Joe Smith Junior, 15, is an aspiring tennis pro from Parkwood in Cape Town. He comes from very humble beginnings and challenging circumstances and was introduced to tennis at the age of 10 at Plumstead Tennis Club. We’re raising funds to allow Joe to compete in the junior national tennis circuit, with the ultimate goal of becoming a professional tennis player and/or coach. Joe Smith’s story has the potential to do just that through tennis and the hope that it has brought to his life and community. Joe’s dad, Joseph Smith Sr, has worked as the groundsman at Plumstead Tennis Club for the last 30 years, and his own father (Joe’s grandfather) for many years before that. When Joseph and Joe moved onto the property at the club, they met Rikki Solomon, the club’s resident pro and coach who ultimately got Joe onto the court for the first time. Rikki has coached Joe ever since then, not just to become a pro himself but to train him as a future coach. Becoming a professional tennis player in South Africa is extremely challenging, with most talented players heading overseas to study and train with the hopes of breaking onto the circuit. Without a scholarship or significant private funds to move abroad, it is nearly impossible to be noticed or scouted. Playing in national tournaments is the first step to honing a player’s skills in a high-pressure environment and getting noticed by talent scouts. Join us in activating generosity by supporting Plumstead Tennis Club.