DALLAS TENNIS ASSOCIATION

The Dallas Tennis Association is dedicated to serving our vibrant and diverse tennis community through a variety of programs. Dallas Tennis is part of the United States Tennis Association (USTA) and home to USTA Adult Leagues, Tournament, Junior Team Tennis, Adaptive Tennis, Junior Recreation and Competitive programs in the greater Dallas metropolitan area.

Our Junior Recreation programs, better known as the Dallas Tennis & Education Academy (DTEA), are at the heart of our mission. As part of the USTA's National Junior Tennis and Learning Network (NJTL), DTEA provides free or low-cost tennis programs to over 1,000 underserved, at-risk children of all ages. Our team of staff, volunteers and donors are committed to providing program participants with a safe and fun learning environment.

This North Texas Giving Day, your support can help us expand and enhance our programs. We are focusing on two key areas: After School and Adaptive Tennis programs.

We're excited to share that this year, we have a generous matching donor who will match every dollar you contribute, doubling the impact of your support.

 What is the After School Program?

The After School Program helps children in grades 2 through 5 (and some 12–14-year-olds) build essential life skills and set the stage for future success. In collaboration with Dallas’ NJTL and the Dallas and Irving ISDs, we create a safe space for extended learning and personal growth.

Running for 30 weeks at 10 different sites, our program offers homework help, mentorship, and engaging activities. We staff each site with 2-4 coaches and accommodate 25 to 35 students per site. Our curriculum includes A.C.E. (Academic Creative Engagement™), S.T.E.M., Life Skills, and tennis. Tennis is used as a hook to introduce young people not only to the sport but also to instill determination, critical thinking, and sportsmanship.

What is Adaptive Tennis?

Regular physical activity can positively impact athletes in many ways—from stronger bones and muscles and lower levels of body fat, to improved cognition and reduced anxiety. But neurodivergent athletes are, oftentimes, not having the same development experience: A nationwide study once said that individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities are 4.5 times less likely to engage in physical activity compared to neurotypical athletes.

But tennis is a sport that can easily be adapted to suit their needs.

Adaptive Tennis is a fun, active, indoor activity for people of all ages with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. We use short tennis racquets, soft foam balls (and sometimes balloons) to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Classes include activities like walking, stretching, parachute play, and even dancing to keep things active.

The goal of Adaptive Tennis is to provide valuable exercise and introduce a sport to those who have limited opportunities for physical activity. The classes are designed to be fun and engaging, which athletes and their caregivers appreciate. Coaches and volunteers also enjoy watching the progress in tennis skills, communication, and movement.