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how to register for a usta league in the mid-atlantic

How to sign up for a USTA League

how to register for a usta league in the mid-atlantic

Ready to compete on a team and build community on court? USTA Mid-Atlantic Adult Leagues offer a fun, competitive environment for players of all levels. Whether you are looking to captain a new team or join an existing one, follow this guide to get started.

What is USTA League?

3-Minute Read

USTA League is the country’s largest adult competitive tennis league. It’s a great way to stay active, improve your game, and make life-long friendships through team competition. Additionally, many of the leagues offer the opportunity to advance to a regional, sectional, or national championship. 

USTA Leagues are often organized by age and skill level using players’ NTRP (National Tennis Rating Program) Rating. Further, a variety of league formats are available such as Singles, Doubles, and Mixed Doubles. Visit USTA.com to learn more about USTA Leagues. 

USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation runs a variety of leagues across Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC. Check out the local league calendar to see USTA Leagues available near you. 

Terms to Know

Follow these steps to register for a USTA League. It’s recommended to receive a team code from an Area League Manager or from a USTA League Captain and the team you are joining.

  1. Visit USTA.com.

     

  2. Click Log In if you have an account or Sign Up if you need an account.

     

  3. Once you log in, hover over Play on the navigation menu and Under Find Local Tennis, select “Find a League.”

     

  4. You will then be directed to another window and to the TennisLink Page where you will be able to register for a USTA League.

     

  5. Hover over USTA League in the top right and select, “Register with a Team #”.  if you have a Team Number from your Team Captain. If you don’t have a team number select “Find & Sign Up for a League.”

     

  6. Your USTA Account Number, phone number, and email address are already filled out. Type in your Team Number. Then select the Continue button.

     

  7. After you add your payment information, double-check that you are registering for the correct league, and select submit.

     

  8. That’s it! You will receive an email confirmation and receipt. The next step is to wait for your League Captain to send the schedule and any team information. 

How to Sign Up

Before you sign up for a  USTA League, you will need the following:

  • Area League Managers (ALMs) are your local experts. They know what leagues are upcoming and can help get you connected to teams in your area.

  • USTA Website is the online hub for USTA. It’s where you’ll go to find local programs and create a player profile.

  • TennisLink allows you to register for leagues, see your match schedule, and check your scores.

  • A USTA Membership is needed to register to play in a USTA League. Beyond league play, a paid membership grants access to exclusive discounts and perks. 

  • An NTRP Rating is needed by each player before they register for a team. If you don’t have a rating, you will be prompted to self-rate within the Tennislink system.

  • Team Code is needed to register for a team. Typically, your team captain or ALM will send that out.

  • Local League Calendar published by the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation lists the available leagues in the section.

  • Contact Mid-Atlantic Staff by email at leagues@mas.usta.com for assistance in finding a team or help with registering for a team.

If you selected “Find & Sign Up for a League” you will be able to set the filters to find a league that best suits your needs. You may be prompted to self-rate or update your membership, Once you select leagues you are interested in, your name will be added to our Tennis Connect list where captains will be able to request to contact you. 

For further questions about leagues, finding players, or signing up, please contact your ALM. 

Joining a USTA league is a rewarding way to improve your game, meet new players, and experience competitive tennis in a supportive community. By following the registration steps, you can secure your spot on a team and start playing in a USTA league. If you have any additional questions or need guidance, reach out to your Area League Manager or team captain.

Subscribe to USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s YouTube Channel and follow @ustamidatlantic on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

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.

How to find a tennis coach in the mid-atlantic

How to Find a Tennis Coach in the Mid-Atlantic

How to find a tennis coach in the mid-atlantic

How to Find a Tennis Coach in the Mid-Atlantic

(4-Minute Read)

You’ve finished your first tennis clinic, and now you want to get better at hitting a forehand or your serve, but you don’t know where to start. Or maybe you need a different approach to learning a tennis skill. This is where finding a tennis coach can help you improve your game! 

A tennis coach can provide personalized insights to help you figure out how to hit a serve, fix bad habits before they start, and receive more personalized training to improve something you want to work on.

This guide will help you find a tennis coach in Maryland, Virginia, Washington DC, and parts of West Virginia.

