May is National Tennis Month, and there’s no better time to discover, or rediscover, your love for the game! At USTA Florida, we’re celebrating all month long by making tennis more inclusive, fun, and welcoming for everyone. Whether you’re picking up a racquet for the first time, coming back after a break, or trying adaptive tennis through a wheelchair program, our Love To Programs are designed just for you.
These beginner-friendly programs are all about building confidence, learning the fundamentals, and creating a positive first experience. With a mix of expert instruction, supportive mentors, and game play, the Love To pathway offers a simple and accessible way for anyone to get involved in the sport.
The Programs: Love to Learn, Love to Play, and Love to Roll
Each of the Love To programs is thoughtfully designed to meet players where they are on their tennis journey. They are short, flexible, and affordable, perfect for busy lifestyles and those just getting started.
Love to Learn
- Level: Beginner (brand new or returning)
- Ball Type: Red, Orange, or Green
- Program Length: 6-8 weeks
- Session Format: Fun drills, games, and light competition
- Coaching: Led by certified professionals during the first 6 weeks, with volunteer ambassadors joining from week 4 onward
- Recommended Next Steps: Transition to Love to Play, join local clinics, or explore private lessons
This foundational program focuses on rallying, basic rules, scoring, and building comfort on the court. After just a few weeks, participants often report feeling more confident and excited to keep learning.
Love to Play
- Level: Intermediate (graduates of Love to Learn or equivalent)
- Ball Type: Orange or Green
- Program Length: 4-6 weeks
- Session Format: Mentored match play with ongoing support
- Session Length: 60–90 minutes
- Recommended Next Steps: Join a league, continue clinics, or participate in casual or competitive play
Love to Play bridges the gap between learning and real match experience. Participants learn to keep score, understand match formats, and gain the knowledge needed to join recreational or social leagues.
Love to Roll
A growing addition to the Love To family, Love to Roll is tailored specifically for wheelchair tennis players. These programs are fully integrated with Love to Learn and Love to Play formats, ensuring players of all abilities can enjoy the sport together.
Where Are Love To Programs Taking Place?
Players interested in joining a Love To program can download the Player’s Guide for tips on what to expect, how to prepare, and how to find a program near them. Whether you’re an adult beginner or a wheelchair athlete ready to roll, there’s a place for you to start having fun on the court.
Visit ustaflorida.com/local-play to find the tennis facility that is closest to you and learn about their programming.
You Don’t Have to Play to be Involved
A key component of each Love To program is the inclusion of volunteer ambassadors enthusiastic and experienced tennis players who help mentor newcomers. Ambassadors provide encouragement, simplify the learning curve, and help new players feel welcomed and supported. They are essential to creating a no judgment atmosphere that allows players to grow at their own pace.
If you’re a coach or facility operator looking to grow tennis in your area, USTA Florida offers the Provider’s Guide packed with resources on how to launch, promote, and sustain a Love To program. From suggested schedules to marketing materials, everything you need is ready to go.
USTA Florida’s Love To programs are transforming how new and returning players connect with tennis. With expert coaching, supportive mentors, and a clear pathway for growth, every participant can find their place on the court.
Visit ustaflorida.com/love-to to find a program near you, download guides, or become a provider. Whether you’re ready to Learn, Play, or Roll, USTA Florida has everything you need to fall in love with tennis.
