Game, Set, Match: ETC Wraps Up School Programming at Waverley Elementary School

June 10th, 2026

This week, Edmonton Tennis Community (ETC) delivered the fifth and final free school program of its 2026 spring grant season, made possible by the generous support of Tennis Alberta and Tennis Canada. The destination was Waverley Elementary School, and it proved to be a memorable way to finish the season.

In one day, 108 students from Grades 1 to 5 picked up a tennis racquet, many for the very first time. Coaches Jasmine, Miguel, and Emma brought their energy and enthusiasm to each class, guiding students through the fundamentals of tennis with a mix of games, drills, and skill-based activities designed to be engaging, welcoming, and fun for every age group.

For Coach Jasmine, Waverley was a fitting note on which to close a season full of meaningful moments:

“Getting to wrap up our school programs with a visit to Waverley School was such an awesome experience. The students were so talented, enthusiastic, and eager to participate, and their positive energy made the whole day even more enjoyable. Seeing everyone give their best effort and have fun on the court was incredibly rewarding. It’s days like these that remind me why I love coaching, and this group definitely made my day. Thank you, Waverley, for such a warm welcome!”

One of the most touching moments of the day came from the Grade 1 class. During Court Master, a fun game that challenges students to put their newly learned skills to the test, one boy stepped up and won. What made it especially meaningful was what his teacher shared with Coach Miguel afterwards: this student is smaller than most of his classmates, and physical education is often a space where he finds it difficult to keep up. This would be the highlight of his week, not just because he won, but because it gave him a sense of accomplishment and belonging. 

Over the past six weeks, ETC’s free school programming has reached five schools and hundreds of students across Edmonton. None of it would have been possible without the generous support of Tennis Canada, whose grant funding turned a dream into a reality. From the very first class in late April to this final visit at Waverley School, every school that opened its doors gave its students something they may not have expected: a sport where size, experience, and background do not determine who gets to play.

ETC is grateful to Tennis Alberta and Tennis Canada for their continued partnership, and to every school, teacher, and student who made this season what it was. The hope is to be back next year, with more schools, more students, and more moments just like the one in the Grade 1 class at Waverley!