Start with USTA Resources

A great place to start is the United States Tennis Association’s (USTA) website. They provide a directory of certified coaches.

When finding a tennis coach, look for USTA-affiliated options. This ensures that your coach has received basic training in teaching techniques, player development, and, most importantly, giving you peace of mind as you step onto the court.

Tap Into Your Network

Don’t be afraid to ask around! Reach out to friends, co-workers, or neighbors who might already play. You can also search local Facebook groups or community forums for beginner group lesson recommendations. These groups are often the best way to find social, cost-effective clinics and lessons where you can meet other new players.

women doubles team smiling on court

Evaluate Coaching Credentials and Experience

Once you’ve identified candidates, vet them thoroughly.

Welcoming Environment: Look for coaches through the USTA who prioritize new adult players. At this stage, a friendly and encouraging atmosphere is more important than advanced professional certifications.

Beginner Focus: Ensure the coach loves working with adults who are just starting out. Be aware that a coach who primarily focuses on competitive junior players is likely not the right fit for a true beginner, as their style may be too intense or their rates too high for your initial needs.

Experience: How long have they been coaching? What’s their track record? Have they worked with players at your level before? Ask for references. Most reputable coaches will happily provide them.

Assess Coaching Style and Communication

A great coach for a beginner needs to be patient and make every lesson feel like the highlight of your week. During your first session, look for a balance of fun and learning:

Patience and Fun: Does the coach keep things lighthearted while explaining the basics? You should feel comfortable asking any question, no matter how simple it may seem.

Positive Feedback: A good beginner coach balances constructive critique with plenty of encouragement. They should celebrate your progress and help you build confidence with every swing.

Flexibility: Can they adapt to your learning style? Every player is different, and effective coaches adjust their approach accordingly.

Goal alignment: Do they listen to what you want to achieve? A coach who understands your objectives will structure lessons accordingly.

Leverage Online Platforms and Community Groups

Online platforms, such as Facebook groups for tennis players in your region, often feature coach recommendations and player experiences shared by community members.

Google reviews and coaching websites can also provide insight into what other players have experienced, though take reviews with the understanding that experiences vary based on individual goals and preferences.

Doubles teams shake hands at conclusion of match

Understand Pricing and Commitment

Starting tennis doesn’t have to be expensive. There are options for every budget, and it is important to find a budget that feels right for you.

Group Lessons (Recommended): Usually $20–$50 per person. This is the ideal, low-commitment, and social way to start. You’ll learn the basics alongside others at your level and make new friends.

Private Lessons: $60–$200+ per hour. Consider these as a next step once you’ve committed to the game and want personalized technical work. Note that the most expensive coach is not necessarily the best for a beginner.

Packages and Memberships: Many coaches offer discounted rates for bundled lesson packages or special rates for being a member at the tennis club they teach.

Don’t assume the most expensive coach is the best for your needs. A skilled coach at mid-range pricing may be a better value than a top-tier touring pro if your goals are local league play or recreational improvement. Ask what’s included. Do they provide drills, a personalized plan, or video analysis? These value-adds justify higher rates.

Consider Location and Logistics

Convenience matters. A coach who is 30 minutes away might seem ideal until scheduling and travel become friction points. Consider the following:

Travel time: Can you realistically get there on a regular basis?

Court availability: Does the coach have court access, or do you need to arrange it separately?

Lesson frequency: How often can you commit, and does the coach’s schedule align with yours?

Making Your Final Decision

When making your final choice, trust your instincts. A coach with excellent credentials who doesn’t click with your personality won’t get the same results as a slightly less credentialed coach who understands your goals and communicates in a way that resonates with you.

Think of coaching as a partnership. Your coach will provide structure, expertise, and accountability, but your progress depends on effort and consistency too. The right coach makes the work feel worthwhile and helps you fall in love with the game.

women preparing to play a point at a tennis match

Quick Resources to Find a Coach

  1. Check out USTA Mid-Atlantic website for more beginner tennis tips. 
  2. Look up Coaches on USTA’s Coach Directory
  3. Contact the Community Department for info on local group classes
  4. Reach out to your network and ask other players for recommendations

Finding the right tennis coach in the Mid-Atlantic is an investment in your game and your enjoyment of tennis. Take your time, ask good questions, and trust that the right coach is out there.

