Woods Community Closet provides tennis items for in-need players

In celebration of Earth Day on April 22, we are recognizing an organization giving back to the community through a sustainable program.

In an effort to make tennis more accessible to the community, Woods Tennis Center in Lincoln provides new racquets to those in need. Additionally, Woods recently opened a “closet” for individuals with other tennis equipment and apparel needs.

The “Give the Game Community Closet” offers gently used tennis apparel and shoes to anyone who needs it, free of charge. This came after staffers noticed some younger players needing a helping hand.

“By providing a judgment-free environment for players to shop the closet for whatever they need, no questions asked, we can continue supporting participation in this lifelong sport,” said Kaitlin Roselius, Woods director of community outreach & evaluation. “The community closet also allows for the opportunity to play a role in supporting our environment, helping to create a sustainable pathway for diverting clothing that would likely end up in landfills.”

In addition to the Woods tennis staff, local coaches and community partners are also aware of the community closet, Roselius said, with these individuals looking for opportunities to connect the players to the items in the closet. The most in-demand item is court shoes for players in middle school and high school.

“Helping to equip players with the right equipment beyond just a tennis racquet makes a world of a difference,” Roselius said. “For our youth especially, having comfortable, appropriate clothing to play in with their friends can help increase their success on court, self-esteem, self-expression and hopefully keep them engaged in the sport.”

If you would like to donate some items to the Woods Community Closet, you can drop off donations at Woods Tennis Center, 401 S. 33rd Street in Lincoln, or contact Roselius at kaitlin.roselius@gmail.com.