About YDA
At Youth Development Association Tennis (YDA), we believe in the transformative power of sports, education, and mentorship. Since our inception in 1992, we have been dedicated to inspiring and empowering youth in Huntsville, Alabama, and beyond to soar to new heights in their personal and academic journeys.
At the heart of YDA are our core values of Integrity, Accountability, Diversity, Leadership, and Mentorship. These values guide every program, every interaction, and every decision we make, ensuring that we remain steadfast in our commitment to the youth we serve.
Our Core Values
Our Mission
Youth Development Association is unwaveringly committed to empowering youth from all backgrounds through the transformative power of tennis, education, and mentorship. Our mission is to inspire and equip underserved youth throughout North Alabama, with the skills, knowledge, and character needed to excel as scholar-athletes, compassionate leaders, and active contributors to their communities. We provide a safe and inclusive space where every young person can soar in education and tennis while embracing the values of integrity, accountability, diversity, leadership, and mentorship.
Our Vision
Our vision is to be a beacon of hope and opportunity, creating a world where every young individual, regardless of their circumstances, can thrive in their diversity and reach their fullest potential. We envision a future where tennis serves as a vehicle for personal growth, where education becomes a gateway to limitless possibilities, and where mentorship inspires the next generation of leaders. Through our unwavering commitment, we aspire to empower youth not only to challenge the unknown but to conquer it, leaving a lasting legacy of positive change in their lives, communities, and beyond.
Support YDA Today!
Join Us in Making a Difference We invite you to join us on this inspiring journey. Whether you're a young athlete looking to develop your skills, a mentor seeking to make a positive impact, or a supporter eager to contribute to our mission, you can be a part of the YDA family.
At Youth Development Association Tennis, we are more than an organization—we are a community of individuals dedicated to empowering youth to reach their full potential. Together, we are setting the stage for a brighter future, one serve, one lesson, and one life at a time.
More About YDA!
Innovative After-School Programs
We are known for our innovative after-school programs that inspire underserved youth to reach their full potential. By combining the discipline and teamwork of tennis with life skills education, we provide a well-rounded approach to personal development.
Community Collaboration YDA thrives on collaboration. We work closely with public and private organizations, schools, government agencies, and community-based organizations to expand the reach and impact of our programs. Together, we create opportunities for youth to thrive.
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Our Team
Our dedicated team, led by Co-Founder & Executive Director Al Garrett, brings years of experience in tennis coaching, education, and mentorship. Each member of our team is passionate about nurturing the potential within every young person we encounter.
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A Legacy of Excellence
Our legacy is built on the achievements of our participants. From academic success stories to the development of future leaders, YDA alumni have gone on to make significant contributions to their communities and beyond.