Tag: Impact

Tennis Community Unites in Washington, D.C. for USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s 2025 Tennis Creates Gala

All Funds Raised Directly Support Programs Making Tennis Accessible to All
in the Mid-Atlantic Region

Photos + Video Available HERE

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

WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 8, 2025) – The USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation brought together leaders in tennis, sports, philanthropy, and community advocacy on Saturday, December 6 for its annual Tennis Creates Gala, held at the Salamander Hotel in Washington, D.C. Hosted by former ATP standouts and Nothing Major podcast co-hosts Sam Querrey and John Isner, the evening celebrated influential changemakers in the sport and highlighted the Foundation’s mission, showcasing the transformative power of tennis.

Thanks to overwhelming generosity, nearly half a million dollars was raised to support the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s mission and vision for tennis in every community in the region and programs making the sport accessible, including Girls Rule the Court™, Jr. Player Scholarships, Facility Restoration Grants, Community Engagement Grants, and more. The organization prioritizes increased access to tennis in under-resourced communities.

Gala guests were inspired by a moving program and awards ceremony showcasing the ways tennis changes lives and builds communities. Querrey and Isner delighted, bringing to the stage their Nothing Major podcast style, and conducting an insightful interview with honoree Stacey Allaster in which guests gleaned the importance of equity in sport.

USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation Chief Executive Officer, Tara Fitzpatrick-Navarro, reminded the audience of the significance of the night saying, “The true power of tennis is unlocked when we put community first. Tennis creates community, character, and well-being and we are making that real one point, one match, one friendship at a time. We must dismantle the greatest barrier our region faces, access to tennis. That’s what tonight is about.”

At the Gala, the Foundation recognized outstanding leaders who are elevating tennis and expanding access to the sport globally and across the Mid-Atlantic region including:

  • Stacey Allaster – Tennis Creates Impact Award Honoree
    Outgoing US Open Tournament Director and the first woman to hold the role in
    the USTA’s 140-year history.
  • Ray Benton – Tennis Creates Visionary Award Honoree
    Outgoing CEO of the Junior Tennis Champions Center and co-founder of ProServ, one of the first global sports management and marketing firms representing clients such as Arthur Ashe, Stan Smith, and Michael Jordan.
  • Andrew Acquadro – Tennis Creates Community Champion Award Honoree
    Citywide Tennis Director for the DC Department of Parks and Recreation.
  • Sahej Jaspal – Tennis Creates Youth Leader Award Honoree (age 9)
    A standout young leader whose volunteer service, peer mentorship, and commitment to community tennis have created meaningful opportunities for fellow youth players across the region.
  • Carisa Dueweke – Tennis Creates Adult Leader Award Honoree
    A dedicated advocate who has grown tennis participation by organizing leagues, supporting new players, and fostering welcoming, inclusive environments that strengthen local tennis communities.
  • Essam Laskar – Provider Champion Award Honoree
    Founder of Laskar Tennis, making the game accessible by partnering with local county park and recreation departments around the Mid-Atlantic.
  • Chip Boling – Tennis in the Classroom Award Honoree
    Championship-winning Howard High School tennis coach and tournament director committed to growing youth tennis participation.
  • Wendy Massarelli – Coach of the Year

Girls Rule the Court™ coach in Loudoun County, empowering girls through tennis and social-emotional learning.

For more information about tennis programs available in the Mid-Atlantic region, or to donate, go to ustamidatlanticfoundation.org. Photos and b-roll clips from the 2025 Tennis Creates Gala are available here.

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.

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Media Contact:
Katrina Younce 

Publicist, USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation

katrina@kyprinc.com 

T: 310-995-3619

Andrew Acquadro

Andrew Acquadro: Building Community Through the Power of Tennis

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.

andrew acquadro

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!”

team photo at rock creek tennis center

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. 

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.

