Become a Volunteer for Brookville Park Tennis Association. Click here!
Become a Volunteer for Brookville Park Tennis Association. Click here!
Brookville Park Tennis Association, Inc. (BPTA) is a volunteer-based organization dedicated to youth development and the Brookville community. Through our free summer tennis programs at Brookville Park, all children have the opportunity to learn and enjoy the game. Beyond tennis fundamentals, we emphasize discipline, confidence, and teamwork, supporting the growth of young participants both on and off the tennis court.
Brookville Park Tennis Association, Inc. (BPTA)
THE ASSOCIATION
Brookville Park Tennis Association, Inc. (BPTA)—formerly Brookville Park Tennis Club—is a 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2009 by dedicated tennis enthusiasts who regularly played at Brookville Park. Today, BPTA proudly serves Southeast Queens and its surrounding communities, with a strong emphasis on youth development. Since its founding, membership has grown from 30 to more than 80 active members, and the Association now celebrates its 17th year of service.
BPTA’s mission, as defined in its by-laws, is to use tennis as a catalyst for year-round academic enrichment and leadership development for youth. The Association is committed to fostering strong character, healthy lifestyle choices, and educational advancement. In alignment with USTA standards, BPTA promotes sportsmanship, competitive play, and community engagement for both youth and adults.
One of BPTA’s proudest accomplishments is its youth program, launched in 2011. It now serves more than 100 participants—even maintaining steady growth during the COVID-19 pandemic. To meet rising demand, BPTA continues to increase the number of Safe-Play Certified Coaches and actively recruits volunteers to support its expanding programs.
BPTA remains committed to broadening access to tennis, particularly for young people. Through the program, youth attend events such as Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day at the US Open, providing them with inspiring exposure to high-level tennis. The Association also encourages players to participate in match play with peers across the boroughs and supports advanced youth in entering USTA tournaments. To ensure year-round progression, BPTA offers indoor winter training to keep young athletes active, engaged, and continuously developing. Youth development remains BPTA’s primary focus, with the goal of nurturing lifelong tennis enthusiasts who lead both on and off the court.
For adult members, a signature BPTA tradition is the Annual Ladder Clash Competition, an inclusive event open to players of all ages, genders, and tennis ratings. Running from May through August, the competition culminates in a Fundraiser Award Dinner Dance each October—an event that both celebrates our Ladder champions and raises vital funds for the youth winter program.
BPTA is deeply grateful to its founding and current members for transforming a small idea into a cornerstone of community growth. With the support of members, sponsors, and friends, we continue pursuing our vision of shaping the next generation of tennis Kings and Queens. We cannot do this work alone, and we look forward to your continued partnership.
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March 28, 2026
By: Valsey Bartley - President BPTA
BPTA’s first General Meeting, held on March 28, 2026, marked a strong and meaningful close to our winter indoor programs. The meeting took place at the VFW Post, located at 65 East Merrick Road in Valley Stream, with 34 members and guests in attendance. The overall message of the evening was clear: Brookville Park Tennis Association members are uniting with a shared commitment to remain true to our mission—elevating youth and strengthening our community through tennis. With the introduction of a newly structured leadership team, including a seven-member Board of Directors and ten Committee Chairs, the organization is intentionally expanding opportunities for member engagement, participation, and volunteerism. The meeting audience consisted largely of new members, along with a smaller group of prospective members—an encouraging sign of continued growth. As part of the program, a brief history of BPTA was shared, reflecting on its beginnings 17 years ago with a group of dedicated players at Brookville Park. It was especially meaningful to acknowledge several founding and long-standing contributors who were present, including: Vice President Paulette Small, First President Mr. Eric Ambrose, Mr. Allen Monrose and First Event Coordinator Ms. Diana Alleyne. Members were reminded of the importance of honoring BPTA’s history while continuing to build a strong and sustainable future. Key topics discussed during the meeting included: BPTA’s current financial status - New Parks Department policies, including court usage fees for drills - Youth Program permit approvals and compliance requirements - Strengthening collaboration with USTA to support youth development pathways - Administrative renewals and compliance priorities for 2026 -Ladder League New App introductory scoring method to be implemented and considering increasing the membership fees by $20 with a 2/3 vote siting rising cost and payment of court fees.
To further engage membership, surveys were distributed to: Assess interest in joining committees and volunteering and another to gather feedback on ways to enhance the Youth Program to better serve the broader community While many additional topics were discussed, the meeting ultimately reflected a collective commitment to growth, structure, and community impact. A special thank you is extended to Glenda, whose thoughtful provision of refreshments—including finger foods, tea, coffee, and treats—added a warm and welcoming touch to the evening. Special recognition is also given to BPTA’s young entrepreneur Geneva, who created beautifully designed chocolate treats in Brookville colors and logo. Her creativity and attention to detail were evident, and they tasted great Finally, sincere appreciation is extended to all who attended, and especially to our Vice President, Paulette Small, whose dedication from the organization’s inception continues to help elevate BPTA. We encourage all members to attend future meetings and remain actively involved as we continue to grow and strengthen tBrookville Park Tennis Association, Inc.
March 2026 - Brookville Park Tennis Association, Inc. (BPTA) recently wrapped up a series of Red Ball drills, giving beginner players a strong and supportive introduction to the game. Designed to slow the pace and simplify learning, Red Ball allows participants to develop control, consistency, and confidence in a comfortable environment. Players quickly gained essential skills while enjoying the process and building belief in their abilities. Led by our dedicated coaches—Sir Lawrence Gallmon, Eric Ambrose, and Gary Lahens—each session blended instruction with encouragement, creating an atmosphere that was both fun and impactful. More than just drills, the program fostered connection, growth, and enthusiasm across the group. With overwhelmingly positive feedback and a clear desire to continue, the Red Ball sessions have laid a solid foundation as we prepare to transition outdoors for the summer season starting with Opening Day on May 2, 2026. At BPTA, we remain committed to developing players at every level—creating pathways that inspire growth, confidence, and a lifelong love of the game.
Dick's check presentation to BPTA's 2025 Youth Program
Dr. Tocci speaking on stress and inflammation
It's registration time for the 2025 season
BPTA VP collecting jackets, boots and socks to launch the Women's Initiative