Our Legacy
Founded in the 1950’s by Stanley Rumbough, WTEF has served the youth of Washington, D.C. by providing tennis instruction and educational support. From its humble beginnings promoting healthy lifestyles to offsetting the corrosive effects of discrimination, WTEF has been a pillar of excellence and support to D.C. youth.
1955
The Washington Area Tennis Patrons is Founded by Stanley Rumbough in December
1956
First professional exhibition played to benefit WTEF, organized by Jack Kramer
“Congratulations to you and all associated with the Foundation on your efforts to promote physical fitness, enjoyable recreation and good citizenship among young Washingtonians. My best for every success.” - President Dwight Eisenhower, 1956
1969
First Professional Tournament benefiting WTEF is played featuring Arthur Ashe
“why don’t you pick a place that is a naturally integrated community? And if it is, I’ll play the tournament and really support it” – Arthur Ashe
1988
we break ground on constructing the William H.G. Fitzgerald building at the Rock Creek Park Stadium
1990
The WATP is renamed to the Washington Tennis Foundation
1993
AACP is founded to serve students in DC schools
1997
The WTF is renamed to the Washington Tennis & Education Foundation
2012