New York Junior Tennis & Learning Welcomes Department of Health & Mental Health Commissioner Alister Martin to Cary Leeds Center in South Bronx
Former college and professional tennis player Dr. Martin met with NYJTL students at its flagship in Crotona
On Friday, July 31, New York Junior Tennis & Learning (NYJTL), the nation’s largest youth tennis and education nonprofit, hosted NYC Department of Health and Mental Health (DOHMH) Commissioner Dr. Alister F. Martin, a former collegiate and professional tennis player, at the Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning for an on-court session with youth tennis players and a discussion about how tennis led him to public health. A New York City native, Dr. Martin spent his early childhood in Queens before moving to New Jersey. After a summer job in high school sweeping at a local tennis club, he developed a love of the game and went on to attend the legendary Nick Bollettieri Tennis Academy in Bradenton, Florida, which developed Andre Agassi, Monica Seles, Venus Williams, and Serena Williams.
After high school, he put his education on hold to play competitive tennis, and was recruited to Rutgers University in 2006 by an assistant coach who encouraged him to take the GED and get his education back on track. He found his path to medicine after becoming involved with a Rutgers program that supports students in their quest to excel in sciences and mathematics. Following graduation, he entered Harvard Medical School and later, the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. He went on to a career shaping public health policy at the highest levels of federal and state government, and became commissioner of DOHMH in January.
“I am thrilled to have had the opportunity to meet such talented and passionate young tennis players,” said Dr. Alister F. Martin, Commissioner of the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. “Tennis has always held a special place in my heart. It not only taught me the value of discipline and perseverance but the sport also led me to discover my passion for health. The lessons I learned on the court—teamwork, resilience, and the importance of staying active—have shaped who I am today, as NYC Health Commissioner. I hope these young athletes continue to embrace the sport, beyond competition, but for the lifelong skills and joy it brings.”
“At NYJTL, we know that tennis is a gateway to opportunity, helping young people build confidence, resilience, and lifelong healthy habits,” said Udai Tambar, President & CEO of New York Junior Tennis & Learning. “Dr. Martin showed our students that lessons learned on the tennis court can lead to extraordinary paths of service and leadership. We were honored to welcome him to the Cary Leeds Center and hear him share his story, and journey, with the next generation.”
