Essam Laskar

Essam Laskar: A Leader, Mentor, and Champion for the Game

When you meet Essam Laskar, you quickly realize that tennis is more than a sport for him. As a lifelong player, passionate coach, and visionary leader, Essam has dedicated himself to growing the game from the ground up, ensuring tennis is accessible, inclusive, and inspiring for everyone. His leadership, creativity, and unwavering commitment to community have made him the deserving recipient of the Provider Champion Award at the 2025 Tennis Creates Awards.

Building a Grassroots Movement

As the Founder and Director of Laskar Tennis, Essam has built one of the most vibrant grassroots programs in the Mid-Atlantic region. What began as a personal dream has grown into a thriving network of affordable and welcoming programs across Maryland and Virginia, serving thousands of players each year.

“Tennis has always been part of my family’s DNA,” said Essam. “My parents and grandparents played, but over time, it became more than tradition; it became purpose. The sport has given me focus, community, and direction.”

That purpose now fuels his mission to give others the same sense of belonging. Through partnerships with seven county parks and recreation departments, his organization has brought tennis to neighborhoods that once had little or no access to the sport. “Partnering with these departments has been transformational,” Essam said. “Thousands of new players, ranging from children to seniors, have found their way onto the court through affordable, community-based instruction.”

In the past year, Laskar Tennis has reached more than 1,000 participants. However, Essam insists that the numbers only tell part of the story. What matters most to him is the environment he’s created: one rooted in accessibility, mentorship, and belonging.

Leading with Purpose and Heart

Those who know Essam describe him as a mentor and a leader. His influence extends far beyond the baseline.

“Our approach is simple. Meet every player where they are. Whether it’s a five-year-old picking up a racquet for the first time or an adult rediscovering the sport, our goal is to make everyone feel seen, supported, and challenged in the right way.”

That personal philosophy is visible in every class and every player’s story. Essam recalls one moment that defined his sense of purpose.

“A parent once pulled me aside after camp and said, ‘My son’s confidence in tennis and his life have completely changed since joining your program.’ That moment stuck with me. It reminded me that what we’re doing isn’t just teaching strokes but shaping mindset, character, and community connection.”

A Legacy of Passion and Perseverance

Tennis runs deep in Essam’s family roots. Both of his parents played professionally in Bangladesh, and from an early age, he was drawn to the game. Balancing a full-time career as an electrical engineer, husband, and father, Essam poured his energy into building a legacy of opportunity.

“Building a multi-county tennis operation from the ground up came with real challenges. From earning trust in new communities to maintaining quality as we scaled,” he admits. “I learned early on that the key was structure. Clear systems, strong communication, and a team that shares the same standard of excellence. Every challenge became a chance to build something more sustainable.”

He’s the first to say that his success hasn’t been a solo effort. “My wife, my parents, and my brother have been my foundation through it all,” he said. “My wife’s patience and constant encouragement keep me grounded. My parents taught me the work ethic that drives this business. Then there’s my brother, who helps lead our programs and has been my right-hand in bringing our vision to life. Without them, none of this happens.”

Championing Community and Character

Beyond his own programs, Essam is an engaged volunteer. He recently volunteered at the Mubadala Citi DC Open Kids Day and the US Open’s Net Generation On-Court Experience.

“Volunteering at the US Open reminded me of tennis’ global reach and how powerful it can be when people from all backgrounds come together around the sport we love,” he said. “I bring that same energy home to our local programs. I want every event and clinic we host to feel organized, inclusive, and special, like you’re part of something bigger.”

A True Provider Champion

When asked what winning this year’s Tennis Creates Award meant to him, Essam reflected with characteristic humility:

“It was a surreal and deeply humbling moment. I’ve always believed that impact comes before recognition. Having USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation acknowledge our work means a great deal. It’s not just a personal milestone. It’s validation for every coach, partner, and player who’s helped make Laskar Tennis what it is today.”

And when it comes to what he hopes others take away from his story, he keeps it simple and heartfelt:

“I hope my story shows that tennis is a platform for leadership, connection, and impact. What we’ve built with Laskar Tennis proves that with the right vision and persistence, you can create something meaningful that inspires others to take action. When you build with purpose, the community grows with you.”

Join Essam and the Tennis Creates Awards honorees at the Tennis Creates Gala on Dec. 6 at the Salamander Hotel in Washington DC. All proceeds from the Gala and Fantasy Clinic benefit USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s mission to champion tennis for healthier lives and communities, making the sport accessible to all in the Mid-Atlantic.  

