By Nicholas J. Walz, USTAFoundation.com
The USTA Foundation has announced the 10 winners of the 16th annual NJTL Arthur Ashe Essay Contest. The 10 winners, ranging in ages from 10 to 18, were selected out of close to 2,600 entries submitted last month. Each winner received a New York City travel package from Aug. 22 to Aug. 24.
To enter the contest, children were asked to write an essay of 350 words or less, responding to a specific question about Arthur Ashe and his great accomplishments. This year’s question asked: “Arthur Ashe used his time and skills to impact others – how have you used your time and skills learned through tennis and educational programming to impact the lives of those around you?”
A USTA subcommittee selected the winning essays based on knowledge of Arthur Ashe, message clarity and writing style.
Each winner received round-trip airfare to New York City for themselves and a parent/legal guardian; a two-night stay at the Grand Hyatt 42nd Street; tickets to New York’s critically acclaimed theatrical show “THE RIDE”; a Circle Line Liberty Cruise sightseeing tour; and VIP status in the President’s Box during the 2014 Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day presented by Hess on Aug. 23 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.
The weekend wrapped up with an awards luncheon on Aug. 24, hosted by former New York City Mayor and USTA board member David Dinkins, where the winners received an honorary plaque.
The 10 winners of the 2014 Arthur Ashe Essay Contest were selected in the following categories: