Beyond the Baseline: Sisters with a Dream – Aby & Aly Ayon

Beyond the Baseline is our blog series dedicated to sharing the real stories of those who Youth Tennis San Diego's programs have impacted. Each feature includes a personal journey followed by a Q&A, giving deeper insight into how tennis and community support have shaped their experiences. From young players finding confidence on the court to volunteers and donors making a lasting difference, these stories highlight the power of accessible tennis to change lives.

Sisters with a Dream: Aby & Aly Ayon

Youth Tennis San Diego is proud to spotlight two remarkable sisters from our South Bay community,

Aby and Aly Ayon. Over the past three years, these young athletes have become familiar faces on courts throughout San Diego, demonstrating what can happen when opportunity meets dedication. The sisters first discovered tennis through YTSD's After School Tennis program and have rarely put their rackets down since. They participate in multiple weekly, community tennis programs, attend nearly every YTSD community event, and proudly represent Youth Tennis San Diego in the local Junior Team Tennis (JTT) competition league. Their hard work reached a major milestone in the spring of 2025 when they helped lead their team to a JTT Sectional Championship. That victory not only rewarded years of practice and perseverance, but also inspired them to dream even bigger about their futures in tennis. Whether competing together in doubles or battling independently in singles, Aby and Aly bring determination, sportsmanship, and an undeniable love for the game every time they step onto the court.

YTSD instructor Santiago Jaquez, who has coached the sisters since their earliest days in the program, reflects on their journey with a quote from soccer legend Mia Hamm:

"I am building a fire. And every day I train, I add more fuel. At just the right moment I light the match." According to Santiago, that quote perfectly captures who Aby and Aly are as athletes and young people. "I have been a Youth Tennis San Diego After School Tennis Instructor since 2007. Up to now, I have seen hundreds of great student-athletes from City Heights, Chula Vista, and National City, but Aly and Aby Ayon are among the very best. Some students have talent, and others have ability; Aly and Aby have both."

They have the fire within them—the passion, determination, and desire to succeed. Because of that passion, they are destined to succeed wherever life takes them. Their story is one of family, perseverance, opportunity, and a love for tennis that continues to grow every day

Q&A with Aby Ayon

What was your first experience with tennis?

My first experience with tennis was incredible and exciting. My dream started on the Chula Vista tennis courts through the After School Tennis program. I was only nine years old when I first held a racket in my hand. Coach Santiago Jaquez was so encouraging and kind that he inspired me to come to practice every day. Quickly, my racket became my best friend, and together we enjoyed accomplishments, challenges, and lots of laughs.

How has YTSD impacted you?

This past year was one of my most exciting seasons. At eleven years old, I began competing regularly in tournaments and won many of my matches. Every time I step into a tennis court, I feel secure, confident, and ready to win.

My serve is my favorite weapon in my matches; my coach Santiago calls it my “bread and butter.”

How has tennis helped you develop skills beyond the court?

Playing tennis has allowed me to dream in many ways, one of my most important ones is to play college tennis at Point Loma Nazarene University. YTSD not only gives dreams but allows opportunities to become possible. Tennis has built me physically, which has made me healthier. Mentally, tennis has allowed me to stay focused, handle pressure, stay humble in victories, and recover from lost matches.

How have the coaches and mentors at YTSD influenced you?

Coach Santiago not only has taught me tennis, but he has become an incredible mentor. He encourages me to work hard and never to give up. He is always investing his time in training me so I can become better. He has supported me by going to my USTA matches and reminds me that “I’m a CHAMP” and “I’m better than my opponent.”

Youth Tennis San Diego has the best coaches, and I am fortunate to learn from one of them—my unstoppable Coach Santiago Jaquez! The support, encouragement, and opportunities I have received through YTSD have truly changed my life. Tennis has given me so much more than a sport. It has brought my family closer together, especially my dad. Some of my favorite moments are playing tennis with him, laughing together, and sharing our love for the game. Tennis is not only a sport in my life, now it is my life and my passion.

