STARability Foundation Launches Tennis Program

STARability Foundation is excited to announce it has launched a tennis program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The free program, offered seasonally, is done in partnership with Eagle Creek Country Club.

Twelve individuals participated in the first program, which was led by Tim Bauer, the head tennis pro at the club. Eagle Creek Country Club provided all equipment, facilities and water. Participants learned the fundamentals of tennis and splitting up at different levels to learn new skills.

“We are extremely grateful to volunteer Reed Halvorson for facilitating this partnership with Eagle Creek Country Club and Tim to offer this amazing program to our STARs,” said Karen Govern, CEO of STARability Foundation. “The valuable skills they learned will translate to their everyday lives. With the success of the program, we hope to offer it again in the future.”

Since 2019, Eagle Creek Golf & Country Club has been rated “Best Tennis Facility” in Naples by the Readers of Gulfshore Life Magazine with a tennis program designed to provide an excellent tennis experience for players of any ability. Private lessons from a tennis professional or mixed doubles teams are available on seven har-tru tennis courts.

“This was my first time ever playing tennis and I loved that everyone worked together to learn new tennis skills,” said STARability participant Beau Crevier. “We appreciate Tim and all the volunteers at Eagle Creek.”

Tim’s career has spanned coaching world-ranked WTA and ATP Professional tennis players and NCAA competitors, to directing distinguished private clubs and resorts. He has served some of the top names in tennis including Saddlebrook, Nike Tennis Camps, Van Der Meer and Yonex Racquet Sports.

For more information on current programs, visit STARability.org or email Connor Nehls, STARability’s program operations manager, at connor@STARability.org. 

For four decades, STARability Foundation has been shining a light on abilities, not disabilities. Formed by a small community of caring parents, STARability has become one of Southwest Florida’s leading nonprofits. Today, the organization is opening a world of possibilities for hundreds of individuals ages 14 and older by offering a variety of inclusive programs focused on vocational training, continuing education, teamwork, social engagement and community involvement. Their compassionate team supports people with disabilities by providing life-transforming opportunities that emphasize teamwork and a connection to the community while strengthening awareness and respect for individual abilities. To learn more about the services and program offerings available, please visit STARability.org.