JACKSON, Wyo. — Teton County/ Jackson Parks and Rec has announced that the United States Tennis Association (USTA) Intermountain Wyoming recently recognized a dedicated volunteer with two distinguished awards.
USTA Intermountain Wyoming is recognizing Jackson resident Diane McGee as the 2022 “Art Frakt” Adult Volunteer of the Year for her passion for teaching tennis and taking the Parks and Rec Youth Tennis Program to the next level.
Additionally, Parks and Rec is being recognized as the 2022 Organization of the Year.
The Volunteer of the Year award is named after former Jackson resident Art Frakt, who was a longtime USTA Wyoming player, official and volunteer. The award is given each year to a volunteer in Wyoming who has given valuable contributions to the growth and development of tennis in the community.
“We are so lucky to have Diane as part of our Parks and Recreation family and I cannot express enough about how deserving she is for this award,” said Teton County Parks and Recreation Director Steve Ashworth.
McGee, who has called Jackson her home since 2003, has been working as the tennis coach and volunteering her time with Parks and Recreation since 2019, teaching both children and adults through the various tennis programs.
“It is a great mix because I love the sport of tennis, and I love sharing it with others,” said McGee. “Facilitating the learning of the kids, especially to improve their athletic skills of agility, balance, and coordination, as well as learning and executing tennis movement skills of sending and receiving tennis balls is really a thrill.”
McGee also facilitates an open, free, tennis mixer for adults at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday nights at the High School courts. She says tennis is more than just a sport; it teaches players about life skills.
Parks and Recreation Program Manager Rachael Zimmerman says McGee works behind the scenes to sort out logistics and provide communication with parents. Zimmerman says McGee has even applied for grants that have helped secure funds to purchase tennis equipment and other items that benefit players.
“Parks and Recreation Staff and Advisory Board have been 100% behind providing tennis opportunities year-round for youth in Jackson and also supporting the growth of this sport by expanding offerings,” said McGee. “I look forward to continuing to work with them both on and off the court to provide affordable, public tennis for all ages well into the future.”
