What is Advocacy?

So. Much. Tennis.

Tennis is booming. U.S. tennis participation has exploded recently, with more than 8 million new tennis players since 2019, representing an increase of 45%. Locally, Colorado has seen similar growth. A recent survey put the number of players statewide at more than 500,000, meaning that about 1 in 10 Coloradans have played tennis in the last year.

 

What's more, Denver has been ranked #1 or #2 in the nation in league participation for more than a decade, and Colorado leads all states in level-based adult tournament participation. In 2024, Colorado celebrates its 1 Millionth league participant since sanctioned play began in 1980, a staggering number in a state with so many competing interests.

 

What is Tennis Advocacy?

Building public support and awareness for tennis by demonstrating the benefits to decision makers in the public, private and non-profit sectors. It’s more important than ever!

 

Throughout Colorado, there is a growing need specifically to expand, repair and protect tennis courts and accommodate the record participation which makes it even more critical to establish a voice for tennis. 

 

Locating and assisting individuals and organizations in your community that can move tennis forward is a great way to get started as a tennis advocate. Keep in mind it’s not just about tennis but using tennis as a vehicle to solve public problems that these decision makers care about. Youth development, quality of life, economic impact and public safety, are just a few of the great ways tennis strengthens communities.

Become an Advocate for Tennis

Passion into Action

Staggering participation growth has created a strain on infrastructure and program availability statewide. We must work together so tennis can grow at pace with its popularity. USTA invites you to become a Champion for Tennis!

Create a Gameplan

Download the USTA Advocacy in Motion Worksheet which will guide you step by step through identifying your goals, working with key players,  and implementing your strategy.

 

Advocacy Handbook

An A to Z guide to building your case, developing your project and gaining support for your initiative.. Includes case studies and practical resources from across the country.

 

 

USTA Resources 

USTA has resources, information and tools that illustrate how tennis facilities and programs are necessary for a healthy community.

 

Advocacy topics include:

  • Community 
  • Public Parks
  • Schools
  • Wheelchair & Adaptive
  • Diversity & Inclusion

Advocacy Toolkit

Download sample letters, social media templates, etc.

Making the Case for Tennis in your Community

Health Benefits of Tennis

Participating in tennis comes with many health and fitness benefits. Playing competitively burns more calories than some other popular exercises, including aerobics. There are many physical reasons to play tennis, and they help with fitness and improved health.

Community Funding

USTA Colorado wants to financially support the efforts of community-based organizations that are creating new or expanding public tennis participation and accessibility.

Navigating Pickleball

While tennis remains the most popular racquet sport in the United States, pickleball has also experienced a significant increase in participation, ultimately driving the demand for adequate tennis and pickleball courts across the country. 

 

 

Identify Decision Makers

Get the names and contact information for the people who represent you on the federal, state, and local levels.

Data/Research

To become an effective advocate for tennis, you need the right materials. We've compiled various reports, data, and more.