Above the Net and i9 Sports Partner to Expand Youth Tennis

What do you get when two youth-centered, community focused sports organizations come together to deliver tennis? You get a game-changing partnership that combines passion, sport specific expertise, and community spirit.

Above the Net, a United States Tennis Association (USTA) National Junior Tennis and Learning (NJTL) organization and leader in youth tennis and community development, has responded to the growing trend of sports inclusivity by partnering with i9 Sports League Office 429 of McDonough/Stockbridge to expand tennis opportunities for families in the greater metro Atlanta area. The McDonough/Stockbridge office is an independently owned and operated franchise of i9 Sports, the nation’s largest multi-sport youth league provider.

This exciting collaboration will bring high-quality guided tennis instruction to the i9 Sports network, giving young athletes the chance to learn, grow, and thrive on the court while building sportsmanship, confidence, and a lifelong love for the game.

“By teaming up with i9 Sports, we’re creating greater access for kids to experience tennis in a fun, supportive environment,” said Caniece Haywood, Founder and CEO of Above the Net. “Together, we’re helping bridge the gap in resources and opening doors for the next generation of players.”

“At i9 Sports, we believe in making sports accessible, age-appropriate, and enjoyable for every child. Partnering with Above the Net allows us to add a progressive tennis experience to our offerings, the way youth sports should be,” said Danielle Smith-Tillman, Area Developer i9 Sports.

Programs will launch August 31, 2025, at McDonough High School, with opportunities for children of all skill levels to participate. Families can register at www.i9sports.com.

About Above the Net

Above the Net is a non-profit 501(c)(3) community-centered youth development organization focused on growing the game of tennis while promoting literacy, wellness, and life skills. Through partnerships with schools, libraries, and local organizations, Above the Net bridges the gap in access to resources while fostering positive development on and off the court.

About i9 Sports

i9 Sports is the nation’s largest multi-sport youth league provider, offering flag football, soccer, basketball, baseball, volleyball, and tennis. With a mission to help kids succeed in life through sports, i9 Sports emphasizes fun, safety, and good sportsmanship for athletes of all backgrounds.