USTA Backs SoCal Adaptive & Wheelchair
Growth with Funding

On Monday, May 4, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) announced the distribution of $100,000 in grants to 44 wheelchair tennis programs across the nation. These funds are designated for local organizations that actively promote the sport as a means to foster healthier and more connected communities. Among the selected recipients are five SoCal organizations that have established themselves as vital resources for adaptive athletics. Since the program began in 2008, the USTA has provided over $1 million in financial support to wheelchair tennis initiatives, reinforcing its ongoing effort to make the sport accessible to players of all levels and abilities.

As part of the 2026 USTA Wheelchair Grassroots Grant initiative, this funding will be used to expand court access and enhance adaptive programming for individuals with physical disabilities. The five SoCal organizations that were chosen this year are Angel City Alliance (Los Angeles), T3 Adaptive Racquet Sports (San Clemente), Youth Tennis San Diego (San Diego), Triumph Foundation (Valencia), and La Mirada Community Tennis Association (Yorba Linda).

Each recipient has demonstrated a strong commitment to providing meaningful tennis experiences for their participants. These grants will allow the organizations to further develop their existing programs by funding professional coaching, improving facility access, and purchasing specialized equipment. Additionally, the funds will support player recruitment and the hosting of various events, including weekly clinics, intensive camps, and competitive tournaments.

The 50th Anniversary of Wheelchair Tennis

This year holds special significance as the community celebrates the 50th Anniversary of Wheelchair Tennis. This milestone marks wheelchair tennis’ evolution from its grassroots beginnings in 1976 into a globally recognized competitive sport. For the five Southern California organizations receiving USTA support, the anniversary serves as a catalyst to modernize their offerings and expand their reach. The newly awarded grants will facilitate essential upgrades to equipment and programming, ensuring these organizations can continue meeting the growing demand for high level adaptive athletics throughout Southern California.

Recipients

Angel City Alliance (Los Angeles)

Established in 2013, Angel City Alliance provides free, year-round adaptive sports opportunities for children, adults, and veterans with physical disabilities or visual impairments. To ensure every athlete can participate regardless of their resources, the organization offers an equipment loaner program, professional coaching, and various competitive outlets. Each year, the group hosts four signature events, including the flagship Angel City Games, Youth Weekend for athletes under 18, the Junior Adaptive Sports Camp, and Courage Weekend for veterans. Wheelchair tennis is a cornerstone of their programming and a featured event at the annual Angel City Games. Clinics are open to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced players, with practices led by experienced coaches who focus on wheelchair mobility and technical strategy. Participants do not need their own gear to get started, as specialized sports wheelchairs and racquets are provided on-site.

T3 Adaptive Racquet Sports (San Clemente)

Since its inception in 2022, T3 Adaptive has become a trusted resource for inclusive racquet sports training and competition in Southern California. Operating under the motto “Powering Possibility. One Swing at a Time,” the nonprofit focuses on helping athletes build confidence and form lasting community connections. The organization provides access to specialized sports chairs and offers expert coaching in both wheelchair tennis and para-standing racquet sports. Beyond the court, T3 Adaptive assists families with fundraising for travel expenses, tournament fees, and adaptive gear. Their programs serve over 20 athletes and their families annually, maintaining a commitment to transparency while ensuring their services remain rooted in accessibility and athletic growth.

Youth Tennis San Diego (San Diego)

Since 1952, Youth Tennis San Diego (YTSD) has been committed to making the sport accessible to all young athletes, regardless of their financial background. While the organization offers a variety of free and low-cost outreach initiatives, its wheelchair tennis programs are provided at no cost to all participants. To ensure that every individual has the opportunity to experience the joy of the game without financial barriers, YTSD also provides adaptive chairs and specialized equipment for free. Serving over 15,000 youth annually and awarding $500,000 in scholarships, the organization focuses on fostering teamwork, discipline, and personal growth. In 2015, YTSD joined the National Junior Tennis and Learning (NJTL) network, further integrating character development and academic excellence into its athletic curriculum. By eliminating costs for its wheelchair clinics, YTSD creates an inclusive pathway for athletes of all skill levels to develop their leadership skills and compete in a supportive community.

Triumph Foundation (Valencia)

Founded in 2008, the Triumph Foundation focuses on helping children, adults, and veterans with spinal cord injuries overcome obstacles and maintain an active lifestyle. Recognizing that many individuals are discharged from hospitals without the necessary equipment or home modifications to live independently, Triumph works to bridge the gap through their Keep Moving Forward Grant program and Equipment and Supply Exchange. The organization has touched the lives of over 20,000 individuals, providing more than $2.5 million in financial assistance and performing numerous accessible home remodels. In addition to medical and equipment support, Triumph hosts over 20 adaptive recreation events annually and regularly visits 24 hospitals across Southern California to provide resources and mentorship to the newly injured.

La Mirada Community Tennis Association (Yorba Linda)

The La Mirada Community Tennis Association provides specialized programming and training for athletes of various ages and abilities. Founded by the renowned Dee Henry in 2020, the organization serves as the modern home for a coaching legacy that has shaped the Southern California adaptive scene for decades. Henry, the former women’s tennis coach at Biola University, was instrumental in introducing new players to the game and developing highly competitive athletes over her long career. The program is unique for its ability to train recreational players alongside nationally ranked competitors, including several who have competed in the ITA National Collegiate Wheelchair Championships. During the fall, the association focuses on Special Olympic training while providing valuable teaching experience for volunteers. Following Henry’s passing in 2023, the association stands as a testament to her vision, ensuring her lifelong dedication to wheelchair tennis continues to offer a consistent, welcoming environment for players of all abilities.

Get Involved

There are numerous ways to engage with the adaptive tennis community in Southern California, whether you are a newcomer to the sport, an athlete returning after an injury, or a prospective volunteer or coach. Each of these organizations is actively seeking participants, coaches, and supporters who share a commitment to expanding the game.

For individuals or organizations interested in establishing a new wheelchair tennis program or discovering more about existing adaptive tennis opportunities, USTA Southern California serves as a central resource. By exploring local programs and sanctioned tournaments, players of all skill levels can find a supportive environment tailored to their specific needs and athletic goals.