Adaptive Tennis
USTA Northern California's Adaptive Tennis strives to cultivate an inclusive environment tailored to the recreational needs of individuals with physical, mental or emotional challenges. Open to all ages and abilities, regardless of background, our Adaptive Tennis program welcomes everyone to experience the joy of tennis.
Through Adaptive Tennis, USTA NorCal affirms that tennis is a sport without boundaries, allowing everyone to embrace its recreational and competitive spirit and reap its numerous benefits.
USTA NorCal Adaptive Play Days
A Play Day is a 1-2 hour tennis event hosted by USTA NorCal in collaboration with community tennis professionals and volunteers. Designed to make tennis accessible to people of all ages with disabilities, Play Days aim to introduce the sport in a lively and engaging manner, ensuring that each participant leaves with a sense of accomplishment and newfound excitement for tennis.
Stay tuned for more Play Days coming up.
Adaptive Partnerships
USTA NorCal collaborates with providers across the NorCal section and has current Adaptive Tennis partnerships with the following providers:
Diversity & Inclusion:
Tennis For All
USTA Northern California firmly upholds the belief that tennis is open to everyone, dedicating itself to being a model of inclusivity and equity throughout the entire community. Beyond being strategic priorities, diversity, inclusion and equity are core values ingrained in the organization.
Our mission centers on addressing the evolving demographics of our communities, fostering inclusiveness and weaving our fundamental values into daily operations. USTA NorCal actively encourages and embraces the participation of all individuals who seek engagement with our organization. By honoring and leveraging diverse leadership, thought, expertise, cultural heritage and individual differences, we ensure the long-term growth and sustainability of tennis.
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USTA Northern California Community Tennis Organizations:
Find your local Community Tennis Association below. If you are already a CTA and would like more resources, or if you're interested in becoming a CTA, click the button below. USTA NorCal also offers CTAs funding to assist in expanding community tennis activities and to support the development of tennis in the community.
San Joaquin Valley Tennis Academy
The Cao and Chen Family Foundation
/ Bay Area Foundation
Diversity Objectives
Operate programs with an awareness of cultural differences to ensure that our offerings are enjoyed by everyone.
Reflect and embody the true diversity of Northern California in our outward-facing content and materials.
Forge strategic partnerships with organizations actively engaged in diverse communities and ensure that diverse suppliers play a key role in our process.
Cultivate and support tennis programs and events with a primary objective of providing access to the sport for under-resourced communities.
We strive to attract and retain a diverse workforce within the NorCal tennis industry, spanning our staff, volunteers, coaches, officials and tournament directors.
Diversity Initiatives & Resources
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Grants & Scholarships
USTA Northern California takes pride in offering a diverse range of grants and scholarships to positively impact individuals and organizations within our community. These valuable opportunities are strategically available throughout the year, ensuring equal chances for all applicants. In addition to local grants and scholarships, USTA National and the USTA Foundation also provide larger grants covering facility assistance, programming and other community resources. Explore the diverse opportunities offered by USTA NorCal to enrich and support various facets of tennis within our community.
USTA NorCal offers funding opportunities in the following categories:
Facilities | Players | Providers | Schools | Scholarships.
Community Tennis Associations
USTA Community Tennis Associations (CTAs) form the heartbeat of tennis growth—driven by passionate volunteers and operating as not-for-profit entities. These dedicated organizations play a crucial role in championing programs that nurture a love for tennis. In a community, tennis-related entities such as clubs, teaching professionals, after-school programs and public parks coexist, and CTAs serve as effective platforms to unify these diverse elements within the tennis ecosystem, supporting an active and engaged community.
CTAs act as entry points for individuals seeking to initiate their tennis journey, play more consistently or contribute to the sport. USTA Northern California proudly supports over 65 CTAs within the section and offers many benefits to CTAs, including low-cost insurance and grant eligibility.
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Players:
The purpose of this grant is to support the development of players ages 4 - 18 (senior in high school) in our section. We aim to encourage the pathway of USTA and Youth Development Programs. We want to inspire players to use their talents in a competitive atmosphere. Applicants can only apply one time for the year. Grants are awarded monthly at up to $300.
