Virginia opens Wheelchair Tennis Training Center

From The News Virginian:

FISHERSVILLE, Va. — Virginia’s first Wheelchair Tennis Training Center opened today at Augusta Health, inviting the public to celebrate by viewing an exhibition match.

“My job here is to offer tennis to the entire community, including those in wheelchairs,” said Chad Reed, Augusta Health’s tennis coordinator and professional. “[This program] grows the sport of tennis.”

The match featured Jillanna “Mel” Curry, 49, who has won both gold and silver medals in United States Tennis Association Wheelchair Tennis Championships.

Curry began playing tennis at age 19 and first felt pain in her left calf on the court in 2003.

A clot and two blocked arteries forced doctors to amputate her leg above the knee.

“I haven’t lost a step, just a foot,” said Curry, who said she views losing her leg as a blessing.

She quickly embraced the sport after reading an article about a wheelchair tennis player in her local newspaper in Fredericksburg.

“It felt like my slice of apple pie,” Curry said about getting back out on the court. “It’s exposed me to new people and places. I’ve been able to meet tennis players all over the world and country.”

Curry said she’s most excited about teaching others to play the sport.

“I’ve encountered players who thought they couldn’t do anything and this showed them that they can,” she said. “I taught a 10-year-old boy recently who was so excited about being able to go out and play with his sister. He was glowing.”

The sport is the only to allow wheelchair users to play with and compete against able-bodied players. Wheelchair players are allowed two bounces before sending the ball back across the net, while able-bodied players must respond within one bounce.

Seven players attended today’s beginner’s clinic and two players are signed up for the competitive clinic, Reed said.

The program is organized by Augusta Health, USTA Virginia, Woodrow Wilson Rehabilitation Center and the Mid-Atlantic Wheelchair Athletic Association.

“It’s an amazing feeling to be able to bring the sport to wheelchair players, who might not have realized they have the ability to compete in a sport like tennis,” USTA Virginia Executive Director Janine Underwood said.

Joan Manley, Ms. Wheelchair Virginia, said attending the match was especially meaningful for her.

“In my advocacy work, I see people who are still struggling with the basics,” she said. “These people are thriving.”