Detroit, MI – Rose O’Laughlin, a determined 7-year-old with a passion for tennis, has been named the 2024 recipient of the A.H. Sports Hunter Heck and Lynn Bender Wheelchair Tennis Grant. This prestigious grant, awarded through USTA’s commitment to growing wheelchair tennis, will provide Rose with crucial support as she continues to develop her skills in the sport she loves.
Rose’s journey into tennis began a few years ago at a wheelchair tennis camp hosted by Hope College. It was there that she first experienced the excitement of the game, made new friends, and—most memorably—won a specialized tennis wheelchair. This sports chair has been a game-changer, allowing Rose to explore athletic opportunities that were previously out of reach.
Since attending camp, Rose has remained dedicated to improving her game. She trains with a private coach and participates in all the USTA wheelchair tennis clinics offered in the Detroit area. These clinics not only enhance her skills but also provide a fun and supportive community where she connects with other young athletes who have physical disabilities.
For the O’Laughlin family, tennis is more than just a sport—it’s a shared passion. Rose’s older brother plays tennis, and her cousins in Colorado are elite players. One of the aspects Rose and her family love most about the sport is its inclusivity, as wheelchair players can compete alongside able-bodied athletes.
Beyond tennis, Rose is a bright and kind-hearted young girl who enjoys spending time with her brother and her dog. She looks up to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for his dedication to creating a more accepting and peaceful society. When asked about her future, Rose dreams of becoming either a disability rights advocate or, fittingly, a tennis coach.
The O’Laughlin family is deeply grateful for the grant, which will help cover the cost of private lessons—essential for Rose’s development, as many group clinics are not yet fully accessible for wheelchair players. “This support makes a huge difference in allowing Rose to continue growing in the sport she loves,” said her mother, Jenny O’Laughlin.
When recently asked again what she wanted to be when she grows up, Rose didn’t hesitate: “A tennis coach!” With her determination, passion, and the support of the USTA, there’s no doubt that Rose’s tennis journey is just beginning.
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