ACEing Autism

Founded in 2008, ACEing Autism connects individuals with autism to tennis, using the sport as a powerful means to build connection, confidence, and community. Our goal is to make tennis accessible to children on the autism spectrum by offering high-quality, affordable, and inclusive programs that improve motor skills, social interaction, and self-esteem in a fun, supportive setting. Over 17 years, ACEing Autism has expanded from a single pilot clinic in Boston to a nationwide network of over 220 programs across 37 states, serving 7,155 participants in FY 2024-25 — a 19% growth from the previous year. Each clinic pairs a child with autism with a trained volunteer for one-on-one attention, fostering personalized engagement and support. 

Our objectives are to expand access to adaptive tennis in underserved communities nationwide and reach 10,000 children by 2026. We strive for outstanding program quality through an evidence-based curriculum, volunteer training, and collaborations with behavioral and tennis experts. We foster a sense of belonging by creating community ties among athletes, families, and volunteers that extend beyond the court. Key achievements include providing adaptive tennis to over 20,000 children since the program began, offering scholarships totaling over $100,000 annually to eliminate cost barriers, and partnering with more than 120 tennis facilities, 60 universities, and 6 research and advocacy groups, including UCLA’s Center for Autism Research and Treatment (CART). We demonstrate measurable results—90% of parents observe improvements in tennis and motor skills, 78% in mood and behavior, and 85% in social confidence. We have launched new initiatives such as Adult Adaptive Tennis, college-led programs, and sensory-inclusive volunteer training, thereby enhancing our reach and quality. Through strategic partnerships with USTA, Head Penn, and other organizations, ACEing Autism continues to lead in adaptive tennis, promoting inclusion and increasing awareness nationwide.