FTA WINS MAJOR SC RECREATION & PARKS ASSOCIATION AWARD
The Florence Tennis Association received the South Carolina Parks & Recreation Association’s Community Service award during the Association’s annual meeting at Myrtle Beach on Wednesday, December 18th. FTA Board members Ernie James and Paul Pittman accepted the award on behalf of the 600-member FTA.
The FTA was recognized for its many contributions to the welfare of the Florence community, which include the management of adult and junior leagues, hosting and supporting tournaments, hosting social events for the tennis community, and providing clinics for beginners, intermediates and recreational coaches. The citation also noted FTA support for facilities development, including the construction of the 30-court Dr. Eddie Floyd Tennis Center, and noted the success of the Ron James Youth Tennis Program in bringing tennis to under-served youth. Finally, it pointed out that FTA leaders and members have been exceptionally active in other community organizations like the Sports Council, and that the organization offers numerous activities like Cardio Tennis and Adult Red Ball Tennis that contribute to public health.
The FTA was nominated for this prestigious award by its long-time partner, the Florence Park, Recreation and Sports Tourism Department. For over 30 years, The FTA, the City, and other area tennis providers have worked together to make Florence a major focal point for Southern tennis. Together, they offer a broad array of programs and activities that attract hundreds of beginners, intermediates and advanced players.
Florence tennis generates over $6 Million in tourism revenues each year, almost half of the amount brought in by all sports combined. The Florence Tennis Association hosts four major tournaments annually, attracting over 3,000 out-of-town players to Florence. The two largest events are USTA Adult League State Championships that draw 900 and 1,450 participants each year. Additionally, the FTA organizes the 16-team Boys and Girls Pre-Season High School Tournaments, further contributing to the local economy.
The FTA funds its initiatives through tournament entry fees, member fees, accommodations tax funding, corporate sponsorships, and grants. To date, it has secured over $350,000 in grant money for local tennis development.
The FTA's extensive efforts have garnered significant recognition over the years. It was named USTA Community Tennis Association of the Year in 2007, and USTA Southern CTA of the Year in 2007 and 2021. Additionally, it received the SC CTA of the Year award in 2004, 2007, 2011, and 2021. In 2008, the FTA earned the USTA SC Community Service Award and was acknowledged by the Florence Athletic Hall of Fame for its community service. In 2009, it won the USTA Southern Section Community Service Award. Its Boys and Girls High School Tournaments, established in 2005, were recognized as the 2016 Junior Tournament of the Year by USTA South Carolina. Furthermore, FTA leaders have been invited to present on community development at both state and national levels.
