Tennis touches those in Texas

Parks & Recreation, Dec, 2004 by Alex Palombo

Through its youth programs, the Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas offers tennis lessons to children whose parents work for the U.S. Department of Defense. The children are instructed on the basics, but learn much more than how to swing a racquet and hit the ball over the net.

Johnny Bailey, youth sports & fitness director for Lackland Air Force Base, touts the health and fitness benefits of tennis, but also emphasizes the many life skills the game teaches. There's a code of conduct on the base, throughout the military and in life. Bailey says tire sport reflects that. "Once the children commit to taking tennis lessons, we stress how important it is to honor that commitment, even on the days they may not feel like playing." Following instructions, caring for equipment and abiding by tennis etiquette are key elements of the game. "Win or lose they learn to shake bands after each match and to congratulate their opponent on a good game."

Through a Tennis in the Park grant from the United States Tennis Association and NRPA, Lackland Air Force Base Youth Programs retained the services of a certified tennis professional to properly teach the children tennis in a safe environment. "Our tennis pro, Armando Raul, made a world of difference," said Bailey. "He offered individual attention, used effective teaching techniques and required the children to practice on their own."

Bailey agrees that it's rewarding to see a child's confidence grow. "We taught a six-year-old girl who had never played the game to swing a racquet bigger than she was and eventually serve the ball over the net."

Lackland is but one of the U.S. military bases that offer tennis lessons. For more information on where to take lessons in your community, visit www.TennisWelcomeCenter.com and enter your zip code for facilities near you.