How do you get players to practice more on their own? That’s the conundrum that many high school coaches face at the beginning of each season. While some players participate in local programs and tournaments, a majority of them don’t play nor commit to year-round practice.
The East Bay Area has taken the lead by creating an “off-season” USTA Junior Team Tennis league run by parent volunteers and local tennis professionals. The Girls Only league in the spring season had 91 players on 10 teams while the Boys Only league in the fall season had 42 players participate on 7 teams. Cities included Benicia, Orinda, Pleasanton, Richmond, and Vallejo. Teams competed weekly in a number of singles and doubles matches. Over 80% of the league players had limited experience with USTA tournaments.
Darren Wenger, Junior Team Tennis Specialist for USTA NorCal, stated that “Our section goal is to expand the league in other areas utilizing the availability of local high school courts. Team play is more appealing to these students as it builds confidence; develop relationships, and helps puts winning into perspective.”
Cherryl Silva, Tennis Service Representative for Yolo, Solano, and Contra Costa Counties assisted with organizing the teams and promotions to the high schools. It’s been a passion for her as she’s seen the league players develop their skills. “The players are having fun and it’s great to see more community involvement. We’re looking forward to seeing more players involved next year and expanding the opportunities to middle school students.” Due to their successful first-year, the 1st Co-ed Team Jamboree will be held next month at Diablo Valley College in Pleasant Hill.
So coaches and parents, if you want your players to excel on court, give them more match play. With more players and teams involved in Junior Team Tennis, the future looks bright for high school tennis in all areas of Northern California.
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