Hello! Welcome to the USTA Northern California Wheelchair Player Grant. The purpose of this grant is to support the development of wheelchair tennis players of all ages in our section. We aim to encourage the pathway of USTA Wheelchair Tennis Programs. We want to inspire players to use their talents in a competitive atmosphere. Applicants can only apply one time for the year. Grants are reviewed and awarded monthly in the amount of $500 and may be based on financial need.
The TAG program provides economically disadvantaged junior players with a discount on junior tournament entry fees. Funding for this program is determined on an annual basis by the USTA NorCal Board of Directors. CLICK HERE to learn about Eligibility, Reimbursement, Approved Tournaments and more for this program.
To apply for the TAG Program, complete this application and submit it together with the most recently filed federal tax return.
National Junior Tennis Learning
The National Junior Tennis Learning (NJTL) Network, founded to captivate and guide young minds, prioritizes character development, education and responsible citizenship. Committed to providing free or affordable tennis and education programs for under-resourced youth, NJTLs extend services beyond the tennis court.
With offerings like after-school tutoring, a comprehensive life-skills curriculum, and avenues for tennis development, NJTL is a holistic platform for youth well-being. USTA Northern California supports 7 NJTL chapters and is ready to assist organizations in enrolling and serving as NJTL chapters, contributing to a more empowered future for youth.
Providers
This is Incentive funding to promote Pro Circuit tournaments in the local NorCal community. Funding must be used to enhance your tournament and support community outreach through tennis-based activities. Tournaments must meet specific funding requirements on the application to ensure eligibility for this incentive funding grant. Funding will be granted after the completion of the tournament and the satisfaction of the requirements. Note: the funding amount will be determined by the number of required events completed. A written accountability report and pictures will be required after the tournament to receive funding. Please submit to: silva@norcal.usta.com.
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Amount: Up to $7,500
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This opportunity aids National Junior Tennis & Learning chapters in providing free or low-cost tennis and education programs. The focus is on overall youth well-being, including academic enrichment and life skills. The purpose of this grant is to internally support our local NJTL Chapters outside of National funding cycles. An NJTL can apply for a local grant of up to $10,000. The funds are to be used for overhead costs, equipment expenses, scholarships the NJTL may give internally, etc.
The purpose of this grant is to empower community leaders by supporting the development of upcoming Coaches through program support to include but not limited to certification, curriculum development, basic equipment needs, etc. The funds must be used for certification (USPTA/PTR), conference registration (USPTA/PTR), advertising of program(s) (i.e. flyers or social media ads) or basic equipment. Payment is given in two installments. Applicants can only apply one time for the year. Grants are awarded up to $600.
This stipend provides financial support to not-for-profit USTA Member Organizations that promote recreational or competitive programs which may include: tournament, exhibitions, clinics, or instructional camps for junior and adult wheelchair tennis players. Tennis programs that integrate wheelchair4 tennis players in activities with their peers, whether able-bodied or disabled, are encouraged to apply.
Schools
This grant is offered to support USTA NorCal's After-School H.I.T.S. low-cost tennis program for kids 10 and under, emphasizing team sports and life skills. Grants are available to support the initiation of H.I.T.S. programs.
These grants assist high school tennis programs with equipment (e.g., tennis balls, carts, ball mowers, windscreens), uniforms, other ancillary costs associated with high school team tennis and help promote tennis in the neighborhood or city where the high school is located.
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Amount: Grants range from $500 to $1,000 and will be administered on a need basis, prioritizing Title I schools in which students from low-income families make up at least 40% of enrollment.
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All submitters must be Safe Play approved before the grant can be awarded.
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Offers a one-time grant up to $10,000 awarded to the athletic department if the school actively operates a tennis facility as a new “Collegiate Community Hub”.
