Tennis teaches resilience, discipline, and strategic thinking—skills that serve young people long after the final match. Yet in economically disadvantaged communities, the essential costs of racquets, fresh balls, uniforms, and court time can keep eager students on the sidelines.
That is why the Universal Tennis Foundation is stepping in. Through the Scholars & Scores Count! High School Grant Program, the Foundation has awarded 50 grants of $1,000 each to public high schools across 17 states—easing budget pressures and enriching the season for more than 1,750 student-athletes.
Scholars & Scores Count! Impact
- ✓50 Public High School Tennis Teams Awarded in 2026 ($50,000 total)
- ✓1,762 Student-Athletes
- ✓192 Total High School Tennis Programs Supported Since 2023
- ✓High-Need Community Focus: All 50 recipient schools serve communities where 50% or more of students participate in federal free and reduced lunch programs and over half (27 schools) are at 80% or higher
High school sports are a fundamental pillar of youth development. According to the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), links school sports participation directly to higher academic achievement, better attendance, and improved mental health. Tennis, in particular, is a lifelong sport that builds profound character and independence.
Because tennis can be an expensive sport, a lack of basic gear in underserved districts can keep students from ever picking up a racquet—or cause a school program to fold. These grants go directly where the need is greatest: every winning school has at least a 50% free and reduced lunch rate, and for more than half of this year’s recipients, that rate reaches 80% or higher.
Following a successful launch in 2023, the Scholars & Scores Count! program doubled in size through 2024 and 2025 thanks to generous donors who recognize that investing in grassroots tennis is an investment in community wellness and over 200 schools have been awarded cash grants or uniform donations since 2023.
Transforming Programs & Putting Tools in Coaches’ Hands
For the coaches leading these teams, a $1,000 grant is transformative. Rather than worrying about how to afford replacement strings, balls, or court rentals, coaches can focus on technique, teamwork, and building a love for the game. Even modest investments go a long way—outfitting starting lineups with racquets, stocking bulk practice balls, upgrading team gear, and recognizing standout student-athletes.
“This grant will completely change our program by allowing us to purchase team benches, essential new equipment, and uniforms, giving our athletes comfort and pride.”
The selection process is highly competitive, reflecting the immense need for athletic funding nationwide. Programs are chosen based on demonstrated financial need, a commitment to growing the sport across their entire tennis program, and dedicated coaching leadership.
“This grant means more than just $1,000 — it means giving our girls opportunities to compete, build confidence, and discover what they are capable of.”
“These funds will help provide quality training equipment for our athletes while allowing us to recognize their hard work and accomplishments.”
One of the most inspiring developments alongside the Foundation’s work is the surge of student-led philanthropy—passionate high school players raising funds so their peers in under-resourced districts can experience the joy of the sport:
Rallying Together
After raising $1,000 last year to fund a grant for a public school in Maryland, high school player Suhani Verma took her Rallying Together initiative to the next level. By offering reduced-price youth tennis lessons in her community and hosting a local UTR Sports tournament, she raised nearly $2,000—promoting grassroots tennis locally while funding grants for schools elsewhere. Rallying Together is hoping to expand its impact by adding chapters in high schools around the country. You can fill out an interest form if you’re interested in starting a chapter in your community.
“To me tennis is more than a sport, it’s a way to build community and create opportunities. Our goal in Rallying Together has always been to share our love of tennis and give back. Working alongside the Universal Tennis Foundation allows us to help fund programs that inspire the next generation of players.”
Menlo High School Boys Tennis Serve-a-Thon
In Northern California, Menlo School player and former Universal Tennis Foundation intern Brad Engel mobilized his teammates to host a spring "Serve-a-Thon." Pledging to hit serves for donations, the team raised $4,500—which was doubled to an astonishing $9,000 thanks to an anonymous matching grant. Because of their combined generosity, the Foundation was able to provide $1,000 grants to nine California public high schools in low-income communities.
