NEW HAVEN, CT- The Connecticut Open presented by United Technologies hosted a free tennis clinic with the USTA, USTA New England and many local volunteers on May 9 to give more than 350 New Haven third graders the opportunity to try tennis for free. WTA professional tennis star Sloane Stephens made a special guest appearance at the event.

The purpose of the introductory clinic was to promote the game of tennis and encourage New Haven youth into affordable Parks & Recreation tennis lessons offered throughout the spring, summer and fall. The tournament has worked with New Haven Public Schools and New Haven Parks & Rec. for more than 10 years.

“This was a great opportunity to get these kids out on the court who might not otherwise have the opportunity,” said USTA New England Tennis Service Representative for Connecticut, Jenn Myatt, who helped coordinate the event. ADVERTISEMENT “We were extremely pleased with the turnout but more so delighted to see the excitement and enthusiasm these kids showed all morning at the opportunity to play tennis.”