Bill Talbert Sportsmanship Award

PRESENTED AT

The USTA Boys’ and Girls’ 18s National Championships

HISTORY

The Bill Talbert Junior Sportsmanship Award, presented by the USTA and International Tennis Hall of Fame, is a prestigious recognition that honors young tennis players who exemplify outstanding sportsmanship both on and off the court. Named after the legendary American tennis player, Bill Talbert, this award recognizes those who embody the values of fair play, respect, and dedication to the sport, serving as role models for aspiring athletes worldwide. Recipients of this award are selected for their exceptional character and conduct, making them shining examples of sportsmanship in the world of junior tennis.

ELIGIBILITY/CRITERIA

1. A junior player who holds a current USTA membership and is in good standing with the USTA.
2. The nominee must be 18 or under on January 1 st of the year in which the award is being presented. All information submitted must be for play completed prior to this date.
3. This award is given to a junior player who exemplifies the finest qualities of sportsmanship in competitive play including tournaments, USTA Junior Team Tennis, and USTA Junior Circuit events.
4. Leadership off the court is a bonus. Examples could include taking on leadership roles, volunteering in the community, or volunteering in the association.
5. The USTA Awards Committee will take into consideration only the information that pertains to the criteria of the award.
6. A nominee is ineligible if there is a Code of Conduct on file in the last twelve (12) months against him/her.

SELECTION PROCESS

Each USTA Section Association may submit one male and one female nominee meeting the above criteria. No more than five (5) letters of recommendation should accompany the nomination. The Awards Committee will review and select the recipients from the submissions received.