NJTL students across the country are invited to “write their way to NYC” as part of the USTA Foundation’s 2021 NJTL Essay Contest presented by Deloitte.
Participants from National Junior Tennis and Learning (NJTL) chapters nationwide are eligible to participate. The NJTL network is a nationwide network of community tennis organizations seeking to develop the character of young people through tennis and education. NJTLs are unique because they offer a variety of on-court programming and also educational and life skill components designed to enhance a child’s overall development. Founded in 1969, this growing network of tennis providers share similar values, ideals and goals by reaching out to those who may not otherwise have the opportunity to play tennis, instilling in children the values of leadership and academic excellence, and by giving all kids the opportunity to fully develop their tennis skills so they can derive a lifetime of enjoyment from the sport.
This year’s full question for young essay writers is: “Robert Ryland was an accomplished tennis player and coach. He was known for seeing the possibilities in those he coached and within himself. Mr. Ryland was the first African-American professional tennis player and the first African-American to play in the NCAA National Championships. What facts about his story inspire you to break boundaries and excel in school, sports, and to follow your dreams? What are your possibilities?”
Entries are open to all students age 18 and under who are a participant in a program sponsored by a local NJTL chapter. NJTL youth who wish to participate must contact their local NJTL chapter for more information and to enter. Students will submit their essays in the following age categories: 10 & under, 11-12, 13-14, 15-16 and 17-18.
The 10 best submissions (1 boy and 1 girl in each age group) will be awarded a trip for two to New York City from October 8-10, 2021. During the trip, winners will be treated as VIP guests and will visit Deloitte’s Headquarters at 30 Rock, have access to up to three cultural, historical, or other NYC experiences or landmarks, and receive a special award at a luncheon held in their honor.
Completed entries must be submitted to local NJTL chapters. Chapters must submit all entries no later than 12:00 p.m. ET on July 21, 2021.
For more information, please visit www.USTAFoundation.com/essay_question_and_rules.
