Twelve young tennis players from the Oak Forest Tennis Club (OFTC) took a significant step in their athletic journeys on Saturday morning, March 21, 2026, as they competed in their very first USTA event.
The Orange ball round-robin tournament, held at a local tennis club, provided each participant with multiple matches in a relaxed, non-elimination format designed specifically for emerging players. Using the USTA's official Orange Ball progression stage—featuring lower-bouncing balls on 60-foot courts—the event allowed the youngsters to focus on skill-building, sportsmanship, and fun while gaining valuable match experience.
Leading the team throughout the morning was head coach Koko (Karen Hackett), who offered constant encouragement while helping the players keep score properly. Assistant coaches Kai and Asher kept the energy high by assisting with scoring and ensuring that every player remained engaged and supported.
For many of the athletes, this morning marked their official debut in a sanctioned USTA competition. The round-robin structure ensured ample court time and plenty of rallies, serves, and volleys, helping the group build confidence and transition their practice skills into real competitive play.
OFTC members and family lined the courts, cheering enthusiastically as the players displayed poise and improvement with each match. The focus remained squarely on development rather than outcomes, aligning perfectly with the USTA Net Generation philosophy at the Orange Ball level.
Coach Koko, who leads the elementary school afternoon and Saturday programs with over 65 participants, stated, "We are so proud of the team's attitude and effort. Our players demonstrated excellent sportsmanship and supported one another throughout the morning."
"As our team left the courts today, they took with them refreshed confidence and a desire to continue their tennis journey."
The Oak Forest Tennis Club's strong performance at its inaugural USTA Orange Ball event has set an exciting tone for the 2026 season, with continued training during afternoon and Saturday-morning clinics, and additional Orange Ball events on the schedule.
Furthermore, there are strategic plans to host Orange Ball events at the Frank Black Middle School's tennis center, which would increase access for the team, reduce travel time, and lower the cost of entering these events.
Coach Koko proudly reaffirmed that these young athletes are off to a promising start in the world of competitive tennis.
Written by Don Hackett
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