Tennis Growth Vibrant at Apollo Beach Racquet and Fitness Club

As we celebrate tennis growth it is important to recognize the significant contributions of local facilities such as the Apollo Beach Racquet and Fitness Club.  

Owned by the Sultenfuss family since 1991, this club has been a cornerstone of the Apollo Beach community, promoting health and wellness through various programs, including tennis. 

Adult tennis programs have been a staple since the Apollo Beach Racquet and Fitness Club started. However, they knew that there were more ways to get people involved. So, in 2019, the club expanded its offerings to include youth tennis programs, making tennis accessible to all age groups.  

For the youngest tennis players, lessons start as early as ages 4 and 5. These junior athletes are introduced to tennis in a fun and engaging way, setting the stage for a lifelong love of the sport. The programs then progress through age-appropriate groups with Red, Orange, Green, and Yellow Ball classes. 

For adults, the club offers beginner clinics such as Tennis 101 and Tennis 102, and an Intermediate Clinic for players rated 3.0 and above. “Currently, we have about 100 kids that play weekly in our programs and around another 150 adults that play in leagues, clinics and social play,” a spokesperson said. 

The club has seen remarkable growth in its tennis programs as well, with participation increasing by approximately 20% over the past year. This growth is attributed to new initiatives, such as the introduction of the low-compression balls and structured drills for both juniors and adults that make learning tennis more fun and accessible. The club aims to continue this upward trajectory, with plans to further expand its programs in the coming year.  

Striving for a Better Tennis for All 

Inclusivity is a cornerstone of the Apollo Beach Racquet and Fitness Club’s philosophy. The staff is dedicated to ensuring that all members feel welcome and supported. The fitness club also hosts “Tennis for Fun” the 2024 National Adaptive Tennis Community Service Award winner, helping give a place to play to hundreds of special needs players.  

On top of that, they work with Life Academy Inc. who operate their kids’ programming and after school camps. “Life Academy picks up kids from nine local schools and brings them to the facility,” the fitness club said. “Once at camp the children play in an enriching environment focused on life skills and holistic approach to a healthy, active lifestyle and self-sufficiency.” 

This program has been particularly impactful for children on the autism spectrum, providing a supportive environment for their development. “Students are given the tools, space and opportunity to experience and assimilate to playing in a neurotypical community and environment that is inviting to their needs,” they added. “We have a Therapy practice on site where we offer occupational therapy services, therapy clients utilize tennis racquets and balls to work on hand-eye coordination skills.” 

Life Academy is also in the process of becoming a National Junior Tennis & Learning (NJTL) partner. “Life Academy is the largest addition to the club, the youth tennis program’s development and growth has had a huge impact on their tennis community and culture,” a club representative said. “Therapy services and group social skills have also pushed all our programming in an inclusive direction for all levels of abilities for our community’s youth.” 

Encouraging a Healthy Life for All 

The club’s impact extends beyond the tennis courts as they collaborate with local schools and organizations. “We have close relationships with local schools and volunteers to promote water safety as well as holistic wellness.”  

One of the major projects planned for the 2024-2025 school year is the Kids’ Lifeguarding program. “In this class, children are empowered to recognize that their peers are in trouble and get them lifesaving help without putting themselves in danger. 

Apollo Beach Racquet and Fitness Club is more than just a sports facility, it’s a family-owned and operated establishment deeply rooted in the Apollo Beach community. From their tennis programs and partnership with Life Academy and Tennis for Fun to swim lessons, water safety, and practical life skills, the fitness club is designed to support whoever walks through their doors. 

The Apollo Beach Racquet and Fitness Club stands as a shining example of how local facilities can make a significant impact on community health and recreation.