Adaptive Spotlight: Allie Brooks
Allie Brooks (right) and JoAnn McArthur (left) at the Arlington Tennis Center
We’re highlighting adaptive athletes and programs that are making a difference in Texas. Today, we’re getting to know Allison (Alli) Brooks, who helped share her passion for tennis by participating in the 2021 USTA Tennis Champion initiative.
Serving as “Tennis Champions,” volunteers like Alli from across the country worked to share the sport through grassroots initiatives like sending postcards, sharing flyers, and spreading the word about the benefits and fun of tennis.
As a tennis player, Alli competes regularly at the Arlington Tennis Center as part of their MAC Gators team. The team includes 10-15 participants who compete in multiple sports including volleyball, tennis and more.
Q: When did you begin playing tennis?
AB: I started playing tennis around five years ago, when I was 34 years old. Our team, known as the “MAC Gators”, plays under Special Olympics. During our first year or so of playing we worked on skills. We later went to state for competition. I’ve also partnered with another MAC Gator teammate to take private lessons at the Arlington tennis Center.
Q: What do you like about playing tennis?
AB: I like being outdoors and practicing the different strokes. Practicing my forehand is my favorite but the backhand is a little more difficult. Our unified partners all have a good sense of humor and ensure we have a lot of fun.
Q: How has playing tennis helped you?
AB: Playing tennis has improved my overall coordination and keeping my eye on the ball has helped me to better concentrate. I’ve met lots of different players from many different teams. Tennis has definitely added something to my life. It brings me happiness and makes me move my feet!
Q: Alli, you did a great job as a Champion for Tennis! Tell me about some of the things you did.
AB: I passed out racquets to Girls, Inc. I added phone number stickers to USTA flyers and postcards.I also took the flyers to recreation centers in Arlington. I helped more people learn about playing tennis in Arlington.
Q: What do you wish everyone knew about playing tennis?
AB: They should know that playing tennis is a fun way to exercise and you gain confidence by
practicing the skills and making better shots. It’s fun to invite others to come out and play. We even celebrate our birthdays by playing tennis together!
The MAC Gators and other teams from across Texas will be competing in the Special Olympics Summer Games this May in San Antonio.
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