We had the good fortune of connecting with Phillip Kim and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Phillip, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
 LoveSetMatch was founded in 2010 as a successful private tennis academy in Los Angeles, LoveSetMatch was born out of a passion for tennis and all the beauty and benefits of the game. Personally Tennis has been a game-changer for me in so many ways. It’s not just a sport; it’s a therapy session, a stress reliever, and a source of endless joy. On the court, I find a sense of peace and focus that’s hard to come by in everyday life. The physical challenges keep me fit and strong, while the mental aspect has taught me patience, perseverance, and how to handle both victories and setbacks gracefully. Tennis has truly enriched my life

We transitioned to a nonprofit in 2019 expanding to serve the community, provide affordable tennis instruction, education, health, and fitness services to throughout Los Angeles County. In 2022 Love Set Match was accepted as a National Tennis and Learning organization, one of only 250 in the nation along side notable non profits as Serena Williams, Billie Jean King, Sloane Stephens Foundation and others.

What should our readers know about your business?
As the Tennis Pro for the Langham Huntington Hotel in Pasadena I see how those who can afford tennis as a lifestyle benefit directly in fitness, long life, and social capital.

My dream is to bring those same health benefits to everyone, especially to those who have less access and might have life changing experiences through incorporating fitness in their lives.

I’ve witnessed incredible transformations in kids who have joined our program. One young boy was painfully shy and awkward socially. He told me most of his free time was spent indoors in front of the computer. In the two years we have worked with him, he has become more outgoing, more physically fit, willing to try harder. He now has more self confidence and is competing against boys his own age in league tournaments. His mother says tennis has helped him manage his emotions and develop a never-give-up attitude. We’re incredibly proud of him and all the kids in our program.

Drawing on my experience as the former USTA RecTennis Administrator, I’ve learned the importance of training quality coaches to the highest standards. LoveSetMatch is committed to supporting our coaches by sponsoring them to attend training, earn accreditation and complete their Safe Sport certification so every child is safe. I believe having those key mentors in your life make a huge difference in a young person’s life.

Our program works with LA County Parks and Recreation as a Core Community Partner to provide free and donation based tennis and fitness education. We’re committed to helping people discover the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. In addition, we run After School programs right on Southern California campuses, making it easy for students to participate. We are looking for more schools to partner with so reach out to us!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The San Gabriel Valley where a majority of our programs are based has some of the best food in Los Angeles! A few of our favorite haunts are La Azteca Tortilleria, Mama Lus, and Ravello Osteria. After a great meal come work it off and play tennis with us on our home court at Belvedere Park in East Los Angeles.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
“I’d like to dedicate this interview to two extraordinary women who have been instrumental in making LoveSetMatch a reality. Esther Hendershott, the Director of Community Tennis for the USTA SoCal, has been a guiding light and a champion of youth development. Her encouragement and mentorship were crucial in launching our nonprofit under the USTA Foundation.

My Godmother, Mary Tabuchi, has been an unwavering source of inspiration and love. For over two decades, she has shown me the importance of selflessness and compassion. Her wisdom and guidance have shaped me into the person I am today. I’m forever grateful for her support.”

Website: https://www.lovesetmatch.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovesetmatch_/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lovesetmatch/

Twitter: https://x.com/LoveSetMatch_

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lovesetmatch.org

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LoveSetMatchTennis

Image Credits
Image Credit @LoveSetMatch.org

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