PHOTOS BY AMY JOHNSON

Wood River Tennis and the City of Ketchum have teamed up to launch a new afterschool tennis program for elementary and middle school students.

The program has offered introductory instruction for 34 students in grades 3 through 7 this fall. The program, now halfway through its six-week run at Atkinson Park, is designed to build foundational tennis skills while fostering a love for racquet sports.

The inaugural program features a specialized, fun-focused curriculum, which breaks down core tennis concepts—from Ball Control and the Forehand to The Serve and The Rally—into easy-to-learn steps. The objective is to make the game accessible, engaging, and enjoyable for beginners.

Returning the serve is best served up with a smile, according to this young’un.

"The enthusiasm from the kids and the commitment from our community volunteers have been inspiring," said Amy Johnson, founder of Wood River Tennis. "We are not just teaching children how to hit a ball; we are focused on developing their coordination and encouraging them to move their feet and stay active.”

The program involves a team of up to 16 volunteer coaches, including high school students and community members, many of whom are receiving USTA-certified training.

“The success of this inaugural session is a testament to the need for diverse afterschool options in the Wood River Valley," said John Kearney, director of Recreation for the City of Ketchum.

Wood River Tennis and the City of Ketchum aim to use the success of this fall session as a springboard for planning future programming, potentially extending the offering in the spring and summer seasons.

Tennis kids learn how to position their bodies without racquets in hand.

Learn more about Wood River Tennis at  https://woodrivertennis.org/.