Brookville Park Tennis Association

Youth Application

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At the heart of Brookville Park Tennis Association, Inc. (BPTA) - a volunteer-based tennis association - is our commitment to youth. Through our free-of-cost summer tennis programs at Brookville Park, every child has the opportunity to learn the game—regardless of background. We teach not only tennis skills, but also discipline, confidence, and teamwork, helping young people grow into strong, capable individuals ready for the future.

Brookville Park Tennis Association, Inc. (BPTA)

THE ASSOCIATION

Brookville Park Tennis Association, Inc. (BPTA)—formerly Brookville Park Tennis Club—is a 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2009 by dedicated tennis enthusiasts who regularly played at Brookville Park. Today, BPTA proudly serves Southeast Queens and its surrounding communities, with a strong emphasis on youth development. Since its founding, membership has grown from 30 to more than 80 active members, and the Association now celebrates its 17th year of service.

BPTA’s mission, as defined in its by-laws, is to use tennis as a catalyst for year-round academic enrichment and leadership development for youth. The Association is committed to fostering strong character, healthy lifestyle choices, and educational advancement. In alignment with USTA standards, BPTA promotes sportsmanship, competitive play, and community engagement for both youth and adults.

One of BPTA’s proudest accomplishments is its youth program, launched in 2011. It now serves more than 100 participants—even maintaining steady growth during the COVID-19 pandemic. To meet rising demand, BPTA continues to increase the number of Safe-Play Certified Coaches and actively recruits volunteers to support its expanding programs.

BPTA remains committed to broadening access to tennis, particularly for young people. Through the program, youth attend events such as Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day at the US Open, providing them with inspiring exposure to high-level tennis. The Association also encourages players to participate in match play with peers across the boroughs and supports advanced youth in entering USTA tournaments. To ensure year-round progression, BPTA offers indoor winter training to keep young athletes active, engaged, and continuously developing. Youth development remains BPTA’s primary focus, with the goal of nurturing lifelong tennis enthusiasts who lead both on and off the court.

For adult members, a signature BPTA tradition is the Annual Ladder Clash Competition, an inclusive event open to players of all ages, genders, and tennis ratings. Running from May through August, the competition culminates in a Fundraiser Award Dinner Dance each October—an event that both celebrates our Ladder champions and raises vital funds for the youth winter program.

BPTA is deeply grateful to its founding and current members for transforming a small idea into a cornerstone of community growth. With the support of members, sponsors, and friends, we continue pursuing our vision of shaping the next generation of tennis Kings and Queens. We cannot do this work alone, and we look forward to your continued partnership.

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BPTA Celebrates Opening Day 2025 With A Unified Spirit and A Youth Program Grant from DICK'S FOUNDATION

Queens, NY – May 10, 2025 – A vibrant sense of renewal and unity filled the courts of Brookville Park as the Brookville Park Tennis Association, Inc. (BPTA) officially launched its 2025 season on Opening Day. This year marks a pivotal moment for the organization, as a growing movement is bringing together longtime members and new participants to work side by side in support of youth development and broader community engagement.

Brookville Park was alive with activity and pride as the tennis area was transformed in the Association’s signature green and yellow colors. Festive banners lined the fences, music played in the background, and the registration desk welcomed a steady flow of new and returning members eager to play, learn, or teach the game of tennis.

One of the day’s most meaningful moments came during a special presentation by representatives from DICK’S Foundation, who awarded BPTA a generous $25,000 grant to support its expanding Youth Tennis Programs. This significant contribution will directly impact under-resourced youth in the local community by helping remove barriers to participation in tennis and promoting active, healthy lifestyles.

"DICK’S understands the power of sport to transform lives," said a Foundation representative during the presentation. "By investing in community-based programs like BPTA, we’re investing in the potential of young people to grow, thrive, and lead."

DICK’S Sporting Goods Foundation has long been committed to youth sports, championing access, equity, and opportunity for children of all backgrounds. Their partnership with BPTA reflects a shared mission to ensure that every child has the chance to experience the positive benefits of sports and mentorship.

Also featured during the event was a wellness talk by Dr. Tocci, of Family Chiropractic & Holistic Lifestyle Center, who addressed the crowd on the health effects of inflammation and stress, offering practical tips for healthier living—reinforcing BPTA’s holistic approach to youth and community development.

Dr. Sharon Simmons, President of USTA Metro added to the day’s success by sponsoring refreshments, ensuring that attendees remained hydrated and energized throughout the event.

The Association also proudly launched the BPTA Women's Initiative, which will focus on the upliftment of women and girls and specific community outreach, including a winter drive to collect coats, boots, and socks for distribution to local shelters—one male and one female. The initiative has already received donations of new professional attire to support women preparing to re-enter the workforce, and several coats and boots for the drive.

With strong community support, enthusiastic new members, and powerful partnerships, BPTA’s 2025 season is off to an inspiring start. To every sponsor, volunteer, and supporter—thank you for helping us elevate our youth and strengthen our community through the power of tennis.

Regards: Valsey Bartley, Vice President