#MAKEITHAPPEN

There’s passion, and then there’s passion. When all areas of your life—work, family, leisure—revolve around one thing, that's saying something. Meet Simone Spigner, Director of Grassroots Tennis at the Harlem Junior Tennis and Education Program, who lives and breathes tennis.

“Between my students and my own son, I'm always on court or doing something related to tennis," Spigner tells us.

When she’s not at Grassroots, Spigner also coaches with Net Generation, an organization that empowers both students and coaches with expertise from the U.S. Tennis Association. It’s aimed at bringing tennis to the next generation, building up students' confidence and love for the game. It’s her own love of the game that motivates Spigner.

"Tennis has been such a blessing to my family and what a great way to show my gratitude—by working in the field that has brought us so much joy," she explains.

Here, we chat with the mother (and grandmother!) about her typical day, who inspires her, and why tennis is so much more than a sport.

What are the driving passions that set you on your path?
I can honestly say that gratitude, respect and appreciation are my driving passions. Tennis has been such a blessing to my family and what a great way to show my gratitude—by working in the field that has brought us such joy and opportunity.

What does tennis teach kids about life off the court?
Tennis gives kids a sense of responsibility, honesty and ownership. It's the only junior sport where, in most competitive matches, there are no referees on the court. Children must be honest and depend on the honesty of their opponent. There is no coaching during a match; they have to figure it out on their own. At HJTEP, our mission is to make champions in life, school, and tennis.

What does a typical day look like for you?
Since it's summer, a typical day starts with our trainer at 7:30 AM, working out before the campers begin trickling in at 8:30 AM. Through the course of the day, I spend my time teaching, running back and forth to the Armory, where my office is. You can frequently catch me courtside on my laptop making arrangements, answering emails, and creating fun opportunities for our kids. Our camp ends at 5 PM and I give private lessons for an hour or two. Then I walk home and get greeted by my 1-year-old granddaughter, Shiloh, for playtime.