Dozens of promising young tennis players looking to develop their skills and technique took part in Early Development Camps that were expanded throughout Florida in 2019.
Early Development Camps, or EDCs, are the beginning of the TEAM USA Pathway designed to provide additional training opportunities for tennis players ages 7-10 in each USTA section. The camps emphasize fundamentals and overall athletic development while keeping the activity fun. The camps are geared toward players already competing in USTA-sanctioned tournaments and/or Junior Team Tennis.
The camps were held prior to USTA Florida’s Green and Orange Ball tournaments to help assess players and maximize their proficiency in the level they were in.
“Having the camp before the tournament was incredibly beneficial for the players,” said Christina Lucas, USTA Florida Youth Play Coordinator. “Oftentimes they felt more comfortable during match play after participating in the EDC.”
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So far this year, more than 170 children attended an Early Development Camp in Florida. That number is expected to top 180 participants with two camps left.
In Coral Gables, a green ball event boasted 22 players. There the young athletes had the chance to hone their athletic skills, grow their tennis proficiency, and practice the fundamentals of competitive and cooperative gaming.
“I believe the EDC allowed us to get the right kids exposed to the Team USA curriculum. These kids were motivated and eager to learn,” said Coral Gables EDC Director Robert Gomez. “In the end, getting motivated kids together creates a synergy that fuels growth and development. “
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Several other camps, such as one in Delray Beach and another in Kissimmee, brought in more than 30 players.
Each camp took about 2 hours to complete. All players who participated received an evaluation from their coach at the end of the camp about how his or her competencies matched with the ball color they use. The assessments were also shared with parents. The tournament matches then began after a rest period.
Parents who gave feedback about the camps said the experience gave their children new opportunities to practice with others their age, the ability to play at a higher level and helped them feel more comfortable on the court.
“USTA Early Development Camps are a great product that of course includes tennis skills,” said USTA Florida Player Development Coordinator Andy Gladstone. “But I really love the fact that there is a parent education component and a character theme for each camp.”
For additional information on EDC Camps or junior tennis in Florida go to ustaflorida.com/youth-tennis.
