SUMMER 2025: A RECORD-BREAKING SEASON FOR TEAMFAME
Summer 2025 was truly one for the record books at the International Tennis Hall of Fame’s NJTL chapter, TeamFAME. From eight weeks of action-packed camp to the return of women’s professional tennis in Newport, a reimagined Induction Celebration, and welcoming Be Legendary youth from around the world—this summer was filled with milestones, memories, and moments that will last a lifetime.
Middle School Campers
Middle school students experienced a dynamic summer that combined growth, service, and adventure. On the court, they sharpened their tennis skills, while off the court they stayed engaged with academic bingo and visits to the Newport Public Library. They also gave back through community service and enjoyed unique excursions—from Rail Explorers and a water day at Brenton Point Park to sailing aboard the Schooner Aurora.
Rising 5th Graders
At the Chris Evert Learning Center, our rising 5th graders embraced four weeks of camp designed to build both tennis fundamentals and teamwork. Many were first introduced to the sport through TeamFAME’s community outreach clinics. Thanks to dedicated local volunteers, that outreach grew to a record-breaking five sites across Newport County this summer, bringing the joy of tennis to even more children in the community!
Return of Women’s Professional Tennis
For the first time in over 30 years, the International Tennis Hall of Fame hosted women’s professional tennis alongside men’s competition at the Hall of Fame Open, a combined ATP/WTA 125 tournament. TeamFAME students were at the heart of the action: a record number served as ball kids, high schoolers gained hands-on work experience in retail, operations, and grounds, and others supported our sustainability efforts by helping guests sort compost, recycling, and trash. Students also took part in unforgettable moments, including a pro clinic with ATP player Alafia Ayeni, a Q&A session with WTA player Ena Shibahara, and participation in trophy presentations.
Sunset Slam & US Open Experience
Tournament week also marked TeamFAME’s fifth annual Sunset Slam, where we celebrated our newest graduates. Despite the rain, the joy and pride in our students’ accomplishments shined bright. Just a few weeks later, graduates traveled to New York for the US Open, cheering on favorites like Chris Eubanks, Reilly Opelka, and the legendary Venus Williams while experiencing the thrill of tennis on one of its biggest stages.
Induction Celebration Weekend
We closed the summer with the reimagined Induction Celebration Weekend. TeamFAME students and families joined in the festivities at Fame Fest, cheered at the Hall of FameCelebrity Pro Classic, and danced while clapping their hands at the Fitz and the Tantrums concert. Four standout TeamFAME students—selected by peers and coaches for exemplifying the core values of tennis—participated in the Be Legendary Program, joining youth from around the world for a once-in-a-lifetime weekend of leadership, friendship, and tennis. Together, they witnessed history as Bob & Mike Bryan and Maria Sharapova were inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Looking Ahead
TeamFAME is excited to launch its eighth year of the after-school program—now serving students through 12th grade for the very first time. This milestone shows our students can stay with TeamFAME from their very first day on court through high school graduation, with consistent support for their growth in tennis , academics, and life.
We’re especially proud to cheer on the Rogers High School Girls Tennis Team, led this year by a TeamFAME senior serving as captain. With new opportunities ahead, strong community support, and a foundation of record-breaking summer memories, the 2025-26 school year promises to be another remarkable chapter in the TeamFAME story.
