The Ellis Park revival giving Joburg kids a shot
Former teacher and tennis enthusiast Alex Galanakis is transforming the neglected Ellis Park Tennis Centre into a hub of opportunity for underprivileged youth through the Joburg Tennis Grassroots Foundation.
What started as a vision to revive unused courts and create structured sporting opportunities has already impacted more than 180 children in just over a year.
Through regular coaching sessions, young players receive equipment, mentorship and life skills development — all using tennis as the catalyst for growth and confidence.
Beyond the sport itself, the initiative is also helping breathe new life into one of Johannesburg’s forgotten sporting facilities, offering a positive response to urban decay while uncovering promising young talent.
Read the full article to discover how one man’s passion for tennis is changing lives both on and off the court.