Austin Curtis / Journal Staff Writer
An Albuquerque Academy junior who created a clinic to introduce Black youth to tennis has been recognized for her efforts with one of the highest distinctions in Girl Scouting — the prestigious Gold Award.
Naomi Brundage welcomed a group of Black students who had little prior exposure to the sport to the Albuquerque Academy Racquet Center for a one-day tennis clinic in February. Brundage named the event Arthur Ashe Day, honoring the legendary tennis champion and civil rights advocate whose legacy continues to inspire generations on and off the court.
“By fostering diversity in tennis, I hope to create inclusive spaces and offer students the chance to experience the joy and lifelong benefits of the sport,” said the 16-year-old, a junior varsity tennis player for Academy.
Brundage, who said she spent six months organizing the clinic, had several goals in mind: to celebrate Black History Month and Arthur Ashe’s influence, to promote tennis as a more all-encompassing sport, and to give kids a fun, educational experience that embraced both physical activity and skill development.
She worked with Jack and Jill of America — a national organization that works toward improving outcomes for underprivileged youth — to identify a group of 21 area children to attend Arthur Ashe Day.
Amy Badger, Academy’s varsity girl’s tennis coach and a coordinator for Brundage’s project, said she was “proud” of her accomplishments.
“She was on top of every detail and thoroughly engaged around the children. In those moments, it was crystal clear the passion and dedication she holds to improving the world around her,” Badger said.
The entire initiative, which Brundage named Breaking Barriers: Empowering Diversity in Tennis, earned her a Girl Scouts Gold Award, given to a scout who displays leadership, ingenuity or remarkable community service.
The Gold Award isn’t an easy feat — only about 5% of eligible Girl Scouts receive it. As the only Black player on the Albuquerque Academy tennis roster, Brundage hopes her project will spark change and diversify the sport.
“Tennis is more than just a sport; it is a lifelong activity that promotes physical health, mental well-being, and community engagement … however, despite its benefits, tennis remains an underrepresented sport among African Americans and people of color,” she said.
Brundage wants the clinic to be the first of many, and include lesson plans, drills, and life skills activities for future instructors.
