While racquet sports are at the center of all we do, its people and teachers are who we do it for, as it serves as a platform for personal growth and a means to build inclusive communities. From fostering local talent to advocating for diversity, these RSPA members are leaving a significant impact on and off the court. Let's take a closer look at their journeys and the ways they are giving back to the tennis community as a means of celebrating Black History Month.
Neil Hill
Neil Hill's passion for tennis began in his early teens, and it never left him. He played throughout high school and earned a spot as a walk-on Division II player at Virginia State University, an Historically Black College. Throughout his career in the hospitality industry, tennis was always an integral part of his life. No matter where he moved for work, Neil found ways to connect with local tennis communities.
During the 2020 pandemic, Neil took the opportunity to pursue his passion for the sport further, earning his RSPA Certification. Today, he serves as the boys' varsity coach at Southwest High School in Minneapolis and the girls' varsity coach at Highland Park High School in St. Paul. He is also an instructor at Inner City Tennis, where he leads an outreach team teaching tennis to K-5 students in Minneapolis Public Schools.
In 2024, Neil joined an RSPA Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion taskforce, demonstrating his commitment to promoting inclusivity in tennis. His journey is a testament to how passion and dedication can create lasting change in the sport, providing opportunities for others to thrive.
Rick Piliwale-Wilson
For more than 26 years, Rick Piliwale-Wilson has been a committed member of the RSPA, tirelessly working to foster growth and visibility for racquet sports. As a volunteer, Rick has served on the executive board for the Pacific Northwest and Hawaii Divisions, including as the Hawaii past president. He believes in the power of tennis to bring people together, and he has worked to ensure the sport is accessible to all.
Rick has coached numerous USTA Junior Team Tennis teams, including leading them to championships. His coaching achievements include a remarkable 5-time USTA Junior Team Tennis Championship record with three wins and two finalist finishes. In his local community, Rick has been instrumental in introducing tennis to underserved populations, particularly at the Helen Meyer Community Center. His efforts have led to more than 20 children being introduced to tennis.
Rick’s leadership extends to his role on the RSPA Task Force, where he actively works to increase African American representation within the RSPA and the tennis community at large. Through strategic collaborations, Rick is helping pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive future in tennis.
Jennifer Hornsby
Jennifer Hornsby has been an RSPA member for 16 years, and her love for tennis shines through her work in the community. As one of the leading tennis professionals in her area of Kathleen, Georgia, Jennifer provides private lessons, leads junior and adult tennis drills, coordinates tennis socials and serves as the Community Tennis Coach for Houston County High School.
Beyond her coaching, Jennifer is also a dedicated advocate for the sport, recently joining the RSPA DE&I Committee. In this role, she works to improve the recruitment, retention, training and empowerment of African American tennis professionals. Jennifer is passionate about giving a voice to those who have often been unheard, and she is working to ensure that the RSPA becomes a more inclusive space for all members.
In addition to her professional achievements, Jennifer is an active player, captaining her USTA adult 4.5 women’s team. When not on the court, she enjoys cooking, baking, hiking and spending time with her family. Jennifer’s efforts exemplify how tennis can inspire change and create a sense of belonging for everyone.
Shaun Stamps
Shaun Stamps has been a professional tennis instructor for over 20 years, coaching players of all ages and skill levels throughout Central Ohio. With certifications from RSPA, PTR and PPR, Shaun’s expertise in the sport is unmatched. He has served as the director of tennis at Tartan Fields and is currently the director of racquet sports at Jefferson Country Club.
Shaun’s impact on the racquets community extends far beyond individual coaching. He has led the Upper Arlington High School girls’ tennis team to incredible success, securing four individual state championships and five team state titles. His dedication to excellence has earned him numerous accolades, including the 2023 USPTA Midwest Division High School Coach of the Year award.
In addition to his coaching career, Shaun is a co-founder of the Upper Arlington Tennis Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to introducing young players to the sport. He also owns Shiprock Sports, a pro shop that provides high-quality racquet sports equipment and services.
Shaun’s story is a shining example of how a lifetime commitment to tennis can create a legacy of success, leadership, and community impact.
These racquets professionals exemplify what it means to be a true advocate for the sport. Through their coaching, leadership and commitment to inclusivity, they continue empowering youth, fostering community connections and advocating for diversity.