On Thursday, July 20, the United States Tennis Association Foundation (USTAF), in partnership with the L.A. Department of Recreation and Parks, hosted a community event to celebrate the new tennis courts at Harvard Park in Los Angeles.
Harvard Park received a $300,000 investment from USTAF, and now features eight new world-class tennis courts as a part of USTAF’s new National Court Refurbishment program.
“Over the next three years, USTAF will fund $3.3 million to support 250 court renovations in under-resourced communities across the country. The organization is committed to bringing tennis and education together to change lives and provide youth access to quality courts and tennis programs,” USTAF noted.
With attendance over 100, community members and youth attendees enjoyed practicing their skills on the new courts. Attendees took home pointers from tennis professional and supporter of USTAF Frances Tiafoe or “Big Foe,” who is a firm supporter of increasing funding and access to quality tennis courts for underserved youth.
“I’m super proud to be out here and to have these courts here. Growing up and having a chance to play on these amazing courts and be in a program with other kids. I am a byproduct of a kid who had a chance and you all have great mentors to help you shine on the court and excel as human beings. Congratulations to you guys and I’m happy to be here with you today,” Tiafoe said.
Robert Howland, senior director of Programs and Social Impact at USTAF also mentioned, “We strive to make tennis a community asset that is open to all, and we hope that not only the youth of the area, but the entire community will enjoy playing on these courts. To achieve this goal, residents can take advantage of free or low-cost programs offered by L.A. Rec and Parks, PlayLA and the Pete Brown Junior Tennis Program.”
With these new, free and low-cost programs, residents can get their entire families involved in the game of tennis without the stress of high program prices. The Harvard Park Tennis are free, and open to the public for the community to enjoy.
For more information on the Harvard Park Tennis Programs visit, https://www.laparks.org/reccenter/jackie-tatum-harvard.
