Tennis community flourishes in City of Marshall thanks to CTA program
July has been designated as Park and Recreation Month in the U.S. by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA). The USTA and NRPA announced a partnership to support healthier communities, which is in line with the USTA’s recently adopted mission statement. To celebrate this collaboration and Park and Recreation Month, USTA Missouri is featuring the tennis ongoings within the City of Marshall.
It is a joy to disconnect from technology and visit a local park. Among the lush greenery, quality facilities and bustling communities, a recreational oasis awaits. Since July is Park and Recreation Month, now is the perfect time to recognize all the effort, love and care that is put into these spaces and the communities that utilize them.
One such organization is Marshall Junior Tennis (MJT), which has been an active USTA member for more than 30 years. MJT—which is located in the City of Marshall in central Missouri—uses local parks for some of their long-standing tennis programming efforts. The hard work of the community tennis association (CTA) does not go unnoticed.
“We are only a phone call away from our USTA representatives,” said Susan Carney, MJT president. “They come to Marshall on occasion to check out our jamboree or to check out our community and programs. They also were involved in assisting with our grant. We appreciate everyone involved. In 2022, Marshall Junior Tennis was awarded Member Organization of the Year from USTA Missouri. We accepted the award at their annual meeting in Springfield.”
Offering a range of clinics, tournaments and events, MJT has been a powerful player within USTA Missouri. The CTA’s summer programs kicked off May 28 and have been a huge hit.
“(This includes) Marshall Junior Tennis, Indian Foothills Park lessons & quick start,” Carney said. “There were 60 players who registered to be part of the various tennis groups. They are grouped in 10 & Under, 12 & Under, 14 & Under and high school. This helps them feel more comfortable with scoring, teamwork, strokes, placement and strategies.”
As summer clinics continue, many memories have already been made on the courts. On June 18, MJT hosted its annual summer jamboree. Friends and family were able to get together and enjoy some good tennis fun.
“The morning starts out with individual pictures and a group picture that is given to them a few days later,” Carney said. “The MJT players wear their MJT business-sponsored T-shirts, which we appreciate and enjoy every year. Next, we have all the age groups play round-robin doubles. Ribbons are awarded. Then there are the fun carnival games on all six courts where they win tennis-related prizes—a good time had by all.”
More summer fun is had at the annual parent/child tournaments, which took place June 17 and 19. The 35-year-old tradition connects players and their parents for some friendly competition.
“Trophies were awarded to the top-three places in each age group,” Carney said. “Lots of spectators for this one. It’s one-of-a-kind. We always thank our parents, family or friends for playing with their young person.”
It’s no wonder MJT’s programs and events are so successful. The CTA’s committed and knowledgeable tennis instructors make their programming extra special.
“Our ratio of player-to-instructor is very good,” Carney said. “Our instructors love passing their love of the game onto our young people, so they grow their games and enjoy tennis for a lifetime. All of our MJT instructors become Safe Play approved by completing the two-hour online test to promote a safe and respectful environment for our kids to thrive.”
The encouragement does not stop there for MJT. The organization has extended its arms to players who are just starting their tennis journey and individuals who have never played before. MJT is going to place a large plastic container at the park to hold free-to-use racquets and tennis balls for those who don’t have their own.
“This will be an honor system trial basis,” Carney said. “We hope they will care for racquets and return them, so as many people as possible can try out some great exercise while enjoying tennis. It is the sport of a lifetime.”
For more information on Marshall Junior Tennis and Marshall Parks and Recreation tennis, click here.
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