This summer, Harlem’s children have an opportunity to learn and improve their tennis game, tighten up their game skills like professional champion Serena Williams and receive assistance with reading and academic instruction each Saturday morning.
The David Dinkins Tennis Club once again hosts a free tennis and reading program for children 10 and younger and their parents from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Fred Johnson Park, located at West 150th Street and Seventh Avenue, affectionately known as, “the Jungle.” Tennis balls, racquets and books will be supplied.
When asked about about the DDTC, Sam Penceal, cofounder of the program, emphasized, “The clinics are free.”
This summer’s program, which began last Saturday, lasts for eight weeks, ending Aug. 27. Registration and parent participation are required.
The DDTC was founded seven years ago to honor New York’s first and only Black mayor, the Hon. David Dinkins, and the contributions he has made to the city, state and tennis world.
Dinkins, who celebrated his 89th birthday Sunday, served as the 106th mayor of New York City from 1990 to 1993. He was presented with a birthday cake and choruses of “Happy Birthday” by well-wishers, registrants and special guests to kick off the opening day festivities.
“The Mayor was surprised and pleased with the celebration, and very excited about the turnout,” stated Penceal. “We’re looking forward to seven more exciting weekends, and we’re still accepting registrants and books.”
DDTC administrators are accepting donated books appropriate for elementary school children.
Many DDTC members are Harlem community residents and have extensive backgrounds and experience in teaching and school administration and as professional tennis coaches.