Essam Laskar

Essam Laskar: A Leader, Mentor, and Champion for the Game

When you meet Essam Laskar, you quickly realize that tennis is more than a sport for him. As a lifelong player, passionate coach, and visionary leader, Essam has dedicated himself to growing the game from the ground up, ensuring tennis is accessible, inclusive, and inspiring for everyone. His leadership, creativity, and unwavering commitment to community have made him the deserving recipient of the Provider Champion Award at the 2025 Tennis Creates Awards.

Building a Grassroots Movement

As the Founder and Director of Laskar Tennis, Essam has built one of the most vibrant grassroots programs in the Mid-Atlantic region. What began as a personal dream has grown into a thriving network of affordable and welcoming programs across Maryland and Virginia, serving thousands of players each year.

“Tennis has always been part of my family’s DNA,” said Essam. “My parents and grandparents played, but over time, it became more than tradition; it became purpose. The sport has given me focus, community, and direction.”

That purpose now fuels his mission to give others the same sense of belonging. Through partnerships with seven county parks and recreation departments, his organization has brought tennis to neighborhoods that once had little or no access to the sport. “Partnering with these departments has been transformational,” Essam said. “Thousands of new players, ranging from children to seniors, have found their way onto the court through affordable, community-based instruction.”

In the past year, Laskar Tennis has reached more than 1,000 participants. However, Essam insists that the numbers only tell part of the story. What matters most to him is the environment he’s created: one rooted in accessibility, mentorship, and belonging.

Leading with Purpose and Heart

Those who know Essam describe him as a mentor and a leader. His influence extends far beyond the baseline.

“Our approach is simple. Meet every player where they are. Whether it’s a five-year-old picking up a racquet for the first time or an adult rediscovering the sport, our goal is to make everyone feel seen, supported, and challenged in the right way.”

That personal philosophy is visible in every class and every player’s story. Essam recalls one moment that defined his sense of purpose.

“A parent once pulled me aside after camp and said, ‘My son’s confidence in tennis and his life have completely changed since joining your program.’ That moment stuck with me. It reminded me that what we’re doing isn’t just teaching strokes but shaping mindset, character, and community connection.”

A Legacy of Passion and Perseverance

Tennis runs deep in Essam’s family roots. Both of his parents played professionally in Bangladesh, and from an early age, he was drawn to the game. Balancing a full-time career as an electrical engineer, husband, and father, Essam poured his energy into building a legacy of opportunity.

“Building a multi-county tennis operation from the ground up came with real challenges. From earning trust in new communities to maintaining quality as we scaled,” he admits. “I learned early on that the key was structure. Clear systems, strong communication, and a team that shares the same standard of excellence. Every challenge became a chance to build something more sustainable.”

He’s the first to say that his success hasn’t been a solo effort. “My wife, my parents, and my brother have been my foundation through it all,” he said. “My wife’s patience and constant encouragement keep me grounded. My parents taught me the work ethic that drives this business. Then there’s my brother, who helps lead our programs and has been my right-hand in bringing our vision to life. Without them, none of this happens.”

Championing Community and Character

Beyond his own programs, Essam is an engaged volunteer. He recently volunteered at the Mubadala Citi DC Open Kids Day and the US Open’s Net Generation On-Court Experience.

“Volunteering at the US Open reminded me of tennis’ global reach and how powerful it can be when people from all backgrounds come together around the sport we love,” he said. “I bring that same energy home to our local programs. I want every event and clinic we host to feel organized, inclusive, and special, like you’re part of something bigger.”

A True Provider Champion

When asked what winning this year’s Tennis Creates Award meant to him, Essam reflected with characteristic humility:

“It was a surreal and deeply humbling moment. I’ve always believed that impact comes before recognition. Having USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation acknowledge our work means a great deal. It’s not just a personal milestone. It’s validation for every coach, partner, and player who’s helped make Laskar Tennis what it is today.”

