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From Little Sister to Leader: Jaileah's SPUT Journey

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 20:11:06 GMT

Sometimes the best journeys start with a simple moment. For Jaileah, it was watching her older brother Chueshe take tennis lessons with SPUT. That admiration sparked a question to her parents—"Can I play tennis too?"—that would open the door to what became a defining chapter of her life with Saint Paul Urban Tennis.

Since then, Jaileah has embraced nearly every opportunity SPUT offers. She started with summer and fall lessons, then progressed to Junior Team Tennis, and eventually earned a spot on the competitive SPUTniks team. As she grew older, her journey came full circle: she joined the Warrior Leadership Program and became a coach herself, passing on the same passion that first drew her to the courts.

Her enthusiasm shines brightest when she talks about the summer of 2022—her first season coaching tennis. "It is a summer that warmed my heart, and I made so many memories with my students and coaches from SPUT," Jaileah recalls warmly. That transformative experience taught her a powerful lesson: "I had learned that I will make an impact on these students' lives just as the coaches who coached me growing up." It was a summer of growth, new friendships, and self-discovery.

Through programs like the Warrior Leadership Program and coaching, Jaileah developed strong leadership skills. But perhaps the most valuable lesson came through personal challenges. When COVID-19 stopped her from playing tennis for several years, she faced a difficult decision about returning to the sport. "Although I was scared to go back to playing tennis, there were so many people who welcomed me back and supported me," she shares. This experience taught her that "it is never too late to start and that it is okay to start over."

What makes SPUT special for Jaileah? The people and the program that shaped her. "Through SPUT, I met so many amazing people who inspired and still inspire me to be a better person," she reflects. The organization didn't just teach her tennis—it gave her confidence: "SPUT showed me that I need to use my voice and that my voice matters."

Her growth as both a player and person was nurtured by SPUT's unique community approach. "There were many amazing coaches and friends who gave me great advice and knowledge on and off the tennis courts," Jaileah explains. "What people forget is that you can learn so much just by talking to other people and that is how I gained more knowledge about tennis and life."

 The impact of SPUT extends far beyond the tennis court for Jaileah. "It is a program I grew up with and where all my summer memories reside," she says with deep appreciation. "SPUT will always have a special place in my heart, and I will cherish all the memories, whether happy or sad, and people whom I have encountered."

To those facing setbacks or considering a fresh start, Jaileah's journey offers powerful encouragement. Her story proves that with the right support system, it's never too late to return to something you love—and that sometimes starting over leads to the most meaningful experiences of all.

Her journey exemplifies how SPUT's combination of inclusive community, skilled coaching, and diverse opportunities can help young people grow both as athletes and leaders.

From Student to Mentor: Daniel Chang's SPUT Journey

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 19:55:19 GMT

Sometimes the best journeys start with a simple moment. For Daniel Chang, it was discovering tennis through the Warrior Leadership Academy during his sophomore year of high school. That opportunity opened the door to what would become an amazing adventure with Saint Paul Urban Tennis—one that reshaped his entire life trajectory.

"It's funny to think that before high school, I didn't even know tennis was a sport," Daniel reflects. "The thought of tennis becoming such a huge part of my life today was unimaginable." Now a freshman at Century College with plans to transfer to the University of Minnesota to pursue neuroscience, Daniel balances his pre-med studies with an unwavering passion for the sport. His ultimate goal? Becoming a neurosurgeon. Though he jokes, "It's not pro tennis, but it'll do. However, if I somehow get a second growth spurt, I'm going for a Grand Slam."

What makes SPUT special for Daniel? The mentorship. The WLA program gave underprivileged kids like him an opportunity to stay competitive during the winter, offering coaching from not just great coaches but also amazing people who serve as mentors to everyone. This experience was so transformative that after graduating high school, Daniel knew exactly what he wanted to give back.

"I became a coach with SPUT, trying to recreate the same experience that I so very much loved," Daniel shares. But it's about more than just teaching tennis skills. "Most importantly, I'm strengthening my bonds with everyone." He hopes the young players he coaches will see him not just as an instructor, but "as their friend and mentor, someone they can comfortably ask for help with anything."

Despite demanding coursework and study sessions, Daniel's dedication to the courts never wavers. "Somehow I always end up on the courts with my racket and shoes ready to play tennis," he admits with a smile.

