Tennis has proven to be a sport that anyone can participate in with a racket and a ball. It brings people together, encouraging physical activity, building self-confidence and fostering social connections.
This month, OCA, a local nonprofit helping neurodivergent individuals from two – 65 years of age, is launching a new tennis program in partnership with USTA Florida and Seminole County Government.
“Tennis is a lifelong skill that can be adapted to a variety of ability levels, making it an ideal fit for OCA’s mission of creating inclusive opportunities for all,” says Silvia Haas, CEO and co-founder, OCA. “Ultimately, our goal is not only to teach tennis skills but to provide participants with meaningful recreational experiences that contribute to a healthier lifestyle and an enhanced quality of life.”
The program will feature weekly tennis classes designed for varying levels of skill for the participants. Each class will be taught by trained staff and volunteer coaches who understand the needs of these individuals.
The program was funded by a grant from USTA Florida Section Foundation, including the purchase of equipment for the participants to use outside of the program.
“OCA has shown how sports can help enrich the lives of everyone over the years, and being able to partner on this program is something we’re very excited to be working with them,” says Deborah Ballerino, tennis service representative, USTA Florida. “From our perspective, showcasing why tennis is a great sport for anyone is a critical part of what our organization does.”
One of the goals of the program was to find community partners to support the participants in the classes. Seminole County’s Parks and Recreation offered Sandlando Park, featuring 25 tennis courts and 7 racquetball courts for residents to use.
“This is a tremendous addition to what we provide at Sanlando Park and I’m grateful for our team at Seminole County Parks & Recreation for making this happen,” says Andria Herr, chair, Seminole County Board of County Commissioners. “It’s important for all of us to provide opportunities like this to fulfill the lives of so many in our community.”
The classes started in February. Those interested in participating can reach out to OCA for more information.
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Media Contacts:
- For OCA: Alan Byrd, 407-415-8470, alan@byrdconnections.com
- For USTA Florida: Jaret Kappelman, 321-666-5721, kappelman@ustaflorida.com
- For Seminole County Government: Chris Patton, APR, 407-665-1174, cpatton@seminolecountyfl.gov
About OCA: OCA (Opportunity, Community, Ability) is a nonprofit serving youth and adults with autism and other special needs in Central Florida. OCA's mission is to empower individuals and their families to fully engage and thrive in the community. What started as a conversation on a park bench in 2008 has grown into a dynamic organization serving more than 300 children and adults each year across Central Florida with therapy, recreation, vocational training, and life skills programs. With every program, OCA aims to remove barriers and create opportunities, so every participant can live with purpose, connect with peers, and reach their potential.
OCA focuses on what each individual can do—because our community is full of joy, strength, and incredible ability. For more information, please visit GoOCA.org.
About USTA Florida: Established in 1949, USTA Florida is a section of the United States Tennis Association. It is a not-for-profit volunteer organization with approximately 40,000 members, 500 organizational members and a $7 million budget. As the official governing body of tennis in Florida, USTA Florida operates from an executive office in Orlando, with more than 30 staff members and more than 600 volunteers throughout the state working towards a mission to promote and develop tennis for all in Florida. To learn more about USTA Florida, visit www.USTAFlorida.com.
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OCA Opportunity, Community, Ability Inc
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Silvia Haas Chief Executive Officer
- March 09, 2026
- (561) 319-4283
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