2025 Tennis Creates Gala Impact Award Honoree Stacey Allaster.

US Open Tournament Director Stacey Allaster to ReceiveTennis Creates Impact Award at the 2025 USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation Gala

Annual Tennis Creates Gala Set for Saturday, December 6, 2025 at the Salamander Hotel in Washington, D.C.

Tickets, Sponsorship Opportunities, and Event Details Available at tenniscreatesgala.com

Arlington, VA (September 9, 2025) — USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation today announced Stacey Allaster, Chief Executive of Professional Tennis and US Open Tournament Director, will be honored with the prestigious Tennis Creates Impact Award at the 2025 USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation Tennis Creates Gala, held Saturday, December 6 at the Salamander Hotel in Washington, D.C. The recognition celebrates Allaster’s trailblazing leadership in tennis, her global impact on equity in sport, and her indelible legacy as she ends her tenure as the US Open Tournament Director.

Allaster, the first woman in USTA history to hold the role of US Open Tournament Director, spent decades breaking new ground. From advancing gender equity and player advocacy during her tenure as WTA Chairman & CEO, to reimagining the US Open as a platform for connection, innovation, and inclusivity, her leadership has helped tennis grow not just as a sport, but as a movement.

“Tennis has been the constant in my life, a source of joy, purpose, and connection,” said Allaster. “To be recognized by the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation, an organization so deeply committed to using the sport to change lives and strengthen communities, is profoundly meaningful. As I celebrate my final US Open as Tournament Director, I do so with immense gratitude for all who share in the belief of the transformative power of tennis.”

The Tennis Creates Gala is USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s signature fundraising event, supporting life-changing tennis programs across the region. The evening will feature live and silent auctions, food and drink, entertainment, dancing, and the Tennis Creates Awards, honoring individuals and partners who exemplify the power of tennis to create community, character, and well-being.

“Stacey Allaster’s legacy is one of breaking barriers, elevating the game, and leading with vision and heart,” said Tara Fitzpatrick-Navarro, CEO of the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation. “As an organization dedicated to advancing equity, access, and community through tennis, we are deeply honored to recognize Stacey with the Tennis Creates Impact Award. Her contributions have not only shaped the sport on the world’s biggest stages, but also inspire the work we do every day to ensure tennis transforms lives across the Mid-Atlantic.”

All proceeds from the Gala 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, or for tickets and sponsorship opportunities, please visit TennisCreatesGala.com.

About Stacey Allaster
Stacey Allaster is a globally recognized sport and entertainment leader, a passionate champion for equality, and a pioneering innovator in the sport of tennis.
Currently, as Chief Executive, Professional Tennis, and US Open Tournament Director at the United States Tennis Association (USTA), Stacey sets the strategic vision for the US Open, one of the world’s most iconic sports and entertainment events. Her appointment as Tournament Director made history, as she became the first female to hold the role in the USTA’s 140-year history.

Stacey’s career began at Tennis Canada, where she spent 15 years as Vice President of Sales & Marketing and Tournament Director of the prestigious Canadian Open. In 2006, she transitioned to the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA Tour), first as President and later as Chairman & CEO. Under her leadership, the WTA saw dramatic growth, including securing equal prize money at Wimbledon and Roland Garros, increasing player compensation by 100% and expanding women’s tennis across global markets, particularly through the development of a robust strategy in the Asia-Pacific region.

A tireless advocate for gender equality, Stacey was awarded the Order of Canada in the Companion Category, the highest civilian honor in her home country, in recognition of her trailblazing work for women’s sports and her mentorship in the field of sports management.

Stacey’s contributions to tennis and sports management continue to inspire future generations, as she remains committed to using the power of sport to change kid’s lives, creating more senior professional opportunities for diverse leaders, and driving lasting change within the sports world.

About the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation

USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting tennis and its physical, social, and emotional health benefits. The organization fosters community, character, and well-being through the sport, ensuring access and opportunities for all.

