An Important Message from Kirsten Lewis, AYTEF's New Director of Tennis
I could not be more excited to partner with the Atlanta Youth Tennis and Education Foundation as the Director of Tennis. Tennis has always been an incredible vehicle throughout my life, and it has given me several life-changing experiences and led me to meet so many incredible people. My interest has always been for young people and our surrounding communities, and I am beyond grateful for this opportunity to lead the coming together of people and community through the incredible sport of tennis.
Originally from Alabama, I grew up playing southern and national tennis tournaments here in Georgia and have now been a resident of Georgia for the past four years. I often find myself reliving memories formed during my experiences here as a young player which have made my time here unique and special. I played for the University of Kentucky from 2012-2016 (GO CATS) where I competed all four seasons in both singles and doubles for top-20 squads. Following graduation, I was blessed to have the opportunity to coach at the collegiate level, with which I have remained engaged for the past five years. I am currently in my fourth season as the women’s assistant tennis coach at Kennesaw State University and have enjoyed every minute of it. Although the time spent with my athletes has been extremely fulfilling and exciting, the addition of this new role and partnership with AYTEF has provided a new level of meaning to my time on court.
It is a highlight of my week to come and spend time with our AYTEF kids and families. All of our students are an absolute blast to be around, and they bring so much positive energy and joy with them each day. My favorite aspect of my job is interacting with all the unique and fun personalities each student brings to the court. It is so much fun to see each student grow and discover new things in their own way. I am also beyond grateful for the amazing group of men and women I will get to work with on a daily basis in this organization. I cannot thank Debbie Kennedy, David Stolle, David Drew, and our AYTEF Board of Directors enough for placing these families, coaches, and community in my path this year. This sport has left a large imprint on my life, and I’ve learned it truly is a gift worth sharing. I am so looking forward to all of the new families will we meet in the coming year, and all the ways we will be impacted by one another on and off the court.
-Kirsten
