Since its founding in 2022, Black Girls Tennis Club (BGTC), a nonprofit organization, has primarily focused on recreational or beginner tennis players, with the goal of connecting women and girls to tennis. The organization is built on the C.A.R.E. framework — or Culture Change, Access, Representation, and Exposure. Currently, there is programming in Hampton Roads, VA, New York, Washington, and Los Angeles, with activations in other locations. With an eye toward greater impact, last month BGTC launched Rising Stars, a junior development program based in New York.
“Our coaches, speaking from their personal experience, all expressed that [the] teenage age, 14 to 17, is where a lot of girls drop off,” said Kimberly Selden, BGTC founder and CEO. “Sometimes they’re the only Black girl on their team. They don’t have the support that’s needed. … We wanted to create our way of supporting junior competitive players and be with them throughout their journey.”
Luxilon, a tennis racket string company, is presenting the program. The cohort model enables the five selected girls to be in community with each other and with BGTC. Programming will show what it actually takes to compete at the junior level. This includes tournament access, individualized player development, equipment and gear, and guidance through the college recruitment process. Each girl receives a $500 grant to start.
“What’s interesting, within the first few days after we announced, is how the parents have come together,” said Selden. “I see the community aspect of it being the biggest part. Being able to share resources … and also sharing information. Parents can help each other out.”
This could include the girls planning to enter the same tournaments so one set of parents can provide the transportation. BGTC is also available to provide advice, exposure, and access to its brand partners. Selden noted that as the program progresses, it will evolve to meet player needs. There is also the service aspect. The Rising Stars will have opportunities to coach youngsters just starting in tennis. BGTC offers free youth programming, such as a weekly free summer camp in Central Park.
“Having access to our coaches, who played Division I, helps,” said Selden. “Seeing people who look like them … is a huge aspect of this. Robin Montgomery (currently playing tennis professionally) spoke with them, and I can see that moment will be etched in their memories.”