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For more information, visit: Collegiate Community Hub Grant
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Receive support when hosting a TOC team event in NorCal
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Host experience, number of participating teams, and the duration of the event may determine the total approximate support offered
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Tournament results must be inputted in Serve Tennis and the Tournament Director is required to be Safe Play approved
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NorCal TOC teams can receive support when hosting or even attending an event outside of the section. Find more on the form linked below:
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This is a support grant provided to NorCal’s National bid recipients each school year
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To receive a National bid, a team must be a top finisher during NorCal’s TOC Sectional Championship
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NorCal will receive 3 National bids with 13 competing schools
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Cal, UC Davis, Santa Clara, and Stanford will receive for the 2024-25 school year
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Parks & Recreation
Public parks serve as the bedrock for the expansion of tennis in our country, playing a crucial role in USTA Northern California’s enduring vitality and community involvement. Proudly boasting relationships with over 200 public parks and recreation departments throughout the section, USTA NorCal actively promotes tennis through diverse initiatives and programs.From community tennis events and play opportunities to providing facility assistance, grants and ongoing education for certified parks and recreation professionals, USTA NorCal is deeply committed to making tennis easily accessible and a driving force for community health and connection.Access to a range of programs and educational opportunities that can assist your park and recreation department in developing and optimizing tennis programs here.
Schools
USTA NorCal offers school programming across all ages and school levels, ensuring a comprehensive tennis experience for students, coaches and educators alike. From Physical Education instruction and middle school and high school team tennis to exciting college opportunities, USTA NorCal is dedicated to integrating the joy and benefits of tennis into the academic journey.
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Participating in H.I.T.S. lays the foundation for children to hone their tennis skills but also focuses on imparting valuable life lessons and building a child's character both as an athlete and an individual on and off the court.
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Why H.I.T.S.
CHILD DEVELOPMENT FIRST
Prioritizes developing the child before the athlete.
FUN AND LEARNING
Emphasizes playing, learning and having fun rather than focusing on winning and losing.
H.I.T.S. PACKAGE
Every participant receives a package with a stylish t-shirt, wristband, ball, certificate, comprehensive players/parents manual and more!
HOLISTIC APPROACH
Builds friendships, encourages physical activity, and combines tennis with educational elements.
Get Your After-School H.I.T.S. Program Started:
Embark on the journey with five straightforward steps:
High school tennis is a great opportunity for teenagers to compete in a team environment with friends. Beyond the physical and competitive benefits, tennis has demonstrated its ability to reduce risky behaviors and foster self-confidence, leading to overall improved performance among high school students.
Northern California and Northwest Nevada high schools commonly provide tennis programs for both boys and girls. If you're keen on exploring tennis at your school, USTA Northern California encourages reaching out to your school’s athletic director.
Committed to integrating tennis into students' lives, USTA NorCal proudly collaborates with the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) to co-host annual boys' and girls' state championships.
Mark your calendars for upcoming events/school calendar years:
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2024/25: Girls -November 22-23, November 30 I Boys: May 23-24, May 31, 2025
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2025/26: Girls - November 21-22, November 29, 2025 I Boys - May 22-23, May 30, 2026.
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2026/27: Girls - November 20-21, November 28, 2026 I Boys - May 21-22, May 29, 2027
We're excited to announce that we'll be adopting the World Tennis Number (WTN) as the ranking system for high school tennis! Discover more details here.
What TOC Offers
CO-ED
TEAM PLAY
Engage in team-based play that fosters team camaraderie and friendly competition while following the Impact Team Tennis format.
CHAMPIONSHIP COMPETITION
Compete at regional and national events for the ultimate tennis experience.
ACTIVE AND HEALTHY LIFESTYLES
Maintain an active and healthy lifestyle throughout your college years.
Program Availability
Currently offered on over 300 college campuses across the United States, TOC is continually expanding, and we're always looking to add more schools to our roster.
Explore the list of Tennis On Campus Programs on our National website and connect directly with the program of your choice. Our section is proud to have 14 Northern California schools participating in Tennis On Campus including:
Don't find your school listed? Reach out to Macy Barajas for more information.
2024-2025 Event Schedule
Teams, please be sure to check out 2025/26 NorCal TOC Event Calendar (Link Coming Soon!) for all meetings, event dates, deadlines, and more! Are you a NorCal TOC school and would like to request support to host a Team Tournament? Fill out the NorCal TOC Team Tournament form below.
