On Monday, May 13, former Wimbledon and US Open champion Stan Smith will receive an honor not for his incredible accomplishments at tennis’ highest level, nor for his eponymous Adidas shoe (more on that later). Rather, he will earn the Shining Star Award for his impactful support of the Harlem Junior Tennis & Education Program (HJTEP). The non-profit brings tennis to youth from high-risk, low-income inner-city neighborhoods while offering opportunities for self-development, emphasizing education and a positive code of behavior.
HJTEP insists on academic achievement, and the average GPA of participants is 3.1. It has opened a new door for many underserved boys and girls, ages 6-18, to learn the game of tennis and to achieve academic success.
“The success of the HJTEP for the past 52 years would not have been possible without the selfless commitment from scores of people like Stan and Michelle Blake-Wilson (who will also be honored, with the The James R. Kelly III Chairman’s Award),” said Katrina Adams, HJTEP Executive Director. “We look forward to this opportunity to thank our friends and supporters and introduce them to many of the youngsters directly benefitting from our programs.”
Before Stan’s big night, TENNIS.com caught up with the 77-year-old, who shows zero signs of slowing down.
