UVI’s Call to Action: Fund the Revival of the Tennis Program in Honor of Fenella Cooper’s Legacy

The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) is championing an ambitious initiative to breathe new life into its tennis program, a move spearheaded by its outgoing president, David Hall. During a compelling testimony before the Senate Committee on Government Operations, Veteran Affairs, and Consumer Protection, Dr. Hall made a passionate plea for the 35th Legislature to extend their support beyond merely renaming the Orville E. Kean Campus tennis courts in St. Thomas after Fenella Cooper, a cherished figure whose memory they aim to immortalize.

Dr. Hall articulated a vision for a future where the university’s facilities, including the tennis courts, receive the care and enhancement necessary to sustain them for generations. He highlighted the traditional practice of securing endowment funds in exchange for naming rights, urging the government to adopt a similar approach to ensure the upkeep of these facilities.

In a bid to elevate the university’s athletic offerings, Dr. Hall proposed the allocation of funds specifically for the restoration of the UVI tennis program. He painted a picture of a program languishing from a lack of resources, unable to support aspiring athletes in tennis—a stark contrast to the flourishing track and field and basketball programs currently at UVI. According to Dr. Hall, an investment of $69,000 annually would suffice to cover the costs of a coach, uniforms, and participation in competitions for both men’s and women’s teams, thereby fostering a competitive spirit akin to Fenella Cooper’s legacy.

Senator Milton Potter expressed optimism regarding the feasibility of Dr. Hall’s request, noting the proposed figure was surprisingly modest. However, Gerald Walters, a former UVI tennis coach, offered a cautionary perspective, suggesting that the sum might fall short of enabling the team to achieve its full potential, especially considering the high costs associated with travel and the potential need for additional facilities.

As Dr. Hall prepares to conclude his tenure at UVI, he remains hopeful that his proposal will come to fruition, enabling Virgin Islanders to pursue excellence in tennis and honor the legacy of luminaries like Fenella Cooper. This initiative represents not only a tribute to a beloved figure but also a strategic investment in the future of Virgin Island sports, aiming to inspire and cultivate the next generation of athletes.