The Diede de Groot Tennis Academy was officially launched this week with the first Junior Camp in Orlando! The Diede de Groot Academy supports young people with physical disabilities through wheelchair tennis around the world. Her mission fits perfectly with our mission to give more children the space to play and grow, and that’s why we work together.
The Cruyff Foundation have been working with the International Tennis Federation (ITF) for many years to make wheelchair tennis more accessible. From that shared mission, partnering with the Diede de Groot Academy is a valuable next step. The Cruyff Foundation supports the Academy with content, funding and organisation, helping more children experience how sport can support and inspire them.
With various programs, clinics, and activities, the Academy focuses on creating equal opportunities, boosting self-confidence, and promoting inclusion.
“For years, it has been my wish to give something back to the sport that has given me so much. With the Diede de Groot Academy, I want to make children feel that they can achieve anything, at their own pace and in their own way. Everyone deserves the space to move and have fun,” says Diede. The launch of the Academy is a sustainable step towards an inclusive sports world.
Tennis camp in Orlando
This week, the Diede de Groot Academy's first project, the Junior Camp, took place in Orlando (US). Fifteen young people who are at the start of a top-level career in wheelchair tennis traveled to Orlando with their coach for this special program. The Junior Camp was made possible by the Cruyff Foundation, in collaboration with the International Tennis Federation (ITF).