Tag: USTA Mid-Atlantic

From Strings to Sustainability: How Two College Tennis Players Are Restringing the Future of Fashion with Orobor

As the world gears up to celebrate Earth Day, sustainability stories from unexpected places are resonating louder than ever. One such story begins not in a lab or a boardroom, but on the tennis courts of Boston University. Meet Jakob Esterowitz and Jonah Dickson, Division I tennis players and the co-founders of Orobor, a sustainable startup that’s turning discarded tennis strings into high-quality polyester yarn for clothing manufacturing.

A Match Made in Tennis (and Sustainability)

Jakob and Jonah’s bond started as doubles partners at Boston University, but it didn’t take long for their shared passion for tennis, fashion, and the environment to spark something bigger. Jakob, who grew up playing in the USTA Mid-Atlantic region, had been running a fashion brand when he started questioning the origins of his materials. “When my manufacturer couldn’t tell me where the fabric was coming from, I dug deeper,” Jakob recalls. What he found was a fashion industry riddled with environmental challenges—and a tennis world generating millions of pounds of waste in the form of broken polyester strings.

Rather than letting that insight go out of bounds, the duo served up a solution: collect used tennis strings, recycle them, and repurpose the material into something new. And just like that, Orobor was born.

Closing the Loop with Orobor

The name “Orobor” draws inspiration from the ancient symbol of the ouroboros—a snake that eats its tail, representing an infinite cycle. That symbolism isn’t lost on Jakob and Jonah, who are striving to build a circular economy that links tennis and textiles.

“We’re collecting used strings from over 70 locations across the U.S.,” Jonah says. “And we’re currently running pilot tests at two universities to convert those strings into yarn.” Their process not only prevents microplastics from entering the environment but also reduces carbon emissions by up to 50% compared to the production of virgin polyester.

Unlike traditional polyester, which is derived from crude oil, Orobor’s method avoids the extraction of new raw materials. “We’re taking what would otherwise end up in a landfill and transforming it into something useful again,” Jakob explains.

Balancing Classes, Championships, and Change

Being full-time student-athletes and entrepreneurs is no small feat. Jonah, a graduate student, and Jakob, who transferred to BU from Amherst College, are juggling rigorous class schedules, competitive tennis seasons, and the demands of a growing startup.

“It’s all about organization,” said Jonah. “You have to prioritize your health, your goals, and stay grounded in your mission.” Jakob adds that their experiences as competitive athletes have helped them stay resilient. “Tennis teaches you to solve problems and bounce back—it’s the same mindset we bring to Orobor.”

And yes, they’re still winning on the court, too. Last season, Jakob and Jonah helped BU secure its first-ever Patriot League title and a historic NCAA tournament appearance.

Building Partnerships and Measuring Impact

The startup has been gaining traction within the tennis community, working with stringers, clubs, and college programs to collect materials. “Getting that first response can be tough,” Jonah admits. “But once people hear what we’re doing, they want to be part of it.”

To track their impact, Orobor uses metrics like CO₂ savings and microplastic diversion equivalents. One fun fact they share? The amount of string they’ve personally gone through is equal to about 727 plastic bottles’ worth of waste.

They’ve also received support from BU’s Innovate@BU program, earning grants and mentorship to help bring their idea to life. “Our first investment was a $500 grant for collection boxes,” Jakob laughs. “And now we’re scaling up thanks to the guidance from mentors and peers.”

Looking Ahead: From Courts to Closets

What’s next for Orobor? The team is focused on expanding to over 250 string collection sites by summer and building relationships with professional tournaments and apparel brands. In the long term, they hope to expand beyond tennis, contributing to broader changes in the textile industry.

“Our goal is to make tennis more sustainable first, because it’s the sport we love,” Jakob says. “Then, we want to take everything we’ve learned and apply it to other industries.”

How You Can Help

Supporting Orobor is as simple as spreading the word. “If you’re a tennis player, tell your stringer. If you work at a club or tournament, reach out to us,” Jonah says. “Every string counts.”

You can connect with them at orobor.org or on LinkedIn under Orobor. Facilities and brands interested in getting involved can also fill out contact forms on their website or email Jakob and Jonah directly.

As Jakob puts it, “We’re just two tennis players trying to make a difference. And we’re grateful for all the support from the tennis world—especially the Mid-Atlantic community that raised me.”

From Player to Mentor: Tina’s Journey with Girls Rule the Court

As part of Volunteer Appreciation Week 2025, USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation is proud to shine a light on the people who make a difference both on and off the court. Our volunteers are the heartbeat of our mission, and their dedication helps create a community where tennis is accessible, inclusive and inspiring for all.

This is the story of Tina, a player turned mentor who is making a lasting impact by helping young girls discover their strength through tennis.

Tina’s journey with tennis began ten years ago when her children first started learning to play. It was a new challenge for her, one she did not have access to as a child, but something she quickly fell in love with.

