Akron, Ohio tennis program is, "a warm and supportive environment," for players with autism

ACEing Autism has served the adaptive tennis community since it was founded in 2008 by Richard Spurling and Dr. Shafali Jeste in Boston, Mass. In the beginning, it was a small, family-run organization fueled by the unwavering support of volunteers and advocates. Today, there are 100+ programs across the United States, and Akron, Ohio just won Program of the Year!

The announcement said: Congratulations to Akron for being ACEing Autism’s Program of the Year in 2023! Program Directors Katie Orlando and Tammy Simone, along with their team of volunteers, have built a warm and supportive environment where all of their athletes can actively engage and enjoy the sport of tennis... Additionally, Akron has been one of our pioneer sites introducing adult programming.

"Our program is for anyone in the adaptive space," Orlando and Simone said. "We are inclusive to all. It is very important for us to develop a culture that athletes, volunteers and their families feel valued in our community that we are building."

But the organization is more than tennis clinics. It's an avenue for players to build social connections, and improve their health and fitness. The mission is to help individuals with autism grow, develop and benefit from the sport—and provide programming for this growing and underserved population.

Tennis lessons can offer physical, mental and social benefits by improving hand-eye coordination, balance, mobility, strength and overall fitness, while also building self-confidence. The sport reduces stress and can create social outlets for all players.

The Akron, Ohio program is just one of 10 programs across Midwest states, but the only one to hold adult clinics. Akron's spring 2024 programming includes junior court time for ages 5-17 and adult court time for ages 18+ on Tuesdays. CLICK HERE for program dates.