What we do
No Fee Tennis Programs for Underserved Youth
As public funding for underserved youth continues to decline, MCTEF's mission is more important than ever.
13
Middle Schools
2
Title 1 Elementary Schools
425+
Students Per Session
2006
Year Founded
100%
Free to Participants
Our Programs
13 After-School Programs
Public Middle Schools
MCTEF provides free after-school tennis and mentoring programs in thirteen underserved Title I middle schools across Montgomery County. Each site pairs experienced instructors and mentors who teach both tennis fundamentals and essential life skills. At the end of each semester, participants receive a new racket and tennis balls.
Elementary School Expansion
Excel Beyond the Bell Partnership
In Spring 2026, MCTEF expanded its reach to serve underserved elementary school students through a partnership with Montgomery County's Excel Beyond the Bell after-school program. This no-fee initiative provides tennis instruction, academic support, and mentoring for third, fourth, and fifth grade students.
Special Olympics Partnership
Special Olympics Maryland & Lakewood Country Club
In January 2026, MCTEF proudly partnered with Special Olympics Maryland and Lakewood Country Club to offer free indoor tennis clinics for Special Olympics athletes. In Fall 2026, MCTEF will expand its Special Olympics offerings with an additional program, further extending our commitment to inclusive programming.
Big Brothers/Big Sisters
National Capital Region
Each summer, MCTEF proudly funds weekend tennis clinics and play days for Big Brothers/Big Sisters participants in Montgomery County. These programs are offered completely free of charge to both mentors and mentees, providing a fun and active way to build stronger bonds through sport.
MCTEF, Special Olympics Maryland & Lakewood Country Club
"This is a great example of three community organizations coming together to benefit an underserved population."
— DeAtley Barish, Executive Director of MCTEF
"As Special Olympics Maryland works to grow inclusive sports opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities across the state, it's hard to find a better option than tennis — a sport for a lifetime."
— Jeff Abel, Vice President of Programs, Special Olympics Maryland
A message from our Executive Director
"Hello, I'm DeAtley Barish, Executive Director of the Montgomery County Tennis and Education Foundation (MCTEF), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2006. In 2026, MCTEF offers free tennis instruction at 13 Montgomery County middle schools and 2 Title 1 elementary schools, reaching more than 425 students each spring and fall seven-week session. Each site pairs experienced instructors and mentors who teach both tennis fundamentals and essential life skills. At the end of each semester, participants receive a new racket and tennis balls, ensuring they can continue playing year-round."
"As you can imagine, this work requires significant funding. Our 2025 spring session alone costs approximately $30,000. MCTEF operates entirely on community support. Please consider making a donation today. Your contribution directly supports free programming for local youth, helping them build confidence, character, and a healthy lifestyle through tennis."
The Fred Sommer ACES Tennis Scholarship, Inc.
The Fred Sommer's ACES program is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, established in June 2014. The organization provides year-round needs-based tennis scholarships for children so that they may benefit from the social, emotional, and physical growth that accompanies sports participation.
Through our partnership with Fred ACES, MCTEF awarded full scholarships for a week-long tennis camp at the Aspen Hill Sports Facility.
Help Us Keep These Programs Free
MCTEF operates entirely on community support. Every donation goes directly to free programming for local youth.
Donate Today