Tennis
Have you ever wished you could learn to play tennis? Tennis is a great summer activity. You don’t need to have a large group to play like team sports. You just need one friend to join you on the court. But you need someone to help toss you some balls so you can learn the skills to play.
A sport for all
Tennis is a great sport that can be played by everyone. Did you know that that tennis can be played between individuals with different abilities? Wheelchair users can play with stand-up players. You can play mixed doubles with a seated and standing player.
A different challenge
We will teach you the skills you need. Step by step. Tennis is a different challenge for many because you use a racket. It takes concentration and practice to develop your eye racket coordination. But you can do it. With our coaches and volunteers, you will get lots of practice with cues to help you succeed. You will learn the rules of the game and be ready play games.
All equipment is provided
The STAR Center provides all the equipment for this program. Rackets, balls, and sport wheelchairs.
Who can participate in adaptive and para/wheelchair tennis?
- Ages 12 +, youth and adult,
- open to all abilities with a mobility, physical or cognitive challenge that makes participation in traditional programming difficult.
- co-ed
- Individuals may ambulate independently, or use assistive devices, or wheelchairs
When is this program offered?
This program is offered seasonally
- ages 12+
- co-ed
- All abilities
- Participants must be able to follow directions from the lead facilitator.
- If participants need assistance with following directions, a support staff must attend and assist the individual at the program.
- If you need assistance finding support, please contact STAR. We may have 1:1 mentors available.
- Participants will be held to the STAR Center Code of Conduct.
How do I play wheelchair tennis?
The rules for wheelchair tennis are easy to remember. The only difference between wheelchair tennis and stand-up tennis is that a wheelchair may allow the ball to bounce two times if desired.
Did you know?
Iowa, Wisconsin, and Minnesota students are able to represent their school on the tennis team. With the skills you learn you may also enjoy community recreational tournaments against other wheelchair users or standing players.
Participants can compete in local, regional, and National Wheelchair Tennis Competitions thru USA Tennis. STAR Center will be hosting two tournaments in the summer of 2022.
Do I have to be a full time wheelchair user to play?
No. You do not need to be a full time user of a wheelchair. You can play wheelchair tennis if you have mobility issues that prevent you from playing stand up tennis.
I use a power chair. Can I play wheelchair tennis?
Yes. You can play from your power chair!
I have difficulty with my grip strength, can I play?
Yes. We can use a lighter weight racket and give modifications to secure your grip.
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