29th Annual National Junior Tennis and Learning of Trenton (NJTL) Gala

Cruise Control Gear was honored to be an invited guest for the 29th Annual National Junior Tennis and Learning of Trenton (NJTL) Gala on Saturday, September 23, 2023. NJTL of Trenton creates opportunities for success by enriching the lives of under-resourced youth through innovative tennis, education and mentor programs.

This exciting event honored long-time supporters, Joyce and Don Hoffman for their unwavering commitment to make a difference in the lives of so many children. For over 40 years, Don and Joyce have helped Mercer County non-profit organizations provide service to the community. Joyce shared inspirational stories about her childhood and how the game of tennis greatly impacted her life. I had chills as she described her challenges, doubts, things we all face in our life. It took one person who believed in her and gave her a chance Freshman year on the team. You can do ANYTHING in life if YOU BELIEVE IN YOURSELF, said Joyce. Tennis is more than a physical sport, it's a mental game. You can do anything you set your mind to, it takes action, it takes perseverance, it takes facing your fears and most likely getting out of your comfort zone but nothing worth having comes easy in life. Thank you Joyce for your vulnerability and wisdom. You are impacting the lives of so many people around you.

Joyce has had so much success playing over 50 years but more importantly, she has built great friendships through the love of tennis. The World Champion Bryan Brothers returned this year as special guests. The children of NJTL had the opportunity to play with the brothers at the event. These children were so excited for this incredible opportunity to play with these tennis legends. All I could remember is seeing the pure joy and smiles on these kids' faces. I want to thank the Bryan Brothers for inspiring these children through the love of the game. They will never forget this! My sister Kristen and I were so privileged to play with the Bryan Brothers. We teamed up as a sister duo in our matching Cruise Control live for it tennis shirts and pink pleated skorts and played against the champions! Kristen and I had the chance to play as a mixed doubles team with The Bryan brothers. They have been our role models growing up as young junior players as we competed with USTA Middle States as well as national and international tournaments. Playing doubles with my sister who is also my best friend and business partner was the best feeling. To be on court with the Bryan brothers was surreal. Bob Bryan hit his 130 mph serve to me and there was no touching it. Mike Bryan high fived us after winning a point and proclaimed “Live for it”! They are true tennis legends and are so kind and gracious on and off the court. Thank you for making our dream come true and sharing your love of the game with us!

LIVE FOR IT!