LaGrange, Ga., to host adaptive tennis and ‘dingles’ during Open Tennis Fest events

Lesa Cleaveland, local league coordinator for the Chattahoochee Tennis Association (CHATA), smiled when she said, “It's a great way to start the fall.” The reason for her glee is that the organization is preparing to host four Open Tennis Fest events that will attract more families to tennis.

CHATA’s events are planned for the Ann and Doc McCluskey Tennis Center, 100 Hunnicutt Place, in LaGrange, Ga. The free events are scheduled for 6 p.m. on Sept. 11, Sept. 15, Sept. 18 and Sept. 24.

“We are all really excited,” added Cleaveland. “It's the first time we are offering an adaptive program. Along with that, the other three events will feature fun court play, including ‘dingles,’ a combination of doubles and singles that always brings out competition and excitement.”

Created to celebrate tennis in September, Open Tennis Fest allows CTAs, NJTLs, facilities and parks and recreation departments to showcase tennis and their facilities. Each host receives $300 per approved event, and CHATA was awarded the maximum of four events. 2025 is the second year of USTA Southern’s Open Tennis Fest, with this year’s events being held throughout September.

CHATA is known for its strong army of volunteers

CHATA President Jann Ward said they will be prepared for the OTF events.

“Volunteer Matt Donnett is the backbone of the adaptive programs along with his wife, Amber.  He took time out to meet with me and share his thoughts. He's also the event's T-shirt designer. Matt's son is also a wheelchair participant,” Ward explained.

Ward says they reached out to area high schools and got help from the schools' tennis teams. A high school student is helping organize and promote the events. Ward is excited to have someone young help with the programs. “There is a great need in the community for activity and six weeks of lessons will follow the OTFs,” added Ward. “We'll make the events festive with food, prizes and t-shirts. It's about welcoming the kids and their parents to tennis.”

“It's a plus that we have existing adaptive programs and clinics in Troup County,” said Ward, 75, who has been playing since the age of 12. “It's a lifetime sport. I've coached at a private school. For me, this is a time to give back!

"We are really trying to grow tennis in LaGrange. It's not just for show. You can build tennis courts, but you have to have events and exciting opportunities to bring people into (tennis).”

Assistant Tennis Manager Alan Valdez leads the programs at the tennis center. Valdez and two of his associates have experience working with wheelchair tennis students. They are also known for incorporating cardio into their programs.