All of these women started their early tennis experience in our local public park youth programs. The importance of access and opportunity for girls to join USTA community classes ushered them into a safe and vibrant learning environment that developed them into accomplished student-athletes and contributing members of society. We’re so happy to have been a part of their journey and share their stories to inspire more young girls.

Read their testimonials:

“Learning tennis at my local public park gave me a chance to instantly connect with people from various walks of life and ages that created lasting memories and friendships. It served as a stepping stone to play high school tennis and advance into college tennis. You become a part of something bigger than yourself. Traveling across the country and bonding with other strong women was a great experience. I look forward to giving my 2 year old daughter a start in the park.” Shaina Inn, Mom and Operations Manager for Business Services (Honolulu, Hawaii)

“The USTA public park tennis classes overwhelmingly welcomed me despite my disability. It was at Manoa District Park and Makiki District Park that I was able to connect with other kids my age. I improved with able-bodied kids and I learned how to socialize with peers who did not look like me. The tennis community, whether in my local public park in Honolulu or at my college team environment at the University of Alabama, supported me through competition. As a two-time Paralympic tennis player representing the United States, I believe in chasing after your dreams.” Shelby Baron, USTA National Player Development Services Coordinator (Orlando, Florida)

“Learning and playing tennis at the public park gave me an appreciation for available, accessible facilities for families of all backgrounds, income and ability. It also taught me to give back, take care and make better. The best thing about playing college tennis was the sense of belonging to something larger than oneself and to have a support system in your team and coaches.” Alyssa Tobita, University of Oregon (Ducks) Alumni, former touring Pro and Kailua Racquet Club Teaching Professional

“The heightened team aspect of college tennis has been the best experience for me, giving me greater motivation and a huge support system. It drives me to compete to the best of my ability, fighting alongside teammates. Starting tennis at age 7 at the public park in Honolulu, it was a sanctuary where I could routinely practice after school. It helped me manage my schedule responsibly with a window of time to play and then complete my school work. Programs at the park also introduced me to lifetime friends from other schools that I still reunite with and consider my tennis family.”
Alyssia Fossorier, University of Irvine, California.

“College tennis is keeping me active and involved in a community with people from a bunch of backgrounds but share the same passion as me. I would encourage other girls to play college tennis if they want to stay fit, get good at managing time, and take your competitive drive to the next level. My early years learning tennis at Kilauea District Park and Kahala Community Park made me aware of a close knit tennis community and expanded my circle of friends. It also helped me realize that it’s a sport for all ages and all abilities.” Kacie Lau, Lewis and Clark College, Portland, Oregon.

It’s Women’s History Month: we are celebrating women in our tennis community that inspire us. The power of community sport makes strong women.