Tennis leaders across the country have realized in recent years that the sport’s future may depend greatly on its appeal to our youth.

While other sports, such as football, baseball, softball, and basketball all have modified playing arenas, equipment, and leagues, tennis has failed to meet the challenge. Until recently, that is.

The United States Tennis Association, effective Jan. 1, had mandated that all of its sanctioned tournaments for players in the 10-and-Under age division must apply modified rules [smaller courts and nets] that make the game more kid-friendly.

“The Calverton School is very excited about working with the USTA to establish itself as a community resource and center for 10-and-Under Tennis,” said Dr. Spencer Taintor, Head of School for The Calverton School. “We know how important it is for students to develop confidence in academics, the arts, and in athletics. By providing a natural precursor to playing tennis on a full court, kids can further develop that confidence needed to achieve their goals in life.”

Calverton, hosting a myriad of summer and after school tennis camps for youth across Southern Maryland, applied for and received a grant from the USTA to establish a 10-and-Under Tennis facility on the school’s campus. Calverton will renovate its existing tennis facility to accommodate 10 and Under Tennis programs and tournaments.

Now with 10-and-Under Tennis, balls bounce lower, don't move as fast through the air and are easier to hit. Tennis racquets for children are sized for small hands and courts are smaller and easier to cover. By using this format, the benefits are immediate and within a short time, children are rallying, playing, and excited to keep playing. Children build confidence in their game with balls they can hit and a court they can cover.

The Calverton School submitted this report.