In an era of rising sedentary lifestyles and chronic diseases, the need for accessible, engaging, and effective fitness solutions has never been greater. Tennis is more than just a sport, it is a catalyst for healthier individuals and stronger communities. Research underscores the profound impact tennis has on physical and mental health, social cohesion, and overall community well-being. By supporting the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation, donors have the power to bring these benefits to underserved populations, transforming lives both on and off the court.
The Science-Backed Health Benefits of Tennis
A Longer, Healthier Life Studies have shown that tennis players live an average of 9.7 years longer than those who lead sedentary lifestyles. A landmark study published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings found that racket sports like tennis significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, thanks to their combination of aerobic exercise, agility, and hand-eye coordination (Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 2018).
Cardiovascular and Physical Fitness Playing tennis for just three hours per week reduces the risk of heart disease by 56% (British Journal of Sports Medicine). The sport enhances endurance, builds muscle strength, and improves balance and coordination, making it an ideal lifelong fitness activity.
Mental Health and Emotional Well-Being Tennis is not only good for the body but also a powerful tool for mental health. A study from Harvard Medical School highlights how regular physical activity, such as tennis, reduces stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms. The combination of physical movement, social interaction, and mental strategy helps boost endorphin levels and enhance cognitive function.
Social Connection and Community Impact Tennis is unique in its ability to bring people together across generations, backgrounds, and skill levels. Programs like Girls Rule the Court™ create safe, inclusive spaces where young girls can develop friendships, teamwork, and leadership skills. These connections have a ripple effect, strengthening community bonds and fostering a sense of belonging.
Your Support Makes a Difference
Despite tennis’s proven health and social benefits, not everyone has access to the sport. Many communities, particularly in underserved areas, lack the necessary resources—courts, equipment, coaching, and structured programs—to introduce children and adults to the game. The USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation is committed to breaking these barriers, providing free and low-cost programs that make tennis accessible to all.
By donating, you are:
Supporting initiatives such as the Community Engagement Grant that offers financial assistance to local providers and coaches in facilitating community tennis programs.
Providing youth with opportunities to develop confidence, discipline, and leadership skills through programs like Girls Rule the Court™
Helping lower the cost of a tennis lesson and equipment for a junior tennis player through our Jr. Player Scholarship.
Creating a healthier, more connected community through the power of sport through our Facility Restoration Grant, which provides funding to restore tennis courts in our communities.
Join Us in Making a Lasting Impact
Tennis changes lives—and you can be part of that transformation. Your contribution to the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation directly supports initiatives that bring the health benefits of tennis to those who need them most. Whether you’re a lifelong player, a health advocate, or someone who believes in the power of sport to uplift communities, your generosity will create a lasting impact.
Together, we can build a healthier, stronger, and more connected society..
Donate today and be a champion for promoting tennis for healthier communities.
The Mid-Atlantic tennis community is filled with inspiring individuals and organizations making a profound impact on the sport. Each year, USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation celebrates these tennis champions through our Annual Awards program, recognizing those who go above and beyond to grow and enhance the game in the region.
In 2024, we continue to honor individuals and community providers who embody our core values of Community, Character, and Well-being as part of the “USTA Mid-Atlantic Creates” theme. Their dedication is shaping the future of tennis, and their contributions to the sport have touched countless lives across the region.
This year, many nominations were submitted, each showcasing remarkable stories of leadership, passion, and commitment. After a thorough selection process, USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation proudly introduces the 2024 Mid-Atlantic Creates Award winners, individuals and organizations whose positive influence extends far beyond the court.
On a crisp fall afternoon in Richmond, Virginia, the red clay court hums with the sounds of tennis balls and laughter. Among the cheers of parents and volunteers, one coach stands at the center, rallying the players with his characteristic energy and warmth. Gordon Macgill, who once spent decades climbing the corporate ladder, now spends his days doing what he loves most—teaching tennis and transforming lives. This year, Gordon will be one of the recipients of the Tennis Creates Award for Coach of the Year.
