As part of Autism Acceptance Month, we’re excited to share how adaptive tennis continues to thrive across Florida thanks to passionate coaches, volunteers, and partner organizations like USTA Florida.
What Is Adaptive Tennis?
Adaptive tennis is an inclusive form of the sport that’s designed to meet the needs of players with physical, developmental, or cognitive disabilities. Using modified rules, sensory-friendly environments, and tailored instruction, adaptive tennis ensures everyone, regardless of ability, can participate, connect, and grow through sport.
Florida’s Expanding Adaptive Tennis Community
Florida is now home to more than 20 adaptive tennis programs, offering life-changing opportunities for individuals of all ages. From autism-focused clinics and veteran outreach to wheelchair and Special Olympics play, the state is a national leader in accessibility on the courts.
These programs are made possible through the collaboration of dedicated community partners, including Love Serving Autism (LSA), ACEing Autism, Tennis for Fun, and Special Olympics Florida.
Love Serving Autism: Serving Inclusion Since 2017
Founded in South Florida by Lisa Pugliese-LaCroix, Love Serving Autism provides specialized therapeutic tennis programs for individuals with autism and developmental challenges. Since its launch in 2017, LSA has expanded to 14 states, with over 20 cities offering programs in Florida alone.
Each session is led by certified coaches and therapists who create a welcoming, structured, and engaging environment for children and adults to:
- Develop gross and fine motor skills
- Improve language, social interaction, and fitness
- Build confidence, reduce stress, and have fun!
To register or find a class near you, visit: loveservingautism.org
Want to volunteer? Join us: loveservingautism.org/volunteers
Community Partners Making an Impact
Tennis for Fun
Founded in 2000 by high school student Nathan Moore, Tennis for Fun is a free, all-volunteer program serving over 200 athletes across 18+ locations in the greater Tampa area. Participants—many with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities—learn tennis basics while forming friendships in a fun, encouraging setting.
Locations include Brandon, Sarasota, Seminole, Tampa, Wesley Chapel, and more.
Learn more: tennisforfun.org/locations
Special Olympics Florida
Since 2018, USTA Florida and Special Olympics Florida have worked together to host the tennis State Games, held annually at the USTA National Campus in Lake Nona. This exciting event showcases athletes’ skills and determination while highlighting the unifying power of sport.
From the cheers on the sidelines to the medal ceremonies, the games create unforgettable moments of pride, perseverance, and joy.
Find a program: specialolympicsflorida.org/map
Get involved: specialolympicsflorida.org/get-involved
A Statewide Movement of Inclusion
Thanks to the support of organizations like USTA Florida, adaptive tennis is now a permanent part of Florida’s sports landscape. These programs give individuals of all abilities the chance to participate in tennis in ways that meet their needs, empower their potential, and celebrate their unique talents.
Learn more about programs statewide at: ustaflorida.com/adaptive-and-wheelchair
