Leslie Banks started tennis at age 3 and never looked back. Now, as the founder of Serve the Future, she’s using her lifelong love for the game to empower underserved youth through tennis, opening doors many never thought possible.

From her early days growing up in a competitive tennis family to coaching at just 15, Leslie shares her journey of grit, resilience, and growth within the tennis world. She dives into the challenges of transitioning from coaching at clubs in Houston to stepping out on her own in Phoenix, where she followed her calling to create a nonprofit dedicated to making tennis accessible for all.

In this episode, Leslie pulls back the curtain on the real behind-the-scenes of building and sustaining a nonprofit, including the emotional and financial challenges that come with the mission. She shares stories of students whose lives have been transformed through tennis—like the student who is now attending MIT—and how focusing on these success stories fuels her through the toughest days.

Leslie reminds us that to create true impact, you need flexibility, passion, and a willingness to learn and adapt. Whether you’re a coach, player, or parent, you’ll walk away inspired to look beyond yourself and see how tennis can change lives—both on and off the court.

If you would like to donate to Serve The Future or learn more about this amazing nonprofit. Go check out their website, where STF is helping underprivileged kids learn tennis and leadership skills for success. https://www.servethefuture.org/

KEY POINTS:

✅ The grit it takes to build a nonprofit from the ground up

✅ How tennis teaches independence, resilience, and life skills

✅ Why creating community is key to growing the game

✅ The power of focusing on your “why” during hard days

✅ Actionable insights for anyone looking to serve the next generation

If you’ve ever wondered how you can give back through tennis—or need a reminder of why tennis is more than just a sport—this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen now on the HTP Podcast, and join us in changing the culture of tennis, one conversation at a time.

Ever wondered what it’s really like chasing the pro tennis dream? In this episode of the HTP Podcast, Gira sits down with Amanda Moore (Fink), former top 300 player, tennis scholarship to the University of Southern California, and passionate coach, to unpack her journey from age 8 with a racquet in hand to the professional circuit.

Amanda shares the raw realities of life on tour—from the independence and confidence tennis builds to the quiet loneliness between matches.

She dives into the importance of setting realistic goals, understanding your travel and support needs, and planning your path if you’re considering the pro tour. Whether you’re a junior dreaming of the next level or a parent wanting a clearer view of the tennis world, this episode brings real talk and encouragement for your journey.

Key Points:

✅ Amanda's tennis journey: starting from age 8, top 5-10 national junior, USC standout, top 300 in the world.

✅ Life lessons from tennis: independence, resilience, problem-solving, and maturity.

✅ The realities of pro tennis: travel challenges, financial strain, and isolation on tour.

✅ Advice for aspiring pros: setting realistic goals, understanding travel/support needs.

✅ The importance of planning, managing expectations, and defining success in tennis.

In this episode, Nicole Fintell shares her journey from a 7-year-old tennis camper to 2x Texas state champion, D1 college athlete, high-performance junior coach, college coach, and USTA Southwest’s junior player development manager.

We explore the ups and downs of junior tennis, the challenges of isolation, and why it’s essential to focus on long-term development.

Tennis is more than a sport—it’s a lifelong teacher.

Whether you're a player, coach, or parent, you’ll gain practical insights into navigating the challenges and joys of tennis.

Key Points:

1️⃣ Start Young, Grow Strong: Nicole began tennis at age 7, showing how early exposure can ignite a lifelong love for the sport.

2️⃣ Growth Over Instant Success: She emphasizes focusing on long-term improvement rather than chasing quick wins, teaching juniors the value of patience in progress.

3️⃣ Tennis Builds Life Skills: The sport instills resilience, adaptability, and independence, preparing players for challenges on and off the court.

4️⃣ Opportunities Through Tennis: Tennis opened doors for travel, education, and lifelong friendships, proving it’s more than just a game.

5️⃣ Navigating the Journey Matters: Now as a USTA Junior Player Development Manager, Nicole helps parents, players, and coaches navigate the tennis journey with support, perspective, and clarity.