12 children who took part in summer camps at USTA Florida-managed facilities had an experience to remember this summer, after being selected to take part in the Net Generation On-Court Experience at the 2019 US Open.
Four children from Play Tennis Gainesville and seven from the Racquet Club of Cocoa Beach were given the opportunity to visit New York to take part in the special event at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, home of the US Open, on Saturday, August 31, 2019.
Any kids age 8-12 who participated in a summer camp or a regular program at a USTA Florida facility had the chance to be selected for the exclusive experience.
The kids were able to grab a racquet to hit some balls around the court during the once-in-a-lifetime Net Generation event. The on-court demo in front of the crowds allowed the kids to experience tennis in a whole new environment.
“The Net Generation experience really was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for these kids,” said Racquet Club of Cocoa Beach Head Pro John Sanders. “To be able to be on a US Open court playing is really special, and every child who attended thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity.”
Madison Molock, a player from Play Tennis Gainesville, was also selected to conduct the coin toss at a men’s doubles match between Lukasz Kubot and Marcelo Melo vs. Albert Ramos-Vinolas and Jozef Kovalik.
“I hope that all the kids who participated in this experience took away the fact that champions come from all different backgrounds,” commented Sanders. “Through hard work and dedication, they can achieve all of their goals not only on the tennis court, but in life.”
To get involved at Play Tennis Gainesville, check out our calendar of events.
Net Generation aims to inspire the next generation of tennis players by embracing all aspects of youth play for kids ages 5-18. The objective of Net Generation is to provide a kid-friendly, safe connection to the sport, as well as a platform to celebrate individuality and self-expression. The unified youth brand makes it easier for kids and their parents to learn about tennis and get into the game in schools, parks and tennis clubs across the country. To learn more or sign up for free, visit NetGeneration.com.