Upcoming Events:
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2025 Spring Invitational - Mar 21-23, 2025 Orlando FL (National Campus)
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2025 National Championship - April 2-5, 2025 Rome, GA (Berry College)
2025-2026:
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2025 NorCal Sectional Championship - Nov 7-9 Folsom, CA (Broadstone)
*All National based TOC events abide by the NIRSA Eligibility Requirements*
TOC Grants & Special Initiatives
USTA NorCal provides various funding opportunities to support Tennis On Campus teams. These include stipends and grants designed to help teams grow and enhance their programs. Click the button below to learn more.
Congratulations to our winning TOC teams!
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P.E. Programs
Tennis is a sport for everyone, spanning from elementary to high school and accommodating all skill levels. In collaboration with the Society of Health and Physical Education (SHAPE) America, the USTA has developed comprehensive lesson plans for K-12, empowering teachers with the tools to seamlessly integrate tennis into physical education classes. USTA Northern California goes the extra mile by providing all the necessary training, resources and tennis equipment, including portable nets that can be set up directly on the gym floor. No tennis courts are needed to kickstart the program.
Learn more about getting tennis started in your local P.E. program.
High School Tennis
High school tennis is a great opportunity for teenagers to compete in a team environment with friends. Beyond the physical and competitive benefits, tennis has demonstrated its ability to reduce risky behaviors and foster self-confidence, leading to overall improved performance among high school students.
High school tennis is a great opportunity for teenagers to compete in a team environment with friends. Beyond the physical and competitive benefits, tennis has demonstrated its ability to reduce risky behaviors and foster self-confidence, leading to overall improved performance among high school students.
Tennis On Campus
Why stop tennis when you head to college? Look no further—Tennis On Campus (TOC) is a college club tennis program tailored to meet the needs of college students. Run by college students for college students, TOC is all about keeping the tennis vibe alive while you navigate through your campus life.
Unlike varsity programs, TOC provides the perfect balance for those seeking the thrill of tennis without the rigorous demands. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, TOC is right for you. The best part? TOC provides a host of opportunities for team camaraderie, social networking and friendly competition.
2024 TOC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
Congratulations to the University of California, Berkeley, the 2024 TOC National Champions! Cal, Stanford, and UC Davis represented Team NorCal at the 2024 TOC National Championships in Rome, GA (April 4-6). Among 64 top teams, Cal won with a 25-17 victory over the University of Southern California! UC Davis made the Gold Bracket, and Stanford placed 5th in the Silver Bracket. Go Team NorCal!
2024-25 TOC SECTIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
The 2024-25 NorCal TOC Sectional Championship took place in November in Folsom, Calif. Thirty one NorCal TOC teams competed for a spot at the 2024 TOC National Championships. Congratulations to the University of California, Berkeley for winning the 2024-25 Sectional Championship, and to the other bid recipients, Stanford University, Santa Clara University and the University of California, Davis!
2024 NORCAL TOC SPRING INVITATIONAL
The 2024 TOC Spring Invitational was held in the NorCal section at Broadstone Sports Club in Folsom. A total of 16 TOC teams from across the US competed for their chance to win the pot of gold during St. Patrick's Day weekend (Mar. 15-17). Congratulations to NorCal’s very own California State University, Sacramento on being the 2024 TOC Spring Invite Champions and UC Santa Cruz for winning the Silver Bracket!
Want to learn more?
For further insight and inspiration, explore the Tennis on Campus program video below. Join us in making your college years unforgettable through tennis!
After-School H.I.T.S.
H.I.T.S. (Honesty, Inspiration, Teamwork, and Sportsmanship) is an affordable after-school tennis program for kids aged 10 and under blending tennis fundamentals with life skills enrichment. Designed as a six-to-eight-week program for easy implementation by coaches and providers, regardless of tennis experience or court access, it offers 'right-sized' equipment and comprehensive support from USTA Northern California, including training, resources and grant funding to run on any tennis court, blacktop or indoor gym. More than just tennis, H.I.T.S. is a pathway for children to develop core values, potentially shaping them into the next tennis star and, more importantly, outstanding individuals in the community.
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COACH'S TRAINING:
Sign up for coach's training. (Upon request).
