Kemit-Amon Lewis’s journey back to competitive tennis is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of community. His connection with Wilson and JTCC has been instrumental in his return to the sport, allowing him to push past barriers and redefine what is possible in Para Standing tennis.
In 2019, while working in St. Croix as a marine biologist, Lewis contracted a severe bacterial infection that led to septic shock and multiple organ failure, resulting in the amputation of his right hand, right leg, and parts of his left fingers and toes.
Despite these hardships, Lewis was determined to return to his active lifestyle. With the support of Wilson, he was able to customize equipment that allowed him to adapt his game, including a specialized prosthetic arm attachment for his racquet.
“Wilson has been incredible in helping me find the right gear,” he explained. “Having equipment that’s tailored to my needs has made a huge difference in my confidence and performance.”
His determination and hard work led him back to competitive tennis, where he participated in the 2024 Para Standing Tennis World Championships held in Italy. It was overseas during this tournament that Lewis encountered two other individuals associated with JTCC.
“I met [former JTCC Coach] Karl Lee and [JTCC Para Standing player] Nicky Maxwell at the World Championships in Italy,” Lewis recalled. “I had heard about JTCC, but I didn’t know about the Adaptive program until I met them. Once I got here, I knew it was the right place for me. The energy, the coaching, the players – it was exactly what I needed.”
Through his training at JTCC and his partnership with Wilson, Lewis reinforced his belief that determination, adaptability, and the right support system can help athletes of all abilities excel.
“JTCC has given me the opportunity to train at an elite level and work with amazing coaches,” he said. “It’s not just about improving my game—it’s about pushing boundaries and showing what’s possible.”
Photo credit: PJ Davis
