Induction Year: 2024

 

Kevin Foster’s extraordinary 40-year involvement in tennis is a testament to his dedication, leadership, and profound impact on the sport. His achievements span volunteering, coaching, professional development, and contributions to the growth of tennis at many different levels. His unwavering commitment has not only enhanced the sport but has inspired countless players and professionals to follow in his sneaker prints.

 

Foster’s tennis involvement extends from local to national levels. He has served as Director of Tennis for the City of Waco, Director of Tennis and Head Pro at Charlie McCleary Tennis Center in Waco, Baylor University’s Men’s tennis coach, Chair of the USTA Texas Officials Committee, National Officials Committee, National Trainer for Officials, and referee for numerous events at all levels. In addition, he has served on numerous sectional and national committees, including Section Yearbook and National Rules and Regulations, and the USTA/Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA). He’s also worked with the Texas Amateur Athletic Federation (TAAF) as State Commissioner and Assistant Commissioner.

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He has been deeply involved in Special Olympics tennis, annually refereeing their State Games, and he even served as an official for their International Games in Berlin. All aspects of Adaptive Tennis are very special to him; whether it’s tennis-for-the-blind tournaments, Para Standing events for amputees, or wheelchair competitions, he can be counted on to work at their events, helping to advance inclusivity. He always recruits others – Foster family members and friends of the Fosters - to join him and donate their time.

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Foster has been active for 35 years as tournament director for the Texas Area Private and Parochial Schools, an organization that annually has 1200 participants in their tennis program. The organization's Executive Director said of Kevin: “Regardless of a player’s talents or calling, Kevin is the right man for the job.”

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He makes average players feel great and great players feel empowered. His communication skills with old and young alike are unmatched. He exemplifies a person who is knowledgeable yet humble and uses his authority with kindness.” He credits Kevin’s passion and leadership for making the organization the success it is today.

 

Notably, Foster’s dedication to philanthropy is reflected in his support of tennis scholarships through Little Caesar’s Pizza, which he co-owns with his wife, Leni. Their annual contributions to college scholarships demonstrate a commitment to supporting the next generation of tennis players.

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As a 35-year USPTA P-1 Elite Pro, Kevin has brought experience and expertise to his endeavors, and he has been rightly awarded. This year alone, he has received the USTA Texas Family of the Year Award, and the USTA Texas Ray Delcastillo Official of the Year Award. Previously, he collected multiple USTA Texas Official of the Year Awards. But he’s never been in the game to be recognized. For Kevin, the passion has always been volunteering and giving back.