Florida Tennis Has Tons of Adaptive Offerings in Your Neighborhood

USTA Florida is deeply committed to growing adaptive tennis throughout the state and as part of Autism Acceptance Month, the organization is highlighting the programs that offer adaptive tennis.  

For people that may not know, Adaptive Tennis is is an inclusive form of the sport designed to accommodate players with physical, developmental, or cognitive disabilities. Using modified equipment, rules, and support, adaptive tennis ensures that individuals of all abilities can enjoy, learn, and compete in the game while promoting physical activity, social connection, and fun.

From autism-focused clinics and veteran outreach to inclusive school partnerships and recreational play, Florida is now home to more than 20 adaptive tennis programs offering transformative and life-changing opportunities. 

These programs create spaces where players of all ages and skill levels can feel welcome, supported, and celebrated. Whether someone is picking up a racquet for the first time or looking for a regular place to play with peers, adaptive tennis in Florida is thriving and it’s all thanks to passionate volunteers, coaches, and community advocates. 

PBG also offers adaptive and wheelchair tennis programs.

Programs such as Love Serving Autism (LSA), ACEing Autism, Buddy Up Tennis and Tennis for Fun provide inclusive and accessible environments for youth and adults with developmental, physical, and cognitive disabilities to enjoy tennis in a judgment-free zone. Many of these programs integrate sensory-friendly approaches, small-group instruction, and peer mentors to ensure players are learning and having fun in ways that work best for them. 

Based in South Florida, LSA was founded back in 2017, by Lisa Pugliese-LaCroix and is a non-profit organization that provides specialized therapeutic tennis programs for people with autism spectrum disorder. In nearly 10 years, the program has grown sustainably and is offered across 14 states. In Florida, there are programs offered in over 20 cities for people of all ages. To sign up for a class and view the full calendar visit their website loveservingautism.org. For those looking to volunteer with LSA, visit loveservingautism.org/volunteers. 

Another shining example of adaptive tennis programming is Tennis for Fun, which was honored with the 2024 USTA National Adaptive Tennis Community Service Award. Founded in 2000 by Jesuit High School student Nathan Moore, the all-volunteer initiative has grown to 18 locations, serving more than 200 athletes throughout the greater Tampa area. The program is free to all participants and fosters a fun and welcoming space for individuals with Down syndrome and other disabilities to learn basic tennis skills, build confidence, and socialize with others. 

Since winning, Tennis for Fun has expanded and is currently offered in over 20 different locations with some including Apollo Beach, Brandon, Deland, Largo, Okeechobee, Sarasota, Seminole, Spring Hill, Sumter County, Tampa, and Wesley Chapel. 

To sign up for a class, visit tennisforfun.org/locations. If you’re looking to volunteer, visit tennisforfun.org/get-involved and learn how you can help out. 

Another key organization for Florida adaptive tennis is Special Olympics. USTA Florida and Special Olympics have been partnered since 2018, bringing the tennis State Games to hundreds of athletes. Hosted at the USTA National Campus in Lake Nona, the event provides Special Olympics athletes with the opportunity to showcase their skills, determination, and sportsmanship on the tennis courts. 

From the opening ceremonies to the final matches, the atmosphere is always filled with energy and excitement. Families, friends, and supporters lined the courts, cheering on athletes as they competed at their highest level. Beyond the competition, the State Games serve as a powerful reminder of the impact of sports on individuals with disabilities. Athletes were not only competing for medals but also building confidence, friendships, and lifelong memories. 

To find your local Special Olympics Tennis Program, visit specialolympicsflorida.org/map and click on your area to find where the nearest class is. For those that want to coach or volunteer, visit specialolympicsflorida.org/get-involved. 

The environment from the Special Olympics State Games in something you need to experience.

Through program support, volunteer support and staff partnerships, USTA Florida proudly supports adaptive programs around the state and the athletes, families, and communities they empower. These partnerships are a critical part of the organization’s mission to ensure that tennis truly is a sport for everyone no matter their age, background, or ability. 

To learn more about adaptive tennis programs supported by USTA Florida, visit ustaflorida.com/adaptive-and-wheelchair.