Kailee Grabbe
Age 21, senior at Purdue University
Lead Instructor at National Junior Tennis League
Through her work at the National Junior Tennis League (NJTL), Award winner Kailee Grabbe, a senior at Purdue University, says, “I learned that a lot of kids really do have it bad at home, and it showed me how important my job is and home much they need someone to work with them. There are also many kids who can lift your spirit and really affect you in ways you never expected or thought possible. Working with kids is an amazing experience.”
Kirsten Smith, Program Director at NJTL, says Grabbe also taught her campers other important life and healthy living skills, “She taught with clear and high expectations, consistency and humility to ensure that each student had a pleasant experience while under her watch.”
Although focused on tennis instruction, the NJTL encouraged students to participate in the National Arthur Ashe Essay and Art Contest. The contest had the kids describe what this quote from Ashe meant to them: “From what we get, we make a living; what we give, however, makes a life.”
While NJTL’s goal was to have at least 33% of students from each site submit an essay or artwork, 41% of Grabbe’s sites submitted work. “Through this contest, Kailee had a direct impact on her kids’ view of the importance of giving back to others and their community,” said Smith.
The National Junior Tennis League of Indianapolis' purpose is to fulfill Arthur Ashe's vision of offering low-cost tennis and life skills instruction to children, regardless of socio-economic circumstances. NJTL strives to keep children healthy and active. The program serves as a foundation from which to build self-esteem, encourage youth interest in physical activity and foster a lifelong love of the sport of tennis.
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