ORLANDO, Florida — The United States Tennis Association recently announced that Scott Hanover, Gladstone, was selected as the recipient of the Eve Kraft Community Service Award.

The USTA awards the Eve Kraft Community Service Award to individuals who best exemplify Kraft’s mission to bring the sport of tennis to everyone who wants to play. Kraft was a tennis pioneer whose ability to touch people’s lives exceeded the boundaries of the tennis court. As a teacher, coach, author, USTA staff member and volunteer, Kraft was a lifelong champion of recreational tennis in the United States until she died in 1999. She introduced thousands of young people to tennis, particularly in disadvantaged communities, according to a USTA press release.

Hanover has dedicated more than 30 years in service of tennis in the Kansas City community and beyond. Known affectionately as “Mr. Kansas City Tennis,” Hanover has been involved with nearly every aspect of the sport. He currently serves as the executive director of the Stephanie Waterman Foundation, a chapter of the USTA Foundation’s NJTL network, in addition to his role as director of outreach and tournament director at Overland Park Racquet Club. Beyond his official titles, Hanover’s tennis career includes stints as a league organizer, high school tennis coach and official, amongst others.

Hanover has also served extensively as a volunteer at the local, section and national levels. He has been the chair of the USTA’s national CTA and public parks committees, served two terms as the president of the USTA Missouri Valley Section, and has held various titles at the USTA Heart of America district. He has also previously served as the president of the National Public Parks Tennis Association

“Scott is a true grassroots champion and a great example of what the Eve Kraft Award is all about,” said Brian Vahaly, USTA President and Chairman of the Board. “He’s played a pivotal role in growing the game in Kansas City and has had a meaningful impact well beyond his local community.”