Lynn Bender of Zeeland, Mich., received the Brad Parks Award at the 2025 USTA Annual Meeting & Conference in Carlsbad, Calif. Established in 2002 by the USTA and the International Tennis Hall of Fame, the award honors Brad Parks, the founder of wheelchair tennis and a 2010 Hall of Famer. Presented annually, it recognizes individuals or groups involved in playing, coaching, organizing, sponsoring, or promoting wheelchair tennis, celebrating those who develop programs that expand opportunities for wheelchair players at the section or national level.
A lifelong tennis player, Bender has dedicated her career to making the sport accessible to athletes with disabilities. Her deep involvement in wheelchair tennis began after marrying her husband, Curt, a longtime wheelchair tennis athlete. For over 25 years, she has worked as a community-based Recreational Therapist and has served on the USTA National Wheelchair Tennis Committee for a decade. She is also a certified USPTA teaching professional and currently chairs the USTA Midwest Section Wheelchair Committee.
Bender has taken on multiple coaching roles, including head coach of the Holland Christian High School girls’ tennis team, collegiate wheelchair tennis coach, and instructor at the annual USTA/ITF Cruyff Foundation camps, where she teaches tennis to kids from around the world. Beyond coaching, she has captained a USTA League team for years, co-founded the Grand Rapids Wheelchair Sports Association, and directed USTA and ITF tournaments in Grand Rapids.
Her passion for the sport is best exemplified through her impact on players. One example was when she introduced a 15-year-old girl from Toledo to wheelchair tennis, transforming her life in just three weeks. The girl went from trying tennis for the first time to attending the Juniors Camp in Alabama and now plays for her high school tennis team. While Lynn’s dedication opened the door, it was funding from the Foundation that made her journey possible.
Lynn Bender’s unwavering commitment to wheelchair tennis continues to inspire, break barriers, and create opportunities for athletes with disabilities.
At the USTA/Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation, we’re always looking for innovative partners who share our mission to make tennis more inclusive and accessible. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce a new partnership with TennisTEC, a national nonprofit that uses coaching, community, and technology to help more people connect with the game.
“We want to eliminate every barrier that keeps kids and adults from playing this sport.” — Tim Buwick, TennisTEC founder
A Shared Mission
TennisTEC and MTEF are aligned in a core belief: tennis is for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner picking up a racquet for the first time or a coach looking to impact your local community, this partnership is about opening doors and expanding access.
MTEF will work alongside TennisTEC to:
Support community-based tennis programs in under-resourced areas
Increase access to free and low-cost coaching resources
Leverage digital tools to connect players with opportunities, mentors, and equipment
Removing Barriers—Together
Barriers to tennis can take many forms – financial, geographic, or social. TennisTEC is tackling them all head-on through a model that blends local partnerships, digital innovation, and community-driven leadership. Together, we’re committed to scaling that impact throughout the Midwest and beyond.
Looking Ahead
This collaboration is just the beginning. Stay tuned for updates on local activations, success stories, and ways to get involved. We’re excited to partner with TennisTEC and bring the power of tennis to more communities than ever.
Detroit, MI – Rose O’Laughlin, a determined 7-year-old with a passion for tennis, has been named the 2024 recipient of the A.H. Sports Hunter Heck and Lynn Bender Wheelchair Tennis Grant. This prestigious grant, awarded through USTA’s commitment to growing wheelchair tennis, will provide Rose with crucial support as she continues to develop her skills in the sport she loves.
Rose’s journey into tennis began a few years ago at a wheelchair tennis camp hosted by Hope College. It was there that she first experienced the excitement of the game, made new friends, and—most memorably—won a specialized tennis wheelchair. This sports chair has been a game-changer, allowing Rose to explore athletic opportunities that were previously out of reach.
Since attending camp, Rose has remained dedicated to improving her game. She trains with a private coach and participates in all the USTA wheelchair tennis clinics offered in the Detroit area. These clinics not only enhance her skills but also provide a fun and supportive community where she connects with other young athletes who have physical disabilities.
For the O’Laughlin family, tennis is more than just a sport—it’s a shared passion. Rose’s older brother plays tennis, and her cousins in Colorado are elite players. One of the aspects Rose and her family love most about the sport is its inclusivity, as wheelchair players can compete alongside able-bodied athletes.
