The Embry-Riddle Tennis Camps, a popular turnout in the Daytona Beach community, recently received a USTA Florida Foundation Equipment Grant to enhance their programming. These camps, designed for kids ages 5-18, are held during summer and holiday breaks and focus on stroke mechanics, match play, fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship. 

For nearly the past 20 years, Embry-Riddle Tennis Camps have introduced countless young players to tennis and helped show that tennis creates lifelong fitness, friendships, and personal growth. The program prides itself on being more than just a tennis camp, it’s a way to bring kids together. Many campers return year after year, with some even becoming coaches. 

This grant enabled the program to replace its worn 10-and-under tennis balls and add cones and ring targets to their equipment. These updates ensure that young players are using appropriately conditioned equipment, creating an engaging learning environment. 

With a focus on enthusiasm and skill development, the camp aims to introduce tennis to as many children and families as possible, retain participants for continued instruction, and refer campers to yearlong local tennis programs. The newly acquired equipment allows for better training, helping young players improve their level of play while promoting teamwork, sportsmanship, and fitness. 

This past year’s camps were a resounding success. Many first-time campers, including those new to tennis, showed up daily with excitement and eagerness to learn. The coaching staff brought energy and positivity, creating an environment where fun and growth was contagious. 

In addition to creating a love for the sport, the camp addresses the next steps for campers. By connecting families with local clinics and public courts, the program ensures that the joy of tennis doesn’t end with camp. 

Thanks to the USTA Florida Foundation Equipment Grant, the Embry-Riddle Tennis Camps can continue to provide a top-notch experience, inspiring young players to stay active and engaged in tennis. 

To help aid these grants, you can donate to the Foundation in multiple ways. The USTA Florida Foundation “Play Tennis” License Plate is a great way to show your tennis pride, with 90% of all proceeds going to the Foundation.     

ABOUT THE USTA FLORIDA FOUNDATION   

With a mission of “Changing Lives through Tennis,” the USTA Florida Section Foundation provides financial support to organizations that help people of all ages and abilities improve their health and quality of life through the great game of tennis. To learn more about grants, visit ustafloridafoundation.com/apply.