Frank Black Middle School Tennis Program

Economic Benefits

The Frank Black Middle School (FBMS) tennis program offers outstanding athletic and social benefits. It also provides significant cost savings for families by providing high-quality instruction directly through the school. FBMS significantly reduces both direct and indirect costs each year compared to expensive private clubs, resulting in measurable financial savings. This powerful combination not only attracts new families to our vibrant community but also ensures current ones stay engaged and committed.

By delivering superior instruction across various programs, FBMS is poised to establish itself as one of the premier middle school tennis programs in Houston. This transformative initiative provides thousands of dollars in annual savings to families, dramatically expands access to the sport, fosters deeper community connections, and builds a clear pathway for students to thrive within the HISD system. 

Below are economic models outlining cost savings for both beginner and advanced tennis players.

1. Advanced Tennis Students

Competitive junior players often pay $300–$900 per month to commercial tennis clubs. FBMS offers similar training, providing substantial savings for families.

Typical Market Costs for Advanced Players:

  • Junior Academy: $3,600–$10,800 per year

  • Private Lessons: $40–$120 per lesson (often bi-weekly)

  • USTA Tournament Fees + Travel: $1,000–$3,000 per year

FBMS Estimated Savings:

  • Early Morning Clinics: $20/clinic × 2 per week × 24 weeks = $960

  • Saturday Doubles Clinics: $20/clinic × 4 per month × 6 months = $480

  • Local Tournament Participation: $50 × 6 events = $300


 ➡ Estimated annual savings for FBMS students compared to commercial club: $3,000–$9,000
 ➡ Estimated 3-year savings: $9,000–$27,000

2. Beginner Tennis Students

The main barriers for beginners to launch their tennis journey are access, cost, and transportation. FBMS removes these obstacles by hosting free on-campus tennis programs, staffed by certified coaches, integrated into the school day, making tennis more accessible.

  • Beginner Clinics (1–2x per week at commercial clubs): $150–$350/month

  • Equipment & entry-level tournament fees: $300–$700/year

FBMS Estimated Savings:

  • Early Morning Clinics: $20/clinic × 1 per week × 24 weeks = $480

  • Saturday Doubles Clinics: $20/clinic × 4 per month × 6 months = $480

  • Orange Ball Tournaments: $50 × 6 events = $300


 ➡ Estimated annual savings compared to private club: $2,000–$4,000
 ➡ Estimated 3-year savings: $3,600–$12,000

 

According to the USTA:

  • Tennis participation among kids has grown by over 29% since 2019, but lower-income families are the least represented due to cost. Cost is the #1 barrier to youth tennis participation. The average family spends $1,200–$3,500/year per child on organized sports.
  • Schools that introduce low-cost tennis see 40–60% increases in student participation.

Summary:

Choosing FBMS is a wise investment in each student's future—one that combines elite tennis development with exceptional value. FBMS's tennis program builds a strong, comprehensive foundation, positioning graduates as highly sought-after recruits for top high school teams. With proven academic excellence and advanced athletic skills honed under expert coaching, FBMS students are recognized for their readiness to compete and succeed at the highest levels.