Subscribe to USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s YouTube Channel and follow @ustamidatlantic on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

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.

How to Find Your First Tennis Clinic in the Mid-Atlantic

How to Find Your First Tennis Clinic in the Mid-Atlantic

(5-Minute Read)

Picking up a tennis racket for the first time is an exciting step toward a fun and active lifestyle! The Mid-Atlantic region is full of welcoming places to learn, and the key is finding a tennis clinic that makes learning easy and enjoyable. This guide will help you find the perfect, low-pressure environment to begin your tennis journey.

Why Should I Take a Beginner Tennis Clinic?

A clinic isn’t just about swinging better. It’s about learning from someone who knows proper technique, receiving corrections on your form, and training alongside other players at the same level.

The most helpful benefits for new players are:

  • Faster Learning: A coach spots habits in minutes that might take you months to identify alone.
  • Stay Safe and Healthy: Learning proper technique early prevents painful injuries down the road.
  • Community: You’ll meet other players, build friendships, and discover teammates for leagues and social play.
  • Build Confidence: Learn the correct fundamentals from a pro, allowing you to play freely.

What are the Best Types of Instruction for Beginners?

Clinics come in different shapes and sizes. Understanding the options helps you narrow your search:

Group Clinics: These are the most common and affordable options, perfect for beginners. You’ll train with up to 12 other players at a similar level, rotating through drills and exercises.

Private or Semi-Private Lessons: Working one-on-one (or with a partner) with a coach allows for personalized attention and custom programming.

Specialty Clinics: Many facilities offer focused clinics such as shot of the day, match play clinics, doubles strategy, junior development, or adult fitness-focused programs. 

Where Can I Find Beginner Tennis Clinics in the Mid-Atlantic?

The United States Tennis Association (USTA) is the governing body for tennis in the United States, and the Mid-Atlantic Foundation oversees all USTA-sanctioned programs in your region (MD, VA, DC, and parts of WV).

What you’ll find:

  • Comprehensive database of certified coaches and facilities
  • Member discounts on clinics and programs
  • USTA-approved instruction standards (coaches are certified professionals)
  • Links to Tennis Clubs and Licensed Facilities in the region
  • Information on junior development programs, adult leagues, and recreational events

How to use it:

  • Visit USTA.com and hover over Play, select Find Tennis Programs to view clinic recommendations by location and skill level
  • Filter by your town/city. This allows you to find programs in your area. 

Almost every city and suburb in the Mid-Atlantic has public or private tennis clubs. Start with a web search for “tennis clubs near [your city]” and call or visit in person. You can also visit USTA’s directory to help find local tennis clubs in your area.

What to ask:

  • What clinics do they offer year-round?
  • What are the skill levels (beginner, intermediate, advanced)?
  • What are the costs and time commitments?
  • Can you watch a clinic or take a trial session first?
  • Do they offer off-peak discounts?

Cities and counties throughout the Mid-Atlantic often run affordable clinics through their parks and recreation programs. Check your city’s recreation website or visit USTA’s website to help access a directory of Park and Rec departments around Maryland, Virginia, Washington, DC, and West Virginia. 

Why this works:

  • Very affordable (often $50–$150 for a 4-6 week session)
  • Beginner-friendly, low-pressure environment
  • Convenient local access

Many colleges and universities in the region offer community clinics through their tennis programs. Contact the athletics department of nearby schools to ask about open programs or summer camps. If you need help finding a college or university near you, contact the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation and they can assist you.

Facebook Groups: Joining your local tennis community group can help you quickly plug in to your local tennis community. The best part is many people reach out to play or provide recommendations on where to hit the courts. Additionally, local community groups often have suggestions and can point you toward hidden gems.

Women doubles team on tennis court

How Should a Beginner Choose a Clinic?

  1. Skill Level Match: Be honest about where you are. “Beginner” means you’re new to tennis and learning the basics. Taking a clinic above your level is challenging; below may be boring. The best way to identify your initial level (or rating) is to sign up for a USTA Account and take the free self-rate test. which helps place you in the right class.

