The USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation, one of 17 sections of the United States Tennis Association, is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization committed to promoting tennis by offering quality recreational and competitive programs for people of all ages and abilities.
Mid-Atlantic has been part of the official governing body for tennis in America since 1923. The USTA MAS serves over 35,000 members in the District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, and eastern and southern West Virginia. Tennis players of all ages and skill levels are involved in leagues, tournaments and programs sanctioned by the section.
The USTA Mid-Atlantic Section promotes a message of acceptance, respect, and inclusion. We aim to leverage our members’ diverse backgrounds and perspectives to remove barriers to play and thereby increase participation and expand opportunities that will promote community-level engagement throughout the Section.
As a tax exempt organization under Section 501(c)3 of the Internal Revenue Service contributions and donations will be tax deductible. A formal Tax Exempt 501(c)3 letter can be obtained upon request.
October 12, 2025 – (left to right) Xiaozhen Lin, Menglun Qin, Qun Bi, Amy Mao, Yuan Zhang, Wen Jiang, Sierra Dung, and Anna Chen of the Mid-Atlantic section came in second place in the Adult 18 & Over 3.5 League National Championship at the Surprise Tennis and Racquet Center in Surprise, Arizona.
Results are in from week one of the USTA League National Championships, and USTA Mid-Atlantic is off to a great start!
Mid-Atlantic’s NOVA 18 & Over 3.5 Women’s Team earned a runner-up finish at the National Championships, falling to Texas 2-3 in the final match at the Surprise Tennis & Racquet Complex in Surprise, Arizona. Earlier that day, the team secured a hard-fought 3-2 victory over the Midwest to advance to the championship round.
Captain Yuan Zhang and Co-Captain Yuqing Xiong led the team. The roster included Wen Juang, Sherra Dung, Na Yu, Chao Wang, Zijing Ye, Qun Bi, Anna Chen, Shelley Que, Xiaozhen Lin, Menglun Qin, Xuan Du, Wei Chen, and Amy Mao.
Congratulations to NOVA on a fantastic run at this year’s National Championships! We’re proud of all the Mid-Atlantic teams who competed and gave it their all on court.
Mid-Atlantic Results from Week 1:
5.0M: Richmond-Godsey placed eighth out of 15 teams.
5.0W – DC-Jakubik placed fifth out of 11 teams.
4.0W – Montgomery-Wang placed fifth out of 17 teams.
3.5W – NOVA-Zhang placed second out of 17 teams.
2.5W – Richmond-Christian placed fifth out of 17 teams.
The USTA League National Championships season is officially here, and teams from across the Mid-Atlantic are ready to compete! These championships mark the culmination of months of dedication, teamwork, and hard-fought victories. After pushing through local leagues, Regional, and finally winning at Sectionals, 42 Mid-Atlantic teams have earned their spots at Nationals in Arizona, Florida, and California.
Every team attending League Nationals has its own story of commitment, resilience, and connection. These bonds have been their foundation, helping them achieve success and making their journey to Nationals even more meaningful. As these teams prepare to represent the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation, we know they’ll bring honor, grit, and a whole lot of heart.
Scroll down to see the Mid-Atlantic teams heading to USTA League Nationals. We are #MidAtlanticProud!
USTA League Nationals begin October 10-12, and will continue each weekend until November 9. To stay up to date on Mid-Atlantic teams competing at League Nationals, make sure to subscribe to USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s YouTube Channel and follow @ustamidatlantic on Facebook, Instagram,X, TikTok, and LinkedIn.
When the Ramirez family hits the tennis courts, it is more than a match. It is familia in motion. What started as a casual family pastime has evolved into a joyful way of life, reflecting how tennis is fostering connections within the Hispanic community across the Mid-Atlantic.
It began when Nathan, now 9, spotted a U.S. Open match on TV. He was just 3 but mesmerized by the movement and energy. Pointing to the screen in his then-toddler voice, he told his dad, Enrique, “That,” and asked if they could play tennis together. For Enrique, who grew up playing tennis and loved the quiet mental game of the sport, it was a special moment. He never imagined his young son would share that passion so early. Soon, the two were rallying in the driveway and finding a coach.
