Congratulations to CHATA President Jann Ward, recipient of the USTA President’s Impact Award!
The award recognizes Jann’s incredible contributions to growing tennis participation throughout the LaGrange and Troup County community—and celebrates the lasting impact of the programs and people who have helped make tennis such a strong part of the community for more than two decades.
As part of this special recognition, Jann was invited to the USTA President’s Suite at Arthur Ashe Stadium during the US Open, giving her the opportunity to experience one of tennis’s biggest stages in a truly memorable way.
For Jann, the honor was about much more than a personal accomplishment. It was a celebration of the collective effort behind the growth of tennis in Troup County.
A Community Effort
As a lifelong tennis player and fan, Jann has spent years helping build opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to discover and enjoy the sport. Through her leadership with the Community & Home Athletic Tennis Association (CHATA) and the ongoing work at McCluskey Tennis, tennis participation has continued to grow throughout the LaGrange/Troup County area.
Jann emphasized that while her name appears on the President’s Impact Award, the recognition truly belongs to the many people who have contributed to CHATA’s programs over the years.
“As CHATA President, my name appears on this award, but it is actually for everyone at McCluskey and CHATA who helps build our programs. Your participation matters and is noted.”
That spirit of teamwork is at the heart of what makes community tennis successful. Coaches, volunteers, players, families and community partners all play a role in creating opportunities for more people to pick up a racquet and become part of the sport.
Celebrating Tennis Growth
The recognition comes at an exciting time for tennis. Participation in the United States has reached 27.3 million players, reflecting the continued growth and popularity of the sport.
USTA recognized programs and leaders who have helped contribute to that growth with an invitation to the President’s Suite at the US Open. For Jann, being there was a special opportunity to celebrate the work that has taken place in her own community while also experiencing the excitement of the sport she has loved throughout her life.
“For an old tennis gal, it was a magical night,” Jann shared.
But even with the excitement of the US Open and the significance of the award, Jann’s focus remains on what comes next.
On to 35 Million
The USTA has set an ambitious goal of reaching 35 million tennis players by 2035, and Jann sees CHATA’s continued work in Troup County as one small but important part of that effort.
“Now, let’s get back to work and help USTA reach 35 million,” she said.
That commitment perfectly captures Jann’s approach to the award: celebrate the achievement, recognize the people who made it possible, and then get back to work creating more opportunities to play.
Congratulations, Jann, on this well-deserved recognition! We are proud of you and of everyone at CHATA and McCluskey Tennis who continues to grow the game and make a difference in the LaGrange/Troup County community.
Here’s to reaching 35 million players—and beyond!
