NEW YORK (April 11, 2024) - It has been a stellar first collegiate season for Howard University freshman Imani Jean. The tennis player, who began her tennis journey on courts right near her family's Brooklyn home, has already earned four Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Rookie of the Week honors. This included going 3–0 in singles play during the annual MEAC Round Up (March 22-24).
"The USTA (U.S. Tennis Association) has these introducing kids to tennis workshops," Jean recalled. "My mom put me in that [at age 6] and I haven't stopped playing ever since."
Jean played all over the city and took part in local tournaments. She participated in the Harlem Junior Tennis and Education Program, New York Junior Tennis & Learning and Cary Leeds Center for Tennis and Learning.
"When I was in New York, I thought [the competition] was fierce, but going to the nationals was a whole different ballpark. I had to adjust my thinking and expand what I knew and apply it," she said.
Her serious competitive days began at age 13, when Jean began dividing her time between Brooklyn and College Park, Maryland, where she trained at Junior Tennis Champions Center. She attended an online high school. As college approached, she knew she wanted an in person experience, choosing Howard University in Washington, DC, for its tennis team and HBCU culture. After growing up in a predominantly white sport, it felt exciting to join a team with all Black players.
"I felt like I can really be an addition to that and it made me feel supported," said Jean, who is studying finance. "It was like a breath of fresh air."
Howard plays against other HBCU schools, where Jean sees some former training mates. "It also introduces me to new people who have gone through some of the things that I've gone through and hopefully make connections for the long-term," she said.
Her competitive mindset is thriving. "I love competing in general," Jean said. "When you and your opponent are going at it and you're both trying your best, you both respect each other, it gives you an idea of how good you are and it forces you to be better."
Howard tennis is next in action on April 15 vs. Coppin State. Jean said her goals for the remainder of the season are to win as many matches as possible and win a MEAC title.
For more information visit the Howard Athletics website at www.HUBison.com.
