The WWTA Scholarship program supports our mission of promoting the game and spirit of tennis in Western Wake County. Although this is not a skills based award, the program supports the continued growth of youth skills in those showing dedication and promise, while also recognizing community involvement and volunteerism.
Applicants must live within the WWTA service area zip codes: 27502, 27511, 27512, 27513, 27518, 27519, 27523, 27526, 27539, 27540, 27560, 27592. Additional scholarship and grant opportunities for youth and college students are also available through the USTA Foundation and Southern Tennis Foundation. Deadlines are typically earlier in the year than our WWTA Scholarships.
To be considered for the Elementary, Middle or High School scholarships, players must be nominated by their coach or pro. Coaches/pros can nominate deserving youth by submitting the online nomination form by March 15, 2025. Coach/pro nomination forms are below and live during the nomination period. Each nominee will then be notified and asked to submit an application by April 11, 2025.
Graduating Senior Scholarships do not require a nomination. Those individuals who would like to apply can do so using the link at the bottom of this page. Application is due by April 11, 2025. Transcripts and references must be postmarked by April 11, 2025.
The Scholarship Committee will review the applications and select the recipients. All nominees will receive notification of their status no later than May 9, 2025. Please email Scholarships for any additional information.
2024 WWTA Youth Scholarship Awards:
Elementary School Camp Scholarship – $250 – Coach/Pro Nomination Form
Grinder & Garcia Family Dentistry Middle School Camp Scholarship – $250 – Coach/Pro Nomination Form
High School Camp Scholarship – $250 – Coach/Pro Nomination Form
College Scholarship – $1,000 – up to 2 Awarded – College Scholarship Form
2024 WWTA Scholarship Recipients
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| College Scholarship:
Ayeka Wallace w/Coach Mic Wallace In my capacity as Director of Junior Tennis at Sunset Club and Head Women’s Varsity Coach at Holly Springs High School, I have had the privilege of closely observing Ayeka’s remarkable dedication, skill, & sportsmanship on the tennis court. Ayeka is an exceptional athlete who has demonstrated an extraordinary level of commitment to the sport of tennis. One of her standout qualities is her unparalleled work ethic. She is known for her relentless practice routines, attention to technique, and continuous efforts to improve her skills and approaches training sessions with enthusiasm and determination, setting an example for her teammates and peers. Ayeka possesses exceptional sportsmanship and leadership on and off the court. She is a team player who fosters a positive and collaborative atmosphere among her peers. Her ability to motivate and inspire others is truly commendable, making her not only an asset to the team but also to the broader tennis community. Beyond her athletic achievements, Ayeka maintains a strong academic record, demonstrating her commitment to both sports and academics. Ayeka’s passion for tennis, combined with her outstanding character, leadership, and sportsmanship, make her a deserving candidate for the scholarship program. |
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Elementary School Scholarship: Owen Ligay w/Coach David Marquina & more! “As an 8-year-old Owen’s enthusiasm and passion for the game is unique, his love for the game is reflected on the court by his work ethic. I would love to keep fostering his love for the game, and a scholarship could help me achieve this wonderful goal.” Owen’s dream is to run with the Wolfpack and play college tennis at NC State! He loves school and he loves tennis, and this scholarship would be a very positive move in the right direction for him to achieve his educational and tennis dreams. He would love the opportunity and would be proud to represent the WWTA as their scholarship recipient.” |
Middle School Scholarship: Katherine Hendrickson w/Coach Mic Wallace “Katherine is a dedicated young player with sharp skills, awesome coach ability and an extremely positive attitude. Her willingness to help and her positive attitude was the reason I recommended her as a volunteer coach with two Junior Programs. She jumped on the opportunity and she loves the kids. She has been a great asset and is very conscientious! She plans to try out for the high school team next year. She reached State level play in Junior Team Tennis last year, 2023. She also was a semi finalist in a Circuit Training Tournament in February. Katherine takes the initiative to organize her own play time with team mates. She is a good friend as well as a great role model to others. “ |
High School Scholarship: Samantha Barnes w/Coach Stacie Fernstrum “Samantha is an amazing girl. She has such a positive attitude, works hard and is always bouncing and smiling. She stepped up and played court 6 when a player was injured (Panther Creek team). She took that role very serious, and I think she grew a lot as a player. Samantha fit right in with the team and was a great teammate. She told us there are 2 very good rising freshman next year and stated she was planning to work hard in the off season to get into top 6 even though she knows the competition will be tough. I know she volunteers with WWTA. I have no doubt she is like a ray of sunshine with the athletes.” |
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High School Scholarship: Ankith Dharanikota w/Coach Stacie Fernstrum “Ankith is a hard worker on the court. His goal is to make top 6 on the Panther Creek team. He has spent the off season working on that goal. Ankith was a freshman last year. He started out very quiet, but as the season went on he started to come out of his shell! It was fun to watch him grow and become an active participant on the team! He is always smiling and is nice to everyone.” |
High School Scholarship: Meredith Overcash w/Coach Courtney Jordan “Meet Meredith, the tennis sensation who brings more than just skill to the court. With her exceptional leadership, Meredith inspires her teammates to new heights. Off the court, she’s not just smart but driven to improve her tennis game. Meredith is not satisfied with good – she’s on a mission to become great. Watch out for this dynamic player as she serves a winning combination of leadership, intelligence, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in every match.” |
High School Scholarship: Max Gao w/Coach Stacie Fernstrum “Max is a character on the Panther Creek Tennis team. On one hand he is one of the most focused players I have ever seen on court. On the other hand, he has a great time with his teammates. His energy keeps players motivated and his sense of humor keeps them laughing. He is a great teammate. When playing doubles, he builds his doubles partner up. He will also offer constructive advice to teammates. He is strong academically and participates in several clubs. He has a job coaching tennis in a group setting with i9 and also offers private lessons for younger players.” |