May 18, 2026 – The Decatur Community Tennis Foundation is seeking volunteers to serve as ball runners during the upcoming Illinois Women’s Pro Tennis Championships, with training scheduled for May 31 at the Fairview Tennis Complex.
Training will take place from 1 to 2 p.m. Sunday, May 31, at the Fairview Tennis Center. Organizers say the opportunity is open to youth ages 12 and older who are interested in earning service hours while participating in a professional tennis event.
Volunteers selected as ball runners are expected to be available June 13-14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. during tournament play.
The Illinois Women’s Pro Tennis Championships is part of the United States Tennis Association Professional Circuit and will feature 70 players representing more than 15 countries. Competitors will play for Women’s Tennis Association ranking points and a $30,000 prize purse.
Tournament organizers said many players who compete in similar professional circuit events later advance to compete in Grand Slam tournaments.
The tournament is organized by the Decatur Community Tennis Foundation, a nonprofit organization focused on supporting tennis opportunities in the community.
The USTA Pro Circuit was established in 1979 to help players earn professional ranking points needed to advance to higher-level tours. The circuit now includes approximately 100 tournaments each year with nearly $3 million in annual prize money.
Those interested in becoming a ball runner or learning more about the opportunity can contact tournament director Chuck Kuhle at 217-433-8864 or by email at kuhletennis@gmail.com.