Love at First Swing: A Lifelong Tennis Journey
Gordon’s relationship with tennis began unconventionally. Growing up in a small town in Southwest Virginia, he and his brothers would grab racquetball rackets and hit whatever ball they could find. Fortunately, a tennis court sat just down the street, where he began private lessons. “It was almost like having a court in my backyard,” Gordon recalls. “My first real racket was a Head Arthur Ashe Composition, and I still remember wearing my Lacoste polo shirt, trying to emulate my heroes.”
When Gordon’s family relocated to Richmond, tennis became more than a pastime—it became part of his identity. He played through middle and high school, winning a state title with Douglas Freeman High School. At Hampden-Sydney College, Gordon captained his team for two years, and after graduation, he continued competing in USTA leagues, even earning a spot at Nationals in Tucson, Arizona.
But despite a lifetime immersed in the game, tennis was a passion Gordon didn’t fully realize would define his life until later. For over 25 years, Gordon pursued a career in the corporate world, working at Capital One. Yet, a voice inside him kept whispering—what if he dedicated his life to tennis and the communities he cared about?
A Leap of Faith: From Corporate Life to Coaching
In 2019, that whisper became a calling. Gordon, with the unwavering support of his wife, Andrea, boldly decided to leave behind a stable corporate career to follow his dream of teaching tennis. “It was a leap of faith,” Gordon admits. “But I knew I needed to reinvent myself—and tennis was the way to do it.”
During this transition, Gordon found a new passion—working with children and adults on the autism spectrum. His path crossed with Love Serving Autism (LSA), a non-profit that combines therapeutic racquet sports instruction with social and emotional development. Gordon saw an opportunity to blend his love of tennis with his desire to serve others, and in 2021, he launched the Richmond chapter of LSA, holding clinics on a private red clay court.
What started as a small, grassroots effort quickly blossomed into something remarkable. Word spread throughout the community and players and volunteers flocked to Gordon’s clinics, eager to be part of something special. “The first time I ran an LSA clinic on that red clay court, it felt like magic,” Gordon recalls. “Parents stayed to cheer their kids on, which became this incredible family atmosphere.”
More Than a Coach: Changing Lives On and Off the Court
Gordon’s coaching philosophy is simple yet profound: tennis should be fun and inclusive. Whether working with beginners or competitive players, Gordon builds relationships and fosters personal growth. “It’s not just about tennis,” he explains. “It’s about creating a positive environment where every player feels valued, no matter their level.”
His impact is evident in the lives he’s touched. One of his players, who started tennis through Gordon’s clinic, recently won a medal in the Special Olympics—a moment Gordon treasures. “To see how far they’ve come, both on the court and in life, is why I do this,” he says.
Gordon’s coaching goes far beyond the clinics. He sends personal videos to students, attends their school matches, and checks in with parents. One former baseball player, inspired by Gordon’s guidance, transitioned to tennis, played for his university’s team, and eventually became a coach. “It’s moments like these that remind me I’m right where I need to be,” Gordon reflects.
His work with LSA has also created ripples throughout the community. Volunteers—former players and local tennis enthusiasts—have become part of his mission, helping at clinics and building friendships with participants. “It’s a village we’ve created, and it’s something extraordinary,” Gordon says.
A Champion of Inclusion and Growth
At the core of everything Gordon does is the belief that tennis is for everyone. “One of the biggest challenges in the autism community is finding social activities that get kids off the sofa and into the world,” Gordon explains. His adaptive clinics teach tennis skills and promote character development and emotional well-being. “We talk about our emotions, and at the end of every session, we have a big group cheer. It’s not just about tennis—it’s about connection.”
In addition to his work with LSA, Gordon was is an assistant coach for the Douglas Freeman Girls Tennis Team, helping guide them to back-to-back state titles in 2022 and 2023. His ability to coach players of all levels—from kids just starting to competitive high school athletes—reflects his versatility and dedication.
“He brings out the best in everyone,” one parent shares. “He coached my daughter, who struggled with anxiety, and through his patience and kindness, she not only improved her game but also found her confidence.”
