In a landmark development for collegiate tennis, USTA Florida has awarded a $100,000 grant to Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) to construct the institution’s first on-campus tennis courts. This investment signifies a monumental step in enhancing athletic facilities at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Florida.
Grant Presentation Ceremony
The formal check presentation occurred on February 28, 2025, at the Bethune-Cookman Performing Arts Center in Daytona Beach, Florida. University administrators and representatives from USTA Florida attended the event, underscoring the significance of this contribution to B-CU’s athletic future.
Impact on Bethune-Cookman University
This funding will enable B-CU to build its inaugural on-campus tennis courts, a milestone that promises to elevate the university’s tennis program. Currently, B-CU fields a women’s tennis team competing in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), with no existing men’s program. The new facilities are expected to enhance recruitment efforts, improve player development, and strengthen the university’s championship culture.
Statements from University Leadership
Sherry Paramore, B-CU’s Vice President of Institutional Advancement, expressed gratitude for the grant, stating, “This generous investment from USTA Florida marks a historic moment for our Wildcat Nation.” She emphasized that the funding represents a commitment to fostering a championship culture that provides student-athletes with the resources to compete at the highest level both on and off the tennis court.
USTA Florida’s Commitment to HBCUs
This grant is part of USTA Florida’s broader initiative to support HBCU tennis programs. By providing financial resources and support, USTA Florida aims to enrich the collegiate experience for student-athletes and promote growth, diversity, and inclusion within the sport across the state.
Conclusion
The collaboration between USTA Florida and Bethune-Cookman University exemplifies a shared commitment to advancing tennis at HBCUs. The new on-campus tennis courts will serve as a catalyst for the university’s athletic excellence, offering student-athletes enhanced opportunities to develop their skills and compete at higher levels.
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