Gold Award Girl Scout: Nina

Gold Award Project: Promoting Diversity in Tennis

“I was able to take my love of tennis and share that with others-especially young students of color. I learned that I work well with children, and that they love and respect me. Working with my team was insightful and worthwhile. I want to use all these new discoveries about myself to continue growing and make an impact on my community in the future.”

Despite the history of disproportionate exposure, Nina desired to give all children, especially children of color, more opportunities and experiences playing tennis through her partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Kenosha and Lifesport Tennis Club. Nina began by helping provide tennis equipment such as rackets, balls, and nets that she secured through donations for the Boys & Girls Club of Kenosha. She also coordinated local tennis coaches and volunteers to help facilitate weekly summer tennis classes at the Boys & Girls Club of Kenosha so children could learn how to play tennis, with their fi nal class held at the tennis club so children could play on a tennis court.

In addition to providing equipment and classes, Nina talked about famous people of color involved in tennis professionally and inspired participants to gain confi dence while having fun learning the game of tennis. She also created a website with information on renting equipment, public courts, professional tennis players, and videos. The Boys & Girls Club of Kenosha will recruit local tennis team volunteers in future summers to continue the tennis program Nina launched.