Here you will be able to find answers to common questions related to Community Tennis Associations, also known as CTAs.
What is a Community Tennis Association (CTA)?
A USTA Community Tennis Association (CTA) is any incorporated, geographically defined, not-for-profit, volunteer tennis support organization that supports or provides comprehensive programs. CTAs are fueled by local volunteers and work to promote and develop the game of tennis in the community.
What is the purpose of a CTA?
A CTA’s purpose is to grow the sport of tennis in their community by working to establish, coordinate and maintain tennis programs and services, guaranteeing that they are open and accessible to all.
What do CTAs do?
- CTAs work to do the following:
- Establish, coordinate, and maintain tennis programs and services.
- Ensure programs are open and accessible to all.
- Act as advocates for tennis in the community.
- Administer tennis programs.
- Promote tennis.
- Fundraise for tennis initiatives.
- Partner with other community organizations to help grow the game at the local level.
What are the characteristics of a CTA?
A CTAs must have these characteristics they must be incorporated geographically defined, not-for-profit organization, a volunteer tennis support organization and they must be multi-purpose.
What programs do CTAs offer?
CTAs offer a wide variety of tennis programs to cater to different segments of the community. The USTA offers programs, many times in partnership with CTAs, for all levels of tennis players.
- Introductory programs for new players
- Recreational and social programs via Social Leagues & Team Up Events
- Competitive tournaments and leagues via USTA Leagues and USTA-sanctioned tournaments
- Adaptive and wheelchair tennis programs
- School programs in conjunction with K-12 schools
- Youth Tennis via Net Generation
How do I form a new CTA?
Forming a new CTA involves ongoing coordinated efforts by a group of dedicated tennis players who want to serve their community. The first step is to develop Bylaws, which will serve as your governing document. It is very helpful to look at the Bylaws of other CTAs in your state and section. Your Bylaws should include your mission statement.
What is a CTA’s mission statement?
A CTA’s mission statement should define its purpose. The USTA’s mission statement is to "promote and develop the growth of tennis."
What is the role of the Board of Directors?
Establishing a knowledgeable and diverse Board of Directors is vital to the success of a CTA. Your CTA will be responsible for meeting a number of federal, state, and USTA requirements, and your Board members can be of great assistance. A CTA’s Board will most likely include tennis enthusiasts from your community, and should also include individuals who can help achieve your mission and have special skills in areas such as law, accounting, and fundraising.
What committees should a CTA have?
A CTA’s committee structure will most likely be related to its mission statement. A CTA may start with a few committees, such as:
- Governance
- Youth programs
- Adult programs
- Communications
As your programs grow, you will want to create additional committees.
What are the required documents for CTAs?
- Bylaws
- Articles of Incorporation
- Federal Tax ID (Employer Identification Number)
- Annual tax returns (Form 990N, 990, or 990EZ)
How do I incorporate my CTA?
CTAs are considered to be corporations under most state laws. Therefore, you must file Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of State. Websites for most Secretary of State Offices include sample forms that are very helpful.
How do I obtain a Federal Tax ID (Employer Identification Number)?
You can apply to the IRS online, by fax, or mail through the IRS website.
How do I apply for tax exempt status with the IRS?
It is required that CTAs become non-profit organizations approved by the Internal Revenue Service. Information on how to apply to the IRS to become a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization is found on the IRS web page. It is critical that you seek assistance from a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or other individual who is very knowledgeable about this application process.
How do I comply with my state's charitable solicitation registration requirements?
Most states require organizations that solicit charitable contributions to register under their Charitable Solicitations law. The National Association of State Charity Officials (NASCO) website has contact information for all states.
How do I submit annual tax returns to the IRS?
If your CTA is approved for tax-exempt status by the IRS, you are required to file annual returns in the form of a 990N, 990, or 990EZ. Instructions for completing and filing these forms can be found on the IRS web page.
How can a CTA fund its activities?
CTAs can utilize a variety of funding sources to support their operations and programs:
- Program Fees: Most CTAs run programs that have a participation/entry fee which hopefully cumulatively exceeds the cost of running the program.
- Grants: District, state, section, and/or USTA national organizations may have funds available for programming, equipment, and educational assistance.
- Corporate Donations: Many companies are looking for opportunities to donate to worthy causes, especially those related to health and fitness.
- Individual Donations: When soliciting donations from individuals, CTAs should provide a specific cause to support and personalize it with the people that will be supported.
- Foundations: Community foundations may provide funding, particularly for upgrading or building tennis facilities.
- Retail: Some grocery stores and restaurants (especially chains) will allow CTAs to designate specific days for fundraising, where a percentage of sales goes to the CTA.
What communication channels should a CTA have?
CTAs should establish both internal and external channels of communication with periodic messaging, including:
- Regular CTA Board and/or management meetings with documented minutes.
- Internal communication to board members, staff, and volunteers.
- External communication to participants, community partners, and the general public, using methods such as:
- CTA Newsletter (email or direct mail)
- Email Programs
- Other Sporting Events
- Parent/Teacher Associations
- Posted Notices (banners, yard signs, etc.)
- Radio/TV
- Social Media
- Text Blasts
- Third Party Newsletter
- Trade Shows
- Webinars
- Website
What is Serve Tennis and how can I utilize the tool ?
Serve Tennis is a flexible digital tool provided by the USTA to help CTAs and other tennis providers manage their organizations. It automates administrative and management processes, including:
- Registering players
- Administering online payments
- Communicating with customers
What advocacy resources does USTA provide?
The USTA has developed an Advocacy Handbook to assist CTAs in engaging with public- and private-sector decision-makers to promote tennis and secure support for local tennis facilities and programming.