Not long after, Nathan’s younger sister Lily, now 8, joined in, inspired by her brother’s excitement. Their toddler sister, Olivia, 3, is already following in their footsteps in her own way, carrying tennis balls and trying to swing a racquet whenever she can. The family quickly discovered that tennis was not just an activity. It became a shared rhythm of weekends on the courts, lessons, and backyard practices that drew them closer together.
“Familia to me means unity, celebrating little milestones, and supporting each other through challenges,” said Nathan’s mom, Jenny Lopez-Ramirez. Jenny, who grew up in a family devoted to soccer, said tennis has introduced something new and powerful to their lives. “For me, it is about what I like to call breaking the stereotype,” she said. “I grew up in a family that was very big on soccer; we still have soccer in our bloodline. And so my husband grew up playing tennis, and when we brought tennis within our family and shared the sport with our children, it brought not just our immediate family together, but our extended family closer as well”.
For Nathan, tennis is as much about character as competition. “Tennis means emotions,” he said. “The happiness of winning, the anger of losing, and the challenge of trying again”. He said his goal is to be No. 1 in the Mid-Atlantic. Even while rehabbing an ankle injury, he stays determined. “Keep practicing and reach your goal of trying to be good at tennis,” he said.
That same drive and excitement has inspired his younger sister to develop her own love for the game. Lily said what she likes best about tennis is playing matches, especially singles. When asked about her favorite pro, she answered quickly: “Coco Gauff.” She added that her favorite shot is her forehand and that she has already made seven new tennis friends.
Both Jenny and Enrique said they see how tennis builds resilience and leadership. “It is a sport that teaches self-motivation,” said Jennifer. “Win or lose, it is up to you, but you have your family cheering every step of the way”. Enrique added that tennis provides lessons that children can carry with them for life. “Go for it,” he said. “It can be a lifelong sport”.
The Ramirez story reflects a broader trend. According to the 2025 USTA Tennis Participation Report, 18% of tennis players in the U.S. identify as Hispanic or Latino, a figure that continues to climb. In the Mid-Atlantic, participation reached 1.5 million players in 2024, a 14% year-over-year increase and a record-high participation rate of 9.6%, which is above the national average. Programs such as USTA Mid-Atlantic’s Girls Rule the Court™ and tennis-in-PE initiatives in schools across the region are making it easier for students and families to discover and enjoy the sport.
This Hispanic Heritage Month, the Ramirez family offers a reminder that tennis is more than a game. It is a way to honor familia,celebrate culture, and create connections that last for generations.
Ready to create your own family tennis story?
Explore USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation youth programs that nurture young players, as well as adult opportunities that keep the whole family active. Visit our website to find programs for every age and skill level.
WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 7, 2025) – Former ATP stars and tennis podcast personalities Sam Querrey and John Isner will co-host the 2025 USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation Tennis Creates Gala on Friday, December 6 at the Salamander Hotel in Washington, D.C. The following day, a small group of fans will have the extraordinary opportunity to hit the court and learn firsthand from Querrey and Isner, two of the game’s most celebrated pros, during the exclusive, first-ever USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation Tennis Creates Fantasy Clinicat the acclaimed Westwood Country Club in Vienna, Va.
Querrey and Isner, both former top-20 ATP players and co-hosts of the popular podcast Nothing Major alongside fellow pros Steve Johnson and Jack Sock, will bring their humor, insider stories, and passion for the game to the Gala stage. The following day, Querrey and Isner will provide personal coaching, technique tips, and strategy insights at the Fantasy Clinic. Attendees can also enjoy pre-clinic photo opportunities, a Q&A session, and a light lunch with fellow tennis enthusiasts. Spectator tickets are available for those who wish to watch and participate in the Q&A without playing. Gala ticket holders will receive a special discount to participate in the clinic.
“Sam and John are both incredible athletes and hilarious podcast hosts, making them the perfect choice to host this year’s Tennis Creates Gala,” said Tara Fitzpatrick-Navarro, CEO of the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation. “Their personalities, careers, and commitment to giving back to the tennis community reflect the spirit and mission of the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation.”
