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Middle School Clinic Hosts VCU Tennis Teams, Tennis Pro

The Mary and Frances Youth Center (MFYC) hosted a Middle School Collegiate Clinic March 3 at the youth center and Thalhimer Tennis Center. Seven middle schools in the Richmond Public School System participate in the MFYC's middle school tennis program.

During the clinic, VCU tennis coaching staff spoke with middle school students about playing tennis in college and what it takes to get there. The VCU men's and women's tennis team then hit the courts with the youth, rotating through various skill stations and playing points.

While the youth were working on their tennis skills, the middle school coaches and assistants participated in a coaches workshop lead by local tennis pro, Rob Johnston with Three Chopt Recreation Club. Coaches learned about leading tennis practices both outdoors and in small indoor spaces. USTA/MAS-Virginia Tennis Representative Morgan Abrams-Nicholas also spoke with the coaches about opportunities to keep youth involved in tennis year-round.

This is the third year the MFYC has partnered with Richmond Public Schools to offer a middle school tennis program. Support from several local organizations, including Middle School Renaissance, Enrichmond Foundation and Richmond Tennis Association, helps to fund training for middle school coaches with experienced tennis instructors.

For more information, contact the MFYC at (804) 827-0802.