Tag: youth tennis

Coach Larry Parpart with the 2022 Douglas S. Freeman High School girls tennis team, state champions.

How One Coach Built a Team Culture That Lasts

When you think about the word “legendary,” what comes to mind?

Maybe it is someone you have looked up to your entire life. Maybe it is a public figure whose work has shaped the world around you. Or maybe it is someone closer to home. Someone who quietly shows up year after year, shaping lives in ways that last far beyond the court, classroom or field.

For the Douglas S. Freeman High School tennis community in Richmond, Virginia, that legacy belongs to their own girls tennis coach, Larry Parpart.

In 2025, Parpart was recognized as the 2024-25 National Coach of the Year by the National Federation of State High School Associations Coaches Association. It was an honor he did not even know he had been nominated for.

Parpart was first recognized by the Virginia High School League as Virginia Coach of the Year and later named District II Coach of the Year. But the recognition did not stop there.

“The next thing I know I got this email saying congratulations you have been selected [for the NFHS Coaches of the Year Award] and I didn’t tell anybody for a couple days, I didn’t know if it was real or not,” said Parpart.

Born in Richmond, Virginia, Parpart grew up as a sports fanatic who loved just about every sport. He later attended Virginia Commonwealth University, where he majored in physical education and decided to pursue teaching and coaching after college.

His career began in the classroom as an elementary school teacher before he moved to teach at Hermitage High School in Henrico, Virginia, where he also coached basketball, cross country, and track. During his time there, he led the cross-country team to a state championship victory.

Tennis, however, entered his coaching career in an unexpected way.

Parpart enjoyed playing tennis socially and loved watching the sport, but it was not something he originally pursued competitively. After coaching several sports for years, he took a year away from coaching. When he returned, it was tennis that reignited his passion.

“A good friend of mine wanted me to come to Douglas Freeman to help him with basketball, be his assistant, and help him with everything,” Parpart shared. The pieces fell into place and he joined the staff. Soon after, knowing his coaching history the administration approached him to coach more sports. “They said, ‘Look, we’ve got a lot of other coaching vacancies. Would you be willing to do something else?’ I coached cross country and track. They needed tennis and soccer so I said, ‘Well, tennis sounds good.’ At that time, the girls competed in the fall and the boys competed in the spring,” added Parpart.

“So I told the principal I would do it for one year. I tried for one year and I’m still doing it,” Parpart added with a laugh.

That was in 1978.

Nearly five decades later, Parpart’s impact on the sport and the students he has coached is undeniable.

No head coach in Virginia high school girls tennis history has more wins than Douglas S. Freeman High School coach Larry Parpart. He holds an all-time girls tennis coaching record of 576-156, the most wins in Virginia High School League history.

But for Parpart, success has never been defined by wins alone.

From the beginning, he built a culture centered around teamwork. While tennis is often viewed as an individual sport, Parpart has worked to ensure every player feels like an essential part of the team, regardless of skill level.

That mindset has created something lasting. Many of his former players still stay connected long after graduation, often referring to each other as former teammates rather than former classmates.

That team-first culture has also fueled recent success.

Since 2021, Parpart’s teams have won five straight region and state championships, tied for the second-longest streak in Virginia High School League history. 

And while winning has certainly been part of the program’s success, Parpart has always emphasized that education comes first. Last season, the Mavericks finished 20-2 on their way to a fifth consecutive state championship while also posting a team GPA of 4.1.

Recently retiring from teaching after decades in education, Parpart continues to coach and lead the girls tennis team at Douglas S. Freeman High School. Even after nearly 50 years, he is still looking for ways to grow as a coach.

Parpart has attended High School Coaches Workshops previously held at the Junior Tennis Champions Center (JTCC) in College Park, Md., in collaboration with USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation and has found online coaching resources helpful for gaining new ideas and continuing to learn.