Chaired by Andrew and Michele Brammer, the Gala will feature fine dining, entertainment, live and silent auctions with exclusive experiences, and the presentation of the Tennis Creates Awards. Honorees include Stacey Allaster, the first woman to serve as US Open Tournament Director, who will receive the Tennis Creates Impact Award for her global contributions to equity and leadership in tennis; and Hall of Famer Ray Benton, who will receive the Tennis Creates Visionary Award for decades of transformational leadership in player development and program growth.
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 like Girls Rule the Court™, Jr. Player Scholarships, Facility Restoration Grants, and Community Engagement Grants, the Foundation is ensuring 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. Tickets for the Fantasy Clinic go on sale Friday, October 10 at 12 p.m. ET.
About Sam Querrey Sam Querrey, a former ATP Top 20 player, reached the semifinals at Wimbledon in 2017 and was a key member of the U.S. Davis Cup team. He is also co-host of Nothing Major, sharing stories and insights from his career with fellow pros Steve Johnson, Jack Sock, and John Isner.
About John Isner John Isner, former World No. 8, is best known for his record-breaking matches at Wimbledon and the U.S. Open. Beyond his professional career, Isner co-hosts Nothing Major, bringing fans behind the scenes of professional tennis with humor and camaraderie.
About the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation The USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to promoting tennis and its lifelong benefits. By fostering community, character, and well-being, the Foundation ensures tennis is accessible to all in the Mid-Atlantic region.
Are you a college student looking for an activity that will take your mind off your studies? Where you inspired by clips for tennis players on social media and decided you need to hit the tennis courts? Are you a former high school tennis player looking to get back on the court, but you’re not sure how to get started?
You’ve come to the right place! USTA Mid-Atlantic. Whether you are an experienced player or new to the game, we’re here to help you on your tennis journey! Check out our top tips for enjoying tennis during your college years.
1. Club Tennis
Many colleges offer student-run, social club tennis programs that strike a balance between fun and competition. Club tennis provides you with the opportunity to practice regularly, compete against other schools, and connect with new friends who share your passion for the sport.
For those looking for a more competitive experience, USTA Tennis on Campus (TOC) is a national intercollegiate league where club teams compete against one another for the chance to advance to the National Championship. Visit the Tennis on Campus website to learn more.
2. USTA Leagues
Another option is to play outside your college community with USTA Leagues. USTA Leagues provide players ages 18 and older with team play based on NTRP level. Several leagues provide teams with the opportunity to advance to the USTA League National Championships and compete against the top teams nationwide. Visit our league page to learn more.
3. USTA Tournaments
If you are looking for more tournament-style play, consider registering for USTA-Sanctioned Tournaments. Tournaments typically offer both singles and doubles based on age or NTRP level. Additionally, you can earn ranking points for the chance to compete in the NTRP National Championships! Visit our tournament page to learn more.
4. USTA Flex Leagues
If you want complete flexibility in playing matches, USTA Flex Leagues are for you! It’s a level-based round-robin play format that offers people a chance to play multiple matches per season. The best part is that you and your opponents decide when and where to play as long as you finish your matches before the season ends. Currently, Flex Leagues are primarily offered in a singles format; for more information, please visit our Flex League page.
5. Join a Clinic or Local Program
If you are new to tennis and want to learn the basics, or if you want to elevate your game to the next level, consider taking a tennis class at your school or local tennis provider near you. Providers we support in the Mid-Atlantic are certified instructors with a deep passion for the game and helping players improve their game. Check with your college’s Complete this sentence
Sometimes, getting on court with a racquet, ball, and friend is the best way. Most colleges and universities have courts available for student use, and if not, there are plenty of public tennis courts across the Mid-Atlantic. Grab a friend, a few balls, and just have fun.. Whether you’re playing a full match or casually rallying, tennis is about having fun, staying active, and enjoying the game.
You don’t need to compete at the highest level to enjoy tennis in college. Whether you are brand-new to tennis or a former high-level tennis player, The USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation is here to help guide you at whatever stage you are in your college tennis journey.
We encourage you to sign up for a free USTA Basic Account for access to a wide range of resources on the USTA website. You can also visit ustamidatlanticfoundation.org for more information and resources related to tennis in Maryland, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and parts of West Virginia.
Want to learn more? Fill out this form, and let’s help you find your way to play.
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