Blogging is something new for us.
One of the things we noticed on our journey, is that our community doesn’t always know what’s happening inside CATA for tennis in Austin. Since we have never really had a consistent way to share those things, we are starting here!
This blog is meant to give you a look into what’s happening across your community tennis association. What we’re working on, what we’re learning, and where we’re headed to shape tennis in Austin.
It’s inspired by the strategic direction our board set in 2025, and it’s our way of building from those plans with intention and connection along the way.
Its largest purpose is to invite you to join us with your time, your talents and your treasures, wherever and however you feel inspired to show up – on and off the court – to advance this incredible sport and share it with others.
Before we look at the future state and future goals, let me pause to reflect on what has been built for the Austin tennis scene for more than 50 years.
Capital Area Tennis Association exists because of people who gave their time, their talents, and often pieces of themselves to grow tennis in this community. Many of those same people are still here today serving on the board, showing up at events, and continuing to invest in what this organization represents. We are leading something from a foundation of dedicated tennis lovers who advanced the mission from their own love of this sport.
Growing the Game, Advancing the Mission
Amy is spearheading tennis introductions in local elementary schools where students may have only had a racket sports PE block. Her work is altering the exposure to bring excitement for the sport while connecting local coaches to families to bridge clear, next steps for anyone inspired to learn. You can join her sometime in a school near you!
Casey’s dedication and expertise in master-mind level scheduling of adult leagues has led to a growth that expands over 4,600 players. That’s more than 200 new players this year alone. She is excited to see how other SmartAccess sites can continue to enhance the league playing experience. (Pay attention here, more to come!)
Larry has added new adult tournaments and adult social opportunities while exploring the chances to return to those elite host sites we value so much. His work also expands to Juniors as he is meticulously coordinating and overseeing our Gran Prix offerings for juniors 10-18 years of age.
Sylvia is proud to showcase adding 4 new Junior Team Tennis teams and has introduced Red Ball playdays to make it easier for kids to get started and stay involved. She is digging deep to connect junior players with local coaches who offer JTT in their curriculums as she knows first-hand how bridging learning to competition is a huge component in keeping our youth engaged in the sport.
Jessica is connecting players and opportunities in ways CATA has not done before by exploring intentional sponsorship and partnership opportunities, and has already discovered businesses who are excited to have our audience! If you know anyone who might want a strategic partnership with CATA, please let her know!
Robin recently joined us, and is paving the way to communicate all the tennis in Austin opportunities to join, play, volunteer and advance tennis. Be on the lookout for all her production in print, socials and email!
More Courts, More Places to Play
We’re working on growing courts (wouldn’t that be nice, plant a tennis court farm) from several angles. Partnerships. Facility improvements. Conversations with the City, with USTA Tennis Venue Services, and with schools and sites that have courts but need a path to make them usable.
One of the most promising examples right now is at Anderson High School, where a controlled access system is opening courts that might otherwise sit unused. Players are using them. Teams are playing there. It’s creating value for both the school and the tennis community.
We’ll share more on this soon, because this is where the community – YOU – can really play a role.
What’s Next – Stay Tuned!
Stay tuned in to Tennis in Austin through this new blog. Pay attention to those updates and calls-to-volunteer and participate with us! Keep your eyes out for opportunities Robin will showcase in our socials and newsletter.
Have a subject you would like to hear about? Send your ideas or notes to me: [email protected]!