 The impact of SPUT extends far beyond the tennis court for Daniel. The program didn't just teach him a sport—it gave him a community, a purpose, and a way to pay forward the mentorship that changed his life.

His journey exemplifies how SPUT's combination of inclusive community, skilled coaching, and leadership opportunities can help young people grow both as athletes and leaders.

Making Every Moment Count: TK's SPUT Story

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 20:08:54 GMT

When Txengkong (TK for short) first joined Saint Paul Urban Tennis, he saw more than just a summer job – he saw a world of possibilities. "I personally joined because I saw all the opportunities," TK shares. "I was able to be a coach, leader, enjoy my environment and lastly get paid for it. It was honestly a win-win situation."

That positive attitude and eagerness to grow helped TK make the most of every program he joined, from the Warriors Leadership Academy to Employment PLUS, summer coaching, and the All City Tournament. His dedication to excellence didn't go unnoticed – he was even named "Best Coach of the Year," a moment he cherishes as one of his finest achievements.

What makes TK's journey special is his determination to learn from every experience. "I always step up when I have a chance to," he explains. "Every program I joined and every experience that I went through gave me a lesson. I always took something out of it."

His growth as a coach particularly stands out. TK remembers his first experience as a head coach as a turning point in his development. "It taught me patience, new ways of creativity, and just allowing myself to be me," he reflects. "I had to be patient with the kids cause they loved to have fun but also be rowdy. Creativity allowed me to make up new drills and games. And lastly, allowing myself to be an adult for the youth while having an inner kid spirit."

The coaching experience didn't just help him lead others – it improved his own tennis game too. "Being a coach vastly increased my knowledge and skills," TK notes. "I was able to grasp the lessons easier and self coach."

For TK, SPUT has become more than just a tennis program – it's a second home. "SPUT was a place that I could return to. All my friends were here, the adults were welcoming and always helpful," he shares. He especially values how the organization helps young people develop: " SPUT gives the youth the path to grow. That very path allows them to grow, learn, and participate in opportunities that are rare for others."

Looking back on his journey, TK has simple but powerful advice for current SPUT participants: "Enjoy! Enjoy all the experiences and opportunities that SPUT gives. You can always take something out of it. Everything can be fun if you enjoy and live in the moment."

TK's story exemplifies how embracing opportunities and maintaining a positive attitude can lead to remarkable personal growth. His journey with SPUT has been, in his words, "fun but reflective" – a perfect combination for developing both tennis skills and life skills.

From Casual Player to Community Leader: Yusra's SPUT Story

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 20:00:00 GMT

Sometimes the best journeys start with a simple moment. For Yusra, it was playing tennis with her dad when SPUT Tennis Director, Vilai, spotted her potential three years ago. That chance encounter opened the door to what would become an amazing adventure with Saint Paul Urban Tennis.

Since then, Yusra has embraced every opportunity SPUT offers. "I've done almost all the programs that SPUT has to offer," she shares proudly, "from coaching to being coached myself, Warriors, and Employment PLUS – I've almost done it all."

Her enthusiasm particularly shines through when she talks about her experience as a coach this summer. "I would always wake up excited for another day to see them laugh, smile, and make jokes," Yusra recalls warmly. "These are some valuable moments that I will always remember."

Through programs like Employment PLUS (EP) and coaching, Yusra developed strong leadership skills. Being trusted as a head coach gave her hands-on experience in guiding others. But perhaps the most valuable lesson came through personal challenges: "To never give up," she states firmly. "I've learned this through my own tennis game, getting injured, not playing for months then coming back and not being very good. I had to learn to not give up and keep pushing."

What makes SPUT special for Yusra? "The people," she answers without hesitation. "The many different people you'll meet is an amazing thing that makes SPUT unique." She particularly values the program's inclusive atmosphere: "The kindness that is shown by everyone here is just one of the reasons the SPUT community is so lively, never excluding anyone for any reason."

Her growth as a player has been supported by SPUT's unique coaching approach. "Being taught by multiple high-level coaches that don't care about your experience with tennis, rather your own knowledge and actually understand what they're trying to teach you has helped," Yusra explains.

The impact of SPUT extends far beyond the tennis court for Yusra. "The friends I've made through this program and the many different skills that I was able to improve on will always impact my life," she reflects.

