Isaac Donkor
Founder and CEO of Donkor Foundation, growing up in Ghana and taking up tennis at the age of 9. I was selected for the National team under 16 and 18, representing Ghana in ITF tournaments across Africa and through this gained a full tennis scholarship to New Mexico Military Institute, junior college.
Finished as the no1 junior college player in the Country and was the first player to represent them in a National Championship. In 1993 I was selected as part of the Rolex All Star team.
I then transferred to University of New Mexico as #26 in the NCAA rankings. Joining the already 3 times WAC champions , I helped the team succeed in becoming 5 in a row WAC champions. I graduated in May 1996 with a bachelors degree in University studies, with 3 concentrations; Physical Education, Sociology and Sports Management.
It was during this time I began my Davis cup career as no 2 singles and doubles player. During which Ghana finished in its highest position in its history and also played Great Britain at our home stadium.
For four years I played professional tennis travelling to Africa, Ireland and the USA. Playing the Legg Mason classic qualifiers was a highlight of my career.
I then began coaching at the Washington Tennis Foundation, where I was responsible for the day to day running of the programme, fitness training, implementing summer camps, match practice and physical strength training. Working at the Foundation taught me a great deal about how Foundations work and their importance. The success of the Washington Foundation inspired me to one day do something similar for African Children.
In 2000 I obtained my Tennis Ireland coaches certification and then began employment with David LLoyd rackets and fitness club in Belfast.Coaching adults and children individually and in groups, aswell as facilitating tournaments and events within the club. I also had the opportunity to work with the LTA , Tennis Ireland and the long distance learning team at the Bollettieri Academy. My biggest achievement at the DL tennis facility was taking 8 children from the age of 6 and coaching them to a standard that included three national players and 5 county players, by the age of 10.
I am currently a PTR certified pro, with over 25 years coaching experience.
The Directors consist of a group of individuals dedicated to making this project happen. All have an in-depth knowledge of tennis and business skills to bring this foundation forward.
Michelle Donkor-Treasurer
Michelle Donkor has been involved with the Donkor Foundation from day one, helping to establish the charities’ 501c3 status.
Seeing her husband, Isaac, up at 2 in the morning jotting down ideas about the foundation before it had even begun, and the dedication and enthusiasm Isaac had for this project, gave Michelle the idea this was something to get on board with. Michelle has a keen interest in tennis having played since the age of four, representing her county and country as a junior. She qualified as an Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) part 2 coach in 1998 and has been an active coach since then. In addition to coaching, Michelle also helped facilitate a Community Tennis Program, an initiative set up by the Lawn Tennis Association in England, which offered subsidized tennis lessons and fun days for children of all ages and abilities in the local area.
After moving to Northern Ireland in 2000 Michelle opened her own pro shop, along with her husband Isaac, and was responsible for managing the day to day activities of the pro shop, including accounts and marketing. During that time Michelle sponsored a group of promising young tennis players, providing them with equipment and clothing.
Michelle has a passion for helping children and will be directly involved in all aspects of the Donkor Foundation. Currently, Michelle is the Treasurer of Donkor Tennis and Education Foundation.
Jean Hoskins – Secretary.
Jean grew up in Indiana and now lives wherever her husband’s job takes them. She has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Dayton in Ohio and a Masters of Taxation degree from Florida Atlantic University. Since she moves quite frequently, she works in variety of job capacities to include many non-profit agencies helping to raise funds and plan events.
She is also a BASI Pilates instructor and group fitness instructor and loves teaching classes. When Jean is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family.
Jean is very excited to work with the Donkor Tennis & Education Foundation and most especially with Isaac and Michelle Donkor. She knows they are incredibly hard working and is proud to assist with this amazing foundation.
Peter Meyer
Bere White
Jack Jones
