Celebrating Autism Acceptance Month: Posh Rock Tennis Foundation

Every Friday at Redbug Lake Park, children and teens with autism gather not just to hit tennis balls—but to grow, connect, and shine. This Autism Acceptance Month, the Posh Rock Tennis Foundation (PRTF) is proud to celebrate the powerful impact of adaptive tennis through its free inclusive programming and vibrant community. 

What is Posh Rock Tennis Foundation 

Founded in 2017 by Albert Richards, John Richards III, and Francisco Gonzalez, the Posh Rock Tennis Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to using tennis as a vehicle for youth development. The founders, lifelong members of the tennis world, knew the game could open doors. Their mission: to bring tennis to underserved youth, develop character, and provide the tools for healthier, more empowered lives. Adaptive tennis, especially for individuals with special needs, is a growing part of that mission. 

As part of their year-round programming, PRTF offers adaptive tennis sessions that support children on the autism spectrum and with other developmental differences.  

The Impact of the Posh Rock Tennis Foundation 

For families like Sam’s, the experience has been life changing. “Sam started last March, and in just a year, it’s really helped him to calm down and work with other people,” his parents said. “Being autistic, sometimes it’s difficult to be around other people and not follow the rules, but here he’s doing very well. He’s accommodated to it and that is helping at home as well.” 

The program provides far more than racket skills. It’s helping athletes learn life skills that may be difficult for them to master. For some families, it’s also their child’s first experience with organized sports. The structured environment and consistent coaching create a space where children can thrive at their own pace, while parents and caregivers connect and share resources. 

Another parent, whose daughters have been with PRTF for several months, shared how adaptive tennis has boosted their confidence. “Both of my girls have built up their confidence a lot through tennis,” their mom said. “They have built up the encouragement to be more competitive and also to be more responsible.” 

Helping unlock these benefits to their athletes are the PRTF coaches, who volunteer their time to help these athletes grow in the sport. From non-verbal athletes learning tennis vocabulary to others achieving gold at Special Olympics, these coaches say they are continually inspired by their players’ growth. 

“They have come such a long way since we started with them,” they said. “Not only their progress on the court, but the way they have progressed with their speech and confidence, just shows how tennis is the best sport for their brain.” 

What makes the PRTF program truly special is its commitment to inclusion, consistency, and community. The program is offered at no cost to families, ensuring accessibility for all. It also goes beyond tennis, with year-round events like summer camps, holiday festivals, and opportunities to try other sports, such as basketball, martial arts, and golf. 

During Autism Acceptance Month, and every month, PRTF stands as a model for adaptive programming by welcoming all.  

To learn more about how you can support the Posh Rock Tennis Foundation’s adaptive programs or get involved, visit poshrockfoundation.org/our-programs/