Education Matters: Tennis Champion Sloane Stephens Inspires Students

At Edison Bethune Charter Academy kids are literally lining up to learn the game of tennis.

It’s a game that most kids aren’t exposed to until they reach middle school.

Salvador Ornelas, an Edison Bethune student, said, "It’s exciting because people don’t get to do it in other schools and it’s like an opportunity for us." 

Here at an elementary school, located in one of Fresno’s most disadvantaged neighborhoods, students like Desiree Cooper, who had never played tennis before, are now thinking about how far they could go with this game. They remember when they began to believe they could; when Sloane Stephens came.

They all remember the day professional tennis player Sloane Stephens visited their school. She also brought along NBA player Quincy Pondexter. The two were welcomed like rock stars.

For Stephens, it was an opportunity to introduce the students to a game she says has given her so much.

"I think its important because I grew up here. I’m from Fresno and obviously coming from such a small town, playing in the sport that I do, traveling around the world, it’s important to let kids know that anything is possible.  You can get to where I am," said Stephens.

Stephens has played against some of the best in her sport, including Serena Williams. She is currently ranked 42 in the world and is serious about giving kids in disadvantaged neighborhoods the opportunity to learn the game.

"For me I think its really important for me to give back and make sure the kids are able to play and to make sure they have a place to play and make sure it’s a safe environment and it’s always really fun," explains Stephens.

Stephens established the Sloane Stephens Foundation and partnered with the Fresno County Office of Education to start an after school tennis program at Edison Bethune. Foundation Director Ronald Smith says the students are learning more than just a game.

"We can also help them understand and appreciate how playing tennis and staying physically fit are two things that go hand in hand," said Smith.

With the help of a grant, they were able to bring in a coach, purchase nets, racquets and tennis balls. 

"I’m very grateful they come and sponsor us and just get to know us," said student Desiree Cooper.

You can bet these kids will never forget the day Sloane Stephens came to their school.