40 Years Later, Pasarell’s Vision For NJTL Continues
During the US Open, BNP Paribas Open Chairman and National Junior Tennis League (NJTL) founder Charlie Pasarell was honored at a special USTA “Breaking the Barriers” reception. The reception, held on the 40th anniversary of its founding by Arthur Ashe, Charlie Pasarell and Sheridan Snyder, was hosted by CNN’s Tony Harris and Natalie Morales of “The Today Show.”
In June, the USTA unveiled a new name and logo for the NJTL, officially re-branding it as the National Junior Tennis and Learning network. The re-brand was designed to heighten awareness of NJTL initiatives while broadening the public’s understanding of the mission to instill in young children the values exemplified by Arthur Ashe – humanitarianism, leadership and academic excellence.
Pasarell has seen the program thrive in the Coachella Valley for 15 years at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. The BNP Paribas Open Kids Day is the cornerstone event of the program, where more than 750 kids are invited for a free, full day of tennis instruction and games. In addition, throughout the year free weekly tennis clinics are held for kids ages 5-18 at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden.
“The National Junior Tennis and Learning network is a prime example of how we can use tennis to instill important values in our young children,” said Pasarell. “After 40 amazing years, I believe the best lies ahead for this organization. With the USTA’s support, we can grow the game of tennis by providing opportunities for all children, regardless of background, to learn a sport that can last a lifetime.”
Mission Hills Wins USTA Facility Awards For Excellence
Ranho Mirage’s singular oasis, the green and peaceful Mission Hills Country Club in Rancho Mirage, was named a winner of the USTA’s 28th annual Facility Awards Program, recognizing excellence in the construction and/or renovation of tennis facilities throughout the country.
Mission Hills Country Club was honored along with the other recipients at an awards ceremony, at the USTA semi-annual meeting held during the U.S. Open at the Grand Hyatt in New York City.
Retired director of tennis and now the club pro emeritus Tommy Tucker and club general manager Josh Tanner were on hand to accept the award. “It’s just great for the club to be recognized like this by the USTA,” said Tucker, who has been at the club since 1978 and was the former coach of Australia’s Mark Woodforde, who teaches at the club along with Dennis Ralston.
Named one of the top 50 tennis resorts in the US, Mission Hills Tennis has been recognized by the USTA, ITF and ATP tour pros as one of the finest tennis facilities in the world.
Mission Hills features 20 hard courts, four clay courts, and five world-class lawn tennis courts (there are plans to add five more grass courts). The Davis Cup has been played there twice and the facility is host of three national adult events including the USTA Senior National Championship, which is the largest adult event in the US with over 700 entrants each year.
A renewing mecca, Mission Hills offers numerous USTA programs including a NJTL junior program, QuickStart tennis for young children, and Wheelchair and Cardio Tennis. Mission Hills holds a variety of clinics, and boasts a ball machine court and video analysis.
“Mission Hills has gone above and beyond to establish a superior tennis experience for their patrons and community at large,” said Kurt Kamperman, Chief Executive, Community Tennis, USTA. “We are proud to honor their achievements and applaud their devotion to the sport.”