Q&A with Aly Ayon

What was your first experience with tennis?

At 10 years old, I said “yes” when my mom asked if I wanted to take tennis lessons. That simple decision changed my life. Three years ago, I began taking tennis lessons in the After School Program. From the very beginning, I valued tennis, it was such a fun experience to hold the racket and being able to hit the ball.

What's your most unforgettable memory with YTSD?

Tennis gave me a new adventure. Each day I can hardly wait for my class at the tennis court with my Coach Santiago. I never imagined tennis would be such an important part of my life, but it is now, and I don’t ever want to change it! Tennis has impacted on my relationship with my family as well - we are closer now, and we get to enjoy tennis together.

How has YTSD impacted you?

Tennis has taught me that, just like some strokes are difficult and take time, patience, and dedication to master, I should approach my studies the same way. When a subject is challenging, I remind myself not to give up and to keep working hard until I improve. Today, I compete in tennis tournaments and truly enjoy every opportunity to play. Playing singles is my favorite, but I cannot deny that playing doubles with my sister, Aby, has become such a fun experience - we win almost all the time, and we enjoy doing it together and owning the courts!

How has YTSD helped you develop skills beyond tennis?

The lessons I have learned on the court extend far beyond the game and help guide me in all areas of my life. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to experience what we call “The Tennis Joy.” Through tennis, I have learned the value of perseverance and patience by practicing the same strokes over and over again until they improve. Playing matches has taught me never to give up, even when things are difficult. Tennis has shown me that hard work builds character, discipline, confidence, and endurance.

How have the coaches and mentors at YTSD influenced you?

Coach Santiago has taught me that when “things get tough you get tougher”. To my Coach Santiago, I owe so much to you, and I don’t think I can ever pay you back, you changed my life, but I promise to work hard and never give up. Your encouragement, guidance, and belief in me have helped me become a stronger player and a stronger person. I also want to thank YTSD for everything - they allow players of all ages, background, and social class to experience this joy, thank you.

Aby and Aly's story is a reminder that the impact of youth sports extends far beyond wins and losses. Through access to affordable tennis, dedicated coaching, and a supportive community, they have developed confidence, discipline, resilience, and dreams for the future. As they continue competing, growing, and chasing their goals, Youth Tennis San Diego is honored to be part of their journey.

Thank you, Aby and Aly, for inspiring our community and reminding us all of the power of persistence, passion, and the joy of tennis. Your dedication on and off the court serves as a wonderful example for younger players throughout our San Diego community. We are incredibly proud of all that you have accomplished and excited to see what the future holds for both of you. Keep up the great work, continue chasing your goals, and know that your Youth Tennis San Diego family is cheering you on every step of the way! 

💛 We Can’t Do This Without You

Every day, YTSD brings tennis, mentorship, and educational support to children who need it most, at no cost to their families. These programs aren’t just about sport. They’re about building confidence, character, and opportunity. But none of it is possible without the generosity of supporters like you.

🌟 Ways to Give and Make an Immediate Impact

• Site Sponsor – $10,000

  • Fully fund a YTSD program site for an entire year, impacting dozens of youth with consistent instruction, equipment, and academic support.

• Session Sponsor – $5,000

  • Sponsor a 10–12 week season of tennis and life skills training for 20 children in an under-resourced community.

• Scholarship Sponsor – $1,000

  • Give one child a full year of tennis coaching, tutoring, and equipment, opening doors to lasting transformation.

• General Sponsor – $1–$999

  • Every gift counts. Your donation helps provide the gear, books, and resources that make our mission real for every student.

    
    

🎾 Your Support Changes Lives

When you give, you’re not just donating, you’re investing in healthier kids, stronger communities, and brighter futures.

👉 Donate Now and help us continue serving the youth who need us most. Your support will be proudly recognized at our facility and on our website!