USTA Florida’s program areas saw remarkable momentum this year, showcasing the organization’s commitment to strengthening the sport at every age, level, and ability, with adult players, youth competitors, new learners, school partners and community groups all benefiting from expanded opportunities and successful programming statewide. From national championship titles to innovative workshops and impactful outreach events, 2024 was a year that showcased the depth and diversity of tennis in Florida.
Adult Tennis, Growth, Education, and National Success
This year USTA Florida celebrated the continued success of its Love to Learn and Love to Play programs, which introduce and transition new players into the sport. During National Tennis Month the organization emphasized that these programs are designed to make tennis accessible and unintimidating for beginners, offering a welcoming pathway into the game, and reinforcing that Love to Learn and Love to Play are for everyone. Participation grew across multiple counties, fueled by strong coach engagement, local partnerships, and increased word of mouth among adults seeking a fun active alternative to traditional fitness. These programs continue to serve as some of Florida’s most effective entry points to lifelong tennis participation.
USTA Florida Leagues Excel on the National Stage
Florida league teams had another standout season at USTA League Nationals, bringing home multiple titles and top finishes. In one of the year’s biggest highlights, Broward County secured a national championship in the adult league division after a strong run marked by depth, team chemistry, and consistent play across all courts. Miami-Dade County also delivered a historic performance, capturing two USTA Adult League national championships in the same season. Both teams demonstrated the strength of Florida’s league ecosystem, supported by competitive local play and regional competition throughout the year. Beyond the champions, numerous Florida teams posted deep runs and top finishes, contributing to one of the most successful national seasons in recent memory.
Youth Tennis, A Thriving, Connected Pathway
Junior Team Tennis saw particularly strong growth in 2025, with programs expanding in both urban centers and smaller communities. Providers reported increased demand for team-based play, especially among younger divisions where beginners benefit from the social and supportive environment that team tennis offers. High energy match days, seasonal championships, and creative formats kept players engaged throughout the year. Many local programs added entry level formats and beginner friendly divisions to make team tennis even more accessible. Providers across the state saw improved player retention, with families consistently identifying teamwork, friendships and structured competition as reasons why their children remained in the sport. The upward trajectory of junior team tennis reflects statewide efforts to make youth tennis more approachable, social, and fun, core priorities that continue to grow the next generation of players.
Community Tennis, Partnerships, Schools, and Inclusive Training
This year USTA Florida expanded its reach to schools by connecting with teachers, after-school program leaders and youth organizations to bring tennis to new locations. Back-to-school clinics and wellness focused training helped coaches and educators learn how to deliver engaging beginner friendly tennis experiences in physical education classes and youth programs. USTA Florida partnered with community groups for a major back-to-school tennis clinic that introduced students to the game while providing families with supplies and community resources. The event blended tennis instruction with health, teamwork and confidence building, ensuring participants experienced more than just the sport.
Additionally, USTA Florida celebrated National Wellness Month by delivering a series of trainings statewide to help teachers and youth leaders incorporate tennis into physical education and extended day programs. These trainings emphasized easy to run activities, age appropriate equipment, and ways to maximize small spaces key elements that allow tennis to fit seamlessly into school settings. Together these efforts helped bring tennis to thousands of new students and supported hundreds of educators in providing high quality, low-barrier tennis play.
Innovative Blind and Visually Impaired Tennis Workshop
Inclusive programming remained a central priority, highlighted by USTA Florida’s blind and visually impaired tennis workshop. The event introduced coaches, providers and volunteers to specialized equipment, teaching techniques and adapted play formats used in blind and visually impaired tennis. Participants learned how the sport can be modified through sound-based balls, tactile court markers and sensory based instruction. The workshop not only increased awareness but also equipped leaders to bring blind and visually impaired tennis into their own communities. This initiative reflects USTA Florida’s belief that tennis is truly for all, and that programs must evolve to meet the needs of every player.
Supporting Community Coaches Through Empowering Workshops
USTA Florida partnered with USTA Coaching to host a women’s community coach workshop, designed to help women gain confidence and leadership skills as emerging coaches. The workshop equipped participants with developmentally appropriate activities, group management techniques and tools for organizing fun social tennis experiences. The event helped cultivate a growing number of female leaders in Florida who are prepared to guide beginners, support community programs and expand access at the grassroots level. By focusing on empowerment and practical instruction, the workshop reflected USTA Florida’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the statewide coaching network.
A Year of Expansion, Connection, and Opportunity
Across adult programs, youth pathways, school partnerships, and community initiatives, USTA Florida’s program areas delivered a year filled with growth and meaningful progress, with adult players enjoying new learning opportunities and achieving national success, young athletes experiencing team camaraderie and elevated match play, community members benefiting from inclusive programming, strong partnerships, and enriched school experiences. Every initiative shared a common thread: a commitment to creating welcoming, accessible, and sustainable opportunities for everyone who wants to be part of the sport.
With strong partnerships, dedicated providers, resilient volunteers and continued innovation, USTA Florida’s program areas are well positioned for an even stronger year ahead, one driven by connection, growth and the joy of tennis.
