Steve Henry was born in Oklahoma City. Once he began playing tennis at the age of 19, he never stopped! Steve quickly immersed himself in the game of tennis, competing in multiple tournaments as well as USTA league play for 41 years. He participated in many district, sectional, and national USTA league championships.
His passion for tennis continued to grow, leading him to pursue a career operating the Earlywine Tennis Center, and later accepting the position of Facility Director at the Oklahoma Tennis Center. Here he oversaw numerous USTA tournaments at the local and national levels while mentoring many young players as a tennis instructor. He also volunteered his time with First Serve OKC. Two of Steve’s most beloved tournaments to direct were the Boys’ and Girls’ High School State Championships each May. He was proud to welcome over 2,000 spectators each day of play to the Oklahoma City Tennis Center.
Steve’s investment with the USTA went beyond being an active player and tournament director. For 16 years he served on multiple USTA committees, volunteering his time to developing youth and adult tennis within the state and section. Most notably, Steve was named USTA Missouri Valley President in 2023, having previously served as USTA Oklahoma President from 2013-2016.
Throughout his time at the Earlywine Center and OKC Tennis Center, Steve received several awards acknowledging his contributions to the game of tennis. He was named the USTA Missouri Valley Pro of the Year and the USTA Missouri Valley Manager of the Year twice. Additionally, due to Steve’s efforts the OKC Tennis Center received the USPTA Missouri Valley Facility of the Year Award in 2015 and the USTA Outstanding Facility Award in 2016.
Steve’s ultimate goal was to get people out on the tennis court no matter their age or skill level.