CTS Tennis Scoreboard Helps Oprah Fulfill a Dream

On March 29, 2005, The Oprah Winfrey Show included a segment on "Achieving the Dream." The Oprah Show chose to make a difference for Kelly, a 6-foot tall 8th grader, who faces ridicule at school because of her height. Kelly told Oprah that the only place she feels good about herself is on the tennis court.

Kelly said, "Tennis makes me feel like I can accomplish anything I want."

With the help of Kelly's family, The Oprah Winfrey Show surprised Kelly with the opportunity to play on center court at the Crandon Park Tennis Center in Key Biscayne, Florida. The added surprise was Venus and Serena Williams who came to give her a private lesson and personal encouragement.

Kelly had said that Venus and Serena were her personal heroes, in part because they are each over 6 feet tall.

Oprah Winfrey said, "Venus and Serena Williams believe the only way to stay on the road to success is to leave the negative people behind."

Venus Williams said, "Definitely stay away from dream stealers."

"And dream killers," added Serena.

A Colorado Time Systems TN-1 tennis scoreboard, specifically manufactured for the show, kept score during the match between Kelly, Venus and Serena.