Announcement

Special Olympics Maryland hosts inaugural Red Ball Tennis event in Ocean Pines

Friday, November 15, 2024

(Nov. 15, 2024) Special Olympics athletes gathered last Friday at the Ocean Pines Racquet Center to participate in a first-of-its-kind community tennis program.

Made possible by a collaboration between Special Olympics Maryland, Ocean Pines Association, and Maryland Sen. Mary Beth Carozza, the event marked the beginning of what organizers hope will be a lasting program to support athletes of all abilities in the Ocean Pines community and surrounding areas.

Jeff Able, Special Olympics Maryland vice president of Local Program Development, highlighted the potential impact of this new partnership.

“This is a great opportunity for athletes who are coming in,” he said. “We serve nearly 20,000 athletes and unified partners across Maryland, offering over 30 sports and activities throughout the year.

“This will be the first community tennis program that we have on the Eastern Shore, and we’re excited to plant the seeds for a program that could grow to include friendly competition with athletes from neighboring states in the future,” he added.

The day’s activities featured Red Ball Tennis, which uses a simplified format, allowing athletes of all experience levels to participate.

“We played unified doubles on a short court, with Red Ball rules that make it easier to learn and have fun,” Able said. “For some of these athletes, this was their first time holding a tennis racket.”

Ocean Pines Racquet Sports Director Terry Underkoffler praised the enthusiasm of the players and volunteers who helped bring the event to life.

“This event started from a brainstorm between Sen. Carozza and Jeff,” Underkoffler said. “Jeff toured the facility, saw the potential, and set a date for this Red Ball tournament. His goal is to plant the seeds for Special Olympics here in Ocean Pines, and I think today we’ve started something special.

“This isn’t just about tennis; it’s about building bridges, giving back, and promoting lifelong activity,” he said.

Carozza, who has been involved with Special Olympics Maryland for years and recently returned to tennis herself, emphasized the importance of community partnerships in creating opportunities for athletes.

“This idea started with conversations here in Ocean Pines, and I love how it’s bringing together athletes and community members,” Carozza said. “With this one-day event, we’re creating a starting point that we can grow from, without a full-season commitment. It’s about trying something new, connecting with others, and simply enjoying the game.”

Organizers said the success of the event reflects the mission of Special Olympics Maryland: to provide inclusive opportunities for athletes without charge.

“None of our athletes or their families are ever charged for participation in Special Olympics,” Able said. “We cover all costs, including uniforms, equipment, and competition fees.”

Looking ahead, the Ocean Pines Racquet Center is poised to continue its support for the program, with Underkoffler envisioning more opportunities for athletes and the community.

“We’re hoping to host a ‘War on the Shore’ in the spring, where Special Olympics Maryland could compete with athletes from Special Olympics Delaware,” he said.

Announcement

Special Olympics Maryland hosts inaugural Red Ball Tennis event in Ocean Pines

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