The City of Palm Beach Gardens recently launched a Tennis Veterans Program, made possible by an Equipment and Program Support Grant from the USTA Florida Foundation. 

This initiative, which brings together military veterans from the surrounding community, aims to introduce them to the game of tennis. They are promoting physical fitness as well as social interaction, confidence-building, and a sense of camaraderie. Veterans from all walks of life, spanning from their early 20s to their 90s, have been invited to participate, with a focus on both standing players and those in wheelchairs. 

Many veterans living in the area served by the West Palm Beach Veterans Hospital have been actively seeking healthy activities that promote both their physical and mental well-being. Tennis, with its combination of strategic play and physical activity, was identified by the local Veterans Affairs as an ideal option to support these goals. The program, which had been in development before the COVID-19 pandemic, was delayed but is now set to continue as a permanent offering. 

The program runs regular sessions, offering veterans a structured opportunity to improve their tennis skills. Beyond scheduled classes, participants are also given free court time, allowing them to practice independently or with their peers.  

With a consistent group of 10-15 players attending weekly sessions, the program is thriving thanks to the support of the USTA Florida Foundation and others.  The veterans who attended, directed by the local Veterans Administration, consistently expressed how much they enjoyed and benefited from the experience. The combination of physical activity, social interaction, and the welcoming environment of the Palm Beach Gardens Tennis and Pickleball Center has proven to be a winning formula.  

This initiative has had a broader impact on the local community too. By offering these sessions at no cost, the program helps veterans feel more inclined to get involved and try out tennis. The program has quickly become a staple and is set to continue for the foreseeable future. 

The City of Palm Beach Gardens and the USTA Florida Foundation are proud to support this ongoing effort, helping veterans embrace tennis as lifelong activities that benefit both their health and social well-being. 

To help aid these grants, you can donate to the Foundation in multiple ways. The USTA Florida Foundation “Play Tennis” License Plate is a great chance to show your tennis pride, with 90% of all proceeds going to the Foundation. Also, in honor of USTA Florida’s 75th year as an organization, the Foundation has a goal to raise $75,000 for 75 years!     

ABOUT THE USTA FLORIDA FOUNDATION

With a mission of “Changing Lives through Tennis,” the USTA Florida Section Foundation provides financial support to organizations that help people of all ages and abilities improve their health and quality of life through the great game of tennis. To learn more or to apply for a grant go to ustafloridafoundation.com/apply.