Who are these ‘Community Champions’ anyway? Are they ace tennis players or community leaders?  What are they champions of?  What do they do? And how do I become one?

Community Champions are an amazing group of men and women who are committed to growing tennis in their communities.  Many are recreational players who love the sport. Some have never played tennis before but believe in tennis as a healthy activity for their community members. Community Champions might be retired persons, teachers, entrepreneurs, tennis coaches or volunteers from other associations...anyone with the time, interest and a general understanding of community needs. It is essential that the Champion live in the community.

To find out where community champions are located across Canada please click here


The role of this individual is to ensure that strong partnerships with community leaders are established such that those community leaders clearly understand the role that tennis can play in contributing to the reduction or elimination of some community problems (e.g. overweight kids, delinquency, etc.) and to increasing community spirit (via community-based events, etc.). They talk to community representatives from education, parks and recreation and city council to advocate for contributions that the sport of tennis can make to community health. They, with the help of other volunteers, offer opportunities for kids, adults and seniors of all abilities to learn tennis and get active. Since 2001, over 110 Community Champions collectively engaged over 350,000 people in tennis activities."  The accomplishments of these Champions have exceeded all expectations to date!

Tennis Canada and the Provincial Tennis Associations have been hosting an annual BTC Conference, providing a networking and educational opportunity for the Champions. There are no words to describe the energy and passion that each of these individuals has for both tennis and for making their respective communities better places to live.  Champions walk away from these conferences with a plan of action for the coming season, a bag of modified equipment, a variety of other tips and tools, and the firm belief that they can make a difference!

If you are interested in becoming a Community Champion, please contact your Provincial Tennis Association or e-mail Julie Staples at jstaples@tenniscanada.com to discuss your interest.

The pre-applications for the 2011 funding year are now open. Please CLICK HERE to access the form. The deadline for pre-applications will be August 30th.

If you have already registered and would like to access your Pre-Application to complete it then CLICK HERE.