Young tennis players take a snack break during a recent skills camp. (Photos courtesy Starla Seal)
Tennis balls were flying, and water balloons as well.
Coupeville High School tennis coaches welcomed 22 young players to the courts recently for a summer skills camp, boding well for the future.
“It was a success!” said CHS net guru Starla Seal.
“I was impressed at how eager the kids were to learn the game; many of them couldn’t wait to show off their new skills and play with their families and friends.”
Seal and fellow CHS coach Tim Stelling led their young charges through fun sessions which covered topics such as hand/eye coordination, speed and agility, and the basic swings used by netters.
Capping things off, the young players learned the ins and outs of keeping score on the court, and proper tennis etiquette.
Plus, the aforementioned water balloon break, to help take the edge off of the hot-for-Whidbey weather.
Seal and Stelling, who recently completed their first season as CHS coaches, came away pleased with what they saw.
Building interest in tennis at a young age will likely pay off down the road, as the Wolves hope to see a steady turnout of players at the high school level.
But, even if these young athletes ultimately choose other sports later in life, the tennis coaches are happy to be part of the process.
“I am so proud of all the kids and the effort and attitude they brought to the court!” Seal said.
“It’s so nice to get these kids outside and play a good sport that will stay with them for a lifetime!
“I’m already looking forward to planning out our next skills camp!”
Coupeville Sports 