United States Tennis Association to provide campus grants for Fall 2008

The United States Tennis Association (USTA) is proud to offer financial support and resources through NIRSA to colleges and universities interested in “serving up” recreationally based team tennis programs for their students.

“Of the nearly 340,000 high school varsity tennis players, less than 10% will actually have the opportunity to play on a college varsity team,” says Glenn Arrington, USTA National Manager, Collegiate and Corporate Tennis.  “These former high school players are on campuses and are looking for a chance to participate in an organized team-based program.”

By offering a USTA Tennis On Campus program through your Recreational Sports Department, it will enhance the college experience for many of these athletes, promote a healthy lifestyle, increase social and networking opportunities for the student population and increase regular use of campus tennis facilities.

Similar to other Intramural and Sport Club leagues such as flag football, basketball and soccer, USTA Tennis On Campus provides organized coed team play for all skill levels with an emphasis on fun, fitness and the social benefits of tennis.  A Starter Kit that includes a “how to” manual, curriculums, banners and equipment discounts will be available to help you organize, promote and execute a successful program on your campus.  Additional resources may be available through your local USTA Campus Coordinator.

Grants being offered:

• Tennis On Campus “Start Up” Grant
  Up to $750 per school for the purpose of developing a new USTA Tennis On Campus coed league or Sport Club
  • This program must be initiated in Fall 2008
  • On campus coed league should run for a minimum of 6-8 weeks of league play
  • Sport club should be started and should run indefinitely
  • Starter kit, equipment discounts and banners provided
  • Minimum participation of 50 students
  • Appropriate documentation of league must be submitted to NIRSA by December 8, 2008 (photos, program flyers, marketing materials, participant counts, etc.).

By applying for this grant, USTA and NIRSA expect you to make every reasonable effort to develop your sport club and field a team to compete at the USTA Campus Championship - section event held in your region. For a complete listing of events check here.