Be Legendary is an International Tennis Hall of Fame (ITHF) initiative designed to inspire and empower youth (ages 10-18) at tennis programs around the world by offering them unique access to the history of the sport, its values, and legendary players. The goal of the program is to teach kids all the incredible life lessons the sport has to offer through the lens of the Hall of Fame, help them foster a deeper connection to the sport, and encourage them to find their personal greatness, both on and off the court.
IMPACT ON YOUTH
The Be Legendary program is designed to have a lasting impact on young participants. Research has shown that by studying the careers and values of sports legends and then meeting these legends in person, students gain powerful insights into the importance of integrity, determination, and teamwork. These experiences often foster a deeper personal connection to the sport, enhance self-efficacy, and encourage the adoption of positive traits essential for success both in the sport and in life.
AMBASSADORS
Kim Clijsters and Fellow Hall of Famers
BE LEGENDARY, KEY COMPONENTS
The ITHF program comes to life through four pillars,
each location could include the following:
1. INTERACTIVE HISTORY LESSON AND CURRICULUM:
Through a professionally developed curriculum, youth participants will delve into the history of tennis and the careers and personal attributes of Tennis Hall of Fame Inductees. They will explore what makes these athletes legendary, gaining insights into the perseverance, discipline, and character that define their success.
2. HALL OF FAMER VISIT AND IN-PERSON TENNIS EXPERIENCE:
Each program culminates in a two-day immersive experience where student-athletes engage with historical tennis artifacts and meet and interact with a Hall of Famer. This curated experience includes on- and off-court activities, providing a unique opportunity for youth to learn directly from the Legend. These activities are designed to reinforce the core values of tennis, allowing students to witness these traits in action and consider how they are reflected in their own lives.
3. FIELD TRIP TO PROFESSIONAL TENNIS TOURNAMENT:
After interacting with the Hall of Famer, participants will attend a local professional tournament. This experience exposes them to high-level competition and allows them to see the skills and values discussed in action on the world stage.
4. CULMINATING WEEKEND AT THE INTERNATIONAL TENNIS HALL OF FAME:
After the program, two exceptional students and a chaperone will be selected to visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame. This visit will be a capstone experience, providing an in-depth exploration of the sport’s history and the legacy of its greatest players.
GET INVOLVED
We invite supporters and donors to join the ITHF and partner organizations to inspire the next generation through tennis history and legends. Your support will help us bring this motivational opportunity to more youth tennis programs worldwide, providing them with the invaluable Be Legendary experiences that will shape their futures.
For more information on the roles and responsibilities of the International Tennis Hall of Fame, participating youth organizations, and professional tennis tournaments view or download the guide.
Fill out the form below for more information on how your youth organization can get involved in the Be Legendary program:
CONTACT INFORMATION
For more information about the Be Legendary program or to donate, please contact the International Tennis Hall of Fame at mmarano@tennisfame.com or (401) 324-4057
Bryan brothers, Kim Clijsters help connect youngsters to history with "Be Legendary"
The International Tennis Hall of Fame's year-long initiative made its third stop, at Indian Wells.
