Oakland, Richmond to Host USTA Free Play Events

During National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month in September, the USTA and the tennis industry are hosting more than a thousand USTA Free Tennis Play Events across the country in celebration of Nickelodeon’s Worldwide Day of Play. USTA Free Tennis Play Events allow families to share their love for tennis together – while having fun and being active.

The following are events taking place in the Oakland area:

Date: Sept. 16, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Host: Chuck Bleckinger Play Day Event

Where: 3400 Richmond Pkwy, Richmond

Date: Sept. 17, from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Host: Worldwide Day of Play at Skyline High School

Where: 12250 Skyline Blvd., Oakland

Date: Sept. 23, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Host: Chuck Bleckinger Play Day Event

Where: 3400 Richmond Pkwy, Richmond

Date: Sept. 24, from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Host: Worldwide Day of Play at Skyline High School

Where: 12250 Skyline Blvd., Oakland

BACKGROUND:

Studies have shown that an early, positive experience in sports is vital and creates a lifelong commitment to an active lifestyle. If we reach children when they are young enough, they can learn to love physical activity and sports for life.

And now, the USTA is making it easier and more fun for families to get in the game – and stay in the game. Children are learning to play faster than ever before through USTA’s youth initiative, which is geared toward getting more kids to participate in tennis using modified equipment and courts tailored to their size and ability.

USTA Free Tennis Play Events invite the whole family, of all skill levels, to try tennis at local events and facilities across the country. The events are free and open to the public, each showcasing how fun and easy it now is for families to get into the sport, as well as providing a great way for parents to spend time with their children while keeping them active.

For more information on USTA Free Tennis Play Events, please visit www.youthtennis.com.