Serving Up Leadership: Kaleb & Devin’s Journey to the 2025 NJTL Leadership Camp in Louisville, Kentucky

When Margaret Townsend drove Kaleb Phillips and Devin Sellars to Louisville, Kentucky for the 2025 NJTL Leadership Camp, they weren’t just headed to play tennis—they were stepping into an experience that would shape their leadership, mindset, and outlook on life.

As youth coaches and mentors in Family Biz Builder’s Sports & Fitness NJTL Program, both Kaleb and Devin have spent their summer giving back—training younger players, building character on the court, and modeling what it means to lead with integrity. But this trip? It was their time to grow, too.

Day 1: Lessons from a Legend

The camp kicked off with a powerful visit to the Muhammad Ali Center, where Kaleb and Devin were surrounded by quotes, photos, and artifacts from the life of a man who stood for greatness, both in and out of the ring.

Kaleb shared that his favorite quote was:

“Think well of all, be patient with all, and try to find the good in all.”

It struck a chord—and set the tone for the week ahead.

Later that day, the group headed to the Speed Art Museum for Red Ball activities. But before picking up rackets, they met with Mr. Andrew, a speaker who introduced three guiding principles: 

➡️ Reach for your dreams 

➡️ Be flexible 

➡️ Lean into opportunity

These weren’t just tennis tips—they were life strategies. And they would prove to be just as important as any forehand or serve.

Day 2: Practice, Pizza, and Perspective

The second day began at the Kentucky Horse Park, where Devin and Kaleb explored, learned about different breeds, and got up close with the animals—a break from tennis that still taught patience, care, and curiosity.

In the afternoon, it was back to business at Central Park Tennis Courts, where they sharpened their skills and faced off against the number one mixed doubles team in the country. The competition was fierce, but so was their excitement.

That evening, dinner came with a dose of wisdom as Dr. Aretha reminded them:

“Learn all you can, do what is right, and give back to others.”

It’s a message that mirrors everything FBB stands for.

Day 3: Game Time & Growth

Day three was Competition Day at Petersburg Park Tennis Courts. Both Kaleb and Devin showed up with focus and fire, representing their community with pride.

After matches wrapped, they toured the University of Louisville, gaining a glimpse of college life and future opportunities. That night, the campers took part in a Knowledge Bowl—testing not only what they knew about tennis, but what they’d learned about teamwork, leadership, and sportsmanship.

Devin recalled how Julius and Hadassah were honored for their attitudes on and off the court—a reminder that how you treat others matters just as much as how you play the game.

Day 4: Final Drills, Lasting Impact

The final day included Kaleb attending PTR (Professional Tennis Registry) training and closing activities. As they packed up, said their goodbyes, and reflected on the journey, both Kaleb and Devin walked away with more than memories.

They gained new friendships.

They grew their confidence.

They strengthened their voice.

And they returned to Tunica with renewed purpose—not just as tennis players, but as leaders.

At Family Biz Builder, we believe in empowering youth to rise—and this trip showed what happens when they’re given the tools, trust, and opportunity to lead. Kaleb and Devin came back inspired, energized, and ready to continue mentoring the next generation.

Because leadership isn’t just taught in a classroom or on a court.It’s lived—day by day, serve by serve, moment by moment.