Escambia County’s Kathy Ross named USTA Florida Tennis Volunteer of the Month

With the Florida Section having more than 1.6 million tennis players, there is nothing more important than the generosity and dedication of volunteers. USTA Florida November Volunteer of the Month, Kathy Ross, is a massive asset to Escambia County, helping grassroots tennis thrive across multiple age levels.  

Kathy first began volunteering around 7 years ago. She was playing on a USTA Florida Adult League team and realized that she wanted to be the one organizing it. Being a captain takes tons of extra work, especially being the lead motivator for the team. “I enjoy putting together teams to help players who don’t have as many opportunities to play or looking for ways to advance to the next level,” she said. 

On top of being a league captain, Kathy is also an Ambassador for Love to Learn, Love to Compete, and a volunteer for the Special Olympics. “I love being able to help players connect with other players and introduce them to a sport that is accessible and available for all levels of players and ages,” she said. “Helping those Special Olympic players and seeing the joy on their faces at playing is an amazing experience.” 

Kathy’s efforts don’t go unnoticed by the Escambia County community, as many people have expressed their gratitude for all she does. “You can always count on Kathy to show up and help whenever and wherever needed,” one of her peers said. “Kathy is always bringing her positive and patient disposition!” 

When Kathy isn’t playing or volunteering in the tennis community, she is working tirelessly to help others in her life. She is a caregiver for her parents and is extremely involved with volunteering at her local church. 

As USTA Florida’s November Volunteer of the Month, the organization thanks Kathy for everything she does from encouraging players to compete in Adult Leagues to assisting with grassroot tennis for players of all skills and abilities. 

Interested in volunteering in tennis? Visit www.USTAFlorida.com/Volunteers to learn more about available opportunities.