Michael Moshan has always seen tennis as a way to bring people together, beyond the competitive aspect of the sport. From an early age, tennis gave him a sense of purpose and opened doors to new experiences and connections.
His skill in organizing tennis events has created welcoming spaces where players of all ages and levels can participate, leaving a lasting impact on every community he’s touched.
The game has taken him to new places, from international tournaments to local courts where he’s helped strengthen programs for players. For him, tennis is the perfect avenue for building relationships and creating a stronger sense of community.
As he continues to lead into his passion, his focus remains on making the sport accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their background. Through his love for tennis, volunteer work, and his family, Moshan continues to make a meaningful difference both on and off the court.
Tennis beginnings: From young prodigy to college competitor
Moshan’s appreciation for tennis took root early. As a child growing up in Dix Hills, Long Island, he quickly established himself as a serious athlete, much like his father. By the age of 10, Moshan ranked in the Northeast in the under-10s and under-12s divisions, making him stand out from other players his age.
In high school, he held the #1 singles position for three years, further cementing his reputation as a top player. His hard work paid off when he was noticed by Washington University in St. Louis and offered a spot on their tennis team. There, he continued to play at a highly competitive level, keeping the sport at the forefront of his life.
After college, Moshan took his passion for tennis across the globe, embarking on a journey through France. Armed with his tennis rackets and backpack, he competed in the French classement system—a national tournament structure with over 12,000 competitions held throughout the year.
In France, tennis was a community event, not just a game. Clubs served as the social and cultural center of each town, something Moshan had never experienced back home. The opportunity to compete in such a well-organized system left an impression on Moshan and would later inspire his efforts to build strong tennis communities in the U.S.
Reviving McCarren Park and building a tennis hub in Brooklyn
Michael Moshan returned to New York after his tennis experience overseas. He put aside his tennis game, focusing on law school and working as a young lawyer. After moving to Williamsburg in 2000, Moshan took note of a set of dilapidated tennis courts in McCarren Park on the border of Williamsburg and Greenpoint.
Michael Moshan, (WTL commissioner), Lewis Pena (2022 runner-up), Enique Catter (2022 winner), David Zuckerman (WTL commissioner)
The tennis courts there were in bad shape from years of neglect—cracked and worn down, yet still crowded with locals. For years, the Polish community had a stronghold on the park’s tennis scene, leaving limited opportunities for others to play. Frustrated by the lack of available court time and the poor conditions of the facilities, Moshan and some fellow lawyers and activists decided it was time to do something.
Along with other dedicated members of the Brooklyn tennis community, Moshan helped raise $10,000 to resurface one of the park’s eight courts. They chose to repair only Court #8, as that was all they could afford, but the impact was immediate. The old Court #8 turned into a beautiful US Open blue court that stood out from the other seven.
The project attracted the attention of the United States Tennis Association (USTA) and American Express. These organizations gave the group a grant of $50,000 to resurface all eight courts. Moshan and his fellow activists’ guidance in the project not only restored the facilities but also led to the formation of the McCarren Tennis Association (MTA). This organization not only maintained the courts but also brought a sense of organization and community to the previously fragmented tennis scene.
As the MTA gained momentum, Moshan helped launch the McCarren Tennis Ladder, an organized system where players of all levels could challenge each other and climb the ranks. The ladder quickly became the centerpiece of the local tennis scene, with annual tournaments and social events adding to the excitement. Moshan’s leadership helped create a thriving tennis community in a once-neglected park, proving that grassroots efforts could create lasting change and unite people through the game.
Expanding Westchester’s tennis scene with a Ladder System
Moshan moved to Westchester in 2017, where he saw a similar lack of community for tennis players. It inspired him to bring his organizational tennis skills to the area, where he saw even greater potential for growth. So, in 2020, along with a tennis colleague, he launched the Westchester Tennis Ladder. The abundance of courts in Westchester, compared to the limited access in Brooklyn, allowed for rapid expansion and greater participation. By 2024, it had grown to more than 400 players.
One of Moshan’s biggest challenges in Westchester was keeping things competitive for players with a wide range of skill levels. To address this issue, he introduced an intermediate ladder for 3.0 and 3.5-level participants, making it easier for players of varying abilities to find suitable competition. Moshan’s emphasis on inclusivity and balanced competition helped the ladder thrive, creating a dynamic tennis scene in the region.
Beyond the competitive matches, Moshan organized clinics and social events that brought players together in a more casual setting. These events ranged from weekend clinics to year-end tournaments, helping create a sense of community that mirrored the one he’d built at McCarren Park.
Maintaining Fairness and Connection in Tennis
Running successful tennis ladders requires both structure and adaptability, and Moshan has excelled in navigating the challenges that come with organizing such events. His primary responsibility is creating clear rules and systems to ensure fairness and consistency for all participants. Whether it’s match reporting or ranking logistics, Moshan has created an environment where players know what to expect and can focus on enjoying the game.
In addition to the technical aspects, Moshan focuses on creating a welcoming environment for players of all skill levels. Through clinics, weekend competitions, and end-of-year tournaments, he has created opportunities for players to connect and improve their skills. These events build a sense of community that extends beyond competition, making tennis more than just a game for participants.
For Moshan, real success is watching players form new friendships, develop their skills, and engage more deeply with the sport. His ability to maintain a balance between competition and camaraderie has been key to the ladders’ enduring popularity and success.
Volunteering and supporting the community
Moshan’s desire to give back extends into his volunteer work. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he joined Shop and Drop Westchester, helping deliver groceries to those confined to their homes. He also volunteers with RideConnect, providing transportation to elderly individuals who live alone and need assistance.
In his local neighborhood, Moshan takes an active role in his sons’ lives, going to their school activities and coaching their sports teams. Alongside his wife, Shana, he participates in charitable projects, such as delivering homemade meals and doing environmental cleanups along the Hudson River.
Future Aspirations: Tennis, Family, and Personal Growth
Michael Moshan remains committed to growing tennis in Westchester and beyond. He plans to expand the Westchester Tennis Ladders and bring the program to new communities, reaching even more players. As always, he seeks to create inclusive events that give players of all skill levels a chance to compete and meet new people.
In 2025, Moshan will compete in the Maccabi Games in Israel, representing the United States in the over-55 men’s singles and doubles events. This marks a significant milestone in his life, as he’ll push himself to compete harder while meeting international players who are just as passionate about tennis as he is.
It’s opportunities like the Maccabi Games, paired with his continued involvement in tennis back home, that keep Moshan motivated. As he balances his love for tennis with his commitments to his family and community, his focus on creating meaningful connections remains unchanged. Through it all, Moshan is guided by the belief that success is about making a difference in other people’s lives.