Former Student-Athlete & Tennis Leader
Legacy in sports is often measured by championships and records, but for Wilfrance Lominy, its meaning runs deeper. As a member of the first women’s tennis team at Hampton University, she helped lay the foundation for future generations of student-athletes. Her journey from student-athlete to national tennis leader reflects a commitment not only to excellence on the court, but to expanding opportunity within the sport.
“Being part of Hampton’s first women’s tennis team taught me that legacy is not defined only by what you accomplish, but by the doors you open and the opportunities you create for the generations that follow,” said Wilfrance.
After Hampton, she continued her journey at the Junior Tennis Champions Center (JTCC), where she spent 19 years in various leadership roles, including Director of Talent Acquisition. During her tenure, she played an instrumental role in supporting the growth of top DMV talent, including Frances Tiafoe, Robin Montgomery, and Hailey Baptiste, among many others.
Building on this foundation, she expanded her impact as Senior Manager of the National Excellence Program at the USTA Foundation, where her work focused on increasing access, creating opportunities, and empowering student-athletes nationwide. Today, she continues to build on that legacy, channeling her experience into new ventures and initiatives that advance equity, innovation, and opportunity within the sports industry. In this Q&A, Wilfrance shares more about her evolving journey and continued influence in the game.
You began your journey as a student-athlete at Hampton University. How did your experience competing at the collegiate level shape the leader you are today?
“Being part of the first women's tennis team at Hampton University was incredibly special. We were not just competing; we were helping build something that would last for generations of Pirates to come. That experience taught me resilience, accountability, and the importance of representing something bigger than yourself. Celebrating the 30-year anniversary of that team in 2025 reminded me how powerful it is to help create a legacy.”
You’ve built an impressive career in tennis leadership on a national level. What inspired your transition from competing on the court to leading within the sport?
“Tennis gave me so many opportunities, including education, travel, and lifelong relationships. As my playing career evolved, I realized I wanted to stay connected to the sport in a way that could impact more people. Moving into leadership allowed me to help create pathways, programs, and opportunities for young players who might not otherwise have access to the sport.”
Many student-athletes believe success in sport means going pro. What does success look like to you now?
“Going pro is one definition of success, but sport prepares you for much more than that. Success to me now means using the lessons from tennis, such as discipline, perseverance, and leadership, to build a meaningful career and create opportunities for others. Impact and purpose matter just as much as wins and titles.”
68 Oak is focused on supporting athletes beyond the game, through education, leadership, and opportunity. What advice would you give current Hampton student-athletes?
“Take full advantage of everything Hampton offers beyond your sport. Build relationships with professors, alumni, and mentors. Explore internships and leadership opportunities. The habits and discipline you develop as a student-athlete will open doors long after your playing career ends.”
NIL has reshaped the landscape. From your perspective, how can Hampton student-athletes leverage NIL not just for short-term compensation, but for long-term personal brand development, professional positioning, and growth?
“NIL is a great opportunity, but it should be approached with a long-term mindset. Focus on building a personal brand that reflects your values, your story, and your goals beyond sport. The right partnerships, consistency, and professionalism can help create relationships and career opportunities that extend well beyond college athletics.”
As a Hampton alumna, what does it mean to you to remain connected to the University and to be featured in the 68 Oak Alumni Spotlight Series? How do alumni voices help shape the next generation of Pirates?
“Hampton will always be part of my foundation. Being part of the first women's tennis team created a lifelong connection to the University and the Pirate community. Being featured in the 68 Oak Alumni Spotlight Series is meaningful because alumni stories help current students see what is possible and encourage them to pursue their own paths with confidence.”
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