Albuquerque Academy launched a 6-week summer program for 60 rising 5th graders from Title 1 schools. With tennis instruction, creative arts, and academic support through the Vince Cordova Summer Scholars Program, this initiative develops life skills, promotes healthy habits, and cultivates a strong sense of community—all on full scholarship. Led by Director Amy Badger, the program aims to grow into a year-round opportunity for marginalized youth.

With support from a grant last year, Andrew Bogdanov has broken into the Top 10 in the world for wheelchair tennis doubles. Competing in four ITF events across England, Georgia, and Louisiana, he earned a straight sets win over France’s No. 1 and pushed Paralympic legend David Wagner to a deciding set. Most recently, he reached the semifinals of a Super Series in Baton Rouge, nearly defeating the reigning Australian Open champions. Now training six days a week, Andrew is preparing for tournaments in Japan, the World Team Cup with Team USA, and a potential US Open wildcard, showing just how far continued support can go.

Bounce Big Foundation inspires underserved children in Arizona to stay active and develop a love for reading through a 9-week youth program. Geared toward ages 3–8, the program combines beginner tennis instruction with literacy activities and social-emotional learning. Each child receives personal equipment, engaging books, and support from trained coaches, helping build coordination, confidence, and lifelong healthy habits.

BYTE is a unique, cross-border USTA’s National Junior Tennis & Learning (NJTL) chapter serving youth and adults in Nogales, Arizona, and Mexico. Using tennis as a tool for healing and empowerment, BYTE combines sport, academics, art, and trauma-informed care to support communities affected by poverty, immigration, and systemic barriers. With year-round, no-cost programs at three sites, BYTE partners with local organizations to provide safe, culturally rooted spaces where participants—ages 8 to 65—can build confidence, resilience, and leadership.

DescriptiCiara Coleman, a standout senior at Prescott High School with a 4.15 GPA and 1450 SAT score, will be attending University of Arizona to study Environmental Engineering, with plans to later earn her law degree and practice family law. A committed student-athlete and community volunteer, Ciara has shown excellence both on and off the court. Her passion for education and service make her a strong representative of the Foundation’s mission.

Copa Pietra is the first-ever women-focused tennis tournament connecting players from El Paso and Ciudad Juárez, promoting cross-border unity through sport. The event aims to bring together up to 180 women in a doubles format, celebrating female participation in tennis across all ages. SWTF and the Southwest Section have provided equipment and marketing support for the inaugural tournament.

Miles picked up a tennis racket just three years ago and has already made impressive strides. He finished 2nd in Greater El Paso and 14th in the Southwest in the Boys 12 & Under division before moving up to the 14 & Under level, where he's currently ranked 4th in Greater El Paso and 23rd in the Southwest. With limited high-level tournaments in El Paso, Miles is seeking travel support to compete in events across Arizona and Texas. Known for his work ethic, passion, and sportsmanship, Miles is a rising talent eager to gain more experience, grow his ranking, and eventually compete at the national level.

The newly launched Phoenix Black Tennis Club provides a vibrant, culturally inclusive space for adults in Phoenix to connect through tennis. Hosting biweekly beginner and intermediate clinics, the program blends professional instruction with themed events, music, and community-building. The club offers a fun, affordable, and affirming environment for ages 21–65. Grant funds will help expand programming with coaching, equipment, and event support.

Serve The Future AZ provides free, year-round tennis and mentorship programming for youth in under-resourced communities across Phoenix. With growing demand, STF is expanding its coaching team to serve 950 students during the 2025–26 school year—a 36% increase. Funds will support the certification and onboarding of two new coaches, ensuring high-quality, relationship-based instruction across more schools. STF’s program pairs tennis with leadership development, goal-setting, and mental wellness activities—helping students grow on and off the court in a safe, supportive environment.

Now in its second year, Youth on Court is expanding its mission to offer free tennis programming to youth across Arizona, particularly at premier facilities. Led by long-time tennis professional Larry Funk, the volunteer-run program partners with certified coaches, local facilities, and organizations like the Arizona Skin Cancer Foundation to create safe, accessible, and educational tennis experiences. This year, they aim to grow from 3 to 5 locations and double participation to 200 youth. Grant funds will support equipment, facility access, and expanded outreach.