My Generation: Net Results, Tennis, Sports, Giving Back, Local Heros—AARP

Net Results Tennis Pro Prepares Kids for the Court and the Classroom

' I know I can create champions in life'

Arthur Ashe and Willis Thomas were childhood teammates. While Arthur went on to become one of the greatest tennis legends of all time, Willis applied his skills in a different way. For more than 35 years, Thomas has been teaching youths the game of tennis. But these children are learning more than serves and backhands; they are also learning life skills and gaining confidence. Many of Thomas's students view him as a father figure and a friend. Through his work at the , Thomas teaches his pupils how to keep their eyes on the ball—both on the court and in the classroom. Thomas says he hopes to produce champions in life.

visited Thomas during one of his sessions to discover his secrets to turning around the lives of children.

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