By Sylvie McCarthy
The MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation’s Community Impact Hub partnered with Communities In Schools and the United States Tennis Association (USTA) Foundation to host a three-day tennis jamboree designed to introduce local elementary and middle school students to the game of tennis. The jamboree was held July 14-16 at The MaliVai Washington Youth Center.
The MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation is an after-school and summer youth development program in Jacksonville that promotes academic achievement and positive life skills. They offer after-school programs during the school year for elementary, middle and high school students that include help with schoolwork, tennis lessons, mental health counseling and more.
The Community Impact Hub initiative was launched by the USTA Foundation to expand access to tennis and opportunity in under-resourced communities. The MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation is one of 10 Community Impact Hubs.
About 350 elementary and middle school students participated in the jamboree, which featured a series of tennis clinics led by MaliVai Washington coaches. Sadie T. Tillis Elementary, Pinedale Elementary, Jean Ribault Middle School and West Riverside Elementary were some of the schools represented at the jamboree.
Students took part in age-appropriate tennis instruction, games and activities that are designed to promote physical activity, teamwork, confidence and positive youth development.
The MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation’s goal is to develop champions in the classroom, on the tennis court and throughout communities.
To learn more about the MaliVai Washington Youth Foundation, go to malwashington.com