Harlem Junior Tennis & Education Program

The Harlem Junior Tennis & Education Program (HJTEP) develops champions in tennis, education, and wellness. For over 50 years, we’ve provided year-round programming to more than 800 youth from Harlem and across NYC, offering athletic training, academic enrichment, and wellness support. Our holistic approach fosters confidence, leadership, and character, preparing student-athletes to succeed on the court, in the classroom, and in life.

What they experience on the courts, and in our education programs, develops the whole child—in sports, school, and life. Tennis teaches kids essential life skills, sportsmanship, self-discipline, social and emotional competence, and how to fight obesity and lead healthier lives. During their weekly sessions, participants also learn to enhance their communication skills and develop good personal hygiene habits.

At HJTEP, we prioritize academic achievement and provide educational support. The average GPA of our participants is 3.1. (A 2.0 or higher GPA is required to remain in the program.)

• 90% of our participants earn a high school diploma, compared to the 67% of students who graduate from high school citywide and only 25% in Central Harlem.

HJTEP players take tennis seriously, knowing it will enrich their lives. Equally important, our program emphasizes character building. As our players perfect their game and apply the values we teach, they become productive citizens in school, career and life.

• 25% earn tennis scholarships to leading colleges
• 65% receive non-athletic financial aid
• 60% attend college at leading private and public institutions

Our graduates enroll at top colleges and universities, such as:

• Colby
• Columbia University
• Dartmouth College
• Hampton University
• Harvard University
• Howard University
• Morehouse College
• Mt. Holyoke
• NYU
• Rutgers University
• Syracuse University
• Temple University
• Tulane University
• Xavier University of LA