2026 Henry Cox Adaptive Tennis Award
What does receiving this award mean to you?
“The recognition that Adaptive Tennis is a Sport is the main thing. I am honored that I was nominated and that others think I am helping to make Adaptive Tennis main stream. The time I spend on the court with my athletes brings me so much joy. To see others who struggle with so many difficult issues come on the court and smile, laugh and make new friends is the icing on my tennis cake.”
– Claire McFerran
About the winner:
Tennis is often called the sport for a lifetime, but for Claire McFerran, it is also the sport for every ability and every age. As the "heartbeat" of adaptive tennis in Central Texas, she has dedicated her life to ensuring that everyone has a home on the court.
Claire’s journey in Texas tennis is defined by a masterclass in leadership and a deep commitment to service. Over more than a decade of involvement, she has worn nearly every hat possible, serving as a certified USTA Official, a seasoned Tournament Director, and as the President of the Waco Tennis Association. Her influence extends from the local courts of McLennan County to the state level, where she currently lends her expertise as an active member of the USTA Texas Adaptive Committee, helping to guide statewide efforts for accessibility and inclusion.
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Her most profound impact is found in the year-round, weekly adaptive program she built from the ground up through the Waco Tennis Association. Facilitating over 50 sessions in the past year alone, Claire has created a sanctuary where over 100 unique participants—ranging in age from six to 86 and a wide spectrum of abilities—feel seen and celebrated. Her ability to recruit and train over 75 volunteers, including high school students and community leaders, has created a ripple effect of compassion that recently earned her program the 2024 USTA Adaptive Tennis National Community Service Award.
In every handshake, hug and high-five, Claire reflects the spirit of the award's namesake, Henry Cox. Much like Cox, a Texas Tennis Hall of Fame legend who served as a tireless ambassador for the growth of adaptive tennis, Claire redefines the boundaries of the sport. She does not just run a tennis program; she leads a "ministry of belonging," ensuring that the joy of the game is accessible to all, regardless of the challenges they may face.
Claire has proven that when you grow the game with heart and humility, you don't just create athletes—you transform a community.
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