In the heart of St. Petersburg, Florida is Lakewood High School, which is home to around 1,000 students. Of those students, a US News report stated that more than 50% of the student body come from families at a financial disadvantage. So, when the Lakewood Tennis Team requested an equipment grant, the USTA Florida Foundation was happy to lend a helping hand. 

When the off season hit, Lakewood Head Coach, Jeff Waite, alongside his coaching staff, wanted to offer tennis lessons for all incoming freshmen and current high school students that wanted to increase their tennis skills. Lakewood runs a “no-cut” program, meaning that everyone who tries out will make the team. “Our program helps build self-confidence and teach our kids how to be individuals on the tennis court, but also act as a supportive, cohesive team,” Coach Waite said. 

The equipment grant received by Lakewood is aiding Coach Waite and his staff to ensure that the team can improve their game, while also learning skills to take into their future careers. With many families are Lakewood struggling financially, this grant has provided the team with free racquets, balls, uniforms, cones, water coolers, and other basic tennis needs.  

With the grant helping make tennis affordable for all, both teams went from winning zero games in 2022 to tasting victory on the court in 2023. The Girls posted an impressive 8-8 record, while the Boys went 7-8. 

Coach Waite’s goal is to make Lakewood tennis a year-round thing, despite the season only running from February to April. He has seen great turnout to his voluntary practices and even takes time during those sessions to talk to the players about life in general and even learn some things that aren’t taught in the classroom. “It’s a complete safe zone for the kids because there are no grades and no fear of speaking up because we have a way of making sure that when they attempt to answer, it’s acknowledged,” Coach Waite said.  

To learn more about applying for an equipment grant or any other through the USTA Florida Foundation go to ustafloridafoundation.com/apply-for-grants. The 2024 Grant Cycle opens on February 20 and will remain open until October 25. 

ABOUT THE USTA FLORIDA FOUNDATION     

With a mission of “Changing Lives through Tennis,” the USTA Florida Section Foundation provides financial support to organizations that help people of all ages and abilities improve their health and quality of life through the great game of tennis. To learn more or to apply for a grant go to ustafloridafoundation.com.