  2. Coach Credentials: Look for coaches with Racquet Sports Professionals Association (RSPA, formerly USPTA), Professional Tennis Registry (PTR), USTA certification, or equivalent qualifications. A good coach has both technical knowledge and teaching ability. You can find more information and a directory of coaches through USTA Coaching. 

  3. Class Size: Smaller classes (4–6 players) allow more individual feedback. Larger groups (8–12) are more social and affordable. Pick based on your learning style.

  4. Schedule and Location: The best clinic is the one you’ll actually attend. Be realistic about drive time and time of day. Evening clinics fill up fast; morning or midday options may offer less competition for spots.

  5. Cost and Format: Clinics range from $15–$40 per session (groups) to $60–$150+ per hour (private). Shorter commitments (drop-in) offer flexibility; longer sessions (6–8 weeks) build consistency.

6. Community Vibe: Visit or watch a clinic in action if you can. Do the players and coach seem engaged? Are people smiling? Do they feel like your people?

YOur To-Do List

  • Assess Your Starting Point: Be honest about where you are (true beginner, rusty, or casual player).
  • Check Your Calendar: When can you realistically commit each week?
  • Search Your Area: Use the resources above to find 3–5 clinics that match your criteria.
  • Ask Questions: Contact the coaches or clubs directly; don't hesitate to ask about trial sessions.
  • Visit or Trial: If possible, watch a clinic or take a trial lesson before committing.
  • Sign Up: Pick one and commit to at least 4–6 weeks (consistency matters).
  • Stay Connected: Ask about league play, socials, or other opportunities to continue your journey.

Final Thoughts

Tennis is a lifetime sport. It’s about joining a community of people who love the game as much as you do. In the Mid-Atlantic, the tennis community is thriving.

The hardest step is often the first one: deciding to start. So reach out. Call your local club, visit the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation website, or text a friend who plays. Someone in your region is running an instructional tennis program this week that’s perfect for you.

tennis player coming up the net to shake hands

Quick Reference: USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation Resources

Subscribe to USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s YouTube Channel and follow @ustamidatlantic on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and LinkedIn. 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.

Co-hosts, honorees, and awardees, standing for a group photos at the 2025 Tennis Creates Gala.

2026 USTA Mid-Atlantic Tennis Creates Awards Open for Nominations

Co-hosts, honorees, and awardees, standing for a group photos at the 2025 Tennis Creates Gala.

Nominations have officially closed. Winners will be announced shortly. Please visit the Tennis Creates Gala website for the latest updates. For questions and more information, please contact Wornden Ly at wly@mas.usta.com. 

In the Mid-Atlantic tennis community, there is no shortage of individuals, organizations, and groups doing great things to grow tennis and change lives through the sport. From league captains who volunteer their time, to providers and coaches who commit to the advancement of their players and their communities through the sport.

For over 100 years, USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation has been creating community, character and well-being. Each year, USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation, a nonprofit organization, honors our members, players, providers, and organizers that support and grow tennis in the region and are excelling at many levels to go above and beyond for tennis and the well-being of others.

This year, USTA Mid-Atlantic will turn to the tennis community to nominate outstanding individuals and community providers for the annual Tennis Creates Awards which will continue to align with the guiding principles of Community, Character, and Well-being under the “USTA Mid-Atlantic Creates” theme.

The award program is rooted with USTA Mid-Atlantic’s mission to promote tennis for healthier lives and communities, making the sport accessible to all in the Mid-Atlantic. Awards emphasize and celebrate programs and people that create community, build character, and encourage overall well-being.

Nominations have officially closed. Winners will be announced shortly. Please visit the Tennis Creates Gala website for the latest updates. For questions and more information, please contact Wornden Ly at wly@mas.usta.com. 

2026 USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation Tennis Creates Award Categories

Provider Champion:

Recognizing a Mid-Atlantic tennis provider of any type including: organizations, facilities, parks and recreation, clubs, school, coach (certified and community-level), tournament director, and other who has stepped up in the community to serve fun, inclusive, and welcoming tennis programs in the Mid-Atlantic that increase access and awareness of the sport.

