The USTA this week awarded more than $50,000 in USTA Wheelchair Tennis Grassroots grants to 33 wheelchair tennis programs nationwide. Grants were awarded to local organizations that promote and develop the growth of wheelchair tennis and use the sport to help build stronger, healthier communities.
Florida grants were awarded to:
Plantation Community Tennis CTA (Plantation, Fla.)
USTA Florida Section, Inc. (Orlando, Fla.)
T.E.A.M. Junior Tennis, Inc. (Orlando, Fla.)
The Plantation Adaptive “PAP” Wheelchair Tennis Program operates out of the Frank Veltri Tennis Center and is an official USTA Florida Community Tennis Association. In December 2019, Orlando’s T.E.A.M Junior Tennis, Inc., wheelchair program also received a $4,900 grant from the USTA Florida Section Foundation.
USTA Florida staff hosted two NEC Wheelchair Masters Kids Day in November 2019 when students from Lake Nona High School participated in on-court activities while also getting the opportunity to watch wheelchair tennis. USTA Florida promotes, develops and supports programs for individuals with differing physical and/or mental abilities and circumstances, and encourage facilities to provide wheelchair tennis opportunities in their communities.
Grant amounts were based on each program’s existing budget, as well as the future programming needs of the organization. Recipients can use the award to support coaching, court time, equipment, recruitment and events including tournaments and camps.
The first USTA Wheelchair Tennis Grassroots grants were awarded in 2008 and since then, the USTA has given more than $650,000 to wheelchair tennis programs across the country.
“The USTA is proud to award these grants to deserving wheelchair tennis organizations in recognition of their commitment in promoting and growing the sport of wheelchair tennis,” said Joanne Wallen, director of adult competition, USTA. “These grants are a part of a continued effort to expand programs that support the wheelchair community through tennis and foster growth and success in players.”
Organizations that are interested in starting a wheelchair tennis program or would like more information about wheelchair tennis can email wheelchairinfo@usta.com.
