Students, coaches, parents, and faculty filled the Frank Black Middle School (FBMS) auditorium on May 27, 2026, for the Spring 2026 Awards Banquet, honoring the school's competitive and development tennis teams for a remarkable inaugural season that exceeded all expectations.
Under the leadership of Athletic Director Antony Castelline and Tennis Coach Samintra Charles, the evening featured trophy presentations, certificate awards, and inspiring speeches that highlighted not only on-court achievements but also the character, sportsmanship, and personal growth displayed by the young athletes throughout the year.
"This evening is about celebrating not just wins on the court, but the character, discipline, and teamwork these students have shown all year," Charles informed Space City Tennis News. "What started as an idea just a few months ago has become one of our proudest programs.
" The foundation for this success was laid in late 2025 when Principal De Castro approved the creation of the first-ever tennis club. What began as informal before-school sessions quickly developed into structured competitive and development teams that put FBMS tennis firmly on the Houston map."
"The competitive team posted an impressive record and capped the season by capturing the district middle school tournament championship. Meanwhile, the development team focused on building core skills for newer players and showed outstanding progress, with several athletes advancing to the competitive roster by season's end.
"Many student athletes started from scratch — some had never held a racket before last fall," Coach Charles added. "To see them competing at a high level, supporting each other, and growing in confidence has been incredibly rewarding."
Team members echoed the excitement during the recognition program.
Sixth-graders Lilly Merrill and Oliver Barrera earned Most Valuable Player honors for their leadership and standout performances. Eighth-graders Elena Yu and Travis Allcorn received Most Improved awards. At the same time, Coaches' Choice honors went to Mae Davis, Juliana Carvazos, and seventh-grader and co-captain Oliver Wojecki, who accepted his award with notable grace.
“We went from just practicing to winning a championship — it feels unreal," said Wojecki, who will be a transfer student next year, attending classes in Paris, France. "I believe FBMS's tennis team will be a winner for years to come."
AD Castelline concluded the evening by reflecting on the broader impact of the program: "The FBMS Spring 2026 Awards Banquet not only marked a successful close to the tennis season but also highlighted the power of a single decision — authorizing a new club program — to transform student experiences at FBMS for many years to come."
"With strong momentum heading into the next school year, FBMS tennis has established itself as a rising program built on dedication, inclusivity, and a commitment to developing both skilled players and well-rounded young people.
Written by Don Hackett
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