Canceled matches don’t stop youth tennis teams

Just as the Canyon Lake Tennis Club’s summer junior program was getting started, outside competition was canceled because of COVID-19 restrictions. The junior tennis players began their season well with first-match wins, but then the season collapsed. Regardless, the teams kept practicing, with the season concluding last week.

The 10-and-under team celebrates the work they have put in this season with Coach Brien Sullivan. Photo provided by Jennifer Denson

To celebrate a season of improved tennis skills, sportsmanship and competition, the young athletes held a campout at Happy Camp.

The players and coaches did not allow the lack of competition with other clubs to ruin their season.

Members of the Canyon Lake Tennis Club’s junior teams wrapped up the season by celebrating and swimming during a campout at Happy Camp. After taking a month off, the teams will start up again for a new season. Photo provided by Jennifer Denson

While adhering to strict guidelines that follow the social distancing tennis regulations, they met twice a week to remain active and strengthen their tennis skills. They put their drills to the test by playing a series of matches within the club to determine the clinic’s summer champions. Nic Welty took first place and Aiden Kelty finished in second place. The junior tennis program includes a 10-and-under team, a 14-and-under team, and an 18-and-under team. All of the players are coached by Brien Sullivan and Bobby Kielty, who said they are excited for next season to start after next month’s break, which will allow the junior players to return to school.