FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jessica Harrell named USTA South Carolina Executive Director & CEO
Columbia, SC – July 24, 2026 – USTA South Carolina Board President Mary Margaret Hyatt announced today that Jessica Harrell has been named Executive Director and CEO, effective immediately. Harrell replaces Jennifer Gregg, who served in the position from 2018 until May 2026.
Harrell has 17 years of experience in the USTA network, working with USTA South Carolina on two different occasions and with USTA Southern for nearly five years. Her institutional knowledge and existing stakeholder relationships, paired with a track record of program growth, were key factors in her hiring.
“Jessica has earned the trust and respect of our Board, staff, volunteers, and tennis community through her integrity, collaborative leadership, and proven results” Hyatt said. “She understands our organization, shares our vision for the future, and has the experience to build on the tremendous momentum we’ve created. We are excited to welcome her as Executive Director and CEO and look forward to all that USTA South Carolina will accomplish under her leadership.”
As Associate Executive Director, Harrell led USTA South Carolina’s programs department, overseeing a $700,000+ annual budget and more than 72,000 player registrations across the state’s leagues, junior and adult competition, and community development programs. Under her leadership, USTA League participation grew 5% cumulatively since 2022, including 3% year-over-year growth from 2024 to 2025, while USTA Flex League nearly doubled its participation base, growing from 602 to 1,165 players in its first full year. Her team also deepened the organization’s partnership with the SC High School League, continuing to expand platform engagement statewide with 61 schools, 85 administrators, and 872 players.
“I’m thrilled to lead USTA South Carolina into the next chapter. South Carolina is my home state, and my vision is to make tennis accessible for anyone who wants to play, regardless of where they live or what they earn. Tennis in our state is well positioned for continued growth, and with the leadership of our Board of Directors, the dedicated and professional staff, and passionate volunteer base, we’re ready to fulfill our part in USTA National’s 35×35 participation campaign,” said Harrell.
USTA South Carolina is the state affiliate of the United States Tennis Association and is one of nine states that comprise the USTA Southern Section. A not-for-profit organization with more than 23,000 members, USTA South Carolina offers a variety of tennis programs and services for all ages and abilities to fulfill its mission to improve lives and build healthier communities in South Carolina by growing and promoting tennis as a lifelong sport. For more information, visit us online at sctennis.com, find us on Facebook at facebook.com/sctennis, follow us on Instagram @ustasouthcarolina, or email info@sctennis.com.
Media Contact:
Sheryl McAlister – mcalister@sctennis.com