted a new tennis racquet and other special surprises, ensuring they left with the tools and encouragement to continue their tennis journey.
"We’re thrilled to have been part of such an inspiring event," said Esther Hendershott, the director of community and diversity, equity & inclusion at USTA Southern California. "Events like this help grow the game of tennis and show kids the power of sport, and we are proud to partner with the Leylah Annie & Family Foundation and Boys & Girls Club to make a difference in these young athletes’ lives."
Patrick Mahoney, CEO and president of Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles added: "We are so grateful for Leylah’s generous time and commitment to our youth. Her presence today was not only an incredible experience for these young players, but also a powerful reminder that they too can achieve their dreams with hard work and determination. This clinic exemplifies the core values we strive to instill in the children we serve—hope, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence."
The clinic was made possible through the dedication of the Leylah Annie & Family Foundation, which is committed to expanding access to sports and higher education for youth, and the support of USTA Southern California and Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Los Angeles, both of which provide vital community programs for young people throughout the region.