Finding His Voice: Keng's SPUT Journey

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.