Engaging in tennis offers a blend of enjoyment, new connections, and diverse volunteer prospects. However, the paths leading to this sport vary, with some being conventional while others take unexpected turns. The narratives of how individuals embark on their tennis journeys are uniquely impactful, each worth recounting numerous times.
New Orleans natives, William and James Bostick, took a distinctive route to tennis, eventually becoming tennis instructors with A’s & Aces, a local NJTL. In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, their parents, William Bostick Sr., a CPA, and Elizabeth Bostick, a clinical pharmacist, sought a summer camp for their sons. At the time, William was 10, and James was 8, both unfamiliar with tennis. Simultaneously, A’s & Aces was in its early stages, now acclaimed for its innovative programming and community impact.
Elizabeth shared, “My husband and I stumbled upon A’s & Aces. Tennis wasn’t on our radar.” William added, “Our sons didn’t have an interest; we were just looking for a summer outlet.”
Placing people in opportune moments can yield positive outcomes. Such was the case when William and James connected with A’s & Aces, an organization founded by former Tulane coaches David Schumacher and Anna Monhartova. The mission aimed to provide academic assistance, life skills, and tennis to New Orleans children, garnering recognition for its impact.
The Bostick brothers’ positive experiences led them to enroll in the year-round program, a decision William Jr. lauded for its combination of academics and tennis. James emphasized the indirect influence of academic enrichment on his tennis game.
Now instructors, William and James pass on the hope and opportunities bestowed upon them. Schumacher praised their tennis instincts and academic excellence, while Monhartova highlighted their relatability to students.
As their journeys continue to unfold, William remains committed to his passion for tennis while also pursuing his academic aspirations. Having graduated from Vanderbilt University in May 2023, he eagerly anticipates the start of Medical School in the Fall of 2024. With acceptances from Morehouse and Meharry Medical Schools and pending responses from LSU and Vanderbilt, he currently dedicates his time to work at Vanderbilt University Hospital.
Meanwhile, James, now a junior at Vanderbilt University, continues to pursue his love for tennis as he plays for the club team. This summer, he embarks on an internship with Goldman Sachs in Salt Lake City, embracing new challenges and opportunities for growth.
Both William and James are also actively involved in giving back to their community. They volunteer with an organization called ACEing Autism in Nashville, where they dedicate their time to teaching children with Autism to play tennis. Through their involvement, they strive to pay forward the invaluable lessons and support they received from NJTL, ensuring that others have the opportunity to thrive and succeed.