Through programs such as Girls Rule the Court™, Jr. Player Scholarships, Facility Restoration Grants, and Community Engagement Grants, the Foundation ensures that every person, regardless of background or zip code, can experience the lifelong benefits of tennis.

For more information, Tennis Creates Gala and Fantasy Clinic tickets, and sponsorship opportunities, please visit TennisCreatesGala.com. 

Subscribe to USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s YouTube Channel and follow @ustamidatlantic on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to promoting tennis and its physical, social, and emotional health benefits. Learn about our impact in the region and how USTA Mid-Atlantic creates community, character, and well-being.

Chip Boling: Teaching Life Lessons Through Tennis

For more than two decades, Chip Boling has been a fixture on the courts at Howard High School, serving as a coach, mentor, and believer in what tennis can do beyond the court. His unwavering commitment, quiet leadership, and a deep belief that the court is more than a place to win matches, but also a classroom where character is built, confidence grows, and lifelong love for the game takes root. He will be receiving the Tennis in the Classroom Award at the Tennis Creates Gala on Dec. 6. 

Chip Boling teaching tennis at high school tennis courts

A Legacy of Coaching and Connection

Chip’s coaching career spans 20 years at Howard High School, where his influence extends far beyond the scoreboard. His teams have earned over 350 career wins, four regional championships in the last five years, and numerous top finishes in the Howard County Cup. Yet for Chip, those numbers tell only part of the story.

“What keeps me going is the kids I work with,” he shared. “Watching them grow as tennis players fuels me to keep coming back.”

This year, his girls’ team, with half of the roster brand-new to tennis, finished second in the county. It’s the kind of achievement that perfectly captures Chip’s approach: patience, player development, unshakable belief, and constant encouragement. He recalls one player who struggled as a freshman but returned her sophomore year transformed.

“She said, ‘Your expectations were so high, and you really care about how we can improve. I just wanted to make you proud.’ That’s what it’s all about.”

Building Bridges for the Sport

Beyond his team, Chip’s dedication has rippled across Maryland. Representing Howard and Anne Arundel counties for Maryland Public Schools, he’s been a driving force in modernizing high school tennis.

After attending a training at the USTA National Campus, he spearheaded the rollout of USTA Serve Tennis across Howard County, registering every player, running tournaments through the system, and setting a new benchmark for accessibility and transparency.

“I said to myself, ‘We need to do this. I can make it work,’” Chip explained. “It allows us as coaches to see how players are doing, gives players data to improve, and makes sure competition stays fair.”

He’s now working to expand the platform statewide, ensuring every public school program in Maryland benefits from this more connected, player-focused system.

Serving the Game, Not Himself

For over 20 years, Chip has served as a USTA tournament director, running events at Howard High School and Forest Hill Swim and Tennis Club. From Orange Ball to L4 tournaments, he’s there making sure players not only compete but also learn.

“Being a tournament director isn’t just about competitive play,” he said. “It’s about teaching kids the proper rules and helping them understand the game.”

His reputation is one of fairness, care, and generosity. Chip often offers full refunds when issues arise, rewarding players, and ensuring each event feels meaningful. Parents and players often wonder why he doesn’t run more tournaments. His answer is simple: quality over quantity.

“To Chip, it’s not about the money,” one colleague said. “It’s about growing the sport.”

Tennis in the Classroom honoree, Chip Boling, cstanding and coaching Howard high school tennis team.

Family, Faith, and Fuel for the Future

Balancing his many roles hasn’t always been easy. As a coach, tournament director, and Director of Racket Sports at Forest Hill Swim and Tennis Club, Chip spends countless hours on the court. What keeps him going is not only his passion for tennis, but also his wife and two children.

“It’s hard to be a coach when you have a young family,” he admitted. “But my wife and kids always ask how my teams have done. My kids love coming to practice and helping run camps. I’m grateful to all three of them.”

At Forest Hill, Chip oversees all racquet programs, including pickleball, but his heart always returns to youth tennis. He believes every child can be a future ambassador of the game, carrying forward the values of respect, resilience, and sportsmanship.

Why Chip Boling Inspires Us

When Chip first learned he had won the Tennis in the Classroom Award, the honor came with a moment that perfectly sums up his humble spirit.

“My daughter saw the paper and said, ‘It’s about time someone recognizes you for all you do!’” Chip laughed. “But really, I think it’s an accomplishment for all the players who have played for me. Their hard work makes me look good.”

Chip posing for a photo with two children on a tennis court.

For Chip, coaching isn’t about personal glory, but it’s impact on young student-athletes. He hopes his story encourages others to step up for their communities, whether as coaches, volunteers, or officials.