Parpart feels fortunate to coach in Richmond, a city with a strong tennis community and many dedicated tennis professionals who help develop young players. With that support, he focuses on building team chemistry and strengthening doubles play.

Coaching for nearly 50 years is no small feat. For Parpart, the key to longevity in coaching comes down to creating an environment where every player feels valued and part of something bigger than themselves.

“Make it fun for the players. Everybody wants to win matches. Most come in wanting to win more than others. That is just part of life. But make it fun, make it a team atmosphere,” said Parpart.

“Demand the same for all the players whether they are the best player or someone who is still developing their game. Everybody has a role on the team. Make them feel important. If they feel important then they will work hard to get better and that creates a great atmosphere among each other. Everybody is working hard.”

USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation  supports coaches and schools across the region by regularly hosting High School Coaches Workshops and Tennis in PE workshops. These opportunities help grow tennis throughout the Mid-Atlantic and introduce the sport to more school communities.

USTA also provides a variety of coaching resources for educators and coaches looking to develop their skills. Through USTA Coaching, coaches can access best-in-class education, coaching badges and certifications, webinars, and a wide range of coaching resources tailored to their needs.

While not all education content is available for free, the “Coaching High School Tennis” course is available with a free USTA Coaching membership.

For Parpart, coaching has always been about more than wins or championships. It is about creating an environment where players feel valued, work hard, and support one another.

Nearly 50 years after agreeing to coach tennis for just one season, Parpart’s legacy is still unfolding. It lives on in the players he has mentored, the teams he has built and the generations of young athletes who have stepped onto the court and learned what it truly means to be part of a team.

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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.

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.

Sahej Jaspal: A Young Leader Creating Change Through Tennis

At just nine years old, Sahej Jaspal is already proving that leadership, kindness, and perseverance can shine brightly both on and off the court. As the recipient of the 2025 USTA Mid-Atlantic Tennis Creates Youth Leader Award, Sahej represents the next generation of players who see tennis not only as a sport, but as a way to bring people together and make a positive impact on the world.

A Passion Sparked Early

Sahej first picked up a tennis racquet when he was just three years old, guided by his dad, who introduced him to the sport through playful rallies in their backyard. “I first got involved with tennis by my dad,” Sahej shared. “He introduced me to it when I was three years old, and we would hit balls for fun. What keeps me passionate is how much fun it is to play, how I am improving, and how great it feels to win a hard match after working really hard.”

That passion has only grown stronger over time. Now a dedicated USTA Mid-Atlantic Junior Team Tennis (JTT) player, Sahej led his team to playoff runs, competes in USTA-sanctioned tournaments, and practices diligently. His efforts have earned him the chance to represent the region in the international Little Mo tournament, an incredible milestone that speaks to his skill, focus, and commitment.

Learning Through Challenges

Despite his many successes, Sahej’s journey hasn’t always been easy. “Some of the biggest challenges I’ve faced are getting frustrated when I lose or when I don’t play as well as I want to,” he said. “Sometimes I even thought about quitting. But I’ve learned that those tough moments are part of the journey.”

Through perseverance and his parents’ support, Sahej learned to channel his frustration into focus. “When I feel like giving up, I think about how far I’ve come and how much I still want to achieve,” he explained. “My dad has helped me a lot by talking to me and reminding me why I love the sport.”

A Heart for Others

For Sahej, leadership doesn’t stop at the baseline. He takes pride in helping others, especially through community service. He volunteered with a local soup kitchen, raised $6,000 for Children’s National Hospital, and supported housing efforts for underprivileged children in India. One moment that stood out to him came during a 5K fundraiser for the hospital. “I saw a young girl who was on her last day of having cancer handing out medals to the runners,” Sahej recalled. “Seeing her smile and knowing that I had helped, even just a little, made me realize how important it is to give back. It really touched me and made me want to do more for others.”

That empathy extends to his peers, too. Whether welcoming a new teammate or cheering for a friend who’s struggling, Sahej leads with compassion and inclusivity. He believes tennis should be for everyone—and he lives that belief every day.

