Generations unite to celebrate a monumental victory for youth sports, led by local heroes and tennis legends.
Hunters Point in San Francisco may not boast the glamour of Nob Hill or Golden Gate Park, but it has its own unique charm, with gritty urban resilience and a strong community. The area, long overshadowed by challenges like the Navy’s abandoned shipyard and the blow of the pandemic, saw its beloved tennis courts fall into disrepair, despite the efforts of Youth Tennis Advantage (YTA) co-founders Arthur Ashe and Mike Skinner. These courts, which had once been a beacon of hope, were in a dire state—cracked and overgrown, with only the faith of a few, like coach Thomas White, keeping them alive.
Enter San Franciscans for Sports and Recreation (SFFSR) and its passionate leader, Seth Socolow. Through relentless political maneuvering and strategic partnerships, SFFSR raised over $223,000, transforming the courts into a thriving center for youth and the community. With contributions from notable figures, including tennis pro Mackie MacDonald and support from the USTA Foundation, the courts were restored, leading to a heartwarming March 27 gala opening, drawing local heroes, tennis legends, and three San Francisco mayors.
The revitalization wasn’t just about the physical courts but about recommitting to the future of the community’s youth. Videos from tennis greats like Yannick Noah, Rajeev Ram, and Frances Tiafoe offered words of encouragement to the kids, while local leaders reflected on the importance of sports in fostering resilience and growth. The day symbolized not only a victory for Hunters Point but for the values of perseverance and community unity.
Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.
Learn more about Hunters Point, Arthur Ashe, and San Francisco communities
Inside Tennis
“an addiction to ‘Fighting for San Francisco’s Tennis courts’… "
Tennis Magazine
“... when tennis is more than a solo pursuit, but a communal effort…
SF Chronicle
"the first time that a nonprofit was able to negotiate a breakup fee..."
NBC Bay Area
"Historic tennis courts reopen in San Francisco's Bayview-Hunters Point Neighborhood"
Inside Tennis
"A San Francisco Triumph and the Unsinkable Socolow..."
We proudly carry out our mission and are dedicated to continually funding projects throughout our community.
San Franciscans for Sports and Recreation (SFFSR) is a 501(c)(4) social welfare organization whose mission is to preserve, protect and promote recreational facilities and activities in the San Francisco Bay Area.
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