Love Serving Autism at the 2025 Delray Beach Open

Feb 11, 2025

Another year of sharing love on the courts at the 2025 Delray Beach Open kicked off successfully this past weekend for the students, families, and volunteers of Love Serving Autism (LSA).

This year marked the eighth consecutive year that kids and adults living with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other neurodiverse conditions honed their welcoming skills as greeters at Friday night's opening of the week-long tennis tournament.

The students engaged in on-court challenges on Saturday, February 8, 2025. The weekend attracted 30 families, 25 volunteers, and 10 dedicated coaches.

“The clinic offered children and adults with autism and unique abilities a welcoming space to learn, play, and connect through tennis,” said Lisa Pugliese-LaCroix, founder of Love Serving Autism.

Held on the tournament courts, the event featured adaptive coaching techniques, sensory-friendly instruction, and engaging drills designed to build confidence, motor skills, and social connections. Volunteers and coaches worked closely with participants, ensuring each individual received the support and encouragement needed to thrive on the court.

The clinic buzzed with energy, smiles, and meaningful moments as families enjoyed the joy of tennis in an inclusive atmosphere. Parents expressed gratitude for the chance to engage in a professionally run program that embraced their loved ones' unique abilities while fostering a sense of community.

Pugliese-LaCroix added, "Thank you to the Delray Beach Open, our incredible volunteers, coaches, and families for making this event a success. Your dedication to breaking barriers in sports and creating inclusive opportunities makes a lasting impact. We can’t wait to see everyone back on the courts in 2026!"

Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disorder, affecting 1 in 36 children born today and 1 in 27 boys in the U.S. The average cost for a family raising a child with autism is $60,000 throughout childhood, primarily due to special services and lost wages resulting from increased demands on one or both parents.