03/16/2026
We’re so excited to welcome Philadelphia to the ACEing Autism community! 🎾
Over the weekend, we launched our first program in the city in partnership with the University of Pennsylvania Men’s Tennis Team and an amazing group of student volunteers, who helped bring 8 athletes to the court for our very first clinic.
One of the driving forces behind the program is Sydney Smith, a freshman at UPenn who previously served as a Program Director in Calabasas, CA. After seeing the impact of ACEing Autism firsthand, she was inspired to bring the program to her university and expand opportunities for athletes in a new community.
There were also some full-circle moments on court. Ian, an 18-year-old volunteer, participated as an ACEing Autism athlete for five years at another Philadelphia location — and this weekend he returned to the court in a new role, giving back as a volunteer.
Moments like this are what our mission is all about: creating spaces where individuals with autism can grow, build confidence, and find connection through tennis.
A big thank you to the Penn volunteers and leaders who helped bring this program to life. We can’t wait to see Philadelphia grow! 🎾💙