Beyond tennis, Rose is a bright and kind-hearted young girl who enjoys spending time with her brother and her dog. She looks up to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for his dedication to creating a more accepting and peaceful society. When asked about her future, Rose dreams of becoming either a disability rights advocate or, fittingly, a tennis coach.
The O’Laughlin family is deeply grateful for the grant, which will help cover the cost of private lessons—essential for Rose’s development, as many group clinics are not yet fully accessible for wheelchair players. “This support makes a huge difference in allowing Rose to continue growing in the sport she loves,” said her mother, Jenny O’Laughlin.
When recently asked again what she wanted to be when she grows up, Rose didn’t hesitate: “A tennis coach!” With her determination, passion, and the support of the USTA, there’s no doubt that Rose’s tennis journey is just beginning.
On Friday, January 31, 2025, tennis enthusiasts gathered in Detroit, Michigan, to celebrate the achievements of extraordinary individuals at the 2024 USTA Midwest Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Hosted by USTA Midwest in partnership with the USTA/Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation, the event was a resounding success. We extend our deepest gratitude to our generous sponsors, donors, and almost 300 attendees for their support.
The evening began with an inspiring speech from Dr. Brian Hainline who led the USTA’s efforts in prioritizing the health and well-being of tennis players from the junior levels through the professional ranks. He had an outstanding tenure on the Board and served as both president and CEO. To read more on Dr. Brian Haineline’s biography, CLICK HERE.
One of the most memorable moments of the evening was the induction of Kirk Anderson. His impact on tennis is immeasurable—having been involved in nearly every aspect of the sport. By the time he finished his speech, there wasn’t a dry eye in the ballroom. To read more about Kirk Anderson, CLICK HERE.
The evening concluded with the induction of Tom Patterson, a legendary official whose dedication to the sport and infectious passion have left a lasting impact on tennis. To read more on Tom Patterson’s biography, CLICK HERE
In addition to the inductions, the event featured the presentation of the USTA Midwest section’s highest honor, the Mel Bergman Section Diamond Service Award. This award recognizes a volunteer who has dedicated 10 years or more of unselfish and distinguished service. It was named after Mel Bergman, a devoted volunteer and past USTA Midwest President who served on the USTA Executive Committee, this award celebrates exceptional dedication and was awarded to Paul Farah, our current USTA/Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation President. CLICK HERE to read more about Paul Farah receiving this award.
A special thank you to our corporate sponsors—including the Cincinnati Open, Woodley Farra Manion, USTA and Stifle Investments—whose generous support played a crucial role in the event’s success. Their commitment to growing the game and advancing the Foundation’s initiatives is truly commendable. A donation appeal during the evening, led by Foundation Board President, Paul Farah, raised over $2,500 to support the Foundation’s mission. Together with proceeds donated from the Hall of Fame program book the event raised over $32,500! These funds will help provide tennis and educational opportunities for youth and individuals with disabilities.
Thank you to everyone who made this event unforgettable—we look forward to continuing this tradition of honoring those who make a lasting impact on tennis!
We are proud to announce that our very own USTA/Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation Board President, Paul Farah, was awarded the USTA Midwest Section’s highest honor, the Mel Bergman – Section Diamond Service Award. This award recognizes a volunteer for 10 or more years of unselfish and distinguished service. Named after Mel Bergman, a devoted volunteer and past USTA Midwest President who served on the USTA Executive Committee, this award celebrates exceptional dedication.
Paul Farah has served as a long-time volunteer for the USTA Midwest Section. A resident of Flint MI, Paul remains active locally with the Flint Community Tennis Association providing opportunities for all those wishing to play tennis. He also provides support for Special Olympics of Michigan in their tennis fundraising activities.
Following being President of the Northeast Michigan district, Paul served on multiple Midwest section committees and task forces, and as Delegate-At-Large. Additionally Paul served on the Midwest section Board of Directors for 10 years, including having been the longest serving Section President in its 128th year history. He has also served as an Officer and Director of the Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation (MTEF) and is currently President of the Foundation.
On a national level, Paul has been on a number of committees and task forces including both the Budget and Diversity committees. He is currently Chair of the Awards & Recognition Committee.
He is very proud of his family and his Cuban heritage. Paul, his wife Marcia, and their sons David and Paul, have been the recipients of the Midwest Family of the Year award.
