Wheelchair tennis growing through USTA Western Michigan leagues

Proudest tennis moment:

Watching my son play the sport that both my wife and I also love is certainly a proud moment. The icing on the cake is that he loves the sport even more than we do and is now playing college tennis!

Memorable matches/team gatherings:

I have many memorable moments with my teammates and come-from-behind victories, but the most exciting was when our team won the Michigan State Championships and played in the Midwest Sectionals! 

What you want people to know:

Wheelchair tennis and the sport of tennis in general would not be what it is today without all the wonderful people within the USTA volunteering their time and energy to support this sport, people like Erin Flynn of the Ohio Valley District who was awarded the The Bender Family Wheelchair Performance Award for her part in growing the game. 

Jocelyn Dettloff

League Captain(s) and NTRP Level:

Wendy Ratza and Jennie Wassanar | 3.0

How you started:

About 10 years ago, one of my wheelchair tennis coaches suggested I join a 3.0 team for the opportunity to play more competitive matches. Otherwise, I would play only a few wheelchair tennis tournaments a year. This was a great way to get more match play. 

Best parts about league:

I love not having to travel far away to play a competitive match. The integration is fantastic and there is an opportunity to join more than one team. I play on two teams.

Proudest tennis moment:

My proudest tennis moment was winning a tough, three-set match at districts. It allowed our team to advance to the state playoffs.

Memorable matches/team gatherings:

I’ve made it to districts a few times with one of my teams!

What you want people to know:

I continue to have fun being on league teams. Playing with standing players makes it a bit of a different game, but it's a great way for me to practice making adjustments against whatever opponent I’m playing.

Valerie Wallace

League Captain(s) and NTRP Level:

Jeannie Wassnaar | 3.0

How you started:

I was asked by several able-bodied players to join the team.

Best parts about league:

I like being able to play against all different styles of players.

Proudest tennis moment:

When I can outthink or outplay a person who is able-bodied and I win that point, I feel proud of myself.

Memorable matches/team gatherings:

Every moment during practice, and during matches, when my teammates trust me in a wheelchair, that is a memorable moment for me. I also love the friendships I’ve made and the support my teammates show me.

What you want people to know:

I truly enjoy the competition and the friendships with league play. They help me to become a better player.