Film Premiere: “Beyond the Baseline” Presented by Black Tennis Connect

Black Tennis Connect presents the documentary “Beyond the Baseline.” Rooted in the West Charlotte community, the film highlights the resilience, culture, and legacy that helped shape Black tennis in the city and beyond, offering a rich, multifaceted narrative that extends far beyond the game itself.

“Beyond the Baseline” takes audiences through the profound impact of this community’s grit—tracing the story from local courts in West Charlotte to new heights. Through storytelling, archival material,
and firsthand accounts, the film showcases how this legacy has influenced many beyond the baseline, cementing its place in tennis history for generations.

Program outline for “Beyond the Baseline” premiere:

• 6:40 PM – Welcome and opening remarks about the significance of “Beyond the Baseline.”
• 6:50 PM – Film screening.
• 7:05 PM – Panel discussion exploring the film’s themes, the impact of Black tennis history, and community storytelling with:
  Calvin Davis Jr, tennis program head at Charlotte Country Day High School and director of Tennis Advancement Program
  Robert Hicks, founder, Black Association of Tennis in Charlotte
  Lenny Springs – business executive and founder, 100 Black Men Charlotte
  Raven Johnson – executive producer, “Beyond the Baseline” and vice president of Black Tennis Connect
  Kiyana Christopher – director, “Beyond the Baseline”
• 7:40 PM – Community mixer with panelists, filmmakers, and community members.