Music, food and a whole lot of first swings filled the Darrell Enfinger Sports Complex as USTA Florida brought its Community Fun Day to Okeechobee.
The event was built on a simple invitation. Bring the family, pick up a racquet and see what happens. More than 50 people turned out, rotating through games and skill activities with music playing and prizes on the line throughout the day. A local food truck kept everyone fed between sessions.
For many in attendance, it was a first introduction to the sport. For others, it was a chance to get back on court alongside neighbors and friends. Either way, the barrier to entry was low by design. USTA Florida supplied the racquets and the balls, and the only thing anyone needed to bring was their energy.
“The USTA Florida team was excited to bring a fun day of tennis to the Okeechobee community,” said Danielle Gooding, Director of Community Tennis at USTA Florida. “Growing tennis for all in regions big and small throughout Florida is USTA Florida’s mission. The turnout at the Darrell Enfinger Sports Complex demonstrated that there’s a big interest at all levels and all ages. We look forward to our next steps in growing the sport in this vibrant community.”
Community Fun Days are part of USTA Florida’s broader effort to reach communities that may not have easy access to organized tennis programming. The format is intentionally casual, with no registration requirements, no skill prerequisites and no pressure. The goal is simply to put a racquet in someone’s hand and let the sport do the rest.
Based on the turnout in Okeechobee, there are definitely plans for more fun community days ahead. To find tennis programs, courts and events near you, visit ustaflorida.com.
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