LAKE NONA, Fla. – The United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) is proud to present the 2021 USPTA Star Award to Rita Gladstone from Orlando, FL (Florida Division).
The USPTA Star Award recognizes certified professionals that have dedicated many years to volunteering in grassroots tennis while incorporating multicultural and inclusive aspects to bring tennis and good sportsmanship to the players they touch. Their giving spirits make them stars in their community. You may not have heard of the people who receive the award, but their stories inspire us.
As head tennis professional at the Nemours Family Zone at the USTA National Campus in Lake Nona, FL, Rita is instrumental in introducing, promoting, and developing the benefits of tennis to children and families. Her infectious enthusiasm has blended the happiness of healthy activity with the joy of family togetherness through tennis. Programming at the USTA National Campus includes red and orange ball progressive activities for continued growth in skill and enjoyment. The Family Zone is committed to developing the athlete, player, and person in a dynamic environment. Rita encompasses a perfect combination of skills and enthusiasm to reach children and parents to build tennis skills within a positive, happy, and supportive environment.
About the USPTA: Founded in 1927, the USPTA is the global leader in tennis-teacher certification and professional development. With more than 14,000 members worldwide and 17 divisions nationwide, the Association’s mission is to raise the standards of tennis-teaching professionals and coaches and to promote a greater awareness of the sport.
Media Contacts:
James P. Burke
Director of Marketing and Communications
james.burke@uspta.org
407-634-3071 ext. 142
Mike Calendrillo
Public Relations Coordinator
mike.calendrillo@uspta.org
407-634-3050 ext. 114