THE ATA 94TH NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS TOURNAMENT WAS HELD JULY 31 - AUGUST 5, 2011 IN ATLANTA, GEORGIA.

The ATA Board of Directors and volunteers under the leadership of President, Dr. Franklyn Scott and Executive Secretary and Tournament Director, Sallie Elams provided a week of excellent tennis, outstanding social events and the beginnings of the revival of the ATA as we once knew it. As President of the Midwest Section of the ATA (MID-TAC), I was both honored and pleased to be a part of such an outstanding display of professionalism and great taste.

The week long tournament offered an Opening Ceremony of Bitsy Grant Tennis Center on Sunday with USTA 10 and under tennis and a Board Dinner Meeting. On Monday everyone was treated to a BBQ featuring IVIS tennis demonstrations and the ATA Historical Exhibit. On Tuesday the youth had a pizza party with PIZZA GALORE! Wednesday treated the Life Members to an exquisite reception at the Grand Hyatt host hotel, followed by the Annual Meeting. Others had the opportunity to tour, sample restaurants and see historical sites on the ATA Party Bus. Thursday a high performance training program was held at the Piedmont facility for juniors and later in the day a junior development forum and awards reception. Adults had a choice of Tennis Under the Stars hosted by some of Atlanta's finest tennis organizations, while others attended the "Old School Party" w/dj and food. The Black Tennis Hall of Fame Induction Gala ended the week in grand style. The tournament finals were held on Thursday and Friday, featuring some of the best adult and junior tennis that I have seen in a while. Plans are already in place for the 95th Championships to be held in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida in 2012. Kudos to the new Executive Director, Al Tucker and Assistant, Caroline Rucker. Visit: www.americantennisassociation.org for pictures and more details.

Sallie Elams and Dr. Franklyn Scott @ Old School Party - 94th Championships

Darnesha Moore of Chicago, IL (a MID-TAC Junior Player) won 1st place in Girls' 16 Singles at 94th Championships in Atlanta - Pictured with doubles partner Shelby Daniel of Chicago, IL