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.
According to HTA's Ellen Considine Miller, "it's time to lace up your sneakers and join the fun on Houston's courts this July!"
Building on strong momentum from 2025, when the HTA-NJTL partnership served more than 7,000 students ages 4 to 18 across more than 65 Houston-area neighborhood parks and schools, this year's summer programs aim to expand participation further and introduce even more children to the sport. Nationally, about 200,000 additional children took up tennis in 2025.
The free beginner and intermediate lessons, open to children and teens ages 4–18, run through July 30, 2026, with sessions held Monday through Thursday at multiple public tennis facilities and neighborhood courts across the city.
Locations include Homer Ford Tennis Center (MacGregor Park), Memorial Park Tennis Center, Lee LeClear Tennis Center, Alief Park, and various neighborhood courts. 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. Sessions focus on beginner- to intermediate-level learners, with certified instructors guiding participants in a safe, engaging setting.
HTA has long been committed to growing tennis participation across Greater Houston since its founding in 1952. By collaborating with city parks, the organization ensures accessible programming for all ages and skill levels. From Red Ball clinics to Orange and Green, the HTA offers a structured pathway to future tennis success.
"These free clinics embody our mission to promote amateur tennis, health, and sportsmanship for everyone in the community," said Miller.
"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."
"Space in these youth programs can fill quickly, so interested families are encouraged to register soon," added Miller.
Once summer ends, Miller leads the Youth Red Ball Task Force at the national USTA level and has worked as a Net Generation ambassador, promoting the red-orange-green progressive pathway through events, coach training, and mentoring.
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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