MAY VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH
Josh Kitto | Ishpeming, Michigan
Josh Kitto from Ishpeming puts his all into promoting tennis in the Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Josh started playing tennis when he was ten after being introduced to the sport by his father. He led his high school team to an UP Championship his sophomore year playing No. 1 singles. Currently, Josh plays USTA League tennis and every tournament he can participate in during the summer months.
Josh holds all four professional pathways offered by the Professional Tennis Registry (PTR). He has successfully taken a Start/Restart program for adult players which started with the Red ball on a modified court, and progressed the players in the program to the Yellow ball on a full size court.
In addition to Start/Restart, Josh also runs Midwest Youth Team Tennis programs, coaches at the Marquette County YMCA, runs Community Enrichment Programs involving tennis, and is getting into his area school’s physical education and afterschool programs. He has also been recently appointed to serve on the Northern Michigan Tennis Association’s Junior Committee.
Tragically, Josh was struck while walking by a car in 2004. After nine surgeries, being in a wheelchair and on crutches for three years, he is back playing competitive tennis at a 4.0 level. During his recovery he was struck with the reality that life is a gift and it can end at anytime. He decided to commit himself to do what he loves, and that's tennis.
Josh enjoys teaching tennis and it is clear to everyone around him that he is passionate for the sport. He believes it can enrich life socially and physically. He lost 50 pounds after coming back to the sport, and continues to meet a lot a great people along the way.