Tennis Innovators Academy opens in New Rochelle with city, county and IDA backing

Catherine White, executive director of the New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce, formally opened the Tennis Innovators Academy on Friday, welcoming city and county officials, IDA leadership and private developers to the new facility in New Rochelle.

City and county leaders said the academy aims to expand access to tennis and serve local youth. Mayor Yadira Ramos Herbert, who said she learned the sport through a free program, told attendees: "Tennis would have otherwise have been prohibitive," and said the developers "are gonna give back to our kids from the school district and from the community." She added that details of the student programs are still being finalized.

The opening highlighted a series of local partnerships. Robert Balashandran, chair of the IDA, framed the project as an example of what public–private collaboration can produce, while Bob Young of the Young Companies, one of the managing partners, thanked city staff and financing partners, naming "Tom King's Community Bank" as the financing partner. A co-managing partner identified as Steve also thanked the IDA, city staff and project partners and described a focus on programs for elementary and high school teams.

Representatives from Westchester County attended and offered support. Sherry Asher, director of policy and programs for small businesses and chambers in Westchester County, relayed greetings from the county executive and described the facility as "a beautiful facility for the entire community," saying it will provide safe spaces and activities for kids.

Organizers presented a certificate from the chamber to the academy; Gweni Rojas of the chamber said, "Thank you so much for choosing New Rochelle," and expressed the chamber's support for the new business. New Rochelle Police and Fire Department representatives were also noted as present.

The ceremony consisted of remarks and recognition; there were no motions, votes or formal city actions recorded at the event. Organizers closed with thanks and arranged a group photo.

The academy's leaders and city officials said program details for student outreach were still being worked out; attendees and organizers emphasized partnership with local schools and chamber members as the next step for community programming.