Professionally, Paul is an executive automotive consultant who has led global and domestic projects. He was formerly a Global Director with General Motors and has run automobile dealerships.
On a personal note, Paul has been a top ten backgammon player in the United States and is a lifetime member of the University of Michigan Alumni Association.
The USTA/Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation is excited to announce that Jill Siegel is the recipient of the 2024 Heart for Community – USTA/Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation District Executive Director Award!
This award was founded in memory of Margaret Ruemanapp, who was a recognized leader within the Northern Michigan Tennis Association and served as their Executive Director. This award honors her innovative and inclusive spirit.
Jill Siegel joined CDTA in 2018 and very quickly began making a significant impact on the work of the Chicago District. Through her efforts beginning in 2019, CDTA partnered with the Chicago Park District (CPD) to provide free tennis instruction in diverse geographic areas of Chicago. The initiative began in 5 park day camps introducing 450 youth to tennis; 71% of them had not played tennis prior to the camp. After a COVID summer of inactivity, park programming began expanding and in 2025, CDTA – with the help of more than 60 coaches that are hired annually – will provide Day Camp instruction, junior Tennis 101 classes, and adult Cardio Tennis classes in 42 parks across the City of Chicago. In 2024, total participation in CDTA’s park programs exceeded 13,000.
Jill has also diversified revenue and partnerships through efforts with groups such as A Sweat Life, Play Your Court, and Gladiator Tennis to connect CDTA with fitness communities to promote tennis as an important health and wellness activity. She has also increased sponsorship activity for the District through engagements with Wilson, Slinger Bag, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and others. CDTA’s work in Chicago’s parks has also attracted new grant support from Serve and Return Chicago, the Midwest Tennis and Education Foundation, and Laureus Sport for Good.
Her leadership has led to a 93% increase in revenue to approximately $800,000 in 2024. Core USTA programs still account for most of CDTA’s program revenue; however, 18% of program revenue now comes from grassroots programming. In 2018, non-core programming primarily served the core USTA junior player. Today, non-core USTA programming in the Chicago District is designed to attract new/returning players and to meet needs/desires that fall outside of core programming, particularly in areas that have low USTA membership.
Blending her past non-tennis work experience with her CDTA role, Jill helped guide the CDTA Board through a successful visioning retreat in 2020 and subsequent work the following year on a strategic plan. Key outcomes of that work were a refined mission and vision that all Board members embraced. CDTA was no longer “just” the governing body for tennis in the Chicago District; there was now full Board support for focusing on transforming lives through tennis. After completing the strategic plan, CDTA’s work was organized around three key pillars beyond core USTA programming: health, research, and player prospecting. Those three pillars are now fully embedded in budgets and work plans that guide the work of the District.
Jill played tennis as a junior in the Missouri Valley Section and in college at Agnes Scott College, an NAIA women’s college in the Atlanta suburb of Decatur. She stepped away from the game during grad school, during her early career, and while she and her husband started their family. Upon returning to the game she loves, she quickly picked up USTA play and is currently a 4.5 player on multiple USTA League teams. Her career, first as an architectural design professional, then an urban planner, followed by a non-profit administrator and consultant led her to the opportunity to take on the reins of CDTA.
The USTA/Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation (MTEF) extends its heartfelt thanks to Jill Siegel for her outstanding dedication to the Chicago District and tennis. Her exceptional contributions are why she was nominated, recognized, and honored with the 2024 Heart for Community Award.
Jill will be presented with an etched vase during the 2024 Board of Directors Annual Meeting and will also accept a monetary award on behalf of her District.
This year, The USTA/Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation held its second annual Black History Month Essay Contest for our National Junior Tennis and Learning Chapters. Getting children really thinking about the importance of Black History Month and how it relates to them is vital! So we asked 3 questions for grades K-5 and 3 questions for grades 6-Up. Check out their awesome responses below!
Kindergarten – 5th Grade
Question: At one time in our country, black and white people could not drink from the same water fountain, enter a building through the same door, sit next to each other in a movie or even go to the same school. It was called separate but equal. How would you feel if you could not use the same things as your friend or go places together?
Alia O. Age 7 The Ace Project
“I would be very sad if I could not be friends with my bestfriend Marcy. We go to school together, eat lunch together and play at the playground together. I believe everyone should be kind. No one should dislike someone because of the color of their skin. I love everybody!”
