From Drills to Quiz Bowl Champions: A Winning Day at John Drew Tennis Center

This past Saturday was a day full of excitement, learning, and creativity as young players gathered at the John Drew Tennis Center in Macon, GA for the USTA GA Leadership Camp!

The day kicked off with smiling faces as participants received their badges and court assignments. The younger children eagerly got to work, practicing important fundamentals like ball control, how to rally, and mastering their groundstrokes. Meanwhile, the older participants honed their skills alongside Mercer University tennis players, who served as mentors. Through advanced drills, fun games like Queen and King of the Court, and spirited singles and doubles matches, the children sharpened their competitive edge — all while having an amazing time.

Midway through the day, the players gathered for special guest speaker, Roger Fleming, who shared vital tips on body awareness and self-care in tennis. The children learned about the importance of staying hydrated, stretching properly, and listening to their bodies both on and off the court. It was inspiring to see how engaged they were, and soaking up valuable advice that will serve them well both in tennis and beyond.

Later, excitement continued to build with a lively Quiz Bowl, where players teamed up to answer questions about tennis legends such as Arthur Ashe and Althea Gibson, as well as the impact of the NJTL (National Junior Tennis and Learning) Foundation. The energy was contagious, with kids eager to show off their knowledge and jump in to help their teammates. To conclude the day, Above the Net proudly took 1st place in the Quiz Bowl, showcasing their impressive tennis knowledge and teamwork!

The day wrapped up on a creative note with a fun STEM event, giving everyone a chance to showcase their artistic side. It was incredible to see the imaginative projects the children created, combining science, technology, and a love for tennis in truly unique ways.

Overall, the USTA GA Leadership Camp was a beautiful reminder of why programs like these are so important — blending athletic skills, education, and creativity to inspire the next generation of players. We are proud of every participant and grateful to the wonderful coaches, mentors, and volunteers who made the day unforgettable!

If you’d like to learn more about Above the Net and how to get your child involved in the fun, please visit us at www.abovethenettennis.org.