Venus Williams, the world’s number two-ranked women’s tennis player and role model to millions of youngsters worldwide, will make her first visit to Arthur Ashe Youth Tennis and Education (AAYTE), 4842 Ridge Ave., on Thursday, July 8 at 2:30 PM. to meet with the young people of Philadelphia who participate in AAYTE programs. Venus will also be available for stand up questions and answers from the media following her outdoor stadium court session with the youth.
Youngsters from the more than 6,500 young people who participate in AAYTE’s year-round tennis, education, life skills, and leadership development programs at the Arthur Ashe Youth Tennis and Education Center, as well as programs held in schools, recreation centers, and faith-based institutions in Philadelphia, Camden, NJ, Ardmore, and Norristown, will fill the Center’s Stadium Court to welcome Venus Williams to Philadelphia.
Venus will share some words of inspiration and answer questions from the young people, as well as hit with several AAYTE players.
“We are honored to have the opportunity to host Venus Williams at our Center. She is a compelling role model for young people across the world, and especially for tennis playing girls who admire her game and her presence as a powerful African-American woman,” said Kenny Holdsman, President of Arthur Ashe Youth Tennis and Education.
“Venus in many ways has directly benefited from the life and legacy of Arthur Ashe who worked to ensure that tennis in this country and around the world was accessible to all people, regardless of race and class. I am certain that her choice to spend time with young people from Arthur Ashe Youth Tennis and Education is in large part fueled by her desire to both honor our namesake and to give back to those who are coming up in the next generation,” Holdsman said.
Venus’ visit to AAYTE is in large part due to the generosity of the Philadelphia Area Lincoln Mercury Dealers Association.
Venus will be competing at Villanova University later that night in a World TeamTennis match for the Washington Kastles against the Philadelphia Freedoms. As part of the Freedoms’ youth community outreach, 150 AAYTE young people will be attending the match. For more information on the Freedoms visit www.philadelphiafreedoms.com.
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