Wizards Tennis Camp serves up summer fun

Washingtonville Wizards Tennis Camp continues into its third session. The camp welcomed a mix of 26 new and returning players for four days of instruction, competition and camaraderie led by high school tennis instructor, Matt Anastasi, and his dedicated team of student coaches. 

The camp accommodates beginners of all ages, utilizing three different sized courts and specialized tennis balls with varying pressure levels to minimize bounce, making it easier for young players to master their first hits.

“The most enjoyable aspect of tennis is when you're actually able to rally the ball back and forth over the net,” Coach Anastasi explained. “So our weekly goal usually is to try to see if we can get each camper to experience that.”

Campers sharpen their skills through competitive games, including Ring of Fire, Dungeons, Nine Lives and King of the Courts. In King of the Courts, two “kings” defend their positions as other players take turns trying to score two points against them and replace the reigning kings.

The camp also goes beyond developing technical skills. “Our ultimate objective is inspiring campers to return to the courts and fostering meaningful relationships between campers and our student coaches,” Coach Anastasi said.

Former camper and current student coach, Delaney Lyons, enjoys working with younger students and appreciates the camp’s supportive environment.

“No one’s here to judge you or make fun of you – everyone’s here to learn and that’s what’s so great about it,” she said.

Olivia Monaco, a WHS alum who has been coaching at the camp for three years, also values the connections formed and the growth she’s witnessed in campers.

“It's incredibly rewarding to see them progress from barely being able to hit the ball to rallying confidently. They’re so energetic and so much fun to be around," she said.

“It's really neat to watch campers grow up through our program and become part of our high school teams,” Coach Anastasi said, sharing his pride in how tennis camp has fostered such a sense of togetherness and connection over the years. “We've created an amazing tennis community, and our junior coaching staff helps make this possible.”

With each passing week, Wizards Tennis Camp continues to cultivate enthusiasm, skill and lasting friendships.