“Tennis has opened up so many doors for me,” she said. “It has improved my health, helped me make friends and given me a way to connect with my community.”

Through USTA League play, Tina found a love for the game that went beyond the competition. When she learned about Girls Rule the Court™  and the need for volunteers, she knew it was time to share her experience with others.

“I wanted to give girls who may not have easy access to tennis a chance to experience it early,” Tina said. “This program gives them more than just skills on the court. It gives them confidence, encouragement and a sense of belonging.”

Each week, Tina helps lead activities both on and off the court, combining tennis drills with social and emotional learning. One of her favorite moments comes at the end of each session, when the girls give a “shout out” to something that brought them joy.

Girls Rule the Court Team Photo
Women smiling for a selfie.
women standing on a tennis court.

“I love hearing them say they are proud to learn a new skill or how they appreciate their teammates and coaches,” she said. “They are so open and eager to support one another. It reminds me how much they want to be seen and heard.”

Tina has watched many of the girls grow, both in their game and in their self-confidence. What begins with uncertainty often transforms into boldness, teamwork and pride.

“We try to move them from saying ‘I can’t’ to ‘I can’t yet,’” she said. “That mindset shift helps them keep going, and we see it pay off when they start rallying or speaking up with more confidence.”

The impact of Girls Rule the Court™ is deeply personal for Tina. As a first-generation American who immigrated to the United States as a young child, she reflects on how different her life may have been if she had access to a program like this.

“If I had women pouring into me the way we do for these girls, helping to build my self-confidence, it would have been a game changer,” she said. “Now I get to be part of that change for someone else.”

When asked what she would say to others considering volunteering, Tina is clear.

“Do not hesitate,” she said. “These girls are looking for mentors in a safe and fun environment. If tennis has given you something meaningful, this is your chance to give back.”

Whether you play, coach or simply love the game, you can make a difference. Visit our Volunteer Hub and get started today.

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.

Breaking Barriers: QuickStart Children of VA and USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s Impact in Charles City

In the heart of Charles City County, Virginia, an initiative is making waves. QuickStart Children of VA (QCV), a nonprofit dedicated to introducing tennis and literacy to young children, has expanded its impact with the support of a USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s Community Engagement Grant. This grant has helped provide essential tennis equipment to preschoolers in Charles City, ensuring that the joy of play and learning go hand in hand.

A Vision for Change

Lynda Harrill, the founder of QuickStart Children of VA, has been on a mission since 2009 to promote QuickStart Tennis (now called Red Ball Tennis) format in underserved rural areas. “We trained about 2,000 people to use the QuickStart (Red Ball) format and we ended up taking tennis to 252 schools and 117,000 kids,” Harrill shared.

But it’s not just about tennis—it’s about the holistic development of children. Recognizing the link between literacy and long-term success, QCV launched the “Racquets for Reading!!!” initiative, which provides books to young children in an effort to build home libraries and encourage early literacy.

Bringing Tennis and Books to Charles City

The USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s Community Engagement Grant provided $1,300 to help outfit Charles City Elementary School’s preschool classrooms with age-appropriate tennis equipment.

After moving from Charlottesville to Williamsburg, Va., Harrill learned schools around Charles City County had one of the lowest reading scores in the state. She visited Charles City Elementary to talk to the librarian and also learned they had no budget for books. From there, she knew Charles City was next on the list. 

 “We started off with the Bright Stars-Tennis for Me, which is a program we do for pre-K kids,” said Harrill. And then we got into Racquets for Reading, and the grant helped us with funding the tennis equipment,” Harrill explained.

Each preschool classroom received a 19-inch racquet, red foam balls, a 10-foot portable net, and traffic cones—giving children access to structured play that enhances both motor skills and social development. “The minute the kids hear ‘tennis,’ they start jumping up and down,” Harrill said. 

From Tennis to Literacy: A Winning Combination

The program isn’t just about athletic skills; it’s about creating well-rounded, confident kids. QCV worked tirelessly to bring books and tennis into these children’s lives. Through Racquets for Reading!!!, preschoolers and kindergartners receive between 8 and 12 books per year to build their home libraries, helping them develop essential pre-reading skills.

Harrill has seen firsthand the impact of this initiative. “I was reading to the kids at a pumpkin day event, and I held up a leaf from my yard labeled ‘Viburnum.’ A four-year-old looked up at me and said, ‘What’s viburnum?’ She had sounded it out herself. That’s why we (QCV) do this,” she recalled.

Why It Matters

The USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s Community Engagement Grant awarded to QuickStart Children of VA is more than just funding—it’s about providing a foundation for lifelong learning and physical activity. “Tennis players are the best role models out of all the athletes, and I think that’s who we need to promote with kids,” Harrill emphasized.

