Amahal Barbee
Amahal's tennis journey began early and with impact. By age 14 he ranked among the top 30 junior players in Southern California, and soon after began teaching under respected mentors Donald Bly and Clarence Jones at Centinela Park in Inglewood — planting the seeds for a lifelong commitment to developing young players. At 17, the USTA surprised him with special recognition for his volunteer service to its juniors' program, an early sign that leadership and community would become central to his tennis story.
A pivotal moment came in 1997, when he trained on clay courts in France and competed in an international tournament in Strasbourg — an experience that sharpened his strategy and discipline, deepened his mental toughness, and shaped the competitive mindset he carries to this day.
Today Amahal competes at a high level as a strong 4.5 NTRP player with an 8.6 UTR, but his greatest focus is helping the next generation grow. He brings intensity, knowledge, and passion to every lesson — challenging players to improve their skills, strengthen their mindset, and believe in their potential.
Driven by gratitude for the game that has given him so much, Amahal is committed to ensuring every young player has access to opportunity, encouragement, and the life lessons tennis teaches on and off the court.
✉ kidsntennis@gmail.com
