Michael Stoney, aka “Stoney,” founder, creator, and inspiration behind T.I.M.S. (Tennis is my savior), grew up on the streets of NY. Growing up during the crack epidemic and an era of high policing, high mortality rates, and high incarceration rates for young black men, Stoney witnessed and overcame many life threatening and mentally debilitating circumstances.

Stoney was introduced to tennis by his grandfather, the first black tennis player for Jamaica High School. Stoney grew up playing, teaching, and loving the game of tennis. It became a family sport and a way to escape the “hood” and all the negativity that was claiming the lives of many of his peers.

When Stoney became a father, he was reminded of all the positive influence tennis had on his life; he remembered how much this amazing principle-driven sport helped him, and now seeks to help other kids overcome their circumstances the way he did. Becoming a well known inspirational coach in the Hampton Roads area, Stoney fought to inspire self-esteem, self-discipline, and champions of life in every kid who stepped onto his court.

Now, his new foundation is eager to positively impact the countless inner city children who need help developing a vigor for life so they can contribute to our society in a positive way and lead happy and successful lives.