The state of USTA junior tennis in Northern California is unknown.

As parents of junior tennis players, we have become accustomed to a full-year calendar of tournaments being published online in January. In reality, with the COVID-19 pandemic, we are aware of the challenges this situation has caused and understand the disruption contributed to the lack of scheduled tournaments.

The most troubling issue today is the lack of communication from our section. By not understanding what NorCal has scheduled or planned beyond a few months, it truly makes planning nearly impossible (eg the usual June NorCal sectional tournament is still not on the calendar). Many parents are taking matters into their own hands and have already traveled as far as Rhode Island for Level 4 (open) tournaments.

We are asking for an increase in Level 4 & Level 5 (open & closed) tournaments in NorCal. Additionally, we ask for an immediate communication outlining the NorCal Section plans for junior tennis in 2021. It would also be helpful to introduce the new staff members who are involved with junior tennis to include their area of responsibility. This will go a long way in eliminating rumors and frustration regarding leadership.

The parents behind this letter love the game of tennis, are supporters of junior tennis and want USTA NorCal to shine as the best section in the country. You can take a big step forward from our point of view if you would either hold virtual Town Hall type meetings or issue regular email communications discussing the plan for the year.