Hurricane No Hindrance to JTT

In October 2022, Hurricane Ian wreaked havoc on Florida and suspended the 2022 National Junior Team Tennis (JTT) Championships, but USTA Chicago persevered with two strong team finishes.

JTT is a team-based program with 8 leagues in Chicago for players ages 7-18. Athletes compete as teams in singles and doubles; most teams consist of 4 players. Nearly 1,000 players representing 110 teams play in USTA Chicago JTT events.

The Chicago District’s Libertyville team, coached by Joe Kim, earned the 14U Advanced National Title. They prevailed over a strong team from Northern California. This was the players first JTT season. Parent organizer, Shane Peirce, said, “I believe JTT is invaluable for young players [because of the] tough competition, on-court coaching, and, most importantly, camaraderie with teammates.”

Oak Brook Tennis Center also represented USTA Chicago at JTT Nationals. This team, coached by Alin Pop, entered the 14U Intermediate division. The team has made it to MW Sectional Championships each year in Orange, Green and 12U. Now was their chance at Nationals where they finished impressively in 5th place.

“It was nice for our team to travel and compete together at the 14U Nationals, a goal they worked hard for since 10U Orange Ball,” said Coach Pop.

For information about JTT, contact Barb Rueth, CDTA Junior Play Director.