BALTIMORE — Other African-American sports organizations, such as baseball’s Negro Leagues, faded after integration, but the American Tennis Association has remained vibrant.
The A.T.A. held its centennial national championships this month at Druid Hill Park, site of its first championships, as well as at four other places in and around Baltimore. Nearly 700 players, young and old, from around the country gathered to reunite with friends and to compete in an environment they treasure.
“For me, it’s always going to be the black nationals,” said Larry Atkins, who traveled from Oakland, Calif., for the tournament. “For this in tennis to still continue, I’ll always want to support it.