Facilities:
This grant offers funding to assist and expand community tennis activities. All applicants who plan to promote and develop the growth of tennis in their respective communities and have met the requirements are to be considered. Community Tennis Associations (CTAs) and Parks & Recreation grants are need-based and awarded depending on availability.
Scholarships
The Tyler Nii Memorial Scholarship, honoring a cherished member of USTA Northern California's tennis community, awards $1,500 each to one male and one female high school tennis player annually. Beyond academic achievements, this scholarship values the essence of the player— their dedication to tennis, team spirit, and community involvement. Emphasizing personal qualities, the scholarship seeks individuals who inspire through their commitment, resilience, and passion for the game. The awards ceremony takes place at USTA NorCal’s annual Junior Awards Party, a celebration of outstanding junior players and their achievements within our tennis community.
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Amount: $1,500 (awarded for one male and one female)
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Requirements: As a general rule, applicants will be evaluated on the following attributes and his/her relationship to tennis and the community: (1) Player must participate in a high school varsity tennis program: a junior or senior boy or girl. (2) Be a current USTA individual member in good standing. (3) Be a positive ambassador for USTA. (4) Display good sportsmanship, a positive attitude and a love for the game of tennis. (5) Provide two letters of recommendation (one from a coach and one from a fellow teammate).
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Stay tuned for more information on the 2025 application process.
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Contact: To learn more about this scholarship, please email marketing@norcal.usta.com.
To learn more about Tyler Nii and his contribution to tennis, please click here.
To help support keeping the Tyler Nii Scholarship Award funded, please click here.
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USTA NorCal's Diversity and Inclusion Committee offers four annual scholarships to support the Level One strategic priority of diversity with a multicultural focus. These scholarships support and encourage multicultural participation among high school students entering college.
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Amount: $8,000 ($2,000 awarded per year for four years)
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Requirements: A completed application; personal essay answering one of the three questions listed; two letters of recommendation; resume to include tennis record, awards/honors, volunteer activities, extra-curricular activities; high school transcript; letter of intent and/or acceptance of university attending.
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FAQs: Learn more.
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2025 application information coming soon.
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Contact: Charrisha Watkins at (301) 335-9870
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Scholarships:
The Tyler Nii Memorial Scholarship, honoring a cherished member of USTA Northern California's tennis community, awards $1,500 each to one male and one female high school tennis player annually. Beyond academic achievements, this scholarship values the essence of the player— their dedication to tennis, team spirit, and community involvement. Emphasizing personal qualities, the scholarship seeks individuals who inspire through their commitment, resilience, and passion for the game. The awards ceremony takes place at USTA NorCal’s annual Junior Awards Party, a celebration of outstanding junior players and their achievements within our tennis community.
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Amount: $1,500 (awarded for one male and one female)
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Requirements: As a general rule, applicants will be evaluated on the following attributes and his/her relationship to tennis and the community: (1) Player must participate in a high school varsity tennis program: a junior or senior male or female. (2) Be a current USTA individual member in good standing. (3) Be a positive ambassador for USTA. (4) Display good sportsmanship, a positive attitude and a love for the game of tennis. (5) Provide two letters of recommendation (one from a coach and one from a fellow teammate).
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Due Date: 2024 information coming soon.
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Contact: To learn more about this scholarship, please email marketing@norcal.usta.com.
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To learn more about Tyler Nii and his contribution to tennis, please click here.
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To help support keeping the Tyler Nii Scholarship Award funded, please click here.
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USTA NorCal's Diversity and Inclusion Committee offers four annual scholarships to support the Level One strategic priority of diversity with a multicultural focus. These scholarships support and encourage multicultural participation among high school students entering college.
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Amount: $8,000 ($2,000 awarded per year for four years)
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Requirements: A completed application; personal essay answering one of the three questions listed; two letters of recommendation; resume to include tennis record, awards/honors, volunteer activities, extra-curricular activities; high school transcript; letter of intent and/or acceptance of university attending.
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FAQs: Learn more.
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2024 application period is now closed.
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Contact: Charrisha Watkins at (301) 335-9870
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