“Tennis is one of the best experiences of our time in high school, and all schools should have access to tennis. We feel lucky to attend a school that can provide us with the equipment, coaching, and travel funds to compete and create amazing team memories. We wanted to help other high schools fund tennis programs, as well. We are grateful to the Universal Tennis Foundation for directing our fundraising efforts toward our fellow tennis players and tennis programs in need.”
These student-led fundraisers showcase the true spirit of the tennis community. It is a powerful reminder that athletes of any age can leverage their skills, organization, and passion to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.
GIVE BACK TO THE GAME
Are You a Motivated High School Player?
The Universal Tennis Foundation is always looking to partner with high school players who want to use their tennis skills to give back. If you are inspired to organize a tournament, host a Serve-a-thon, or launch a fundraiser to support high school tennis grants, we want to hear from you.
Contact the Foundation2026 Scholars & Scores Count! Grant Recipients
From Adams City High School in Colorado to Riverside High School in Texas, this year’s 50 recipients reflect the strength and diversity of high school athletics across 17 states:
- ✓Alabama: Robertsdale High School (Robertsdale)
- ✓California: Edison High School (Fresno), Foothill High School (Bakersfield), Fowler High School (Fowler), Madera High School (Madera), Marysville High School (Marysville), North High School (Bakersfield), Porterville High School (Porterville), Reedley High School (Reedley), Strathmore High School (Strathmore), Westminster High School (Westminster)
- ✓Colorado: Adams City High School (Commerce City)
- ✓Florida: Pensacola High School (Pensacola)
- ✓Georgia: Brantley County High School (Nahunta), Norcross High School (Norcross), Shiloh High School (Snellville), Statesboro High School (Statesboro)
- ✓Illinois: Argo Community High School (Summit)
- ✓Iowa: Thomas Jefferson High School (Council Bluffs)
- ✓Kentucky: Danville High School (Danville), Fairview High School (Ashland), Greenwood High School (Bowling Green), Metcalfe County High School (Edmonton), Middlesboro High School (Middlesboro)
- ✓Louisiana: Prairieville High School (Prairieville)
- ✓Minnesota: Edison High School (Minneapolis), Humboldt High School (St. Paul), St. James High School (St. James)
- ✓Mississippi: Forest Hill High School (Jackson), McComb School District (McComb), Ridgeland High School (Ridgeland), Rosa Fort High School (Tunica)
- ✓Missouri: Bayless High School (St. Louis), Lincoln College Preparatory Academy (Kansas City), Truman High School (Independence)
- ✓North Carolina: Ben L. Smith High School (Greensboro), Harding University High School (Charlotte)
- ✓Texas: Del Valle High School (El Paso), Irving High School (Irving), Lopez Early College High School (Brownsville), Nacogdoches High School (Nacogdoches), Riverside High School (El Paso)
- ✓Virginia: Denbigh High School (Newport News), Greensville County High School (Emporia), Lake Taylor High School (Norfolk)
- ✓Washington: Davis High School (Yakima), Eisenhower High School (Yakima), Prosser High School (Prosser), Renton Senior High School (Renton)
- ✓West Virginia: Lewis County High School (Weston)
The Foundation’s Broader Mission & Resources for Players
High school grants are just one pillar of the Universal Tennis Foundation’s 501(c)(3) mission to support youth, high school, college, and community players. Beyond the high school level, the Foundation also administers the prestigious Hurd Awards, providing essential funding to help American college graduates transition onto the international professional tour.
Strengthening Communities Through Tennis
Tennis is more than just a game—it is an incredible tool for personal growth, community building, and educational advancement. From dedicated coaches volunteering extra hours to student-athletes raising vital funds, the entire tennis ecosystem is coming together to ensure the sport remains accessible to all.
UTR SPORTS
Want to help expand the impact of high school tennis in socioeconomically challenged communities? Visit the universaltennisfoundation.com to learn more or make a donation.