Ten young people got to enjoy a New York minute they'll never forget thanks to the USTA Foundation. One boy and one girl ages 10-18 representing nine National Junior Tennis and Learning (NJTL) chapters around the country were selected as winners of the 22nd annual USTA Foundation NJTL Essay Contest presented by Deloitte.

The students' winning essays were selected from more than 1,200 entries, and the questions posed to contestants in the 2022 NJTL Essay Contest were nods to former New York City Mayor David Dinkins, one of tennis’ most ardent supporters. Dinkins believed that tennis instills confidence, character, sportsmanship and teamwork, and that the sport presents an opportunity for youth to achieve their dreams. In 350 words or less, participants wrote an essay that addressed the following questions: “Do you agree that tennis develops these positive qualities?; Are there other skills or positive aspects gained from playing tennis?; What are your dreams? How can tennis help you achieve those dreams and develop meaningful relationships?”

Each winner, along with a parent or legal guardian, received a trip to New York City for a special city tour from Sept. 29 to Oct. 2. The weekend of activities included visits to iconic attractions including the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum; a New York Yankees game; and the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, where the winners were honored at an awards luncheon and played tennis on the NTC's practice courts. Former USTA President Katrina Adams, a close friend of Mayor Dinkins, was the keynote speaker.

The weekend closed out with a trip to one of the world’s most unique observation decks and immersive art experiences: Summit One Vanderbilt, which is located atop the fourth-largest skyscraper in New York City. Deloitte, the world’s largest professional services organization, is the presenting sponsor of the NJTL essay contest and weekend celebration in New York City.

“We are excited to award these essay winners with a tremendous interactive weekend of learning and activities in New York City, thanks to the support of the presenting sponsor Deloitte,” said Dan Faber,USTA Foundation Chief Executive. “The opportunity to share their NJTL experiences and learn more about Mayor Dinkins through an essay contest showcases one more way that our sport can be an impactful and life-changing experience for this next generation of future leaders.”

The winners of the 2022 USTA Foundation NJTL Essay Contest presented by Deloitte are:

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