Tag: Impact

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.

Game Changer: Carisa Dueweke

2025 Tennis Creates Awards: Adult Leader Honoree

In every community, there are individuals whose quiet determination and generous spirit transform the lives around them. For tennis in the Mid-Atlantic, that person is Carisa Dueweke. A leader, mentor, and tireless volunteer whose influence has reached from her local courts in the Shenandoah Valley all the way to the national stage.

Carisa’s tennis journey began nearly 21 years ago, in an unexpected season of life. “I started playing pregnant with my youngest,” she laughs. “The pro at our club encouraged some new moms to take a few lessons for free, and we all became hooked. It was a great way to spend 90 minutes getting some exercise while meeting new friends.” What began as a fun hobby soon became a lifelong passion and a calling to lead. Within just a few years, she transitioned from player to captain, then to Local League Coordinator for the Shenandoah region.

2025 Tennis Creates Awards Adult Leader Honoree, Carisa Dueweke.

From the moment she took on that role, Carisa approached it with energy, empathy, and innovation. Her “boots-on-the-ground” style, visiting facilities, talking with pros, and personally mentoring captains, helped double local league participation within a year. 

“Meeting face to face, listening, and offering solutions is what makes the difference,” she says. “It could be as simple as adjusting formats, starting two-team leagues, or hosting weekend tournament-style leagues. Be creative but know the regulations.”

Her commitment to connecting people and creating a fair, inclusive experience shaped not only her local community but the entire Mid-Atlantic region. “Ultimately, I work toward creating an amazing product while continuously striving to contribute to a positive player experience for all,” Carisa says.

Her impact extended beyond the courts when she co-chaired the first Centralized Grievance Committee, an initiative that brought consistency and fairness to league operations. “The keyword was consistency,” she explains. “We wanted an impartial and consistent application of decisions. Players deserve a fair process, and now they have confidence their voices are heard.” Her work on the committee helped lay the foundation for the National Suspension Point Penalty System, ensuring uniform discipline and fairness nationwide.

Carisa and husband at the US Open in Flushing Meadows, NY

Even when organizational changes meant her beloved Area League Coordinator role would end, Carisa stayed focused on what mattered most: the players. “The underlying motivation was consistency,” she reflects. “Consistency in the product, the communication, the administration, and the mission. It was less about coordinating my local area and more about the overall product Mid-Atlantic was providing. Consistency was the key.” Her selfless guidance during the transition ensured a smooth handoff and continued growth for the program.

Her leadership also reached the national level. Carisa served on the USTA National League Committee, where she helped design tools to improve the captain and player experience nationwide. Yet, for all her influence, Carisa remains grounded in gratitude. “I’m absolutely honored to be selected for this award,” she says. “There are so many people who’ve accomplished amazing things for tennis. To be recognized among them is overwhelming.”

Carisa credits her success to a supportive network of family and colleagues. “My husband, Christopher, has been my biggest cheerleader, along with mentors like Pam Leibfried, Bill Fitzgibbon, and Lindsey Keeler. And of course, our players and captains. Their experience is the main goal!”

For Carisa, leadership means lifting others up and helping them find their place in the game. “There are so many ways to get involved in the world’s healthiest sport,” she says. “Find one that fits your strengths, and keep evolving. One door, or one court, always leads to another.”

Through every challenge and change, Carisa Dueweke has embodied what it means to be a true Game Changer. A leader who listens, inspires, and builds a stronger, fairer, and more connected tennis community.

Join Carisa 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.

2025 USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation Award Winners Announced 

There is no shortage of incredible individuals and organizations making a positive impact on tennis in the Mid-Atlantic region. Each year, USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation honors those who are uplifting, supporting, and going above and beyond for tennis through our Annual Awards program. 

The Mid-Atlantic tennis community nominated outstanding individuals and community providers for the Annual Awards and those who exemplify the guiding principles of Community, Character, and Well-being under the “USTA Mid-Atlantic Creates” theme. 

Nominations poured in during nomination period, each sharing inspiring stories of tennis leaders of all ages in the Mid-Atlantic region. The commitment of individuals and providers in the region to the sport has not gone unnoticed.

After careful review, USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation introduces the 2025 USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation Tennis Creates Award winners who continue to make an impact on and off the court. 

USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation Tennis Creates…

Community Champion Award: Andrew Acquadro

  • DC Department of Parks and Rec Citiwide Tennis & Pickleball Director expanding affordable, inclusive programming citywide.

Provider Champion Award: Essam Laskar

  • Founder of Laskar Tennis, making the game accessible by partnering with local county park and recreation departments around the Mid-Atlantic.

Youth Leader Award: Sahej Jaspal

  • A 9-year-old standout athlete and volunteer inspiring his peers on and off the court. 

Adult Leader Award: Carisa Dueweke

  • A league leader who helped increase league participation and elevated player experience.

Tennis in the Classroom: Chip Boling

  • High-school coach and tournament director committed to growing youth tennis participation.

Coach of the Year: Wendy Massarelli

  • Girls Rule the Court™ coach in Loudoun County, empowering girls through tennis and social-emotional learning.

Congratulations to all the winners. The 2025 USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation Tennis Creates award winners will receive their award and recognition at the Tennis Creates Gala on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at the Salamander Hotel in Washington D.C. 

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.

John Isner and Sam Querrey hosting the 2025 Tennis Creates Gala

Former ATP Stars and Co-Hosts of “Nothing Major” Show Sam Querrey and John Isner to Host USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation Tennis Creates Gala on December 6 in Washington D.C.

John Isner and Sam Querrey hosting the 2025 Tennis Creates Gala

Exclusive Fantasy Clinic with Querrey and Isner to Follow Gala on December 7 at Westwood Country Club

Tickets Available Now at TennisCreatesGala.com 

WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 7, 2025) – Former ATP stars and tennis podcast personalities Sam Querrey and John Isner will co-host the 2025 USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation Tennis Creates Gala on Friday, December 6 at the Salamander Hotel in Washington, D.C. The following day, a small group of fans will have the extraordinary opportunity to hit the court and learn firsthand from Querrey and Isner, two of the game’s most celebrated pros, during the exclusive, first-ever USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation Tennis Creates Fantasy Clinic at the acclaimed Westwood Country Club in Vienna, Va.

Querrey and Isner, both former top-20 ATP players and co-hosts of the popular podcast Nothing Major alongside fellow pros Steve Johnson and Jack Sock, will bring their humor, insider stories, and passion for the game to the Gala stage. The following day, Querrey and Isner will provide personal coaching, technique tips, and strategy insights at the Fantasy Clinic. Attendees can also enjoy pre-clinic photo opportunities, a Q&A session, and a light lunch with fellow tennis enthusiasts. Spectator tickets are available for those who wish to watch and participate in the Q&A without playing. Gala ticket holders will receive a special discount to participate in the clinic.

“Sam and John are both incredible athletes and hilarious podcast hosts, making them the perfect choice to host this year’s Tennis Creates Gala,” said Tara Fitzpatrick-Navarro, CEO of the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation. “Their personalities, careers, and commitment to giving back to the tennis community reflect the spirit and mission of the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation.”

Chaired by Andrew and Michele Brammer, the Gala will feature fine dining, entertainment, live and silent auctions with exclusive experiences, and the presentation of the Tennis Creates Awards. Honorees include Stacey Allaster, the first woman to serve as US Open Tournament Director, who will receive the Tennis Creates Impact Award for her global contributions to equity and leadership in tennis; and Hall of Famer Ray Benton, who will receive the Tennis Creates Visionary Award for decades of transformational leadership in player development and program growth.

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.  Tickets for the Fantasy Clinic go on sale Friday, October 10 at 12 p.m. ET.

About Sam Querrey
Sam Querrey, a former ATP Top 20 player, reached the semifinals at Wimbledon in 2017 and was a key member of the U.S. Davis Cup team. He is also co-host of Nothing Major, sharing stories and insights from his career with fellow pros Steve Johnson, Jack Sock, and John Isner.

About John Isner
John Isner, former World No. 8, is best known for his record-breaking matches at Wimbledon and the U.S. Open. Beyond his professional career, Isner co-hosts Nothing Major, bringing fans behind the scenes of professional tennis with humor and camaraderie.

About the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation
The USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to promoting tennis and its lifelong benefits. By fostering community, character, and well-being, the Foundation ensures tennis is accessible to all in the Mid-Atlantic region.

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Media Contacts:
Katrina Younce 

Publicist, USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation

katrina@kyprinc.com 

T: 310-995-3619