(L to R) Teach Me Tennis Coaches David Araiza & Cristian Lopez; Ken Adrianno, President of USPTA GA; Teach Me Tennis Coach Juan Pablo Selle
The United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) recognized three local tennis professionals last weekend in Atlanta at the BB&T Atlanta Open. Cristian Lopez from Rome Tennis Academy, Juan Pablo Selle from Coosa Country Club, and David Araiza from Rome-Floyd Parks and Recreation received two of the four awards given annually by the USPTA.
Teach Me Tennis received the award for “Most Innovative Tennis Program”. This award is given for a program that is created, marketed and executed utilizing out-of- the-box thinking while showcasing the USPTA professional passion for growing the game of tennis.
Cristian Lopez, Juan Pablo Selle and David Araiza partnered together last year to launch Teach Me Tennis in seven county elementary schools. The program leveraged after-school care programs to introduce and teach the sport of tennis to children.
“We are all very excited our efforts are not only being recognized at a local level, but also at a state, and regional level,” said David Araiza.
David Araiza was also awarded coach of the year with the “Georgia Star Award”. This award is given to an individual who grows the game of tennis through teaching, education and facility work. The individual must also volunteer time outside of their normal responsibilities and participate in a charity event.
Teach Me Tennis resumes in the fall with the goal to expand the program to more schools and organizations including Darlington School, YMCA and Boys and Girls Club.
About the Author
Our Georgia's Rome tourism team works hard to curate content to help you discover and explore our beautiful town! We want to ensure our content is up-to-date and accurate; so please let us know if we ever overlook an important detail! This post was originally written by Kristi Kent and is updated by staff.
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