Mia O. Age: 7 The Ace Project
“I would feel very sad if I could not go to school with my friends or go to McDonald’s together. I believe that we are all brothers and sisters. We should all be kind. I feel that black and white people love each other and get along today.”
“Not being able to use the same things as my friends or go to the same places together because of the color of my skin will make me feel not only sad, but also angry at the people that have the systems put in place. Separate but equal is not only BAD; but also unjust. As a society, we should not be judged by our look or what we look like. This situation is not just unfair, but EVIL.”
Adrian O. Age: 9 Inner City Tennis Project
Question: Do you think it is important to celebrate Black History Month? Why?
It is very Important to celebrate Black History month because of all the amazing things African Americans have done that I haven’t learned in school. I learned from my dad that a black man invented the super soaker water spray, and black women invented the first closed circuit tv for home security. A lot of cool things have been invented by people of color and it should be celebrated and admired by all Americans.
London C. Age 10 Inner City Tennis Project
“Black History month should be celebrated because black kids who need a role model to look up to so that nobody forgets the accomplishments of black people.
Black History month should be celebrated because kids need row models to look up to so that they never forget the things that black people did. For example people like Barack Obama. If we didn’t celebrate the things Barack Obama did we would forget everything he did and his hard work to even become president. That’s why black history month should be celebrated because it informs the public the public about the amazing and wonderful things that black people have done.
Black history month should be celebrated because it says to the public that black people matter too.”
Yomi A. Age 10 The Ace Project
“I think black history month is important because it teaches us about black people’s achievements in history. Teaching people about black people’s achievements is important because it tells us their story of how they achieved success although they started out as slaves with no independence. it’s a time to reflect on famous black people that invented daily things and about black people who fought for justice for black people. It plays a part in telling us about African Americans helping build America and that is why I think black history month is important.”
Chase M. Age 10 Opportunity Tennis Academy
“I believe it is important to celebrate black history month because we’re a Minority group that has grown. We get to celebrate people of color that open doors for us to live completely free. It’s also a form of respect to are elders that sacrifice their life for are freedom. We as color should be proud to have a month just for us.”
Mackenzie L. Age: 10 Metro Detroit Youth Clubs
Question: If you could have dinner with one famous African American in history, who would it be and what would you want to ask them?
“I would ask Martin Luther King JR. out to dinner because I would want to ask him if he ever gets tired of walking/marching. I would also ask him if he ever walks with a group of people or if he marches by himself. The reason I ask that is because if he were to walk be himself he would not have the protection he needs to protest. The last Question I would ask him is has he ever brought his grand kids out to protest with him stop segregation.”
Tavian D. Age: 10 Todd Martin Youth Leadership
“If I could meet a famous person it would be LeBron James. He is the best basketball player ever. He is totally awesome. I would ask him to teach me how to play basketball like him. I would ask for an autograph too and a jersey.”
Semaj J. Age: 7 The Ace Project
“I would like to have dinner with Martin Luther King Jr , if he was still alive. Why did you choose to stand up for others and would he do it all over again.”
Michael M. Age: 10 Metro Detroit Youth Clubs
6th Grade and Up
Question: Martin Luther King, Jr.’s said, “If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.” Not everyone fights as hard as King did for change. He was arrested 29 times, threatened and tragically assassinated. Is there anything you would fight for as much as King did for Civil Rights Change?
“There is not a doubt about Martin Luther King Jr being one of the most well-known civil rights activists. He is taught to kids around the world of all ages and all ethnicities. Practically everyone knows about his, “I have a dream” speech, but several people know who helped him along the way. The people who helped keep him up as a foundation to give African Americans like me an opportunity to succeed in the country of the free. This is to say we know famous people like Rosa Parks, Harriet Tubman, and MLK but what about the hidden figures that did not reach our textbooks? What about those people like Bayard Rustin who helped Martin Luther King Jr . organize the Montgomery Bus Boycott and taught him about Gandhi’s aspects? I feel like we need to acknowledge the people who work in the background. There is no question of how hard he fought for our rights but unlike being well known as MLK, I want to help the secluded communities of society. To play tennis seriously, you need financial stability and dedication. With the help of the Inner City Tennis Project, kids from less fortunate families have the opportunity to find something that not just passes time but can help them out in the future. Seeing how much of an impact just one program can make, I want to fight for more diversity in the game of tennis. When I’m asked what sport I play, I get raised eyebrows and questions like “ Well you are tall, why don’t you play basketball?” or “ What club do you go to practice?”. I was not sure how to answer either of these questions, especially what club I go to. My family never had the money to pay for practice at clubs and that’s one reason tennis needs to be revamped. I am just an African American playing a rich person sport. When it comes to communities inflicted by poverty, there are many basketball courts and players on them but not so much tennis. I want to change that stereotype. Martin Luther King Jr helped break through so many obstacles to pave equality for future generations. Although there are still many issues around the world. I feel like tennis can unite us together. He is one of the major activists, however, we need to educate ourselves with the people behind the scenes. . “It takes a whole village to raise a child”, so I would love to fight for equal opportunities to be successful with any financial background for the game of tennis like ICTP did for me.”
