The Houston Tennis Association (HTA), in partnership with the Houston Parks and Recreation Department, continues its popular free tennis clinics for youth this July as part of the ongoing 2026 summer session of the National Junior Tennis & Learning (NJTL) program.
This no-cost initiative removes financial barriers and introduces young Houstonians to the sport in a fun, supportive environment. Houston, the 4th-largest city in the USA, has roughly 500,000 residents under the age of 18, many of whom are seeking outdoor activities in July 2026.
The free beginner and intermediate classes are open to children and teens ages 4–18 and run through July 23, 2026, with sessions held Monday through Thursday at neighborhood courts across the city. Racquets are available for participants who need them.
The HTA NJTL partnership emphasizes not only tennis fundamentals but also life skills, physical fitness, and community building, with trained coaches offering novice-level participants a safe, engaging setting.
Over the years, the partnership has served more than 5,000 students across more than 45 Houston-area neighborhood parks and schools; this summer's programs aim to further expand participation and introduce even more children to the sport.
Nationally, about 200,000 additional children hit the courts in 2025.
HTA has been committed to growing tennis participation across Greater Houston since its founding in 1952. By partnering with neighborhoods and schools, the organization ensures accessible programming for all ages and skill levels, offering a structured pathway to future tennis success through its red-, orange-, and green-ball classes.
“It's time to lace up your sneakers...and join the courts this summer!", HTA's Ellen
Considine Miller informed Space City Tennis News.
“Whether your child is picking up a racquet for the first time or looking to improve their game this summer, we are making tennis accessible and enjoyable across the city,” Miller added.
“The use of low compression balls in a partner-based setting means children learn to play the game that much faster.”
“Availability in these youth programs can fill quickly, so interested families are encouraged to register soon,” Miller concluded.
Miller recently chaired the Youth Red Ball Task Force at the national USTA level, served as a Net Generation ambassador, and currently works as a Senior Coach Developer for USTA Coaching and HTA Director of NJTL Player and Coach Development.
For the most current schedules and registration links, visit houstontennis.org.
Published by Space City Tennis News, written by Don Hackett.
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