About MYLTF
When I look at these kids on the court I see myself. Kids see me and can identify with their doing because I was once in their shoes. Now they believe in themselves and I’ve instilled hope. I would like to introduce myself: Eric “EJ" Jackson. I am a native of Los Angeles, California; I relocated to Atlanta in 1992. I started playing tennis when I was four years old. And I was talented, but even with talent, I needed constant attention and coaching to lead me on the way. And there were several people who helped me to reach my goal. I had several wonderful coaches, from Richard Williams, Rick Davison (former Georgia Tech coach), Nick Saviano (former USTA national coach, and Norman Wilkerson just to name a few, who did everything tennis-wise for me: taught me, corrected me, and arranged transportation and support when I needed it. My parents were totally in my corner, offering encouragement and open-ended support for me as my tennis career grew. Later on, there were people who helped me beyond tennis: I had academic support from a college professor who helped me score well on the SAT and ACT.
About MYLTF
OUR MISSION:
Made You Love Tennis's mission is to impact underserved youth through holistic tennis, education, character development, literacy, and scholarships so that all can achieve academic and athletic excellence.
OUR VISION:
Made You Love Tennis enriches the lives of youth and community through tennis, education, and outreach.
OUR VALUES
Integrity
Instill honesty, truth, sportsmanship and respect
Leadership
Demonstrate responsibility, accountability, and commitment through actions
Inclusion
Ensure all individuals have equal opportunities, access and diversity
Community
Create social and cultural connections of friendships through community
Excellence
Commit to continuous improvement driven by passion and the spirit of love
Why MTLTF
Our Methods and Philosophy
Why MYLT?
Made You Love Tennis is a community-oriented program that impacts youth by introducing tennis as a means of physical activity, social engagement, and personal growth. Since the beginning, the prime focus of this organization has been the kids. The mission of MYLT is to enrich the self-esteem, self-awareness, and self-confidence of people of all ages, backgrounds, disabilities, and skill levels, contributing to our methodology, philosophy, and social connections in the community. MYLT genuinely believes that by providing an open-arms organization to underserved youth and under-resourced communities, there will be a gradual increase in accessibility, promoting healthy lifestyles, strengthening community involvement, and decreasing the number of kids falling into the wrong crowd.
MYLT Methodology
Made You Love Tennis Methodology is holistic tennis that focuses on developing the player as a whole—physically, mentally, and emotionally. This holistic approach aims to create well-rounded individuals who carry the values and principles learned in the sport daily. By nurturing physical, mental, and emotional aspects, this approach sets the stage for youth to reach their full potential and thrive on and off the tennis court.
MYLT Philosophy
Made You Love Tennis Philosophy goes beyond winning to focus on personal growth, continuous improvement, and a genuine love for the sport. Through hard work, self-belief, dedication, and a growth mindset, youth can unlock their true potential and define their version of success in tennis and life. By embracing these principles, youth elevate their tennis performance and cultivate essential skills that translate into success in various areas. Tennis becomes a powerful platform for growth, fulfillment, and positively impacting oneself and others.
Our Partners
Sponsorships and Partners
make the work we do possible.
Made You Love Tennis Foundation