Wheelchair Tennis

The Veltri Racquet Center has partnered with the United States Tennis Association (USTA) Wheelchair Tennis Program to bring wheelchair tennis for both adults and children to Broward County. The Veltri Racquet Center is the only organization that offers specially sport-designed wheelchairs for use by the general public.

The program is offered the first and third Thursday of the month at 6:30pm. All levels and abilities are welcome.

Call 954-513-3540 for more information.

The Plantation Wheelchair Tennis Program is funded by the United States Tennis Association (USTA) and the Play Tennis Initiative.

Michele Hogarth is a Jamaican-born certified tennis professional with the PTR and a Level 2 certified coach with Love Serving Autism, specializing in working with children with special needs.

She is the lead coach for the Therapeutic Adaptive Tennis Program at the Frank Veltri Tennis Center and trained to successfully teach and support individuals with autism neurodiverse capabilities through racquet sports. Michele implements comprehensive behavioral strategies effectively to support children on the autism spectrum using a variety of teaching aids, visual guides, set-routines, enhanced coaching techniques and strategies for fostering inclusivity.

She also assists with the Wheelchair Tennis Program, and teaches both group and individual clinics to a diverse group of athletes - catering to the needs of anyone who steps onto her court.

With over 32 years of playing experience and four years of coaching at the Frank Veltri Tennis Center, Michele has a strong track record of developing young players ages 3-15, high school students and tournament-level competitors. She is also an active competitor on the USTA circuit. Her teaching style is thoughtful and intentional, centered on building self-esteem, resilience, and belief in oneself. Michele is patient, positive, and methodical, with a unique ability to connect with each person she works with. She is detailed, organized, and customer-oriented, with strong interpersonal skills. She especially enjoys working with beginners and teaching the fundamentals needed to grow a strong game.

In a recommendation to the USTA, one parent wrote: “Michele reminds us every day of the power of love, sport, and compassion, with passion and dedication for tennis.”

When she’s not on the court, Michele enjoys painting, professional photography, and writing.