The 14th annual Toe River Racqueteers Tennis Camp, held at the Mountain Heritage High School tennis courts, experienced an unprecedented turnout with nearly 80 enthusiastic campers. The four-day camp, aimed at promoting tennis skills, fostering new friendships, and encouraging physical activity, was a resounding success.
Led by Coach Michael Baldwin, a USTPA Master Professional and founder of Tennis Insights, participants of all ages had the opportunity to progress in their racquet control and volleying techniques, while older attendees advanced to playing full tennis matches. The camp’s primary goal was to introduce youth to tennis and cultivate foundational tennis skills, connect youth with peers, and have fun!
In an exciting addition to this year’s Toe River Racqueteers program, the camp introduced its first-ever four-day Pickleball Camp, which saw an impressive turnout of 36 participants. Attendees were introduced to the fast-growing sport of pickleball, which combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis.
Moreover, to accommodate the growing interest in pickleball, new pickleball lines have been painted on the Mountain Heritage High School tennis courts in partnership with the High Country Picklers, Yancey County Schools, and Yancey County Parks and Recreation. This enhancement ensures that families and individuals can continue to learn and enjoy the game of pickleball locally. Yancey County Parks and Recreation has also extended its support by providing community-use pickleball nets and paddles that are conveniently stored on the courts, allowing easy access for the community.
Partners Aligned Toward Health extends its gratitude to the Yancey County Health Department and the Mountain Air Community Fund for their sponsorship of this year’s camp. Their support allowed the camp to provide free tennis racquets to all participants.
“Coach Mike” Baldwin and Willi Baldwin played an essential role in creating a positive and instructive atmosphere during the camp. Numerous dedicated volunteers also played a significant part in making the event possible, ensuring the campers had a memorable experience.
If you would like information about joining a regular, weekly tennis or pickleball class coached by Coach Mike and Coach Willi, please call, text or email Coach Willi at 828-208-4438 or wbaldwin927@yahoo.com.
For more information on Toe River Racqueteers, check out details at bit.ly/PATH_tennis_camp, the Partners Aligned Toward Health Facebook page, email hannah@pathwnc.org, or call us at 828-222-3682.