The Heart of a Servant, the Spirit of a Coach
For Gordon, coaching tennis is more than a career—it’s a calling. “My serve has always been my greatest weapon on the court,” Gordon says with a smile, “but now, serving others is my greatest passion.”
Gordon’s journey from the corporate world to the tennis court is a testament to the power of following your heart. His ability to inspire, teach, and build community is why he is a deserving recipient of the USTA Mid-Atlantic Coach of the Year Award.Through every lesson, clinic, and conversation, Gordon Macgill proves that tennis is more than a game—it’s a way to connect, grow, and uplift others. As he reflects on his journey, Gordon shares a final thought: “Tennis forces you to constantly problem-solve and self-motivate—skills everyone can benefit from, on or off the court. And at the end of the day, it’s not about winning matches—it’s about spreading joy through the game I love.”
With Gordon at the helm, the future of tennis in Richmond—and beyond—is brighter, more inclusive, and filled with possibility. His commitment and leap of faith are why he’s not just a coach—he’s a changemaker, a mentor, and a beacon of hope. And that is why he truly deserves to be named Coach of the Year.
Congratulations to all the 2024 USTA Mid-Atlantic award winners! Gordon will be awarded, along with the other honorees, at the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation 2nd Annual Tennis Creates Gala, presented by OneLife Fitness, on December 7, 2024. Join us in celebrating their remarkable contributions to the tennis community. Tickets are on sale now—don’t miss out! Tickets can be purchased here.
This year’s Gala theme celebrates the USTA Mid-Atlantic’s commitment to fostering Community, Character, and Well-Being across the Mid-Atlantic region. All proceeds will support three impactful programs: Girls Rule the Court™, Community Facilities Restoration, and Junior Player Scholarships.
A Night of Glamour and Giving
Presented by Onelife Fitness, the Gala promises a night to remember with a VIP cocktail reception, a gourmet three-course dinner with wine pairing, and the prestigious Tennis Creates Awards. The evening will be filled with live music, dancing, and a chance to bid on incredible items during the silent and live auctions, along with a mission moment paddle raise. All of these festivities support USTA MAF’s mission to promote tennis for healthier lives and stronger communities, ensuring the sport is accessible to everyone in the Mid-Atlantic.
Introducing your Gala Hosts
Adding star power to the event, the dynamic husband-and-wife duo, Nicole Ari Parker and Boris Kodjoe, will host the Gala. Known for their roles as actors, models, and philanthropists, Nicole and Boris bring their passion for giving back to the Mid-Atlantic area. They will be joined by professional tennis players, Hall of Famers, leading philanthropists, sports professionals, broadcasters, and numerous VIPs, including business leaders and government officials.
Local business leaders and philanthropists, Maria and Kirk Galiani, support numerous causes throughout the Washington, DC area. Kirk, Founder and Co-Chairman of Onelife Fitness, one of the largest health club chains in the country, and Maria, the Principal Interior Designer at the Galiani Group, which specializes in high-end residential design, are deeply committed to giving back to their community. Their dedication to the sport and its positive influence on individuals’ health and wellness exemplifies the spirit of giving and community, making them invaluable partners in the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation Tennis Creates Gala.
Lee and Henry Fonvielle
President of Rappaport, Henry Fonvielle, and his wife Lee are esteemed and generous donors and ardent supporters of the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation. Their unwavering commitment to advancing the mission of the Foundation has made a significant impact on the tennis community in the Mid-Atlantic region. Henry, who also serves on the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation Board of Directors, and Lee have helped provide numerous opportunities for youth through the Girls Rule the Court™ program. This includes overseeing the funding and establishment of Alexandria Girls Rule the Court™, fostering a sense of community, health, and well-being through tennis
Sponsorship Spotlight
We are immensely grateful to our presenting sponsor, Onelife Fitness, for their unwavering support and dedication to promoting health and wellness in our community. Their partnership plays a crucial role in making this event a grand success. Other major partners include:
If you are interested in sponsoring the gala, please reach out to Anita Walker at awalker@mas.usta.com.
