david updated letter

 

Barry Buss
Tennis Professional
Santa Rosa Beach, FL
3/11/2026

Youth Leadership Brentwood Scholarship Committee

Dear Youth Leadership Brentwood Scholarship Committee,

It is my privilege to recommend David Alexander for your scholarship/grant program. I have had the pleasure of coaching David in tennis for the past several years, and in that time I’ve come to admire not only his discipline and ability as an athlete, but more importantly his maturity, character, and natural leadership.

From the outset, David distinguished himself as the kind of young man who carries responsibility with ease. He consistently models poise, perspective, integrity, and sportsmanship—whether he’s competing at a high level, encouraging teammates, or guiding younger players. He approaches challenges with calm determination, and he does it with a steady sense of class that elevates the people around him.

David is a leader by action, not just by words. I’ve watched him take initiative during practices, motivate peers to stay focused, and step in to help stabilize a moment when others might drift. His teammates trust him because he listens, he encourages, and he leads with humility. That trust is reflected in his leadership roles as Varsity Tennis Team Captain and Varsity Swim Team Captain—positions that aren’t simply given, but earned.

What also stands out is that David’s leadership extends well beyond sports. Academically, he has challenged himself with a strong course load that includes AP Precalculus, AP Calculus AB, and AP Macroeconomics, and he has performed at a high level with a 4.14 GPA and 29 ACT. He brings the same consistent effort and accountability to school that I’ve seen on court.

He also has a meaningful track record of work experience and service. David has held multiple jobs (including roles with a tennis coaching staff, pickleball work, and other part-time responsibilities), and he has shown real commitment to volunteering across a wide range of organizations—supporting schools, food and family programs, church-based service projects, and community efforts. He has also pursued business and leadership development through programs such as Brentwood Leadership/Chamber of Commerce and Business Ignite, and through an internship with Southeast Venture focused on commercial real estate and property development. That combination—service, responsibility, and curiosity—is the profile of someone who will make the most of an opportunity like yours.

What I appreciate most about David is his grasp of the bigger picture. He understands that success—whether in sport, leadership, or life—is built through steady, rigorous effort, but also through bringing passion and joy to the process. He’s the kind of young leader who will represent your program well, contribute meaningfully to his community, and keep growing into roles of greater responsibility.

In closing, I recommend David Alexander without hesitation. He is one of the most impressive young people I have had the pleasure to coach, and I have no doubt he will bring energy, integrity, and leadership to Youth Leadership Brentwood and beyond.

Thank you for your time and thoughtful consideration. Please feel free to contact me if you would like any additional information.

Sincerely,

Barry Buss
Tennis Professional
Santa Rosa Beach, FL
barrybuss@me.com | 310-776-0180