For the MacAllister family, tennis wasn’t always central—but today, it’s a way of life. Annie and Chad MacAllister both grew up in Palos Verdes, graduated from local schools, and knew they wanted to raise their kids here. Now, with deep roots in the community, their family passion is firmly planted on the tennis court, where their sons—Vincent, 16, and Lucas, 13—are thriving.
For Vincent, who is autistic, tennis has been more than just a sport—it’s been a source of joy, confidence, and connection.“Our boys grew up surrounded by this community,” says Chad, who serves on the Palos Verdes Estates Foundation and the Southern California Tennis Association (SCTA). “It’s where Annie and I both come from, where our parents still live, and where our kids learned to love the sport that now defines so much of our lives.”
Vincent, a sophomore at Palos Verdes High, picked up a racket at six and never looked back. By nine, he was competing in USTA tournaments and “always had a racket in his hand,” Chad recalls. “If he couldn’t find a hitting partner, he’d use a wall or garage door. His love for the game was undeniable.”
Neither Chad nor Annie played tennis, but Vincent’s passion drew them all in. “For him, tennis brings joy and provides an environment where his strengths shine,” Chad says. “For us, it’s been a gift to watch.”
Today, Vincent trains in Florida, devoting mornings to tennis and afternoons to academics. Surrounded by peers chasing similar goals, he aims to one day play for a top college program. Coaches respect his ability and call him the “LoneWolf,” but Vincent embraces his individuality, modeling his game after autistic pro Jenson Brooksby.
“Tennis has been the great equalizer,” Chad says. “It’s where Vincent’s differences don’t matter, and his passion shines.”
Before Florida, Vincent earned a spot on the PV High varsity team as a freshman and looks forward to returning this season. Navigating autism hasn’t been simple. “Balancing what Vincent needs academically with what he wants from tennis is hard,” Chad admits. “Socially, it’s difficult to watch him feel different.” Still, the rewards inspire them. “Seeinghim live and train in Florida on his own has been incredibly meaningful,” Chad adds.
The MacAllisters first connected with ACEing Autism through Vincent’s neurologist, Dr. Shafali Jeste, a co-founder. Vincent won his age group at the first Junior Open in 2019. That victory sparked the family’s drive to give back.
This fall, they’re bringing ACEing Autism to Palos Verdes. “We love how ACEing Autism uses tennis to build joy and belonging,” Chad says. “Sports aren’t always accessible for autistic kids. This creates an outlet where they can thrive.”
For the MacAllisters, it all comes back to Palos Verdes—their home, their community, and now, the place where they’re serving up inclusion for the next generation.
