Arthur Ashe Essay Contest

Open to High School Students in Lee CTA Programs

Freshmen through Seniors: Can Your Words Conquer NYC?

Think your pen has power? The NJTL Essay Contest isn’t just an assignment – it’s your shot at a once-in-a-lifetime trip to New York City, August 19–23, 2025. One boy and one girl from each high school grade will win. Are you one of them?

This is a challenge. Answer it with compelling prose and win the prize of a lifetime.

Submission Details

Entries due to Lee CTA by Sunday, June 1

Deliver to Lee MS/HS courts between 9–11 AM on June 1
or contact us for other delivery instructions.

Prizes

GRAND PRIZE for 8 USTA National Winners!

The 8 winners (1 boy and 1 girl from each grade) will receive an all-expenses-paid 4-day/3-night trip to NYC with a parent/guardian. Includes transportation, lodging, meals, cultural and theatrical events, and a luncheon honoring the winners. (Value: $3000)

Plus Prizes for 8 USTA/New England Winners!

Past Winners

  • 2000: Laura Griffin – NATIONAL WINNER (Girls 15/16)
    Read her essay
  • 2022: Bobbi Burgess (Age 11) – USTA/New England Winner
    Read her essay
  • 2018: Sophia Puntin (Age 11) – USTA/New England Winner
    Read her essay
  • 2016: Surianna Lee (Age 14) – USTA/New England Winner
    Read her essay
  • 2013: Hadley DeVarennes (Age 10) – USTA/New England Winner
    Read her essay
  • 2002 Winners: Mike Murch, Kristen Berry, Laura Toomey (USTA/New England)
    Local winners included Andreas Naranjo, Amber Bitso, Peter Choi, Rebecca Strock, and Samantha Rydell