News Summary
A tennis clinic took place at McCracken Middle School, introducing around 50 children to tennis. Organized by Randy Bernard and the Spartanburg Area Tennis Association, participants learned essential techniques. Local donors supported the initiative, ensuring each child had the necessary equipment. The clinic was well-received, with plans for future sessions to continue fostering a love for tennis among young athletes in the community.
Spartanburg – A tennis clinic dedicated to introducing children to the sport took place on June 17 at McCracken Middle School, attracting approximately 50 young participants. The event was aimed at beginners and was organized by local tennis instructor Randy Bernard in partnership with the Spartanburg Area Tennis Association.
Participants included children from various organizations such as the Bethlehem Center and the Hope Center for Children. Each child received a tennis racquet and a ball, ensuring that they had the necessary equipment for the clinic. Funding for the event was provided by local donors, including contributions from a men’s Bible study group from Westminster Presbyterian Church.
During the clinic, children were divided into groups of around 10 and supervised by both adult and teenage instructors, allowing for personalized attention and guidance. Kenneth Cribb, the lead instructor, expressed enthusiasm about working with beginners, as they tend to absorb techniques quickly and are free from bad habits. Cribb observed visible progress among participants and reported uplifting reactions during the practice sessions.
This clinic was specifically designed for elementary-grade children, providing an opportunity for those who might not typically have access to tennis instruction. Alison Suber, who coordinates summer camp activities at the Bethlehem Center, brought 22 children to the clinic and expressed gratitude for the chance to participate.
As the clinic proceeded, children received encouragement from their instructors, with positive feedback reflecting their advancements in skill. Attendees learned essential tennis techniques, including how to improve their swings and footwork. Bernard noted that the clinic not only teaches basic skills but also fosters a passion for the sport among youngsters.
Looking ahead, organizers plan to hold another clinic for middle school students in July. The initiative aims to provide continued opportunities for young tennis enthusiasts. Moreover, participants from the recent clinic will be connected to the Spartanburg Area Tennis Association’s junior league for ongoing play and development in the sport.
The clinic is evidence of the local community’s commitment to making tennis accessible to children regardless of their background. By pairing enthusiastic instructors with eager learners, the event fosters a love of the game and ensures young players have access to quality tennis training as they grow.
Overall, the tennis clinic at McCracken Middle School showcases how collaborative efforts among dedicated individuals and community organizations can create enriching opportunities for children while promoting healthy physical activity and teamwork through sports.
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Additional Resources
- Goupstate: Spartanburg Volunteers Provide Exposure to Tennis for Local Youth
- HSSR: Spartanburg Day Wins SCISA AAA Tennis Title
- GoMocs: Women’s Tennis Heads to Wofford
- Greenville Online: Greenville’s Bobby Austell Inducted into SC Tennis Hall of Fame
- Catamount Sports: Women’s Tennis Closes Regular Season at Wofford
- Wikipedia: Tennis
- Google Search: Tennis Development Programs
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tennis
- Google Scholar: Tennis for Youth
- Google News: Tennis Clinics
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