the USTA partners with mobile app provider DoubleDutch to connect LGBT players

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The USTA announced today that it will participate in the 2015 New York City and San Francisco Pride Parades on June 28 in celebration of LGBT Pride Month. In addition, the USTA has partnered with award-winning global provider of mobile event applications DoubleDutch to develop the “LGBT Tennis Network,” a free social networking app to connect LGBT tennis players and their friends, family and allies.

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As part of the USTA’s commitment to fostering an environment that is fully inclusive and inviting to all people regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, orientation or socioeconomic status, the national governing body will have a presence at this year’s Pride Parades for the first time in the organization’s history. Representatives from the USTA’s national office will march in the New York City Pride Parade, while staff from the USTA Northern California section will march in the San Francisco Pride Parade.

The day will also mark a full launch of the “LGBT Tennis Network” app, where both groups will provide promotional materials and giveaways to parade participants.

“The USTA is excited to celebrate LGBT Pride Month at this year’s Pride Parades in New York and San Francisco,” said D.A. Abrams, Chief Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) Officer, USTA. “Diversity and Inclusion is a strategic priority and core value at the USTA, and our presence at both parades is a clear example of how the organization embraces and encourages diversity outreach efforts. We are proud that our staff and volunteers will be on hand to promote our newly developed social networking app that will connect and foster a community with fellow LGBT tennis players. At the USTA, we see D&I as being everyone’s responsibility, as our sport continues to be in the forefront of inclusiveness and engaging with the LGBT community.”

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“I applaud the USTA for this historic moment in the history of its organization,” said Tennis Hall of Famer and activist Billie Jean King. “Tennis is a sport that’s fun for everyone and I’m thrilled the USTA is working to make the game more accessible for all members of the LGBT community.”

Earlier this year, the USTA partnered with DoubleDutch to develop the “LGBT Tennis Network” app. Through the use of mobile technology, the app will provide the LGBT community with greater access to the national tennis community. Members will have an opportunity to find hitting partners in their area, post photos, chat with other users, register for tournaments and learn about upcoming tennis events in their communities.

“DoubleDutch is excited to partner with the USTA to launch the LGBT Tennis Network app,” said Lawrence Coburn, CEO of DoubleDutch. “By harnessing the power of mobile, USTA is creating a national community of players, providing unprecedented access and exposure to the sport. We hope that through the app, USTA will be able to engage new members and foster even greater inclusivity and acceptance.”

The app is available to download in the Google Play store.

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