“We need more people who care about the sport,” he said. “Coaching can’t be about yourself. It’s about the players. We are molding them into women and men of the future.”

And that’s what makes Chip Boling more than just a coach. He’s a teacher of life lessons, a builder of character, and a reminder that tennis creates something far greater than champions. 

Join Chip and the Tennis Creates Awards honorees at the Tennis Creates Gala on Dec. 6 at the Salamander Hotel in Washington DC. All proceeds from the Gala and Fantasy Clinic benefit USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s mission to champion tennis for healthier lives and communities, making the sport accessible to all in the Mid-Atlantic.  Through programs like Girls Rule the Court™, Jr. Player Scholarships, Facility Restoration Grants, and Community Engagement Grants, the Foundation is ensuring that every person, regardless of background or zip code, can experience the lifelong benefits of tennis.

For more information, Tennis Creates Gala and Fantasy Clinic tickets, and sponsorship opportunities, please visit TennisCreatesGala.com. 

Subscribe to USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s YouTube Channel and follow @ustamidatlantic on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to promoting tennis and its physical, social, and emotional health benefits. Learn about our impact in the region and how USTA Mid-Atlantic creates community, character, and well-being.

group photo

Mid-Atlantic crowned as champions at League National Championships

Results are in from week five of the USTA League National Championships, and Mid-Atlantic once again finished in the top three and clinched the National title!

Mid-Atlantic’s Adult 40 & Over Mixed 9.0 Team, Montgomery-Lee, is your 2025 League National Champions, defeating Florida 2-0 in the championship match at the USTA National Campus in Orlando, Florida.

November 9, 2025 – (left to right) Erin Green, James Daniel Kohr II, Michele Brammer, Matthew Geppi, Laura Smith, Leonard Tetteh, Jessica Lee, Eric DesRoberts, Angel Batkins and Hayan Marouf of the Mid-Atlantic section came in First place in the 40 Over MXD Playoff League National Championship at USTA National Campus in Orlando, Florida.

Captain Jessica Lee led the team. The roster included James Daniel Kohr II, Bartol Letica, Michele Brammer, Eboni Lance, Anita Pasumarthy, Crystal Cornell, Laura Smith, Leonard Tetteh, Matthew Geppi, David Todd, Liviu Carare, Hayan Marouf, Inese Williamson, Johnny Hsiung, Eric DesRoberts, Erin Green, Angel Batkins, and Matt Stillwagon. 

Mid-Atlantic’s Adult 55 & Over 8.0 Women’s Team, Anne Arundel-Logan, placed third after defeating NorCal 2-1 at the Scottsdale Ranch Park Tennis Center in Scottsdale, Arizona. 

November 9, 2025 – The Mid Atlantic section came in third place in the Adult 55 & Over 8.0 Women League National Championship at the Indian School Park Tennis Center in Scottsdale, Arizona. Photo by Mark Dancho

Captain Janette O. Logan led the team. The roster included Dannielle Freeman, Bennie Blackley, Denise Freeman, Angela Parker, Mekkla Thompson, Carolyn Greis, Teri Hudson, Kathy Crowley, Shelena Sanderson, Yolander Alexander, Anne Jagodits, Mia Piansay, Carol Humphrey, and Jamaine Chisholm. 

Congratulations to Montgomery-Lee and Anne Arundel-Logan on a great run at this year’s National Championships. We’re proud of all the Mid-Atlantic teams who competed and gave it their all on court.

Mid-Atlantic Results from Week 4: 

55 & Over:

6.0M – Montgomery – McKeon placed 14th out of 14 teams.

6.0W – NOVA – Frugal placed eighth out of 14 teams.

8.0M – Howard – Munshell placed 17th out of 17 teams. 

8.0W – Anne Arundel – Logan placed 3rd out of 17 teams.

Mixed 18 & Over:

Mixed 6.0 – NOVA – Yu placed seventh out of 17 teams. 

Mixed 8.0 – Did not compete.

Mixed 10.0 – Did not compete.

Mixed 40 & Over: 

Mixed 6.0 – NOVA – Yu placed 15th out of 16 teams.

Mixed 7.0 – Montgomery – Juh placed eighth out of 17 teams.

Mixed 8.0 – Montgomery – Lee placed 17th out of 17 teams.

Mixed 9.0 – Montgomery – Lee placed first out of 14 teams.

Subscribe to USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s YouTube Channel and follow @ustamidatlantic on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to promoting tennis and its physical, social, and emotional health benefits. Learn about our impact in the region and how USTA Mid-Atlantic creates community, character, and well-being.