To those considering joining SPUT programs, Yusra's advice is straightforward but powerful: "Try and do all the programs if you can, the experiences are worth it."

Her journey exemplifies how SPUT's combination of inclusive community, skilled coaching, and diverse opportunities can help young people grow both as athletes and leaders.

More Than Tennis Serving Up Future Success

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 19:44:19 GMT

Showcasing the Off-Court Impact of the Saint Paul Urban Tennis Program

The Saint Paul Urban Tennis (SPUT) program is about so much more than just tennis. We use tennis as an entry point to engage youth and spark their interest, but our true focus is on helping them develop critical life skills, build strong relationships, and realize their full potential. These “life skills” developed through our program are the building blocks of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) that are critical components of future success in life.

Through our high-quality after-school and summer programming, SPUT participants learn invaluable lessons that go far beyond the tennis court. Our holistic approach ensures that young people not only improve their tennis skills, but also see tangible benefits in their academic performance, behavior, and future employment prospects.

What Do Participants Learn?

Better Grades: 48% of SPUT participants see improvements in their academic performance. Our programs complement classroom learning and help cultivate essential skills like focus, discipline, and time management.

Improved Behavior: 73% of SPUT participants exhibit fewer behavior problems and decreased likelihood of engaging in at-risk activities. Sports provide an outlet for energy and frustration, while our coaching teaches valuable conflict resolution and social skills.

College Readiness: 81% of SPUT participants apply to college. The positive relationship between sports participation and academic achievement is evident across socioeconomic levels. Our programming also includes college prep workshops and mentoring to set students up for success.

Developing Future Leaders Mentorship

The Warrior Leadership Academy provides a robust employment mentorship program that equips participants with essential skills for future high-paying jobs. 95% of coaches reported that this experience helped them grow as leaders and gain skills they'll carry into their futures. Over 80% noted significant improvements in problem-solving, teamwork, communication, role modeling, public speaking, and taking initiative. This impactful program prepares young people to tackle challenges, connect with others, and lead by example.

Get Involved

The transformative impact of SPUT extends far beyond the boundaries of the tennis court. By supporting our programs, you can partner with our youth to become future leaders in the Community. Please join us on this transformative journey.

Finding His Voice: Keng's SPUT Journey

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 19:19:07 GMT

The chance to meet new people and make friends is what initially brought Keng to Saint Paul Urban Tennis. Little did he know that this decision would transform him from a self-described "indoors kind of person" into a confident leader and skilled tennis player.

Through his participation first in our Employment PLUS program, he picked up the skills to coach in our spring, summer, and fall programs. In just eight months, he has grown from a complete beginner at tennis to someone who can rally with varsity-level players. "If you have the drive to get better, it will surely work out in the end," Keng says about his quick progress.

But Keng's biggest change wasn't just about tennis. "SPUT helped me find the courage to speak up more and share my feelings in new ways," he shares. This new confidence has helped him create his own opportunities instead of waiting for things to happen.

One of his favorite SPUT memories came during spring coaching when his young students started calling him the "MVC" - Most Valuable Coach. "My heart just melted away," Keng recalls. This moment perfectly captures the supportive community spirit that makes SPUT special.

The organization's commitment to building community was particularly evident during a recent Warriors team-building camping trip. "We became close friends by singing around the campfire and playing games together. By the time camp ended, I knew everybody's name," Keng shares.

Beyond the courts, SPUT equipped Keng with valuable life skills through the Employment PLUS program, where he learned essential professional skills like resume writing and interviewing. These practical tools, combined with the confidence gained from coaching, have prepared him well for future endeavors.

To current and future SPUT participants, Keng offers this heartfelt advice: "Don't be afraid to talk to new people, they are always willing to talk and get to know you better. Saint Paul Urban Tennis is an amazing community and organization. You just have to find yourself within it."

Keng's story exemplifies how SPUT's programs go far beyond teaching tennis – they build confidence, foster community, and help participants discover their own potential. His SPUT journey shows how the right combination of opportunity and support can transform lives, one serve at a time.

2025 Summer Tennis Programs Guide

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 18:43:03 GMT

Crush Your Summer With Saint Paul Urban Tennis!

