Leaders in Tennis and Tech Drive Big Bold Moves at USTA Florida Summit

The inaugural USTA Florida Tennis Summit brought together leaders, innovators, and advocates from across the country for a weekend of forward-looking conversations centered on Big, Bold Moves. Throughout the event, a distinguished lineup of guest speakers and panelists helped frame the challenges and opportunities to shape the future of the sport. 

Photo Courtesy: AJ Borromeo

One of the Summit’s headline moments came during a one-on-one conversation between USTA Florida President Chuck Gill and Brian Vahaly, where Vahaly discussed developments within the USTA, the state of American tennis, and the organization’s evolving strategy to grow participation nationwide, 35 by 35. The discussion gave attendees a clear look into the sport’s direction and the priorities guiding its next chapter. 

Technology and innovation took center stage when Chris Capossela delivered an engaging presentation on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in sports, demonstrating how AI-driven tools are transforming coaching, operations, and fan engagement. Following his presentation, Jeff Kunowski, the Founding Director of SPORTx at Arizona State University, joined the AI and Technology Panel to highlight SPORTx and the partnership between Arizona State University and USTA Florida and the section’s HBCUs, emphasizing how data and emerging technologies are shaping player development and facility planning. Bringing the conversation to the court, George Opelka discussed the integration of AI and SwingVision, showing how enhanced analytics are helping players and coaches train more efficiently and strategically. 

A standout session came during the Women in Tennis Panel, led by USTA Florida Board Member Tracy Almeda-Singian. The panel featured Tracy Davies, General Manager of USA Tennis, Jo Wallen, Senior Director of the USTA National Campus, Madison Molock, Bethune-Cookman University tennis player, and Sa’Niya Jenkins, the MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation’s Student Athlete of the Year. Their conversation explored leadership, mentorship, and pathways for women in all areas of the sport. Attendees left energized by an empowering message, women of all ages and backgrounds belong in tennis and can achieve anything. 

Photo Courtesy: AJ Borromeo

Another defining moment of the Summit occurred when Gigi Fernandez presented a $50,000 donation from Tennis For Hope to the USTA Florida Foundation’s Hurricane Relief Fund. Fernandez shared the story behind her Foundation and Foundation, created after her own home was damaged during Hurricane Helene, and emphasized the importance of supporting tennis communities affected by natural disasters. The donation will directly strengthen the Foundation’s efforts to rebuild courts and restore programs throughout the state. 

Photo Courtesy: AJ Borromeo

Closing the speaker lineup, tennis legends Kathy Rinaldi and Jay Berger took the stage for a special USTA Florida Hall of Fame conversation. They reflected on their professional careers, their journeys through the sport, and their ongoing work in coaching and mentorship. Their insights underscored the lasting impact of leadership and service beyond competition. 

The diverse group of speakers showcased the depth of expertise, passion, and collaboration that Florida Tennis has to offer. The USTA Florida Tennis Summit not only celebrated the sport’s past and present but set a bold foundation for its future.