Follow us on social media:
Facebook: @ustamidatlantic
Instagram: @ustamidatlantic
LinkedIn: midatlanticfoundation
Twitter: @ustamidatlantic
TikTok: @ustamidatlantic

Hashtags: #ustamidatlanticfoundation

– #### –

Tennis Creates Award Winner Announcement graphic

2024 Tennis Creates Awards Winners Announced

2024 USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation
Award Winners Announced

Herndon, Va., [Tuesday, October 15, 2024] – USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation is excited to announce the winners of the 2024 Tennis Creates Awards, recognizing exceptional individuals and organizations for their dedication to tennis and its impact on the Mid-Atlantic region. These awards celebrate those who embody the guiding principles of Community, Character, and Well-being and continue to contribute to the growth and vibrancy of tennis in the area.

The winners were chosen from a pool of inspiring nominees across the region, each with a compelling story of leadership, community service, and passion for the sport. Their remarkable efforts have supported tennis and enhanced the lives of those in their communities.

2024 Tennis Creates Award Winners

Community Champion Award:
Luke Grimshaw – A leader in the Frederick, MD tennis community, Luke has fostered inclusivity and connected hundreds of players through organizing tournaments and maintaining a thriving tennis ladder, all without personal gain.

Provider Champion Award:
Black Girls Tennis Club (BGTC) – Founded by Kimberly Selden and Virginia Thornton, BGTC creates opportunities for Black women and girls to thrive in tennis while promoting health and wellness through its partnership with USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s Girls Rule the Court™ program.

Youth Leader Award:
Alexandre Kroely – This young leader formed his own Junior Team Tennis (JTT) team, inspiring his peers and helping to develop their skills and passion for the game, transforming his local community of young players.

Adult Leader Award:
Jen Kaine – A dedicated coach for Girls Rule the Court™ since 2022, Jen’s creativity and community engagement have made a lasting impact on the girls she coaches, fostering growth and enthusiasm for the sport.

Tennis in the Classroom Award:
Julius Mashonganyika – As the coach of Meridian High School and a high-performance coach, Julius has expanded tennis opportunities both competitively and in the community, especially through the Loudoun County School Tennis Initiative.

Coach of the Year:
Gordon Macgill – Founder of the Richmond chapter of Love Serving Autism, Gordon provides tennis instruction for individuals with special needs, creating a supportive and inclusive tennis environment.

JOIN US FOR THE 2024 TENNIS CREATES GALA:

The winners will be honored at the 2024 Annual Tennis Creates Gala on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at the Salamander Hotel in Washington, D.C. This celebration will bring together the tennis community to recognize these extraordinary contributions and further support USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s mission to grow the game of tennis across the region.

For more information about the awards and the gala, please visit http://www.usta.com.

ABOUT USTA MID-ATLANTIC FOUNDATION:

Follow us on social media:
Facebook: @ustamidatlantic
Instagram: @ustamidatlantic
LinkedIn: midatlanticfoundation
Twitter: @ustamidatlantic
TikTok: @ustamidatlantic

Hashtags: #midatlanticproud #USTACreates

2024 Annual Tennis Creates Gala presented by Onelife Fitness

Get Ready for the 2024 Annual Tennis Creates Gala!

Herndon, VA (Tuesday, June 25, 2024) – Mark your calendars for the event of the year! The USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation (USTA MAF) is thrilled to announce the 2024 Annual Tennis Creates Gala presented by Onelife Fitness will take place on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024 at the fabulous Salamander Hotel in Washington, D.C.

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.

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable night! Join us at the Salamander Hotel in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 6 p.m. Tickets are on sale now – get yours before they’re gone!

Meet the Gala Co-Chairs

Maria and Kirk Galiani

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:

2024 Presenting Sponsor

Onelife Fitness

2024 Vision Sponsor

Hyundai USA

2024 Impact Sponsor

Charlotte and Taylor Chess

2024 Girls Rule the Court Legacy Sponsor

Rappaport

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.

If you are interested in donating an auction item to the Gala, please fill out this form.

The Tennis Creates Awards

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.

Learn more about the Tennis Creates Awards and nominate a game changer today!

Meet Your Gala Hosts

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!

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.