Euri Kim’s Unforgettable USTA Foundation NJTL Essay Contest Win

by Katie Nguyen, Social Media Director

August 21-24, 2024 - It all started with a question from the USTA Foundation’s 2024 NJTL Essay Contest: “Who is your Greatest of All Time?” For Euri Kim, a passionate coach and Serving Advantage’s Business Operations Coordinator, the answer was clear. While many might think of sports legends when asked this question, Euri’s inspiration came from someone much closer to home—her NJTL chapter president, Mrs. Wendi Eusebio. In her essay, Euri didn’t write about Grand Slam champions or Olympic medalists, but rather about someone whose impact on tennis is quieter, yet equally profound.

“I’ve always loved writing since I was a little kid,” Euri shared. “I really love tennis and working with Serving Advantage to make the sport more accessible to kids with autism, so I thought it was a really good way to channel my love for both of those.” She poured her heart into the essay, explaining how Mrs. Eusebio embodies the true spirit of tennis. Mrs. Eusebio works diligently each month to break down barriers, create consistent, quality access to sport, and foster inclusion for people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (“IDD”) in a sport that has historically been difficult for this population to participate in. Euri admired her mentor’s dedication to creating a safe space for kids and adults who otherwise might never have had the chance to pick up a racket. Little did Euri know that her words would take her from the courts of Serving Advantage all the way to the heart of New York City!

Her prize? A trip to New York City and an invitation to some of the most exclusive events in the tennis world. On her first day, Euri found herself at the famed National Tennis Center for “Stars of the Open,” an exhibition match that brought together some of the greatest tennis players in the world. There she was, standing just a few feet from legends like Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, and John McEnroe. The following day was just as surreal. Euri, alongside the other essay contest winners, was whisked off to the New York Stock Exchange for the ringing of the opening bell—a time-honored tradition steeped in history. But the day’s magic didn’t end there. “I got to meet Chris Evert, which was really, really cool,” Euri shared, still in awe, “She’s like the G.O.A.T. and I got a picture with her and she signed my ball so that was really cool.” 

But the trip wasn’t only about star-studded moments, it was about connection, inspiration, and celebration. At the awards luncheon, Euri met with influential leaders from the USTA Foundation and Deloitte, the contest’s sponsor. It was here amidst all the excitement, that the heart of her trip truly came to life.

“My favorite part was definitely getting to meet all of the other winners and their lovely families. I think I made a lot of friendships that are going to last beyond the trip so I really enjoyed talking to everyone and hearing everyone’s stories.” From cheering at the US Open to enjoying The Lion King on Broadway, Euri’s adventure was filled with memorable moments. 

Euri Kim’s experience in New York City as a winner of the USTA Foundation NJTL Essay Contest extended far beyond meeting tennis stars and attending high-profile events. It highlighted her commitment to making tennis accessible for kids with special needs and showcased the impact that our words and actions can have.

As Euri continues to inspire young players and give back through her work with Serving Advantage, her journey reminds us that the greatest impact in tennis doesn’t always come from winning trophies, but from the quiet, everyday actions that uplift others. From the courts of Serving Advantage to the bright lights of New York, Euri’s journey shows us that the G.O.A.T isn’t about accolades—it’s about giving back and making a difference.