Inspiring Others to Play

Sahej shares his love of tennis with others. He’s inspired friends and even his dad to join the sport. “When my friends start to lose interest in tennis, I invite them to hit around just for fun,” he said. “Once we’re on the court, they usually start enjoying it again. I tell them tennis is awesome because it’s not just about winning. It’s about having fun, staying active, and getting better each time you play. And I remind them that you can play tennis your whole life!”

His enthusiasm for the sport is contagious. At his local swim and tennis club, Sahej is known for his positivity and encouragement, helping younger players feel included and excited to learn. “I hope my story helps other kids see how awesome tennis can be,” he said. “It helps you stay healthy, make friends, and challenge yourself. I also hope it inspires others to give back to their community.”

Grounded in Gratitude

When Sahej found out he had won the Youth Leader Award, his first instinct was to share the news with his biggest supporter. “The first thing I wanted to do was call my dad,” he said with a grin. “I was really excited and proud. It made me feel like all the hard work I’ve put into tennis and helping others really mattered. I was also really happy about the free box of cookies they gave me!”

His humor, humility, and heart reflect the very best of what this award celebrates. For Sahej, the recognition isn’t just about what he’s accomplished. It’s a reminder to keep striving, giving, and growing.

Dreaming Big

Like many young athletes, Sahej has big dreams for the future. His idol is Carlos Alcaraz, and he often imagines the day he’ll step onto Arthur Ashe Stadium to face him at the US Open. “One day, I hope to become a professional tennis player,” he said. “That dream helps keep me going.”

But even as he dreams of grand slams, Sahej stays grounded in what matters most. Community, kindness, and the love of the game. He embodies the USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation’s values of character, inclusivity, well-being, and service, proving that tennis can create not only junior athletes but leaders of tomorrow. 

Join Sahej 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.

Building Confidence, One Swing at a Time: The Transformative Impact of Girls Rule the Court™

When Jackie Temkin first picked up a tennis racket during the pandemic, she had no idea it would lead her to a role where she would change young girls’ lives. Now, as a coach with Girls Rule the Court™, a USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation program, she’s not just teaching tennis—she’s helping girls find confidence, resilience, and community through the sport.

“I really love the mission,” Temkin shared. “I started playing tennis during the pandemic, and when I heard about this program that gives girls free lessons while also working on self-esteem and skill-building, I knew I had to be part of it.”

The impact of Girls Rule the Court™ goes far beyond the baseline. The program creates an environment where girls feel supported, encouraged, and empowered—not just as athletes, but as individuals. “A lot of these kids come in never having held a racket before,” said Temkin. “At first, it’s overwhelming—trying to hold the racket, hit the ball, and keep up with everything. But each time they come back, they gain a little more confidence. Even when they mess up, they jump right back in and try again.”

Tennis, however, is just one part of the equation. Through structured lessons and workbooks, the girls engage in social-emotional learning, discussing everything from teamwork to nutrition. “It’s amazing to see them find common ground with kids they wouldn’t have met otherwise,” Temkin recalled. 

For many girls, Girls Rule the Court™ is their first introduction to organized sports. The program fosters a sense of belonging and teaches them they are capable as their male counterparts. “There’s so much emphasis on boys’ sports, and not enough on providing safe, empowering spaces for girls,” Temkin explained. “This program tells them, ‘You can do hard things. You belong here.’”

Many of the girls already look forward to coming back next season. “On the last day, they’re always asking when they can do it again,” said Temkin. “That tells you everything you need to know about how much it means to them.”

Programs like Girls Rule the Court™ wouldn’t be possible without community support. Every dollar donated to USTA Mid-Atlantic Foundation supports programs like these and help champion tennis for healthier lives 

You can be part of the impact. Donate today and help more girls discover their strength, confidence, and love for the game.

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.