Alex O'Brien Tennis Foundation

The Alex O'Brien Tennis Foundation: Serving Up Opportunity in Amarillo

In the heart of Amarillo, Texas, a tennis legend's vision is changing lives, one swing at a time. Alex O'Brien, a hometown hero who rose from Tascosa High School to claim world-class victories, has returned to his roots with a powerful mission: to bring the transformative power of tennis to every child in Amarillo, regardless of their background.

Alex's journey is nothing short of inspirational. From dominating high school courts to clinching NCAA titles at Stanford, and ultimately reaching the pinnacle of professional tennis as the world's top-ranked doubles player in 2000, Alex has tasted success at every level. But his greatest achievement wasn't on the grand stages of Wimbledon or the US Open – it was the moment he decided to serve his community.

More Than Just a Game

In 1998, Alex founded what would become the Alex O'Brien Tennis Foundation with a simple yet profound goal: to create opportunity. In a town where many children might never have picked up a racket, Alex saw potential waiting to be unleashed.

The foundation's programs read like a playbook for community transformation:

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  and New in 2025: Padel Courts: We're proud to announce the donation of brand-new Padel courts to the Amarillo National Tennis Center—an exciting addition that expands access to one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. This project reflects our mission to promote active, inclusive, and community-driven play. Whether you're a seasoned tennis player or new to the sport, these courts offer a fun, social, and accessible way to stay engaged. AOBTF is thrilled to bring more opportunities for movement, connection, and growth to the Amarillo community—one game at a time. Th
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  Board of Champions: At the Amarillo National Tennis Center, a special board stands tall, showcasing local tennis heroes alongside rising stars. It's more than recognition – it's inspiration. As one 7-year-old gazed up at the photos, he declared, "One day my picture will be on that board! I just have to keep working really hard."Matc
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  Play Challenges and Ladders: Recognizing that growth comes from competition, the foundation organizes events that encourage kids to play more matches. With prizes ranging from hats to tennis camp scholarships, these initiatives keep young players motivated and improving.Tennis


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  n the Parks: For over 27 years, this summer program has been a lifeline for underprivileged youth in Amarillo. Last year alone, it provided over 150 hours of free tennis lessons to a record-breaking 850 kids from all across Amarillo.Partners
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  p with Kids Inc.: In a groundbreaking collaboration, the foundation reached 480 children in just four weeks – 70% of whom had never held a tennis racket before. It's not just about tennis; it's about being part of something bigger than yourself. This partnership just celebrated its 10th Anniversary!The Impact
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are impressive, but the real story is in the lives changed. It's in the eyes of a child who discovers they're capable of more than they ever imagined. It's in the friendships formed across social boundaries. It's in the discipline, confidence, and joy that come from mastering a challenging skill.Every donati

on to the Alex O'Brien Tennis Foundation isn't just funding a sports program – it's investing in the future of Amarillo. It's giving children the opportunity to dream, to grow, and to become champions in their own right, both on and off the court.As Alex's ow

n journey proves, from the courts of Amarillo, anything is possible. With your support, we can ensure that every child in our community gets their shot at greatness.Join us in s

erving up opportunity, one swing at a time.Donation Lev

elsPremier  – $

10,000 “Transform

a

community through the power of tennis.” At the Premier level, your gift makes a transformational impact. With $10,000, you can provide over 13 weeks of tennis camp or support 40 weeks of rural educational programming—bringing structured, life-enriching activities to hundreds of underserved youth. Your suppor

t

helps create lasting infrastructure: equipment, coaching, mentorship, and ongoing programs that build confidence, discipline, and opportunity. As a Premie

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, you're not just supporting tennis—you’re shaping futures. Grand Slam

S

upporter – $5,000 “Big impact

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Big serve.” A $5,000 donation funds 6 full weeks of community tennis camp or 20 weeks of rural programming, offering consistent, positive engagement for youth throughout the year. It also covers dozens of gear packages—rackets, balls, and more—ensuring no child is left behind due to lack of resources. Your gift s

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pports coaching, transportation, and tournament access—giving young players the tools to compete, grow, and dream big. This is how

champions—and communities—are built. Friends of

A

OBTF – $3,000 “Where frie

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dship meets foundation.” Your generous $3,000 donation powers 4 weeks of tennis camp or 12 weeks of rural educational programming. That’s four wee…