Exciting Auction Items
Get ready to bid on a fantastic array of auction items! From exclusive tennis memorabilia and luxury vacations to unique experiences and fine dining, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or find the perfect gift, the auction is sure to have something that catches your eye.
One of the highlights of the evening is the Tennis Creates Awards, which honor individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the sport and the community. These awards celebrate the spirit of tennis and the positive impact it has on lives across the Mid-Atlantic region.
Nicole Ari Parker: Seven-time NAACP Image Award nominee Nicole Ari Parker is best known for her outstanding performance as “Teri Joseph’ on Showtime’s award-winning original series “Soul Food.” Most currently, Parker stars as Lisa Todd Wexley in the HBO Max comedy-drama series “And Just Like That,” the sequel to HBO’s hit series, “Sex and the City.”
Boris Kodjoe: German native Boris Kodjoe is best known for his role in the television series “Soul Food,” which earned him three NAACP Award nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor. In 2019, Kodjoe joined as a regular on the Shonda Rhimes ABC series “Station 19.”
Tickets are on sale now! Let’s create a positive impact and celebrate the game changers in our tennis community!
Shaza Andersen, Beth Twomey, Frances Tiafoe, Pam Shriver, Tara Fitzpatrick-NavarroFrances Tiafoe, his brother Franklin Tiafoe, and Congressman Glenn Ivey (MD-04) smiling at the camera at the USTA Mid-Atlantic Centennial GalaGala Guests enjoyed a moving program and were generous in support of the mission of USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation
Leap Day, occurring once every four years, offers a rare chance to add a little excitement to our tennis game. Let’s take advantage of the extra day to celebrate both the sport and the spirit of leap year. From volunteering with USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation to unique skill challenges, Leap Day presents 29 opportunities to deepen our bond with tennis and unite the Mid-Atlantic tennis community. Lace up your tennis shoes, grab your racquet, and join us on this journey of creativity, fun, and dedication to tennis!
1.Volunteer with USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation! If you’ve been nervous to volunteer or didn’t know where to start yet, take a leap and contribute to your community through tennis with us!
2. Try playing a game of leapfrog on the tennis court between sets with the young people in your life.
3. Practice your serves and hit 29 serves in a row.
4. Challenge yourself to hit 29 consecutive volleys with a partner.
5. Set up a mini obstacle course on the court and go through the obstacle.
6. Host a Leap Day-themed tennis party with leap-themed decorations and snacks.
7. Hit 29 drop shots in a row to improve your touch at the net.
8. Play a game of “Leap Day Bingo” with tennis-related challenges for each square.
9. Take a leap of faith and try hitting a new trick shot.
10. Consider donating 29 tennis balls to a local tennis coach you know or to a public school in need!
11. Create a 29-song playlist and play it when you are on the court.
12. Design and share Leap Day tennis memes or jokes on social media. Tag us on social media, @ustamidatlantic
14. Invite 29 friends to play tennis in a local court near you.
15. Write a letter to your favorite tennis player or coach expressing your appreciation for the sport.
16. Practice your footwork by doing footwork ladder drills for 29 seconds.
17. Hit 29 overhead smashes in a row.
18. Introduce 29 different skills to the beginner tennis players in your life!
19. Organize a tennis-themed scavenger hunt with 29 clues hidden around the court.
20. Create a vision board with your tennis goals for the remainder of the year.
21. Take a leap and sign up for a tennis workshop to improve your skills. USTA Mid-Atlantic hosts numerous workshopsthroughout the year, check back often for upcoming opportunities!
22. Practice hitting your forehand against the wall or partner and rally 29 times.
23. Host a Leap Day movie night featuring the documentary “Break Point” on Netflix. Enjoy watching tennis favorites, including Mid-Atlantic’s very own, Frances Tiafoe!
