In a significant move to bolster tennis at Historically Black Colleges and Universities in Florida, USTA Florida has awarded a $100,000 grant to Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. This grant marks the second USTA Florida HBCU Program Support Grant initiative. The program aims to promote growth, diversity, and inclusion within the sport of tennis across the state.
The announcement was made during an event where representatives from FAMU’s Women’s Tennis Program engaged with leaders from USTA Florida. The funding will enhance various aspects of the tennis program at FAMU, including improvements to facilities, the acquisition of new equipment, scholarships for students, and professional development opportunities for the coaching staff. Additionally, the grant aims to foster community outreach initiatives that will inspire local youth to participate in tennis.
Acing Diversity
Chuck Gill, president of USTA Florida, emphasized the importance of understanding the unique challenges HBCUs face in attracting student-athletes to tennis. “This grant was created based on direct input from staff delivering tennis programs at HBCUs in Florida,” said Gill. “we are committed to working alongside your team to support them in growing the tennis program at FAMU.”
During a subsequent Q&A session led by Play Tennis Gainesville director of tennis George Henry, FAMU officials, including head coach Rochelle “Coach Nikki” Houston and Athletic Director Angela Suggs, expressed their excitement about the future of tennis at the university. Earl Wade, the assistant tennis coach, highlighted the significance of the grant: “This grant is the largest grant ever. Thank you, for your forward thinking, for believing and giving us a chance.”
USTA Florida launched the HBCU Program Support Grant earlier this year to build strong relationships with HBCUs and provide essential resources to enhance campus tennis offerings. The initiative seeks to create sustainable opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds to participate in the sport.
FAMU is the second grant recipient, following Edward Waters University in Jacksonville, which benefitted from a similar award in October. The impact of these funds on recruiting efforts has already been notable at EWU. The USTA Florida is optimistic about achieving similar successes with FAMU’s tennis program.
