As the Citywide Tennis and Pickleball Director for the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), Andrew Acquadro leads with purpose, passion, and heart.
He’s not just organizing matches or scheduling courts. He’s creating opportunities for everyone, regardless of background or ability, to experience the joy and connection that tennis brings. Through his vision and tireless commitment, thousands across Washington, D.C., can now experience tennis not only as a sport, but as a community.
“My motivation is to bring the joy of tennis and making it accessible to everyone in the community,” Andrew shared. “Washington, D.C. can be an expensive place to live and tennis is an expensive sport to play, so my goal when I started was to bring private club-level tennis programming to the community at large.”
A Leader Who Serves Beyond the Lines
Under Andrew’s leadership, DPR now hosts USTA, WTN, and UTR youth and adult tournaments at more than 10 sites across the city, serving thousands of players annually. His programs aren’t just well-run, but are inclusive, intentional, and affordable.
Understanding the financial barriers that often limit access to organized play, Andrew reduced participation fees to make the game more accessible. For example, his adult “Before and After Work” leagues are $30 per six-week session, while youth Level 6 tournaments, which typically cost $78 per player, are only $30 per entry.
“Putting a tennis racquet into the hands of a young person gives them an activity that improves their mental and physical health throughout their lives,” he said. “The more people we reach, the more opportunities they have to share the sport with their family, friends, and coworkers.”
These changes have opened doors for players of all ages and backgrounds, transforming tennis into a truly welcoming space across the District.
Going Above and Beyond
Andrew is the driving force behind Team DPR, an initiative that provides and motivates youth with free training, travel opportunities, and match play through Junior Team Tennis and WTN events.
“We started a free match-play program on Wednesday nights for kids new to the game,” he said proudly. “We had seven kids that went from no experience playing matches to being ranked high enough to be selected into our last L4 tournament we hosted. One child even got a scholarship to attend Nadal’s academy for a week!”
His dedication goes far beyond his job description. He’s often found working weekends, early mornings, and late evenings. Even when DPR facilities are closed, he ensures seniors, youth, and adults have consistent programming year-round.
“In the few weeks where tennis courts were closed, my team pivoted to creating online content to keep people motivated,” Andrew recalled. “We were not going to let COVID-19 slow us down. We knew the importance of keeping people active.”
His passion is inspiring. Whether picking up a broom, stringing a net, or rallying with kids, Andrew leads by example.
Overcoming Challenges and Inspiring Others
Andrew’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Starting tennis at age 16, facing financial struggles, and enduring multiple knee surgeries, he learned resilience and perseverance early on.
“If you want something badly enough, you must put in the work and believe in yourself,” Andrew said. “Being positive, creative, and consistent is key to achieving your goals.”
His experiences taught him to see every obstacle as an opportunity to grow and inspire others.
During the COVID-19 shutdown, when other sports came to a halt, he fought hard to keep tennis programs by providing people with an outlet and a sense of community during uncertain times.
“The benefits became very evident as attendance in our programs expanded rapidly,” he recalled. “Players told us how essential tennis had become in alleviating the pressures of such a life-changing event.”
Andrew’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Starting tennis at age 16, facing financial struggles, and enduring multiple knee surgeries, he learned resilience and perseverance early on.
“If you want something badly enough, you must put in the work and believe in yourself,” Andrew said. “Being positive, creative, and consistent is key to achieving your goals.”
His experiences taught him to see every obstacle as an opportunity to grow and inspire others.
During the COVID-19 shutdown, when other sports came to a halt, he fought hard to keep tennis programs by providing people with an outlet and a sense of community during uncertain times.
“The benefits became very evident as attendance in our programs expanded rapidly,” he recalled. “Players told us how essential tennis had become in alleviating the pressures of such a life-changing event.”
Why Andrew Acquadro Inspires Us
At the heart of Andrew’s work is a deep belief in community. He views tennis as a tool for promoting equity and bringing people together, teaching valuable life skills, and inspiring a sense of belonging.
“If you love or are passionate about something, get out there and do something about it. Even if it’s outside your comfort zone,” he encouraged. “Volunteer, have fun with it, or take a course to learn more. You’ll be amazed at how your actions may positively affect someone.”
For his creativity, compassion, and leadership, Andrew Acquadro is the well-deserved recipient of the Community Champion Award.
He reminds us that when passion meets purpose, tennis becomes more than a sport, but becomes a movement that changes lives, one rally at a time.
Join Andrew and the Tennis Creates Awards honorees at the Tennis Creates Gala on Dec. 6 at the Salamander Hotel in Washington DC. All proceeds from the Gala and Fantasy Clinic benefit USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s mission to champion tennis for healthier lives and communities, making the sport accessible to all in the Mid-Atlantic.
Through programs such as Girls Rule the Court™, Jr. Player Scholarships, Facility Restoration Grants, and Community Engagement Grants, the Foundation ensures that every person, regardless of background or zip code, can experience the lifelong benefits of tennis.
For more information, Tennis Creates Gala and Fantasy Clinic tickets, and sponsorship opportunities, please visit TennisCreatesGala.com.
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USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to promoting tennis and its physical, social, and emotional health benefits. Learn about our impact in the region and how USTA Mid-Atlantic creates community, character, and well-being.
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