Advisory Board
Jeff Bourns
Jeff Bourns is a former Para-Standing tennis professional. Bourns is credited with helping pioneer the early stages of this category of tennis as an organizer and player. He was the first American to travel internationally to represent the United States. He retired from competitive play in 2019 with a rank of #4 in the world.
Currently, Jeff resides in Houston, Texas, with his wife, Shelly. He enjoys helping promote this category of tennis, not available to him growing up, and is passionate about helping others who prefer to play standing up.
Bourns was born with a congenital birth defect in his right leg, which required amputation. He has played tennis on a prosthesis his entire life.
Rafael Shaikh
A sophomore at JSerra Catholic High School, Rafael is at the top of his class academically. His schedule is rigorous. It includes multiple AP and other advanced courses as well as a concentration in the Engineering curriculum. Additionally, he takes evening junior college courses. Last summer, he was selected for a summer internship program through Harvard University, which he completed with distinction.
He was the lone freshman on the 2025 varsity tennis team. Playing both Singles and Doubles, he helped his team win their league and then advance to state championship play. This year, he is a leader again on varsity tennis while maintaining a strong tournament tennis schedule on weekends. Rafa also gives his time to others, and sometimes that blends perfectly with his love of tennis He worked diligently on Marbella On A Mission in 2025: a 3-day tennis tournament that raises funds and awareness for cancer charities – last year benefiting American Cancer Society and Saddleback Memorial Care Hospital. Rafael worked as an effective liaison between the tournament and various participants and beneficiaries: tournament co-chairs, both the boys and girls tennis programs at JSerra HS, T3 wheelchair tennis, and Saddleback Memorial. Additionally, Rafael was able to build upon a prior relationship to obtain donated sports drinks for players and spectators.
Teaming with former middle school classmates from St. Mary’s, Rafael co-founded a local chapter of The Lion Heart Fund in 2023, which he continues to serve as an officer. This group provides impactful support for various community projects in Orange County.
Rafa enjoys experiencing life in different parts of the world. He has traveled extensively through Europe and North America, as well as selected spots in South America, Japan, South Africa and the Caribbean. He holds dual citizenship: Great Britain and the USA. He speaks French in addition to his native English. Rafa is an expert skier and considers skiing among his most enjoyable activities. Everyday fun includes being on any tennis court, spending time with his sister, family time with relatives of all ages, and trying his hand at new foods in the kitchen. Rafael is a well-rounded young man with a big heart. We are delighted to have this exceptional student working with T3.
