Hillsborough County’s Sonia Patrick named USTA Florida Tennis Volunteer of the Month

USTA Florida Adult Leagues are extremely fun for those participating, but behind the scenes there are countless hours that captains are pouring in to make sure teams are able to compete.  

Sonia Patrick, an outstanding captain and volunteer at Plant City Tennis Center in Hillsborough County is being recognized as USTA Florida’s February Volunteer of the Month. 

Sonia was first drawn to tennis in middle school, when she saw the outfits of her school’s team and said to herself “that will be me next year.”  

Sonia is the captain of a handful of Hillsborough County tennis teams.

Fast forward some years, and Sonia is now one of USTA Florida’s amazing volunteers. She has captained multiple Adult 40 & Over 4.0 teams as well as some 8.5 rated teams. “I love seeing the joy and excitement on the younger players,” she said. “The sport shines through, whether they win or not.” 

Winning has been a great accomplishment for Sonia as well. One of her 4.0 teams made it to sectionals twice, after being the best in Hillsborough County. While this is only her second year getting involved with leveling up her game as a volunteer captain, it has created some of her favorite tennis memories.  

“I love to meet new people and show them the beauty of being a tennis player,” she recalled. “Tennis is a sport that can be played at any age.” Just getting new faces out on the court is what truly pushes Sonia to do what she does. 

She loves to see other people find success on the court and enjoy the sport.

When Sonia isn’t playing or volunteering in tennis, she loves to watch her daughters compete in cheer competitions and perform at their school’s drama club.  

USTA Florida thanks Sonia for dedicating her time to the Plant City Tennis Center and encouraging everyone to get involved with tennis.  

Outstanding volunteers are recognized numerous ways by volunteering for tennis in Florida. The Volunteer of the Month Award is one-way peers in their community can recognize people doing great work for tennis. Do you know someone who is making a difference in Florida tennis? You can nominate someone anytime to be awarded Volunteer of the Month kudos.  

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