  • Consistently creates innovative, impactful, and inclusive programming among able body or adaptive tennis players within the USTA Mid-Atlantic region.
  • Demonstrated commitment to the growth of tennis in underserved communities.
  • Used targeted outreach to diversify and engage individuals, communities, ethnicities who might not try tennis otherwise
  • Broadened reach and impact through partnerships and collaboration with other individuals and organizations
  • Goes above and beyond to make tennis welcoming (ie: fun, flexible, priced appropriately, accessible, geared toward varying ability and experience levels and ages, emphasizes sportsmanship).
  • Facilitate two or more USTA programs
  • Registered tennis programs through USTA’s Serve Tennis.
  • USTA Safe Play approved and in good standing

Community Champion:

Recognizing a tennis player in the Mid-Atlantic region who has gone above and beyond to serve the community, grow tennis, and increase access to the sport in the region.

  • All ages are eligible for this award category.
  • Participant in USTA Mid-Atlantic tennis events/programming (including but not limited to: USTA Mid-Atlantic tournaments, wheelchair tennis programming, JTT programs, USTA League, team challenges, junior circuit events, Mid-Atlantic team events, etc.) or active in the USTA Mid-Atlantic Volunteer Program.
  • Signed the Mid-Atlantic ACES Sportsmanship Pledge

Youth Leader:

Recognizing a youth tennis player in the Mid-Atlantic who exudes the ideals and values (community, character, well-being and DE&I) of the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation both on and off the court. This award is given to someone who has demonstrated leadership skills for his/her team, character development with sportsmanship recognition, while encouraging and teaching/modeling respect for others, inclusivity and ethics.

  • Age 17 and under
  • Participant in USTA Mid-Atlantic programs such as JTT, Tournaments (any level), Team Challenge/Junior Circuit programs and/or school tennis team (MS/HS); and/or a youth associated with a Mid-Atlantic organization (CTA/NJTL); and/or other Mid-Atlantic youth tennis programs (Girls Rule the Court, High School Ambassador program, Junior Scholarship recipient).
  • Signed the Mid-Atlantic ACES Sportsmanship Pledge

Adult Leader:

Recognizing an adult tennis player in the Mid-Atlantic region who exudes the ideals and values (community, character, well-being and DE&I) of the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation both on and off the court. This individual is a proponent for tennis, supporting the growth of the sport, advocates for tennis and encourages others to get involved in the game. This award is given to someone who has volunteered and/or supported the philanthropic growth of USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation and/or demonstrated leadership skills for his/her team, community program, and/or tennis facility, and consistently showcases sportsmanship.

  • Age 18 and older
  • Participant in USTA Leagues, Tournaments, Adult Social programming, Tennis On Campus, College tennis or community organizers involved in Park & Recreation departments, NJTL and/or CTA organizations; or involved in Girls Rule the Court
  • Can also include parents/guardians whose children are involved in a form of USTA Mid-Atlantic programming
  • Can also include volunteers registered on the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation Volunteer Hub
  • Signed the Mid-Atlantic Sportsmanship ACES Pledge (if a parent and/or player in USTA Programs).

Tennis in the Classroom:

Recognizing administrators, teachers, and school tennis providers (i.e. high school and middle school team coaches, school administrators/athletic directors, school parent liaisons, and/or after school tennis program leaders) who go above and beyond to keep their students active with tennis. Nominations open for those working within grades K-12 in the Mid-Atlantic region. USTA SafePlay approved and in good standing.

  • Physical Education Teachers
  • High School Tennis Team Coach
  • Middle School Tennis Team Coach
  • After School Tennis Leader
  • School or Association Administrator

Coach of the Year:

This award is given to a coach/provider in the Mid-Atlantic who ensures their programming can be played by all ages and ability levels and that all who play have the opportunity to benefit from the long-lasting physical and social-emotional aspects of the sport.

  • Be a registered teaching professional and/or certified coach, or a community-level/school-based coach
  • Safe Play approved and in good standing
  • Create innovative, impactful, and inclusive programming
  • Demonstrates commitment to introducing the sport to new audiences; developing players of all ability levels; and retaining players throughout the tennis pathway that is most beneficial to the individual(s).

Follow @ustamidatlantic, on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

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 Section and how USTA Mid-Atlantic creates community, character, and well-being. Make an impact beyond the net and donate today.

To find more information on past USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation award winners, click here.

Coach John Neal on the tennis court with the Charlottesville boys tennis team smiling at the camera holding a trophy in the air.

