LOTA came into being from a series of meetings beginning in 1999. These meetings were held at Reynolds Plantation and Harbor Club in Greensboro, Georgia. The recreation and tennis directors at Reynolds Plantation, several local tennis enthusiasts, and USTA representatives met several times to discuss ways to promote tennis in the Lake Oconee area.
At the beginning of March 2000, it was agreed that the best way to promote tennis was to create a Community Tennis Association (CTA). It was agreed that LOTA’s objective would be the promotion of tennis within Greene, Morgan, and Putnam Counties, as well as the greater Lake Oconee region of Georgia. Initially, LOTA would include informal team play, more formal U.S. Tennis Association (USTA) team play, social events, and a newsletter.
The first year was hectic:
- board members were elected
- the official LOTA website was launched at www.LOTAtennis.com
- LOTA was awarded a $750 start-up grant by the USTA Southern Section
- about 150 people paid membership fees and joined LOTA
- leagues started playing
- a tennis mixer was hosted with a picnic
- a Youth Development Committee was formed
- the first annual Christmas party was held
Now LOTA members can play USTA league matches in the Lake Oconee area. Members can organize informal matches whenever they want to play. In addition, LOTA has started more playing formats including mixed doubles, social mixers, and other events. A junior program is also underway.