Wendy Massarelli: Coaching Confidence, One Serve at a Time

2025 Tennis Creates Award Honoree Wendy Massarelli.

When you meet Wendy Massarelli, you quickly realize she’s coaching both tennis and life. As one of the first Girls Rule the Court™ coaches in Loudoun County since the program’s launch in 2022, Wendy has been a driving force behind its success and a steady source of inspiration for every girl who picks up a racquet under her guidance.

Coaching Beyond the Court

Wendy’s coaching philosophy is rooted in empowerment. With her background as a certified life coach, she brings a unique approach that focuses as much on emotional growth as it does on athletic skill.

“Tennis is a vehicle,” Wendy says. “It’s not just about learning to hit a forehand. It’s learning to face challenges, manage emotions, and celebrate yourself along the way.”

Her sessions go beyond the technical. Each practice is infused with self-discovery, teamwork, and confidence-building. Wendy has even developed her own “tennis ball reflection” exercise, where girls write positive affirmations about themselves on tennis balls to take home. This gives the girls a tangible reminder of their growth and self-worth.

“When a player reads something kind about herself every day, it starts to shift her mindset,” Wendy explains. “That’s where real change happens.”

A Leader Who Lifts Others

From the start, Wendy has been the kind of coach who steps up without hesitation. Whether leading sessions across multiple Sterling, Va., locations or mentoring new instructors, she radiates energy, compassion, and a sense of purpose. Her fellow coaches call her the “anchor” of the program. Someone who can always be counted on to lend a hand, share ideas, and lift others up.

“I love seeing other coaches thrive,” Wendy says. “When we collaborate and support each other, everyone, especially the girls, benefits.”

Her leadership extends to the continual evolution of the Girls Rule the Court™ curriculum. Wendy infuses new activities that deepen the program’s social-emotional learning (SEL) components, ensuring every session connects to personal growth and resilience.

“We talk about self-awareness, self-regulation, and confidence,” she adds. “The girls learn to speak up, cheer for each other, and most importantly, believe in themselves.”

Building a Movement, Not Just a Program

What truly sets Wendy apart is that she views tennis as a tool for lifelong empowerment.

“When a girl realizes she’s strong physically and emotionally, that confidence carries into everything she does,” Wendy shares. “That’s why this program matters so much.”

Her impact has been profound. Parents often tell her how their daughters’ confidence has blossomed through Girls Rule the Court™. One parent even told Wendy that her daughter had begun leading her school’s morning announcements. She never would have done that before joining the program.

“That’s the win for me,” Wendy says with a smile. “When I see that growth off the court, that’s everything.”

Why Wendy Inspires Us

Wendy’s passion, empathy, and dedication make her the embodiment of what the Coach of the Year Award represents. She doesn’t just teach tennis, but also teaches courage, kindness, and self-belief. Her players know their power isn’t defined by wins or losses but by how they lift themselves and others up.

Because of coaches like Wendy, Girls Rule the Court™ isn’t just a program; it’s a movement. It has sparked national interest, expanding to new regions from Texas to New York City. And thanks to Wendy’s leadership and heart, that movement continues to grow — one inspired girl, one confident serve, at a time.

Join Wendy and the Tennis Creates Awards honorees at the Tennis Creates Gala on Dec. 6 at the Salamander Hotel in Washington DC. All proceeds from the Gala and Fantasy Clinic benefit USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s mission to champion tennis for healthier lives and communities, making the sport accessible to all in the Mid-Atlantic.  Through programs like Girls Rule the Court™, Jr. Player Scholarships, Facility Restoration Grants, and Community Engagement Grants, the Foundation is ensuring that every person, regardless of background or zip code, can experience the lifelong benefits of tennis.

For more information, Tennis Creates Gala and Fantasy Clinic tickets, and sponsorship opportunities, please visit TennisCreatesGala.com. 

Subscribe to USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s YouTube Channel and follow @ustamidatlantic on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to promoting tennis and its physical, social, and emotional health benefits. Learn about our impact in the region and how USTA Mid-Atlantic creates community, character, and well-being.

Sahej Jaspal: A Young Leader Creating Change Through Tennis

At just nine years old, Sahej Jaspal is already proving that leadership, kindness, and perseverance can shine brightly both on and off the court. As the recipient of the 2025 USTA Mid-Atlantic Tennis Creates Youth Leader Award, Sahej represents the next generation of players who see tennis not only as a sport, but as a way to bring people together and make a positive impact on the world.

