Thanks to U.S. Tennis Association grant, Poland preschools learn to play
Poland preschoolers learn game thanks to U.S. Tennis Association grant
POLAND
Jaden Jones, a student at Poland Presbyterian Weekday Preschool, excitedly ran up to his teacher, clutching a colorful foam paddle and a bean bag.
“Mrs. Hritz, I did it!” he exclaimed.
Three sessions into an eight-session tennis program, Jaden had successfully flipped his bean bag into the air and caught it on the “lollipop” paddle.
He is one of 36 children at the preschool who are benefiting from an approximately $1,400 United States Tennis Association grant that preschool director and teacher Cindy Hritz obtained.
The grant money covered the cost of equipment – racquets, the “lollipop” paddles, balls, a portable net, and a teaching guide – needed to implement the program that aims to spark an early interest in tennis.
“It starts with basic hand-eye coordination, and it’s really fun for them,” said Hritz. “And it really starts early for them ... in hopes that it’s something they’ll want to do as they grow up.”
During a recent session at the preschool, Hritz ran through different exercises with the kids, switching them up every few minutes. The kids caught bean bags with paddles, practiced balancing balls on the paddles while walking around, and tried hitting the balls over the net.
“I keep walking with it on my paddle!” exclaimed Samantha Sturgiss.
Her enthusiasm was mirrored by other children in the group, who excitedly ran around the room, chasing after balls and swinging their paddles.
“My favorite thing is to play tennis,” declared Jaden.
Not to be outdone, Lyndi Rodland said playing tennis is also her favorite thing.
Over the next few sessions, the program will progress with the kids eventually using tennis racquets instead of foam paddles.
Hritz said she started playing tennis with her children at an early age, and hopes some of her students will develop a similar interest in the sport.
“I just thought it was a fun thing to incorporate into our program,” she said. “It makes them a more well-rounded student, and it brings movement into our day.”