On Monday May 13th, Monteith students had an opportunity to play tennis at recess. Chip Fazio, USPTA certified tennis professional, and George Lowe, Michigan tennis service rep for the USTA/Midwest Section , brought all equipment, rackets, balls, portable nets and let the kids have at it.
“We set the older kids up to play 2 out 3 ‘King and Queen of the Court.’ If a team wins 2 points they stay in. If they lose 2 they’re out. That way it rotates pretty quickly and a lot of kids get a chance to play.” said Coach Chip Fazio. George Lowe added, “For the younger kids we played “Roll Ball” where they roll and trap the ball with their rackets. That’s a good game for their skill level so they can have fun with it!”
The games were played using the USTA’s “Red Ball” court format which is 36’ long and is played with a very soft ball, similar to a Nerf ball.
The duo is working to promote tennis in the area and to get more kids active, especially kids who may not be playing tennis now or are not in any sport.
This is the last weekend to sign up for Grosse Pointe's USTA Midwest Section Youth Team Tennis league for kids 5-10 years old. To be played at the Elworthy Field tennis courts. Registration closes Sun 2nd at midnight. Sign up online http://www.midwest.usta.com/juniors/midwest_youth_team_tennis_programs/
Coach Chip believes tennis’ paradigm of competitiveness with an emphasis on good sportsmanship makes it a great sport for kids to build character and learn life skills. Mr. Lowe points out that tennis, being the sport of a lifetime can lead to lifelong friendships.