Summer tennis lessons are a great way for kids to stay active and develop important life skills. When choosing a program, look for one that is tailored to your child’s age and skill level, is conveniently located, and works with your summer schedule.

Saint Paul Urban Tennis (SPUT) is proud to offer low-cost tennis programs (and scholarships) for youth in the Saint Paul area. Not only will they get to enjoy the sport of tennis, but they will also benefit from the social and physical aspects that come with being part of a sports team.

Find the Right Program for Your Summer

There are a variety of summer programs that SPUT offers for youth of all ages and skill levels. Whether a child is just starting out or looking to improve their game, SPUT has a program for them. In this article, we’ll give you a brief overview of all our summer tennis programs, so you can decide what lessons work best.

2025’s Summer Program Line Up:

Youth Daytime Lessons
Youth Evening Lessons
Junior Team Tennis
Youth Tennis Camps
Adult Tennis Lessons
Adult Tennis League

Our programs are designed to be inclusive and welcoming to everyone, regardless of ability or background. While some programs may be more challenging than others, we always level the playing field when it comes to affordability. Check out our program scholarships page to determine your eligibility for financial assistance.

Youth Daytime Lessons

Our most popular summer program is our youth daytime tennis lessons. With over a dozen sites across St. Paul, we are helping to spread the love of tennis to kids who may have never played before. Youth ages 5 to 18 are welcome to sign up for lessons at the court nearest to them for our 6-week program starting on June 23rd.

Lessons are taught Monday-Thursday by our expert staff of summer coaches, most of which grew up taking our lessons on the same courts. In addition to the tennis drills, kids are taught life and leadership skills that will help them excel in school and face their challenges with confidence. Check out our summer lessons page to find a court and time that works for you this summer.

Daytime Summer Lessons

June 23rd - July 31st
1 hour lessons - 4 days a week
8:30am - 12:30pm
13 available locations
Ages 5 - 18
Cost: $200 (Scholarships available)

Youth Evening Lessons

We know that finding time in the middle of a work day to take your kids to lessons doesn’t work for everybody. That’s why we’ve extended our lesson programs to give more kids the chance to learn our favorite summer sport. Our evening lessons don’t reach as many courts, but their 4:30pm - 7:30pm time frame makes them the perfect option for busy families.

Similar to the daytime program, our evening lessons are 6 weeks long and begin on June 23rd. However, they are held either on Mon/Wed or Tues/Thurs instead of the 4 day weeks of daytime lessons. If this sounds like the program for you, check out our summer lessons page to find out more and register for lessons.

Youth Evening Lessons

June 23rd - July 31st
1 hour lessons - 2 days a week
4:30pm - 7:30pm
7 available locations
Ages 5 - 18
Cost: $100 (Scholarships available)

Junior Team Tennis

SPUT’s competitive tennis programs offer youth a supportive team environment to develop their skills and learn the life lessons that competition provides. Junior Team Tennis (JTT) is an official USTA program to help JV and Varsity level tennis players improve their skills on co-ed teams. Players are divided into teams with others of similar ability level, and teams compete in 12U, 14U and 18U age groups.

JTT players can join a team at either Central, Harding, or Highland for beginner and intermediate groups. The advanced team will practice at Washington Tech in 18U, and Eastview Rec for 12U and 14U divisions. All teams practice from Monday - Wednesday, but only intermediate and advanced teams compete on Thursdays in a round robin league against other area teams.

At the end of summer, the top 5 boys and girls from each team will be invited to play in the USTA sectional tournament on July 22-24. Junior Team Tennis begins June 23rd, for more information and to register visit the JTT page .

Junior Team Tennis

June 23rd - July 31st
2 hour lessons - 4 days a week
1:30pm - 3:30pm
5 available locations
Ages 10 - 18
Cost: Beginner - $225, Intermediate - $300, Advanced - $350

Youth Tennis Camps

In addition to our summer tennis lessons and competitive leagues, we have partnered with several great organizations to bring tennis and educational camps to St. Paul kids. All summer long, Eastview Rec will be hosting 7 unique week-long half-day camps combining tennis lessons with fun off-court activities designed to inspire a love of learning in our youth.

In 2022, we began partnering with area organizations to put on multi-faceted summer camps. Our first partner was The Bakken Museum, who still joins us in putting on a free STTEM (science, technology, tennis, engineering, and math) camp each summer. Each year since, we have partnered with new and exciting organizations to offer even more fun. For more information on all our camps, please visit our youth camps directory.

