JUNIOR TENNIS PROGRAM

 Photos courtesy of Noah Paris

History: The Jr. Tennis Program began in the summer of 2004 and we are excited to see the continued growth in the program.   This past summer we averaged around 12 kids from ages 7-18 years old that participated in the summer program for 12 weeks. We divide the kids into two tracks: a competitive track for more serious higher level players and a recreational track for younger kids and beginner level players.

Coaching: We are excited to have one of our adult coaches Betsy Eberhardt, a teaching pro at OH who will be leading our junior program. She has an assistant coach who joins her and in the summer has Rec. Therapy students completing their internship program through Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital and the Kentwood Recreation Department as well as an adult volunteer to assist in the summer.

Practices: Junior Tennis players practice for twelve weeks every summer. Practices are held on the same night as the adults: Monday nights from 6-8 pm, from June until August at the Orchard Hills Tennis Center. Advanced players practice twice a month during the winter at Orchard Hills Swim & Sports Club on Saturday afternoons for additional training.

Other Opportunities: In addition to regular practices, we offer special one day jr. tennis clinics, opportunities for private lessons and traveling to tournaments as players become ready for match play.