Rackets, Resilience and Opportunities: Tennis Transforms Harvard Park

When I look at the eight newly renovated tennis courts at Jackie Tatum Harvard Park, a flood of emotions overwhelm me. It isn’t just the excitement of the upcoming grand opening, but the reflection on the journey that has brought me here—a journey that demonstrates the power of tennis to transform lives and destroy barriers.

By: George “Marty” Woods | CEO of the Pete Brown Junior Tennis Program

When I look at the eight newly renovated tennis courts at Jackie Tatum Harvard Park, a flood of emotions overwhelm me. It isn’t just the excitement of the upcoming grand opening, but the reflection on the journey that has brought me here—a journey that demonstrates the power of tennis to transform lives and destroy barriers.

My love for tennis began at the age of six when my two siblings and I crossed paths with Coach Pete Brown, a tennis instructor who led four National Junior Tennis Learning (NJTL) sites and would later become my mentor and father figure. Growing up in South Central Los Angeles, I faced challenges that are all too familiar—a single-parent household, limited resources, and lack of opportunities. But then, tennis entered my world, and everything changed.

Coach’s impact on my life cannot be overstated. He introduced me to the game of tennis and imparted values of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of excellence. I vividly remember the moment he handed me a free tennis racket, a simple act of kindness that ignited my love for the sport and opened doors to educational opportunities.

When I attended Historically Black College and University Jackson State University in Mississippi on a full-scholarship and grew in the world of tennis, the disparities between low-income communities and more affluent ones became obvious. World-class courts, elite resources, and growth opportunities seemed reserved for the privilege. But this reality only fueled my determination to change the narrative and keep the legacy of Pete Brown alive in the same community that helped me.

In 2009, after Coach Brown passed away, I assumed the role of CEO and Executive Director of the Pete Brown Junior Tennis Program (PBJTP), determined to level the playing field. This program, named in his honor, became my platform to help bridge the gap and ensure that children from underserved communities, like the one I grew up in, have access to the same opportunities and resources as anyone else.

Through our program, we provide top-tier coaching, training, mentorship, educational support, and a nurturing environment that encourages personal growth. We strive to make tennis a sport of inclusivity by passing down lessons of discipline, focus, and dedication that go beyond the court.

One of the biggest misconceptions of tennis is that it is an elitist sport only accessible to those with significant financial resources, but with the help of the United States Tennis Association Foundation (USTAF) and  the City of LA Recs and Parks, PBJTP, PlayLA and other community tennis programs in LA are on a mission to change the perception that tennis is only for the wealthy. The newly renovated courts at Harvard Park send a powerful message—that communities with limited resources deserve world-class facilities, resources, and the chance to dream big.

We are excited that USTAF has made a commitment to  upgrade Harvard Park Tennis Courts and provide high-quality resources for our youth and the community.

If you have ever been interested in learning more about tennis or just want to celebrate with the community, come to the dedication ceremony of these new courts at Harvard Park on Thursday, July 20 from 10 am to 1 pm.  There’ll be something for everyone including a special guest and top ranked player Frances Tiafoe aka “Big Foe”, music, kid activities, and free adult health screenings. Representatives from PBJTP and PlayLA will also be available to talk to the community about tennis programs at the park, its health benefits and demonstrate tennis fundamentals. 

And remember, tennis doesn’t have to be just for those that have the means. It is another vehicle that can transform the lives of the youth in our community. I should know because I was one, and we deserve opportunities too.

To learn more about USTAF’s commitment to providing quality courts and access to tennis programs across LA, visit ustafoundation.com/LA.  For more information on PlayLA and the Pete Brown Junior Tennis Program, visit laparks.org/play-la and pbjtp.com.