24. Practice mindfulness on the court by taking 29 deep breaths between games.
25. Challenge yourself to hit 29 consecutive backhands down the line.
26. Organize a Leap Day tennis tournament with friends or local players.
27. Create a collage of your favorite tennis memories from past Leap Days.
28. Take a leap forward in your fitness routine with a tennis-specific workout.
29. End the day with a leap-themed celebration, like a victory leap or group jump photo on the court.
As Leap Day wraps up, let’s cherish the memories and keep the tennis spirit alive until the next leap year. Enjoy every moment on the court this Leap Day! 🎾🐸
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So more players across the region have the opportunity to love the sport as much as you.
What is your favorite part about playing tennis?
This question is not as simple as it sounds. One may answer with “how much time do you have” because if someone gets you started on tennis they may need to cancel their afternoon plans.
One thing that we can all agree on is that there are many reasons we get out on the court. Tennis is a lifetime sport that unlocks many benefits for you physically, socially and emotionally. Playing tennis in the Mid-Atlantic enables you to create friendships that will last a lifetime, gets you physically fit, and can help reduce stress.
Your love for tennis is everlasting. Now you have a chance to leave an everlasting impact and plan for a future of tennis for others to enjoy and love the sport long after you are gone. You can help continue to spread the love of tennis and make the sport accessible for all by showing your support to USTA Mid-Atlantic through planned giving and other gift arrangements.
Now is the time to leave your mark on tennis in the Mid-Atlantic because it isEstate Planning Week.
Every year, Estate Planning Week is celebrated as a way to promote financial wellness among all communities. The purpose of estate planning is to develop a strategy that will maintain the financial security of individuals throughout their lifetime and ensure the intended transfer of their property and assets to intended individuals or organizations.
During Estate Planning Week you can review your current plans to ensure they are aligned and reflect any updates you want to make, including ways to give back to tennis through USTA Mid-Atlantic. If you haven’t started planning, this is a week you can take steps to move forward in that work and get your estate plans established. Wherever you are in the process of Estate Planning, there are ways you can leave a legacy for tennis and show your support for the sport you love through:
Planned Gifts: By including USTA Mid-Atlantic in your estate plans, you can continue to have an impact on our tennis community and leave a legacy of tennis for all to enjoy. Bequests are one of the simplest and most popular methods of gift planning.
Donor-Advised Fund (DAF): A donor-advised fund (DAF) is a charitable giving vehicle administered by a qualified public charity. Think of it as a philanthropic savings account. When you are ready, you can then recommend a grant to USTA Mid-Atlantic.
Gift of Stocks or Securities: Gifts of appreciated securities benefit USTA Mid-Atlantic while providing you with tangible tax benefits. Please consult your financial, tax, or legal advisor for more information.
Now that you have planned for a future of tennis, there are other ways to make an immediate impact beyond the net:
Donate: Grassroots donors help make tennis possible in the Section. Make a one-time gift or join THE SERVE SQUAD, with a recurring monthly donation online. Visit www.ustamasblog.com/donate for more information and ways to make your unrestricted gift to improve the region’s access to tennis’ unique health and social outcomes.
Make a tribute gift: Make a donation in honor of someone whose love for tennis reached far beyond the court. Honor them by supporting the growth of tennis in the Mid-Atlantic so it can leave an equally powerful impact on the next generation of players.
Match Your Gift: Employee matching gift programs are a great way to double or even triple your contribution to USTA Mid-Atlantic! Check with your human resources department to see if your employer has a matching gift program or use our Matching Gift Finder Tool.
Join the Creators Circle: Members of the Creators Circle are dedicated donors who provide gifts of $1,000 or more per year. These individuals receive personalized updates on the impact of their giving and invitations to engage in our virtual and in-person events.
Looking to get your company involved in supporting USTA Mid-Atlantic too?
Learn how to become a Net Positive Community Partner by contacting Catie Dugan Vargas, associate director of development at USTA Mid-Atlantic. Partners receive year-round virtual benefits and personalized assistance from our staff to meet their philanthropic goals.
As you can see, there are many ways to plan for a future of tennis and give back to USTA Mid-Atlantic and advance the sport you know and love. Give future generations of players the opportunity to experience their own love of tennis and ensure the sport can provide lasting benefits for years to come. Leave an everlasting impact by showing your support today and planning for the future. Together we can make tennis available for ALL.
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