What is PASS About?

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It's about serving dis-advantaged children. We define this as: somewhere there is another student who has more opportunities and advantages to excel.

Many of our low socio-economic students have never taken structured lessons, played organized sports, or tried this sport called tennis. Students are encouraged to focus and strive to meet the realistic standards we set. PASS inspires and disciplines them to excel in an environment that does not necessarily promote excellence.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    

Our lessons have always been no cost; we tell students the payment for their lesson is:

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  • accepting responsibility about attendance
  • displaying good citizenship in the classroom and on court
  • giving good effort in their studies and on the tennis court
  • being sincerely grateful to coaches and volunteers who donate time and provide opportunities
  • making the most of the opportunity in front of them

The Result?
  • a fire in the eyes that says "I am good at this"
  • a desire for a new challenge
  • a joyful smile that reflects accomplishment
  • a genuine thankful attitude for anything they receive
  • an 'Excellence Mentality' = good work ethic + positive attitude + consistently striving to improve

Our tag line has a meaning of its own:

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Success is often defined as money, education or status. We define success as it relates to character: 'attaining significance in who I am'.

Tennis, the perfect vehicle, teaches students to overcome obstacles, deal with challenges and strive to be their best.

This formula brings our program to fruition:

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  1. Once a child understands success is 'significance in who I am.'
  2. They discover it is okay to dream.
  3. They realize they are learning/practicing skills to attain that dream.
  4. They choose to strive for their dream.
  5. They value education and any opportunity to learn.
  6. They practice resourcefulness by seizing opportunities that become available.
  7. Look out! 

We are confident this model will produce: 
  • students who appreciate opportunity
  • young adults of good character 
  • many good tennis players.