NJTL Leadership Camp 2026: Building Leaders On and Off the Court in Memphis, Tennessee 🎾💙

From June 11–14, 2026, two of Above the Net's outstanding athletes, Caroline and Casey, had the incredible opportunity to represent our program at the Lenny Simpson NJTL Leadership Camp in Memphis, Tennessee.

This unforgettable experience brought together young leaders and talented tennis players from Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee, creating an environment where campers could strengthen both their tennis skills and leadership abilities while forming friendships that will last a lifetime.

More Than Just Tennis

Throughout the camp, participants trained and competed alongside some of the region's top junior players. On the court, they developed their technique, challenged themselves through competitive play, and learned valuable lessons about teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship.

Off the court, campers explored the rich history and culture of Memphis through educational visits to two iconic landmarks:

• The National Civil Rights Museum

• The Stax Museum of American Soul Music

  
  

These experiences encouraged meaningful conversations about leadership, community, perseverance, and using your voice to make a positive impact.

Caroline's Experience

Caroline reflected on how the trip combined athletics, history, and personal growth:

"During June 11–14, 2026, I got the amazing opportunity to travel to Memphis and take part in a Leadership Experience as part of the NJTL summer outreach programs. While in Memphis, I got to train with and compete against top high school players from Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee.

We also visited powerful and impactful places such as the Civil Rights Museum and the Stax Museum. Playing the saxophone myself, the Stax Museum highlighted the importance and connection that music played—and continues to play—in celebrating the strengths and connections of community. Just like music brings people together, tennis continues to build community because of those important lessons we learned in Memphis."

Casey's Experience

Casey shared how the camp helped improve both tennis skills and confidence:

"My NJTL Leadership Camp experience was great. I learned so much. I learned how to improve my serves, and I met so many people I would have never met if it wasn't for the camp. I can't wait for the next NJTL Leadership Camp."

Creating Future Leaders

The NJTL Leadership Camp is about much more than developing stronger tennis players. It helps young athletes grow into confident leaders by encouraging teamwork, communication, cultural awareness, and community engagement.

We're incredibly proud of Caroline and Casey for representing Above the Net with dedication, sportsmanship, and enthusiasm throughout this unforgettable experience. Their experiences in Memphis reflect what our mission is all about—using tennis as a vehicle to inspire leadership, build character, and create opportunities that extend far beyond the court.

We can't wait to see how they'll continue to grow as athletes, leaders, and role models in our community.

🎾 At Above the Net, we're building leaders on and off the court—one experience at a time.