Ibrahim K. Age: 17 Inner City Tennis Project
“I would stand up for equal rights for young ladies ability to dress the way they would like to dress and not be punished or ridiculed for their choices. It sometimes feel that society gives a pass to young men in fashion options, and shames young ladies if it is not considered to others as normal. Young ladies should feel free to express themselves without judgment.”
Lauren C. Age: 13 Inner City Tennis Project
“What I would fight for more is helping homeless people. I would do this by making a program that takes homeless people and put them in big houses with other homeless people. They will get 6 months to get a job but before then will receive an income of 500 dollars every week. When they find a job they will still receive an income, but it will be less according to how much money they earn. After a while they should be earning more than 500 dollars a week and then I would start taking money from them so that they still only get 500 dollars a week. I’m only taking money from them because if I wasn’t I would run out of money eventually. Once they have enough money to move out I would give them 1000 dollars because paying your own bills takes more money.”
Joah D. Age: 14 Tennis Opportunity Program
Question: Famous basketball player Michael Jordan once said “I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed”. What does that quote mean to you?
“This quote symbolizes to me that your mistakes are a stepping stone for you to succeed. Your mistakes are constantly guiding you towards the path of success. With each mistake you take step closer to what you are aiming for. For example, in my computer class, we were learning how to code an application. We would have to test out the different codes to try and make a functional application that also followed the requirements. At first, I couldn’t get my application to work as I couldn’t figure out the right codes for it to function. I had to keep trying different things. After trying various codes, I was able to get my application to work by keeping track of my mistakes and errors I had made and trying the things I hadn’t tried before. Keeping track of my mistakes allowed me to get closer to my goal by not having me continuously make the same choice. After many tries, I was able to make my application functionable by relentlessly trying new things and learning from my mistakes. This experience allowed me to be successful during my class and serves as a valuable lesson to me in the future. ”
Jawahir S. Age: 12 Todd Martin Youth Leadership
“To me, Michael Jordan’s quote is a sign of perseverance and inner strength. Not everyone has the strength to try something when they know they might fail the first couple of times and not everyone has the perseverance to keep trying despite their many failures. I believe it’s a true testament to a person’s character when they can keep trying despite the difficulties they face and not only overcome them but thrive in the face of the challenges they overcame. I believe that true success comes from one’s failures and learning to grow and accept them but not letting them define you. And to me, Michael Jordan’s quote embodies those beliefs that I hold and that’s what defines a champion.”
Jayna D. Age: 16 Tennis Opportunity Program
“Famous basketball player Michael Jordan once said “I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” To me this quote is an awakening call for when you try to do something and fail at it. This awakens people into the real world of success and failure. Failure can only lead to success if you correctly learn from it and face failure head on. Success can also only be reached by setting short and long term goals that ease your way into success. But, just because you can only fail to succeed doesn’t mean you should aim to fail, you should always aim for success and you might possibly receive failure on the way. The moral of this story is, success isn’t possible if you don’t keep trying… “
King J. Age: 11 The ACE Project
“Michael Jordan’s quote “I’ve failed over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeeded.” can refer to a variety of things. One of them is learning from your mistakes. People often think of mistakes as the end of the road. In reality, mistakes are the obstacles we must overcome in order to achieve our dreams. Like any road trip, we pass by many sites to get to our destination. At some sites, we stop to take a closer look at them. Mistakes are like those sites. They force you to stop and rethink your path, and inevitably, teach you something new. Likewise, mistakes provide opportunities to succeed by making you address your prior errors and build off of them.”
