Franklin Park Tennis Association

About

The mission of the organization is to “Unite Families and Community Through the Sport of Tennis.”

Mission

The mission of the organization is to “Unite Families and Community Through the Sport of Tennis.”

The Shattuck Grove site in Franklin Park is not only great for tennis, but creates a safe and supportive environment—a covetable setting given the violence that plagues many places in Boston. In fact, for decades FPTA members have fondly referred to the membership as their “tennis family” because of the welcoming atmosphere and camaraderie.

TIPS begins with lessons for juniors followed by the adult lessons. Structuring these programs in this manner gives families an opportunity to learn and enjoy the sport together. Many of the adults, who bring their children, stay for the adult lessons. This allows for a family friendly atmosphere. The parents are able to interact with each other while their children participate in the tennis activity. Many of the FPTA regular members serve as volunteers who supervise the children’s free play during the adult lessons, which makes for a safe haven.

FPTA seeks to strengthen families and the community. Tennis is a game for life that promotes healthy living and develops good social skills. It provides continuous exercise for all ages and therefore develops and maintains good health. Given the strategy involved in tennis, especially competitive play, tennis players have the chance to develop critical thinking skills. Playing tennis also provides a great forum for social interaction among individuals and inspires everyone to work hard at developing and mastering their skills. Lifelong friendships are developed because it is a sport that fosters interactivity, because the game requires two or more people to engage in it. It provides an opportunity for young people to develop maturity, by understanding and implementing strategic moves, playing with a partner and playing on a team, while at the same time allowing older individuals to remain active and in good shape. FPTA is uniquely intergenerational and the bonds formed on the tennis court transcend into many areas of life beyond the tennis court.