It’s an opportunity to recreate and give back to the community.
The United States Tennis Association (USTA) has shared powerful insights on tennis’s health benefits, showcasing why this sport is fun and transformative for wellness. Playing tennis can significantly boost your lifespan, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and improve physical and mental health—all while fostering social bonds and community connection. These attributes make tennis a compelling choice for individuals and communities, and this November, tennis is set to unite and celebrate HBCU culture at two exciting events.
The Health Benefits of Tennis: Studies have shown that tennis players live, on average, 9.7 years longer than sedentary players. This advantage outpaces sports like soccer, cycling, swimming, and jogging. According to USTA data, tennis also helps lower the risk of heart disease by up to 56%, a significantly higher reduction than other sports. For those focused on maintaining a healthy weight, tennis is an excellent choice; studies show that tennis players’ average body mass index (BMI) is 24.8 kg/m².
Aside from longevity and heart health, tennis offers other benefits that improve the quality of life. It strengthens bones, enhances cardiovascular fitness, and builds balance and agility. The sport also promotes mental acuity, reduces stress, and provides opportunities for social connection. This blend of physical, cognitive, and social benefits makes tennis unique. It activates fast-twitch and slow-twitch muscle fibers, providing a dynamic workout supporting endurance, speed, and power.
Here are ways you can participate!
1st Annual HBCU Adult Red Ball Tennis Classic – Los Angeles, CA: On Saturday, November 16, Los Angeles will host the inaugural HBCU Adult Red Ball Tennis Classic at 5001 Obama Boulevard. This event brings tennis enthusiasts, HBCU alumni, and community members together to celebrate the spirit of HBCUs through a day of tennis and community connection. Designed for players of all levels, from beginners to seasoned athletes, this gathering promises fun and friendly competition with the ultimate goal of giving back. Proceeds from the event will go toward programs for under-resourced youth in South Los Angeles and scholarships for students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). For $50, participants can access games, racquets, balls, an event T-shirt, and a continental breakfast. It’s more than just a tennis match—it’s a chance to reconnect with fellow alumni, showcase tennis skills, and make meaningful connections within the community.
Orlando’s Red Ball Day of Play: A Community Celebration by Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated: On the same day, the Orlando Zetas of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, Epsilon Epsilon Zeta Chapter will hold a Red Ball Day of Play at the Rock Lake Neighborhood Center, offering a similar celebration on the East Coast. From 12 to 5 p.m. at 440 North Tampa Avenue, the event invites adults 18 and older to enjoy a supportive environment to learn and play tennis, regardless of experience level. The Orlando event will provide free equipment, refreshments, and instruction in partnership with the USTA, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for all attendees. As part of Zeta Phi Beta’s “Zetas Have Heart” initiative, this event promotes heart health, wellness, and self-care among women and community members. The Orlando Zetas, many of whom are HBCU alumni, are committed to community upliftment and service.
The USTA’s Adult Red Ball Tennis Program: Opening Doors for New Players: Central to both events is the USTA’s Adult Red Ball Tennis Program, which provides an accessible and simplified introduction to tennis. This program uses modified equipment like 23-inch racquets, red felt balls, and portable nets to create an easy entry point for adults, making the game more approachable and enjoyable for everyone. With a few simple lessons, newcomers can get a feel for the game, while experienced players enjoy an accessible way to practice and connect with others. The USTA has long supported HBCU tennis programs nationwide, contributing through grants, partnerships, and events such as the HBCU National Tennis Championships. This year, USTA Florida awarded its first HBCU Tennis Program Grant to Edward Waters University, providing $100,000 to enhance courts, scholarships, and coach training, helping to build sustainable HBCU tennis programs. As a representative from Zeta Phi Beta expressed, “Programs like Adult Red Ball Tennis open doors for new players and celebrate the legacy of HBCUs, strengthening our community connections and commitment to service.”
Join the Celebration in Los Angeles or Orlando! Whether in Los Angeles or Orlando, this day is an opportunity to unite, celebrate tennis, and honor HBCU tradition and community values. HBCU alumni, friends, and tennis lovers are invited to support the cause, participate in tennis activities, and strengthen the enduring bond of HBCU culture.
HBCU Adult Red Ball Tennis Classic, Saturday, November 16
•Time: 1 to 5 p.m. PST
•Location: 5001 Obama Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90016
•Registration: $50 (includes games, racquet, balls, event T-shirt, and continental breakfast)
Orlando Zetas Red Ball Day of Play, Saturday, November 16
•Time: 12 to 5 p.m. EST. Doors open at 11:30 a.m.
•Location: Rock Lake Neighborhood Center, 440 North Tampa Avenue, Orlando, FL 32805
•Free entry with equipment and refreshments provided
These events provide an opportunity to experience the health benefits of tennis while supporting HBCU scholarships and under-resourced communities.
If you more information about Adult Red Ball Tennis and how to bring this new way to play tennis to your community in 2025, contact Marilyn Sherman, USTA, Manager, Social Play (Red Ball) at sherman@usta.com