The First Session of YFT: Pathway to Matchplay

Earlier this year, Winston-Salem Tennis Inc launched a new extension of its legacy program, Young Folks Tennis. The revamped program, Pathway to Match Play, was designed to encourage more 8-12 year olds to take up tennis and learn to play matches, hopefully serving as a feeder program into Junior Team Tennis and Middle School tennis teams. The program was $100 for 18 hours of instruction due to grant funding from Young Folks Tennis, offered by community partners Triad Tennis and Serve First Racquet Sports, and enrolled 77 young athletes in its inaugural session.

The sessions have been well-enjoyed, but don’t just take it from us. Here are some parent testimonials:

Holly Heath enrolled her son, Owen, who had played other sports but was eager to try tennis. “The Young Folks Tennis Pathway program has been an exceptional experience for Owen. Not only did his skills grow significantly, but his confidence flourished—and most importantly, he had so much fun. He looked forward to every session and felt genuinely supported and encouraged by the coaches. Owen began the program having never held a tennis racket and finished fully able to play and score a match! It was also one of the most well-run youth sports programs we’ve ever been a part of, with clear and consistent communication from start to finish. I would wholeheartedly recommend this program to any family!”

Brittney Gasperi’s son, Jude, has participated in Pathway to Match Play to prepare him to play Junior Team Tennis this spring. Thanks to Pathway to Match Play, she says, “I’m excited for my son Jude to participate in JTT this spring. It provides a great way for him to get more familiar with match play in a comfortable and encouraging setting.”

Jessica McCrory enrolled two of her children, Charlotte and Thomas in the program. “Charlotte and Thomas have really enjoyed their tennis lessons! They have improved and are much more confident. They have had so much fun!” Like Jude, Charlotte has also used the course as a springboard to play Junior Team Tennis this spring. 

Cori Govind enrolled her daughter, Mira, in the program and encouraged several of Mira’s friends to participate as well. “Young folks tennis has been great to teach beginner kiddos skills- especially match play techniques so that they can get out there and start playing! It is a stress-free introduction to tennis and a comfortable environment for young ones!” Now Mira and her friends are also playing Junior Team Tennis. 

If you are eager to join the fun, Winston-Salem Tennis will be offering a second round of YFT Pathway to Match Play with clinics that begin in the month of June and run through the summer!  Please stay tuned for more information about these upcoming sessions!