2023 EJTS Winter Tennis Team Cup

December 17th, 2023

On Saturday, December 17th, EJTS held its first Tennis TEAM Cup! Even the cold could not stop the enjoyment of tennis with 36 kids ages 6-15 taking part in this event in the bubble at Saville. The team event introduced the players to a new environment with the aspect of playing in a team. These team aspects brought around a lot of positivity including cheering and supporting your peers and overcoming obstacles together. All participants displayed excellent sportsmanship and teamwork, and smiles were shined on everyone’s faces.

Tennis is generally an individual sport. Exposing the children to a team event is very special because team events do not occur often in tennis. This Cup is similar to university tennis, where you play and gain points for your team, making it a great experience for the kids. This change of pace is something new for the children, but this team aspect helps the kids to bond and work together. Being in a team helps the children be competitive while being respectful, making this event unique and fun. This brand new team event brought out amazing qualities from the youth. A highlight of the day was the creativity displayed by the children, shown through their team names, team dances, and team chants. Not only were bright smiles shown throughout the day, but also there was an outstanding display of sportsmanship.

EJTS Coach, Nolan Sax, had this to say about the tournament:

“It are these types of events which are so crucial for the tennis community. They allow kids to experience competitive play in a positive environment with other kids at roughly the same level. The kids get to feel a sense of teamwork with their peers even through solo points, something that doesn’t always get to be experienced in other environments.”

 EJTS Coach, Preston Codrington, had this to say about the opportunity:

“The evening with Nestor was wonderful. He was engaging with students, played games with them and shared some of his personal experiences. Exposure to professionals enhances young athletes’ interest in the sport and also encourages them to set high goals for themselves.”