By: Lennard James
At only 12 years old, Faith Toney has already positioned herself as one of Memphis’ notable young athletes. A home-schooled student, she spends the majority of her days on the tennis court, driven by discipline, focus, and a deep passion for the game. Her talent and determination have helped her reach a ranking of fifth in the state of Tennessee, making her a notable junior player to follow.
Faith’s introduction to tennis came early. At the age of five, she picked up a racket for the first time, and the spark was immediate. What began as a simple childhood activity soon grew into a passion that shaped the course of her young life. Seven years later, that spark has evolved into an elite skillset, developed through countless hours of practice, training sessions, and competition.
Though quiet by nature, Faith’s style of play reflects her ability to think strategically and stay composed under pressure. She relies not just on physical strength but also on precision and foresight, qualities that allow her to anticipate her opponents’ moves and respond with confidence. That mental sharpness, combined with technical excellence, has already set her apart from peers both in Memphis and across Tennessee.
This past summer, Faith’s dedication carried her overseas, where she represented the 901 Now program as part of a group of seven student-athletes selected to compete in France. From July 3rd to July 25th, she and her teammates participated in multiple Junior Open tournaments hosted by the French Tennis Federation. These competitions exposed her to a higher caliber of play, with young athletes from across Europe and the world.
For Faith, the experience was eye-opening. Traveling internationally to compete broadened her horizons, both on and off the court. She not only honed her technical abilities but also developed a greater sense of resilience and adaptability. Facing players from different cultures and playing styles helped her recognize that she can compete—and perhaps excel—on a global stage. The trip also highlighted the importance of discipline, preparation, and vision for her long-term goals.
Back in Memphis, Faith continues her rigorous training schedule. Three-hour practices and intense workouts remain part of her weekly routine as she works toward her ultimate goal of playing college tennis and beyond. Her current standing as the fifth-ranked player in Tennessee reflects her progress but also fuels her drive to rise higher. Each tournament she enters, whether local or national, brings her closer to her aspirations of becoming one of the best.
Faith’s journey also carries significance beyond personal success. She represents the potential of Memphis youth and highlights the city’s ability to produce elite athletes in sports that require technical precision, endurance, and mental fortitude. Her achievements inspire other young athletes, particularly girls, to pursue their goals with the same focus and belief.
Her path has not been without challenges. Like many athletes, she has had to balance schoolwork, training, and the pressures of competition. Yet her ability to stay grounded while continuing to progress demonstrates maturity beyond her years. The support of her family, coaches, and community has been instrumental, but it is Faith’s own resilience and quiet determination that keeps her moving forward.
On the court, she describes her feelings simply: joy and comfort. Tennis has become more than just a sport—it is a way of life that allows her to express her confidence and discipline while chasing her dreams. Off the court, she remains a thoughtful, focused young girl who understands the sacrifices required to succeed and is willing to put in the work to achieve her goals.
The international exposure in France may have been one chapter in her young career, but it was a significant one. Competing against some of the best junior players in Europe showed her both the challenges and the possibilities that lie ahead. It was a glimpse into the future she is striving to build—a future where her name is known not just in Memphis or Tennessee, but in tennis circles worldwide.
Faith Toney is already making her mark in her own way, and she is only just beginning. Ranked fifth in Tennessee, she has shown that talent, combined with discipline, can produce results. With every match she plays, every practice she completes, and every goal she sets, she moves closer to her dream of becoming the next breakout star in American tennis.
Her story is not just about winning tournaments; it is about resilience, vision, and the belief that a young girl from Memphis can rise to compete with the very best. For Faith, the game is not just about today’s victories, it is about building a legacy that will inspire others for years to come.
