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Arthur Ashe Youth Tennis and Education (AAYTE) is seeking the whereabouts of thousands of people who participated in the National Junior Tennis League (NJTL) since AAYTE began coordinating the United States Tennis Association’s summer tennis program in the Philadelphia area in 1970. The search will culminate with a 40th anniversary celebration reunion on Friday, August 13.
Kenny Holdsman, president of Arthur Ashe Youth Tennis and Education, 4842 Ridge Ave., said, "Anyone who took part in the NJTL program since 1970 or who would like to assist with organizing and outreach for our 40 th reunion should contact Louis Bolling at LBolling@ashetennis.org or register through our website (www.ashetennis.org).
"We are planning a wonderful day of memories, tennis and a barbeque at two Philadelphia locations on August 13 to commemorate four decades of the National Junior Tennis League, which was created by Arthur Ashe, Charlie Pasarell and Sheridan Snyder to introduce children to tennis on public courts. We want to share the joy of this anniversary with as many former participants as we can find."
The two-month NJTL program is conducted every summer and is offered at a nominal fee to participants at 39 playgrounds and recreation centers throughout Philadelphia, Camden, NJ, and Ardmore and Norristown in Montgomery County, PA. Cooperating with Arthur Ashe Youth Tennis and Education in the program are the Philadelphia Department of Parks and Recreation, Philadelphia Police Athletic League, the School District of Philadelphia, Rutgers University Camden, and the City of Camden Department of Recreation.
In addition to tennis instruction and team competition, the NJTL program provides a weekly curriculum that teaches skills that apply to everyday life. Topics include handling peer pressure, appreciating diversity, having integrity, and setting reachable goals.