This is my last E-News article and I can say unequivocally it has been an honor and a privilege to serve as your President. What a gift it has been and I thank you for the opportunity! These last two years have proven to me the greatness of this sport of tennis and of Kentucky lies in the people who love, support and share it with all. Every event in which I have participated, every complaint I have heard, every squeal of joy over a winning shot or game, every ecstatic smile and every productive meeting have all backed up my love for this great game.
I began this incredible journey two years ago with a new and outstanding Executive Director, Jason Miller, and an unbelievably talented and hard working staff comprised of Stacey Croley (Community Development), Bryan Hash (Competitive and Recreational Tennis), Kathy Klein (Adult Leagues), Kim Lonnemann (Marketing and Promotions), Taylor Tully (Administration and Program Development) and Tim McCollum (USTA Southern Tennis Service Representative). We are so lucky to have a staff such as this promoting tennis in our state. They are the best in the country and I can state this with absolute certainty.
Perhaps, most important are all the volunteers and tennis ambassadors out in their respective communities tirelessly promoting the game of tennis. They are what makes the sport of tennis great! I have thoroughly enjoyed working with you through the laughter, tears, frustration, and exultation. It has been a pleasure. I applaud all of you as it is at the grassroots level that tennis is truly shared and how it grows. THANK YOU!!!
Also, I am so pleased and excited to leave you in the best possible hands. Our incoming President, Rainey Johns will bring new ideas and a new perspective to tennis in Kentucky. She is and has been an outstanding volunteer and promoter of tennis in her Community and across the state. She is a great asset and we are lucky to have her as our new President.
Finally, it is from the bottom of my heart that I thank each and everyone of you for giving me all the precious memories over the past two years. I will cherish them and keep them close to my heart. It has meant so very much to me. In addition, I look forward to 2018 as President of the Raise A Racquet Foundation and all of the possibilities it brings.
So, please go out into your communities and share the joy that is Tennis! It will make a difference in someone’s life. “Tennis…It All Matters!”
Dell