USTA School Tennis
USTA School Tennis is a program designed to introduce the sport to youth and to encourage and support schools that provide it. From the program’s inception in 1985 with Arthur Ashe leading the way, the USTA hopes that each child exposed to tennis will continue to play throughout his or her lifetime.
A key element of USTA School Tennis is to get children playing games right away on teams in intramural or interscholastic after school programs. Children as young as 6 years old can play QuickStart Tennis, while middle and high schoolers will enjoy the co-ed format of Jr. Team Tennis. Funding is available to help support intramural and interscholastic tennis leagues.
Following up with basic skill instruction in physical education classes will enhance the after school programs. The Missouri Valley will also provide free teacher workshops that demonstrate methods for introducing tennis to large numbers of students in schools that may not have traditional tennis courts. Schools may also access discounted equipment and grants.
To help support high school teams, coaches with a no-cut policy can register online and have access to an advisory board and funding to help pay for additional coaches or equipment.
Top 8 Reasons to be a No-Cut Coach & Benefits of Joining over 2,000 Across the Nation Who Offer a No-Cut Program (pdf)
2008-09 USTA Schools Program Fact Sheet (.doc)
School Tennis Overview - Fall 2008 (pdf)
For more information on these programs or to receive an application for one of the grants, please contact Sue Riemann, Community Program Manager, at (913) 322-4836 or riemann@movalley.usta.com.