Scholarships are due August 31st
Scholarship application here
The Larisa Vaynberg Memorial Scholarship:
Larisa Vaynberg was a beloved figure in the Princeton tennis community, dedicating nearly twenty years to the Princeton Tennis Program and teaching countless students. A passionate teacher and player, Larisa was once the #1 ranked junior tennis player in Ukraine. Known for her tough yet caring and patient teaching style, she was fully committed to her students’ success, always modest about her significant influence.
Larisa passed away in June 2013 from pancreatic cancer. In 2014, she was posthumously named Teaching Professional of the Year by the Middle States section of the USTA, an honor she truly deserved. Her friends and supporters established the “Larisa Vaynberg Memorial Scholarship Fund” to honor her legacy.
Each year, the Princeton Tennis Program awards a $1,500 scholarship to at least one graduating high school senior who embodies Larisa’s spirit. Applicants are selected for their love of tennis, hard work, good sportsmanship, and role as goodwill ambassadors for the game.
The Bayard Jordan Memorial Scholarship
Bayard Jordan, known as “the man with the floppy hat,” taught countless people how to play tennis with unwavering sportsmanship and generosity. Described as caring, patient, generous, kind, insightful, humble, and inspirational, he often had to be coaxed into accepting payment for his services. His philosophy was “play fair, do your best, and enjoy the game.”
A fixture at Community Park Tennis Courts and Princeton Indoor Tennis Center, Bayard worked closely with Eve Kraft to pioneer the original Princeton Tennis Program, recognizing its value to the community. He passed away in January 2006 in Alaska, leaving a lasting impact on Princeton Tennis Program.
To honor Bayard’s legacy, the “Bayard Jordan Memorial Scholarship Fund” was established. Each year, PTP awards a scholarship to at least one recipient (minimum age 12) who embodies Bayard’s spirit. We seek juniors who love tennis, work hard, show good sportsmanship, and serve as goodwill ambassadors for the game. Financial need may be considered but is not a prerequisite for consideration. The recipient will receive a $150 credit to their Princeton Tennis Program account that can be used toward classes and clinics.
John Kutasovic Memorial Scholarship
John worked at Princeton Tennis Program since 2012, after 26 years at Mendham Health and Racquet Club. Known for his gentle demeanor and strong tennis knowledge, he developed strong fundamentals in his students making him popular.
A father of two, John excelled at teaching young students at Hamilton’s Veterans Park during hot summer days and was equally an expert with adults and seniors. He loved discussing various topics, especially soccer, and was known for his low-key, engaging presence. He earned everyone’s respect and was a beloved member of the staff.
John unexpectedly passed away in early 2021. To honor his legacy, a scholarship was created. This scholarship, awarded to juniors (minimum age 12) who embody John’s spirit, will receive a $150 credit to their Princeton Tennis Program account that can be used toward classes and clinics. Recipients are chosen for their love of tennis, hard work, good sportsmanship, and role as goodwill ambassadors for the game.