And when it comes to what he hopes others take away from his story, he keeps it simple and heartfelt:

“I hope my story shows that tennis is a platform for leadership, connection, and impact. What we’ve built with Laskar Tennis proves that with the right vision and persistence, you can create something meaningful that inspires others to take action. When you build with purpose, the community grows with you.”

Join Essam 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. 

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.

Chip Boling: Teaching Life Lessons Through Tennis

For more than two decades, Chip Boling has been a fixture on the courts at Howard High School, serving as a coach, mentor, and believer in what tennis can do beyond the court. His unwavering commitment, quiet leadership, and a deep belief that the court is more than a place to win matches, but also a classroom where character is built, confidence grows, and lifelong love for the game takes root. He will be receiving the Tennis in the Classroom Award at the Tennis Creates Gala on Dec. 6. 

Chip Boling teaching tennis at high school tennis courts

A Legacy of Coaching and Connection

Chip’s coaching career spans 20 years at Howard High School, where his influence extends far beyond the scoreboard. His teams have earned over 350 career wins, four regional championships in the last five years, and numerous top finishes in the Howard County Cup. Yet for Chip, those numbers tell only part of the story.

“What keeps me going is the kids I work with,” he shared. “Watching them grow as tennis players fuels me to keep coming back.”

This year, his girls’ team, with half of the roster brand-new to tennis, finished second in the county. It’s the kind of achievement that perfectly captures Chip’s approach: patience, player development, unshakable belief, and constant encouragement. He recalls one player who struggled as a freshman but returned her sophomore year transformed.

“She said, ‘Your expectations were so high, and you really care about how we can improve. I just wanted to make you proud.’ That’s what it’s all about.”

Building Bridges for the Sport

Beyond his team, Chip’s dedication has rippled across Maryland. Representing Howard and Anne Arundel counties for Maryland Public Schools, he’s been a driving force in modernizing high school tennis.

After attending a training at the USTA National Campus, he spearheaded the rollout of USTA Serve Tennis across Howard County, registering every player, running tournaments through the system, and setting a new benchmark for accessibility and transparency.

“I said to myself, ‘We need to do this. I can make it work,’” Chip explained. “It allows us as coaches to see how players are doing, gives players data to improve, and makes sure competition stays fair.”

He’s now working to expand the platform statewide, ensuring every public school program in Maryland benefits from this more connected, player-focused system.

Serving the Game, Not Himself

For over 20 years, Chip has served as a USTA tournament director, running events at Howard High School and Forest Hill Swim and Tennis Club. From Orange Ball to L4 tournaments, he’s there making sure players not only compete but also learn.

“Being a tournament director isn’t just about competitive play,” he said. “It’s about teaching kids the proper rules and helping them understand the game.”

His reputation is one of fairness, care, and generosity. Chip often offers full refunds when issues arise, rewarding players, and ensuring each event feels meaningful. Parents and players often wonder why he doesn’t run more tournaments. His answer is simple: quality over quantity.

“To Chip, it’s not about the money,” one colleague said. “It’s about growing the sport.”

Tennis in the Classroom honoree, Chip Boling, cstanding and coaching Howard high school tennis team.

Family, Faith, and Fuel for the Future

Balancing his many roles hasn’t always been easy. As a coach, tournament director, and Director of Racket Sports at Forest Hill Swim and Tennis Club, Chip spends countless hours on the court. What keeps him going is not only his passion for tennis, but also his wife and two children.

“It’s hard to be a coach when you have a young family,” he admitted. “But my wife and kids always ask how my teams have done. My kids love coming to practice and helping run camps. I’m grateful to all three of them.”

At Forest Hill, Chip oversees all racquet programs, including pickleball, but his heart always returns to youth tennis. He believes every child can be a future ambassador of the game, carrying forward the values of respect, resilience, and sportsmanship.

Why Chip Boling Inspires Us

When Chip first learned he had won the Tennis in the Classroom Award, the honor came with a moment that perfectly sums up his humble spirit.

