Laperiall Jones Highlight Story
Laperiall Jones, the facility manager at Dorothy Vest Tennis Center and the founder of Ace2Deuce CTA & NJTL, has dedicated her life to spreading the joy of tennis while fostering personal growth and community development. In a recent interview, Laperiall shared her inspiring journey and the profound impact tennis has had on her life and the lives of others.
Laperiall's tennis story began in 7th grade when a visit to a local school tennis court with her aunt sparked her love for the game. Despite starting without any formal training, she pursued her passion and eventually tried out for the tennis team at Jim Hill High School. With the guidance of a supportive coach, Laperiall honed her skills and discovered a deep-seated passion for tennis that would shape her future endeavors.
Throughout her journey, Laperiall found inspiration and guidance from her Aunt Beverly, whose enthusiasm for the sport ignited her own. It was this passion that led Laperiall to establish Ace2Deuce CTA & NJTL, an organization focused on providing tennis and educational programs to under-resourced communities. Through her tireless efforts, Laperiall aims to not only teach the game of tennis but also instill important life skills and values in the youth she serves.
The impact of Laperiall's work extends far beyond the tennis court. Through partnerships with organizations like USTA NJTL and Friends of Battlefield Park, Laperiall has been able to offer free and low-cost programming to children aged 4 to 18, empowering them to excel in tennis while embracing essential life skills. With a focus on inclusivity and accessibility, Laperiall ensures that every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to participate and thrive.
Laperiall's commitment to her community is unwavering, even in the face of challenges. The temporary closure of her business due to the COVID-19 pandemic presented unforeseen obstacles, but Laperiall seized the opportunity to rebuild and revitalize the tennis program at Battlefield Park. With the support of her friend and business ally, Valrie Ford, and later Venecca Green, Laperiall has continued to expand her programs and engage with local communities, ensuring that tennis remains a beacon of hope and opportunity for youth in Jackson.
As Laperiall looks toward the future, her vision is clear: to empower futures, one ace at a time. Through her organization, Ace2Deuce CTA & NJTL, Laperiall is breaking down barriers and building up futures, providing children with the tools and support they need to succeed both on and off the court. With the continued support of donors and volunteers, Laperiall's dream of taking her youth to the US Open for Kids Day in September 2024 is within reach, demonstrating that with the right support, anything is possible.
In conclusion, Laperiall Jones is a shining example of the transformative power of tennis and the profound impact one individual can have on their community. Through her unwavering dedication and passion for the game, Laperiall is not only changing lives but also shaping the future of tennis in Jackson, Mississippi, and beyond.
