USTA Florida: Why Tennis is the best investment

Looking back on 2024, it’s clear that tennis remains one of the best investments for individuals, communities, and the State of Florida. Through advocacy, facility management, data-driven insights, and community impact, USTA Florida is dedicated to ensuring the sport thrives for generations to come.  

Advocating for Tennis in Florida 

USTA Florida’s advocacy efforts are focused on making tennis accessible and sustainable across the Sunshine State. Late this year, the organization formally launched its Advocacy program, which will work to activate our community to champion our sport within their local communities to keep the sport vibrant and growing in the state. 

This includes partnering with local governments to improve facilities, expanding programming for juniors and adults, and supporting adaptive tennis programs for individuals with special needs. To learn more, visit ustaflorida.com/advocacy. 

The release of the first State of Florida Tennis Report this year marked a significant milestone in our advocacy journey. For the first time, USTA Florida compiled comprehensive data on Florida’s tennis ecosystem, providing insights into player demographics, facility distribution, and program participation. With this information, the organization can better advocate for investments in tennis courts, programs, and coaches to meet growing demand. 

Florida’s booming population growth further shows the need for tennis advocacy. The state is home to four of the nation’s five fastest-growing metropolitan areas, and counties like Pasco, Lake, and Manatee are experiencing rapid development. These high-growth areas present opportunities for expanding tennis infrastructure and introducing the sport to new communities. 

Florida remains a leader in tennis participation, with approximately 1.7 million people either actively playing or expressing interest in the sport. In 2023, more than 1,029 junior tournaments were held statewide, showing that Florida is a powerhouse for competitive tennis. South and Central Florida dominated tournament play, while the panhandle excelled in junior team tennis. 

Adult tennis programs also continue to thrive, driven by innovative league formats and strong participation in entry-level programs. Facilities like Roger Scott Tennis Center in Pensacola host more adult league teams than any other venue in the state. 

Adaptive tennis programs have also seen steady growth, thanks to partnerships with organizations like Love Serving Autism and Special Olympics Florida. In 2023, adaptive tennis served more than 500 participants across 24 locations. 

Tennis is more than just a game, it’s also an economic driver for Florida. From local tournaments to large-scale events, tennis generates significant revenue for communities through tourism, facility usage, and job creation.  

In 2023, 1,134 sanctioned tournaments attracted 92,456 participants and 160,325 spectators, generating an impressive $81.8 million in direct spending. This spending translated into a total economic impact of $145.9 million, supporting 1,007 full-time and part-time jobs and contributing $11.4 million in state and local taxes. 

USTA Florida revealed this information and more in its inaugural Economic Impact Report, showing just how important tennis is to the growth of Florida’s economic vitality. 

The Impact of Investing in Public Facilities

USTA Florida also continues to partner with local municipalities to manage four tennis facilities: Riverside Racquet Complex, Racquet Club of Cocoa Beach, Play Tennis Gainesville, and Fort Walton Beach Tennis Center. These facilities are not only hubs for recreational play but also for leagues, tournaments, and community programs. 

Each facility is an example of how strategic management can maximize the value of a community tennis center. Programs like beginner clinics, adaptive tennis, and youth leagues have grown significantly at these locations, fostering a sense of belonging among players of all ages and abilities. 

Play Tennis Gainesville, for instance, has seen remarkable growth in beginner programs, while Fort Walton Beach Tennis Center leads the state in junior team tennis participation. These facilities demonstrate that investing in public tennis centers pays dividends in player engagement and community development. 

Overcoming Challenges and Building for the Future 

Despite its many successes, Florida tennis faces challenges, particularly in the areas of coaching and infrastructure. The need for more certified coaches remains a pressing issue. Through our Community Coach Program, USTA Florida has trained more than 500 coaches since 2022, focusing on pathways for certification and community-based programming. 

Infrastructure remains another challenge. With nearly 11,000 courts across 1,600 facilities, Florida boasts a robust tennis infrastructure, but it is unevenly distributed. High-growth areas like Pasco, Lake, and Osceola counties are experiencing increased demand for courts, underscoring the need for strategic investment in new facilities. 

Why Tennis Is the Best Investment 

Tennis offers unmatched benefits, from promoting physical and mental health to fostering social connections and community engagement. For individuals, it’s a lifelong sport that encourages fitness, discipline, and camaraderie. For communities, it’s a unifying activity that drives economic growth and enhances quality of life. 

USTA Florida is committed to making tennis accessible to everyone. Whether through advocacy, facility management, or program innovation, USTA Florida is committed to transforming lives and strengthening communities through tennis advocacy. 

It’s clear that tennis is not just a game, it’s an investment in a brighter future for Florida. Why not get started now and help grow the sport we love into the best it’s ever been. 

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Written by: Jaret Kappelman, Marketing & Communications Coordinator for USTA Florida. Be sure to check out USTA Florida, the governing body of amateur tennis in Florida, offering tennis programs for all ages and ability levels. Photos and video courtesy of USTA Florida.