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From Grand Slam Courts to Classrooms: GoNoodle and USTA's Celebration of Wheelchair Tennis

As we celebrate 50 years of wheelchair tennis, GoNoodle and the United States Tennis Association (USTA) are on a mission to inspire a new generation through sport. Many children haven’t had the opportunity to pick up a tennis racket or experience wheelchair tennis firsthand. Yet, sport has a unique way of fostering connections, instilling confidence, and teaching resilience. By leveraging the story of Junior Grand Slam Champion Charlie Cooper, GoNoodle and USTA aim to spark curiosity and enthusiasm in classrooms nationwide.

The Launch of Inspiring Videos

On November 4, 2026, GoNoodle is set to premiere two exciting videos as part of this initiative, showcasing Cooper’s talent and insight. The first video, We Can Do That!, aims to motivate children to discover new activities, build confidence, and appreciate unique strengths. This video will be followed closely by Mind on the Match 2.0 Palm-Perfect Reflex, which debuted just a month earlier. Together, these videos emphasize the importance of participation and highlight the message that every child has the potential to shine, regardless of their abilities.

Cooper’s involvement brings a fresh perspective to educational content, allowing children from all walks of life to relate to his achievements and experiences. “Kids don’t need to be the same to belong on the same team,” states KC Estenson, CEO of GoNoodle. The idea is to help students understand that strength can manifest in many forms and that it's our differences that create a stronger community.

Empowering Through Movement

Both videos include interactive, tennis-inspired challenges designed to engage students in movement and mindfulness. With no previous tennis experience or equipment required, these activities focus on enhancing coordination and improving focus, creating a space where physical activity is accessible to all children, regardless of their abilities.

From testing quick reflexes to encouraging mindful breathing, the experiences encourage kids to connect with their bodies while enjoying a fun, supportive atmosphere. As they participate in these innovative activities, children not only learn about tennis—but they also cultivate skills that will serve them far beyond the classroom.

A Legacy of Progress

The story of wheelchair tennis began with visionaries like Brad Parks and Jeff Minnebraker in 1976. Over the past fifty years, the sport has evolved significantly, breaking down barriers and redefining possibilities for athletes with disabilities. Charlie Cooper represents this legacy, showing younger generations that dreams are within reach.

“I remember growing up watching GoNoodle videos in my own elementary school, so being part of this is incredibly special,” Cooper reflects. He hopes that sharing his journey from the classroom to the global tennis stage inspires kids to dream big and believe in themselves, no matter where their journey begins.

Building Empathy and Understanding

GoNoodle and USTA’s partnership is not just about tennis but is fundamentally about fostering curiosity, empathy, and respect among students. Introducing athletes like Cooper to young learners opens doors for meaningful conversations about diversity, inclusion, and resilience. By witnessing someone they can relate to achieving greatness, children learn to appreciate their own strengths and those of their classmates.

Moving Forward Together

Since 2018, GoNoodle and USTA have collaborated to bring tennis into the educational sphere, combining movement, entertainment, and learning to instill foundational values in students. Through these dynamic videos, the partnership continues to pave new paths for children to explore their potential, celebrate diversity, and connect with sport as a source of joy and empowerment.

The premiere of We Can Do That! on November 4th marks another significant step in this journey, further enriching how GoNoodle and USTA carry forward the message of inclusion through sport. As they celebrate this milestone of wheelchair tennis, the goal remains clear: to inspire every child to recognize their unique abilities and embrace the idea that they too can make a difference, both on and off the court.

Conclusion

In conclusion, GoNoodle and USTA's initiative to celebrate 50 years of wheelchair tennis through engaging educational content underscores the power of interaction, community, and movement. By putting athletes like Charlie Cooper front and center, they’re reminding us all that strength comes in many forms, and everyone has something valuable to contribute. Together, let’s show our children that they can dream big and redefine what success means in their lives.