Hit your nearest court and celebrate National Tennis Month this May
Warm temperatures, blue skies, and the occasional breeze – spring is finally here. This May, celebrate National Tennis Month by enjoying tennis-related special events, play opportunities and other activities in your very own neighborhood – many of them free.
Help grow the sport we love during the most beautiful time of year: National Tennis Month starts with volunteer support on a local level, as individuals, friends, and families across the country are encouraged to hit their community courts. Coaches, facilities, local Parks & Recreation departments, Community Tennis Associations and National Junior Tennis and Learning (NJTL) chapters are all committed to driving awareness, providing assistance, and teaching new players – regardless of age or ability.
The United States Tennis Association’s 17 sections – and the cities and towns within – have all scheduled events. Based in New England? Register for free activities at the Boston Common on Saturday, May 7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m or at the Carter Playground (South End) the following Saturday. Live in Texas? May 15 sees Hispanic Family Day at the Austin Tennis Center, while the Dallas Open wheelchair tournament takes place Thursday, May 19 through the 22nd. In the Midwest? There are 99 events between Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin.
Been a while since you last played tennis? Grab a racquet, a ball, a friend and hit your nearest public court. The past two years have seen participation in the sport skyrocket: According to the Physical Activity Council’s latest participation report, a whopping 22.6 million Americans served, returned and scored in 2022 – up 27.9% since 2019. It’s the highest number of U.S.-based players since 2007.
“Tennis has seen an incredible surge in participation as players turned to the sport for a safe way to socialize with family and friends while also staying physically active,” said Michael J. McNulty, USTA Chairman of the Board and President.
Almost five million new players have picked up a racket since 2019, and it’s easy to understand why: “Tennis is a sport with many health benefits, can be played for your entire lifetime, and is easily accessed,” McNulty added.
Facility owners, Parks & Recreation directors, and organizers looking to host an event can visit USTA.com/NationalTennisMonth for free downloadable artwork to put on t-shirts and banners; materials for postcards and social media; proclamations for city councils and mayors; templates for press releases, or other promotional materials; and programming and on-court ideas.
Looking to hit the courts? Check with your local provider, or simply head over to letstennis.com.
Be sure to search and share hashtag #NationalTennisMonth on social media to tell the world about your experience!
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