Through COVID-19, Asheville Tennis finds new approach to deliver access and equality to underserved communities

By Olivia Maddox

On a mountaintop southeast of Asheville, four 8-9-year-olds bat a tennis ball back and forth over a portable net with more enthusiasm than finesse. The children, who live in neighboring houses, have been inseparable playmates for years. And while they don’t need any encouragement to entertain themselves outdoors, the pals are having fun playing tennis—a game new to them. “We’re not focusing on the rules yet,” said Heather Sellers, the mother of one of them. “But hitting the ball helps with their hand-eye coordination and gross motor skill development.” Right now, the four play on an overgrown dirt court constructed by residents who lived on the mountain years ago. Sellers said they hope to play on a real court with friends in the future.

The youngsters might never have discovered tennis if not for COVID-19. Read more….