Guide To Chicagoland Tennis
LETTER FROM CDTA’S PRESIDENT endorsement contract. Those outcomes are the exception more than the rule. What was more common for those in that room who share a love of tennis is the kind of life transforming benefits that come JASON STANISLAW Centennial Recreation Complex General Manager, Wilmette Park District Right before the pandemic brought life as we knew it to a halt, the Chicago District Tennis Association (CDTA) Board held a retreat to take a break from the day-to-day in order to clarify and revive enthusiasm for the organization’s work. The 20-some people assembled that day represented diverse backgrounds and involvement with the sport of tennis. Whether it was a parent of a NCAA national champion, a veteran official, a teaching pro, tournament director, or league player, all present had committed countless volunteer hours to helping CDTA run programs, events, and promotions. . . raising the question: Why tennis? For each person involved, there was a different specific answer to that question but the over-arching theme was that the lives of these volunteers had been transformed by tennis. I am not talking about the kind of transformation that comes about as the result of a Grand
from participating in a life-long sport that improves one’s health. . . the memories that come from competing with team mates at the high school, college, or recreational level. . . the connections made on the tennis court that positively impact lives off court and. . . the life lessons learned by juniors problem solving during a tennis match that has many ups and downs. The melding of these personal accounts highlights that through tennis, lives can be transformed— we can be part of a supportive community and develop skills that helps us successfully navigate life and contribute to building a better world. We hope this Guide will help you connect with the greatest game whether you are a newcomer or a veteran. Thanks for
“
saying “yes” to tennis; enjoy finding the transformative benefits of the game.
...through tennis, lives can be transformed...
Slam victory or a multi-million dollar 3
