MONTGOMERY – City officials today celebrated the completion of two tennis courts at Montgomery’s Edward Thompson Park built specifically for the River Region’s first adaptive tennis program. Mayor Todd Strange dedicated the facility in honor of the Mrs. Irene O. Miller Estate and Hettye Sue Bridger and Court One to Wynlakes tennis professional Dani Leal.
“This is another positive step for the city of Montgomery as we continue investing in our athletic infrastructure,” Strange said. “Not only are we making strides to bring scores of visitors to the River Region for events like the Camellia Bowl, but we’re taking every step necessary to introduce residents who previously lacked direct access to new and healthy activities to enhance their lives.”
The city partnered with Dream Court Inc., a recently founded but quickly growing nonprofit that provides an adaptive tennis program to individuals with physical or intellectual disabilities. Participating athletes in the program include individuals with Down syndrome, autism and other disabilities, as well as those with physical challenges involving mobility, sight and hearing. Dream Court focuses on promoting inclusion, active lifestyles, positive self-esteem and appropriate social behaviors while encouraging fun on the court.
During the construction of the two tennis courts, Dream Court provided tennis sessions to more than 30 athletes during spring, summer and fall. Camps were held at O’Connor Tennis Center at Alabama State University, and Auburn University in Montgomery, during which more than 60 volunteers donated their time, expertise and selfless attitudes. Tennis players volunteered from area colleges and high schools including, AUM, Huntingdon, ASU, The Montgomery Academy, Saint James, Trinity Presbyterian School and Loveless Academic Magnet Program.
Dream Court tennis camps will be offered again beginning this spring on Saturdays in March and April at the new facility. If you wish to participate as a volunteer or athlete, please contact the Dream Court at dreamcourtinc@gmail.com.
Dream Court, a tax-exempt 501 (c) (3) organization, depends largely on the generosity and contributions of individuals and businesses. Financial contributions and in-kind donations are fully tax-deductible. The Dream Court Board of Directors includes Greg Alford, Nicky Armstrong, Gayle N. Fine, Lewis Gayden, Mays Jemison, Jill Mastin, Jenna Roton, Melanie Sparrow, Shannon G. Speir, Wiley Steen, Jennifer Stivers and Founder Jessica Weyreuter. The Board’s purpose is to build Dream Court into a sustainable and effective nonprofit organization focused on “Serving Hope, Changing Lives.”
For more information, contact Jessica Weyreuter at dreamcourtinc@gmail.com or (334) 414-1980.
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