Tennis a hit for many in Drouin

Holiday tennis clinics have been a hit over summer, with the Drouin Tennis Club playing host to the Hot Shots holiday program last week.

Gippsland Tennis Coaching’s Jamie Dunn said the program helps children learn the basics to begin playing tennis.

“Generally, we run one over the school holidays and it’s for all ages, but mostly kids from the five to 12 age group brackets join in,” he said.

The sessions help kids build the fundamental skills needed, through correct technique and grip, while also practicing serving and returning the ball in what is a fun environment.

Mr Dunn said the clinics also give children the opportunity to find out more about the local competitions such as the Baw Baw Tennis Association.

Sessions were held for 90 minutes on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday last week, with some fun had in the warmer conditions, with kids serving water balloons to cool off after their activities.

The clinics came after the club held its annual Drouin Classic tournament, which saw 60 competitors from Essendon to Rosedale aged between eight and 18 play a round robin across Saturday and Sunday.

Mr Dunn said the tournament was a fantastic turnout and played in good spirits, with plenty of fun had by all.

Drouin Tennis Club is also getting set to begin their night tennis competition and are hoping for plenty of interest in the social event which begins on February 8.

Those interested in participating in coaching sessions can contact Jamie Dunn on 0449 357 569.

Photos - MICHAEL ROBINSON Right - Kyra Manukau plays a forehand shot during her singles match.

Liam Bowen (left) and Ashton Smethurst help pick up the tennis balls after practicing their serving techniques at last week’s clinic.

Amber Koopmans was all smiles during the clinic after practicing her shots over the net on Wednesday.

Drouin’s Ryder Britt returns a wide serve during his singles game in the Drouin Classic tournament.

Sophie Emmerson (left) and coach Jamie Dunn have some fun serving water balloons to cool off during the clinic held at Drouin on Wednesday.

Smashing down another serve is Lachlan O’Gorman who travelled from Pakenham to play in the recent tournament at Drouin.

Matilda Nave of Willow Grove Tennis Club makes a backhand return in the tournament held at Drouin.

Isaac Taylor watches the water balloon closely before smashing it to cool down.