For Charles City’s youngest learners, the partnership between QCV and USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation isn’t just creating opportunities—it’s changing futures. Whether it’s the thrill of hitting their first tennis ball or the joy of reading their first book, these children are swinging towards a brighter tomorrow.When you make a gift to USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation, you are directly supporting organizations like Quickstart Children of Virginia, to continue making a positive difference in our tennis communities.

Tennis: A Game-Changer for Health and Community Well-Being

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.

Billie Jean King: A Champion On and Off the Court

Few figures in sports history have embodied the spirit of competition and activism as poignantly as Billie Jean King. Rising to prominence during the transformative years of the 1960s, King transcended the boundaries of the tennis court to become a relentless advocate for gender equality, social justice, and fair play. Her legendary “Battle of the Sexes” match is but one chapter in a storied career that has forever altered the landscape of tennis and, by extension, the broader cultural conversations around equality.

Billie Jean King’s journey began in modest surroundings, yet her passion for the game and unwavering resolve soon propelled her into the spotlight. From her early days playing on local courts to her ascent on the international stage, King’s career was punctuated by a series of historic milestones. Her game was characterized by a unique blend of precision, agility, and strategic insight, allowing her to dominate opponents while captivating audiences with grace and intensity. “Pressure is a privilege,” she famously remarked on the eve of one of her most challenging matches, encapsulating her belief that every moment on the court was an opportunity to push the limits of what was possible.

In 1973, during the much-publicized “Battle of the Sexes” match, King cemented her status as a cultural icon. Facing Bobby Riggs, a former champion who had dismissed women’s tennis as inferior, King stepped onto the court with a determination that belied the weight of history. In a contest that was as much about dismantling entrenched gender stereotypes as it was about athletic supremacy, her every stroke resonated with defiance. “I wasn’t just playing for myself,” King later explained in an interview, “I was playing for every woman who had ever been told that her dreams were less important.” That match, watched by millions worldwide, not only proved her mettle as a tennis player but also ignited a broader conversation about the role of women in sports and society.

King’s influence extended well beyond that singular moment of triumph. Throughout her career, she amassed an impressive collection of Grand Slam titles and set records that stood as testaments to her extraordinary skill. Yet, her off-court activism perhaps defined her legacy most profoundly. As a tireless advocate for equal pay and fair treatment, King was instrumental in founding the Women’s Tennis Association, a body dedicated to ensuring that female athletes received the recognition and compensation they deserved. “In every boardroom and every locker room, I fought for equality,” she later reflected, her words echoing the struggles of generations of women who had been denied their rightful place in the sporting world.

Her relentless commitment to social justice was not without personal sacrifice. King faced relentless criticism, both on and off the court, from those unwilling to accept change. Yet, in the face of adversity, she maintained a dignified resolve that inspired her peers and countless aspiring athletes. Anecdotes abound of her mentoring young players, sharing her insights on technique and the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs. “Billie wasn’t just a competitor,” recalled one of her protégés, “she was a teacher, a fighter, and a friend to all who believed in fairness.”

Over the years, King’s influence has reverberated across the global tennis community. Today’s stars, whether stepping onto the court in sprawling stadiums or competing in intimate local tournaments, often cite her as a source of inspiration. “Every match I play is a tribute to Billie Jean,” remarked a current champion during a recent interview, a testament to the lasting power of her legacy. King’s ability to blend sporting excellence with groundbreaking activism created a template for what it means to be a champion in every sense of the word.

Her career is punctuated by moments of both breathtaking athleticism and stirring advocacy. Whether it was her fearless challenge against an established order on the day of the “Battle of the Sexes” or her quiet, steadfast commitment to mentoring younger players, Billie Jean King’s story is one of resilience, passion, and an unyielding belief in the power of sport to drive social change. As modern debates about gender, equity, and the role of athletics in society continue to evolve, her legacy remains a vital touchstone, a reminder that the fight for justice is interwoven with the pursuit of excellence.

In recounting her storied career, it is impossible not to acknowledge the impact that King’s words and deeds have had on generations of athletes. Her famous declaration that “champions aren’t made in the gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them, a desire, a dream, a vision” continues to inspire countless players who see in her example the blueprint for a life lived with purpose. For King, every victory was a step forward in the larger struggle for equality, a journey that is as relevant today as it was in the turbulent decades of the past.

Even as she stepped away from competitive tennis, Billie Jean King’s voice remains an ever-present force in the sporting world. Through advocacy, public speaking, and mentorship, she continues to champion the causes she believes in, ensuring that the hard-won gains of her era will not be forgotten. Her story is a testament to the idea that the true measure of a champion lies not only in the number of titles won but also in the ability to use one’s platform to effect lasting change. In every rally, every serve, and every hard-fought match, the legacy of Billie Jean King lives on, a living reminder that the pursuit of equality and justice is a game in which everyone has a stake.

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.