Youth tennis clinics available in Jasper through the month of July

The City of Jasper Parks and Recreation Department is hosting tennis clinics for area youth that are interested in learning about tennis and gaining hands-on experience with the sport. The clinics will run every Friday through the end of July at the Valley Park tennis courts, located behind the administration building at Bevill State Community College.

Leading the clinics is Clint Johnson, a Gardendale native with ten years of tennis coaching experience. Johnson began playing tennis in 7th grade, then went on to play at a collegiate level for two years at Gadsden State Community College, and two years at the University of North Alabama. Johnson holds an Elite Pro certification, the highest designation given to a teaching professional by the United States Professional Tennis Association. He currently serves as an assistant teaching professional at Greystone Country Club in Birmingham.

“I’m excited about seeing these kids learn to love tennis. I feel like, for the most part, kids really aren’t exposed to the game at a young age,” says Johnson. “My hope is that they learn more about it and learn to enjoy it for years to come.”

The hour-long morning clinics are for beginner players. Johnson and his assistants will start off with a warm up session followed by a review of the basic fundamentals for each tennis stroke.  

After warm ups and review of the mechanics of the swing, the kids are divided up into groups to put their skills to work. The afternoon session for advanced team players is longer and requires more skill and conditioning. This session lasts 90 minutes and is fast-paced with a greater focus on shot making, ball placement, and strategies for playing singles and doubles.

The cost to participate in the beginner clinics is $12.50 per session or $50 for the month. Advanced clinics are $15 per session, or $80 for the month. Those interested may sign up in advance by visiting jasper.recdesk.com, or may show up to the tennis courts ahead of the starting time for their desired clinic(s).

Clinic Schedule: July 9, 16, 23, 30

Beginners

●      8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.  (Ages 5 - 7)

●      9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. (Ages 8 - 10)

●      10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. (Ages 11 - 16)

Advanced

●     1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

For any questions regarding the clinics, please contact Peter Cosmiano, City of Jasper Parks Director, by calling 205-385-7979.

Those interested in private lessons with Clint Johnson may contact him for information and pricing at 205-533-1135.