A Passion Sparked Early

Sahej first picked up a tennis racquet when he was just three years old, guided by his dad, who introduced him to the sport through playful rallies in their backyard. “I first got involved with tennis by my dad,” Sahej shared. “He introduced me to it when I was three years old, and we would hit balls for fun. What keeps me passionate is how much fun it is to play, how I am improving, and how great it feels to win a hard match after working really hard.”

That passion has only grown stronger over time. Now a dedicated USTA Mid-Atlantic Junior Team Tennis (JTT) player, Sahej led his team to playoff runs, competes in USTA-sanctioned tournaments, and practices diligently. His efforts have earned him the chance to represent the region in the international Little Mo tournament, an incredible milestone that speaks to his skill, focus, and commitment.

Learning Through Challenges

Despite his many successes, Sahej’s journey hasn’t always been easy. “Some of the biggest challenges I’ve faced are getting frustrated when I lose or when I don’t play as well as I want to,” he said. “Sometimes I even thought about quitting. But I’ve learned that those tough moments are part of the journey.”

Through perseverance and his parents’ support, Sahej learned to channel his frustration into focus. “When I feel like giving up, I think about how far I’ve come and how much I still want to achieve,” he explained. “My dad has helped me a lot by talking to me and reminding me why I love the sport.”

A Heart for Others

For Sahej, leadership doesn’t stop at the baseline. He takes pride in helping others, especially through community service. He volunteered with a local soup kitchen, raised $6,000 for Children’s National Hospital, and supported housing efforts for underprivileged children in India. One moment that stood out to him came during a 5K fundraiser for the hospital. “I saw a young girl who was on her last day of having cancer handing out medals to the runners,” Sahej recalled. “Seeing her smile and knowing that I had helped, even just a little, made me realize how important it is to give back. It really touched me and made me want to do more for others.”

That empathy extends to his peers, too. Whether welcoming a new teammate or cheering for a friend who’s struggling, Sahej leads with compassion and inclusivity. He believes tennis should be for everyone—and he lives that belief every day.

Inspiring Others to Play

Sahej shares his love of tennis with others. He’s inspired friends and even his dad to join the sport. “When my friends start to lose interest in tennis, I invite them to hit around just for fun,” he said. “Once we’re on the court, they usually start enjoying it again. I tell them tennis is awesome because it’s not just about winning. It’s about having fun, staying active, and getting better each time you play. And I remind them that you can play tennis your whole life!”

His enthusiasm for the sport is contagious. At his local swim and tennis club, Sahej is known for his positivity and encouragement, helping younger players feel included and excited to learn. “I hope my story helps other kids see how awesome tennis can be,” he said. “It helps you stay healthy, make friends, and challenge yourself. I also hope it inspires others to give back to their community.”

Grounded in Gratitude

When Sahej found out he had won the Youth Leader Award, his first instinct was to share the news with his biggest supporter. “The first thing I wanted to do was call my dad,” he said with a grin. “I was really excited and proud. It made me feel like all the hard work I’ve put into tennis and helping others really mattered. I was also really happy about the free box of cookies they gave me!”

His humor, humility, and heart reflect the very best of what this award celebrates. For Sahej, the recognition isn’t just about what he’s accomplished. It’s a reminder to keep striving, giving, and growing.

Dreaming Big

Like many young athletes, Sahej has big dreams for the future. His idol is Carlos Alcaraz, and he often imagines the day he’ll step onto Arthur Ashe Stadium to face him at the US Open. “One day, I hope to become a professional tennis player,” he said. “That dream helps keep me going.”

But even as he dreams of grand slams, Sahej stays grounded in what matters most. Community, kindness, and the love of the game. He embodies the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s values of character, inclusivity, well-being, and service, proving that tennis can create not only junior athletes but leaders of tomorrow. 

Join Sahej and the Tennis Creates Awards honorees at the Tennis Creates Gala on Dec. 6 at the Salamander Hotel in Washington DC. All proceeds from the Gala and Fantasy Clinic benefit USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s mission to champion tennis for healthier lives and communities, making the sport accessible to all in the Mid-Atlantic.  Through programs like Girls Rule the Court™, Jr. Player Scholarships, Facility Restoration Grants, and Community Engagement Grants, the Foundation is ensuring that every person, regardless of background or zip code, can experience the lifelong benefits of tennis.

For more information, Tennis Creates Gala and Fantasy Clinic tickets, and sponsorship opportunities, please visit TennisCreatesGala.com. 

Subscribe to USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s YouTube Channel and follow @ustamidatlantic on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to promoting tennis and its physical, social, and emotional health benefits. Learn about our impact in the region and how USTA Mid-Atlantic creates community, character, and well-being.