Las Vegas – Tennis With Friends Fosters Inclusion After USTA Bars Transgender Women

National Policy Shift Leaves Players Searching for Alternatives (Image Credits: Unsplash)

Las Vegas – Local tennis enthusiasts responded to a restrictive national policy by creating Tennis With Friends, a recreational league that welcomes transgender and cisgender women alike for casual play and camaraderie.[1]

National Policy Shift Leaves Players Searching for Alternatives

The U.S. Tennis Association implemented a significant eligibility update on December 1, 2025, redefining “woman” and “female” in biological terms.[1] This move excluded transgender women from women’s and girls’ events, requiring them to compete in men’s categories instead. The change followed a January 2025 executive order from President Donald Trump and aimed to align with guidelines from the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee. Players raised concerns about safety and fairness in those settings, citing lingering physical advantages despite hormone therapy.

Transgender women like Poi Kulzer, a Henderson resident who takes lessons twice weekly, found themselves unable to continue in familiar leagues. The policy risked mid-match disqualifications and unwanted scrutiny. Kulzer emphasized her dedication to the sport through consistent practice rather than any innate edge.[1]

Two Founders Step Up to Build a Welcoming Space

Christine Delisle and Valerie Witherspoon launched Tennis With Friends in January 2026 to fill the void. The league quickly drew over 100 participants eager for social tennis without eligibility barriers. Witherspoon highlighted the focus on bonding over competition. “We’re basically making people do all sorts of stupid things to be best friends,” she said. “We just want people bonding and laughing.”[1]

Meetings take place at public venues such as Darling Tennis Center in west Las Vegas Valley. A February 3 gathering featured 16 women in doubles matches, complete with lighthearted penalties. The initiative complements USTA events rather than competing with them, prioritizing enjoyment for all who identify as female.

House Rules Add Fun to Every Rally

Tennis With Friends incorporates playful guidelines to enhance the social experience. Players earn “brownie points” for themed outfits, like dressing as tennis legends. Double faults trigger optional sharing of embarrassing stories, allowing unlimited serves in exchange.

• Share a personal anecdote after a double fault for a redo.
• Dress as your favorite player for bonus points.
• Focus on laughter and new friendships over strict scoring.
• Teams form flexibly for doubles at public courts.
• Open to all women, emphasizing community over competition.

Participants such as Tina Back and Lorraine Yarde embraced the vibe during the recent meet-up. Yarde noted, “Everybody should have a fair shot to play the game they love.”[1]

Personal Stories Highlight the League’s Impact

Veteran player Bonnie Taney, who has swung a racket for over 15 years, called the USTA shift “a bummer” but praised the new group. “Having Val and Christine step up and make this league that includes everyone was amazing,” she said. Supporters like Kristyl Addison, who arrived in Billie Jean King attire, reinforced the message of open access to the sport.

For many, tennis serves as more than recreation. Kulzer credited it with helping her manage grief after her father’s death three years ago. “I didn’t have to take antidepressants because I had tennis,” she shared. The league offers a discreet, affirming environment where players can “wear a cute dress and blend in.”[1]

As the group grows, it demonstrates how grassroots efforts can promote inclusion amid policy debates. Tennis With Friends proves that the sport’s appeal transcends divisions, uniting players through shared passion.

This league underscores a simple truth: tennis thrives when everyone gets to play. What do you think about efforts like this in local sports? Tell us in the comments.