On Saturday, June 13, the Edmonds Tennis and Education Foundation celebrated its scholarship recipients and honored its donors with an evening of outdoor dining.
Edmonds Tennis and Education Foundation (ETEF) goes beyond traditional youth programs by integrating tennis, education and nutrition to provide a more holistic approach to development here in rural North Carolina.
Not only is a scholarship recipient better off financially for their next step, by being in ETEF they have a permanent home base of mentors and are particularly paired up with a mentor for their first year after graduation.
Since forming as a non-profit in 2018, over 3,000 students have participated in ETEF tennis and education programs.
President Dr. Jerry Edmonds told WIZS, “This past Saturday, due to generous private donations, ETEF awarded academic scholarships of $1,000 each to six college bound area high school graduates.”
He said, “The biggest takeaway was the amazing accomplishments of the six students and their future aspirations to serve others through careers including Nursing, Law, STEM and Ministry.”
Keynote speaker Kelly Gaines, executive director of the NC Tennis Association (USTA North Carolina) delivered an inspiring speech, according to Edmonds, highlighting the importance of mentorship throughout one’s career. Kelly encouraged the students to begin forming their personal board of directors, consisting of experienced leaders who can help them navigate their careers.
This past Friday, June 12, the Henderson-Vance Chamber of Commerce presented its most recent Member Spotlight to ETEF and President and Founders Dr. Jerry Edmonds and spouse Dorcel Edmonds. The Chamber said, “Through tennis, students learn discipline, perseverance, teamwork, and confidence—skills that extend far beyond the court. By pairing athletic opportunities with educational support and character-building experiences, the Foundation helps youth unlock their full potential, pursue their goals, and become leaders in their communities.”
Edmonds Tennis offers tennis clinics for beginners as well as intermediate and advanced training.
For youth tennis camps or to learn more, visit www.edmondstennis.org or call (833) 751-5400.
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