Net Therapy
The mission of MATA’s Net Therapy Adaptive Tennis Program is to empower individuals of all abilities through the transformative power of adaptive tennis. We are dedicated to providing inclusive, accessible, and supportive tennis programming for children with autism, individuals who are blind or vision impaired, veterans coping with PTSD, and wheelchair athletes. By fostering a safe and nurturing environment, we strive to enhance physical health, emotional wellbeing, and social connection for every participant.
We are committed to:
- Creating tennis experiences for children with autism, supporting their growth in confidence, communication, and motor skills.
- Offering specialized instruction and equipment for blind and visually impaired players, ensuring equal opportunity to enjoy and excel in the sport.
- Providing a supportive and therapeutic outlet for veterans living with PTSD, helping to facilitate healing, resilience, and camaraderie through tennis and introducing them to a lifelong sport and commraderie.
- Promoting accessibility and inclusion for wheelchair users by adapting tennis training and competition to meet their needs and maximize participation.
Through Net Therapy, we believe in breaking barriers, cultivating community, and inspiring hope—one serve at a time.
In October 2025, Net Therapy was trademarked by the US Patent and Trademark Office for the for organizing, arranging and conducting adaptive tennis programs for those with disabilities.
Awards Won:
2023 – Net Therapy for Children on the Autism Spectrum – USTA GA Adaptive Program of the Year/USTA Southern Adaptive Program of the Year
2024 (under Bibb Co Parks and Rec) BVI USTA GA Adaptive Program of the Year/USTA Southern Adaptive Program of the Year
2025 Vet’s Therapy USTA GA Adaptive Program of the Year
NET THERAPY SPONSORS
Kids on the Autism Spectrum
Description
The Macon Area Tennis Association’s Net Therapy program is born from a desire to introduce the sport of tennis to those underserved populations in the Macon area that would benefit from a physical, mental and/or social wellness. Tennis is a lifelong sport that anyone can start playing at any age. Our initial focus is kids on the autism spectrum and our very-appreciated veterans. As our program grows, we hope to reach out to others in our community. We are always open to recommendations. Please consider volunteering or donating to this wonderful program!
Program Dates
- Weekly sessions are at Randy Stephens Tennis Center
- Spring: 3/3/2025 – 4/1/2025; 5:30 – 6:30 pm
- Summer: 6/4/2025 – 7/16/2025; 5:30 – 6:30 pm
- Fall: 10/22/2025-12/5/25 6:00 – 7:00 pm
- Adult Caregiver Must Remain on Property During the Clinic
Skill Levels
Tennis experience and competency is not a qualifier to participate in Net Therapy as either an Athlete or a Volunteer.
The most important characteristics are:
- Interest in the sport
- Best effort
- Commitment
- Enjoy your time on the court!
Participant Requirements
- Ages 5 – 17
- Athlete must be on the Autism Spectrum
- Provide his/her own transportation
Equipment Needed
Athletes and volunteers are not required to bring any specific tennis equipment. The minimum requirement for each is to have court-approved footwear.
Registration
Veterans Program
Description
The goal of Net Therapy is to introduce the lifetime sport of tennis to those in our community who are under-served and need social, physical or mental wellness. We have great coaches and volunteers and look forward to getting to know our local veterans out on the courts!
Veterans Program
Description
The goal of Net Therapy is to introduce the lifetime sport of tennis to those in our community who are under-served and need social, physical or mental wellness. We have great coaches and volunteers and look forward to getting to know our local veterans out on the courts!
Program Dates
ALL Clinics at Randy Stephens Tennis Center
- Spring: 3/5/2025 – 3/26/2025 6:00 – 8:00 pm
- Summer: 6/2/2025 – 6/23/2025 6:00 – 8:00 pm
- Fall: 10/21/25 – 12/4/25 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Skills Needed
Interest in the sport; Best effort; Commitment; Enjoy your time on the court!
Participant Requirements
- Ages 18+
- Participant must have served honorably or is currently on active duty in the armed forces of the United States. Current and retired military spouses are also eligible
- Provide his/her own transportation
- Please Wear Athletic Clothing
Equipment Needed
Participants and volunteers are not required to bring any specific tennis equipment. You are welcome to bring your own racket if you have one. The minimum requirement for each is to have court-approved footwear.
Wheelchair and Blind Low Vision soon to come!
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Volunteers Needed!
At each of our events, we utilize volunteers in on-court and off-court capacities. Tennis experience and knowledge is a plus but not a requirement for all activities. Your involvement and passion for helping others is far more valuable than your knowledge or skill level as a tennis player. Tennis teams, school groups, families, neighborhoods and individuals are all encouraged to get involved.
Opportunities
- Assisting athletes on the autism spectrum as: instructor, ball feeder, court control
- Ball person
- Coach
- Chaperone
- Administrative support
Volunteer Requirements
- Passion for the underserved population and helping others
- Energetic
- Availability
- Tennis skill and knowledge of the game required for some on-court volunteers
- Adults 18 & over must be Safe Play Certified
