'Tennis at its best': Fred Johnson ALL Stars inspires in Oklahoma debut

For the first time in the event’s history, USTA Missouri Valley’s annual Fred Johnson ALL Stars was held in the state of Oklahoma. Adaptive tennis athletes from across the section descended upon Edmond Center Court in central Oklahoma for a day and a half of level-based tennis competition and fun social activities on June 21-22.

A total of 64 players aged 14 and older participated in singles and doubles match play. All levels of adaptive tennis athletes were welcome, with red, orange, green and yellow ball competition taking place. Caitlyn Sagraves, director of outreach at Edmond Center Court, ran the Fred Johnson ALL Stars after attending a year ago.

“I took one of my athletes to the event in Cedar Rapids last year, and I think that was the first time anyone from Oklahoma had even attended the event,” Sagraves said. “It was important to me to make sure this opportunity to compete was available for our athletes—even if it was in a district where it has not typically been held or really had attendance by in the past.”

Jaren Glaser, USTA Missouri Valley manager, diversity, equity and inclusion, noted the milestone addition of tennis to Special Olympics Oklahoma in 2024 helped pave the path for the state to host Fred Johnson ALL Stars this year.

She credited the Edmond Center Court team—including Sagraves and David Minihan, ECC general manager—for their commitment to hosting adaptive tennis events.

“The level of energy that it brought to this community was immediately palpable,” Glaser said. “I expect a ripple effect of participation in the state of Oklahoma and beyond.”

A Splash of Joy

One of the highlights of the action-packed weekend was a foam party put on by Funky Monkey Events. Players, parents, siblings and volunteers jumped in on the sud-sational and soap-erior event. They got soaked in bubbles shot from a foam cannon while summertime music blasted in the background, and several participants danced and sang in jubilation.

“I love getting to watch the incredible match play and see the growth of participants over the years, and obviously the foam party and yard games brought so much joy,” Glaser said. “But my favorite part is getting to talk with the athletes. They are passionate about tennis but even more so about community.

“They never put themselves first. They are always willing to help their fellow competitors have the best possible experience, and they truly just seem to want to elevate each other and grow together. And they are grateful for everything that is done to make the event possible, and they express that gratitude to those who are helping with the event.”