Tennis Across America highlights

Many special people have not only made this program memorable but have also made a profound impact in the participation of tennis players. Numerous celebrities and generous people from around the world have hosted clinics and dedicated their time unselfishly to help make this event a great success. Here are some highlights from Tennis Across America throughout its history:

• The legendary Arthur Ashe hosted a clinic in New York City in 1991.
• Former president of the United States, George Bush, participated in Tennis Across America in 1992.
• Guest speaker, Vic Braden, gave instruction in Corpus Christi, Texas, where he received a Texas flag that was flown over the state capitol in Austin in honor of Tennis Across America Day.
• Willard Scott of NBC’s "Today Show" announced the Tennis Across America event during a weather segment on several occasions. The announcements prompted hundreds of calls to the USPTA World Headquarters in Houston. Callers were referred to Tennis Across America clinics in their area.
• Tennis experts Nick Bollettieri, Peter Burwash, Zina Garrison, Tom Gullikson and Stan Smith volunteered their time and efforts in various parts of the country.
• Pro tour favorites Luke and Murphy Jensen brought their rock-and-roll tennis show to two clinics held in the Cleveland area as part of Tennis Across America.
• Pete Sampras and Pam Shriver hosted a clinic in 1998 at the White House, which was a site for Tennis Across America multicultural events for several years.