Gnaht C. Age: 13 Inner City Tennis Project
“The quote that Michael Jordan made means that failing can make you succeed if you can learn from failing. Failure gives you the opportunity to begin again. It helps you to see your mistakes. I compare it to my personal experience playing tennis. You can get better with more practice. It gives you the chance to start over. When you practice you are guaranteed improvement.”
Maurice T. Age: 12 The ACE Project
“To me, the quote by Michael Jordan means failure is a part of life, it is inevitable. It should not stop anyone from pursuing or accomplishing their goals. Everyone experiences failure at some point and to be honest we fail often. The quote to me means that it doesn’t matter how many times you fail, it is important to never give up. To me, failure helps me learn from my mistakes so that I can be a better person, better brother and better tennis player. I also feel that failure is a part of the learning process and how we deal with failure helps us make better life choices. Also, failure tests your individual strength because it can determine how far you are willing to go to achieve greatness. Ultimately, failure leads to success. ”
Jeremiah L. Age: 16 The ACE Project
”When I read Michael Jordan’s quote on failure, I can directly apply it to learning to play tennis. In order to get better in tennis or any sport you my practice and fail or miss the shot repeatedly. Learning the forehand, backhand, slice and serve all are different skills where you may be better at some then others just like Jordan and basketball. Every stroke is a learning opportunity to improve and become successful. It’s all about persevering through the the difficulty.”
Massimo O. Age: 11 Milwaukee Tennis & Education Foundation
Question: If you could have dinner with one famous African American in history, who would it be and what would you want to ask them?
“If I could meet any famous African American in history, it would be Rosa Parks. I choose Mrs. Parks because I admire her confidence and strong will power. I also appreciate the sacrifice she made so that all Black people from around the country could have a better life. Though she was small in size and very soft spoken, I learned from her that we all have the power to stand up for our beliefs. Based on the World today, I would ask Rosa Parks if she would change her decision to not give up her seat?”
Alisia P. Age: 13 The ACE Project
If i could have dinner with one famous African American in history, it would be Frederick Douglass. I pick Frederick Douglass because he is very important. One of the questions i would ask him is what was his childhood like. I would also ask him what do you mean by “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.” The last question I would ask him is how did you escape slavery?”
Jesus M. Age: 13 Inner City Tennis Project
“If you could have dinner with one famous African American in history, who would it be and what would you want to ask them? I would have dinner with Arthur Ashe and I would ask him how was it like being a black person playing a sport that usually white people play and why he played even though there was segregation during the time Arthur Ashe was playing in United States Davis Cup and because this happened to many other professional black tennis players for this reason to this day they are remembered for fighting for black tennis equal rights.”
Michigan Student, Chase Myers, Wins USTA NJTL Essay Contest with Tribute to Her Mother
The USTA Foundation proudly announced the winners of the 2024 National Junior Tennis & Learning (NJTL) Essay Contest during the exhilarating US Open Fan Week. Among the ten distinguished winners is Chase Myers from Westland, Michigan, whose heartfelt essay celebrating her mother as her “Greatest of All Time” resonated with the selection committee.
Chase, 12, is a participant at the Opportunity Tennis Academy, an NJTL chapter that empowers youth through tennis and education. This year, the contest attracted over 1,000 entries nationwide, challenging young minds to reflect on the question, “Who is your G.O.A.T.?”
Chase’s winning essay underscores the profound influence her mother, Cassandra, has had on her life. “When I think of the G.O.A.T., I think of someone who inspires and pushes me to be my best,” Chase wrote. She attributed her growth in tennis and in life to her mother’s unwavering support and lessons on persistence and effort.
The NJTL program, established in 1969 by tennis legend Arthur Ashe, aims to provide under-resourced youth with access to tennis, educational opportunities, and essential life skills. This year, the Midwest Section saw a remarkable number of submissions, with several chapters actively participating, continuing a trend of excellence in the region.
Chase’s journey began when her mother introduced her to the Opportunity Tennis Academy four years ago. Cassandra, who never had access to tennis in her youth, wanted to ensure her daughter had every opportunity to succeed. “My mom taught me that persistence is what keeps you motivated,” Chase reflected, emphasizing the valuable lessons she’s learned about respect, responsibility, and hard work through the NJTL program.