“My daughter saw the paper and said, ‘It’s about time someone recognizes you for all you do!’” Chip laughed. “But really, I think it’s an accomplishment for all the players who have played for me. Their hard work makes me look good.”

Chip posing for a photo with two children on a tennis court.

For Chip, coaching isn’t about personal glory, but it’s impact on young student-athletes. He hopes his story encourages others to step up for their communities, whether as coaches, volunteers, or officials.

“We need more people who care about the sport,” he said. “Coaching can’t be about yourself. It’s about the players. We are molding them into women and men of the future.”

And that’s what makes Chip Boling more than just a coach. He’s a teacher of life lessons, a builder of character, and a reminder that tennis creates something far greater than champions. 

Join Chip 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 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. 

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.

Wendy Massarelli: Coaching Confidence, One Serve at a Time

2025 Tennis Creates Award Honoree Wendy Massarelli.

When you meet Wendy Massarelli, you quickly realize she’s coaching both tennis and life. As one of the first Girls Rule the Court™ coaches in Loudoun County since the program’s launch in 2022, Wendy has been a driving force behind its success and a steady source of inspiration for every girl who picks up a racquet under her guidance.

Coaching Beyond the Court

Wendy’s coaching philosophy is rooted in empowerment. With her background as a certified life coach, she brings a unique approach that focuses as much on emotional growth as it does on athletic skill.

“Tennis is a vehicle,” Wendy says. “It’s not just about learning to hit a forehand. It’s learning to face challenges, manage emotions, and celebrate yourself along the way.”

Her sessions go beyond the technical. Each practice is infused with self-discovery, teamwork, and confidence-building. Wendy has even developed her own “tennis ball reflection” exercise, where girls write positive affirmations about themselves on tennis balls to take home. This gives the girls a tangible reminder of their growth and self-worth.

“When a player reads something kind about herself every day, it starts to shift her mindset,” Wendy explains. “That’s where real change happens.”

A Leader Who Lifts Others

From the start, Wendy has been the kind of coach who steps up without hesitation. Whether leading sessions across multiple Sterling, Va., locations or mentoring new instructors, she radiates energy, compassion, and a sense of purpose. Her fellow coaches call her the “anchor” of the program. Someone who can always be counted on to lend a hand, share ideas, and lift others up.

“I love seeing other coaches thrive,” Wendy says. “When we collaborate and support each other, everyone, especially the girls, benefits.”

Her leadership extends to the continual evolution of the Girls Rule the Court™ curriculum. Wendy infuses new activities that deepen the program’s social-emotional learning (SEL) components, ensuring every session connects to personal growth and resilience.

“We talk about self-awareness, self-regulation, and confidence,” she adds. “The girls learn to speak up, cheer for each other, and most importantly, believe in themselves.”

Building a Movement, Not Just a Program

What truly sets Wendy apart is that she views tennis as a tool for lifelong empowerment.

“When a girl realizes she’s strong physically and emotionally, that confidence carries into everything she does,” Wendy shares. “That’s why this program matters so much.”

Her impact has been profound. Parents often tell her how their daughters’ confidence has blossomed through Girls Rule the Court™. One parent even told Wendy that her daughter had begun leading her school’s morning announcements. She never would have done that before joining the program.

“That’s the win for me,” Wendy says with a smile. “When I see that growth off the court, that’s everything.”

Why Wendy Inspires Us

Wendy’s passion, empathy, and dedication make her the embodiment of what the Coach of the Year Award represents. She doesn’t just teach tennis, but also teaches courage, kindness, and self-belief. Her players know their power isn’t defined by wins or losses but by how they lift themselves and others up.

Because of coaches like Wendy, Girls Rule the Court™ isn’t just a program; it’s a movement. It has sparked national interest, expanding to new regions from Texas to New York City. And thanks to Wendy’s leadership and heart, that movement continues to grow — one inspired girl, one confident serve, at a time.

Join Wendy 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 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. 

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.