From “Helper Dad” to Championship Coach

“If you’re in the past, that’s where anger lives. If you’re in the future, that’s where anxiety lives. In the present is being able to perform at your best no matter what you’re doing, tennis or otherwise,” said John Neal.

It is a mindset he has learned not just through tennis, but through an unexpected journey that reshaped his career in Charlottesville, Virginia.

When his son was a freshman on the boys tennis team at Charlottesville High School, John found himself becoming what he calls the team’s “helper dad” – a role that would quietly change the course of his career.

Just before the season began, about seven years ago, the team’s coach approached John to take over for the year. He did not hesitate, and he never looked back. That one season became the foundation for everything that followed.

Fast forward to 2025, and John was recognized as the 2024-25 National Coach of the Year by the National Federation of State High School Associations Coaches Association. The honor was especially meaningful following his recognition as the 2025 Central Virginia Coach of the Year.

In just seven years at Charlottesville High School, John has helped build one of the top high school tennis programs in Virginia, leading the team to a 39-5 record and back-to-back Virginia High School League state championships over the past two seasons.

But John’s journey in tennis started long before that moment. Introduced to the sport at just six-years-old, he quickly developed a love for the game that would shape his life.

“I got really serious about tennis when I was 10 years old. Of course I played high school tennis, then college, and then I taught professionally for 10 years after that,” Neal said. “I thought that I was going to do that the rest of my career.”

For a tennis lover, it was a dream career, but Neal says nothing has been more fulfilling than working with high school student-athletes.

“High school coaching has given me the opportunity to see the long-term growth of the players that come in,” said Neal. “A lot of the kids are beginners and you water that seed for years, then a tennis player emerges. It’s cool and amazing to watch the growth from kids who come in eighth or ninth grade and then they can actually play really well by senior year.”

In his role as Director of Tennis, Neal oversees both the boys and girls programs at Charlottesville High School, and the culture he’s built makes it clear that his goals extend well beyond the scoreboard.

“I tell them we have one team. Boys and girls are one team. We practice together and then compete separately, but at the end of the day we’re one.”

By creating a shared team environment, Neal not only maximizes limited court space but also builds a stronger, more connected culture among his players. He has also developed a coaching approach that allows every player to grow, no matter their starting point.

“I sort of call it the ‘universal language of tennis,'” said Neal.

This philosophy allows him to teach players of all skill levels using consistent terminology. While each athlete may execute skills differently, they all understand the same foundational concepts.

In Coach John’s eyes, culture is just as important as skill development. “Every year we have a little talk about what our culture is. I’ve always instilled that every time you step on court you’re representing the school, each other, yourself, and the community at large.”

That philosophy carries off the court, too. Neal holds his players to a simple but demanding standard: no whining, no complaining. “The reason we don’t do it is because complaining shifts accountability away from yourself and onto something else,” he said. “You have to practice that discipline, just like any other skill.”

Instead, Neal encourages his players to embrace challenges and take ownership of their growth.

“Tennis is a classroom like anything else. You’re going to lose points, games, matches and you also experience that outside of the tennis court as well, but being able to handle that adversity and still give it your all, that is the ultimate goal,” Neal said.

For Neal, improvement is about showing up each day ready to learn. His advice for coaches looking to make a lasting impact reflects that same mindset: focus on education, be a student of the game, and use strong foundational resources to teach players the basics.

As high school tennis season gets into full swing across the Mid-Atlantic, coaches like John Neal shape the student-athlete experience both on and off the court. May is National Tennis Month — a fitting time to celebrate the coaches, programs, and communities that make the sport accessible and meaningful at every level. From first-time players picking up a racquet to teams competing for championships, the impact of strong coaching can be seen at every level of the game.

Coaches and educators interested in growing their tennis programs can learn more about available resources and opportunities by visiting the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation High School Tennis page.

For Neal, it all comes back to staying present. Whether he is coaching a match, leading a practice, or helping a new player find confidence on the court, his focus remains on the moment in front of him.

Because in the end, that is where growth happens. And for the players he continues to inspire every day, that mindset may be the most important lesson of all.

Subscribe to USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s YouTube Channel and follow @ustamidatlantic on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

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.