The winners enjoyed a memorable trip to New York City from August 21 to 24, where they participated in a variety of exciting events. Highlights included ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange alongside USTA Foundation Chairperson Chris Evert and attending a special luncheon at the Yale Club, where they were presented with honorary plaques.
For 2024, two Midwest organizations were recently named the recipients of the Robert P. and Barbara D. Harris Grant: Flint Community Tennis Association and Thrive Through Tennis Foundation.
The Robert P. and Barbara D. Harris Grant is awarded to organizations seeking to start or expand tennis programming in their community. Funding is provided to develop instructional programs, organize league play for players of all ages, ability and populations, create tournament play or anything that encourages long-term growth of tennis programming in the community. To learn more about these organizations, read below for their summaries.
Flint CTA’s mission is to promote tennis and court sports at Kellar Park in Flint, MI, by offering programming and educational experiences for all ages and abilities to enhance wellness in Genesee County. In its second summer, Flint CTA provides a safe space for children and adults to engage in physical, social, and community activities. It was established to continue the legacy of the Flint Tennis Club, founded in 1922, by opening the courts for public use and expanding diversity among players.
Flint CTA works to ensure that all ethnic groups feel welcome, broaden the age range of participants, offer affordable lessons and equipment, and run outreach programs for newcomers to tennis. The organization also provides employment opportunities for high schoolers and supports a young adult pursuing certification as a Tennis Teaching Professional.
With a significant need for programming in the area, the CTA helps address challenges like high school tennis team attrition, a lack of city recreational programming, and the involvement of the University of Michigan’s new club team. The organization fosters a welcoming environment where adults, particularly women aged 40-60 and those recovering from disabilities, can enjoy tennis without judgment.
Through collaborations with Genesee County and USTA, Flint CTA is improving facilities and restoring community pride in Kellar Park’s clay courts. The group has seen sustainable growth and continues to appreciate USTA’s financial support and resources for building community.
At Thrive Through Tennis Foundation, it is our mission to bring the joy and therapeutic benefits of tennis to individuals and the community. Since our inception, we’ve been passionate about supporting underserved populations in Northeastern Ohio, including Adaptive and Wheelchair groups, Homeschool students, and individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
We offer a free weekly wheelchair tennis program. Through our partnership with the Recreation Therapy Department of the Louis Stokes VA, we are honored to welcome disabled veterans to participate in our program. Currently, we borrow sport-specific wheelchairs, but we hope to acquire enough chairs to meet our growing demand.
Our year-round Adaptive program runs weekly and serves children and adults with any physical, developmental, cognitive or emotional disability. We partner with local organizations like the Achievement Centers for Children, Empower Sports, the Autism Society of Greater Cleveland, and Special Olympics MBB Chapter. Our Adaptive players recently participated in the Special Olympics Regional Tournament and USTA Midwest Unified Doubles Qualifier Event.
Our Homeschool program reaches 20-30 students weekly, aged 5-14 years. The classes not only teach students tennis, but physical, technical, tactical and mental skills both on and off court. We are extremely proud to have developed a specialized tennis and fitness program for people with Parkinson’s disease. This innovative program combines tennis with fitness led by a certified Parkinson’s trainer. The blended program is helping participants boost their health, happiness and quality of life.
THRiVE stands for Tennis, Health, Results, Inspiration, Value and Education. Our programs bring these benefits to unique segments of the community. Our participants often express gratitude for the positive impact on their lives. They don’t just participate, they “thrive” from THRiVE!
We need your help! The USTA/Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation is seeking nominations for leadership positions for the 2025-2026 term.
Applications accepted until Sept 30, 2024 at 5pm ET.
Are you interested in volunteering? Do you know someone who is?
The Foundation is on a quest to fulfill its mission of growing and servicing the game. Founded in 1992, the USTA/Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation supports communities, programs and individuals, providing greater educational opportunities for youth and all persons with disabilities. The Foundation places emphasis on programs and activities that provide a positive, fun and disciplined environment to learn the game of tennis – and create alternatives to negative recreation. It also assists young players who have demonstrated talent and need financial support to compete at higher levels.
You can help make a difference! Because of your enthusiasm, we invite you to apply for a USTA/Midwest Tennis & Education Foundation Leadership position. Applications will be accepted until Monday, September 30, 2024 at 5pm ET. Click the link below to apply!
We hope you will consider continuing to give back to our wonderful sport by helping the Foundation to help others pick up a racquet and play.
