Tennis is one of Boerne Blaze’s new sports. Our Tennis Clinic season begins following Basketball’s Big Game and lasts until the Area 20 Competition mid- to late-April. The tennis program is a little different than most Special Olympics programs in that it is lead (coached) by student volunteers, under the guidance of our own SOTX-Certified Coach. The intended purpose of this program is to provide area teenagers with sustainable leadership opportunities while serving the athletes of Boerne Blaze. This tennis program is a partnership between the San Antonio Tennis Association (SATA), City of Boerne Parks and Recreation – Boerne Tennis and Boerne Blaze. Practices are held twice weekly (typically Fridays after school and Sundays mid-afternoon) at the City of Boerne Tennis Courts. Because the practices are held outdoors, practices are weather dependent which is why cell phone contact information is requested in advance.
At this time, the clinics concentrate on the Level 1 Skills in accordance with the SOTX Guidebook. This level includes forehand and backhand volleys, forehand and backhand groundstrokes, and serving; all within the area designated as “short court,” using “red” balls that are a little softer than a typical tennis ball. In addition to the skills drills, athletes are put through an opening sequence of exercises and stretches to improve endurance and ready them for match play. If an athlete owns a racket, it may be used, otherwise, rackets and balls are provided; as is drinking water for a mid-clinic break.
Athletes of any skill level or physical condition are encouraged to participate; we even have access to sport wheelchairs through SATA. The volunteers will assist with all aspects of the clinic. When we have enough volunteers, the individual skill level of the athlete will be paired with the appropriate level of match play, as time permits; thus, advancing those interested in going beyond the skill assessment aspects of competition. 2022 was the first year for Boerne Blaze to compete in the Area 20 Tournament in San Antonio – despite a short rain delay, our athletes showed the judges what they had learned and walked away with medals. Come on out to the courts and join us. We even have the caregivers and parents get involved by shucking balls!