Last week, we learned a lot about the WNBA and its history. This week, we’ll get to know a little more about former professional tennis player Mal Washington and the MaliVali Washington Youth Foundation – a center that promotes education, tennis, and life skills in Jacksonville. I recently stopped in to tour the foundation and to interview Washington about all the wonderful things he’s doing in the community. I even got the chance to play a few rounds of tennis with him and some of the children who attend after school. Before I went to introduce myself, I researched a lot about him, and I wanted to share those facts with everyone.
Things You May Already Know:
- Mal Washington was the second African-American man to reach the grand slam finals since the great Arther Ashe.
- The foundation has served over 100 families.
- The foundation teaches tennis on an everyday basis, as well as skills to get into college.
- The foundation is located in one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Jacksonville, but every child who enters the foundation walks out with their high school diploma.
- Washington retired from tennis after suffering from a knee injury.
Things You May Not Know:
- Washington is hands-on with his foundation. You can find him there all the time, playing tennis with the kids or giving a tour to those interested in learning more about what they have to offer.
- Washington won his first tennis match at the age of 8. He turned pro at age 20.
- All of his siblings were taught to play tennis by their father.
- The foundation takes trips to professional tennis matches regularly.
- The foundation is currently in the works of building a teen center across the street.
Click here to learn more about the MaliVali Washington Youth Foundation.
Written by: Tyrah Walker