Adult Tennis Lessons

Whether you’re picking up a racket for the first time, or looking to perfect your backhand slice, our expert coaches have a lesson plan for you. We teach beginner, intermediate, and advanced lessons in two sessions each summer. Classes are one day a week with the first session taking place from May 27th to June 26th, and the second session from July 8th to August 7th.

Our lessons are held at Eastview Rec Center on summer evenings from 6:00pm to 7:30pm. Adult lessons are a great way to stay in shape, meet local players, and keep up with your kids as they advance through their lessons. Check out our adult lessons program for more information and learn about our spring and fall offerings as well.

Adult Tennis League

Connect, compete, and conquer on the courts! Impact Team Tennis offers an exciting co-ed league format perfect for players of all skill levels. Gather your friends, co-workers, or neighbors and join our thriving tennis community.

The 2025 Season of ITT starts on June 16th and continues for 8 weeks until the champion is declared. All matches start at 6:00pm on courts across the cities, as each team selects a home court and takes turns traveling to the chosen courts of other teams. Teams consist of 6-10 players with at least 3 men and 3 women to compete in matches consisting of men’s singles and doubles, women’s singles and doubles, and mixed doubles. Check out our Impact Team Tennis page for more information and register your team today!

SPUT is Your Spot for Summer Tennis!

If you’re looking for a fun and active way to spend your summer while staying within a budget, look no further than Saint Paul Urban Tennis. As a nonprofit, we’re able to make our programs free and accessible to those who could benefit from them the most. There is no cost barrier to entry, rackets and balls are provided, and if you need shoes we can provide those too. By participating in our programs, youth will have the opportunity to develop their tennis skills, make new friends, and discover the leadership abilities they never knew they had.

So what are you waiting for? Sign up for a program with Saint Paul Urban Tennis today and discover the joy of tennis!

SPUT Alumni Spotlight: Ricky Moua

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 10:24:09 GMT

What led you to start your involvement at Saint Paul Urban Tennis?

I was a St. Paul Harding graduate and during my summers and winters, I would participate in the programs that SPUT offered such as Junior Team Tennis, Tournaments, and Warriors. I started playing tennis in sophomore year in high school and after I graduated, I became a coach transitioning from an assistant coach to a head coach, and a coordinator.

What programs were you involved with at your time with SPUT?

I was a part of the regular summer Junior Team Tennis programs along with warriors in the winter. I was able to participate in the All-City Tournament as well where I was given my very first competitive experience as a high school student athlete.

What is your favorite memory with Saint Paul Urban Tennis?

My favorite memory with SPUT is getting to coach and educate other coaches as a coordinator. It was an amazing experience to get to support other folks in the same field as myself that enjoy youth work and athletics. Some things that may seem common to you may not be for others and the joy of sharing knowledge is powerful.

How did SPUT develop you as a leader and get you ready for your future endeavors?

SPUT literally gave me my first job. I’m a big advocate for getting your feet wet and that’s exactly what SPUT did for me. I could have read all the books in the world, learn everything about being a coach, but if I never was able to put my actions into action, then I would never know what I know now. Because of SPUT, I tackle the majority of my duties in life with urgency and careful details.

What’s the biggest lesson or take away you learned at your time with SPUT?

The biggest take away I learned with my time at SPUT is to cherish all the little things in life. I’m in a different job field now but I appreciate all of the amazing and positive memories I was able to get from my years as an assistant and head coach. Those times felt so lost as a young adult learning to adapt to society but so right at the same time.

How did SPUT improve your tennis knowledge and abilities?

SPUT had amazing mentors from all around. We had USPTA professionally certified coaches, Division 1-3 tennis players/coaches, and successful high school coaches to learn from. SPUT improved my tennis knowledge tremendously. As for abilities, when you surround yourself around greatness, you too strive for that level of yourself.

What makes Saint Paul Urban Tennis special to you as an Alum?

SPUT will always hold a special place in my heart as an Alum. It was one of my happiest times of my life as a student athlete, coach, and leader. Getting to work with genuine people, making new friends, and learning to compete as someone who never took part in organized sports. I wouldn’t have had it any other way, I hold no regrets joining SPUT as a student and employee.